NewzIntel.com

Category: Law and Justice

  • MIL-OSI Security: Carl Vinson Carrier Strike Group Departs Thailand

    Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

    GULF OF THAILAND  –  

    The U.S. relationship with Thailand is one of the oldest in the Indo-Pacific region. The countries have shared friendly and diplomatic relations for over 190 years. Thailand is one of five treaty allies of the U.S. in the Indo-Pacific Region and continues to be a longstanding security partner and leader in Southeast Asia.

    “We are incredibly grateful to Thailand for hosting the Carrier Strike Group ONE team,” said Rear Adm. Michael Wosje, commander, Carrier Strike Group ONE. “Port visits like this are a testament to the vital importance of the U.S.-Thailand Alliance and Partnership that contributes to peace, stability, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region. We have shared history, shared interests, and common values that will continue to unite us for the good of both of our countries.”

    The U.S. remains committed to the Kingdom of Thailand, promoting military-to-military relations, as well as advancing interoperability and coordination with the Royal Thai Armed Forces, to promote regional security and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

    “Thank you, Rear Admiral Michael Wosje and the captains and crew of the USS Carl Vinson and other ships of Carrier Strike Group ONE, for your visit to Thailand! Your time here reinforced the excellent relations between Thailand and the United States and our shared commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific. We look forward to future visits,” said U.S. Ambassador to Thailand, Robert F. Godec.

    During their stay in Thailand, the nearly 7,500 Sailors from Carrier Strike Group ONE participated in cultural exchanges, community relations events, and Morale, Welfare and Recreation sponsored tours to enhance cultural understanding and cooperation between the two countries.

    “I know I can speak for all of the Carl Vinson crew when I say how grateful we are to the people of Laem Chabang and Pattaya City for welcoming our Sailors with such kindness and hospitality,” said Capt. Matthew Thomas, commanding officer, USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70). “This port visit allowed our Sailors the opportunity to recharge and prepare to approach the next stretch of our time at sea maintaining a free and open Indo-Pacific. We are committed to the U.S.-Thai friendship and look forward to future opportunities that strengthen this bond.”

    The Carl Vinson Carrier Strike Group consists of USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70), embarked staffs of Carrier Strike Group ONE and Destroyer Squadron one, Carrier Air Wing Two, Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Princeton (CG 59) and Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyers USS Sterett (DDG 104) and USS William P. Lawrence (DDG 110). Carrier Air Wing Two is composed of nine squadrons flying the F-35C Lightning II, F/A-18E/F Super Hornets, EA-18G Growler, E-2D Advanced Hawkeye, CMV-22 Osprey and MH-60R/S Seahawks.

    The Carl Vinson Carrier Strike Group is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations. 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.

    For more news from Carrier Strike Group ONE and Carl Vinson visit: https://www.dvidshub.net/unit/CSG1, https://www.dvidshub.net/unit/CVN70

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Fentanyl and Illegal Firearm Possession Lands Oklahoma City Man in Federal Prison for More Than Three Years

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    OKLAHOMA CITY – ABEL JOSE FARIAS, 21, of Oklahoma City, has been sentenced to serve 46 months in federal prison for possession of fentanyl with intent to distribute and illegal possession of two firearms after a previous felony conviction, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.

    On July 18, 2024, a federal Grand Jury returned a four-count Indictment against Farias, charging him with possession of fentanyl with intent to distribute, two counts of being a felon in possession of a firearm, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug-trafficking crime. According to public record, in December 2023, Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) agents received information regarding a subject selling fentanyl pills. The agents arranged to meet with the subject to buy fentanyl at a gas station in Moore, Oklahoma, where they encountered and ultimately arrested Farias. In his vehicle, agents discovered a bag of fentanyl pills, as well as a firearm. After executing a federal search warrant, law enforcement found another firearm at Farias’s residence.

    On November 13, 2024, Farias pleaded guilty to counts 1, 2, and 4 of the Indictment, and admitted he possessed fentanyl which he intended to distribute, as well as two firearms, which he could not possess because of his felony convictions.

    At the sentencing hearing on January 28, 2024, U.S. District Judge Joe Heaton sentenced Farias to serve 46 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release. In announcing the sentence, the Court noted the dangerous nature of fentanyl, and that firearms were involved in Farias’s previous convictions, leading Judge Heaton to the conclusion that the sentence needed to promote respect for the rule of law.

    Public record further reflects that Farias has previous felony convictions in Oklahoma County District Court, including those for first-degree burglary in case number CF-2022-2403 and being a felon in possession of a firearm in case number CF-2022-1866.

    This case is the result of an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations, the Oklahoma City Police Department, the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation, and the 21st District Attorney Criminal Investigations Division. Assistant U.S. Attorney Stan J. West prosecuted the case.

    Reference is made to public filings for additional information.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Former Hospital Administrator Sentenced to 12 Years in Federal Prison in Identity Theft Scheme that Spanned Three Decades

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Victim Falsely Prosecuted, Jailed, and Forcibly Medicated with Psychotropic Drugs

    An Iowa hospital administrator who lived under a false identity for more than 30 years and caused the false imprisonment, involuntary hospitalization, and forced medication of his victim was sentenced today to 12 years in federal prison.

    Matthew David Keirans, age 59, from Hartland, Wisconsin, received the prison term after an April 1, 2024, guilty plea to one count of false statement to a national credit union administration insured institution and one count of aggravated identity theft.

    Evidence presented at hearings in the case established that Keirans and his identity theft victim worked together at a hotdog cart in Albuquerque, New Mexico, in the late 1980s.  Keirans assumed the victim’s identity and, for the next three decades, used that identity in every aspect of his life.  Keirans obtained several false documents in the victim’s name, including a Kentucky birth certificate.

    In 2013, Keirans obtained employment as a high-level administrator in an Iowa City hospital.  Keirans provided the hospital with false identification documents during the hiring process, including a fictitious I-9 form, social security number, date of birth, and other identification documents in his victim’s name.  After getting hired, Keirans worked for the hospital remotely from his residence in Wisconsin.  Keirans’ access to, and roles in, the system architecture of the hospital’s computer infrastructure were “the highest it could be,” and Keirans “was the key administrator of critical systems.”

    Between March 2014 and May 2022, Keirans repeatedly obtained vehicle and personal loans from two credit unions in the Northern District of Iowa using the victim’s name, social security number, and date of birth.  Keirans obtained nine loans with a total value of over $250,000 from the credit unions.  Keirans also obtained various lines of credit from other lenders in the victim’s name and with his personal identifiers.

    Keirans also maintained deposits at a national bank in the victim’s name.  In August 2019, the victim, who was homeless at the time, entered the branch of the national bank in Los Angeles, California, and told a branch manager that he had recently discovered that someone was using his credit and had accumulated large amounts of debt.  The victim stated that he did not want to pay the debt and wished to close his accounts at the bank.  The victim presented the bank with his true social security card, as well as an authentic State of California identification card.  Due to the large amount of currency in the accounts, the branch manager asked the victim a series of security questions, which the victim was unable to answer.  The national bank then called the Los Angeles Police Department (“LAPD”).

    LAPD officers spoke with Keirans on the telephone, who stated he lived in Wisconsin and did not give anyone in California permission to access his bank accounts.  After faxing the LAPD a series of phony identification documents, the LAPD arrested Keirans’ victim on two felony charges.  After Keirans requested his victim’s prosecution, the victim was charged in Keirans’ name and held without bail at the Los Angeles County Jail.

    In the ensuing months, Keirans contacted the LAPD and Los Angeles District Attorney (LADA) numerous times requesting updates on the victim’s prosecution.  Meanwhile, Keirans’ victim continued to assert throughout the California criminal proceedings that he was not Keirans.  A California state court judge ultimately found Keirans’ victim was not mentally competent to stand trial and ordered Keirans’ victim to a California mental hospital.  The California state court also ordered Keirans’ victim to receive psychotropic medication. 

    In March 2021, Keirans’ victim pled “no contest” to the two felony charges in exchange for a “time-served” sentence, a $400 fine, and immediate release from custody.  In total, Keirans’ victim spent 428 days in county jail and 147 days in the mental hospital as a result of Keirans’ false reports to the LAPD and LADA.  The state court also ordered Keirans’ victim to “use only their true name, Matthew Keirans” in the future.

    After his release from jail and hospital, Keirans’ victim made numerous attempts to regain his identity.  For his part, Keirans continued to make false reports and statements to law enforcement officials in Wisconsin and California.  The State of California billed the victim over $118,000 for the costs of his “care” in the mental hospital between October 20, 2021, and March 15, 2021.

    In January 2023, after learning where Keirans was employed, the victim contacted the Iowa City hospital’s security department about Keirans.  The hospital referred Keirans’ complaint to a local law enforcement agency, which assigned an experienced detective, Ian Mallory, to investigate the victim’s complaint.  The detective conducted an investigation and, over the course of the ensuing months, unraveled Keirans’ identity theft scheme.  Among other things, the detective obtained DNA evidence that conclusively proved that Keirans was not the son of an elderly man in Kentucky, as Keirans had claimed, but that Keirans’ victim was the man’s son. 

    During an interview with the detective in July 2023, Keirans initially insisted that the victim was “crazy” and “needed help and should be locked up.”  After the detective presented Keirans with the results of the DNA testing, however, Keirans confessed to the three-decade identity theft scheme.  Keirans also admitted to providing fraudulent documents to authorities in Los Angeles from his residence in Wisconsin to aid in the arrest, prosecution, and incarceration of the victim.  A California court ultimately exonerated the victim after Keirans pled guilty in federal court.

    Keirans was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Chief Judge C.J. Williams.  Keirans was sentenced to 144 months’ imprisonment and fined $10,000.  He was ordered to make $6,191 in restitution the victim and ordered to repay $10,000 in court-appointed attorney fees.  Keirans must also serve a five-year term of supervised release after the prison term.  There is no parole in the federal system.

    At the sentencing hearing, Chief Judge Williams said Keirans’ crime was “egregious,” “callous,” and “Kafkaesque.”  Chief Judge Williams stated Keirans “weaponized the criminal justice system to achieve his goals.”  Chief Judge Williams praised the “remarkable and exceptional work” of the Iowa detective.

    “Matthew Keirans spent decades pretending to be someone he was not, all the while knowing that his victim was suffering,” said United States Attorney Timothy T. Duax.  “Keirans used his victim’s identity to live his life, obtain loans, and lines of credit.  When the victim tried to clear his name of Keirans’ debts, Keirans deliberately and calculatedly lied to police officers and prosecutors in California in order to keep his victim locked up, unable to live his life, and to keep his own secret safe.  Today, Keirans has been held responsible for his actions and will spend years in prison.” 

    “I would like to thank Detective Mallory for his tenacious work on this case,” said University of Iowa Police Chief Lucy Wiederholt.  “His persistence in finding the facts highlights our commitment to helping victims of crime.”

    “The FBI is committed to working with our local law enforcement partners wherever we can to protect the American people and uphold the Constitution,” said Eugene Kowel, FBI Omaha Special Agent in Charge. “The FBI commends the University of Iowa Police Department’s tenacity in bringing Keirans’ fraudulent crimes to an end, and we remain dedicated to holding individuals like Keirans accountable when they break the laws of our country and impose harm on victims.”

    Keirans is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be transported to a federal prison.  

    The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Timothy L. Vavricek and was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the University of Iowa Police Department.  

    Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.

    The case file number is 23-CR-1020.

    Follow us on X @USAO_NDIA.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: MILHORN PLEADS GUILTY IN DUI DEATH ON NATCHEZ TRACE PARKWAY

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Oxford, Mississippi – Connor Milhorn, 20, entered guilty pleas to two counts relating to an alcohol related crash on the Natchez Trace Parkway in May of 2024. Milhorn, who appeared before Judge Sharion Aycock, pled guilty to Aggravated DUI for causing death to another and to Aggravated DUI for causing serious bodily injury to a minor child. His sentencing will be scheduled for a later date.

    On May 11, 2024, shortly after 4:45 in the morning, law enforcement Rangers were dispatched to a collision involving a Hummer H3 and a Toyota Tundra. Upon arriving on the scene, they found the driver of the Tundra deceased and his minor child severely injured in the backseat. The child was transported by helicopter to Memphis, Tennessee for life saving medical care.

    The investigation by the Rangers resulted in them learning that Milhorn was operating his Hummer at a high rate of speed and under the influence of alcohol while driving on the Natchez Trace Parkway. Milhorn’s vehicle collided head on with the Tundra resulting in the death and serious injury at issue in the case.

    This case was investigated by the Natchez Trace Parkway Law Enforcement Rangers. The case was prosecuted by AUSA John Herzog Jr.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senate Republicans Block Resolution Condemning Pardons of Violent J6 Offenders

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Rhode Island Jack Reed
    WASHINGTON, DC – During the presidential campaign last year, President Trump pledged to pardon non-violent offenders who participated in the January 6 (J6), 2021 attack on the U.S. Capitol.  And just days before taking the oath of Office, Vice President -elect JD Vance stated: “obviously people that committed violence against police officers that day should not get a pardon.”
    However, on the first day of President Trump’s second term he commuted the prison sentences for 14 of the most notorious J6 offenders, including leaders of the paramilitary groups the Oath Keepers and Proud Boys. Simultaneously, he granted a “full, complete and unconditional pardon” to the rest of the approximately 1,560 defendants, including those convicted of violently assaulting police officers. 
    Many of the people Trump called “patriots” had extensive rap sheets.  Some had prior convictions or pending charges for crimes ranging from rape to sexual abuse of a minor to manslaughter.  While Trump’s pardons did not absolve offenders from every crime they committed in the past, his actions helped every one of them escape justice for their actions on January 6.  Some of the J6ers who got a pardon from Trump have already been arrested for other crimes or involved in deadly altercations with police officers.
    Among those pardoned by Trump were 169 people who pled guilty to assaulting police officers on January 6th.  During the siege of the Capitol that day, over 80 U.S. Capitol Police Officers were assaulted, as well as over 60 officers from the Washington, DC Metropolitan Police Department.
    This week, U.S. Senators Jack Reed and Sheldon Whitehouse joined every member of the Democratic caucus in introducing a resolution condemning the pardons of individuals who were found guilty of assaulting Capitol Police Officers.  The resolution simply states: “Resolved, That the Senate disapproves of any pardons for individuals who were found guilty of assaulting Capitol Police officers.”
    But when U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) requested unanimous consent for the resolution on the floor, Republicans blocked the measure, with opposition from Majority Whip John Barrasso (R-WY) objecting on behalf of his colleagues in the majority.
    Unanimous consent is a common route senators take for simple resolutions, military nominations and other actions, but adoption can be blocked if one single senator objects, sometimes on behalf of others.
    “These pardons were a slap in the face of the Capitol Police who stand up every day to protect members of Congress.  They have our back; we should have theirs.  Choosing subservience to President Trump rather than condemning the pardons of the criminals who attacked the Capitol is a shameful betrayal of these dedicated officers,” said Senator Reed.
    Senator Whitehouse stated: “These pardons are an insult to the men and women of the Capitol Police and the DC Police who protected democracy from the brutal rioters on January 6.  Less than two weeks from their pardons, they’re already back committing crimes, and now provide a personal army with demonstrated willingness to commit acts of political violence at the behest of Donald Trump.”
    The senators urged Senate Republicans to work with Democrats to pass the resolution, ensure accountability, and respect for law enforcement officers across the country.
    Among the individuals granted a full, complete, and unconditional pardon by President Trump was a Florida man who attacked a police officer with an explosive device during the J6 assault and was deemed by a federal judge to pose a serious ongoing danger to the general public, particularly to members of law enforcement, if released.
    Another J6 offender who was pardoned was the so-called QAnon Shaman, who, according to press reports declared soon after his pardon: “Now I’m gonna buy some (expletive) guns.”
    And a Missouri woman convicted in the Jan. 6 Capitol riot and seen holding the broken nameplate of then-House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-CA), was given a pardon by President Trump, only to be sentenced for another crime: killing a mother of two in a drunken-driving crash.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Shaheen Addresses New Hampshire Sea Grant’s Annual Research Symposium, Highlights Importance of Federal Funding for Coastal Communities

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Hampshire Jeanne Shaheen
    (Durham, NH) – Today, U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), former Chair and now senior member of the U.S. Senate Commerce, Justice and Science Appropriations Subcommittee, delivered remarks at New Hampshire Sea Grant’s Annual Research Symposium and highlighted the importance of federal funding for coastal communities. The New Hampshire Sea Grant Research Symposium is a showcase of recent projects which are supported by federal funding through the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)’s National Sea Grant College Program. The event provides a forum to discuss putting scientific research into action through applied research, education and engagement in local communities. You can view photos from the event here.
    “Sea Grant is a key driver of efforts to protect our coast that not only strengthens the health of our coastal areas, but also informs and improves how we utilize coastal resources to benefit our local communities and the coastal economy,” said Senator Shaheen. “Unfortunately, the current administration’s efforts to cut grants and loans that these communities rely on has caused chaos and panic, while fueling uncertainty about the future of these programs. We need to be focused on creating jobs and strengthening our economy, not gutting programs that help to do just that.”
    Based at the University of New Hampshire since 1980, New Hampshire Sea Grant is one of 34 Sea Grant programs in the U.S. under the umbrella of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)’s National Sea Grant College Program. New Hampshire Sea Grant works to support a coastal environment that sustains healthy ecosystems, economies and people through integrated research, extension, education and communications efforts.
    As a senior member and former Chair of the U.S. Senate Commerce, Justice and Science Appropriations Subcommittee, Shaheen has long advocated for robust funding for the Sea Grant account, which directly supports the New Hampshire Sea Grant program. In the fiscal year (FY) 2024 government funding bill, Shaheen helped secure $80 million for the National Sea Grant College Program which directly funds the New Hampshire Sea Grant program. She also worked across party lines to secure, within that funding,  $2 million for lobster research, $1 million to train young fishermen and $1 million to support research into the impacts of PFAS and other emerging contaminants, efforts that will help ensure that New Hampshire’s coastal economy remains strong for future generations.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Arizona Couple Pleads Guilty to $1.2B Health Care Fraud

    Source: United States Attorneys General 7

    An Arizona couple pleaded guilty for causing over $1.2 billion of false and fraudulent claims to be submitted to Medicare and other health insurance programs for expensive, medically unnecessary wound grafts that were applied to elderly and terminally ill patients.

    According to court documents, Alexandra Gehrke, 39, and her husband, Jeffrey King, 46, both of Phoenix, conspired with others to orchestrate the massive scheme. Gehrke ran two companies, Apex Medical LLC and Viking Medical Consultants LLC, that contracted with medically untrained “sales representatives” to locate elderly patients, including hospice patients, who had wounds at any stage and order amniotic wound grafts from a specific graft distributor. Gehrke instructed and financially incentivized the sales representatives to order grafts only in sizes 4×6 centimeters or larger, even if the wound was much smaller, to maximize health insurance reimbursement. Gehrke, through companies she owned and controlled, received over $279 million in illegal kickbacks from the distributor of the grafts in exchange for the orders. Gehrke in turn paid the sales representatives tens of millions of dollars in unlawful kickbacks. Gehrke then referred the patients to a company co-owned by King, which contracted with nurse practitioners to apply the grafts. King’s company fraudulently billed Medicare, TRICARE (the health care program for U.S. service members and their families), CHAMPVA (the health care program for spouses and children of permanently disabled veterans), and commercial insurance plans for the grafts. Gehrke and King, who had no medical training, directed the nurse practitioners to suspend their own medical judgment and apply all grafts ordered by the sales representatives, even when medically unreasonable and unnecessary, which resulted in the application of grafts to infected wounds, wounds that had already healed, and wounds that were not responding to the grafts.

    From November 2022 through May 2024, Gehrke, King, and others, through companies they owned, operated, and controlled, submitted $1,212,005,778 in false and fraudulent claims to health insurance plans. This included over $960 million in false and fraudulent claims to the federal health care programs — Medicare, TRICARE, and CHAMPVA. The federal and private health care insurers paid $614,990,420 based on the false and fraudulent claims.

    In their plea agreements, Gehrke and King agreed to pay restitution in the amounts of $614,990,420 and $605,690,110, respectively. They also agreed collectively to forfeit over $410 million in funds that they obtained from the fraud. To date, the government has seized nearly $100 million in assets that Gehrke and King accumulated from the scheme, including bank account balances exceeding $68 million, four luxury vehicles valued over $980,000, $22 million of life insurance annuities, and jewelry and precious metals.

    Gehrke pleaded guilty on Oct. 24, 2024, to conspiracy to commit health care fraud and wire fraud. She is scheduled to be sentenced on Feb. 11 and faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison. King pleaded guilty on Jan. 31 to conspiracy to commit health care fraud and wire fraud and faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison. His sentencing date has not yet been scheduled. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    Supervisory Official Antoinette T. Bacon of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division; U.S. Attorney Gary M. Restaino for the District of Arizona; Acting Special Agent in Charge Sean Burke of the FBI Atlanta Field Office; Deputy Inspector General Christian J. Schrank of the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG); Director Kelly Mayo of the Department of Defense Office of Inspector General, Defense Criminal Investigative Service (DCIS); and Special Agent in Charge Kris Raper of the Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Inspector General (VA-OIG) South Central Field Office made the announcement.

    The FBI, HHS-OIG, DCIS, and VA-OIG investigated the case.

    Trial Attorney Shane Butland of the National Rapid Response Strike Force of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew Williams for the District of Arizona 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 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: Bipartisan Lawmakers Introduce Bicameral Resolution to Keep All Options on the Table to Counter a Nuclear-Armed Iran

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for South Carolina Lindsey Graham
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina), John Fetterman (D-Pennsylvania) and Katie Britt (R-Alabama) along with U.S. Representatives Jared Moskowitz (D-Florida-23) and Mike Lawler (R-New York-17) this week introduced a bipartisan, bicameral resolution to affirm that the United States, Israel and our allies and partners should keep all options on the table in order to counter and contain the threat from a nuclear-armed Iranian regime.
    “If the Iranian Ayatollah and his henchman obtain a nuclear weapon, it would be one of the most destabilizing and dangerous events in world history. They are trying to acquire a nuclear weapon as part of their religious agenda to purify their faith, destroy the Jewish State, and drive Westerners out of the Middle East. A nuclear-armed Iran is an existential threat to Israel and a nightmare for the world,” said Senator Graham. “This resolution clearly demonstrates that the Iranian regime is lying when it says they only want nuclear power and not a nuclear weapon. This is not an authorization for the use of military force, but a resolution establishing the truth regarding Iran’s nuclear intentions and capability.”
    Senator Graham continued, “Finally, I’d like to recognize the leadership of my colleagues, Senators Fetterman and Britt and Representatives Moskowitz and Lawler, on the issue of countering a nuclear-armed Iran. They understand the serious implications for the world if Iran were to obtain such a weapon. It speaks volumes that members from across the political spectrum are united on this front. I look forward to having a debate and vote in the United States Senate on our resolution.”
    “Iran’s pursuit of nuclear weapons is a threat we cannot ignore. The United States, Israel, and our allies cannot afford to sit back while the Iranian regime continues down this dangerous path,” said Senator Fetterman. “This resolution sends an unmistakable message: all options are on the table to prevent a nuclear-armed Iran.”
    “Iran’s continued pursuit of nuclear weapons poses a clear threat to the US, Israel, and our allies. Now more than ever, we must stand up to Iran and use every tool in our toolbox to address these threats,” said Senator Britt. “Peace is achieved through strength, and our resolution sends an important bipartisan message to Iran that the U.S. will not tolerate Tehran’s aggression.”
    “Allowing Iran to maintain and build a nuclear program is an existential threat to the United States, Israel, and global stability,” said Representative Moskowitz. “As the Iranian regime continues its dangerous attempts at nuclear expansion, leaders have to call this out for what it is: an unacceptable escalation in the Middle East and a national security threat against the United States and our allies. Iran must dismantle its nuclear program now. This resolution makes clear the United States won’t stand for anything less and will consider all options to protect our national security. We must send a clear, bipartisan message that we stand with our ally Israel and that a continued nuclear program in Iran is an absolute nonstarter.”
    “An Iran that has nuclear weapons is unacceptable and a danger not only to our closest ally, Israel, but also to the whole world,” said Representative Lawler. “We must keep all options on the table when it comes to dealing with this unprecedented situation, and I’m glad to be working in a bipartisan fashion with Senators Graham, Fetterman, and Britt, as well as my friend Congressman Moskowitz, to make evident to Iran what the grave consequences of their actions would be.”
    This resolution:
    Affirms that the Islamic Republic of Iran’s continued pursuit of a nuclear weapons capability is:
    A credible threat to the United States; and
    An existential threat to Israel and other allies and partners in the Middle East.
    Asserts all options should be considered to address the nuclear threat the Islamic Republic of Iran poses to the United States, Israel, and our allies and partners.
    Demands the Islamic Republic of Iran to immediately cease engaging in any and all activities that threaten the national security interests of the United States, Israel, and our allies and partners, including:
    Enriching uranium;
    Developing or possessing delivery vehicles capable of carrying nuclear warheads; and
    Developing or possessing a nuclear warhead
    To read the full resolution text, click HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Albany County Man Sentenced to 25 Years for Sexual Exploitation of a Child

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    SYRACUSE, NEW YORK – Thomas Berrington, age 33, of Colonie, New York, was sentenced today to 25 years in federal prison for his repeated sexual exploitation of a child announced United States Attorney Carla B. Freedman and Craig L. Tremaroli, Special Agent in Charge of the Albany Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).

    As part of his prior guilty plea, Berrington admitted that between June of 2023 and January of 2024, he repeatedly sexually abused a minor female child for the purpose of photographing and video recording the abuse. The victim was eight years old when Berrington’s abuse of her began.

    United States District Judge Mae A. D’Agostino also sentenced Berrington to a 25-year term of supervised release, to begin following his term of imprisonment. Berrington will also be required to pay a special assessment of $200, an additional special assessment of $5,000, and register as a sex offender upon his release from prison.

    The case was investigated by the FBI’s Albany Division Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force, comprised of FBI Special Agents, and state and local police investigators, including from the New York State Police and Colonie Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Adrian S. LaRochelle as part of Project Safe Childhood.

    Launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice, Project Safe Childhood is led by United States Attorney’s offices and the Criminal Division’s 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 https://www.justice.gov/psc.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Former Senior Adviser for the Federal Reserve Indicted on Charges of Economic Espionage

    Source: US State of North Dakota

    John Harold Rogers, 63, of Vienna, Virginia, a former Senior Adviser for the Federal Reserve Board of Governors (FRB), was arrested today on charges that he conspired to steal Federal Reserve trade secrets for the benefit of the People’s Republic of China (PRC).

    In furtherance of the conspiracy, allegedly made false statements to the Office of Inspector General for the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System and the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (FRB-OIG), and those false statements had a material impact on its investigation.

    “As alleged, the defendant violated the trust placed in him by the Federal Reserve Bank by putting U.S. trade secrets in the hands of his PRC co-conspirators, knowing full well that such information would benefit the PRC Government and PRC instrumentalities,” said Devin DeBacker, head of the Justice Department’s National Security Division. “The Justice Department will continue to use all the tools at its disposal to disrupt economic espionage and protect our national security.”

    “President Trump tasks us with protecting our fellow Americans from all enemies, foreign and domestic. As alleged in the indictment, this defendant leveraged his position within the Federal Reserve to pass sensitive financial information to the Chinese government, a designated adversary,” said U.S. Attorney Edward R. Martin Jr. for the District of Columbia. “Let this indictment serve as a warning to all who seek to betray or exploit the United States: law enforcement will find you and hold you accountable.”

    “As alleged in the indictment, Rogers betrayed his country while employed at the Federal Reserve by providing restricted U.S. financial and economic information to Chinese government intelligence officers,” said Assistant Director Kevin Vorndran of the FBI Counterintelligence Division. “This information could allow adversaries to illegally gain a strategic economic advantage at the expense of the U.S. This indictment sends a clear message that the FBI and our partners will hold accountable those who threaten our national security.”

    “The Chinese Communist Party has expanded its economic espionage campaign to target U.S. government financial policies and trade secrets in an effort to undermine the United States and become the sole superpower,” said Assistant Director in Charge David Sundberg of the FBI Washington Field Office. “Today’s indictment represents the FBI’s unwavering commitment to protect U.S. national security interests and U.S. jobs and bring to justice those who are willing to betray their country for personal gain.”

    “This indictment sends a clear message that those who deliberately misuse sensitive Federal Reserve information for their own personal gain and lie about it to investigators will be held accountable for their actions,” said Special Agent in Charge John T. Perez of the FRB-OIG, Headquarters Operations.

    According to the indictment, Rogers, a U.S. citizen with a Ph.D. in economics, worked as a Senior Adviser in FRB’s Division of International Finance of the FRB from 2010 until 2021, where he was entrusted with confidential FRB information. The confidential information that Rogers allegedly shared with his Chinese co-conspirators, who worked for the intelligence and security apparatus of China and who posed as graduate students at a PRC university, is economically valuable when secret.

    China holds a large amount of U.S. foreign debt (approximately $816 billion as of October 2024). The data Rogers shared with his co-conspirators could allow China to manipulate the U.S. market, in a manner similar to insider trading. Gaining advance knowledge of U.S. economic policy, including advance knowledge of changes to the federal funds rate, could provide China with an advantage when selling or buying U.S. bonds or securities.

    The indictment alleges that, from at least 2018, Rogers allegedly exploited his employment with the FRB by soliciting trade-secret information regarding proprietary economic data sets, deliberations about tariffs targeting China, briefing books for designated governors, and sensitive information about Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) deliberations and forthcoming announcements. He passed that information electronically to his personal email account, in violation of FRB policy, or printed it prior to traveling to China, in preparation for meetings with his co-conspirators.

    Under the guise of teaching “classes,” Rogers met with his co-conspirators in hotel rooms in China where he conveyed sensitive, trade-secret information that belonged to the FRB and the FOMC. In 2023, Rogers was paid approximately $450,000 as a part-time professor at a Chinese university.

    On Feb. 4, 2020, in response to questioning by the FRB-OIG, Rogers lied about his accessing and passage of sensitive information and his associations with his co-conspirators.

    Rogers is charged with conspiracy to commit economic espionage and with making false statements.

    The FBI Washington Field Office and FRB-OIG are investigating the case.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Kimberly Paschall for the District of Columbia and Trial Attorneys Nicholas Hunter and Steve Marzen of the National Security Division’s Counterintelligence and Export Section are prosecuting the case.

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

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Marshals in Maine Arrest Man Wanted for Sexual Exploitation of a Child in Colorado

    Source: US Marshals Service

    Portland, ME – The U.S. Marshals Service (USMS), Maine Violent Offender Task
    Force (MVOTF) announces the arrest of Patrick Byrne, 29, in Livermore Falls, Maine.
    According to Colorado authorities, an arrest warrant was issued for Byrne on November 04, 2024, for two counts of sexual exploitation of a child out of Bloomfield County Court in
    Colorado.

    Based upon an investigation from the United States Marshals Service, Maine Violent
    Offender Task Force, Investigators developed information that Byrne was currently residing in Maine. Through a collaborative effort, the USMS, Maine Violent Offender Task Force
    was able to locate Byrne and safely apprehend him at a residence in Livermore Falls,
    Maine. Byrne was charged as a fugitive from justice and is pending extradition back to
    Colorado.

    The USMS, Maine Violent Offender Task Force received assistance by the USMS, District
    of Colorado, Violent Offender Task Force and the Livermore Falls, Maine Police
    Department.

    The USMS, Maine Violent Offender Task Force is comprised of members of the U.S.
    Marshals Service, Maine Department of Corrections, Biddeford Police Department, U.S.
    Customs Border Protection, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, and the Maine
    National Guard Counterdrug Program.

    If you have any information regarding the whereabouts of any state or federal fugitive
    please contact the United States Marshals Service, District of Maine at
    MED.TIPLINE@usdoj.gov, or submit a USMS Web Tip. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Wadena — Wadena RCMP investigating break and enter

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    On January 10, 2025, Wadena RCMP received a report of a break-in at the curling rink in Wadena.

    Investigation determined an adult male entered the rink then left. No items were reported as stolen to police.

    The suspect was caught on video surveillance.

    The suspect is described as wearing a two-coloured jacket, glasses, gloves and a backpack. He had a beard or goatee.

    Investigators believe that this break-in may be connected to other break-ins to municipal offices and small businesses in Saskatchewan over the past few years. As this is an active and ongoing investigation, we are unable to provide a list of the potentially-connected incidents at this time, but can say they occurred in southern and central Saskatchewan.

    If you recognize this suspect or have information about this or any other break-in, contact Saskatchewan RCMP at 310-RCMP. Information can also be submitted anonymously by contacting Saskatchewan Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or www.saskcrimestoppers.com.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: UN Palestinian Rights Committee Bureau Welcomes Gaza Ceasefire, Demands Full Implementation, Move towards Solution of Conflict

    Source: United Nations General Assembly and Security Council

    Also Condemns Israel’s UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) Ban Perpetuating Palestinian Suffering

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

    The Bureau of the UN Palestinian Rights Committee welcomes the Gaza ceasefire as a crucial step in halting the Israeli military operations on the Palestinian civilian population since October 2023 and stemming the vast human suffering and loss of life.  As hundreds of thousands return to devastated homes, urgent and sustained humanitarian aid is essential to all civilians in need in Gaza.  The Bureau underscores the irreplaceable role of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) in delivering life-saving assistance and stabilizing the ceasefire.

    The Committee Bureau strongly condemns Israel’s adoption of legislation banning UNRWA and stripping it of its privileges and immunities, obstructing its operations in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including East Jerusalem, in direct violation of the General Assembly mandate and resolution ES-10/25 recently adopted by the General Assembly by an overwhelming majority.  The Bureau calls on Israel, the occupying Power, to immediately suspend and reverse the implementation of this legislation that curtails UNRWA’s vital operations and will negatively impact delivery of essential services and assistance, including education and healthcare, to the Palestine refugees.

    Coming immediately after the Gaza ceasefire deal, Israel’s ban on UNRWA is a blatant move that will exacerbate Palestinian suffering — not with air strikes and bombs, but with deprivation, hunger and disease.  As affirmed by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) Advisory Opinion of July 2024, Israel, due to its status as an occupying Power, has no sovereignty in any part of the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including East Jerusalem, where the UNRWA headquarters is located.  The UNRWA ban is as unlawful as the Israeli occupation itself, which must end, as determined by the ICJ and consecutive General Assembly resolution ES-10/24 of September 2024.  This unprecedented attack on an UN-mandated agency deepens the suffering of millions of Palestine refugees, for whom UNRWA is a lifeline for survival.  The Agency’s operations are essential in all fields of operation, including to alleviating the humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza, restoring basic services and sustaining the ceasefire, and cannot be replaced.

    Israel’s actions violate the United Nations Charter, the Convention on the Privileges and Immunities of the United Nations, its obligations as the occupying Power under the fourth Geneva Convention and multiple General Assembly and Security Council resolutions. Such ongoing Israeli policies and measures will cripple humanitarian efforts, hinder Gaza’s recovery and destabilize the ceasefire, jeopardizing regional stability.  Israel must immediately cease all attacks on UNRWA and its humanitarian operations in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including East Jerusalem, and cease all violations of international law and the human rights of the Palestinian people.

    The Committee Bureau urgently appeals to the General Assembly, the Security Council, and all Member States to categorically reject Israel’s unlawful legislation, demand its immediate repeal and insist that Israel uphold UNRWA’s mandate.  The Bureau urges prompt ICJ action, as requested by the General Assembly on 19 December 2024, to urgently deliver an Advisory Opinion on the obligations of Israel in relation to the presence and activities of the United Nations, other international organizations and third States to uphold the rule of law and obligations thereunder and to avert further Palestinian suffering.  The Committee Bureau reaffirms its support for the ceasefire agreement and calls for its full respect and implementation, leading to a lasting cessation of hostilities and a just, enduring peace, based on international law and the relevant UN resolutions, and achieving the inalienable rights of the Palestinian people and the two-State solution on the basis of the pre-1967 lines.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Otaika homicide: Police make additional appeal

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Police are releasing further information in the Otaika homicide investigation as the appeal for footage continues.

    An investigation team has begun the task of piecing together what took place on the layby on Otaika Valley Road earlier this week.

    Acting Detective Senior Sergeant Shane Pilmer, of Whangārei CIB, says a post-mortem examination on the motorcyclist has been completed.

    “I can confirm that the victim was shot,” he says.

    “At this point in the enquiry we are not in a position to release further details around the injuries or firearm likely used in this homicide.”

    Since an appeal for information was launched on Thursday, a steady stream of footage has been sent into Police for examination.

    “This is an encouraging start, and this is already helping us piece together a timeline of movements in-and-around that layby,” acting Detective Senior Sergeant Pilmer says.

    “We now know from dashcam footage that there were a number of vehicles parked in the layby prior to the victim arriving on his motorbike.”

    Police are continuing to ask those in the community to make contact if they have footage or information.

    “At this point in the enquiry, we believe the victim has been shot in that layby late on 28 January, between 7pm and 11pm.”

    Acting Detective Senior Sergeant Pilmer says Police anticipate releasing further information about the victim over the coming days.

    “We’re continuing to support the man’s family as our investigation continues.

    “Our focus is on finding answers for the family for how the victim has died in such a violent manner.”

    • HOW YOU CAN HELP:

    Police would like any sightings of the victim’s blue and silver coloured road bike that was parked in the layby.

    That is particularly between 8pm on 28 January through to 5am on 29 January.

    Anyone with dashcam or CCTV footage around key locations between 7pm on 28 January and 5am on 29 January should contact Police.

    Those areas of interest are along Otaika Valley Road, between the intersections with State Highway 14, Maungatapere, and Loop and Cemetery Roads, in Otaika.

    An online portal has been set up for any footage or photographs to be uploaded.

    Please go to https://distant.nc3.govt.nz

    Anyone with further information should call Police on 105 and reference the file number 250129/0335.

    Information can also be provided anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.

    ENDS. 

    Jarred Williamson/NZ Police

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: DOE Announces Collaboration With Tribal Leaders To Reduce Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Strengthen National Security

    Source: US Department of Energy

    WASHINGTON, D.C. —  The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) today announced the formation of the Tribal Fossil Energy and Carbon Management Working Group, administered by DOE’s Office of Fossil Energy and Carbon Management (FECM). Tribes play a critical role in helping the United States meet its energy security and climate obligations while working to develop their vast energy, critical minerals and materials, and carbon management potential. As part of this collaboration, the Working Group will provide ongoing advice and expertise to DOE on the best ways to assist Tribal decarbonization efforts and utilization of their natural resources. DOE’s technical assistance will help Tribes spur local economic development; provide workforce training for local, high-wage, middle class jobs; and support Tribal technical capacity for fostering energy, economic, and community development opportunities.

    “The U.S. Department of Energy recognizes that energy is foundational to Tribal self-determination, and we are proud to have Tribal leadership in, and partnership with DOE’s efforts to expand clean energy development,” said U.S. Secretary of Energy Jennifer M. Granholm. “Under the Biden-Harris administration, DOE has invested more money in Tribal clean energy projects than any administration and we are excited to build on this work with a new Working Group aimed at supporting Tribal capacity-building and investments in carbon management, methane mitigation and critical minerals that benefit Tribal communities.”  

    This Fossil Energy and Carbon Management Tribal Working Group marks the fourth working group the DOE has established to collaborate with Tribes. This latest working group will initially include representation from eight federally recognized Tribes with significant fossil energy reserves and reliance on revenue from those resources, including: Jicarilla Apache; Crow Nation; Navajo Nation; Caddo Nation; Hopi Nation; Southern Ute; Arctic North Slope Iñupiat; and Mandan, Hidatsa and Arikara (MHA) Nation. DOE anticipates the number of Tribes formally participating in the working group will grow over time.   

    “The Mandan, Hidatsa, and Arikara Nation is deeply honored to have hosted DOE and the forum participants for a site visit to our MHA Native Green Grow and Bakken operations,” said Chairman Mark N. Fox. “We extend our heartfelt thanks to the U.S. Department of Energy’s Office of Fossil Energy and Carbon Management and the U.S. Energy Association for bringing together such an important gathering. It was a privilege to showcase our innovative initiatives and share our vision for sustainable resource development on tribal lands. The MHA Nation looks forward to continued collaboration through the Tribal Working Group and exploring new opportunities with DOE to ensure that our energy resources are managed responsibly for the benefit of future generations.” 

    “The Caddo Nation is honored to join the FECM Tribal Working Group and participate in this vital initiative,” said Chairman Bobby Gonzalez. “As stewards of our land and resources, we recognize the importance of addressing methane emissions and are exploring new opportunities for mitigation. Our Nation is particularly excited to work with FECM and other partners such as the Oklahoma University along with engineers and chemist and industry leaders on innovative solutions like converting methane to hydrogen, which aligns with our long-term energy goals and our commitment to sustainable development and lower emissions. These discussions within [the] FECM Tribal Working Group will not only benefit our Nation but also help Indian Country and the broader Oklahoma community as we look toward a cleaner, more resilient future.” 

    “The Iñupiat Community of the Arctic Slope is eager to participate in the Tribal Working Group in collaboration with the U.S. Department of Energy’s Office of Fossil Energy and Carbon Management,” said Director of Natural Resources Doreen Leavitt. “As stewards of the vast oil and gas resources on the Alaskan North Slope, we are committed to managing these resources in a way that honors our land and our people, while ensuring the well-being of future generations. We look forward to working together with FECM to explore sustainable practices that balance economic development with environmental protection, so that our communities can thrive for years to come.” 

    “We are committed to advancing practices that will bring long-term benefits to the Navajo Nation as well as other participating Tribes,” said Interim Tribal Co-Chair William D. McCabe. “Our participation in the [Tribal Carbon Management Strategies] forum strengthened our resolve to foster sustainable, responsible management of our natural resources. The Navajo Nation looks forward to actively collaborating within the Tribal Working Group and working alongside FECM to explore and leverage the full suite of technologies under the FECM umbrella. Together, we can harness these innovations to ensure that our resources are utilized in a way that brings economic growth, preserves our lands, and supports the prosperity and well-being of the Navajo people, now and for generations to come.”

    “The Southern Ute Indian Tribe is proud to participate in the Fossil Energy and Carbon Management Tribal Working Group,” said Demi Morishige, Designated Representative. “This partnership enables us to advocate for our community’s priorities and promote sustainable energy initiatives that reflect our unwavering commitment to Tribal sovereignty. We are eager to collaborate with our fellow tribal nations and the U.S. Department of Energy to develop solutions for a safe, affordable, and reliable carbon-neutral future. Our efforts will prioritize promoting economic development across all tribal communities.” 

    “The Crow Nation extends its heartfelt gratitude to the U.S. Department of Energy’s Office of Fossil Energy and Carbon Management and the U.S. Energy Association for the opportunity to participate in the Tribal Carbon Management Strategies Forum held in Medora, North Dakota. We are deeply honored to engage in these meaningful discussions about the future of energy, resource management, and economic development for our people. Our Nation is blessed with significant carbon resources, and we look forward to actively participating in the Tribal Working Group, where we can explore new avenues of cooperation with FECM. Together, we can ensure that the Crow Nation continues to utilize these resources in a manner that fosters prosperity for our people and protects the well-being of future generations.” 

    The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law provides more than $13 billion in funding to directly support Tribal communities and makes Tribes eligible to apply for or request billions in additional funding. The Inflation Reduction Act directs $720 million in climate resilience and energy funding to Tribes, as well as provides hundreds of billions in tax credits for which clean energy and industrial projects on Tribal lands and in Tribal communities are eligible. For this reason, the initial priorities proposed for the working group are to explore technical assistance and capacity-building to leverage these funding opportunities related to FECM’s portfolio and other DOE offices:   

    • Development of carbon capture, transport and storage facilities and infrastructure; 
    • Methane mitigation;   
    • Critical minerals production and processing; and  
    • Repurposing existing energy assets slated for retirement—such as coal, oil, and/or natural gas facilities and accompanying equipment and infrastructure. 

    As a next step, FECM plans to convene representatives of the participating Tribes for a series of virtual information briefings across these identified priorities to prepare for the first formal meeting of the working group in 2025.  

    FECM minimizes environmental and climate impacts of fossil fuels and industrial processes while working to achieve net-zero emissions across the U.S economy. Priority areas of technology work include carbon capture, carbon conversion, carbon dioxide removal, carbon dioxide transport and storage, hydrogen production with carbon management, methane emissions reduction, and critical minerals production. To learn more, visit the FECM website, sign up for FECM news announcements, and visit the National Energy Technology Laboratory website. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Biden-Harris Administration Announces $30 Million to Ease Interconnection Backlog, Deliver More Energy Supply on America’s Power Grid

    Source: US Department of Energy

    WASHINGTON, D.C.— The Biden-Harris Administration, through the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), today announced up to $30 million available from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to accelerate the interconnection process for new energy generation through the introduction of artificial intelligence techniques. The new Artificial Intelligence for Interconnection (AI4IX) program will develop partnerships between software developers, grid operators (including Regional Transmission Operators (RTOs) and Power Marketing Administrations), and energy project developers to modernize the interconnection application process and significantly reduce the time required to review, approve, and commission new generation interconnections across the country. 

    “Artificial intelligence is an energy solution capable of helping clear an interconnection backlog that will free up new energy sources to ensure consumers have power when and where they need it,” said U.S. Secretary of Energy Jennifer M. Granholm. 

    Interconnection queues to connect new generation are not keeping pace with the needs of the grid. Currently, new generation interconnection can take up to seven years and DOE’s recent Queued Up Report shows that active, but unconnected capacity is twice the amount of current connected generation.  

    Interconnection applications are often reviewed manually, creating a labor-intensive process, particularly given that many applications are incomplete or insufficient. Some organizations have indicated that over 90% of interconnection applications they receive are deficient and correcting these applications is a significant cause of long analysis and development delays.   

    Artificial intelligence can help improve applications and improve review. Funded by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, under AI4IX, projects will work to apply existing AI algorithms to the interconnection application process to more quickly identify deficient applications and rapidly notify applicants for resolution. For example, AI software trained on a library of accurate documentation and application materials can review interconnection applications for the required site control documentation and flag errors within submitted supporting documents. Documenting site control for interconnection is a particularly challenging issue for project developers due to the different stakeholders, property laws, and grid facility access requirements for each generator project.   

    After identifying application errors, the software would then notify the applicant that their documentation is not sufficient and why, enabling them to quickly respond to the specific issues. By deploying AI, the precision and speed in identifying documentation issues and providing specific reasons to enable timely resolutions or correction can improve over time. Applying AI technology and existing algorithms can accelerate each phase of the interconnection application process. 

    The AI4IX program aligns with DOE’s continued support for improving interconnection queues across the United States. Under the Department’s Grid Resilience and Innovation Partnership (GRIP) Program, DOE is supporting a multi-state project led by GridUnity to deploy AI-enabled software to improve the efficiency of the interconnection process with multiple RTOs covering approximately 60% of the U.S. population—around 210 million people—to enhance energy reliability, security, and lower costs. In addition, DOE’s Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy is leading the Interconnection Innovation e-Xchange (i2X) Transmission initiative, which convenes diverse groups involved in the interconnection of energy resources to facilitate adoption of best practices and inspire new interconnection ideas and capabilities. In October 2024, the i2X program released a draft roadmap that identifies solutions the interconnection community (including utilities, grid operators, regulators, state and local governments, interconnection customers, energy justice groups, nonprofits, clean energy developers, solution providers, public interest groups) can take within the next ten years to create more reliable and resilience electric infrastructure.  

    The AI4IX program also aligns with DOE’s continued support for improving interconnection queues across the United States and supports its 2024 AI for Energy report that was prepared pursuant to President Biden’s Executive Order on the Safe, Secure, and Trustworthy Development and Use of Artificial Intelligence, issued October 30, 2023. 

    ConnectWerx as the Intermediary will manage the technical assistance partnerships under the AI4IX program, via an innovative Partnership Intermediary Agreement (PIA) set up by the DOE’s Office of Technology Transitions (OTT). This agreement enables ConnectWerx to broaden DOE’s engagement with innovative organizations and non-traditional partners, facilitating the rapid development, scaling, and deployment of clean energy solutions. 

    Applications for the first round of AI4IX funding are due by January 10, 2025, by 1:00 pm ET. An informational webinar and objective strategy session will be held on December 5, 2024, at 2 pm ET. Registration is required. 

    Additional informational office hours will be held on December 17, 2024. DOE expects to make selections in Winter 2025. 

    Learn more about the Grid Deployment Office. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: DOE Announces $100 Million for Pilot-scale Carbon Conversion

    Source: US Department of Energy

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – The U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) Office of Fossil Energy and Carbon Management (FECM) today announced up to $100 million in federal funding for large-scale conversion of carbon emissions captured from industrial operations and power plants into environmentally responsible and economically valuable products. Provided by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, the funding will advance the pilot scale testing of carbon conversion technologies with high technology readiness levels (TRLs) capable of achieving significant carbon mitigation via biological, catalytic, or mineralization pathways.

    “Carbon conversion technologies enable the transformation of captured carbon emissions into sustainable and economically valuable products with many different applications,” said Brad Crabtree, Assistant Secretary of Fossil Energy and Carbon Management. “The funding announced today will help demonstrate the feasibility of these technologies and further develop them for broader-scale adoption.”

    This notice of funding opportunity (NOFO) also supports testing of carbon conversion product performance and characterization needed for market or consumer adoption. This may include life cycle analysis (LCA) development for novel carbon conversion technologies and LCA development for pilot facilities using these technologies.

    This NOFO supports DOE’s Carbon Conversion Program, which works to develop and advance technologies that feasibly convert captured carbon emissions into more sustainable carbon-derived products, including chemicals, fuels, building materials, plastics, and bioproducts, with the potential for lower costs and improved performance over time.

    Selected projects will perform research in the following four topic areas:

    • Pilot-Scale Biological Conversion. Research focused on technologies at TRL 5 that seek pilot scale conversion of carbon dioxide, either through photosynthetic or non-photosynthetic routes. Research and development (R&D) will support algae biomass production, separation, and conversion, as well as autotrophic CO2 fermentation to fuels and products.
       
    • Pilot-Scale Catalytic Conversion. Research focused on technologies at TRL 5 that seek pilot scale thermochemical and electrochemical conversion of carbon dioxide. R&D will support reactor and catalyst performance improvements, long-term stability, and electrolyzer stack durability and design. 
       
    • Pilot-Scale Mineralization. Research focused on technologies at TRL 5 that seek pilot scale mineralization of carbon dioxide to produce synthetic aggregates, alternative binders, or injection, curing, and carbonation processes. R&D will support pilot scale operations at a scale of 10 tonnes/day. 
       
    • Other Testing and LCA Development Required for Commercialization. R&D will support performance testing in specific environments, production of the amount of material needed for testing, performance validation support, and specific tests required as a prerequisite for participation in competitive purchasing and procurement processes. 

    Read more details of this NOFO here. All questions must be submitted through FedConnect; register here for an account. The application deadline is April 11, 2025 at 5:00 PM Eastern Time.

    FECM reduces emissions from fossil energy production and use and key industrial processes, while strengthening U.S. energy and critical minerals security. To learn more, visit the FECM website, sign up for FECM news announcements and visit the National Energy Technology Laboratory website.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: DOE Invests Over $32 Million to Increase Efficiency of U.S. Critical Minerals Production Through the Co-Manufacture of Value-Added Products

    Source: US Department of Energy

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – The U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) Office of Fossil Energy and Carbon Management (FECM) today announced $32.75 million for 12 projects that will advance cost effective and environmentally responsible processes to produce and refine critical minerals and materials here in the United States. The funding, provided by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, focuses on projects that will develop value-added products, such as graphite or building materials, from feedstocks such as mining waste streams that also contain viable levels of critical minerals and materials. The manufacture of these co-products can improve the economic feasibility of domestically producing critical minerals and materials from these same feedstocks to reduce our dependence on offshore supplies. These projects will help safeguard our national security and build a clean energy and industrial economy, while creating good-paying jobs and supporting communities across the country that historically have depended on mining and energy production.

    “Building reliable and affordable critical mineral and material supply chains is essential to deploying the technologies needed for national defense and to support low-carbon U.S. energy production, manufacturing, and transport,” said Brad Crabtree, Assistant Secretary of Fossil Energy and Carbon Management. “Through DOE’s strategic investments in projects that help improve the economics of domestic materials production through the manufacture of valuable co-products, we are creating good-paying jobs, increasing U.S. competitiveness, reducing our import reliance, and strengthening our national security and energy independence.”

    According to the U.S. Geological Survey, more than 95% of the U.S. demand for rare earth elements is met by foreign sources. More than 50% of most critical minerals come from foreign sources, and at least 12 critical minerals come exclusively from foreign sources.

    Critical Material Innovation, Efficiency, and Alternatives

    The “Critical Material Innovation, Efficiency, and Alternatives” funding opportunity will provide up to $150 million over several rounds of project selections to help to build a secure, sustainable domestic supply of critical minerals from sources across the United States, including recycled materials, mine waste, industrial waste, and ore deposits. Specifically, the funding opportunity will support bench- and pilot-scale research, development, and demonstration projects to increase the robustness of domestic supply chains and reduce our reliance on foreign supply chains. The following 12 projects selected for negotiation fall under the “Value Added Products” area of interest, and are focused on developing products created from other materials that are also part of the waste streams from which critical minerals and materials are extracted:

    • Ohio University (Athens, Ohio) plans to develop and demonstrate the viability of a novel continuous engineered foaming process to produce value-added carbon building materials from coal and coal waste containing critical minerals and materials.
    • Loukus Technologies, Inc. (Calumet, Michigan) aims to establish a semi-continuous process for conversion of cerium oxide with low-value scrap aluminum machining chips to produce advanced aluminum-cerium alloys.
    • Trustees of the Colorado School of Mines (Golden, Colorado) plans to develop bench-scale continuous processes to produce building materials, specifically geopolymer bricks, lightweight aggregates, and ceramic tiles, from critical minerals and materials found in mine tailings. 
    • Still Bright, Inc. (Newark, New Jersey) seeks develop a novel electrochemical technology to extract metal co-products from copper concentrate. 
    • Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (Berkeley, California) will develop a domestic supply of lithium while co-producing up to 10 other critical and valuable metals, graphite, and Portland cement.
    • University of Utah (Salt Lake City, Utah) will establish a process to demonstrate co-production of lithium salt, potassium salt, and magnesium salt from Great Salt Lakes brine. 
    • National Energy Technology Laboratory (Albany, Oregon) will define optimum parameters for chromite concentration and the extraction of platinum group elements needed to enable green hydrogen production.
    • Oak Ridge National Laboratory (Oak Ridge, Tennessee) will repurpose end-of-life graphite recycled from spent lithium-ion batteries into value-added graphitic materials using innovative purification and treatment methods.
    • National Energy Technology Laboratory (Albany, Oregon) will design the process of melting electrodes by electric resistance heating of slag—a by-product of the smelting process in metal extraction and refining—which contains rare earth elements in the form of oxides and/or fluorides.
    • Airtronics, LLC (Tucson, Arizona) will develop efficient recycling technologies to recover critical materials, precious metals, and base metals within electronic waste.
    • Mexichem Fluor Inc. (St. Gabriel, Louisiana) will demonstrate the feasibility of an efficient and sustainable process for graphite anode active material production from both graphite waste from battery recycling and mined graphite flake.
    • Melt Technologies LP (Briggs, Texas) will implement a pilot facility to produce tungsten carbide products—essential for many U.S. industries—from feedstock with greater efficiency and lower cost.

    A detailed list of the selected projects and funding amounts can be found here. DOE plans to make additional selections under the FOA’s remaining areas of interest at a later date. 

    DOE’s selections are subject to environmental review in accordance with the National Environmental Policy Act review process. DOE reserves the right to terminate award negotiations at any time for any reason.

    DOE’s Broader Advancements in Critical Minerals and Materials

    With the selections announced today, FECM has committed an estimated $254 million since January 2021 for projects that support critical minerals and materials exploration, resource identification, production, and processing in traditional mining and fossil fuel-producing communities across the country. 

    FECM reduces emissions from fossil energy production and use and key industrial processes, while strengthening U.S. energy and critical minerals security. To learn more, visit the FECM website, sign up for FECM news announcements, and visit the National Energy Technology Laboratory website.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: DOE Invests Nearly $14 Million to Advance Technologies that Transform Carbon Emissions into Valuable Products

    Source: US Department of Energy

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — The U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) Office of Fossil Energy and Carbon Management (FECM) today announced $13.7 million in federal funding for four projects that will advance large-scale conversion of carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions into environmentally responsible and economically valuable products. With funding provided by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, projects will help develop conversion technologies that feasibly produce crucial fuels, building materials, and other carbon-based products from captured carbon emissions. 

    “Chemicals production and petroleum refining industries are vital for the U.S. economy and our nation’s energy security, but are also responsible for significant carbon emissions,” said Brad Crabtree, Assistant Secretary of Fossil Energy and Carbon Management. “DOE’s investments in carbon conversion technology will support new economic opportunities and job creation, while providing lower-emissions carbon product alternatives for these industries at the same time.” 

    The selected projects will support two areas of focus: (1) engineering-scale testing of electrochemical systems for converting carbon dioxide emissions into value-added products, such as engineering polymer/resin precursors, specialty chemicals, and commodity chemicals; and (2) feasibility studies that examine retrofitting refineries and petrochemical facilities for carbon conversion:

    • Dioxide Materials Inc. (Boca Raton, Florida) plans to scale technology for the production of low-greenhouse gas ethanol and mevalonic acid via a combination of electrolysis and bioprocessing. 
       
    • Terraforma Carbon LLC (State College, Pennsylvania) aims to evaluate the technical and economic feasibility of carbon capture and conversion to methanol by modeling a retrofit of Shell’s Norco refinery in St. Charles Parish, Louisiana using molten salt-based capture technology.
       
    • Thiozen Inc. (Pasadena, California) plans to explore the use of a hydrogen sulfide reforming technology to produce low-cost and low-emissions methanol.
       
    • Twelve Benefit Corp. (Berkeley, California) seeks to accelerate the production of low-carbon chemicals and syngas through rapid research, development, and deployment of its CO2 electrolyzers.

    DOE’s National Energy Technology Laboratory (NETL), under the purview of FECM, will manage the selected projects. A detailed list of the selected projects can be found here.

    These projects support the goals of DOE’s Clean Fuels and Products Energy Earthshot, which aims to meet projected 2050 net-zero emissions demands for 100% of aviation fuel; 50% of maritime, rail and off-road fuel; and 50% of carbon-based chemicals by using sustainable carbon resources.

    FECM reduces emissions from fossil energy production and use and key industrial processes, while strengthening U.S. energy and critical minerals security. To learn more, visit the FECM website, sign up for FECM news announcements, and visit the National Energy Technology Laboratory website.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Attorney, U.S. Secret Service, and FBI Announce Federal Charges Against Albuquerque Man for Making Threats Against President Trump

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

    ALBUQUERQUE – A federal grand jury has indicted an Albuquerque man for interstate communications containing a threat against then President Donald J. Trump.

    The criminal complaint alleges that Tyler Miles Leveque, 37, made multiple threatening social media posts between January 2 and 4, 2025, expressing intent to harm the President-Elect and others at an upcoming rally. The posts included statements such as “you and your rich friends are dead no threat a promise” and references to violence at an event reportedly planned for January 19th in Washington D.C.

    During an interview with agents from the U.S. Secret Service and the Federal Bureau of Investigation on January 6, 2025, Leveque admitted to making the threatening posts and recently purchasing a firearm. Investigators confirmed Leveque had recently bought a gun from a local business.

    Leveque will remain in custody pending trial, which has not been scheduled. If convicted, Leveque faces up to five years in prison.

    U.S. Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez, Ron Emmot, Resident Agent in Charge of the U.S. Secret Service Albuquerque Resident Office, and Raul Bujanda, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.

    The U.S. Secret Service investigated this case with the assistance of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office and the Albuquerque Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sammy Hurtado is prosecuting the case.

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

    # # #

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Big Island Lake Cree Territory — Pierceland RCMP seek public assistance locating missing 13-year-old male

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    On January, 31, 2025 RCMP received a report of a missing 13-year-old male, Dwight Sandfly.

    Dwight Sandfly was last seen on January 24, 2025 at approximately 2:00 p.m on Big Island Cree Territory.

    Since he was reported missing, Pierceland RCMP have been checking places Dwight Sandfly is known to visit and following up on information received. They are now asking members of the public to report information on Dwight’s whereabouts.

    Dwight Sandfly is described as:

    • Height: 5’9″
    • Weight: 143 lbs
    • Eye colour: Brown
    • Hair colour and style: long curly black hair

    Dwight Sandfly may have travelled to the Onion Lake area, but his current whereabouts are unknown. If you have seen Dwight Sandfly or know where he is, contact Pierceland RCMP at 310-RCMP. Information can also be submitted anonymously by contacting Saskatchewan Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or www.saskcrimestoppers.com.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: New Orleans Man Guilty of Being a Felon in Possession of a Firearm

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA –LaMICHAEL JACKSON (“JACKSON”), age 26, pled guilty on January 30, 2025 before U.S. District Judge Eldon E. Fallon to being a felon in possession of a firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(8).

    According to court documents, New Orleans Police Department (NOPD) officers on patrol in Hollygrove saw JACKSON holding a Palmetto State Armory Model PA-15 pistol.  JACKSON fled in a vehicle before being stopped by NOPD.  Inside the vehicle officers recovered a second gun belonging to JACKSON, a Glock Model 43x, nine-millimeter handgun.  Both firearms were loaded when  recovered.  JACKSON is prohibited from possessing a firearm due to prior felony convictions for aggravated assault with a firearm and possession of a firearm with an obliterated serial number.

    JACKSON faces up to 15 years in prison, up to three years of supervised release, up to a $250,000 fine, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.

    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 Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the New Orleans Police Department.  It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney David Berman of the Violent Crime Unit.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Venezuelan Man Charged With Conspiracy To Distribute Methamphetamine, Possession Of A Firearm In Furtherance of Drug Trafficking Crime

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    DENVER – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Colorado announces that Jose Manuel Guerra-Caballero, 37, of Venezuela, was charged with one count of conspiracy to distribute more than 500 grams of a substance containing methamphetamine, and one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.

    According to the complaint, Guerra-Caballero, described by a co-conspirator as a member of the Tren de Aragua criminal organization, conspired with six other individuals to provide armed protection for a drug transaction involving ten pounds of methamphetamine. Guerra-Caballero arranged the protection remotely and confirmed over the phone that his co-conspirators were armed and ready to serve in the operation.

    The drug deal was a ruse created by undercover ATF agents after Guerra-Caballero and his associates had offered their services for various illegal and violent activities. The undercover operation came on the heels of multiple purchases of firearms by ATF undercover officers that Guerra-Caballero believed would be trafficked to Mexico.

    The defendant was arrested in Indiana and made his initial appearance in front of Judge Colin H. Lindsay in the Western District of Kentucky.

    The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and Homeland Security Investigations are handling the investigation.  The prosecution is being handled by the Violent Crimes and Immigration Enforcement Section of the United States Attorney’s Office in the District of Colorado.

    Case Number: 25-mj-17

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: DENHAM SPRINGS MAN SENTENCED TO 78 MONTHS IN FEDERAL PRISON FOR DISTRIBUTION OF CHILD PORNOGRAPHY

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    United States Attorney Ronald C. Gathe, Jr. announced that U.S. District Judge Judge Brian A. Jackson sentenced Barry Paul Vining, age 57, of Denham Springs, Louisiana, to 78 months in federal prison following his conviction for distribution of child pornography. Vining must serve five years of supervised release upon completing his term of imprisonment. The Court also ordered Vining to pay $357,000 in restitution and ordered him to register as a sex offender upon his release.

    According to admissions made as part of his guilty plea, on November 27, 2022, Vining knowingly distributed the two images of child pornography when he uploaded them to a file sharing service accessed via the internet, and that allowed other users of the service around the world to download and share the images. In addition, at the time Vining distributed the child pornography, he possessed files that contained numerous images and videos of child pornography.

    This matter was investigated by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security – Homeland Security Investigations and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Paul L. Pugliese.

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Oklahoma City Man Sentenced to Serve More Than Three Years in Federal Prison for Illegal Possession of Machinegun Conversion Devices

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    OKLAHOMA CITY – JOHN ANTHONY OWEN, 24, of Oklahoma City, has been sentenced to serve 46 months in federal prison for unlawful possession of machineguns, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.

    On June 3, 2024, Owen was charged by Information with unlawful possession of machineguns. According to public record, on April 4, 2024, officers with the Oklahoma City Police Department executed a search warrant at Owen’s residence. During the search, officers recovered two firearms which had been modified with machinegun conversion devices (MCDs). When installed, MCDs convert semi-automatic weapons into fully automatic machineguns. Possession of these devices violates federal law.

    On July 3, 2024, Owen pleaded guilty and admitted he knowingly possessed two MCDs.

    At the sentencing hearing on January 30, 2025, U.S. District Judge Jodi W. Dishman sentenced Owen to serve 46 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release. In announcing the sentence, the Court noted the nature and circumstances of the offense.

    This case is the result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Oklahoma City Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen Hoch prosecuted the case.

    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. This case is also part of “Project Switch Off,” the Western District of Oklahoma’s local implementation of PSN. “Project Switch Off” targets illegal machinegun conversion devices to address the significant danger these illegal devices present and to remove them from our streets. For more information about PSN, please visit https://justice.gov/psn and https://justice.gov/usao-wdok.

    Reference is made to public filings for additional information.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Assault on Woman Sends Browning Man to Prison for More Than Three Years

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

    GREAT FALLS — A Browning man who admitted to beating and then using a belt to assault a woman on the Blackfeet Indian Reservation was sentenced today to three years and two months in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.

    The defendant, Briar Joseph Crawford, 29, pleaded guilty in September 2024 to assault with a dangerous weapon.

    Chief U.S District Judge Brian M. Morris presided.

    The government alleged in court documents that on Aug. 6, 2023, Crawford went to Glacier National Park go fishing with the victim, identified as Jane Doe. After consuming alcohol, Crawford and Doe argued, and the conflict escalated to Crawford assaulting Doe over several hours. At one point, Crawford removed his belt, wrapped it around Doe’s neck, grabbed it and lifted her weight off the ground until she blacked out. Doe suffered numerous injuries from the prolonged assault.

    The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case. The FBI and Blackfeet Law Enforcement Services conducted the investigation.

    XXX

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Eleven Members of Deadly Drug Trafficking Organization Sentenced to Prison

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

    NORFOLK, Va. – Eleven Virginia residents have been sentenced to prison for their roles in a violent drug trafficking organization that was responsible for a double homicide in Chesapeake. A twelfth defendant is awaiting sentencing.

    According to court records and evidence presented at trial, between January 2020 and November 2022, Cortney Allen Conley, aka KO, 36, of Virginia Beach, ran a large-scale, violent interstate drug trafficking organization principally based in the Hampton Roads area. The organization frequently sold drugs at “pop-up” shops, which regularly appeared in new locations to avoid detection by law enforcement.

    In 2021, Conley was robbed at gunpoint at a pop-up on Providence Road in Chesapeake, after which Conley and his co-conspirators were regularly armed while they trafficked drugs. In July 2021, an armed robber attempted to rob a pop-up, and shop workers, including Javaid Akhtar Reed, 27, of Chesapeake, and Aaron Butler Hunter, 38, of Virginia Beach, defended Conley’s drugs and drug proceeds. During the attempted robbery, Reed ordered the attempted robber out of the shop at gunpoint.

    On May 13, 2022, two armed subjects attempted to rob the organization’s pop-up on Wintercress Way in Chesapeake. Conley and Rashaun Marcquez Johnson, 28, of Virginia Beach, shot and killed the two subjects. During the gun battle, Davian Marcelis Jenkins, 27, of Suffolk, pistol-whipped one of the subjects as the subject lay dying in the foyer. During the shootout, bullets flew across the hall into another apartment and hit a child’s play kitchen. Immediately afterward, Conley and Jenkins removed controlled substances, drug proceeds, and firearms from the pop-up and fled. Conley directed Jenkins to go back to the shooting scene and remove security cameras, which had recorded the shootout. Jenkins removed one camera from the front door of the apartment. Conley then fled the state.

    On Nov. 8, 2022, Conley was arrested in Virginia Beach at a pop-up he established after the double homicide. During the arrest, Conley jumped from a second story window and tried to run from the police.

    On April 15, 2024, after a ten day jury trial, Conley, Reed, and Kyron Speller, 29, of Norfolk, were convicted for their involvement in the organization.

    Conley was convicted of continuing criminal enterprise; possession with intent to distribute marijuana; possession with intent to distribute psilocybin and psilocyn; possessing, brandishing, and discharging a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. Conley was sentenced today to 40 years in prison.

    Other members of the organization who were sentenced include:

    Name

    Date of Sentencing

    Sentence Imposed
    Javaid Akhtar Reed

    Dec. 23, 2024

    		 14 years, 3 months
    Corey Melic Blackwell

    July 12, 2024

    		 13 years
    Aaron Hunter

    Sept. 26, 2024

    		 10 years
    Kasheim Bryant

    Oct. 31, 2024

    		 7 years
    Amadeo Ilan Classen

    Nov. 7, 2024

    		 10 years
    Davian Marcelis Jenkins

    Nov. 7, 2024

    		 4 years
    Jeron D’Nell Cephus

    July 22, 2024

    		 3 years, 6 months
    Kyron Speller

    Oct. 25, 2024

    		 3 years, 5 months
    Lateya Conley

    Sept. 25, 2024

    		 3 years
    Jasmine Deneen Cuffee

    Oct. 31, 2024

    		 1 year, 3 months

    Johnson is scheduled to be sentenced on Feb. 21, 2025.

    Erik S. Siebert, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia; Michael Feinberg, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Norfolk Field Office; Damon E. Wood, Inspector in Charge of the Washington Division of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service; Mark G. Solesky, Chief of Chesapeake Police; and Paul Neudigate, Chief of Virginia Beach Police, made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge Arenda Wright Allen.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Megan M. Montoya, Joe DePadilla, and Luke Bresnahan prosecuted the case.

    A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:22-cr-147.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Texas Man Admits to Making Violent Threats Against Sikh Nonprofit Organization

    Source: United States Department of Justice Criminal Division

    A man from Dallas, Texas, admitted to a hate crime and making interstate threats against the employees of a Sikh nonprofit organization.

    Bushan Athale, 49, pleaded guilty today to one count of interfering with federally protected activities through the threatened use of a dangerous weapon and one count of transmitting an interstate threat to injure another person.

    “Threats of violence have no place in our society,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Vikas Khanna for the District of New Jersey. “Every individual in this country must be free to practice their religion without fear of violence or persecution. We will continue to ensure the safety of our communities by prosecuting those who threaten our basic American freedoms.”

    “Every citizen has the right to feel safe, secure, and free from fear of violence or hate,” said Special Agent in Charge Wayne A. Jacobs of the FBI Philadelphia Field Office. “We are deeply grateful to our law enforcement and community partners who stand with us daily. Together, we remain steadfast in pursuing those who threaten the safety and well-being of the people we are sworn to protect.”

    According to court documents and statements made in court, on or about Sept. 17, 2022, Athale called the main number of an organization that advocates for the civil rights of Sikh individuals within the United States. Over the course of the next hour, Athale left seven voicemails expressing hatred toward Sikh individuals working at this same organization and threatening to injure or kill these individuals with a razor.

    Athale’s voicemails, which were filled with violent imagery and obscenity, contained references to places, people, and tenets that are particularly significant within the Sikh religion. Among other things, Athale stated his intention to “catch” the Sikhs at Organization 1, forcibly shave their “top and bottom hair,” use a “razor” to “cut” their hair and “make” them bald, “make” them smoke and eat tobacco, and “show [them] the heaven.”

    On March 21, 2024, Athale again called the same Sikh organization and left two more voicemails. In these voicemails, Athale again used violent, sexual imagery to express his hatred toward Sikhs as well as Muslims and spouted antisemitic rhetoric.

    During his guilty plea, Athale also admitted to additional conduct reflecting his long history of making violent threats rooted in religious animus. For example, Athale admitted that on Nov. 6, 2021 and Nov. 7, 2021, he had sent electronic messages to a former co-worker, in which he stated that he “hate[d] Pakistan” and “hate[d] Muslims.” Athale wrote, “I hate you, I just don’t know how to kill your whole family including you? Tell me??? I will figure it out […] Probably I will hire a Jew, they will be most happy.”

    Athale also admitted that, from May 28, 2024 to May 31, 2024, he had sent threatening electronic messages to a recruiter who he believed to be a Muslim. Athale wrote statements such as “you will be dead, get out [expletive] Muslim” and “If you dont [sic] back off you are killed.”

    Athale is charged with interfering with federally protected activities which carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and with transmitting an interstate threat which carries a maximum penalty of five years in prison. Both charges also carry a maximum penalty of up to a $250,000 fine. The defendant also may be sentenced to a term of supervised release after any sentence served. Athale is scheduled to be sentenced June 3. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    Deputy Assistant Attorney General Kathleen Wolfe of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division announced the case.

    The FBI Philadelphia Field Office investigated the case.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Sara A. Aliabadi and Jason M. Richardson for the District of New Jersey and Trial Attorney Eric Peffley of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division are prosecuting the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Texas Man Admits to Making Violent Threats Against Sikh Nonprofit Organization

    Source: US State of North Dakota

    A man from Dallas, Texas, admitted to a hate crime and making interstate threats against the employees of a Sikh nonprofit organization.

    Bushan Athale, 49, pleaded guilty today to one count of interfering with federally protected activities through the threatened use of a dangerous weapon and one count of transmitting an interstate threat to injure another person.

    “Threats of violence have no place in our society,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Vikas Khanna for the District of New Jersey. “Every individual in this country must be free to practice their religion without fear of violence or persecution. We will continue to ensure the safety of our communities by prosecuting those who threaten our basic American freedoms.”

    “Every citizen has the right to feel safe, secure, and free from fear of violence or hate,” said Special Agent in Charge Wayne A. Jacobs of the FBI Philadelphia Field Office. “We are deeply grateful to our law enforcement and community partners who stand with us daily. Together, we remain steadfast in pursuing those who threaten the safety and well-being of the people we are sworn to protect.”

    According to court documents and statements made in court, on or about Sept. 17, 2022, Athale called the main number of an organization that advocates for the civil rights of Sikh individuals within the United States. Over the course of the next hour, Athale left seven voicemails expressing hatred toward Sikh individuals working at this same organization and threatening to injure or kill these individuals with a razor.

    Athale’s voicemails, which were filled with violent imagery and obscenity, contained references to places, people, and tenets that are particularly significant within the Sikh religion. Among other things, Athale stated his intention to “catch” the Sikhs at Organization 1, forcibly shave their “top and bottom hair,” use a “razor” to “cut” their hair and “make” them bald, “make” them smoke and eat tobacco, and “show [them] the heaven.”

    On March 21, 2024, Athale again called the same Sikh organization and left two more voicemails. In these voicemails, Athale again used violent, sexual imagery to express his hatred toward Sikhs as well as Muslims and spouted antisemitic rhetoric.

    During his guilty plea, Athale also admitted to additional conduct reflecting his long history of making violent threats rooted in religious animus. For example, Athale admitted that on Nov. 6, 2021 and Nov. 7, 2021, he had sent electronic messages to a former co-worker, in which he stated that he “hate[d] Pakistan” and “hate[d] Muslims.” Athale wrote, “I hate you, I just don’t know how to kill your whole family including you? Tell me??? I will figure it out […] Probably I will hire a Jew, they will be most happy.”

    Athale also admitted that, from May 28, 2024 to May 31, 2024, he had sent threatening electronic messages to a recruiter who he believed to be a Muslim. Athale wrote statements such as “you will be dead, get out [expletive] Muslim” and “If you dont [sic] back off you are killed.”

    Athale is charged with interfering with federally protected activities which carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and with transmitting an interstate threat which carries a maximum penalty of five years in prison. Both charges also carry a maximum penalty of up to a $250,000 fine. The defendant also may be sentenced to a term of supervised release after any sentence served. Athale is scheduled to be sentenced June 3. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    Deputy Assistant Attorney General Kathleen Wolfe of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division announced the case.

    The FBI Philadelphia Field Office investigated the case.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Sara A. Aliabadi and Jason M. Richardson for the District of New Jersey and Trial Attorney Eric Peffley of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division are prosecuting the case.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Two Mexican Nationals Charged in Conspiracy to Fraudulently Obtain Visas for Immigrant ‘Victims’ of Staged Crimes

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Two Mexican nationals in the Kansas City area have been charged in federal court for their roles in a conspiracy to stage numerous armed robberies so that the purported victims of these crimes, who were immigrants to the United States, could use their status as crime victims to apply for visas.

    Oscar Gutierrez, 35, of Independence, Mo., and Jose Luis Morales Salgado, 36, of Kansas City, Mo., both of whom are citizens of Mexico, were charged in a criminal complaint filed under seal in the U.S. District Court in Kansas City, Mo., on Thursday, Jan. 30. The federal criminal complaint, which was unsealed and made public following Salgado’s arrest and initial court appearance, charges both men with participating in a conspiracy to fraudulently obtain immigration visas. Gutierrez is already in custody on state charges in a separate case.

    The complaint alleges that immigrants contacted Salgado to arrange for themselves to become “victims” of staged robberies so they could submit applications for U-Visas, which are granted to crime victims. These immigrants, who were either illegally present in the United States or in the United States legally through work visas, paid Salgado thousands of dollars to participate. In exchange, Salgado directed them to the location of a planned staged robbery on a particular day and time.

    Salgado allegedly recruited individuals to pose as robbers during the staged robberies and provided directions to those individuals. One of the persons Salgado recruited to pose as a robber, says the complaint, was Gutierrez.

    According to an affidavit filed in support of the criminal complaint, each incident involved immigrants who later told police they had car trouble and pulled over and got out of their vehicle to diagnose the car trouble. Soon after stopping, another vehicle would arrive and park next to, or in front of, the purported victim’s vehicle. The robber, wearing a medical mask over his face and brandishing a firearm, would strike the purported victims in the head or face, take their cash, and typically fire two rounds into the purported victim’s vehicle.

    Investigators with the Kansas City, Mo., Police Department initially identified 11 incidents in which the reported robberies followed this pattern. These cases were linked to each other, based in part, on leads generated from the National Integrated Ballistics Information Network (NIBIN). NIBIN utilized ballistic imaging technology to compare cartridge case markings on the expended cartridges from each crime scene.  Detectives determined there was likely one firearm used in the commission of all of the robberies. Detectives gathered information from city cameras and license plate readers to identify the vehicles used in the robberies, the affidavit says, which led them to Gutierrez.

    Salgado allegedly instructed the immigrants to falsely report to law enforcement officials how the robberies occurred, and advised them how to make these false reports in an effort to bolster their applications for U-Visas.

    The Victims of Trafficking and Violence Protection Act strengthens the ability of law enforcement agencies to investigate and prosecute certain crimes while also protecting victims of crimes who are willing to help law enforcement authorities in the investigation or prosecution of the criminal activity. Foreign nationals are eligible for a U-Visa if they were the victim of qualifying criminal activity, suffered substantial physical or mental abuse as a result of having been a victim of the criminal activity, possessed information about the criminal activity, and were likely to be helpful to law enforcement in the investigation or prosecution of the crime.

    According to the affidavit, a source told investigators the number of purported victims involved in the scheme was well over 100. The complaint specifically cites 11 robberies involving 33 purported victims that occurred as part of the conspiracy between Dec. 29, 2021, and July 13, 2024.  Of those 33 immigrants, 18 have submitted U-Visa applications claiming to be victims of violent crimes.

    An undercover federal agent and a law enforcement source met with Salgado on Jan. 22, 2025, according to the affidavit, and recorded their meeting. The undercover agent made arrangements to pay Salgado $4,000 for the robbery to be staged in order to fraudulently obtain a U-Visa. Salgado told the undercover agent he would “put on a grand show.” Once the plans were agreed upon, the undercover agent paid Salgado $500 with a promise to pay the balance later. The undercover agent met with Salgado again on Thursday, Jan. 30, and Salgado was arrested.

    The charge contained in this complaint is simply an accusation, and not evidence of guilt. Evidence supporting the charge must be presented to a federal trial jury, whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence.

    This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Trey Alford. It was investigated by the Kansas City, Mo., Police Department, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and Homeland Security Investigations.

    MIL Security OSI –