NewzIntel.com

Category: Law and Justice

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Canberra Hospital celebrates a golden milestone

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    The Canberra Hospital has provided health care to the Canberra community for 50 years.

    This week the Canberra Hospital celebrates 50 years providing health care to the Canberra community.

    The Canberra Hospital, originally known as Woden Valley Hospital, officially opened on 24 September 1973 and since then has transformed into the largest general hospital in the ACT and surrounding NSW region.

    This milestone offers an important opportunity to say thank you to everyone who has worked at the hospital over the last 50 years.

    Cathie Stoffell is one of those staff members. She began training as a student nurse at the Royal Canberra Hospital in January 1972.

    She had finished high school just two months before.

    “I was 17. Students were required to live-in then, and I remember my brother and father were allowed to come up to the room, but there were no males allowed,” she said.

    “There was just one man in our course. He was paving new ground at the time. Other male nurses followed, of course.”

    The three-year course moved at a cracking pace. “We were apprentices, really. We had six weeks of training – injecting oranges and lifting ‘Mrs Bedford’, the dummy, onto the bedpan. From there we were launched onto various wards and were straight into it,” Cathie said.

    It was a confronting start for a teenager, and Cathie recalls her first experience of a patient’s death, when a young girl died from leukemia.

    “We would debrief amongst ourselves, I suppose. There was nothing formal. It was a regimented sort of atmosphere. There were always bedpans you could be scrubbing so we just got on with it.”

    Overall, though, Cathie recalls having “a ball”, getting up to all kinds of “shenanigans” with her fellow students.

    “We used to find the leftover meals and eat them in the linen cupboard,” she said.

    Starting at the then-Woden Valley Hospital was quite exciting, and Cathie remembers the newness of it all.

    In 1973 when the Canberra Hospital opened its doors, things looked pretty different.

    The hospital had 36 beds and served a population of around 172,000 with about 175 staff members.

    Fifty years on, the Canberra Hospital has over 650 beds and is the only tertiary hospital between Sydney and Melbourne, caring for a population of more than 650,000 people from the ACT and surrounding region, with thousands of staff on the campus at any time of the day or night.

    With the new Critical Services Building opening next year, the hospital will offer more emergency, surgical and critical care, with a brand-new emergency department, more operating theatres and more intensive care beds.

    Cathie’s early training held her in excellent stead for many other opportunities, and she has nursed all over the world.

    It also helped her form a close-knit group of friends, all of whom stayed in nursing careers.

    They have a group chat on Messenger and celebrated a 50-year reunion recently.

    Like Canberra Hospital, nursing has changed over the years. There are no more starched aprons and pleated hats, and technology plays a much greater role for all staff.

    Having worked everywhere from the UK to Saudi Arabia, Cathie loves Canberra and continues to nurse here.

    “I remember on day one of our training, they asked us if anyone had changed their minds and three people left,” she said.

    Having had such a full career over five decades, Cathie is pleased she stayed.

    Cathie at her graduation

    Cathie Stoffell today

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  • MIL-OSI Australia: The Hive buzzes with conversation

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Sachi, left, and Fleur are childhood friends who share a passion for garden design.

    Childhood friends Fleur Froggatt and Sachi Wimmer had never recorded a podcast before.

    Their shared passion for garden design, combined with a post-COVID desire for a new career direction, prompted them to start their podcast On Garden Design.

    They do this from The Hive – the professional podcast studio at Woden Library.

    “It’s amazing for a free facility,” they said.

    “The support is first rate and the facilities are exactly what we need. We book ahead and can always get the time we want. It’s convenient, accessible and easy to use. And while this is new technology to us, it’s been a great learning journey in every way.”

    Fleur and Sachi now release a half-hour episode each fortnight.

    While focused on the east coast of Australia, the podcast’s content translates internationally.

    They now have subscribers in 27 countries.

    “Garden design is ubiquitous to every culture and style,” they said.

    “We have listeners from places you wouldn’t think of. In fact, the one that really surprised us was Dubai.”

    Since opening in 2021, The Hive has welcomed a host of intrepid broadcasters keen to take advantage of the free facility.

    Accommodating busy schedules, the studio is available outside regular library hours – from 9am to 9pm, seven days a week.

    While the equipment is easy to use, library staff provide a studio induction tailored to new podcasters’ abilities.

    “One thing people always comment on is the excellent audio quality,” Fleur and Sachi said.

    “We’re not aiming at a professional market, but we have a broad church of listeners. We’ve even had professionals in the industry saying thank you for doing it.”

    The pair don’t hesitate to recommend the studio to anyone considering starting a podcast or elevating an existing one.

    “There are so many reasons we’d recommend it,” they said.

    “It’s a nice evolution, being Canberra girls and library users. We came to the library as kids, and with our kids, and it’s really great to take that to the next level now.”

    Book a spot at The Hive podcast studio

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  • MIL-OSI Australia: Expanded project to cut emissions and power homes

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Once the project is completed, it is expected the Mugga Lane landfill gas facility will have capacity to power up to 10,800 homes.

    The ACT Government is driving a circular economy by expanding landfill gas capture at the Mugga Lane landfill.

    This will reduce emissions and provide reliable renewable energy that could power up to 10,800 homes each year.

    It is happening through the expansion of a partnership with Australian owned and operated clean energy engineers, LGI Limited (LGI), which will deliver a landfill gas expansion project.

    The project builds upon a successful three-year program. It will further enhance capabilities for capturing harmful methane emissions generated at Mugga Lane landfill and transforming it into reliable renewable energy for the ACT.

    “Emissions from landfills without biogas management systems can be a significant problem and can contribute up to 80 per cent of a local government’s carbon footprint,” LGI Founder and Managing Director Adam Bloomer said.

    The Government’s priority is to reduce and recycle organic food waste to divert it from landfill, minimising harmful waste emissions. Capturing the emissions created by the organic material that does end up in landfill, however, is also key.

    “The ACT Government’s carbon cutting approach of using proven, cost-effective technologies to capture and abate the harmful methane emissions from Mugga Lane and generate reliable, dispatchable (24/7) renewable energy is an example of what progressive governments can achieve by prioritising the environment,” Adam said.

    The expansion project will include the establishment of two additional 1 Megawatt gas to energy generators, an additional 12 Megawatt of battery storage and a 20 Megawatt grid connection with Evoenergy.

    Once the project is completed, it is expected the Mugga Lane landfill gas facility will have capacity to generate 50,000 Megawatt hours of dispatchable energy.

    This is enough energy to power up to 10,800 homes in the ACT each year.

    Adding the battery system will provide storage capacity and rapid dispatch of the renewable energy generated by the engines, at times when the grid needs it most.

    As part of the LGI partnership, the ACT has been able to reduce carbon emissions by 764,000 tonnes, over the past three years.

    More than 80 million3 of biogas has been captured at Mugga Lane, allowing for 96 Gigawatt hours of renewable energy to be generated.

    The Mugga Lane site upgrades will further enhance this.

    The project will see two additional full-time positions employed on the site and significant investment into the local economy through the engagement of local contractors for everything from concreting to catering.

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  • MIL-OSI Australia: Energy saving advice for renters

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Home energy assessments provide free advice to renters on how they can save money on their gas and electricity bills.

    The ACT Government’s Renters’ Home Energy Program provides free in-home energy assessments tailored to anyone living in a rented home in the ACT.

    The assessment identifies where energy is being used and provides simple solutions to help renters save on their bills.

    The program is a free and easy way to:

    • save on energy bills
    • get tips on the quickest, cheapest and best ways to reduce energy use
    • make rental homes more comfortable without using more gas or electricity
    • find out ways to reduce your impact on the environment.

    Home energy experts involved in the program have vast experience in carrying out home energy assessments in the ACT. Inspectors like Jeff Knowles provide advice to renters about their energy use and simple steps they can take to save money.

    “Canberra is different from Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne as our summers are quite hot, our autumns and springs are lovely, then we have intense cold throughout the winter,” Jeff said.

    “With such a range of temperatures, it’s tough to build a building in Canberra that works well all year round.

    “The rising cost of living pressures are pushing people into greater and greater energy efficiency,” said Jeff.

    “The Renters’ Home Energy Program aims to assist people by educating them about the properties they live in and the energy they use. Following some simple steps, renters could save around $200 each quarter off their gas and electricity bills.”

    Energy saving tips:

    • Understand what your home is made from, which direction it faces, and identify where heat or cool air can escape. A free home energy assessment and home energy web tool can help you identify these problems and their solutions.
    • Check your insultation. ACT has introduced a regulation requiring all residential rental properties to meet a new minimum energy efficiency standard for ceiling insulation. Find out more about your rights as a renter.
    • Use a thermometer to monitor your fridge temperature. Most rental properties have their fridges running much colder than they need to be, which uses more electricity.
    • Prevent draughts by sealing doors and windows. Door draught stoppers and seal strips are good options.
    • Use a plug-in power meter to monitor how much electricity your home appliances are using. Meters can point out inefficient appliances in your home such as electric element heaters.
    • When operating your washing machine, use cold wash cycles so that you’re not using gas or electricity to heat water.

    The rooms you are heating, the number of hours heaters are on, and the temperature setting all have a big impact on your bills.

    Depending on the season, you may also receive a selection of free energy saving materials to improve the energy efficiency and comfort of your home.

    With a hot summer approaching, now is an ideal time to think about how to make your home more comfortable without spending more money on energy bills.

    Canberra renters can book a free in-home assessment and find out more about the Renter’s Home Energy Program on the Everyday Climate Choices website: climatechoices.act.gov.au

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  • MIL-OSI Australia: GymAware awarded 2023 ACT Exporter of the Year

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    GymAware has been awarded 2023 ACT Exporter of the Year at the Chief Minister’s Export Awards. Image: Canberra Airport.

    A Canberra business success story that developed a product now used in gyms around the world has been recognised as the ACT Exporter of the Year.

    Each year the ACT Chief Minister’s Export Awards celebrate the best and brightest in Canberra’s export industry and showcase the success of local businesses in global markets.

    Kinetic Performance Technology (GymAware) was awarded the 2023 ACT Exporter of the Year for their work as a global leader in velocity-based training solutions. A staggering 89 per cent of its sales are exports, with 80 per cent of these to the USA, 10 per cent to the United Kingdom and 6 per cent to France and China.

    The company’s RS and FLEX products are designed to help coaches and athletes of all levels measure and track strength training activities in the weight room. This technology has been a part of weight training for professional athletes across a range of sports, helping hundreds of teams and individuals prepare for their career-defining moments on the field.

    The company’s systems are used in weight rooms across 65 per cent of all professional sporting teams in the USA, all teams in elite Australian leagues like the NRL and Super Rugby, as well as respected international teams, such as the New Zealand All Blacks.

    “I am honoured that GymAware has been recognised as the 2023 ACT Exporter of the Year at the ACT Chief Minister’s Export Awards,”  GymAware founder Evan Lawton said.

    “GymAware has been a labour of love, and it’s rewarding to see our commitment to excellence being acknowledged in such a meaningful way by our own community in Canberra.”

    The ACT Exporter of the Year awards showcased several of emerging and established exporting companies. Category winners included:

    • Emerging Exporter – Infinity Avionics Pty Ltd
    • Resources and Energy – Ardexa Pty Limited
    • Sustainability and Green Economy – The Mullion Group (FLINTpro)
    • Advanced Technologies – Kinetic Performance Technology Pty Ltd (GymAware)
    • Small Business – BixeLab
    • Professional Services – Teron Labs Pty Ltd
    • ACT Promising Exporter – Catch the Sun Communications
    • ACT Promising Exporter – Science Skincare International Pty Ltd

    “It was inspiring to see so many businesses with a clear plan for identifying and pursuing valuable export markets – ultimately all Canberrans benefit when local businesses achieve export success,” CEA Technology and ACT Export Awards judge Michael Burton said.

    Businesses who are ready to export have access to support through the TradeStart program. Learn more about exporting and the assistance available on the ACT Business website: act.gov.au/business

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  • MIL-OSI Australia: ‘Mrs Mac’ commemorated in Campbell

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Violet McKenzie was a pioneer in Australian radio and electrical engineering.

    A park in Campbell has been named after Violet McKenzie, or ‘Mrs Mac’ – the woman who trained thousands in Morse code, visual signalling and international code during World War II.

    The park is located behind the Campbell shops, between White Crescent and Blamey Place.

    Violet McKenzie was a pioneer in Australian radio and electrical engineering.

    She was committed to technical education and training, especially for women.

    McKenzie also established a wireless shop in the Royal Arcade, Sydney.

    In the 1930s, she began the Electrical Association for Women and wrote the first ‘all-electric cookbook’.

    In addition, she established the Women’s Emergency Signalling Corps in 1939, and campaigned to have her female trainees accepted into the Navy, which was all male at the time.

    Her voluntary work led to the establishment of the Women’s Royal Australian Naval Service, (WRANS).

    The name Violet McKenzie Park was selected following community consultation held last year.

    An information sign was unveiled this week by with representatives from the Royal Australian Navy and WRANS ACT in attendance.

    The ACT Government would like to thank the local community that has adopted the park and helps maintain it.

    Violet McKenzie’s voluntary work led to the establishment of the Women’s Royal Australian Naval Service, (WRANS).

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  • MIL-OSI Australia: Next step for new Watson health precinct

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Concept render of the new Watson health precinct.

    The development application for the new Watson health precinct is now open for public feedback.

    New specialist facilities will be built for Marymead CatholicCare’s youth mental health residential service and Ted Noffs Foundation’s alcohol and other drugs youth rehabilitation services.

    A new Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residential rehabilitation service facility will also be developed in partnership with Winnunga Nimmityjah Aboriginal Health and Community Services.

    Alcohol and other drug addiction causes significant harm to individuals, families, and communities, with a disproportionate impact on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

    The establishment of a 24-bed residential facility for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Canberrans will promote rehabilitation and recovery in a culturally safe and inclusive environment.

    New facilities operated by Ted Noffs Foundation and Marymead CatholicCare will offer a modern welcoming environment to encourage positive outcomes for young Canberrans. Planning for the new precinct has accommodated for the future growth of the facilities.

    “Detoxing and undergoing a rehabilitation episode at such a young age requires a very specific treatment intervention, and these new facilities will strengthen the current treatment programs on offer,” Ted Noffs Foundation’s National Programs Manager Lachlan Dean said.

    “Being able to continue to work on the site we have been on for the last 23 years allows us to stay connected to this community.”

    The development application for the precinct is available to view and comment on until 9 October 2023 on the Planning ACT website.

    More information about the project is available on the Built for CBR website: builtforcbr.act.gov.au

    Artist’s impression of the new facility.

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  • MIL-OSI Australia: Rent Relief Fund extended

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Eoghan Clwyde, with baby Flynn, has benefitted from the Rent Relief Fund

    An extension of the ACT Government Rent Relief Fund will provide targeted, short-term emergency support for private renters in low-income households in the ACT.

    This extension brings to $2.51 million the total allocated for grants under the fund since it opened in April 2023.

    The fund provides support to the most vulnerable households.

    It is aimed at preventing evictions, improve their wellbeing and connect them to services that may assist them to improve their financial position over the longer term.

    It offers grants for up to four weeks rent capped at $2,500 to help tenants and occupants maintain safe, secure and stable accommodation.

    Eoghan Clwyde and his partner never expected to find themselves in need of such support. However, in the lead-up to their first child’s birth, they experienced financial pressures.

    They knew baby Flynn would be born prematurely, and so had a great deal of specialist newborn items on the shopping list.

    As their costs increased, they found assistance through the Rent Relief Fund – a process Eoghan said was “very straightforward”.

    “This program came at terrific timing, and we were able to acquire those extra items that we needed,” Eoghan said.

    They were also relieved to avoid asking family for support at a time of widespread cost of living pressure.

    To be eligible for a grant, households must be experiencing either rental stress or severe financial hardship.

    Applicants also need to meet income limits which vary depending on the number of people in the household.

    CARE Inc. will continue to administer the Fund on behalf of the ACT Government.

    “We know how valuable this assistance is to people experiencing rental stress,” Carmel Franklin, CARE Chief Executive Officer, said.

    “As part of administering the Rent Relief Fund, CARE will continue to provide wrap around support from our range of programs – financial counselling, financial capability, consumer law, community loans and community education, as well as referring people to other local support services as needed,” she said.

    In addition to the fund’s extension, the ACT Government continues to work with the Commonwealth Government to improve housing affordability.

    It is also investing in a range of measures to increase the supply of affordable rentals in Canberra, with the goal of delivering 600 additional rental dwellings by 2025-26.

    Further information is available on the Justice and Community Safety website.

    View more information about the ACT Government’s cost-of-living support.

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  • MIL-OSI Australia: Road resurfacing works ramp up

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    In 2022 the ACT Government announced a significant increase in road maintenance of $153 million over four years to repair and preserve Canberra’s roads.

    The ACT Government’s annual road resurfacing program has returned to ensure major arterial roads and suburban streets remain safe.

    In 2022 the ACT Government announced a significant increase in road maintenance of $153 million over four years to repair and preserve Canberra’s roads.

    This is a 52 per cent increase in expenditure for road maintenance and a 150 per cent increase for asphalting.

    The program follows research by the Australian Road Research Board and focuses on road rehabilitation as well as preventative resealing.

    In 2022-23, ACT road maintenance teams repaired more than 12,000 potholes across the territory.

    Road rehabilitation projects will begin in coming months on David Walsh Avenue in Forde.

    There is also design work underway for further works on sections of the Monaro Highway, Kings Highway and Sulwood Drive.

    Road resurfacing works are generally undertaken each year during warmer weather conditions.

    The service life of a highly trafficked road is over 10 years whilst residential streets often deliver 25 to 30 years of service.

    Road resurfacing treatments include road resealing, asphalt resurfacing and microsurfacing which helps to waterproof the road, improve skid resistance and fill cracks in the pavement.

    Overnight asphalt resurfacing work was completed this week on sections of the Tuggeranong Parkway at Weston Creek over the Molonglo River.

    This follows asphalt patching work that was undertaken in the area earlier in 2023 after Fix My Street requests were received from the community.

    Major roads to receive road resurfacing treatment over coming months will include:

    • Deakin – Adelaide Avenue, between State Circle and Kent Street
    • Molonglo Valley – Tuggeranong Parkway, southbound between Lady Denman Drive and Cotter Road
    • Belconnen – Gungahlin Drive, several sections in both directions between the Barton Highway and Glenloch Interchange
    • Hall – Barton Highway, from Kuringa Drive towards the ACT/NSW border
    • Watson – Federal Highway, from Antill Street towards the ACT/NSW border
    • Belconnen – William Hovell Drive, both directions between Bindubi Street and Coulter Drive
    • City – Akuna Street
    • Tuggeranong – Anketell Street, several sections
    • Woden Valley – Various intersections along Hindmarsh Drive.

    For more information on road resurfacing, including a map of the full program and daily updates on roads receiving treatment, visit cityservices.act.gov.au

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  • MIL-OSI Australia: Charges – Domestic violence – Alice Springs

    Source: New South Wales Department of Education and Communities

    The Northern Territory Police Force has charged a 26-year-old male in relation to a domestic violence incident in Alice Springs yesterday.

    Around 4:40pm, police received reports that a 24-year-old female had been strangled and punched multiple times to the face in a vehicle at a set of traffic lights on the corner of Stott Terrace and the Stuart Highway by a male known to the victim.

    It is alleged that the incident occurred around 8am and afterwards, the male took her to his residence where he stole the female’s phone so that she could not seek assistance. Hours later, she located her phone and reported the incident to police.

    General duties members attended and witnessed the man fleeing from the residence. A cordon was set up and he was arrested after a short foot pursuit. The female was transported to Alice Springs Hospital in a stable condition to be treated for facial injuries.

    The male has since been charged with:

    1. Unlawfully Cause Serious Harm
    2. Choking, Strangling or Suffocating
    3. Theft
    4. Breach Bail

    He is remanded to appear in Alice Springs Local Court on Monday.

    If you or someone you know are experiencing difficulties due to domestic violence, support services are available, including, but not limited to, 1800RESPECT (1800737732) or Lifeline 131 114.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Call for information – Sexual assault – Alice Springs

    Source: New South Wales Department of Education and Communities

    The Northern Territory Police Force is calling for information in relation to an alleged sexual assault that took place at a fast-food restaurant this morning.

    About 6:30am, police received reports of a sexual assault on a 19-year-old female in the bathroom of a fast-food restaurant on the corner of Parsons Street and Railway Terrace. The female alerted staff who then called police.

    Investigations are ongoing to locate the alleged offender and determine the circumstances of the incident.

    Police are calling for any witnesses within the area at the time who may have information that can assist police in their enquiries to make contact on 131 444.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Grassley Calls on Bondi, Patel to Restore Security Clearances and Undo Retaliatory Personnel Actions Against Whistleblowers

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Iowa Chuck Grassley
    BUTLER COUNTY, IOWA – As Sunshine Week draws to a close, Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) wrote Attorney General Pam Bondi and Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Director Kash Patel requesting the Department of Justice and FBI take corrective action to restore the security clearances of DOJ and FBI whistleblowers who’ve suffered retaliation.
    “My office has been told that, in many of these cases, the suspension of their security clearances resulted in immediate, indefinite suspensions without pay while the FBI improperly and intentionally delayed the process for these individuals to contest the adverse action,” Grassley wrote. “This tyrannical government conduct caused significant financial hardship. The retaliatory government action also placed them in the impossible situation to either resign their position without completing their legal challenge or continue challenging the suspension or revocation of their clearance while suspended without pay with no prospect of obtaining new employment.”  
    “The Biden administration’s political weaponization of the Justice Department and FBI has caused significant damage to these institutions and its employees, but you’re in the position to right the ship,” Grassley continued. “Accordingly, I request that you personally review the adverse personnel matters for these individuals, which I will send under separate cover, and take all appropriate corrective actions, including restoring their security clearances and employment and firing or otherwise disciplining those who retaliated against them, if warranted.”
    Grassley last year called on the DOJ to reform its security clearance review process, after receiving initial reports the agency had unlawfully used it to retaliate against whistleblowers. Ahead of the Judiciary Committee’s vote to advance Patel’s nomination as FBI Director, Grassley highlighted the cases of various FBI whistleblowers who have been retaliated against, including through the wrongful suspension or revocation of their security clearances. 
    Read Grassley’s full letter HERE.
    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Arizona Brothers Plead Guilty for Roles in Conspiracies to Fraudulently Obtain Nearly $109 Million in Covid-Relief Funds

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    PORTLAND, Ore.—Two brothers from Sedona, Arizona, pleaded guilty for conspiring with one another and others to defraud the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) out of nearly $109 million in loans intended to help small businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic.

    Eric Karnezis, 43, pleaded guilty Thursday to conspiring to commit wire fraud. Today, in a separate but related case, Anthony Karnezis, 43, also pleaded guilty to conspiring to commit wire fraud.

    According to court documents, from January 2021 until at least March 2022, Eric Karnezis carried out a scheme whereby he conspired to gather false and fraudulent business information from customers and used the information to submit at least 350 fraudulent Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan applications through Blueacorn, a lender service provider, to Capital Plus Financial, a lender participating in the PPP. To facilitate the scheme, Eric Karnezis and his co-conspirators created fictious documents to support the fraudulent loan applications, including false payroll information and tax documents.

    In total, Eric Karnezis submitted or caused to be submitted at least 1,300 PPP applications, which together attempted to obtain at least $178 million from Capital Plus Financial, of which approximately $105 million in loans were funded in response to the fraudulent applications. Additionally, Eric Karnezis required applicants to pay a fee for his role in the conspiracy and he received approximately $3 million for submitting the fraudulent applications.

    Anthony Karnezis carried out a related scheme through at least March 2022, whereby he conspired with his brother, among others, to gather fraudulent business information from customers and used the information to submit at least 140 fraudulent PPP loan applications, through Blueacorn, to Capital Plus Financial. Based on the false and misrepresented information, more than $3.9 million in loans were funded in response to these fraudulent applications. Anthony Karnezis also required applicants to pay a fee for his role in the conspiracy and he received more than $957,000 for submitting the fraudulent applications.

    On August 21, 2024, a federal grand jury in Portland returned a 23-count indictment charging Eric Karnezis and other defendants with conspiring to commit and committing wire fraud and conspiring to commit money laundering.

    On February 19, 2025, Anthony Karnezis was charged by criminal information with conspiring to commit wire fraud.

    Each faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and 3 years of supervised release and will both be sentenced on June 20, 2025, before U.S. District Court Judge Karin J. Immergut.

    As part of their plea agreements, Eric Karnezis agreed to pay between $25 million and $65 million in restitution to their victims, and Anthony Karnezis agreed to pay between $3.5 million and $9.5 million in restitution to their victims. They have also agreed to forfeit any criminally-derived proceeds and property.

    This case was investigated by the SBA Office of Inspector General (SBA-OIG), IRS Criminal Investigation (IRS:CI), the U.S. Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA), and the Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS). It is being prosecuted by Meredith Bateman and Robert Trisotto, Assistant U.S. Attorneys for the District of Oregon. Forfeiture proceedings are being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Julia Jarett, also of the District of Oregon.

    Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Justice Department’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at: https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Arrest – Domestic violence – Katherine

    Source: New South Wales Department of Education and Communities

    The Northern Territory Police Force has arrested a 21-year-old female in relation to a stabbing incident in Katherine last night.

    About 7:45pm, police received multiple reports that a 41-year-old male, who is known to the alleged offender, had multiple stab wounds to his shoulder.

    The male was transported to Katherine Regional Hospital by St John Ambulance in a stable but serious condition. He was later transported to Royal Darwin Hospital for further treatment to his injuries.

    Investigations are ongoing and the crime command have carriage.

    If you or someone you know are experiencing difficulties due to domestic violence, support services are available, including, but not limited to, 1800RESPECT (1800737732) or Lifeline 131 114.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Steuben County sheriff’s deputy arrested on child pornography charges

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    ROCHESTER, NY—U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Stuart J. McHenry, 34, of Hornell, NY, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with distribution and receipt of child pornography, which carries a mandatory minimum penalty of five years in prison, a maximum of 20 years, and a fine of up to $250,000. 

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Katelyn M. Hartford, who is handling the case, stated that according to the complaint, on July 5, 2024, the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) received a CyberTip from the instant messaging application Kik, which stated that Kik user “acman990,” uploaded approximately 24 files of suspected child pornography. A review of the files found that approximately 22 of the files constituted child pornography, which he sent to other users via private message. Subsequent investigation traced the account to the defendant.

    During the course of the investigation, it was determined that McHenry works as a deputy for Steuben County Sheriff’s Office. On October 18, 2024, investigators seized two cellular telephones during the execution of a search warrant at McHenry’s Hornell residence. A forensic review of one of the phones determined that Kik was previously installed on the phone and located evidence of use of the Kik username acman990. A review of McHenry’s iCloud account recovered a number of sexually explicit conversations and child pornography on Kik, including the videos reported in the CyberTip as well as additional videos and images of child pornography.

    McHenry made an initial appearance this afternoon before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark W. Pedersen and was held pending a detention hearing.

    The complaint is the result of an investigation by the New York State Police, under the direction of Major Kevin Sucher, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia, and the Steuben County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff Jim Allard. 

    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.

    # # # # 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Janesville Man Sentenced to 7 ½ Years for Fentanyl Trafficking and Illegally Possessing Firearms

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    MADISON, WIS. – Timothy M. O’Shea, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Cedric Sanders, 26, Janesville, Wisconsin, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge William M. Conley to 7 ½ years in federal prison for possessing fentanyl intended for distribution and possessing firearms as a felon.  Sanders pleaded guilty to these charges on December 5, 2024.

    In November 2023, Sanders sold fentanyl to a confidential informant on two occasions and to an undercover officer on two occasions. In December 2023, officers searched three homes and two vehicles connected to Sanders. During those searches, officers found two firearms, firearm magazines, ammunition, a firearm suppressor, and a high-capacity firearm drum magazine. They also found $12,960 in cash and 4,545 pills (approximately 396 grams) of fentanyl. Sanders is prohibited from legally possessing firearms because of prior felony convictions.

    At sentencing, Judge Conley found that the dangers of distributing fentanyl combined with Sanders’s illegal possession of two firearms warranted a significant prison sentence.

    The charges against Sanders were the result of an investigation conducted by the Janesville Police Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration. The ATF Madison Crime Gun Task Force also assisted with the case. The ATF Madison Crime Gun Task Force consists of federal agents from ATF and Task Force Officers (TFOs) from state and local agencies throughout the Western District of Wisconsin. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jennifer Remington and William Levins prosecuted this case.

    This case is part of Operation Take Back America. Operation Take Back America is a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations, and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Madison Man Sentenced to 7 Years for Illegally Possessing a Firearm

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    MADISON, WIS. – Timothy M. O’Shea, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that James Stevens, 42, Madison, Wisconsin, was sentenced yesterday by U.S. District Judge William M. Conley to 7 years in federal prison for possessing a firearm as a felon. Stevens pleaded guilty to this charge on December 11, 2024.

    Agents with the Wisconsin Department of Justice used a confidential informant to purchase cocaine and heroin from Stevens. During the investigation, agents searched Stevens’s home and seized 224 grams of cocaine. Agents also found a loaded Smith & Wesson M&P .40 caliber handgun hidden in Stevens’s couch. Stevens is prohibited from legally possessing firearms because of a prior felony conviction

    In choosing a sentence, Judge Conley balanced Stevens’s stated desire to turn his life around with the danger he posed to the community.

    The charge against Stevens was the result of an investigation conducted by the Wisconsin Department of Justice Division of Criminal Investigation and the Madison Police Department. The ATF Madison Crime Gun Task Force also assisted with the case. The ATF Madison Crime Gun Task Force consists of federal agents from ATF and Task Force Officers (TFOs) from state and local agencies throughout the Western District of Wisconsin. Assistant U.S. Attorney Louis Glinzak prosecuted this case.

    This case is part of Operation Take Back America. Operation Take Back America is a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations, and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General James Wins Lawsuit Against Anti-Abortion Extremist Group

    Source: US State of New York

    EW YORK – New York Attorney General Letitia James today released the following statement after a judge ruled that Red Rose Rescue, an anti-abortion group, repeatedly violated state and federal clinic access laws by invading reproductive health care clinics and interfering with access to care:

    “This is a monumental victory for the rule of law, for reproductive freedom, and for every patient who has been harassed, intimidated, or blocked from accessing the health care they need. 

    “The court has affirmed that Red Rose Rescue and its members flagrantly violated the law by invading clinics, obstructing clinic entrances, and disrupting essential medical services. Their actions were not peaceful protest but unlawful obstruction, and today’s ruling makes it clear that such conduct will not be tolerated in New York.

    “Abortion is health care, and every person has the right to make their own reproductive choices without fear or interference. My office will continue to do everything in our power to protect patients, clinics, and providers. New York remains a safe haven for reproductive care, and those who threaten New Yorkers’ most basic right to access health care will be met with the full force of the law.”

    Attorney General James sued Red Rose Rescue and its members in June 2023 for invading reproductive health care clinics and blocking patients’ access to care.

    Today, in a ruling granting the Office of the Attorney General’s (OAG) motion for summary judgment, U.S. District Court Judge Kenneth M. Karas found that Red Rose Rescue’s members obstructed patients’ and providers’ access to clinics by trespassing, refusing to leave and forcing police to remove them, and by getting in patients’ way as they tried to walk towards or enter the clinic – intentionally delaying or preventing patients from receiving care. In the decision, the court affirmed that Red Rose Rescue had a coordinated strategy of invading clinics, blocking clinic entrances, refusing to cooperate with law enforcement, and using their arrests to stop the provision of abortions, in violation of the federal Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances (FACE) Act and New York Clinic Access Act. Further proceedings will be scheduled, at the discretion of the court, to decide appropriate remedies for Red Rose Rescue’s unlawful conduct. 

    Attorney General James is committed to enforcing all state and federal laws protecting reproductive health care clinic staff and patients. The FACE Act and the New York State Clinic Access Act give patients and staff both inside and outside clinics the right to be free from force, threats of force, or physical obstruction when trying to obtain or provide reproductive health care. More information on laws protecting access to reproductive health clinics can be found here. If you believe these laws have been violated, you can file a complaint with the Attorney General’s Civil Rights Bureau by calling 800-771-7755, emailing civil.rights@ag.ny.gov, or filing a complaint online. 

    This matter is being handled by Senior Counsel Sandra Pullman, Assistant Attorney General Zoe Ridolfi-Starr, and Research Analyst Joseph Flores of the Civil Rights Bureau, Assistant Attorney General Julia Toce of the Watertown Regional Office, and Assistant Attorney General Heather McKay of the Rochester Regional Office, under the supervision of Civil Rights Bureau Chief Sandra Park and Deputy Bureau Chief Travis England. Additional assistance was provided by Special Counsel for Reproductive Justice Galen Leigh Sherwin of the Executive Division, Health Care Bureau Chief Darsana Srinivasan, and Detective Investigator Wilsonia Jean-Philippe of the Investigations Bureau. The Civil Rights Bureau and the Health Care Bureau are part of the Division for Social Justice, which is led by Chief Deputy Attorney General Meghan Faux. The Investigations Bureau is a part of the Division for Criminal Justice, which is led by Chief Deputy Attorney General José Maldonado. The Executive Division, Division for Social Justice, and Division for Criminal Justice are all overseen by First Deputy Attorney General Jennifer Levy.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Three Convicted for Fraudulently Billing Over $8 Million to Medicare and Medicaid Through Opioid Addiction Treatment Clinics in Kentucky

    Source: United States Attorneys General

    A federal jury convicted a Kentucky doctor, a Texas businessman, and a Kentucky woman yesterday for their roles operating a scheme out of a series of addiction treatment facilities in Kentucky that fraudulently billed Medicare and Kentucky Medicaid for over $8 million.

    According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, Dr. José Alzadon, 61, of Paintsville, Kentucky; Michael Bregenzer, 52, of Richmond, Texas; and Barbie Vanhoose, 62, of West Van Lear, Kentucky, orchestrated their health care fraud scheme through Kentucky Addiction Centers (KAC), which operated in Winchester, Paducah, Paintsville, and London, Kentucky. As part of his role as KAC’s medical director, Alzadon prescribed Suboxone, a controlled substance that can be used to treat opioid addiction when properly prescribed under regulations issued by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). Bregenzer served as KAC’s CEO and Vanhoose as KAC’s billing manager.

    Together, Alzadon, Bregenzer, and Vanhoose ran a scheme that falsely billed taxpayer-funded health programs like Medicare and Medicaid for medical services that were not performed or were falsely represented as more complex than the services provided. They also conspired to falsely bill for services in the name of Alzadon’s elderly father, using Alzadon’s father’s identity to bypass insurance credentialing issues that Alzadon had, and to use Alzadon’s father’s DEA prescribing credentials to prescribe Suboxone, even though Alzadon’s father had not seen the patients for whom he was supposedly issuing prescriptions.

    Alzadon, Bregenzer, and Vanhoose were each convicted of one count of conspiracy to commit health care fraud, eight counts of health care fraud, and one count of conspiracy to distribute controlled substances using the DEA registration number of another person. They face a maximum penalty of ten years in prison on each health care fraud conspiracy and substantive health care fraud count and four years in prison on the conspiracy to distribute controlled substances count. Alzadon and Vanhoose were also each convicted of two counts of aggravated identity theft and face a consecutive mandatory minimum of two years in prison. Alzadon and Bregenzer are scheduled to be sentenced on June 25 and Vanhoose is scheduled to be sentenced on June 26. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    Matthew R. Galeotti, head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division; Special Agent in Charge Jim Scott of the DEA Louisville Division; Special Agent in Charge Michael E. Stansbury of the FBI Louisville Field Office; Special Agent in Charge Kelly Blackmon of the Department of Health and Human Service Office of the Inspector General (HHS-OIG); Regional Director Joe Rivers of the Department of Labor Employee Benefits Security Administration (DOL-EBSA); and Kentucky Attorney General Russell Coleman made the announcement.

    The DEA, FBI, HHS-OIG, DOL-EBSA, and the Kentucky Medicaid Fraud Control Unit investigated this case.

    Trial Attorneys Dermot Lynch, Sarah Edwards, and Samad Pardesi of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section are prosecuting the case.

    The Fraud Section leads the Criminal Division’s efforts to combat health care fraud through the Health Care Fraud Strike Force Program. Since March 2007, this program, currently comprised of nine strike forces operating in 27 federal districts, has charged more than 5,800 defendants who collectively have billed federal health care programs and private insurers more than $30 billion. In addition, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, working in conjunction with the HHS-OIG, are taking steps to hold providers accountable for their involvement in health care fraud schemes. More information can be found at www.justice.gov/criminal-fraud/health-care-fraud-unit.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Statement of Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche on Investigation into Intelligence Leak

    Source: US State of North Dakota

    Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche made the following statement today regarding an investigation into the leak of intelligence information.

    “The Justice Department is opening a criminal investigation relating to the selective leak of inaccurate, but nevertheless classified, information from the Intelligence Community relating to Tren de Aragua (TDA). We will not tolerate politically motivated efforts by the Deep State to undercut President Trump’s agenda by leaking false information onto the pages of their allies at the New York Times. The Alien Enemies Proclamation is supported by fact, law, and common sense, which we will establish in court and then expel the TDA terrorists from this country.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICE, federal partner investigation results in 2 men convicted, 1 extradited from Guatemala for role in 2022 San Antonio alien smuggling mass casualty incident 

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    WASHINGTON — Two men were convicted by a federal jury March 18 for their roles in a 2022 mass casualty alien smuggling event in San Antonio, Texas that resulted in 53 deaths and 11 aliens injured. A third man allegedly involved in the same fatal smuggling incident was extradited from Guatemala to the United States to face justice in the case. This investigation is being conducted by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, with the assistance of various federal and state law enforcement agencies in South Texas.

    Felipe Orduna-Torres, 30, also known as Cholo, Chuequito, and Negro and Armando Gonzalez-Ortega, 55, also known as El Don and Don Gon were found guilty by a jury for their roles in the mass casualty alien smuggling event.

    Following extensive coordination and cooperation between U.S. and Guatemalan law enforcement authorities, Rigoberto Ramon Miranda-Orozco, 48, an alleged leader of a Guatemala-based alien smuggling organization was extradited to the United States to face trial for his alleged role in the San Antonio mass casualty incident.

    “These convictions and extradition represent the Justice Department’s commitment to prosecuting the leaders, organizers, and key facilitators of alien smuggling networks that bring people illegally — at significant risk to life — into the United States,” said Supervisory Official Matthew R. Galeotti, head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “It is a powerful example of the crucial work of Joint Task Force Alpha, which has been enhanced and empowered to go after cartels and transnational criminal organizations and to eliminate the scourge of human smuggling and trafficking.”

    According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, Orduna-Torres, and Gonzalez-Ortega conspired with others as part of an alien smuggling organization that loaded approximately 66 aliens into a tractor trailer, which lacked functioning air conditioning, and drove the aliens north across the U.S.-Mexico border and on a Texas interstate. On June 27, 2022, as the temperature rose, some of the migrants inside the trailer lost consciousness, while others clawed at the walls, trying to escape. By the time the tractor-trailer reached San Antonio, according to the evidence presented at trial, 48 migrants had already died. Another five migrants died after being transported to local hospitals. Six children and a pregnant woman were among the deceased. The defendants conspired with others to facilitate the travel of the aliens from Mexico, Guatemala, and Honduras to the United States, charging the aliens and their families approximately $12,000 to $15,000 USD for the perilous journey.

    Orduna-Torres and Gonzalez-Ortega were each convicted of one count of conspiracy to transport illegal aliens resulting in death, resulting in serious bodily injury and placing lives in jeopardy, one count of transportation of illegal aliens resulting in death, and one count of transportation of illegal aliens resulting in serious bodily injury and placing lives in jeopardy. For both counts resulting in death, they each face a maximum penalty of life in prison at their sentencing on June 27. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    “The extradition of Miranda-Orozco to U.S. custody is a major step in the takedown of a large and complex human smuggling organization he is alleged to be a part of,” said acting U.S. Attorney Margaret Leachman for the Western District of Texas. “Just as we’ve shown throughout the trial of Orduna-Torres and Gonzalez-Ortega, we will continue to prosecute this case aggressively — seeking justice for those who have perished and holding accountable those who illegally value profit over human life.”

    “ICE aggressively targets human smugglers, no matter where they operate or how far they think they can hide,” said ICE Homeland Security Investigations San Antonio Special Agent in Charge Craig Larrabee. “These verdicts reflect the scope and depth of our human smuggling investigations. From country of origin to final destination, our special agents have worked tirelessly to track these criminals down and dismantle their entire smuggling network. One by one we are seeing the consequences of human smuggling as the justice system prevails.”

    Miranda-Orozco conspired with other smugglers to facilitate the travel of four aliens from Guatemala through Mexico, and ultimately, to the United States, charging the families approximately $12,000 to $15,000 USD for the deadly journey. Miranda-Orozco is alleged to be responsible for smuggling three migrants who perished in the tractor trailer.

    In August 2024, Miranda-Orozco was arrested in Guatemala pursuant to a U.S. request for his extradition. His arrest was part of a large-scale takedown during which Guatemalan law enforcement executed multiple search and arrest warrants across Guatemala. Miranda-Orozco was indicted under seal in the Western District of Texas, and his indictment was unsealed after he was arrested. Miranda-Orozco made his initial appearance March 17 in Federal District Court in San Antonio and was arraigned on the indictment charging him with one count of conspiracy to bring an alien to the United States resulting in death, three counts of aiding and abetting bringing an alien to the United States resulting in death, one count of conspiracy to bring an alien to the United States causing serious bodily injury and placing lives in jeopardy, and one count of aiding and abetting bringing an alien to the United States causing serious bodily injury and placing lives in jeopardy.

    ICE HSI San Antonio led U.S. investigative efforts, working in concert with HSI Guatemala’s team members, and the HSI Human Smuggling Unit in Washington, D.C. ICE HSI received substantial assistance from U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s National Targeting Center/Operation Sentinel; U.S. Border Patrol; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; the San Antonio Police Department; the San Antonio Fire Department; and the Palestine Police Department. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs worked with law enforcement partners in Guatemala to secure the arrest and extradition of Miranda-Orozco and, along with the Criminal Division’s Office of Overseas Prosecutorial Development, Assistance and Training, provided crucial assistance in this matter.

    The case against Orduna-Torres and Gonzalez-Ortega is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Eric Fuchs, Sarah Spears, and Amanda Brown for the Western District of Texas. The case against Miranda-Orozco is being prosecuted by Trial Attorney Alexandra Skinnion of the Criminal Division’s HRSP Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney/JTFA prosecutor Jose Luis Acosta for the Western District of Texas, with assistance from HRSP Historian/Latin America Specialist Joanna Crandall.

    Learn more about ICE HSI San Antonio’s mission to increase public safety in South Texas communities on X at @HSI_SanAntonio.

    The charges contained in an indictment are merely allegations, and the defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General Bonta: Unlicensed Room and Board Operator Charged with Grand Theft from an Elder

    Source: US State of California

    Friday, March 21, 2025

    Contact: (916) 210-6000, agpressoffice@doj.ca.gov

    OAKLAND– California Attorney General Rob Bonta today announced today announced that felony grand theft charges have been filed against an unlicensed Room and Board Operator who allegedly stole from an elder resident while the resident was hospitalized. The California Department of Justice initiated an investigation based on a complaint referral from Contra Costa County Adult Protective Services regarding allegations of financial exploitation, neglect, psychological abuse, and isolation at unlicensed facilities operated in Contra Costa. The investigation revealed from May to September 2021, the Room and Board Operator fraudulently withdrew money on multiple occasions from the elder adult’s bank account.  
     
    “Caregivers of seniors and dependent adults bear a significant responsibility to prioritize the safety and overall health of those in their care,” said Attorney General Bonta. “At the California Department of Justice, we are dedicated to combating all forms of elder abuse and neglect. We will act swiftly to hold accountable anyone who harms or takes advantage of these at-risk members of our community.”
     
    The complaint was filed in Contra Costa County Superior Court and charges include grand theft from an elder adult and grand theft by access card. The defendant self-surrendered to the Contra Costa Superior court  and will be arraigned on April 16, 2025.

    It is important to note that criminal charges must be proven in a court of law. Every defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.

    DMFEA works to protect Californians by investigating and prosecuting those responsible for abuse, neglect, and fraud committed against elderly and dependent adults in the state, and those who perpetrate fraud on the Medi-Cal program.
     
    The Division of Medi-Cal Fraud and Elder Abuse receives 75 percent of its funding from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services under a grant award totaling $69,244,976 for Federal fiscal year (FY) 2025. The remaining 25 percent is funded by the State of California. FY 2025 is from October 1, 2024, through September 30, 2025.
     
    A copy of the complaint can be found here.

    # # #

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Statement of Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche on Investigation into Intelligence Leak

    Source: United States Attorneys General 1

    Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche made the following statement today regarding an investigation into the leak of intelligence information.

    “The Justice Department is opening a criminal investigation relating to the selective leak of inaccurate, but nevertheless classified, information from the Intelligence Community relating to Tren de Aragua (TDA). We will not tolerate politically motivated efforts by the Deep State to undercut President Trump’s agenda by leaking false information onto the pages of their allies at the New York Times. The Alien Enemies Proclamation is supported by fact, law, and common sense, which we will establish in court and then expel the TDA terrorists from this country.”

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Fatal crash, Linton

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    One person has died and another is in critical condition after a crash on Tennent Drive / SH 57, southwest of Linton.

    The crash involving two vehicles happened around 10:10pm last night.

    One person died at the scene, while another was airlifted to Wellington Hospital, where they remain.

    The road was closed while a scene examination was conducted, and was reopened about 2:25am.

    The Serious Crash Unit attended the scene.

    ENDS

    Issued by the Police Media Centre 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: 11 Charged in Twin Cities Drug Trafficking, Kidnapping Conspiracy

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    MINNEAPOLIS – A federal grand jury returned a five-count indictment against 11 individuals associated with a transnational Drug Trafficking Organization (DTO) tied to a Mexican cartel in a drug trafficking and kidnapping conspiracy, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Lisa D. Kirkpatrick. 

    As alleged in the indictment, beginning in July 2023 through January 2025, 11 defendants conspired to possess methamphetamine with the intent to distribute it. The DTO leaders arranged for large quantities of methamphetamine to be delivered from Mexico to the Twin Cities area, via the mail and driven by cars and trucks. Once delivered, the Minnesota-based defendants broke large quantities of methamphetamine down into smaller, distributable quantities and sold it to customers throughout the Twin Cities region.  In January 2025, an individual owed a DTO leader in Mexico a substantial amount of money, which they could not pay. Four of the co-defendants lured this individual to a location in St. Paul, Minnesota. They kidnaped the victim, beat the victim, chained the victim to a pole, and the held the victim against their will.  During the kidnaping and beating, a DTO leader instructed one of the defendants over a messaging application, “you are breaking his hands. Break them good.” 

    “This case highlights the inherent danger that transnational drug cartels bring to our country,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Lisa D. Kirkpatrick. “This mob-style violence has no place in America, it has no place in Minnesota, and those who engage in it will be charged federally.”  

    The following individuals have been indicted for the following crimes and have made their initial appearance in federal court:
    •    Richar Sanchez Mujica, 30, is charged with conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine, conspiracy to kidnap, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. 
    •    Donovan Rey Lopez, 21, of Minneapolis is charged with conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. 
    •    Erling Soren Holdahl, 48, is charged with conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and conspiracy to kidnap. 
    •    Dostin Elizander Ortiz-Garcia, 29, of Burnsville, Minnesota, is charged with conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine.
    •    Jonathan Salvador Juarez-Ferrer, 25, of Minneapolis, is charged with conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine.
    •    Timothy Duane Ripley, 45, is charged with conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and conspiracy to kidnap.
    •    Kendra Sue Johnson, 39, is charged with conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and conspiracy to kidnap.

    Four other members of the conspiracy have not yet made their initial appearances.

    This case is the result of cooperation between Homeland Security Investigations, the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, the St. Paul Police Department’s Violent Crime Enforcement Team, The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, Minneapolis Police Department, Ramsey County, and the Central Minnesota Violent Offender Task Force.  It is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to eliminate cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and to protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN). 

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael P. McBride is prosecuting the case. 

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Duluth Climbing Coach Sentenced to Over Six Years in Prison for Possession of Child Pornography

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    DULUTH, Minn. – Lucas Matthew Kramer, a Duluth man, was sentenced to 78 months in prison followed by five years of supervised release for possessing child pornography, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Lisa D. Kirkpatrick. He also was ordered to pay restitution to his victims and a $7,500 assessment pursuant to the Amy, Vicky, and Andy Child Pornography Assistance Act of 2018. 

    “Few crimes are as heinous as the sexual exploitation of minors,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Kirkpatrick. “My office will continue to prioritize charging predators who hold positions of trust in our community.  Coaches, daycare providers, and others in positions of trust who prey on children will face federal justice.”  

    “The sentencing of Lucas Mathew Kramer concludes a successful investigation focused on those who seek to exploit our children. HSI will continue to pursue and bring to justice those who target our young people,” said ICE HSI Saint Paul Special Agent in Charge Jamie Holt. “We appreciate the collaboration with our law enforcement partners and stand by our commitment to protecting our communities and securing our homeland.”

    According to court documents, on September 23, 2022, law enforcement received a tip that an online individual with the username “northernboy35” had used the Kik messenger application to upload 19 videos of child pornography to the internet. Less than a week later, the same username uploaded five additional child pornography videos to the internet. Law enforcement quickly determined that the uploaded files originated from Duluth, Minnesota, and linked the email and IP address for the “nothernboy35” moniker directly to Lucas Mathew Kramer, 45, a longtime collegiate climbing coach. 

    Law enforcement proceeded to execute a search warrant at Kramer’s residence and discovered that he had knowingly possessed over 600 images and videos of child sexual abuse material (CSAM) on numerous electronic devices. His CSAM collection included the graphic sexual abuse of prepubescent children—some as young as toddlers—and included videos depicting children being physically forced into sexual compliance. Kramer admitted that he downloaded and traded his CSAM collection with others on the internet. Law enforcement also discovered evidence of sexually explicit chats between Kramer and self-identified prepubescent minors, where he engaged the self-identified minors in sexually explicit conversations and encouraged them to take and send nude images of themselves.    

    Kramer pleaded guilty to one count of possession of child pornography on October 11, 2024. He was sentenced in U.S. District Court by Judge Eric C. Tostrud on March 19, 2024. When handing down the sentence, Judge Tostrud remarked that Kramer’s conduct was “deeply troubling” and that his collection of CSAM materials “reflected depravity” and showed a “callous indifference” to the humanity of his victims.

    This case is the result of an investigation conducted by Homeland Security Investigations and the Duluth Police Department. “The Duluth Police Department appreciates its partnership with Homeland Security Investigations in holding this offender accountable to the highest standards,” commented Duluth Police Chief Mike Ceynowa.

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

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Jordan L. Sing prosecuted the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Honduras Man Sentenced for Illegal Reentry

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A resident of Honduras pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of illegal reentry of a removed alien and was sentenced to time served and removal from the U.S. on his conviction, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

    Chief United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak imposed the sentence on Saul Enrique Padilla-Mejia, 38.

    According to information presented to the Court, Padilla-Mejia was previously removed from the United States on August 13, 2019, and returned to Honduras. On February 4, 2024, the Pennsylvania State Police charged Padilla-Mejia in the Court of Common Pleas of Allegheny County with various traffic offenses as well as driving under the influence of alcohol with a blood alcohol content of .16% and greater. Those charges remain pending, according to the public docket. Immigration authorities determined that Padilla-Mejia was illegally present in the United States and took him into immigration custody on October 30, 2024. Padilla-Mejia will remain detained until his deportation from the United States.

    Assistant United States Attorney Rebecca L. Silinski prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

    Acting United States Attorney Rivetti commended U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Padilla-Mejia.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: New Hampshire Man Arrested for Trafficking Multiple High-Powered Firearms

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Defendant allegedly sold three rifles including two semiautomatic, six handguns, nine magazines and multiple rounds of ammunition

    BOSTON – A Nashua, N.H. man has been arrested for allegedly trafficking nine firearms, including two semiautomatic rifles, into Massachusetts in over a one-month period. 

    Dennis T. Michaud, Jr., 22, was charged with one count of trafficking in firearms. Following an initial appearance in federal court in Boston, Michaud was detained pending a hearing scheduled for March 25, 2025.

    According to the charging documents, beginning in or around February 2025, Michaud was identified as an illegal firearms dealer. It is alleged that, from Feb. 7 through Feb. 11, 2025, undercover law enforcement contacted Michaud through Snapchat to arrange for the purchase of a semiautomatic rifle. During those communications, Michaud allegedly stated that he was located in New Hampshire and that he could bring the firearm to Massachusetts. On Feb. 11, 2025, in Pepperell, Michaud allegedly met with a confidential source operating at the direction of law enforcement to conduct the transaction. There, it is alleged that Michaud provided the confidential source with a Good Time Outdoors CXV Core 15 .223/5.56 caliber semiautomatic rifle and a 30-round .223/5.56 caliber magazine in exchange for $900.
     

    On Feb. 18, 2025, Michaud allegedly agreed to sell three additional firearms. It is alleged that, later that day, Michaud met the source at an agreed upon location in Pepperell, where he provided the following three firearms as well as accompanying ammunition and accessories in exchange for $2,100: a Taurus Raging Hunter .454 Casull Revolver and approximately five rounds of .454 Casull ammunition; a Rossi Interarms M68 .38 Special Revolver and approximately five rounds of .38 Special ammunition; and a Walther PPS 9mm Pistol with approximately six Walther PPS 9mm magazines and various firearm parts and/or accessories.
     

    It is further alleged that, on Feb. 27, 2025, Michaud agreed to sell two more firearms: a Radical Firearms RF-15 .223/5.56 caliber semiautomatic short-barreled rifle along with a 30-round .223/5.56 caliber magazine; and a Sig Sauer P227 Equinox .45 caliber pistol along with a 10-round Sig Sauer P227 .45 caliber magazine. During the transaction in Pepperell, Michaud allegedly provided the confidential source the two agreed-upon firearms and ammunition. Michaud also allegedly stated that possessing the semiautomatic short-barreled rifle would constitute “three felonies” due to the stock and 30-round magazine affixed to the firearm. 
     

    On March 20, 2025, in Pepperell, Michaud allegedly sold three more firearms, two magazines and ammunition to the confidential source in exchange for $2,250: a  Century Arms 7.62x39mm YSKA AK Rifle; a Smith & Wesson M&P 9mm Pistol; and a Taurus PT-22 .22 caliber Pistol. The defendant was immediately taken into custody following the transaction.

    Michaud does not possess a federal firearms license and is prohibited from possessing any firearms or ammunition due to a prior conviction in New Hampshire for possession of marijuana.

    The charge of trafficking in firearms without a license provides for a sentence of up to 15 years in prison, up to three years of supervised release and a fine of $250,000. 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.

    United States Attorney Leah B. Foley and James M. Ferguson, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives, Boston Field Division made the announcement. Valuable assistance was provided by the Massachusetts State Police; and the Nashua (N.H.) and Pepperell Police Departments. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sandra Gonzalez Sanchez of the Major Crimes Unit is prosecuting the case.

    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.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Kehoe Announces Three Appointments to the Missouri Sentencing Advisory Commission, Fills One County Office Vacancy

    Source: US State of Missouri

    MARCH 21, 2025

    Jefferson City — Today, Governor Mike Kehoe announced three appointments to the Missouri Sentencing Advisory Council and the appointment of a new Atchison County Treasurer.

    Roye Cole, of Rogersville, was appointed to the Missouri Sentencing Advisory Commission.

    Mr. Cole has served as Sheriff of Webster County since 2008 and has been a certified police officer since 2003. He previously worked as a deputy juvenile officer for the State of Missouri and as a security guard at Drury University. Cole holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and Criminology and a Master of Business Administration from Drury University, with expertise in leadership, management, and economics.

    Amanda Grellner, of Linn, was appointed to the Missouri Sentencing Advisory Commission.

    Ms. Grellner has served as the prosecuting attorney for Osage County since 2002. In addition to her prosecutorial work, Grellner has held leadership roles in various organizations such as the Community Health Center of Central Missouri, Missouri Association of Treatment Court Professionals, Rape and Abuse Crisis Service, and the Missouri Association of Prosecuting Attorneys. She holds a bachelor’s degree in political science from the University of Missouri and earned her Juris Doctor from the University of Missouri School of Law.

    Kurt D. Marquart, of Lee’s Summit, was appointed to the Missouri Sentencing Advisory Commission.

    Mr. Marquart is a retired attorney, and has operated a private law practice since 1991. Before practicing law, he served as a Missouri State Highway Patrolman. Marquart is a member of the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, Kansas City Metropolitan Bar Association, Missouri Bar Association, and the Knights of Columbus. He also serves as a director for the Missouri Association of State Troopers Emergency Relief Society (MASTERS). He earned his Bachelor of Science in Law Enforcement from Southeast Missouri State University and his Juris Doctor from the University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Law.

    Tasha Zach, of Rock Port, was appointed as the Atchison County Treasurer.

    Ms. Zach is currently filling the vacant county treasurer position, having been appointed by the county commission in December of 2024. She previously served as an accounts payable deputy and the election deputy in the Atchison County clerk’s office for over nine years. Ms. Zach holds an Office Information Systems Technology certificate from Iowa Western Community College.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Ellenton Man Pleads Guilty For His Role In Fentanyl And Cocaine Distribution Conspiracy

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Tampa, Florida – Acting United States Attorney Sara C. Sweeney announces that Alexis Soto Escalante (20, Ellenton) has pleaded guilty to conspiring to, and possessing with the intent to distribute over 40 grams of fentanyl and 500 grams of cocaine. Soto Escalante faces a mandatory minimum penalty of 5 years, up to 40 years, in federal prison. A sentencing date has not yet been set.

    According to the plea agreement, on May 22, 2024, Soto Escalante sourced 55.9 grams of fentanyl to his co-defendant, Traveous Anderson, that was recovered by agents upon Anderson’s arrest. Later the same day, Soto Escalante traveled to Anderson’s apartment to collect payment for the fentanyl delivery where he was also arrested. Agents recovered 641 grams of cocaine and 3.7 grams fentanyl in the vehicle Soto Escalante was driving. Agents subsequently executed a search warrant at Soto Escalante’s residence and found an additional 14.03 grams of cocaine in his bedroom.

    Anderson’s case is still pending trial. 

    This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, with assistance from the Bradenton Police Department and the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jeff Chang.

    MIL Security OSI –