Source: New Zealand Police (National News)
One person has died following a single vehicle crash in Arthurs Pass.
The crash occurred on State Highway 73 and was reported to Police at around 8:20am today.
One person was located deceased at the scene.
Motorists travelling on State Highway 73 are advised to expect delays and avoid the area if possible.
ENDS
Issued by Police Media Centre
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
Dedicated volunteer firefighter, Jamie Patrick Seib, has been named as this year’s recipient of the Australian Fire Service Medal, as part of the 2025 Australia Day Honours List. This prestigious award recognises distinguished service by members who go above and beyond in their roles, acknowledging the significant impact their work has had on the community.
A long-time volunteer with the Borroloola Fire and Emergency Response Group (FERG) Mr Seib has demonstrated exceptional service to both his team and the wider Borroloola community. His leadership skills became evident when he was appointed captain of FERG in 2019 and under his guidance the team has consistently maintained high standards in emergency response and preparedness in the region.
In addition to his frontline work, Mr Seib has played a pivotal role in strengthening the FERG team by recruiting and training new volunteers. His efforts have ensured the team remains capable and well-prepared to respond to a wide range of emergencies, from wildfires to road accidents and weather-related incidents.
His leadership was especially crucial during Tropical Cyclone Megan in 2024, when he coordinated power restoration to the town and operated the NT Fire and Rescue flood boat, helping safeguard residents from rising floodwaters. His resilience and resourcefulness have had a lasting impact on the safety and well-being of the Borroloola community.
This award highlights Mr Seib’s years of dedicated service and the impact he has had on his community. His commitment to volunteering and emergency response continues to inspire others and sets a high standard for all emergency services personnel.
The Australian Honours and Awards system recognises the outstanding service and contributions of Australians from all walks of life, from well-known figures to unsung heroes. For a full list of recipients, visit http://www.gg.gov.au/.
Quotes attributable to Commissioner NT Fire and Emergency Services, Andrew Warton:
“The Australian Fire Service Medal is a fitting recognition for Jamie’s years of outstanding service. His impact on the Borroloola community is immeasurable, and he continues to inspire not only his team, but also the next generation of emergency responders.”
“I am incredibly proud of the ongoing work of our firefighters and volunteers across the Northern Territory, their dedication, bravery and leadership are nothing short of inspiring.”
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
Congratulations to the two members of the Northern Territory Police Force named today as recipients of the Australian Police Medal.
Senior Sergeant Stefan Vilhelm Herold and Senior Constable Ian John Spilsbury have now joined an elite rank of Australian police officers who have served their community to the highest level of professionalism and dedication.
Senior Sergeant Stefan Vilhelm Herold
Senior Sergeant Herold’s exceptional career in the Northern Territory Police Force (NTPF) spans over 42 years, marked by distinguished service in urban, remote and specialist areas. Joining the NTP in March 1982, Senior Sergeant Herold has been an integral part of the police, serving in multiple capacities including general duties, traffic, marine and fisheries enforcement, tactical response group, firearms, forensic, water police, counter terrorism, emergency management, and the Territory security services.
His leadership has been particularly noteworthy in the Territory security section from 2021 to 2024. He has displayed outstanding management skills supporting capability development, exercise management and coordination response in support of critical incidents, natural disasters, and police operations. Senior Sergeant Herold has consistently demonstrated professionalism, ensuring the safety and security of the community through meticulous planning, coordination, and communication with both internal and external stakeholders. His ability to convey crucial information effectively to senior executives has been instrumental in shaping security and counter-terrorism strategies.
Throughout his career, Senior Sergeant Herold has shown a remarkable capacity for adapting to change, embracing diversity, and fostering an inclusive work environment. He demonstrated his commitment when joining the newly created NT Police Counter Terrorism Security Coordination Unit in 2004 and then being appointed the first officer in charge of the expanded Security and Emergency Coordination Section in 2010.
Senior Sergeant Herold has increased responsibility for counter terrorism and emergency management coordination, security intelligence and major event planning, highlights his forward-thinking approach and dedication to community safety.
His contributions to maritime safety as officer in charge of the Water Police section further exemplify his commitment to service. Here he was responsible for maritime search and rescue operations, fisheries enforcement, including Indigenous Sea Ranger training, and maritime border security during the COVID-19 public health emergency.
Senior Sergeant Herold’s career is a testament to his unwavering dedication, leadership, and courage. His extensive experience and contributions to the community highlight his lifetime of service and excellence in policing.
Senior Constable Ian John Spilsbury
Senior Constable Spilsbury’s career with the Northern Territory Police Force (NTPF) exemplifies dedication and excellence in forensic science. Since joining the NTP in January 1995, and transferring to the Forensic Science Branch in 1999, Senior Principal Examiner Spilsbury has been a pillar of expertise and leadership in the Southern region. His commitment to forensic science has seen him progress through the ranks, earning qualification as a principal examiner in 2011 and taking on the role of team leader for the Alice Springs Crime Scene Examination Unit in 2013.
Senior Constable Spilsbury’s leadership extends across a vast and challenging region, where he mentors and guides a team of five officers in responding to incidents from Elliott to the South Australian border. His work ethic is unparalleled, often involving long hours, extensive travel, and work in remote areas with limited resources. His dedication to his discipline is evident not only in his daily responsibilities but also in his role as the bomb scene examination capability manager for the NTP, where he represents the force nationally and contributes to disaster victim identification.
Over his career, he has received multiple accolades for his contributions. His work was pivotal in the successful prosecution of a man who murdered an English backpacker. He has also been recognised for his involvement in high-profile investigations and his contributions to disaster response efforts, such as the Black Saturday bushfires. His recent work in identifying evidence that led to the rapid arrest of a sexual assault suspect in 2019 further highlights his impact. Senior Constable Spilsbury’s unwavering dedication, expertise, and willingness to mentor others have made him an invaluable asset to the NTPF and a respected figure in the field of forensic science.
Commissioner of Police Michael Murphy APM said, “I speak for the entire Northern Territory Police Force when I congratulate both Stefan and Ian on receiving the Australian Police Medal.
“This achievement is a testament to the dedication both have shown in upholding the values of our agency, and protecting and serving the communities in which they both live.
“Both have become leaders in their fields, elevating the work of those around them and shaping this agency into place I am proud to lead.
“Senior Sergeant Herald will soon retire after his 42-year career with the NT Police Force and this medal will now serve as a symbol of just how exceptional that career was.
“I wish to personally thank both Stefan and Ian for their service, and their families for their support across their successful careers.”
Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (c)
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Patrick Civitello, age 18, of Schenectady, New York, pled guilty today to witness retaliation, admitting that he assaulted a 15-year-old boy in retaliation for the boy’s mother testifying last year in a federal criminal trial.
United States Attorney Carla B. Freedman and Craig L. Tremaroli, Special Agent in Charge of the Albany Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), made the announcement.
Patrick Civitello is the son of Jeffrey Civitello Sr. and the younger brother of Jeffrey Civitello Jr., both of whom were convicted of federal drug trafficking charges following a jury trial in Albany in April 2023. A witness, identified in the indictment as V-1, testified at that trial.
In pleading guilty, Patrick Civitello admitted that on the evening of May 19, 2024, while at a restaurant in Glenville, New York, he observed V-1, who was with her 15-year-old son (“V-2”). At the time he observed V-1, Patrick Civitello was speaking on the phone with Jeffrey Civitello Jr. (who was incarcerated), and Patrick Civitello told his brother that he had just seen V-1 walk into the restaurant. Patrick Civitello then said “I gotta rag this bitch, I gotta call you back,” meaning that he intended to retaliate against V-1 for her trial testimony. Jeffrey Civitello Jr. responded, “Ok run down, but do it away from everyone if you could.”
V-1 and V-2 then exited the restaurant and headed to their vehicle in the parking lot. Patrick Civitello, who was following V-1 and V-2 out of the restaurant, briefly stopped in the parking lot to remove his watch and a cross-body bag. Having placed those items on the ground of the parking lot, Patrick Civitello charged in the direction of V-1 and V-2. He punched V-2 in the head, and continued to punch and kick V-2 after V-2 fell to the ground. V-2 suffered minor abrasions and bruises, including to his head, neck, and hand.
Patrick Civitello, who has been in custody since his arrest on June 13, 2024, will be sentenced on February 28, 2025. He faces up to life in prison and a term of post-imprisonment supervised release of up to 5 years. A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the particular statute the defendant is charged with violating, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other factors.
The FBI’s Capital District Safe Streets Gang Task Force investigated this case with assistance from the Glenville Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Michael Barnett and Dustin Segovia are prosecuting this case.
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)
NEW YORK, Nov. 01, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Spartan Capital Securities, LLC, a full-service investment banking firm, is proud to announce its successful completion of several notable transactions throughout October 2024. The deals demonstrate Spartan’s expertise and unwavering commitment to supporting clients’ growth and capital needs across diverse sectors.
In October, Spartan Capital Securities served as the placement agent for 1847 Holdings LLC’s follow-on offering, raising $11,099,985. This capital infusion will enable 1847 Holdings LLC (NYSE American: EFSH), a diversified holding company, to continue its growth strategy, enhance operational flexibility, and pursue acquisition opportunities. Ellery W. Roberts, CEO of 1847 Holdings LLC, and his team are positioned for significant growth. Special thanks to the legal teams at Bevilacqua PLLC and Sichenzia Ross Ference Carmel LLP for their expert representation throughout this offering.
In another strategic role, Spartan Capital Securities acted as the sales agent in an at-the-market offering for Trio Petroleum Corp (NYSE: TPET), an oil and gas exploration and development company. Trio Petroleum Corp holds substantial working interests in key oilfields across Monterey and Uintah counties. Spartan’s involvement in this transaction reinforces its support for the energy sector’s expansion. Special thanks to Scott Miller at Ellenoff Grossman & Schole LLP, who served as Trio Petroleum’s counsel.
Spartan served as the sole placement agent for Inspire Veterinary Partners Inc. (Nasdaq: IVP) in a $2.5 million registered direct offering. The transaction will fuel Inspire’s expansion of veterinary healthcare services nationwide, allowing it to meet growing demand and make strategic investments. Spartan extends its appreciation to the legal teams at Sichenzia Ross Ference Carmel LLP and The Crone Law Group, P.C., for their contributions to this successful offering.
Spartan also acted as a Selling Group Member in SAG Holdings Limited’s initial public offering on Nasdaq, raising $7 million. SAG Holdings, a leading Singapore-based distributor of OEM and branded replacement parts, is now listed under the symbol “SAG.” Spartan congratulates SAG Holdings on this significant milestone and is pleased to support their vision of quality and reliability in the automotive and industrial sectors.
About Spartan Capital Securities, LLC
Spartan Capital Securities, LLC, is a premier financial services firm providing expert investment banking and advisory services to high-net-worth individuals and institutional clients. With a focus on tailored financial solutions, Spartan Capital is a trusted leader in delivering value and growth for its clients.
Contact:
Spartan Capital Securities, LLC
45 Broadway, 19th Floor
New York, NY 10006
investmentbanking@spartancapital.com
Source: United Nations secretary general
On this International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists, we reaffirm our commitment to press freedom and the safety of journalists worldwide.
A free press is fundamental to human rights, democracy, and the rule of law. Yet journalists around the world are prevented from doing their job and often face threats, violence, and even death in their mission to bring truth to light and hold the powerful to account.
Recent years have seen an alarming rate of fatalities in conflict zones – in particular in Gaza, which has seen the highest number of killings of journalists and media workers in any war in decades.
Worldwide, an estimated 9 out of 10 of journalist murders go unpunished. Impunity breeds further violence. This must change.
The Pact for the Future adopted last month calls for respecting and protecting journalists, media professionals and associated personnel working in situations of armed conflict.
I call on governments to bring these commitments to life by taking urgent steps to protect journalists, investigate crimes against them, and prosecute perpetrators – everywhere.
Together, let’s end the cycle of violence, uphold freedom of expression, and ensure that journalists can carry out their essential work safely and without fear – everywhere.
*****
La Journée internationale de la fin de l’impunité pour les crimes commis contre des journalistes est l’occasion de réaffirmer notre engagement en faveur de la liberté de la presse et de la sécurité des journalistes dans le monde entier.
La liberté de la presse est une condition indispensable des droits humains, de la démocratie et de l’état de droit. Pourtant, dans le monde entier, des journalistes sont empêchés de faire leur travail ; ils sont souvent la cible de menaces ou de violences et risquent même la mort dans la mission qui est la leur de faire éclater la vérité et de mettre les puissants devant leurs responsabilités.
Ces dernières années, le nombre de morts a atteint un niveau alarmant dans les zones de conflit – en particulier à Gaza, où le nombre de journalistes et professionnels des médias tués dépasse tout autre conflit depuis des décennies.
Dans le monde, on estime que 9 meurtres de journalistes sur 10 restent impunis. L’impunité engendre de nouvelles violences. Cela doit changer.
Le Pacte pour l’avenir adopté le mois dernier appelle au respect et à la protection des journalistes, des professionnels des médias et des membres du personnel associé qui travaillent dans des situations de conflit armé.
Je demande aux gouvernements de concrétiser ces engagements en prenant sans délai des mesures pour protéger les journalistes, enquêter sur les crimes qui les visent et en poursuivre les auteurs – partout dans le monde.
Ensemble, mettons fin au cycle de la violence, défendons la liberté d’expression et veillons à ce que les journalistes puissent mener à bien leur mission essentielle en toute sécurité et sans crainte – partout dans le monde.
Source: Government of Canada regional news
October 21, 2024
Criminal Property Forfeiture Fund Supports Additional CCTV Cameras: Wiebe
The Manitoba government, in partnership with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police and Manitoba Association of Chiefs of Police, is assisting the City of Dauphin in addressing crime by using funds from the Criminal Property Forfeiture Fund to help install 15 additional CCTV cameras, Justice Minister Matt Wiebe announced today.
“Every Manitoban deserves to feel safe in their community and our government is tackling crime as well as the root causes of crime,” said Wiebe. “The Criminal Property Forfeiture Act has been an invaluable tool to support local efforts to fight crime and continues to make a difference in the lives of Manitobans who are victims of crime. This program is a win-win. We can make communities safer while making drug traffickers and organized crime pay the price.”
Approximately $24,000 from the fund will support the installation of 15 new high-resolution cameras at additional city-owned or city-affiliated facilities in Dauphin, the minister noted. This builds on previous initiative to upgrade seven existing cameras to high-resolution and adding 10 high-resolution cameras on city-owned property.
“We are grateful for the continued support from the Manitoba government through the Criminal Property Forfeiture Fund,” said Mayor David Bosiak, City of Dauphin. “These additional CCTV cameras will strengthen our efforts to enhance public safety in Dauphin, providing valuable tools for crime prevention and for protection for city-owned facilities. This investment not only helps deter crime but also promotes a greater sense of security for our residents. We are proud to partner with the Manitoba government to make Dauphin a safer place for everyone.”
Since its inception in 2009, the Criminal Property Forfeiture Branch has disbursed more than $30 million to promote safer communities throughout Manitoba. The program seizes and liquidates criminal assets and redirects funding to projects and initiatives designed to protect Manitobans and enhance public safety. The funds are provided to organizations across Manitoba whose important initiatives build community, prevent crime, invest in youth and support victims of crime.
For more information about criminal property forfeiture, visit https://gov.mb.ca/justice/commsafe/cpf/index.html.
– 30 –
Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)
PHOENIX, Ariz. – Eric Celaya, 30, of Phoenix, was sentenced on Monday by United States District Judge Michael T. Liburdi to eight months in prison, followed by 36 months of supervised release. On May 15, 2024, Celaya pleaded guilty to making a Material False Statement During the Purchase of a Firearm.
On January 19, 2023, Celaya purchased two firearms from a Federal Firearms Licensee (FFL) in Tempe. Celaya completed the Firearms Transaction Record, known as ATF Form 4473, and stated that he was the actual purchaser. However, Celaya knew he was purchasing the firearms on behalf of Jamie Tran. After Celaya submitted the ATF Form 4473 to the FFL, he purchased and left with the two firearms. Subsequently, Celaya provided the firearms to Tran. On February 15, 2023, and February 16, 2023, Tran used the firearms to shoot two Jewish community members in California, offenses charged as hate crimes in the United States District Court, Central District of California, Case Number 2:23-CR-00098-GW. Celaya had no prior criminal history and there was no evidence to show that Celaya was aware of Tran’s intentions or beliefs.
This case was 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 make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorneys’ Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation in this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Addison Owen, District of Arizona, Phoenix, handled the prosecution.
CASE NUMBER: CR-23-01456-PHX-MTL
RELEASE NUMBER: 2024-149_Celaya
# # #
For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, on X @USAO_AZ for the latest news.
Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)
PIERRE – United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Eric C. Schulte has sentenced a Mission, South Dakota, man convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance and Failure to Appear. The sentencing took place on August 5, 2024.
Ethan Blue Bird, age 35, was sentenced to three years and 10 months in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, a $1,000 fine and ordered to pay a $200 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Blue Bird was indicted for failure to appear in April of 2023 and later, in January of 2024 for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance. He pleaded guilty on May 6, 2024.
From January of 2021 through April of 2023, Blue Bird was involved in a conspiracy with several others in the distribution of methamphetamine on the Rosebud Indian Reservation. As part of the conspiracy, Blue Bird was responsible for distributing over 50 grams of methamphetamine. On April 24, 2022, Blue Bird was found in possession of a firearm. He admitted to law enforcement to being a daily user of methamphetamine. Following his initial indictment, Blue Bird was released on bond conditions. On March 28, 2023, Blue Bird failed to appear for the jury trial previously scheduled relating to the firearm offense.
These cases were investigated by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the FBI, and the U.S. Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Meghan Dilges and Kirk Albertson prosecuted the cases.
Blue Bird was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Source: United Nations – English
n this International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists, we reaffirm our commitment to press freedom and the safety of journalists worldwide.
A free press is fundamental to human rights, democracy, and the rule of law. Yet journalists around the world are prevented from doing their job and often face threats, violence, and even death in their mission to bring truth to light and hold the powerful to account.
Recent years have seen an alarming rate of fatalities in conflict zones – in particular in Gaza, which has seen the highest number of killings of journalists and media workers in any war in decades.
Worldwide, an estimated 9 out of 10 of journalist murders go unpunished. Impunity breeds further violence. This must change.
The Pact for the Future adopted last month calls for respecting and protecting journalists, media professionals and associated personnel working in situations of armed conflict.
I call on governments to bring these commitments to life by taking urgent steps to protect journalists, investigate crimes against them, and prosecute perpetrators – everywhere.
Together, let’s end the cycle of violence, uphold freedom of expression, and ensure that journalists can carry out their essential work safely and without fear – everywhere.
*****
La Journée internationale de la fin de l’impunité pour les crimes commis contre des journalistes est l’occasion de réaffirmer notre engagement en faveur de la liberté de la presse et de la sécurité des journalistes dans le monde entier.
La liberté de la presse est une condition indispensable des droits humains, de la démocratie et de l’état de droit. Pourtant, dans le monde entier, des journalistes sont empêchés de faire leur travail ; ils sont souvent la cible de menaces ou de violences et risquent même la mort dans la mission qui est la leur de faire éclater la vérité et de mettre les puissants devant leurs responsabilités.
Ces dernières années, le nombre de morts a atteint un niveau alarmant dans les zones de conflit – en particulier à Gaza, où le nombre de journalistes et professionnels des médias tués dépasse tout autre conflit depuis des décennies.
Dans le monde, on estime que 9 meurtres de journalistes sur 10 restent impunis. L’impunité engendre de nouvelles violences. Cela doit changer.
Le Pacte pour l’avenir adopté le mois dernier appelle au respect et à la protection des journalistes, des professionnels des médias et des membres du personnel associé qui travaillent dans des situations de conflit armé.
Je demande aux gouvernements de concrétiser ces engagements en prenant sans délai des mesures pour protéger les journalistes, enquêter sur les crimes qui les visent et en poursuivre les auteurs – partout dans le monde.
Ensemble, mettons fin au cycle de la violence, défendons la liberté d’expression et veillons à ce que les journalistes puissent mener à bien leur mission essentielle en toute sécurité et sans crainte – partout dans le monde.
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator for Minnesota Amy Klobuchar
Increased heating assistance was made possible by the Biden-Harris infrastructure law, which both Senators supported
MINNEAPOLIS, MN – Today, U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar and Tina Smith (both D-MN), announced over $112 million in federal funding to help families and seniors pay for energy costs this winter. The funding was made possible in part through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which both Klobuchar and Smith helped pass.
“As Minnesota prepares for winter, families shouldn’t have to choose between heating their homes or buying other necessities,” said Klobuchar. “This federal funding will help families and seniors across our state pay their energy bills and keep their homes warm.”
“As the temperature starts to drop in Minnesota, everyone should be able to heat their homes and stay warm,” said Smith. “For low-income families, high energy prices can force an impossible choice between heating their homes and other essentials like rent, food, or medicine. I’m proud of our work to secure this funding, which will help families in Minnesota afford their heating costs and utility bills in the coming winter months.”
“LIHEAP is essential to families who live on a limited income,” said Denise Stewart, Executive Director of Lakes and Pines Community Action Council, a non-profit serving Aitkin, Carlton, Chisago, Isanti, Kanabec, Mille Lacs and Pine Counties. “In today’s economy with the rising cost of energy, housing and food, meeting basic needs is increasingly difficult. LIHEAP allows families and seniors to stay warm in our extremely cold winter months and frees up household funds to ensure other basic needs are met.”
The funding is issued through the Low-Income Housing Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), which provides families with payment assistance to support their home energy needs. LIHEAP can also be used to weatherize homes to make them more energy efficient and mitigate energy emergencies during disasters and extreme weather.
Individuals interested in applying for energy assistance can visit www.energyhelp.us or call the National Energy Assistance Referral (NEAR) hotline toll-free at 1-866-674-6327.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Gerry Connolly (D-Va)
Congressman Gerry Connolly (D-VA), the Ranking Member of the House Subcommittee on Cybersecurity, Information Technology, and Government Innovation, sent a letter to executives at Meta, X Corp, TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, and Snap requesting information on how they plan to ensure their platforms are not used to spread violence or threaten public safety in the months following Tuesday’s election. Connolly was joined by Reps. Casten, Trahan and Shontel Brown.
“The United States faces increased risk of political violence as the 2024 presidential election approaches. Given this threat, it is essential that social media platforms disclose the measures they have in place to prevent their services from being exploited to threaten public safety in the days, weeks, and months following November 5th. Transparency and accountability in this effort are critical to ensuring the integrity of our electoral process and keeping the American people safe,” the members wrote.
In their letter, the members noted we are living in a time of heightened political violence. Just this year, two attempts were made on the life of former President Donald Trump. Meanwhile, violence against elected officials has escalated, including an assault on former Speaker Pelosi’s husband in 2022. In 2023, the U.S. Capitol Police opened more than 8,000 threat investigations, a sharp rise from 902 in 2016. This disturbing trend follows other tragic events, such as the violence perpetrated by white supremacists in Charlottesville in 2017. Many of the individuals involved in these attacks used social media to organize or were influenced by inflammatory content online.
“While we recognize that sharing the finer details of emergency preparedness measures may carry some risks, we strongly believe that transparency with Congress, other platforms, and researchers is essential. In an era marked by escalating political violence, this level of accountability is necessary to ensure platforms are taking appropriate steps to safeguard public safety, uphold democratic integrity, and prevent the failures we have witnessed in the past,” the members added.
They specifically asked the executives to respond to the following questions:
| Preparedness and Emergency Measures:
Have you implemented, or do you plan to implement, “Break the Glass” or similar emergency measures during and in the follow-up to the 2024 election cycle? Learnings from Past Elections: Have you deployed similar safety features in other elections this year? If so, what lessons have informed your preparations for the U.S. election? Transparency and Collaboration: How are you ensuring transparency around platform activity, particularly in light of the removal of tools like CrowdTangle and the decision to place access to X’s API behind a paywall? Trust and Safety Capacity: In light of staffing reductions, what resources have been allocated to ensure that your platform is not exploited to facilitate political violence in the days, weeks, and months following the election? |
The full letter is available here.
Source: New Zealand Police (District News)
Police are responding to a single vehicle crash where a car has collided with a powerpole on Lake Road, Hauraki, Auckland.
The crash was reported around 5:50am.
One person is in a critical condition, two are in a moderate condition and one minor.
The Serious Crash Unit has been advised.
The road is closed and diversions are in place, motorists are advised to take an alternate route.
ENDS
Issued by Police Media Centre
Source: US State of North Carolina
Headline: Governor Cooper Calls on Congressional Leaders to Fully Fund Crime Victims Fund and Support Essential Services for Crime Victims
Governor Cooper Calls on Congressional Leaders to Fully Fund Crime Victims Fund and Support Essential Services for Crime Victims
mseets
This week, Governor Roy Cooper sent a letter to Congressional leaders urging a restoration of full funding for crime victim services. The federal Crime Victims Fund is the primary source of support for millions of crime victims every year and has seen a drastic decline in funding in recent years. This critical funding source supports essential services for crime victims including mental health counseling, legal assistance, replacement of lost wages and temporary housing.
“Victims and survivors of crime suffer physical, psychological, financial and emotional harm that can severely impact their lives,” said Governor Cooper. “We must ensure full funding of the Crime Victims Fund to provide victims and survivors with essential services.”
A large portion of funding North Carolina receives from the Crime Victims Fund is administered by the Governor’s Crime Commission. North Carolina received over $100 million in 2018 and is projected to receive less than $5 million for the upcoming funding cycle. This dramatic 95% reduction puts services for crime victims at extreme risk and crime victims will suffer without the help and support they need and deserve.
“The services we fund through the Crime Victims Fund are essential to helping survivors of child abuse, domestic violence, sexual assault, trafficking, financial fraud, and homicide,” said Caroline Farmer, Executive Director of the Governor’s Crime Commission. “The decline in funding has already reduced our ability to provide these essential programs in North Carolina, and additional cuts will exacerbate the harm our nonprofits, service providers, and ultimately survivors, are facing.”
Governor Cooper’s 2024-2025 Recommended Budget included $6 million to ensure crime victims receive the most necessary services such as crisis care and legal assistance despite these federal cuts. However, state funding is not enough to make up for the losses of federal funding and action by Congress is needed. In 2021, Congress passed the VOCA Fix to Sustain the Crime Victims Fund Act with bipartisan support. While this law restored some critical funding, it was not sufficient to fully replenish the Crime Victims Fund.
Read the letter here.
###
Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police
The Cumberland Street Crime Enforcement Unit (SCEU) is seeking information on the whereabouts of a man currently wanted on an arrest warrant in relation to an incident in Amherst.
On October 30, at approximately 8:40 a.m., members of the Cumberland SCEU initiated a traffic stop on a black Lincoln Nautilus in relation to an ongoing drug trafficking investigation. As members exited their vehicles, the driver reversed the Nautilus in the direction of officers, striking one of the police vehicles. The Nautilus then fled toward New Brunswick at a high rate of speed. In the interest of public safety, officers did not pursue the vehicle.
Adam Joseph Hie, 30, of Moncton, is wanted and facing charges of:
Hie is described as 6-foot-0, 170 lbs with very short black hair and blue eyes. He was last seen October 30 in Sackville, New Brunswick, and may be driving a Ford Explorer. Hie is also wanted in New Brunswick for Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking and Escape Lawful Custody.
Police have made several attempts to locate Hie, and are requesting assistance from the public.
Anyone with information on the whereabouts of Adam Joseph Hie is asked to refrain from approaching him and to contact their local police. To remain anonymous, call Crime Stoppers, toll-free, at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), submit a secure web tip at www.crimestoppers.ns.ca, or use the P3 Tips app.
File #: 2024-1447920
Note: The Cumberland Street Crime Enforcement Unit includes members of the Cumberland County District RCMP and the Amherst Police Department.
Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime News
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Keith Wyatt Underwood, age 32, of Haskell, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 77 months in prison for one count of Robbery in Indian Country.
The charges arose from an investigation by the Haskell Police Department, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
On July 10, 2023, Underwood pleaded guilty to the charge. According to investigators, on July 24, 2022, Underwood was discovered by a property owner stealing copper cables from a Muskogee County property. Underwood then pulled a revolver on the resident before driving away with the stolen cables. The crime occurred in Muskogee County, within the boundaries of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation Reservation, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma.
The Honorable John C. Coughenour, Senior District Judge in the United States District Court for the Western District of Washington, sitting by assignment, presided over the hearing in Muskogee, Oklahoma. Underwood will remain in the custody of the U.S. Marshal pending transportation to a designated United States Bureau of Prisons facility to serve a non-paroleable sentence of incarceration.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin D. Traster represented the United States.
Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime News
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Jerry Lee Matlock, Jr., age 41, of Stilwell, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 168 months in prison for one count of Second Degree Murder in Indian Country, and 120 months in prison for one count of Use, Carry, Brandish and Discharge of a Firearm During and in Relation to a Crime of Violence. The sentences are set to be served consecutively for a total of 288 months in prison.
The charges arose from an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Adair County Sheriff’s Office, and the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation.
On February 12, 2024, Matlock pleaded guilty to the charges. According to investigators, on the evening of September 14, 2021, Matlock intentionally fired his rifle at an individual from inside a pickup truck, then drove from the scene of the crime. Adair County deputies responding to a shooting discovered a Stilwell resident deceased from a gunshot wound to the chest. Law enforcement apprehended Matlock less than a mile away, parked in his pickup truck, with a Remington 700 bolt action rifle and ammunition. The crimes occurred in Adair County, within the boundaries of the Cherokee Nation Reservation, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma.
The Honorable John C. Coughenour, Senior U.S. District Judge in the United States District Court for the Western District of Washington, sitting by assignment, presided over the hearing in Muskogee, Oklahoma. Matlock will remain in the custody of the U.S. Marshal pending transportation to a designated United States Bureau of Prisons facility to serve a non-paroleable sentence of incarceration.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Kevin Gross represented the United States.
Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime News
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Timothy Randall England, age 36, of Tahlequah, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 300 months in prison for the 2023 murder of a Stilwell resident.
The charge arose from investigations by the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office, the Cherokee Nation Marshal Service, the Adair County Sheriff’s Office, the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
On April 30, 2024, England pleaded guilty to one count of Murder in Indian Country—Second Degree. According to investigators, on February 7, 2023, England traveled to a Stilwell residence, waited outside for the resident to arrive, then fired upon the victim eight times with a 7.62×39 rifle before fleeing the scene. Three of the shots struck the victim, who died at the scene. England was later apprehended by the Cherokee Nation Marshal Service in Tahlequah and arrested without incident. The crime occurred in Adair County, within the boundaries of the Cherokee Nation Reservation, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma.
The Honorable Raúl M. Arias-Marxuach, Chief Judge in the U.S. District Court for the District of Puerto Rico, sitting by assignment, presided over the hearing in Muskogee. England will remain in the custody of the U.S. Marshal pending transportation to a designated United States Bureau of Prisons facility to serve a non-paroleable sentence of incarceration.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Kevin Gross represented the United States at sentencing.
Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime News
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Mason Anthony Wilson, age 28, of Gore, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 120 months in prison for one count of Child Abuse in Indian Country and 120 months in prison for one count of Child Neglect in Indian Country. The terms are set to be served concurrently.
The charges arose from an investigation by the Muskogee Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
On June 5, 2024, a federal jury found Wilson guilty at trial on both counts. According to investigators, in April 2022, Wilson caused injuries to a 2-month-old baby in his care, including multiple fractured bones, and failed to provide medical care for the child. The crimes occurred in Sequoyah County, within the boundaries of the Cherokee Nation Reservation of Oklahoma, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma.
The Honorable Kea W. Riggs, U.S. District Judge in the United States District Court for the District of New Mexico, sitting by assignment, presided over the hearing in Muskogee, Oklahoma. Wilson will remain it the custody of the U.S. Marshal pending transportation to a designated United States Bureau of Prisons facility to serve a non-paroleable sentence of incarceration.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Sarah McAmis and Jessica Bove represented the United States.
Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime News
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Ronald Wayne Yarbrough Jr., age 54, of Lehigh, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 115 months in prison for voluntary manslaughter.
The charge arose from an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
On August 31, 2023, Yarbrough pleaded guilty to an Information of one count of Voluntary Manslaughter in Indian Country. According to investigators, on November 24, 2022, Yarbrough instigated a fight outside the family home. During the fight, Yarbrough stabbed the victim in the neck. The victim was later declared dead at an area hospital. The crime occurred in Coal County, within the boundaries of the Choctaw Nation Reservation, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma.
The Honorable Kea W. Riggs, U.S. District Judge in the United States District Court of New Mexico, sitting by assignment, presided over the hearing in Muskogee, Oklahoma. Yarbrough will remain in the custody of the U.S. Marshal pending transportation to a designated United States Bureau of Prisons facility to serve a non-paroleable sentence of incarceration.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jordan Howanitz represented the United States.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Dale Strong (Alabama)
WASHINGTON— Today, Representative Dale W. Strong (R-AL) introduced the Deport Illegal Voters Act to expedite the removal of aliens convicted of voting illegally.
Specifically, the legislation adds unlawful voting to the defined list of aggravated felonies under the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) and provides for the expedited deportation of convicted individuals.
“Anyone who is not an American citizen and casts a ballot in this election should be first in line to be deported. We must secure our elections and ensure participation in our elections is reserved for American citizens and American citizens only,” said Congressman Dale W. Strong.
Under the Biden-Harris Administration, we have seen record numbers of border crossings and illegal immigration into the United States. Additionally, there have been numerous cases of voter registration forms issued to non-citizens and numerous cases of non-citizen voting across the country, including Alabama. In September, the Department of Justice charged a Guatemalan national residing in Alabama with fraudulently using a U.S. identity to vote in multiple elections including the 2016 and 2020 presidential elections. This week, charges were filed against a Chinese national who cast a vote in the 2024 Presidential election in Michigan.
Interference in our elections undermines the rights of American citizens and sets a dangerous precedent that could further erode the trust and credibility of our electoral system. The integrity of our election system must be safeguarded to ensure only eligible and lawful voters are permitted to participate.
“People should stop and think twice before interfering in our elections. The Deport Illegal Voters Act sets a consequence fitting for those committing a federal offense,” said Strong.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Seth Magaziner (RI-02)
WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Representative Seth Magaziner (RI-02), Ranking Member for the Homeland Security Subcommittee on Counterterrorism, Intelligence and Law Enforcement, is partnering with Ranking Member for the Homeland Security Committee Bennie Thompson (MS-02) to lead 13 Members of Congress in raising concerns to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Department of Justice (DOJ) about the potential for violence surrounding the 2024 election.
“With the 2024 election coming up in a matter of days, we must take steps to ensure that the U.S. government is prepared to thwart violent attacks on the democratic process like that which occurred on January 6, 2021,” said Rep. Seth Magaziner (RI-02), Ranking Member for the Homeland Security Subcommittee on Counterterrorism, Intelligence and Law Enforcement. “Ranking Member Thompson and I are outlining a series of actions we believe the Department of Homeland Security and the Department of Justice should take to ensure a safe and secure election and peaceful transfer of power.”
The Members of Congress outline important objectives that include, but are not limited to:
Donald Trump and his allies have been laying the groundwork to question the legitimacy of the 2024 election results, and have been spreading dangerous conspiracy theories about the vote counting process at the state and local levels. Trump has repeated lies of widespread voter fraud and suggested that the only way he can lose to Vice President Harris is if Democrats cheat. This is particularly concerning in light of a recent poll by the Associated Press that found two-thirds of Republicans polled trust Donald Trump and his campaign for accurate information about election results, but only 51 percent of Republicans polled would trust the government’s certification of election results.
Trump has also declined to pledge to respect the outcome of the 2024 election and refused to publicly say that he would back a peaceful transfer of power. In 2020, Trump refused to acknowledge his election loss, spread lies about extensive voter fraud and incited a violent mob to attack the Capitol in an effort to overturn the results of a fair and secure election.
Foreign malign influence operations also pose a threat to the 2024 election. The Justice Department recently disrupted a covert Russian government-sponsored foreign malign influence operation, which in part used AI-generated content and social media influencers, to spread disinformation about the 2024 election, sow discord and influence voters.
Furthermore, threats against election officials have intensified. Nearly one in three election workers have reported being harassed, abused or threatened because of their job as a result of Trump’s rhetoric. This has caused high levels of turnover among election workers over concerns for their safety and the safety of their families, leading to increased strain on those responsible for facilitating our elections.
This letter builds upon Rep. Magaziner’s efforts to ensure a fair and secure election in 2024. This week, he joined his colleagues in urging the DOJ Election Threats Task Force to take stronger action in coordination with local law enforcement to protect election workers on and around Election Day.
Rep. Magaziner also hosted a “Protecting our Democracy” roundtable with Rep. Thompson to bring attention to concerted efforts to question the legitimacy of the 2024 election results.
Full text of the letter is below. A PDF copy of the letter is available HERE.
Dear Secretary Mayorkas and Attorney General Garland:
We understand that both the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Department of Justice (DoJ) have undertaken significant efforts to support the safe, secure administration of elections this November. We write to document those activities and to learn about any additional actions you will undertake between now and January 20, 2025, to ensure a peaceful transfer of power.
Four years ago, State and local election officials across the country administered the most secure elections in history under exceptionally challenging circumstances. Nevertheless, confusion about voting and tabulation procedures, a politically polarized public, and a nationwide pandemic created a breeding ground for misinformation and conspiracy theories to flourish. As a result, a violent mob bent on preventing the peaceful transfer of power attempted to interrupt the certification of election results on January 6, 2021. Although the insurrection was ultimately unsuccessful, its legacy endures, notably though the targeting and harassment of election officials, baseless allegations that voter fraud will result in an illegitimate election result, and suggestions by public officials that they may not accept the election outcome.
We applaud the efforts your agencies have already undertaken to support the safe, secure administration of elections, and encourage ongoing engagement with appropriate partners at the State and local levels in the weeks and months ahead.
Coordination with State and Local Partners
Election officials on the ground are the individuals who best understand the challenges of administering elections in today’s environment. It is important that Federal programs designed to secure elections are aligned to the needs of State and local election officials.
Last year, the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) announced it would establish dedicated election security advisors in each of the agency’s ten regions.
Election Cybersecurity
CISA offers a range of no-cost cybersecurity services to election offices across the country, including cyber hygiene scans and risk and vulnerability assessments.
As the Sector Risk Management Agency for the Election Infrastructure Subsector, DHS, through CISA, is responsible for engaging with a range of stakeholders involved in the administration of elections, including election technology and equipment vendors.
Physical Security
Recent swatting incidents and white powder mailings targeting election officials, along with disturbingly frequent social media threats, have highlighted the physical security threats facing election officials. Ensuring State and local officials are aware of the services available to them and have access to the resources necessary to improve their security will be critical to protecting election officials and infrastructure before, during, and after the election.
The January 6, 2021, attack on the Capitol demonstrated that election security risks do not end on Election Day. We are particularly concerned that similar violence could take place during the counting and certification of election results this cycle.
Mis- and Disinformation
Public reporting indicates that foreign adversaries continue efforts to influence U.S. elections, and election misinformation has the potential to undermine the public’s confidence in election results and could fuel election-related violence. It is our understanding that the Federal government has modified its approach to combatting misinformation compared to the previous presidential election.
A recent poll by Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research and USAFact found that two-thirds of Republicans polled trust Donald Trump and his campaign for accurate information about election results, but only 51 percent of Republicans polled would trust the government’s certification of election results. Donald Trump has already begun to suggest the election will be rigged against him.
Recent indictments by DOJ allege that Russian intelligence used American media influencers to unwittingly promote Russia’s foreign influence campaigns.
Many Republican officials have publicly claimed that non-citizens are voting in large numbers and could impact the outcome of the November election. The Texas Attorney General recently announced he was investigating whether organizations were purposefully registering non-citizens to vote, despite there being no indication that it is happening.
Mis- and disinformation can lead to voter suppression. The Secretary of State of Alabama, for example, recently deactivated the registration of more than 3,000 people, including some naturalized citizens who must now update their records before they can vote. Some of them have expressed reluctance to register to vote again.
Rapid advances in AI technological development have the potential to shift how foreign and domestic actors seek to shape public opinion and Federal efforts to secure elections must reflect the latest technological landscape.
By and large, the most reliable sources of accurate election information are the official communications and websites of State and local election officials responsible for administering elections. The Federal government’s greater media visibility can play an important role in directing Americans to reliable sources of information and amplifying the voices of state and local officials.
Thank you for your attention to this letter. We look forward to your response and to continuing to work with you to ensure a safe, secure election next month.
Sincerely,
Source: US State of New York
Governor Kathy Hochul today highlighted $23.5 million in state public safety investments in the City of Syracuse and Onondaga County for law enforcement agencies and community-based organizations, including $2.5 million in new funding to establish diversion programs to strengthen services and connect justice-involved young people with education and employment opportunities. At the same time, Governor Hochul detailed the state’s record-level, $3.2 million investment through the state’s Gun Involved Violence Elimination initiative, $3.2 million in technology and equipment funding for county law enforcement agencies, and $2 million in second-year funding through Project RISE to support community-based organizations addressing the impact of gun violence and providing youth opportunities.
“Public safety is my number one priority, and we are doubling down our efforts to keep residents of Syracuse and Onondaga County safe by giving more support to law enforcement, bolstering gun violence prevention initiatives and expanding youth diversion programs,” Governor Hochul said. “By utilizing a multi-pronged approach centered around local needs, we are working to rein in criminal activity and create safer neighborhoods and communities.”
After meeting with local elected and community leaders, Governor Hochul detailed the state’s investment in the City of Syracuse and Onondaga County, administered by the state Division of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS). They then identified solutions to address a spike in property crime involving teenagers that is driving an overall increase in crime in Syracuse through the first nine months of the year as compared to the same time in 2023.
The City of Syracuse will receive $1.5 million in new funding to establish a new program dedicated to providing justice-system involved youth with structured classes to develop skills, support to navigate the education and justice systems, and internships and other resources with the goal of avoiding further criminal justice system involvement.
In addition, Governor Hochul will dedicate an additional $1 million to enhance youth justice alternatives and diversion programs and services within the Onondaga County Probation Department. This investment will be paired with dedicated technical assistance from DCJS to help build the capacity of local government and community-based organizations to intervene in the lives of these young people, change their thinking and behavior, and promote positive development.
Public safety is my number one priority, and we are doubling down our efforts to keep residents of Syracuse and Onondaga County safe by giving more support to law enforcement, bolstering gun violence prevention initiatives and expanding youth diversion programs.”
Governor Kathy Hochul
New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services Commissioner Rossana Rosado said, “We have made tremendous progress in driving down gun violence and violent crime in New York State, but communities across the state each have their own unique challenges. Governor Hochul has made it a priority to ensure that DCJS has a record amount of resources available to help our local law enforcement and community partners develop comprehensive strategies and programs to address community-specific spikes in crime rather than relying on a one-size-fits-all approach. We create stronger, safer neighborhoods by listening to, learning from, and investing in our local partners.”
These two new investments are integral to Governor Hochul’s comprehensive plan to improve public safety, address spikes in crime and further drive down gun violence by recognizing the importance of a multifaceted approach to the problem. By engaging, supporting and funding local law enforcement agencies and community partners; leveraging technology and data; and implementing evidence-based strategies, the state can help localities address their unique crime problems while healing and strengthening neighborhoods and families.
New York State Police Superintendent Steven G. James said, “The New York State Police is committed to assisting our law enforcement partners in fighting against the widespread criminality in Syracuse and Onondaga County. I appreciate Governor Hochul’s leadership on this public safety mission, and for providing the necessary resources to reduce crime and gun violence to build safer communities.”
Syracuse Mayor Ben Walsh said, “Syracuse can’t do this work alone; our community must collaborate to address issues of juveniles involved in the Justice system. We’re focused on the balance of holding people accountable, but recognizing that young people need greater support. Diversionary and intervention programs are critical to providing support, giving our youth access to the resources they need, and providing them the skills to be successful in life. Once again, when we’ve asked Governor Hochul to provide assistance for our community, she’s delivered, and I thank her for her attention to the needs of Syracuse.”
These initiatives in the City of Syracuse and Onondaga County include:
Project RISE (Respond, Invest, Sustain, Empower): $2 million to 11 community-based organizations in Syracuse that provide mental health services, crisis intervention, mentoring, and vocational training and employment, financial literacy, and conflict resolution, among other services to youth and families at risk or impacted by violence. This is the second year that Syracuse has received funding through the initiative, which engages with community stakeholders to identify and support smaller, grassroots organizations doing life-changing work that haven’t had the administrative capacity to receive state funding. Project RISE will fund three lead organizations – the Center for Community Alternatives and Hillside Children’s Center ($500,000 each) and On Point for College ($1 million) – that will share that funding with eight smaller organizations: Rise Above Poverty, Image Initiative, Fearless Queens, Project SAVE, Diversify NY, Half Hood Half Holistic, Good Life Youth Foundation and Klink Kids.
Gun Involved Violence Elimination (GIVE) Initiative and the Central New York Crime Analysis Center: $3.2 million to the Onondaga County GIVE partners, the Syracuse Police Department and county district attorney’s office, probation department, and sheriff’s office, and $1.1 million to support the Crime Analysis Center, one of 11 in network funded and supported by the state in partnership with local law enforcement agencies.
The Syracuse Police Department is one of 28 departments in 21 counties receiving nearly $36 million through GIVE, which requires agencies to use evidence-based strategies to reduce shootings and other violent crime. Last year alone, staff at the Central New York Crime Analysis Center provided investigative support in real-time and handled 12,443 service requests, providing data, information and investigative leads that allowed law enforcement to solve homicides, car and retail theft rings, and remove illegal guns from county streets. All told, the state invests $18 million to support the Crime Analysis Center Network.
These investments are producing results: Shooting incidents involving injury in Syracuse declined 29 percent when comparing the first nine months of 2024 to the same time last year, and 44 percent when compared to the five-year average (2019-2024). Violent crime in Syracuse decreased 5 percent from January – August 2024, as compared to the same eight months last year; this is the most recent data available.
SNUG Street Outreach Program: Nearly $2.3 million to Syracuse Community Connections, and Upstate Medical Center to fund outreach workers, hospital responders, social workers and case managers who are credible messengers and work to reduce shootings and save lives. SNUG uses a public health approach to address gun violence by identifying the source, interrupting transmission, and treating individuals, families and communities affected by the violence. Syracuse is one of 14 communities across the state to participate in the program. The state’s investment in SNUG totals $20.3 million this year.
Law Enforcement Technology and Equipment (LETECH): Nearly $3.2 million to14 police agencies in Onondaga County for new technology and equipment to prevent and solve crimes and improve public safety. This funding supports a variety of equipment and technology, such as license plate readers, mobile and fixed camera systems, computer-aided dispatch systems, software, unmanned aerial vehicles, gunshot detection devices and smart equipment for patrol vehicles and police officers.
Statewide Targeted Reductions in Intimate Violence (STRIVE) initiative: Nearly $1.9 million to Onondaga County. New York City and Onondaga and 19 other counties outside of the five boroughs are sharing a record-level, $35 million to strengthen the public safety response to intimate partner abuse and domestic violence and better support survivors. Modeled after GIVE, STRIVE requires law enforcement and community partners in each county to use evidence-based strategies and ensure that community members and programs that serve victims and survivors are actively involved in strategy selection and implementation. One or more of the following strategies must be used: domestic violence high-risk team model, lethality assessment program, or intimate partner violence intervention.
The Division of Criminal Justice Services provides critical support to all facets of the State’s criminal justice system, including, but not limited to: training law enforcement and other criminal justice professionals; analyzing statewide crime and program data; providing research support; and managing criminal justice grant funding. Follow DCJS on Facebook, Instagram and X.
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator for New Jersey Cory Booker
NEWARK N.J. – Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) announced $47 million in federal funding to replace the nearly century-old Lincoln Avenue Bridge in Trenton, New Jersey. This funding was awarded to Mercer County through the U.S. Department of Transportation’s (USDOT) Federal Highway Administration’s (FHWA) Bridge Investment Program (BIP). Senator Booker strongly advocated for Mercer County’s grant application, providing letters of support for three consecutive years, including in January of this year.
This grant is part of a new round of funding through President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law that will build, repair, and modernize regionally significant bridges in 19 states. The FWHA announced nearly $635 million total for 22 small and medium-sized bridge projects with the funding for the Lincoln Avenue Bridge being the fourth largest award in this announcement.
The County’s Lincoln Avenue Bridge Replacement Project will include the construction of a new bridge over Amtrak’s Northeast Corridor Rail Line, an inactive rail yard, and Assunpink Creek, which is a tributary of the Delaware River. The bridge, which was built in 1931 and has served Trenton’s communities for decades, is now close to structural failure and in need of urgent replacement.
“The Lincoln Avenue Bridge has served Trenton’s residents for generations but has now reached the end of its lifespan,” said Senator Booker. “I am proud to have helped secure this unprecedented $47 million investment to replace this century-old bridge, and ensure everyone in Mercer County has access to safe and reliable infrastructure for years to come.”
“I am so excited to announce this significant investment from the Biden-Harris Administration to improve the Lincoln Avenue Bridge,” said Rep. Watson Coleman. “This funding will improve the safety, reliability, and durability of the Lincoln Ave bridge, which thousands of Trentonians cross daily, whether to get to work, pick up their kids, run to the grocery store, attend school, or meet up with friends. I’m incredibly grateful to the Biden-Harris Administration, Secretary Buttigieg, Mercer County, and the City of Trenton for their partnership.”
“I want to thank Senator Booker and Congresswoman Watson Coleman for partnering with us to procure the largest infrastructure grant in Mercer County history. For nearly a century The Lincoln Avenue Bridge has tied together neighborhoods in our Capital City, and by replacing the aging structure we ensure that this corridor remains safe and accessible to Trenton residents for generations to come. We’re excited to kick off another major public works project for Mercer County, and we look forward to using local labor to build under a Project Labor Agreement,” said Mercer County Executive Dan Benson.
“The DOT’s Bridge Investment Program funding is essential for advancing the Lincoln Avenue Bridge project,” said Trenton Mayor Reed Gusciora. This funding will not only enhance accessibility and safety for our community, but will also ensure that our infrastructure is equipped to meet the needs of today and tomorrow. We are grateful for this investment in our Capital City.”
Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (b)
WASHINGTON – Stephen Rattley Johnson, 37, of Washington, D.C., was sentenced today in U.S. District Court to 7.5 years in prison for uploading and possessing videos in 2020 depicting the rape and sadistic sexual abuse of prepubescent girls.
The sentencing was announced by U.S. Attorney Matthew M. Graves, FBI Acting Special Agent in Charge David Geist of the Washington Field Office’s Criminal and Cyber Division, and Chief Pamela A. Smith of the Metropolitan Police Department.
Johnson was found guilty by a federal jury on April 17, 2024, of five counts of transportation of child pornography and one count of possession of child pornography. On the possession count, the jury further found that the child pornography involved minors under 12 years of age, an aggravating circumstance that doubles the statutory maximum sentence. In addition to the prison term, U.S. District Court Judge Carl J. Nichols ordered Johnson to pay $52,600 in restitution and special assessments. Upon release from his prison term, Johnson will be required to serve 10 years of supervised release and register as a sex offender.
According to court documents and the evidence presented at trial, on September 21, 2020, and October 1, 2020, Johnson uploaded hundreds of child pornography files to his Google Drive cloud storage account. Google identified 220 of the files as known child pornography and closed Johnson’s account. Consistent with its statutory obligations, Google reported the material to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, which in turn referred the matter to law enforcement. As part of its investigation, investigators obtained the contents of Johnson’s Google account, which included hundreds of child pornography files.
Law enforcement arrested Johnson on October 7, 2021, and searched his then-residence in the H Street Corridor of Northeast Washington. Among other evidence, law enforcement seized his cellphone and the laptop Johnson had used to upload the child pornography. Although Johnson deleted the child pornography from his computer after Google closed his account, digital forensics experts were able to recover artifacts showing that Johnson had downloaded many of the files as early as April 2020 and that he had opened and watched them. Many of the files are videos depicting the rape and sadistic sexual abuse of prepubescent girls. In addition, Johnson’s web browser history showed that he had navigated to child pornography online—including several of the files he later uploaded to Google—and evidence from his cellphone showed that he continued to seek out child pornography even after Google closed his account.
The case was investigated by the FBI Washington Field Office and Metropolitan Police Department’s Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force; the Northern Virginia and Washington, D.C., Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force; and the High Technology Investigative Unit of the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS).
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul V. Courtney and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Lipes prosecuted the case, with valuable assistance from Assistant U.S. Attorneys Janani Iyengar and Jocelyn Bond.
22cr176
Source: Government of Canada regional news
Since 2023, Alberta’s government has invested more than $27 million to help fight crime throughout the province. Building on these efforts, the government is now expanding the Alberta Sheriffs’ Safer Communities and Neighbourhoods (SCAN) unit with the creation of a new team of investigators in Red Deer. The creation of the Red Deer SCAN team is the latest in a series of measures aimed at enhancing public safety and increasing the Alberta Sheriffs’ ability to support police throughout the province.
The move puts more resources on the ground with a team of qualified experts who will investigate properties where illegal activity has been reported and shut them down through court orders when needed. The Red Deer SCAN team – made up of four Alberta Sheriffs – joins existing SCAN teams in Calgary, Edmonton, and Lethbridge, which have proven immensely effective in working alongside local police to shutter problem properties throughout the province.
“Alberta’s government will always maintain a zero-tolerance stance toward crime of any kind, and the expansion of the Alberta Sheriffs’ SCAN unit reflects that. With the creation of a new SCAN team in Red Deer, we’re expanding the unit’s coverage even further and putting more boots on the ground where they’re needed. Let this be a message to all criminals: you are not welcome here. Communities in the Red Deer area have a right not to be plagued by drug and other criminal activity that create dangerous environments, and Alberta’s government will do whatever it takes to keep people safe.”
The Sheriffs’ SCAN unit operates under the Safer Communities and Neighbourhoods Act, which uses legal sanctions and court orders to hold owners accountable for illegal activity happening on their property, such as drug trafficking, human trafficking and child exploitation. SCAN augments and supports local police to both investigate and close properties where evidence of criminal activity has been confirmed.
“Ensuring safety for law-abiding Albertans is of utmost importance for Alberta’s government and requires a comprehensive approach to effectively combat and prevent criminal activity. This involves enhancing law-enforcement resources, fostering community engagement, implementing crime prevention programs, and promoting collaboration between Alberta Sheriffs and local police. This SCAN team is a game-changer in central Alberta and puts criminals on notice that they are not welcome here.”
“The Safer Communities and Neighbourhoods Act holds property owners accountable for activities on their property that threaten public safety. Alberta’s SCAN teams support policing efforts by addressing illegal activities on these properties. This additional team will enhance RCMP community safety programs.”
When a community member reports a problem property to SCAN, the unit begins an investigation. Once the investigation confirms the activity, investigators contact the property owner to try and resolve the issue informally. If informal efforts are unsuccessful, SCAN can apply to the courts for a community safety order to impose restrictions and conditions on the property and its owner, which could include closing the property for up to 90 days. Any criminal activity uncovered when dealing with these properties is turned over to the police to investigate.
“Over the years, SCAN’s impact on community safety has been profound. More often than not, we see individuals in these problem properties carrying out drug operations and other criminal activities beside homes, schools, playgrounds and other places where Albertans’ safety should never be in question. Crime has no place in any Alberta neighbourhood, and we look forward to working with our policing partners in the Red Deer area to help keep central Alberta communities safe.”
SCAN continues to see tremendous success, having closed problem properties in Lethbridge, Calgary, Spruce Grove and Medicine Hat in the last six months alone. Since May 2024, Alberta’s government has publicly announced the closure of seven problem properties by SCAN, including three in Calgary, two in Lethbridge, and one each in Spruce Grove and Medicine Hat.
“Creating a safer environment for our citizens improves the overall quality of our community in Red Deer. I would like to take this opportunity to thank Alberta’s government, SCAN and all our law enforcement partners who work tirelessly every day to keep our communities safe. This is great news for the City of Red Deer, and together, we can make our community safer. I encourage residents to report any suspicious activity to the SCAN unit.”
The Red Deer SCAN team’s operational boundaries encompass the city of Red Deer and its surrounding communities and rural areas, providing coverage to the central area spanning Ponoka to the north and Olds to the south.
Source: US State of California
La Habra Heights to update housing plan by July 2025 for development of 244 additional housing units
SACRAMENTO — California Attorney General Rob Bonta, California Governor Gavin Newsom, and California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) Director Gustavo Velasquez today announced a settlement that will bring the City of La Habra Heights into compliance with the state’s Housing Element Law. With dedicated technical support from the state, the city will adopt a housing plan no later than July 7, 2025, to allow for the development of 244 housing units, at least 164 of which must be affordable to low- and very low-income households. The agreement, which is in the form of a proposed stipulated judgment and must be approved by the court, is related to California’s sixth “housing element update cycle” for the 2021-2029 time period.
Under the state’s Housing Element Law, every city and county in California must periodically update its housing plan to meet its Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA), or share of the regional and statewide housing needs. Located in Los Angeles County and home to a total population of 5,682 residents, La Habra Heights was required to update its housing plan by October 15, 2021, to accommodate its 172-unit RHNA target. However, because the city did not identify adequate sites for lower- and moderate-income units during the fifth cycle for the 2013-2021 time period, an additional 72 units were added for a total of 244 units. After receiving a notice of violation from HCD, the city and state conferred in good faith to chart a course for the city to attain compliance.
“The City of La Habra Heights has done the right thing. Instead of continuing to skirt California’s housing laws, it will finally be complying with its legal obligation to plan for 244 housing units,” said Attorney General Rob Bonta. “My office will not let up: no matter the size of the city or county, we will not rest until every local government in California plans for the future and does its part to tackle our housing crisis.”
“No more excuses — every community has a responsibility to create housing and to help reduce homelessness,” said Governor Gavin Newsom. “I am pleased that La Habra Heights has come to the table and agreed to meet their housing goals for a community that desperately needs more affordable homes.”
“This latest agreement is a key example of why it is so important that every city, big and small, is held accountable for doing its fair share to address the statewide housing need,” said HCD Director Gustavo Velasquez. “When La Habra Heights adopts a compliant housing element, it will — for the first time ever — make land available for multifamily and affordable housing, creating a path to opportunity for more families in this high-resource community.”
Among other things, a compliant housing element must include an assessment of housing needs, an inventory of resources and constraints relevant to meeting those needs, and a program to implement the policies, goals, and objectives of the housing element. Once the housing element is adopted, it is implemented through zoning ordinances and other actions that put its objectives into effect and facilitate the construction of new homes for Californians at all income levels.
The housing element is a crucial tool for building housing for moderate-, low-, and very low-income Californians and redressing historical redlining and disinvestment. State income limits for what constitutes moderate-, low-, and very low-income Californians vary by county and can be found here. In Los Angeles County, the median income for a one-person household is $68,750. A one-person household that earns less than $77,700 is defined as low-income, and a one-person household that earns less than $48,550 is defined as very-low income.
Under the settlement:
A copy of the petition and proposed judgment, which details the settlement terms and remains subject to court approval, can be found here and here, respectively.
Source: US National Renewable Energy Laboratory
For 20 years, the RE+ conference has served as a gathering place for clean energy professionals who come together to engage and connect on ways to propel the industry forward. For the last five of those years, the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE’s) American-Made program has partnered with RE+ to become a key player at the conference, helping American-Made innovators bring their technologies closer to commercialization and showcasing easy-access opportunities for clean energy development funding.
The American-Made program, administered by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory’s (NREL’s) Joint Institute for Strategic Energy Analysis, incentivizes clean energy innovation through prize competitions, training, teaming, and mentoring. The program boasts a suite of more than 90 prizes seeking to advance technological development and capacity building across the country, many of which were represented at this year’s RE+ in Anaheim, California.
American-Made’s partnership with RE+ began in 2019 as a venue for Go! Demo Day, the culmination of the American-Made Solar Prize. The Solar Prize is a multimillion-dollar prize competition funded by DOE’s Solar Energy Technologies Office that energizes U.S. solar innovation through a series of contests that accelerate the entrepreneurial process from years to months. Now, the Solar Prize event has become a mainstay at RE+, which hosted more than 40,000 attendees and 1,300 exhibitors this year.
During this year’s Solar Prize Round 7 Go! Demo Day, competition finalists presented their pitches for innovative technologies that can advance solar adoption to conference attendees and a panel of industry experts. Fram Energy was selected as a grand prize winner for their solar adoption software solution, while Gritt Robotics won for their artificial intelligence solar installation robotics innovation. Two additional teams were awarded the Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Prize for their innovations that address solar power accessibility and education.
“The Solar Prize was the prize that launched the American-Made program, and over seven rounds, it has generated revolutionary concepts that are kickstarting the solar industry,” American-Made Program Manager Debbie Brodt-Giles said. “Having the finale at RE+ each year really magnifies the reach of the prize and these competitors’ innovations. It’s the ideal place to share how American-Made is empowering everyday citizens to contribute to the clean energy transition.”
American-Made’s involvement at RE+ has grown beyond celebrating the Solar Prize to include other competition, network, and informational events to support past, current, and future prize competitors.
“What’s helpful about being at a conference like RE+ is that it allows us to step out of the core technology that we’re developing and realize how it fits into the broader renewable energy transition and solar market,” said Skylar Bagdon, CEO of Verde Technologies, a past winner of the American-Made Perovskite Startup Prize. “Being here and seeing what the market really cares about helps us get out of the lab and get our technology out into the market where it will have an impact.”
The Fall 2024 EPIC Pitch Competition featured six cleantech startups vying for cash prizes for their innovative clean energy-related pitches, with three startups and one incubator winning more than $100,000 total in cash prizes from DOE’s Office of Technology Transitions, which funds the EPIC Pitch Competition.
DOE also announced several new prizes during the conference, including the Large Animal and Solar System Operations (LASSO) Prize, the Promoting Registration of Inverters and Modules with Ecolabel (PRIME) Prize, and the Community Power Accelerator Prize Round 3.
In addition to those associated with the management of the American-Made program, NREL had robust representation at this year’s conference, with researchers from nine centers specializing in clean energy systems, technologies, deployment, and analysis. Researchers hosted tech talks at the conference, sharing NREL expertise in the areas of solar grid integration, equitable transition strategies, market analysis, and more.
NREL’s participation at the largest clean energy industry conference in North America allows the laboratory to share cutting-edge research and identify trends in the renewable energy industry, helping inform research needs and opportunities for partnerships.
“NREL’s leadership in the solar space continues to be well represented at RE+ with dozens of staff representing prizes and new innovative research that is integral to the industry’s success and rapid growth,” Solar Laboratory Program Manager Mary Werner said. “NREL staff coordinate prizes, present their research results, attend educational sessions, explore the extensive exhibit halls, host project booths, and help guide the development of educational sessions at RE+ to increase our impact on the market and identify new partners for future research projects.”
Learn more about the American-Made program, and subscribe to the American-Made Newsletter for updates on all future prize opportunities.
Source: US State of West Virginia
CHARLESTON, WV — Gov. Jim Justice and First Lady Cathy Justice invite all West Virginians to honor members of the United States Military and First Responders by submitting photos to be showcased on two recognition trees that will be displayed during this year’s holiday season.
This year’s recognition trees will be located in the west rotunda of the main Capitol building, along with a third tree decorated by Gold Star mothers and families to honor their loved ones whose lives were sacrificed while serving our country.
“Cathy and I really treasure this holiday tradition,” Gov. Justice said. “Our United States Military and first responders are true heroes, and it means a lot to honor them in the West Virginia State Capitol. The photos on the recognition trees remind us all of the sacrifices made by these amazing folks. Each picture sent in by West Virginians tells a story of courage and commitment, and I can’t wait to see this year’s tribute.”
“I have always loved this tradition,” First Lady Cathy Justice said. “Our military and first responders are such an important piece of our everyday lives, and bring a sense of community to our West Virginia families. I thank you all for all that you do, and I can’t wait to see this year’s additions to our trees.”
All photos, along with the submission form and tag, must be received no later than Monday, November 25, 2024.
Source: United States Department of Justice (National Center for Disaster Fraud)
MIAMI – Yesterday, Daniel Fleureme, 56, of Miami-Dade County, a former Miami-Dade Corrections and Rehabilitation Department (MDCRD) Corrections Officer, pled guilty to wire fraud for defrauding a COVID-19 relief program by fraudulently obtaining an Economic Injury Disaster Loan from the U. S. Small Business Administration (SBA).
The Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act was designed to provide emergency financial assistance to the millions of Americans who were suffering the economic effects caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. One source of relief provided by the CARES Act were Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDLs) to eligible small businesses experiencing substantial financial disruptions. These EIDLs were provided directly to borrowers by the SBA.
On July 27, 2020, Fleureme, while he was employed full-time by MDCRD as a Corrections Officer, submitted to the SBA a false and fraudulent EIDL application claiming to be the 100% owner of a sole proprietorship operating under the company legal and DBA names of “Daniel Fleureme.” In this fraudulent application, Fleureme claimed that he had owned the business since its creation on Feb. 15, 2017, and stated that the business had three employees as of Jan. 31, 2020. Fleureme’s EIDL application also falsely certified that for the 12-month period prior to Jan. 31, 2020, his sole proprietorship had gross revenues of $450,000 and a cost of goods sold of only $97,000. As a result of this fraudulent EIDL application, Fleureme received approximately $150,000 in EIDL proceeds from the SBA.
He is scheduled to be sentenced on Jan. 7, 2025, at 11:00 a.m., before U.S. District Judge Jose E. Martinez in Miami. Fleureme faces up to 20 years in prison for the wire fraud conviction. The court will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Florida Markenzy Lapointe and Special Agent in Charge Jeffrey B. Veltri of the FBI, Miami Field Office, Inspector General Felix Jimenez of the Miami-Dade County Office of Inspector General (M-DC OIG), and Special Agent in Charge Amaleka McCall-Brathwaite, U.S. Small Business Administration Office of Inspector General (SBA OIG), Eastern Region, made the announcement.
The FBI’s Miami Area Corruption Task Force, which includes task force officers from the M-DC OIG, working in conjunction with SBA OIG, investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Edward N. Stamm is prosecuting the case.
On May 17, 2021, the Attorney General established the COVID-19 Fraud Enforcement Task Force to marshal the resources of the Department of Justice in partnership with agencies across government to enhance efforts to combat and prevent pandemic-related fraud. The Task Force bolsters efforts to investigate and prosecute the most culpable domestic and international criminal actors and assists agencies tasked with administering relief programs to prevent fraud by, among other methods, augmenting and incorporating existing coordination mechanisms, identifying resources and techniques to uncover fraudulent actors and their schemes, and sharing and harnessing information and insights gained from prior enforcement efforts. For more information on the department’s response to the pandemic, please visit https://www.justice.gov/coronavirus.
On Sept. 15, 2022, the Attorney General selected the Southern District of Florida’s U.S. Attorney’s Office to head one of three national COVID-19 Fraud Strike Force Teams. The Department of Justice established the Strike Force to enhance existing efforts to combat and prevent COVID-19 related financial fraud. The Strike Force combines law enforcement and prosecutorial resources and focuses on large-scale, multistate pandemic relief fraud perpetrated by criminal organizations and transnational actors, as well as those who committed multiple instances of pandemic relief fraud. The Strike Force uses prosecutor-led and data analyst-driven teams to identify and bring to justice those who stole pandemic relief funds. Additional information regarding the Strike Force may be found at https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/justice-department-announces-covid-19-fraud-strike-force-teams.
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.
Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Southern District of Florida at www.flsd.uscourts.gov or at http://pacer.flsd.uscourts.gov, under case number 24-cr-20407.
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