NewzIntel.com

Category: Justice

  • MIL-OSI USA: Business Insider: More student-loan borrowers are taking advantage of an updated route to get rid of their debt in bankruptcy court, top Democratic senators say

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts – Elizabeth Warren

    October 28, 2024

    An updated process for student-loan borrowers to get rid of their debt in bankruptcy court is working, a group of Democratic senators said.

    On Monday, Sens. Elizabeth Warren and Dick Durbin led Sens. Raphael Warnock and Sheldon Whitehouse in sending a letter — first viewed by Business Insider — to the Justice and Education Departments regarding the status of recent guidance intended to make it easier for borrowers to have success in bankruptcy court.

    Discharging student loans in bankruptcy court has been historically difficult. Borrowers had to prove a standard known as “undue hardship,” in which they cannot maintain a minimal standard of living, their circumstances aren’t likely to improve, and they have made a good-faith effort to repay their debt.

    …

    Read the full story here.

    By:  Ayelet Sheffey
    Source: Business Insider

    Previous Article

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Twillingate — Twillingate RCMP investigates break, enter and theft at Friday’s Bay lookout trail in Fairbank

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Twillingate RCMP is investigating a break, enter and theft that occurred sometime overnight on October 24, 2024, at Friday’s Bay lookout trail in Fairbank.

    Shortly after 12:00 p.m. on October 25, 2024, police received a report that a shed, located in the parking lot near the entrance to the trail, had been broken into. The following is a list of tools that were stolen:

    • DeWalt DCS391B 165mm circular saw
    • DeWalt DCD771C2 cordless drill x 2
    • Square measuring tape
    • Hammers x 3
    • Box of #8 x 3″ screws

    The investigation is continuing.

    Anyone having information about this crime, the person(s) responsible, or the location of the stolen property is asked to call Twillingate RCMP at 709-884-2811. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers: #SayItHere 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), visit www.nlcrimestoppers.com or use the P3Tips app.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Gander — Gander RCMP investigates theft from Dominion in Gander, seeks public’s assistance (UPDATED)

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Update #2: Thanks to the assistance of the public, the woman was identified.

    Update: Gander RCMP thanks the public for the information received on the identity of the woman. Efforts are underway to confirm the information received.

    On August 29, Gander RCMP received a report of a theft from Dominion in Gander. Surveillance video showed a woman stealing a cart full of grocery items with a suspected value of more than $900.00.

    Local efforts by Gander RCMP to identify the suspect have been exhausted. A picture of the woman is attached and the investigation is continuing.

    Anyone with any information about the identity of the woman pictured is asked to call Gander RCMP at 709-256-6841. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), visit www.nlcrimestoppers.com or use the P3Tips app. #SayItHere

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Whitehorse — Police respond to a fatal motor vehicle collision

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    On October 26 at approximately 2:00 a.m., Whitehorse RCMP responded to a motor vehicle collision involving a pickup truck and tractor trailer on the Alaska Highway near the Porter Creek subdivision.

    Yukon Emergency Medical Services and the Whitehorse Fire Department assisted at the scene and a 37-year-old male from Whitehorse was found deceased.

    The section of the Alaska Highway from Birch Street to Wann Road was closed to traffic and a detour was established to allow traffic to bypass the area while an M Division RCMP Collision Analyst attended to collect evidence. The closed section of highway was re-opened to the public on October 26 at approximately 5:00 pm.

    Whitehorse RCMP and the Yukon Coroner’s Service continue to investigate.

    Our condolences go out to the friends and family of the deceased and all affected persons.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Pelosi Announces Nearly $25 Million for San Francisco Downtown Rail Extension

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Nancy Pelosi Representing the 12th District of California

    San Francisco – Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi announced that San Francisco is set to receive nearly $25 million in federal grants from the U.S. Department of Transportation. This federal funding will help connect California High-Speed rail and Caltrain commuter service to the Salesforce Transit Center.

    “Safe, affordable and accessible public transit is key to San Francisco’s economic recovery and to saving the planet from the climate crisis. I salute the Biden-Harris Administration’s commitment to reimagining our nation’s infrastructure, with equity and justice for all,” Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi said.

    Speaker Emerita Pelosi continued: “This new federal investment, made possible by Democrats’ historic Infrastructure Law, will help further unite the Bay by completing the final design for the Downtown Rail Extension. Doing so is essential to make it easier for commuters to get to work, for shoppers to support our local businesses and for communities to stay connected, while reducing our City’s carbon footprint.”

    “Thank you to Transbay for its extraordinary vision, bold leadership and vital partnership in building a better-connected San Francisco,” Speaker Emerita Pelosi concluded.

    Adam Van de Water, Executive Director of the Transbay Joint Powers Authority, said: “Shortly after the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law was signed into law, Speaker Emerita Pelosi spoke from the train box level of the Salesforce Transit Center to convey the importance of BIL for the future of all Californians. The Transbay Joint Powers Authority cannot understate the critical role the Speaker Emerita has played in ensuring the creation of a seamless network of transportation options and we are thrilled to be selected to receive a CRISI award to further San Francisco’s rail connection to Caltrain and California High-Speed Rail through the Portal. Thank you for your steadfast commitment, Speaker Emerita.”

    The Transbay Joint Powers Authority will receive $24.6 million to complete the final design for the track and rail systems that will connect California High-Speed rail and Caltrain commuter service to the Salesforce Transit Center. The project will create jobs and make it easier and cheaper for San Franciscans to utilize public transportation to travel to work, to health care, to schools and to community facilities throughout the entire Bay Area.

    This funding was awarded to the Bay Area from the Federal Railroad Administration’s Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements (CRISI) Program in a competitive national selection process by U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Physician Charged in Scheme to Illegally Sell Cancer Drugs

    Source: US Department of Health and Human Services – 3

    Department of Justice
    U.S. Attorney’s Office
    Eastern District of Michigan

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
    Friday, October 25, 2024

    Detroit – A Royal Oak physician was charged in an Indictment for his role in a multi-million-dollar scheme to illegally sell and divert expensive prescription cancer drugs, United States Attorney Dawn N. Ison announced.

    Joining Ison in the announcement were Special Agent in Charge Mario M. Pinto, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG), Special Agent in Charge Cheyvoryea Gibson, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Special Agent in Charge Angie M. Salazar, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), and Special Agent in Charge Ronne Malham, U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

    Charged in the Indictment is Dr. Naveed Aslam, age 51, of West Bloomfield, Michigan.

    The charges against Dr. Aslam include one count of conspiracy to illegally sell or trade prescription drugs and 10 counts of illegally selling or trading prescription drugs.

    According to the Indictment, by early 2019, and continuing through August 2023, Dr. Aslam, a licensed physician, worked with others to buy and sell expensive cancer drugs for profit and with the intent to defraud and mislead. The other individuals Dr. Aslam worked with identified customers interested in buying prescription cancer drugs, and they communicated with Dr. Aslam about what cancer drugs were requested. Dr. Aslam used his access to certain cancer drugs through his medical practice, Somerset Hematology and Oncology, P.C., to order and purchase the cancer drugs from his supplier. He then sold the cancer drugs to and through the other individuals’ company to the eventual customer. During this scheme, Dr. Aslam acquired and sold more than $17 million in prescription cancer drugs, and personally profited more than $2.5 million.

    “The safety and integrity of our country’s prescription drug supply lines – particularly for cancer drugs – is an important part of our health care system,” stated U.S. Attorney Ison. “As alleged, Dr. Aslam used his role as a physician to violate that integrity and divert prescription cancer drugs away from treating patients. My office is committed to prosecuting medical professionals who seek to profit, rather than protect, our health care system.”

    “Our agency is dedicated to ensuring that medical providers follow laws designed to protect both the integrity and solvency of Federal health care programs, as well as the beneficiaries they serve,” said Mario M. Pinto, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). “HHS-OIG will continue to work closely with our Federal law enforcement partners to thoroughly investigate allegations of fraud.”

    “Having the authority to prescribe medication is a privilege that comes with a profound responsibility. Physicians must safeguard against drug diversion,” said Cheyvoryea Gibson, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI in Michigan. “Dr. Aslam’s alleged participation in this scheme not only allowed him to profit unlawfully from the sale of cancer drugs, but it also posed a serious threat by potentially placing these medications into the wrong hands. This breach of trust is inexcusable, especially considering the critical nature of the drugs involved. The FBI is unwavering in its commitment to hold medical professionals accountable for exploiting their positions for personal gain and endangering community safety.”

    “Introducing diverted prescription drugs into the supply chain and selling them to unsuspecting consumers undermines the FDA safeguards designed to protect the public,” said Ronne Malham, Special Agent in Charge, FDA Office of Criminal Investigations, Chicago Field Office‎. “We remain committed to bringing to justice those who place their personal gain over the health of American consumers.”

    “A physician’s ethical responsibility is to their patients, not to selling cancer drugs under the table for profit,” said HSI Detroit Special Agent in Charge Angie M. Salazar. “We will protect patients against fraud, especially from those in positions of public trust who choose greed over public safety.”

    An indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt.

    The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Andrew J. Lievense. Assistant United States Attorney Jessica A. Nathan of the Money Laundering & Asset Recovery Unit is handling related forfeiture matters. The investigation is being conducted jointly by the FBI, HHS-OIG, HSI, and the FDA.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Mann Hosts Fourth Annual Military Academy Nomination Day

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Tracey Mann (Kansas, 1)

    ABILENE, KS – Today, U.S. Representative Tracey Mann (KS-01) hosted his fourth annual Congressional Military Academy Nomination Day. As the Representative for the Big First District in Congress, Rep. Mann has the privilege of offering military academy nominations to the five U.S. service academies for students in the district. The interviews took place at the Dwight D. Eisenhower Presidential Library and Museum in Abilene, Kansas. 

    “One of my greatest honors in Congress is nominating students from the Big First to attend our nation’s service academies,” said Rep. Mann. “The students we met represent the best of Kansas, and I am grateful for their desire to serve our country and grow into the next generation of military leaders. It is always a pleasure to host the military academy selection committee in the childhood hometown of five-star U.S. Army General and son of Kansas, President Dwight D. Eisenhower. I also owe a debt of gratitude to the panel for lending their expertise and unique perspectives to the selection process. We look forward to these students’ success.”

    Rep. Mann appointed a panel of Kansans from the Big First District with extensive experience in U.S. military service or working closely with the military. The five-person panel included: 

    •  Mary Eisenhower, granddaughter of President Eisenhower and Chairman Emeritus of People to People International 

    • AJ Kuhle, U.S. Air Force Academy alumnus, U.S. Air Force Veteran, and President of ACE Scholarships

    • Mark Claussen, Director of Business Development of Icon Structures and former Executive Director of USO Kansas 

    • Michael Utz, retired Garden City Police Chief and U.S. Air Force Veteran, Law Enforcement Coordinator for the Bureau of Justice Assistance 

    • MSG (Ret.) Joshua Sandlin, Army Veteran and Executive Director of the Society of the 1st Infantry Division

    Eight high school students in the district applied for a military academy nomination through Rep. Mann’s office. In the coming weeks, the panel will notify the students whom they have chosen to receive these competitive nominations. 

    Rep. Mann is a former member of the House Committee on Veterans Affairs and a strong supporter of America’s U.S. military service members. 

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General Alan Wilson announces Nicholas Gracely convicted after jury trial in the South Carolina State Grand Jury “Las Señoritas” investigationRead More

    Source: US State of South Carolina

    (COLUMBIA, S.C.) – South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson announced today that a Greenville County jury convicted Nicholas Gracely in the “Las Señoritas” investigation on Tuesday, October 22, 2024. 

    Gracely was convicted of Trafficking Methamphetamine, 400 Grams or More; Trafficking Methamphetamine, 200 Grams or More, But Less Than 400 Grams; Manufacturing Methamphetamine; Possession of a Weapon During a Violent Crime (x2); and Unlawful Conduct Towards a Child.  

    Gracely was a co-conspirator who was receiving methamphetamine directly from Nicole Burns, a “Señorita” who had fled to Mexico and was still coordinating methamphetamine being delivered and distributed in Greenville County. Burns pleaded guilty on June 24, 2024, before the start of her jury trial in the connected investigation “Prison Empire.”  She was sentenced to a 55-year sentence.

    The facts of the case showed that law enforcement executed a search warrant on May 3, 2022, at Gracely’s apartment where his wife and three-month-old daughter were also living. Approximately 2,603 grams of methamphetamine was located with a disassembled meth lab in the garage. Approximately 291 grams of methamphetamine was located in a box in the kitchen of the apartment. Gracely confessed to being involved in the conspiracy.

    Judge R.S. Sprouse sentenced Gracely to a total sentence of 28 years in prison.  

    The case was investigated by the South Carolina State Grand Jury and prosecuted by Assistant Attorney General Savanna Goude. The State Grand Jury was assisted in this case by a partnership of the Attorney General’s State Grand Jury Division, the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division, the Thirteenth Circuit Solicitor’s office, the South Carolina Department of Corrections’ Office of the Inspector General, the Greenville County Multi-Jurisdictional Drug Enforcement Unit, Abbeville County Sheriff’s Office, Anderson County Sheriff’s Office, Greenville County Sheriff’s Office, Laurens County Sheriff’s Department, Oconee County Sheriff’s Office, Pickens County Sheriff’s  Office, Spartanburg County Sheriff’s Office, Clemson Police Department, Easley Police Department, and Traveler’s Rest Police Department. State Grand Jury Division Chief Attorney S. Creighton Waters thanked all the agencies for their hard work in the case.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General Bonta Joins Multistate Coalition in Support of LGBTQ+ Americans’ Rights in the Workplace

    Source: US State of California

    OAKLAND — California Attorney General Rob Bonta today joined 20 attorneys general in filing an amicus brief pushing back on an effort to undermine civil rights protections for LGBTQ+ Americans in the workplace. The case, McMahon v. World Vision, Inc., arose when World Vision, Inc. rescinded a job offer to Aubry McMahon upon discovering that she was in a same-sex marriage. In today’s amicus brief, the coalition urges the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit to uphold the lower court’s decision in favor of McMahon, and stresses the states’ strong interest in employment discrimination laws and protections against sex-based discrimination.

    “No one should be denied employment simply because of who they are or who they love,” said Attorney General Bonta. “We urge the Ninth Circuit to uphold the lower court’s decision and reaffirm the critical protections that safeguard all workers against discrimination in the workplace. At the California Department of Justice, we will continue to oppose efforts to undermine the rights of every individual to live and work free from discrimination.”

    After World Vision rescinded her job offer to be a customer service representative because she was in a same-sex marriage, McMahon sued under Title VII and Washington State law based on sex, sexual-orientation, and marital status discrimination. While World Vision argues that it is exempt from Title VII and state law protections under the First Amendment right to expressive association and the ministerial exception, a district court disagreed, ruling in favor of McMahon and denying the defendant’s motion for summary judgment on the employment discrimination claim, while granting McMahon’s motion for summary judgment. Nevertheless, World Vision appealed the decision to the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals.

    California shares interests in upholding the rights protected by the First Amendment, and respects and does not seek to abridge the right to hold and express views regarding the nature of marriage, including views founded in religious faith. But Defendant’s expansive theory of the First Amendment right of expressive association, and its extremely broad views of church autonomy and the ministerial exception, go well beyond existing precedent and threaten states’ ability to combat employment discrimination around the country.

    In their amicus brief today, the coalition asserts: 

    • The government has a compelling interest in eliminating sex discrimination in employment, and Title VII and similar statutes are narrowly tailored to that goal.
    • The First Amendment right of expressive association does not apply to the employer-employee relationship at issue.
    • The defendants’ theory of expressive association would badly undermine employment discrimination laws.
    • The Ninth Circuit should affirm the district court’s judgment in favor of the plaintiff. 

    In filing the amicus brief, Attorney General Bonta joins the attorneys general of Massachusetts, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawai’i, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Oregon, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and the District of Columbia.

    A copy of the amicus brief is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Why building more big dams is a costly gamble for our future water security and the environment

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By John Kandulu, Research Fellow, College of Business, Government and Law, Flinders University

    Climate change and biodiversity loss are mounting threats to Australia’s water security. So ee often hear calls for more dams. But is that the answer?

    Our recent research reveals large dam projects are costly gambles with public money. They often fail to deliver promised economic benefits. They also have major environmental, financial and social impacts.

    In New South Wales, some members of the Lower Lachlan River community were concerned about plans to expand Wyangala Dam. They first asked us in 2020 to investigate its full costs and benefits, with findings presented at a local workshop in 2022.

    The first WaterNSW estimate of capital and operating costs was A$620 million in 2018. Within a few years, it had soared to as much as $2.1 billion. In 2023, the project was scrapped because it wasn’t economically viable.

    Similar concerns surround other projects overseas and in Australia, including Hells Gate Dam in Queensland, and Dungowan Dam and Snowy Hydro 2.0 in NSW.

    To avoid repeating costly mistakes and mismanaging taxpayers’ money, we need a smarter approach to major water projects. This includes independent assessments and greater transparency, with business cases made public and decision-making open to scrutiny. And planning for climate change must become a priority.

    Lessons from past mistakes

    Inadequate economic assessments of big dam projects are a global problem. The Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam and India’s Subansiri Lower Hydroelectric Project promised big, but had rising price tags and devastating impacts on ecosystems.

    In Australia and worldwide, big dam cost overruns can be up to 825%. The average overrun is 120%. This casts serious doubt on such projects’ financial and social viability. Public costs for private gains are a major concern.

    Our study reviewed the original business case for the Wyangala Dam expansion. The original study had concluded there would be net social benefits and gave the project the green light.

    Our review found the business case was seriously flawed. It overestimated benefits and grossly underestimated physical capital and environmental costs.

    Estimated building costs blew out by 239%. If the project had gone ahead, the costs would undoubtedly have increased.

    On top of this, assessments of impacts on rivers and wetlands were poor and superficial. They greatly undervalued the environmental effects of expanding the dam, particularly on downstream wetlands.

    On the other side of the equation, its benefits were overblown, particularly for water security and agriculture.

    Local voices believed many of their concerns had been ignored. There were deep concerns that flood-dependent farmers downstream might lose some of their livelihoods. Indigenous communities were worried about their cultural sites being destroyed.

    Our analysis provided a more rigorous assessment of benefits and costs of the Wyangala Dam expansion.

    We found total project costs were underestimated by at least 116%. The benefits were inflated by 56%. This meant the true impacts on the environment, agriculture and local communities were misrepresented.

    Rethinking Australia’s water future

    Our analysis provides a salutary lesson on why we need to rethink water security. Instead of sinking billions into dams, we should find smart and sustainable ways to manage our water.

    The fixation on building and expanding dams means innovative alternatives are often ignored. These other options include recycling water, managing demand and carefully recharging aquifers (using aquifers as underground dams).

    The National Water Grid Fund exemplifies the misguided “build more dams” mindset. Its portfolio of 61 large water projects has a total capital cost estimate of up to $10 billion.

    Despite this massive investment, only 23 of these projects have publicly available business cases. It leaves more than $1.7 billion in committed funding shrouded in secrecy.

    This lack of transparency is alarming, given the history of cost overruns and inadequate assessment of environmental damage. It points to the urgent need to reassess our approach to water security. The public has a right to know that their governments are spending wisely.

    To avoid repeating costly mistakes and mismanaging taxpayers’ money, we need a smarter approach. Independent business cases should be mandated for all major water projects.

    We also need a strong public sector capable of transparent evaluation. Promised new National Environmental Standards as part of reforms to environmental protection laws are likely to require rigorous scrutiny too. We must embrace transparency by opening decision-making to public scrutiny and diverse perspectives, including local voices and Indigenous stakeholders, from the start.

    Finally, infrastructure planning must account for long-term climate impacts on water availability. Planning for climate change is vital.

    As projects such as the proposed Wyangala Dam expansion demonstrate, Australia can no longer afford to gamble its water future on outdated, costly and environmentally destructive solutions. It’s time to end the wasteful spending.

    Instead, we need to channel our efforts into truly effective, sustainable and transparent water management. Strategies must give priority to community needs, First Nations’ water rights, environmental protection and long-term climate resilience.

    John Kandulu is a recipient of funding from various sources, such as state and Commonwealth governments, as well as non-profit organisations. His affiliations include the Centre for Social Impact at Flinders University and the Environment Institute at the University of Adelaide.

    Richard Kingsford receives funding from a range of organisations, including the Australian Research Council, state and Commonwealth governments, non-government organisations, including World Wide Fund for Nature and Australian Conservation Foundation. He is a member of the Wentworth Group of Concerned Scientists and a councillor on the Biodiversity Council.

    Sarah Ann Wheeler receives funding from a range of organisations, including the Australian Research Council, state and Commonwealth governments and non-government organisations.

    – ref. Why building more big dams is a costly gamble for our future water security and the environment – https://theconversation.com/why-building-more-big-dams-is-a-costly-gamble-for-our-future-water-security-and-the-environment-239106

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Statement from Minister of Health and the Minister of Justice and the Attorney General of Canada on advance requests for medical assistance in dying

    Source: Government of Canada News

    Statement

    October 28, 2024 | Ottawa, Ontario | Health Canada

    Medical assistance in dying (MAID) is a deeply personal and complex topic.

    Canada’s federal framework governing MAID has been carefully designed with stringent safeguards to affirm and protect the inherent and equal value and dignity of every person’s life. Given the significant life-or-death implications, the Government of Canada has always chosen a cautious approach to expanding MAID eligibility. This approach emphasizes the importance of open dialogue with provinces and territories, medical professionals, expert stakeholders and Canadians.

    MAID is a matter of shared jurisdiction with provinces and territories. As a health service, MAID is administered by provincial and territorial health systems as part of end-of-life or complex care. However, since MAID involves ending a person’s life, it includes important legal considerations under the Criminal Code that is the jurisdiction of the Government of Canada.

    The Government of Canada acknowledges the work the Government of Quebec has conducted on the implementation of advance requests and their interest in having the Criminal Code amended so that advance requests can be permitted for residents of Quebec. As the Criminal Code applies uniformly across Canada and does not permit the provision of MAID based on an advance request, providing MAID pursuant to an advance request remains an offence under the Criminal Code.

    On the complex and serious topic of advance requests, it is important to hear the full range of perspectives. That is why the Government of Canada will launch a national conversation in November 2024 on the topic of advance requests. The consultations will consist of discussions with all provinces and territories, roundtables and online surveys, and will be completed by the end of January 2025. A report on the key themes and findings will be published in Spring 2025. As a first step in conducting this national conversation, the Minister of Health has written to his provincial and territorial counterparts on this important issue.

    We are launching a national conversation and will not be initiating a challenge of Quebec’s Bill 11. We recognize the importance of collaboration between levels of government to ensure that the needs of patients and healthcare professionals are met.

    This national conversation is another step to ensure that the framework for MAID in Canada reflects the evolving needs of Canadians, protects those who may be vulnerable, and supports the autonomy and freedom of choice of Canadians.

    Related Links

    Medical assistance in dying: National conversation on advance requests

    Contact

    Matthew Kronberg
    Press Secretary
    Office of the Honourable Mark Holland
    Minister of Health
    343-552-5654

    Chantalle Aubertin
    Deputy Director, Communications
    Office of the Minister of Justice and Attorney General
    613-992-6568
    Chantalle.Aubertin@justice.gc.ca

    Media Relations
    Health Canada
    613-957-2983
    media@hc-sc.gc.ca

    Department of Justice Canada
    613-957-4207
    media@justice.gc.ca

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Media advisory: Arthur Easton homicide investigation

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Police are issuing an appeal in relation to the murder of Arthur Easton in Papakura 39 years ago.

    Media are advised an announcement will be held today at 11am at Counties Manukau Police Station.

    Detective Inspector Warrick Adkin will speak with media.

    Media are required to RSVP to this advisory by emailing media@police.govt.nz  

    WHO: Detective Inspector Warrick Adkin

    WHEN: Please assemble outside the station at 10.45am to be escorted inside for an 11am start.

    WHERE: Counties Manukau Police Station, 42 Manukau Station Road, Manukau City Centre

    ENDS.

    Holly McKay/NZ Police

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Port Arthur felon sentenced to federal prison for gun and drug violations

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

    BEAUMONT, Texas – A Port Arthur convicted felon has been sentenced to federal prison for firearms and drug trafficking violations in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney Damien M. Diggs.

    Jacob Jermaine Alpough, 42, pleaded guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm and possession with intent to distribute cocaine and was sentenced to 78 months in federal prison by U.S. District Judge Michael Truncale on October 28, 2024.

    According to information presented in court, on October 10, 202, law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at Alpough’s residence located on West 5th Street in Port Arthur.  At the time of the search, Alpough was the only individual at the residence. During the search, officers found two tightly wrapped packages containing approximately one kilogram of cocaine under the dining room table.  They also located a food storage container in the kitchen with approximately one kilogram of cocaine.  Additionally, there was a semi-automatic pistol laying on the floor of the living room in plain view near where Alpough had been sleeping.  The firearm had an extended magazine with 17 rounds of ammunition in it.  Alpough is a convicted felon, having three prior felony convictions in Jefferson County for possession of a controlled substance and another conviction for intoxicated assault. As a convicted felon, Alpough is prohibited by federal law from owning or possessing firearms or ammunition.

    This case was prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts.  PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime.  Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them.  As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.

    This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Port Arthur Police Department and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew Quinn.

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Newsletters – LIBE Newsletter – October 2024 – Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs

    Source: European Parliament

    October 2024 | Newsletters | Home | LIBE | Committees | European Parliament

    Among the topics of this edition:

    • EU Commissioners-designate confirmation hearings in LIBE
    • The Rise of Anti-Semitism – exchange of views with FRA Director and EU Coordinator
    • The European Union Agency for Law Enforcement Training (CEPOL) in LIBE

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Jackson Man Pleads Guilty to Illegal Possession of a Machinegun after High Speed Chase and Collision with a Train Car

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

    Jackson, Miss. – A Jackson man pled guilty to illegal possession of a machinegun.

    Johnny Ragsdale, 20, pled guilty on October 24, 2024 in U.S. District Court in Jackson.

    According to court documents, Ragsdale was found in possession of an illegal machinegun after an attempted traffic stop on a vehicle in Jackson. Ragsdale, the driver, failed to yield to law enforcement and led Capitol Police on a high-speed chase. The chase ended after Ragsdale collided with a train car on Mill Street. A Glock pistol was recovered from the vehicle, and a machinegun conversion device, also known as a switch, was attached to the pistol.

    The U.S. Attorney’s Office has seen an increase in cases involving illegal firearm conversion devices, commonly known as “switches” or “auto sears,” which convert semi-automatic handguns into fully automatic weapons (i.e., machineguns) in a matter of seconds. The rapid fire of firearms converted to machineguns presents a significant danger in our community to both the public and law enforcement.  According to a 2023 report by the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), there was a 570% increase in the number of machinegun conversion devices taken into ATF custody between 2017 and 2021.

    Ragsdale is scheduled to be sentenced on February 25, 2025, and a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison. A federal district judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    U.S. Attorney Todd W. Gee and Special Agent in Charge Joshua Jackson of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) made the announcement.

    The ATF and the Capitol Police Department are investigating the case.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Amber S. Jones is prosecuting the case.

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: October Federal Grand Jury 2024-B Indictments Announced

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

    United States Attorney Clint Johnson today announced the results of the October Federal Grand Jury 2024-B Indictments.

    The following individuals have been charged with violations of United States law in indictments returned by the Grand Jury. The return of an indictment is a method of informing a defendant of alleged violations of federal law, which must be proven in a court of law beyond a reasonable doubt to overcome a defendant’s presumption of innocence.

    Lawrence Francis Michael Bady. Felon in Possession of a Firearm and Ammunition. Bady, 33, transient, is charged with possessing a firearm and ammunition, knowing he was previously convicted of felonies. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Tulsa Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Niko Boulieris is prosecuting the case. 24-CR-340

    Paul Jimenez Diaz; Saul Peña Becerra. Drug Conspiracy; Possession of Fentanyl with Intent to Distribute; Possession of Heroin with Intent to Distribute; Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Distribute; Possession of Cocaine with Intent to Distribute; Maintaining a Drug-Involved Premises (superseding). Diaz, 37, and Becerra, 20, Mexican Nationals, are charged with conspiring to distribute fentanyl, heroin, methamphetamine, and cocaine. Diaz knowingly possessed more than 500 grams of fentanyl, 100 grams of heroin, and more than 50 grams of methamphetamine. They also are charged with maintaining a residence for the distribution of drugs. Becerra is charged with knowingly possessing cocaine to distribute it and possessing more than 500 grams of methamphetamine. The Drug Enforcement Administration, Homeland Security Investigation, and the Tulsa Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mandy M. Mackenzie is prosecuting the case. 24-CR-323

    Kourtney Dawn Haley. Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Distribute; Maintaining a Drug-Involved Premises. Haley, 44, of Tulsa and a member of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation, is charged with knowingly possessing methamphetamine with intent to distribute and maintaining a residence to distribute methamphetamine. The Drug Enforcement Administration and the Tulsa Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney David A. Nasar is prosecuting the case. 24-CR-330

    Joseph Matthew Hough.  Domestic Assault in Indian Country by a Habitual Offender. Hough, 48, of Tulsa and a member of the Cherokee Nation, is charged with domestic assault after receiving felony convictions for domestic assault in Tulsa County District Court. The FBI and the Tulsa Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Melissa Weems and Stacey P. Todd are prosecuting the case. 24-CR-331

    Hilario Lucas Mendoza. Unlawful Reentry of a Removed Alien. Mendoza, 42, a Mexican national, is charged with unlawfully reentering the United States after having been removed in Dec. 2009. U.S. Immigration and Custom’s Enforcement and Removal Operations is the investigative agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Niko Boulieris is prosecuting the case. 24-CR-332

    James Dernest Mims, Jr. Felon in Possession of a Firearm and Ammunition; Possession of a Stolen Firearm. Mims, 26, of Virginia, is charged with possessing a firearm and ammunition, knowing he was previously convicted of felonies. Additionally, Mims possessed a stolen firearm. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Tulsa Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Scott Dunn is prosecuting the case. 24-CR-334

    Jesse Lane Mitchell; Jacklyn Paige Roberts. Aggravated Sexual Abuse of a Minor Under 12 Years of Age in Indian Country; Coercion and Enticement of a Minor; Child Neglect in Indian Country. Mitchell, 35, and Roberts, 32, a member of the Cherokee Nation of Oklahoma, both of Collinsville, are charged with knowingly engaging in a sexual act with a minor child under 12 years old between Jan. 2023 and Apr. 2024. Mitchell is further charged with coercing and enticing a minor child under 18 years old to engage in sexual activity. From Jan. 2023 through Aug. 2024, Roberts willfully failed to protect and adequately supervise a child. Homeland Security Investigations and the Collinsville Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Stephanie Ihler and Stephen Scaife are prosecuting the case. 24-CR-342

    Brian Scott Perry. Felon in Possession of a Firearm and Ammunition. Perry, 46, of Tulsa, is charged with possessing a firearm and ammunition, knowing he was previously convicted of felonies. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Tulsa Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Valeria Luster and Matthew Cyran are prosecuting the case. 24-CR-339

    Arlando Maurice Williams. Felon in Possession of a Firearm and Ammunition. Williams, 25, of Sapulpa, is charged with possessing a firearm and ammunition, knowing he was previously convicted of felonies. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Oklahoma Highway Patrol are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Niko Boulieris is prosecuting the case. 24-CR-333

    Michael Brandon Williams. Felon in Possession of a Firearm and Ammunition; False Impersonation of an Officer or Employee of the United States. Williams, 43, of Bixby, is charged with possessing a firearm and ammunition, knowing he was previously convicted of felonies. Additionally, Williams was charged with pretending to be an FBI agent. The FBI and Bixby Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Adam C. Bailey is prosecuting the case. 24-CR-336

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Direct refoulement of third-country nationals at internal borders within the Schengen area – P-001658/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    1. Under EU law, if a third-country national makes an application for international protection at the internal border of a Member State, that Member State is required to apply the provisions of the Dublin Regulation to determine which Member State is responsible for the examination of the asylum application[1]. The new transfer procedure of Article 23a of the revised Schengen Borders Code[2] does not apply to applicants for international protection.

    2. In accordance with the case law of the Court of Justice of the European Union, the derogation of Article 72 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the EU must be interpreted strictly. This Article cannot be read in such a way as to confer on Member States the power to depart from the provisions of EU law based on no more than reliance on the responsibilities incumbent upon Member States with regard to the maintenance of law and order and the safeguarding of internal security. A Member State has to prove that it is necessary to have recourse to that provision which will be subject to control by the Court of Justice of the European Union[3]. In doing so, the Court examines to what extent the EU legislator has already taken account of the exercise of the responsibilities incumbent upon the Member States in relation to public policy and internal security[4].

    • [1] Regulation (EU) No 604/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 26 June 2013 establishing the criteria and mechanisms for determining the Member State responsible for examining an application for international protection lodged in one of the Member States by a third-country national or a stateless person (recast) OJ L 180, 29.6.2013, p. 31.
    • [2] Regulation (EU) 2016/399 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 9 March 2016 on a Union Code on the rules governing the movement of persons across borders (Schengen Borders Code), OJ L 77, 23.3.2016, as amended by Regulation 2024/1717.
    • [3] Judgment of 2 April 2020, Commission/Poland, Hungary and the Czech Republic (Temporary mechanism for the relocation of applicants for international protection) (joined cases C-715/17, C-718/17 and C-719/17), ECLI:EU:C:2020:257, para 45-47.
    • [4] Judgment of 26 April 2022, Landespolizeidirektion Steiermark (joined cases C-368/20 and C-369/20), ECLI:EU:C:2022:298, para. 89.
    Last updated: 28 October 2024

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Europe’s contribution to the completion of a European project of general interest – E-001458/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The Great Sea Interconnector (formally known as ‘EuroAsia Interconnector’) consists of an offshore electricity cable and related infrastructure to interconnect the national grids of Cyprus, Greece and at a later stage Israel, and connect them to the single energy market of the EU.

    This project is recognised as a project of common interest (PCI) of the EU in the field of energy, notably under the first EU list of projects of common interest and mutual interest adopted in 2023 in line with the Trans-European Networks for Energy Regulation (EU) 2022/869 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 30 May 2022 on guidelines for trans-European energy infrastructure[1].

    PCIs are closely monitored by the Commission. The Commission is working together with the project promoter and relevant national authorities of the Member States involved to advance this project aiming at improving the interconnection of Cyprus, bringing the potential to lower energy prices for consumers, allowing for a higher share of renewables in its energy mix and increasing the security of energy supply of two Member States and the EU system altogether.

    The EU has a strategic interest in a stable and secure environment in the Eastern Mediterranean and in the development of a cooperative and mutually beneficial relationship with Türkiye.

    In this context, the EU continues to expect Türkiye to unequivocally commit to and promote good neighbourly relations and the peaceful settlement of disputes, having recourse, if necessary, to the International Court of Justice, and to respect the sovereignty and the sovereign rights of all EU Member States, in accordance with international law, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (Unclos).

    • [1] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reg/2022/869/oj
    Last updated: 28 October 2024

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Infringement procedures – E-001623/2024(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    There are currently two infringement cases in relation to Ireland on compliance with the Urban Waste Water Treatment Directive[1] (UWWTD).

    On 7 February 2024 the Commission issued a letter of formal notice to Ireland for failing to fully comply with the directive in agglomerations Kilmore Quay, Kilrush, Kilkee, Whitegate-Aghada, Moville, Mitchelstown, Clareabbey and Lahinch as urban waste waters are not properly treated before being discharged.

    A further three agglomerations with a population of more than 10 000 — Ringaskiddy, Malahide and Cobh[2] — were considered to be discharging wastewater in sensitive areas without the more stringent treatment as required by the directive[3].

    In another case[4], on 28 March 2019 the Court of Justice of the EU gave its judgment in Case C-427/17[5] and found that Ireland breached various obligations of the UWWTD in relation to the following agglomerations: Arklow, Athlone, Cork City, Enniscorthy, Ballybofey/Stranorlar, Cobh, Enfield, Fermoy, Killybegs, Mallow, Midleton, Passage/Monkstown, Rathcormac, Ringaskiddy, Ringsend, Roscommon Town, Shannon Town, Tubbercurry, Youghal, Dundalk and Castlebridge.

    As the cases are still ongoing, at this stage, the Commission is not in a position to confirm the compliance of any of the above listed agglomerations with the requirements of the directive. However, the most recent report on the implementation of the directive in Ireland is public[6].

    • [1] Council Directive 91/271/EEC of 21 May 1991 concerning urban waste-water treatment, OJ L 135, 30.5.1991, p. 40-52.
    • [2] In relation to Ringaskiddy and Cobh the letter of formal notice of 7 February 2024 covers new issues compared to those already covered by the judgment in case C — 427/17, Commission v. Ireland.
    • [3] https://ec.europa.eu/atwork/applying-eu-law/infringements-proceedings/infringement_decisions/?langCode=EN&version=v1&typeOfSearch=byCase&activeCase=true&page=1&size=10&order=desc&sortColumns=refId&refId=INFR(2023)2178
    • [4] https://ec.europa.eu/atwork/applying-eu-law/infringements-proceedings/infringement_decisions/?langCode=EN&version=v1&typeOfSearch=byCase&refId=INFR(2013)2056&activeCase=true&page=1&size=10&order=desc&sortColumns=refId
    • [5] https://op.europa.eu/en/publication-detail/-/publication/753775e2-8608-11e9-9f05-01aa75ed71a1/language-en
    • [6] https://environment.ec.europa.eu/topics/water/urban-wastewater/implementation-reports_en

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Is Donald Trump a fascist? No – he’s a new brand of authoritarian

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Geoff M Boucher, Associate Professor in Literary Studies, Deakin University

    Is Donald Trump a fascist? General Mark Milley, the former chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff under Trump, thinks so. Trump is “fascist to the core,” he warns.

    John Kelly, Trump’s former chief of staff, agrees. So does Vice President Kamala Harris, his opponent in this year’s presidential election.

    But political commentators who have a grounding in history are not so sure. Writing in The Guardian, Sidney Blumenthal calls Trump “Hitlerian” and his rallies “Naziesque”, but stops short of calling him a fascist.

    Michael Tomasky of The New Republic understands the reservations, but he is tired spending time debating the difference between “fascistic” and just plain “fascist”. “He’s damn close enough,” Tomasky writes, “and we’d better fight”.

    I understand this logic. It’s the reason Harris uses the term “fascist” to describe Trump – to send “a 911 call to the American people”. But there’s a problem.

    I have spent the past six years researching right-wing, authoritarian political communication in America. I can say with confidence how these kinds of labels can misfire. They can very easily be made to look like liberal hysteria, playing straight into the hands of the far right.

    Here are the two reasons why it is crucial to call Trump exactly what he is.

    1. Calling Trump a fascist, and then instantly adding, “or close enough,” plays directly into the hands of the far right. “See?” they might say. “Anytime anyone steps outside the liberal consensus, they get labelled a fascist. This is how political correctness silences dissent.”

    2. Trump’s kind of authoritarianism thrives on ambiguity about what sort of right-wing populist figure he is. Its success depends on the fact that “fascist” is the only name we have right now for authoritarian politics.

    In my view, Trump is not a fascist. Rather, he is part of a “new authoritarianism” that subverts democracy from within and solidifies power through administrative, rather than paramilitary, means.

    Why the ‘fascism’ label is unhelpful

    This brand of new authoritarianism hides in plain sight because there is no name for it yet. It looks like something else – for example, right-wing populism that is anti-liberal, but not yet anti-democratic. And then suddenly, it shows itself as anti-democratic extremism, as Trump did in refusing to accept the 2020 election result and encouraging the storming of the Capitol.

    This moment starkly revealed Trump as a new authoritarian. Supplementary debate about whether Trump is like Adolf Hitler risks being pointless. But the problem is that fascism is the only name we have now for anti-democratic extremism.

    All fascists are authoritarians. But not all authoritarians are fascists. It’s crucial to understand there are other types of authoritarianism – and how they differ.

    This is not just important for preventing Trump from seeking to subvert American democracy. It is also vital for stopping Trump imitators, who will now spring forth in other democracies. If there is still no name for what they are other than “fascist,” then they, too, will thrive on ambiguity.

    What is ‘new authoritarianism’?

    I suggest we focus on what Trump actually is – an anti-democratic, “new authoritarian” – and understand what this means and how he is gaining wider support using right-wing populism.

    The new authoritarians don’t necessarily take a sledgehammer to a nation’s institutions, for example, by doing away with elections. Rather, they hollow out democracy from within, so it becomes a façade draped over a one-party state.

    We have many examples of this kind of ruler today: Turkey’s Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, Hungary’s Viktor Orban, Belarus’ Alexander Lukashenko, Tunisia’s Kais Saied and, of course, the poster-figure for the new authoritarians, Russia’s Vladimir Putin.

    Trump’s admiration for Putin is a matter of public record. For alt-right thinkers who are influential with Trump, such as Steve Bannon, Putin provides a blueprint for how new authoritarianism works.

    Authoritarians like Putin must govern through the state, not the people, because, as social psychologist Bob Altemeyer explains, they ultimately represent a tiny minority of the population.

    Military dictatorships rule through the armed forces. The fascist regimes of 20th century Europe were ultimately police states. They relied on converting paramilitary death squads into secret police (like the Gestapo) and state security (the SS in Nazi Germany).

    The new authoritarians, however, govern through the transformation of the civil service into their own personal political machines.

    That is why Trump is obsessed with the “deep state”, by which he means the way in which democratic institutions have built-in legal safeguards defended by civil servants, who can potentially frustrate executive orders. The new authoritarian strategy is to appoint a stratum of political loyalists to key positions in their administrations, who can circumvent institutional checks. But that is no easy matter.

    If Trump is elected, he has vowed to “crush the deep state”, for example, by purging thousands of nonpolitical civil service employees. As part of this, he has pledged to establish a “truth and reconciliation commission” oriented to punishing those he thinks opposed him the past.

    Trump has been following this new authoritarian playbook for nearly his entire political career. These are the three steps he is taking to lay the groundwork for authoritarian rule:

    1) Undermine electoral integrity

    The first key to new authoritarianism: subvert democracy by undermining electoral integrity. The acid test here? Authoritarians do not accept election results when the opposition has won. As Trump has very bluntly put it, “I am a very proud election denier”.

    Trump’s opening move in this regard was to take over the Republican Party. He used election denialism to do this, while also marginalising any moderates who opposed him.

    The Trump Republican Party is now a minority party, oriented to white grievance, resentment of immigrants and the anti-democratic idea that a country should be run like a company.

    Its only hope for winning government as a minority party is by trying to suppress the vote of its opponents. To do this, pro-Trump Republican states have passed a number of laws since 2020 to make voting more difficult.

    These states have also aggressively removed people from the voting rolls. Texas alone has stricken one million voters off its rolls since 2021, only 6,500 of whom were deemed non-citizens.

    If Trump wins, he will likely make it even harder for people to vote. Civil rights groups fear he may introduce a citizenship question to the census, use the Department of Justice to conduct a massive purge of voter rolls, and launch criminal investigations of electoral officials.

    As a backup, Trump will likely resurrect the “election integrity commission” he established in 2017 to justify his claims of alleged voter fraud in the 2016 election and support his election denialism narrative.

    2) Weaken the legislative and judicial branches

    The second key to new authoritarianism: circumventing the checks-and-balances function of the legislative branch of government. The goal here is to rule by executive fiat or govern through a stacked legislative majority.

    The new authoritarians often govern through executive orders, including the use of emergency powers. For instance, Trump has envisaged a scenario in which a Republican Congress could enact emergency powers to empower the president to overturn the authority of state governors to fire their prosecutors and use the National Guard for law enforcement.

    Such a development would depend on a number of factors, including the complicity of the judiciary. This is why new authoritarians also attempt to stack the judiciary with loyalists.

    In his first term, Trump not only appointed three Supreme Court justices, he also placed judges to the federal appeals courts, district courts and circuit courts.

    3) Attack their enemies

    This leads to the third pillar of new authoritarianism: decapitating the political opposition and suppressing dissent.

    Trump’s threats to investigate and prosecute his enemies, including leading figures in the Democratic Party, should be taken very seriously. His calls to target the “enemy from within” were pointedly directed at what he deemed “radical left lunatics”.

    Journalists and the news media would also likely be targeted. Trump’s statement that the broadcast licenses of national networks should be revoked, for example, needs to be understood in the context of his pledges to dismantle federal regulatory agencies if elected.

    That matters, because the next step for new authoritarians to solidify their power is through suppressing dissent. Trump has proposed using the military in civil contexts to target criminals and prevent illegal immigration. He has reportedly even questioned why the military couldn’t “just shoot” protesters.

    It is important to understand how this differs from fascism, because it is central to Trump’s ability to retain electoral support.

    Classical fascism under dictators like Hitler and Italy’s Benito Mussolini was based on street-fighting, paramilitary movements, which used violence to intimidate and crush the opposition. The equivalents of this today are right-wing militias such as the Proud Boys and Oath Keepers.

    Trump keeps one foot on the edge of this camp. But alt-right figures like Bannon understand that swastika flags and paramilitary uniforms are a political liability. Their preference is for new authoritarianism, which is able to push
    a right-wing extremist agenda by reducing democracy to sham elections, rather than openly setting up a totalitarian regime.

    As such, Trump can dodge accusations of being a “fascist” by telling the Proud Boys to “stand by”, while throwing up a smokescreen of equivocations about the January 6 Capitol insurrection. He can distance himself from kind of paramilitary violence that is reminiscent of classical fascism.

    It is about time to call things by their true names. Trump has the anti-democratic tendencies of a new authoritarian – and, as his opponents point out, he seems likely to put his words into actions if elected a second time.

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

    – ref. Is Donald Trump a fascist? No – he’s a new brand of authoritarian – https://theconversation.com/is-donald-trump-a-fascist-no-hes-a-new-brand-of-authoritarian-241586

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Global: What to do if your vote is challenged: Practical advice from a civil rights attorney for Election Day

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Karen Figueroa-Clewett, Lecturer, Agents of Change program, Department of Political Science and International Relations, USC Dornsife College of Letters, Arts and Sciences

    Stickers on a table on the first day of Virginia’s in-person early voting, Sept. 20, 2024, in Arlington. Andrew Harnik/Getty Images

    With the general election drawing close, it’s important to know your rights in case your vote is challenged.

    The best way to ensure that your vote is counted is to advocate for yourself. I’m a civil rights attorney and lecturer for the University of Southern California’s undergraduate civil rights advocacy initiative, Agents of Change. Here are several straightforward ways to ensure your vote is counted and two practical remedies for you to consider if your vote remains challenged.

    A major part of ensuring that you are able to vote is doing the necessary preparation before you even get to the polling place. Read on to find out how and where to register, where and when you can cast your ballot, and what numbers to call for any information you can’t find online.

    Are you registered to vote? Check it out

    Before you vote, you need to ensure that you’re registered to vote. You can verify your registration status using this tool. If you can’t use an online tool, then call your local election office or a voter help line like the ones listed in the hotline section below.

    If you find you’re not registered, you can use this tool from the National Conference of State Legislatures to find your state’s online registration application. If you need to do this in person, then call your local election office for instructions.

    At this point, you may have missed your state’s deadline for voter registration. But it may not be too late to register.

    Many states allow same-day registration at the polling site. You can find your state’s same-day voter laws detailed here. Ask the poll worker, at the correct polling location, for a same-day registration form; complete the form and then ask for a “conditional ballot.” A conditional ballot allows election officials to count your vote after verifying your voter eligibility. If you can’t research online, you can call your local election office to find out if you can register on Election Day.

    Marchellos Scott, right, helps Morehouse College students fill out a voter registration form at a college registration booth on Aug. 19, 2024, in Atlanta.
    Elijah Nouvelage / AFP via Getty Images

    Gather documents to verify your identity

    If you live in a state that requires identity verification to vote in person, gather the required documents – which may range from a driver’s license to bank statements with identifying information – before traveling to the correct polling place. You can find your county election office’s contact information here. This webpage includes a table listing each state’s acceptable ID documents and possible exceptions for some people. You may also call your local election office to find out what’s required.

    Absentee voters: Locate your state’s identity verification rules here.

    Find the correct polling location

    You can ensure that you’re headed to the right polling place with this tool. Or call your county election office to find your polling place and its hours of operation; you can look up your county’s election office contact information here.

    Once you know your polling place and its hours, you can go there and check in. In most cases, you’ll be handed a ballot, shown where to vote and asked to put your ballot in a machine or a box, and then you can go merrily along your way.

    But the moment of check-in is where things might go wrong.

    Problems at your polling place

    Here are potential vote challenges and ways to overcome them.

    Possibility No. 1: Out-of-order polling machines.

    If you’re asked to leave because of malfunctioning machines, don’t. Instead, ask for a paper ballot.

    Possibility No. 2: You’re in line and officials announce the polls have closed.

    If you’re in line at the polling location before it closes, don’t let them turn you away at closing time if you haven’t voted. You have the legal right to vote under those circumstances, so stay in line and wait to cast your ballot.

    Possibility No. 3: You’re not on the registered voters list.

    If you’re told you can’t vote because your name is not on the voter roster, ask the poll site worker to check again and to check what’s called the list of supplemental voters. If they still can’t find your name, ask the poll worker to verify that you’re at the right location.

    Poll workers want you to vote. But sometimes there are problems.
    Brendan Smialowski/AFP via Getty Images

    Possibility No. 4: Someone claims you shouldn’t be allowed to vote.

    If your voting eligibility remains challenged after ensuring you’re at the right polling location, ask to cast a provisional ballot, which is available in every state except Idaho and Minnesota. You can find details about your particular state’s provisional ballot rules here.

    Track your provisional ballot here.

    Call a hotline

    If you are not given a provisional ballot, call an election hotline for help. Here are four hotlines, run by members of the nonpartisan Election Protection coalition, that can help you:

    English: 866-OUR-VOTE/866-687-8683, the Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under Law

    Spanish: 888-VE-Y-VOTA/888-839-8682, the National Association of Latino Elected and Appointed Officials Education Fund

    Asian Languages: 888-API-VOTE/888-274-8683, Asian and Pacific Islander American Vote

    Arabic: 844-YALLA-US/844-925-5287, Arab American Institute

    Report voter intimidation

    If someone tries to scare you into voting or not voting for a candidate, stand your ground and demand a ballot from the poll site, call one of the hotlines above to report the intimidation, and file a claim with the FBI later by phone at 800-CALL-FBI – 800-225-5324 – or online at tips.fbi.gov.

    File a lawsuit

    If you are still blocked from voting, consider legal action – but get advice on your exact situation from one of the hotlines, which have free lawyers on hand. It’s a good idea to write down the names of people who prevented you from voting and to ask people who witnessed the incident for their contact information.

    Leer in español

    This is an updated version of a story that was originally published on Nov. 2, 2022.

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

    – ref. What to do if your vote is challenged: Practical advice from a civil rights attorney for Election Day – https://theconversation.com/what-to-do-if-your-vote-is-challenged-practical-advice-from-a-civil-rights-attorney-for-election-day-239066

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Indian Cybercrime Coordination Center (I4C), MHA issues alert against illegal payment gateways created using mule bank accounts by Transnational Organized Cybercriminals facilitating money laundering as a service

    Source: Government of India

    Indian Cybercrime Coordination Center (I4C), MHA issues alert against illegal payment gateways created using mule bank accounts by Transnational Organized Cybercriminals facilitating money laundering as a service

    Under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and guidance of Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah, Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) is taking all steps to create a Cyber Secure Bharat

    Nation-wide raids by Gujarat Police and Andhra Pradesh Police reveal that trans-national criminals have created illegal digital payment gateways using mule / rented accounts

    These illegal infrastructure facilitating money laundering as a service are used for laundering proceeds of multiple nature of cybercrimes

    I4C advices all citizens not to sell/rent their bank accounts/company registration certificate/Udhyam Aadhaar Registration certificate to anyone

    Illicit funds deposited in such bank accounts can lead to legal consequences, including arrest

    Banks may deploy necessary checks to identify misuse of bank accounts that are used for setting up Illegal Payment Gateways

    People must immediately report any cybercrime on helpline number 1930 or www.cybercrime.gov.in and follow “CyberDost” channels / account on social media, to remain informed

    Posted On: 28 OCT 2024 7:49PM by PIB Delhi

    Indian Cybercrime Coordination Center (I4C), MHA has issued an against illegal payment gateways created using mule bank accounts by Transnational Organized Cybercriminals facilitating money laundering as a service. Recent nation-wide raids by Gujarat Police (FIR 0113/2024) and Andhra Pradesh Police (FIR 310/2024) have revealed that trans-national criminals have created illegal digital payment gateways using mule/rented accounts. These illegal infrastructure facilitating money laundering as a service are used for laundering proceeds of multiple nature of cybercrimes.

    Under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and guidance of Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah, Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), in collaboration with all Law Enforcement Agencies (LWAs), is taking all steps to create a Cyber Secure Bharat.

    As per the information received from State Police Agencies and analysis by Indian Cybercrime Coordination Center, following details were identified:

    1. Current accounts and saving accounts are scouted through social media; majorly from Telegram and Facebook. These accounts belong to shell companies / enterprise or individuals.
    2. These mule accounts are controlled remotely from overseas.
    • III. An illegal payment gateway is then created using these mule accounts are given to criminal syndicates for accepting deposits on illegal platforms like fake investment scam sites, offshore betting and gambling websites, fake stock trading platforms etc.
    • IV. Funds are immediately layered to another account as soon as the crime proceeds are received. Bulk Payout facility provided by banks are misused for the same.

    Some of the payment gateways identified during operation are PeacePay, RTX Pay, PoccoPay, RPPay etc. These gateways are learnt to be providing Money Laundering as a Service and are operated by foreign nationals.

    I4C has advised citizens not to sell/rent their bank accounts/company registration certificate/Udhyam Aadhaar Registration certificate to anyone. Illicit funds deposited in such bank accounts can lead to legal consequences, including arrest. Banks may deploy checks to identify misuse of bank accounts that are used for setting up Illegal Payment Gateways. The citizens must immediately report any cybercrime on helpline number 1930 or www.cybercrime.gov.in and follow “CyberDost” channels / account on social media.

    *****

    RK / VV / RR / PS

    (Release ID: 2069000) Visitor Counter : 23

    Read this release in: Hindi

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya Announces Nationwide Volunteering Initiative ‘This Diwali with MY BHARAT’ to Mark MY Bharat Portal’s First Anniversary

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya Announces Nationwide Volunteering Initiative ‘This Diwali with MY BHARAT’ to Mark MY Bharat Portal’s First Anniversary

    Over 2 Lakh Volunteers across 500 Locations in India to Participate in this Initiative

    Posted On: 28 OCT 2024 6:51PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Minister of Youth Affairs & Sports and Labour & Employment, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, has unveiled a nationwide volunteering initiative titled ‘This Diwali with MY Bharat – Ye Diwali MY Bharat Ke Saath’, set to take place from 27th to 30th October 2024. This special event, aimed at celebrating the first anniversary of the MY Bharat Portal, will see the participation of over 2 lakh volunteers across 500 locations in India, fostering a spirit of social service and volunteerism during the festive season.

    Through this initiative, volunteers will work together to enhance urban amenities such as roadways, markets, and basic healthcare facilities, ensuring that citizens enjoy a more vibrant and seamless festival experience. The effort aims to strengthen the bond between local communities and volunteers, showcasing the power of community-oriented action. Activities planned under this mega event include:

    • Market Cleaning: In collaboration with the All India Traders Association, volunteers will clean identified marketplaces.
    • Hospital Volunteering: Volunteers will assist in enhancing access to health services for patients.
    • Traffic Volunteering: Assisting Traffic Police in managing traffic congestion at critical chokepoints.

    The event will see collaboration from various stakeholders, including the Department of Youth Affairs, the Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT), registered MY Bharat volunteers, Youth Clubs, NSS units, Market Associations, Traffic Police departments, and selected hospitals.

    Department of Youth Affairs invites the youth across the country to actively participate by registering on the MY Bharat Portal at www.mybharat.gov.in and engaging in activities planned during the festive season. Participants are encouraged to share their photos and videos of the activities on the Mega Event Page, using the hashtag #DiwaliWithMYBharat.

    ******

    Himanshu Pathak

    (Release ID: 2068973) Visitor Counter : 83

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: India-Spain Joint Statement during the visit of President of Government of Spain to India (October 28-29, 2024)

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 28 OCT 2024 6:32PM by PIB Delhi

    At the invitation of the Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi, President of the Government of Spain, Mr. Pedro Sanchez paid an official visit to India on 28 -29 October, 2024. This was President Sanchez’s first visit to India and the first visit by a President of the Government of Spain to India after 18 years. He was accompanied by the Minister of Transport and Sustainable Mobility and the Minister of Industry and Tourism, and a high-level official and business delegation.

    The two leaders noted that this visit has renewed the bilateral relationship, infusing it with fresh momentum and setting the stage for a new era of enhanced cooperation between the two countries across various sectors. They also expressed satisfaction at the progress of bilateral relations since Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Spain in 2017. Both leaders instructed their teams to continue upgrading the bilateral agenda further and forging cooperation in all dimensions of political, economic, security, defence, people-to-people and cultural cooperation.

    President Sanchez was granted a cultural welcome, and held delegation level talks with Prime Minister Modi at Vadodara.He also visited Mumbai where he interacted with prominent business leaders, cultural figures and representatives of the Indian film industry.

    President Sanchez and Prime Minister Modi jointly inaugurated the Final Assembly Line Plant of C-295 aircraft co-produced by Airbus Spain and Tata Advanced Systems Ltd. at Vadodara. This plant will roll out the first ‘Made in India’ C295 aircraft in 2026, out of a total of 40 aircrafts to be manufactured in India. Airbus Spain is also delivering 16 aircrafts in ‘fly-away’ condition to India, out of which 6have already been delivered to the Indian Air Force.

    Political, Defence, and Security Cooperation

    1. The two leaders reviewed the warm and cordial bilateral ties between the two countries and highlighted that the foundation of the growing partnership lies in the shared commitment to democracy, freedom, rule of law, a fair and equitable global economy, a more sustainable and resilient planet, a rules-based international order and enhanced and reformed multilateralism. They also highlighted the enduring historical ties and long-standing friendship between the two nations as central to this cooperation.

    2. Both leaders emphasised that regular high-level interaction is giving momentum to the partnership. They noted that the ongoing bilateral cooperation between the foreign, economy and commerce and defence ministries is working well, and stressed the importance of holding regular dialogues between the concerned ministries/agencies of the two sides with a view to strengthening and diversifying bilateral cooperation in key areas of defence, security including cyber security, trade and economic issues, culture, tourism, education and people-to-people ties.

    3. Both leaders expressed satisfaction on the progress made in the C-295 aircraft project as a symbol of the growing defence industrial cooperation between the two countries. In line with this growing partnership, and in recognition of the advanced capabilities and competitiveness of the Spanish defence industry and its contribution to the goals of the ‘Make in India’ initiative, they encouraged their respective defence industries in other sectors to set up similar joint projects in India.

    Economic and Commercial Cooperation

    4. President Sanchez and Prime Minister Modi welcomed the recent positive developments in bilateral trade and investment partnership, buoyed by the positive economic outlook in both countries and called for stronger ties between the businesses of the two countries.

    5. Prime Minister Modi congratulated President Sanchez on the growth and the resilience of the Spanish economy. President Sanchez complimented Prime Minister Modi on India’s fast economic growth and lauded the various government initiatives to promote a business-friendly environment. President Sanchez highlighted Spain’s commitment to the ‘Make in India’ initiative through the activities of about 230 Spanish companies present in India. Both leaders reiterated their strong support for an open rules-based multilateral trading system, and a business-friendly investment scenario in both countries.

    6. Recognizing the expertise of Spanish companies in areas such as energy, including renewables, nuclear, and smart grids, food processing, healthcare and health services, automotive and transport infrastructure, including trains, roads, ports and transport network management, the two leaders welcomed further collaboration in these areas. President Sanchez welcomed the positive contributions being made by Indian companies to the Spanish economy in fields such as information technology, pharmaceuticals and automobile and auto components. Both leaders welcomed the establishment of a ‘Fast Track Mechanism’ to facilitate mutual investments in India and Spain.

    7. The two leaders took note of the progress made by the 12th session of the India-Spain ‘Joint Commission for Economic Cooperation’ (JCEC) held in 2023 and agreed to convene the next session of the JCEC in Spain in early 2025. In this context, they also agreed on the importance of deepening economic ties and exploring strategic cooperation in key sectors such as renewable energy, technology, and sustainable infrastructure. The two leaders looked forward to an early conclusion of Memorandum of Understanding on Urban Sustainable Development.

    8. Both leaders welcomed the Second meeting of the India-Spain CEOs Forum as well as India-Spain Business Summit in Mumbai on October 29, 2024,to promote trade and investment cooperation between the two countries.

    9. Both leaders recognized the vital importance of innovation and the startup ecosystems in driving forward the bilateral partnership and called for all such opportunities to be explored in mutual interest. They encouraged relevant agencies of both countries to work to deepen any such exchanges in the future, including through frameworks such as Rising Up in Spain and the Startup India initiative.

    10. The two leaders expressed satisfaction at the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding on cooperation in the field of rail transport and the agreement of cooperation and mutual assistance in customs matter.

    11. The leaders acknowledged the role of tourism in driving economic and business opportunities and enhancing understanding between the people of both countries and agreed that it should be further promoted. Both leaders welcomed the interest shown by airlines to establish direct flights between Spain and India.

    The Year 2026 as India-Spain Year of Culture, Tourism and AI

    12. Taking into account the deep relationship between India and Spain and the long lasting friendship between the two peoples, Prime Minister Modi, and President Pedro Sanchez, have agreed to make 2026 as the Year of India and Spain in Culture, Tourism and Artificial Intelligence (AI).

    13. During the year, both sides will make the maximum effort to boost the cultural presence of the other in their museums, art, fairs, film, festivals, literature, meetings of architects and circles of debate and thought.

    14. Likewise, special attention will be paid to ways of increasing tourist flows, promote reciprocal investments and share experiences in the many areas of hospitality, architecture, cuisine, marketing, both in urban and rural tourism, which benefits harmonious development and improvement for both countries.

    15. In accordance with the G20 New Delhi Leaders Declaration, India and Spain can play a very important role for the use of AI for good and its positive implementation in many fields. Both countries commit to hold during the year, events to foster positive use of AI and will work for the practical implementation of new advances in the field of AI in the productive economy.

    16. To mark the importance of this initiative, both leaders directed the concerned stakeholders to celebrate the year in the respective countries in the most befitting manner.

    Cultural and People-to-People Ties

    17. The two leaders acknowledged the role of cultural ties in bringing nations closer and lauded the rich and diverse cultural heritage of India and Spain. They appreciated the long-standing cultural exchanges and enrichment between India and Spain, particularly the role of Spanish Indologists and Indian Hispanists. They welcomed the signing of a Cultural Exchange Program to promote bilateral exchanges in music, dance, theatre, literature, museums and festivals.

    18.The two leaders applauded the growing interest in the study of the cultures and languages of both countries. Spanish is among popular foreign languages in India. They stressed the mutual interest in further strengthening India – Spain cultural cooperation and the reinforcement of cooperation among cultural institutions of both countries such as Instituto Cervantes in New Delhi and Casa de la India in Valladolid.

    19. The two leaders welcomed the establishment of the ICCR Chairs on Hindi and on Indian Studies at the University of Valladolid. India is bringing transformational changes in education sector in India under National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. In this context, Prime Minister Modi encouraged leading Spanish universities to strengthen academic and research partnership with Indian institutions; build institutional linkages through joint/dual degree and twinning arrangements and explore the possibility of setting up branch campuses in India.

    20. President Sanchez is also giving the keynote address at the 4th Spain-India Forum, co-organized by Spain-India Council Foundation and Observer Research Foundation, in Mumbai. The leaders recognized the valuable contributions of this institution, which has a complementary role to that of governments in strengthening the links between Indian and Spanish civil societies, companies, think tanks, administrations and universities, helping to enhance bilateral ties by fostering a strong partnership between their members and its activities and bringing the two countries together in order to increase their mutual knowledge.

    21. The two leaders welcomed the installation at Valladolid of the bust of Gurudev Rabindranath Tagore gifted to the people of Spain by ICCR and the placing of the translated works of Tagore in the vaults of Instituto Cervantes in Madrid which is a testament to increasing cultural connect between peoples of the two countries.

    22. The two sides noted with satisfaction the growing cooperation in the field of film and audio-visuals, with India being the Guest Country at the SEMINCI International Film Festival in 2023, and the award of the IFFI Satyajit Ray Lifetime Achievement to the legendary Spanish director Carlos Saura. Acknowledging the large film and audio-visual industries in India and Spain, both leaders agreed that the scope of collaboration between the two countries under the Audio-Visual Co-Production Agreement can be enhanced and welcomed the creation of a Joint Commission to improve cooperation between the two countries in the audiovisual field and promote and facilitate the co-production of films.

    23. To enhance people-to-people ties and consular services in two countries, the two leaders welcome the operationalisation of India’s first Consulate General in Spain at Barcelona and the decision to open Spain’s Consulate General in Bengaluru.

    EU and India relations

    24. Prime Minister Modi and President Sanchez reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening the India-EU Strategic Partnership and to advancing the EU-India triple negotiations of comprehensive Free Trade Agreement, Investment Protection Agreement and Geographical Indications Agreement.

    25. They agreed to enhance their collaboration to fully realize the objectives of the EU-India Connectivity Partnership, and recognized the potential of the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor Project (IMEEC) to boost connectivity between India and Europe. They explored avenues for cooperation among regional countries in areas such as trade, investment, technology, energy, logistics, ports, and infrastructure development.

    Global Issues

    26. The leaders expressed their deepest concern over the war in Ukraine and reiterated the need for a comprehensive, just and lasting peace in line with international law, and consistent with the purposes and principles of the UN Charter, including respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity. They underlined the importance of dialogue and diplomacy as well as earnest engagement between all stakeholders to achieve a sustainable and peaceful resolution of the conflict. Both sides agreed to remain in touch to support efforts aimed at negotiated settlement of the conflict.

    27.They shared their firm commitment to achieving peace and stability in the Middle East, and expressed their deep concern at the escalation of security situation in West Asia and called for restraint by all concerned. They urged that all issues be addressed through dialogue and diplomacy. The two leaders unequivocally condemned the terror attacks on Israel on October 7, 2023, and agreed that the large-scale loss of civilian lives and the humanitarian crisis in Gaza is unacceptable and must end as soon as possible. They called for the immediaterelease of all hostages, immediate ceasefire and safe, sustained entry of humanitarian aid into Gaza. They emphasized the urgent need to protect the lives of civilians and urged all parties to comply with international law. They reiterated their commitment to the implementation of the two State solution,leading to the establishment of a sovereign, viable and independent state of Palestine, living within secure and mutually recognized borders, side by side in peace and security with Israel as well as their support for Palestine membership at the United Nations.

    28. Both sides reiterated their concern on escalation and violence in Lebanon, and the security situation along the Blue Line and reaffirmed their commitment to the full implementation of UNSC Resolution 1701. As major troop contributing countries, they condemned the attacks on UNIFIL and highlighted that the safety and security of peacekeepers are of paramount importance and must be ensured by all. Inviolability of UN premises and the sanctity of their mandate must be respected by all.

    29. Both sides emphasized the promotion of a free, open, inclusive, peaceful, and prosperous Indo-Pacific, anchored in a rules-based international order, mutual respect for sovereignty, and the peaceful resolution of disputes, supported by effective regional institutions. They highlighted the importance of unimpeded commerce and freedom of navigation, in compliance with international law, particularly the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) 1982. Both sides acknowledged India’s invitation to Spain to participate in the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative (IPOI) for collaborative efforts aimed at the management, conservation, sustainability, security, and development of the maritime domain in the Indo-Pacific. They also recognized the complementarity between India’s Indo-Pacific Vision and the EU Strategy for Cooperation in the Indo-Pacific.

    30. Noting the growing political and commercial relations between India and Latin American region and the historical, economic and cultural links it shares with Spain, both leaders recognized the immense potential of triangular cooperation for investments and development in the region. Spain welcomed India’s application to join the Ibero-American Conference as an Associate Observer, which will offer a platform to strengthen the ties with Latin American countries. Both sides committed to finalise the process by the Ibero-American Summit, to be held in Spain in 2026, so that India may actively participate in the activities of Spain´s Pro Tempore Secretariat.

    International and Multilateral Cooperation

    31. Both leaders agreed to enhance cooperation and coordination within the United Nations, including the UN Security Council (UNSC), and other multilateral forums. They emphasized the importance of a rules-based international order for ensuring global peace and development. Both sides committed to advancing multilateralism that reflects present-day realities, making international organizations, including the UNSC, more representative, effective, democratic, accountable and transparent. India expressed its support for Spain’s UNSC candidature for the term 2031-32, while Spain expressed its support for India’s candidature for the period 2028-29.

    32. Both leaders look forward to the Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development to take place in 2025 in Sevilla (Spain) as a critical opportunity to identify priority actions to help close the resource gap needed to implement the Sustainable Development Goals.

    33. President Sanchez congratulated Prime Minister Modi on the exemplary chairmanship of G20, which successfully and inclusively addressed important and complex Global South issues. Prime Minister Modi appreciated the valuable contributions made by Spain to the discussions as a Permanent Invitee to the G20.

    34. The two leaders agreed to strengthen cooperation in promoting sustainable energy and adapting to climate change. They recognize the urgency of accelerating global actions to combat climate change and commit to collaborating in the context of the upcoming Climate Summit in Baku (COP29) to achieve an ambitious outcome including on a New Collective Quantified Goal on Climate Finance that helps achieve the temperature goal of Paris Agreement. They also highlighted the need topromote actions to strengthen countries’ resilience and adaptation capacities in the face of the increasing impacts of climate change worldwide. The two leaders looked forward to the early conclusion of Memorandum of Understanding in the field of Renewable Energy. Prime Minister Modi appreciated Spain’s commitment towards a green transition and welcomed Spain to the International Solar Alliance. President Sanchez appreciated advances made by India in achieving the renewable energy goals much ahead of the target year. Both leaders also agreed that a concerted global effort would be needed in order to address climate change concerns. Both sides will respond positively to the outcomes of COP28, including the first Global Stocktake in light of national circumstances.

    35. Spain has invited India to join IDRA, the International Drought Resilience Alliance, which was launched in 2022, a platform to promote concrete actions to reduce the vulnerability of countries, cities and communities to drought through preparedness and adaptation measures.

    36.Both leaders unequivocally condemned terrorism and violent extremism in all its forms and manifestations, including the use of terrorist proxies and cross-border terrorism. Both sides agreed that terrorism remains a serious threat to international peace and stability, and called for bringing the perpetrators of all terrorist attacks to justice without delay. They urged all countries to take immediate, sustained and irreversible action to prevent territory under their control from being used for terrorist purposes, and stressed the need for firm implementation of relevant resolutions of the UN Security Council, as well as the implementation of the UN Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy. They also called for concerted action against all terrorist groups proscribed by the UNSC including Al Qa’ida, ISIS/Daesh, Lashkar-e-Tayyiba (LeT), Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) and their proxy groups. Prime Minister Modi appreciated Spain’s multilateral initiatives in support of the Victims of Terrorism and their empowerment.

    37. President Sanchez thanked Prime Minister Modi for the warm reception and hospitality extended to him and his delegation during the visit, and invited him to undertake a visit to Spain in the near future.

     

    ***

    MJPS/SR

    (Release ID: 2068963) Visitor Counter : 44

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Man arrested over Paradise house fire

    Source: South Australia Police

    A man was arrested after a fire at a Paradise home overnight.

    Emergency services were called to a house in Leewood Road, Paradise about 12.30am on Tuesday 29 October after reports of a fire.

    The two men inside the property were able to escape the building without injury.  One of the occupants then left the scene before emergency services arrived.

    MFS crews were able to quickly extinguish the fire, which was contained to a single bedroom.

    There was significant damage caused to the room and smoke damage throughout the house.

    Following investigations, a 43-year-old man, who resides at the property, was arrested nearby and charged with arson and acts likely to cause harm.

    He was refused police bail and will appear in the Adelaide Magistrates Court today.

    Eastern District CIB detectives and crime scene investigators will attend the scene this morning.

    Investigations are ongoing.

    Anyone with information that may assist the investigation is asked to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or online at www.crimestopperssa.com.au

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Law Enforcement Plan Crack Down Through Halloween

    Source: US State of New York

    Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that State Police and local law enforcement will increase patrols through Halloween, targeting impaired and reckless drivers. The enforcement period begins on Friday, Oct. 25, and runs through Thursday, Oct. 31, and is funded by the Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee.

    “Responsible choices are key to ensuring that all New Yorkers have a safe and fun Halloween,” Governor Hochul said. “If you’re planning to celebrate, plan to have a sober ride home. I thank the New York State Police and our local law enforcement for keeping our children, communities and celebrations safe and fun.”

    During the enforcement period, drivers can expect several sobriety checkpoints and additional DWI patrols. In addition to targeting impaired drivers, law enforcement officers will also be looking for drivers that are distracted or speeding.

    During last year’s initiative, law enforcement officers issued 32,866 citations and 1,182 drivers were arrested for impaired driving and 6,495 drivers were ticketed for speeding.

    The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports Halloween is a particularly deadly night due to the high number of impaired drivers on the roads and a significant increase in pedestrians. In 2022, 72 people died in traffic crashes during Halloween night. Of those fatalities, 46 percent occurred in alcohol-related crashes.

    Children out trick-or-treating, and those who accompany them, are also at increased risk. According to AAA Northeast, from 2007 to 2021 federal crash data shows Halloween is the deadliest day for child pedestrians under the age of 18. A total of 49 children across the country were killed on Halloween during that period, nearly double the next deadliest day.

    The Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee and the State Department of Health are sharing the following helpful safety guidance for parents, caregivers and drivers to help avoid injuries and ensure a safe and happy Halloween.

    Safety Tips for Pedestrians

    • Walk on a sidewalk if one is available and use crosswalks. In areas without sidewalks, walk facing traffic.
    • Look left, right and left again and continue looking as you cross the street.
    • Watch for cars backing up and never dart out between parked cars.
    • Before the Halloween festivities begin, create a “buddy system” to get each other home safely and prevent walking alone. Stick to areas that are well lit and familiar.
    • To be safest, join other families and walk together. Walking in groups always makes you more visible.
    • In selecting costumes for children, make sure the child will be fully visible. Wear reflective clothing such as wristbands and shoes, carry a flashlight or glow sticks, or place reflective tape on costumes or trick-or-treat bags.
    • Be sure that shoes, hats and costumes fit well. A costume that is too long can be a danger for tripping while walking. Hats and masks should not block vision.
    • Do not use mobile phones or wear headphones. Always stay aware of your surroundings.

    Safety Tips for Drivers

    • Give yourself extra time to get to your destination. You may have to stop for trick-or-treaters, which may add to your travel time.
    • Slow down and continuously scan the road in areas where trick-or-treaters are likely to be or where visibility is limited. Slower speeds save lives.
    • Stay alert for pedestrians who may emerge from between parked cars or behind shrubbery. Stop and wait for them to pass.
    • Look for pedestrians, especially before turning at a green light and making a right turn on red.
    • Pay attention! Don’t look at your phone when driving. Always keep your attention on the road.
    • If you see a drunk driver, contact law enforcement.

    New York State Department of Motor Vehicles Commissioner Mark J.F. Schroeder said, “Enforcement periods like this are necessary to raise awareness about the dangers of impaired and reckless driving. We want everyone to be safe and enjoy Halloween festivities. Children and parents should never have to worry about getting home safely when they are out trick-or-treating.”

    New York State Police Superintendent Steven G. James said, “Halloween is meant to be a fun day, but it can turn deadly when someone makes the wrong choice to drink and drive. Drivers should exercise extreme caution and be mindful of extra pedestrian traffic as children and their parents will be out walking our streets. Together, we can work to make our roads safer for all who travel and walk them.”

    New York State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald said, “Halloween is the highlight of the fall season for many children and their families and it’s important to ensure avoid injuries when out trick-or-treating by practicing safe pedestrian rules. Pay attention to traffic signs and keep an eye out for drivers and for each other.”

    Delaware County Sheriff and President of the NYS Sheriffs’ Association Craig DuMond said, “There is plenty to fear this spooky time of year, but trick-or-treaters shouldn’t have to worry about dangerous drivers. Law enforcement will be out to make sure everyone is safe as families are enjoying Halloween, and sometimes the days before and after. Drivers need to be on the lookout for pedestrians. It is hard to see ghouls and goblins if you are speeding or driving impaired. The Sheriffs of New York State want you to enjoy your tricks and treats safely, so obey the speed limit and drive sober.”

    New York State Association of Chiefs of Police President and City of Batavia Police Department Chief Shawn Heubusch said, “Stay safe this Halloween: watch for pedestrians, don’t drive impaired, and slow down for trick-or-treaters. Let’s keep our communities safe and enjoyable for everyone.”

    In addition to offering safety tips ahead of Halloween, the State Department of Health promotes pedestrian safety all year long through its See! Be Seen! Pedestrian safety initiative, which recently included a Safe Street: Walking with Daisy campaign to teach kids in Grades K-5 some simple rules of the road to help them cross the street safely.

    For drivers who might find themselves in need of a way home after Halloween parties, the Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee and the New York State STOP-DWI Foundation’s “Have a Plan” mobile app, is available for Apple and Android smartphones. The app enables New Yorkers to locate and call a taxi service and program a designated driver list. It also provides information on DWI laws and penalties, and a way to report a suspected impaired driver.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Leader of Middle Georgia Armed Drug Trafficking Organization Pleads Guilty

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

    MACON, Ga. – A Macon resident with a prior federal conviction who is the leader of an armed drug trafficking organization based in Middle Georgia faces a maximum of life in prison for supplying large quantities of methamphetamine.

    Julian Derwayne Coker aka “Red” aka “Bread Red,” 43, of Macon, pleaded guilty to one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine on Oct. 22, and faces a mandatory minimum of 15 years up to a maximum of life in prison to be followed by ten years of supervised release and a $20,000,000 fine.

    The following codefendants have pleaded guilty and/or been sentenced:

    Jonathan Kelly McBride, 49, of Macon, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine on Oct. 23, and faces a maximum of 20 years in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release and a $1,000,000 fine;

    Rodney Sentell Hardin aka “Rod,” 44, of Macon, pleaded guilty to one count of distribution of methamphetamine on Oct. 9, and faces 20 years in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release and a $1,000,000 fine;

    Lisa Nanette McNeer, 47, of Macon, pleaded guilty to one count of possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute on Oct. 22, and faces 20 years in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release and a $1,000,000 fine; and

    Erin Marie Jones, 49, of Macon, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine on June 5, and was sentenced to serve 48 months in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release on Sept. 5.

    U.S. District Judge Marc Treadwell is presiding over this case. For those awaiting sentencing, the dates of their hearings will be determined by the Court. There is no parole in the federal system. 

    “Armed drug trafficking organizations promote violence and sow chaos in our communities,” said U.S. Attorney Peter D. Leary. “Our office is committed to disrupting criminal networks, reducing gun violence and building safer communities.”

    “The streets are safer, and Georgians can sleep a little easier knowing that these armed drug dealers are locked up and their days of peddling drugs in our communities are over,” said Supervisory Senior Resident Agent Robert Gibbs of FBI Atlanta’s Macon office. “The FBI remains committed to combatting drug trafficking and taking armed violent criminals off the streets through our joint efforts with our law enforcement partners.” 

    “Drug trafficking organizations disrupt society and poison our communities with violence and illegal drugs,” said GBI Director Chris Hosey. “Their actions threaten the safety of the citizens of Georgia, and the GBI and our partners will not allow these organizations to go unchecked. This case is an example of this commitment to protect the communities of Georgia and hold criminals accountable.”

    According to court documents and statements made public in court, the FBI began investigating Coker’s drug trafficking organization (DTO) in 2022, which led to multiple controlled purchases of methamphetamine from Coker and Hardin and other investigative actions. Sales of illegal drugs occurred on Feb. 13, 2022, and March 24, 2022, with Hardin selling methamphetamine he obtained from Coker to a confidential source.

    Coker sold methamphetamine to a confidential source five times between June and Sept. 2022 at locations in Macon. Wiretaps revealed that Coker was supplying methamphetamine to Hardin and other individuals. Agents executed multiple search warrants on Nov. 15, 2022, including at Coker’s residence on Forsyth Road. Agents found methamphetamine in pill and crystal forms stashed in an air fryer and a bag in the kitchen. The crystal methamphetamine weighed 11,166.01 grams and ranged in purity from 96% to 100%; the pressed pill methamphetamine weighed 79.87 grams. Agents found a 9mm pistol inside of a jacket embroidered with Coker’s alias “Bread Red” and seized $13,891. In all, Coker’s DTO is responsible for the distribution of dozens of kilograms of methamphetamine. Coker has a criminal history, including a prior federal controlled substance distribution conviction.

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

    The case was investigated by the FBI and the Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI).

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Joy Odom is prosecuting the case for the Government.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Former Federal Employee Faces up to Five Years in Prison for Mishandling Classified Materials

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

    AUGUSTA, GA:  A former employee of a U.S. Department of Defense component agency faces up to five years in federal prison after pleading guilty to mishandling sensitive documents.

    Margaret Anne Ashby, 26, of Henderson, Nevada, awaits sentencing after pleading guilty to an Information charging her with Unauthorized Removal/Retention of Classified Documents, said Jill E. Steinberg, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Georgia. The guilty plea subjects Ashby to a sentence of up to five years in federal prison, along with substantial financial penalties, and up to three years of supervised release upon completion of any prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.

    “Maintaining confidentiality of sensitive government documents is essential to protecting our citizens,” said U.S. Attorney Steinberg. “Those who are granted the privilege of working with such material are well aware of the rules regarding the safekeeping of these documents, and also are aware of the consequences for failing to comply with those rules.”

    As described in the plea agreement, starting in March 2020, Ashby was a civilian employee of a Department of Defense component agency located in the Southern District of Georgia, and during this time held a Top Secret security clearance as required for her employment.

    From February 2022 to May 2022, Ashby, without authority, knowingly removed documents and materials containing classified information “concerning the national defense or foreign relations of the United States . . . with the intent to retain them at unauthorized locations, including her residence in the Southern District of Georgia and in digital files saved via a personal computing device located in the Southern District of Georgia.”

    U.S. District Court Judge J. Randal Hall will schedule a sentencing hearing for Ashby upon completion of a pre-sentence investigation by U.S. Probation Services.

    “When people violate the trust given to them to safeguard our nation’s intelligence, they put our country at risk,” said FBI Atlanta Assistant Agent in Charge Brian Ozden. “The FBI and our law enforcement partners will seek to hold accountable those who knowingly and willfully mishandle classified information.”

    The case was investigated by the FBI, and prosecuted for the United States by Southern District of Georgia Assistant U.S. Attorneys L. Alexander Hamner and Darron J. Hubbard, and Trial Attorney David J. Ryan with the U.S. Department of Justice Counterintelligence and Export Control Section. 

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  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Attorney Leary Announces Appointment of District Election Officers

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

    MACON, Ga. – Middle District of Georgia U.S. Attorney Peter D. Leary announced today that he has appointed two District Election Officers (DEO) to lead the efforts of the office in connection with the Justice Department’s nationwide Election Day Program for the upcoming Nov. 5, 2024, general election.

    The DEOs are responsible for overseeing the district’s handling of Election Day complaints of voting rights concerns, threats of violence to election officials or staff, and election fraud in consultation with Justice Department Headquarters in Washington.

    “Every citizen must be able to vote without interference or discrimination and to have that vote counted in a fair and free election,” said U.S. Attorney Leary. “Similarly, election officials and staff must be able to serve without being subject to unlawful threats of violence. The Department of Justice will always work tirelessly to protect the integrity of the election process.”

    The Department of Justice has an important role in deterring and combating discrimination and intimidation at the polls, threats of violence directed at election officials and poll workers, and election fraud. The Department will address these violations wherever they occur. The Department’s longstanding Election Day Program furthers these goals and seeks to ensure public confidence in the electoral process by providing local points of contact within the Department for the public to report possible federal election law violations.

    Federal law protects against such crimes as threatening violence against election officials or staff, intimidating or bribing voters, buying and selling votes, impersonating voters, altering vote tallies, stuffing ballot boxes and marking ballots for voters against their wishes or without their input. It also contains special protections for the rights of voters and provides that they can vote free from interference, including intimidation and other acts designed to prevent or discourage people from voting or voting for the candidate of their choice. The Voting Rights Act protects the right of voters to mark their own ballot or to be assisted by a person of their choice (where voters need assistance because of disability or inability to read or write in English).   

    “The franchise is the cornerstone of American democracy. We all must ensure that those who are entitled to the franchise can exercise it if they choose and that those who seek to corrupt it are brought to justice,” said U.S. Attorney Leary. “In order to respond to complaints of voting rights concerns and election fraud during the upcoming election, and to ensure that such complaints are directed to the appropriate authorities, the DEOs will be on duty in this district while the polls are open. The DEOs can be reached by the public at the following telephone number, 478-621-2698, or by email at USAGAM.DEO@usdoj.gov.”

    In addition, the FBI will have special agents available in each field office and resident agency throughout the country to receive allegations of election fraud and other election abuses on election day. The local FBI field office can be reached by the public by calling 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324) or by email at tips.fbi.gov.

    Complaints about possible violations of the federal voting rights laws can be made directly to the Civil Rights Division in Washington by complaint form at https://civilrights.justice.gov/ or by phone at 800-253-3931.

    “Ensuring free and fair elections depends in large part on the assistance of the American electorate. It is important that those who have specific information about voting rights concerns or election fraud make that information available to the Department of Justice,” said U.S. Attorney Peter D. Leary.

    Please note, however, that in the case of a crime of violence or intimidation, please call 911 immediately and before contacting federal authorities. State and local police have primary jurisdiction over polling places, and almost always have faster reaction capacity in an emergency.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Two Former Richmond County Deputies Plead Guilty to Violating Civil Rights of Jail Detainee

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

    AUGUSTA, GA:  Two former Richmond County Sheriff’s Office deputies have pled guilty to federal civil rights charges involving an assault on a jail detainee.

    Daniel D’Aversa, 52, and Melissa Morello, 27, await sentencing after each pled guilty to an Information charging them with Deprivation of Civil Rights Under Color of Law. The guilty plea subjects each defendant to a possible sentence of up to 10 years in federal prison, along with substantial fines and restitution, followed by up to three years of supervised release upon completion of any prison term.

    There is no parole in the federal system.

    Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division and U.S. Attorney Jill E. Steinberg for the Southern District of Georgia Acting Special Agent in Charge Sean Burke of the FBI Atlanta Field Office made the announcement.

    As described in the plea agreements, Morello was a jailer at Richmond County’s Charles D. Webster Detention Center, and D’Aversa was a corporal with the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office. Both were at the jail on May 7, 2022, working with other Richmond County Sheriff’s Office jailers and deputies to secure inmates who had caused flooding in a section of the jail.

    A pretrial detainee, referred to in court documents as Victim 1, was handcuffed face-down in the jail when D’Aversa and Morello shouted to other staff members that Victim 1 wanted his handcuffs removed. Morello then “attempted to unlock Victim 1’s handcuffs so that another employee would have an excuse to go hands-on with him,” and when Morello was unsuccessful, a deputy listed as Deputy 2 then unlocked and removed the handcuffs.

    A deputy listed as Deputy 1 then “repeatedly punched Victim 1 and placed him in a chokehold. … During Deputy 1’s assault on Victim 1,” and both Morello and D’Aversa “failed to intervene to stop or attempt to stop the assault,” despite having the opportunity to do so.

    U.S. District Court Judge J. Randal Hall will schedule sentencing for D’Aversa and Morello upon completion of pre-sentence investigations by U.S. Probation Services.

    The case is being investigated by the FBI, and prosecuted for the United States by Southern District of Georgia Assistant U.S. Attorney George J.C. Jacobs III and Anita T. Channapati of the U.S. Department of Justice Civil Rights Division. 

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