NewzIntel.com

Category: Justice

  • MIL-OSI USA: LEADER JEFFRIES: “OUR COMMITMENT IS TO MAKE SURE WE FIGHT FOR EVERY SINGLE AMERICAN ACROSS THE COUNTRY”

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

    Today, Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries held a press conference at CrescentCare, a federally qualified health center in Louisiana, with Rep. Troy Carter (LA-02) and Steering and Policy Committee Co-Chairs Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-25), Rep. Robin Kelly (IL-02) and Rep. Nanette Barragán (CA-44) to highlight how Donald Trump’s budget devastates the healthcare of the American people and outline how House Democrats will hold House Republicans accountable for voting to pass their One Big Ugly Law.

    LEADER JEFFRIES: Good morning. It’s an honor and a privilege to be here in the great state of Louisiana, in this all-American city. Certainly thankful for the leadership of Congressman Troy Carter, for his partnership and his friendship, standing up, fighting hard each and every day on behalf of the people that he is privileged to represent here in Louisiana’s Second Congressional District. Let me thank Alice and the people at CrescentCare for the work that you do on behalf of the people in this community and all across the city and the state to ensure that they have access to high-quality care that is both compassionate and comprehensive. And our commitment is to make sure that we fight for every single person in this state, every single American across the country, to ensure that they can get the high-quality, affordable healthcare that people in this country, the wealthiest country in the history of the world, deserve.

    We believe that access to high-quality and affordable healthcare shouldn’t simply be a privilege available to the wealthy and the well-off. It’s a right. It should be available to every single person in the state of Louisiana, and every single person in this great country. Unfortunately, the One Big Ugly Bill that has been jammed down the throats of the American people represents the largest assault on Medicaid and healthcare in American history. The One Big Ugly Bill will have devastating consequences for the people of Louisiana who rely upon Medicaid to get their health service, to address their medical needs, to be able to live with dignity and respect in a nursing home setting, to have hospitals that are available to them and not closed, particularly in parts of rural Louisiana, and to be able to get the type of compassionate primary care that exists at community-based health clinics like this one. But this struggle is not over. We’re just at the beginning. We’re going to fight hard to make sure that the devastating Medicaid cuts that are now part of this One Big Ugly Law that has been signed can be pushed back—not for Democrats, Independents and Republicans, but for all Americans. That is our struggle. That is our commitment. That is the fight that we are waging on behalf of the people of Louisiana and on behalf of the people of this great country.

    The Louisiana state legislature, in an overwhelming and bipartisan way, passed a resolution, making clear that cuts to Medicaid will be devastating for the people of Louisiana, whether you’re in an urban part of the state, suburban part of the state, a small-town part of the state, a rural part of the state, it will be devastating, these cuts to Medicaid, to the people of Louisiana. The assault on healthcare is unacceptable, unconscionable and un-American. And I’m thankful for the leadership of Congressman Troy Carter in standing up for the people of this great state and helping to work with people from all across the political spectrum to do what is necessary to push back against the cuts that have now been enacted to educate the people of Louisiana and throughout the nation as to how damaging this One Big Ugly Bill will be to their quality of life. But most importantly, to assure everyone that our commitment is to continue to show up and stand up and speak up for your healthcare, for your quality of life, for an America where when you work hard and play by the rules, you can live a good life, have a good-paying job, good healthcare, good housing, good education for your children and, of course, a good retirement. That is our commitment to you, and we will not stop fighting until we can end this national nightmare and bring about an America that is the best version of herself.

    Full press conference can be watched here.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: New Permanent Representative of Lao People’s Democratic Republic Presents Credentials

    Source: United Nations 4

    The new Permanent Representative of Lao People’s Democratic Republic to the United Nations, Thongphane Savanphet, presented his credentials to UN Secretary-General António Guterres today.

    (As provided by the Protocol and Liaison Service)

    Date of Birth:    28 June 1964

    Place of Birth:   Bolikhamxay Province, Lao PDR

    Marital Status:   Married to Mrs. Dalavanh SAVANPHET and has three daughters

    Education and Training:

    1997-1998   – M.A. in Diplomatic Studies, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK

    1983-1988   – M.A. in Public International Law, Moscow State Institute of International Relations (MGIMO University), Moscow, Russia (Former Soviet Union)

    1990        – English Training Course, University of Canberra, Canberra, Australia

    1982-1983   – Russian Language, Institute of Foreign Languages, Kiev, Ukraine (Former Soviet Union)

    1970-1982   – Primary and High Schools completed in Bolikhamxay Province, Lao PDR

    Employment:

    Sept 2016-Present – Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs

    2013- 2016  – Ambassador and Permanent Representative of the Lao PDR to the United Nations Office, WTO and other International Organizations in Geneva; 

                         – Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Lao PDR to Switzerland; and Non-resident Ambassador of the Lao PDR                         to the Hellenic Republic (Greece), the Republic of Italy, the Principality of Liechtenstein, the Republic of Malta and the                                     Republic of Turkey

    2011-2013   – Director-General, Department of Economic Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA), Vientiane, Lao PDR

    2010-2011   – Deputy Director-General, Department of Economic Affairs, MFA

    2002-2010   – Assistant Director/Head, ASEAN Political Cooperation Division (2009 -2010) and ASEAN Plus Three (China, Japan and Republic of Korea) Division (2007-2009); Senior Officer and Coordinator, ASEAN Plus Three Unit (2003-2006); and Senior Officer, Social Development Unit (2002-2003), ASEAN Secretariat, Jakarta, Indonesia

    1996-2002   – Director (2001-2002), Deputy Director (1999-2001) and Official (1996-1999), ASEAN Political and Security Cooperation Division, Department of ASEAN Affairs, MFA

    1993-1996   – Third Secretary, Embassy of the Lao PDR, Canberra, Australia

    1989-1993   – Official, Department of International Organizations, MFA

    Others:

    – Governor for the Lao PDR to the Asia-Europe Foundation (ASEF) (Singapore) (2011-2013)

    – Council Director for the Lao PDR to the ASEAN-Japan Centre (Tokyo, Japan) ) (2011-2013)

    – Council Member for the Lao PDR to the Mekong Institute (Khon Kaen, Thailand) ) (2011-2013)

    Foreign Languages:  English, Russian

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: New Permanent Representative of Peru Presents Credentials

    Source: United Nations MIL OSI b

    The new Permanent Representative of Peru to the United Nations, Gustavo Lino Adrianzén Olaya, presented his credentials to UN Secretary-General António Guterres today.

    (As provided by the Protocol and Liaison Service)

    Gustavo Lino Adrianzén Olaya is a distinguished Peruvian lawyer and the current Permanent Representative of Peru to the United Nations (UN) since 1 July 2025.

    Throughout his career, he has held several high-level positions within the Peruvian Government, including President of the Council of Ministers (March 2024 – May 2025) and Minister of Justice and Human Rights (April – October 2015).  He previously served as Vice-Minister of Justice, as well as Public Prosecutor in the Ministry of Defense, and Specialized Public Prosecutor of the National Police of Peru.

    From February 2023 to March 2024, he served as Peru’s Permanent Representative to the Organization of American States (OAS).

    He holds a law degree from the University of Lima and a master’s degree in public administration and management from Spain’s National Institute of Public Administration.  He also earned an officially recognized law degree from the University of Alcalá de Henares in Spain.  His academic background is further enriched by postgraduate studies in human rights at specialized institutions in Geneva, Strasbourg, San José de Costa Rica and Florence.

    In October 2015, he was awarded the Order of Merit for Distinguished Services in the rank of Grand Cross in recognition of his public service.

    For information media. Not an official record.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: CORRECTION – name release, fatal crash, Seddon

    Source: New Zealand Police

    Police is urgently issuing a correction to an earlier release that contained incorrect details of the person who died in a fatal crash in Seddon on 18 June.

    The correct name of the man who died is Andres Bonifacio Hernan Vergara Oportot, 50, from Blenheim.

    Our sincere apologies to anyone affected by this error. 

    ENDS 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Federal Jury Convicts Washington Man of Three Counts of Assault with a Dangerous Weapon on the Coeur d’Alene Indian Reservation

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    COEUR D’ALENE – After a four-day trial, a federal jury sitting in Coeur d’Alene found Jason Bergeron, 50, of Washington, guilty of three counts of assault with a dangerous weapon, Acting U.S. Attorney Justin Whatcott announced today.  U.S. District Judge Amanda K. Brailsford presided over the trial, which began on July 7, and concluded with guilty verdicts as to three counts of assault with a dangerous weapon on July 10.

    According to testimony and evidence presented at trial, Bergeron drove to his ex-girlfriend’s house on the Coeur d’Alene Indian Reservation.  Once there, he shot a rifle into the house while his ex-girlfriend, her daughter and son-in-law, and her three-year-old grandson were at the house.  Bergeron shot multiple additional rounds of ammunition towards the daughter and son-in-law as they fled with their child, then pointed the rifle at his ex-girlfriend multiple times and threatened to kill her.  All the victims in this case are members of the Coeur d’Alene Indian Reservation.

    Each of the three counts of assault with a dangerous weapon is punishable by up to ten years in federal prison, a fine of up to $250,000, and up to three years of supervised release.  Sentencing is set for September 24, 2025, before Judge Brailsford at the federal courthouse in Coeur d’Alene.

    Acting U.S. Attorney Whatcott commended the Coeur d’Alene Tribal Police and the Federal Bureau of Investigation for a meticulous and professional investigation, which led to the charges. He also thanked the Coeur d’Alene Tribal Prosecutor and the Kootenai County Prosecuting Attorney for their assistance with this case.  Assistants United States Attorney Bryce Ellsworth and Adam Johnson prosecuted the case.

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    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Man Arrested for Pointing a Laser at Police Helicopter During Protests in Los Angeles

    Source: US FBI

    LOS ANGELES—A Los Angeles man was taken into custody this week by FBI agents and charged federally with aiming a laser pointer at an aircraft—specifically, a helicopter operated by pilots with the Los Angeles Police Department.

    Dominic Rios, 21, whose last known address was in Hemet, was arrested on July 7 pursuant to a federal criminal complaint filed on June 27 in U.S. District Court in the Central District of California.

    The complaint alleges that, on June 10, 2025, a Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) helicopter was flying at an altitude of approximately 950 feet while monitoring protests in downtown Los Angeles when it was struck three times by green laser light.

    The LAPD helicopter pilot and flight officer were able to identify the person using the laser, later identified as Rios, and relay his description and location near a parking lot to LAPD officers on the ground, who located Rios and arrested him. An LAPD officer searched Rios and found a laser pointer in his pocket. After the LAPD officer Mirandized Rios, Rios admitted that he had used his green laser pointer on the LAPD helicopter.

    Testing confirmed that the device seized from Rios was a green laser pointer. The helicopter was struck three times by the green laser and each strike lit up the cockpit. Each strike lasted approximately 3-5 seconds, forcing the pilot to modify the helicopter’s altitude to avoid additional strikes, according to the complaint.

    Testing conducted by the LAPD confirmed that the green laser used by Rios is hazardous to the eyes.

    Rios had an initial appearance before a federal magistrate and was released on bond.

    If convicted, Rios faces statutory maximum penalty of five years in federal prison.

    This investigation was conducted by the Los Angeles Police Department and the FBI and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Derek Flores.

    When laser beams are aimed at any piloted aircraft, whether military or commercial, what might seem like a tiny beam on the ground can blind aircrew, potentially causing a midair collision or other incident.

    In 2023 alone, the Federal Aviation Administration (or FAA) received more than 13,000 reports of laser strikes. And the U.S. Air Force Safety Center’s webpage dedicated to the issue notes that “aircrew are issued laser eye protection glasses before each flight.”

    These incidents are both dangerous and illegal.

    The FBI is reminding the public to keep their laser pointers out of the sky to protect pilots—and to avoid hefty fines and potential prison time.

    To learn more about this crime, visit: https://www.fbi.gov/news/stories/preventing-laser-strikes-on-aircraft.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: “This is Groundhog Day!” – Cortez Masto Presses Forest Service Chief on Reversal of Ruby Mountains Speculative Drilling Ban

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Nevada Cortez Masto
     ***VIDEO AVAILABLE***

    FTPs for TV stations is available here.
    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) pressed U.S. Forest Service Chief Tom Schultz for answers about the Trump administration’s decision to reopen the Ruby Mountains to speculative oil and gas drilling. She emphasized the broad opposition to this reversal in Nevada. Cortez Masto led the push that resulted in the Biden administration protecting the Rubies from speculative drilling in 2024.
    Sen. Cortez Masto questioned Chief Schultz on why the Forest Service made this sudden reversal on the Ruby Mountains: “The Biden administration announced it was establishing a 20-year administrative withdrawal process to protect Ruby Mountain area from oil and gas leasing. However, this administration, the Trump administration, reversed these protections for the Rubies. […] Let me just be clear: Nevadans don’t want drilling in the Ruby Mountains. So, I’m curious, what production of critical minerals does the Forest Service expect to develop in the Ruby Mountains?”
    Chief Schultz responded, “Typically what happens with leasing of minerals, the Forest Service isn’t out there trying to basically promote a certain activity or not, but it would be made available if someone deemed there was a resource there, that would be available for leasing.”
    In 2019, during President Trump’s first term, the Forest Service had already deemed the Ruby Mountains unsuitable for speculative leasing. Senator Cortez Masto called out the absurdity of Schultz’s suggestion: “But that’s already been done, that is my point. It seems like everything that has been done in the past, including the speculative leasing that has been denied in the past, is being ignored because it was done under a previous administration. It makes no sense. We’re wasting the resources of your men and women […] because this administration thinks they have to start from scratch. […] This is Groundhog Day! I mean, literally, we are repeating this over and over again. What is going on?”
    Senator Cortez Masto has been a champion for Nevada’s great outdoor spaces and public lands. She passed critical legislation to permanently fund the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF), which protects public lands in Nevada and across the U.S., and her bipartisan, bicameral legislation to restore Lake Tahoe was passed into law last year. She delivered critical funding to protect Lake Tahoe in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. Cortez Masto also helped pass the historic Great American Outdoors Act, which was signed into law and provides robust funding to preserve and maintain public lands across the country. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: After Securing Key New Hampshire and National Security Priorities, Shaheen Helps Advance Annual Defense Bill

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Hampshire Jeanne Shaheen
    **A top member of the U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee, Shaheen built on her years-long legacy of securing key New Hampshire priorities, as well as measures that address America’s top security challenges**
    (Washington, DC) – U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), a top member of the U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee, helped advance the Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) – annual defense legislation that authorizes Pentagon priorities and programs for the next fiscal year. The bill was approved by the Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC) in a bipartisan vote. 
    As a senior member of SASC, Senator Shaheen’s additions to the defense bill address both America’s top national security objectives, while also enhancing New Hampshire’s role in support of our national defense.
    “With Secretary Hegseth at the helm of the Pentagon, it’s more critical this year than ever that Congress uses the annual defense bill to assert its oversight authority and advance policy to improve the lives of service members. The legislation cleared by the Senate Armed Services Committee this week is not perfect but includes many of my provisions to put guardrails on Secretary Hegseth’s harmful policies, including to protect the shipyard workforce from hiring freezes, ensure President Trump’s trade war isn’t passing the price of defense contracts onto the taxpayer, to make sure promised military assistance continues to flow to Ukraine in their fight for democracy and freedom and protect U.S. basing in Europe, the Middle East and the Indo Pacific.” said Senator Shaheen. “I was also proud to secure provisions that support New Hampshire’s defense industry and good-paying jobs, improve service members’ access to affordable child care and housing, invest in Portsmouth Naval Shipyard’s capacity and more.”
    The Committee-passed bill now moves to the full Senate before it is conferenced with the U.S. House of Representatives. Below is a summary of top New Hampshire and national security priorities secured by Shaheen in the FY 2026 NDAA.
    Protecting the Public Shipyard Workforce
    Senator Shaheen led a provision to ensure the chaos and confusion that ensued from Secretary Hegseth’s Department of Defense (DoD) civilian hiring freeze does not happen again. The legislation will protect thousands of jobs integral to America’s national security at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard and public shipyards across the nation.
    The Portsmouth Naval Shipyard is a key economic driver in the region, supporting thousands of jobs integral to America’s national security. After calls from Shaheen and Senator Susan Collins (R-ME), DoD claimed to have exempted the shipyard workforce from the civilian hiring freeze, but issues persist in implementation. Shaheen’s provision will make this exemption final and addresses hiring delays that Portsmouth Naval Shipyard has continued to face.
    Reassuring America’s Allies and Partners
    Standing with Ukraine:
    Senator Shaheen has consistently worked to ensure the delivery of military, humanitarian and economic assistance to Ukraine as they fight for their freedom and democracy amid Putin’s war of aggression.
    The Committee-passed NDAA includes a reauthorization of the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative, Department of Defense’s authority to equip the Ukrainian Armed Forces. Shaheen also secured language prohibiting the diversion of military equipment obligated for Ukraine after the Pentagon’s misguided decision, since overruled by President Trump.
    The Committee-passed bill also includes Shaheen-authored amendments that allow the continued sharing of U.S. information, intelligence and imagery to support the Ukrainian Armed Forces on the battlefield and prevent cuts to security cooperation funding for U.S. forces in Europe.
    Supporting NATO Allies and Enhancing Global Partnerships:
    Shaheen also secured provisions that send a strong message of commitment to North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) Allies and other U.S. partners abroad. Her legislation requires the executive branch to consult with Congress and our NATO Allies before any attempt to abdicate the Commander of U.S. European Command’s dual role of Supreme Allied Commander Europe. This comes after Shaheen pressed senior U.S. military officials on the importance of this U.S. responsibility at NATO. An American general has also served as Supreme Allied Commander of NATO Forces in Europe since General Dwight Eisenhower assumed the role following the establishment of the NATO alliance.
    The bill includes legislation led by Shaheen requiring the Pentagon to consult with Congress before making changes to U.S. military force posture in Europe and on the Korean Peninsula. U.S. presence in Europe and the Indo Pacific deters adversaries and strengthens our alliances. This legislation will require the Secretary of Defense to certify to Congress that he has consulted the Secretary of State, Director of National Intelligence, senior U.S. military officers in the theaters and officials from regional governments—including NATO Allies, South Korea, Japan and others—before reducing our force presence in Europe or South Korea.
    Shaheen also prevented the further consolidation of U.S. military bases in Syria—a move that helps to prevent a resurgence of ISIS influence in the region following the establishment of a new, post-Assad Syrian government.
    Protecting Defense Supply Chains from Reckless Tariffs
    The bill includes Senator Shaheen’s amendment that would require the Department of Defense to assess the impact of the Trump administration’s tariffs on the defense supply chain and protect current regulations that are providing relief to small businesses in the defense industrial base.
    Shaheen has been vocal in her concerns about the administration’s trade war and its impacts on America’s national defense and military readiness, including by calling on Secretary Hegseth to address how tariffs are impacting the Department’s purchasing power, weakening supply chains and raising costs on small businesses.  This provision in the NDAA comes after Shaheen’s third annual bipartisan Congressional delegation to the largest trade show in the world, the Paris Air Show, where she heard concerns about the President’s trade war from allies, partners and the defense and civil aerospace industry. Following the Air Show, Shaheen penned an opinion piece in the Wall Street Journal..
    Supporting Jobs and the New Hampshire National Guard
    To bolster the civilian defense and national security workforce, Senator Shaheen secured an amendment in line with her Defense Workforce Integration Act. The bipartisan, bicameral Shaheen-led bill would leverage existing programs and best practices within the Department of Defense to address persistent workforce shortages by retaining the talent and motivation of those who desire to serve in uniform but are found to be medically disqualified.
    As co-chair of the bipartisan U.S. Senate National Guard Caucus, Shaheen has long advocated on behalf of National Guard members. To strengthen the National Guard’s ability to protect and aid New Hampshire in times of crisis, Shaheen secured a provision in this year’s NDAA to help the National Guard retain quality commissioned and warrant officers and maintain increased levels of personnel readiness. Specifically, the amendment allows officers and warrant officers to transfer from active status in the Reserves to the Inactive National Guard.
    Confronting the Challenges Posed by PFAS Contamination
    Senator Shaheen successfully added an amendment to respond more quickly to the spread of PFAS contamination at certain military installations and surrounding communities where PFAS are discovered in existing water sources as a result of military activities. The policy requires the Department of Defense to take action to address contamination hotspots and provide safe drinking water to communities while the lengthier remedial investigation process moves forward. Shaheen also secured adoption of an amendment to clarify that DoD can use innovative technologies for destroying PFAS to provide more tools to address contamination.
    Shaheen opposed amendments that were ultimately adopted to rescind the moratorium on PFAS incineration and prohibit the military from procuring a variety of items containing PFAS, including cookware used to prepare food in military galleys and furniture upholstery and carpeting for military installations. These provisions add unnecessary exposure to harmful toxins for service members and their families, increasing their chances of long-term health impacts.
    Shaheen has worked for more than a decade to hold the Department of Defense responsible for remediation of PFAS contamination at military bases and ensure transparency for affected communities. Shaheen spearheaded the first nationwide PFAS health impact study conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)/Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) that is in its final stages. Shaheen leads efforts in Congress to uncover the potential health effects related to PFAS contamination. Because of her efforts, Pease served as a model site for the nationwide study. Shaheen has also led efforts to improve the Defense Department’s transparency and engagement with local communities, improve safety of firefighting gear, phase out use of PFAS-laden firefighting foam and expand blood-testing for military firefighters exposed to PFAS. Shaheen also secured record funding to upgrade drinking water and wastewater infrastructure to address PFAS contamination in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law of 2021.
    Defending and Strengthening Support for America’s Service Members and Their Families
    Addressing Sexual Assault in the Military:
    Senator Shaheen successfully fought for a provision to increase accountability and transparency for investigations into military sexual assault cases. The Committee-passed NDAA includes Shaheen’s amendment requiring the National Guard Bureau to provide an annual report on the number of Guardsmen who participate in Sexual Assault Prevention and Response (SAPR) training each year.
    Shaheen has championed efforts in the Senate to respond to and address sexual assault in the military. In the FY23 NDAA, she helped secure reforms that expanded the types of sexual misconduct offenses and addressed the role of military commanders’ convening authority power. She played a pivotal role in the adoption of historic reforms to the Uniform Code of Military Justice to address sexual assault in the military, including taking those offenses out of a service member’s chain of command.
    Expanding Access to Child Care for Military Families:
    Shaheen helped secure inclusion of a provision to expand child care access for military families by directing the Department of Defense to support the recruitment and retention of providers in order to build a future child care workforce and make long-term investments in child care providers. The provision also authorizes the Department of Defense to enter into an interagency partnership with a federal agency, such as AmeriCorps, to place national service participants and volunteers trained in education services at military child care centers.
    The provision is based on bipartisan legislation Shaheen co-leads with Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA), the Expanding Access to Child Care for Military Families Act, to support workforce development opportunities for child care providers and to add capacity to the child care sector.
    Addressing Service Members and Military Families’ Quality of Life:
    To help service members and their families navigate the nation’s housing affordability crisis, Shaheen secured an amendment in the NDAA to improve DoD’s financial counseling offerings. To ensure service members learn about fees and other costs associated with homebuying, the provision allows Service Secretaries to work with U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development certified housing counselors and other qualified counselors to help service members and families.
    Bolstering Mental Health Resources and Responses:
    Shaheen helped secure a provision in line with her National Adverse Childhood Experiences Response Team (ACERT) Grant Program Authorization Act directing the DoD to study and report on establishing a program to address adverse childhood experiences associated with exposure to trauma by connecting law enforcement and first responders with local child specialists and professionals.
    The legislation also includes Shaheen’s amendment to address the shortage of quality, accessible mental and behavioral health care for service members. Her provision requires DoD to assess where there are shortages in providers and the impact of those staffing shortages on service members. 
    Investing in Portsmouth Naval Shipyard and New England’s Shipbuilding Workforce
    Senator Shaheen built on her long legacy of support for New England’s shipbuilding industry and workforce, including through authorizing funding and workforce development for the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard. The Committee-approved FY26 NDAA includes full authorization for the Shipyard Infrastructure Optimization Program (SIOP) investments at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard, which will expand the Shipyard’s capacity to maintain America’s fast-attack submarine fleet. As a member of the U.S. Senate Appropriations and Armed Services Committees, Senator Shaheen helped secure this funding beginning in the fiscal year 2019 funding legislation, which she has continued in ensuing years.
    Shaheen also helped to authorize funding for increased reliability, resiliency and capacity to the existing electric and water utility systems primarily responsible for the nuclear support facilities at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard. Additionally, the bill authorizes $26 million for the construction of a new, state-of-the-art Readiness Center to support the New Hampshire National Guard in Plymouth, New Hampshire.
    In addition, the bill reauthorizes funding for Virginia-class submarines, which are repaired at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard. Shaheen is a steadfast supporter of the Virginia-class program and is a fierce advocate for Shipyard priorities.
    Shaheen also secured a provision aimed at improving the quality of life and bolstering recruitment and retention of employees at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard and the country’s three other public shipyards. The Shaheen amendment requires DoD to assess the feasibility, costs and benefits of providing civilian employees with apartment-style or dormitory housing options.  Shaheen also secured report language to encourage DoD to explore the feasibility of low-interest loans for maritime industrial base (MIB) suppliers. 
    Finally, the bill includes Shaheen’s legislation to extend direct hire authority to the Navy Supervisor of Shipbuilding, Conversion and Repair (SUPSHIP), which will give Navy the ability to fill these positions quickly, address workforce delays and reduce delays in submarine construction and maintenance.
    Supporting Americans Affected by Directed Energy Attacks
    Senator Shaheen built on her progress to ensure that all U.S. personnel and their loved ones suffering from anomalous health incidents (AHIs) – also known as “Havana Syndrome” or directed-energy attacks – get the medical attention they deserve. Shaheen successfully secured a provision that encourages the Department of Defense to supply the cross-functional team addressing AHIs with the resources that they need to provide those affected with necessary treatment and timely compensation under the Helping American Victims Affected by Neurological Attacks (HAVANA) Act of 2021. The amendment also urges the Department to redouble its efforts to identify emerging directed energy threats, understand their origin and develop countermeasures to defend against them.
    Shaheen has been a leader in supporting American public servants who have incurred AHIs. In October 2021, President Biden signed legislation Shaheen helped lead, the Helping American Victims Afflicted by Neurological Attacks (HAVANA Act), into law. The law authorizes financial support to ensure medical care for those affected by AHIs. In the FY21 NDAA, Shaheen successfully included language to expand a provision in law that she previously wrote to provide long-term, emergency care benefits to all U.S. government employees and their dependents who were mysteriously injured while working in China and Cuba.
    Bolstering Congressional Oversight and Reining in Wasteful Spending
    In this year’s NDAA, Senator Shaheen secured several provisions to assert Congress’s oversight authority over the Trump administration and prohibit wasteful spending, including the use of Department of Defense resources for immigration enforcement activities. The bill requires DoD to notify Congress before using military airlift for immigration enforcement purposes and expands existing notifications to include requests for assistance in support of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) at Guantanamo Bay. In the first five months of migrant operations at Guantanamo Bay, DoD has already spent over $40 million providing non-reimbursable support to DHS.
    Additionally, Shaheen included language in the NDAA urging DoD not to downgrade the U.S. Naval Hospital at Guantanamo Bay to a clinic. The hospital is the only source of health care for the over 6,000 active duty personnel, DoD civilians, family members, contract personnel and local and foreign national employees stationed at U.S. Naval Base Guantanamo Bay (NSGB).
    The provisions come after Shaheen joined a Congressional delegation to Guantanamo Bay in March of this year after the Pentagon refused to answer Congressional oversight questions on its support to DHS’s new migrant operations there.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General James Takes Action to Protect Survivors of Domestic Violence

    Source: US State of New York

    EW YORK – New York Attorney General Letitia James today joined a coalition of 21 other attorneys general in defending critical funding from the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) for organizations that provide services for survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, dating violence, and stalking. In an amicus brief filed with the United States District Court for the District of Rhode Island, Attorney General James and the coalition argue that the Department of Justice’s (DOJ) new requirements that these organizations certify they will not use funding for services that don’t align with the Trump administration’s political agenda are illegal and will endanger vulnerable people. The Trump administration’s targeting of VAWA programs jeopardizes resources for both survivors and law enforcement that have helped dramatically reduce domestic violence since the law took effect in 1994.  

    “For decades, the Violence Against Women Act has helped protect domestic violence survivors and bring their abusers to justice,” said Attorney General James. “This administration’s illegal attempt to play politics with its funds will put the most vulnerable members of our communities in danger. I will continue to fight any reckless policy that puts New Yorkers at risk and makes it harder for our law enforcement partners to keep our communities safe.”

    For the past 30 years, Congress has dedicated funds under VAWA to support training for law enforcement and provide medical care, hotlines, shelters, and services for survivors of domestic abuse, sexual assault, and other similar crimes. Under both Democratic and Republican administrations, more than $11 billion has been distributed under VAWA, which has helped dramatically reduce domestic violence by 64 percent.

    As Attorney General James and the coalition note in the brief, VAWA programs have changed the way law enforcement responds to domestic violence by spurring investments in new forensic tools and victim advocates that have helped increase convictions and protect survivors. Every year, VAWA programs help train more than 600,000 professionals – including police officers, prosecutors, judges, and advocates – and provide more than two million individual services to survivors.

    Earlier this year, the Trump administration imposed new conditions on VAWA funds to prohibit organizations that receive these funds from providing vaguely defined “out-of-scope” services, including those that promote so-called “diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility programs” and “gender ideology.” As Attorney General James and the coalition argue in the brief, these conditions will severely undermine public safety by threatening VAWA-funded organizations with prosecution for operating programs that serve the most vulnerable people. Congress has mandated that VAWA funds provide assistance to the LGBTQ community and other vulnerable groups like immigrants without legal status. As Attorney General James and the coalition argue, DOJ’s new conditions contradict Congress’ updates to VAWA that prevent discrimination in its programs. The brief also argues the conditions will affect public safety by making it harder for those in need to get help and inhibiting law enforcement from bringing abusers to justice.

    Attorney General James and the coalition are urging the court to grant a preliminary injunction preventing DOJ’s new guidelines on VAWA funding from being enforced.

    Joining Attorney General James in filing the brief are the attorneys general of Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and the District of Columbia.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General Bonta Files Brief in Support of Lawsuit Challenging U.S. DOJ’s Unlawful Restrictions on Domestic Violence Funds

    Source: US State of California

    OAKLAND – California Attorney General Rob Bonta today joined a multistate coalition in submitting an amicus brief in Rhode Island Coalition Against Domestic Violence v. Bondi, supporting plaintiffs challenging conditions placed on Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) grants by the U.S. Department of Justice (U.S. DOJ). In their brief, the attorneys general argue that the federal government is illegally adding new rules to domestic violence and sexual assault grants that go against the Constitution and threaten vital services for victims.

    “Violence Against Women Act grants provide a critical safety net for survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault across California,” said Attorney General Bonta. “The Trump Administration’s politically driven restrictions on accessing these grants are not only unlawful, but they also put lives at risk. Survivors deserve support free from discrimination and interference, not confusing mandates that jeopardize their access to help when they need it most.” 

    VAWA grants help provide safe shelters, counseling, legal aid, and other critical support, aiming to serve all eligible victims, regardless of their background. However, U.S. DOJ is now attempting to add confusing new rules to these grants, telling organizations they cannot use funds to “promote gender identity” or “DEI programs,” even while maintaining that organizations must continue to serve all victims and follow anti-discrimination laws. This puts the groups that help victims and survivors in an impossible bind and potentially leaves countless victims without the help they desperately need.

    The plaintiffs, a coalition of domestic violence and sexual assault service providers, argue that these conditions exceed U.S. DOJ’s statutory authority, are arbitrary and capricious, and violate constitutional rights, including the First and Fifth Amendments and the Spending Clause.

    In today’s amicus brief, the attorneys general support the plaintiffs, arguing that preliminary injunctive relief reinstating this funding while litigation continues is in the public interest because:

    • Enforcing conditions on VAWA-funded services for California residents would cause severe harm, particularly in addressing domestic violence and sexual assault.
    • VAWA funds are vital for training law enforcement, improving victim services for underserved populations, and assisting victims with immigration matters. 

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

    A copy of the amicus brief, which is subject to court approval, can be found here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Sacramento Man Pleads Guilty to Shooting at Federal Agents

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

    Jason Raysean Broadbent, 38, of Sacramento, pleaded guilty Thursday to assaulting federal officers with a deadly weapon, possession of methamphetamine near a school with intent to distribute, being a felon in possession of a firearm, possession of an unregistered destructive device, and possession of an unregistered, short-barreled machine gun, Acting U.S. Attorney Michele Beckwith announced.

    According to court documents, on Nov. 19, 2015, federal agents went to Broadbent’s girlfriend’s residence in Sacramento to serve a search warrant. After the agents knocked and announced their presence and no one came to the door to answer, they forced entry and began filing into the living room shouting “police” and “search warrant.” Within seconds, Broadbent fired shots through a bedroom wall at the agents in the living room, narrowly missing them. Broadbent then fled out a back door of the residence, climbed up onto a fence in the backyard, and pointed his Glock semi-automatic pistol at another ATF agent on the perimeter, who then shot Broadbent several times. Broadbent was transported to the hospital where he was treated for and recovered from his injuries.

    In the bedroom from which Broadbent fired at the agents, law enforcement found almost two pounds of methamphetamine, a revolver, and a small safe that contained a semi-automatic pistol and a pipe bomb. Broadbent possessed the methamphetamine with the intent to distribute it to others, within 1,000 feet of Christian Brothers High School. Broadbent also knowingly possessed the firearms and the pipe bomb. Broadbent was prohibited from possessing firearms because he had multiple prior felony convictions.

    Law enforcement also served a search warrant at Broadbent’s Sacramento residence that same day. In Broadbent’s bedroom, law enforcement found approximately 2.5 pounds of methamphetamine, a loaded pistol in the same backpack as the methamphetamine, and two unserialized (ghost gun) AR-15 style short-barreled machine gun rifles. Each rifle had a 9-inch barrel, and a conversion device called a “lightning link” to convert them into fully automatic machine guns.

    This case is the product of an investigation by Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with assistance from the Sacramento Police Department, the Sacramento County District Attorney’s Office, the Woodland Police Department, the Yolo County Sheriff’s Department, the Yolo County District Attorney’s Office, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the California Highway Patrol. Assistant U.S. Attorneys David Spencer, Justin Lee, and Nicole Vanek are prosecuting the case.

    Broadbent is scheduled to be sentenced by Judge Daniel J. Calabretta on Oct. 23, 2025. Broadbent faces a maximum statutory penalty of life in prison and a $20 million fine. The plea agreement contemplates a sentence of 50 years in prison. The actual sentence, however, will be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables.

    This case was a 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 U.S. Department of Justice launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Sacramento Man Pleads Guilty to Shooting at Federal Agents

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

    Jason Raysean Broadbent, 38, of Sacramento, pleaded guilty Thursday to assaulting federal officers with a deadly weapon, possession of methamphetamine near a school with intent to distribute, being a felon in possession of a firearm, possession of an unregistered destructive device, and possession of an unregistered, short-barreled machine gun, Acting U.S. Attorney Michele Beckwith announced.

    According to court documents, on Nov. 19, 2015, federal agents went to Broadbent’s girlfriend’s residence in Sacramento to serve a search warrant. After the agents knocked and announced their presence and no one came to the door to answer, they forced entry and began filing into the living room shouting “police” and “search warrant.” Within seconds, Broadbent fired shots through a bedroom wall at the agents in the living room, narrowly missing them. Broadbent then fled out a back door of the residence, climbed up onto a fence in the backyard, and pointed his Glock semi-automatic pistol at another ATF agent on the perimeter, who then shot Broadbent several times. Broadbent was transported to the hospital where he was treated for and recovered from his injuries.

    In the bedroom from which Broadbent fired at the agents, law enforcement found almost two pounds of methamphetamine, a revolver, and a small safe that contained a semi-automatic pistol and a pipe bomb. Broadbent possessed the methamphetamine with the intent to distribute it to others, within 1,000 feet of Christian Brothers High School. Broadbent also knowingly possessed the firearms and the pipe bomb. Broadbent was prohibited from possessing firearms because he had multiple prior felony convictions.

    Law enforcement also served a search warrant at Broadbent’s Sacramento residence that same day. In Broadbent’s bedroom, law enforcement found approximately 2.5 pounds of methamphetamine, a loaded pistol in the same backpack as the methamphetamine, and two unserialized (ghost gun) AR-15 style short-barreled machine gun rifles. Each rifle had a 9-inch barrel, and a conversion device called a “lightning link” to convert them into fully automatic machine guns.

    This case is the product of an investigation by Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with assistance from the Sacramento Police Department, the Sacramento County District Attorney’s Office, the Woodland Police Department, the Yolo County Sheriff’s Department, the Yolo County District Attorney’s Office, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the California Highway Patrol. Assistant U.S. Attorneys David Spencer, Justin Lee, and Nicole Vanek are prosecuting the case.

    Broadbent is scheduled to be sentenced by Judge Daniel J. Calabretta on Oct. 23, 2025. Broadbent faces a maximum statutory penalty of life in prison and a $20 million fine. The plea agreement contemplates a sentence of 50 years in prison. The actual sentence, however, will be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables.

    This case was a 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 U.S. Department of Justice launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Sacramento Man Pleads Guilty to Shooting at Federal Agents

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

    Jason Raysean Broadbent, 38, of Sacramento, pleaded guilty Thursday to assaulting federal officers with a deadly weapon, possession of methamphetamine near a school with intent to distribute, being a felon in possession of a firearm, possession of an unregistered destructive device, and possession of an unregistered, short-barreled machine gun, Acting U.S. Attorney Michele Beckwith announced.

    According to court documents, on Nov. 19, 2015, federal agents went to Broadbent’s girlfriend’s residence in Sacramento to serve a search warrant. After the agents knocked and announced their presence and no one came to the door to answer, they forced entry and began filing into the living room shouting “police” and “search warrant.” Within seconds, Broadbent fired shots through a bedroom wall at the agents in the living room, narrowly missing them. Broadbent then fled out a back door of the residence, climbed up onto a fence in the backyard, and pointed his Glock semi-automatic pistol at another ATF agent on the perimeter, who then shot Broadbent several times. Broadbent was transported to the hospital where he was treated for and recovered from his injuries.

    In the bedroom from which Broadbent fired at the agents, law enforcement found almost two pounds of methamphetamine, a revolver, and a small safe that contained a semi-automatic pistol and a pipe bomb. Broadbent possessed the methamphetamine with the intent to distribute it to others, within 1,000 feet of Christian Brothers High School. Broadbent also knowingly possessed the firearms and the pipe bomb. Broadbent was prohibited from possessing firearms because he had multiple prior felony convictions.

    Law enforcement also served a search warrant at Broadbent’s Sacramento residence that same day. In Broadbent’s bedroom, law enforcement found approximately 2.5 pounds of methamphetamine, a loaded pistol in the same backpack as the methamphetamine, and two unserialized (ghost gun) AR-15 style short-barreled machine gun rifles. Each rifle had a 9-inch barrel, and a conversion device called a “lightning link” to convert them into fully automatic machine guns.

    This case is the product of an investigation by Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with assistance from the Sacramento Police Department, the Sacramento County District Attorney’s Office, the Woodland Police Department, the Yolo County Sheriff’s Department, the Yolo County District Attorney’s Office, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the California Highway Patrol. Assistant U.S. Attorneys David Spencer, Justin Lee, and Nicole Vanek are prosecuting the case.

    Broadbent is scheduled to be sentenced by Judge Daniel J. Calabretta on Oct. 23, 2025. Broadbent faces a maximum statutory penalty of life in prison and a $20 million fine. The plea agreement contemplates a sentence of 50 years in prison. The actual sentence, however, will be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables.

    This case was a 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 U.S. Department of Justice launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Sacramento Man Pleads Guilty to Shooting at Federal Agents

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

    Jason Raysean Broadbent, 38, of Sacramento, pleaded guilty Thursday to assaulting federal officers with a deadly weapon, possession of methamphetamine near a school with intent to distribute, being a felon in possession of a firearm, possession of an unregistered destructive device, and possession of an unregistered, short-barreled machine gun, Acting U.S. Attorney Michele Beckwith announced.

    According to court documents, on Nov. 19, 2015, federal agents went to Broadbent’s girlfriend’s residence in Sacramento to serve a search warrant. After the agents knocked and announced their presence and no one came to the door to answer, they forced entry and began filing into the living room shouting “police” and “search warrant.” Within seconds, Broadbent fired shots through a bedroom wall at the agents in the living room, narrowly missing them. Broadbent then fled out a back door of the residence, climbed up onto a fence in the backyard, and pointed his Glock semi-automatic pistol at another ATF agent on the perimeter, who then shot Broadbent several times. Broadbent was transported to the hospital where he was treated for and recovered from his injuries.

    In the bedroom from which Broadbent fired at the agents, law enforcement found almost two pounds of methamphetamine, a revolver, and a small safe that contained a semi-automatic pistol and a pipe bomb. Broadbent possessed the methamphetamine with the intent to distribute it to others, within 1,000 feet of Christian Brothers High School. Broadbent also knowingly possessed the firearms and the pipe bomb. Broadbent was prohibited from possessing firearms because he had multiple prior felony convictions.

    Law enforcement also served a search warrant at Broadbent’s Sacramento residence that same day. In Broadbent’s bedroom, law enforcement found approximately 2.5 pounds of methamphetamine, a loaded pistol in the same backpack as the methamphetamine, and two unserialized (ghost gun) AR-15 style short-barreled machine gun rifles. Each rifle had a 9-inch barrel, and a conversion device called a “lightning link” to convert them into fully automatic machine guns.

    This case is the product of an investigation by Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with assistance from the Sacramento Police Department, the Sacramento County District Attorney’s Office, the Woodland Police Department, the Yolo County Sheriff’s Department, the Yolo County District Attorney’s Office, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the California Highway Patrol. Assistant U.S. Attorneys David Spencer, Justin Lee, and Nicole Vanek are prosecuting the case.

    Broadbent is scheduled to be sentenced by Judge Daniel J. Calabretta on Oct. 23, 2025. Broadbent faces a maximum statutory penalty of life in prison and a $20 million fine. The plea agreement contemplates a sentence of 50 years in prison. The actual sentence, however, will be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables.

    This case was a 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 U.S. Department of Justice launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Sacramento Man Pleads Guilty to Shooting at Federal Agents

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

    Jason Raysean Broadbent, 38, of Sacramento, pleaded guilty Thursday to assaulting federal officers with a deadly weapon, possession of methamphetamine near a school with intent to distribute, being a felon in possession of a firearm, possession of an unregistered destructive device, and possession of an unregistered, short-barreled machine gun, Acting U.S. Attorney Michele Beckwith announced.

    According to court documents, on Nov. 19, 2015, federal agents went to Broadbent’s girlfriend’s residence in Sacramento to serve a search warrant. After the agents knocked and announced their presence and no one came to the door to answer, they forced entry and began filing into the living room shouting “police” and “search warrant.” Within seconds, Broadbent fired shots through a bedroom wall at the agents in the living room, narrowly missing them. Broadbent then fled out a back door of the residence, climbed up onto a fence in the backyard, and pointed his Glock semi-automatic pistol at another ATF agent on the perimeter, who then shot Broadbent several times. Broadbent was transported to the hospital where he was treated for and recovered from his injuries.

    In the bedroom from which Broadbent fired at the agents, law enforcement found almost two pounds of methamphetamine, a revolver, and a small safe that contained a semi-automatic pistol and a pipe bomb. Broadbent possessed the methamphetamine with the intent to distribute it to others, within 1,000 feet of Christian Brothers High School. Broadbent also knowingly possessed the firearms and the pipe bomb. Broadbent was prohibited from possessing firearms because he had multiple prior felony convictions.

    Law enforcement also served a search warrant at Broadbent’s Sacramento residence that same day. In Broadbent’s bedroom, law enforcement found approximately 2.5 pounds of methamphetamine, a loaded pistol in the same backpack as the methamphetamine, and two unserialized (ghost gun) AR-15 style short-barreled machine gun rifles. Each rifle had a 9-inch barrel, and a conversion device called a “lightning link” to convert them into fully automatic machine guns.

    This case is the product of an investigation by Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with assistance from the Sacramento Police Department, the Sacramento County District Attorney’s Office, the Woodland Police Department, the Yolo County Sheriff’s Department, the Yolo County District Attorney’s Office, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the California Highway Patrol. Assistant U.S. Attorneys David Spencer, Justin Lee, and Nicole Vanek are prosecuting the case.

    Broadbent is scheduled to be sentenced by Judge Daniel J. Calabretta on Oct. 23, 2025. Broadbent faces a maximum statutory penalty of life in prison and a $20 million fine. The plea agreement contemplates a sentence of 50 years in prison. The actual sentence, however, will be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables.

    This case was a 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 U.S. Department of Justice launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Sacramento Man Pleads Guilty to Shooting at Federal Agents

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

    Jason Raysean Broadbent, 38, of Sacramento, pleaded guilty Thursday to assaulting federal officers with a deadly weapon, possession of methamphetamine near a school with intent to distribute, being a felon in possession of a firearm, possession of an unregistered destructive device, and possession of an unregistered, short-barreled machine gun, Acting U.S. Attorney Michele Beckwith announced.

    According to court documents, on Nov. 19, 2015, federal agents went to Broadbent’s girlfriend’s residence in Sacramento to serve a search warrant. After the agents knocked and announced their presence and no one came to the door to answer, they forced entry and began filing into the living room shouting “police” and “search warrant.” Within seconds, Broadbent fired shots through a bedroom wall at the agents in the living room, narrowly missing them. Broadbent then fled out a back door of the residence, climbed up onto a fence in the backyard, and pointed his Glock semi-automatic pistol at another ATF agent on the perimeter, who then shot Broadbent several times. Broadbent was transported to the hospital where he was treated for and recovered from his injuries.

    In the bedroom from which Broadbent fired at the agents, law enforcement found almost two pounds of methamphetamine, a revolver, and a small safe that contained a semi-automatic pistol and a pipe bomb. Broadbent possessed the methamphetamine with the intent to distribute it to others, within 1,000 feet of Christian Brothers High School. Broadbent also knowingly possessed the firearms and the pipe bomb. Broadbent was prohibited from possessing firearms because he had multiple prior felony convictions.

    Law enforcement also served a search warrant at Broadbent’s Sacramento residence that same day. In Broadbent’s bedroom, law enforcement found approximately 2.5 pounds of methamphetamine, a loaded pistol in the same backpack as the methamphetamine, and two unserialized (ghost gun) AR-15 style short-barreled machine gun rifles. Each rifle had a 9-inch barrel, and a conversion device called a “lightning link” to convert them into fully automatic machine guns.

    This case is the product of an investigation by Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with assistance from the Sacramento Police Department, the Sacramento County District Attorney’s Office, the Woodland Police Department, the Yolo County Sheriff’s Department, the Yolo County District Attorney’s Office, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the California Highway Patrol. Assistant U.S. Attorneys David Spencer, Justin Lee, and Nicole Vanek are prosecuting the case.

    Broadbent is scheduled to be sentenced by Judge Daniel J. Calabretta on Oct. 23, 2025. Broadbent faces a maximum statutory penalty of life in prison and a $20 million fine. The plea agreement contemplates a sentence of 50 years in prison. The actual sentence, however, will be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables.

    This case was a 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 U.S. Department of Justice launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Three-Time Felon Charged with Possession of a Firearm in Austin

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

    AUSTIN, Texas – An Austin felon made his initial appearance in federal court today after he was arrested on criminal charges related to his alleged possession of a firearm.

    According to court documents, Frank Horton Lee Jr., 38, was allegedly found to possess a.45 ACP caliber semiautomatic pistol following a traffic stop by officers of the Austin Police Department on May 24.

    According to the complaint filed in federal court, Lee is a convicted felon and is charged with one count of possession of a firearm by a felon. If convicted, he faces up to 15 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    U.S. Attorney Justin Simmons for the Western District of Texas made the announcement.

    The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Austin Police Department are investigating the case.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Alan Buie is prosecuting the case.

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

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Two Wellington Park Gang Members Sentenced in the Murder of 10-Year-Old Makiyah Wilson

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

              WASHINGTON – Mark Price, 30 and Antonio Murchison, 31, both members of the violent Wellington Park crew, were sentenced today for the murder of 10-year-old Makiyah Wilson, announced U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro.

              Mark Price received 50 years in prison. Antonio Murchison received 72 years. 

              On Sept. 3, 2024, Price and Murchison were each found guilty of first-degree murder while armed, conspiracy to commit a crime of violence, participation in a criminal street gang, obstruction of justice, and multiple counts of assault with intent to kill while armed and related firearms offenses.

              The jury also found Quanisha Ramsuer, 31, guilty of obstruction of justice in connection with the investigation into the murder of Makiyah Wilson.

              According to the government’s evidence, on July 16, 2018, Mark Price, Antonio Murchison, and three other individuals, drove to the Clay Terrace neighborhood armed with guns. Price, who was driving, briefly stopped to allow the other defendants to exit the vehicle. They opened fire on the Clay Terrace courtyard, indiscriminately firing more than 50 rounds. An innocent bystander, Makiyah was killed by random gunfire while she was sitting on the front stoop of her home. Several other people were wounded. 

               Joining the announcement was Chief Pamela Smith of the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD).

              In announcing the sentence, U.S. Attorney Pirro and Chief Smith commended the work of those who investigated the case from the Metropolitan Police Department and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia. They also commended Assistant U.S. Attorneys Laura Bach and Natalie Hynum who prosecuted and tried the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: San Antonio Man Arrested for Alleged Facebook Threat Against President Trump Ahead of Friday’s Visit to Texas Hill Country

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    SAN ANTONIO – A San Antonio man was arrested Thursday night in San Antonio on criminal charges related to his alleged threat against the President of the United States.

    According to court documents, Robert Herrera, 52, commented on a San Antonio news outlet’s July 10 Facebook post pertaining to President Donald Trump’s planned visit to the Texas Hill Country. Using the handle, “Robert Herrer,” Herrera allegedly commented, “I won’t miss,” along with a photo depicting President Trump surrounded by U.S. Secret Service agents immediately after the July 13, 2024, assassination attempt in Butler, Pennsylvania. The criminal complaint alleges that a separate Facebook poster replied to “Robert Herrer” stating, “you won’t get the chance, I promise,” to which “Robert Herrer” responded to, “I’ll just come for you.” Accompanying that statement, “Robert Herrer” included a photo of an assault rifle and loaded magazines.

    Herrera was arrested the same day and is facing a federal charge of making threats against the President and interstate threatening communications. If convicted, he faces up to five years in prison for each charge. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    “This case is an example of great cooperation between federal, state, and local law enforcement partners committed to taking down anyone who would threaten the life of the President or anyone else,” said U.S. Attorney Justin R. Simmons for the Western District of Texas. “I want to thank Chief McManus and his team at SAPD for their swift response to this threat. To be clear, these types of threats will not be taken lightly, and we will always take a swift, aggressive approach, as was done here.”

    “I would like to thank the San Antonio Police Department and the FBI San Antonio Field Office for assisting the U.S. Secret Service in this matter,” said Special Agent in Charge Brian J. Gibson for the U.S. Secret Service San Antonio Field Office. “Investigating threats towards individuals under Secret Service protection are treated as our highest priority. This is one of the countless reasons the Secret Service prides ourselves on forging and maintaining relationships with other law enforcement agencies. As this is an ongoing investigation, the Secret Service will have no further comment on this incident.”

    “While the FBI fully supports and defends every American’s right to free speech, it is important to understand that threatening violence against any individual is not constitutionally protected speech, it is a federal crime,” said Special Agent in Charge Aaron Tapp of the FBI’s San Antonio Field Office. “We take all threats to human life with the utmost seriousness, and we urge others to do the same. We would like to thank the United States Secret Service, the San Antonio Police Department, the Texas Department of Public Safety, and the United States Attorney’s Office for their tremendous partnership in addressing this threat against the President. We urge all members of the public to express their views peacefully and respectfully in a manner consistent with the values that define our nation.”

    “SAPD remains committed to working alongside our federal partners to ensure that threats of violence are taken seriously and addressed quickly,” said Chief William McManus for the San Antonio Police Department. “I want to commend the individual who reported the threatened violence against POTUS. Law enforcement cannot do this job without the assistance of our community.”

    The U.S. Secret Service, FBI, and San Antonio Police Department are investigating the case with assistance from the Texas Department of Public Safety.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark Roomberg is prosecuting the case.

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

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Former Banker Arrested for Allegedly Obtaining $2.7 Million in COVID Business-Relief Funds Using Stolen IDs of Disabled Persons

    Source: US FBI

    LOS ANGELES – A former Wells Fargo & Co. banker and his brother have been arrested on an eight-count federal grand jury indictment alleging they schemed to fraudulently obtain more than $2.7 million in taxpayer-funded COVID-19 relief funds and federally-guaranteed small business loans, including by submitting applications using the stolen identities of developmentally disabled persons who lived in long-term care facilities, the Justice Department announced today. 

    Norayr Madadi, 40, of Burbank, and Vazrik Madadi, 44, of Glendale, were arrested Wednesday morning.

    Both men are charged with one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, two counts of wire fraud, and three counts of money laundering. Norayr Madadi is separately charged with one count of aggravated identity theft and one count of making a false statement to a government agent.

    They pleaded not guilty at their arraignment Wednesday afternoon in United States District Court in Los Angeles. A federal magistrate judge ordered Norayr Madadi released on $25,000 bond, ordered Vazrik Madadi released on $50,000 bond, and scheduled a September 2 trial date.

    According to the indictment returned on June 17 and unsealed Wednesday, Norayr Madadi was a banker at Wells Fargo and opened fraudulent accounts in the names of shell companies and persons including using stolen and fictious identities.

    From March 2020 through April 2021, the defendants obtained millions in Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) and Economic Injury Disaster Loan Program (EIDL) loans by submitting loan applications with false statements about revenues, operations, and employees. The defendants used fake and stolen identities to further the fraudulent scheme, including the stolen identities of two victims who are developmentally disabled and live in long-term care facilities.

    The Small Business Administration (SBA) and PPP participating lenders disbursed the loans into bank accounts controlled by the defendants, including the Wells Fargo bank accounts opened by Norayr Madadi. The Madadi brothers allegedly spent the loan proceeds at casinos, paying for luxury cars and jewelry, and cash withdrawals.

    Law enforcement believes the losses caused by this scheme are approximately $2.7 million.

    An indictment contains allegations that a defendant has committed a crime. Every defendant is presumed to be innocent until and unless proven guilty in court.

    If convicted, each defendant would face a statutory maximum sentence of 20 in federal prison for each wire fraud-related count and up to 10 years in federal prison for each money laundering count. Norayr Madadi would face up to five years in federal prison if convicted of the false statements count and would face a mandatory two-year consecutive prison term if convicted of the aggravated identity theft count.

    The FBI is investigating this matter. 

    Assistant United States Attorney Jason Pang of the General Crimes Section is prosecuting this case, with substantial assistance from Assistant United States Attorney Ryan Waters of the Asset Forfeiture and Recovery Section.

    Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at (866) 720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Previously Convicted Felon from Donora Pleads Guilty to Drug Trafficking and Firearm Charges

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

    PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A resident of Donora, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court on July 9, 2025, to fentanyl and cocaine trafficking and the unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

    Tre Robert Goins, 31, pleaded guilty before Senior United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti to possession with the intent to distribute quantities of fentanyl and cocaine and possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon. Goins will proceed to trial in August 2025 on an additional federal charge of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.

    In connection with the guilty plea, the Court was advised that, on May 24, 2024, Goins fled from a traffic stop initiated by the City of Duquesne Police Department. Goins led law enforcement on a high-speed chase and crashed his vehicle, at which time, police recovered fentanyl, cocaine, and a loaded firearm, which had been reported stolen, from Goins’ car. Goins has multiple prior felony convictions for firearms. Federal law prohibits possession of a firearm or ammunition by a convicted felon.

    Judge Conti scheduled sentencing for October 22, 2025. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to 20 years in prison, a fine of up to $1 million, or both. Under the federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history of the defendant.

    Assistant United States Attorneys Kelly M. Locher and Katherine C. Jordan are prosecuting this case on behalf of the United States.
    Pending sentencing, Goins will remain in the custody of the United States Marshals Service.

    The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, City of Clairton and Duquesne police departments, and Elizabeth Township Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Goins.

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

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  • MIL-OSI Security: New Haven Narcotics Distributor Sentenced to 28 Months in Federal Prison

    Source: US FBI

    David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that DEVARO TAYLOR, 35, of New Haven, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Omar A. Williams in Hartford to 28 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for distributing crack cocaine.

    According to court documents and statements made in court, in 2020, the FBI’s New Haven Safe Streets/Gang Task Force and New Haven Police Department conducted an investigation into narcotics trafficking and related criminal activity in and around New Haven.  Between September and December 2020, investigators made controlled purchases of crack cocaine from Taylor.  A court-authorized wiretap of Taylor’s phone revealed that he sold powder and crack cocaine to numerous drug customers in New Haven.

    Taylor was arrested on January 26, 2021.  On that date, a search of his residence revealed approximately 124 grams of cocaine, approximately 226 grams of crack cocaine, and $6,702 in cash.

    On December 7, 2021, Taylor pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute cocaine base (“crack”).

    This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Nathaniel J. Gentile through the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) Program.  Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Delaware Man Sentenced to 240 Months for Coercing 11-Year-Old New Jersey Resident to Travel to Delaware for Sexual Activity

    Source: US FBI

    WILMINGTON, Del. – Dylan J. Steinberg, Acting U.S. Attorney for the District of Delaware, announced that on July 2, 2025, the Honorable Jennifer L. Hall sentenced Darius Matylewich, 27, to a period of 240 months of incarceration for coercion and enticement of a minor.

    According to court documents, the FBI arrested Matylewich after he removed an 11-year-old from her New Jersey home and travelled with her to his Bear, Delaware home to engage in sexual activity.  On September 10, 2023, the Wayne Township, New Jersey Police Department (“WTPD”) received a report of a missing 11-year-old girl (“the Victim”). Through investigative measures, WTPD determined that Matylewich took the Victim from her New Jersey home to his home in Bear, Delaware.  The FBI, with assistance from WTPD and the New Castle County Police Department, safely recovered the Victim and arrested Matylewich.

    A subsequent investigation revealed that Matylewich met the 11-year-old Victim on the internet and communicated with the Victim via online video games and social media platforms. A forensic analysis of Matylewich’s cellphone and social media uncovered message threads in which Matylewich coerced the 11-year-old Victim to perform sexual acts, and, in turn, produce child pornography for him.  Investigators also recovered messages in which Matylewich described covertly watching and following the Victim near her New Jersey home.

    Matylewich also used an application on his phone to covertly record conversations, videos, and images of the Victim performing sexual acts that Matylewich solicited from her.   Unbeknownst to the Victim, Matylewich then stored videos and images of her within the “hidden” folder of his phone, which could only be accessed via facial recognition.

    Acting U.S. Attorney Steinberg stated, “This sentence sends a clear message: those who harm the community’s most vulnerable will be held fully accountable for their actions.  This sentence also reflects the dedication and cooperation of local, state, and federal law enforcement.  We commend the FBI and the Wayne Township and New Castle County Police Departments, who acted swiftly to return the Victim to her family and ensure justice was served.  We hope this outcome brings a measure of closure to the Victim and her family.”

    “Nothing can erase the harm Matylewich inflicted on an innocent child. With this lengthy sentence, he is being held accountable for his appalling abuse. Stopping predators like Matylewich from harming children remains a top priority of the FBI and our partners. Let this sentence be a warning to others seeking to take advantage of kids through online video games or social media, you will pay for your crimes,” said FBI Baltimore Acting Special Agent in Charge Amanda M. Koldjeski.

    The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kevin P. Pierce and Michelle Thurstlic-O’Neill. The case was investigated by the FBI’s Delaware Violent Crime and Safe Streets Taskforce with assistance from the Passaic County Prosecutor’s Office, Wayne Township New Jersey Police Department, New Castle County Police Department, and the U.S. Marshals Service.

    A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware. Related court documents and information is located on the website of the District Court for the District of Delaware or on PACER by searching for Case No. 1:23-CR-102.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Cary Man Who Wounded Police Dog Sentenced to 12 and One Half Years for Armed Carjacking

    Source: US FBI

    NEW BERN, N.C. – Joshua Whittlesey, a resident of Cary, was sentenced today to 12.5 years in prison and $28,000 in restitution, for carjacking. The 26-year-old man pled guilty to the charge on November 13, 2024.

    According to court records and other information presented in court, on July 21, 2023, Whittlesey went to Hendrick’s Cadillac in Cary under the guise of purchasing a Ford Raptor. While out on a test drive with the sales representative, Whittlesey brandished what the sales representative believed to be a firearm and ordered him out of the vehicle. The sales representative immediately called 911 to report the crime. Whittlesey took the vehicle and led officers from the Cary, Durham, and Raleigh Police Departments on a high-speed chase reaching speeds of 100 miles per hour. While fleeing from the officers, Whittlesey struck and wounded a Cary Police dog with the stolen vehicle. Whittlesey later abandoned the vehicle and was apprehended in Burlington. Whittlesey claimed that the apparent firearm was a BB gun, but law enforcement did not recover either.

    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. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN.

    Daniel P. Bubar, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge Louise W. Flanagan. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Cary Police Department investigated the case, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Jaren E. Kelly and Jake D. Pugh prosecuted.

    Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No. 5:24-CR-00115-FL.

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Alongside Renters Rights Groups, Rep. Maxwell Frost Announces Two Bills to Empower Working Renters

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Maxwell Frost Florida (10th District)

    July 11, 2025

    Frost’s End Junk Fees for Renters Act and End Tenant Credit Screening Act Work to Breakdown Hurdles for Renters

    Watch the Press Conference Here

    ORLANDO, FL — As Florida and the country grapple with rising costs, a worsening economy, and a housing crisis, today Congressman Maxwell Alejandro Frost (FL-10) announced he was introducing two bills to empower working-class renters and dismantle the hurdles that have made it harder for too many to have a roof over their head.

    Frost’s End Junk Fees for Renters Act and End Tenant Credit Screening Act would crack down on the excessive and dishonest junk fees that millions of renters are charged when applying and every month thereafter by money-hungry landlords while also removing a major obstacle renters face when applying for housing by prohibiting landlords from using credit scores and consumer reports when screening potential tenants.

    Frost’s bills come as Florida and the U.S. face a housing affordability crisis that continues to squeeze working people and renters, too often forcing people to slip into homelessness at a time when cities are criminalizing folks who cannot afford to keep a roof over their heads.

    Frost, who was joined by local elected leaders, including State Rep. Anna Eskamani, and housing organizations and advocates, recently posted on the Orlando community Reddit page where he received hundreds of comments and dozens of stories from local folks who have been victimized by excessive and hidden fees from landlords or have been outright denied housing because of their credit scores. 

    “At a time when many people in Central Florida and across the country are struggling to make ends meet, we must remove the obstacles that prevent them from keeping a roof over their heads. Hidden fees and discriminatory credit screenings are major challenges for renters,” said Rep. Maxwell Frost. “These bills will help create a fairer, more equitable, and transparent rental market. If we want a future where everyone has access to stable, secure housing, then we must end junk fees. We must end discriminatory credit screenings. We must make housing a right, not a luxury. We’ve got a lot of work left to do for renters and to address the housing crisis, but these bills are an important first step to offer immediate relief.”

    The End Junk Fees for Renters Act is endorsed by the National Housing Law Project, National Low Income Housing Coalition, National Homelessness Law Center, National Alliance to End Homelessness, and National Consumer Law Center (on behalf of its low-income clients). The End Tenant Credit Screening Act is endorsed by the National Consumer Law Center (on behalf of its low-income clients).

    “Credit scores were never intended to gauge whether someone will be a good tenant. They’re designed to predict whether someone will be late paying a loan, not rent, which is a much higher-priority bill than a credit card. Given the current rental housing crisis, this practice makes a bad situation even worse. We applaud Congressman Frost for introducing a bill to put a stop to this unfair practice,” stated Chi Chi Wu, Director of Consumer Reporting and Data Advocacy at the National Consumer Law Center.

     

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Hoyle Joins Oregon Delegation to Urge Release of Critical Fishery Disaster Funding

    Source: US Representative Val Hoyle (OR-04)

    July 11, 2025

    Lawmakers press the Trump Administration to act quickly to unlock $7 million intended to help Oregon’s ocean commercial fishermen recover from significant economic losses from declining salmon populations

    For Immediate Release: July 11, 2025 

    EUGENE, OR – Oregon’s U.S. Representative Val Hoyle (OR-04), alongside U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley and Reps. Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01), Andrea Salinas (OR-06), Maxine Dexter (OR-03), and Janelle Bynum (OR-05) pressed the Trump Administration to release the $7,050,722 that was allocated to Oregon for the catastrophic regional fishery disaster that was declared for the Oregon Chinook salmon commercial ocean fisheries in the state for 2018, 2019, and 2020.

    The Pacific States Marine Fisheries Commission (PSMFC) resubmitted their spending plan for funds allocated by the U.S. Department of Commerce in October 2024, but their final revised application has gone without a response from the Trump Administration for the last several months, delaying much needed funding for Oregon’s fishermen.

    The Oregon lawmakers are urging Office of Management and Budget Director Russell Vought to promptly review and act upon the PSMFC’s application without further delay to help the state’s ocean commercial fishermen and coastal economies recover from the significant toll of declining salmon populations.

    “Oregon salmon and salmon fisheries are an invaluable cultural, economic, and ecological resource in our state. Salmon are highly valued by Native American tribes in the Pacific Northwest for cultural, subsistence, and economic benefits,” wrote the lawmakers.

    The impact salmon loss has on Oregon’s economy cannot be understated, as the state’s commercial fishing industry generates more than $640 million in economic activity each year, equivalent to 9,200 jobs.

    The lawmakers pressed this fact to Director Vought: “Additionally, the commercial salmon industry is a significant economic driver for rural communities on the Oregon Coast, generating millions of dollars in economic output. Sadly, our salmon fisheries have faced significant obstacles over the last decade which have resulted in significant fishery declines.”

    As the Oregon delegation continues to hear from concerned constituents in Oregon’s coastal communities and fisheries, they are requesting Director Vought provide responses to the following questions by August 1, 2025:

    1. Does the Office of Management and Budget require additional information to process the application submitted by the PSMFC?

    2. Will the Office of Management and Budget commit to promptly reviewing the application resubmitted by PSMFC in a timely manner and to apportion and obligate funding to the designated amount of $7,050,722 for the declared disaster?

    “We look forward to a timely disbursal of these critical funds to assist Oregon’s commercial salmon industry and await your response,” the lawmakers closed.

    Full text of the Oregon delegation’s letter can be found HERE.

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Malliotakis Applauds Court Decision Rejecting 9/11 Plea Deal

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis (NY-11)

    (NEW YORK, NY) – Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis (NY-11) today issued the following statement in response to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit’s decision to strike down a plea deal that would have allowed 9/11 mastermind Khalid Sheikh Mohammed and his co-defendants to avoid the death penalty:

    “I applaud today’s decision by the U.S. Court of Appeals to rightly reject an outrageous plea deal that would have allowed the 9/11 mastermind and his accomplices to escape the death penalty. This ruling confirms what we’ve been saying all along: the Biden Administration never should have considered such a deal in the first place.

    The American people have waited more than two decades for justice. The families who lost loved ones, along with the first responders who continue to suffer, deserve full accountability for those who orchestrated the deadliest terrorist attack on our nation’s soil. It is time to move forward by setting a trial date and pursuing the death penalty to ensure these terrorists are finally held fully accountable for their crimes.”

    In 2024, Malliotakis was joined by 9/11 Families & First Responders Call for Justice to be Served Against 9/11 Terrorists.

    In 2023, Malliotakis joined Texas Senator Ted Cruz in writing to Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin urging the Department of Defense to scrap any possibility for a plea dealwith 9/11 terrorists that takes the death penalty off the table.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Marijuana Dealer Who Possessed Machine Gun Sentenced to 27 Months in Federal Prison

    Source: US FBI

                WASHINGTON – U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro announced that Zimarie Bryant, 20, of the District of Columbia, was sentenced today to 27 months in federal prison in connection with marijuana trafficking and illegally possessing a machine gun.

                Bryant, an aspiring rapper aka “Cruddy Marie,” pleaded guilty on March 13, 2025, to one count of possession with intent to distribute marijuana and to one count of unlawful possession of a machine gun. In addition to the 30-month prison term, U.S. District Court Judge Amy Berman Jackson ordered Bryant to serve three years of supervised release.

                According to court documents, on Aug. 31, 2023, FBI agents went to an apartment in the 3600 Block of Jay Street, NE, to execute a federal arrest warrant. Agents knocked on the door but did not gain entry for more than 20 minutes. Agents obtained a search warrant and recovered numerous firearms, including a 9mm Glock 45 that had been modified with a switch to make it a functionally fully automatic machine gun.

                Agents also recovered about 12 pounds of marijuana, ammunition, and a firearm magazine. As part of this plea, Bryant acknowledged that he possessed the marijuana with the intent to distribute it, that he possessed the machine gun in connection with that possession with intent to distribute, and that he knew the firearm was a machine gun.

                While Bryant was released from the apartment, messages from his Instagram account from around the time of the search acknowledge his presence at the scene. On Aug. 31, 2023, Bryant sent an Instagram message to another user saying, “I was just locked up and got picked up by the fbi.” In a separate conversation that day, another Instagram user asked him, “Ever found some thunder 1” “? *”, which refers to marijuana. Bryant responded, “I had some but fbi ran in our spot and took everything”.

                On May 30, 2024, Bryant was arrested at an apartment in Southeast Washington, D.C. Law enforcement recovered a disassembled Glock 19 handgun, two 9mm magazines with 15 rounds each, a black scale, and two additional 9mm rounds. When Bryant was shown his arrest warrant during booking, he denied having a machine gun but did admit he had a Glock 19.

                Bryant has a history of using and possessing firearms unlawfully. On June 30, 2023, he posted a video on Instagram showing him possessing what appears to be the same firearm involved in this case.

                Joining in the announcement were Assistant Director in Chief Steven J. Jensen of the FBI Washington Field Office, Special Agent in Charge Ibrar A. Mian of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Washington Division, and Chief Pamela Smith of the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD).

                This case was investigated by the FBI Washington Field Office, the DEA, and MPD. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Solomon Eppel.

    This news release, originally issued on July 2, was updated July 8 to reflect a resentencing of the defendant.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Fort Myers Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Federal Prison for Robbing Convenience Stores at Gunpoint

    Source: US FBI

    Fort Myers, Florida – U.S. District Judge Sheri Polster Chappell has sentenced Kevoun Najae Watts (22, Fort Myers) to 10 years in federal prison for Hobbs Act robbery and brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence. The court also ordered Watts to forfeit the firearm and ammunition used in the offenses. Watts pleaded guilty on February 26, 2025.

    According to court documents, Watts admitted to robbing a gas station and a convenience store at gunpoint on July 31, 2024, in Fort Myers.

    This case was investigated by the Lee County Sheriff’s Office, the Fort Myers Police Department, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Mark Morgan.

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

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  • MIL-OSI Security: District Man Pleads Guilty in Attempt to Import Mass Quantity of Chinese ‘Boot,’ an Illegal Psychostimulant

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

                WASHINGTON – Marvin Benjamin Martin, 32, of the District of Columbia, pleaded guilty today in federal court in connection with an attempt to import a mass quantity of Chinese dipentylone, an illegal psychostimulant known as “boot,” announced U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro.

                Martin pleaded guilty before Judge Beryl A. Howell to attempted possession with intent to distribute N,N Dimethylpentylone hydrochloride. Judge Howell scheduled sentencing for Oct. 17, 2025. Martin is eligible for up to 20 years in prison.

                According to court documents, in early 2024, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Washington D.C. High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area group (HIDTA) was conducting an ongoing investigation into illegal shipments of narcotics and precursor chemicals originating in China. In February 2024, officers with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) seized a package at the International Mail Facility at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX).The package, addressed to “Martin Hall” on 58th Street SE. had been mailed from China, and contained 10 kilos of N,N-Dimethylpentylone, aka boot.

                HSI agents swapped out the boot in the package for sham materials and added a GPS tracking device.

                On March 7, 2024, HIDTA, comprised of HSI, the Metropolitan Police Department, and officers from various other agencies, delivered the package to the front steps of the residence on 58th Street. The officers watched as Martin drove up to the address, retrieved the package, and took it back to his vehicle.

                About an hour later, Martin discarded the package. At 12:37 p.m., investigators found Martin driving in a nearby residential neighborhood and attempted to detain him. Martin sped off and crashed into a minivan and fence before evading officers.

                Agents subsequently found Martin at a home in Lanham, Maryland, and attempted to block him in with their vehicles. Martin accelerated his car towards the agents, striking the front side of an agent’s vehicle at high speed. About two hours later, agents again found Martin at the Latham residence. Officers positioned their vehicles to block the street, Martin drove his car towards the agents at a high speed, swerved onto asidewalk, and hit a tree while accelerating past agents’ vehicles, once again evading capture.

                On April 10, 2024, Martin was arrested in Annapolis, Maryland.

                This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations Washington D.C. High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area group (HIDTA), the Metropolitan Police Department, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the Drug Enforcement Administration Washington Division, the Prince George’s County Police Department, and the Annapolis Police Department.

                The matter is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Iris McCranie and Anthony Scarpelli of the Violent Crime and Narcotics Trafficking section of the U.S. Attorneys Office for the District of Columbia.

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