NewzIntel.com

Category: KB

  • MIL-OSI Security: Dartmouth — Statement from Chief Superintendent Dan Morrow, Criminal Operations Officer, Nova Scotia RCMP, in response to RCMP member charged with Assault

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Earlier today the Serious Incident Response Team (SiRT) charged one of our members, Cst. Reece Smith, with Assault in relation to an off-duty incident involving a woman known to him.

    This criminal charge is disconcerting, and undoubtedly alarming to those we serve. The RCMP takes all allegations of misconduct seriously; our employees are expected to conduct themselves in a manner that not only meets, but exceeds, the rightfully high expectations of Canadians.

    Cst. Smith, who’s been an RCMP member since February 2024, is currently on administrative duties. An internal code of conduct investigation has been initiated and is ongoing. Cst. Smith’s duty status will be continuously assessed throughout both the court and internal processes.

    Media release issued by SiRT:

    SiRT Charges RCMP Officer with Assault

    —————————————————————————————————————–

    The Director of the Serious Incident Response Team (SiRT) has reasonable and probable grounds to believe that an off-duty RCMP Officer committed a criminal offence in relation to an incident involving a female known to him.

    SiRT received the referral on December 22, 2024, from the Bridgewater Police Service regarding an incident that took place on December 20, 2024. SiRT began its investigation into the matter that day. As a result of the SiRT investigation, on January 31, 2025, Constable Reece Smith was charged with assault contrary to s. 266 of the Criminal Code.

    Constable Smith will appear before the Nova Scotia Provincial Court at 141 High Street, Bridgewater, NS, on February 19, 2025, at 9:30 a.m.

    As the matter is before the courts, and in consideration of the fair trial interests of the accused, SiRT will not provide further comment on the investigation.

    SiRT is responsible for investigating all matters that involve death, serious injury, sexual assault and intimate partner violence or other matters of public interest that may have arisen from the actions of any police officer in Nova Scotia and New Brunswick.

    Investigations are under the direction and control of an independent civilian director, who has the sole authority to determine if charges should be laid at the conclusion of an investigation.

    -30-

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Air Force kicks-off roadshow, prepares Airmen for ‘Units of Action’ implementation

    Source: United States Air Force

    Air Force senior leaders conducted one of their first stops of a recently launched roadshow at Joint Base Andrews, Maryland, Jan. 24, 2025, to prepare Airmen as the service transitions into Combat Wings, Air Base Wings and Institutional Wings as part of the ongoing U.S. Air Force Re-Optimization. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Attorney’s Office Collects $22,332,003.82 In Criminal And Civil Actions, And $5,043,741 In Asset Forfeiture Actions In Fiscal Year 2024

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — U.S. Attorney Francis M. Hamilton III announced today that the Eastern District of Tennessee collected $22,332,003.83 in criminal and civil actions in Fiscal Year 2024. Of this amount, $10,674,477.21 was collected in criminal actions and $11,657,526.62 was collected in civil actions.  Additionally, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Tennessee, working with partner agencies, collected $5,043,741 in asset forfeiture actions in Fiscal Year 2024.

    The U.S. Attorneys’ Offices, along with the Department’s litigating divisions, are responsible for enforcing and collecting civil and criminal debts owed to the U.S. and criminal debts owed to federal crime victims.  The law requires defendants to pay restitution to victims of certain federal crimes who have suffered a physical injury or financial loss.  While restitution is paid to the victim, criminal fines and felony assessments are paid to the Department’s Crime Victims Fund, which distributes the funds collected to federal and state victim compensation and victim assistance programs.  Forfeited assets deposited into the Department of Justice Assets Forfeiture Fund are used to restore funds to crime victims and for a variety of law enforcement purposes.

                                                                                                                   ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Armed Career Criminal Convicted At Trial

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Tampa, FL – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that a federal jury has found Ataire Carl Ray (30, Tampa) guilty of possessing a firearm and ammunition as a convicted felon. The jury further found that Ray is an Armed Career Criminal after having committed at least three prior serious violent or drug offenses. Ray faces a minimum sentence of 15 years, up to life, in federal prison. A sentencing date has not yet been set. 

    According to evidence presented at trial, on April 1, 2022, Ray got into an argument during which he waived around a 9mm firearm with an extended magazine, while making various threats. Officers from the Tampa Police Department were called to the scene and approached Ray, who ran and threw the loaded firearm into a neighboring property, where it was quickly recovered. Ray was apprehended about a block away from where he had thrown the firearm. At the time, Ray had multiple prior felony convicts and therefore is prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition under federal law.  

    This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Tampa Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Michael R. Kenneth. The forfeiture was handled by Assistant United States Attorney James A. Muench.

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Tampa Man Charged With Distributing Methamphetamine

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

     Tampa, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces the  unsealing of a criminal complaint charging Oscar Adalid Ortez Lopez (56, Tampa) with distributing 50 grams or more of methamphetamine. If convicted, Ortez Lopez faces a minimum sentence of 10 years, up to life, in federal prison. 

    According to statements made by prosecutors during Ortez Lopez’s detention hearing, the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office and the Drug Enforcement Administration conducted a series of controlled purchases of methamphetamine from Ortez Lopez using an undercover detective. In total, law enforcement purchased over half a kilogram of methamphetamine from Ortez Lopez. Ortez Lopez was arrested in coordination with the execution of a search warrant on a residence that he used, in part, to store his methamphetamine. During that search, law enforcement located over half a kilogram of methamphetamine.

    A complaint is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty.          

    This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney David P. Sullivan.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Families in Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo Flee Violence

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    Humanitarian supplies now run low in and around Goma, eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, due to escalating violence. Families caught up in conflict are crossing the border into neighbouring Rwanda seeking safety. About 1,000 asylum seekers have arrived at the Rugerero site, which is currently under construction and has been specifically designated by the Government of Rwanda to receive new arrivals.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zb0KKz0hg2c

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: 5 FACTS: What is UNDOF?

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    Established in 1974 after the 1973 Arab-Israeli War, UNDOF is one of the UN’s longest-running peacekeeping forces. Discover how UNDOF maintains peace along the tense Israel-Syria border.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h6x7CEKSTBs

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Protecting children in crisis, with Catherine Russell | UN ‘Awake at Night’ podcast teaser

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    Catherine Russell never forgets the children she meets. As Executive Director of UNICEF, she bears witness to the stories of tens of millions of children and young people suffering around the world, and shares causes for optimism and hope wherever she finds it.

    “Children just want to be children. No matter what, the bleakest situation, the most terrible things, they still want to play right? They want to find some joy. They want to just be kids, and I think that’s what we have to all work to protect.”

    2024 was one of the worst years on record for children in conflict, a devastating statistic that the United Nations is refusing to accept as a deadly new normal. In this episode*, Catherine Russell reflects on the impacts of childhood trauma, the limits of human resilience, and looks back on a childhood spent trick-or-treating for UNICEF.

    * Episode recorded in the end of 2024

    Full episode: https://youtu.be/6zR21e7yQUQ

    Listen to more Awake at Night episodes: https://music.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLwoDFQJEq_0b6hu1e8oxsch9W0D7vkNqt
    #podcast #unitednations #awakeatnight #UNICEF #children

    About Awake at Night
    Hosted by Melissa Fleming, UN Under-Secretary-General for Global Communications, the podcast ‘Awake at Night’ is an in-depth interview series focusing on remarkable United Nations staff members who dedicate their career to helping people in parts of the world where they have the hardest lives – from war zones and displacement camps to areas hit by disasters and the devastation of climate change

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oOT3lTujDnk

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Preventing the Sale of Forced Labor Goods – Combating Human Trafficking | CBP

    Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)

    U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s (CBP) forced labor enforcement mission supports ethical and humane trade while leveling the playing field for United States (U.S.) companies that respect fair labor standards. CBP is the only U.S. government agency, and one of the few in the world, with the legal authority to take enforcement action against goods produced with forced labor to prevent entry into domestic commerce.

    Forced labor is a violation of basic human rights. CBP is committed to identifying products made by forced labor and preventing them from entering the U.S.; therefore denying access to the U.S. economy for those that engage in the egregious human rights abuses associated with the use of forced labor.

    Eradicating the use of forced labor is a moral imperative. Additionally, forced labor is an unfair trade practice that undermines the ability of companies that treat workers fairly to compete in the global economy. CBP is determined not only to prevent goods made with forced labor from entering the United States, but also to do everything within our authority to stop them from being made in the first place.

    Instagram ➤ https://instagram.com/CBPgov
    Facebook ➤ https://facebook.com/CBPgov
    Twitter ➤ https://twitter.com/CBP
    Official Website ➤ https://www.cbp.gov

    #cbp
    #trade
    #lawenforcement
    #humantraffickingawareness

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cbikzs9ku5w

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Moving forward to deliver the health care Albertans need

    Source: Government of Canada regional news (2)

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Security Council Extends Mandate of United Nations Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus, Unanimously Adopting Resolution 2771 (2025)

    Source: United Nations General Assembly and Security Council

    The Security Council today decided to renew the long-standing United Nations peacekeeping presence in Cyprus for another year, underscoring the need to avoid any unilateral actions that could undermine the prospects for a peaceful settlement.

    Unanimously adopting resolution 2771 (2025) (to be issued as document S/RES/2771 (2025)), the 15-member organ decided to extend the mandate of the United Nations Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus (UNFICYP) — which was first deployed in 1964 — until 31 January 2026.  It affirmed its intention to continue to monitor the situation in Cyprus closely, review the resolution’s implementation after six months and consider any adjustments or other action as needed.

    Reiterating that disputes in the Eastern Mediterranean should be resolved peacefully in accordance with international law, the text urged the leaders of the two Cypriot communities and all involved parties to refrain from any actions and rhetoric that might damage the settlement process and raise tensions on the island.

    Accordingly, the Council condemned the continued violations of the military status quo along the ceasefire lines, the reported encroachment by both sides into the United Nations Buffer Zone and the ongoing reported military violations, calling on the sides and all involved parties to respect UNFICYP’s mandated authority in and around the Buffer Zone and refrain from unilateral actions that contravene it.  Additionally, the Council strongly urged full respect for UNFICYP’s freedom of movement throughout Cyprus and the cessation of all restrictions on the mission’s movement and access.

    Urging the sides to renew their efforts to achieve an enduring, comprehensive and just settlement based on a bicommunal, bizonal federation with political equality, the text welcomed the agreement between the Greek Cypriot leader, Nikos Christodoulides, and the Turkish Cypriot leader, Ersin Tatar, to explore the possibility of opening new crossing points.

    Relatedly, the text welcomed the Secretary-General’s plans to convene an informal broader meeting with the two sides and the guarantor powers — Greece and Türkiye — to discuss the way forward, encouraging further rounds of informal talks to freely negotiate a mutually acceptable settlement under United Nations auspices.

    The Council requested the Secretary-General to submit two reports — by 4 July 2025 and 5 January 2026 respectively — on his Good Offices, in particular on progress towards reaching a consensus starting point for meaningful results-oriented negotiations leading to a settlement, as well as on the implementation of this resolution.  It also encouraged the leaders of the two communities to provide relevant written updates every six months.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Pinellas County Man Indicted for Attempting to Entice a Minor to Engage in Sexual Activity

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

    Ocala, Florida –United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces the return of an indictment charging David Araujo (57, St. Petersburg) with attempted enticement of a minor to engage in sexual activity. If convicted, Araujo faces a minimum sentence of 10 years, up to life, in federal prison. Araujo is currently detained pending the resolution of the criminal case. 

    According to the indictment, between July 26 and 27, 2024, Araujo attempted to persuade, induce, entice, and coerce an individual whom he believed had not yet attained 18 years of age to engage in sexual activity.

    An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty.          

    This case was investigated by the Marion County Sheriff’s Office, the Ocala Police Department, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, the Chiefland Police Department, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and Homeland Security Investigations. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Sarah Janette Swartzberg.

    This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Exxon and Chevron’s billions in profits = a climate disaster for us all

    Source: Greenpeace Statement –

    OAKLAND, CA (January 31, 2025) – Today, Exxon and Chevron announced their Q4 2024 profits, bringing Exxon’s total profits for the year to more than $33 billion and Chevron’s total profits to more than $18 billion. In response, Greenpeace USA’s California Climate Campaign Director, Zachary Norris, said:

    “Exxon and Chevron and other international oil companies continue to rake in tens of millions of dollars in profit every single day. These greedy companies are drilling in our neighborhoods, poisoning our air and fueling deadly wildfires – all at the expense of Americans – in order to further line the pockets of the uber rich. Enough!  

    “The recent Los Angeles wildfires ravaged communities in California to the tune of more than $250 billion– which were fueled by climate change that has been fast tracked by the oil and gas industry. Exxon and Chevron’s massive profits are a slap in the face to these communities who have lost everything and now face finding the resources to rebuild. It is time for the polluters, including Exxon and Chevron, to pay up.

    “Oil and gas and the climate crisis are causing irreparable harm to communities and with each year that passes, it is becoming more disastrous.  The deadly wildfires in LA were fueled by the oil and gas industry and 2024 reached new levels in climate-driven disasters. These are not coincidences. It’s time everyone in this country connects the dots and holds polluters – with their billions in profit – accountable for their role in climate-driven disasters.” 

    Contact: Gigi Singh, Communications Manager at Greenpeace USA
    (+1)  631-404-9977, [email protected]  

    Greenpeace USA is part of a global network of independent campaigning organizations that use peaceful protest and creative communication to expose global environmental problems and promote solutions that are essential to a green and peaceful future. Greenpeace USA is committed to transforming the country’s unjust social, environmental, and economic systems from the ground up to address the climate crisis, advance racial justice, and build an economy that puts people first. Learn more at www.greenpeace.org/usa.

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Activities of Secretary-General in Lebanon, 16-19 January

    Source: United Nations General Assembly and Security Council

    United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres arrived in Beirut, Lebanon, on 16 January.  Upon arrival he was met by the caretaker Foreign Minister of Lebanon, Abdallah Bou Habib.

    On Friday, the Secretary-General flew by helicopter from Beirut to Naqoura to visit UNIFIL — the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon — to express his gratitude for the courage and determination of the UN peacekeepers who have been working in very challenging circumstances.

    During his time on the ground, the Secretary-General visited a number of UNIFIL positions, including one that had been under Israeli attack in 2024.

    In remarks to the assembled leadership of the UN mission, the Secretary-General told them that they are not just on the Blue Line of Lebanon, they are on the front line of peace, and that the UNIFIL mission is the most challenging environment for peacekeepers anywhere.  He added that their contributions have been crucial in supporting the restoration of stability in southern Lebanon and along the Blue Line.

    The continued occupation by the Israel Defense Forces inside the UNIFIL area operations and the conduct of military operations in Lebanese territory are violations of resolution 1701 (2006) and pose continued risk to your safety and security, Guterres told the peacekeepers.  He also noted that blue helmets had uncovered over a 100 weapons caches belonging to Hizbullah or other armed groups since 27 November 2024.

    The Secretary-General also said that strong support for, and closer coordination with, the Lebanese Armed Forces will be fundamental in supporting an enduring cessation of hostilities and realizing the ultimate goal of resolution 1701 (2006).  (See Press Release SG/SM/22525.)

    The Secretary-General returned to Beirut later in the afternoon where he met with France President Emmanuel Macron of France who was also on a visit to Beirut.

    In the evening, upon his return to Beirut, the Secretary-General, along with the UN Special Coordinator in Lebanon, Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert, and the UNIFIL Force Commander, General Aroldo Lázaro, attended a working dinner hosted by the caretaker Prime Minister of Lebanon, Najib Mikati.

    On Saturday, the Secretary-General spent the day in Beirut where he met with President Joseph Aoun, Prime Minister Designate Nawaf Salam and the Speaker of the Parliament, Nabih Berri.

    The Secretary-General held a press conference late on Saturday afternoon.

    He returned to New York on Sunday, 19 January.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Activities of Secretary-General in Switzerland, 20-24 January

    Source: United Nations General Assembly and Security Council

    On Monday, 20 January, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres departed New York for Switzerland. He arrived in Davos on Tuesday morning to attend the annual World Economic Forum.

    On Tuesday evening, the Secretary-General participated in a leadership dialogue on digital and emerging technologies where he promoted the recently adopted Global Digital Compact as a tool that provides a new framework to help ensure that technology benefits all of humanity — guided by strong guardrails that minimize risks, while amplifying the benefits.  He called on the private sector, the philanthropic community and Member States to work together, with their relative strengths, to ensure that artificial intelligence (AI) serves its highest purpose:  advancing human progress, equality and dignity for all countries and all people.

    The Secretary-General finished the day by delivering remarks at a dinner organized by the Global Investors for Sustainable Development.

    Early on Wednesday morning, the Secretary-General delivered an address to the World Economic Forum.  He outlined how climate change and ungoverned AI are two profound threats that demand much more attention and intelligent collaboration than they are receiving as they threaten to upend life as we know it.

    He also used very pointed language at the parts of the private sector that are actively backtracking on climate goals.  You are short-sighted and on the wrong side of history, Guterres said.

    “To the corporate leaders who remain committed to climate action,” the Secretary-General went on to say, “your leadership is needed now, more than ever.  Do not back down.  Stay on the right side of history.”

    Regarding artificial intelligence, the Secretary-General underscored how, through the Global Digital Compact, the United Nations is working with Governments, industry, and civil society to ensure that AI becomes a tool of opportunity, inclusion and progress for all people.

    In remarks at a discussion afterwards with Børge Brende, President and CEO of the World Economic Forum, the Secretary-General said that we have witnessed in recent days in Gaza an example of robust diplomacy that should be recognized.  (See Press Release SG/SM/22528.)

    The Secretary-General also participated in the annual off-the-record “IGWELL” lunch organized by the World Economic Forum, and he also continued with a number of bilateral meetings, including Félix-Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the Prime Minister of the Kurdish Autonomous Province of Iraq, Masoud Barzani, and also the President of the Inter-American Development Bank, Ilan Goldfajn.

    The Secretary-General also participated in the annual off-the-record IGWELL lunch organized by the World Economic Forum.

    On Thursday and Friday, Mr. Guterres attended the annual retreat with his Special and Personal Representatives and Envoys before leaving Switzerland.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Operation Rimu – Homicide, Ōpōtiki

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Attributable to Detective Senior Sergeant Mike Varnam:

    A man has died after a violent altercation in central Ōpōtiki overnight, and Police have launched a homicide investigation.

    Emergency services were notified that a group of around six people were fighting on Church Street about 12:20am.

    One of those involved had received an injury to the chest consistent with a stab wound.

    Despite medical attention, the man died at the scene.

    While no arrests have been made, Police are following lines of inquiry to identify and locate those involved.

    It is believed gang members were involved.

    If anyone has any information on what happened, who has not yet spoken to Police, we would urge you to do so.

    Get in touch via 105 over the phone or online.

    You can also give information anonymously to Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111 or online.

    ENDS

    Issued by the Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: After Pressure From Warren, HHS Secretary Nominee RFK Jr. Will Amend Flawed Ethics Agreement

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts – Elizabeth Warren
    January 31, 2025
    Washington, D.C. – During Wednesday’s Senate Finance Committee hearing, U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.)questioned President Trump’s nominee for Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. about his apparent conflicts of interest. Following pressure from Senate Democrats, RFK Jr., today in written responses to Senator Warren, agreed to amend his flawed ethics agreement (see Warren QFRs at the end of Part 2 and start of Part 3). 
    In response to this new information, Sen. Warren released the following statement:
    “After public pressure from Senate Democrats, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has acknowledged dangerous conflicts of interest that would allow him to profit from an anti-vax lawsuit while serving as HHS Secretary. While he has now pledged in writing to fix his flawed ethics agreement, the answers he has provided to this committee also raise new questions about the scope of his conflicts.
    “Given these ongoing questions, RFK Jr.’s nomination must not move forward to any Senate vote until the details of his revised ethics agreement can be thoroughly reviewed. It’s also critical that the revised ethics agreement ensures that he cannot use his role as Health Secretary to open the floodgates to more anti-vaccine litigation and then cash in after he leaves office, including adopting a four-year post-employment ban on accepting any compensation from lawsuits involving any entity regulated by HHS.
    “It would be insufficient for RFK Jr. to only divest his interest in the Gardasil case while leaving the window open to profit from other anti-vax lawsuits, including future cases he could bring after leaving office.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: WATCH: Senator Reverend Warnock Highlights Potential Cost Spikes for Seniors Due to Trump Administration Policies in Senate Aging Hearing

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock – Georgia

    WATCH: Senator Reverend Warnock Highlights Potential Cost Spikes for Seniors Due to Trump Administration Policies in Senate Aging Hearing

    During a Wednesday Senate Aging committee hearing, Senator Reverend Warnock highlighted the dangers of the temporary federal funding freeze issued by the Trump Administration and its impact on health care costs for seniors
    Senator Reverend Warnock also focused on the federal funding freeze’s potential negative impact on food affordability and accessibility
    Senator Reverend Warnock during the hearing: “This Trump freeze will hurt Georgia’s seniors, make life more expensive for them, including our veteran seniors who need care” 
    Hearing expert witness Alex Lawson: “The price of prescription drugs for decades, pharmaceutical corporations have been able to raise the prices year after year, enormously above the rate of general inflation. They do it because they can. They do it for greed alone and seniors pay the consequence of this”

    Watch video of Senator Reverend Warnock’s questioning at Wednesday’s Senate Aging committee hearing HERE
    Washington, D.C. – Today, during a Senate Aging Committee hearing, Senator Reverend Warnock continued to highlight the importance of lowering costs for seniors and working-class Georgians. The hearing, called Making Washington Work for Seniors: Fighting to End Inflation and Achieve Fiscal Sanity, brought attention to several Trump Administration policies and executive orders that are likely to increase everyday costs for seniors, making their medication, utility bills, and other everyday needs more expensive.
    “Seniors, particularly those of modest means, rely on these funds [vouchers programs] to help pay for food, medicine, in-home care, rent, energy and heating bills in the dead of winter, and many other federal programs that ensure dignity throughout a person’s life,” said Senator Reverend Warnock during the hearing. 
    During the hearing, Senator Warnock also addressed the importance of extending Premium Tax Credits, which were established through the Affordable Care Act, citing by example that a senior Georgia couple, with a household income of $80,000, would see their annual premium go up by nearly $17,000 if the credits aren’t extended.
    “Mr. Lawson, how would extending the enhanced PTC support the fiscal sanity of seniors?” Senator Warnock asked Alex Lawson.
    “It would be fiscal insanity not to extend it and think that it’ll do anything other than drive millions of older Americans into poverty because you can’t just increase a bill $16,000 and expect that money to just come from nowhere,” said Lawson.
    Senator Warnock has long championed efforts to expand affordable health care access, starting with his advocacy to close the health care coverage gap in Georgia. In the Inflation Reduction Act, Senator Warnock secured two of his proposals in the law capping the cost of insulin at $35 a month for Medicare patients and capping the cost of prescription drugs for seniors at $2,000 a year. The Senator also pushed for solutions to close the coverage gap. Last year, Senator Warnock introduced the Capping Prescription Costs Act,legislation to expand the cap of annual out-of-pocket prescription drug costs at $2,000 for individuals and $4,000 for families. Senator Warnock remains committed to preserving and protecting access to health care for all Georgians.
    Watch the Senator’s full remarks and line of questioning HERE.
    See below the transcript the exchanges between Senator Warnock and the Aging Committee witness.
    Senator Reverend Warnock (SRW): “Today’s hearing, discussing the consequences of high prices on seniors, could not be more timely. On Monday evening, the Trump Administration ordered a total illegal freeze of federal taxpayer funds going out to communities and Georgians. This illegal funding freeze includes programs that are essential to seniors with lower and fixed incomes. I’m thankful that a federal judge temporarily halted this illegal freeze yesterday afternoon, but these programs are still at risk. The Trump Administration, to be very clear, has rescinded the OMB memo. They have not rescinded the executive order.” 
    “Mr. Lawson will the pauses to payments for nutrition programs or the Older Americans Act make food more affordable and accessible for seniors?”
    Alex Lawson (AL): “No, Senator, it would do the opposite.”
    SRW: “So what they did on Monday night won’t help?”
    AL: “It will hurt.”
    SRW: “How about a pause on payments for federal housing vouchers? Will that help?”
    AL: “That will not help. That will also hurt.”
    SRW: “And what about a pause on energy assistance funds?”
    AL: “Same answer. This won’t help at all. It will only hurt seniors.”
    SRW: “I would agree with that. Seniors, particularly those of modest means, rely on these funds to help pay for food, medicine, in-home care, rent, energy and heating bills in the dead of winter, and many other federal programs that ensure dignity throughout a person’s life.”
    “This Trump freeze will hurt Georgia’s seniors, make life more expensive for them, including our veteran seniors who need care.”
    “Mr. Lawson, how can the federal government help bring down costs for seniors?”
    AL: “One of the best ways is to focus in on one of the key drivers, that is really the rock, in the rock and the hard place, that seniors are in.”
    “The price of prescription drugs, for decades, pharmaceutical corporations have been able to raise the prices year after year, enormously above the rate of general inflation.” 
    “They do it because they can. They do it for greed alone and seniors pay the consequence of this.”
    “That’s too often having to cut their pills in half, or forgo their prescriptions, or face the choice of am ‘I going to pay my rent, or my heating bill, or be able to afford my drugs this month.” 
    “That is the reality that millions of Americans face. Now, President Biden and Democrats in Congress passed a bill that allows Medicare to negotiate prescription drug prices for the first time ever, and there will be a reduction in the prices of some specific drugs. But what we could do is expand that to all drugs. Why get ripped off on any drugs?”
    SRW: “Absolutely. And I’m proud that in that provision which caps the cost of prescription drugs, my insulin bill, which caps the cost of insulin to no more than $35 of out-of-pocket costs per month for seniors.”
    “Insulin shouldn’t be expensive, and the fact that it is, prior to our engagement in this area, speaks to the outsized influence of Big Pharma in our politics.”
    “On his first day in office, President Trump signed a wave of executive orders, and one of these executive orders rolled back an initiative that would empower Medicare prescription drugs to offer generic drugs that treat chronic conditions for a flat $2 co-pay.”
    “Mr. Lawson, would capping the cost of medication at $2 help with seniors’ ability to afford other essentials like groceries?”
    AL: “Absolutely. There’s no doubt at all on that.”
    SRW: “How do high prescription drug costs affect seniors also dealing with inflation?”
    AL: “When a senior [is] forced to try to go get groceries and they can’t afford those groceries on the $1900 average Social Security cost per month, if their drug prices are going up month after month, 13 percent, they’re going be less able to afford those groceries. And we know that this price cap works because there is now a $2000 price cap on prescription drugs in the same bill that put in negotiation and the freedom that gives seniors the anxiety of ‘will I be able to afford my next bag of groceries’ is enormous.”
    SRW: “Absolutely.”
    “The Affordable Care Act established a premium tax credit to help everyday Americans afford their healthcare costs. Several years ago, Democrats in Congress passed legislation increasing the value of the premium tax credits to help families better afford health care while dealing with inflation. But if Congress fails to extend these tax credits before the end of the year, a 60-year-old couple in Georgia with a household income of say $80,000 will see their annual premium go up by $16,798.”
    “Mr. Lawson, how would extending the enhanced PTC support the fiscal sanity of seniors?”
    AL: “It would be fiscal insanity not to extend it and think that it’ll do anything other than drive millions of older Americans into poverty because you can’t just increase a bill $16,000 and expect that money to just come from nowhere.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Reverend Warnock Reminds Georgians of Looming Deadline to Apply for FEMA Assistance for Hurricane Helene Recovery 

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock – Georgia

    Senator Reverend Warnock Reminds Georgians of Looming Deadline to Apply for FEMA Assistance for Hurricane Helene Recovery 

    Deadline is February 7, 2025 for Georgians to apply for federal relief in the counties designated for Individual Assistance
    To date, FEMA has provided $290,000,000 in individual and household assistance to Georgians impacted by Hurricane Helene
    Senator Reverend Warnock: “As state and federal partners continue to process and administer federal funding to help local communities, I will remain vigilant in ensuring Georgians impacted by these devastating storms get the full assistance they are owed”

    Senator Warnock distributing bottled water to the Augusta community following Hurricane Helene in 2024
    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-GA) is reminding Georgians impacted by Tropical Storm Debby (August 4—20. 2024) and Hurricane Helene (September 24—October 30, 2024) in the counties designated for Individual Assistance that they have until February 7, 2025 to apply for FEMA assistance. To date, FEMA has provided $290,000,000 in individual and household assistance to Georgians impacted by Hurricane Helene.
    “I continue to pray for and work on behalf of all Georgians impacted by Hurricane Helene. I am proud we were able to pass major federal disaster relief for Georgia families and farmers recovering and I have been on the ground across the state helping to connect local communities to federal resources,” said Senator Reverend Warnock. “As state and federal partners continue to process and administer federal funding to help local communities, I will remain vigilant in ensuring Georgians impacted by these devastating storms get the full assistance they are owed.”
    The application period for federal disaster assistance ends on Friday, February 7, 2025. Counties approved for assistance for Hurricane Helene are: Appling, Atkinson, Bacon, Ben Hill, Berrien, Brantley, Brooks, Bryan, Bulloch, Burke, Butts, Camden, Candler, Charlton, Chatham, Clinch, Coffee, Colquitt, Columbia, Cook, Dodge, Echols, Effingham, Elbert, Emanuel, Evans, Fulton, Glascock, Glynn, Hancock, Irwin, Jeff Davis, Jefferson, Jenkins, Johnson, Lanier, Laurens, Liberty, Lincoln, Long, Lowndes, McDuffie, McIntosh, Montgomery, Newton, Pierce, Rabun, Richmond, Screven, Stephens, Taliaferro, Tattnall, Telfair, Thomas, Tift, Toombs, Treutlen, Ware, Warren, Washington, Wayne, Wheeler and Wilkes.
    Counties approved for assistance for Tropical Storm Debby are: Bryan, Bulloch, Chatham, Effingham, Evans, Liberty, Long and Screven.
    If a Georgian has storm-related expenses and lives or owns a business in one of the listed counties, they are encouraged to apply for disaster assistance. FEMA assistance can provide grants, and the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) may offer loans for temporary housing, home repairs and other disaster-related needs. For more information or to apply online with SBA, visit sba.gov/disaster. Additional information is also available by calling the Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or via email to disastercustomerservice@sba.gov.
    Georgians can apply for FEMA assistance online at DisasterAssistance.gov. Georgians can also apply using the FEMA App for mobile devices or calling toll-free 800-621-3362. The telephone line is open every day and help is available in most languages. Survivors can also contact the Georgia Call Center Monday through Saturday at 678-547-2861 for assistance with their application.
    To apply in person, visit a Disaster Recovery Center, where FEMA and SBA specialists can help you apply for assistance, upload documents, answer questions and provide information on available resources. Georgians may visit any open Disaster Recovery Center. For locations and hours, go online to fema.gov/drc. All centers are accessible to people with disabilities or access and functional needs and are equipped with assistive technology.
    For the latest information about Georgia’s recovery, visit fema.gov/helene/georgia and fema.gov/disaster/4821. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Colorado Continues Leading in Clean Energy Building Practices that Save Coloradans and Businesses Money

    Source: US State of Colorado

    Colorado ranks top-ten nationally in LEED-certified buildings in annual U.S. Green Building Council report 

    DENVER – Colorado is ninth in the nation for developing Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED)-certified buildings in 2024, according to the U.S. Green Building Council’s annual Top 10 States report. This marks the sixth consecutive year that Colorado has ranked Top 10 under the Polis Administration’s leadership prioritizing greener and cost-saving building practices. 

    “Colorado continues to lead the nation in constructing more energy efficient buildings that save money on energy bills and protect our state for future generations. Since day one, we have prioritized smart construction strategies for Coloradans and businesses to help reduce costs and I’m proud that our state continues to lead our nation,” said Gov. Polis. 

    In 2024, 64 LEED projects were certified in Colorado, representing 13,884,040 square feet of space. Through lower operating costs and better efficiency, these buildings support Colorado’s clean energy goals while enhancing building safety, durability, sustainability, comfort, and affordability for households and businesses. 

    “Lowering building emissions is key to achieving our climate goals, and we’re thrilled that Colorado remains a national leader in this area. Energy efficient buildings lower utility costs for owners and tenants as well as help reduce harmful air pollution that drives climate change and impacts public health. And frankly, energy efficient buildings are quieter, and better for tenants,” said CEO Executive Director Will Toor. 

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Padilla, Calvert Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Support the Lower Colorado River Multi-Species Conservation Program

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.)

    Padilla, Calvert Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Support the Lower Colorado River Multi-Species Conservation Program

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) and Representative Ken Calvert (R-Calif.-41) introduced bipartisan legislation to support Lower Colorado River Multi-Species Conservation Program (LCR MSCP) activities.
    The bill would increase the funding available for species conservation by creating an interest-bearing account at the Department of the Treasury for funds that the Colorado River Lower Basin states and the federal government contribute to the LCR MSCP. Currently, the Bureau of Reclamation holds the funding that states, including California, Arizona, and Nevada, contribute in an account that does not collect interest.
    The legislation advanced out of the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources by voice vote last Congress. Senators Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), and Adam Schiff (D-Calif.) are cosponsoring the legislation.
    “The Lower Colorado River Multispecies Conservation Program is critical to balancing our water needs and hydropower production with the conservation of native species in the Lower Colorado River,” said Senator Padilla. “As ongoing drought threatens the Colorado River’s water resources and increases project costs, allowing the program’s account to accrue interest is a simple, bipartisan solution to ensure that California’s contributions to this program go even further.”
    “Providing additional resources for the Lower Colorado River Multi-Species Conservation Program at no cost to taxpayers will support one of our most important natural resources in the Southwest,” said Representative Calvert. “This bipartisan bill is a common-sense step that allows excess funds in the LCR MSCP to earn interest and maintain their effectiveness.”
    “The Metropolitan Water District of Southern California is proud to participate in the Lower Colorado River Multispecies Conservation Program (LCR MSCP), an incredibly successful collaboration between the federal government, states, and other stakeholders to create habitat for 28 native species,” said Deven Upadhyay, the Interim General Manager of the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California. “This bill will enable the funds provided by the States for LCR MSCP projects to be held in an interest-bearing account. The interest collected on this non-federal funding will be reinvested in MSCP projects. Metropolitan appreciates Representative Calvert and Senator Padilla for introducing this bi-partisan legislation and looks forward to its passage.”
    “The Multi-Species Conservation Program has improved degraded river habitat conditions to create a more resilient Lower Colorado River—a vital part of the ecosystem and essential for birds, other wildlife, and the people that depend upon it,” said Jennifer Pitt, National Audubon Society’s Colorado River Program Director. “Allowing for smarter investment of the program’s funding will allow Colorado River partners to better protect water and habitat for threatened and endangered species and prevent new species from needing to be listed. We thank the bill sponsors for moving quickly to introduce this bill to generate additional funding for the MSCP into the future.”
    The Lower Colorado River provides critical water and power supplies across the Southwest. The LCR MSCP was authorized by Congress in 2009 and is supported by agencies within the federal government, as well as state, tribal, and local water, power, and wildlife agencies. Within the geographic scope of the LCR MSCP from Lake Mead to the Mexican border, the program will establish over 8,000 acres of native riparian and aquatic habitat. It includes additional science-based research and management efforts focused on expanding knowledge of the local wildlife and the quality of the habitat restoration efforts. The program has already achieved success in stocking thousands of native fish and increasing numbers of breeding migratory birds within 5,000 acres of new riparian habitat.
    The LCR MSCP has a budget of $626 million for its 50-year term. The funding is shared among the program participants on the basis of 50 percent federal, 25 percent California, and 12.5 percent each from Arizona and Nevada. Through the LCR MSCP agreements, the Lower Basin states committed to make quarterly payments to cover the program costs based on the initial budget estimates established in 2005. For Fiscal Year 2024, the program budget calls for funding of $38.8 million, with the state participants paying $19.4 million.
    Over time, the pace of funding has exceeded work expenditures, and the Bureau of Reclamation has accumulated over $60 million in contributed funds for future costs. However, the accounts in which Reclamation holds the contributed funds do not earn interest or any investment return. Multiple funds established by congressional action in the U.S. Treasury are directed to be invested or to earn interest. This legislation simply allows the LCR MSCP to do the same.
    Full text of the bill is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Ahoskie Gang Member ‘Woo’ Sentenced to Eight Years in Prison After Conviction for Firearm and Drug Trafficking Offenses

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

    RALEIGH, N.C. – An Ahoskie gang member was sentenced to 100 months in prison and five years of supervised release, after authorities found drugs and a firearm in his home.  On September 30, 2024, Rodney Lamont Evans, a.k.a. “Woo,” pled guilty to the charges.

    “This case is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our local, state, and federal partners,” said Hertford County Sheriff Dexter Hayes. “Their relentless efforts to investigate, prosecute, and bring to justice those who threaten the safety of our citizens reflect our shared commitment to a safer community.”

    According to court documents and other information presented in court, authorities in Ahoskie received information on August 8, 2022, that Evans, 47, a member of the Bloods gang, was distributing narcotics out of his home on McGlohon Street. On that date, law enforcement executed a search warrant at Evans’s residence.  Upon their arrival, Evans fled through a window and attempted to hide on the roof but was soon found.  Inside Evans’s home, authorities discovered nearly 360 grams of cocaine, over 5 grams of crack, over 1,700 grams of marijuana, a firearm, ammunition, multiple digital scales, and drug packaging materials.  The investigation also revealed that Evans had previously participated in the sale of homemade machinegun conversion devices, or “switches,” with a fellow member of the Bloods.

    Evans was previously convicted of indecent liberties with a child and multiple charges of possession with intent to sell cocaine in North Carolina. 

    Michael F. Easley, Jr., U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge Terrence W. Boyle.  The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI); the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms (ATF); the Down East Drug and Violent Crime Task Force; and the Hertford County Sheriff’s Office investigated the case, and Assistant U.S. Attorney’s Lori Warlick and Sarah Nokes prosecuted the case.

    Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:23-CR-23-BO-RN.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Peter Ballantyne Cree Nation — Saskatchewan RCMP seizes illicit drugs and firearms in Pelican Narrows enforcement effort

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Saskatchewan RCMP’s Prince Albert Crime Reduction Team (CRT) and Pelican Narrows Detachment recently conducted a series of enforcement activities to combat gang activity and remove illicit drugs and firearms from Pelican Narrows, SK, a community part of the Peter Ballantyne Cree Nation.

    On January 21, 2025, RCMP officers from the Prince Albert CRT, Pelican Narrows Detachment and Critical Incident Response Team executed search warrants at four residences in Pelican Narrows in relation to ongoing drug and firearms trafficking investigations.

    Overall, officers located and seized four illegal firearms at multiple residences, two replica firearms, 94 grams of crack cocaine, 13 grams of cocaine, a small amount of methamphetamine and other drug trafficking paraphernalia.

    In total, 31 people were arrested – four suspects are facing charges and 27 individuals were released without charges. The investigation continues.

    Illicit drugs and firearms seized, four suspects charged

    RCMP officers arrested three adult males and four adult females while executing a search warrant at a residence on McKay Street in Pelican Narrows on January 21, 2025.

    While searching the residence, officers located and seized:

    • 94 grams of crack cocaine;
    • 13 grams of cocaine;
    • a loaded handgun, which was later determined to be stolen;
    • more than $38,000 in cash; and
    • additional drug trafficking paraphernalia.

    As a result of investigation, Olaitan Iyanda Amoo, a 23-year-old male from Mississauga, ON, is charged with:

    • one count, possession for the purpose of trafficking – cocaine, Section 5(2), Controlled Drugs and Substances Act;
    • one count, possession of restricted firearm/prohibited weapon with ammo without licence/registration, Section 95(1)(a), Criminal Code;
    • one count, unauthorized possession of a firearm, Section 91(1), Criminal Code;
    • one count, unsafe storage of a firearms, Section 86(2), Criminal Code;
    • one count, using firearm in the commission of an offence – while committing offence, Section 85(1) (a), Criminal Code; and
    • one count, possession of weapon obtained by crime, Section 96(1), Criminal Code.

    Six individuals were released without charges.

    Officers arrested six adult males and six adult females while executing a search warrant at a residence on Wood Crescent in Pelican Narrows on January 21, 2025.

    While searching the residence, officers located and seized:

    • a small amount of methamphetamine;
    • additional drug trafficking paraphernalia;
    • two replica firearms; and
    • an edged weapon.

    As a result of investigation, Leah Sewap, a 35-year-old female from Pelican Narrows, is charged with:

    • one count, possession for the purpose of trafficking – methamphetamine, Section 5(2), Controlled Drugs and Substances Act; and
    • one count, using imitation firearm in the commission of an offence – while committing offence; Section 85(2), Criminal Code.

    Eleven individuals were released without charges.

    Officers arrested six adult males and six adult females while executing search warrants at two residences on Chachakew Place in Pelican Narrows on January 21, 2025.

    During the arrests, officers located and seized:

    • three firearms (a rifle, a shotgun, and a zip gun);
    • ammunition;
    • a small amount of methamphetamine; and
    • additional drug trafficking paraphernalia.

    As a result of investigation, Jocelyn Linklater, a 37-year-old female from Pelican Narrows, is charged with:

    • one count, unauthorized possession of a firearm, Section 91(1), Criminal Code;
    • one count, tampering with serial number of firearm, Section 108(1)(a), Criminal Code; and
    • one count; unsafe storage of firearms, Section 86(2), Criminal Code.

    Kelvin McCallum, an 18-year-old male from Pelican Narrows, is charged with:

    • one count, unauthorized possession of a firearm, Section 91(1), Criminal Code;
    • one count, unsafe storage of firearms, Section 86(2), Criminal Code;
    • one count, careless use of a firearm, Section 86(1), Criminal Code;
    • one count, possession of a prohibited firearm, Section 95(1)(a), Criminal Code; and
    • one count, carry a concealed weapon, Section 90(1), Criminal Code.

    Ten individuals were released without charges.

    Olaitan Iyanda Amoo, Leah Sewap, Jocelyn Linklater and Kelvin McCallum made their first appearance in Pelican Narrows Provincial Court on January 22, 2025.

    Upholding community safety

    “These seizures and arrests are examples of how targeted enforcement can take dangerous drugs and weapons out of a community,” says Sgt. Toby Martin, Saskatchewan Enforcement Response Teams’ (SERT) north region acting manager.

    “By working together with RCMP officers from the Pelican Narrows Detachment and a specialized unit like the Critical Incident Response Team, the Prince Albert CRT helps make Pelican Narrows a safer place for those who call it home.”

    The Prince Albert CRT is part of Saskatchewan RCMP’s SERT. Aiming to curb criminal activity, the Prince Albert CRT conducts targeted enforcement activities informed by intelligence, evidence-based policing, analysis of community crime trends and in consultation with local leadership.

    “On behalf of Peter Ballantyne Cree Nation leadership, I commend the RCMP for their action and specialized enforcement in Pelican Narrows,” says Councillor Olivia Custer of Peter Ballantyne Cree Nation.

    “The presence of dangerous drugs has had a devastating impact on the health and safety of our community. Our members have expressed their gratitude for this important step toward making our community safer, especially for our children and Elders. We remain committed to working together to ensure the well-being of our people.”

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Marshall Discusses Wichita, KS Plane Crash on Morning in America: It’s a tough day for Kansas

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kansas Roger Marshall

    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. joined Morning in America on NewsNation to discuss the horrific collision of an American Airlines passenger plane from Wichita, Kansas with a military helicopter on Wednesday evening. Senator Marshall offered his deep condolences to the families of the victims and all those impacted. 
    Senator Marshall shared some of the major concerns and operational pitfalls that led to this horrific accident, and emphasized the need for a full investigation of what went wrong.
    You may click HERE or on the image above to watch Senator Marshall’s full interview.
    Highlights from Senator Marshall’s interview include:
    “It’s a tough day for Kansas. We lost 67 people – it just feels like a gut punch, and we’re just lifting those families up in prayer, trying to surround them with our love. We’re all mourning with them, and it’s a tough day.”
    “I think we’re just all in shock. At least half of these families are from Wichita…This is a flight I’ve taken multiple times, and it would be unusual for me to get on that plane and not recognize some of the people in there. But regardless… We’re humbled. We’re just praying for God’s grace on these, on all these families. They got a tough, tough day ahead of them. Just trust me, it’s a tough day.”
    On the operational errors: 
    “I appreciate President Trump’s transparency. I really, really do – that the American people deserve to be leveled with. You know, there was a couple huge concerns. Why are we letting military aircraft in this airspace? This is the busiest runway in America. Why are we letting them there in the first place? And then their transponders don’t communicate with commercial planes.”
    “If you’re going to be an airspace where there’s commercial airplanes – very busy, you need to have a transponder that works… This helicopter should have never been above 200 feet. The collision occurred at 350. So all the helicopters have a ceiling of 200 feet – why was he up there? Why was air traffic control not yelling and screaming at him – or her – as well? So I do think this should have never happened, and just is so sad.”
    “I think air traffic control could have helped prevent this situation as well, and we’re waiting for that full review. We know that sometimes they only have one person handling this. Usually they have one person handling just the helicopter, and if they had that one person focused on the helicopters, again, I think they’d have been yelling and screaming, ‘What are you doing above 200 feet?’”
    On the need for urgent reform within Air Traffic Control and the FAA: 
    “I think we need to revisit everything. And if they’re going to increase the flights, then we need to have more air traffic control.”
    “Last week, President Trump hired over 100 more of these air traffic controllers. So he’s trying to address this problem up front, you know, and he was trying to reverse this trend in less safety, within the air traffic control, and more within the FAA, I would say.”
    “I have empathy, and I appreciate President Trump’s upfront communication here. There’s no more helicopters allowed in this airspace at DCA as well right now. This is the first accident – it’s been 15 or 20 years – the first major accident as well…But regardless, my prayers today for the family and for addressing the situation, and hope it never happens again.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kennedy backs bill to provide tax exemption for Louisianians, all Americans who protect homes ahead of disasters

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator John Kennedy (Louisiana)

    WASHINGTON – Sen. John Kennedy (R-La.) today joined Sens. Thom Tillis (R-N.C.) and Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) and colleagues in reintroducing the Disaster Mitigation and Tax Parity Act. The bill would exempt state rebates for Americans who harden their homes in preparation for natural disasters and floods from federal taxation.

    “Louisianians invest their hard-earned money in protecting their homes from hurricanes and flooding. When states provide a rebate for this disaster mitigation, it’s foolish and unfair to tax it,” said Kennedy.

    Louisiana is one of several states that incentivize citizens to fortify their homes against natural disasters by offering rebates for protection measures. Current law requires Louisianians to pay federal taxes on rebates that come from a source other than the federal government. The Disaster Mitigation and Tax Parity Act would make sure Americans do not have to pay federal taxes on state-provided rebates.

    “This commonsense legislation takes a critical step toward empowering individuals and communities to better protect themselves from the devastating effects of natural disasters like Hurricane Helene. By excluding qualified catastrophe mitigation payments from income tax, we are incentivizing property owners to make the necessary improvements that reduce damage and save lives. This proactive approach to disaster preparedness not only helps families rebuild faster but strengthens our resilience in the face of future disasters,” said Tillis.

    “The devastating fires in Southern California underscored the urgent need to empower homeowners to take proactive steps to keep their families and homes safe. As these disasters become more frequent and more extreme due to the climate crisis, we should incentivize—not penalize—taxpayers for protecting their homes. That’s why the Disaster Mitigation and Tax Parity Act would provide a tax exemption on payments from state-based programs for homeowner investments in critical disaster-related improvements,” said Padilla.

    The full bill text is available here. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kennedy introduces resolution to block Biden climate activism scheme

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator John Kennedy (Louisiana)
    WASHINGTON – Sen. John Kennedy (R-La.) today introduced a joint resolution under the Congressional Review Act (CRA) to overturn the Biden administration’s final guidance on voluntary carbon credits.
    The Biden-era Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) final guidance would legitimize and pave the way for regulating the voluntary trade of carbon credits, also known as carbon offsets. Voluntary carbon credit schemes function by allowing companies to “offset” their own carbon dioxide emissions by funding purportedly “green” projects elsewhere. The state of California and much of Europe have adopted controversial laws that force certain companies to cut emissions, many of which opt to buy voluntary carbon credits.
    “The American people rejected Pres. Biden’s radical green agenda, but the last administration’s bureaucratic schemes could still force California- and European-style climate craziness on the rest of the country. Congress should join me in voting to stop radical policies that put unrealistic expectations on American businesses,” said Kennedy.
    The CRA allows Congress to overturn certain federal agency regulations and actions through a joint resolution of disapproval. If both houses of Congress approve such a joint resolution and the president signs it, or if Congress successfully overrides a presidential veto, the final guidance at issue becomes invalid.
    Sen. Tim Sheehy (R-Mont.) cosponsored the resolution.
    Text of the resolution is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Risch, Barrasso Bill Supports Ranchers and Livestock Grazing Across the West

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Idaho James E Risch

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Jim Risch (R-Idaho) and John Barrasso (R-Wyo.) introduced the Resiliency for Ranching and Natural Conservation Health (RANCH) Act. This legislation promotes resilient and healthy rangelands and effective grazing management across the West.

    “As a rancher, I have seen firsthand the immense benefits grazing brings to Idaho’s public lands and our agricultural economy,” said Senator Risch. “The RANCH Act ensures grazing management decisions properly benefit ranchers and rural communities to maintain Idaho’s way of life.”

    “Livestock grazing plays a critical role for Wyoming’s ranchers to maintain rangeland health and protect their livelihoods,” said Senator Barrasso. “All across America, we depend on our hardworking ranchers. The RANCH Act gives them the support they need to work through natural disasters and efficiently navigate permits and grazing rights. Our bill promotes robust rangeland for livestock, creates habitats for wildlife, and makes life easier for Wyoming’s ranching communities.”

    Cosponsors of this legislation include U.S. Senators Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.), Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), and Tim Sheehy (R-Mont.).

    The RANCH Act will:

    • Allow temporary utilization of vacant grazing allotments during extreme events/disasters;

    • Allocate funding for rangeland health and resiliency projects and public access agreements to land-locked public lands for co-benefits to hunting and recreation;

    • Extend the period of grazing permits/leases for up to 20-years, when certain conditions are met; and

    • Provide responsive and nimble management through the use of a categorical exclusion for renewal of certain grazing permits/leases and for certain actions during extreme events/disasters.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICE Houston apprehends 2 previously removed criminal aliens convicted of child sex offenses, other violent crimes

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    HOUSTON – U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement apprehended two previously removed criminal aliens Jan. 29 who have been convicted of child sex offenses and other violent criminal offenses.

    David Lopez Javier, a 45-year-old twice deported criminal alien from Honduras, and Efrain Gomez Cac, a 30-year-old previously removed criminal alien from Guatemala, were arrested in Conroe and Cleveland, Texas, respectively.

    Lopez has illegally entered the U.S. at least three times and was previously removed from the country Nov. 14, 2013, and April 28, 2016. He has been convicted of committing numerous criminal offenses while in the country illegally, including lewd and lascivious battery on a child, cocaine trafficking, cocaine possession, illegal reentry, and twice for larceny.

    Gomez was previously removed from the U.S. by ICE on Sept. 7, 2018, and has prior criminal convictions for aggravated assault with a deadly weapon causing bodily harm and driving while intoxicated.

    “Criminal aliens who repeatedly violate our nation’s immigration laws only to commit sex offenses against innocent minors, traffic deadly narcotics in our local communities, or commit violent offenses against law-abiding residents are quickly finding out that the law enforcement community is united and more determined than ever in our resolve to bolster public safety, national security, and border security here in Southeast Texas,” said ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Houston Field Office Director Bret Bradford. “By working together with our partners like HSI, we are able to more effectively and efficiently leverage the unique law enforcement tools and resources that each of us brings to the table and ensure that we’re doing everything we can to uphold the rule of law and protect our fellow Texans from harm.”

    “HSI Houston is proud to work alongside ERO Houston and our other partner agencies in the area to aggressively pursue criminal aliens and other transnational criminal and immigration-related threats here in Houston and along the Texas Gulf Coast,” said ICE Homeland Security Investigations Houston Special Agent in Charge Chad Plantz. “Our special agents live and raise families in this community and are committed to do whatever it takes to remove criminal aliens, child predators, transnational gang members, and other threats to public safety from the local community.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICE Seattle arrests 4 illegal aliens with criminal convictions, charges for sexual assault

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    January 31, 2025Seattle, United StatesEnforcement and Removal

    SEATTLE — U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement recently arrested four criminal aliens with convictions or charges related to sexual assault:

    • Pedro Garcia-Lopez, 47, a citizen of Mexico arrested Jan. 30 in Yakima, Washington, who has been charged with theft, lewd acts with child under 14, and sexual battery.
    • Rubi Jeronimo Cruz, 22, a citizen of Guatemala arrested Jan. 30 in Lynden, Washington, convicted of DUI with reckless driving and charged with rape of a child.
    • Manuel De Jesus Zavala-Martinez,40, a citizen of El Salvador arrested Jan. 29 in Centralia, Washington, with several criminal convictions including assault with sexual motivation and assault with a deadly weapon.
    • Jaspal Singh, 29, a citizen of India arrested Jan. 29 in Tukwila, Washington, charged with assault with sexual motivation.

    “Protecting our communities, and preventing further victimization is of paramount importance to ICE throughout the Pacific Northwest,” said ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Seattle Field Office Director Drew H. Bostock. “These arrests reinforce the message that the presence of illegal criminal threats will not be tolerated.”

    All four individuals will remain in ICE custody pending removal proceedings.

    Members of the public with information regarding child sex offenders can report crimes or suspicious activity by dialing the ICE Tip Line at 866-DHS-2-ICE (866-347-2423) or completing the online tip form.

    Learn more about ICE’s mission to increase public safety in your community on X at @EROSeattle.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Stein Recognizes January 31st as Earned Income Tax Credit Awareness (EITC) Day, Highlights IRS Direct File Tool as a Free Filing Option this Tax Season

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: Governor Stein Recognizes January 31st as Earned Income Tax Credit Awareness (EITC) Day, Highlights IRS Direct File Tool as a Free Filing Option this Tax Season

    Governor Stein Recognizes January 31st as Earned Income Tax Credit Awareness (EITC) Day, Highlights IRS Direct File Tool as a Free Filing Option this Tax Season
    bwood

    Raleigh, NC

    Today, Governor Josh Stein issued a proclamation recognizing Earned Income Tax Credit Awareness (EITC) Day to encourage eligible hardworking North Carolinians to claim the tax credit they have earned on their upcoming federal taxes.

    This year marks the 50th anniversary of the EITC, which has played a crucial role in supporting workers in North Carolina and across the country. The EITC has been linked to reduced child poverty, higher educational achievement, greater lifetime earnings, and better health outcomes, including improved birth outcomes, food security, and child safety. 

    According to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), the average taxpayer spends approximately $270 and up to 13 hours filing their taxes every year. This tax season, approximately 1.67 million eligible North Carolinians have the option to use IRS Direct File to file their federal tax returns – for free – directly with the IRS. After filing their federal returns, taxpayers will be directed to the FileYourStateTaxes page where they can also file their state returns for free. 

    “We need to cut taxes to put more money in the pockets of working people,” said Governor Josh Stein. “That’s exactly what the federal Earned Income Tax Credit has done for the past 50 years. And I encourage North Carolinians to consider Direct File when filing their tax returns this year to save money.” 

    Direct File opened on January 27, 2025. Taxpayers can use the Eligibility Checker at directfile.irs.gov to find out if Direct File is an option for them. 

    “The federal EITC delivers for working families in North Carolina – not only in terms of increasing incomes and reducing poverty, but across a wide range of measures of well-being. And since only about 80% of eligible taxpayers claim the EITC, the new Direct File tool is a huge opportunity to make sure North Carolinians access the tax credits they have earned,” said Sally Hodges-Copple, Public Policy Analyst at the NC Budget & Tax Center. 

    “Direct File will save North Carolina taxpayers time, money, and stress. Having a simple way to file your taxes directly with the government for free means more people can benefit from tax credits like the Earned Income Tax Credit, using these funds to pay off debt and save money,” said Jenna Bryant, Senior Program Director of MDC, which convenes the NC Tax Credit Coalition. 

    The resources below provide more information on both the EITC and Direct File: 

    • The IRS also offers an interactive online tool, EITC Assistant at www.irs.gov/eitcassistant, that guides taxpayers through EITC eligibility and estimates their possible credit.

    • North Carolina continues to offer its existing free state filing options. Visit the North Carolina Department of Revenue (NDOR) at eFile for Individuals | NCDOR for more information. 
       

    Jan 31, 2025

    MIL OSI USA News –