NewzIntel.com

Category: Justice

  • MIL-OSI Security: Man In Prison for Rape Sentenced to Additional 235 Months for Federal Child Exploitation Crimes

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    MIAMI – A federal district judge in Fort Pierce has sentenced a Georgia inmate who engaged in online child solicitation while serving time on a state rape conviction to 19.5 years in federal prison. 

    During the summer of 2023, Robert Francis Gilbert, 59, was an inmate at the Rutledge State Prison in Columbus, Georgia. He was serving a life-sentence for rape and was eligible for parole. That summer, Gilbert began communicating online with someone he believed was a 14-year-old girl. Gilbert used threats to solicit the creation of pornographic videos and arrange a sexual encounter once Gilbert got out of state prison. Law enforcement learned of Gilbert’s acts and alerted the state prison warden. Further investigation revealed that Gilbert possessed a cell phone with evidence of the crimes.  

    During a hearing before United States District Judge Robin L. Rosenberg on August 23, 2023, Gilbert pleaded guilty to attempted enticement of a minor and attempted transfer of obscene material to a minor.  Judge Rosenberg imposed yesterday’s sentence.

    United States Attorney Hayden P. O’Byrne for the Southern District of Florida, Acting Special Agent in Charge Jose Figueroa of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Miami Field Division, and Martin County Sheriff John Budensiek announced the sentence. 

    HSI Fort Pierce and the Martin County Sheriff’s Office investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Justin Hoover prosecuted it. 

    This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, visit www.justice.gov/psc.

    You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Florida at https://www.justice.gov/usao-sdfl.

    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 number 24-cr-14002.

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Wadena — Wadena RCMP seek public assistance in locating missing 83-year-old man

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Wadena RCMP is asking the public’s assistance in locating 83-year-old Jimmie Moore of Foam Lake, Saskatchewan. He was last seen at a residence in the community at approximately 4:30 p.m. on February 21, 2025, and has since been reported missing.

    Police continue their efforts to locate Jimmie to confirm his well-being and are now asking the public to report information regarding his whereabouts.

    Jimmie is described as:

    • Height: 5’10”
    • Weight: Unknown; slim build
    • Eye colour: Blue
    • Hair colour and style: Short grey/white hair; no facial hair

    At the time he was last seen, he was reportedly wearing a blue winter jacket, blue jeans and a blue call cap.

    It’s believed that Jimmie may be travelling to Ontario, but this cannot be confirmed. He drives a red 2020 Hyundai Tucson (SUV), Saskatchewan license plate 226 NKY.

    If you’ve seen Jimmie Moore or know where he is, contact Wadena RCMP at 310-RCMP. Information can also be submitted anonymously by contacting Saskatchewan Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or www.saskcrimestoppers.com.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Appeal to locate man in connection with Hackney murder investigation

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    Officers are looking to locate a man in connection with an ongoing murder investigation in Hackney.

    Jason Romeo, 20 was fatally stabbed outside an address in Bodney Street, E5 at 17:59hrs on Tuesday, 18 February.

    An investigation remains ongoing and three men have been charged in connection with Jason’s murder.

    Raynolph Asante, 22 (13.03.2002) of Pembury Road, Hackney, Travis Mitchell, 21 (23.07.2002) of Bodney Road, Hackney and Rhamyah Bailey-Edwards, 21 (21.08.2003) of Williams Avenue, Walthamstow have been charged with murder and appeared at Thames Magistrates’ Court on Monday, 24 February.

    On Sunday, 23 February, an 18-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of murder and remains in custody.

    Detectives have named and released an image of 25-year-old Renaldo Roberts, who they would like to speak with in connection with this investigation.

    He has connections across Hackney and Dagenham.

    Detective Superintendent Kelly Allen of Specialist Crime North said “This investigation has moved quickly with officers arresting four men within five days.

    “We are now in the position to release Renaldo Robert’s details, who we would like to speak with to assist with our enquiries.

    “If you have any information on his whereabouts, please do not approach him and call 999 referencing CAD 5635/18FEB.”

    Following Jason Romeo’s death, officers in Hackney have been utilising additional stop and search powers this week.

    A section 60 order was authorised for the area during the weekend, giving officers the power to stop and search a person without reasonable suspicion.

    Detective Superintendent Vicky Tunstall of Central East Command Unit said:

    “We understand that the increased police presence in Hackney this week will be concerning for residents.

    “Our officers will remain in the area carrying out increased patrols. I’d encourage residents to discuss any concerns they may have with officers on patrol.

    “Reducing knife crime is a key focus and we will continue to work closely with partners for a safe borough.

    “I’d encourage anyone with information about those who could cause harm within our community, to contact us directly or through Crimestoppers.”

    Anyone with any information about the whereabouts of Renaldo Roberts is asked to contact the police on 999 as soon as possible, quoting 5635/18Feb.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Boost for UK economy as Arbitration Act receives Royal Assent

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Boost for UK economy as Arbitration Act receives Royal Assent

    A new law to help the UK’s legal services sector maintain pole position and which will deliver millions more to grow the economy and help implement our Plan for Change.

    • New law to turbocharge UK’s position as the world-leader in arbitration
    • Modernised dispute resolution to attract more international business
    • Sector already worth £2.5bn boosted as part of Plan for Change to support growth

    The Arbitration Act, which received Royal Assent today (Monday 24 February), will help attract even more businesses from around the world to invest in the UK. It will re-enforce Britain’s position as the best place to resolve disputes without having to go to court.  

    This arbitration process saves companies significant costs in legal fees by providing a quicker alternative to court and reducing acrimony between the parties. Every year there are at least 5,000 domestic and international arbitrations in England and Wales – contributing at least £2.5 billion to the UK economy annually in fees alone.  

    Modernising arbitration law will ensure the UK remains the global destination of choice for the legal sector, outstripping competitors such as Singapore, Hong Kong and Paris. This will help generate greater employment in the sector to bring even more investment into the UK. 

    Minister for Courts and Legal Services, Sarah Sackman KC MP, said:  

    The UK’s legal sector contributes billions to the economy and employs hundreds of thousands across the country.   

    Companies from across the world look to the UK for our legal services and dispute resolution. This new Act ensures that arbitration law keeps this country ahead of the rest and supports economic growth as part of this government’s Plan for Change. 

    Today’s new law makes arbitration fairer and more efficient by simplifying procedures to reduce costs and protecting arbitrators from unreasonable lawsuits. It also strengthens the courts’ powers to support emergency arbitration so time-sensitive decisions can be made more easily. 

    International arbitration is a major and growing area of activity. Industry estimates suggest the sector grew by around 26% between 2016 and 2020, and in the past 10 years, UK exports of legal services have risen by more than 80%. 

    Cristen Bauer, Head of Policy, Chartered Institute of Arbitrators, said:

    As the leading professional body globally for dispute resolvers, we are delighted to see the Arbitration Act reach Royal Assent. We worked closely with the UK Law Commission and other officials during the review of the Arbitration Act 1996, and were pleased that the majority of our recommendations were included in the final report, and that all of the review’s recommendations were adopted.

    The Arbitration Act will strengthen London’s position as an arbitration seat, and continue to set a high standard internationally. We look forward to seeing the positive impact of the Arbitration Act 2025 for many years ahead.

    This Act supports economic growth in a multi-billion-pound sector – the UK is the largest legal market in Europe and is second only to the US globally. 

    The new laws are the latest step in the government’s work to support the sector to grow. This includes the GREAT Legal Services campaign which was launched in 2017 to promote the strength of English and Welsh Law, the UK’s world-renowned independent judiciary, and our legal expertise to the global market.  

    The latest figures from 2022 show that the UK’s legal sector generated £34 billion. This will be enhanced by key agreements in recent months including with Japan, Greece and Malaysia to allow UK lawyers to practise abroad.  

    The government asked the Law Commission to review the law to ensure the UK remains ahead of the curve when it comes to dispute resolution. They consulted extensively before making recommendations which have been accepted in full.

    Once in force, the Arbitration Act will:   

    • Clarify which law underpins individual arbitration agreements thereby improving legal certainty and speeding up arbitrations.
    • Empower arbitrators to speed-up decisions on issues that have no real prospect of success to make arbitration more efficient.
    • Introduce a duty on arbitrators to tell parties any circumstances which could cast reasonable doubt on their impartiality in deciding an outcome of a dispute.
    • Empower the court to better support arbitration through orders supporting the actions of emergency arbitrators to enhance their effectiveness, and orders against third parties (those not involved in the proceedings) to for example preserve evidence or take witness evidence.
    • Extend arbitrator immunity against liability for resignations and the costs of the application to court for their removal, to support arbitrators to make impartial decisions.
    • Simplify court procedures related to arbitration to increase clarity as well as reduce delays and costs for parties.

    The new law will be commenced through regulations as soon as practicable.

    Updates to this page

    Published 24 February 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Did you see a road rage incident in Northland yesterday?

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Police are appealing for information following an incident on Ngunguru Road, where a motorist received serious injuries following an assault at around 5.45pm.

    Detective Sergeant Paul Overton says the incident is believed to have begun on Crawford Crescent in Kamo and ending on Ngunguru Road.

    “Two people were arrested and are being spoken to in relation to the incident, and Police believe more people may have been involved.

    “We are working to piece together exactly what occurred and need your help.”

    Police are appealing for camera footage or sightings of a white Mitsubishi Triton with a canopy and a white Holden Rodeo 4×4 Ute.

    If you captured the incident on camera, or saw the Utes around the time please contact Police, you can contact us at 105 either online or over the phone.

    Any footage to be sent to https://wick.nc3.govt.nz/

    Please reference file number: 250224/9924, Operation Wick.

    ENDS.

    Issued by the Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Happy Valley-Goose Bay — Happy Valley-Goose Bay RCMP investigates armed robbery at McNally’s Billiards

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Happy Valley-Goose Bay RCMP is investigating an armed robbery that occurred in the evening of February 21, 2025, at McNally’s Billiards on Burnwood Drive.

    Just before midnight on Friday, two people wearing facial coverings entered McNally’s Bar; one carrying a shotgun. Patrons in the bar were directed to look away while the suspects took money from the cash register and alcohol from the bar. The culprits then left the building. Nobody was injured during the robbery.

    Both suspects were wearing dark clothing. See attached surveillance images.

    The investigation is continuing.

    Anyone having information about this crime or the identity of the suspects is asked to contact Happy Valley-Goose Bay RCMP at 709-896-3383 or, to remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers: #SayItHere 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), visit www.nlcrimestoppers.com or use the P3Tips app.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Leader of the H-2 Drug Cartel Extradited from Mexico to Face Narcotics Trafficking, Firearms and Money Laundering Charges in Brooklyn Federal Court

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Jesus Ricardo Patron Sanchez, aka “H-3,” Allegedly Led Ruthless Transnational Criminal Organization Responsible for Distributing Thousands of Kilograms of Narcotics and Multiple Murders

    Jesus Ricardo Patron Sanchez, also known as “H-3,” “Diabolic,” “Vela,” “James Bond” and “Xmen,” was arraigned on February 22, 2025 at the federal courthouse in Brooklyn on an indictment charging him with leading a continuing criminal enterprise, participating in a large-scale narcotics distribution conspiracy and using one or more firearms in connection with narcotic offenses.  Sanchez, a Mexican citizen, was arrested in Mexico in February 2019 on a provisional arrest warrant issued based upon charges in the Eastern District of New York and subsequently extradited from Mexico to the United States on February 21, 2025.  The arraignment was held before United States Magistrate Judge Peggy Kuo. Sanchez was ordered detained pending trial. 

    John J. Durham, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, and Matthew Allen, Special Agent in Charge, U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, Los Angeles Field Division which oversees the Las Vegas District Office (DEA), announced the extradition and arraignment.

    “As alleged in the indictment and court filings, Sanchez was one of the principal leaders of the H-2 Drug Trafficking Organization, a brutally violent transnational criminal organization that flooded American streets with dangerous drugs and protected its operations through murder and corruption,” stated United States Attorney Durham.  “This Office is committed to working with its federal and international partners to bring leaders of cartels and transnational criminal organizations to justice in the United States and to hold them accountable for the death and destruction they have unleashed here and abroad.” 

    Mr. Durham extended his appreciation to the DEA’s offices in Las Vegas and Mexico City, Mexico, the United States Marshals Service, the United States Department of State, the Department of Justice’s Office of International Affairs and the Government of Mexico. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs worked with law enforcement partners in Mexico to secure the arrest and extradition of Sanchez.

    “Our country is facing an unprecedented drug crisis. Violent drug trafficking organizations, like H-2, fueled by unrelenting and callous greed have been saturating our communities with poison, death, and chronic devastation,” stated DEA Special Agent in Charge Allen.  “The DEA continues its unwavering determination to mitigate this evil and eradicate their terror and corruption from our streets.”

    According to the indictment and court filings, Sanchez was a leader of the H-2 Drug Trafficking Organization (the H-2 DTO), a violent Mexican drug trafficking organization based in Nayarit and Sinaloa, Mexico.  Sanchez’s alias “H-3” is a reference to his status as a successor to Hector Beltran-Leyva, the original “H” and one of the principal leaders of the Beltran Leyva Cartel that was previously part of the Sinaloa Cartel. The H-2 DTO was previously led by the defendant’s brother, Juan Francisco Patron Sanchez, also known as “H-2.”  Based on public reporting, after Juan Francisco Patron Sanchez was killed in 2017, the defendant assumed principal leadership over the H-2 DTO.  The H-2 DTO had numerous distribution cells in the United States, including in Los Angeles, Las Vegas, Ohio, Minnesota, North Carolina and New York.  The DEA estimates that between January 2013 and February 2017, the H-2 DTO distributed, on a monthly basis, hundreds of kilograms of heroin, cocaine and methamphetamine, and thousands of kilograms of marijuana into the United States and earned millions of dollars in illegal proceeds in return.  In furtherance of its drug trafficking operation, the H-2 DTO used firearms and physical violence and is associated with numerous homicides. 

    Between June 2013 and December 2016, the defendant was one of the principal leaders of the H-2 DTO and directed the distribution of large quantities of cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine and marijuana from Mexico into various parts of the United States, including the Eastern District of New York.  The defendant also coordinated the money laundering activities of other members of the H-2 DTO to ensure the proceeds of their drug trafficking were transferred back to Mexico.  In addition, he conspired with other leaders and members of the H-2 DTO to kill members of rival drug trafficking organizations and other individuals perceived as threats to the H-2 DTO.   

    The extradition of Sanchez is the result of an ongoing Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of New York and the DEA.  The principal mission of the OCDETF program is to identify, disrupt, and dismantle the most serious drug trafficking, weapons trafficking, and money laundering organizations, and those primarily responsible for the nation’s illegal drug supply.  OCDETF uses a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.

    The charges in the indictment are allegations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.  If convicted of the continuing criminal enterprise count, the defendant faces a mandatory life sentence; the defendant faces up to a life sentence on the other counts of the indictment.

    The government’s case is being handled by the Office’s International Narcotics and Money Laundering Section.  Assistant United States  Attorneys Andrew D. Wang and Raffaela S. Belizaire are in charge of the prosecution.

    The Defendant:

    JESUS RICARDO PATRON SANCHEZ (also known as “H-3,” “Diabolic,” “Vela,” “James Bond” and “Xmen”)
    Age: 39
    Mexico

    E.D.N.Y. Docket No. 16-CR-241 (S-2) (CBA) 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Seven Charged In Central Florida Gun Trafficking Scheme

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Orlando, Florida – Acting United States Attorney Sara C. Sweeney announces the return of an indictment charging six individuals involved in an alleged gun trafficking operation. An additional individual was separately charged by complaint in the same conspiracy. The indictment also notifies the defendants that the United States intends to forfeit specific firearms recovered in the operation. 

    Name

    (Age, City of Residence)

    		 Charge Maximum Penalties

    Victor Manuel LaFontaine Ruiz

    (31, Poinciana)

    Gun trafficking conspiracy  

    Unlicensed gun dealing, aiding and abetting

    Possession of machinegun

    15 years 

    5 years 

    10 years

    Jose Emanuel Maldonado Rodriguez

    (32, Kissimmee)

    Gun trafficking conspiracy 

    Unlicensed gun dealing, aiding and abetting

    Possession of machinegun

    15 years 

    5 years 

    10 years

    Freddie Geovani Cruz Batiz

    (36, Kissimmee)

    Gun trafficking conspiracy 

    Unlicensed gun dealing, aiding and abetting

    15 years 

    5 years 

    Jomar Manuel Lopez Montanez

    (30, Kissimmee)

    Gun trafficking conspiracy

    Unlicensed gun dealing, aiding and abetting

    Felon in possession

    15 years 

    5 years 

    15 years

    Derrick Yamil Rivera Robles

    (29, Kissimmee)

    Gun trafficking conspiracy 

    Unlicensed gun dealing, aiding and abetting

    Possession of machinegun

    15 years 

    5 years 

    10 years

    Leonardo David Joseph Guerra

    (23, Orlando)

    Gun trafficking conspiracy

    Unlicensed gun dealing, aiding and abetting

    Alien in possession

    15 years 

    5 years 

    15 years

    Jincheng Shi

    (27, St. Cloud)

    Unlicensed gun dealing, aiding and abetting

    Alien in possession

    5 years 

    15 years

    According to court documents, from at least as early as September 2023 onward, Lafontaine and Maldonado operated a gun trafficking ring involving hundreds of firearms, machineguns, machinegun conversion devices, and high-capacity magazines needed for fully automatic weapons. This operation did not involve any federally licensed firearms dealers. Instead, Lafontaine and Maldonado obtained firearms parts, including from Jincheng Shi, a Chinese national. Lafontaine and Maldonado allegedly assembled, manufactured, and modified semi-automatic and automatic firearms using a “ghost gunner” machine and specialized “endmill” drilling devices at a workspace on Maldonado’s property in Kissimmee: 

    From there, Lafontaine and Maldonado, along with assistance from Batiz, sold firearms, including fully automatic weapons and machine gun conversion devices (“chips” or “buttons”) that are used to convert semi-automatic weapons into machineguns. They sold those items to illegal aliens and convicted felons such as Lopez Montanez, Rivera Robles, and Joseph Guerra, who were often brokering such transactions on behalf of other unknown customers.

    On September 17, 2023, for example, Lafontaine showed a fully automatic firearm to a customer that was later sold during this operation and, on October 9, 2023, Lafontaine quoted Rivera Robles (a convicted felon) a price of $150 for a machinegun conversion device known as a “chip,” that Rivera Robles purchased in March 2024.               

    On February 7, 2025, Lafontaine sold Lopez Montanez (a convicted felon) two firearms falsely branded to appear as though they were legitimate firearms manufactured with engraved fake sequential serial numbers. When Lopez Montanez was stopped, he fled from law enforcement and attempted to hide the weapons that were eventually recovered. 

    The next day, Lafontaine delivered five similar firearms to Maldonado.           

    On February 20, 2025, law enforcement executed five search warrants at various locations associated with this conspiracy. The items are still be inventoried.  Preliminarily, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) have recovered at least five AR-style pistols with sequential and identical serial numbers at Maldonado’s residence (depicted below), along with at least three machinegun conversion devices, machinery used to assemble, modify, and manufacture the firearms and machine guns sold through this operation. 

     At Lafontaine’s residence, agents recovered a completed rifle, gun parts, gun manufacturing and modification equipment, and drug distribution paraphernalia with a blender and a powder that field-tested positive for fentanyl, packaged for sale. At Batiz’s residence, agents recovered a handgun and an AR pistol, four machinegun conversion devices, along with drug paraphernalia and powders packaged for distribution that are still being tested. Eight handguns, three rifles, and eight AR-style receivers were recovered from Shi’s residence and storage lockers.

    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 Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, with assistance from the Metropolitan Bureau of Investigation, Orange County Sheriff’s Office, Orlando Police Department, Winter Garden Police Department, Osceola County Sheriff’s Office, Apopka Police Department, Seminole County Sheriff’s Office, and Florida Highway Patrol. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Dana E. Hill.

    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.

    This case was part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation. 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 www.justice.gov/OCDETF.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Collingwood Corner — RCMP investigates fatality following snowmobile crash

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Cumberland County District RCMP is investigating following a snowmobile crash and fatality that occurred in Collingwood Corner.

    On February 21, at approximately 10:20 p.m., RCMP officers, fire services, and EHS responded to a report of a crash on Wyvern Rd. RCMP officers learned that a man was operating a snowmobile when it went off the road and hit a snowbank before coming to rest.

    The driver of the snowmobile, a 28-year-old Springhill man, was struck by a fire truck while being attended to in the roadway.

    The man was pronounced deceased a short time later.

    The investigation, which is in its early stages, is ongoing. The Nova Scotia RCMP Collision and Reconstruction Service team is assisting. Both the snowmobile and the fire truck have been seized.

    Our thoughts are with the victim’s loved ones at this difficult time.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Wrap Technologies Secures $5.8M in Private Placement of Securities

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TEMPE, Ariz., Feb. 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Wrap Technologies (NASDAQ: WRAP) (“Wrap” or, the “Company”) today announced it that it has executed a securities purchase agreement with certain investment partnerships affiliated with the Company and certain accredited and institutional investors in a private placement for the purchase and sale of (i) an aggregate of 3,216,666 shares of common stock of the Company, at a purchase price of $1.80 per share of common stock, and (ii) accompanying warrants to purchase 3,216,666 shares of common stock, for aggregate proceeds of approximately $5.8 million. The warrants will be immediately exercisable at an initial exercise price of $1.80 per share, subject to adjustment, and expire five years from the date of issuance.

    The closing of the private placement is subject to customary closing conditions and is expected to occur on or around February 28, 2025. The Company intends to use the net proceeds of the offering for working capital and general corporate purposes.

    Key Financing Highlights:

    • Majority investment comes from investment partnerships affiliated with insiders and several existing investors.
    • Fuels go-to-market strategy for BolaWrap and Managed Safety and Response (MSR) Connected Ecosystem, both domestically and internationally.
    • Accelerates commitment to deliver Made-in-America end-to-end public safety solutions.
    • Bolsters a federal plan for Washington, DC presence.
    • Increasing investments in training and customer support to optimize BolaWrap programs.

    The securities the private placement offering were offered and sold in transactions exempt from the registration requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”), pursuant to the exemption for transactions by an issuer not involving any public offering under Section 4(a)(2) of the Securities Act and Rule 506 of Regulation D of the Securities Act and in reliance on similar exemptions under applicable state laws. Pursuant to a registration rights agreement, the Company has agreed to file a resale registration statement covering the securities described above.

    This press release is not an offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy, nor shall there be any sale of these securities in any state or jurisdiction in which such an offer, solicitation, or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state or jurisdiction.

    About Wrap Technologies, Inc.

    Wrap Technologies, Inc. (Nasdaq: WRAP) is a leading global provider of advanced public safety solutions, integrating ultramodern technology, cutting-edge tools, and comprehensive services to address the complex, modern day challenges facing public safety organizations around the world. Guided by a no-harm principle, Wrap is dedicated to developing groundbreaking solutions that empower public safety agencies to safeguard the communities they serve in a manner that fosters stronger relationships, driving safer outcomes, empowering public safety and communities to move forward together.

    Wrap’s BolaWrap® solution encompasses an innovative and patented hand-held remote restraint device, strategically engineered with Wrap’s no-harm guiding principle to proactively deter escalation by deploying a Kevlar® tether that safely restrains individuals from a distance. Combined with BolaWrap® training, certified by the esteemed International Association of Directors of Law Enforcement Standards and Training (IADLEST), Wrap enables officers from over 1000 agencies across the U.S. and 60 countries around the world, with the expertise to effectively use BolaWrap® as an early intervention measure, mitigating potential risks and injuries, averting tragic outcomes, with the goal to save lives with each wrap.

    Wrap Reality™, the Company’s advanced virtual reality training system, is a fully immersive training simulator and comprehensive public safety training platform that equips first responders with the discipline and practice to prevent escalation, de-escalate conflicts, and apply appropriate tactical use-of-force measures to better perform in the field. By offering a growing range of real-life scenarios, Wrap Reality™ addresses the dynamic nature of modern law enforcement situations for positive public safety outcomes, building safer communities one decision at a time.

    Wrap’s Intrensic solution is a comprehensive, secure and efficient body worn camera and evidence collection and management solution designed with innovative technology to quickly capture, safely handle, securely store, and seamlessly track evidence, all while maintaining full transparency throughout the process. With meticulous consolidation and professional management of evidence, confidence in law enforcement and the justice system soars, fostering trust and reliability in court outcomes. Intrensic’s efficient system streamlines the entire process seamlessly, empowering all public safety providers to focus on what matters, expediting justice with integrity.

    Connect with Wrap:
    Wrap on Facebook
    Wrap on Twitter
    Wrap on LinkedIn

    Trademark Information

    Wrap, the Wrap logo, BolaWrap®, Wrap Reality™ and Wrap Training Academy are trademarks of Wrap Technologies, Inc., some of which are registered in the U.S. and abroad.  All other trade names used herein are either trademarks or registered trademarks of the respective holders.

    Cautionary Note on Forward-Looking Statements – Safe Harbor Statement
    This release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the “safe harbor” provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Words such as “expect,” “anticipate,” “should”, “believe”, “target”, “project”, “goals”, “estimate”, “potential”, “predict”, “may”, “will”, “could”, “intend”, and variations of these terms or the negative of these terms and similar expressions are intended to identify these forward-looking statements. Moreover, forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, many of which involve factors or circumstances that are beyond the Company’s control. The Company’s actual results could differ materially from those stated or implied in forward-looking statements due to a number of factors, including but not limited to: the private placement and the satisfaction of customary closing conditions related to the private placement, the anticipated use of proceeds therefrom, the Company’s ability to maintain compliance with the Nasdaq Capital Market’s listing standards; the Company’s ability to successfully implement training programs for the use of its products; the Company’s ability to manufacture and produce products for its customers; the Company’s ability to develop sales for its products; the market acceptance of existing and future products; the availability of funding to continue to finance operations; the complexity, expense and time associated with sales to law enforcement and government entities; the lengthy evaluation and sales cycle for the Company’s product solutions; product defects; litigation risks from alleged product-related injuries; risks of government regulations; the business impact of health crises or outbreaks of disease, such as epidemics or pandemics; the impact resulting from geopolitical conflicts and any resulting sanctions; the ability to obtain export licenses for counties outside of the United States; the ability to obtain patents and defend intellectual property against competitors; the impact of competitive products and solutions; and the Company’s ability to maintain and enhance its brand, as well as other risk factors mentioned in the Company’s most recent annual report on Form 10-K, subsequent quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, and other Securities and Exchange Commission filings. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date of this release and were based on current expectations, estimates, forecasts, and projections as well as the beliefs and assumptions of management. Except as required by law, the Company undertakes no duty or obligation to update any forward-looking statements contained in this release as a result of new information, future events or changes in its expectations.

    Investor Relations Contact:

    (800) 583-2652
    ir@wrap.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Duckworth Hosts Roundtable with Local Chicago Federal Employees Impacted by Trump’s Mass Federal Layoffs

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Tammy Duckworth
    February 22, 2025
    [CHICAGO, IL] – U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) today hosted a roundtable discussion with local Chicago-based federal employees from seven different agencies who have been affected by Trump’s chaotic federal layoffs and Elon Musk’s reckless funding cuts, including multiple probationary employees who have been terminated. During the roundtable, Duckworth also highlighted the ways she is working to push back on Trump’s lawlessness at the federal level. 
    “In the wake of Donald Trump and Elon Musk’s mass federal layoffs, I’m continuing to hear from local federal employees across Illinois who suddenly found themselves jobless,” Duckworth said. “While Trump and Musk can keep claiming that they’re working to weed out waste and save money, we know that these mass federal layoffs and funding cuts are ultimately their attempts to fund tax breaks for the ultra-wealthy—and stick hardworking Illinoisans with the bill. By gutting our fraud enforcement agencies, Americans will have no one left to weed out the real fraud and hold Trump accountable, costing taxpayers even more in the long run. Trump’s federal purge is a slap in the face to those who’ve devoted their lives to public service and I’ll continue using my power as a U.S. Senator to push back against this lawlessness.”
    “We are grateful for Senator Duckworth’s leadership and advocacy on behalf of federal workers,” said Nicole Cantello, president of the American Federation of Government Employees Local 704. “Every day, U.S. EPA employees work to keep Illinoisans safe from toxic pollutants in their air, water and soil. We need every senator standing strongly behind us and firmly opposing these cynical, self-serving efforts from the Trump administration.”
    Prior to these reductions, nearly 53,000 federal employees were based in Chicago. The five largest federal agencies by employment in Illinois are the Department of Veterans Affairs (16,200), the Department of the Army (7,075), the Department of Homeland Security (5,043), the Department of Justice (3,628) and the Department of the Air Force (3,490).
    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Jury Convicts Former Kansas City Police Officer of $200,000 Charity Fraud Scheme

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

    KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A former Kansas City, Mo., police officer who ran an anti-crime charity has been convicted in federal court of a scheme in which he spent more than $200,000 in donations for his own personal expenses.

    Aaron Wayne McKie, 47, was found guilty on Thursday, Feb. 20, of nine counts of wire fraud and one count of money laundering. McKie worked as a police officer for the Kansas City, Mo., Police Department for 24 years, assigned as a police officer to the Crime Free Multi-Housing section from 2002 through 2023.

    McKie served from 2009 to 2023 as president of Mid-America Crime Free, Inc. (MACF), a non-profit organization that claimed to provide training to persons in the rental housing industry and promote anti-crime programs. He was an officer of the charity for three years prior, from 2006 to 2009.

    Evidence produced during the trial indicated that McKie devised a scheme to defraud MACF and its donors that began in July 2009 and lasted until October 2023. Individuals and businesses contributed $387,620 to MACF, not including in-kind donations. McKie spent at least $200,060 for his own personal purposes.

    The biggest source of MACF funds was an annual golf tournament, “Fairways 4 Fuzz Golf Tournament.” Individuals and businesses donated both money and in-kind donations, such as food and beverages, to MACF via the golf tournament. At least 121 donors have been identified.

    From 2009 to 2023, the flyers soliciting donations and players for the tournament claimed the funds raised would enable MACF to provide free seminars to owners of rental properties and train police officers. In reality, those claims were false. The Kansas City Police Department paid the salaries and expenses of Crime Free Multi-Housing unit officers who may have provided training to landlords; McKie used the majority of MACF funds for personal spending; and the IRS had revoked the organization’s tax-exempt status in 2010.

    Under federal statutes, McKie is subject to a sentence of up to 20 years in federal prison without parole on each of the 10 counts on which he was convicted. The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes, as the sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled after the completion of a presentence investigation by the United States Probation Office.

    Following the presentation of evidence, the jury in the U.S. District Court in Kansas City, Mo., deliberated for nine hours before returning guilty verdicts to U.S. Chief District Judge Beth Phillips, ending a trial that began Monday, Feb. 10.

    This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Kathleen D. Mahoney and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Amanda Hanson. It was investigated by the FBI and the Kansas City, Mo., Police Department.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Why justice for Ukraine must be at the forefront of peace negotiations

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Oleksa Drachewych, Assistant Professor in History, Western University

    On Feb. 18, representatives from Russia and the United States met in Saudi Arabia to determine if peace in Ukraine is possible. Ukrainian representatives were not invited.

    U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said on social media that the meeting was a step in developing an “enduring peace” between Russia and Ukraine. Russian President Vladimir Putin claimed in a media interview that the meeting was “very positive” and confirmed the true meaning of the talks was to start normalising relations between Russia and the U.S.

    Although U.S. President Donald Trump has claimed “the Russians want to see the war end,” Russian officials remain committed to their war aims. Russian foreign minister Sergei Lavrov announced before the meetings that Russia would not return Ukrainian territory. After, he stated that should a peace deal be brokered, any peacekeeping forces could not come from NATO nations. The latter statement stunted growing European efforts to develop a security guarantee for Ukraine should a ceasefire be reached.

    Keith Kellogg, U.S. envoy for Kyiv and Moscow, said after his Feb. 20 meeting with Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelenskyy that the U.S. is aligned with the nation — and that any end to the war with Russia should ensure there is no “next war”. Yet White House officials do not seem to have Ukraine’s best interest in mind in negotiating a potential resolution to the war.

    For instance, U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth announced on Feb. 12 that the U.S. government doesn’t believe NATO membership for Ukraine “is a realistic outcome of a negotiated settlement.” He added that Ukraine would need to accept territorial concessions to Russia.

    Trump has also increasingly parroted Russian narratives — such as claiming that Ukraine started the war. He has also delegitimized Zelenskyy by claiming he is a “dictator” who refuses to hold elections — despite the nation’s constitution stating elections cannot legally be held under martial law.

    Trump also continues to demand 50 per cent of Ukraine’s natural resources to repay the United States for previous military and financial support. This has led to a deterioration in Ukrainian-U.S. relations at a time where Russian-U.S. relations appear to be improving.



    Read more:
    Ukraine’s natural resources are at centre stage in the ongoing war, and will likely remain there

    European leaders have responded with frustration. Zelenskyy has made his position clear that any negotiation must include Ukraine at the table. Ukraine would not accept an imposed peace.

    Any attempt at negotiating a lasting peace between the two nations must include accountability for Russian crimes.

    The realities of Russia’s invasion

    American overtures for peace have often referred to “stopping the millions of deaths” in Russia’s war in Ukraine. While on the surface this goal is admirable, it oversimplifies the realities of what the last three years of war have done to Ukraine. Namely, Russian forces have committed extensive war crimes and atrocity in Ukraine.

    Russian forces barrage Ukraine with drone strikes and terror bombing — including targeting civilians. Even as negotiations were happening in Saudi Arabia, Russian drones struck Odesa, injuring four civilians. This was the latest in a long line of such attacks. International Criminal Court (ICC) arrest warrants are out for Russian military leaders on just this issue.

    The Ukrainian government has confirmed over 19,500 Ukrainian children have been abducted by Russian forces. But in July 2023, Russian officials claimed they had over 700,000 Ukrainian children in Russian territory.

    Investigative reporting confirms the Russian government is assimilating these children — forcing them to stop speaking Ukrainian and raising them with a Russian identity. These actions have also led to ICC arrest warrants for Putin and Maria Lvova-Belova, Russia’s Children’s Rights Commissioner who oversees the program. Russia’s actions violate the UN Genocide Convention.

    Widespread sexual assault by Russian forces has been documented against Ukrainian men and women. Torture chambers have also been found in liberated cities. Russian forces committed mass murder in multiple Ukrainian cities — underscored by the discovery of mass graves in Bucha, Izium and Lyman.

    Mariupol, once a city of over 400,000 has been reduced to a population of 120,000 as of 2023. This showcases the devastation caused by Russian forces. Russia has also started seizing buildings to give to Russian settlers to further Russify the city.

    The realities under Russian occupation are only partially known. The Russian government has demanded Ukrainians living under occupation forfeit their Ukrainian identification documents and obtain Russian passports. In schools, Russia has fully implemented its nationalistic curriculum, which includes “anti-Ukrainian propaganda” aimed at assimilating Ukrainian children.

    Against international law, forcible Russification of the Ukrainian people has become a common feature of Russian occupation during this war.

    Ukraine’s fight for justice

    Ukraine continues to fight against Russian occupation. While it’s honourable to want to stop the deaths caused by fighting, the Russian regime’s actions in Ukrainian territory must be remembered too.

    This is why justice is just as important as resolution. While it’s unlikely Russian officials will find themselves before the ICC, there must be some form of accountability for Russian crimes against Ukraine if peace is negotiated. While present frontlines may dictate where Ukraine may be forced to cede territory or freeze conflict, the realities of Russian aggression cannot be ignored.

    Here, history offers a guide for what shouldn’t be done this time when brokering a peace deal.



    Read more:
    How Russia’s fixation on the Second World War helps explain its Ukraine invasion

    During the Second World War, Soviet forces committed extensive war crimes and atrocities. Yet the Soviet Union never faced a reckoning for those acts. Russian officials remember this. As a result, Putin feels empowered to commit similar atrocities in Ukraine — believing Russia, just as the Soviet Union, won’t face any consequences.

    For any possibility of lasting peace, accountability and justice for Russian war crimes must be at the forefront of negotiations. Otherwise, Russia will have learned it can act with impunity — threatening the likelihood of enduring peace for Ukraine.

    Oleksa Drachewych 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. Why justice for Ukraine must be at the forefront of peace negotiations – https://theconversation.com/why-justice-for-ukraine-must-be-at-the-forefront-of-peace-negotiations-250208

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICE Boston arrests illegal Guatemalan alien charged with armed home invasion, kidnapping crimes

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    PROVIDENCE, R.I. — U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement apprehended an illegally present Guatemalan national charged in Brockton, Massachusetts, with five counts of assault with a dangerous weapon, three counts of kidnapping, intimidation and armed home invasion when officers arrested Edilio Agustin-Orellana in Providence, Jan. 27.

    “Edilio Agustin-Orellana stands accused of some extremely egregious felonies and represents a significant threat to the residents of New England,” said ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Boston acting Field Office Director Patricia H. Hyde. “We simply cannot tolerate such threats to our residents. ICE Boston remains dedicated to prioritizing the safety of our public by arresting and removing illegal alien offenders from the streets of our communities.”

    The U.S. Border Patrol arrested Agustin after he illegally entered the United States Jan. 25, 2002, near Brownsville, Texas, and transferred custody to Immigration and Naturalization Services at the Port Isabel Detention Center in Los Fresnos, Texas. INS released Agustin on bond two weeks later.

    A Department of Justice immigration judge in Harlingen, Texas, ordered Agustin removed from the United States to Guatemala Sept. 23, 2002.

    The 6th Division District Court in Providence, Rhode Island, convicted Agustin Oct. 13, 2004, of eluding police, resisting arrest, and driving with suspended license. The court sentenced him to one year of probation and court costs.

    ICE encountered Agustin Nov. 13, 2006, following a subsequent arrest in Providence and lodged an immigration detainer against Agustin with the Rhode Island Department of Corrections

    ICE arrested Agustin Nov. 15, 2006, at the Rhode Island Adult Correctional Institute in Cranston and removed him from the U.S. to Guatemala Dec. 30, 2006.

    Border Patrol agents arrested Agustin after he illegally reentered the U.S. Feb. 7, 2007, near Ocotillo, California, and issued him a notice of intent/decision to reinstate a prior removal order. ICE removed Agustin from the U.S. to Guatemala Feb. 8, 2008.

    Agustin illegally reentered the U.S. Aug. 4, 2019, near Del Rio, Texas, and ICE lodged an immigration detainer against Agustin with Brockton District Court Feb. 20, 2024, following his arrest for armed home invasion. The Brockton District Court refused to honor the ICE detainer and released Agustin from custody.

    The Plymouth Superior Court in Brockton, Massachusetts, arraigned Agustin June 24, 2024, for five counts of assault with a dangerous weapon, three counts of kidnapping, intimidation and armed home invasion.

    ICE arrested Agustin, who was at large in Providence, Jan. 27. He remains in ICE custody.

    Members of the public can report crimes and suspicious activity by dialing 866-DHS-2-ICE (866-347-2423) or completing the online tip form.

    Learn more about ICE’s mission to increase public safety in our New England communities on X: @EROBoston.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Stephenville — RCMP Major Crime Unit investigates serious incident in Port au Port, seeks public’s assistance

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    RCMP NL’s Major Crime Unit (MCU) West is currently investigating an incident that occurred on Friday, February 21, 2025, in Port au Port that left a man with serious injuries.

    At approximately 4:30 p.m. on Friday, Bay St. George RCMP responded to the report of an injured snowmobiler on Gravel’s Pond in Port au Port. Two snowmobilers were traveling across the pond together. One snowmobile came to a stop on the pond and the operator fell off the machine. The other snowmobiler checked on the operator and found that he had sustained serious injuries. The man was transported to the hospital for urgent medical attention. He remains in hospital at this time.

    At this point in the investigation, the injuries sustained to the snowmobile operator do not appear to be consistent with the fall. The cause of the injury sustained remains under investigation by RCMP MCU.

    Police ask the public to check for all available surveillance footage, including dash cam footage, in the area of Gravel’s Pond and the Main Road in Port au Port between the hours of 3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Friday, February 21.

    Anyone having any information about this incident is asked to contact RCMP MCU West by contacting Bay St. George detachment at 709-643-2118.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General Bonta, Senator Hurtado Unveil Bill to Sharpen California’s Antitrust Law

    Source: US State of California

    Bill would increase penalties for corporations that break California law

    OAKLAND — California Attorney General Rob Bonta and Senator Melissa Hurtado (D-Bakersfield) today unveiled Senate Bill 763 (SB 763), legislation seeking to more effectively deter corporations from restraining trade, fixing prices, and reducing competition — actions that can raise prices and harm workers, businesses, and consumers. Currently, many powerful corporations view antitrust enforcement as just another cost of doing business. SB 763 would increase criminal penalties and add civil penalties for violations of California’s Cartwright Act.

    “Too many wealthy corporations see penalties for breaking the law as simply the cost of doing business. SB 763 would sharpen the teeth of a century-old law by increasing penalties for those looking to illegally profit at the cost of workers, consumers, and honest businesses,” said Attorney General Rob Bonta. “As the fifth largest economy in the world, and home to some of the wealthiest corporations, California has a responsibility to fight for a fair and competitive marketplace, especially amid the unprecedented wave of corporate mergers and market consolidation that we are seeing today. I thank Senator Hurtado for introducing this bill to help ensure we have the appropriate tools to protect a vibrant and just 21st century economy.” 

    “This is about power — the power of corporations, market manipulators, and bad actors who rig prices, suppress wages, and tilt the playing field in their favor,” said Senator Melissa Hurtado (D-Bakersfield). “For too long, Californians have shouldered the burden of an economy where those who break the rules profit while honest businesses and working families struggle. That ends now. SB 763 ensures that violating antitrust laws comes with real consequences, not just a slap on the wrist.”

    What is Antitrust?

    Antitrust violations can lead to rising costs for consumers because when companies collude or gain significant market power through illegal anticompetitive practices, they have less pressure to keep prices low and can raise prices without fear of losing customers to other competitors. Competitive marketplaces established through antitrust vigilance help consumers by ensuring fair prices for goods and services, an array of products to choose from, quality goods and services, and the steady introduction of innovative new products.

    California’s Cartwright Act prohibits agreements between corporations to restrain trade, limit production, and fix prices or otherwise prevent competition. The existing penalties for violations of the Cartwright Act have not been updated in decades and are insufficient to deter anticompetitive activity in the current market. 

    SB 763 

    SB 763 would increase criminal penalties and add civil penalties under the Cartwright Act. 

    Specifically, SB 763 would: 

    • Increase the criminal fines for corporate violators from $1 million to $100 million per violation.
    • Increase the criminal fines for individuals from $250,000 to $1 million per violation.
    • Increase the term of imprisonment for a felony violation to two, three, or five years (currently one, two, or three years).
    • Add civil penalties of up to $1 million per violation that courts can impose based on factors such as the nature, seriousness, and persistence of the misconduct.

    Antitrust and the California Department of Justice

    Attorney General Bonta has made robust antitrust enforcement a top priority, working to expand the size of the California Department of Justice’s Antitrust Section and leading the charge within the state and across the country.  

    In December 2024, Attorney General Bonta secured the abandonment of the Kroger-Albertsons merger, which threatened to raise grocery prices and leave Californians with limited choices over where to shop and where to work. In August 2024, Attorney General Bonta filed a lawsuit against RealPage, alleging that its anticompetitive conduct harmed consumers by decreasing competition among landlords, limiting price negotiation, and increasing prices in the rental housing industry. In July 2024, Attorney General Bonta announced a $50 million settlement with gas trading firms, resolving allegations that the firms secretly worked together to tamper with and manipulate spot market prices for California gasoline. In September 2022, Attorney General Bonta sued Amazon, alleging that the company stifled competition and caused increased prices across California through its anticompetitive contracting practices. 

    As part of the Attorney General’s commitment to enforcing antitrust laws, the California Department of Justice recently launched a new Antitrust Complaint Form. Please click here to report anticompetitive conduct that potentially violates antitrust laws.

    The text of the legislation is available here. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Sextortionist Gets 24 Years for Victimizing Minors Online

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

    HOUSTON – A 22-year-old New York native has been sentenced for production of child pornography, coercion and enticement of minors and cyberstalking, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.

    Tyler N. Grundstrom pleaded guilty Oct. 8, 2024.

    U.S. District Judge Andrew Hanen has now sentenced Grundstrom to a total of 288 months in federal prison. When he is eventually released, he will be on supervised release for the rest of his life, during which time he will have to comply with numerous requirements designed to restrict his access to children and the internet. Grundstrom will also be ordered to register as a sex offender.

    “The significant sentence in this case is a reminder of how seriously the Department of Justice takes the online victimization of minors,” said Ganjei. “Gone are the days where the predator lives next door or down the street; now a would-be exploiter can be thousands of miles away. Grundstrom, and similar online predators, are the reason why parents need to know who is talking to their child online.”

    “This case is a chilling reminder there are twisted criminals, like Tyler Grundstrom, who use the internet’s anonymity to manipulate children’s innocence for their own sick ends,” said FBI Houston Special Agent in Charge Douglas Williams. “I want to remind every child and parent to remain vigilant, especially on social media, because predators regularly use these platforms to find their victims. Today’s sentencing shows the FBI will relentlessly hunt down those who harm children, no matter where they live, and ensure they face the full force of the law for their vile crimes.”

    Grundstrom used popular online communication platforms to identify and target young girls for extortion and exploitation. Grundstrom would manipulate, threaten and coerce the victims into producing explicit and offensive content. The investigation revealed more than one victim in at least two states had been targeted, and the abuse occurred from 2021 and continued through 2022.

    He will remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the future.

    FBI Houston and FBI Atlanta’s Athens Resident Agency conducted the investigation.

    The case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood (PSC), a nationwide initiative the Department of Justice (DOJ) launched in May 2006 to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section leads PSC, which marshals federal, state and local resources to locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children and identifies and rescues victims. For more information about PSC, please visit DOJ’s PSC page. For more information about internet safety education, please visit the resources link on that page.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Military Launches LAMAT ‘25 to Strengthen Readiness, Global Partnerships

    Source: United States SOUTHERN COMMAND

    DAVIS-MONTHAN AIR FORCE BASE, Ariz.  –  

    A Global Health Engagement mission led by U.S. Air Forces Southern, is set to launch its third iteration encompassing four partner nations Feb. 24 – April 11, 2025.

    The Lesser Antilles Medical Assistance Team (LAMAT) 2025, led by AFSOUTH Surgeon General, will embed Air Force Reserve Command medical personnel within host nation hospitals and clinics across the Lesser Antilles region and Guyana. These Global Health Engagements enhance military readiness, strengthen partner nation healthcare systems, and foster resilience through expertise sharing and collaboration with local providers.

    “LAMAT is about building lasting partnerships through medical collaboration,” said Lt. Col. Aaron Goodrich, AFSOUTH deputy command surgeon and lead planner for LAMAT. “By working side-by-side with our host nation counterparts, we aim to enhance interoperability and strengthen our collective ability to respond to medical challenges, whether they stem from natural disasters, public health emergencies or everyday patient care.”

    The mission involves approximately 240 military personnel, including 180 medical professionals partnering with local providers to deliver specialized care and build a long-term healthcare capacity.

    Throughout the exercise, U.S. and partner nation medical professionals will focus on a range of specialties tailored to the specific needs of each location identified by the respective Ministries of Health. In Saint Lucia, teams will focus on vascular, oral surgeries, and general surgery and anesthesia including mass casualty response knowledge exchanges. While in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, the focus will shift to primary care, vascular, ENT, neurology and anesthesia.

    The mission will then shift to Saint Kitts and Nevis, where teams will collaborate with local hospitals on emergency medicine, diabetes education and audiology procedures. Finally, in Guyana, medical personnel will collaborate on dental, emergency medicine and ophthalmology.

    “This is a newer way of doing global health engagement,” said Col. Brian Gavitt, AFSOUTH command surgeon. “Instead of setting up a tent in competition with healthcare systems, each one of these missions in LAMAT were requested by the country. The Ministry of Health reached out and said, ‘Can you come and do something?’ We are tailoring what capabilities we bring to their needs.

    “This is operationally relevant readiness,” Gavitt added. “We are leveraging our readiness requirements to build resilience in an area that struggles with natural disasters. We’re not just filling a few cavities—we’re fixing medical equipment, enhancing capabilities and improving healthcare infrastructure in meaningful ways.”

    Government and healthcare leaders in the participating nations have welcomed the initiative, recognizing its long-term impact on healthcare capacity and crisis response.

    “The Ministry of Health (MOH), St Kitts & Nevis thank the AFSOUTH for the successful execution of the LAMAT Mission in 2024,” said Dr. Hazel Laws, St Kitts & Nevis Ministry of Health chief medical officer. “The visiting team of doctors, dentists, nurses and allied health professionals conducted approximately 2,261 procedures and over 1,300 patients benefited from the health services offered in collaboration with local health personnel. Almost 200 persons benefited from hearing aids allowing them to better appreciate their environment. Overall, the National Health System was strengthened through knowledge transfer and acquisition of medical supplies and equipment.”

    “On behalf of the MOH and Government of St. Kitts & Nevis, I extend profound thanks to the AFSOUTH for this collaborative effort. We look forward to the implementation of the LAMAT 2025 mission which we anticipate will impact more persons.”

    LAMAT is part of AFSOUTH’s broader commitment to regional security cooperation and humanitarian assistance, reinforcing the ability of partner nations to respond to public health emergencies and natural disasters.

    The kickoff ceremony in Saint Lucia will mark the official start of the mission, with medical operations set to begin immediately after.

    “This exercise is more than just medial readiness—it’s about building lasting partnerships and strengthening healthcare systems across the region,” said Gavitt. “By embedding our teams within host nation facilities, we are able to exchange knowledge, improve interoperability, and enhance readiness on both sides. Medical readiness isn’t just about preparing for conflict; it’s about ensuring we can respond effectively to humanitarian crises, pandemics and natural disasters.”

    The dual-purpose mission not only helps local healthcare systems but also prepares U.S. military personnel for real-world deployment scenarios. LAMAT 25 offers unique hands-on training opportunities for reservists and active-duty service members, particularly in treating tropical diseases and operating in austere conditions.

    “Our reserve components are coming down to accomplish skills that they don’t get in their regular duties,” Gavitt added. “This mission ensures they are ready to deploy to any location if needed in the future.”

    By partnering with host-nation physicians, they can enhance medical capabilities while reducing the burden on local healthcare systems.

    “If we bring a provider to work alongside yours, side-by-side for two weeks just doing that piece develops a skill set that endures,” Gavitt said. “Once you’re a practicing physician, you don’t get a whole lot of time to learn new skills, so what we can do is pair folks up, work together, and develop new expertise that will benefit these communities long after we leave.”

    Beyond direct patient care, biomedical equipment repair technicians (BMET) are also deployed as part of LAMAT ‘25 to repair critical hospital equipment, restoring functionality to facilities that may struggle with outdated or broken machinery.

    One key success from a past mission was in Guyana, where U.S. personnel trained local youth to become medical equipment repair technicians.

    “That kind of impact endures far beyond the mission itself. When we went on the site survey, we found they had developed their skills, and now they have four or five guys who are repair technicians,” Goodrich said. “That’s the kind of lasting impact we aim for.”

    LAMAT ‘25 also reinforces U.S. commitment to partner nations, particularly in regions vulnerable to natural disasters and health crises.

    For the first time, medical readiness will be tracked in real-time using the Medical Currency Application for Readiness Tracking (MCART). The system allows AFRC medical personnel to log procedures performed, patient care data, and skills acquired, ensuring their experiences contribute to future deployment qualifications.

    A live dashboard will provide ongoing updates, detailing the number of patients treated, medical equipment repaired, and training hours completed—an instrumental tool in assessing the mission’s impact and guiding future engagements.

    “You’ll be able to look in real-time,” Goodrich said. “There’s a value calculated from these things, the number of hours worked, and readiness requirements by type and provider. This information will be essential for tracking the effectiveness of LAMAT 25.”

    All involved agree LAMAT ‘25 is a win-win scenario, benefiting both U.S. military personnel and partner nations. The mission enhances medical readiness and strengthens partnerships while improving healthcare infrastructure in underserved areas.

    For more information about this global health engagement, visit the LAMAT DVIDS Page, https://www.dvidshub.net/feature/LAMAT25.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Brazilian Extradited From Switzerland to the United States to Face Indictment Charging Involvement in $290 Million Plus Cryptocurrency Fraud Scheme

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

    Tens of thousands of investors deposited bitcoin expecting an investment strategy – Instead, new investor bitcoin used to pay off other investors in a Ponzi scheme

    SEATTLE – A citizen of Brazil appeared in U.S. District Court in Seattle today, after being extradited from Switzerland to face a 13-count indictment for wire fraud and conspiracy regarding his bitcoin investment scheme, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Teal Luthy Miller. Douver T. Braga, 48, lived in Florida between approximately 2016 and 2021 during the bulk of the alleged fraud. The indictment alleges Braga operated a bitcoin investment scheme that was really a Ponzi scheme, as well as an illegal multilevel marketing scheme.

    The grand jury returned the indictment in October 2022. It was unsealed last week following Braga’s arrest in Switzerland. Today Braga pleaded “Not Guilty,” and trial was scheduled in front of U.S. District Judge Tana Lin on April 28, 2025.

    “Mr. Braga allegedly ran a fraud scheme that harkens back more than a century, but he updated his ‘Ponzi’ scheme with the hot new thing: bitcoin,” said U.S. Attorney Teal Luthy Miller. “The victim investors have waited years to see justice. I commend our federal partners at the FBI and IRS Criminal Investigation for their diligent work on this case.”

    According to the indictment, Braga conspired with others to create a cryptocurrency trading platform called Trade Coin Club (TCC) with an office in Belize. As early as 2016, Braga worked with others to promote TCC, claiming that investors would make money because the TCC had a sophisticated software program that allowed investors to profit on the fluctuating price of bitcoin. Braga also promised that investors could make money by referring other investors to the platform. In reality, there was no investment platform and no sophisticated software. Those who invested early were paid off by later investors as in a Ponzi scheme.

    Braga traveled the world promoting TCC: In Thailand in March 2017, in Nigeria and Macau in May 2017.  TCC was promoted on social media and in videos. At various events Braga claimed TCC had as many as 126,000 members in 231 different countries.

    Through his false promises of sophisticated investments and high returns, Braga induced tens of thousands of people to entrust over 82,000 bitcoin, valued at over $290 million at the time of investment, and to deposit it with TCC. Braga continued the false representations, creating an “online portal” where investors could track the supposed activity of their investment accounts. The site was a fiction as there was no trading activity.

    Braga withdrew and misappropriated investor funds. Between December 2016 and July 2019, at least $50 million in bitcoin was transferred to accounts Braga controlled.

    However, by late 2017 and early 2018, investors had trouble accessing their funds. In January 2018, TCC announced to investors that it was ceasing to operate in the United States and was cancelling their accounts.  Many investors were located in the Western District of Washington.

    Braga allegedly profited handsomely, while failing to report the earnings to the IRS. In 2017, he received bitcoin worth $30.5 million, but only reported income of $152, 298. In 2018, he reported $73,473 in income but got $13.1 million in bitcoin and in 2019, reported $72,870 in income while he received $10 million in bitcoin.

    “The type of scheme Mr. Braga is charged with operating is not new, he just used the allure of a flashy new technology to obscure the well-worn scam.” said W. Mike Herrington, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Seattle field office. “While the victims in this case waited and wondered about the fate of their investments, he siphoned off millions of dollars for his personal use. This case demonstrates the determination of the FBI and our partners in IRS Criminal Investigation to hold fraudsters accountable, no matter where in the world they may be.”

    “The charges against Mr. Braga and his co-conspirators reflect a well-designed scheme to solicit investment in a fake cryptocurrency trading platform from victims around the globe,” said Special Agent in Charge Tyler Hatcher of IRS-Criminal Investigation (CI), Los Angeles Field Office.  “Furthermore, Mr. Braga is alleged to have knowingly ignored and circumvented laws regulating multi-level marketing programs in the U.S.- laws that exist to protect investors from becoming victims in pyramid schemes.  Despite the complexity of this scheme, IRS Criminal Investigation and our partners at the FBI successfully uncovered the evidence necessary to bring forth these charges.”

    Braga is charged with 12 counts of wire fraud reflecting 12 wires investors sent to TCC for deposits in their “accounts.” Braga is charged with one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud.

    The charges are punishable by up to 20 years in prison.

    The charges contained in the indictment are only allegations.  A person is presumed innocent unless and until he or she is proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    The case was investigated by the IRS-CI and the FBI.

    The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Mike Dion and Phillip Kopczynski. The U.S. Department of Justice’s Office of International Affairs provided valuable assistance with securing the extradition.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Kremlin-linked elites face exclusion from UK

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Kremlin-linked elites face exclusion from UK

    Elites with known links to the Kremlin may be subject to exclusion from the UK in show of steadfast support for Ukraine on 3 year anniversary of invasion.

    Elites linked to the Russian state can be excluded from entering the UK under new measures announced by the Home Secretary today.  

    Under the new measures, the government will expand the criteria for exclusion to cover Kremlin-linked elites. This will ensure that, while Russia remains an acute national security threat, elites linked to the Russian state can be prevented from entering the UK.  

    Those who could be barred from the UK include anyone who:

    • provides significant support to the Russian state
    • owes their significant status or wealth to the Russian state
    • enjoy access to the highest levels of the Russian state

    Kremlin-linked elites can pose a real and present danger to our way of life. They denounce our values in public while enjoying the benefits of the UK in private – benefits which they look to deprive Ukraine of through their support of Russia’s war.  They can act as tools for the Russian state, enabling the continuation and expansion of Russia’s aggression.      

    The move will bolster both UK national interest and national security, one of the key priorities underpinning the government’s Plan for Change, by blocking the physical access of those who undermine UK national security. These new measures will complement the UK’s existing sanctions regime against Russian elites who are supporting Putin’s war effort, which will remain in place as long as Russia threatens Ukraine’s sovereignty.  

    The move follows continued action from the UK to respond to Russia’s illegal war in Ukraine including through imposing extensive sanctions on elites linked to the Russian state, strengthening law enforcement capabilities through the National Crime Agency’s (NCA’s) Combatting Kleptocracy Cell and closing the legislative loopholes open to money laundering by criminal actors.   

    These measures also follow ramped up efforts to tackle Russian illicit finance through the NCA’s Operation Destabilise, successfully disrupting 2 Russian money laundering networks which provided services to Russian oligarchs and helped fund Russian state espionage operations. The NCA-led action led to 84 arrests and over £20 million in illicit funds seized. This work continues and since the disruption, a further £1 million of cash has been seized and a further 6 arrests made.

    This change builds on the UK-Ukraine 100 Year Partnership signed in January, which commits both countries to work together to tackle the malign influence of elites linked to the Russian state.  

    Security Minister Dan Jarvis said:

    Border security is national security, and we will use all the tools at our disposal to protect our country against the threat from Russia.

    The measures announced today slam the door shut to the oligarchs who have enriched themselves at the expense of the Russian people whilst bankrolling this illegal and unjustifiable war.

    My message to Putin’s friends in Moscow is simple: you are not welcome in the UK.

    Since the start of the full-scale invasion, the UK’s total military, economic and humanitarian support for Ukraine amounts to £12.8 billion. We remain committed to the provision of £3 billion of military support a year to put Ukraine in the strongest position possible.  

    Earlier this month, the Defence Secretary led the 50-nation strong Ukraine Defence Contact Group for the first time and announced a further £150 million firepower package for Ukraine, including drones, tanks and air defence systems. 

    Defence Secretary, John Healey MP, said:

    As we mark the third anniversary of Russia’s illegal invasion, Putin is still waging a war he thought he would win in three days, because of fierce resistance from the Ukrainians. Our support for them is unshakeable. 

    I am proud of the UK’s leadership and unity on Ukraine. Keeping the Ukrainians in their fight and as strong as possible at any negotiating table is critical not only for them, but for the security of the UK. These new measures send a powerful message that we will do what it takes to turn the tables on Putin’s aggression.

    Updates to this page

    Published 24 February 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Four men sentenced following death of man in Croydon

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    Four men have been sentenced to a total of 67 years in prison following a Met Police investigation into the death of 22-year-old Lavaun Witter in Croydon.

    On 5 February 2021, officers were called to Wisbeach Road at around 20:08hrs, after a member of the public found Lavaun collapsed and seriously injured.

    He sadly died at the scene after sustaining a stab wound to the leg.

    An investigation was launched by the Met’s Specialist Crime South Unit. Enquiries revealed that prior to his death, Lavaun’s flat had been broken into by four men. The men, who were armed with long knives and swords, demanded drugs and slashed through an internal door.

    Lavaun and a 16-year-old boy were stabbed before running from the scene but Lavaun collapsed a short distance away.

    CCTV enquiries quickly identified the suspects as Tyreece Riggon, Julian Russell, Tyreece Wolfries-Parkin and Alex Pasley.

    On 18 February 2021, officers raided an address linked to Riggon and he and Russell were arrested. A subsequent search of an address linked to Russell recovered a Louis Vuitton bag belonging to Lavaun.

    Wolfries-Parkin and Pasley were also arrested in the following weeks.

    All were charged with Lavaun’s murder as well as attempted murder and attempted grievous bodily harm of the 16-year-old.

    Detective Chief Inspector Mike Nolan, Senior Investigating Officer in the case said:

    “These men were prepared to use extreme levels of violence and take Lavaun’s life to gain possession of drugs they believed were inside the property.

    “Lavaun was defenceless against the four men who were each armed with large knives, including a Samurai sword.

    “Levaun’s death devastated his family and his community. I commend the bravery and strength they have shown throughout this lengthy investigation.”

    A trial at the Old Bailey began on 17 July 2023 and Julian Russell (18.09.1998) of Sanfield Road, CR7 and Tyreece Wolfries- Parkins, (06.10.2002) were found guilty of murder. Alex Pasley (01.10.1995) of Paxton Grove, Coulsdon was found guilty of manslaughter.

    A re-trial began on 4 November 2024 and on Thursday, 12 December, Tyreece Riggon, 24 (29.09.2000) of Armistice Gardens, SE25 was found guilty of attempted GBH. Pasley was also found guilty of attempted GBH in relation to the attack on the 16-year-old boy.

    The group appeared at the Old Bailey on Wednesday, 19 February for sentencing.

    Julian Russell was sentenced to life in prison, to serve a minimum of 24 years in prison minus the four years spent on remand.

    Tyreece Wolfries- Parkins was sentenced to life imprisonment to serve a minimum term of 20 years minus the time spent on remand.

    Alex Pasley was sentenced to 17 years in prison and Tyreece Riggon was sentenced to six years, both minus four years spent on remand.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Three charged in ongoing Hackney murder investigation

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    Three men have been charged with murder as part of an investigation into the death of 20-year-old Jason Romeo in Hackney this week.

    Jason sustained stab wounds outside an address in Bodney Road, E5 at 17:59hrs on Tuesday, 18 February.

    A murder investigation was launched within the Metropolitan Police’s Specialist Crime Command and three men have since been charged.

    Raynolph Asante, 22 (13.03.2002) of Pembury Road, Hackney, Travis Mitchell, 21 (23.07.2002) of Bodney Road, Hackney and Rhamyah Bailey-Edwards, 21 (21.08.2003) of Williams Avenue, Walthamstow have been charged with murder.

    The three men will appear at Thames Magistrates on Monday, 24 February.

    The investigation into Jason’s death remains ongoing and on Saturday, 23 February, officers arrested an 18-year-old man on suspicion of murder. He remains in custody.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Wrap Acquires W1 Global: Expands Managed Services with Former FBI, DEA, and DoD Leadership to Accelerate Made-in-America End-to-End Solutions

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    This news follows: Wrap Unveils Managed Safety and Response (MSR) Connected Ecosystem in Virginia

    TEMPE, Ariz., Feb. 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Wrap Technologies (NASDAQ: WRAP) (“Wrap” or, the “Company”) today announced it has completed the acquisition of W1 Global, LLC (“W1”) a preeminent professional services and consulting firm led by an executive team of former high-ranking law enforcement and U.S. Intelligence Community professionals, with deep competencies in complex international criminal investigation, regulatory matters and compliance issues.

    The acquisition of W1 is expected to increase Wraps access to the skill and experience of this distinguished group, as well as expand the international reach of its MSR Connected Ecosystem. It is also expected to support a tech-enabled enhancement of the suite of professional and consulting services that W1 has provided to its clients all over the world.

    Wrap’s acquisition has now assembled a deep team of senior leaders from both the public sector and national security agencies:

    • Professional Services will be led by Bill McMurry, a career law enforcement and intelligence professional. Mr. McMurry is a retired FBI Supervisory Special Agent who served in the FBI’s New York Office for twenty-four years. Mr. McMurry worked closely with the US DOJ, DEA, ATF, HSI, OFAC, DOD and the USIC to develop a national strategy to implement a whole of government response to combat the threat posed by Transnational Organized Crime.
    • Managed Safety and Response will be led by Jim DeStefano, former Assistant Special Agent in Charge of a Special Operations Branch responsible for the New York field division’s preparation for, response to, and recovery from all crisis and special events – including training and tactics in response to emotionally disturbed persons. John Penza, adds experience from state and federal corrections, local law enforcement, and as the former New York Division’s Assistant Special Agent in Charge of the Violent Crimes and Drug Trafficking Branch.
    • Investigative, Regulatory and Compliance professional services will be supported by Ric Bachour, a former local and state police officer, U.S. Marine, and Purple Heart recipient. His international experience includes leadership roles in the DEA Sensitive Undercover Operations Unit, Special Operations, and DEA’s Foreign and Domestic Field Offices.

    Additional Talent Pipeline and International Go-To-Market

    Wrap anticipates accessing a deep talent pool as individuals transition from long government tenures, marking the first of many strategic talent acquisitions to meet growing market demands.

    The W1 Global transaction is expected to position Wrap for international expansion by leveraging W1’s global network and expertise in investigative services. This in-country support network, consisting of former government personnel, provides valuable entry points for global distribution while aligning with U.S. resources and support systems.

    End-to-End Ecosystem

    The W1 Global transaction creates an end-to-end ecosystem with two key business lines: leveraging top talent to deliver comprehensive Managed Safety and Response (MSR) solutions and expanding tech-enabled professional services to enhance client support. Both companies’ clients demonstrate a strong appetite for each other’s services—Wrap’s international clients show significant interest in investigative services, while W1 Global’s clients are keen on Wrap’s BolaWrap, drones, and expanding cyber solutions within the MSR portfolio. This strategic combination effectively meets the market demand for integrated safety and technology-driven professional services, driving growth and enhancing client support.

    Scot Cohen, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Wrap, commented, “The acquisition of W1 Global is a transformational step in establishing Wrap as a leader in Managed Safety and Response services. It is expected to drive immediate revenue growth, be accretive, and create synergies with our existing business, including the revamped BolaWrap program, while supporting our expanding global channel system.”

    Bill McMurry, Chief Executive Officer of W1 Global, commented, “W1 and Wrap can now deliver comprehensive MSR solutions with expert consulting, integration, and customization. By combining cutting-edge technology like the BolaWrap with professional services, we hope to ensure seamless implementation and continuous support. Our deep industry expertise is expected to allow us to optimize safety solutions for public safety agencies, effectively addressing complex challenges.”

    About Wrap Technologies, Inc.

    Wrap Technologies, Inc. (Nasdaq: WRAP) is a leading global provider of advanced public safety solutions, integrating ultramodern technology, cutting-edge tools, and comprehensive services to address the complex, modern day challenges facing public safety organizations around the world. Guided by a no-harm principle, Wrap is dedicated to developing groundbreaking solutions that empower public safety agencies to safeguard the communities they serve in a manner that fosters stronger relationships, driving safer outcomes, empowering public safety and communities to move forward together.

    Wrap’s BolaWrap® solution encompasses an innovative and patented hand-held remote restraint device, strategically engineered with Wrap’s no-harm guiding principle to proactively deter escalation by deploying a Kevlar® tether that safely restrains individuals from a distance. Combined with BolaWrap® training, certified by the esteemed International Association of Directors of Law Enforcement Standards and Training (IADLEST), Wrap enables officers from over 1000 agencies across the U.S. and 60 countries around the world, with the expertise to effectively use BolaWrap® as an early intervention measure, mitigating potential risks and injuries, averting tragic outcomes, with the goal to save lives with each wrap.

    Wrap Reality™, the Company’s advanced virtual reality training system, is a fully immersive training simulator and comprehensive public safety training platform that equips first responders with the discipline and practice to prevent escalation, de-escalate conflicts, and apply appropriate tactical use-of-force measures to better perform in the field. By offering a growing range of real-life scenarios, Wrap Reality™ addresses the dynamic nature of modern law enforcement situations for positive public safety outcomes, building safer communities one decision at a time.

    Wrap’s Intrensic solution is a comprehensive, secure and efficient body worn camera and evidence collection and management solution designed with innovative technology to quickly capture, safely handle, securely store, and seamlessly track evidence, all while maintaining full transparency throughout the process. With meticulous consolidation and professional management of evidence, confidence in law enforcement and the justice system soars, fostering trust and reliability in court outcomes. Intrensic’s efficient system streamlines the entire process seamlessly, empowering all public safety providers to focus on what matters, expediting justice with integrity.

    Connect with Wrap:
    Wrap on Facebook
    Wrap on Twitter
    Wrap on LinkedIn

    Trademark Information

    Wrap, the Wrap logo, BolaWrap®, Wrap Reality™ and Wrap Training Academy are trademarks of Wrap Technologies, Inc., some of which are registered in the U.S. and abroad.  All other trade names used herein are either trademarks or registered trademarks of the respective holders.

    Cautionary Note on Forward-Looking Statements – Safe Harbor Statement
    This release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the “safe harbor” provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Words such as “expect,” “anticipate,” “should”, “believe”, “target”, “project”, “goals”, “estimate”, “potential”, “predict”, “may”, “will”, “could”, “intend”, and variations of these terms or the negative of these terms and similar expressions are intended to identify these forward-looking statements. Moreover, forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, many of which involve factors or circumstances that are beyond the Company’s control. The Company’s actual results could differ materially from those stated or implied in forward-looking statements due to a number of factors, including but not limited to: the expected benefits of the acquisition of W1, the Company’s ability to maintain compliance with the Nasdaq Capital Market’s listing standards; the Company’s ability to successfully implement training programs for the use of its products; the Company’s ability to manufacture and produce products for its customers; the Company’s ability to develop sales for its products; the market acceptance of existing and future products; the availability of funding to continue to finance operations; the complexity, expense and time associated with sales to law enforcement and government entities; the lengthy evaluation and sales cycle for the Company’s product solutions; product defects; litigation risks from alleged product-related injuries; risks of government regulations; the business impact of health crises or outbreaks of disease, such as epidemics or pandemics; the impact resulting from geopolitical conflicts and any resulting sanctions; the ability to obtain export licenses for counties outside of the United States; the ability to obtain patents and defend intellectual property against competitors; the impact of competitive products and solutions; and the Company’s ability to maintain and enhance its brand, as well as other risk factors mentioned in the Company’s most recent annual report on Form 10-K, subsequent quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, and other Securities and Exchange Commission filings. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date of this release and were based on current expectations, estimates, forecasts, and projections as well as the beliefs and assumptions of management. Except as required by law, the Company undertakes no duty or obligation to update any forward-looking statements contained in this release as a result of new information, future events or changes in its expectations.

    Investor Relations Contact:

    (800) 583-2652
    ir@wrap.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. ATTORNEY’S OFFICE COLLECTS $10,739,347.57 IN CIVIL AND CRIMINAL ACTIONS IN FISCAL YEAR 2024

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA – Michelle Spaven, Acting United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida announced today that the Northern District of Florida collected $10,739,347.57 in criminal and civil actions in Fiscal Year 2024. Of this amount, $6,129,268.26 was collected in criminal actions and $4,610,079.31 was collected in civil actions.            

    “Our office’s civil and criminal divisions, in coordination with our federal, state, and local law partners, have continued to work tirelessly to collect funds owed the America people in both criminal and civil matters,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Spaven.  “These efforts recover funds owed in civil and criminal debts and are used to punish criminals, make victims whole, and return funds to the federal treasury.”

    For example, in November, 2023, Chad Wade pleaded guilty to wire fraud, money laundering, and bankruptcy fraud, for acts of COVID-related fraud.  He was sentenced to 14 months’ imprisonment, ordered to pay restitution to the United States Small Business Administration in the amount of about $1.58 million, and ordered to pay a fine of $100,000.00.  In FY 2024, the Northern District of Florida collected the full amount of the restitution.  In addition to the criminal judgment, the Northern District of Florida obtained a civil judgment under the False Claims Act for over $4 million, of which over $2.2 million has been collected.  The total amount collected from Wade is over $3.8 million.

    In November, 2022, Kathleen Jasper pleaded guilty to racketeering conspiracy and conspiracy to commit theft of trade secrets. She was sentenced to 10 months’ imprisonment and ordered to pay restitution to the Florida Department of Education in the amount of $135,026.00.  In FY 2024, the Northern District of Florida recovered the full amount of the restitution, including over $20,000 through the Treasury Offset Program.

    The U.S. Attorneys’ Offices, along with the department’s litigating divisions, are responsible for enforcing and collecting civil and criminal debts owed to the U.S. and criminal debts owed to federal crime victims. The law requires defendants to pay restitution to victims of certain federal crimes who have suffered a physical injury or financial loss. While restitution is paid to the victim, criminal fines and felony assessments are paid to the department’s Crime Victims Fund, which distributes the funds collected to federal and state victim compensation and victim assistance programs.

    Additionally, the U.S. Attorney’s office in Northern District of Florida, working with partner agencies and divisions, collected $10,417,393 in asset forfeiture actions in FY 2024. Forfeited assets deposited into the Department of Justice Assets Forfeiture Fund are used to restore funds to crime victims and for a variety of law enforcement purposes.

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Met officer dismissed for football hooliganism

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    A Met officer has been dismissed without notice for football hooliganism, and handed a three-year banning order.

    A misconduct hearing was held last week for Arsenal supporter Detective Constable Gordon Irikefe, attached to Central South Command Unit, following his behaviour at a Bayern Munich v Arsenal match.

    The officer also attended Westminster Magistrates’ Court today, Monday 24 February, in relation to his actions at Arsenal matches between October 2022 and April 2024.

    Detective Superintendent Emma Bond, in charge of policing for the Central South area, said: “DC Irikefe has shown an unacceptable pattern of behaviour at football matches, for anyone, let alone a police officer who should uphold the highest of standards whether on or off duty.

    “His actions have not only seen him now subject to a football banning order, but have also cost him his job.

    ”I am grateful to professional standards and football unit colleagues for pulling together the evidence in this case to ensure we have been able to take decisive action.”

    A misconduct hearing was held on Thursday, 20 February following allegations DC Irikefe lit and threw a pyrotechnic into the crowd at a football match in Munich while off duty on Wednesday, 17 April last year.

    DC Irikefe was also arrested that day by German police for wearing a full balaclava and sunglasses inside the stadium. He was fined 100 Euros for the ‘masking’ offence.

    The hearing found he had breached the standards of professional behaviour for discreditable conduct at the level of gross misconduct.

    DC Irikefe resigned on Wednesday, 12 February but his notice period meant he was still a serving officer when his misconduct hearing was held, therefore he was dismissed without notice.

    He appeared at court today after investigating officers from the Met’s Central Football Unit made an application for a football banning order to prevent violence and disorder. DC Irikefe had been served with a summons on Thursday, 10 October.

    The court heard that since October 2022 DC Irikefe had come to police notice on numerous occasions for disorderly and anti-social behaviour at football matches, including the matters in Germany for which he had also been disciplined, receiving management action.

    In February 2023 he was heard ‘tragedy chanting’ at a Leicester City march, shouting ‘helicopter’. Other allegations included making lewd gestures and shouting abuse at a substitute player, ‘masking up’ to conceal his identify and intimating other fans including using pyrotechnics.

    The order was granted and will be in place for the next three years. DC Irikefe is banned from attending any regulated football matches in the UK and must surrender his passport when asked to do so in relation to football matches played outside the UK.

    He cannot go within one mile of the Emirates stadium if Arsenal are playing four hours before and after the match, nor visit any town, city or London borough four hours before and after an away match.

    He must not go without two miles of any stadium where the England national team are playing four hours before and after the match.

    Following his dismissal, DC Irikefe will also be placed on the barred list held by the College of Policing. Those appearing on the list cannot be employed by police, local policing bodies (PCCs), the Independent Office for Police Conduct or His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire and Rescue Services.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Rate Launches 1stResponder+ Program, Offering Mortgage Balance Coverage to Those Working in the Line of Duty

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CHICAGO, Feb. 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Rate, the second largest retail lender in the U.S. and a leader in fintech mortgage solutions, is proud to announce the launch of its 1stResponder+ Program, a new initiative designed to provide financial peace of mind to active first responders and their families.

    Underscoring Rate’s commitment to those who serve and protect our communities every day, the 1stResonder+ program offers eligible first responders a complimentary, one-year accidental death insurance policy that covers their mortgage balance—up to $650,000—in the event that the first responder passes away in the line of duty. This program can be paired with Rate’s agency conventional, FHA, VA, and USDA product offerings, providing flexible options for borrowers who meet both loan program and product criteria.

    Eligible professions include:

    • Law Enforcement Officers: Police officers, correction officers, and Homeland Security personnel (including military border patrol).
    • Emergency Medical Services: EMTs, paramedics, ambulance personnel, search and rescue teams, and air ambulance crews.
    • Fire Service: Firefighters and search and rescue personnel.

    “First responders are the backbone of our communities, putting their lives at risk every day to ensure the public’s safety and well-being,” said Victor Ciardelli, President and CEO of Rate. “The 1stResponder+ program is our way of saying thank you and ensuring their families are protected, should the unthinkable occur. This initiative reflects our gratitude and respect for these individuals.”

    The 1stResponser+ not only highlights Rate’s focus on advancing the mortgage industry, but also reinforces its mission to make homeownership attainable and secure for those who selflessly serve others.

    Rate loan officers are dedicated to supporting the communities that they serve in many different ways. In addition to 1stResponder+, Rate offers an extensive product suite that includes, but is not limited to, a wide variety of Affordable, Jumbo, and Non-QM products and programs. Whether you are a first responder or not, Rate has an option that will best fit your needs.

    About Rate

    Rate Companies is a leader in mortgage lending and digital financial services. Headquartered in Chicago, Rate is the #2 retail mortgage lender in the U.S., with over 850 branches across all 50 states and Washington D.C. Since its launch in 2000, Rate has helped more than 2 million homeowners with home purchase loans and refinances. The company has cemented itself as an industry leader by introducing innovative technology, offering low rates, and delivering unparalleled customer service. Honors and awards include Best Mortgage Lender for First-Time Homebuyers by NerdWallet for 2023; HousingWire’s Tech100 award for the company’s industry-leading FlashClose℠ digital mortgage platform in 2020, MyAccount in 2022, and Language Access Program in 2023; No. 2 ranking in Scotsman Guide’s 2022 list of Top Retail Mortgage Lenders; the most Scotsman Guide Top Originators for 11 consecutive years; Chicago Agent Magazine’s Lender of the Year for seven consecutive years; and Chicago Tribune’s Top Workplaces list for seven straight years. Visit rate.com for more information.

    Press Contact

    press@rate.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Iron River Man Sentenced To 84 Months In Federal Prison For Drug Possession And Drug Trafficking

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

              GRAND RAPIDS – Acting U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Michigan Andrew Birge today announced that Matthew Joseph Sheehan, 45, of Iron River, was sentenced to 84 months in federal prison for possessing methamphetamine with intent to distribute.

              According to court records, investigators received information that Sheehan was traveling out of state to obtain illicit drugs for distribution in the Upper Peninsula, including methamphetamine, MDMA, and cocaine. In June 2023, Sheehan was pulled over in Iron County for a traffic infraction. During the traffic stop, officers found nearly a pound of methamphetamine, a smaller quantity of cocaine, and more than $6,000 in cash. A subsequent search of Sheehan’s residence recovered additional drugs and over $37,000.

              The Michigan State Police, Upper Peninsula Substance Enforcement Team (UPSET), Drug Enforcement Administration, Department of Homeland Security Investigations, Iron River Police Department, and Iron County Sheriff’s Office investigated this case.

    # # #

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Global: As Pennsylvania inches toward legalizing recreational cannabis, lawmakers propose selling it in state-owned dispensaries similar to state liquor stores

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Daniel J. Mallinson, Associate Professor of Public Policy and Administration, Penn State

    Advocates believe Pennsylvania and Hawaii may be the next fronts in recreational cannabis legalization. Spencer Platt/Getty Images

    After a long, largely successful march over 25 years to liberalize cannabis laws in the United States, the movement had a tough election in 2024.

    Legalization ballot measures failed in Florida, North Dakota and South Dakota. In Arkansas, votes on legalization were not even counted due to litigation over the measure. The only successful measures – passed in Nebraska – are also on hold due to litigation.

    Federally, many of President Donald Trump’s nominees in key posts at the Department of Health and Human Services, Department of Justice and Drug Enforcement Administration have made strong anti-cannabis statements. This may not bode well for the effort started by President Joe Biden to reschedule marijuana as a less dangerous drug.

    So, what is the future of cannabis legalization in the United States?

    As political scientist Lee Hannah and I argued in our 2024 book “Green Rush,” the states are central to the story of cannabis legalization in the United States.

    In fact, advocates are looking to places such as Pennsylvania and Hawaii in 2025 as the next fronts in recreational legalization.

    Let’s zoom in on Pennsylvania.

    Pennsylvania is a middling adopter

    Pennsylvania is following about the same trajectory with adult-use recreational legalization as it did with medical marijuana. It is not an innovator but also not a laggard.

    When Pennsylvania adopted medical marijuana in 2016, 23 states had already done so.

    The political environment is very different in 2025 than 2016, however, which raises the difficulty of passing a bill that makes recreational marijuana use legal, even in a state where legalization is popular.

    In 2016, Pennsylvania’s General Assembly was controlled completely by Republicans, and the governor was a Democrat. Now, the Democrats hold a single-seat majority in the House that erodes every time there is a vacancy. Republicans still control the Senate, and Democrat Josh Shapiro is the governor.

    A major key to medical cannabis legalization passing in 2016 was Republican state Sen. Mike Folmer’s advocacy within his caucus. Without a Republican champion, it may not have passed.

    For legalization of recreational cannabis, state Sen. Dan Laughlin has been the clear Republican champion. He has been working with Democratic state Sen. Sharif Street of Philadelphia to build support and find a policy design that works for Republicans and Democrats.

    But Republican Senate leadership has remained cool to the idea. Senate President Pro Tempore Kim Ward is not a supporter and has been pushing the governor to get more involved.

    “If (Shapiro) wants something done, he needs to lead on it,” Ward said. “He can’t throw an idea out there, which he did last year, and say, ‘Let the legislature figure it out, I’ll sign it.’”

    Expected revenues likely to fall short

    For his part, Shapiro has included projected revenues from legalization in his budget proposals since assuming office in 2023.

    This year, he projected an even greater first-year haul – US$536 million – if recreational cannabis is legalized. This estimate includes revenue from initial licensing fees.

    The assumptions going into these projections aren’t clear. And while cannabis legalization has been lucrative for state revenues in other places, revenues often fall short of what was projected during legalization debates.

    Importantly, Pennsylvania is now nearly surrounded by states with legal recreational cannabis. That includes New York, New Jersey, Delaware, Maryland and Ohio, but not West Virginia.

    It is no secret that, in the words of Shapiro, “Pennsylvanians who want to buy cannabis are just driving across the border to one of our neighbors.”

    Research on how ideas and policies spread makes clear the intense pressure that comes as a state’s neighbors adopt a policy, especially one with major economic ramifications.

    But pressure does not determine the result. The internal politics of a state can still block a policy from being adopted.

    State-owned cannabis stores

    The biggest challenge for legalization in Pennsylvania will be navigating those internal political dynamics – especially finding a compromise that can be supported by both Democrats and Republicans.

    Public safety is often raised as a concern during legalization debates. To counter this point, Democrats in the state House have proposed selling legal cannabis in state-owned stores, just like how liquor and some wine is sold in Pennsylvania now.

    The Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board operates nearly 600 Fine Wine & Good Spirits stores across the state.
    Paul Weaver/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images

    No other states do this, and it puts the state on potentially very slippery ground with the federal government, which still considers cannabis to be completely prohibited. State-run stores mean that states are providing a banned substance directly to citizens. That is a significant step further than creating an infrastructure to regulate private entities that are breaking federal law.

    Moreover, there has been a decades-long effort in Pennsylvania by conservatives to privatize the state liquor stores. It seems odd that Republicans would support using that model to create a recreational cannabis market.

    If privately owned but government-regulated dispensaries are used, there is significant debate among cannabis policy experts as to whether it is wise to give existing medical dispensaries first dibs on recreational licenses. Doing so allows states to open their recreational programs very quickly.

    The drawback, however, is that large, multistate operators such as Trulieve, which runs dispensaries in several states, are positioned to gain a significant share of the market. This is why the industry supports the approach to initial licensing. Legalization advocates such as Shaleen Title, however, are very concerned about the development of a “Big Cannabis” that resembles Big Tobacco, with oligopoly control by a few large companies.

    Social equity is another challenge facing recreational legalization that was not a major factor in medical. In short, social equity is about ensuring members of marginalized communities that were previously targets of the War on Drugs somehow benefit from the cannabis industry now that it is legal. While the issue was central to recreational legalization debates in neighboring New York and New Jersey, there’s been little public discussion of this particular facet of Pennsylvania’s proposed legalization plans.

    While a middling adopter of medical cannabis, Pennsylvania’s program also had important innovations in research and social equity that influenced legislators in other states. Whatever happens in the commonwealth around recreational cannabis may well do so again, especially as fewer states have the option of adopting recreational cannabis via the ballot.

    Finding a legislative solution to these thorny issues in a divided government could thus push legalization forward. Or the recent winds against legalization could stall the effort in Pennsylvania, at least for now.

    Read more of our stories about Philadelphia and Pennsylvania.

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

    – ref. As Pennsylvania inches toward legalizing recreational cannabis, lawmakers propose selling it in state-owned dispensaries similar to state liquor stores – https://theconversation.com/as-pennsylvania-inches-toward-legalizing-recreational-cannabis-lawmakers-propose-selling-it-in-state-owned-dispensaries-similar-to-state-liquor-stores-250368

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: 3 ways Trump is acting like a king and bypassing the Constitution’s checks and balances on presidential authority

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By David Lopez, University Professor of Law, Rutgers University – Newark

    Donald Trump’s efforts to expand presidential power defy the Constitutional separation of powers. zimmytws/iStock via Getty Images

    I learned basic civics in my public school. But mostly, because it was more interesting, I also learned civics after school watching the animated series “Schoolhouse Rock,” often with my abuela – my grandmother – who took care of me.

    Back then, “Schoolhouse Rock” had a wonderful episode, “Three Ring Government.” In singing narration, the characters explained “about the government, and how it’s arranged, divided in three, like a three-ring circus.”

    Those three circles, all the same size, kept each other honest. For many in my generation, those three rings were our introduction to the idea of the checks and balances built into the U.S. government. They include the separation of powers among the legislative, judicial and executive branches.

    In short, we learned, Congress passes the laws, the president administers the laws, and the courts interpret the laws.

    This elegant but simple system stood in contrast to the nearly unshackled power of the British king, who ruled over the American colonies before independence. And it provided representation for “We the People,” because we vote for members of Congress.

    During its first month, the second Trump administration has pushed a new balance of these powers, granting the president expansive and far-reaching authority. These actions imperil the power of elected lawmakers in the House and Senate to pass legislation, oversee the federal government and exercise spending authority.

    Most U.S. legal scholars regarded these issues as fairly settled. Trump’s recent actions, however, have unsettled this understanding.

    Here are three examples of how the balance of power is being upset by Trump and his administration:

    The explanation of the separation of powers in the U.S. government in “Schoolhouse Rock.”

    Independent agencies

    On Jan. 28, 2025, President Donald Trump fired Gwynne Wilcox, a Democratic member of the National Labor Relations Board, three years before the end of her five-year term.

    The National Labor Relations Board, or NLRB, established in New Deal legislation in 1935, was designed to ensure industrial peace by protecting the rights of workers to organize and bargain collectively. Congress created the board as a bipartisan body to resolve allegations of unfair labor practices brought by workers or management.

    By design, the board operated independently from Cabinet-level departments. Congress sought to preserve this independence by ensuring that board members serve a fixed term and could be removed only for “neglect of duty or malfeasance in office, but for no other cause.”

    This independent structure – shared by other agencies such as the Securities Exchange Commission, the Federal Trade Commission and the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission – aims to provide regulatory consistency, slightly removed from the political passions of the day.

    Some legal scholars have been percolating an argument that the Constitution requires the Supreme Court to limit those agencies’ Congressionally endowed independence in favor of more expansive presidential authority, even though the court decided this issue unanimously in 1935.

    Wilcox is suing the administration for its apparent violation of Congress’ statutory language by firing her.

    “Ms. Wilcox is the first Black woman to serve on the Board, the first Black woman to serve as its Chair, and – if the President’s action is allowed to stand – will also be the first member to be removed from office since the Board’s inception in 1935,” the lawsuit states.

    If this case makes it to the Supreme Court, and the court takes the unusual step of reversing itself, its ruling would imperil the independent structure, not just of this agency but of other agencies too.

    Asylum laws

    Congress created a comprehensive system of laws for processing the asylum claims of people who say they are fleeing persecution or torture to seek protection in the U.S.

    These laws allow applicants to show likelihood of harm if they could not stay in the U.S. They were originally adopted in response to humanitarian crises, including when Jews fleeing Nazi Germany were turned away by the U.S., among other countries.

    As part of Trump’s declaration, on his first day in back in office, that immigration is both a “national immigration emergency” and an “invasion” under Article IV, Section 4 of the Constitution, the president essentially shut down the asylum process at U.S. ports of entry. His proclamation canceled the appointments of those who had waited to pursue their claim under existing asylum procedures.

    In doing so, Trump ignored critical portions of laws passed by Congress. This move places asylum seekers already in the U.S. in danger of being deported to the countries where they say they face life-threatening persecution or torture.

    Congressional spending authority

    Protesters near the White House oppose President Donald Trump’s freeze on federal grants and loans on Jan. 28, 2025.
    Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images

    Under the Constitution, Congress has the power to set spending amounts and priorities for the federal government. By law, the executive branch cannot spend what has not been appropriated – meaning approved by Congress – nor can it stop that spending.

    Shortly following the inauguration, however, Trump’s Office of Management and Budget ordered a pause of federal grants and loans to organizations and programs ranging from Head Start to farm subsidies.

    Almost immediately, several states, concerned about the loss of essential federal services, filed a lawsuit to halt the freeze. A federal court in Rhode Island sided with the plaintiffs and temporarily stayed the freeze.

    The judge rejected the Trump administration’s argument that it must “align Federal spending and action with the will of the American people as expressed through Presidential priorities,” calling it “constitutionally flawed.” And he concluded that the president could not act unilaterally under the Constitution.

    “Congress has not given the Executive limitless power to broadly and indefinitely pause all funds that it has expressly directed to specific recipients and purposes,” wrote the judge, John J. McConnell, Jr. “The Executive’s actions violate the separation of powers.”

    “Schoolhouse Rock” taught that one ring must respect the other coequal rings. What has happened under Trump is one ring expanding in size to swallow up much of another ring – that of Congress.

    ‘Kinglike’ powers?

    Several of the Trump administration’s recent actions appear designed to test the legal viability of an expansive, more “kinglike” view of presidential powers.

    Yet for the most part, Congress as an institution has mostly remained silent as the executive branch invades its sphere of authority.

    Instead, the courts have served as a check on his power by stalling, temporarily, more than a dozen of Trump’s presidential actions that surpass the executive powers permitted under various laws and the Constitution.

    Most of these stays are only temporary. They were issued based on the recognition that the immediate harm of unlawful presidential overreach would be difficult to roll back.

    In the end, the Supreme Court will likely decide the scope of presidential powers in the various contexts. If they rule in Trump’s favor, the U.S. government will become a one-ring circus run by a kinglike president – precisely what it was never meant to be.

    Gwynne Wilcox is a Rutgers Law grad and has spoken to our class.

    – ref. 3 ways Trump is acting like a king and bypassing the Constitution’s checks and balances on presidential authority – https://theconversation.com/3-ways-trump-is-acting-like-a-king-and-bypassing-the-constitutions-checks-and-balances-on-presidential-authority-249347

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: The murder rate in Venezuela has fallen − but both Trump and Maduro are wrong about why

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Rebecca Hanson, Assistant Professor of Latin American Studies, Sociology and Criminology, University of Florida

    Members of government-backed militias take part in a march in Caracas, Venezuela, on Jan. 7, 2025. AP Photo/Matias Delacroix

    The body of former Venezuelan army officer Ronald Ojeda was found on Feb. 19, 2024, in a suitcase buried under 5 feet of concrete. Ojeda, accused by Venezuela of plotting against the government, had gone missing nine days earlier, when men dressed as police broke into his apartment in the Chilean capital of Santiago and dragged him away.

    Following a yearlong investigation, authorities in Chile have now pointed the finger at the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua, claiming members carried out the assassination at the behest of that country’s president, Nicolás Maduro.

    It comes as the relationship between Maduro’s government and criminal gangs is under increased scrutiny, both among regional governments in Latin America and in the United States.

    Conservative media outlets in the U.S. and right-leaning groups such as the Heritage Foundation have accused Maduro of sending gang members into the U.S. to destabilize the country.

    President Donald Trump has even suggested that Maduro successfully reduced crime by exporting gang members to the U.S. “Crime is down in Venezuela by 67% because they’re taking their gangs and their criminals and depositing them very nicely into the United States,” he told supporters in April 2024.

    According to data from the Venezuelan Ministry of Health, shared with me by scholar of Venezuelan politics Dorothy Kronick, homicide rates have indeed come down in recent years. And this trend is confirmed by the Venezuelan Observatory of Violence.

    The fall in homicide rates has coincided with Maduro successfully consolidating his authoritarian rule in Venezuela. And explanations of the drop in crime tend to imply that it is the result of the government co-opting and controlling gangs. Some observers have even referred to Venezuela as a “narcostate,” suggesting that drug trafficking in the country is an organized venture between top officials and criminal groups.

    I have studied crime, violence and policing in Venezuela since 2011 and know that this narrative is at best oversimplistic, at worst outright mistruth. As I explore in my new book, “Policing the Revolution: The Transformation of Coercive Power and Venezuela’s Security Landscape During Chavismo,” the case of Venezuela is not one of government control over criminal groups. Rather, it is characterized by an unstable and volatile relationship between the government and multiple competing armed actors, including gangs and the police.

    Violent, but becoming less so

    Falling homicide rates should not mask the fact that Venezuela is still plagued by violence. Since the mid-2000s it has been ranked as one of the most violent countries in the world.

    Former President Hugo Chávez was never able to get a handle on crime, particularly violent crime, which increased exponentially under his government. The trend continued during Maduro’s first years in office after Chávez’s death in 2013.

    However, all available evidence suggests that Venezuela’s homicide rate has declined since reaching a peak in 2016 – by around 42%.

    But there’s no evidence this is because the government is “offshoring” criminals.

    Maduro’s own explanation for this decline portrays the government as handily controlling criminals by means of incredibly lethal police raids carried out between 2015 and 2019. In short, Maduro claims that the police have effectively “wiped out” criminal groups.

    Competing police forces …

    But rather than “wiping out” criminal organizations, the Maduro government has instead maintained volatile relationships with many armed groups, including gangs, nonstate paramilitary groups and even the country’s own police forces.

    These relationships have produced significant conflict and dysfunction within state institutions. This is clear when looking at institutions presumed to be synonymous with state control, such as the police.

    Chávez’s and Maduro’s governments put more police and soldiers in the streets. They created security institutions, such as the Policía Nacional Bolivariana, or Bolivarian National Police.

    However, rapid growth of the security apparatus, amid competing approaches, has generated more conflict than coordination.

    Police officers and police reformers I interviewed referred to state security policies and the changes they produced as akin to Frankenstein’s monster – an aberration rapidly outpacing the creator’s ability to control it.

    What they mean is the government had created new security institutions so quickly that it is unable to supervise and control them. As one former police officer and Chavista politician told me: “Our challenge now is how to manage the monster we created.”

    Members of the National Guard take part in an anti-gang security operation in Caracas on July 13, 2015.
    Federico Parra/AFP via Getty Images

    State policies have also generated significant distrust between the police and the government, and among different police forces.

    This distrust has even resulted in police forces coming to blows with each other in the streets on multiple occasions. On Feb. 19, 2020, a section of the Prados del Este highway in Caracas was shut down as officers from Venezuela’s National Police and the country’s investigative police brandished weapons, shoving, punching and wrestling each other to the ground.

    … cooperating gangs

    It is, as such, highly unlikely that falling homicide rates are the result of policing. Indeed, I interviewed over 200 police officers while conducting research for my book, and most believed that the government’s policing initiatives contributed to crime and violence rather than reducing it.

    A more plausible explanation for falling homicide figures is that Maduro’s policies have resulted in more consolidated relationships between criminal groups themselves.

    Maduro’s government has built relationships with gangs, but this doesn’t necessarily imply control over them. Since 2013 the government has negotiated pacts with some of the country’s largest gangs, including a gang confederation led by the infamous El Koki in Caracas and the Belén gang in the state of Miranda.

    The government agreed to tolerate illicit activities within certain areas and prohibit police from entering gang territory. In exchange, gangs agreed to reduce killings and other highly visible crimes such as kidnapping. As my book and previous research with Verónica Zubillaga, Francisco Sánchez and Leonard Gómez shows, these pacts allowed gangs to consolidate control over territory and illicit markets.

    Gangs also negotiated agreements among themselves in case the government pacts fell through. For example, they agreed to divide territory and markets to avoid future conflict and share resources such as weapons and ammunition. This produced less conflict between gangs and less disruption in illicit markets, resulting in fewer homicides.

    When pacts have ruptured in the past, the spectacularly violent confrontations that ensued between gangs and the police have shown gangs’ capacity to resist government intervention. Still, the overall effect of pacts and gang consolidation has been a reduction in homicides.

    As one neighbor living in gang territory put it: “Before, gangs confronted each other; they killed each other. Now they don’t. Now they are growing.”

    ‘Mother of all infuriations’

    Relationships between the government and various nonstate armed groups, including gangs, have generated enormous discontent within police forces.

    As one police officer explained in an interview, these pacts represented the “mother of all infuriations.” For many officers, the goverment’s pacts with other armed groups is tantamount to its sponsorship of criminal activities.

    And this discontent has produced sporadic violent confrontations. Even when government-gang pacts are in place, the government has been unable to keep police forces from entering gang territory and engaging in deadly shootouts.

    Certainly from the outside, it may look like Maduro’s government has co-opted gangs for political purposes. And with the U.S. government adding Tren de Aragua to its list of global terrorist groups, that could put Venezuela in danger of being labeled a “state sponsor of terrorism.”

    However, the Ojeda case in Chile should not be taken as evidence that stable and strong ties exist between Maduro’s government and criminal groups – at least not yet.

    Instead, authoritarian survival in Venezuela for now seems to depend on volatile relationships between multiple and competing armed groups that collaborate temporarily with the government when their diverse interests overlap.

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

    – ref. The murder rate in Venezuela has fallen − but both Trump and Maduro are wrong about why – https://theconversation.com/the-murder-rate-in-venezuela-has-fallen-but-both-trump-and-maduro-are-wrong-about-why-249230

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –