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  • MIL-OSI Security: Kilo Fentanyl Distributor Sentenced to 40 Years

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    RALEIGH, N.C. – A New Bern man was sentenced to 40 years in prison for trafficking and distributing methamphetamine and fentanyl for a large-scale drug trafficking operation in Craven County.  On August 8, 2024, a Raleigh jury found Lucio Camargo Garcia guilty of the charges.

    “Garcia took advantage of Craven County’s most hopeless souls, extracting profit from their pain and addiction,” said U.S. Attorney Michael F. Easley, Jr. “Too many of our friends, families, and neighbors are battling addiction.  The Craven County Sheriff’s Office and New Bern Police won’t stand by and let armed drug traffickers push kilos of fentanyl and meth in our community unchecked, and neither will we.  Eastern North Carolina traffickers take note – our partnership is for the long haul, and we won’t let off.”

    “This sentencing sends a clear message that our community will not tolerate the trafficking of dangerous drugs like methamphetamines and fentanyl,” said HSI Charlotte Special Agent in Charge Cardell T. Morant, HSI Charlotte covers North and South Carolina. “These substances devastate lives and destroy communities.  HSI and its partners are committed to holding those who profit from this destruction accountable. This is a warning to those who engage in this illegal activity – we will pursue justice relentlessly.”

    “This investigation identified Garcia as a major importer and distributor of methamphetamine and fentanyl in Craven County,” said Craven County Sheriff Chip Hughes. “His prosecution, along with his co-conspirators has resulted in a significant reduction in the availability of these dangerous drugs in our communities.”

    According to court records and evidence presented at trial, in 2021, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the Craven County Sheriff’s Office, the New Bern Police Department, the State Bureau of Investigation, and other state and local agencies launched an investigation into a large-scale drug trafficking organization responsible for acquiring kilogram quantities of methamphetamine and fentanyl from the southwest border of the United States and distributing the drugs in and around Craven County. Through the use of confidential sources, surveillance, enforcement actions, and controlled purchases, Garcia was identified as the primary distributor of methamphetamine and fentanyl who re-sold the product to both drug users and other area dealers.

    From January to October 2022, law enforcement conducted multiple controlled purchases of methamphetamine and fentanyl from Garcia. On October 31, 2022, search warrants were executed at residences associated with the drug trafficking organization, including Garcia’s residence. Law enforcement seized approximately one kilogram of methamphetamine, approximately nine hundred grams of fentanyl (powder and pill form), and a loaded firearm from Garcia’s residence. Most of the drugs were located in a secret compartment in the ceiling of Garcia’s bedroom closet.

    This investigation was an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launders, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.

    Michael F. Easley, Jr., U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge James C. Dever III. The DEA, HSI, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, North Carolina State Bureau of Investigations, Craven County Sheriff’s Office, New Bern Police Department, and Pamlico County Sheriff’s Office  investigated the case and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Katherine Englander and Caroline Webb 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. 4:22-CR-75-D-RJ-2.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Gainesville Man Sentenced To Federal Prison For Stealing Social Security Disability Benefits

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Tampa, Florida – U.S. District Judge Steven D. Merryday today sentenced Keith Allen Courtney (53, Gainesville) to 13 months in federal prison for conspiracy. As part of his sentence, the court also entered an order of forfeiture in the amount of $71,208, the proceeds of conspiracy. Courtney pled guilty on April 12, 2024.

    According to court documents, Courtney conspired to defraud the Social Security Administration (SSA) by concealing his work activity while applying for and receiving SSA Disability Insurance Benefits (DIB). Based on the false and incomplete information provided by Courtney, SSA approved his application for DIB and issued monthly benefit payments on his behalf. In total, Courtney received $71,208 in DIB to which he was not entitled between February 2016 and May 2020. 

    This case was investigated by Social Security Administration, Office of the Inspector General. It is being prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Suzanne Huyler.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Clay County Convicted Felon Sentenced To Federal Prison On Firearm Charge

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Jacksonville, Florida – U.S. District Judge Wendy W. Berger has sentenced Anthony Rodriguez, Jr. (32, Orange Park) to 21 months in federal prison for possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. Rodriguez was arrested on July 9, 2024, and ordered detained.   

    According to court records, on May 11, 2024, Rodriguez shoplifted merchandise from a Wal-Mart in Clay County. Wal-Mart personnel stopped Rodriguez and the Clay County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) subsequently responded. As the CCSO searched Rodriguez during his arrest, a loaded Glock 43 9mm pistol fell to the ground from Rodriguez’s clothing. At the time of the incident, Rodriguez had seven previous felony convictions, including two convictions involving a firearm and ammunition. As a previously convicted felon, he is prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition under federal law.

    This case was investigated by the Clay County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives – Jacksonville Office. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kevin C. Frein.

    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: Mississippi Man Pleads Guilty To Transporting Child Sexual Abuse Material

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Orlando, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that Jonathan Patrick Maston (59, Pass Christian, MS) has pleaded guilty to transportation of child sexual abuse material (CSAM). Maston faces a minimum penalty of 5 years, up to 20 years, in federal prison. A sentencing hearing is set for March 6, 2025.

    According to the plea agreement, in April 2022, Maston arrived in Port Canaveral, returning from an international cruise. As he was disembarking the ship, Maston was referred for a secondary inspection. A search of his cellphone revealed CSAM images and videos. During an interview with law enforcement agents, Maston admitted to viewing CSAM over the last 15 years. A search warrant was also executed on Maston’s iCloud account, which revealed additional CSAM. In total, the contents of Maston’s cellphone and iCloud account contained more than 1,000 CSAM images and videos.

    This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and U.S. Customs and Border Protection. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Megan Testerman.

    This is another case 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 Security: Lake County Woman Pleads Guilty To Multi-Kilogram Drug Offense

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Orlando, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that Tonya Lynn Romero (37, Okahumpka) has pleaded guilty to possessing methamphetamine with intent to distribute it. Romero faces a minimum penalty of 5 years, up to 40 years, in federal prison. A sentencing hearing is set for April 10, 2025.

    According to the plea agreement, law enforcement conducted a narcotics interdiction operation at the Orlando International Airport, which resulted in a canine alerting to the presence of drugs in a suitcase that had been checked in Romero’s name. After Romero took possession of the luggage, law enforcement approached, and she provided consent to search the suitcase. Inside, law enforcement located over 13 kilograms of methamphetamine.

    This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and the Orlando Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Megan Testerman.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Brevard County Man Sentenced To More Than 16 Years For Distributing Multiple Kilograms Of Methamphetamine

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Orlando, Florida – U.S. District Judge Paul G. Byron has sentenced Joseph Michael Schneider (58, Cocoa) to 16 years and 8 months in federal prison for possessing controlled substances with intent to distribute them. Schneider pleaded guilty on August 14, 2024. 

    According to the plea agreement, law enforcement used a confidential source and undercover agent to conduct three controlled purchases of approximately 900 grams of methamphetamine each from Schneider, which took place at his residence. Law enforcement executed a search warrant at that residence, which resulted in the recovery of multiple kilograms of methamphetamine, over 100 grams of cocaine, and a small quantity of a fentanyl analog. In total, Schneider was responsible for distributing and possessing with intent to distribute over 7 kilograms of methamphetamine.

    This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and Brevard County Sherriff’s Office. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Megan Testerman.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Exeter Man on Federal Supervised Release Detained on Multiple Charges

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    PROVIDENCE, RI – An Exeter man, currently serving a term of federal supervised release related to his previous convictions for possession of stolen mail and bank fraud, has been ordered detained on federal charges brough this week after he was allegedly discovered to be in possession of stolen checks, various items used for fishing mail out of mail receptacles, supplies to alter or deface checks, and unlawful possession of ammunition, announced United States Attorney Zachary A. Cunha.

    Edmilson Rodrigues, 26, is charged by way of a federal criminal complaint with conspiracy to commit bank fraud, bank fraud, possession of stolen mail, and being a felon in possession of ammunition.

    It is alleged in charging documents that on December 17, 2024, during a court-authorized search of Rodrigues’ home, law enforcement seized approximately fifty stolen business and personal checks valued at approximately $36,000; hundreds of sheets of blank check paper; a check washing basin and cleaning materials used to deface and alter checks; a laptop and printer; and various items used to fish mail from U.S. Postal Service receptacles, such as mousetraps, glue, and string; and ammunition.

    According to court records, Rodrigues was convicted in U.S. District Court in 2019 for conspiracy to commit bank fraud and bank fraud involving a counterfeit check scheme; and in 2023 for possession of stolen mail that involved possession of nearly 100 stolen and fraudulent checks worth nearly $100,000.

    The most recent charges filed against Rodrigues are being prosecuted by Assistant U.S Attorney Ly T. Chin. A federal criminal complaint is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

    The matter was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, with the assistance of the Newport Police Department, Providence Police Department, and Pawtucket Police Department.

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Former Marine Sentenced to 12 Years for Child Sexual Abuse Material

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    RALEIGH, N.C. – A former marine was sentenced to 144 months imprisonment followed by 5 years of supervised release, and $273,000 in restitution to 29 victims, for receipt of child sexual abuse material (CSAM). 

    According to court documents and other information presented in court, Paul Anthony Reyes, 23, was investigated by the investigated by the Naval Criminal Investigative Services after Instagram reported to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children that one of its users had uploaded contraband to its platform.  The IP address used to upload the illegal content was linked to Reyes who was an active duty Marine stationed at U.S. Marine Corps Air Station in Cherry Point.

    NCIS agents executed a search warrant on the Instagram account which revealed Reyes was willing to trade and distribute child pornography material to other Instagram users.  Subsequently, NCIS executed a search warrant on Reyes’ person and barracks.  Multiple digital devices were seized and forensically analyzed pursuant to the search warrant.

    On those devices, law enforcement found thousands of images and videos of child pornography.  Many of them depicted sadistic and masochistic conduct.  Reyes possessed multiple images and videos depicting the rape and abuse of infants and toddlers.

    Michael F. Easley, Jr., U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina made the announcement after the sentencing was concluded.  U.S. District Judge Terrence W. Boyle presided over the sentencing.  The Naval Criminal Investigative Services investigated the case and Assistant U.S. Attorney Charity Wilson prosecuted the case.

    This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit Justice.gov/PSC.

    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. 4:24-CR-1-BO.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: NORAD Tracks Santa adds AI-powered Radar the Elf to the team

    Source: Microsoft

    Headline: NORAD Tracks Santa adds AI-powered Radar the Elf to the team

    This holiday season, the Official NORAD Tracks Santa site is back and better than ever, thanks to Radar the Elf. Radar is an AI-powered question and answer elf designed to enhance your Santa tracking experience by answering questions about Santa and NORAD in 133 supported languages.

    Look for the little Radar image at the bottom left of the NoradSanta.org site
    This image was image was generated with Bing’s free AI Image Generator – Image Creator in Bing

    One of the standout features of Radar is its ability to translate text on the fly, allowing for seamless multilingual interactions. Whether you’re asking about Santa’s current location or the history of NORAD’s Santa tracking, Radar can provide answers in your preferred language.

    Samples of Radar’s responses in multiple languages

    Radar also uses both indicated and stored language preferences, automatically translating messages based on these preferences across sessions. This means that once you’ve set your preferred language, and choose to “allow cookies”, Radar will remember it for future interactions, making your experience even more personalized. Even without cookies, Radar will use the first language chosen as the preferred language with each new session.

    Additionally, users can change their language while chatting with Radar at any time. Ask the same question in multiple languages and Radar will adjust accordingly, ensuring that you can switch languages to one of your preferences without any hassle.

    With Radar the Elf, the NORAD Santa Tracker is more accessible and user-friendly than ever before. So, get ready to track Santa in your preferred language and enjoy a magical holiday season with NORAD and Microsoft Bing Maps. We have a few sample questions for Radar to get you started…

    When will Santa be at my house?

    It seems Santa typically arrives between 9 p.m. and midnight on Christmas Eve, but only when children are asleep!

    How does Santa get all the way around the world in just one night?

    NORAD intelligence reports indicate that Santa does not experience time the way we do. It seems that Santa has this way of transcending time. We’ve estimated that he travels at the speed of starlight!

    So head over to the Official NORAD Tracks Santa site and meet Radar for yourself and try some questions like

    • Where is Santa now?
    • Does Santa ever get cold?
    • Do reindeer eat cookies?

    And be sure to return on December 24th to see where NORAD is tracking Santa on the big night!

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: ACP Statement on Disappointing Record of Decision for Western Solar PEIS

    Source: American Clean Power Association (ACP)

    Headline: ACP Statement on Disappointing Record of Decision for Western Solar PEIS

    WASHINGTON, December 20, 2024 — The American Clean Power Association (ACP) released the following statement today from Chief Policy Officer Frank Macchiarola after the U.S. Department of the Interior’s Bureau of Land Management (BLM) announced its Record of Decision on the Western Solar Programmatic Environmental Impact Statement (PEIS), which defines areas available for and excluded from solar development on public lands in 11 Western states:    
    “It’s disappointing BLM did not finalize a more balanced approach to development and conservation. The solar industry has consistently raised concerns during this process about the impact of land exclusions and project design features that are not even remotely addressed by this decision. Solar resources are part of the equation in addressing challenges to the sustainability of our public lands, while also helping provide Americans with affordable and reliable power.” 
    “This final decision represents a missed opportunity to deliver benefits to the U.S. economy and our energy security and reliability by helping pending and future projects get approved on an appropriate timeline. Reducing unnecessary regulatory hurdles that hamper development of clean energy resources on public lands is critical. ACP remains committed to working with all stakeholders to mitigate such barriers.”  

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Response to the announcement from the Deputy Prime Minister that regional Mayors will be handed powers to crackdown on e-bikes and e-scooters being dumped on pavements

    Source: Mayor of London

    In response to the announcement from Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner, that regional Mayors will be handed new powers to crackdown on e-bikes and e-scooters being dumped on pavements, Labour’s London Assembly Transport Spokesperson, Elly Baker AM, said:

    “Dockless e-bikes have grown in popularity across London, with around 40,000 now in operation across 22 boroughs.  However, we have seen in recent years that lack of regulation for careless parking has resulted in blocked pavements, street clutter, and other accessibility issues particularly impacting people with mobility or visual impairments and parents with young children.

    “Last month, the London Assembly backed my call for the government to grant regulatory powers to Transport for London (TfL) and London boroughs to deal with this issue. Earlier this month, TfL set out plans to tackle poorly parked e-bikes causing safety or access issues.

    “I welcome that the government has listened to my call to empower local transport authorities like TfL to regulate e-bikes and e-scooters.

    “This is an important step in making sure our city is accessible for everyone.” as further consultation and discussion on the devolution white paper gets underway, I will be reiterating my call to grant strategic transport authorities, like TfL, powers to place a cap on the number of bikes available to rent and regulate data sharing in partnership with local authorities.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Times journalists deemed ‘legitimate military targets’ – how Russia muzzles criticism at home and abroad

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Precious Chatterje-Doody, Senior Lecturer in Politics and International Studies, The Open University

    Russia’s former president and current deputy head of its security council, Dmitry Medvedev, has declared that the editors of the Times newspaper in the UK are now “legitimate military targets”.

    Medvedev, who is one of Vladimir Putin’s closest allies, was responding to the newspaper’s coverage of the recent assassination of Russia’s chemical weapons chief, Igor Kirillov, in Moscow on December 17. The paper’s leading article referred to his killing by an explosive device hidden in a scooter as a “legitimate act of defence by a threatened nation”.

    Medvedev took to Telegram to denounce the article, writing: “Those who carry out crimes against Russia … always have accomplices. They too are now legitimate military targets. This category could also include the miserable jackals from the Times who cowardly hid behind their editorial. That means the entire leadership of the publication.”

    The assassination of Kirillov, who was in charge of Russia’s chemical, biological and nuclear defence forces, came a day after he had been charged by Ukraine in absentia with war crimes over Russia’s use of chemical weapons in the ongoing war.

    Once seen as a liberal reformer when he temporarily took over Russia’s presidency between 2008 and 2012, Medvedev has since reinvented himself as a pro-war hawk who regularly makes outlandish or extreme statements on social media.

    In May 2023, following a drone attack on the Kremlin, Medvedev posted a message on Telegram saying there were “no options left other than the physical elimination of [the Ukrainian president] Zelenskyy and his clique”. The post prompted Ukraine’s foreign minister, Dmytro Kuleba, to respond in an interview that “Medvedev should drink less vodka before going on Telegram”.

    In his most recent outburst, Medvedev mirrored the rhetoric used in the Times editorial, claiming that by the same logic, all of Kyiv’s “accomplices” – whether decision-makers in Nato or journalists justifying Ukraine’s actions – are active participants in a war against Russia. This makes them “legitimate military targets” who need to “be careful” even in London, where “anything goes”.

    Part of a pattern

    Medvedev’s comments, while extreme, fall within a broader pattern of Russian officials using humour or courting controversy to justify their positions or ensure international press coverage. But they are also part of an escalation in Russian attacks on freedom of expression and the press.

    Prior to the full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Russia’s media environment was restricted. Opposition viewpoints could, however, still be accessed relatively easily from a range of sources, including the regional press, online outlets and the political blogosphere. But the Kremlin has gradually chipped away at these possibilities by increasing restrictions on independent media and social media users alike.

    These restrictions were ramped up even further following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Criticism of the armed forces and spreading what the Kremlin deems “false information” about the so-called “special military operation” were criminalised.

    Anti-war activists now routinely face conviction for justifying terrorism, and well-respected news outlets such as Ekho Moskvy have been forced to close. Journalists from Russia and abroad have been tried, convicted and incarcerated for allegedly violating these laws. They are often held in harsh conditions, in isolation and without access to adequate medical care.

    But it is not just journalists and activists within Russia who have come under threat from this increasingly authoritarian regime. As well as its military incursions into Georgia in 2008 and eastern Ukraine since 2014, Russian intelligence organisations have been blamed for a number of targeted provocations abroad in recent years. In the case of the 2018 Salisbury poisonings, these resulted in fatalities on British soil.

    Russian involvement is, of course, always denied. Kremlin propaganda uses a range of disinformation tactics to hide Russia’s culpability. With the Salisbury poisonings, this included an outlandish television interview on Russia’s RT network, where the main suspects claimed to be visiting health supplements salesmen. My research at the time showed that online audiences universally rejected their story, but incredulity over the interview overtook public anger.

    Contrasting values

    As my research has shown, extreme statements and conspiracy theories circulate rapidly and widely in today’s international media environment. With this in mind, it is common for the Kremlin and its proxies to mirror accusations back towards other parties and accuse them of hypocrisy.

    Taking questions from a US journalist in his end-of-year press conference and phone-in on December 19, Putin was asked about the “failure” of the special military operation in Ukraine. The reporter went on to describe Putin’s position as “weaker” than that of the incoming US president, Donald Trump.

    Putin insinuated that the very fact this US journalist was included in the event showed a better treatment by Russia of “esteemed” international journalists than Russian journalists receive from the US.

    This is patently untrue. Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich was imprisoned in Russia for 16 months on trumped-up espionage charges, after being detained in March 2023 while covering the effect of western sanctions on the Russian economy.

    Russia’s crackdown on freedom of speech and freedom of the press is precisely because authoritarian regimes recognise they are incredibly vulnerable to the free and open-ended enquiry that my co-authors and I have argued is so crucial to defend.

    As a spokesperson for the UK prime minister, Keir Starmer, noted in response to Medvedev’s latest comments: “A free press is a cornerstone of our democracy.”

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

    – ref. Times journalists deemed ‘legitimate military targets’ – how Russia muzzles criticism at home and abroad – https://theconversation.com/times-journalists-deemed-legitimate-military-targets-how-russia-muzzles-criticism-at-home-and-abroad-246361

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Whales can live way longer than scientists had thought, with potential lifespans as much as double previous estimates

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Greg Breed, Associate Professor of Quantitative Ecology, University of Alaska Fairbanks

    Animals with long lifespans tend to reproduce extremely slowly. Els Vermeulen

    Southern right whales have lifespans that reach well past 100 years, and 10% may live past 130 years, according to our new research published in the journal Science Advances. Some of these whales may live to 150. This lifespan is almost double the 70-80 years they are conventionally believed to live.

    North Atlantic right whales were also thought to have a maximum lifespan of about 70 years. We found, however, that this critically endangered species’ current average lifespan is only 22 years, and they rarely live past 50.

    These two species are very closely related – only 25 years ago they were considered to be one species – so we’d expect them to have similarly long lifespans. We attribute the stark difference in longevity in North Atlantic right whales to human-caused mortality, mostly from entanglements in fishing gear and ship strikes.

    Survivorship curves show female right whales can live to very old ages, but humans are causing North Atlantic right whales to die well short of their potential. Plotted for comparison is the U.S. survivorship curve for women as estimated by the Social Security Adminstration.
    Greg Breed

    We made these new age estimates using photo identification of individual female whales over several decades. Individual whales can be recognized year after year from photographs. When they die, they stop being photographically “resighted” and disappear. Using these photos, we developed what scientists call “survivorship curves” by estimating the probability whales would disappear from the photographic record as they aged. From these survivorship curves, we could estimate maximum potential lifespans.

    Twenty-five years ago, scientists working with Indigenous whale hunters in the Arctic showed that bowhead whales could live up to and even over 200 years. Their evidence included finding stone harpoon points that hadn’t been used since the mid-1800s embedded in the blubber of whales recently killed by traditional whalers. Analysis of proteins from the eyes of hunted whales provided further evidence of their long lifespan. Like right whales, before that analysis, researchers thought bowhead whales lived to about 80 years, and that humans were the mammals that lived the longest.

    In the years following that report, scientists tried to figure out what was unique about bowhead whales that allowed them to live so long. But our new analysis of the longevity of two close relatives of bowheads shows that other whale species also have potentially extremely long lives.

    Why it matters

    Understanding how long wild animals live has major implications for how to best protect them. Animals that have very long lifespans usually reproduce extremely slowly and can go many years between births. Baleen whales’ life history – particularly the age when females start breeding and the interval between calves – is strongly influenced by their potential lifespan. Conservation and management strategies that do not plan accordingly will have a higher chance of failure. This is especially important given the expected impacts of climate disruption.

    What still isn’t known

    There are many other large whales, including blue, fin, sei, humpback, gray and sperm whales. Like bowhead and right whales, these were also almost wiped out by whaling. Scientists currently assume they live about 80 or 90 years, but that’s what we believed about bowhead and right whales until data proved they can live much longer.

    How long can these other whale species live? Industrial whaling, which ended only in the 1960s, removed old whales from the world’s whale populations. Though many whale populations are recovering in number, there hasn’t been enough time for whales born after the end of industrial whaling to become old.

    It’s possible, even likely, that many other whale species will also prove to have long lifespans.

    Sixty years after the end of industrial whaling, today’s whale populations may still be missing their elders.
    Maxi Jonas/picture alliance via Getty Images

    What other research is being done

    Other research finds the loss of older individuals from populations is a phenomenon occurring across most large animal species. It diminishes the reproductive potential of many species. Researchers also argue this represents a real loss of culture and wisdom in animals that degrades their potential for survival in the face of changing conditions.

    What’s next

    We want to better understand how whaling affected the number of old individuals in current whale populations and predict when the number of old individuals will recover to prewhaling levels. Preliminary results suggest it may be another 100 years before whale populations truly recover, even for species whose populations now number as many as there were before whaling.

    For North Atlantic right whales, our research shows that even when the population was increasing, the management actions taken were insufficient to prevent these whales from dying far too young.

    The Research Brief is a short take on interesting academic work.

    Greg Breed received funding from The Royal Society

    Peter Corkeron headed the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s large whale research program for the northeastern US from 2011 to 2019, then led the New England Aquarium’s right whale research program through 2022.

    – ref. Whales can live way longer than scientists had thought, with potential lifespans as much as double previous estimates – https://theconversation.com/whales-can-live-way-longer-than-scientists-had-thought-with-potential-lifespans-as-much-as-double-previous-estimates-245826

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: 23rd meeting of the Intergovernmental Commission on Economic Cooperation between the Russian Federation and the Republic of Armenia

    Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    The meeting was held under the joint chairmanship of Deputy Prime Minister of the Russian Federation Alexey Overchuk and Deputy Prime Minister of the Republic of Armenia Mher Grigoryan.

    23rd meeting of the Intergovernmental Commission on Economic Cooperation between the Russian Federation and the Republic of Armenia

    December 20, 2024

    23rd meeting of the Intergovernmental Commission on Economic Cooperation between the Russian Federation and the Republic of Armenia. Alexey Overchuk and Deputy Prime Minister of the Republic of Armenia Mher Grigoryan

    December 20, 2024

    Previous news Next news

    23rd meeting of the Intergovernmental Commission on Economic Cooperation between the Russian Federation and the Republic of Armenia

    The 23rd regular meeting of the Intergovernmental Commission on Economic Cooperation between the Russian Federation and the Republic of Armenia was held in Moscow under the joint chairmanship of Deputy Prime Minister of the Russian Federation Alexey Overchuk and Deputy Prime Minister of the Republic of Armenia Mher Grigoryan.

    The parties summed up the results of bilateral cooperation in trade and economic spheres, energy, industry, transport, agriculture, finance, healthcare, culture, science, interregional cooperation, education and tourism.

    “Our trade and economic relations continue to be on the rise. Mutual trade between Russia and Armenia, according to data for 10 months of 2024, amounted to 10.2 billion dollars. This is more than twice as much as the same indicator last year,” noted Alexey Overchuk, emphasizing that in order to implement trade and economic relations, the countries have almost completely switched to settlements in national currencies – the share of the Russian ruble in mutual settlements has reached 96.3%.

    The Russian Federation is one of the main investors in the Armenian economy. Investments in industrial projects in the Republic of Armenia have reached $3.4 billion. More than 40 large Russian companies operate in Armenia, some of them are the largest taxpayers in the state budget.

    “In addition to direct investments, Eurasian development institutions are also actively working,” said the Deputy Prime Minister. “Active work is underway here, including in support of the “Crossroads of the World” initiative, which was put forward by the Prime Minister of the Republic of Armenia Nikol Vovaevich Pashinyan.”

    The Chairman of the Russian part of the commission also noted that in July 2024, with the assistance of Russian Railways, the railway between Armenia and Georgia, damaged by flooding, was restored in the shortest possible time – the only railway connecting Armenia with the outside world, which is an important channel for delivering vital goods to Armenia.

    “All these investments and projects are being implemented with the aim of strengthening connectivity in the Eurasian region and the South Caucasus, in particular, integrating Armenia into the new value chains emerging in Eurasia and realizing the transport and logistics potential that the Republic of Armenia has, with unwavering respect for its sovereignty and jurisdiction,” Alexey Overchuk said in his speech.

    In the context of the work of Eurasian development institutions, the Deputy Prime Minister also noted the implementation of the irrigation systems modernization project: mechanical irrigation has been replaced by gravity irrigation, which provides annual energy savings. 5 main and 22 inter-farm canals have been restored. Work on the restoration and construction of intra-farm irrigation systems in 105 settlements of the Republic of Armenia has been completed.

    “Two weeks ago, our specialists agreed to assess the technical condition of eight bridges damaged by the floods in Lori and Tavush. All work will be completed as soon as possible, and we expect that by the end of the year, their results will be submitted to the Ministry of Territorial Administration and Infrastructure of the Republic of Armenia,” the Deputy Prime Minister said.

    During the meeting, the active development of cooperation in the humanitarian sphere was emphasized.

    “Today we are signing an intergovernmental Agreement on the conditions of operation of the Russian-Armenian University in the Republic of Armenia. This is one of the leading universities in Armenia, where more than 5 thousand students study, mastering 123 educational programs, 80 of which are taught according to Russian educational standards,” the Deputy Prime Minister emphasized.

    The university’s research and teaching staff includes 82 doctors and 332 candidates of science. The university’s structure includes 9 institutes, 31 departments and 12 laboratories.

    The University cooperates with the Joint Institute for Nuclear Research, the Institute for System Programming of the Russian Academy of Sciences, the St. Petersburg Polytechnic University and other Russian scientific centers. Research projects are implemented in such areas as bioinformatics, genomic research, quantum nanophotonics, biochemistry and biotechnology.

    Work continues to provide opportunities to receive education according to Russian standards in the educational and sports complex, which includes a school for 700 students, built in Yerevan as part of the Gazprom for Children social program.

    The countries pay great attention to cooperation in the field of culture. Since 2023, a program to support Russian theaters abroad has been implemented, within the framework of which the Yerevan State Russian Drama Theater named after Stanislavsky was provided with financial assistance for the acquisition of stage equipment and the creation of new productions based on works of Russian classics. The Moscow Parajanov Theater, with the support of the Ministry of Culture of Russia and the Cultural Center of the Armenian Embassy in Russia, held a large-scale festival “Parajanov Fest”.

    Bilateral cooperation in the field of creative education is developing. Within the framework of the International Student Festival of VGIK, 38 films participating in the festival were screened at the Russian-Armenian University.

    In pursuance of the agreements reached at the meeting of the intergovernmental commission, the second Russian-Armenian Forum of Education in the Sphere of Culture was held in Moscow in December 2024.

    Cooperation in the healthcare sector is being strengthened, including within the framework of annual Russian-Armenian forums on healthcare. The ninth Russian-Armenian forum on healthcare, dedicated to issues of maternal and child health, was held on December 16, 2024 in Yerevan. During the forum, the system of extended perinatal screening developed and successfully applied in Russia was presented.

    Russia and Armenia are developing mutual tourism. In January-September 2024, the number of trips of Russian tourists to Armenia amounted to 715.8 thousand, and Armenian tourists to Russia – 266 thousand.

    Speaking about cooperation in multilateral formats, primarily through the Eurasian Economic Union, the Deputy Prime Minister noted that the union has become a real guarantor of Armenia’s energy and food security, as well as its technological development.

    “The Union countries are the key sales market and the key supplier to the Armenian market. The EAEU accounts for 56% of Armenia’s food exports, 80% of machinery and equipment exports, 67% of chemical exports, and 56% of textile exports. The EAEU also provides 72% of energy imports, 49% of precious metal imports, 38% of food imports, and 34% of timber imports. During its membership in the Union, the export of industrial goods from Armenia has grown 15-fold, and food exports from Armenia have grown 4-fold. Since joining the EAEU in 2015, Armenia’s per capita GDP has grown almost 2.4-fold. This was made possible by the benefits of a common goods market, low prices for agricultural raw materials and energy, a convenient migration regime, and a common services market,” said Alexey Overchuk.

    Following the meeting, the protocol of the 23rd meeting of the Intergovernmental Commission on Economic Cooperation between the Russian Federation and the Republic of Armenia was signed.

    The parties also signed an Agreement between the Government of the Russian Federation and the Government of the Republic of Armenia on the conditions for the operation of the Russian-Armenian University in the Republic of Armenia, a State Purchase Agreement for a polyvalent, cultured, sorbed, inactivated foot-and-mouth disease vaccine, an Agreement between the Government of the Russian Federation and the Government of the Republic of Armenia on the conditions for the operation of the Educational and Sports Complex of Gazprom Armenia CJSC in Yerevan, and a work plan for the Russian-Armenian Business Council for 2025.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Palestinian Rights Committee Bureau Welcomes Historic Resolution Requesting Advisory Opinion from International Court of Justice, Rejects Actions that Obstruct Aid

    Source: United Nations General Assembly and Security Council

    The following statement was issued today by the Bureau of the General Assembly’s Committee on the Exercise of the Inalienable Rights of the Palestinian People:

    The Bureau of the UN Palestinian Rights Committee warmly welcomes the General Assembly’s adoption of a timely and important resolution to urgently request an Advisory Opinion of the International Court of Justice on the obligations of Israel in relation to the presence and activities of the United Nations, other international organizations and third States.  The path to peace begins with justice — no more, no less.  This groundbreaking initiative spearheaded by Norway stands as a testament to the international community’s unwavering commitment to uphold human rights, international humanitarian law, and the urgent pursuit of justice for the Palestinian people.

    By an overwhelming majority vote of 137 in favour to 12 against, with 22 abstaining, the UN Member States requested the World Court to act urgently, giving the matter top priority.  This step follows closely the adoption of resolution ES-10/25, which deplored the measures taken by Israel, the occupying Power, that impede assistance to the Palestinian people, including the illegitimate legislation adopted by the Knesset against the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) and reaffirmed full support for the mandate of the Agency and demanded an end to the obstruction of UNRWA’s vital operations and full respect for Israel’s international legal obligations.

    Israel’s relentless and brutal war on the Gaza Strip has resulted in over 45,000 Palestinians killed, the majority children and women, more than 107,000 injured, over 70,000 homes destroyed or damaged, in addition to other vital civilian infrastructure, and approximately 1.9 million forcibly displaced and suffering a humanitarian catastrophe, including starvation, cold and the spread of diseases.  Now is the time for decisive action — no more impunity, no more obstruction, no more weaponization of vital humanitarian aid. 

    Israel must implement, without delay, all of its legal obligations under international law, including the binding provisional measures as set out by the International Court of Justice in the case brought by South Africa under the Genocide Convention to prevent further harm to the Palestinian civilian population.

    The Committee Bureau reiterates its longstanding call for an immediate ceasefire, unobstructed and immediate provision of humanitarian aid, and a just and peaceful resolution to the question of Palestine that ends the Israeli unlawful occupation, enables the Palestinian people to achieve their inalienable rights, including self-determination and achieve the two-State solution on the pre-1967 borders with East Jerusalem as the capital of the State of Palestine in accordance with international law and the relevant UN resolutions.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Security and economic woes plague West Africa, as key elections loom

    Source: United Nations 4

    By Vibhu Mishra

    Peace and Security

    West Africa and the Sahel continue to grapple with a confluence of political, security and humanitarian crises as countries prepares for pivotal elections in 2025, the UN special envoy for the vast region told ambassadors in the Security Council on Friday.

    Leonardo Santos Simão, highlighted upcoming presidential elections in Côte d’Ivoire and Guinea-Bissau, and the adoption of constitutional reforms amid a strained political environment in Gambia.

    He also commended recent successful elections in Ghana and Senegal, noting the signing of a “Peace Pact” by all presidential candidates in Ghana and the smooth transfer of power following orderly concessions by political rivals.  

    In Senegal, electoral observer missions highlighted the transparency of the process and the trust placed by political parties in national institutions, he added.

    “These two elections demonstrate progress in democracy in the region,” Mr. Simão said.

    Challenges remain

    However, several countries in the region – including Ghana and Senegal – continue to face significant economic challenges.

    “They will require support to manage rising debt and implement projects that protect livelihoods, otherwise their democratic gains may fail to satisfy the expectations of the populations, in particular among women and the youth,” Mr. Simão warned.

    He also urged efforts to prioritise preventive diplomacy and dialogue in the region, while emphasising he remains focused on fostering mutual understanding and encouraging common ground with all stakeholders.

    “While the positive outcomes of these engagements are gradual, there are promising signs of increased collaboration on people-centred, pragmatic solutions to the region’s security, governance, humanitarian and socio-economic challenges,” he added.

    Escalating security threats

    Insecurity remains the most urgent concern, with terrorist groups becoming increasingly aggressive and utilising sophisticated weaponry, including drones. Recent attacks in the Central Sahel have claimed many lives, affecting civilians and security personnel alike.

    Beyond the Sahel, violent extremism and organized crime have begun to spill into Gulf of Guinea nations, such as Benin and Togo, threatening more regional destabilisation.  

    The cessation of operations by the G5-Sahel Joint Force and the restructuring of the Accra Initiative, highlight the urgent need to reinvigorate regional security mechanisms, Mr. Simão said.

    He called for increased support for the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF), the only functioning security platform in the Lake Chad Basin, which is struggling to counter increasingly well-equipped terrorist groups.

    Humanitarian crisis deepens

    The humanitarian situation in the region also remains challenging.

    Chad, hosting two million refugees and internally displaced persons (IDPs) – including those fleeing the violence in Sudan – is grappling with the dual challenges of displacement and severe flooding.

    In Burkina Faso, Mali, Niger and Nigeria, escalating violence has displaced millions, while underfunded humanitarian appeals leave many vulnerable.

    “I urge partners to contribute to the humanitarian appeal, which remains less than 50 percent funded,” Mr. Simão said.

    Withdrawal from ECOWAS

    He also briefed Council members of the Summit of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) last week, where leaders took note of the decision by Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger to withdraw from the bloc.  

    While formal withdrawal proceedings are expected to commence in late January 2025, ECOWAS leaders also extended a six-month window for dialogue, in case rapprochement is possible.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Revisiting the Relationship Between Debt and Long-Term Interest Rates: Working Paper 2024-05

    Source: US Congressional Budget Office

    By Andre R. Neveu (FDIC) and Jeffrey Schafer.

    In forming its long-run projections of the interest rate on 10-year Treasury notes, the Congressional Budget Office estimates that a 1 percentage-point increase in the projected ratio of debt to gross domestic product raises average long-run interest rates by 2 basis points (bps). The agency refers to that estimated relationship as the debt sensitivity of interest rates (DSIR). Here we extend the sample used in a previous CBO working paper to empirically estimate the DSIR and explore the relationship’s stability over time. Extending the sample through 2023 yields an estimate of the coefficient on debt in our regression equation of 2.0 bps, and analysis using recursive regressions shows that the coefficient estimate has been stable over recent history. Estimating the regression equation over the subsample between two possible breaks in the relationship—a subsample during which the monetary policy regimen resembled the one CBO projects in the long run—yields a nearly identical value.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: International Brotherhood of Boilermakers Statement About Plea of Former International Secretary-Treasurer Kathy Stapp

    Source: US International Brotherhood of Boilermakers

    On December 19, 2024, the former International Secretary-Treasurer of the International Brotherhood of Boilermakers, Kathy Stapp, pled guilty to conspiracy to assist the racketeering activity of former officers and employees. Ms. Stapp was not charged with the receipt of any funds improperly. Ms. Stapp resigned from the IBB on August 25, 2024, after she was indicted on multiple charges.

    Under new leadership, the IBB is committed to ensure that these abuses never happen again. The IBB has implemented new procedures and safeguards to ensure that the misuse of IBB funds cannot happen again. “Our leadership is committed to repairing the damage from the past while positioning the union for the future,” International President Timothy Simmons said. “We will never allow the misdeeds of our former leaders to tarnish the hard work and dedication of our members.”                   

    Dated: December 20, 2024

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Federal Jury Convicts Wagoner County Resident of Eight Counts of Child Sexual Abuse

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

    MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced today that Richard Leroy Osborn III, age 47, of Wagoner County, Oklahoma, was found guilty by a federal jury of eight counts of child sexual abuse, including five counts of Aggravated Sexual Abuse and three counts of Abusive Sexual Contact.  Two of the counts of conviction carry a mandatory sentence of life in prison.

    The jury trial began with testimony on December 9, 2024, and concluded on December 11, 2024, with the guilty verdicts.

    During the trial, the United States presented evidence that Osborn sexually assaulted three children starting in 2011 and continuing until May of 2022, when one of the children first disclosed the sexual abuse.  Additionally, the United States presented evidence that Osborn, already a registered sex offender at the time of the crimes, had previously sexually abused three other victims when they were minors.

    The guilty verdicts were the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

    The crimes occurred in Wagoner County, within the boundaries of the Cherokee and the Muscogee (Creek) Nation Reservations, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma.

    The Honorable Kea W. Riggs, U.S. District Judge in the United States District Court of New Mexico, sitting by assignment, presided over the trial in Muskogee, Oklahoma, and ordered the completion of a presentence report.  Sentencing will be scheduled following completion of the report.  Osborn will remain in the custody of the United States Marshals Service until sentencing.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Morgan Muzljakovich and Nicole Paladino represented the United States.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Wagoner Resident Pleads Guilty to Child Neglect

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

    MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Salasha Fae Bosley, age 25, of Wagoner, Oklahoma, entered a guilty plea to two counts of Child Neglect in Indian Country.

    The Indictment alleged that between September 2023 and June 16, 2024, Bosley failed to provide two children with adequate nurturance, affection, food, shelter, sanitation, hygiene, medical care, supervision, and sanitary living conditions while responsible for the health, safety, and welfare of the children.

    The crimes occurred in Wagoner County, within the boundaries of the Cherokee Nation Reservation, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma.

    The charges arose from an investigation by the Wagoner County Sheriff’s Office and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

    The Honorable D. Edward Snow, U.S. Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jessica Bove and Caila M. Cleary represented the United States.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Moore Resident Pleads Guilty to Federal Drug and Firearm Charges

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

    MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Charles Daniel Tow, age 34, of Moore, Oklahoma, entered a guilty plea to one count of Possession with Intent to Distribute Fentanyl and one count of Felon in Possession of Firearm and Ammunition.

    The Indictment alleged that on June 6, 2024, Tow knowingly and intentionally possessed 40 or more grams of a mixture and substance containing fentanyl, a Schedule II controlled substance, for the purpose of distribution.  The Indictment also alleged that on that same date, Tow knowingly possessed a .380ACP caliber semi-automatic pistol and eight rounds of .380ACP caliber ammunition after having been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year, despite knowing of that conviction.

    The charges arose from an investigation by the District 27 Drug Task Force and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

    The Honorable Jason A. Robertson, U.S. Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report. Tow will remain in the custody of the U. S. Marshals Service pending sentencing.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Richard Lorenz represented the United States.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Prime Minister welcomes the appointment of the Honourable James O’Reilly as Senate Ethics Officer

    Source: Government of Canada – Prime Minister

    The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today welcomed the appointment of the Honourable James O’Reilly as the new Senate Ethics Officer. This appointment, which was recently approved by the Senate, is effective January 10, 2025.

    A widely respected member of Canada’s legal community, Mr. O’Reilly was appointed a judge of the Federal Court in 2002 and of the Court Martial Appeal Court in 2003. Prior to his appointment to the Bench, he had a varied legal career that included roles at the Law Commission of Canada, the Department of Justice Canada, and the Supreme Court of Canada. He is also a published author and has taught law at various universities across the country.

    As Senate Ethics Officer, Mr. O’Reilly will be responsible for administering, interpreting, and applying the Ethics and Conflict of Interest Code for Senators, providing advice on the Code to members of the Senate.

    The Prime Minister congratulated the outgoing Senate Ethics Officer, Pierre Legault, on his upcoming retirement and thanked him for his dedication and service.

    Quote

    “I congratulate the Honourable James O’Reilly on his appointment as the next Senate Ethics Officer. His impressive legal career will make him an invaluable advisor to members of the Red Chamber.”

    Quick Facts

    • The Senate Ethics Officer is an independent Officer of the Senate, appointed under the Parliament of Canada Act for a term of seven years.
    • Mr. O’Reilly was chosen as the nominee for this position on the advice of the Prime Minister, following the government’s open, transparent, and merit-based appointment process. Under the Parliament of Canada Act, his nomination was then approved by the Senate.
    • The Ethics and Conflict of Interest Code for Senators outlines a set of standards and rules on ethics and conflict of interest that a senator must meet in performing their parliamentary duties and functions.

    Biographical Note

    Associated Links

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Fatal crash, Balclutha

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    A person has died following a single-vehicle crash in Balclutha overnight.

    Emergency services were called to Gormack Street, between Moir Street and Barnego Road, about 10.35pm.

    The sole occupant died at the scene. The Serious Crash Unit responded, and Gormack Street will remain closed until mid-to-late afternoon while the scene is investigated.

    Enquiries into the cause of the crash are ongoing.

    ENDS

    Issued by the Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Rantoul Man Convicted of Bank Robbery

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime News

    Urbana, Ill. – A federal jury returned a guilty verdict on December 11, 2024, against Troy Burke, 40, of Rantoul, Illinois, for bank robbery. Sentencing for Burke has been scheduled for May 2, 2025, at 2:30 p.m. at the U.S. Courthouse in Urbana, Illinois

    During the two-day trial, the government presented evidence that on June 20, 2024, Burke walked into the Community Plus Federal Credit Union in Rantoul, Illinois indicating to the teller that he had a gun. He proceeded to remove the plastic partition separating the teller from the customer and threatened to hit her with it. Burke left the bank with more than $9,000 in cash and a GPS device the teller had secured in the stack of currency. Burke was stopped by Rantoul police a few blocks from the Credit Union and was found to be in possession of more than $9,000 cash and the GPS device from the bank.

    Burke was arrested on June 20, 2024, and remains in the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending sentencing. 

    Statutory penalties for bank robbery are up to twenty years imprisonment, up to 3 years of supervised release, and a fine of up to $250,000.

    The case investigation was conducted by the Rantoul Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Springfield Field Office. Timothy Sullivan and Bryan Freres represented the government at trial. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Happy Valley-Goose Bay — Happy Valley-Goose Bay RCMP investigates theft at Woodward’s C-Store, seeks assistance identifying suspects

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Happy Valley-Goose Bay RCMP is investigating a recent theft of merchandise from Woodward’s C-Store in Happy Valley-Goose Bay. Police are seeking assistance from the public to identify two suspects.

    Shortly after 10:00 p.m. on December 18, 2024, a man wearing a hood over his head and a pair of sunglasses entered the Tenth Street store while a woman with her hood up held the door open. The man gathered some items from the store and ran out the open door with the woman following behind him. Efforts to locate the two were unsuccessful. Images of the two suspects are attached.

    The investigation is continuing.

    Anyone having information about this crime or the identity of the two suspects is asked to contact Happy Valley-Goose Bay RCMP at 709-896-3833 or, to remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers: #SayItHere 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), visit www.nlcrimestoppers.com or use the P3Tips app.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Nationwide Lawsuit Filed in Rhode Island Alleging CVS Knowingly Dispensed Controlled Substances in Violation of the Controlled Substances Act and the False Claims Act

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime News

    PROVIDENCE, RI – In a civil complaint unsealed today in federal court in Providence, Rhode Island, the Justice Department alleges that CVS Pharmacy, Inc., and various subsidiaries (collectively, CVS) filled unlawful prescriptions in violation of the Controlled Substances Act (CSA) and sought reimbursement from federal healthcare programs for some of the unlawful prescriptions in violation of the False Claims Act (FCA). CVS is the country’s largest pharmacy chain, with more than 9,000 pharmacies across the United States.

    The government’s complaint alleges that, from October 17, 2013, to the present, CVS knowingly filled prescriptions for controlled substances that lacked a legitimate medical purpose, were not valid, and/or were not issued in the usual course of professional practice. Among the large quantities of unlawful prescriptions that CVS allegedly filled were prescriptions for dangerous and excessive quantities of opioids, early fills of opioids, and “trinity” prescriptions, an especially dangerous and abused combination of drugs made up of an opioid, a benzodiazepine, and a muscle relaxant. CVS also allegedly filled large quantities of prescriptions for controlled substances written by prescribers it knew to be engaged in “pill mill practices” – that is, prescribers who issue large numbers of controlled substance prescriptions without any medical purpose. According to the complaint, CVS ignored substantial evidence from multiple sources, including its own pharmacists and internal data, indicating that its stores were dispensing unlawful prescriptions. 

    The complaint alleges that CVS’s violations resulted from corporate-mandated performance metrics, incentive compensation, and staffing policies that prioritized corporate profits over patient safety. CVS set staffing levels far too low for pharmacists to both meet their performance metrics and comply with their legal obligations. CVS also allegedly deprived its pharmacists of crucial information (including by, for example, preventing pharmacists from warning one another about certain prescribers) that could have reduced the number of unlawful prescriptions filled. The complaint alleges that CVS’s actions helped to fuel the prescription opioid crisis and that, in some particularly tragic instances, patients died after overdosing on opioids shortly after filling unlawful prescriptions at CVS.

    “Opioid deaths remain a scourge on communities across Rhode Island and the nation, robbing families of loved ones and leaving a path of devastation in their wake,” said Zachary A. Cunha, U.S. Attorney for the District of Rhode Island. “This lawsuit alleges that CVS failed to exercise its critical role as gatekeeper of dangerous prescription opioids and, instead, facilitated the illegal distribution of these highly addictive drugs, including by pill mill prescribers. When corporations such as CVS prize profits over patient safety and overburden their pharmacy staff so that they cannot carry out the basic responsibility of ensuring that prescriptions are legitimate, we will use every tool at our disposal to see that they answer for it.”

    “Our complaint alleges that CVS repeatedly filled controlled substance prescriptions that were unlawful and pressured its pharmacists to fill such prescriptions without taking the time needed to confirm their validity,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Brian M. Boynton, head of the Justice Department’s Civil Division. “The practices alleged contributed to the opioid crisis and opioid-related deaths, and today’s complaint seeks to hold CVS accountable for its misconduct.”

    The government alleges that by knowingly filling unlawful prescriptions for controlled substances, CVS violated the CSA and, where CVS sought reimbursement from federal healthcare programs, also violated the FCA. The complaint alleges that CVS’s actions helped to fuel the prescription opioid crisis. If CVS is found liable, it could face civil penalties for each unlawful prescription filled in violation of the CSA and treble damages and applicable penalties for each prescription reimbursed by federal healthcare programs in violation of the FCA. The court also may award injunctive relief to prevent CVS from committing further CSA violations, including ordering appropriate changes to corporate compliance programs and policies.

    “When lives are destroyed or lost to opioid abuse, it doesn’t matter if the supplier is a street-level dealer, a pill mill, or a nationwide corporation,” said Jessica D. Aber, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia. “Our laws regarding the distribution of opioids and other controlled substances are clear and apply to everyone. We will pursue whatever legal action is necessary to stop any enterprise, regardless of size, that places profit over the safety of our citizens.”

    “CVS is alleged to have dispensed large amounts of highly addictive opioid medications to persons they knew had no medical need for them. Simply put, they put profits over their obligation to keep their customers safe,” said DEA Administrator Anne Milgram. “A pharmacy is the final step in the pharmaceutical distribution process that is in place to keep customers safe. In the fight against the opioid epidemic, DEA will continue to be relentless in holding those accountable who violate our drug laws and place our communities in danger whether they are a criminal cartel or large pharmacy chain.”

    “Pharmacies and pharmacists are critical partners to ensure controlled substances are dispensed lawfully and safely to the public,” said Deputy Inspector General Christian J. Schrank of the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). “HHS-OIG is committed to holding individuals and entities that dispense these controlled substances improperly and without legitimate medical purpose accountable.”

    “Protecting TRICARE, the healthcare system for military members and their dependents, is a top priority for the Department of Defense Office of Inspector General Defense Criminal Investigative Service (DCIS),” stated Special Agent in Charge Patrick J. Hegarty, DCIS Northeast Field Office. “Today’s filing demonstrates DCIS’ ongoing commitment to partner with the Department of Justice and our law enforcement partners to investigate health care providers that submit false claims to TRICARE and put its beneficiaries at risk.”

    Whistleblower Hillary Estright, who previously worked for CVS, filed an action on October 17, 2019, under the qui tam provisions of the FCA. Those provisions authorize private parties to sue on behalf of the United States for false claims and share in any recovery. The Act permits the United States to intervene and take over such lawsuits, as it has done here.

    The case is captioned United States ex rel. Estright v. Health Corporation, et al., No. 1:22-cv-222 (D.R.I.).

    The United States’ intervention in this matter underscores the government’s commitment to combating health care fraud. One of the most powerful tools in this effort is the False Claims Act. Tips and complaints from all sources about potential fraud, waste, abuse, and mismanagement can be reported to HHS, at 800-HHS-TIPS (800-447-8477).

    The United States’ enforcement action is being litigated by attorneys from the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices for the District of Rhode Island (First Assistant U.S. Attorney Sara M. Bloom and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kevin Love Hubbard and Rachna Vyas), the Justice Department Civil Division’s Consumer Protection Branch (Assistant Directors Amy L. DeLine and C.B. Buente, Senior Litigation Counsel Donald Lorenzen, and Trial Attorneys Benjamin Cornfeld and Amanda K. Kelly) and Commercial Litigation Branch, Fraud Section (Trial Attorneys Claire L. Norsetter, Joshua Barron, and Megan F. Engel), as well as the Eastern District of Virginia (Assistant U.S. Attorneys Clare Wuerker and John Beerbower), the District of Hawaii (Assistant U.S. Attorneys Sydney Spector and Tracy Weinstein), and the Eastern District of Texas (Assistant U.S. Attorneys James Gillingham and Adrian Garcia).

    The DEA’s Office of Diversion Control, Washington, D.C. Field Division, HHS-OIG, and DCIS conducted the investigation. Several other offices provided substantial assistance in the investigation, including the United States Attorneys’ Offices for the Southern District of California, the Northern District of Ohio, DEA’s Office of Chief Counsel, DEA’s Office of Diversion Control, Los Angeles Field Division, the Office of Personnel Management, the Department of Labor Office of Inspector General, United States Postal Service Office of Inspector General, and the FBI.

    The claims asserted against the defendants are allegations only, and there has been no determination of liability.

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Cornwall — Tools and drugs seized in theft investigation

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    On December 18th, 2024, Stratford RCMP received a complaint from a local business of stolen power tools valued at over $1500. RCMP later arrested a 31-year-old man and seized the tools, cocaine and methamphetamine in the process.

    On December 20th, 2024, the Queens District RCMP, with the assistance of the RCMP Major Crime Unit and the RCMP Provincial General Investigation Section arrested a 31-year-old man in Cornwall for possession of property obtained by crime and trafficking property obtained by crime in connection to the stolen tools. In the process of the arrest, police seized stolen power tools, and small quantities of cocaine, and methamphetamine. The man will appear in Provincial Court on February 3rd, 2025, to answer charges concerning this ongoing investigation.

    “This investigation demonstrates that thefts in Island communities can often be directly linked to drugs and it demonstrates the importance of a coordinated law enforcement approach to help make all our communities safer” said Cpl Gavin Moore the Media Relations Officer for the PEI RCMP.

    If you have information about stolen property or drugs, call your local police detachment or call Crime Stoppers at 1800-222-(TIPS) 8477.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Russian National Assisted Sanctioned Oligarch in Schemes to Employ an American Citizen to Launch and Operate Russian Television Network

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime News

    Defendant Also Helped Oligarch Illegally Transfer a $10 Million U.S. Investment to Business Associate

    Damian Williams, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, Menno Goedman, the Co-Director of Task Force KleptoCapture, and James E. Dennehy, the Assistant Director in Charge of the New York Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (“FBI”), announced today the unsealing of a Superseding Indictment charging ALEXEY KOMOV with conspiracy and violations of U.S. sanctions arising from his assistance to sanctioned Russian oligarch KONSTANTIN MALOFEYEV, who was previously charged in April 2022.  As alleged, KOMOV conspired with MALOFEYEV to recruit and employ an American citizen, Jack Hanick, who worked for MALOFEYEV in launching and operating a television network in Russia.  KOMOV also conspired with MALOFEYEV, Hanick, and others to illegally transfer a $10 million investment that MALOFEYEV had made in a U.S. bank to a business associate in Greece, in violation of the sanctions blocking MALOFEYEV’s assets from being transferred. 

    U.S. Attorney Damian Williams said: “As alleged, Alexey Komov facilitated the efforts of Konstantin Malofeyev – an oligarch closely tied to Russian aggression in Ukraine who has been determined by OFAC to have been one of the main sources of financing for the promotion of Russia-aligned separatist groups operating in the sovereign nation of Ukraine – to flout U.S. sanctions.  The unsealing today of the Indictment against Komov is yet another reminder that this Office will continue to hold those accountable that seek to undermine the United States’ national security goals.”

    KleptoCapture Co-Director Menno Goedman said: “The indictment alleges Alexey Komov played an essential role in a multi-faceted scheme to violate and evade U.S. sanctions imposed on a significant financier of Russian aggression in Ukraine.  Task Force KleptoCapture will continue to disrupt schemes perpetrated by Komov and other sanction evaders, whenever and wherever they may hide.”

    FBI Assistant Director in Charge James E. Dennehy said: “Alexey Komov, a Russian national, allegedly conspired with an American citizen and a sanctioned Russian oligarch to develop a Russian cable network to promote anti-Western propaganda. This alleged conspiracy violated laws designed to protect the national security of the United States and our allies. The FBI remains committed to apprehending foreign nationals who employ our citizens to satisfy their odious agenda.”

    According to the Indictment unsealed today in Manhattan federal court:[1]

    In 2014, the President issued Executive Order 13660, which declared a national emergency with respect to the situation in Ukraine.  To address this national emergency, the President blocked all property and interest in property that came within the U.S. or the possession or control of any U.S. person, of individuals determined by the Secretary of the Treasury to be responsible for or complicit in, or who engaged in, actions or policies that threatened the peace, security, stability, sovereignty, or territorial integrity of Ukraine, or who materially assist, sponsor, or provide financial, material, or technological support for, or goods and services to, individuals or entities engaging in such activities.  Executive Order 13660, along with certain regulations issued pursuant to it (the “Ukraine-Related Sanctions Regulations”) prohibits, among other things, making or receiving any funds, goods, or services by, to, from, or for the benefit of any person whose property and interests in property are blocked.

    On December 19, 2014, the Department of Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (“OFAC”) designated MALOFEYEV as a Specially Designated National (“SDN”) pursuant to Executive Order 13660.  OFAC’s designation of MALOFEYEV explained that he was one of the main sources of financing for Russians promoting separatism in Crimea, and has materially assisted, sponsored, and provided financial, material, or technological support for, or goods and services to or in support of the so-called Donetsk People’s Republic, a separatist organization in the Ukrainian region of Donetsk.

    As alleged in the Indictment, beginning in at least 2012, KOMOV assisted MALOFEYEV in recruiting and hiring a U.S. citizen named Jack Hanick to work on a new Russian cable television news network (the “Russian TV Network”) that MALOFEYEV was creating.  As part of KOMOV’s recruitment of Hanick, KOMOV travelled to Manhattan to meet with Hanick and subsequently introduced Hanick to MALOFEYEV in Russia.  With KOMOV’s knowledge, MALOFEYEV negotiated directly with Hanick regarding Hanick’s salary, payment for Hanick’s housing in Moscow, and Hanick’s Russian work visa.  MALOFEYEV paid Hanick through two separate Russian entities through the end of 2018.

    After OFAC designated MALOFEYEV as a SDN in December 2014, MALOFEYEV continued to employ Hanick on the Russian TV Network, with KOMOV’s assistance and input, and in violation of the Ukraine-Related Sanctions Regulations.  For example, prior to the launch of the Russian TV Network on the air in Russia in April 2015, KOMOV wrote an e-mail to MALOFEYEV, Hanick, and another employee, referencing their prior discussion with MALOFEYEV earlier that day and instructing Hanick to create two types of programs and allocate staff. KOMOV further wrote, “Hopefully Konstantin will be providing general direction and guidance for both projects. Looking forward to our long-term co-operation on those exciting endeavors!”  In turn, Hanick requested KOMOV to serve as a moderator for the first broadcast, writing “KM [i.e. MALOFEYEV] and I agree that we need you on this the first show on [the Russian TV Network]!!!”

    With KOMOV’s participation, MALOFEYEV also employed Hanick to assist MALOFEYEV in transferring a shell company that MALOFEYEV owned to a Greek associate of MALOFEYEV (the “Greek Business Associate”).  In 2014, MALOFEYEV, assisted by KOMOV, had used the shell company to make a $10 million investment in a Texas-based bank holding company (the “Texas Bank”).  KOMOV helped set up the deal, emailing a Texas-based attorney (“Individiual-1”), “I plan to come to the US with two of my close friends Konstantin Malofeev [sic] and [another individual] on Feb 4-9, 2014 . . . I’d like the three of us to meet with you to discuss our cooperation, and also joint investment projects (please propose attractive investment opportunities with reliable partners for $50-100 mln participation from our side)”. On or about March 25, 2014, KOMOV wrote to Individual-I, “Konstantin has confirmed today that he goes ahead with the 10 mln investment in the bank project.”

    Beginning in or about March 2015, with KOMOV’s assistance, MALOFEYEV began making plans to transfer ownership of the shell company to the Greek Business Associate, in violation of the Ukraine-Related Sanctions Regulations.  On or about March 4, 2015, KOMOV wrote to Individual-1, “I need to discuss with you several things: previous investment in the bank project (we want to consider selling it)”.  On or about March 17, 2015, KOMOV wrote to Individual-I about the Texas Bank interest, in part, “We want to keep it where it is now, only the owner from our side changes.”  Consistent with that plan, in or about May 2015, MALOFEYEV’s attorney drafted a Sale and Purchase Agreement that purported to transfer the shell company to the Greek Business Associate in exchange for one U.S. dollar.  In June 2015 MALOFEYEV had Hanick physically transport a copy of MALOFEYEV’s certificate of shares in the Texas Bank from Moscow to Athens to be given to the Greek Business Associate.  MALOFEYEV signed the Sale and Purchase Agreement in June 2015, but the agreement was fraudulently backdated to July 2014 to make it appear that the transfer had taken place prior to the imposition of U.S. sanctions.  MALOFEYEV’s attorney then falsely represented to the Texas Bank that the transfer had taken place in July 2014, even though MALOFEYEV and his attorney well knew that the transfer of the shell company was executed in June 2015.

    The U.S. seized and forfeited approximately $5.4 million in the property traceable to MALOFEYEV’s Texas Bank investment, which had been converted by the Texas Bank in 2016 to cash held in a blocked U.S. bank account.  In February 2023, the U.S. Attorney General authorized a transfer of these forfeited funds to the State Department to support Ukrainian veterans.

    MALOFEYEV, of Russia, is believed to be in Russia and remains at large.

    *                *                *

    KOMOV, 53, a Russian national, is charged with conspiracy to violate and substantive violation of International Emergency Economic Powers Act, each of which carry a maximum potential sentence of 20 years in prison.

    The maximum potential sentences in this case are prescribed by Congress and provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the judge.

    Mr. Williams praised the outstanding investigative work of the FBI and thanked the support and expertise of the Department of Justice’s National Security Division and Office of International Affairs in the conduct of this matter.

    The prosecution is being handled by the Office’s Illicit Finance and Money Laundering Unit.  Assistant U.S. Attorneys Vladislav Vainberg, Thane Rehn, Jessica Greenwood, and Trial Attorney Scott Claffee of the National Security Division’s Counterintelligence and Export Section are in charge of the prosecution. 
     

    [1] The entirety of the text of the Indictment, and the description of the Indictment set forth herein, constitute only allegations, and every fact described should be treated as an allegation.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Five Men From Grand Strand and Pee Dee Region Sentenced for Fentanyl Trafficking and Related Gun Crimes

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime News

    FLORENCE, S.C. — Five men from across the Pee Dee and Grand Strand were sentenced to multi-year terms in federal prison after pleading guilty to a fentanyl trafficking conspiracy operating in and around Horry County and related firearms crimes.

    • Joshua Rodriguez, 33, of Myrtle Beach, was sentenced to 151 months in federal prison after pleading guilty to conspiracy to distribute fentanyl;
    • Derrick Adrien Hooks, Jr., 27, of Chesterfield, was sentenced to 96 months in federal prison after pleading guilty to conspiracy to distribute fentanyl;
    • Christopher Brown, 32, of Pawleys Island, was sentenced to 84 months in federal prison after pleading guilty to conspiracy to distribute fentanyl;
    • Jonathan Thien Ta, 32, of Myrtle Beach, was sentenced to 50 months in federal prison after pleading guilty to being a felon in possession of firearm and ammunition; Ta’s federal sentence will run consecutive to a state sentence he is serving on separate firearms-related conduct; and
    • Neil Alexander Torres, 32, of Myrtle Beach, was sentenced to 18 months in federal prison after pleading guilty to being a felon in possession of firearm and ammunition.

    Rodriguez and Brown’s terms of imprisonment will be followed by a five-year term of court-ordered supervision. Hook’s term of imprisonment will be followed by a four-year term of court-ordered supervision. Ta and Torres’s terms of imprisonment will be followed by three-year terms of court-ordered supervision.  There is no parole in the federal system.

    As to Ta and Torres, evidence presented to the court showed that on Nov. 26, 2020, officers with Myrtle Beach Police Department arrived at a restaurant in Myrtle Beach with a warrant to arrest Ta. Officers tried to take Ta into custody, but Ta disobeyed law enforcement commands, reaching into his waistband and pulling out a loaded 9mm handgun, which he passed to Torres before Ta attempted to flee on foot. At the time of the incident, both Ta and Torres were convicted felons who could not legally possess either the firearm or the ammunition with which it was loaded.

    Additional evidence presented to the court showed that from 2018 to 2023, Rodriguez, Hooks, and Brown were involved in trafficking pressed pills containing fentanyl in and around Horry County. Fentanyl is potentially lethal in very small doses.

    Rodriguez, who was a high-level distributor, was accountable for distributing some 14 kilograms of fentanyl over the course of the conspiracy. He frequently possessed firearms in connection with his drug trafficking and threatened to use violence against others.

    On July 1, 2021, law enforcement in Horry County attempted to conduct a traffic stop on a car driven and solely occupied by Hooks. Hooks fled from officers and threw pills and suspected marijuana out of the car during the ensuing chase. Law enforcement then obtained a search warrant for the home in Little River Hooks had come from just prior to the traffic stop. In Hooks’ room at the house, law enforcement found approximately 3.5 kilogram of pills, multiple kilograms of suspected marijuana, a 5.56 caliber firearm, assorted magazines, and ammunition and more than $10,000 in cash. Further investigation revealed that over the course of his involvement in the conspiracy, Hooks was accountable for trafficking 1.6 kilograms of fentanyl.

    Investigation showed Brown was involved as a lower-level distributor within the conspiracy. In approximately five years, Brown was accountable for trafficking 2.7 kilograms of fentanyl. Like Hooks, Brown had a history of fleeing from law enforcement. In 2023, Georgetown County Sheriff’s Office attempted to stop a vehicle driven by Brown in Pawleys Island. Brown fled, reaching speeds of 91 miles per hour while trying to evade law enforcement.

    United States District Judge Joseph Dawson, III, sentenced all five men.

    This prosecution is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.

    This case was investigated by the FBI Columbia Field Office, Myrtle Beach Police Department, Horry County Police Department, Horry County Sheriff’s Office, and the 15th Circuit Drug Enforcement Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorney Katherine Flynn is prosecuting the case.

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Two-Time Convicted Felon Sentenced to Over 11 Years in Prison for Drug and Firearm Charges

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    BOSTON – A Lynn man was sentenced today in federal court in Boston for drug and firearm charges.

    Jose Perez, 27, was sentenced by Chief U.S. District Court Judge F. Dennis Saylor to 142 months in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release. In August 2024, Perez was convicted after a five day jury trial of one count of conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances and one count of felon in possession of a firearm. In January 2023, Perez was arrested and charged along with co-defendant Henry Del Rio.

    In December 2022, police officers attempted to stop a vehicle speeding through Lexington, Mass. that Perez was driving. Instead of pulling over, Perez accelerated and engaged in a high-speed escape attempt, traveling more than 85 miles per hour on residential streets, crashing head-first into another vehicle, and ultimately losing control and colliding into a post. As Perez exited the vehicle, a loaded Glock 34X 9mm semi-automatic handgun dropped to the ground. Perez and Del Rio, his passenger, then fled and led officers on a foot chase through a Stop and Shop parking lot. After officers apprehended Perez and Del Rio, Perez was found with over $2,000 cash in his pockets.  Officers also recovered a bag of cocaine and a bag containing 44 smaller, individually wrapped bags of fentanyl in Del Rio’s flight path, as well as a bag of cocaine in the vehicle Perez had crashed.

    At the time, Perez was on supervised release in connection with two prior federal convictions: one in 2017 for engaging in the business of dealing firearms without a license, and one in 2020 for conspiracy to distribute controlled substances and felon in possession of a firearm.  Given Perez’s status as a felon, he is barred from possessing a firearm.

    In May 2024, Del Rio pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute controlled sentences and is scheduled to be sentenced in January 2025.

    United States Attorney Joshua S. Levy and James M. Ferguson, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Boston Field Division made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the Lexington, Chelsea and MBTA Police Departments and Customs and Border Protection. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Mike Crowley and Sarah Hoefle of the Organized Crime and Gang Unit prosecuted the case.

    MIL Security OSI –