Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
Northern Territory Police hold concerns for the welfare of 38-year-old male Casey.
Casey was last seen in Farrar this morning at 7:30am, his family and police hold concern his safety and welfare.
If you have seen him police urge you to immediately make contact on 131 444 and quote job number NTP2400101515.
Source: New Zealand Police (District News)
Emergency services are responding to a crash at the intersection of Paisley Road and Mulcocks Road, near Flaxton in the Waimakariri District.
The crash, involving two vehicles, occurred near a railway line and was reported to Police at 2.40pm.
Traffic management is in place and motorists are asked to follow the directions of emergency services staff.
Train control has been notified and trains have been stopped until further notice.
At this stage the injuries to the occupants of the vehicles are not believed to be serious.
ENDS
Issued by Police Media Centre.
US Senate News:
Source: The White House
2:59 P.M. EDT
THE PRESIDENT: Well, thank you very much, Rabbi, for that introduction. And before I want to be- — before I begin, I want to say, we’re prepared for another hurricane hitting Florida, and that’s what I’ve been doing and why I had to p- — push back these — this sev- — several times. And I apologize.
I directed my team to do everything we can to save lives and help communities before, during, and after the hurricane — the one that has just passed and this awful one that’s about to hit.
My most important message today is for those who are in impacted areas, please, please listen to your local authorities, follow all safety in- — instructions and evacuation orders. This is serious — very serious.
But now to the events of the day. You know, as the — my friends, the — the rabbis in Delaware who I’ve become friends with over the years, have been engaged with, can tell you, I was one of those lucky Christians who was raised by a — a Christian who was — he had — he understood what was going on.
My dad was what we — you’d call “a righteous Christian.” My dad literally raised us to believe that we had to stand up for the — any community being persecuted, and he used to rage — he used to rage at dinner about why we didn’t bomb the railroad tracks in Auschwitz and why we didn’t — and this is the God’s truth, as the rabbis at home could tell you.
And he used to talk about how we wouldn’t let the — that one ship land and — and — with the Jewish refugees on it at the time, during — during the — Hitler’s era. And, you know, he — he talked about how it was important for people to know what happened and not forget.
And one of the things that it taught me was that I — every one of my children and grandchildren, when they turned the age of 14, we put them on a plane and I flew them to Dachau, because I wanted them to see — want them to see that no one could pretend it wasn’t happening.
You go through — you walk through the gate, and you’ll be liberated. Well, to stand — you see those beautiful homes along the outside of that gate, and you’ll know they had to know. They had to know what was going on. And — and I wanted them to understand. I wanted them to see where the ovens were. I wanted them to know what was going on and — because I wanted them to be aware — aware.
And I think one of the things that I’m about to talk about is — you know, the country has been sort of a — I don’t know how I could say it — has not paid nearly much attention to our hi- — the history that brought us —
But when I went over shortly after the — the second, smaller holocaust, but even more vividly seen by the whole world on the 7th, it was — it was because I wanted to let the world know where I stood and where America stood. And I saw the remnants of what had happened 10 days earlier. I saw — and the — anyway, you all know; you understand it.
But now, this event today — I want to thank you for joining this call, and I apologize for having had to reschedule it.
You know, at my direction, last week, the United States military took unprecedented action again to actively assist the successful defense of Israel. You’ve — you’ve heard me say before that I got very badly criticized as a young senator for saying, “I’m a Zionist.” You don’t have to be a Jew to be a Zionist. It’s not necessary.
And the idea — I firmly believe — without an Israel, every Jew in the world’s security is less stable. I mean that. It doesn’t mean that Jewish leadership doesn’t have to be more progressive than it is, but it does mean it has to exist, and that’s what worries me most about what’s going on now.
You’ve heard me say before that my commitment to the safety of the Jewish people and the security of Israel as the right to exist is independent — independent of that — of everything else. The Jewish state has to remain. It has to remain — the ironclad commitment to it.
In the last three years, it’s been the honor to do this High Holiday with all of you from the White House in a season of joy and a season of pain. And that’s what we’ve been going through: a season of joy and pain.
You know, you are the rock for your people. I want to thank you for all you do every single day for your congregations, for your communities, for our country.
You know, I know this year’s call is very different, and it’s a very — a difficult time for the Jewish community and for Jews around the world. In the midst of the High Holidays, two days ago, we commemorated the first anniversary of October 7th, the deadliest day for Jewish people since the Holocaust.
And a year later, with the trauma and the loss from that day and its aftermath, it’s still raw. It’s hard to memorialize and mourn a tragedy that’s still ongoing. Hostages still in captivity — some American Jews as well; loved ones still in harm’s way; survivors carrying wounds, seen and unseen, that never go away. The families and friends left behind will never, never be the same.
I just spoke with Pres- — Prime Minister Netanyahu for about an hour this morning and offered my condolences on this somber one-year anniversary.
Throughout this year, my wife, Jill, and I, Kamala and Doug mourned along with all of you, including after the appalling execution of the six hostages, including America’s own Hersh Goldberg-Polin, a 24-year-old last week — who just turned — would have turned 24 last week.
My administration is doubling down on our work to secure the release of the remaining hostages, just as we have freed hostages already. And we will not rest until they’re all home.
As you saw just last week, the United States fully supports Israel’s right to defend itself against Iran and all its proxies — Hezbollah, Hamas, and the Houthis. We’re doing everything we can to ease the suffering of all the people from this war against Hamas and that Hamas started.
As Israel’s ambassador to Washington said at the memorial two days ago, quote, “We remember the Jewish commandment that we are all created in the image of God,” and “the loss of innocent life — Israel — Israeli, Palestinian, Lebanese, or others — is a tragedy.” Well, I feel the same way. Far too many civilians have suffered far too much during this year’s conflict.
I also want you to know that I see you, I hear you, I see your pain from the ferocious surge of antisemitism in America and, quite frankly, around the world — absolutely despicable. And I hope we h- — we learned a lesson from our parents’ generation. We have to stand up. We have to call it out. It has to be stopped.
In America, we respect and protect the fundamental right of free speech to protest peacefully. But there is no place — emphasize, no place — anywhere in America — none — for antisemitism, hate speech, or threats of violence of any kind against the Jews or anyone else.
Long before October the 7th — long before — I launched the first National Security [Strategy] to Counter Antisemitism in American history — the first time in American history. Vice President Harris and I and our entire administration are aggressively implementing that commitment.
Since we took office, we secured a record of over $800 million for the physical security of nonprofits, including synagogues, Jewish community centers, Jewish day schools all around the country.
Since October 7, ‘23 — in 2023, we’ve secured an additional $400 million — the largest single increase ever in funding — ever.
And we have concrete evidence that our historic assistance is making an impact and the investment matters.
The Department of Education has put our colleges on notice about something that should be obvious to everyone — that antisemitism is discrimination. Say it again: Antisemitism is discrimination and prohibited under Title VI of the 1964 Civil Rights Act.
And the Department of Homeland Security has proved — provided resources to train campus law enforcement, administrators on how to ensure Jewish students are safe on campus. And we’re going to keep working to ensure — ensure that Jewish students can get their education free of intimidation and harassment.
The Department of Justice is also moving swiftly to investigate and prosecute antisemitic hate crimes and hold the perpetrators accountable.
We encourage you, as members of your community, to please report incidences to local law enforcement.
My administration is calling on the social media companies to adopt a zero-tolerance policy toward antisemitism and other hateful content, including the vile antisemitic attacks online that we’ve seen in recent days against public officials leading responses to recovery efforts to Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Milton.
You know, it’s appalling, but we — it must end now. We have to speak and end it now.
Globally, our nation’s first ambassador to the level of special envoy and to monitor and combat antisemitism is Deb- — Debor- — Deborah Lipstadt — Lipstadt. And Deborah has mobilized more than 40 countries and international organizations to support our new guidelines for countering antisemitism around the world. And this matters, but I know there’s so much more to do.
And let me assure you as your president that you are not alone. You belong, always — always have, always will be, and always must be protected.
From the inception of our nation, Jewish Americans have enriched every part of American life. Let me say that again. From our very inception as a nation, Jewish Americans have enriched every part of American life, and you’re going to continue to do so for many years to come.
Let me close with this. I think about the wisdom I’ve learned from Jewish communities in Delaware and across the country that I’ve gotten to know over the years. It seems to me there is a delicate yet profound balance between joy and pain to the High Holidays.
Rosh Hashanah is a day of celebration in the Je- — of — for the Jewish New Year. But it’s also a day of judgment.
Similarly, Yom Kippur is the most solemn day in the Jewish calendar, yet Jewish scholars say it’s also the happiest day because it’s a time of — for forgiveness and for renewal.
And in two weeks, you celebrate another holiday for the singing and dancing of the — for — for the Torah. You know, I know you’ll do so with profound sorrow in your soul because, last year, that holiday was shattered by October the 7th.
From my perspective, Jewish people have embodied this duality of pain and joy for generations. It’s your strength. The Jewish people have always chosen to find joy and happiness and light, despite centuries of suffering, persecution, and pain.
That’s the ending and — of what — this — look, this is — is enduring — it’s an enduring lesson and legacy for the Jewish people and for all of America to understand.
So, thank you for continuing to find joy in the darkness and shine your light on the nation and on the world.
God bless you all. And may you have a happy New Year.
3:11 P.M. EDT
Source: New Zealand Police (National News)
A Police investigation has shut down a criminal syndicate’s operation, allegedly importing and distributing a concoction of illegal substances across parts of the upper North Island.
Today, six arrests have been made at addresses across the Auckland and Waikato regions.
Police also arrested a man alleged to be a key player in the operation, after he got off a domestic flight at Auckland Airport.
Today’s execution is a result of Operation Banner, an investigation run by the Auckland Money Laundering Team since the beginning of the year.
Overall, Police have recovered nearly $1 million in cash, 4.5 kilograms of methamphetamine as well as LSD, cocaine, and ketamine.
Numerous electronic devices have been seized as part of the ongoing Police investigation.
The officer in charge of the team, Detective Senior Sergeant Andy Dunhill, says the operation was allegedly distributing across the Auckland, Waikato, and Bay of Plenty areas.
“We will allege this organised criminal group used a range of delivery methods to try and outwit law enforcement agencies in New Zealand and abroad,” he says.
“This included allegedly using vacant rental properties or storage units to facilitate importations and deliveries.
“Our investigation is also examining where the profit of this misery is ending up.”
Today’s arrests are a result of months of painstaking and detailed investigation work.
“Police staff have been executing search warrants across Auckland and the Waikato today, with support from the Armed Offenders Squad in Hamilton,” Detective Senior Sergeant Dunhill says.
“We have been working closely with our partners at Customs, as well as international agencies throughout the course of this year over the investigation.”
All six men, aged between 26 and 41, are expected in the Auckland District Court this afternoon.
Most charged face serious drugs offences including importing controlled drugs, possession for supply of methamphetamine and conspiring to import a class B controlled drug.
Further arrests are likely.
Detective Senior Sergeant Dunhill says: “We have seized numerous devices for forensic investigation, and this will form part of the ongoing investigation into money laundering offences.
“The connection between money and drugs in the criminal environment remains of strong interest to Police, as these organised criminal groups continue to profit off the misery that they are selling into communities.
“Their operations are far from innocent given the far-reaching impacts drugs have on the wider community, from health through to further criminal offences being carried out.”
– 12 search warrants
– 6 arrests
– $800,000 in cash
– 4.5kg methamphetamine
– 300 LSD tabs
– 250g cocaine
– 250g ketamine
ENDS.
Jarred Williamson/NZ Police
Source: New Zealand Transport Agency
Expect to see road crews and traffic managers out and about repairing and re-sealing highways and keeping road users safe around Central Otago and Queenstown Lakes Districts from now onwards, says NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA).
Please give them a friendly wave, says NZTA. ”They will be working through some extremely hot conditions in coming months and appreciate people building in extra time to reduce stress when the highways are so busy, often with people unfamiliar with the local road layouts,” says Peter Standring, Maintenance Contract Manager with NZTA across the two Central Otago districts.
Police are working closely with the work crews in an endeavour to clamp down on any dangerous behaviour around these work sites.
As well as the NZTA highway work there will also be third party private developer projects underway, which also affect highway travel. With a moratorium on all planned works over the Christmas period, traffic interruptions will be kept to an absolute minimum during this peak time.
Aspiring Highways, on behalf of NZTA, will be delivering road reconstruction and resurfacing projects across the two districts.
Rebuilding shoulder support to a section of road south of the Devil’s Staircase, SH6.
“As daylight hours increase, warmer temperatures and dry air help new seals settle in as intended,” says Mr Standring.
“Overall there is around 50km* of resealing which started late September. Work goes through until the pre-Christmas shut-down, then restarts 13 January through to the end of February.”
Four sites up for pavement renewal are getting a full rehabilitation treatment – combined covering 4.4kms.
All work is funded through the State Highway Maintenance and Pothole Prevention activity classes in the National Land Transport Programme (NLTP).
These major reconstruction projects, all weather dependent, include:
There are three asphalt resurfacing sites covering 500 metres of highway:
“Where traffic volumes are high, as they are around Queenstown/Frankton and Wānaka, we aim to minimise our impact by working at night,” says Mr Standring.
People should expect some disruptions in these locations, which will involve significant traffic management, including partial road closures.
“When we get a run of wet weather, as we have had last week, the timing of these projects will change but we will do our best to keep people informed – through social media sites, electronic signs on the highway and for people living in the vicinity, via newsletters in letterboxes,” he says.
SH85 Kyeburn to Alexandra: November.
SH8 Alexandra to Deadman’s Point: end of November onwards.
SH8 Lindis Pass to Cromwell: late November to mid-December.
SH8A Tarras to Wānaka: 20-22 January.
SH6 Luggate to Parkburn: 22-29 January.
Nevis Bluff, Scrubby Gully spring scaling/rock removal: November, 2024, four to six weeks work.
If there are concerns or questions around these works, road users can contact the Aspiring Highways team at customer@aspiringhighways.co.nz
*100 single lane kms
Source: New Zealand Transport Agency
2:00pm:
SH1 is now open as of 2 pm to one lane past the crash site, using Stop/Go.
12:25pm:
The Police Serious Crash Unit is attending a serious injury two vehicle crash south of Christchurch between the Rakaia River and Dunsandel this morning, near the Breadings Road intersection. The crash was reported before 11 am.
The highway is closed between North Rakaia Road and Old South Road, but detours are in place for light and general access vehicles only. Motorcyclists should take care on the detour routes.
Detours for southbound traffic – cars, utes, light vehicles:
Turn onto Heslerton Road, then Old South Road, continue on Old South Road, turn onto Main Rakaia Road and back onto SH1.
Northbound traffic:
Reverse of above.
Heavier vehicles/ truck drivers:
50MAX, HPMV, Overweight and Overdimension permit holders must check the conditions of their permit and with OPIA and Selwyn District Council if wanting to use the detour route.
Source: New Zealand Police (District News)
The road has reopened following an earlier crash near Flaxton in Waimakariri District.
The crash at the intersection of Paisley Road and Mulcocks Road involved two vehicles and was reported to Police at 2.40pm.
Two people suffered moderate injuries and one person was transported to hospital with serious injuries.
There is reported to be significant traffic build-up in the area and motorists should expect delays while the traffic clears.
ENDS
Issued by Police Media Centre.
Source: International Organization for Migration (IOM)
Lautem, Timor-Leste – The Civil Protection Authority (CPA), along with municipal and suco-level disaster management teams, successfully led a flood simulation exercise in Los Palos villa, with support from the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the United States Agency for International Development Bureau for Humanitarian Assistance (USAID-BHA). Over a hundred participants joined the event, which was carried out in close collaboration with civil society, and community members. The exercise aimed to enhance disaster preparedness and response, with a focus on reducing the exposure and vulnerability of Lautem Municipality to climate-related hazards.
The exercise would not have been possible without the cooperation of every sector of the community, including local leaders, civil society organizations, women, youth and community members themselves. Civil Protection Authority President Mr. Jesuino Dos Reis De Matos Carvalho, Municipal Director of the Civil Protection Authority Mr. Casemiro Pires Assunção, Municipal Administrator Mr. Mélio de Jesus, USAID-BHA Regional Advisor Mr. Joseph Miskov, USAID-BHA Program Officer for East Asia and the Pacific Ms. Jessica Doxtater, USAID Project Management Specialist Mr. Inacio Fernandes Quintao, and IOM Timor-Leste Chief of Mission Jewel Ali as well as members from the Civil Protection Authority, Municipal Health Post, National Police of Timor-Leste, and Red Cross of Timor-Leste were also in attendance.
Lautem Municipality has become increasingly vulnerable to flooding due to climate change and heavy seasonal rains. A recent report on flooding in Lautem highlights the severe impact of heavy rains in July 2023, destroying several bridges and roads, displacing multiple communities, and tragically claiming the lives of four children who were swept away by the rising waters.
The flood simulation exercise mobilized IOM-trained at-risk community members to carry out emergency action plans and safely evacuate before emergencies and aligns with the Civil Protection Authority’s goal of enhancing disaster preparedness in Timor-Leste.
“Disaster simulations are essential for improving readiness and response of agencies and frontline responders. The U.S. government is committed to working with Timor-Leste to reduce disaster risks and protect lives for future generations,” USAID-BHA Regional Advisor Mr. Joseph Miskov expressed.
The flood simulation is part of the Strengthening Disaster Resilience of at-risk communities in Timor-Leste (STREAM) project, by IOM in partnership with CPA, and funding support from BHA. Through continued support, the municipal and suco disaster management committees have strengthened local disaster risk management, developed community-based action plans, and upgraded critical infrastructure to better protect residents in times of crisis. IOM and BHA also officially handed over the refurbished evacuation center with improved WASH facilities to promote dignified and safer evacuation during emergencies.
“IOM remains committed to supporting Lautem and other at-risk communities in Timor-Leste by helping establish local disaster management structures. We will continue to work closely with local authorities and community members to address the needs of displaced communities and reduce disaster risks,” shared IOM Timor-Leste Chief of Mission Jewel Ali.
The simulation will highlight additional steps in building Lautem’s disaster resilience and empower local actors, ensuring they lead the way in safeguarding their communities for the future.
***
For more information, please contact:
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Bus parade to engage with public to witness bus development and celebrate National Day
Bus parade to engage with public to witness bus development and celebrate National Day
**************************************************************************************
The Transport Department (TD) today (October 10) announced the route and details of the Bus Parade for Celebrating the 75th Anniversary of the Founding of the People’s Republic of China. The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government will hold the bus parade amid the National Day celebrations on October 19, engaging with the public to witness the development of bus services to celebrate the occasion. Co-organising the event, the franchised bus operators will present a total of eight retired and in-service buses with an open-top bus themed on the 75th National Day to lead the parade. Starting at around 11am on that day, the parade buses will depart from Victoria Park in Causeway Bay for Man Kwong Street via Gordon Road, King’s Road, Causeway Road, Hennessy Road, Fleming Road and Lung Wo Road (parade route map in Annex). The route is about 6 kilometres long and will take about 30 minutes to complete. Members of the public can enjoy the parade along the route and take photos at the best viewing locations, such as Hennessy Road near Jardine’s Bazaar in Causeway Bay, Golden Bauhinia Square in Wan Chai, and the destination at Central Pier, to share in the joy of National Day. During the parade, the Police will lead the convoy and implement appropriate traffic arrangements and crowd safety management measures subject to on-site traffic and crowd conditions. The TD appeals the public and motorists to follow instructions of the Police and to keep in view the latest traffic news. For safety reasons, in case of adverse weather, the bus parade will be cancelled. The public should refer to the TD’s website (www.td.gov.hk) and Agent T Facebook page (www.facebook.com/AgentT.hk) for the latest updates.
Ends/Thursday, October 10, 2024Issued at HKT 12:44
NNNN
Source: New Zealand Police (District News)
A 15-year-old boy reported missing on 27 September in the Papakura area has been found safe and well.
Police would like to thank all those who contacted us with information which assisted in helping locate him.
ENDS
Issued by Police Media Centre.
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
Northen Territory Fire and Rescue Service (NTFRS) responded to a large grass fire in Humpty Doo yesterday afternoon.
Around 2:50pm, Joint Emergency Services Communication Centre received repots of a large grass fire on Trippe Road, Humpty Doo.
A short time later, NTFRS members arrived on the fire ground and commenced a response.
Twelve NTFRS career and 4 Volunteer firefighters attended with 12 appliances including Grassfire Units, as well as 4 waterbombers, 1 helicopter and 5 appliances from Bushfires NT.
Multiple inoperable vehicles and an uninhabited structure were affected by the blaze.
Initial reports indicate that the fire was not suspicious, and it ignited from a backfiring exhaust.
Investigations are ongoing.
Source: South Australia Police
A second suspect has been arrested following investigations into a violent incident at Gulfview Heights in the early hours of Wednesday morning.
About 3.45am on Wednesday 9 October, police were called to a home on Nelson Road after reports that a group of armed males forced entry into the property and stabbed two occupants.
A 53-year-old woman and a 17-year-old boy were both taken to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. A third person was also taken to hospital with minor injuries after being assaulted.
A 16-year-old boy from Pennington was arrested on Wednesday afternoon and charged with aggravated serious criminal trespass and cause serious harm. He appeared in the Adelaide Youth Court today.
Further investigations by Operation Meld and Northern District CIB detectives today resulted in the arrest of a 20-year-old Rosewater man. He was charged with aggravated serious criminal trespass and cause serious harm. He was refused police bail and will appear in the Elizabeth Magistrates Court tomorrow, Friday 11 October.
Investigations are continuing. Police do not believe this to be a random incident.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Crime Stoppers at http://www.crimestopperssa.com.au or on 1800 333 000. You can remain anonymous.
CO2400040844, #
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)
Baar, Switzerland, 10 October 2024
Ascom is pleased to announce the expansion of its innovative App “Security Support System”, to nine penal institutions in Canton Zurich. The rollout of the first installation in Winterthur’s prison is scheduled for late 2024 and will continue through 2026 to eight additional correctional facilities in Canton Zurich. The entire project has a total value exceeding 3 million CHF.
Ascom’s Security Support System has been exclusively designed to improve supervision and care in prisons and reintegration institutions to increase the safety and operational efficiency of employees working in prisons. It displays inmate profile for identification and location tracking data, and records further information for optimal care support. Currently, there is no comparable application in the market.
The core of the solution is the Ascom’s Alarm Management System, featuring the Ascom Security Support Software and the Myco 3 and Myco 4 DECT/WiFi devices. Key features are:
In close collaboration with the Department of Justice and Home Affairs of the Canton of Zurich, the Ascom Security Support System has been successfully tested and recently implemented at the Zurich West Prison and will now be extended to nine other prisons.
The project includes the installation of the solution into the facilities’ existing infrastructure (Ascom Unite Platform), and a 5-year contract for software maintenance and support services for each location.
Attachment
Source: New Zealand Police (District News)
Attributable to Senior Sergeant Richard Miller, Eastern Bay of Plenty Police:
Police have today located the body of a person who died following a single vehicle crash into Waioeka River, Ōpōtiki on Friday.
Emergency Services responded to the scene around 10:20am on 4 October after we were alerted that a vehicle had gone down a bank into the river, around 2.5km south of the Tauranga Bridge, State Highway 2.
Search and rescue teams, including a boat, helicopter and Coastguard jet skis conducted sweeps of the river and riverbank on Friday. Unfortunately, the person and vehicle were unable to be located.
Since that time Police and rescue teams have been on standby ready to respond once the river conditions were right to safely deploy a team to the area.
Today, the river conditions had cleared sufficiently and Police along with search and rescue teams, local jet boat operators, and the Police National Dive Squad responded, searching the river. The vehicle was located at about 12:05pm, around 400 metres from the original crash site.
The victim was located deceased inside the vehicle and has since been successfully recovered.
While located deceased, police are pleased to have been able to reunite whānau with their loved one.
Enquiries into the circumstances of the crash are ongoing.
ENDS
Issued by Police Media Centre
Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police
A man has been charged with the murder of 19-year-old Mohammed Adam Abdi in Westminster.
Awad Abdel Samad – 23 (18.11.00) of Talbot Road W2, will appear in custody at Highbury Corner Magistrates’ Court today, Friday, 10 October, charged with murder. He was also charged with possession of an offensive weapon.
Samad was arrested by detectives on Tuesday, 8 October in Islington.
An investigation was launched after police were called to reports of a fight in Bell Street, NW1 on Tuesday, 4 June. Officers and London Ambulance Service attended and found Mohammed suffering a stab injury – despite the efforts of the emergency services he was pronounced dead at the scene.
Mohammed’s family continue to be supported by specially trained officers.
Three men were arrested shortly after the incident on suspicion of murder – [A] aged 22; [B] aged 26; [C] 24. [A] and [C] have been bailed pending further enquiries; [B] has been released with no further action.
Enquiries into the circumstances remain ongoing.
Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police
Detectives have named the victim of a fatal collision in Whitechapel as they appeal for witnesses or anyone with footage to come forward.
Police were called at 00:33hrs on Saturday, 6 July to reports of a collision involving a car and a cyclist near to the junction of Cable Street and Cannon Street Road, E1.
Police attended alongside the London Ambulance Service and London’s Air Ambulance.
Despite the best efforts of medical professionals the cyclist, Matheus Piovesan, aged 36, who was a Brazilian national, sadly died at the scene.
His next of kin were informed. They continue to be supported by specialist officers.
The car that struck Matheus failed to stop at the scene.
Following an investigation by detectives from the Met’s Serious Collision Investigation Unit (SCIU) six people were arrested in connection with the investigation.
Three men, aged [A] 45, [B] 24 and [C] 23 were arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and failing to stop at the scene of a collision. They were subsequently released on bail pending further enquiries.
Two women and a man were arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and failing to stop at the scene of a collision. They were later released with no further action.
Any witnesses, or those who have dash cam footage of the incident or moments leading up to it, are asked to call 101 quoting reference 230/06 July. You can call the SCIU directly on 020 8285 1574.
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
Northen Territory Fire and Rescue Service (NTFRS) responded to a large grass fire in Humpty Doo yesterday afternoon.
Around 2:50pm, Joint Emergency Services Communication Centre received repots of a large grass fire on Trippe Road, Humpty Doo.
A short time later, NTFRS members arrived on the fire ground and commenced a response.
Twelve NTFRS career and 4 Volunteer firefighters attended with 12 appliances including Grassfire Units, as well as 4 waterbombers, 1 helicopter and 5 appliances from Bushfires NT.
Multiple inoperable vehicles and an uninhabited structure were affected by the blaze.
Initial reports indicate that the fire was not suspicious, and it ignited from a backfiring exhaust.
Investigations are ongoing.
Source: South Australia Police
Emergency services are at the scene of a serious crash on the North-South Motorway, Dry Creek.
The collision occurred about 4.30pm on the Wingfield interchange on ramp to the North-South Motorway at Dry Creek.
Traffic is banked up in the area. Motorists are advised to find another route if possible.
The road is expected to remain closed for northbound traffic for several hours.
MIL OSI Translation. Timor-Leste Portuguese to English –
Press release
Extraordinary Meeting of the Council of Ministers on October 10, 2024
The Council of Ministers met at the Government Palace in Dili and approved the Government Resolution project, presented by the Deputy Prime Minister, Coordinating Minister for Social Affairs and Minister for Rural Development and Community Housing, Mariano Assanami Sabino, and by the Executive Director of the Mission Unit to Combat ‘Stunting’, Joel Maria Pereira, which approves the National Multisectoral Annual Plan to Combat ‘Stunting’ for the period 2024 to 2030.
The National Multisectoral Annual Plan to Combat Stunting for the period 2024 to 2030 has as its main objective to provide a framework for coordinated and multisectoral action to combat stunting. Among the main goals are to increase the rate of exclusive breastfeeding, improve children’s diets and reduce the stunting rate from 47% to less than 25% by 2030. The plan also aims to reduce anemia rates in children and women of reproductive age, as well as improve the coordination of nutrition programs and promote social behavior changes to improve nutritional health.
The implementation of the plan will be led by the Mission Unit for Combating Stunting, in collaboration with several ministries and development partners. The process will be subject to continuous monitoring to ensure its effectiveness, with the aim of creating a sustainable and resilient environment that promotes improved nutrition and well-being of the Timorese population.
*****
The draft Decree-Law, also presented by the Deputy Prime Minister, Mariano Assanami Sabino, referring to the Community Housing Program, was also approved.
The programme aims to ensure the right to housing as a condition for the integrated and sustainable development of the community, through the planning and construction of housing and the corresponding complementary infrastructure and collective equipment, intended to be allocated to beneficiaries, in accordance with established criteria, as well as subsequent ongoing community support for maintenance and access to services. The implementation of the programme will be led by the Ministry of Rural Development and Community Housing, in conjunction with local administrations and with the active participation of communities. Housing is allocated to beneficiaries according to their financial capacity, and is classified under one of the following schemes: commercial, subsidised, community or social. Under the commercial scheme, the beneficiary pays a consideration defined by market conditions. Under the subsidised scheme, the amount to be paid is adjusted to be more affordable in light of market conditions. Under the community scheme, the allocation of housing is free of charge at an initial stage, with a set amount to be paid after that period. Under the social scheme, housing is allocated free of charge.
*****
The Council of Ministers assessed the preliminary report on the expenses of activities related to the visit of His Holiness Pope Francis, presented by the Minister of State Administration, Tomás do Rosário Cabral.
At its meeting on 28 February 2024, the Council of Ministers authorized expenditure of up to USD 12 million for the Coordinating Committee for the Organization of the Visit of His Holiness Pope Francis, which took place from 9 to 11 September 2024. Of this amount, USD 9,978,658.12 was spent, resulting in a positive balance of USD 2,021,341.12, which will be returned to the State coffers.
The Timorese Episcopal Conference (CET), through the Church Coordinating Commission team, will hold an internal evaluation meeting on November 23, 2024 and the Joint Commission, composed of the Government, the Church team and the representative of the Holy See in Timor-Leste, will conclude the activities on December 21, 2024, when the representative of the Holy See and the local Church will transmit an official message from the Vatican.
*****
Finally, the Council of Ministers also decided to approve the theme “Proud of our identity and culture, we build a future of freedom, justice and hope for our People” for the celebrations of the 49th anniversary of the Proclamation of Independence of the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste, which will be celebrated on 28 November, and whose main celebrations will take place in Oe-Cusse Ambeno. END
EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and/or sentence structure not be perfect.
Source: South Australia Police
Operation Meld is continuing to investigate a break-in at Broadview in July. Two teenagers have now been arrested.
Police were called to a home in Beaven Avenue, Broadview after four males wearing balaclavas forced their way inside the address about 11.30pm on Tuesday 23 July.
The suspects were armed with a firearm and machetes and threatened the four occupants. There were no reported injuries.
Following investigations by Operation Meld detectives, a 15-year-old boy from Kilburn was arrested on 30 August and charged with aggravated serious criminal trespass. He was refused police bail and appeared in the youth court.
Yesterday, Wednesday 9 October, a second suspect, a 17-year-old boy from Adelaide, was arrested. He was charged with aggravated serious criminal trespass and firearms offences and appeared in the Adelaide Youth Court today.
Investigations are continuing to identify and locate the two outstanding suspects.
Anyone with information that may assist the investigation is asked to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or online at http://www.crimestopperssa.com.au
CO2400189252
Source: Hong Kong Information Services
The Transport Department today announced the route of a bus parade, scheduled for October 19, to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China.
Starting at around 11am that day, parade buses will depart from Victoria Park in Causeway Bay for Man Kwong Street in Central. They will transit along Gordon Road, King’s Road, Causeway Road, Hennessy Road, Fleming Road and Lung Wo Road.
The route is about six km long and will take about 30 minutes to complete. Members of the public can observe the parade and take photos at viewing locations such as Hennessy Road near Jardine’s Bazaar in Causeway Bay, Golden Bauhinia Square in Wan Chai, and Central Pier, where the parade ends.
Police will lead the convoy and may implement traffic and crowd safety measures, depending on conditions.
In case of adverse weather, the bus parade will be cancelled. The public should watch out for the updates on the department’s website.
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
Northern Territory Police have arrested two adult males in relation to drug offences in East Arnhem Land communities yesterday.
Around 11:20am, remote officers received intelligence of an illegal substance allegedly being stored at a residence in Gapuwiyak and subsequently conducted a search of the property.
During the search officers located and seized 31 kilos of Kava.
Police later arrested a 40-year-old man that was not a resident of Gapuwiyak.
The male was charged with commercial possession of kava, commercial supply of kava, being in an Indigenous Community without a permit and tobacco smuggling offences.
He is due to appear in the Darwin Local Court on 11 October 2024.
Further investigations led police to search a property in Ramingining where officers located and seized 3.5 kilos of kava and over $13,600 in cash.
A 44-year-old male was arrested and charged with Traffickable supply of kava, Supply kava without a licence, and Resist police.
He has been bailed to appear in court at a later date.
Source: Bundesanstalt für Finanzdienstleistungsaufsicht – In English
The Federal Financial Supervisory Authority (BaFin) warns consumers about the website green-vest.net. According to information available to BaFin, Green-Vest Investment Company, Dallas, USA, offers financial and investment services there without authorization.
On 25 April 2024, BaFin issued a warning about the identical website green-vest.io, which was allegedly also operated by Green-Vest Investment Company.
Anyone providing financial or investment services in Germany may do so only with authorisation from BaFin. However, some companies offer these services without the necessary authorisation. Information on whether a particular company has been granted authorisation by BaFin can be found in BaFin’s database of companies.
The information provided by BaFin is based on section 37 (4) of the German Banking Act (Kreditwesengesetz – KWG).
BaFin, the German Federal Criminal Police Office (Bundeskriminalamt – BKA) and the German state criminal police offices (Landeskriminalämter) recommend that consumers seeking to invest money online should exercise the utmost caution and do the necessary research beforehand in order to identify fraud attempts at an early stage.
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has published its response to the Scottish Government’s consultation on the Scottish Law Commission report on review of contract law.
The CMA has responded to Scottish Law Commission report on the review of contract law consultation, led by the Scottish Government.
The response highlights the changes to the landscape around contract law as a result of the DMCC Act 2024 granting new powers to the CMA in relation to consumer protection law.
For queries relating to the CMA’s response, please contact the CMA Scotland team by email at scotland@cma.gov.uk.
Source: Government of India
Issues notices to the Delhi Chief Secretary, Police Commissioner, DDA Vice-Chairman, Commissioner, Municipal Corporation of Delhi calling for detailed reports within four weeks
The reports to include the status of the FIRs registered in such incidents, action taken against the responsible officials, and compensation to the victims’ families
Posted On: 10 OCT 2024 11:47AM by PIB Delhi
The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), India has taken suo motu cognizance of a media report that a five-year-old boy died after falling into an open drain in the Alipur area of North West Delhi on 7th October 2024. Reportedly, the contractor, who worked there, had left the drain opened at various places without placing any warning signs. This is the fifth such incident in the national capital in the recent past.
The Commission has observed the contents of the news report about the instant case and similar incidents in the recent past, if true, raise a serious issue of violation of the human rights of the victims due to apparent negligence of the civic authorities. It is indeed very concerning that such incidents indicating negligence by the public authorities continue to happen in the national capital. Many human lives were reported lost due to drowning and electrocution in Delhi of which it had taken suo motu cognizance and asked the authorities to be vigilant.
Accordingly, it has issued notices to the Chief Secretary, Government of NCT of Delhi, the Commissioner of Police, Delhi, the Vice-Chairman, Delhi Development Authority (DDA) and the Commissioner, Municipal Corporation of Delhi calling for a detailed report within four weeks.
The report is expected to include the status of the FIRs in all such cases, action taken against the responsible officials, and compensation if any, paid to the next of kin of the deceased persons. The Commission would also like to know about the steps taken/ proposed by the authorities to stop the recurrence of such incidents.
According to the media report, carried on 8th October 2024, earlier this month, a two-and-a-half-year-old girl lost her life after falling into an open drain in northeast Delhi’s Khajuri Khas. In September, a 32-year-old man died after falling into an open drain in northeast Delhi’s Bhajanpura. In August, the body of a seven-year-old boy was found in an open drain in northwest Delhi’s Ashok Vihar. Again in August, a man died after falling into a drain in the Paschim Vihar area. In July, the death of a woman and her son in a drain in east Delhi’s Ghazipur created a big storm. Another person died after his car fell into a drain in north Delhi’s Burari in the same month.
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NSK
(Release ID: 2063735) Visitor Counter : 48
Source: City of Leeds
Leeds rolled out the red carpet last night as it honoured the local stars of the 2024 Olympics and Paralympics with a civic reception.
The event was organised to recognise the inspirational achievements of competitors from the city and the rest of West Yorkshire on the global sporting stage in Paris earlier this year.
Guests at the reception – held in the banqueting suite at Leeds Civic Hall – included athletes Hannah Cockroft, Guillaume Junior Atangana and Donard Ndim Nyamjua, gymnasts Harry Hepworth and Luke Whitehouse and divers Lois Toulson, Jack Laugher, Anthony Harding and Yona Knight-Wisdom.
They gave the 100-strong invited audience some intriguing insights into their Games experiences during a series of interviews with sports commentator and former international gymnast Lisa Gannon.
The Lord Mayor of Leeds, Councillor Abigail Marshall Katung, had earlier welcomed attendees to the event, organised by Leeds City Council with support from the West Yorkshire Combined Authority.
Other speakers included Ed Anderson (HM Lord-Lieutenant of West Yorkshire), Councillor Salma Arif (Leeds City Council’s executive member for adult social care, active lifestyles and culture), Mariana Pexton (interim chief executive of Leeds City Council) and Alison Lowe (West Yorkshire’s Deputy Mayor for Policing and Crime).
Together they congratulated the assembled Olympians and Paralympians on their achievements and thanked them for further enhancing West Yorkshire’s status as a powerhouse of sporting talent and ambition.
There was recognition, too, for the crucial part played by coaches, volunteers and other unsung heroes in delivering the kind of world-class performances seen in Paris.
Stewart Ross, chair of Triathlon Leeds, Dave Murray, director of performance at Leeds Gymnastics Club, and Marc Holdsworth, head coach at City of Leeds Diving Club, were among those sharing the spotlight with the competitors.
Councillor Salma Arif, Leeds City Council’s executive member for adult social care, active lifestyles and culture, said:
“Leeds, and indeed West Yorkshire as a whole, is hugely passionate about sport and that was reflected in the excitement generated earlier this year by the Olympics and the Paralympics.
“As a city and a county, we have a superb range of sports facilities and an excellent record of staging high-profile sporting events. Add in the natural talent and determination that is in Yorkshire’s DNA and it’s no wonder that we keep producing sportsmen and sportswomen who are at the very top of their respective games.”
The Lord Mayor of Leeds, Councillor Abigail Marshall Katung, said:
“I was pleased and proud to have the opportunity to welcome so many of our Olympians and Paralympians to Leeds Civic Hall for this well-deserved celebration of their achievements.
“Their stories gave us a real flavour of what it’s like to compete at the highest level of sport, with all the rewards and challenges that can bring. It was also great to hear about the dedicated work that is done by coaches and volunteers with our athletes – from grassroots to elite – as they help them realise their sporting dreams. Thank you for making us all so proud.”
Alison Lowe, West Yorkshire’s Deputy Mayor for Policing and Crime, said:
“West Yorkshire’s sporting legends did us proud in Paris, and inspired young people right across our communities. Every child deserves the chance to follow in their footsteps and go for gold. That’s why we’re planning to create more opportunities for people in West Yorkshire to get involved in sport.”
Leeds’s impressive range of sporting facilities includes Beeston’s John Charles Centre for Sport, the Leeds Gymnastics Club set-up in Seacroft and the Bodington Playing Fields-based Brownlee Centre – the UK’s first purpose-built triathlon training site.
The list of major sporting events held in the city in recent years, meanwhile, includes the Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon and the AJ Bell World Triathlon Championship Series as well as a number of fixtures at 2022’s Rugby League World Cup.
Local competitors have also enjoyed notable recent success at some of the world’s biggest sporting occasions, with Yorkshire famously outperforming countries such as Jamaica, Spain and Brazil with its haul of seven gold, two silver and three bronze medals at the London 2012 Olympics.
Last night’s event came just over a month after the end of the 2024 competitions in Paris, with the date being picked to fit in as best as possible with the busy diaries of West Yorkshire’s various Olympians and Paralympians.
Hannah Cockroft was joined at Leeds Civic Hall by her husband and fellow Paralympian, Salford-born Nathan Maguire, fresh from their wedding on Saturday.
ENDS
Source: United States Department of Justice (National Center for Disaster Fraud)
SAN DIEGO – United States Attorney Tara McGrath issued a public safety alert today advising the public to be vigilant to hurricane relief fraud in the wake of powerful hurricanes causing devastation on the East Coast.
“During times of crisis, be vigilant, because not all who ask for help have good intentions,” McGrath said. “Be sure to protect yourself by verifying before you donate to ensure your generous support reaches those truly in need.”
Hurricane Milton is heading for Florida now, less than a week after Hurricane Helene made landfall in Florida’s Big Bend Region on Sept. 26 and quickly caused major devastation there and across states including Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Tennessee, and others. As we have seen in the wake of previous national disasters, fraudsters will target victims of the storm along with citizens across the country who want to do what they can to assist individuals affected by the storm. Unfortunately, criminals exploit disasters for their own gain by sending fraudulent communications through email or social media and by creating deceiving websites designed to solicit contributions.
The public should exercise diligence before giving contributions to anyone soliciting donations or individuals offering to assist those affected by Hurricane Helene. Solicitations can originate from phone calls, texts, social media, e-mail, door-to-door collections, flyers, mailings, and other similar methods. Before making a donation to benefit victims of Hurricane Helene, individuals should adhere to certain guidelines, including:
The U.S. Department of Justice established the National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) in the wake of Hurricane Katrina to deter, investigate, and prosecute fraud in the wake of disasters. More than 50 federal, state, and local agencies participate in the NCDF, which reminds the public to be aware of and report any instances of alleged fraudulent activity related to relief operations and funding for victims. Complaints of fraud may be reported online at http://www.justice.gov/DisasterComplaintForm. Complaints may also be reported to the NCDF at (866) 720-5721, a hotline that is staffed 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Source: Scottish Government
People urged to check and use Best Start Foods card
Families getting a Scottish benefit to help them buy healthy foods are being urged to check their balance on their prepaid card.
Best Start Foods, a payment of up to £42.40 every four weeks, helps eligible pregnant women, parents, families and carers with children under the age of three to buy healthy foods from a range of supermarkets, small shops and online stores.
Since its launch in 2019, over £57 million has been paid to over 86,000 parents and carers.
The majority of people say it is clear how to use the card, it has helped them to buy milk or healthy food and have been able to use it without any difficulty, according to a recent survey.
People that have not yet activated their card or don’t use it regularly could be missing out on money that can help pay for healthy foods. Social Security Scotland continue to contact those getting Best Start Foods via text message to alert them to balances available to spend on their cards.
People can apply for the payment as soon as they know they are pregnant, during pregnancy and up to when their child turns three.
The removal of income limits earlier this year also means even more people can now get the payment and are being urged to check if they are eligible.
Speaking at a visit Edinburgh Community Food during Challenge Poverty Week, Social Justice Secretary, Shirley-Anne Somerville, said:
“We are determined to eradicate child poverty and reduce health inequalities in Scotland and Best Start Foods, part of the five family payments, is part of a package to support this.
“We want to make sure people know about, and get, all the financial help they are entitled to. This is particularly relevant during the continuing cost of living crisis.
“I’m urging anyone who has a Best Start Foods card to look it out, make sure it’s activated and check the balance for money to help pay for their food shop.
“If cards are lost, or people are unsure of how to use them, support is available to help them use their card. The card works the same as any chip and pin card and can be used in many supermarkets, small shops and online.
“The Scottish Government removed income limits earlier this year, so I would also urge anyone who has not yet applied for Best Start Foods to check if they are eligible.”
Brenda Black, Chief Executive Officer at Edinburgh Community Food, added:
“Working together with Social Security Scotland and community partners we help mothers and (guardians) check their eligibility and to access their money through the handy Best Start Foods Pre-Paid Card providing a dignified way to spend their payment on healthier foods to enjoy with their growing family.
“Edinburgh Community Food plays a key role in supporting & nourishing futures for expecting mothers and their children.
“We are determined to use every creative way possible to support their access to nourishing food during the first 2001 days, which are crucial for every child’s growth and development.”
Source: US State of Hawaii
Posted on Oct 9, 2024 in Latest Department News, Newsroom
DEPARTMENT OF THE ATTORNEY GENERAL
KA ʻOIHANA O KA LOIO KUHINA
JOSH GREEN, M.D.
GOVERNOR
KE KIAʻĀINA
ANNE LOPEZ
ATTORNEY GENERAL
LOIO KUHINA
News Release 2024-44
DEPARTMENT OF THE ATTORNEY GENERAL LAUNCHES ONLINE RESOURCE FOR PEOPLE SUPPORTING THOSE WITH SERIOUS MENTAL-HEALTH OR SUBSTANCE-ABUSE ISSUES
Webpage is Designed to Help Practitioners and Loved Ones with Assisted Community Treatment Legal Process
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 9, 2024
HONOLULU – The Department of the Attorney General has launched a webpage for those who seek the department’s help with filing assisted community treatment (ACT) petitions in family court, to provide treatment for those with serious mental illnesses or substance abuse that can render them dangerous to themselves or others.
“Assisted community treatment is a holistic legal framework intended to support individuals with severe mental health and substance abuse issues in breaking free from detrimental cyclical patterns in which they episodically become dangerous to themselves or others,” said Special Assistant to the Attorney General Dave Day. “The Department of the Attorney General looks forward to working with practitioners and the people of Hawaiʻi who seek to help their patients and loved ones through ACT.”
In 2013, the Hawaiʻi Legislature established the ACT law with the intent of providing support for someone who has a mental illness or drug addiction, who has demonstrated that without such support they will likely become unsafe in the community, and who may have difficulty participating in treatment. ACT is based in the community and is founded upon a family court-ordered treatment plan issued after a petition is filed. An ACT petition may be sought by a concerned parent, grandparent, spouse, sibling, adult child, reciprocal beneficiary, service provider, case manager, outreach worker, or mental health professional.
In 2024, the Legislature provided that the Department of the Attorney General generally shall assist with the preparation and filing of ACT petitions and with the presentation of the case at any related court proceeding, although such assistance may be declined. The department’s ACT webpage includes forms and instructions that will facilitate this process, including legal definitions, forms and ways of submitting the necessary information to the department.
“Assisted community treatment is a practice of providing community-based services to support people who have had difficulty engaging with treatment for their serious mental health conditions. ACT can improve a sense of personal engagement in treatment, support recovery in the community, and help people who are caught in a revolving cycle of hospitalization, incarceration, and homelessness,” said Michael K. Champion, M.D., Senior Advisor for Mental Health and the Justice System to Governor Josh Green, M.D. “The Department of the Attorney General’s assistance with the ACT petitioning process and court proceedings is an important step in lowering barriers and improving access to needed care.”
“In Hawaiʻi, there have been a number of successful ACT cases with individuals suffering from severe mental illness. Having an involved treatment team is critical to the success of each of these cases,” said Deputy Director of Behavioral Health Marian Tsuji. “The Department of Health is working to expand use of the law across the state.”
“Through an ACT order, individuals who do not realize the severity of their own illness, as well as the risk that treatment noncompliance may pose to themselves or others, are given the opportunity to be treated in the least restrictive setting by providers committed to their care,” said Deputy Attorney General Ian Tsuda, one of Hawaiʻi’s leading ACT practitioners. “The Department of the Attorney General recognizes that many in Hawaiʻi face challenges with such illnesses and are committed to supporting those seeking help for individuals who need this level of care.”
The webpage can be found on the Department of the Attorney General’s website at https://ag.hawaii.gov/act_petition_info/. The webpage can also be accessed from the Department’s webpage in the “Division Links” column or the “Quick Links” pull-down menu.
###
Media Contacts:
Dave Day
Special Assistant to the Attorney General
Office: 808-586-1284
Email: [email protected]
Web: http://ag.hawaii.gov
Toni Schwartz
Public Information Officer
Hawai‘i Department of the Attorney General
Office: 808-586-1252
Cell: 808-379-9249
Email: [email protected]
Web: http://ag.hawaii.gov
Source: US State of California 2
SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today announced the following appointments:
Jennifer Troia, of Sacramento, has been appointed Director at the California Department of Social Services. Troia has served as Chief Deputy Director at the California Department of Social Services since 2020. She was a Principal Consultant for the Joint Legislative Budget Committee from 2018 to 2019. Troia was a Policy Advisor in the Office of California State Senate President pro Tempore Kevin de Leon from 2014 to 2017. She held several roles for the California State Senate Committee on Budget and Fiscal Review from 2009 to 2014, including Deputy Staff Director and Principal Consultant. Troia was a Principal Consultant for the California State Assembly Committee on Human Services from 2008 to 2009. She was Director of Advocacy at the California Court Appointed Special Advocate Association from 2006 to 2008. Troia was an Equal Justice Works Fellow and Attorney at the Youth Law Center from 2004 to 2006. She earned a Juris Doctor degree from the University of California, Berkeley School of Law and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Administration from the University of Florida. This position requires Senate confirmation and the compensation is $244,572. Troia is a Democrat.
Nathan Williams, of Washington, D.C., has been appointed Chief, Immigration Integration Branch of the Office of Equity at the California Department of Social Services. Williams has been Acting Deputy Assistant Secretary for International Affairs at the U.S. Department of Homeland Security since September 2024. He held several roles at the National Security Council in the Executive Office of the President of the United States from 2023 and 2024, including Director for Refugees and Director for Hemispheric Migration. Williams was a Senior Policy Advisor in the Office of International Affairs at the U.S. Department of Homeland Security from 2022 to 2023. He served in several roles, including several overseas assignments, at the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees from 2010 and 2022, including Senior Liaison Officer, Digital Case Management Officer, Protection Officer, Associate Field Officer, Associate Protection Officer and Associate Resettlement Officer. Williams was an Emergency Officer at the Office of Emergency Programmes of the United Nations Children’s Fund in 2015. He earned a Master of International Affairs degree from Columbia University and a Bachelor of Science degree in Anthropology from Santa Clara University. This position does not require Senate confirmation and the compensation is $142,008. Williams is a Democrat.
Daphne Hunt, of Fair Oaks, has been appointed Chief Deputy Director at the California Department of Community Services and Development. Hunt has served as Deputy Director of Programs at the California Department of Community Services and Development since 2021. She was Deputy Secretary of Legislative Affairs at the California Health and Human Services Agency from 2019 to 2021. Hunt held several roles at the California State Assembly’s Human Services Committee from 2015 to 2019, including Chief Consultant and Senior Consultant. She held several roles at the California State Senate Office of Research from 2012 to 2015, including Deputy Director and Policy Consultant. She held several roles at SEIU Local 1000 from 2007 to 2012, including Senior Research Analyst and Research Analyst. Hunt earned a Master of Arts degree in Social Policy from Brandeis University, a Master of Science degree in Community Development from the University of California, Davis and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Anthropology and English Literature from the University of Iowa. This position does not require Senate confirmation and the compensation is $176,808. Hunt is a Democrat.
Roy Bucton, of Duarte, has been reappointed to the California State Independent Living Council, where he has served since 2021. Bucton has been an Independent Contractor and Producer for music and performance since 1983. He was a Disability Advocacy Coordinator for Painted Brain from 2021 to 2024. Bucton was Director and Founder of the Filipino Artists Network from 2001 to 2011. He is Chair of the Protection and Advocacy for Individuals with Mental Illness Advisory Council and a member of the Board of Directors of Disability Rights California. Bucton earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in World Music from the California Institute of the Arts. This position does not require Senate confirmation and there is no compensation. Bucton is registered without party preference.
Susan DeMarois, of Sacramento, has been reappointed to the California State Independent Living Council, where she has served since 2022. DeMarois has been Director of the California Department of Aging since 2021. She was a Member of the Master Plan for Aging Stakeholder Advisory Committee from 2019 to 2020. DeMarois held several positions at the Alzheimer’s Association from 1999 and 2021, including Director of Public Policy and Advocacy, California Government Affairs Director and California State Policy Director. She was Assistant Director of Government and Community Relations at the University of California, Davis Health System from 2002 to 2009. DeMarois was Associate Director of Public Policy at LeadingAge California from 1993 to 1999. She earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Liberal Arts from California State University, Chico. This position does not require Senate confirmation and there is no compensation. DeMarois is a Democrat.
Ariana “Rian” Dindzans, of San Ramon, has been reappointed to the California State Independent Living Council, where they have served since 2023. Dindzans has been a Volunteer Writer and Outreach Representative for the Bay Area Outreach and Recreation Program since 2023. They have been a Research Assistant for Dr. Christina Chin-Newman at California State University, East Bay since 2023. Dindzans is a member of the Disability Justice Club and the Bay Area Outreach and Recreation Program. This position does not require Senate confirmation and there is no compensation. Dindzans is a Democrat.
Anisa Escobedo, of Eureka, has been reappointed to the California State Independent Living Council, where she has served since 2023. Escobedo has been Owner and Designer at Escobedo Design since 2016. She held several roles at Tri-County Independent Living from 2019 to 2024, including Systems Change & Special Projects Coordinator, Advocacy and Fund Development Coordinator and Advocacy & Outreach Specialist. Escobedo was Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer at the Arcata Chamber of Commerce in 2022. She was Executive Director of the Ravenna Chamber of Commerce in 2020. Escobedo is a member of Kiwanis International. This position does not require Senate confirmation and there is no compensation. Escobedo is a Democrat.
M. Lisa Hayes, of Bellflower, has been reappointed to the California State Independent Living Council, where she has served since 2016. Hayes has been Executive Director at Rolling Start Inc. since 2018. She held several positions at Molina Healthcare between 2007 and 2017, including Associate Vice President of Managed Long-Term Services and Supports, Director of Disability and Senior Access Services, Manager of Senior Disability Programs and Manager of Provider Contract Review. Hayes was a Project and Contract Manager at United Health PacifiCare from 2000 to 2007. She earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Organizational Leadership from Biola University. This position does not require Senate confirmation and there is no compensation. Hayes is a Democrat.