DENVER – To encourage Coloradans to continue their education, Governor Jared Polis and the Department of Higher Education announced today that all 32 public colleges and universities in Colorado and several private institutions will allow students to apply for free from Tuesday, Oct. 15 through Thursday, Oct. 17, 2024, as part of the seventh annual Colorado Free Application Days. View Gov. Polis’ announcement in English and Spanish.
“We want to help Coloradans save money on college, and Free Application Days do exactly that. I encourage every Colorado student to take advantage of this opportunity to avoid application fees. In Colorado, we are focused on breaking down barriers to accessible, affordable education and connecting Coloradans to the skills necessary for a good-paying job and power Colorado’s thriving economy,” said Governor Polis.
The Colorado Department of Higher Education (CDHE) has posted admissions application and fee waiver information for each college and university that allows students to apply, from Oct. 15-17 only, with no application fees to as many participating institutions as they are interested in. For the fourth consecutive year, the program has been extended from one day to three days.
The Free Application Days campaign is a conscious effort by the state, designed to increase Colorado’s college-going and FAFSA and CASFA completion rates. This statewide push strategically aims to support low-income and first-generation students, while keeping Colorado students in state. According to 2023 numbers from CDHE’s Pathways to Prosperity Report, 49.9% of high school graduates enrolled in postsecondary education the fall after graduation (a slight decrease from 2020) – race and ethnicity enrollment gaps persist.
“We want Coloradans to shoot for the stars. Free Application Days supports students in achieving their postsecondary goals,” said Dr. Angie Paccione, executive director of CDHE. “If we increase FAFSA and CASFA completion through these two campaigns, then not only do our students and families benefit but Colorado benefits as a whole.”
During last year’s campaign, students turned in nearly 65,000 applications, and 44% came from students of color and over a third from first-generation students. Statewide, 2023 applications were up 1% compared to 2022.
By waiving application fees—a common barrier to higher education—Colorado Free Application Days aims to improve access to further education and training, which is becoming increasingly critical in the state’s rapidly changing economy. The 2023 Colorado Talent Pipeline Report identified that 94.7% of Tier 1 Top Jobs and 64.7% of Tier 2 Top Jobs required some type of postsecondary education past a high school diploma or equivalent to be relevant for a particular role and 70.4% of Tier 2 top jobs require a credential beyond high school. According to the Lumina Foundation, 60.5% of Coloradans 25 and older hold a postsecondary credential, indicating a supply-and-demand gap for some occupations.
In response to these workforce demands, the Colorado Commission on Higher Education set a strategic goal to increase the number of Coloradans benefiting from valuable career skills, obtained while in high school or via postsecondary education, that –at a minimum– enable additional lifetime earnings greater than the cost of attendance, in its statewide plan for higher education, Building Skills for an Evolving Economy. Increasing postsecondary enrollment and reducing equity gaps—the racial disparities in educational attainment—are priority strategies to improve access and reduce costs for Coloradans.
For more information, visit the Colorado Free Application Day webpage.
Treasurer Stacy Garrity Announces Major Milestone for Keystone Scholars
Treasurer Stacy Garrity joined representatives of Neighborhood Allies and Point Park University to celebrate more than $100 million saved by Keystone Scholars families in companion PA 529 College and Career Savings Program accounts.
Keystone Scholars automatically provides a $100 education investment for every baby born to, or adopted by, a Pennsylvania family since January 1, 2019, using no taxpayer money. PA 529 accounts provide a tax-advantaged way to save for post-high school education.
“Keystone Scholars is designed to encourage families to save early for education, and today’s announcement shows that it’s working,” Treasurer Garrity said. “Our oldest Keystone Scholars are already in kindergarten, and our youngest were born today. It’s tremendous to see so many families claiming their accounts and committing to saving for the future. Saving early and often will really pay off when a child picks their career path – no matter where it leads, whether it’s a four-year degree at Point Park University, community college, technical training, or an apprenticeship. Taking the first step is often the hardest part of saving, but Keystone Scholars does that for you.”
Speakers Include: Stacy Garrity, Pennsylvania Treasurer Toni Corinealdi, Senior Program Manager of Empowerment and Outreach, Neighborhood Allies Presley Gillespie, President and CEO, Neighborhood Allies Marlin Collingwood, VP of Enrollment Management, Point Park University
Governor Shapiro Encourages Travelers to Visit Pennsylvania’s State Parks and Experience Peak Fall Foliage, Unveils New Color-Correcting Viewfinders at Black Moshannon State Park
Governor Josh Shapiro and First Lady Lori Shapiro joined Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn at Black Moshannon State Park in Centre County to encourage travelers to visit Pennsylvania’s state parks this fall as trees reach peak color, showing once again that Pennsylvania is the Great American Getaway. While at Black Moshannon State Park, Governor Shapiro and First Lady unveiled new viewfinders installed at nine state parks that help visitors who are colorblind see the vibrant colors of Pennsylvania’s spectacular fall foliage.
“Pennsylvania is the place to be in the fall, with more than two million acres of state park forests and woodlands offering visitors one of the most colorful, brilliant displays of foliage anywhere in the world,” said Governor Shapiro. “Within a few hours’ drive for over 70 million Americans, Pennsylvania is the Great American Getaway – and we want everyone to be able to enjoy everything we have to offer. That’s why our team at DCNR has installed new viewfinders at nine state parks to help people with red-green colorblindness experience the full splendor of fall in Pennsylvania.”
This summer, Governor Shapiro launched Pennsylvania’s state tourism brand – The Great American Getaway – showcasing all the Commonwealth has to offer as a premier weekend getaway destination with thousands of attractions. Outdoor recreation adds $17 billion to Pennsylvania’s economy annually, supporting 164,000 jobs. Two weeks ago, the Shapiro Administration launched a new fall travel campaign to lean into Pennsylvania’s premier position as the place to experience the very best of autumn – from unrivaled fall foliage and the nation’s most historical haunts to the season’s best scents and treats.
Speakers Include: Mathias Weinzen, Black Moshannon State Park Manager Cindy Adams Dunn, DCNR Secretary Ta Enos, President and CEO, PA Wilds Center for Entrepreneurship Representative Paul Takac Scott Kolesar, Park Visitor Living with Colorblindness Governor Josh Shapiro
Lt. Governor Austin Davis Kicks Off Listening Tour to Inform the Work of the Office of Gun Violence Prevention
Lieutenant Governor Austin Davis and the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD) joined the Departments of Health, Human Services, Community and Economic Development, State Police, Military and Veterans Affairs, Office of the Victim Advocate and advocacy organizations CeaseFirePA, Everytown for Gun Safety, GIFFORDS, Johns Hopkins Center for Gun Violence Solutions, and others to kick off the first in a series of listening sessions that will inform the work of PCCD’s Office of Gun Violence Prevention.
“I believe every Pennsylvanian deserves to be safe and feel safe in their communities – and my Administration took real action to re-establish Pennsylvania’s Office of Gun Violence Prevention and put real resources behind this effort,” said Governor Shapiro. “Under Lieutenant Governor Davis’ leadership at PCCD, we are listening to Pennsylvanians about their experiences with gun violence and bringing together public safety and public health experts, gun violence survivors and advocates, and leaders from state and local agencies to address and prevent violence across the Commonwealth. We’re going to continue to work together to ensure that every Pennsylvanian has the real freedom that comes when you can walk down the street in your community without worrying about gun violence.”
List of Speakers: Lt. Governor Austin Davis PA Commission on Crime & Delinquency Executive Director Mike Pennington PA Commission on Crime & Delinquency Interim Director Samantha Koch Department of Health Secretary Dr. Debra Bogen Department of Human Services Executive Deputy Secretary Andrew Barnes Department of Education Secretary Dr. Khalid Mumin Office of Victim Advocate Suzanne Estrella Department of Human Services Deputy Secretary Andrew Barnes Department of Community & Economic Development Deputy Secretary Rick Vilello
Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Hank Johnson (GA-04)
Congressman files legislation that allows death row inmates the ability to introduce new evidence
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Rep. Hank Johnson (D-GA) announced that he has re-introduced the Effective Death Penalty Appeals Act, which would ensure that death row inmates have the opportunity to present newly discovered evidence of innocence.
Under current law, an inmate on death row can be stranded with no procedural options to appeal a conviction, even if there is compelling new evidence that he or she is innocent. Many states do not allow the accused to present newly uncovered evidence of innocence. The Effective Death Penalty Appeals Act would fix that injustice.
“We’ve got innocent people on death row right now with no opportunity to show compelling new evidence of innocence. The status quo is inhumane and unconstitutional,” said Rep. Johnson, ranking member of the Courts subcommittee. As a young lawyer just out of law school, Rep. Johnson successful defend a man on death row and won his freedom.
“I believe we should completely abolish the death penalty, but while 25 states – half of which are in the South – still have some form of capital punishment on their books and some states like Alabama, Texas and Georgia continue to hold state executions – America needs the Effective Death Penalty Appeals Act to help wrongly convicted people on death row present newly discovered evidence that they are innocent.” said Johnson.
The Effective Death Penalty Appeals Act would:
(1) empower the federal courts to grant habeas corpus relief for a prisoner on death row who presents newly discovered evidence that demonstrates probable innocence; and
(2) allow prisoners on death row to file successive federal habeas petitions if, and only if, they present newly discovered evidence that a federal three-judge panel determines may be reasonably expected to demonstrate innocence.
(3) in reaction to the Supreme Court case of Shinn v. Ramirez, this bill includes one additional provision. Some states do not allow ineffective assistance of counsel claims on direct appeal. Then in their habeas case, the court says they cannot rule on the issue because there is no evidence. This bill provides that death row inmates from those states who raise an ineffective assistance of counsel claim can have an evidentiary hearing on the issue.
If a federal court were to grant such a habeas corpus petition, the case would likely return to its original jurisdiction for retrial.
The release of more than 200 death row inmates in the United States since 1973 shows that our justice system is far from perfect. And since 1989, there have been more than 367 post-conviction DNA exonerations in the United States – 21 of which were prisoners on death row. The death penalty is the most final of sentences, and we have no way of knowing how many innocent people have been executed because of flaws in the system.
“When it comes to a human life, the courts must always be able to take a closer look at evidence that supports claims of innocence. We should never put an innocent person to death,” said Rep. Johnson.
Original Cosponsors: Chellie Pingree (ME), Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC), Schakowsky (IL).
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Alma Adams (12th District of North Carolina)
CHARLOTTE – Congresswoman Alma S. Adams, Ph.D. (NC-12) invites students, families, and teachers to attend the 12th Congressional District Military Service Academy Day. More information can be found below.
WHO:
Congresswoman Alma S. Adams, Ph.D.
Students, families, and teachers in the 12th district with interest in U.S. Service Academies.
Representatives from:
US Air Force Academy
US Naval Academy
US Coast Guard Academy
WHAT: An event providing a comprehensive overview of the Military Academies, the application processes, and nominations. Academy representatives will be present to discuss their respective programs.
WHERE: West Charlotte High School; 2219 Senior Drive, Charlotte, NC, 28216
Congresswoman Alma S. Adams, Ph.D. represents North Carolina’s 12th Congressional District (Charlotte, Mecklenburg County, Cabarrus County) and serves on the House Committee on Agriculture and the House Committee on Education & the Workforce, where she serves as ranking member of the Workforce Protections Subcommittee. For more information contact the Office of Congresswoman Alma Adams: (202)225-1510.
Headline: Floridians Must Listen to Local Authorities as Hurricane Milton Makes Landfall; FEMA Administrator Traveling to Florida Tonight Ahead of Landfall
Floridians Must Listen to Local Authorities as Hurricane Milton Makes Landfall; FEMA Administrator Traveling to Florida Tonight Ahead of Landfall
Hurricane Milton will be catastrophic; FEMA is working in close coordination with state and local officials
WASHINGTON – Ahead of Hurricane Milton’s landfall, FEMA Administrator Criswell will travel to Florida tonight to work alongside state and local officials as they prepare for the impacts of this catastrophic storm. Floridians in the storm’s path must continue following the instructions of local officials, as the storm is expected to bring destructive storm surge along portions of Florida’s west coast as well as devastating hurricane-force winds, heavy rainfall and life-threatening flooding across the Florida Peninsula.
Floridians in Milton’s path in vulnerable parts of the state have been ordered to evacuate. Those who have stayed behind are urged to go immediately. Many residents outside of mandatory evacuation zones will experience significant rain and hurricane force winds.
FEMA has over 1,000 responders on the ground in Florida supporting Milton and previous disasters. There are over 1,400 search and rescue personnel pre-staged to support Milton response efforts.
FEMA and its federal partners are leaning forward and already pre-positioned resources to support local and state response efforts ahead of Hurricane Milton. FEMA pre-staged seven FEMA Incident Management Assistance Teams, eight federal Urban Search & Rescue and swift water rescue teams, three U.S. Coast Guard Swift Water Rescue teams, 10HealthCare System Assessment Teams, two U.S Army Corps of Engineers temporary power teams, debris experts, Environmental Protection Agency wastewater experts, over 400 ambulances, 20 helicopters prepared to support media requirements following landfall, and 60 High Water Vehicles with ladders from the Department of Defense.
Additionally, FEMA has five incident staging bases with commodities including food and water. Right now, FEMA has 20 million meals and 40 million liters of water ready to deploy to address ongoing Helene and Milton response efforts with capacity to expand as needed.
President Biden granted emergency declarations for the state of Florida and the Seminole Tribe of Florida for Hurricane Milton, enabling FEMA to provide direct assistance to the state, local and tribal response, preposition supplies and response assets and mobilize hundreds of personnel in the state, many of whom were already in place supporting the Hurricane Helene response.
Stay Safe in the Storm
Those in the path of Hurricane Milton should take every precaution as the storm passes through.
Move to higher ground: Free shuttles are operating this morning in Manatee, Pinellas, Pasco, Hillsborough and Sarasota counties. To locate shuttle locations, visit www.FloridaDisaster.org/updates. Residents may also use Uber code MILTONRELIEF to receive free Uber ride to a shelter.
Shelter in place: Do not attempt to travel during the storm. Hurricane winds are expected to impact a significant portion of the state, far away from the eye of the storm. Flash flooding, tornadoes, high-velocity debris, fallen trees and power lines will pose a significant danger.
If you do not feel safe in your home: A list of emergency shelters, including those that can accommodate people who need assistance and those who have pets can be found at Shelter Status | Florida Disaster. If you plan to go to a shelter, do so before the storm arrives.
Stay out of floodwater: Walking or driving through flood waters is extremely dangerous. Standing water may be electrically charged from underground or downed power lines or contain hazards such as wild or stray animals, human and livestock waste, and chemicals that can lead to illness.
Be prepared for service outages:
Fill and freeze empty water bottles to help keep food cool in the event of a power outage. Fill your bathtub so you have a clean water supply in the event of water service disruption.
Charge all electronic devices, then put them in low power or battery saver mode. While cell service and power may be disrupted during the storm, your phone is a lifeline to family, friends, emergency assistance and alerts. Preserve your batteries so your devices are ready if you need them. Text messages or social network sites may be the best way to get in touch with family and friends as Hurricane Milton moves through the state.
Use only flashlights or battery-powered lanterns for emergency lighting. Never use candles during a blackout or power outage due to extreme risk of fire.
When using generators, always use them outdoors and at least 20 feet from windows, doors and attached garages. Make sure to keep the generator dry and protected from rain or flooding.
On October 5, 2024, as a result of the vigilance of staff members, a package containing contraband and unauthorized items was seized in the medium-security unit at Mission Institution.
October 9, 2024 – Mission, British Columbia – Correctional Service Canada
On October 5, 2024, as a result of the vigilance of staff members, a package containing contraband and unauthorized items was seized in the medium-security unit at Mission Institution.
The contraband and unauthorized items seized included 816 grams of crystal methamphetamine, four SD cards, two charging cables, and one charging block. The total estimated institutional value of these seizures is $575,500.
The police have been notified and the institution is investigating.
CSC is heightening measures to prevent contraband from entering its institutions in order to help ensure a safe and secure environment for everyone. CSC also works in partnership with the police to take action against those who attempt to introduce contraband into correctional institutions.
CSC has also set up a telephone tip line for all federal institutions so that it may receive additional information about activities relating to security at CSC institutions. These activities may be related to drug use or trafficking that may threaten the safety and security of visitors, inmates, and staff members working at CSC institutions.
The toll-free number, 1‑866‑780‑3784, helps ensure that the information shared is protected and that callers remain anonymous.
The Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, the Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, will be participating in a fireside chat with the Toronto Regional Board of Trade.
TORONTO — The Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, the Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, will be participating in a fireside chat with the Toronto Regional Board of Trade.
Date: October 10, 2024
Time: 9:30 a.m. ET
Later that day, Minister Wilkinson and Julie Dabrusin, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Environment and Climate Change and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, will make a clean energy announcement. A media availability will follow.
Date: October 10, 2024
Time: 2 p.m. ET
All accredited media are asked to pre-register for the afternoon announcement by emailing media@nrcan-rncan.gc.ca. A dial-in line is available for media and will be provided upon registration.
Iceland was elected to the United Nations Human Rights Council today at the UN General Assembly in New York. Nineteen countries put forward their candidatures for eighteen available seats on the Council for a three-year term from 2025 to 2027. Iceland’s candidature is supported by all Nordic States.
“We are grateful for the broad support we received in today’s election. Serving on the Human Rights Council is a great responsibly that Iceland takes seriously,” says Thórdís Kolbrún Reykfjörd Gylfadóttir, Minister for Foreign Affairs. Iceland received 174 out of 183 votes in the election.
Iceland has previously been a Member of the Council for half a term in 2018-2019, filling the seat vacated by the United States.
“The international community is facing significant challenges with human rights increasingly under threat in too many places. Our main priority for our upcoming term on the Council will be working together with other states to promote and protect human rights for all. We will focus especially on gender equality, children’s rights and LGBTQI+ rights,” said Thórdís Kolbrún.
The Human Rights Council consists of 47 countries, based in Geneva. Of these, seven represent the group of Western European and other states (WEOG), thirteen are from Africa, thirteen from the Asia-Pacific region, eight from Latin American and Caribbean countries, and six from Eastern European countries.
The Honourable Mark Holland, Minister of Health, and the Honourable Ya’ara Saks, Minister of Mental Health and Addictions and Associate Minister of Health, issued a joint message during Breast Cancer Awareness Month to highlight the Government of Canada’s progress on the breast cancer screening and prevention action plan.
October 9, 2024 | Ottawa, Ontario | Public Health Agency of Canada
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a period when we come together to support and honor those impacted by this disease.
Breast cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer and the second leading cause of cancer-related death among womenFootnote * living in Canada. One in eight women is expected to be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime.
Raising awareness of breast cancer screening, which aims to detect cancer at an earlier, more treatable stage, is crucial for the Government of Canada. We are dedicated to advancing women’s health through comprehensive breast cancer screening and prevention efforts. We are also taking action by collaborating with partners and stakeholders to address identified gaps in breast cancer research.
The Canadian Institutes of Health Research has invested almost $140 million over the past five years to advance breast cancer research in Canada. Through more than 500 grants and awards, these investments are supporting cutting-edge research to prevent, detect, and treat breast cancer more effectively.
For example, researchers from Sunnybrook Hospital Research Institute are using artificial intelligence to develop more personalized breast cancer screening strategies; a team from the University of Saskatchewan is developing new techniques that combine radiation therapy and the body’s immune system to target breast cancer; and a project led by McGill researchers is examining how to prevent breast cancer from spreading to surrounding tissues. With support from the Government of Canada, the Canadian Partnership Against Cancer is refining its OncoSim-Breast microsimulation model, a tool used in the development of more effective breast cancer prevention and treatment policies.
The Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) is working closely with Statistics Canada to conduct analyses of national cancer trends. They are looking at differences in breast cancer rates based on where people live, their age and ethnicity, and how advanced it is when people are diagnosed. Statistics Canada is also examining data on access to, and participation in, breast cancer screening by mammography to fill identified data gaps. These initiatives will enhance our understanding of the current state of breast cancer in Canada.
Breast cancer touches the lives of so many, either through a personal diagnosis or that of a loved one. We strongly believe that nobody should have to face this alone. If you or a loved one is having difficulty coping with a cancer diagnosis, there are many ways you can seek support. Visit Canada.ca/mental-health or visit the Canadian Cancer Society’s community services locator, which helps cancer patients, caregivers and healthcare providers find the services they need to feel supported.
Let’s empower everyone to make informed health care decisions, supported by the best available science and evidence.
Reference
Footnote *
Cisgendered women and other adults assigned female at birth, such as transgender men and nonbinary people
Matthew Kronberg Press Secretary Office of the Honourable Mark Holland Minister of Health 343-552-5654
Yuval Daniel Director of Communications Office of the Honourable Ya’ara Saks Minister of Mental Health and Addictions and Associate Minister of Health 819-360-6927
As the global economy faces increasing fiscal challenges, multilateral surveillance of fiscal developments has become an important part of the IMF’s surveillance responsibilities. The Fiscal Monitor series provides an overview of latest public finance developments, updates the medium-term fiscal outlook, and assesses fiscal implications of policies relevant to the global economy.
RELEASE DATES
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 15 @ 12 AM ET: Chapter 1: Putting a Lid on Public Debt
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 23 @ 9:00 AM ET: Press Briefing, Full Report & MSA APPENDIX
The chapter will be available for download on this page starting October 15. Stay tuned for updates!
About the U.S. Army:
The Army Mission – our purpose – remains constant: To deploy, fight and win our nation’s wars by providing ready, prompt & sustained land dominance by Army forces across the full spectrum of conflict as part of the joint force.
The World Economic Outlook (WEO) is a survey of prospects and policies by the IMF staff, usually published twice a year, with updates in between. It presents analyses and projections of the world economy in the near and medium term, which are integral elements of the IMF’s surveillance of economic developments and policies in its member countries and of the global economic system.
RELEASE DATES
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 16, 9 AM ET: Chapter 2: The Great Tightening: Insights from the Recent Inflation Episode
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 16, 11 AM ET: Chapter 3: Understanding the Social Acceptability of Structural Reforms
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 22, 9:00 AM ET: Press Briefing: World Economic Outlook
The chapters will be available for download on this page starting on October 16. Stay tuned for updates!
VISAKHAPATNAM, INDIA – Australia, Japan, and U.S. forces joined the host Indian Navy for an opening ceremony to celebrate the launch of field-training exercise Malabar 2024 in Vishakhapatnam, India, on Oct. 9.
The ceremony and associated shore-phase activities will be followed by scheduled at-sea exercises involving in the Bay of Bengal, India.
“I’m fired up to be here today with my counterparts as our navies train together in the Indian Ocean to strengthen our combat readiness, maritime integration, and interoperability,” said Adm. Steve Koehler, commander, U.S. Pacific Fleet. “Malabar is a great example of a combined team operating together in order to deter conflict and reinforce our shared commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific.”
This year marks the 28th iteration of the Malabar exercise, which began in 1992 as a bilateral exercise between the United States and India. The exercise has since evolved in scope and complexity and now includes Japan and Australia. This marks the fifth time that all four nations have participated in Malabar to advance the collective planning, integration and employment of advanced warfare tactics across participating nations.
“Malabar 2024 reaffirms Indian Navy’s commitment to maritime security and cooperation among like-minded nations in the Indo-Pacific,” said Vice Adm. Rajesh Pendharkar, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Eastern Naval Command (ENC). “Our joint efforts aim to enhance operational synergy and foster stronger bonds of friendship. Together, we look towards safeguarding our shared values and achieve peace and stability in the region.”
At-sea exercises are scheduled to include combined training in the surface, sub-surface, air and information domains.
Eight ships and nearly a dozen aircraft are scheduled to take part in the exercise.
“It has been 17 years since the JMSDF participated in Malabar for the first time in 2007,” said JMSDF Vice Adm. Katsushi Omachi, commander in chief, Self Defense Fleet. “I believe Malabar will contribute to the peace and stability, as well as the rules-based maritime order, which lead to a free and open Indo-Pacific. Japan-U.S.-India-Australia collaboration is now getting closer than before and I am expecting the multilateral bonds among the navies will deepen.”
Representing the U.S. in the exercise are a P-8 Poseidon aircraft assigned to Commander, Task Force 72 and the Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyer USS Dewey (DDG 105), which operates under Commander, Task Force 70 and Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 15, the Navy’s largest DESRON and the U.S. 7th Fleet’s principal surface force.
The Murasame-class destroyer JS Ariake (DD 109) is representing the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force. Australia is represented by the Royal Australian Navy Anzac-class frigate HMAS Stuart (FFH 153) and a Royal Australian Air Force P-8A Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft. The host contingent from India includes the first-in-class guided-missile destroyer INS Delhi (D 61), as well as at least four other surface combatants and aircraft.
Australian, Indian, Japanese, and U.S. maritime forces routinely operate together across the Indo-Pacific in support of regional security and stability.
“Exercise Malabar is a significant Indo-Pacific maritime activity that deepens interoperability and collaboration among key regional partners,” Australia’s Joint Force Maritime Component Commander, Commodore Jonathan Ley, said. “Australia has participated in previous iterations of Exercise Malabar, was honoured to host the exercise in 2023 and is pleased to participate again in 2024 as part of the Australian Defence Force’s ongoing program of regional presence and engagement.”
The lead of this year’s exercise is India. The Malabar planning and exercise lead rotates each year among participating nations, along with the exercise location to demonstrate the combined ability to exercise across the entire Western Pacific and Indian Ocean.
U.S. 7th Fleet is the U.S. Navy’s largest forward-deployed numbered fleet, and routinely interacts and operates with allies and partners in preserving a free and open Indo-Pacific region.
The World Economic Outlook (WEO) is a survey of prospects and policies by the IMF staff, usually published twice a year, with updates in between. It presents analyses and projections of the world economy in the near and medium term, which are integral elements of the IMF’s surveillance of economic developments and policies in its member countries and of the global economic system.
RELEASE DATES
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 16, 9 AM ET: Chapter 2: The Great Tightening: Insights from the Recent Inflation Episode
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 16, 11 AM ET: Chapter 3: Understanding the Social Acceptability of Structural Reforms
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 22, 9:00 AM ET: Press Briefing: World Economic Outlook
The chapters will be available for download on this page starting on October 16. Stay tuned for updates!
As the global economy faces increasing fiscal challenges, multilateral surveillance of fiscal developments has become an important part of the IMF’s surveillance responsibilities. The Fiscal Monitor series provides an overview of latest public finance developments, updates the medium-term fiscal outlook, and assesses fiscal implications of policies relevant to the global economy.
RELEASE DATES
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 15 @ 12 AM ET: Chapter 1: Putting a Lid on Public Debt
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 23 @ 9:00 AM ET: Press Briefing, Full Report & MSA APPENDIX
The chapter will be available for download on this page starting October 15. Stay tuned for updates!
Headline: How AI is poised to transform air travel, from reservations and check-in to baggage handling
Introducing a new industry reference architecture for airlines and airports
The aviation industry is entering a new era: airlines and airports worldwide are on the brink of transformation, driven by the power of generative AI. This powerful technology is creating new value at every stage of the aviation ecosystem, revolutionizing the way we fly and operate. From personalized travel offers to instant responses for customer service requests, AI is enhancing every step of your journey, making travel smoother and more personalized than ever before.
Generative AI is also transforming the core operations of airlines and airports. Research shows that up to 35% of flight delays can be reduced through AI-powered decision-making—saving time, reducing stress, and increasing safety for both travelers and staff.1
AI is also reshaping the workforce. With streamlined tasks and smarter tools, staff can dedicate more time to enhancing the passenger experience—both on the ground and in the air. AI-powered personalization can increase revenue per passenger by 10 to 15%. At the same time, intelligent AI chatbots can reduce customer service costs by up to 30%, creating significant value for both airlines and airports.2
This is the future of aviation. AI is not just a tool—it’s a revolution, creating value across the entire industry. Microsoft has developed a new industry reference architecture enabling AI for a seamless traveler journey, efficient airline operations, and enhanced airport operations.
Create connected mobility experiences with AI-powered solutions >
Seamless traveler journey
The experience begins the moment a traveler considers a trip. They can interact with an AI-powered mobile app to explore options, book flights, and receive personalized recommendations. Throughout their journey, the app serves as a digital assistant, providing real-time updates on flight status, gate changes, and the weather at the destination. At the airport, travelers can navigate through a touchless experience, from check-in to security, using biometric identification and e-boarding passes on their mobile devices. The app continues to assist by guiding them to their gate, offering lounge access, and updating any travel alerts.
Once on board, the digital assistant ensures a comfortable experience by allowing travelers to control in-flight entertainment, order food and items from the onboard shop, and adjust seating preferences through their mobile device. The journey concludes with the app facilitating a smooth arrival process, including customs and baggage claim guidance, and arranging for ground transportation. Throughout this journey, AI and machine learning algorithms work behind the scenes to anticipate needs, offer timely assistance, and personalize the travel experience.
Air India passengers, for example, now get answers to all their questions from planning to arrival at their fingertips. Their AI.g virtual assistant, powered by Microsoft AI services, quickly proposes a travel itinerary for passengers, finds answers about check-in options and flight status, recommends the best food options, finds the next business lounge or helps with lost luggage. Another example is Saudia Airlines. The flag carrier of Saudi Arabia developed an AI-powered travel companion for their passengers using Microsoft technology to enable travel-related services like: planning and booking, refund management, and exploring new destinations.
Efficient airline operations
AI working on data platforms enhances efficiency and customer experience across various segments of the airline value chain.
In aircraft handling, AI-powered predictive maintenance can forecast potential issues before they occur, minimizing downtime and ensuring timely operations. Ground support equipment can be optimized using AI algorithms to streamline processes and reduce delays.
In ground operations, AI can manage complex logistics, from baggage handling to fuel management, by analyzing vast amounts of data to optimize workflows and resource allocation. This leads to smoother operations and can significantly reduce turnaround times for aircraft.
Flight operations benefit from AI through advanced analytics that can assist in route planning, weather forecasting, and fuel consumption optimization. By leveraging historical data and real-time inputs, AI can provide pilots and flight planners with insights that lead to safer and more cost-effective flights.
For marketing and sales, AI enables personalized customer experiences by analyzing customer data to tailor offerings and promotions. This can lead to increased customer loyalty and revenue as airlines can offer the right product to the right customer at the right time.
In customer support, AI-powered chatbots and virtual assistants provide around the clock support, handling inquiries and resolving issues promptly. This not only improves customer satisfaction but also frees up human agents to deal with more complex queries, enhancing overall service quality.
Lufthansa, for example, developed the one data platform built on Microsoft Azure to provide self-service applications and leverage cognitive AI services like image and speech recognition.
“Leveraging Microsoft Azure’s robust cloud capabilities, we’ve transformed Lufthansa’s operations with a unified data platform. This innovation empowers us to optimize every aspect of our service, from ground operations to in-flight experiences, ensuring punctuality and safety across our global network—continuing to use AI will help us advance to the level.”
Ganesh Swaminathan, Head of Platforms, Lufthansa Group Digital Hangar
American Airlines, the world’s largest airline, is using Azure as its preferred cloud platform. Their team members now use the ConnectMe app for the latest crew information while the airline is using AI to reduce taxi time and turn times at gates.
Microsoft AI
Enhanced airport operations
Generative AI and data platforms also play a pivotal role in enhancing airport operations, catering to the needs of tens of thousands of passengers daily. Airports can optimize their critical infrastructure management, such as energy, water, and climate control. The integration of AI into security and emergency services significantly enhances their capabilities, providing a safer and more secure environment for travelers. Connected transportation systems such as buses and trains benefit from predictive analytics and real-time data processing capabilities, leading to improved scheduling and passenger flow management.
In the realm of commerce, which encompasses retail stores and restaurants within the airport, generative AI and data platforms offer valuable insights into consumer behavior, enabling businesses to tailor their services and inventory to meet the dynamic needs of passengers.
The logistics and supply chains for cargo, fuel, and baggage are also transformed by these technologies, with AI-powered systems facilitating better tracking, forecasting, and management of resources. This results in a more streamlined and cost-effective operation, reducing delays and enhancing the overall passenger experience. Fraport has introduced FraportGPT, an example of an employee-facing app powered by Microsoft Azure OpenAI Service to streamline internal processes.
“Fraport’s company GPT app, powered by Generative AI, has been a resounding success, swiftly adopted by our team. It’s not just streamlined our processes; it’s accelerated skill acquisition, empowering our employees to master new competencies with unprecedented speed.”
Christian Wrobel, Chief Data Architect, Fraport AG
Together with Microsoft, Miami International Airport (MIA) has developed a centralized data hub environment, known as the Common Data Environment (CDE), to store, manage, and share business data, apps, and business process flows. This is crucial for breaking down data silos and ensuring data accessibility for analysis and helps unlocking additional value from generative AI.
“By integrating various data sources, including on-premises, cloud, and edge environments, we provide a unified and scalable platform for data management. This is the basis, and together with our partner Microsoft we will now be able to leverage advanced technologies such as AI, machine learning, and IoT to gain insights, make data-driven decisions, and drive innovation.”
Maurice Jenkins, Chief Innovation Officer, Miami International Airport
The overarching reference architecture and partners
Our common architecture for airports and airlines is built among core elements with the ultimate goal to create AI-enhanced experiences for everyone, from passengers to ground personnel: the creation of user-facing applications, data storage and analytics, and data ingestion and integration of existing data systems.
Figure 1: Industry reference architecture for airlinesFigure 2: Industry reference architecture for airports
The AI-enhanced experiences are tailored to each user group.
For passengers, it is all about a smooth journey from origin to destination, with plenty of time to enjoy travel with retail, entertainment, and restaurant offers.
Ground staff and customer service focus on making the passenger experience smooth, even when something goes wrong.
Pilots and crew members require support for coordination, communication, and the reduction of their management overload.
For technicians, it is about knowing where to go next, reducing cognitive workload for maintenance and repair tasks, and automating documentation.
Terminal managers require support to manage traffic, ensure security, and provide travel comfort.
For airside operators, it is about managing baggage, refueling, and safety.
Different user groups require different backend applications and data sources. The user-facing applications layer describes some of the common front-end experiences that can be built using Microsoft services.
End users require mobile and web applications built using services such as Azure API Management, Azure App Service and Azure Functions. Developers create AI-powered user experiences leveraging services such as Azure OpenAI Service. These applications can be deployed in Azure tenants and can scale to millions of users.
Business users leverage Dynamics 365 (Customer Service, Finance, Project Operations, and Customer Insights) to manage business operations, such as claims, promotions, and ticketing. Dynamics 365 has built-in custom agents for many common business use cases such as customer service, sales, finance, field service, and customer insights.
Front line workers are fully integrated in the business with customized workflows and automated operations with custom AI, tailored to their needs and the ergonomics of their workplaces—wherever fixed terminals, mobile devices, or augmented reality. Microsoft Copilot Studio facilitates the creation of custom AI agents to support their work. Power Apps enables the creation of custom user interfaces, while Power Automate enables the creation of business workflows.
With Microsoft 365 Copilot, employees can collaborate and communicate using Microsoft products such as Microsoft Teams, SharePoint, and Outlook.
The operation of airports and airlines generates large amounts of data. The data storage and analytics layer describes how to securely store business data to support operations and create insights.
Microsoft Dataverse is a scalable data platform that securely stores and manage business data. The data model is a structure framework that organizes data in tables with relationships. It is possible to use industry models to harmonize and integrate business data across multiple applications.
Microsoft Fabric is an end-to-end data and analytics platform that includes real-time analytics capabilities. OneLake is a unified logical data lake that centralizes and simplifies data management, with multiple analytical engines and workspaces. Fabric enables organizations to process and analyze data for timely insights and decision making.
Airports and airlines are established businesses. It is important to integrate existing data systems, such as connected assets as well as existing systems. Messaging services on Azure enables connectivity to assets and devices using standardized communication protocols such as Message Queuing Telemetry Transport (MQTT) with Azure Event Grid, or data streams like Apache Kafka using Azure Event Hubs. Serverless solutions like Azure Functions provide compute to process messages.
We’re also proud to collaborate with leading partners driving innovation in aviation.
Amadeus and Microsoft have formed a global strategic partnership that harnesses cloud technology to innovate and explore new products and solutions and create smoother travel experiences.
SAP deployments on Azure provide robust cloud solutions tailored to customer needs.
Our partnership with SITA, and their SITA Mission Control solution, helps duty personnel anticipate and respond to real-time changes during flight operations.
We also integrate independent software vendors (ISVs), such as SmartKargo, PROS, and Satavia, to contribute to a smarter, more connected aviation ecosystem.
Creating frontline worker experiences
Frontline worker experiences are highly customized to the task and require constant adaptation. The power of low-code platforms like Power Apps and Copilot Studio significantly reduce the time to value, allowing for rapid development and deployment of tailored solutions. These platforms enable the integration of multiple data sources, such as location-based services, logistical information from Dynamics 365, and documentation search. Additionally, task support is enhanced through the use of knowledge graphs and manuals, while collaboration and information regarding connected assets are seamlessly incorporated.
Figure 3: Terminal maintenance experience
Overcoming the challenges of using AI in aviation
While the potential of AI in aviation is immense, there are key challenges: defining the most valuable AI use cases, setting up cloud infrastructure, organizing the data estate, and minimizing costs during development, testing, and deployment phases.
Microsoft addresses the challenges of AI in aviation by working closely with partners, establishing a framework for responsible and trusted AI principles, and leveraging its comprehensive suite of tools and services. It helps define valuable AI use cases through collaborative workshops and industry-specific solutions. Azure provides scalable cloud infrastructure, while Microsoft Dataverse and OneLake streamline data management. Cost efficiency is achieved through optimized development, testing, and deployment processes. Additionally, Microsoft provides extensive training programs to equip employees with necessary AI skills and collaborates with regulatory bodies to ensure compliance with legal frameworks governing AI usage.
Moving forward with generative AI in aviation
Taking advantage of generative AI requires a pragmatic approach, where existing solutions are combined with new capabilities and partner solutions. Correctly identifying the use cases with the highest priority and impact is critical for success.
Visit Microsoft for travel and transportation or contact our team to learn more and take the next step in your AI journey.
“We’re excited to introduce our new reference architecture for the aviation industry, built on Azure’s cloud capabilities and advanced AI tools. What truly makes this effort stand out is our collaboration with leading aviation partners. Together with our partners, we’re shaping the future of the aviation industry.”
Julie Shainock, Managing Director Travel & Transportation Industry, Microsoft
“Microsoft’s Industry Solutions team is ready to help you deliver and implement AI-driven solutions across your organization: From a first [proof of concept] POC to full-scale rollouts, we are dedicated to providing the expertise you need to ensure a smooth and successful deployment.”
Eric Chaniot, General Manager of AI Industry Solutions, Microsoft
“At Microsoft Cloud for Industries, we are committed to empowering our partners with proven patterns and comprehensive enablement resources. By leveraging our industry-specific solutions and collaborative approach, we help partners accelerate innovation, streamline operations, and deliver exceptional value so that their customers can achieve more.”
Monica Ugwi, General Manager Cloud for Industries, Manufacturing & Mobility, Microsoft
1Worldmetrics: AI in the Airline Industry, 2024.
2The economic potential of generative AI, McKinsey & Co., 2023.
Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime News
FBI agents often dust for fingerprints to track down criminals and unravel complex cases. But this mission was different. The fingerprints here are not about solving crimes—they are about providing answers in the face of a tragedy that devastated parts of their community.
After deadly floods swept through East Tennessee and Western North Carolina last week, the FBI has joined local authorities in the grim task of identifying victims. Special agents from the FBI’s Johnson City Resident Agency are working alongside the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI) and the Northeast Regional Medical Examiner’s Office at East Tennessee State University, employing cutting-edge technology to provide grieving families with some semblance of closure.
In a region mostly unfamiliar with natural disasters, the flood’s devastation has left communities reeling. But the FBI’s involvement here is somewhat atypical. Known usually for connecting crime scenes to criminals, the FBI’s fingerprint expertise is being used not to solve crimes but to reunite families with loved ones.
“When you’re doing this, you still take extra care because that was a human and that was somebody’s loved one, it was somebody’s mother, brother, sister,” said Special Agent Paul Durant, who has been with the FBI for five years. “It’s tough, but it’s rewarding to know that we can provide some answers to families who are suffering.”
Durant, alongside Special Agent Reanna O’Hare, used electronic fingerprint devices to collect prints from victims, sometimes resorting to advanced forensic methods to recover identities. The fingerprints were sent directly to the FBI Laboratory in Quantico, Virginia, using smartphone technology, streamlining what can otherwise be a lengthy process.
FBI Special Agent Paul Durant at the William L. Jenkins Northeast Tennessee Regional Forensics Center where agents have been working with state and local partners to help identify flood victims from North Carolina and Tennessee.
The process is both emotionally and physically taxing. The agents often had to work with severely compromised remains made unidentifiable through traditional means. Some victims were swept across state lines from North Carolina into Tennessee, compounding the challenge.
“The first time I walked into the morgue, I was hit with a sense of disbelief,” Durant said. “I had never been to a medical examiner’s office before, so it was surreal. You know what your job is, but it doesn’t fully sink in until you’re standing there, face to face with the victims. That’s when it becomes real, and you switch into work mode. There were days when it was overwhelming—seeing the destruction and hearing the stories. But at the end of the day, knowing we can help identify these victims and bring some comfort to their families makes it all worth it.”
Special Agent O’Hare, who has served as the senior team leader on the Knoxville FBI’s Evidence Response Team, echoed the sentiment: “And just seeing the pictures and knowing that people have lost everything, including their family members, it’s devastating.”
The FBI’s files only have fingerprints that are lawfully collected and the identification effort was not without its technical challenges. In several cases, agents had to use advanced forensic techniques to obtain usable prints. This method, often seen as a last resort in forensic work, is both unsettling and necessary for precise identification.
“Knowing we have this unique access to national fingerprint files that others might not is critical,” said O’Hare, emphasizing the FBI’s role in tapping into Department of Defense and Department of Homeland Security databases. “We’ve been able to identify some victims who otherwise might have remained unknown.”
The FBI’s efforts in these floods are part of a broader collaboration with local and state authorities. Special Agent J.D. Anderson, the aupervisory senior resident agent overseeing the efforts in Johnson City, stressed the importance of such partnerships. “Our hearts go out to the families affected by this tragedy. We are committed to doing everything in our power with our partners to bring them closure.”
“It’s not just about the fingerprints; it’s about the people and the families we’re serving,” said Joe Carrico, special agent in charge of the FBI in Tennessee. “Our role is to support our state and local partners in bringing answers to those who need them most. In moments like these, it’s impossible not to feel the weight of that responsibility.”
Durant and O’Hare relied heavily on the Mobile Biometrics Application (MBA) and Special Processing Center (SPC) teams to expedite the identification of victims. These specialized units, operating out of the FBI’s Criminal Justice Information Services in West Virginia, provided agents in the field with real-time support, often pulling fingerprints and running them through reference files within minutes. In some cases, results were returned in as little as 15 to 20 minutes, streamlining the identification process during critical moments.
The MBA team, in particular, played a vital role by not only processing prints swiftly but also actively monitoring quality control and troubleshooting more difficult cases. When automated systems didn’t yield a match, the SPC team took over, applying manual processes to assist with identification. This seamless coordination between field agents and the FBI’s lab-based experts highlights the bureau’s ability to deploy advanced technology in disaster zones, ensuring that victims’ families receive answers as quickly as possible.
While working to bring closure to grieving families, the agents also feel the storm’s personal impact. Special Agent O’Hare’s daughter and grandchildren evacuated from North Carolina to stay with her in Upper East Tennessee after being displaced by power loss. They plan to return to their town later this week now that power has been restored. “I joined the FBI to help people,” O’Hare said. “In situations like this, that’s why I am doing my very small part to try to provide some closure for the families of the victims.”
Launch of the October 2024 Global Financial Stability Report
The Global Financial Stability Report provides an assessment of the global financial system and markets, and addresses emerging market financing in a global context. It focuses on current market conditions, highlighting systemic issues that could pose a risk to financial stability and sustained market access by emerging market borrowers. The Report draws out the financial ramifications of economic imbalances highlighted by the IMF’s World Economic Outlook. It contains, as special features, analytical chapters or essays on structural or systemic issues relevant to international financial stability.
RELEASE DATES
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 15, 9 AM ET: Chapter 3: Advances in Artificial Intelligence: Implications for Capital Market Activities
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 15, 12 PM ET: Chapter 2: Macrofinancial Stability Amid High Economic Uncertainty
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 22, 10:15 AM ET: Press Briefing: Global Financial Stability Report
The chapters will be available for download on this page starting on October 15. Stay tuned for updates!
A 61-year-old man from Moncton, N.B., has been sentenced in connection with an investigation into child pornography.
The investigation, led by the New Brunswick RCMP’s Internet Child Exploitation (ICE) Unit, began in April 2022, following information received from the RCMP’s National Child Exploitation Crime Centre.
On November 8, 2022, members of the RCMP ICE Unit, the Codiac Regional RCMP and the RCMP’s Digital Forensic Services, executed a search warrant at a residence on Atlantic Avenue in Moncton. A man was arrested at the scene, and police seized several electronic devices. He was later released on conditions, pending a future court appearance.
On February 2, 2023, 61-year-old George Humphrey Lawrence appeared in Moncton Provincial Court and was charged with possession of child pornography and transmitting child pornography.
On August 8, 2024, George Humphrey Lawrence, appeared in Moncton Provincial Court and plead guilty to all charges.
On October 3, 2024, George Humphrey Lawrence was sentenced to three years in prison. He was also ordered to register with the National Sex Offender Registry for 20 years and to provide a DNA sample.
Following his release from prison, he will have to abide by conditions set out by the court, including not communicating with anyone under the age of 16, and to not attend any place that someone under the age of 16 is known to be for a period of 20 years.
The New Brunswick RCMP’s Internet Child Exploitation Unit includes members from the Saint John Police Force and the Kennebecasis Regional Police Force.
If you are a victim, or have any information related to similar crimes, please contact your local police. If you have information that may assist an investigation and would like to remain anonymous, please contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), by downloading the secure P3 Mobile App, or by Secure Web Tips athttp://www.crimenb.ca.
RCMP Halifax Regional Detachment has charged a man with multiple offences following an arson attempt in Beaver Bank.
On October 3, at approximately 12:15 p.m., RCMP Halifax Regional Detachment responded to a report of attempted arson on Sherri Ln. RCMP officers learned that a man had thrown a light incendiary device in proximity of a home. The fire did not damage the residence.
With the help of the public, investigators identified Shawn Michael Deschenes, 51, of Beaver Bank, as the person responsible for the incident. Deschenes and the occupants of the home are known to each other.
On October 7, at the request of investigators, Deschenes attended the Lower Sackville RCMP detachment where he was safely arrested. Later that day, RCMP officers executed a search warrant at his residence, seized a cell phone and observed evidence of flammable material.
Deschenes has been charged with:
Arson
Possession of Incendiary Material
Possession of a Weapon for a Dangerous Purpose
He appeared in Dartmouth Provincial Court and was remanded into custody. He will return in court today.
Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime News
INDIANAPOLIS- Robdarius Williams, 21, D’Maurah Bryant, 21, and Quintez Tucker, 20, all of Indianapolis, have all been sentenced to federal prison for their roles in a series of eight armed robberies of Indianapolis cell phone retailers.
Defendant
Charges
Sentence
Quintez Tucker, 20
Eight counts of robbery
Four counts of brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence
30 years in prison 3 years of supervised release
$64,894 in restitution
D’Maurah Bryant, 21
Four counts of robbery
Three counts of brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence
25 years in prison 3 years of supervised release
$24,485 in restitution
Robdarius Williams, 21
One count of robbery
Brandishing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence
9.5 years in prison 3 years of supervised release
In April of 2024, Tucker and Bryant each plead guilty. In June of 2024, a federal jury found Williams guilty following a one-and-a-half-day trial.
According to court documents and evidence introduced at trial, from November 8 through December 3, 2021, Tucker and Bryant worked together to rob eight cell phone retailers around Indianapolis. During each robbery, the men brandished firearms and pointed them at employees, demanded cash, cell phones, and accessories from the store and customers. Williams joined in the eighth and final armed robbery as the getaway driver, stole a license plate for the getaway car and took Tucker to pick up an AR-style rifle used in the robbery.
In total, the trio robbed eight businesses in twenty-five days:
Date
Location
Defendants
November 8, 2021
Verizon, Olio Rd., Fishers.
Tucker & Bryant
November 18, 2021
T-Mobile, Southport Rd.
Tucker & Bryant
November 23, 2021
Verizon, Kessler Blvd.
Tucker & Bryant
November 26, 2021
T-Mobile, E. 86th St.
Tucker & Bryant
November 29, 2021
T-Mobile, Fox Rd.
Tucker & Bryant
December 1, 2021
T-Mobile, E. Stop 11 Rd.
Tucker & Bryant
December 1, 2021
T-Mobile, W. 38th St.
Tucker & Bryant
December 3, 2021
AT&T, S. Emerson Ave.
Tucker & Williams
“No one should have a gun pointed in their face by heartless criminals simply because they went shopping, or went to work,” said Zachary A. Myers, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “These armed criminals terrorized their victims with utter disregard for the consequences of their actions—going so far as to point an AR-style firearm at a toddler as their parent shielded the child with their body. These horrific crimes will not be tolerated in our community. The Department of Justice has no higher priority than keeping the public safe from armed, violent crimes. Thanks to the dedicated efforts of the FBI, the Fishers Police Department, IMPD, and our federal prosecutors, our communities will be protected from these criminals for many years to come.”
“The lengthy sentences handed out should serve as a deterrent to remind potential offenders that the FBI and our law enforcement partners are committed to protecting those who live in the communities we serve,” said FBI Indianapolis Special Agent in Charge Herbert J. Stapleton. “The defendants didn’t just steal items; they instilled a sense of fear in and disrupted the lives of their victims.
“The sentencing of these three violent felons to a combined 65 years in prison sends a strong message that our community will not tolerate such criminal behavior,” said Ed Gebhart, Fishers Police Chief, “I commend the hard work of our officers, our law enforcement partners and the justice system for ensuring that these dangerous individuals will be off the streets for a significant amount of time.”
The FBI investigated this case. The Fishers Police Department, the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department, and the Marion County Prosecutors Office also provided valuable assistance. The sentences were imposed by U.S District Court Judge Jane Magnus-Stinson.
U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Myers thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jeremy C. Fugate and Peter A. Blackett, who prosecuted this case.
This case was 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 make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement, and the local community to develop effective, locally based strategies to reduce violent crime.
Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime News
PORTLAND, Maine: A Peru, Maine woman was sentenced today in U.S. District Court in Portland for trafficking methamphetamine and for possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
U.S. District Judge Nancy Torresen sentenced Mandy Lynn Shorey, 43, to 180 months to be followed by five years of supervised release.
According to court records, between July 2022 and January 2023, Shorey sold approximately 1.5 kilograms of methamphetamine to an undercover officer across four controlled buys. For three of the buys, the purity of the methamphetamine Shorey sold to police approached 100%. During one of the buys, Shorey explained that she carried a firearm with her for protection when she met with new drug customers and removed the firearm from a bag and placed it in her waistband. During another exchange, she told the undercover officer that meeting her to conduct their next transaction would be safe because she would “bring one armed man to back me up that they will never see, just in case.” When Shorey was arrested, she was in possession of a Charter Arms .22 revolver.
The FBI Safe Streets Task Force investigated the case.
###
Updated 10/9/24 to correct defendant’s city of residence at time of arrest from Windham, ME to Peru, ME
Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (b)
GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN — U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Michigan Mark Totten today announced that Arisknight Winfree, 32, of East Lansing, was sentenced to life in federal prison for sexually exploiting four women, including two minors, in 2022. Winfree was convicted on multiple charges that included Kidnapping (Count 1), Coercion and Enticement (Count 2), Attempted Coercion and Enticement (Count 3), and Production of Child Pornography (Counts 4 and 5).
“Arisknight Winfree is a sexual predator whose horrendous acts caused immeasurable harm to the women and girls upon whom he preyed,” said U.S. Attorney Mark Totten. “This life sentence is necessary to protect the community and bring a measure of justice to the survivors.”
Winfree targeted his victims in multiple ways, including through use of the messaging service on various social media apps and through an online service that connects individuals, often young women, with host families in need of childcare and light housework. The Court convicted Winfree of five crimes involving four victims.
First, Winfree was convicted of Kidnapping (Count 1) and Coercion and Enticement (Count 2) for the crimes he committed against S.D. The victim was a young woman living in Italy who Winfree contacted on September 5, 2022 through AuPair.com, a website service that connects young women with potential host families. Winfree falsely represented that his family was in search of an au pair to care for his niece. On October 12, 2022, S.D. flew from Italy to Detroit, Michigan, and then took a bus to Winfree’s residence in East Lansing, Michigan. The day after she arrived, Winfree handcuffed his victim’s hands behind her back, placed a gag ball in her mouth, and raped her. Winfree considered killing his victim and hiding her body to avoid prosecution.
Second, Winfree was convicted of Attempted Coercion and Enticement (Count 3) for the crimes he committed against A.S. Winfree connected with A.S. through AuPair.com in July 2022, falsely representing he needed someone to watch his 7-year-old niece every other week. Winfree paid for A.S. to fly to Michigan on September 14, 2022. When A.S. got to Winfree’s residence, she noticed all the windows were covered with paper and cardboard. She also noticed there were cameras around the house. A.S. saw no signs of children. She saw several knives and guns around the house. On September 16, 2022, A.S.’s family called the East Lansing Police Department and requested a welfare check for A.S. With the assistance of the police, the victim left the residence with her belongings and returned to Kansas.
Third, Winfree was convicted of Production of Child Pornography (Count 4) for the crimes he committed against Minor Victim 1 (MV1). Winfree connected with MV1 on Instagram in November 2022, when the victim was 17 years old. From November 29-30, MV1 created nude images at Winfree’s request and sent them to him through the social media app’s messaging feature. On November 30, 2022, Winfree picked MV1 up from her high school, drove her to his home, and engaged in sexual acts with her.
Fourth, Winfree was convicted of another count of Production of Child Pornography (Count 5) for the crimes he committed against Minor Victim 2 (MV2). Winfree connected with MV2 in September or October of 2022 on SnapChat, when the victim was 16 years old. He instructed MV2 to engage in sexual acts and send images and videos to him through SnapChat and later through WhatsApp.
Further details are provided in the attached Complaint and the United States’ Statement of Facts Establishing Defendant’s Guilt.
“The sentencing of Arisknight Winfree marks a significant step towards healing for all those who suffered from his callous and heinous criminal acts,” said Cheyvoryea Gibson, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI in Michigan. “Individuals who engage in sexual exploitation involving minors will be investigated and arrested by the FBI and our law enforcement partners in Michigan. The collective investigative efforts by members from FBI Michigan, the East Lansing Police Department, and the prosecutorial efforts of the United States Attorney’s Office of Western Michigan prevented another crime from being committed by Mr. Winfree.”
“The East Lansing Police Department would like to thank the FBI and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Michigan for their commitment to this case,” said ELPD Police Chief Chad Pride. “Arisknight Winfree’s conviction on multiple charges shows our collaborative partnerships were essential in bringing justice to the survivors of these awful acts and holding Arisknight accountable for his actions.”
This case is part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from online exploitation and abuse. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, county prosecutor’s offices, the Internet Crimes Against Children task force (ICAC), federal, state, tribal, and local law enforcement are working closely together to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children. The partners in Project Safe Childhood work to educate local communities about the dangers of online child exploitation, and to teach children how to protect themselves. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit the following website: http://www.projectsafechildhood.gov. Individuals with information or concerns about possible child exploitation should contact local law enforcement officials.
Assistant United States Attorney Davin Reust prosecuted this case. The East Lansing Police Department, Michigan State University Police and Public Safety, and the FBI investigated it.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Michigan issued the previous press releases in this case and a related case:
Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (b)
MINNEAPOLIS – A Pequot Lakes man has been sentenced to 180 months in prison followed by 10 years of supervised release for producing images and videos of child sexual abuse, announced United States Attorney Andrew M. Luger.
According to court documents, over the course of several years, Jeffrey Benjamin Adkins, 43, repeatedly engaged in sexual acts with a minor victim. On one of the occasions, Adkins produced a five-minute video that depicted the sexual abuse of a minor.
On May 28, 2024, Adkins pleaded guilty to one count of production of child pornography. He was sentenced on October 4, 2024, in U.S. District Court by Judge Katherine M. Menendez.
This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the FBI.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Emily A. Polachek prosecuted the case.
Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (b)
MINNEAPOLIS – A Red Lake woman has been sentenced to 15 months in prison following the death of a child in her care, announced U.S. Attorney Andrew M. Luger.
According to evidence presented at trial, Sharon Rosebear, 64, intentionally deprived a child, Minor A, of necessary food and health care over the course of 2022. The evidence at trial established that Minor A died in 2022 from the combined effects of starvation and infection. Rosebear’s codefendant, Julius Fineday, Sr., pleaded guilty to one count of felony child neglect causing the death of a child and was sentenced to five years in prison earlier this year.
The evidence at trial established that Rosebear acted as one of Minor A’s caretakers in 2022. In accordance with Minnesota law, the jury was instructed that Rosebear’s lack of formal legal custody of Minor A did not alter her responsibility to the child. The evidence at trial established that Rosebear was reasonably able to provide for Minor A’s nutrition and healthcare—including evidence establishing that healthcare and transportation to healthcare is free within the Red Lake Nation, and that all of the adults and children involved in the case received nutritional and cash assistance adequate to meet their basic needs—and that Rosebear nonetheless intentionally deprived Minor A of those basic needs by withholding food, and by looking the other way while Minor A’s health deteriorated. The evidence at trial included evidence that Minor A died at the same weight she had been nearly three years earlier, and that while Rosebear was aware of Minor A’s severe lice infestation, Rosebear responded by keeping Minor A isolated rather than seeking medical attention for Minor A.
Medical testimony at trial established that the type of infection Minor A had when she died could have entered Minor A’s body through scratches in her scalp related to her unaddressed lice. The medical testimony also established that Minor A’s prolonged starvation may have been an independently sufficient cause of death, or may have severely compromised Minor A’s immune system’s ability to fight infection.
On April 29, 2024, Rosebear was found guilty of felony child neglect following a six-day trial in U.S. District Court. She was sentenced today by Chief Judge Patrick J. Schiltz.
In handing down the sentence, Chief Judge Schiltz commented, “One of the most tragic things about Minor A’s death is that it was so easily preventable … day after day, week after week, month after month, Ms. Rosebear watched as Minor A slowly starved to death.” This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the FBI and the Red Lake Tribal Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Lindsey E. Middlecamp and Rachel L. Kraker tried the case.
Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (b)
BOSTON – A Boston woman was sentenced on Oct. 4, 2024 for conspiring to defraud the federal credit union where she worked as a loan officer by obtaining loans in the names of inmates at a Massachusetts prison where a co-conspirator was incarcerated.
Nadaje Hendrix, 27, of Brighton, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Julia E. Kobick to eight months in prison to be followed by three years’ supervised release. Hendrix was also ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $134,000. In July 2024, Hendrix pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit bank fraud. In January 2024, Hendrix was indicted by a federal grand jury along with alleged co-conspirator Glenroy Miller
Between December 2019 and August 2021, Hendrix and, allegedly, Miller agreed to defraud the credit union where Hendrix worked as a loan officer and assistant branch manager, by obtaining loans in the names of other individuals, including inmates at a Massachusetts prison where Miller was incarcerated. While in prison, Miller allegedly gave Hendrix information about fellow inmates for Hendrix to use in creating fraudulent loan applications, and then arranged to have other co-conspirators go into the credit union to pretend to be the inmates, sign loan forms and obtain loans from the credit union through Hendrix. The scheme also involved obtaining loans in the names of individuals whose identities were stolen. In total, Hendrix and, allegedly, Miller stole about $134,000 from the credit union in about two months in 2021.
Acting United States Attorney Joshua S. Levy and Jodi Cohen, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division made the announcement. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kriss Basil of the Securities, Financial & Cyber Fraud Unit is prosecuting the case.
The details contained in the charging document are allegations. The remaining defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (b)
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – On October 3, 2024, BLAIR TAYLOR (“TAYLOR”),a New Orleans resident,was sentenced after being found guilty by a federal jury of two-counts of causing a death through the use of a firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(j)(1), announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.
According to the trial evidence, TAYLORkilled two individuals on August 10, 2014, in what was called the “Burgundy Massacre.” One of the homicide victims killed by TAYLOR was a sixteen-year-old girl. Five other people were shot and seriously injured, including a 2-year-old child and a 4-year-old child. TAYLOR and two other individuals went to Burgundy Street in New Orleans to retaliate against a narcotics dealer who had stolen drugs from the mother of one of TAYLOR’s co-conspirators. When they arrived, TAYLOR, who possessed a rifle, opened fire on the crowd, despite several young children being outside. One of his accomplices approached the intended target and shot and killed him.
On February 2, 2017, TAYLOR and his accomplice were found guilty of two counts of second-degree murder and five counts of attempted second-degree murder after the jury returned an 11-1 verdict of guilty on all counts. However, in 2021 they were granted new trials after the United States Supreme Court found ruled non-unanimous jury verdicts unconstitutional. In October of 2022 the State of Louisiana retried TAYLOR and he was found not guilty. He was subsequently released from jail in March 2023.
Following that not guilty verdict, a federal grand jury conducted an investigation and indicted TAYLOR,for the two murders.
After a three (3) day trial, the jury found TAYLOR guilty of causing the death of both victims through the use of a firearm. As to each count of murder, TAYLOR was sentenced to life imprisonment.
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 Federal Bureau of Investigation and the New Orleans Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Inga Petrovich, Unit Chief Elizabeth Privitera and Special Assistant United States Attorney James Ollinger, all from the Violent Crime Unit, are in charge of the prosecution.
Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (b)
BOSTON – A real estate agent was sentenced today in federal court in Boston in connection with a multi-year scheme to defraud his clients by engaging in fraudulent short sales of government and bank-owned properties to straw buyers acting at the direction of the defendant and a co-conspirator.
Sheldon Haag, 34, of Glastonbury, Conn. was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Leo T. Sorokin to one year and one day in prison and two years of supervised release. Haag was also ordered to forfeit $277,331 and to pay restitution in an amount to be determined at a later date. In June2023, Haag pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud.
Haag and another real estate agent, James Macchio, used straw buyers to acquire properties owned by the clients of a brokerage where they worked, which included banks, federal agencies, bankruptcy trustees and other mortgage holders. The straw buyers included a shell company set up by a co-conspirator as a purported construction company. Haag and his co-conspirators hid their involvement as the de facto buyers of short sale properties from their clients, the owners of the properties, and used their inside knowledge as the owner’s broker to minimize sale prices in order to maximize their gain from later “flipping” the properties.
While perpetrating the “flipping scheme,” Haag and his co-conspirators further defrauded clients by submitting fraudulent renovation bids from contractors to their own clients, including from the fake construction company they controlled through a co-conspirator. Once their clients accepted a fraudulent bid, Haag and his co-conspirators would hire different contractors at much lower cost and pocket the difference between the fraudulent bid and the actual cost of property repairs.
Macchio pleaded guilty in May 2024 and is scheduled to be sentenced on Nov. 19, 2024.
Acting United States Attorney Joshua S. Levy; Jodi Cohen, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division; Harry Chavis, Jr., Special Agent in Charge of the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation, Boston Field Office; and Christopher Algieri, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Office of Inspector General, Northeast Field Office made the announcement today. The United States Department of Housing and Urban Development provided valuable assistance. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kriss Basil of the Securities, Financial & Cyber Fraud Unit prosecuted the case.