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  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Marshall: We Will Strengthen and Preserve Medicaid

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kansas Roger Marshall
    Senator Marshall Joins Squawk Box to Discuss the ‘One Big, Beautiful Bill’
    Washington – On Wednesday, U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-Kansas), joined Joe Kernen and Becky Quick on Squawk Box to discuss President Trump’s ‘One Big, Beautiful Bill,’ the preservation of Medicaid for those who need it most, and the ongoing negotiations in the House and Senate.
    Click HERE or on the image above to watch the full interview.
    On how the OBBB presents the largest tax increase in American history:
    “…The greatest challenge that America faces is our national debt. But the purpose of this bill is to prevent the largest tax increase in American history. We think that by stopping that tax increase and other provisions that the average American family is going to get to keep $1,000 a month more of their hard-earned money. It’s obviously going to secure the border, [and] it’s going to cut $1.7 trillion in spending. So, this is a step in the right direction.
    “You know, Rome wasn’t built in a day, either. So, the first thing we have to do is grow the economy. Then we need to flatten spending, and over the next four years, get to those pre-pandemic spending levels. I think it’s very feasible. We’ll take a bite of the apple now, we’re going to have to take a couple more bites as these next three years go along, though.”
    On how to improve Medicaid for Americans who need it:
    “We need to strengthen and preserve Medicaid for those who need it the most. As a physician, as an obstetrician, we took care of everybody, regardless of their ability to pay. And I want everyone to have meaningful access to primary care, and Medicaid provides that. We’re certainly not going to touch seniors, we’re not going to touch people with disabilities – again, we want to impact those who need it the most.
    “On the other hand, we have 7 million healthy American men of working age who aren’t working. Let’s help those people find a job [and] help them get off Medicaid. Let’s help them either get on the ACA exchange or maybe health insurance through their employer. That’s a win-win opportunity. The best safety net out there is a job, so I’m trying to look for that. You can’t look at this in silos, but I think that would be my goal, is to help those people that are on Medicaid, that are on food stamps right now, that are working age, they’re healthy. Let’s help them find a job as well.”
    “…I think the big problem with Medicaid right now, though, is that we’ve increased spending 50% in five years. So, we need to figure out how do we slow down that spending. In many states, they figured out ways to game the system so that we are reimbursing hospitals more for Medicaid patients than Medicare. So, we need to go back and look at this provider tax and make it fair at the same time.”
    On the struggles that rural hospitals are facing:
    “No one knows more about rural hospitals up here in the Capitol than I do – I’m the only person who’s actually run a hospital, and a rural hospital at that. And there are efficiencies that many are not doing. But at the end of the day, we have something called a critical access hospital, which functions on a system of Medicare Plus, so those would not be touched with this situation as well.
    “I would make nursing homes immune from this provider tax cut as well. That’s such a small amount of money to keep those rural hospitals going. There are other ways to do that, and certainly there are other systems, there’s other funding, other mechanisms that they get because they are rural as well. Things are changing in rural America every day. We’d love to come back and talk about what the rural hospital of the future looks like. It’s probably a really good emergency room with good outpatient services, and go from there.”
    On how the Senate’s negotiations with the House to move the One Big Beautiful Bill forward:
    “Everyone is negotiating through the press right now, and everything is negotiable. Look, we’re going to get the no tax on tips, overtime wage, and social security across the finish line in some shape or shape or form.
    “…On the SALT tax, my goodness – why should red states be subsidizing blue states to the tune of about $400 billion over the next 10 years? I think there’s a sweet spot for us to land on, and we may very well do a bill, send it to them, and they may reject it and send us a bill back. You know, we’re not going home, though, until we get something to the President’s desk. But this is what’s going on – these are powerful negotiations. I’ve never seen such intense negotiations going on within the Republican caucus right now. There are hundreds of billions of dollars at stake. The future of this country is at stake.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Marshall Joins Colleagues in Introducing Legislation to “Strengthen and Expand” Pension Healthcare

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kansas Roger Marshall
    Washington – On Wednesday, U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-Kansas) joined fellow Senators Tim Scott (R-South Carolina), Bill Cassidy (R-Louisiana), and Thom Tillis, (R-North Carolina) to introduce the Strengthening Benefit Plans Act of 2025, which would allow for overfunded 401(H) retiree pension accounts to be transferred to help pay for active healthcare programs. 
    “The Strengthening Benefit Plans Act of 2025 is good for workers, and it’s good for businesses,” said Senator Marshall. “It will allow employers to reinvest in employee health plans, strengthening and expanding benefits for workers. That’s what I call commonsense policy.”
    “Allowing for surplus dollars to be shifted to active healthcare plans is a common-sense approach that benefits both businesses and employees,” said Senator Scott. “This targeted solution allows for employers to redirect funds to better serve those who make their businesses work.”
    “Allowing businesses to reinvest in their employees’ health care strengthens the nation’s economy,” said Dr. Cassidy. “This commonsense legislation allows companies to transfer excess funds from overfunded 401(h) accounts to support their employees’ health care needs.”  
    “This legislation gives hard-working employees a stronger financial future, retirement security, and better health coverage by allowing employers to reinvest surplus benefit assets into the current workforce,” said Senator Tillis. “This is a smart, commonsense solution that protects retiree obligations while benefiting today’s workforce.”
    “BMW thanks Senator Scott for his support of this important issue. He is always a strong advocate for us and our associates,” said Bryan Jacobs, Vice President, External Affairs, BMW. “Senator Scott’s bill would allow surplus assets to fund healthcare benefits for a broader population of employees, which under current regulation is not possible. We applaud his efforts and look forward to working with him to get the legislation enacted into law.” 
    Click here to view the legislation text.
    Background:
    A 401(H) plan is an employer-sponsored fund for post-retirement medical benefits.
    By funding these benefits with previously paid contributions, employers would avoid paying additional costs out of pocket.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Maricopa Man Sentenced to 44 Years in Prison for Second-Degree Murder of a Tohono O’Odham Police Officer

    Source: US FBI

    TUCSON, Ariz. – Carlos Maximilliano Galvan, 44, of Maricopa, Arizona, was sentenced on June 4, 2025, by United States District Judge James A. Soto to 44 years in prison. Galvan previously pleaded guilty to one count of Second-Degree Murder.

    On August 27, 2020, Tohono O’odham Police Officer Bryan Brown responded to a 911 call from the Desert Diamond Casino in Why, Arizona, about an individual who had crashed his vehicle into a handicapped parking sign outside of the casino. The individual then reportedly assaulted two casino employees by striking the truck they were sitting in with his vehicle. When Officer Brown arrived at the scene, he got out of his police cruiser and was confronted by Galvan, who approached him aggressively while brandishing a broken bottle. As Officer Brown stepped around his vehicle to avoid Galvan, Galvan jumped into the police cruiser and drove toward Officer Brown and a United States Border Patrol Agent who had arrived at the scene to assist. The Border Patrol Agent was able to move out of the way, but Galvan struck Officer Brown with the police cruiser, killing him.

    While fleeing from the scene of the murder, Galvan drove the police cruiser across the center lane of the highway and intentionally hit the vehicles of two Border Patrol Agents who were on their way to the scene to assist law enforcement.  

    “The FBI will not waiver in our commitment to ensure those who commit acts of violence against members of law enforcement will be held accountable and punished to the fullest extent of the law,” said FBI Phoenix Acting Special Agent in Charge Jarod Brown. “Today is for Officer Bryan Brown, and his loved ones and colleagues. We hope this sentence brings a degree of comfort to Officer Brown’s family and colleagues.”

    “The defendant attacked not just Officer Brown, but our entire system of justice,” said United States Attorney Timothy Courchaine. “Disrespect for law enforcement escalates, as it did here with a deadly consequence, which is why any assault on a law enforcement officer cannot be tolerated. Our great sorrow goes out to Officer Brown’s family, loved ones, and fellow officers. He demonstrated the ultimate dedication to duty, and we honor him.”   

    The FBI Phoenix Division’s Tucson Office conducted the investigation in this case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Frances Kreamer Hope, Alicia Renee Quezada, and Rui Wang, District of Arizona, Tucson, handled the prosecution.

    CASE NUMBER:           CR-20-01566-TUC-JAS
    RELEASE NUMBER:    2025-091_Galvan

    # # #

    For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
    Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, on Twitter @USAO_AZ for the latest news.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Dutch-Italian cocaine trafficking route intercepted

    Source: Eurojust

    The Italian authorities were investigating a criminal group based in southern Sardinia, composed of eight individuals who were importing large quantities of cocaine from the Netherlands. The drugs were loaded into vehicles with hidden compartments at the bottom. After hiding the cocaine, the vehicles were driven to Italy, where the drugs were sold to local traffickers in Sardinia. During the investigation, over 20 kilograms of pure cocaine were seized, and three couriers were arrested.

    The cooperation with the Netherlands has started four years ago on the basis of mutual legal assistance on both police and judicial level. It culminated in an action day on 11 June, which took place simultaneously in Italy and the Netherlands. During the action day, two suspects were arrested in Italy and one in the Netherlands. In Italy, EUR 3 million and 90 properties were seized, along with bank accounts and vehicles. In the Netherlands parts of the EUR 600 000 profits of the Dutch suspect were seized.

    Eurojust coordinated the international cooperation in the cross-border investigation, ensuring that four European Investigation Orders were executed to gather information and continue the investigation into the criminal network. The Agency supported the action day on 11 June by preparing the European Arrest Warrant executed in the Netherlands.

    The following authorities carried out the operation:

    • Italy: Cagliari Public Prosecutor’s Office – Anti-Mafia District Directorate; Guardia di Finanza di Cagliari – GICO (Organised Crime Investigation Unit – Anti-Drug Section)
    • Netherlands: Public Prosecutor’s Office Zeeland-West-Brabant; Centre for International Legal Assistance in Criminal Matters Zeeland-West-Brabant; Police Zeeland-West-Brabant

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Action to tackle human traffickers forcing female victims into prostitution in Romania and UK

    Source: Eurojust

    With support from Eurojust and Europol, Romanian and UK authorities have taken decisive action against a human trafficking network that forced at least 27 young female victims into prostitution. During a coordinated action day, twelve suspects have been identified and forty places were searched, while victims were brought to safety. Eurojust supported the action by setting up and financing a joint investigation team (JIT) in November 2024.

    Since 2019, the perpetrators have recruited young female victims from poor backgrounds or from social care centres without relatives, mainly in Bucharest and the Romanian Prahova region. Using the so-called ‘lover boy method’, the perpetrators promised the victims job opportunities in sectors such as catering or tourism, but in reality forced them into prostitution in Romania and the United Kingdom. This often occurred after they were deprived of their identity documents.

    © DIICOT Poliția Românăas

    The criminal network behind the human trafficking arranged for transport and housing in the UK. According to estimates from the Romanian authorities, they allegedly made profits of up to EUR 5.3 million. The identified perpetrators are suspected of organising a criminal group, engaging in continuous human trafficking, pimping and money laundering.

    Eurojust assisted the Romanian and UK authorities in setting up and financing the JIT, as well as organising three coordination meetings to prepare for the joint action in both countries. Experts from Europol’s European Migrant Smuggling Centre (EMSC) provided analytical support and facilitated the exchange of intelligence and operational data between national authorities.

    The operations were carried out at the request of and by the following authorities:

    • Romania: Directorate for the Investigation of Organised Crime and Terrorism (DIICOT) – Central Structure; Organised Crime Combatting Brigades of Ploiesti and Pitesti
    • United Kingdom: Crown Prosecution Service: London Metropolitan Police

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Software République unveils “vision 4rescue”, an integrated technological ecosystem for the next-gen of Emergency Services

    Source: Thales Group

    Headline: Software République unveils “vision 4rescue”,
    an integrated technological ecosystem for the next-gen of Emergency Services

    • In response to the increasing frequency and intensity of emergencies and natural disasters, Software République introduces “vision 4rescue,” designed to enhance the efficiency of emergency response during critical situations.
    • This ecosystem, comprising 20 interconnected solutions, aims to better integrate the various technologies used by emergency services for faster and more coordinated interventions.
    • For this innovative ecosystem, Software République has joined forces with 3 firefighter/emergency units as well as 4 other technological partners.

    Viva Technology, Paris – June 11, 2025 – For the 2025 edition of Viva Technology, Software République, a group of 7 European companies1 that combine their expertise towards an intelligent, secure and durable mobility, has partnered with three firefighter units2 to unveil “vision 4rescue,” a system of interconnected technological solutions aimed at increasing the efficiency and improving the coordination of rescue and emergency services.

    In France, natural disasters have increased fivefold in fifteen years, with two-thirds of municipalities now likely to experience some kind of major natural disaster3. Faced with more frequent, intense, and complex interventions (natural disasters, industrial hazards, urban accidents, or emergency medical interventions), emergency and rescue professions need to adapt to increasing challenges. This adaptation is all the more necessary given an aging population, growing urbanization, and an increasingly strained healthcare system, where personal assistance now accounts for over 80% of emergency services’ operational activity (4 million interventions per year4). These growing challenges call for new solutions to risk management, intervention methods, as well as the transformation of equipment and technologies used.

    Making a Difference:
    ​    A Technological Ecosystem serving Emergency Services and Populations

    To be more effective, a key factor is removing the technological barriers between the different services used by emergency teams. Whether it involves vehicles, video surveillance cameras, or communication systems, emergency services now need seamless integration among all these devices. “vision 4rescue” offers a system of integrated, interconnected, and secure technologies to address this challenge.

    By combining their expertise and leveraging a deep and comprehensive understanding of the Emergency services requirements, the partners have designed an ecosystem of nearly 20 interconnected solutions to:

    Anticipate with precision emergencies through enhanced field vision and real-time analysis of multi-source data.

    Act more effectively at every stage of the emergency and rescue intervention, with tailored, accessible, and integrated devices.

    Communicate more efficiently with emergency teams and with the public through more direct, faster, and targeted messaging, thereby enhancing collective resilience and the ability to respond effectively.

    Interconnected Equipment: A Decisive Lever for Emergency Response

    “vision 4rescue” includes several pieces of equipment designed to collect and share as much information as possible:

    • Long-range drones (Thales) and short-range drones (Parrot): Equipped with cameras and onboard communication systems, they provide precise surveillance of emergency zones, collecting and sharing information.
    • Connected urban furniture (JCDecaux) serves as a direct communication interface with the population and plays a sentinel role. The short-range drone can use the take-off / landing platform facilitating the incident diagnosis by the emergency services.
    • Renault 4 E-Tech electric vehicle (Renault Group): Tailored to emergency needs, acting as a mobile command center close to the operations.

    In addition to these three pieces of equipment, electronic sensor networks (STMicroelectronics) are used in both urban (urban furniture, traffic lights, etc.) and rural environments (forests, near watercourses, etc.) to detect anomalies.

    Next-Generation Technological Solutions

    Software République integrates a system of technologies into “vision 4rescue” a set of technologies that makes it a unique and comprehensive ecosystem, capable of adapting operational responses in real time to the most complex and simultaneous situations. These include:

    Modeling, simulation, and detection solutions:

    • Dassault Systèmes connects virtual twins of physical and digital systems in a collaborative virtual world to simulate complex risk scenarios, explore prevention plans, and orchestrate the optimal deployment of resources.
    • Cybersecure AI platforms (Thales) manage autonomous drone operations and orchestrate tactical missions, analyzing multi-source data (drones, satellites, etc.) in real time to better detect risks and anticipate their evolution – even from mobile, decentralized command centers like the R4.
    • The Flux Vision (Orange) analysis tools and mission planning tools (HawAI.tech) optimize drone flight paths taking into account all mission constraints.
    • A crisis management solution (Atos) integrates prevention plans, monitoring, and simulation data to organize emergency responses.

    Solutions to enhance responsiveness:

    • A V2X – vehicle to everything – solution (Orange) enables real-time communication between the vehicle and its environment.
    • A tactical communication tool (Atos) connects vehicles, field teams, and drones to maximize data collection, enhanced via AI, and shared in real time.
    • To transmit vital information to firefighters under stress in complex environments, Peripheral uses peripheral vision.
    • Embedded AI and electronic components (STMicroelectronics) optimize equipment responsiveness, reduce latency, and ensure high data security while incorporating energy-saving solutions for greater autonomy and durability.

    Guaranteed connectivity under all circumstances:

    • Hybrid networks and devices (Orange), including onboard 5G network and a connected SOS backpack, along with ultra-light Wi-Fi mesh technology (Green Communications) with embedded resilience applications, ensure communication between emergency teams during critical operations where traditional infrastructure is unavailable.
    • An emergency communication system (Thales) integrated into long-range drone or the R4, geolocates mobile phones in risk zones and sends alert messages to which civilians can respond if needed.
    • A communication solution compliant with the C-ITS (Cooperative Intelligent Transport System) international standard ensures native interoperability and secure exchanges between vehicles and road infrastructure (Atos).

    Key Partnerships

    For this project, Software République and its seven members (Atos, Dassault Systèmes, JCDecaux, Orange, Renault Group, STMicroelectronics, and Thales) partnered with three firefighter units and four other technology partners: Parrot, HawAI.tech, Peripheral, and Green Communications.

    Presentation at VivaTech

    At VivaTech (June 11 to 14, 2025), Software République will showcase “vision 4rescue” (Stand G18, Hall 1.1), highlighting several real-world use cases:

    • Forest Fire
    • Flood
    • Urban Emergency

    1Atos, Dassault Systèmes, JCDecaux, Orange, Renault Group, STMicroelectronics et Thales

    2Brigade des Sapeurs-Pompiers de Paris, la Fédération Nationale des Sapeurs-Pompiers et le SDIS 78

    3Source Ministère de la Transition Ecologique

    4Source Ministère de l’Intérieur

    About ​ Software République

    The Software République is defined as an open innovation ecosystem dedicated to intelligent, secure, and sustainable mobility. It was created in April 2021 by six founding members: Atos, Dassault Systèmes, Orange, Renault Group, STMicroelectronics and Thales. In March 2024, JCDecaux became the seventh partner member.

    The Software République builds collective businesses focused on tomorrow’s mobility through its unique horizontal collaboration model. The ecosystem stands out for its innovative approach, combining established companies and start-ups from different backgrounds to bring to market products and services that meet the new challenges of the connected vehicle, the smart city and energy. These projects are based on the complementary expertise of its partners in data analysis, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, connectivity, and virtual twins, and on the ambition to invent a new model of innovation while keeping people and the environment at the heart of its motivations.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Iran: Woman Life Freedom protester executed after sham trial and torture

    Source: Amnesty International –

    Mojahed Kourkouri has been executed three years after he was arrested

    Iranian authorities have so far executed 11 individuals in connection with the Woman Life Freedom protests

    ‘Kourkouri was tortured to extract forced ‘confessions’ which were then broadcast in propaganda videos on Iran’s state media’ – Hussein Baoumi

    Reacting to an announcement by Iran’s judiciary that the Iranian authorities executed Mojahed (Abbas) Kourkouri in connection with the 2022 Woman Life Freedom protests in Iran, Hussein Baoumi, Amnesty International’s Middle East and North Africa Deputy Director, said: 

    “Mojahed Kourkouri’s arbitrary execution is utterly appalling. It exposes yet again the Iranian authorities’ disdain for the right to life and their determination to use the death penalty as a tool to crush dissent and instil fear in Iran’s population.  

    “Kourkouri was sentenced to death by a Revolutionary Court following a grossly unfair sham trial. He was subjected to enforced disappearance for months and tortured to extract forced ‘confessions’ which were then broadcast in propaganda videos on Iran’s state media. In one video he is seen in a hospital bed with his arm visibly bandaged.  

    “The ongoing arbitrary execution of protesters amid a horrific rise in executions in Iran demonstrates yet again that Iranian authorities will persist in committing crimes under international law and other grave human rights violations unless the international community takes concrete and robust accountability measures. 

    “It underscores the need for governments to initiate criminal investigations under the principle of universal jurisdiction against all those suspected of criminal responsibility for crimes under international law during the protests, including senior Iranian officials.” 

    Mojahed Kourkouri

    Iranian authorities had accused Mojahed Kourkouri of involvement in the killing of nine-year-old Kian Pirfalak during the Woman Life Freedom protests that took place in Iran between September-December 2022. However, Kian Pirfalak’s family have repeatedly publicly refuted the accusation and attributed responsibility to Iran’s security forces. The authorities denied Mojahed Kourkouri access to a lawyer at the investigation phase of his case and never investigated his torture allegations. Amnesty has documented a pattern of the Iranian authorities systematically covering up and concealing their crimes and denying responsibility for the unlawful killings of children by security forces during nationwide protests. 

    See here for more details on Mojahed Kourkouri’s case. 

    Executions in connection with Woman Life Freedom

    Iranian authorities have so far executed 11 individuals in connection with the Woman Life Freedom protests, all following grossly unfair sham trials. Several other individuals remain at risk of execution in connection with the Woman Life Freedom protests. See here for more details. 

    Amnesty opposes the death penalty in all cases without exception regardless of who is accused, the nature or circumstances of the crime, guilt or innocence, or the method of execution. Amnesty has long called on the Iranian authorities to immediately establish a moratorium on executions with a view of fully abolishing the death penalty. 

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Fire in the heart of the Ecuadorian Amazon: girls and young women fighting for climate justice

    Source: Amnesty International –

    By Alicia Moncada, Americas climate justice researcher, and Tamaryn Nelson, legal advisor for business and human rights 

    SUCUMBÍOS, Ecuador.- 

    At night in the Ecuadorian Amazon, huge flames light up the darkness. Flames from the gas flares that tower over the oil wells and that, far from being a sign of progress, are living scars on the green lungs of our planet. Not only do they burn natural gas, needlessly wasting a non-renewable resource, but they also pollute the air, destroy biodiversity and threaten the lives and rights of nearby communities. Here, environmental justice has been a distant dream for over 57 years, while human rights burn with the gas.

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Iran: Arbitrary execution of Woman Life Freedom protester after sham trial and torture 

    Source: Amnesty International –

    Reacting to an announcement by Iran’s judiciary that the Iranian authorities this morning executed Mojahed (Abbas) Kourkouri in connection with the 2022 Woman Life Freedom protests in Iran, Amnesty International’s Deputy Regional Director for the Middle East and North Africa, Hussein Baoumi, said: 

    “The news of Mojahed Kourkouri’s arbitrary execution is utterly appalling. It exposes yet again the Iranian authorities’ disdain for the right to life and their determination to use the death penalty as a tool to crush dissent and instil fear in Iran’s population.  

    “Mojahed Kourkouri was sentenced to death by a Revolutionary Court following a grossly unfair sham trial. He was subjected to enforced disappearance for months and tortured to extract forced ‘confessions’ which were then broadcast in propaganda videos on Iran’s state media. In one video he is seen in a hospital bed with his arm visibly bandaged.  

    The news of Mojahed Kourkouri’s arbitrary execution is utterly appalling. It exposes yet again the Iranian authorities’ disdain for the right to life and their determination to use the death penalty as a tool to crush dissent and instil fear in Iran’s population. 

    Hussein Baoumi, MENA Deputy Regional Director

    “The ongoing arbitrary execution of protesters amid a horrific rise in executions in Iran demonstrates yet again that Iranian authorities will persist in committing crimes under international law and other grave human rights violations unless the international community takes concrete and robust accountability measures. 

    “It underscores the need for states to initiate criminal investigations under the principle of universal jurisdiction against all those suspected of criminal responsibility for crimes under international law during the protests, including senior Iranian officials.” 

    Background 

    Iranian authorities had accused Mojahed Kourkouri of involvement in the killing of nine-year-old Kian Pirfalak during the Woman Life Freedom protests that took place in Iran between September-December 2022. However, Kian Pirfalak’s family have repeatedly publicly refuted the accusation and attributed responsibility to Iran’s security forces. 

    The authorities denied Mojahed Kourkouri access to a lawyer at the investigation phase of his case and never investigated his torture allegations. 

    Amnesty International has documented a pattern of the Iranian authorities systematically covering up and concealing their crimes and denying responsibility for the unlawful killings of children by security forces during nationwide protests. 

    Iranian authorities have so far executed 11 individuals in connection with the Woman Life Freedom protests, all following grossly unfair sham trials. Several other individuals remain at risk of execution in connection with the Woman Life Freedom protests. See here for more details. 

    Amnesty International opposes the death penalty in all cases without exception regardless of who is accused, the nature or circumstances of the crime, guilt or innocence, or the method of execution. The organization has long called on the Iranian authorities to immediately establish a moratorium on executions with a view of fully abolishing the death penalty. 

    See here for more details on Mojahed Kourkouri’s case. 

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: What happened to the Madleen and why were they trying to reach Gaza? 

    Source: Amnesty International –

    On 1 June 2025, 12 people set sail on the Madleen with the goal of breaking Israel’s unlawful blockade on the occupied Gaza Strip and delivering desperately needed food and medical supplies to Gaza. 

    For almost 18 years, Israeli authorities have maintained an unlawful blockade of Gaza that restricts access to essential supplies and services. On 2 March 2025, they tightened the blockade and in doing so, imposed a total siege on Gaza. Israel’s use of starvation of civilians and siege tactics are part of a calculated plan to bring about the physical destruction of Palestinians in Gaza. This is genocide.  

    The Madleen and its crew attempted to challenge Israel’s genocide and this cruel and inhumane policy of using starvation of civilians as a method of warfare and collective punishment. They were unarmed and acting with full accordance with international and maritime law. And yet, eight days into their mission, they were intercepted in international waters and unlawfully detained by Israeli forces. Their detention is arbitrary and without any legal basis. 

    Israel’s actions against the flotilla are yet another demonstration of how far it will go to silence global solidary with Palestinians and continue its genocide and inhuman and collective punishment of Palestinians in Gaza.  

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: World Cup 2026: Growing threats to human rights set to undermine FIFA’s responsibilities one year out from kick off

    Source: Amnesty International –

    One year to go until the largest-ever sporting event across the USA, Canada and Mexico

    Urgent human rights risks in 2026 host countries – particularly in the USA – are impacting immigrants, the right to protest, and LGBTI+ rights

    Growing threats to civil liberties and human rights risk undermining FIFA’s commitments and responsibilities

    ‘FIFA and the US authorities must ensure that the World Cup does not become a pretext for stifling dissent or expanding mass surveillance’ – Daniel Noroña, Amnesty USA

    FIFA must take urgent and concrete action to uphold human rights for everyone involved in the 2026 FIFA Men’s World Cup, the Sport & Rights Alliance said today.

    With just one year remaining before the tournament begins across the United States, Canada, and Mexico – and only days before the Club World Cup kicks off on June 14 – growing threats to civil liberties and human rights risk undermining FIFA’s own commitments and responsibilities in this area.

    In its statutes, Human Rights Policy, and 2026 Bidding Process Guide, FIFA accepts its responsibility to respect human rights in line with the United Nations Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights. The Bidding Process Guide specifically requires would-be hosts to document their commitment to “ensur[ing] that the hosting and staging of the Competition do[es] not involve adverse impacts on internationally recognised human rights.” The guide gives particular attention to “labour rights, the rights of children, gender equality, freedom of expression and peaceful assembly, and protecting all individuals from all forms of discrimination.”

    The Sport & Rights Alliance has identified several critical areas where government policies in the 2026 host countries, particularly the United States under President Donald Trump, pose significant and immediate risks to the human rights of immigrants; freedom of the press and free expression; LGBTI+ rights; safety for children; and the right to be free from discrimination, requiring urgent and transparent intervention.

    Andrea Florence, Executive Director of the Sport & Rights Alliance, said:

    “In 2018, the US, Mexico, and Canada provided clear human rights commitments in their bid documents to host the 2026 FIFA Men’s World Cup.

    “Despite FIFA’s mantra that ‘football unites the world,’ a World Cup held under discriminatory and exclusionary policies risks deepening social divides rather than bridging them. FIFA should exert its leverage and demand concrete, legally binding guarantees that human rights won’t be further sacrificed for the sake of the game.”

    Right to protest; freedom of expression

    With the 2026 Men’s World Cup potentially serving as a spotlight for public criticism and controversy, the escalating crackdowns on freedom of expression and peaceful assembly, particularly for people engaged in speech and protest related to Palestinian rights, is deeply troubling, the Alliance said. Students and activists have been detained and their visas revoked for speaking out about their views. The Trump administration has also deployed National Guard troops to Los Angeles following protests against immigration arrests, claiming they constitute an act of “rebellion” against the government.

    FIFA’s stated commitments to free expression have also previously been contradicted when it has imposed rules prohibiting players and fans from making political or religious statements. At the 2022 Men’s World Cup in Qatar, for example, Iranian fans displaying “Woman, Life, Freedom” banners were removed from stadiums, while rainbow flags were confiscated at a number of matches.

    Daniel Noroña, Americas Advocacy Director at Amnesty International USA, said:

    “The ability to peacefully protest without fear of retribution is a cornerstone of a free society, yet it is increasingly under threat in the United States.

    “There is a long history of peaceful protest in global football. FIFA and the US authorities must ensure that the World Cup does not become a pretext for stifling dissent or expanding mass surveillance, and every player, fan, journalist, and resident can participate and protest without fear of sanction, arbitrary detention or discriminatory treatment.”

    Discriminatory immigration policies

    FIFA anticipates that as many as 6.5 million people could attend the 2026 tournament across the host countries. The current US administration’s abusive immigration policies, including enforced disappearances under the Alien Enemies Act, travel bans, increased detention, and visa restrictions, threaten the inclusivity and global nature of the World Cup.

    Despite President Trump’s executive order stating that teams qualifying for the 2026 Men’s World Cup will be exempt from travel bans, as of now fans and extended family members from banned countries will not be allowed to enter the United States. Delays, denials, and the real prospect of detention for fans, media, and other participants from specific countries could severely disrupt the tournament.

    Minky Worden, Director of Global Initiatives at Human Rights Watch, said:

    “FIFA should publicly acknowledge the threat US immigration and other anti-human rights policies pose to the tournament’s integrity and use its leverage with the US government to ensure that the rights of all qualified teams, support staff, media, and fans are respected as they seek to enter the United States regardless of nationality, gender identity, religion, or opinion.

    “FIFA should establish clear benchmarks and timelines for the US policy changes needed to ensure respect for immigrants’ rights during the 2026 World Cup and beyond.”

    Human Rights Watch wrote to FIFA on May 5 to say that it should use its leverage to push the Trump administration to roll back discriminatory immigration policies in the United States. FIFA responded on June 3, stating that it “expects … host countries take measures to ensure that any eligible persons who are involved in the Competition are able to enter the respective countries,” and “is actively working on this matter with relevant authorities.” FIFA also said it would engage with relevant authorities if it became aware of human rights concerns.

    Ronan Evain, Executive Director of Football Supporters Europe, said:

    “Fans travel to the World Cup to celebrate and express their passion, and any attempt to curtail our fundamental rights, including the right to free speech, is a betrayal of the spirit of football.

    “We’re particularly concerned about the potential for selective enforcement and discrimination against fans based on our perceived political views or national origin. FIFA must obtain the necessary guarantees to ensure fans from all over the world are able to safely travel and attend the games.”

    Discrimination and violence against LGBTI+ people

    The increasing legislative and rhetorical attacks on the rights of LGBTI+ people, particularly transgender people in the United States, underscore the current administration’s intention to erase transgender people from public life and dismantle crucial human rights protections. Discriminatory laws and the hostile political climate around LGBTI+ rights in the United States could directly threaten the security, bodily autonomy, dignity, and inclusion of LGBTI+ fans, players, and workers at the 2026 Men’s World Cup.

    In Mexico, LGBTI+ people, and especially trans and gender-diverse people, face violence across the country, which affects their daily lives and participation in public events. Federal and state authorities should take urgent steps to prevent and punish violence against LGBTI+ people, with particular attention to the specific risks faced by trans and gender-diverse communities.

    Gurchaten Sandhu, Director of Programs at ILGA World, said:

    “The alarming discrimination and violence against LGBTI+ individuals in the United States and Mexico cast a chilling shadow over the promise of an inclusive World Cup.

    “As organiser of the event, FIFA should demand that all host cities and states uphold universal human rights, ensuring no fan, worker, or athlete faces discrimination based on their sexual orientation, gender expression, gender identity, or sex characteristics, and that any discriminatory laws are actively challenged and nullified.”

    Press freedom

    Journalists covering the 2026 Men’s World Cup face distinct and alarming risks in both Mexico and the United States. Mexico consistently ranks among one of world’s most dangerous and deadly countries for media professionals, who face threats, harassment, and violence from both organised crime and public officials. The pervasive impunity for these crimes creates a chilling effect and zones of silence in which critical information is suppressed. In the United States, journalists could face intrusive screening, social media monitoring, and be denied entry based on perceived political views, undermining their ability to report independently.

    Antoine Bernard, Advocacy and Assistance Director at Reporters Without Borders (RSF), said:

    “Journalists covering the World Cup must be granted unimpeded access, free from arbitrary restrictions, detention, or violence.

    “FIFA and the local authorities must implement exceptional measures to protect all media workers – not only ensuring smooth entry for foreign press but actively safeguarding all journalists who will be covering large crowds, excited spectators, and potential protests, and addressing the systemic impunity that allows violence against them to persist.

    “Local law enforcement’s policies need to be strengthened to ensure the distinction of journalists from demonstrators, bystanders, and fans, and they must clearly communicate the policies they intend to follow in ensuring this distinction, in full respect of journalists’ freedom and independence.”

    Labour rights

    The immense scale of the 2026 Men’s World Cup will necessitate a massive workforce in host cities to staff stadiums, hospitality, transport, and more. The Trump administration’s dismantling of federal programs and anti-union sentiment increase the risk of exploitation and child labour, wage theft, and unsafe working conditions for these critical workers.

    Luc Triangle, General Secretary of the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC), said:

    “The extensive network of contracts for stadium construction, hospitality, and event services in the host cities must be built on a foundation of respect for workers’ rights.

    “We are gravely concerned that without strong, enforceable labour protections, this tournament will inadvertently fuel precarious work and child labour, suppress wages, and deny workers their fundamental rights to organise and bargain collectively. FIFA must demand robust social dialogue and binding agreements to protect every worker contributing to this World Cup.”

    Transparency and anti-corruption

    The Sport & Rights Alliance also harbours significant concerns related to low governmental transparency and weak anti-corruption regulations in and around the 2026 Men’s World Cup, particularly given recent policy shifts in the United States and Mexico. As the tournament approaches, robust oversight and unwavering commitment to ethical principles are needed to prevent the exploitation of this global event for private gain at the expense of human rights and public trust.

    Tor Dølvik, Special Advisor at Transparency International, said:

    “The 2026 FIFA World Cup will take place in a global context where anti-corruption efforts are increasingly under strain.

    “All host countries and FIFA must uphold their anti-corruption responsibilities by establishing comprehensive risk management mechanisms that close potential loopholes for corruption, and reliable systems for detecting and reporting irregularities. Full transparency regarding all expenditures related to the World Cup – before, during, and after the events – will be vital in building trust and ensuring integrity throughout the process.”

    FIFA’s responsibility

    FIFA, as the chief actor responsible for an event that will leave a tremendous footprint, needs to conduct an updated human rights due diligence assessment, and unequivocally leverage its influence to ensure that the 2026 Men’s World Cup is a rights-respecting and rights-advancing event.

    A new human rights due diligence assessment should consider the need for tangible commitments to reverse discriminatory policies, strengthen protections for historically marginalised groups, ensure substantial accountability for human rights abuses, and establish truly effective, transparent, and independent grievance mechanisms for people to seek support and a remedy. Failure to act decisively risks irrevocably tarnishing the legacy of the 2026 FIFA Men’s World Cup and setting a dangerous precedent for future mega-sporting events.

    About the Sport & Rights Alliance

    The Sport & Rights Alliance’s mission is to promote the rights and well-being of those most affected by human rights risks associated with the delivery of sport. Its partners include Amnesty International, The Army of Survivors, Football Supporters Europe, Human Rights Watch, ILGA World (The International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association), the International Trade Union Confederation, Reporters Without Borders, Transparency International, and World Players Association, UNI Global Union.

    As a global coalition of leading nongovernmental organisations and trade unions, the Sport & Rights Alliance works together to ensure sports bodies, governments, and other relevant stakeholders give rise to a world of sport that protects, respects, and fulfills international standards for human rights, labour rights, child wellbeing and safeguarding, and anti-corruption.

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI USA: As Wildfire Season Approaches, Wyden, Budd, Schrier and Valadao Unveil Bipartisan Legislation to Reduce Impacts of Wildfires

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Ron Wyden (D-Ore)

    June 11, 2025

    In 2024 alone, 8.9 million acres of land were affected by wildfires

    Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senators Ron Wyden, D-Ore., and Ted Budd, R-N.C., and U.S. Representatives Kim Schrier, D-Wash., and David Valadao, R-Calif., today introduced bipartisan legislation that would support prescribed burns as an essential, cost-effective, science-based strategy to save lives and property, and address the harmful impacts of the recent wildfires across the nation. 

    In 2024 alone, 8.9 million acres of land were burned by wildfires, one of the highest totals on record. Since vegetation continues to grow, the Forest Service has been unable to address the current hazardous fuel backlog as the nation suffers from hotter and drier fire seasons.

    The National Prescribed Fire Act of 2025 would invest in hazardous fuels management to reduce the risk of blistering infernos by increasing the pace and scale of prescribed  burns during cooler, wetter months. The legislation would grow a technically skilled prescribed fire workforce, and provide new tools to aid smoke management and prescribed fire permitting during winter months to reduce catastrophic fires and smoke in the summer. 

    “It’s no secret that rising temperatures and increased drought are leading to more and more wildfires, and firefighters are struggling to keep up as they put their lives on the line,” Wyden said. “We can no longer wait for disaster to strike before we address these fires destroying our neighborhoods and even taking people’s lives. I have heard firsthand from Oregonians who are sick and tired of inaction while the West burns. Our bipartisan, bicameral bill will tackle wildfires head-on by focusing on prevention to get the West out of the cycle of crisis and devastation every wildfire season.”  

    “Following the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene, thousands of acres of North Carolina forest were left destroyed,” Budd said. “Now, these downed trees and piles of leaves represent a serious wildfire risk. By enabling the Forest Service to better conduct controlled burns of unchecked vegetation and scattered debris, we can protect our forests from catastrophic wildfires that may occur in the hottest months of the year. I am proud to join my colleague, Sen. Wyden, in introducing this common-sense, proactive approach to preventing disastrous wildfires.”

    “Here in Washington State, we experience devastating wildfires every year.  That’s why Congress must act now and address this issue,” Schrier said. “My bill, the National Prescribed Fire Act, expands the use of prescribed fire to lower the risk of catastrophic wildfires.”

    “In California, we understand the dangerous impact of wildfires—from damage to property to loss of life,” Valadao said. “By prescribing controlled burns to fire-adapted land in a safe and supervised way, we can limit dangerous fuel buildup and help reduce the threat of future wildfires. I’m proud to join my colleagues in re-introducing this bipartisan bill to protect our communities from wildfire risk.”

    The National Prescribed Fire Act of 2025:

    • Dedicates funding for the Forest Service and the Department of the Interior to plan, prepare, and conduct prescribed burns on federal, state, and private lands. 

    • Requires the Forest Service and Department of Interior to increase the number of acres treated with prescribed fire.

    • Establishes a new collaborative program to implement prescribed burns on county, state, and private land at high risk of burning in a wildfire. 

    • Establishes a workforce development program at the Forest Service and DOI to develop, train, and hire prescribed fire practitioners, and establishes employment programs for Tribes, veterans, underutilized employees, and those formerly incarcerated.

    • Facilitates coordination between land managers and state, tribal, and local air quality agencies to use current laws and regulations to allow larger prescribed burns, and give states more flexibility in winter months to conduct prescribed burns that reduce catastrophic smoke events in the summer. 

    “Prescribed fire is critically important for building resilience to wildfire across America’s public lands. The National Prescribed Fire Act of 2025 will help increase the pace and scale of this underused tool to a level commensurate with the wildfire crisis. Outdoor Alliance commends Senator Wyden, Senator Budd, and Representative Schrier and Valadao for their work on this important legislation,” said Jamie Ervin, Senior Policy Manager of Outdoor Alliance.

    “Prescribed fire is critical for maintaining healthy forests and protecting our communities from the threat of wildfire. State Foresters applaud the bipartisan efforts of Senators Wyden and Budd to ensure this important forest management tool remains in the toolbox while eliminating several key barriers to safely and responsibly expanding its use across the nation’s forest landscapes,” said Patty Cormier, President of National Association of State Foresters.

    “Beneficial fire, including prescribed fire, has historically been an underused and under-resourced tool for promoting fire-resilient landscapes, despite being among the most cost-effective land management strategies available. The National Prescribed Fire Act of 2025 would enable greater prescribed fire utilization by supporting workforce development and training for prescribed fire practitioners. It would also establish clear liability standards for non-federal partners engaged in essential cross-boundary mitigation work. We commend Senator Wyden and Senator Budd for working to equip land managers with what they need to protect our communities and treasured landscapes,” said Marek Smith, North America Fire Director at The Nature Conservancy.

    “Increasing the pace and scale of forest restoration is paramount, and prescribed fire is one of the most economical techniques for large-scale forest restoration. Western Governors support the expanded use of prescribed fire and applaud Senator Wyden and Senator Budd’s bipartisan effort to promote the judicious deployment of this management tool. The Western Governors’ Association urges the Senate to consider this critically important bill,” said Jack Waldorf, Executive Director at Western Governors’ Association.

    “Prescribed and cultural burning are the most effective, yet underutilized tools to address the nation’s wildfire crisis. This bill proposes comprehensive and practical solutions to increase safe use of beneficial fire to restore forest health, protect communities, and reduce the risk of mega-fires. Congress should act to pass it immediately,” said Dylan Kruse, President of Sustainable Northwest.

    “The Stewardship Project supports the National Prescribed Fire Act as a critical step toward ecological restoration through the expanded use of beneficial fire. We appreciate that this legislation elevates the role of Indigenous practitioners in cultural burning, invests in cross-boundary collaboration, and focuses on landscape-scale restoration to address the wildfire crisis,” said Scott Stephens, Don Hankins, and Sara Clark, Co-Leads at The Stewardship Project.

    “The exclusion of fire from our fire-dependent ecosystems over the past century has degraded America’s forests and grasslands and contributed significantly to the compounding climate and catastrophic wildfire crises. The National Prescribed Fire Act proposes practical solutions to expand the use of various types of beneficial fire,” said Marissa Christiansen, Executive Director at the Climate and Wildfire Institute.

    “As the leading non-governmental research organization with over 65-years of experience using prescribed fire science to solve land management problems, Tall Timbers is excited to see the reintroduction of the National Prescribed Fire Act. We support the emphasis on workforce training and collaboration across federal and non-federal stakeholders and believe this bill would greatly enhance how prescribed fire is conducted on public and private lands throughout the country,” said J. Morgan Varner, PhD, Director of Research at Tall Timbers.

    “Senator Wyden’s National Prescribed Fire Act is a must-pass bill for the sake of our communities and forests. Prescribed fire is the safest, most effective, efficient, and economical tool for influencing future wildfire behavior. Ask any wildland firefighter and they will admit that they’d rather be lighting fires under the best of weather conditions than fighting fires under the worst conditions. Proactive prescribed burning beats reactive wildfire fighting any day!” said Timothy Ingalsbee, Executive Director of Firefighters United for Safety, Ethics, and Ecology (FUSEE).

    “In Oregon, The Nature Conservancy has been using prescribed fire since 1983. Prescribed fire is an essential tool to restore and steward fire-dependent ecosystems, reduce the risk to communities, and help many of Oregon’s most iconic natural landscapes become more resilient to extreme wildfires. We are grateful for Senator Wyden’s leadership on the National Prescribed Fire Act – providing a pathway to accelerate the pace and scale of prescribed fire necessary to combat the wildfire crisis in the western United States,” said Katie Sauerbrey, Oregon Fire Program Director at The Nature Conservancy. 

    The text of the bill is here. A one-page summary of the bill is here. A section-by-section of the bill is here. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kaine Statement on Pentagon Review of AUKUS

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Virginia Tim Kaine

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC) and Ranking Member of the SASC Subcommittee on Seapower, released the following statement after it was reported that the Department of Defense has launched a review of the Australia-U.K.-U.S. (AUKUS) submarine deal:

    “The Australia-U.K.-U.S. agreement, which I’ve been a strong supporter of, is critical to ensuring a free and open Indo-Pacific. If this Administration is serious about countering the threat from China—like it has said as recently as this morning—then it will work expeditiously with our partners in Australia and the U.K. to strengthen this agreement and ensure we are taking steps to further boost our submarine industrial base. Anything less would play directly into China’s hand.”

    Kaine has played a key role in securing more resources for the submarine industrial base, including additional funding for the Virginia-class submarine program that is currently facing significant delays because of workforce challenges and supply chain disruptions. The on-time completion of Virginia-class submarines, which are built in Virginia and Connecticut, is critical to fulfilling the AUKUS partnership, through which the U.S. will sell at least two Virginia-class submarines to Australia to boost security and freedom of navigation in the Indo-Pacific, and counter Chinese military aggression in the region. Kaine has been a strong champion of AUKUS in Congress and has helped get signed into law provisions to implement and strengthen the partnership.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Warner, Kaine, & Vindman Slam Proposal to Move FBI National Academy from Quantico to Huntsville

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Virginia Tim Kaine

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine (both D-VA) and U.S. Representative Eugene Vindman (D-VA-07) slammed Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Deputy Director Dan Bongino’s proposal to move the FBI National Academy from Quantico, VA to Huntsville, AL. The National Academy is a 10-week training program for local, federal, and international law enforcement officials.

    “As Vice Chairman of the Senate Intelligence Committee, I expect Congress to be deeply skeptical of any plan to uproot the FBI’s National Academy from its longtime home at Quantico and relocate it to Huntsville. This move raises serious questions, starting with why such a relocation is even necessary, and at what cost? Quantico is co-located with other critical FBI and national security assets and before we spend taxpayer dollars on a disruptive and potentially unnecessary move, the Bureau owes Congress and the American people a clear justification for this plan,” said Warner.

    “Relocating the FBI Academy from Quantico to Huntsville makes no sense and is not an efficient use of taxpayer dollars,” said Kaine. “This is part of a larger effort by the Administration to dramatically politicize, reduce, and relocate the federal workforce. If Director Patel and Deputy Director Bongino want to move the FBI Academy, then they will have to explain to Congress and the American public why this is needed and how much it will cost.”

    “Virginia’s Seventh District is home to Quantico’s state-of-the-art facility and remains the best place for local and state law enforcement to learn from our incredible agents at the FBI,” said Vindman. “As a former prosecutor, I know that the most efficient and impactful way for law enforcement to continue keeping our communities safe is to train at the world class facilities that have already been built by taxpayers at Quantico. This move raises serious questions and Congress needs answers.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: At Hearing, Cortez Masto Calls out Trump Administration and Republican Colleagues for Pushing Ahead with Misguided Public Land Sales in Nevada Without Consultation

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Nevada Cortez Masto

    Senator Cortez Masto pressed Secretary Burgum for answers about the potential for Senate version of the Republican Tax Bill to include almost 2 million acres of federal land for sale

    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) questioned Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum at a Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee hearing about the administration’s involvement in potential provisions in the Senate Republican’s reconciliation bill that would add back in misguided public land sales in Nevada and across the West.

    Senator Cortez Masto highlighted the bipartisan support for the Southern Nevada Public Land Management Act (SNPLMA), which includes robust stakeholder engagement, and touted it as a model for effective federal land management that ensures the benefits of any land transfers return directly to the state of Nevada. Secretary Burgum himself discussed the importance of a comprehensive process like SNPLMA as a model for federal land sales earlier in the hearing.

    “You talk about the benefits [of this model], but in action you’re not doing it,” she said. “In fact, on the House side – and I’m assuming they worked with the administration –  their reconciliation package included federal land sales…that weren’t even near areas where you could actually do affordable housing.” She pointed to a map of remote land in Southern Nevada identified for sale in a failed amendment to the House reconciliation bill offered by Representative Mark Amodei (R-Nev.-02). The land is “in the middle of the desert. There’s no infrastructure. I don’t know any builder who is going to build housing in the  middle of the desert, it makes no sense.”

    “And now I’m hearing there is a proposal going to be put back into reconciliation [by the Chairman of this committee, Senator Mike Lee of Utah] to allow the federal government to sell up to 2 million acres of federal land. Is that correct,” she asked.

    Secretary Burgum confirmed that this proposal is under consideration. Despite continued follow-up questions from Senator Cortez Masto, Secretary Burgum could not name any details of this upcoming legislation, nor identify anyone in Nevada who the administration is working with to ensure land sales actually meet the needs of the local communities. He stated he was “not actively engaged” in negotiations.

    “I’m asking you because we have not seen anything,” the senator finished. “The Chairman has [the proposal], it is behind closed doors. I would assume you would be talking…because you’re going to be taking the lead as the lead agency. So if you don’t know, I’m really concerned and we should all be concerned across the west.”

    Senator Cortez Masto is a strong supporter of SNPLMA and will continue to stand up against misguided attempts to include federal land sales in the Republicans’ upcoming tax bill that will only serve to pay for tax cuts for billionaires. Instead, Cortez Masto will continue to push for passage of her Southern Nevada Economic Development and Conservation Act, a years-long effort that includes all necessary stakeholders and will help Clark County grow responsibly, encourage affordable housing, and protect 2 million acres for conservation.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cortez Masto, Murkowski Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Ensure Tax Parity for Tribes & Boost Economic Development in Indian Country

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Nevada Cortez Masto

    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) and Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska) introduced bipartisan legislation to ensure that Tribes receive the same tax benefits and economic development tools as local and state governments. Specifically, this bill will help create good-paying jobs, foster local investment, and support businesses in Indian Country by updating the federal tax code and removing unfair tax burdens on Native American communities.

    “Tribes in Nevada and across the country deserve access to the same tools as state and local governments to strengthen their communities and support their local businesses and services like health, housing, and education,” said Senator Cortez Masto. “Our bill makes commonsense updates to the tax code to ensure fairness, create more good paying jobs, and keep more money in Indian County.”

    “I’m pleased to join Senator Cortez Masto in introducing the Tribal Tax and Investment Reform Act, which aims to fix unfair tax rules that have limited economic growth in Native communities for far too long. By allowing Tribal governments to make better use of housing tax credits, improve the ability to issue tax-exempt bonds and incentivize new investment incentives, we’re opening the door for them to finance more infrastructure projects and promote job growth,” said Senator Murkowski. “I appreciate Senator Cortez Masto’s leadership as we have worked to ensure more Native communities benefit from this bill. Together, we have an opportunity to empower Tribal nations to build stronger, more resilient economies.”

    This bipartisan legislation would create parity between Tribal and state and local governments in the federal tax code by:

    • Updating rules for issuing tax-exempt debt to ensure Tribal governments are treated the same as state and local governments;
    • Ensuring that essential pension and employment benefits are taxed in the same way as benefits from state governments;
    • Ensuring that Tribal General Welfare Benefits are not unfairly categorized as income related to Supplemental Social Income eligibility or benefit amounts;
    • Creating new business opportunities in low-income Tribal communities with a $175 New Markets Tax Credit;
    • Increasing the effectiveness of Tribal Low-Income Housing Tax Credits in Indian Country;
    • Extending and updating the Indian Employment Tax Credit to better serve Tribal families;
    • Allowing Indian Health Service (IHS) professionals to access recruitment and retention tax incentives; and
    • Making it easier for Tribal families to adopt children and for Tribes to enforce child support.

    “Providing for parity and equity among States and Local Governments, and Tribes and ANCs, when it comes to Tax Exempt Bonding for governmental and economic development purposes, as this bill will do if enacted, is long overdue and will be a major stimulator for growth, economic development, and job creation in Indian Country, the areas of our Nation that desperately need it, and will productively use it,” said Old Harbor Native Corporation CEO, Kristina Woolston.

    “The introduction of the Tribal Tax and Investment Reform Act in the Senate is a necessary and overdue effort to modernize the federal tax code in recognition of Tribal sovereignty. The bill reflects decades of Tribal efforts to secure tax parity. It guarantees Tribal governments have equitable access to financial tools, including tax credits and housing incentives, needed to build strong self-determined economies. NAFOA commends the bipartisan leadership behind the legislation, especially Senators Cortez Masto and Murkowski. We urge Congress to act swiftly to ensure that Indian Country is fully included in the nation’s tax and investment framework,” said NAFOA Board President Rodney Butler, Chairman of the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation.

    “We thank Senators Cortez Masto and Murkowski for their consistent engagement with Tribal issues and for leading the bill’s introduction in the Senate. The Tribal Tax and Investment Reform Act takes essential steps to align federal tax policy with Tribal sovereignty by addressing long-standing barriers to capital, workforce, and infrastructure development. As the legislation advances, NAFOA is committed to providing technical expertise that centers the realities of Tribal communities to support its passage,” said NAFOA Executive Director Cory Blankenship, Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians Member.

    You can read the text HERE and a summary of the legislation HERE.

    Senator Cortez Masto is one of the strongest champions for Native American communities in the Senate. In 2020, alongside Senator Murkowski, she passed the bipartisan Not Invisible Act and Savanna’s Act to help address the epidemic of missing, murdered, and trafficked Indigenous women. She has repeatedly called on the administration to do more to address the epidemic of violence against Native women and girls, including securing funding to protect Native communities. She is pushing bipartisan legislation to support Tribal law enforcement and improve public safety in Native communities—one of the recommendations of the Not Invisible commission. Cortez Masto has also helped secure $125 million in additional funding for Tribes and urban Indian health organizations within the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration to address the mental health needs of Native communities. She has also introduced legislation to help make it easier for IHS to recruit and retain doctors and to address health disparities for Native Americans in urban areas.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Gov. Pillen Issues Statement on Omaha ICE Operations

    Source: US State of Nebraska

    . Pillen Issues Statement on Omaha ICE Operations

     

    LINCOLN, NE – Following U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement operations in Omaha and subsequent protests Tuesday, Governor Jim Pillen issued the following statement:

     

    “Under the Biden Administration, the country’s immigration policy absolutely failed the American people for four years. We have to address the issue of illegal immigration, and I support the work of our federal partners to ensure that the law is followed and I remain supportive of President Trump’s efforts to secure the border.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Ohio Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Swatting Charges

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Baltimore, Maryland – Today, Brayden Grace, 19, of Columbus, Ohio, pled guilty to conspiracy, cyberstalking, interstate threatening communications, and threats to damage or destroy by means of fire and explosives. 

    Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the guilty plea with Acting Special Agent in Charge Amanda M. Koldjeski, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) – Baltimore Field Office.

    According to the guilty plea, Grace helped create an online group known as “Purgatory.”  The group used multiple online social-media platforms, including Telegram and Instagram, to coordinate and plan swatting and doxxing activities and to announce and brag about swats that they conducted.  

    “Grace and his co-conspirators threatened and terrorized others throughout the country, and then bragged about it online.  Make no mistake: swatting and doxxing are not pranks—they are dangerous and illegal acts that put lives at risk and drain critical law enforcement resources,” Hayes said. “The U.S. Attorney’s Office is committed to relentlessly pursuing those who seek to gain notoriety by abusing our emergency services and striking fear in others. Such unlawful actions will not be tolerated.”

    “Brayden Grace admitted he engaged in swatting and doxxing to strike out at perceived rivals, gain online notoriety, attempt to make money, and for enjoyment. May his guilty plea make clear that the FBI and our partners take these threats seriously,” Koldjeski said. “Together, we will make sure offenders do not remain anonymous and face justice for their crimes which drain vital public safety resources, cause undue fear, and put innocent lives at risk.”

    “Swatting” is a term used to describe or refer to a criminal incident in which an individual contacts emergency services and falsely reports an emergency, often involving an act of violence that reportedly has or will occur at a particular location to elicit an armed law enforcement response to that location.  “Doxxing” is a term used to describe the practice of searching for and publishing on the Internet personal, private, or identifying information about an individual with malicious intent, such as providing the information for the purpose of swatting the individual.

    From December 10, 2023, through January 18, 2024, Grace and his co-conspirators placed swatting calls to police and other emergency departments. One or more of the conspirators falsely reported an emergency in the form of a violent act at a particular location to cause an armed law enforcement response with the intent to threaten, intimidate, and harass individuals and entities.

    Grace and his co-conspirators often used shared scripts to plan and coordinate their conduct and used Voice over Internet Protocol services to obscure their phone numbers and identities.

    As part of this scheme, the co-conspirators called the Houston County Sheriff’s Office (Dothan, Alabama). The co-conspirators threatened to burn down part of a residential trailer park and kill any law-enforcement officers who arrived to respond to the threat.

    Additionally, as part of the scheme, a Purgatory conspirator called the Newark Delaware Police Department falsely claiming that he heard a man firing shots in a Newark High School hallway. Moments later, a conspirator called the department again, threatening to shoot a specific Newark High School teacher and to kill unnamed students. As a result of this call, which occurred in the middle of the school day, authorities placed the school on lockdown and police officers responded to the scene. Later the same day, Grace agreed to post content from the incident, including images from news coverage of the incident, onto the group’s social media accounts.

    Grace also posted the address of the Hollywood Casino in Columbus, Ohio, the non-emergency telephone number for Columbus Police Department, and the name of a specific doxxing victim. Purgatory conspirators called the Columbus Police Department that day and threatened to “start shooting,” “kill everyone here,” and blow up the Hollywood Casino.

    Additionally, Purgatory conspirators called the Albany Police Department (Albany, New York), threatening the use of firearms and explosives at the airport.  Police units then rushed to respond to the threats.  On the same day, Grace bragged on a Purgatory group website about the group threatening the airport.

    Grace faces a maximum sentence of 10 years in federal prison for each count of threatening to damage or destroy by fire or explosive and a maximum sentence of five years in federal prison for conspiracy, cyberstalking, and interstate threats. 

    Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties.  A federal district court judge determines sentencing after taking into account the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Sentencing is scheduled for Thursday, August 14, at 10 a.m.

    U.S. Attorney Hayes commended the FBI for its work in the investigation.  Additionally, Ms. Hayes praised the Joint Terrorism Task Force, Columbus; Ohio Police Department; Newark, Delaware Police Department; Lenoir City, Tennessee Police Department; Albany, New York Police Department; Albany County, New York Sheriff’s Office; Fairburn City, Georgia Police Department; Bethel Park, Pennsylvania Police Department; Giles County, Virginia Sheriff’s Office; Blue Springs, Missouri Police Department; Tarboro, North Carolina Police Department; Boston, Massachusetts Police Department; Dodge County, Georgia Sheriff’s Office; Houston County, Alabama Sheriff’s Office; and the FBI’s Mobile, Richmond, Boston, Charlotte, and Cincinnati Field Offices for their valuable assistance. Ms. Hayes also thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys Robert I. Goldaris and Patricia C. McLane who are prosecuting the case.

    For more information about the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to help the community, visit justice.gov/usao-md and justice.gov/usao-md/community-outreach.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: DOJ and drug development researcher settle allegations he violated terms of National Science Foundation grant

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Seattle – The United States Department of Justice and the recipient of a federal research grant have resolved allegations the lead researcher violated the terms of the grant when he performed the research outside the U.S., announced Acting United States Attorney Teal Luthy Miller. Protein Engines, LLC (Protein Engines), founded and operated by Joshua Salafsky PhD, was awarded a National Science Foundation (NSF) grant in late 2021 for scientific research with pharmaceutical applications. Protein Engines LLC will pay the U.S. $155,000 to resolve the allegations.

    “Despite being repeatedly informed that all research under the grant needed to be performed in the U.S., Dr. Salafsky spent little more than a month in the U.S. while he was accepting NSF grant funding for his research,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Miller. “These Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) grants require work in the U.S. so that federal funds go to support innovation here, using labs and equipment that generate business in the U.S. This deception defeated that purpose.”

    According to the settlement agreement, on November 26, 2021, Protein Engines LLC was awarded a $256,000 grant. The research was to be performed in the U.S. between December 1, 2021, and November 30, 2022. However, the principal researcher on the grant lived in the U.K. for all but 38 days of the grant funding.

    The National Science Foundation suspended the grant funding on September 8, 2023, when it determined the research had not been conducted in the U.S. as required.

    The Small Business Innovation Research/Technology Transfer (SBIR/STTR) program is a critically important and highly competitive program created to fund technological advancements within the United States. Funding for this program strengthens the competitive free enterprise system and the U.S. economy. To maximize that impact, SBIR regulations require all research and development to be conducted in the United States.  This investigation resulted from the NSF Office of Inspector General’s proactive initiative to protect national security interests by identifying SBIR recipients who improperly operate outside the U.S.

    “When companies fail to follow the domestic requirements of the SBIR program, it is not only a misuse of taxpayer dollars but also takes away funding from deserving U.S. businesses. NSF OIG remains committed to pursuing oversight of these programs to ensure taxpayer funds are invested in the United States to benefit U.S. businesses, the U.S. economy, and national security. I commend the U.S. Attorney’s Office for supporting this important proactive effort,” said Megan E. Wallace, NSF’s Acting Inspector General.

    Of the $155,000 settlement, $77,500 is restitution and the rest is a penalty for the misconduct. Additionally, $25,000 in grant funds were never paid out to Protein Engines LLC.

    Protein Engines LLC says the settlement is not an admission of liability but chooses to resolve the matter instead of the expense and uncertainty of protracted litigation.

    The case was investigated by the National Science Foundation Office of Inspector General (NSF-OIG). The U.S. Attorney’s Office was represented by Assistant United States Attorney Kayla C. Stahman in this matter.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Jury Convicts Felon with Gun Who Ran From Police

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Led officers on high-speed chase in Cedar Rapids before fleeing on foot and tossing firearm

    A felon who possessed a firearm was convicted by a jury today after a three‑day trial in federal court in Cedar Rapids.

    Marcus Dejohn Wallace, age 29, from Cedar Rapids, Iowa, was convicted of one count of possession of a firearm by a felon.  The verdict was returned this afternoon following about three hours of jury deliberations.

    The evidence at trial showed that on September 5, 2024, Wallace led officers on a high-speed car chase through Cedar Rapids before pulling over in a residential neighborhood and running from officers.  He was apprehended by a police K-9 and taken into custody.  Law enforcement found a loaded firearm within throwing distance of where Wallace was apprehended.  The firearm was missing a magazine.  That missing magazine was later located in the path where Wallace had run.  Wallace has a prior federal conviction for distribution of heroin resulting in serious bodily injury.  

    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.

    Sentencing before United States District Court Chief C.J. Williams will be set after a presentence report is prepared.  Wallace remains in custody of the United States Marshal pending sentencing.  Wallace faces a possible maximum sentence of 15 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, and three years of supervised release following any imprisonment.

    The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Devra Hake, Shawn Wehde, and Dan Tvedt, and was investigated by the Cedar Rapids Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.  

    Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.

    The case file number is 24-CR-90.

    Follow us on X @USAO_NDIA.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Guatemalan Man Sentenced After Being in the United States Illegally

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    A Guatemalan man who was in the United States illegally after being removed twice was sentenced today to 90 days in prison.

    Hector Palencia-Morales, age 55, a citizen of Guatemala, received the prison term after an April 7, 2025, guilty plea to being found in the United States after illegal reentry.

               On March 1, 2025, Palencia-Morales was found at a residence in Postville, Iowa, while law enforcement officers were executing a search warrant at the residence.  Officers confirmed he was in the country illegally.  Officers from Immigration and Customs Enforcement arrested him on March 14, 2025.  Palencia-Morales had previously been removed from the United States in 2013 following a conviction for illegal entry and again in 2022.  

    Palencia-Morales was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Judge Leonard T. Strand.  Palencia-Morales was sentenced to 90 days’ imprisonment.  He must also serve a one-year term of supervised release after the prison term.  There is no parole in the federal system.

    This case is part of Operation Take Back America (https://www.justice.gov/dag/media/1393746/dl?inline) a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN). 

    The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Anthony Morfitt and investigated by the Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Enforcement and Removal Operations.

    Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.  The case file number is 25-CR-1012. 

    Follow us on X @USAO_NDIA.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: St. Louis Man Faces 20+ Years in Prison After Being Convicted of Drug, Gun Crimes

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    ST. LOUIS – A jury on Tuesday convicted a man from St. Louis, Missouri of drug and gun crimes that will result in decades in prison.

    Christopher Glen Rhodes, 47, was found guilty in U.S. District Court of one count of conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance, two counts of distribution of a controlled substance, one count of possession with intent to distribute controlled substances, one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime and one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm.

    Evidence and testimony at trial showed that Rhodes provided the methamphetamine that was sold twice to a confidential source working with the Drug Enforcement Administration. That source told investigators that he’d previously purchased both meth and fentanyl from Demetrius A. Ransom, Rhodes’ co-defendant. On Nov. 10, 2022, Rhodes provided 416.9 grams, or nearly one pound, of meth to Ransom, who sold it for $2,000. On Dec. 7, 2022, the confidential source bought 435 grams of meth from Ransom for $2,000.

    On Dec. 19, 2022, investigators were planning on conducting a court-approved search of Rhodes’ home in the 4900 block of West Florissant Avenue when they spotted Rhodes leaving. They made a traffic stop, but when Rhodes was asked to get out of the car, he sped away. In his home, agents found a total of 2.7 kilograms of meth, 3.8 kilos of fentanyl, 981.8 grams of cocaine and 129.7 grams of cocaine base. They also found $21,000 in cash, a loaded 9mm Ruger handgun, and drug paraphernalia including a pill press, empty capsules and a money counter. Rhodes is a felon and is thus barred from possessing a firearm. Among his convictions is a 2002 case in which he pleaded guilty to possession with the intent to distribute cocaine base and was sentenced to 294 months in prison as a career offender. His sentence was commuted in 2016 to expire in 2018.

    Rhodes is scheduled to be sentenced on November 25. He will face at least 20 years in prison due to his prior convictions, the quantity of drugs involved and his use of a firearm during the drug trafficking crime, and could face more than 30 years.

    Ransom, 45, of St. Louis County, pleaded guilty in May to one count of conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance. He is scheduled to be sentenced on October 9 and faces at least 15 years in prison.

    The Drug Enforcement Administration investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Torrie J. Schneider and Don Boyce are prosecuting the case. 

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Leader in scheme to monopolize transmigrantes market imprisoned for 11 years

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    HOUSTON – A 39-year-old Mission man has been sentenced for his role in a long-running and violent conspiracy to monopolize the transmigrante forwarding agency (TFA) industry in the Los Indios border region, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.

    Carlos Martinez, who pleaded guilty Feb. 6, and his co-conspirators controlled the transmigrate industry through monopolization and extortion of competitors.

    U.S. District Judge George C. Hanks Jr. has now ordered Martinez to serve 132 months in federal prison to be immediately followed by three years of supervised release. He must also pay a $2 million fine. 

    Martinez and others used fear to control pricing, eliminate competition and keep the transmigrante industry profitable through “pool” allocations and piso payments.

    Transmigrantes transport used vehicles and goods from the United States through Mexico for resale in Central America. Only a few U.S. border crossings, including the Los Indios Bridge, allow transmigrantes to enter Mexico.

    Transmigrante forwarding agencies are U.S.-based businesses that help clients complete customs paperwork to export vehicles into Mexico. Martinez and his co-conspirators fixed prices for forwarding services and created a centralized entity, known as the “pool,” to collect and divide revenue among conspirators. They used the pool to eliminate competition and raise prices.

    “Price fixing is not a victimless crime; it harms customers in the form of artificially high prices. Consumers need to have faith that the prices they pay are fairly determined by the market, rather than the product of illegal collusion,” said U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei. “The 11-year sentence Mr. Martinez received reflects the size and scope of his criminal operation, as well as his leadership role in organizing and facilitating the unlawful scheme.”

    “The defendants extorted victims trying to make an honest living in the freight forwarding business, and by fixing prices illegally drove up the cost of moving goods,” said Matthew R. Galeotti, head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “The lead defendant’s sentence of 11 years in prison reflects the harm caused to the business community along the Southern border. The Department of Justice’s Criminal Division will continue to work to ensure that competition is fairly preserved.”

    “Today’s sentence reflects the significant danger and harm the American people face from violent and extortive actions aimed at fixing prices and monopolizing the market for essential services in the Texas border region,” said Assistant Attorney General Abigail Slater of the Justice Department’s Antitrust Division. “The Antitrust Division will continue to aggressively pursue violent criminals who aim to corrupt America’s free markets and advocate for their incarceration.”

    “This case underscores the serious threat posed by transnational criminal networks operating at our borders,” said Special Agent in Charge Craig Larrabee of Immigration and Customs Enforcement – Homeland Security Investigations (ICE-HSI) San Antonio. “Carlos Martinez and his co-conspirators orchestrated a violent scheme that extorted small businesses, fixed prices, and laundered millions of dollars — all while threatening the safety and integrity of lawful commerce. HSI will continue to aggressively pursue those who exploit legitimate industries through corruption and intimidation, and we remain steadfast in our mission to protect our communities and our economy.”

    “The FBI will remain laser focused on transnational criminal organizations, including organizations that use violence, threats or extortion to fix prices and eliminate competition,” said Special Agent in Charge Aaron Tapp of the FBI’s San Antonio Field Office. “The American people deserve access to fair markets, free from threats of violence or the corrosive impact of illegal market interference, manipulation, or collusion. Together with our partners, we are committed to protecting our borders and dismantling every component of transnational criminal organizations.”

    Martinez, the son-in-law of a former Gulf Cartel leader in Mexico, ran a violent criminal syndicate operating at the U.S.-Mexico border. He seized control of the Los Indios bridge near Harlingen and Brownsville and hired workers to monitor transmigrante forwarding agencies and calculate the piso each owned.

    Workers collected piso payments in cash and submitted them to Martinez’s organization. He enforced compliance by ordering disciplinary action against agencies that operated without permission, violated pool rules, failed to charge fixed prices or refused to make extortionate payments.

    Forwarders not involved in the conspiracy were forced to join and pay into the pool. Martinez and other pool members monitored whether agencies followed pricing rules and made required payments. Martinez and his co-conspirators also demanded additional extortion fees, including a piso for each processed transaction and a fine for operating outside the pool. They used threats, intimidation and violence to enforce compliance and further their antitrust and extortion conspiracies.

    Clients who didn’t comply faced consequences ranging from being denied access to the Los Indios Bridge to having their cars stolen. In more severe cases, they were kidnapped, beaten, firebombed, shot or killed.

    Martinez personally collected at least $9.5 million in extortion payments. He and his family laundered the money through bank accounts they controlled, disguising the deposits to hide the true source, nature and ownership of the illicit funds.

    To date, seven others have been convicted, three of whom have already been sentenced in the case.

    ICE-HSI and FBI conducted the investigation.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Alexander L. Alum is prosecuting the case along with Trial Attorney Christina Taylor of the Criminal Division’s Violent Crime and Racketeering Section; Senior Litigation Attorney John Davis and Trial Attorneys Brittany E. McClure, Anne Veldhuis and Michael G. Lepage, all of the of the Antitrust Division.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Two Sentenced for Roles in Drug Trafficking Conspiracy in Monongalia County

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Two men have been sentenced for their roles in a drug trafficking organization in Monongalia County.

    Jason Davis, 35, of Youngstown, Ohio, was sentenced today to 135 months in federal prison. James Peoples, II, 28, of Pennsauken Township, New Jersey, was sentenced to 72 months in prison. According to court documents, Davis and Peoples worked with others to distribute drugs in Morgantown, West Virginia.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda Wesley prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.

    This case was investigated by the Mon Metro Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative. The task force consists of the Federal Bureau of Investigation; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; the Drug Enforcement Administration; the West Virginia State Police; the Monongalia County Sheriff’s Office; the Monongalia County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office; the Morgantown Police Department; the WVU Police Department; the Granville Police Department; and the Star City Police Department.

    This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).

    Chief U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Wasilla man indicted for distributing carfentanil resulting in two overdoses, one fatal and one non-fatal

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    ANCHORAGE, Alaska – A federal grand jury in Alaska returned an indictment yesterday charging a Wasilla man with distributing carfentanil to two individuals, resulting in the non-fatal overdose of an adult victim and the fatal overdose of a minor.

    Per court documents, the Alaska Bureau of Investigations (ABI) discovered that between Nov. 14 and 15, 2024, Sean Mobley, 45, allegedly distributed what appeared to be powder fentanyl to two different people, one adult and one minor. Both victims allegedly used the substance and overdosed. The adult victim was successfully revived by Narcan, but the minor victim died.  Further analysis revealed that the substance causing the overdose and death was not fentanyl, but carfentanil. Carfentanil is a highly potent opioid not approved for human use. It is used by veterinarians to sedate large animals and is 10,000 times more potent than morphine and 100 times more potent than fentanyl, according to the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA).

    Court filings indicate that on Nov. 14, 2024, Mobley and an unnamed individual allegedly sold a small quantity of what appeared to be powdered fentanyl to the adult victim. Later that night, the unnamed individual received a telephone call informing them that the victim was overdosing. The individual returned to the victim’s residence where Narcan was administered to revive the victim.

    These same court documents further allege that Mobley later distributed the same carfentanil to a minor victim, causing her to overdose and die. Specifically, during the late evening of Nov. 14, 2024, Mobley drove to a gas station and met the minor victim. The minor victim entered Mobley’s truck, and at roughly 11:54 p.m., texted a friend that she was, “banging one out with Sean” (a slang phrase that allegedly means using drugs).

    The court records then allege that Mobley drove the minor victim to a remote ATV trail in Wasilla, arriving around midnight on Nov. 15, 2024. While at the trail, the minor victim used some of the carfentanil that Mobley allegedly provided to her, which resulted in the minor victim fatally overdosing in his truck.  He then allegedly dumped her body at the trail, all between 12:00 and 12:13 a.m.  Court documents additionally allege that after discarding the minor victim’s body, Mobley left to distribute more narcotics.

    On Nov. 15, 2024, a man walking his dog found the body of the minor female on the ATV trail. The state medical examiner found the minor’s cause of death as acute combined toxic effects of carfentanil and methamphetamine. 

    “Unfortunately, this indictment marks a troubling milestone – the first federal prosecution in Alaska for the distribution of poisonous carfentanil. To make matters worse, Mr. Mobley is accused of distributing this toxic substance to two people, resulting in the near deadly overdose of one and the heartbreaking fatal overdose of a local minor whose body he then dumped onto a secluded trail in the middle of the night,” said U.S. Attorney Michael J. Heyman for the District of Alaska. “Aggressive prosecutions of individuals peddling deadly drugs to our communities, including our children, is a national priority, especially when those narcotics kill and the perpetrator acts with callous disregard for his victims. I want to commend the ABI and the DEA for their diligent investigation, and to the Alaska Department of Law for their continued collaboration as we pursue justice for the victims and loved ones impacted by this tragedy.”

    “The callousness and cowardice of poisoning then dumping a young woman goes way beyond the pale, even for an alleged drug distributor,” said David F. Reames, Special Agent in Charge, DEA Seattle Field Division. “This case cries for justice and I am proud that DEA and our partners helped bring federal charges in this case.”

    “This is a tragic reminder of the deadly consequences of dangerous drug use and distribution in our great state—especially when it involves our youth,” said Alaska State Trooper Colonel Maurice Hughes. “Your Alaska State Troopers remain committed to holding those accountable who deal deadly drugs like carfentanil. We will continue working with our law enforcement partners to pursue justice for victims and disrupt drug trafficking in Alaska no matter where it occurs.”

    “The tragedy of this case highlights the urgent need to protect our Alaskan communities from the deadly impact that the illicit sale of controlled substances has on our state,” said Alaska Attorney General Treg Taylor. “The Department of Law is resolved to aggressively prosecute those who traffic in these dangerous drugs and to work closely with our criminal justice partners to deter anyone who seeks to bring this harm into Alaska.”

    Mobley is charged with one count of distribution of a controlled substance resulting in serious bodily injury and death, one count of distribution of a controlled substance resulting in serious bodily injury and one count of distribution of a controlled substance to a person under the age of twenty-one. The defendant will make his initial court appearance on a later date before a U.S. Magistrate Judge of the U.S. District Court for the District of Alaska. If convicted, he faces a mandatory minimum sentence of at least 20 years and up to life in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    The DEA Anchorage District Office and the ABI are investigating the case.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Tom Bradley and Alana Weber are prosecuting the case, with assistance and collaboration from the State of Alaska Department of Law.

    Learn more: Carfentanil: A Synthetic Opioid Unlike Any Other

    This case is part of Operation Take Back America (https://www.justice.gov/dag/media/1393746/dl?inline) a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime and drug trafficking. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).

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

    ###

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Harrison County Man Sentenced for Firearms Violation

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Jonathon Wade Cochran, 43, of Shinnston, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 63 months in federal prison for the unlawful possession of a firearm.

    According to court documents and statements made in court, officers attempted a traffic stop on Cochran, who led officers on a chase. Cochran crashed and was injured. Officers found a 9mm pistol in his waistband. Cochran has prior drug and firearms charges, prohibiting him from having firearms.

    Cochran will serve three years of supervised release following his prison sentence.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney William Rhee prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.

    The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Harrison County Sheriff’s Office investigated.

    Chief U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Texas Man Sentenced to 11 Years in Prison and Ordered to Pay $2M Fine for Conspiring to Monopolize International Transit Industry, Fix Prices, Extort $9.5M, and Launder Money

    Source: United States Department of Justice Criminal Division

    Carlos Martinez, 39, of Mission, Texas, was sentenced today to 11 years in prison and a fine of $2 million for his conduct in a long-running and violent conspiracy to monopolize the transmigrante forwarding agency (TFA) industry in the Los Indios, Texas, border region. Martinez and his co-defendants controlled the TFA industry through monopolization and extortion of competitors.

    Transmigrantes transport used vehicles and other goods from the United States through Mexico for resale across Central America. There are only a few locations where transmigrantes are permitted to cross from the United States into Mexico, one of those being the Los Indios Bridge in Texas. TFAs are U.S.-based businesses that provide services to transmigrante clients, including helping clients complete the customs paperwork required to export vehicles into Mexico. According to court documents and statements made in court, Martinez and his co-defendants fixed prices for TFA services and created a centralized entity known as “The Pool” to collect and divide revenues among the conspirators, limit competition from other agencies, and increase prices for their services.

    “The defendants exploited hardworking professionals in the freight forwarding business using extortion and illegal price-fixing schemes to manipulate the market and inflate the cost of moving goods,” said Matthew R. Galeotti, Head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “The lead defendant’s 11-year prison sentence reflects the serious economic harm inflicted on the business community along the southern border. The Criminal Division will continue to pursue and prosecute those who threaten fair competition and the integrity of our markets.”

    “Today’s sentence reflects the significant danger and harm the American people face from violent and extortive actions aimed at fixing prices and monopolizing the market for essential services in the Texas border region,” said Assistant Attorney General Abigail Slater of the Justice Department’s Antitrust Division. “The Antitrust Division will continue to aggressively pursue violent criminals who aim to corrupt America’s free markets and advocate for their incarceration.”

    “Price fixing is not a victimless crime; it harms customers in the form of artificially high prices. Consumers need to have faith that the prices they pay are fairly determined by the market, rather than the product of illegal collusion,” said U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei for the Southern District of Texas. “The 11-year sentence Mr. Martinez received reflects the size and scope of his criminal operation, as well as his leadership role in organizing and facilitating the unlawful scheme.”  

    “All of these defendants used their positions with the TFA to extort hardworking individuals who relied on these services to support their families and livelihood,” said Assistant Director Jose A. Perez of the FBI Criminal Investigative Division. “The FBI is committed to dismantling criminal enterprises that prey on vulnerable communities, and today’s sentencing sends a clear message that those who abuse systems will be found, stopped and brought to justice.”

    “This case underscores the serious threat posed by transnational criminal networks operating at our borders,” said Special Agent in Charge Craig Larrabee of Immigration and Customs Enforcement Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) San Antonio. “Carlos Martinez and his co-conspirators orchestrated a violent scheme that extorted small businesses, fixed prices, and laundered millions of dollars — all while threatening the safety and integrity of lawful commerce. HSI will continue to aggressively pursue those who exploit legitimate industries through corruption and intimidation, and we remain steadfast in our mission to protect our communities and our economy.”

    Individuals in the industry who were not part of the conspiracy were forced to join and pay into The Pool or face financial and violent consequences. Martinez and other members enforced the rules by monitoring whether forwarding agencies were charging the agreed-upon prices and whether the forwarder was making payments to The Pool.  

    Martinez and some of his co-defendants also conspired to force forwarding agencies to pay other extortion fees, including a “piso” for every transaction processed as well as a “fine” for operating in the market outside of Pool rules. Martinez and his co-defendants intimidated, coerced, and used threats and acts of violence in furtherance of the antitrust and extortion conspiracies.

    Martinez was responsible for collecting at least $9.5M in extortion payments. Cash obtained from the extortions was laundered through bank accounts controlled by Martinez and his family, with the cash deposits disguised to hide the nature, source, ownership, and control of the dirty money.

    Martinez is the son-in-law of the former leader of the Gulf Cartel in Mexico, a violent criminal syndicate that operates at the U.S.-Mexico border and elsewhere. Martinez took control of  Los Indios Bridge and employed individuals who worked to track TFA transactions to calculate the piso owed by each forwarding agency. Pool and piso payments were made in cash to the individuals working for Martinez. Martinez ordered disciplinary actions against those operating in the transmigrante market without permission, those who violated Pool rules, those who did not charge the fixed prices, and those who did not pay the piso. Disciplinary actions could include clients not being allowed to cross Los Indios Bridge, cars being stolen, or more serious repercussions such as kidnappings, beatings, firebombings, shootings, and murder.

    Carlos Martinez pleaded guilty in February  to conspiracy to illegally fix prices and allocate the market for TFA services, conspiracy to monopolize the transmigrante market, conspiracy to interfere with commerce by extortion, interference with commerce by extortion, and money laundering conspiracy. The government will also seek forfeiture of at least one house, luxury vehicles, a boat, and expensive watches.

    Prior to Martinez’s sentencing, his co-defendants were sentenced as follows:

    Carlos Yzaguirre, 66, of McAllen, Texas, was sentenced to two years in prison, after pleading guilty to conspiracy to interfere with commerce by extortion.

    Sandra Guerra Medina, 70, of Rancho Viejo, Texas, was sentenced to eight months of home detention, after pleading guilty to conspiracy to illegally fix prices and allocate the market for TFA services and conspiracy to monopolize the transmigrante market.

    Juan Hector Ramirez Avila, 59, a citizen of Mexico, was sentenced to time served, after pleading guilty to one count of structuring a financial transaction to evade reporting requirements.

    Jose Tapia, Mireya Miranda, Pedro Calvillo and Roberto Garcia Villarreal pleaded guilty and are awaiting sentencing. Three other defendants, Rigoberto Brown, Miguel Hipolito Caballero Aupart, and Diego Ceballos-Soto, were also charged in the superseding indictment and remain fugitives.

    The Court will determine the final restitution amount owed to victims of the conspiracies at a hearing set for Sept. 3, 2025. 

    Immigration and Customs Enforcement Homeland Security Investigations and the FBI investigated the case.

    Trial Attorney Christina Taylor of the Criminal Division’s Violent Crime and Racketeering Section; Senior Litigation Attorney John Davis and Trial Attorneys Brittany E. McClure, Anne Veldhuis, and Michael G. Lepage of the of the Antitrust Division; and Assistant U.S. Attorney Alexander L. Alum for the Southern District of Texas prosecuted the case.

    Anyone with information in connection with this investigation should contact the HSI Tip Line at 866-347-2423; the FBI Tipline at tips.fbi.gov, or by contacting the FBI San Antonio Field Office at 210-225-6741; or the Antitrust Division’s Complaint Center at 888-647-3258, or visit http://www.justice.gov/atr/report-violations.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: IADC Suez University Chapter Hosts Milestone Technical Gathering

    Source: International Association of Drilling Contractors – IADC

    Headline: IADC Suez University Chapter Hosts Milestone Technical Gathering

    The IADC Suez University Student Chapter, in collaboration with fellow faculty student chapters and the Faculty of Petroleum and Mining Engineering, Suez University, proudly hosted the Third Student Conference of the Faculty of Petroleum and Mining Engineering and the Second IADC Suez Technical Exhibition!

    Throughout the conference, industry professionals and academic experts shared invaluable perspectives on emerging trends, challenges, and innovations in the oil and gas sector. Their contributions inspired meaningful dialogue and forward-thinking ideas.

    The Second IADC Suez Technical Exhibition featured impressive student projects, groundbreaking research, and cutting-edge technology, reinforcing the innovative spirit of the student community.

    Dynamic competitions pushed participants to demonstrate their technical expertise, creativity, and teamwork. Congratulations to all the winners for their outstanding performances!

    The event welcomed enthusiastic students from universities across Egypt, creating an enriching environment of collaboration, networking, and shared learning.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Petroleum Training Institute Student Chapter Tours Rig & Flow Station

    Source: International Association of Drilling Contractors – IADC

    Headline: Petroleum Training Institute Student Chapter Tours Rig & Flow Station

    Over the past month, the IADC Student Chapter at the Petroleum Training Institute in Nigeria organized two visits for students. The first visit was to a rig, where students had the opportunity to examine and discuss the five major systems of the drilling rig:

    • Rotary System
    • Circulatory System
    • Power System
    • Hoisting System
    • Well Control System

    According to the Chapter, 

    “It was inspiring to see strong participation from our student community—your enthusiasm and commitment made the experience even more rewarding. Experiences like this are what remind us of the value of practical exposure in the field. Seeing our members actively engage, ask questions, and soak up knowledge in a real-world environment was truly fulfilling. These hands-on opportunities help bridge the gap between classroom theory and industry practice, and we’re proud to be creating that space for our peers.”

    The second visit was to the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NPCC) Flow Station in Benin. Students received firsthand insight into flow station operations, observed key processes, and interacted with professionals who shared real-world perspectives on what they study in class. This field trip proved to be a valuable learning experience for attendees.

    Well done to the IADC PTI Student Chapter for organizing these visits, and thank you to the companies and professionals who made these visits possible! 

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: University of Louisiana at Lafayette Student Chapter Participates in Petroleum Engineering Crawfish Boil

    Source: International Association of Drilling Contractors – IADC

    Headline: University of Louisiana at Lafayette Student Chapter Participates in Petroleum Engineering Crawfish Boil

    The IADC University of Louisiana at Lafayette (ULL) Student Chapter recently participated in the ULL Petroleum Engineering Crawfish Boil. It was a beautiful day with great weather and an excellent turnout. Events like this provide a wonderful opportunity for networking in a laid back environment. 

    MIL OSI Economics –