NewzIntel.com

Category: KB

  • MIL-OSI Security: Massachusetts Man Charged in Rhode Island on Federal Interstate Travel & Attempted Enticement Charges

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    PROVIDENCE, RI – A Wilmington, Massachusetts, man was arrested yesterday and charged by complaint in Rhode Island federal court, after allegedly travelling to Rhode Island to meet and have sexual contact with a person he believed to be a fourteen-year-old girl, announced United States Attorney Zachary A. Cunha.

    Robert Consorti, 63, was arrested on Thursday by members of the Rhode Island State Police Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force and Homeland Security Investigations after arriving in Warwick at a location where he believed he would be meeting with the girl.

    As reflected in court documents, for more than a week prior to his arrest, Consorti allegedly communicated online and by text message with a person who he thought to be a young teenage girl, but who was, in reality, an East Providence Police Department Detective assigned to the ICAC Task Force.

    It is alleged that, at Consorti’s direction, the communications rapidly turned sexual in nature, and that Consorti proposed that the two meet for sexual encounters.  On Thursday, when Consorti arrived at a Warwick location where he was allegedly expecting to meet the 14-year-old, he was instead met by members of the ICAC Task Force and arrested.  At the time of his arrest, law enforcement officers seized a backpack that allegedly contained condoms, lubricant, massage oils, and a vibrator from Consorti’s vehicle.

    Consorti appeared on Thursday before a U.S. Magistrate, charged by way of a federal criminal complaint with attempted enticement of a minor to engage in illicit sexual activity and interstate travel with intent to engage in illicit sexual activity.

    A federal criminal complaint is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

    This case is being 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 the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.

    The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney John P. McAdams.

    The matter was investigated by the Rhode Island State Police ICAC Task Force and Homeland Security Investigations.

    The ICAC Task Force is comprised of members of the Rhode Island State Police Computer Crimes Unit along with detectives from the Warwick Police Department, Cranston Police Department, East Providence Police Department, Pawtucket Police Department, Portsmouth Police Department, Bristol Police Department, Middletown Police Department, and Special Agents from Homeland Security Investigations.

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    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Boussard & Gavaudan Holding Ltd (EUR): Particulars of Cash Exit

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

       Boussard & Gavaudan Holding Limited (the “Company”)

    a closed-ended investment company incorporated with limited liability
    under the laws of Guernsey
    with registration number 45582

    Legal Entity Identifier: 5493002XNM3W9D6DF327
            
                            

    Particulars of Cash Exit

    In accordance with the circular to Shareholders dated 25 June 2024 (the “Circular“) and the Articles, the Company announces the particulars of the compulsory redemption of Shares to be effected pursuant to the Cash Exit on 1 November 2024.

    Unless otherwise defined, capitalised terms used in this announcement shall have the same meaning as set out in the Circular. Shareholders should refer to the Circular for full details of the Cash Exit, including the timetable for the redemption and distribution of redemption proceeds.

    The redemption price payable to each Shareholder pursuant to the Cash Exit will be an amount equal to the net asset value (NAV) per Share of the relevant class of Shares as at the close of business of the Calculation Date, being 31 October 2024. The redemption monies will be payable in the currency of each relevant class of Shares and will be paid to Shareholders within 14 Business Days of the Cash Redemption Date (being 1 November 2024), or as soon as practicable thereafter.

    On each Business Day, the Company announces on its website the estimated net asset value of its Euro Shares and Sterling Shares as at the close of business of the preceding Business Day. This information is available here: https://www.bgholdingltd.com/p/14/financial-announcements.

    In the event that the net asset values per Share calculated as at the close of business of 31 October 2024 were equal to their most recent estimates, the resulting redemption price per Share payable to holders of Euro Shares (ISIN: GG00B1FQG453) and holders of Sterling Shares (ISIN: GG00B39VMM07) under the Cash Exit would be €28.4353 and £25.5630, respectively.

    These figures are hypothetical, non-indicative of the actual redemption price and non-binding. They are provided for illustration purposes only and no reliance should be placed on them. The actual redemption price will be equal to the net asset value as at 31 October 2024, which may differ from the most recent estimated net asset values per Share provided above.

    For further information please contact:
    Boussard & Gavaudan Investment Management LLP
    Emmanuel Gavaudan
    +44 20 3751 5389

    JTC Fund Solutions (Guernsey) Limited
    Secretary
    +44 (0) 1481 702400

    18 October 2024

    Website: http://www.bgholdingltd.com

    The Company is established as a closed-ended investment company domiciled in Guernsey. The Company has been authorised by the Guernsey Financial Services Commission as an authorised closed-ended investment scheme. The Company is registered with the Dutch Authority for the Financial Markets as a collective investment scheme pursuant to article 2:73 in conjunction with 2:66 of the Dutch Financial Supervision Act (Wet op het financieel toezicht). The shares of the Company (the “Shares”) are listed on Euronext Amsterdam. The Shares are also listed on the Official List of the UK Listing Authority and admitted to trading on the London Stock Exchange plc’s main market for listed securities.

    This is not an offer to sell or a solicitation of any offer to buy any securities in the United States or in any other jurisdiction. This announcement is not intended to and does not constitute, or form part of, any offer or invitation to purchase any securities or the solicitation of any vote or approval in any jurisdiction, nor shall there be any sale, issuance or transfer of the securities referred to in this announcement in any jurisdiction in contravention of applicable law.

    Neither the Company nor BG Master Fund ICAV have been, and neither will be, registered under the US Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “Investment Company Act”). In addition the securities referenced in this announcement have not been and will not be registered under the US Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”). Consequently any such securities may not be offered, sold or otherwise transferred within the United States or to, or for the account or benefit of, US persons except in accordance with the Securities Act or an exemption therefrom and under circumstances which will not require the issuer of such securities to register under the Investment Company Act. No public offering of any securities will be made in the United States.
    You should always bear in mind that:

    • all investment is subject to risk;
    • results in the past are no guarantee of future results;
    • the investment performance of BGHL may go down as well as up. You may not get back all of your original investment; and
    • if you are in any doubt about the contents of this communication or if you consider making an investment decision, you are advised to seek expert financial advice.

    This communication is for information purposes only and the information contained in this communication should not be relied upon as a substitute for financial or other professional advice.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Financial news: 10/18/2024, 12:34 (Moscow time) the values of the upper limit of the price corridor and the range of market risk assessment for the RU000A1031U3 (VEB1P-26) security were changed.

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Moscow Exchange – Moscow Exchange –

    10/18/2024

    12:34

    In accordance with the Methodology for determining the risk parameters of the stock market and deposit market of Moscow Exchange PJSC by NCO NCC (JSC), on 18.10.2024, 12-34 (Moscow time), the values of the upper limit of the price corridor (up to 86.98) and the range of market risk assessment (up to 956.79 rubles, equivalent to a rate of 19.25%) of the RU000A1031U3 (VEB1P-26) security were changed.

    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.

    Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    https://www.moex.com/n74111

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Northern District of Florida U.S. Attorney’s Office Announces Election Day Program

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA – United States Attorney Jason R. Coody announced today that Assistant United States Attorney Andrew J. Grogan will lead the efforts of his Office in connection with the Justice Department’s nationwide Election Day Program for the upcoming November 5, 2024, general election. AUSA Grogan has previously been appointed to serve as the District Election Officer (DEO) for the Northern District of Florida, and in that capacity is responsible for overseeing the district’s handling of election day complaints of voting rights concerns, threats of violence to election officials or staff, and election fraud, in consultation with Justice Department Headquarters in Washington.

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

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

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

    United States Attorney Coody stated that: “The franchise is the cornerstone of American democracy.  We all must ensure that those who are entitled to the franchise can exercise it if they choose, and that those who seek to corrupt it are brought to justice. In order to respond to complaints of voting rights concerns and election fraud during the upcoming election, and to ensure that such complaints are directed to the appropriate authorities, AUSA/DEO Grogan will be on duty in the district while the polls are open.  He can be reached by the public at (850) 216-3838.

    In addition, the FBI will have special agents available in each field office and resident agency throughout the country to receive allegations of election fraud and other election abuses on election day. The local FBI field office can be reached by the public at (904) 248-7000.

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

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

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

    The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access available public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Tonawanda Man Arrested, Charged with Distribution and Possession of Child Pornography

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

    BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Trevor Knapp, 32, of Tonawanda, NY, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with distribution and possession of child pornography. The charges carry a mandatory minimum penalty of five years in prison, a maximum of 20 years, and a $250,000 fine.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron J. Mango, who is handling the case, stated that according to the complaint, in April 2024, a 17-year-old minor female contacted the Flagstaff, Arizona Police Department stating that she was being harassed by a 32-year-old male named Tyler Knapp online. The minor victim met Knapp in 2020, when she was 13-years-old, on a website called, “mylol,” a friend finding website that she no longer uses. As the two began communicating, the conversations became sexual in nature. Knapp sent sexually explicit videos of himself to the minor victim. He also asked that she send naked images of herself, but she declined. However, the minor victim would get out of the shower naked while the two were video chatting and Knapp would screen capture an image of her. The two also messaged through Google Chat and Knapp utilized multiple Google email accounts. The minor victim, who was uncomfortable with how he was talking, would delete or block Knapp but he would utilize a new account to regain contact. Knapp also located the minor victim’s Instagram account and messaged her on that platform as well. The minor victim advised Knapp multiple times of her real age.

    The minor victim requested for months that Knapp leave her alone, stating that she had a boyfriend. Knapp then requested images of the minor victim and her boyfriend having sex. He also sent her a naked image of a second minor victim, a female living in Pennsylvania. The two minor victims began communicating, and the second minor victim described Knapp as “the pedophile.” Subsequent investigation traced Knapp back to the Western District of New York.

    On October 10, 2024, a search warrant was executed at Knapp’s residence, during which investigators seized his cell phone. A preliminary search recovered a sexually explicit video that included Knapp and the first minor victim.

    The complaint is the result of an investigation by the Flagstaff, Arizona Police Department, under the direction of Chief Sean Connolly, the Town of Tonawanda Police Department, under the direction of Chief James Stauffiger, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia.

    The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.

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    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: 8 expert tips for getting started with NotebookLM

    Source: Google

    You might know Steven Johnson as an author. He’s written a number of books, many focused on the science of how we think and the history of innovation. But he’s also a Googler who has worked on the NotebookLM team from the beginning of the project two years ago. “Simply put, NotebookLM is a tool for understanding things,” Steven says. Think of it as your virtual note-taking and research assistant: NotebookLM takes information, digests and analyzes it so that you can glean more from it. It’s designed for that “deeper dive” you may need to take into a topic — or multiple topics at once.

    With NotebookLM, you create individual notebooks dedicated to a topic or project. You can upload up to 50 “sources” with up to 25 million words — all from things like PDFs, Google Docs, websites and YouTube videos. Then, NotebookLM uses Gemini 1.5’s multimodal capabilities to assess and make connections between the sources you’ve added. You can ask questions about the content or ask NotebookLM to format it in a specific way — it will even provide citations that link back to the most relevant original passages in your sources. And along the way, your private information is never shared or used to train the model.

    If you’re just getting started, try these eight tips from Steven to get the most out of NotebookLM.

    1. Experiment with your recent documents — even if they’re random

    One of the first things Steven suggests new NotebookLM users do is upload their 10 most recent documents into one notebook and start experimenting by asking questions. Even if your most recent documents are unrelated and totally random, it’s a great way to test run what NotebookLM can do. Whether you know the material in the documents down to the letter, or it’s all pretty new to you, NotebookLM will help you uncover some interesting insights.

    2. Create one main notebook and then identify topic-based notebooks from there

    Steven suggests keeping what he calls an “everything notebook,” which you load up with sources that include the general knowledge you work with most days. The sources might be inspirational quotes from books you read, or the core documents that describe the company you work for, or all your brainstorming ideas that you’ve captured over the years. “I do a lot of open-ended thinking and exploring of ideas in my ‘everything’ notebook,” Steven says. But it’s equally important to create topic- or project-based notebooks as well. “I’ve got a notebook devoted exclusively to the work we do building NotebookLM,” Steven explains. “It’s got all the press releases, new feature descriptions and important internal docs we write as a team.” By keeping all those related sources in a single notebook, Steven effectively has a personalized AI that’s almost like having another member of the team. “I can go in there and type something like, ‘Draft the outline of a blog post for that feature we were discussing last week,’ and Notebook knows exactly what to do.”

    3. Use NotebookLM to connect the dots from different materials

    NotebookLM is extremely useful for situations where you need to manage, connect and synthesize information from multiple sources. “We all have this problem where we’re working on something, and the information we need is scattered across desktop folders, tabs and wherever else,” Steven says. This is what NotebookLM is made for, he explains: connecting all those scattered dots.

    It can be especially helpful as a next step after using Gemini and Gems. After you brainstorm or have other open-ended conversations in those tools, NotebookLM can take the results and turn them into something easy to follow. Steven offers the example of working on a slide deck. Maybe you start the process by brainstorming with Gemini, which leads you to open a few tabs of articles, save some design inspo images and put some notes in a Google doc. You can then feed all of that into NotebookLM, which will synthesize the information into an easy-to-digest format so you can reference everything in one place when you get to the stage of building your presentation in Google Slides.

    4. Start with the suggested questions

    Once you’ve added content to NotebookLM, it’s time to start asking questions — which might leave you stumped. Similarly to tips we shared about using the Gemini-powered side panel in Workspace tools, Steven says NotebookLM’s suggested questions are a great resource. “The model will actually help you ask questions that guide you through the material for a while until you think of something you want to ask,” he explains. You can find some starter questions in the “Notebook Guide” that appears after you upload your first sources. Plus, when you start asking questions, NotebookLM will suggest follow-up queries, too, based on what you’ve already asked and what you uploaded.

    5. Ask NotebookLM to deliver info in different ways

    Something that came out of early testing, Steven says, was the need for NotebookLM to show information in various formats. “Everyone processes information differently, or even just prefers to see information presented in different ways,” he explains. Using the Notebook Guide feature, NotebookLM can turn your uploaded content into an FAQ, a briefing document, a timeline, a table of contents, a study guide — or the popular new Audio Overview, which actually transforms your information into an engaging conversation between two AI “hosts.” Try different options both to see what works best for your own learning purposes as well as for presenting information to others.

    6. Don’t shy away from creative uses

    NotebookLM is an amazing resource for work and school projects (the team actually just launched a pilot program for NotebookLM Business for collaborating within a workplace). But it’s also a great tool for lots of creative uses outside the office or classroom. “We’re seeing a lot of people using it for assistance with writing fantasy and sci-fi novels or developing games where they’re working on world building and intricate backstories,” Steven says. Maybe for your screenplay, you jotted down some notes in a doc, saved various webpages and took photos and videos as inspiration. “There’s all of this information that can be hard to keep straight,” Steven says. “You can put all of that stuff into a single notebook and ask things like, ‘What was the deal with that one character?’ Or ‘Remind me which characters live where?’”

    Steven particularly likes that you can ask NotebookLM for creative input with questions like, “Which characters do you think are most compelling?” or, “What are your favorite parts?” “It’s like being able to control F for ‘interestingness’!” he says.

    7. Turn your sources into Audio Overviews

    You should definitely turn each of those 10 documents you start with, or whatever else you upload, into an Audio Overview, Steven says. “After waiting a few minutes for it to generate, you will have a very entertaining, kind of mind-blowing audio conversation about whatever you uploaded!” Steven says. And the team has just released a new feature in Audio Overviews that allows you to adjust the format of the conversation. Just hit “Customize” in the Audio Overviews panel and enter a short description of what you want the hosts to focus on from your sources. “You can also steer them in terms of the approach of the level of sophistication you want from the Overview,” Steven explains. “I’ve been uploading my own writing and asking them to give me constructive criticism about my work.”

    8. Revisit your NotebookLM chat sessions

    NotebookLM makes it easy to save anything interesting that comes up during your text chats with the AI, just by hitting the “save to note” button in every text exchange. Steven recommends another option as well. “Let’s say you have a conversation about one of your notebooks — you ask questions and then follow-up questions, and you even ask it to refine your idea,” Steven says. You don’t want to lose whatever progress you made or insights you gathered during that dialogue. “At the end of the chat, you can ask NotebookLM to summarize the key points from the conversation into a single note that goes in that notebook,” Steven explains. “That way,” he says, “Future You will thank Past You — and NotebookLM — for making it as easy as possible to pick up where you left off.”

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Financial news: 10/18/2024, 12:25 (Moscow time) the values of the upper limit of the price corridor and the range of market risk assessment for the RU000A1031U3 (VEB1P-26) security were changed.

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Moscow Exchange – Moscow Exchange –

    10/18/2024

    12:25

    In accordance with the Methodology for determining the risk parameters of the stock market and deposit market of Moscow Exchange PJSC by NCO NCC (JSC), on 18.10.2024, 12-25 (Moscow time), the values of the upper limit of the price corridor (up to 84.88) and the range of market risk assessment (up to 934.73 rubles, equivalent to a rate of 16.5%) of the RU000A1031U3 (VEB1P-26) security were changed.

    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.

    Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    https://www.moex.com/n74108

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Former Telecommunications Company Executive Admits Defrauding Investors in Sports Betting Fund

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

    ST. LOUIS – A Pennsylvania man on Thursday admitted stealing $650,000 from investors in a sports betting fund.

    Elijah A. Goshert, 48, pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court in St. Louis to three counts of wire fraud. He admitted defrauding investors from at least Feb. 1, 2017, through Nov. 15, 2023, by falsely claiming the Magellan Sports Fund used a “sophisticated computer algorithm” that substantially reduced betting risks. Goshert sent emails to investors falsely claiming that he’d used their money to make sports bets and false “investors performance” updates claiming that their investments were making substantial profits.

    Goshert spent the vast majority of the victims’ investments on unauthorized expenses. He admitted stealing about $654,861 from at least 12 victims.

    Goshert is scheduled to be sentenced January 22, 2025. Each wire fraud charge carries a potential penalty of up to 20 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, or both prison and a fine.

    The FBI investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Derek Wiseman is prosecuting the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: St. Louis County Woman Sentenced for $100,000 Pandemic Loan Fraud

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

    ST. LOUIS –U.S. District Judge Rodney W. Sippel on Thursday ordered a woman who fraudulently obtained five pandemic relief loans to repay $113,223 to the U.S. Small Business Administration and placed her on probation for five years.

    Camille N. Foster, now 32, of St. Louis County, Missouri, obtained five Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans between May 2020 and November 2021 by submitting fraudulent loan applications on behalf of three businesses: Humble Hearts Home Healthcare LLC, Embellished Jewels LLC and Muse Me Boutique LLC. On the applications, she knowingly misrepresented the payroll and annual income of the businesses, which were not in operation at the time. She also submitted fraudulent tax forms with the applications. In a loan application for Muse Me Boutique, Foster used someone else’s name and Social Security number on the application, and signed that person’s name on the application without the person’s knowledge.

    PPP loans were intended to help struggling small businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic, but Foster did not use the money for that purpose. She spent it on retail purchases, dining, cosmetic surgery, bill payments, travel, taxes and payments to others. She then submitted fraudulent applications for PPP loan forgiveness for many of the loans she received, claiming that she had spent most or all the money on payroll costs.

    Foster, also known as Foster-Nunley, pleaded guilty in April to two counts of wire fraud.

    The FBI investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonathan Clow prosecuted the case.

    Anyone with information about pandemic fraud should call the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 866-720-5721 or report via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Financial News: Inflation Remains High in September Despite Decline in Year-On-Year Rate in Most Regions

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Central Bank of Russia –

    The annual price growth slowed in September in 76 regions, most significantly in Sakhalin Oblast and the Chechen Republic.

    The annual growth rate of food prices has slowed most noticeably. Sugar has become cheaper than a year ago, while fruit and vegetable products and eggs have risen more slowly.

    The annual growth in prices for non-food products, in particular for cars, household appliances and electronics, has decreased.

    The annual increase in prices for services remained almost as high as in August. Foreign tourism has increased in price the most over the year.

    For more information on inflation in each region, seeinformation and analytical materials, published on the website of the Bank of Russia.

    Preview photo: Yuri Smityuk / TASS

    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.

    Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    http://vvv.kbr.ru/press/event/?id=21101

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Ten Defendants Indicted in Connection with a Massachusetts-Based Drug Trafficking Organization

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

    CONCORD – Ten defendants have been indicted in connection with a Methuen and Lawrence-based organization trafficking narcotics to New Hampshire, U.S Attorney Jane Young announces.

    Today, law enforcement officers arrested seven defendants in New Hampshire and Massachusetts on charges of conspiracy to distribute controlled substances, namely, fentanyl, methamphetamine, cocaine, and crack cocaine. The defendants are scheduled to appear in federal court at various times this week and next week.

    The following defendants have been indicted in connection with this drug trafficking organization:

    1. Michael Martinez, age 33, of the Dominican Republic; he has not yet been arrested.
    2. Donaida Gonzalez, aka Yijana Rodriguez, age 52, of Methuen, MA; she is in custody.
    3. Diana Bautista-Arias, aka Alba Cruz-Solano, age 43, of Lawrence, MA; she is in custody.
    4. Eddy Balbuena-Gomez, age 30, of Lawrence, MA; he is in custody.
    5. Redondo Dore, age 28, of Berlin, NH; he is in custody.
    6. Trevor Mackenzie, age 33, of Rochester, NH; he is in custody.
    7. Katie Curtis, age 38, of Rochester, NH; she is in custody.
    8. Tabitha O’Brien, age 44, of Rochester, NH; she is in custody.
    9. Craig Grant, age 41, of Somersworth, NH; he has not yet been arrested.
    10. Jamie Bonner, age 42, of Somersworth, NH; she has not yet been arrested.

    The charge of conspiracy to distribute or possess with intent to distribute controlled substances provides for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison. Michael Martinez and Redondo Dore are facing mandatory minimum penalties of 10 years based on their involvement in the conspiracy. Katie Curtis is also facing a mandatory minimum sentence of 5 years based on her involvement in the conspiracy. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.

    Homeland Security Investigations led the investigation. The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the United States Marshal Service, the Strafford County Sheriff’s Office, the Massachusetts State Police, the Keene Police Department, the Salem Police Department, the Berlin Police Department, the Londonderry Police Department, the Nashua Police Department, the Concord Police Department, the New Hampshire State Police, the Lawrence Police Department, and the Methuen Police Department provided valuable assistance. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Aaron Gingrande and Jarad Hodes are prosecuting the case.

    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.

    The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

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    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Federal Jury Convicts Imran Alrai in Connection with a Financial Scheme to Steal Approximately $6.7 Million From the United Way

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

    CONCORD – After a 2-week trial, a Windham man was convicted by a federal petit jury, for wire fraud and money laundering in connection with his ownership of an information technology (IT) company that contracted with the United Way of Massachusetts Bay and Merrimack Valley (United Way) while being employed by United Way, United States Attorney Jane E. Young announces.

    Imran Alrai, 50, was convicted of 12 counts of wire fraud and 6 counts of money laundering. United States District Court Judge Joseph Laplante ordered Alrai detained pending sentencing, which is scheduled for January 17, 2025.

    “The jury’s swift verdicts in this case underscore the overwhelming evidence presented at trial of Mr. Alrai’s guilt,” said U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young. “Over the past two weeks, prosecutors skillfully untangled the web of the defendant’s deceit, highlighting for the jury how he used his position of trust to rig and maintain a major contract with United Way in favor of a company he owned and controlled. The United Way lost millions to the defendant – we hope the jury’s verdicts in this case is a step forward for their community.”

    “Imran Alrai abused his position of trust with the United Way of Massachusetts Bay and Merrimack Valley to steal millions of dollars to which he knew he wasn’t entitled, money that was intended to help the less fortunate in our area. Instead, he used it to pay off his house, and increase his personal wealth,” said Jodi Cohen, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division. “The FBI is grateful for the jury’s swift verdict, and we will not hesitate to investigate and bring to justice anyone engaged in such egregious financial fraud.”

    Between 2012 and June 2018, Alrai, an IT professional at the United Way, obtained approximately $6.7 million in payments for IT services supposedly provided to United Way by an independent outside contractor, DigitalNet Technology Solutions, Inc. Alrai misrepresented material facts about DigitalNet and fraudulently concealed that he owned and controlled DigitalNet. In early 2013, Alrai rigged the bidding process for a major contract to provide managed IT services at the United Way so that DigitalNet was chosen. Alrai then gave fake references and false information about DigitalNet to United Way.

    For the next five years, while serving as United Way’s Vice President for IT Services, Alrai steered additional IT work to DigitalNet, so that his company soon became United Way’s second-largest outside vendor, receiving more than $1 million annually. Alrai concealed his connection with DigitalNet from his colleagues. He routinely sent emails with attached invoices from a fictitious person to himself at United Way.

    After the fraud came to light, in June 2018, officials at the United Way confronted Alrai and terminated him. Federal agents executed search and seizure warrants and seized incriminating documents and data from Alrai’s home office in Windham, as well as approximately $2.2 million in fraud proceeds in bank and investment accounts. During the scheme, Alrai wired $1.2 million in fraud proceeds to a DigitalNet bank account in Lahore, Pakistan. 

    According to expert testimony at the trial, United Way lost at least $3.5 million as a result of DigitalNet’s excessive billing, duplicate billing, and billing for services not delivered. 

    Homeland Security Investigations and the Federal Bureau of Investigation led the investigation. The Internal Revenue Service provided valuable assistance. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Charles L. Rombeau and John J. Kennedy are prosecuting the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Financial news: 10/18/2024, 12-11 (Moscow time) the values of the upper limit of the price corridor and the range of market risk assessment for the RU000A1031U3 (VEB1P-26) security were changed.

    MILES AXLE Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Moscow Exchange – Moscow Exchange –

    10/18/2024

    12:11

    In accordance with the Methodology for determining the risk parameters of the stock market and deposit market of Moscow Exchange PJSC by NCO NCC (JSC), on 18.10.2024, 12-11 (Moscow time), the values of the upper limit of the price corridor (up to 82.78) and the range of market risk assessment (up to 912.67 rubles, equivalent to a rate of 13.75%) of the RU000A1031U3 (VEB1P-26) security were changed.

    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.

    Please note; This information is raw content directly from the information source. It is accurate to what the source is stating and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    https://www.moex.com/n74106

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Speech: PM speech in Berlin: 18 October 2024

    Source: United Kingdom – Prime Minister’s Office 10 Downing Street

    Prime Minister Keir Starmer makes a speech in Berlin.

    Location:
    Berlin
    Delivered on:
    (Transcript of the speech, exactly as it was delivered)

    I’ve just had a very productive meeting with President Biden, Chancellor Scholz, and President Macron. 

    We focused on two issues.

    Firstly, the situation in the Middle East.

    Let me start by saying that no one should mourn the death of the Hamas Leader Sinwar.

    On his hands is the blood of innocent Israelis.

    Killed on the 7th of October and over years of terror.

    And also the blood of the Palestinian people.

    Who suffered in the chaos and violence that he sought and celebrated.

    We continue to support Israel’s right to self-defence.

    Particularly in the face of the attacks by the Iranian regime. 

    Allies will keep working together.

    To de-escalate across the region. 

    Because we know there is no military-only solution here.

    The answer is diplomacy.

    And now we must make the most of this moment. 

    What is needed now is a ceasefire in Gaza.

    The immediate and unconditional release of all hostages.

    Immediate access for humanitarian aid.

    And a return to the path towards the two-state solution.

    As the only way to deliver long-term peace and security. 

    The dire humanitarian situation cannot continue. 

    And I say once again to Israel, the world will not tolerate any more excuses on humanitarian assistance. 

    Civilians in northern Gaza need food, now.

    The UK strongly supports UNRWA in the vital work it does in Gaza, across the OPTs and the region.

    UNRWA must be allowed to continue its life saving support.

    The suffering must end, including in Lebanon, where we need a ceasefire to implement a political plan based on UN resolution 1701.

    That empowers the Lebanese Armed Forces.

    Strengthens UNIFIL.

    And allows communities on both sides of the border to return to their homes.

    That delivers humanitarian and economic support to the people of Lebanon.

    Supports democracy and bolsters the Lebanese State.

    Second, we discussed the war in Ukraine.

    Building on the conversation I had with President Zelenskyy at Downing Street last week. 

    We remain united in our support for Ukraine.

    We have always said that it is for the Ukrainian people to decide their own future.

    So we’re clear, together with President Zelenskyy, that the only acceptable outcome is a sovereign Ukraine, and a just peace. 

    We want to see Ukraine thriving and secure.

    And we’ll work together to make it happen. 

    And while the situation is incredibly tough.

    It’s also true that Russia is getting weaker.

    This war is soaking up 40% of their budget. 

    Last month Russia suffered the highest daily casualty rate so far.

    So we discussed how to speed up our support for Ukraine.  

    And the UK is delivering. 

    95% of the equipment that we promised to fast track in July is now in Ukrainian hands.

    And together with the G7 we’re working to send $50 billion of further support to Ukraine.

    Drawn from the proceeds of frozen Russian assets. 

    So as Ukraine enters a difficult winter it’s important to say.

    We’re with you.

    We’re absolutely united in our resolve.

    And we’ll back Ukraine for as long as it takes.

    Updates to this page

    Published 18 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Former Correctional Officer Sentenced for Smuggling Mobile Phones Into Federal Detention Center

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

    PHILADELPHIA – United States Attorney Jacqueline C. Romero announced that Lee E. Moore, Jr., 36, of Sicklerville, New Jersey, was sentenced yesterday to three years of probation with six months of home detention and a $5,000 fine by United States Magistrate Judge Scott W. Reid, all arising from Moore smuggling mobile phones into the Federal Detention Center in Philadelphia (“FDC”) while he was employed as a correctional officer at the FDC.

    From August  2016 to June 2023, Moore was a correctional officer at the FDC. During May-June 2020, Moore smuggled mobile phones into the FDC in exchange for payments from an inmate’s wife. In June 2020, Moore also approached a second inmate about smuggling in contraband or other special favors in exchange for payment. 

    “Correctional officers have a tough enough job without having to deal with inmates who have access to smuggled contraband,” said U.S. Attorney Romero. “Lee Moore put his fellow COs and the public at risk by smuggling cell phones into the FDC for a price. But the price for breaking his law enforcement oath is much higher: he’s lost his job and now has a federal conviction on his record.”

    “When a corrections officer chooses greed over integrity, it undermines the hard work and dedication their colleagues put forward every day to ensure a safe environment inside our detention centers,” said Wayne A. Jacobs, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Philadelphia. “The FBI and our partners reaffirm our commitment to holding accountable those in the corrections system who abuse their positions of trust.”

    The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Department of Justice’s Office of Inspector General, and the Federal Detention Center and was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Vineet Gauri. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Camden County Man Pleads Guilty to Violent Armed Robberies of Three Corner Stores in Philadelphia’s Kensington Section

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

    PHILADELPHIA – United States Attorney Jacqueline C. Romero announced that Jared Stanley, 32, of Lindenwold, New Jersey, entered a plea of guilty on Friday, October 11, 2024, before United States District Court Judge John F. Murphy to three counts of Hobbs Act robbery and one count of carrying, using, and brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, in connection with the armed robberies of three corner stores in Philadelphia’s Kensington section.

    Stanley committed all three robberies during a two-week span in late January and early February of this year.

    On January 21, 2024, the defendant entered the Birch Mini-Market, located at 2001 East Birch Street. He approached the counter, pointed a gun at the cashier, and demanded money. When the cashier didn’t understand him, Stanley started screaming at them. He repeatedly hit the cashier in the head with the gun, stole approximately $550 from the register, and fled.

    On January 28, 2024, Stanley and an unidentified co-conspirator entered the Capricorno Grocery, located at 2000 East Orleans Street. Stanley walked to the employee area of the store, displayed a firearm, grabbed the employee by the shirt and forcibly pulled him away, pistol whipped him repeatedly, and stood guard over him while his accomplice went back to the register and stole approximately $500.

    On February 2, 2024, Stanley and an unidentified co-conspirator entered Bonifacios Grocery, located at 3052 Frankford Avenue. They pushed an employee to the cash register, told him to get on the ground and then pistol whipped him in the head. Stanley and his accomplice then stole approximately $500 from the cash register and fled the store on foot.

    Stanley is scheduled to be sentenced on January 29, 2025. He faces a mandatory minimum sentence of seven years in prison and a maximum possible sentence of life imprisonment, five years of supervised release, a $1,250,000 fine, and a $500 special assessment.

    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.

    The case was investigated by the FBI and the Philadelphia Police Department and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Robert E. Eckert.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: PM speech in Berlin: 18 October 2024

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Prime Minister Keir Starmer makes a speech in Berlin.

    Location:
    Berlin
    Delivered on:
    (Transcript of the speech, exactly as it was delivered)

    I’ve just had a very productive meeting with President Biden, Chancellor Scholz, and President Macron. 

    We focused on two issues.

    Firstly, the situation in the Middle East.

    Let me start by saying that no one should mourn the death of the Hamas Leader Sinwar.

    On his hands is the blood of innocent Israelis.

    Killed on the 7th of October and over years of terror.

    And also the blood of the Palestinian people.

    Who suffered in the chaos and violence that he sought and celebrated.

    We continue to support Israel’s right to self-defence.

    Particularly in the face of the attacks by the Iranian regime. 

    Allies will keep working together.

    To de-escalate across the region. 

    Because we know there is no military-only solution here.

    The answer is diplomacy.

    And now we must make the most of this moment. 

    What is needed now is a ceasefire in Gaza.

    The immediate and unconditional release of all hostages.

    Immediate access for humanitarian aid.

    And a return to the path towards the two-state solution.

    As the only way to deliver long-term peace and security. 

    The dire humanitarian situation cannot continue. 

    And I say once again to Israel, the world will not tolerate any more excuses on humanitarian assistance. 

    Civilians in northern Gaza need food, now.

    The UK strongly supports UNRWA in the vital work it does in Gaza, across the OPTs and the region.

    UNRWA must be allowed to continue its life saving support.

    The suffering must end, including in Lebanon, where we need a ceasefire to implement a political plan based on UN resolution 1701.

    That empowers the Lebanese Armed Forces.

    Strengthens UNIFIL.

    And allows communities on both sides of the border to return to their homes.

    That delivers humanitarian and economic support to the people of Lebanon.

    Supports democracy and bolsters the Lebanese State.

    Second, we discussed the war in Ukraine.

    Building on the conversation I had with President Zelenskyy at Downing Street last week. 

    We remain united in our support for Ukraine.

    We have always said that it is for the Ukrainian people to decide their own future.

    So we’re clear, together with President Zelenskyy, that the only acceptable outcome is a sovereign Ukraine, and a just peace. 

    We want to see Ukraine thriving and secure.

    And we’ll work together to make it happen. 

    And while the situation is incredibly tough.

    It’s also true that Russia is getting weaker.

    This war is soaking up 40% of their budget. 

    Last month Russia suffered the highest daily casualty rate so far.

    So we discussed how to speed up our support for Ukraine.  

    And the UK is delivering. 

    95% of the equipment that we promised to fast track in July is now in Ukrainian hands.

    And together with the G7 we’re working to send $50 billion of further support to Ukraine.

    Drawn from the proceeds of frozen Russian assets. 

    So as Ukraine enters a difficult winter it’s important to say.

    We’re with you.

    We’re absolutely united in our resolve.

    And we’ll back Ukraine for as long as it takes.

    Updates to this page

    Published 18 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: Boussard & Gavaudan Holding Ltd (GBP): Particulars of Cash Exit

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

      Boussard & Gavaudan Holding Limited (the “Company”)

    a closed-ended investment company incorporated with limited liability
    under the laws of Guernsey
    with registration number 45582

    Legal Entity Identifier: 5493002XNM3W9D6DF327
            
                            

    Particulars of Cash Exit

    In accordance with the circular to Shareholders dated 25 June 2024 (the “Circular“) and the Articles, the Company announces the particulars of the compulsory redemption of Shares to be effected pursuant to the Cash Exit on 1 November 2024.

    Unless otherwise defined, capitalised terms used in this announcement shall have the same meaning as set out in the Circular. Shareholders should refer to the Circular for full details of the Cash Exit, including the timetable for the redemption and distribution of redemption proceeds.

    The redemption price payable to each Shareholder pursuant to the Cash Exit will be an amount equal to the net asset value (NAV) per Share of the relevant class of Shares as at the close of business of the Calculation Date, being 31 October 2024. The redemption monies will be payable in the currency of each relevant class of Shares and will be paid to Shareholders within 14 Business Days of the Cash Redemption Date (being 1 November 2024), or as soon as practicable thereafter.

    On each Business Day, the Company announces on its website the estimated net asset value of its Euro Shares and Sterling Shares as at the close of business of the preceding Business Day. This information is available here: https://www.bgholdingltd.com/p/14/financial-announcements.

    In the event that the net asset values per Share calculated as at the close of business of 31 October 2024 were equal to their most recent estimates, the resulting redemption price per Share payable to holders of Euro Shares (ISIN: GG00B1FQG453) and holders of Sterling Shares (ISIN: GG00B39VMM07) under the Cash Exit would be €28.4353 and £25.5630, respectively.

    These figures are hypothetical, non-indicative of the actual redemption price and non-binding. They are provided for illustration purposes only and no reliance should be placed on them. The actual redemption price will be equal to the net asset value as at 31 October 2024, which may differ from the most recent estimated net asset values per Share provided above.

    For further information please contact:
    Boussard & Gavaudan Investment Management LLP
    Emmanuel Gavaudan
    +44 20 3751 5389

    JTC Fund Solutions (Guernsey) Limited
    Secretary
    +44 (0) 1481 702400

    18 October 2024

    Website: http://www.bgholdingltd.com

    The Company is established as a closed-ended investment company domiciled in Guernsey. The Company has been authorised by the Guernsey Financial Services Commission as an authorised closed-ended investment scheme. The Company is registered with the Dutch Authority for the Financial Markets as a collective investment scheme pursuant to article 2:73 in conjunction with 2:66 of the Dutch Financial Supervision Act (Wet op het financieel toezicht). The shares of the Company (the “Shares”) are listed on Euronext Amsterdam. The Shares are also listed on the Official List of the UK Listing Authority and admitted to trading on the London Stock Exchange plc’s main market for listed securities.

    This is not an offer to sell or a solicitation of any offer to buy any securities in the United States or in any other jurisdiction. This announcement is not intended to and does not constitute, or form part of, any offer or invitation to purchase any securities or the solicitation of any vote or approval in any jurisdiction, nor shall there be any sale, issuance or transfer of the securities referred to in this announcement in any jurisdiction in contravention of applicable law.

    Neither the Company nor BG Master Fund ICAV have been, and neither will be, registered under the US Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “Investment Company Act”). In addition the securities referenced in this announcement have not been and will not be registered under the US Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”). Consequently any such securities may not be offered, sold or otherwise transferred within the United States or to, or for the account or benefit of, US persons except in accordance with the Securities Act or an exemption therefrom and under circumstances which will not require the issuer of such securities to register under the Investment Company Act. No public offering of any securities will be made in the United States.
    You should always bear in mind that:

    • all investment is subject to risk;
    • results in the past are no guarantee of future results;
    • the investment performance of BGHL may go down as well as up. You may not get back all of your original investment; and
    • if you are in any doubt about the contents of this communication or if you consider making an investment decision, you are advised to seek expert financial advice.

    This communication is for information purposes only and the information contained in this communication should not be relied upon as a substitute for financial or other professional advice.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Windsor — West Hants RCMP arrest youth after threats made

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    West Hants RCMP Detachment has arrested a youth after they uttered threats toward other youths at a high school.

    On October 16, at approximately 5:40 p.m., West Hants RCMP received a report that a youth told other youths about plans to bring a weapon to school the following day and target specific students.

    Officers immediately followed up with witnesses then attended a residence later that evening and arrested a youth. The investigating officers also executed a search warrant at a residence and seized a firearm and two replica firearms, as well as other evidence relevant to the investigation.

    “Safety concerns for schools, such as threats, are taken seriously and investigated thoroughly,” says Cst. Richard Collins, School Safety Resource Officer at West Hants RCMP Detachment. “I’m glad the witnesses who heard these threats were brave enough to talk about them with people they trust because it allowed us to take steps that may have prevented potential violence from taking place.”

    The youth, who will face charges of Uttering Threats, was released on conditions pending an appearance in Windsor Provincial Court on December 6.

    The investigation is ongoing and is being led by the West Hants RCMP.

    File #: 2024-1530161

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: The OISTE Foundation, Gold Sponsor of the Vargas Llosa Chair at its IV Annual Conference “A Gathering for Culture in Freedom”

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    The OISTE Foundation, Gold Sponsor of the Vargas Llosa Chair at its IV Annual Conference “A Gathering for Culture in Freedom”

    Geneva, Switzerland – October 18, 2024: WISeKey International Holding Ltd. (“WISeKey” or the “Company”) (SIX: WIHN, NASDAQ: WKEY), a global leader in cybersecurity, digital identity, and Internet of Things (IoT) innovations, today announced that, in collaboration with the OISTE Foundation, Gold Sponsor of the Vargas Llosa Chair at its IV Annual Conference “A Gathering for Culture in Freedom,” it reaffirms its commitment to defending human rights in the digital environment. Since its founding in 1998, the OISTE Foundation has focused its efforts on ensuring that human rights are respected both online and offline. As digital technologies advance, they also present challenges in terms of privacy, digital identity, and the misuse of surveillance tools, raising concerns about data protection and online violence.

    This commitment resonates with the values promoted by the Vargas Llosa Chair, which, since its establishment in 2011, has fostered the study of contemporary literature and supported freedom of expression. Both institutions share a common mission: to defend democratic principles and promote a culture of freedom and respect, both in the literary and digital realms.

    The OISTE Foundation is committed to finding feasible solutions for digital identity management as an essential component of a knowledge society. OISTE led a workshop titled “Matching the Speed of the Running Code: Public Awareness and Digital Identity Management,” aimed at raising public awareness among internet users about the risks of the current environment and the threats to individual privacy rights.

    Trust among users is at the core of OISTE’s trust model, which strives for legitimacy that can only be achieved through documented consensus. As part of its adherence to OISTE Foundation’s trust model, the foundation aims to promote the security of electronic communications worldwide, ensuring compliance with regulations related to information protection. The company is a leading advocate for protecting individual privacy rights online while enabling individuals to maximize their use of the Internet.

    About WISeKey
    WISeKey is a Swiss-based computer infrastructure company specializing in cybersecurity, digital identity, blockchain, Internet of Things (IoT) solutions, and post-quantum semiconductors. As a computer infrastructure company, WISeKey provides secure platforms for data and device management across industries like finance, healthcare, and government. It leverages its Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) to ensure encrypted communications and authentication, while also focusing on next-generation security through post-quantum cryptography.

    WISeKey’s work with post-quantum semiconductors is aimed at future-proofing its security solutions against the threats posed by quantum computing. These advanced semiconductors support encryption that can withstand the computational power of quantum computers, ensuring the long-term security of connected devices and critical infrastructure. Combined with its expertise in blockchain and IoT, WISeKey’s post-quantum technologies provide a robust foundation for secure digital ecosystems at the hardware, software, and network levels.

    Disclaimer
    This communication expressly or implicitly contains certain forward-looking statements concerning WISeKey International Holding Ltd and its business. Such statements involve certain known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, which could cause the actual results, financial condition, performance or achievements of WISeKey International Holding Ltd to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. WISeKey International Holding Ltd is providing this communication as of this date and does not undertake to update any forward-looking statements contained herein as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

    This press release does not constitute an offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy, any securities, and it does not constitute an offering prospectus within the meaning of the Swiss Financial Services Act (“FinSA”), the FinSa’s predecessor legislation or advertising within the meaning of the FinSA. Investors must rely on their own evaluation of WISeKey and its securities, including the merits and risks involved. Nothing contained herein is, or shall be relied on as, a promise or representation as to the future performance of WISeKey.

    Press and Investor Contacts

    WISeKey International Holding Ltd
    Company Contact: Carlos Moreira
    Chairman & CEO
    Tel: +41 22 594 3000
    info@wisekey.com     		 WISeKey Investor Relations (US) 
    The Equity Group Inc.
    Lena Cati
    Tel: +1 212 836-9611 / lcati@equityny.com
    Katie Murphy
    Tel: +1 212 836-9612 / kmurphy@equityny.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Par Funding Principal and Former CFO Pleads Guilty to Racketeering Conspiracy

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

    PHILADELPHIA – United States Attorney Jacqueline C. Romero announced that Joseph Cole Barleta (aka “Joe Cole”), 41, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, entered a plea of guilty today before United States District Court Judge Mark A. Kearney on one count of racketeering conspiracy, in connection with his role in the operation of a fraudulent investment vehicle known as Complete Business Solutions Group Inc. d/b/a Par Funding (“Par Funding”), which is alleged to have generated over $100 million in illegal proceeds for Barleta and its other principals, to the detriment of Par Funding’s numerous investors, many who live in the Philadelphia region.

    According to a second superseding indictment filed in February, Barleta and codefendants Joseph LaForte, James LaForte, and others, were part of an association-in-fact RICO enterprise that conspired to commit a number of predicate crimes, including crimes related to the fleecing of Par Funding’s many investors. Barleta’s admitted role in the conspiracy related to the securities and wire fraud components of the enterprise.

    Joe LaForte and James LaForte pleaded guilty last month to racketeering conspiracy, securities fraud, and related crimes.

    Joe LaForte is scheduled to be sentenced on January 13, 2025.

    James LaForte and Joseph Cole Barleta are both scheduled to be sentenced on February 20, 2025.

    Per the terms of Barleta’s plea agreement, the government is seeking a sentence of imprisonment of up to eight years, although the Court has discretion to impose a higher or lower sentence.

    This case was investigated by the FBI, IRS Criminal Investigation, the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation Office of Inspector General, and Pennsylvania State Police and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Matthew T. Newcomer, Samuel S. Dalke, Eric D. Gill, and Patrick J. Murray, as well as former Assistant United States Attorney Alexandra M. Lastowski. The SEC in Florida investigated and litigated the civil securities fraud charges, which formed the basis of a portion of the criminal prosecution.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Delaware Man Sentenced to More Than 23 Years in Prison for Two Violent Delco Carjackings

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

    PHILADELPHIA – United States Attorney Jacqueline C. Romero announced that Keenan Righter, 21, of New Castle, Delaware, was sentenced yesterday by United States District Court Chief Judge Mitchell S. Goldberg to 280 months in prison, five years of supervised release, restitution of $1,919, and a $500 assessment, in connection with two armed carjackings in Delaware County in January of 2023.

    Righter was convicted by a jury in May of conspiracy, two counts of carjacking, and two counts of using or carrying a firearm during a crime of violence arising from his role in the two carjacking incidents. Codefendant Jamar Miller pleaded guilty to these offenses in March of 2023 and is awaiting sentencing.

    On January 14, 2023, at approximately 9 p.m., Righter and others drove in Miller’s car to a Wawa on Route 322 in Upper Chichester Township, Delaware County. Righter and another male then ambushed a 23-year-old college student who was walking to his car after leaving the store. The men, each brandishing firearms and wearing masks to disguise their identities, demanded the victim’s vehicle at gunpoint. They pistol-whipped the victim in the back of the head and fled the scene in the victim’s car.

    On January 24, 2023, at approximately 1:30 a.m., Righter and another male drove in Miller’s car to a Wawa on Edgmont Avenue in Brookhaven, Delaware County. Again, they wore masks and carried firearms as they carjacked a 33-year-old victim at gunpoint in the parking lot of the Wawa. The men pistol-whipped the victim multiple times in the head with a firearm as they stole his belongings and fled the scene in his car.

    The defendant was apprehended after an intensive investigation by FBI Philadelphia’s Newtown Square Resident Agency, in conjunction with the Brookhaven and Upper Chichester Police Departments. Digital forensic evidence and more linked the defendant to both carjackings.

    “Imagine the shock of being violently ambushed on a Wawa run, of all things,” said U.S. Attorney Romero. “Keenan Righter targeted and terrorized total strangers, just to steal their cars. Armed criminals who think they can victimize innocent people with impunity should take a good hard look at 21-year-old Mr. Righter’s 23-year prison sentence. Keep doing what you’re doing, and you’ll earn your own long stay in one of our federal facilities.”  

    “Such brazen and senseless acts, like the ones in this case, not only devastate the victims but our community at large,” said Wayne A. Jacobs, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Philadelphia. “This sentencing exemplifies the value of partnerships in combatting violent crime. Our office will continue to work alongside our local law enforcement partners and the U.S. Attorney’s Office to keep violent offenders off the streets and ensure our neighborhoods are a safer place to live.”

    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.

    The case was investigated by the FBI, the Brookhaven Police Department, and Upper Chichester Police Department, and is being prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorneys Brian Doherty and Branwen McNabb O’Donnell.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Waller, Centralized and Decentralized Finance: Substitutes or Complements?

    Source: US State of New York Federal Reserve

    Thank you for inviting me to speak today.1 I have participated in this conference for nearly 20 years and have often presented my research on monetary theory, banking, and payments. So, I believe this is the right audience to speak to regarding the role of centralized finance and the emergence of decentralized finance, or defi for short. Over the past few years, there has been a lot of attention and work on defi, which will be a major focus of my remarks. Many argue that defi will replace traditional centralized finance while others argue that it merely extends traditional finance methods and trading activities onto new platforms. It is in this sense that I want to address the question of whether centralized finance and defi are substitutes or complements to each other.
    Advances associated with defi have the potential to profoundly affect financial market trading. While I believe these advances could lead to efficiency gains, I recognize the significant value that has been delivered for centuries by financial intermediaries and through centralized financial markets. Before I share my views on the promise of these new technologies, let me tell you where I’m coming from on these issues.
    I am an economist, and so my first inclination is to think about the underlying economics driving an issue. But to understand the value proposition of defi, it is useful to first recall why centralized financial market trading arose in the first place. Centralized finance clearly provides benefits to people, but obviously also comes with some costs. I am going to take a few minutes to discuss those benefits and costs before turning to the question at hand.
    Let’s start with the economics of trading. Most financial trades are “pairwise” in that the seller of an object needs to find a buyer of that exact object. The problem is that it is often complicated, costly, and time-consuming to search for a buyer. This gives rise to the need for someone to step in and help buyers and sellers match in a faster and less costly manner. In short, there is a profit opportunity for someone to intermediate the trade.
    Another name for intermediaries is middlemen. Why would we pay a middleman? In their paper from nearly 40 years ago, Ariel Rubenstein and Asher Wolinsky described it eloquently: “What makes the middlemen’s activity possible is the time-consuming nature of the trade, which enables middlemen to extract surplus in return for shortening the time period that sellers and buyers have to wait for a transaction.”2
    Let me contextualize the value of middlemen with an example I used for years when teaching money and banking. Suppose you had some extra income from saving and wanted to lend it out to earn interest. How would you do that? First, you would have to advertise that you had funds to lend. Then, you would have to wait for the right person who needed that exact amount of funds, which could be a long time. Once you met the right person, you would have to negotiate when repayment would occur. Next, you would need to know a lot of information about the person receiving your funds and the likelihood you would get repaid. This is needed to assess the risk of the transaction and the compensation you would need to give up your funds. You would also need a lot of legal advice to draw up a contract and stipulate how the contract would be enforced under a range of conditions. Finally, since you are the sole source of funding, you will bear the entire cost of a default. It should be clear that this would be a daunting exercise for most people and explains why they would turn to a middleman who specializes in this type of activity to do all this on their behalf.
    It is for these reasons that banks arose as early as in ancient Mesopotamia to carry out some of these functions.3 Similar issues arise when it comes to other ways of transferring resources from one person to another, as occurs from non-bank debt, equities and insurance contracts. Many point to trades of shares in the Dutch East India Trading Company in Amsterdam in the 1660s as the origins of the first modern stock exchange. Lloyds of London was founded as a means of pooling funds to share risk and return in the shipping industry, thus becoming the first insurance firm. The fact that similar arrangements still exist centuries later is a testament to the value of intermediation and centralized financial trading.
    However, these arrangements are not without drawbacks. An obvious drawback of intermediation from the perspective of those wishing to trade is that those middlemen must get paid. That is, there are transaction costs. Another drawback of intermediation is that you typically must turn over control of your assets, such as savings or stocks, to the intermediary for them to be traded. This creates a classic “principal-agent” problem whereby incentives between the principal—you—and the agent—the intermediary—may not be aligned. That can raise concerns about custody arrangements and recourse to regain control of one’s assets. Intermediation also requires recordkeeping arrangements that customers can trust accurately reflect their true holdings. In other words, centralized finance requires a substantial amount of trust. With all that in mind, let me turn to how and why technological innovations have given rise to defi.
    In a capitalist system, the existence of profits provides incentives for others to enter the market, offer a better product, and compete away any excess profits. This can be done by the creation of new financial firms that can provide the same or better service at a lower cost. Often that occurs through innovations and exploiting new technologies. Think about how the invention of the telegraph and the telephone revolutionized trading. More recently, the advent of the internet further advanced the ease and speed of financial trading. These are examples of how financial trading has evolved over time. And the next wave of innovations in financial market trading could be driven by technological advances that alleviate some potential drawbacks of the centralized approach.
    Often broad technological advances emanate from narrower efforts to design products or processes that solve specific problems. For example, one technology used to support portable home appliances like vacuum cleaners was originally developed to support the space program.4 Similarly, the development of crypto-assets led to the development of technologies that are fueling possibilities in defi.
    We don’t have enough time for me to cover the full history of crypto-assets, but I will focus on several key elements that have affected the evolution toward defi. An early crypto-asset—Bitcoin—was developed to function in a world in which trust among individuals did not exist. Rather than relying on intermediaries which require trust, Bitcoin relied on technology to facilitate trade. Bitcoin was also designed for privacy. No one would know who was buying or selling Bitcoin. This was achieved through cryptographic technology and private keys. In addition, it allowed individuals to maintain control of their crypto-assets throughout the entire trading process. That is, they no longer had to delegate control to others. Finally, all records were kept on a form of distributed ledger called a blockchain, which has design features that promote transparency and are censorship-proof. No individual or government could destroy the records of trades or take ownership of the objects traded.
    With that history in mind and before we delve into the question of whether defi and centralized finance are substitutes or complements, I think it is useful to carefully define some terms. This will make sure we’re all talking about the same things. As I described in a speech last year, I think of the crypto ecosystem as consisting of three parts:

    a crypto-asset, which generally refers to any digital object traded using cryptographic techniques;
    technology that directly facilitates trading crypto-assets; this includes smart contracts and tokenization;5 and
    a database management protocol used to record trades and ownership of assets, commonly referred to as the blockchain, which includes both permissioned and permissionless distributed ledger technologies.

    It is easy to see how the emergence of these technologies could lead one to think of defi as a substitute for centralized finance. For example, the technologies are allowing for individuals to trade assets without giving up control of those assets to an intermediary—a critical distinction with centralized finance.
    However, there are other uses emerging from these technologies that look more like complements to centralized finance. For example, distributed ledger technology, or DLT, may be an efficient and faster way to do recordkeeping in a 24/7 trading world. We already see several financial institutions experimenting with DLT for traditional repo trading that occurs 24/7. But before these ledgers can be used to facilitate transactions in traditional assets—like debt, equity, and real estate—these assets must be tokenized. Undertaking the process to tokenize assets and use distributed ledgers like blockchain can speed up transfers of assets and take advantage of another innovation: smart contracts.
    Rather than relying on each party to separately carry out the transaction, smart contracts can effectively combine multiple legs of a transaction into a single unified act executed by a smart contract. This can provide value as it can mitigate risks associated with settlement and counterparty risks by ensuring the buyer will not pay if the seller does not deliver. While these efforts are still in early stages, the functionality could expand to a broad set of financial activities. The bottom line is that things like DLT, tokenization, and smart contracts are just technologies for trading that can be used in defi or also to improve efficiency in centralized finance. That is why I see them as complements.
    Stablecoins are another important innovation in defi. Stablecoins were created in the crypto universe in hopes of providing a “safe” asset with a stable value for trading. Nearly all stablecoins are pegged to the U.S. dollar one-for-one. They provide an opportunity for buyers and sellers to transact in a decentralized fashion with the stablecoin used as the settlement instrument. Because they are effectively digital currency, stablecoins can reduce the need for payment intermediaries and thereby reduce costs of payments globally. But their safety is not assured. History is replete with cases in which synthetic dollars became subject to runs. Stablecoins thus face all of the same issues any substitute for genuine U.S. dollars faces. If appropriate guardrails can be erected to minimize run risk and mitigate other risks, such as their potential use in illicit finance, then stablecoins may have benefits in payments and by serving as a safe asset on a variety of new trading platforms.
    These technologies will almost certainly lead to efficiency gains over time, but as they develop, we should think carefully about their role in the broader financial landscape.
    Is it really possible to completely decentralize finance using these technologies? The answer is obviously “no.” Intermediation is still valuable for the average person, and we see this by the existence of trading exchanges in the crypto world. All these platforms involve giving custody of one’s crypto-assets to an intermediary, who conducts trades on behalf of the client. This reintroduces the need for trust in these platforms just as trust is needed in modern banking systems.
    Returning to the technologies behind defi, one must ask whether there are unique risks associated with the use of these technologies. If so, what is the nature of these risks? Are they contained to just those people directly engaging with the technologies, or could there be broader spillovers to society? For example, can these technologies increase the risk of inadvertently providing funds to bad actors? In centralized finance there are regulations that require banks to know who their clients are. Are similar rules and regulations needed around some of these new technologies? When it comes to our financial plumbing, which affects every person or business in one way or another, I think a balanced view of expeditious disruption and long-term sustainability is merited.
    So where does that leave us? Ultimately, I believe that advances in technology have the potential to drive efficiency gains in finance, just as technological innovation has done for centuries. While there are certain services emerging through defi that cannot be provided by centralized finance, the technological innovations stemming from defi are largely complementary to centralized finance. They have the potential to improve centralized finance, thereby increasing the significant value that financial intermediaries and centralized financial markets deliver. I look forward to seeing the continued evolution of financial technology and the benefits that evolution will bring to the households and businesses served by the financial system.

    1. I would like to dedicate these remarks to an old friend and longtime participant of this conference, Paul Klein, who passed away unexpectedly two months ago. The views expressed here are my own and are not necessarily those of my colleagues on the Federal Reserve Board or the Federal Open Market Committee. Return to text
    2. See Ariel Rubinstein and Asher Wolinsky, “Middlemen,” The Quarterly Journal of Economics 102 (August 1987): 581–93, https://academic.oup.com/qje/article-abstract/102/3/581/1887969. Return to text
    3. See Benjamin Bromberg, “The origin of banking: religious finance in Babylonia (PDF),” The Journal of Economic History 2 (May 1942): 77–88. Return to text
    4. See National Aeronautics and Space Administration, “Spinoff from a Moon Tool (PDF),” January 1, 1981. Return to text
    5. See Christopher J. Waller, “Thoughts on the Crypto Ecosystem” (speech at Global Interdependence Center Conference: Digital Money, Decentralized Finance, and the Puzzle of Crypto, La Jolla, CA, February 10, 2023). Return to text

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Virginia Man Sentenced to 66 Months in Prison for Stealing From Elderly Incapacitated Victims

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

    PHILADELPHIA – United States Attorney Jacqueline C. Romero announced that Carlton Rembert, 70, of Hampton, Virginia, was sentenced on October 11, 2024, by United States District Judge Joel H. Slomsky to 66 months’ imprisonment, five years of supervised release, $534,335 in restitution to the victims, and a $400 special assessment for his role in a scheme to defraud elderly incapacitated people of over $1 million.

    Rembert’s late co-conspirator and sister, Gloria Byars, was a court-appointed guardian for over 100 incapacitated wards in Pennsylvania. Between 2012 and 2018, Byars, Rembert, and other co-conspirators stole the life savings from dozens of wards while Byars served as their court-appointed guardian. Byars pleaded guilty to conspiracy, wire fraud, money laundering, and tax fraud for her role in the fraud scheme. Rembert proceeded to trial in November 2023 and after a four-day trial, a jury found Rembert guilty of conspiracy, bank fraud, and wire fraud.

    As guardian, Byars had unfettered access to wards’ property including bank accounts, pensions, real estate, retirement accounts, and other assets. Byars stole money from the wards’ bank accounts by writing unauthorized checks to companies she controlled, or to shell companies controlled by her co-conspirators, Rembert and Alesha Mitchell. Rembert and Mitchell assisted Byars in the theft by opening bank accounts in their home state of Virginia in the names of shell companies purporting to be medical services companies. Byars made the checks payable to her co-conspirators’ fake medical services companies, to make it appear that the elderly incapacitated ward incurred a legitimate medical expense.

    After receiving dozens of checks from his sister, Rembert deposited over $695,000 in stolen ward checks into five separate shell business bank accounts he had opened. Rembert then withdrew over $388,000 in cash through 94 structured withdrawals. Rembert also obtained $217,082 in certified checks, sending the certified checks to Byars and keeping a share of the stolen ward money for himself. When confronted by law enforcement, Rembert lied to investigators, pretending that he provided services to the elderly and sick victims. Some of the victims’ families testified at Rembert’s trial, telling the court that they had never heard of Rembert’s sham medical companies, and that neither Rembert nor his companies provided any services for their loved ones.

    Rembert and Byars spent the stolen ward money on personal expenses, including vacations, clothing and other retail purchases, restaurants, vehicles, gifts, and parties. In all, Byers, Rembert, and Mitchell stole well over $1 million from at least 120 incapacitated people in the Eastern District of Pennsylvania.

    Alesha Mitchell is scheduled to be sentenced on October 24.

    “Rembert and his co-conspirators had no qualms about ripping off these incapacitated victims and living it up on their stolen money,” said U.S. Attorney Romero. “The greed and callousness here are off the charts. It’s vile that criminals target the elderly and infirm specifically to take advantage of their vulnerability. My office and our partners will continue to do all we can to hold these crooks responsible and protect our elders from such greed, fraud, and abuse.”

    “Elder fraud leaves a damaging impact on victims and our communities, and our office remains steadfast in pursuit of those who exploit this vulnerable population,” said Wayne A. Jacobs, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Philadelphia. “We encourage those who believe that they or a loved one are a victim of elder fraud to report it. Reporting elder fraud is not only a step towards justice, but it helps protect others from victimization.”

    “Carlton Rembert, together with his co-conspirator Gloria Byars, abused the trust of the most vulnerable among us – individuals who have been incapacitated by age, illness, or both. What they did was truly heinous – and truly criminal. I applaud United States Attorney Romero for prosecuting these individuals, in one of the first guardianship fraud cases to be prosecuted. Unfortunately, this type of fraud is increasing, and it is important for law enforcement to send a clear signal that it will not be tolerated,” said Delaware County District Attorney Jack Stollsteimer.

    “As a law enforcement community, it is our duty to hold individuals accountable who abuse their position of trust and steal from the people that are under their care,” said Amy MacNeely, Acting Special Agent in Charge of IRS Criminal Investigation. “We, along with our law enforcement partners and the Department of Justice, will continue to hold accountable those who exploit the most vulnerable among us.”

    The case was investigated by the FBI, the Delaware County District Attorney’s Office Criminal Investigation Division, and IRS Criminal Investigation and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Tiwana Wright and Samuel Dalke.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Burchett introduces bill to ensure VA hospitals have sexual assault nurse examiners

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Tim Burchett (R-TN)

    KNOXVILLE, Tenn., (Oct. 18, 2024) – Today, U.S. Congressman Tim Burchett (TN-02) introduced the bipartisan Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner in VA Hospitals (SANE VA) Act. Democrat Reps. Jared Moskowitz (FL-23) and Timothy M. Kennedy (NY-26) and Republican Reps. Nancy Mace (NC-01) and Anna Paulina Luna (FL-13) are co-sponsors.

    This bill would direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to ensure that sexual assault nurse examiners are employed at certain Department of Veterans Affairs medical facilities.

    “It’s an awful reality that some of our servicemembers are victims of sexual assault, and we need to make sure they get the care they need in those situations. These people put their safety on the line to protect our country, it’s our duty to care for them in return.” said Rep. Burchett.

    “As a survivor, I know how hard it can be to come forward. Less than half of women in the military trust their chain of command to properly handle reports of sexual assault — and that’s unacceptable. The SANE Act is about fixing this broken system. We’re making sure VA hospitals have the resources and trained professionals survivors need, so women and girls aren’t left to fend for themselves. It’s time we start holding people accountable and ensure no survivor is abandoned by the system.” Said Rep. Mace.

    “Our veterans deserve the most comprehensive healthcare possible, and that must include examinations and referrals for those who have been sexually assaulted. This is a critical piece of bipartisan legislation to support survivors who have risked their lives in service to our nation, and we owe it to our heroes to make this a priority.” Said Rep. Moskowitz.

    “We must ensure that Veterans who have suffered through traumatic sexual violence are heard and receive the support and justice they deserve. I am proud to back Congressman Burchett’s legislation to protect their well-being,” said Congresswoman Luna. “Nurse examiners who focus on sexual assault victims are crucial in providing the necessary forensic examinations for these survivors. We must guarantee this vital care within our VA medical facilities.” Said Rep. Luna.

    “VA healthcare must meet the needs of our veterans, especially when it comes to treating and documenting sexual assault,” said Rep. Kennedy. “But far too often, veterans seeking care after sexual assault are turned away. The SANE Act would require at least one practitioner who is qualified to conduct sexual assault forensic examinations at every VA hospital–empowering patients to get the treatment and documentation they need and deserve. This legislation would also direct providers to connect patients with mental health services to help ensure long-term recovery after sexual assault. I applaud Rep. Burchett for his leadership on this issue and call on my colleagues in the House to advance this critical legislation.”

    The full text of the bill can be found here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: N.C. State Archives Offers Symposium Commemorating 250th Anniversary of Edenton Tea Party

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: N.C. State Archives Offers Symposium Commemorating 250th Anniversary of Edenton Tea Party

    N.C. State Archives Offers Symposium Commemorating 250th Anniversary of Edenton Tea Party
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    From Edenton to Congress and from petitions to gubernatorial proclamations, women’s participation in North Carolina politics has risen for 250 years.

    Join the America 250 NC commemoration with the Friends of the Archives during a free hybrid symposium, “From Edenton to Congress.” This program in the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources Building in Raleigh (109 E. Jones St.) or online will share highlights of North Carolina women’s political history and relevant collections from the State Archives to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the Edenton Tea Party.

    The program will include new research on the 1774 Edenton women’s petition, a discussion of “Jane Pratt: North Carolina’s First Congresswoman,” by author Marion Deerhake, records from Governor Beverly Perdue’s administration, and remarks by League of Women Voters President Dianna Wynn.

    The event Friday, Nov. 1, from 1-5 p.m. will include a reception featuring yaupon tea — America’s native tea, courtesy of the Friends of the Archives, who also will be holding their annual meeting. Register in advance for online participation: https://www.zoomgov.com/webinar/register/WN_bYlWTvBmRfyUtDEwRHVhfA#/registration. For more information or to RSVP, please contact Danielle Shirilla, dani.shirilla@dncr.nc.gov or 919-814-6881.

    About the State Archives
    The State Archives serves as the custodian of North Carolina’s historical records, preserving and providing public access to a wealth of archival materials. Through its diverse collections, educational programs, and exhibitions, the State Archives plays a crucial role in promoting an understanding and appreciation of North Carolina’s rich historical legacy.

    About the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources
    The N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources (DNCR) manages, promotes, and enhances the things that people love about North Carolina – its diverse arts and culture, rich history, and spectacular natural areas. Through its programs, the department enhances education, stimulates economic development, improves public health, expands accessibility, and strengthens community resiliency.
    The department manages over 100 locations across the state, including 27 historic sites, seven history museums, two art museums, five science museums, four aquariums, 35 state parks, four recreation areas, dozens of state trails and natural areas, the North Carolina Zoo, the State Library, the State Archives, the N.C. Arts Council, the African American Heritage Commission, the American Indian Heritage Commission, the State Historic Preservation Office, the Office of State Archaeology, the Highway Historical Markers program, the N.C. Land and Water Fund, and the Natural Heritage Program. For more information, please visit www.dncr.nc.gov.
    Oct 18, 2024

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: The North Carolina Museum of History Seeks Fayetteville Community Input for Future Exhibits

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: The North Carolina Museum of History Seeks Fayetteville Community Input for Future Exhibits

    The North Carolina Museum of History Seeks Fayetteville Community Input for Future Exhibits
    jejohnson6

    WHAT: Fayetteville Community Gathering

    WHEN: Monday, Oct. 21, 6–7:30 p.m.

    WHERE: 225 Dick St., Fayetteville, NC 28301

    DETAILS: The North Carolina Museum of History invites community members in the Fayetteville area to participate in an open discussion to help shape the future of the museum’s exhibits. This is an opportunity for the public to share their thoughts on how the state’s layered history should be presented to future visitors.

    This event is open to all community members interested in contributing to the storytelling of North Carolina’s history at the state museum. During this gathering, participants will be asked to consider and discuss several key questions, including:

    • What makes North Carolina unique?
    • Who should be remembered at the state history museum, and whose stories should be highlighted?
    • What significant changes have taken place in your community over time?
    • How can the museum create a stronger connection with visitors from your community?
    • What advice would you give about how to represent your community’s history at the state museum?

    For more information and to register, click here.

    About the NC Museum of History

    The North Carolina Museum of History, a Smithsonian Affiliate, fosters a passion for North Carolina history. This museum collects and preserves artifacts of state history and educates the public on the history of the state and the nation through exhibits and educational programs. Admission is free. In 2023, more than 355,000 people visited the museum to see some of the 150,000 artifacts in the museum collection. The Museum of History, within the Division of State History Museums, is part of the NC Department of Natural and Cultural Resources.

    About the Smithsonian Affiliations Network

    Since 2006, the North Carolina Museum of History has been a Smithsonian Affiliate, part of a select group of museums and cultural, educational, and arts organizations that share Smithsonian resources with the nation. The Smithsonian Affiliations network is a national outreach program that develops long-term collaborative partnerships with museums and other educational and cultural organizations to enrich communities with Smithsonian resources. More information is available at affiliations.si.edu.

    About the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources

    The NC Department of Natural and Cultural Resources (DNCR) manages, promotes, and enhances the things that people love about North Carolina—its diverse arts and culture, rich history, and spectacular natural areas. Through its programs, the department enhances education, stimulates economic development, improves public health, expands accessibility, and strengthens community resiliency.

    The department manages more than 100 locations across the state, including 27 historic sites, seven history museums, two art museums, five science museums, four aquariums, 35 state parks, four recreation areas, dozens of state trails and natural areas, the NC Zoo, the State Library, the State Archives, the NC Arts Council, the African American Heritage Commission, the American Indian Heritage Commission, the State Historic Preservation Office, the Office of State Archaeology, the Highway Historical Markers program, the NC Land and Water Fund, and the Natural Heritage Program. For more information, please visit dncr.nc.gov.

    Oct 17, 2024

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Following Report That 30% of Border Patrol’s Cameras are Broken, Rep. Angie Craig Urges Vote on Bipartisan Border Agreement

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Angie Craig (MN-02)

    NBC News Investigation: “30% of the cameras in Border Patrol’s main surveillance system are broken, memo says

    WASHINGTON, DC – Following news reports that nearly one-third of the surveillance cameras used by U.S. Customs and Border Protection along the southern border are not working, U.S. Representative Angie Craig renewed her call for a vote on the bipartisan border agreement.

    In a letter to House Speaker Mike Johnson, Rep. Craig noted the bipartisan border deal negotiated earlier this year included $170 million for remote video surveillance towers and $47.5 million to update mobile surveillance systems along the southern border.

    “The safety and security of our nation’s southern border is nothing to play politics with. I’ve stood ready to pass comprehensive border security policy and funding legislation and I know colleagues on both sides of the aisle are ready to vote for this bill,” wrote Rep. Craig.

    Rep. Craig has been a leading voice for bipartisan border security reform – successfully urgingPresident Biden to take executive action to decrease illegal border crossings earlier this year.

    Over a year ago, Rep. Craig visited the southern border with 17 Republicans and urged bipartisan action to keep communities safe.

    Earlier this year, Rep. Craig joined the Democrats for Border Security Task Force and led the House effort to secure federal funding to install fentanyl scanners at the southern border.

    President Biden signed Rep. Craig’s bipartisan END FENTANYL Actinto law in March to help stop the smuggling of illicit fentanyl through U.S. ports of entry.

    Click here to read Rep. Craig’s letter to Speaker Johnson.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ‘Saturday at the QAR Lab’ Showcases Blackbeard’s Flagship

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: ‘Saturday at the QAR Lab’ Showcases Blackbeard’s Flagship

    ‘Saturday at the QAR Lab’ Showcases Blackbeard’s Flagship
    jejohnson6

    GREENVILLE

    Before it was a pirate ship, Queen Anne’s Revenge was known by another name.

    The ship, La Concorde, was a slave-trading vessel that became the infamous pirate Blackbeard’s flagship.

    Archaeological Conservators and Researchers with the N.C. Office of State Archaeology will explain the history of the ship Nov. 2 during their “Saturday at the QAR Lab” tours of the Queen Anne’s Revenge Conservation Lab in Greenville.

    Artifacts will be displayed, including gold grains, grenades and cannons recovered from the ship, which was wrecked near Beaufort Inlet over 300 years ago.

    Register for the “Saturday at the QAR Lab” for a free guided tour from the archaeologists and conservators responsible for preserving, documenting and investigating this ship with two names!

    Tours will run every 30 minutes from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. and last approximately 90 minutes. Space is limited, and reservations are required. Please arrive 10 minutes before your tour time. Tours are free and open to all ages, but registration is required.

    Visit https://www.qaronline.org/visit/saturday-at-the-qar-lab to reserve your tour time.

    The QAR Lab at East Carolina University is located at 1157 VOA Site C Rd., Greenville.

    For additional information, please call (252) 744-6721. The Queen Anne’s Revenge Shipwreck Project and Queen Anne’s Revenge Conservation Lab, and the Office of State Archaeology are within the N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources.

    About the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources
    The N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources (DNCR) manages, promotes, and enhances the things that people love about North Carolina – its diverse arts and culture, rich history, and spectacular natural areas. Through its programs, the department enhances education, stimulates economic development, improves public health, expands accessibility, and strengthens community resiliency.
    The department manages over 100 locations across the state, including 27 historic sites, seven history museums, two art museums, five science museums, four aquariums, 35 state parks, four recreation areas, dozens of state trails and natural areas, the North Carolina Zoo, the State Library, the State Archives, the N.C. Arts Council, the African American Heritage Commission, the American Indian Heritage Commission, the State Historic Preservation Office, the Office of State Archaeology, the Highway Historical Markers program, the N.C. Land and Water Fund, and the Natural Heritage Program. For more information, please visit www.dncr.nc.gov.
    Oct 17, 2024

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General James Urges Federal Court to Reverse Restrictions on Access to Abortion Medication Mifepristone

    Source: US State of New York

    NEW YORK – New York Attorney General Letitia James and a coalition of 17 attorneys general today filed an amicus brief in support of a district court decision finding that North Carolina can not impose unnecessary and burdensome restrictions to access mifepristone that were rejected by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The coalition filed an amicus brief in Bryant v. Stein, asking the United States Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit to uphold the district court’s decision. The coalition argues that mifepristone has been safely and widely used for decades, and barriers to accessing mifepristone can drive up medical risks for patients.

    “Mifepristone is a safe medication that has been used by millions of people, and these dangerous restrictions are causing real harm to people across the country,” said Attorney General James. “Reproductive health care should not be weaponized as a tool to win political points; it is a human right that should be accessible to everyone who needs it. I will always defend people’s reproductive rights and access to this critical health care.”

    Mifepristone is a historically safe, FDA-approved medication used for abortion, as well as for treatment of miscarriage. When the FDA first approved its use in 2000, it added conditions for its distribution to ensure safe use. Since then, pursuant to its federal mandate to balance drug safety with patient access, the FDA has adopted a risk evaluation and mitigation strategy (REMS) program for mifepristone. As required by federal law, the FDA has periodically reevaluated the mifepristone REMS program and has reduced the original restrictions imposed on mifepristone to better balance safety with access. 

    Since 2016, the FDA has removed certain restrictions on mifepristone access, such as the requirement to obtain mifepristone in person and from a physician, on the grounds that these restrictions neither improved patient safety nor adequately minimized burdens on the health care system. In 2023, North Carolina imposed various restrictions on the use and distribution of mifepristone, including many of the restrictions that were expressly removed by the FDA. The plaintiff, an abortion provider in North Carolina, sued to challenge the state restrictions as preempted by federal law. The district court held that, while states have broad authority to regulate health care, a state law that reimposes restrictions removed by the FDA under the agency’s statutory authority to create REMS would be preempted. The coalition’s amicus brief defends the district court’s decision as striking the proper balance between state authority and FDA regulation. 

    Joining Attorney General James in filing the brief are the attorneys general of California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Washington, and the District of Columbia. 

    Today’s action is the latest in Attorney General James’ efforts to defend access to reproductive care and protect reproductive freedom in New York and nationwide. In May, Attorney General James sued an anti-abortion group and 11 crisis pregnancy centers for promoting unproven abortion reversal treatment. In April, Attorney General James led a coalition of attorneys general in urging Congress to expand access to reproductive health services and pass the Access to Family Building Act. In March, Attorney General James co-led a multistate coalition of attorneys general and filed an amicus brief with the United States Supreme Court in Idaho v. U.S. and Moyle v. U.S., urging the court to maintain a preliminary injunction that required Idaho hospitals to provide emergency abortion care consistent with the federal Emergency Medical Treatment and Labor Act (EMTALA). In January, Attorney General James led a coalition of 24 attorneys general urging the U.S. Supreme Court to protect access to mifepristone. In December 2022, Attorney General James secured a court order to stop militant anti-abortion group Red Rose Rescue from blocking access to abortion care in New York.

    MIL OSI USA News –