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Category: Law and Justice

  • MIL-OSI Global: Animals that are all black or all white have reputations based on superstition − biases that have real effects

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Elizabeth Carlen, Living Earth Collaborative Postdoctoral Fellow, Arts & Sciences at Washington University in St. Louis

    Black is beautiful. Akeem Ranmal/500px via Getty Images

    Imagine it’s a crisp and sunny fall morning. You just left your local coffee shop, ready to start your day.

    Out of the corner of your eye, you catch a glimpse of something moving in the bushes. Is it a squirrel stashing acorns for the winter? A robin fattening up for migration? As you get closer, the image becomes clear and you unconsciously hold your breath.

    It’s a black cat out for its morning stroll.

    You pause for a second to decide your next move. Cross the street so the cat can’t cross your path? Muster the courage to walk past it, or even crouch down to pet it? Rationally, you know the idea that a black cat is bad luck is just a silly superstition … but you have an important meeting this afternoon and don’t want to jinx it.

    This superstition about black cats and other black animals in general has shaped people’s preferences about animals. It’s left its mark on things such as lower adoption rates for black cats and beliefs that black cats are more aggressive. Yet, these biases are unfounded.

    As two biologists who focus on human-wildlife interactions, what we find scary is how superstitions, lore and myths can shape your subconscious – particularly biases toward the animals people are trying to conserve and protect.

    A rare spirit bear is not albino, with a complete lack of melanin, but rather leucistic, with a reduction in pigments.
    KenCanning/E+ via Getty Images

    Rarity of a solely black or white animal

    Of course, animal fur, feathers and scales come in various colors across the visible and invisible-to-humans spectrum. These colorations play a significant role in the survival of wildlife by functioning as a form of concealment, temperature regulation or communication. In white-tailed deer, for instance, a flash of a white tail can indicate danger is near, while the sharp red breast of a male cardinal attracts females that are ready to mate.

    Within species, color variations are found throughout the animal kingdom, including melanistic animals with more dark pigmentation and leucistic animals with a reduction of pigment. There are black panthers, a melanistic version of a leopard, Panthera pardus, or jaguar, Panthera onca. On the other side of the spectrum are white spirit bears, a leucistic version of an American black bear, Ursus americanus. There are also albino animals that lack most or all pigment.

    Scientists recognize these color variations as extreme abnormalities within the natural world. Being all black or all white is a rare phenomenon, unlikely to persist in the wild because it’s a selective disadvantage. These animals often have a tougher time blending into their habitat – a challenge for predators trying to ambush their prey, and for prey trying to conceal themselves from predators. They may also struggle to regulate their temperature and to communicate with others in their species.

    A suite of genes that can change in many ways is behind this rainbow of wildlife coloration. One of the most well-known and studied genes is MC1R. In animals, loss-of-function mutations in the MC1R gene can result in light, yellow or reddish coat color. In humans, redheads have up to five loss-of-function mutations in MC1R, leading to hair that ranges from strawberry blonde to copper.

    One of these has special protection from hunters.
    Kristian Bell/Moment via Getty Images

    Protection based on unique color

    Recently, we explored how charismatic coloring, including melanistic and leucistic or albinism coloration, affects the conservation of animals in the United States. As we read through local laws and found news stories of wildlife being protected or culled, we noticed a trend: Many albinistic and leucistic animals are protected.

    Minnesota, Illinois and Wisconsin laws protect albino/white deer from being hunted. In Marionville, Missouri, white squirrels are protected and given the right-of-way on all public streets, with a penalty of up to US$500 or 90 days in jail for failing to abide by the law. In Louisiana, it’s prohibited to take white alligators from the wild, with a fine of at least $10,000 and six months in jail. The World Wilderness Congress recently adopted a resolution: Making Space to Protect White Animals, Messengers of Peace.

    We also found white animals readily celebrated. Brevard, North Carolina, hosts a yearly festival called “White Squirrel Weekend.” People often release white doves at weddings and funerals as symbols of purity and peace. The California Academy of Sciences’ famous albino alligator named Claude has a whole book written about him. And members of the Olney, Illinois, police department wear a patch on their uniform with a white squirrel.

    We found similar laws and celebrations do not exist in these jurisdictions for the white animals’ melanistic/black counterparts. We did identify a few cities and schools, including Marysville, Kansas, and Goshen College, that made the black squirrel their mascot.

    This discrepancy surprised us because the genetic mutation that causes melanism occurs less frequently than the one that causes albinism/leucism. Pure black animals are more novel. We thought the more rare melanistic animals would pique human interest for being more unusual and trigger more protections.

    More rare but less beloved than an all-white counterpart?
    Elango V/500px via Getty Images

    Colors have long-standing associations

    For many thousands of years, people have shared with each other stories, lore, tales and myths that attempt to explain the world.

    Sometimes these stories provide cautionary advice about the dangers that lurk around us. As our early ancestors sat around fires, telling thrilling stories, they sought refuge together from the darkness that concealed looming threats. The partiality evident in our history can linger for significant periods of time, making it difficult to unlearn.

    Many human biases developed as a survival response – one reason a darkly colored nocturnal predator would be fearsome is that it’s so hard to see at night, for instance. Modern preconceptions, though, can be based on harmful ideologies. Somewhere, way back when, white became synonymous with “good” and “pure,” while black aligned more with “evil” and “unclean.” And even now these unconscious affiliations influence how people celebrate and protect – or not – rare animals.

    Perhaps more chilling than a black cat darting past you is the thought of how much in your subconscious mind goes unquestioned. Ideologies – whether detrimental or benign – permeate human society, influencing people’s perceptions of reality and informing how they interact with the world.

    This Halloween, rather than the spooky proposition of goblins and ghouls, consider whether the more horrifying specters are the unacknowledged and dangerous biases we humans possess.

    Elizabeth Carlen receives funding from the Living Earth Collaborative and the National Science Foundation.

    Tyus Williams receives funding from the National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship under Grant No. DGE-2146752

    – ref. Animals that are all black or all white have reputations based on superstition − biases that have real effects – https://theconversation.com/animals-that-are-all-black-or-all-white-have-reputations-based-on-superstition-biases-that-have-real-effects-240658

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI USA: October 25th, 2024 N.M. Delegation Files Amicus Brief Urging Ninth Circuit Court to Affirm that Federal Law Requires Hospitals to Provide Emergency Care, Including Abortion

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Mexico Martin Heinrich

    After the Supreme Court dismissed Idaho v. United States, returning it to the Ninth Circuit Court, 259 Members of Congress ask the Ninth Circuit to affirm that federal law ensures abortion care qualifies as “emergency stabilizing care” under the Emergency Medical Treatment and Labor Act (EMTALA), and hospitals participating in Medicare must provide “emergency stabilizing treatment” to patients, including abortion care, when necessary.

    The N.M Delegation joins the brief as New Mexico’s highly impacted health system continues to serve patients from neighboring states with restrictions on reproductive health care.

     “In this case, respecting the supremacy of federal law is about more than just protecting our system of government; it is about protecting people’s lives.”

    WASHINGTON — U.S. Senators Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) and Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) and U.S. Representatives Teresa Leger Fernández (D-N.M.), Melanie Stansbury (D-N.M.), and Gabe Vasquez (D-N.M.) submitted an amicus brief to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit in Moyle v. United States and Idaho v. United States, two consolidated cases concerning the Emergency Medical Treatment and Labor Act (EMTALA) under consideration by the en banc Ninth Circuit. EMTALA is a federal law that requires hospitals that receive Medicare funding to provide necessary “stabilizing treatment” to patients experiencing medical emergencies, which includes abortion care.

    After the Dobbs decision in 2022, an anti-abortion law in Idaho went into effect, making it a felony for a doctor to terminate a patient’s pregnancy unless it is “necessary” to prevent the patient’s death. The United States sued the State of Idaho, arguing that the state’s law is preempted by existing federal law in those circumstances in which abortion may not be necessary to prevent imminent death, but still constitutes the “necessary stabilizing treatment” for a patient’s emergency medical condition. The district court agreed; it held that in those limited, but critically important situations, EMTALA requires Medicare-participating hospitals to provide abortion as an emergency medical treatment. Idaho Republicans appealed that ruling to the Supreme Court.

    In March, 258 lawmakers, including the N.M. Congressional Delegation, filed an amicus brief, asking the Supreme Court to affirm the district court decision. In June, the Supreme Court dismissed the case but without a ruling on the merits, sending the case back to the Ninth Circuit Court and reinstating the district court’s injunction.

    In their brief in support of the Justice Department, the lawmakers state “he 99th Congress passed EMTALA to ensure that every person who visits a Medicare-funded hospital with an ‘emergency medical condition’ is offered stabilizing treatment.” The lawmakers continued in their amicus brief, “Congress chose broad language for that mandate, requiring hospitals that participate in the Medicare program to provide ‘such treatment as may be required to stabilize the medical condition.’… That text—untouched by Congress for the past three decades—makes clear that in situations in which a doctor determines that abortion constitutes the ‘ecessary stabilizing treatment’ for a pregnant patient, federal law requires the hospital to offer it. Yet Idaho has made providing that care a felony, in direct contravention of EMTALA’s mandate.”

    The lawmakers point to numerous reports of OB/GYNs leaving Idaho en masse since the state’s abortion ban went into effect — Idaho has since lost fifty-five percent of its maternal-fetal medicine specialists, and three rural hospitals have shut down maternity services altogether.

    “These are not hypothetical scenarios. Because Idaho’s abortion ban contains no clear exceptions for the “emergency medical conditions” covered by EMTALA, it forces physicians to wait until their patients are on the verge of death before providing abortion care. The result in other states with similar laws has been ‘significant maternal morbidity,’” wrote the lawmakers, pointing to harrowing reports of pregnant women with severe health complications being denied necessary abortion care. The lawmakers’ brief also counters an argument from Idaho and its amici that the Supremacy Clause does not apply in this case because EMTALA was passed using Spending Clause authority, and therefore acts only as a condition on Medicare funding. The lawmakers make clear that alllaws passed by Congress are entitled to preemption — regardless of their source of constitutional authority — and states cannot pass laws that make it impossible for private parties to accept federal funding, inhibiting the purpose of the federal law.

    “EMTALA requires abortion when necessary to stabilize a patient with an emergency medical condition, Idaho’s near-total abortion ban is preempted to the extent that it prevents doctors from providing that care,” the lawmakers wrote. “This Court should reject Appellants’ novel theory that EMTALA is not entitled to preemptive effect because it was enacted pursuant to Congress’s spending power.  Under the Supremacy Clause, all‘the constitutional laws enacted by congress,’ constitute ‘the supreme Law of the Land,’. As the Supreme Court has repeatedly held, the principle of federal supremacy applies to laws passed pursuant to Congress’s spending authority no less than it does to laws effectuating other enumerated powers.”

    “In sum, EMTALA plainly requires hospitals that participate in the Medicare program to provide abortion care when, in a doctor’s medical judgment, it constitutes the ‘ecessary stabilizing treatment’ for a patient’s ‘emergency medical condition.’”

    The amicus brief was led by U.S. Senators Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), Patty Murray (D-Wash.), Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), and U.S. Representatives Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.), Katherine Clark (D-Mass.), Frank Pallone (D-N.J.), Richard Neal (D-Mass.), Jerry Nadler (D-N.Y.), Diana DeGette (D-Colo.), and Barbara Lee (D-Calif.).

    The lawmakers’ amicus brief to the Supreme Court can be read in full here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: October 25th, 2024 N.M. Delegation Announces Over $3 Million for Tribal Communities to Address Opioid Use Disorder

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Mexico Martin Heinrich

    ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — U.S. Senators Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) and Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), and U.S. Representatives Teresa Leger Fernández (D-N.M.), Melanie Stansbury (D-N.M.), and Gabe Vasquez (D-N.M.) are announcing $3,068,909 from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to Tribal communities to serve individuals with opioid use disorder and co-occurring substance use disorders by funding culturally specific and evidence-based treatment, including medication for the treatment of opioid use disorder (MOUD). These HHS Tribal Opioid Response Grants are being awarded through the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration(SAMHSA).

    “Tackling the opioid crisis with the urgency it demands means expanding our approach. That includes everything from providing improved access to the lifesaving medication used to treat opioid use disorder to empowering local communities to develop treatment programs that are grounded in their distinct experiences and cultures. I’m proud to welcome over $3 million for Tribal communities to do exactly that,” said Heinrich. “I won’t stop fighting to eliminate barriers to lifesaving medication and help New Mexicans get the care they need.”

    “Far too many across our Tribal lands have seen firsthand how the opioid epidemic has devastated our communities,” said Luján, a member of the Indian Affairs and Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committees. “This $3+ million in federal funding will deliver critical treatments and medications to address opioid use disorder in our Tribal communities. Throughout my time in Congress, I have secured millions to expand opioid use disorder treatments, introduced bipartisan legislation to increase investments in substance misuse prevention, and called for an increase in funding in our nation’s response to the opioid use disorder epidemic. I am proud to welcome this funding alongside our Congressional delegation and will keep fighting to expand addiction treatment services and protect the health of our Tribal brothers and sisters.”

    “For far too long, opioid addiction has ravaged our Tribal communities, and the need for culturally specific treatments is critical,” said Leger Fernández. “This funding will help provide life-saving treatment, tailored to the needs of Native communities, so that we can address the opioid crisis head-on. By combining evidence-based practices with the cultural knowledge of our Tribes, we can offer real hope and healing. I will continue to fight for more resources and support to make sure every New Mexican has access to the care they need to recover and thrive.”

    “Culturally informed care is vital to addressing the opioid crisis in every community that is suffering,” said Stansbury. “This $3 million investment will help Tribal communities take care as they see fit, as they know what is best for their communities. I will continue to fight for more funding and tools to solve this crisis so New Mexicans can not only recover from addiction but thrive in life.”

    “New Mexico’s Tribes and Pueblos have long faced significant challenges in combating the opioid crisis. I’m proud to welcome these funds to provide critical resources to help address opioid addiction head-on,” said Vasquez. “Supporting culturally specific and evidence-based treatments ensures that we’re not only tackling the crisis but also providing Indian Country with the tools they need to better support recovery. I’m committed to securing more funding and resources to combat this crisis and save lives.”

    Recipient

    Award Amount

    Albuquerque Area Indian Health

    $1,478,168

    Pueblo of Pojoaque

    $250,000

    Five Sandoval Indian Pueblos, Inc.

    $250,000

    Santo Domingo Tribe

    $295,107

    Ohkay Owingeh

    $250,000

    Nambe Pueblo Governor’s Office

    $295,634

    Taos Pueblo

    $250,000

    The N.M. Delegation has continuously worked to make opioid use disorder treatments more readily available.

    This month, Heinrich introduced the Broadening Utilization of Proven and Effective Treatment for Recovery Act, or BUPE for Recovery Act, legislation to increase access to buprenorphine — a lifesaving drug used to treat opioid use disorder — by removing barriers providers and patients face when trying to access the medication. The BUPE for Recovery Act temporarily exempts buprenorphine from the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration’s (DEA) Suspicious Orders Report System (SORS) requirements during the opioid public health emergency. SORS reporting requirements have led to an uncertainty among pharmacies and distributors to stock and dispense buprenorphine, which can prevent individuals suffering from opioid use disorder from receiving timely and effective treatment. This legislation will mitigate the treatment gap created by stringent SORS reporting requirements, reducing overdose deaths, saving lives, and improving public health outcomes.

    In the Fiscal Year 2025 (FY25) Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies (CJS)Appropriations Bill, Heinrich successfully included language directing the DEA to take further action to remove barriers to access for opioid use disorder medications such as buprenorphine. The inclusion of this language will assist local medical and mental health providers and make medications, including buprenorphine, more accessible to New Mexicans.

    Find an extensive list of Heinrich’s actions to tackle the fentanyl crisis and make opioid use disorder treatments more readily available here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Shaheen, Hassan Join Ribbon Cutting for Affordable Housing Development Made Possible by the American Rescue Plan

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Hampshire Maggie Hassan
    (Concord, NH) – Today, U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Maggie Hassan (D-NH) delivered remarks to community members and local advocates at the ribbon cutting ceremony for CATCH Neighborhood Housing’s Davis Ridge development, which will offer 48 units of affordable housing in Concord. The project was funded in part by Invest NH, which is supported by funding Senators Shaheen and Hassan helped secure in the American Rescue Plan. Photos from today’s event can be found here. 
    “Far too many Granite Staters are struggling with affordable housing and anything we can do to build more housing units to help lower costs for the workforce is worth doing, which is why developments like Davis Ridge are critical to addressing this challenge,” said Senator Shaheen. “I’m proud to have helped secure the federal funds needed to support this project, and I’ll continue fighting in Congress to ensure New Hampshire has the resources we need to tackle the housing crisis and bring costs down for Granite Staters.” 
    “The housing crisis affects every corner of our state, as families struggle to afford their rent and businesses are unable to grow because workers can’t find housing that they can afford,” said Senator Hassan. “Developments like the Davis Ridge Apartments demonstrate the role that federal funding can play in addressing the housing shortage in New Hampshire. I will keep working to expand federal funding to build more housing here in NH, help more Granite State individuals and families afford their rent, and strengthen our economy.” 
    The Davis Ridge development was built with the support of Invest NH, a $100 million program to accelerate affordable workforce housing construction funded through American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds (SLFRF) secured by Shaheen and Hassan. The project is also supported by federal funding from the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC), which Shaheen and Hassan are working to expand. 
    Shaheen is a leader in the Senate on efforts to tackle the housing affordability crisis, including by helping to ensure Granite Staters have the resources they need to thrive. In May, Shaheen and Hassan celebrated more than $30 million in federal grants for New Hampshire to build more affordable housing across the Granite State.  
    As a senior member of the U.S. Senate Appropriations Committee and Chair of the Commerce, Justice, Science Appropriations Subcommittee, Shaheen worked to include key provisions from her Strategy and Investment in Rural Housing Preservation Act in the FY24 Agriculture and Related Agencies Appropriations Act which was signed into law in March. Shaheen’s standalone legislation would ensure that hundreds of thousands of low-income tenants in rural areas are able to maintain access to safe and affordable housing. Another Shaheen-led bipartisan bill to increase access to rural housing was signed into law the same day. Together, the two bills will bolster existing rural housing options, make new construction easier and protect renters across the Granite State.   
    Shaheen also helped introduced the Fighting Homelessness Through Services and Housing Act to help local governments reduce homelessness as well as a bicameral bill that would protect the rights of residents of manufactured housing communities. Shaheen secured over $22 million in Congressionally Directed Spending in the FY24 government funding bills to address New Hampshire’s housing, transportation and urban development needs. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cassidy Announces $63.1 Million for Louisiana Railroad Projects from His Infrastructure Law

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Louisiana Bill Cassidy

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) announced the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) will grant Louisiana a total of $63,149,456.00 from his Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) for railroad infrastructure. 
    “This is a huge investment from the Infrastructure Law to improve Louisiana’s railroads,” said Dr. Cassidy. “These projects will bring new interstate commerce opportunities for Louisiana families and businesses and build our economy for 2050.”

    Grant Awarded
    Recipient
    Project Description

    $30,600,000.00
    Patriot Rail Company LLC
    This grant will provide federal funding to improve track conditions on eight Patriot railroads.

    $27,320,000.00
    Louisiana and North West Railroad Company, LLC
    This grant will provide federal funding to replace outdated rail and rehabilitate track across approximately 44 miles of the Louisiana and North West Railroad. The project will enable the LNW to upgrade its gross weight limit along the majority of its 62-mile network to accommodate industry standards.

    $5,229,456.00
    Jaguar Transport Holdings, LLC
    This grant will provide federal funding to increase the capacity of the West Memphis Base Railroad. Construction includes an estimated 10,900 feet of new sidings and yard track.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General Alan Wilson announces York Co. man already on probation sentenced to prison for having child sexual abuse materialRead More

    Source: US State of South Carolina

    (COLUMBIA, S.C.) – South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson announced that a man already out on probation for possessing child sexual abuse material has been sentenced to prison for possessing thousands more files of the material.

    On October 23, 2024, Lawrence Tafoya pleaded guilty to two counts of Sexual Exploitation of a Minor, 3rd degree, in York County before the Honorable Daniel D. Hall.

    On March 15, 2024, Investigator Alex Clark with the York County Sheriff’s Office was contacted by Probation, Parole and Pardon Services in reference to a cell phone that was seized by their department that contained child sexual abuse material. The agent said the phone belonged to Lawrence Tafoya, who was currently on probation for Sexual Exploitation of a Minor, 3rd degree. A forensics examiner with SCPPP examined the phone on scene and located files of child sexual abuse material. Tafoya was arrested on April 11, 2024, for images on the phone, and subsequently confessed to having additional images on other items in his home. A search warrant was done on his residence in York County and several items were seized. A forensic examination of the items revealed files of child sexual abuse material on his cell phone and thousands more files on his laptop.

    Judge Hall sentenced Tafoya to six years in prison, with credit for 196 days already served. He will have to continue to register as a sex offender and was ordered to forfeit devices containing illegal material.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Waterbury Man Sentenced to More Than 4 Years in Federal Prison for Role in Drug Trafficking Ring

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Vanessa Roberts Avery, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that JESUS MALDONADO, also known as “Zeus,” 34, of Waterbury, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Michael P. Shea in Hartford to 51 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for trafficking narcotics.  

    According to court documents and statements made in court, the FBI’s Waterbury Safe Streets Gang Task Force and other law enforcement agencies investigated two drug trafficking organizations based in the city of Waterbury.  One organization operated in the area of William Street and the other operated in the area of Maple Avenue.  The investigation, which included court-authorized wiretaps on multiple phones, video surveillance, GPS tracking of vehicles, and numerous controlled purchases of narcotics, revealed that the two organizations distributed cocaine, crack, and fentanyl through a network of sellers.  The organizations shared sources of supply and worked together to further their operations.

    During the investigation, Maldonado, who was involved in the William Street organization, was intercepted multiple times over a wiretap discussing the distribution of narcotics.  On November 16, 2023, he was captured on video engaging in a 500-gram cocaine transaction.

    Seventeen individuals were charged with federal offenses as a result of the investigation.  Maldonado and several codefendants were arrested on November 29, 2023.  In association with the arrests, investigators executed multiple search warrants and seized approximately 700 grams of crack cocaine, more than 900 vials (“caps”) of crack, approximately 200 grams of loose fentanyl, more than 1,600 dose bags of fentanyl/heroin, two stolen firearms, numerous rounds of ammunition, and more than $39,000 in cash.

    Maldonado has been detained since his arrest.  On June 24, 2024, he pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances.

    The FBI’s Waterbury Safe Streets Gang Task includes members from the FBI, the Waterbury Police Department, the Naugatuck Police Department, and the Connecticut Department of Correction.  The DEA, U.S. Marshals Service, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Connecticut State Police, Wolcott Police Department, and Meriden Police Department have assisted the investigation.

    This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Natasha Freismuth and Shan Patel through the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) Program.  OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations through a prosecutor-led and intelligence-driven approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies.  Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.

    U.S. Attorney Avery thanked the Waterbury State Attorney’s Office for its cooperation in the investigation and prosecution of this case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Parson Announces Six Judicial Appointments, Appoints Ray County Presiding Commissioner

    Source: US State of Missouri

    OCTOBER 25, 2024

    Jefferson City — Today, Governor Mike Parson announced judicial appointments to the 3rd, 12th, 25th, 30th, and 43rd Judicial Circuits and appointed a new Ray County Presiding Commissioner.

    Alex T. Van Zandt, of Bethany, will be appointed as Associate Circuit Judge for Mercer County in the 3rd Judicial Circuit.

    Mr. Van Zandt is the Harrison County Prosecuting Attorney. He holds Bachelors of Arts in political science and business from the University of Missouri–Columbia and a Juris Doctor from the University of Missouri–Kansas City. He will fill the vacancy created by the election of the Honorable Matthew M. Krohn as Circuit Judge who is unopposed in the 2024 general election.

    Jonathan A. Yelton, of Jefferson City, will be appointed as Associate Circuit Judge for Warren County in the 12th Judicial Circuit.

    Mr. Yelton is deputy general counsel for the Office of Missouri Governor Michael L. Parson. He holds a Bachelor of Science in criminal justice from Sterling College and a Juris Doctor from the University of Kansas. He will fill the vacancy created by the election of the Honorable Richard L. Scheibe as Circuit Judge who is unopposed in the 2024 general election.

    Kevin S. Hillman, of Waynesville, will be appointed as Associate Circuit Judge for Pulaski County in the 25th Judicial Circuit.

    Mr. Hillman is the Pulaski County Prosecuting Attorney. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in history and government from Centre College and a Juris Doctor from the University of Cincinnati. He will fill the vacancy created by the retirement of the Honorable Colin P. Long.

    Cynthia R. Black, of Marshfield, will be appointed as Associate Circuit Judge for Webster County in the 30th Judicial Circuit.

    Ms. Black owns Cynthia R. Black, Attorney at Law, LLC. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in political science from Missouri State University and a Juris Doctor from the University of Missouri­–Columbia. She will fill the vacancy created by the appointment of the Honorable D. Charles Replogle as Circuit Judge.

    The Honorable D. Charles Replogle, of Marshfield, will be appointed as Circuit Judge for the 30th Judicial Circuit.

    Judge Replogle is the associate circuit judge for Mercer County in the 30th Judicial Circuit. He holds a Bachelor of Science in criminal justice from Missouri Southern State University and a Juris Doctor from the University of Tulsa. He will fill the vacancy created by the retirement of the Honorable Michael O. Hendrickson.

    Micha L. Dixon, of Jamesport, will be appointed as Associate Circuit Judge for Daviess County in the 43rd Judicial Circuit.

    Ms. Dixon is the attorney for the 43rd Judicial Circuit Juvenile Office and an assistant prosecuting attorney in the 43rd Judicial Circuit. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in criminal justice and criminology and a Juris Doctor from the University of Missouri–Kansas City. Ms. Dixon will fill the vacancy created by the election of the Honorable Daren L. Adkins as Circuit Judge who is unopposed in the 2024 general election.

    Sheila Tracy, of Richmond, was appointed Ray County Presiding Commissioner.

    Ms. Tracy currently serves as a realtor at ReeceNichols Real Estate. She previously served as president of the Northland Regional Chamber of Commerce, vice president of membership for the Independence Chamber of Commerce, and as executive director of the Richmond Area Chamber of Commerce. Ms. Tracy further serves as a member of the Missouri Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the American Chamber of Commerce Executives. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: N.M. Delegation Files Amicus Brief Urging Ninth Circuit Court to Affirm that Federal Law Requires Hospitals to Provide Emergency Care, Including Abortion

    US Senate News:

    Source: US Senator for New Mexico Ben Ray Luján
    After the Supreme Court dismissed Idaho v. United States, returning it to the Ninth Circuit Court, 259 Members of Congress ask the Ninth Circuit to affirm that federal law ensures abortion care qualifies as “emergency stabilizing care” under the Emergency Medical Treatment and Labor Act (EMTALA), and hospitals participating in Medicare must provide “emergency stabilizing treatment” to patients, including abortion care, when necessary. 
    The N.M Delegation joins the brief as New Mexico’s highly impacted health system continues to serve patients from neighboring states with restrictions on reproductive health care. 
     “In this case, respecting the supremacy of federal law is about more than just protecting our system of government; it is about protecting people’s lives.”
    WASHINGTON — U.S. Senators Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) and Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) and U.S. Representatives Teresa Leger Fernández (D-N.M.), Melanie Stansbury (D-N.M.), and Gabe Vasquez (D-N.M.) submitted an amicus brief to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit in Moyle v. United States and Idaho v. United States, two consolidated cases concerning the Emergency Medical Treatment and Labor Act (EMTALA) under consideration by the en banc Ninth Circuit. EMTALA is a federal law that requires hospitals that receive Medicare funding to provide necessary “stabilizing treatment” to patients experiencing medical emergencies, which includes abortion care. 
    After the Dobbs decision in 2022, an anti-abortion law in Idaho went into effect, making it a felony for a doctor to terminate a patient’s pregnancy unless it is “necessary” to prevent the patient’s death. The United States sued the State of Idaho, arguing that the state’s law is preempted by existing federal law in those circumstances in which abortion may not be necessary to prevent imminent death, but still constitutes the “necessary stabilizing treatment” for a patient’s emergency medical condition. The district court agreed; it held that in those limited, but critically important situations, EMTALA requires Medicare-participating hospitals to provide abortion as an emergency medical treatment. Idaho Republicans appealed that ruling to the Supreme Court. 
    In March, 258 lawmakers, including the N.M. Congressional Delegation, filed an amicus brief, asking the Supreme Court to affirm the district court decision. In June, the Supreme Court dismissed the case but without a ruling on the merits, sending the case back to the Ninth Circuit Court and reinstating the district court’s injunction. 
    In their brief in support of the Justice Department, the lawmakers state “he 99th Congress passed EMTALA to ensure that every person who visits a Medicare-funded hospital with an ‘emergency medical condition’ is offered stabilizing treatment.” The lawmakers continued in their amicus brief, “Congress chose broad language for that mandate, requiring hospitals that participate in the Medicare program to provide ‘such treatment as may be required to stabilize the medical condition.’… That text—untouched by Congress for the past three decades—makes clear that in situations in which a doctor determines that abortion constitutes the ‘ecessary stabilizing treatment’ for a pregnant patient, federal law requires the hospital to offer it. Yet Idaho has made providing that care a felony, in direct contravention of EMTALA’s mandate.” 
    The lawmakers point to numerous reports of OB/GYNs leaving Idaho en masse since the state’s abortion ban went into effect — Idaho has since lost fifty-five percent of its maternal-fetal medicine specialists, and three rural hospitals have shut down maternity services altogether. 
    “These are not hypothetical scenarios. Because Idaho’s abortion ban contains no clear exceptions for the “emergency medical conditions” covered by EMTALA, it forces physicians to wait until their patients are on the verge of death before providing abortion care. The result in other states with similar laws has been ‘significant maternal morbidity,’” wrote the lawmakers, pointing to harrowing reports of pregnant women with severe health complications being denied necessary abortion care. The lawmakers’ brief also counters an argument from Idaho and its amici that the Supremacy Clause does not apply in this case because EMTALA was passed using Spending Clause authority, and therefore acts only as a condition on Medicare funding. The lawmakers make clear that all laws passed by Congress are entitled to preemption — regardless of their source of constitutional authority — and states cannot pass laws that make it impossible for private parties to accept federal funding, inhibiting the purpose of the federal law. 
    “EMTALA requires abortion when necessary to stabilize a patient with an emergency medical condition, Idaho’s near-total abortion ban is preempted to the extent that it prevents doctors from providing that care,” the lawmakers wrote. “This Court should reject Appellants’ novel theory that EMTALA is not entitled to preemptive effect because it was enacted pursuant to Congress’s spending power.  Under the Supremacy Clause, all ‘the constitutional laws enacted by congress,’ constitute ‘the supreme Law of the Land,’. As the Supreme Court has repeatedly held, the principle of federal supremacy applies to laws passed pursuant to Congress’s spending authority no less than it does to laws effectuating other enumerated powers.” 
    “In sum, EMTALA plainly requires hospitals that participate in the Medicare program to provide abortion care when, in a doctor’s medical judgment, it constitutes the ‘ecessary stabilizing treatment’ for a patient’s ‘emergency medical condition.’” 
    The amicus brief was led by U.S. Senators Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), Patty Murray (D-Wash.), Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), and U.S. Representatives Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.), Katherine Clark (D-Mass.), Frank Pallone (D-N.J.), Richard Neal (D-Mass.), Jerry Nadler (D-N.Y.), Diana DeGette (D-Colo.), and Barbara Lee (D-Calif.). 
    The lawmakers’ amicus brief to the Supreme Court can be read in full here. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Luján, Leger Fernández Welcome $8.6 Million Federal Investment for New Mexico’s Digital Equity Plan

    US Senate News:

    Source: US Senator for New Mexico Ben Ray Luján
    Multi-Million Dollar Investment Made Possible by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law
    Santa Fe, N.M. – U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), Chair of the Subcommittee on Communications, Media, and Broadband, and U.S. Representative Teresa Leger Fernández (D-N.M.) welcomed $8,673,975 to implement key digital equity initiatives in New Mexico. This funding comes from the $1.44 billion State Digital Equity Capacity Grant Program, one of three Digital Equity Act grant programs created by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law that Senator Luján and Representative Leger Fernández helped pass into law.
    This funding is part of the “Internet for All” initiative, a key component of the Biden-Harris administration’s “Investing in America” agenda. New Mexico will use this funding to implement its digital equity plan, which outlines how the state will empower individuals and communities with the tools and skills necessary to benefit from meaningful access to affordable, reliable, high-speed Internet service. 
    “In today’s world, a reliable broadband connection is not a luxury, but rather a necessity for everyday life,” said Luján. “This more than $8.6 million investment by the NTIA will deliver critical broadband connection and boost digital literacy in communities across New Mexico. I’m proud to have helped deliver this funding through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and will continue to work to close the digital divide once and for all.”
    “We know in New Mexico that we are all connected by history, family, culture and herencias. However, in today’s world, we need to also be connected digitally. When we invest in digital equity, we are investing in education, healthcare, and economic opportunity for every family across New Mexico regardless of their income or background,” said Leger Fernández. “This $8.6 million in investments made possible by our Bipartisan Infrastructure Law will help bridge the digital divide, making sure that our rural, Tribal, and communities of opportunity can fully participate in today’s economy.”
    This approval is from the first funding round of the Digital Equity Capacity Grant Program, which made available more than $800 million for states, including Puerto Rico and the District of Columbia, U.S. Territories, and Native Entities to apply for grants to implement their digital equity plans. These plans were developed under the State Digital Equity Planning Grant Program. Awards of funding will require additional review and approval of State-submitted documentation.    

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NH Delegation Joins EPA in Announcing Nearly $35 Million for Water Infrastructure in New Hampshire

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Chris Pappas (D-NH)

    Today the New Hampshire delegation joined the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in announcing $35 million for New Hampshire  in new funding under the bipartisan infrastructure law to upgrade water infrastructure and keep communities safe.

    “Our drinking water and waste water systems in New Hampshire require investment and modernization to serve the needs of Granite Staters. That is why I fought to pass the bipartisan infrastructure law to deliver these federal resources to New Hampshire,” said U.S. Representative Chris Pappas. “I’ll keep fighting to ensure this law benefits Granite Staters by delivering clean drinking water, protecting our environment, and helping our communities and economy grow for the future.”

    “The health and vitality of Granite State communities depend on clean water,” said U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen. “As a lead negotiator of the water provisions of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, I’m thrilled to see this funding headed to New Hampshire to strengthen our wastewater infrastructure, address forever chemicals and keep our lakes and rivers clean.”

    “Every Granite Stater deserves safe, clean drinking water, and this new $34 million in funding for New Hampshire through the bipartisan infrastructure law will help make that possible for more families,” said U.S. Senator Maggie Hassan. “I helped negotiate and pass into law this historic infrastructure package to help deliver results for our communities, and I am pleased to see these continued investments flowing to New Hampshire to upgrade our water systems and protect public health.”

    “Safe, clean water is essential to the health and well-being of our communities, our economy, and our way of life,” said U.S. Representative Annie Kuster. “With these resources made available through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, New Hampshire will be able to make critical improvements to our state’s water infrastructure, protect our freshwater ecosystems, and ensure more families and businesses have access to clean drinking water.”

    “Water keeps us healthy, sustains vibrant communities and dynamic ecosystems, and supports economic opportunity. When our water infrastructure fails, it threatens people’s health, peace of mind, and the environment,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “With the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law’s historic investment in water, EPA is working with states and local partners to upgrade infrastructure and address local challenges—from lead in drinking water, to PFAS, to water main breaks, to sewer overflows and climate resilience. Together, we are creating good-paying jobs while ensuring that all people can rely on clean and safe water.”

    “Clean, reliable water is at the heart of every thriving community. Yet too many communities—especially those overburdened by pollution or left behind by past investments—face challenges accessing the resources they need to upgrade water infrastructure,” said EPA Regional Administrator David W. Cash. “Thanks to the Biden-Harris Administration, we are delivering transformative funding to support local solutions to water issues, from fixing aging infrastructure to addressing emerging contaminants like PFAS. These investments don’t just protect public health and reduce pollution in waterways; they also create good-paying jobs and help communities become more resilient for the future.”

    These bipartisan infrastructure law funds will flow through the Clean Water and Drinking Water State Revolving Funds (CWSRF and DWSRF), a long-standing federal-state water investment partnership. This multibillion-dollar investment will fund state-run, low-interest loan programs that address key challenges in financing water infrastructure. Today’s announcement includes allotments for bipartisan infrastructure law Clean Water General Supplemental funds for New Hampshire ($24,867,000), Emerging Contaminant funds ($2,146,000), and $7,640,000 under the Drinking Water Emerging Contaminant Fund. 

    # # #

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Joint Statement: 7th India-Germany Inter-Governmental Consultations (IGC)

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 25 OCT 2024 8:25PM by PIB Delhi

    Growing Together with Innovation, Mobility and Sustainability

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Federal Chancellor Olaf Scholz co-chaired the seventh round of India-Germany Inter-Governmental Consultations (7th IGC) on 25 October 2024 in New Delhi. The Delegation included Ministers of Defence, External Affairs, Commerce & Industries, Labour & Employment, Science & Technology (MoS) and Skill Development (MoS) from the Indian side and Ministers of Economic Affairs & Climate Action, Foreign Affairs, Labour & Social Affairs and Education & Research from the German side along with Parliamentary State Secretaries for Finance; Environment, Nature Conservation, Nuclear Safety and Consumer Protection; and Economic Cooperation and Development from the German side, as well as senior officials from both sides.

    2. Prime Minister Narendra Modi warmly welcomed Chancellor Olaf Scholz on his third visit to India as Chancellor. Both leaders sincerely appreciated the renewed momentum in bilateral engagement across government, industry, civil society and academia that has played an instrumental role in advancing and deepening the Strategic Partnership between India and Germany.

    3. Both leaders emphasised the importance of the Asia-Pacific Conference of German Business (APK), which takes place in New Delhi in parallel to the 7th IGC, in strengthening economic ties and strategic partnerships between Germany, India and the Indo-Pacific region as a whole. The decision to host the 2024 conference in India underscores India’s political weight in the Indo-Pacific and globally.

    4. Under the motto “Growing Together with Innovation, Mobility and Sustainability”, the 7th IGC placed particular emphasis on technology and innovation, labour and talent, migration and mobility, climate action, green and sustainable development as well as economic, defence and strategic cooperation. Both sides agree that the aforementioned domains will be the key drivers of our ever more multi-faceted partnership that spans trade, investment, defence, science, technology, innovation, sustainability, renewable energy, emerging technologies, development cooperation, culture, education, sustainable mobility, sustainable resource management, biodiversity, climate resilience and people-to-people ties.

    5. The year 2024 marks the 50th anniversary of the signing of the Inter – Governmental Agreement on Cooperation in Scientific Research and Technological Development which institutionalized the framework of Indo-German cooperation in Science & Technology, research and innovation. In this context, the 7th IGC presented an opportunity to renew the close relationship between India and Germany in this regard and to prioritize the advancement of technology and innovation as a key pillar of cooperation.

    6. During the 6th IGC, both governments had announced the Green and Sustainable Development Partnership (GSDP), which serves as an umbrella for bilateral formats and joint initiatives in this field. Subsequently, both sides signed the Migration and Mobility Partnership Agreement (MMPA) in December 2022 and launched the “India-Germany Vision to Enhance Cooperation in Innovation and Technology” in February 2023. Recalling the outcomes of the 6th IGC and various agreements concluded by the two sides thereafter, both governments launched the “India-Germany Innovation and Technology Partnership Roadmap” and introduced the “Indo-German Green Hydrogen Roadmap”, whose aim is to promote the market ramp-up of Green Hydrogen.Growing Together for Peace, Security and Stability

    7. The two leaders noted the Pact for the Future and reaffirmed their commitment to upholding shared values and principles including democracy, freedom, international peace and security and a rules-based international order in line with the purposes and principles of the UN Charter. Both governments also underscored their commitment to strengthen and reform the multilateral system including expansion of both permanent and non-permanent categories of membership of the UN Security Council to reflect contemporary realities, address current and future challenges and to support and preserve peace and stability across the world. The two leaders called for text-based negotiations at the IGN within a fixed timeframe.

    8. India and Germany agreed that the difficulties of the UN Security Council to effectively address regional and global crises offer a compelling reminder of the urgent need for reform. As members of the “Group of Four (G4)”, India and Germany reiterated their call for a Security Council that is efficient, effective, transparent and reflective of 21st century realities.

    9. The leaders expressed their deepest concern over the war raging in Ukraine including its terrible and tragic humanitarian consequences. They reiterated the need for a comprehensive, just, and lasting peace in line with international law, consistent with the purposes and principles of the UN Charter, including respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity. They also noted the negative impacts of the war in Ukraine with regard to global food and energy security, especially for developing and least developed countries. In the context of this war, they shared the view that the use, or threat of use, of nuclear weapons is unacceptable. They underscored the importance of upholding international law, and in line with the UN Charter, reiterated that all states must refrain from the threat of or use of force against the territorial integrity and sovereignty or political independence of any state.

    10. The leaders expressed their shared interest in achieving peace and stability in the Middle East. They unequivocally condemned the Hamas’ terror attacks on October 7, 2023 and expressed concern over the large-scale loss of civilian lives and the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. They called for the immediate release of all hostages taken by Hamas and an immediate ceasefire as well as the urgent improvement of access and sustained distribution of humanitarian assistance at scale throughout Gaza. The leaders underscored the need to prevent the conflict from escalating and spilling over in the region. In this regard, they called on all regional players to act responsibly and with restraint. Both sides also emphasized the urgent need to protect the lives of civilians and facilitate safe, timely and sustained humanitarian relief to civilians, and in this regard urged all parties to comply with international law. The leaders were also deeply concerned about the rapidly deteriorating situation in Lebanon, called for an urgent cessation of hostilities and agreed that a solution to the conflict in Gaza and in Lebanon can only be reached by diplomatic means. The United Nations Security Council Resolution 1701 outlines the path towards a diplomatic solution along the Blue Line. The leaders reaffirmed their commitment to a negotiated two-state solution, leading to the establishment of a sovereign, viable and independent State of Palestine, living within secure and mutually recognized borders, side by side in dignity and peace with Israel, taking into account Israel’s legitimate security concerns.

    11. The leaders underscored that as the world’s two largest democracies, India and the EU have a common interest in ensuring security, prosperity and sustainable development in a multi – polar world. They emphasized the importance of deepening the India-EU Strategic Partnership which would not only benefit both sides but also have a far-reaching positive impact globally. The leaders also expressed their strong support to the India-EU Trade and Technology Council that would serve as an innovative platform towards closer engagement in the critical areas of trade, trusted technologies and security. They agreed to coordinate efforts, both bilaterally and at the EU level, to take forward key connectivity initiatives including India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor in which India, Germany and EU are members as well as the EU Initiative Global Gateway.

    12. Both leaders underscored the crucial importance of a comprehensive Free Trade Agreement, Investment Protection Agreement and an Agreement on Geographical Indications between the European Union and India, while calling for an early conclusion of the negotiations.

    13. Both leaders unequivocally condemned terrorism and violent extremism in all its forms and manifestations, including the use of terrorist proxies and cross-border terrorism. Both sides agreed that terrorism remains a serious threat to international peace and stability. They further called for concerted action against all terrorist groups, including groups proscribed by the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) 1267 Sanctions Committee. Both sides also called upon all countries to continue to work towards eliminating terrorist safe havens and infrastructure as well as to disrupt terrorist networks and financing in accordance with international law.

    14. Both leaders noted with concern the emerging threats from the use of new and emerging technologies for terrorist purposes such as unmanned aircraft systems, use of virtual assets by terrorists and terrorist entities and the misuse of information and communication technologies for radicalization. In this regard they welcomed the adoption of Delhi Declaration on Countering the use of New and Emerging Technologies for Terrorism Purposes adopted during the conduct of UNCTC meetings in India in 2022.

    15. Recognizing a shared commitment to combat terrorism and strengthen the framework for global cooperation in this regard, both leaders emphasized the importance of upholding international standards on anti-money laundering and combating the financing of terrorism by all countries, including in FATF. Both sides called for bringing the perpetrators of terrorist acts to justice. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to hold regular consultations of the Joint Working Group on Counter Terrorism to strengthen channels for real time sharing of intelligence and coordination of counter-terrorism efforts. Both sides also committed to continued exchange of information about sanctions and designations against terror groups and individuals, countering radicalism, and terrorists’ use of the internet and cross-border movement of terrorists.

    16. With a view to ensuring closer collaboration to prevent, suppress, investigate and prosecute criminals, including crime related to terrorism, India and Germany concluded the Mutual Legal Assistance Treaty in Criminal Matters (MLAT). Both leaders agreed that the India-Germany MLAT is an important milestone in strengthening security cooperation between the two countries that will enable sharing of information and evidence, mutual capacity building and sharing of best practices between the two countries.

    17. As strategic partners with a shared interest in deepening security cooperation, both sides concluded the Agreement on the Exchange and Mutual Protection of Classified Information thereby creating a legal framework for cooperation and collaboration between Indian and German entities and providing guidance on how classified information should be handled, protected and transmitted.

    18. With a view to better appreciating foreign policy perspectives in key regions across the world, both governments decided to establish an India-Germany Dialogue on West Asia and North Africa (WANA) between the respective Foreign Ministries, which would be in addition to long-standing dialogue mechanisms on Africa and East Asia. Both governments also expressed satisfaction with regular consultations on key thematic issues of mutual concern including policy planning, cyber-security, cyber issues and United Nations.

    19. Recognizing the need for a deeper understanding of each other’s perspectives, including amongst think tanks and foreign and security policy experts, both governments underscored the usefulness of India-Germany Track 1.5 dialogue between Indian Council of World Affairs (ICWA), the Research and Information System for Developing Countries (RIS) and MEA from the Indian side and German Institute for Global and Area Studies (GIGA), the German Institute for International and Security Affairs (SWP) and the German Federal Foreign Office. The next meeting of this dialogue format is planned for November 2024. Both governments also appreciated the launch of a Track 1.5 Dialogue on East Asia and agreed that these exchanges help both sides better align and coordinate their outreach. With a view to sustaining this momentum, both sides agreed to convene the next edition of the Track 1.5 Dialogue Mechanisms at the earliest opportunity.

    20. Both sides are committed to promoting a free, open, inclusive, peaceful and prosperous Indo-Pacific built on international law, mutual respect for sovereignty, and peaceful resolution of disputes, and underpinned by effective regional institutions. Both sides reaffirmed their unwavering support for ASEAN’s unity and centrality. The Government of India welcomed Germany’s leadership in the capacity-building pillar of the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative (IPOI) and its commitment of up to 20 Million EUR via a competitive call for ideas under its International Climate Initiative in 2022 to strengthen the resilience of Pacific Island States against climate-related loss and damage.

    21. Germany congratulated India on its successful G20 Presidency which brought the development agenda to centre stage in G20. Both Leaders acknowledged that from initiating a platform on Compact with Africa (CwA) during the German G20 Presidency to inclusion of the African Union as a permanent member of the G20 during India’s Presidency, the G20 has come a long way to ensure that the voice of the Global South is amplified. India and Germany expressed their support to the priorities set by the Brazilian G20 Presidency, especially Global Governance Reforms.Strengthening Defence and Strategic Cooperation

    22. Recognizing the shared goal of intensifying defence ties between the two countries, the Government of India welcomed the efforts of the German Federal Government to facilitate faster export clearances, including through favourable regulatory decisions such as the General Authorisation/General Licences (AGG) regime. Both sides committed to supporting strategic exports to India and encouraged co-development, co-production and joint research between the respective defence industries. Both governments appreciated the defence roundtable held in New Delhi on 24 October, to strengthen the defense industrial partnership between India and Germany.

    23. In addition to regular visits and increasing interactions between the armed forces, both sides look forward to the next High Defence Committee (HDC) meeting to be held in India next year with a view to developing defence cooperation as a key pillar of the Strategic Partnership between India and Germany. India and Germany also agreed to finalize cooperation in peacekeeping related training between the Centre for UN Peacekeeping (CUNPK), New Delhi and its counterpart in Germany, the Bundeswehr United Nations Training Centre in Hammelburg (GAFUNTC) and looked forward to the Peacekeeping Ministerial Meeting in Berlin in 2025.

    24. Both sides stressed the importance of the Indo-Pacific for prosperity and security as well as for addressing global challenges. Germany will enhance its engagement with the region in line with the Federal Government’s policy guidelines for the Indo-Pacific. Both sides also highlighted the importance of freedom of navigation and of unimpeded maritime routes in accordance with International Law, as reflected in the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) 1982, in all maritime domains including in the Indo-Pacific. In this context, both governments declared their joint intent to conclude a Memorandum of Arrangement regarding mutual logistics support and exchange between the armed forces of India and Germany to further intensify defence and security ties and to establish a basis for provision of mutual logistics support including in the Indo-Pacific theatre. With a view to deepening cooperation in the Indo-Pacific, Germany will permanently deploy a Liaison Officer in the Information Fusion Centre – Indian Ocean Region (IFC-IOR) at Gurugram to monitor the marine traffic in IOR, further augmenting close cooperation in this region.

    25. Both sides welcomed Germany’s growing engagement in the Indo-Pacific region in the field of security and defence cooperation and appreciated the successful cooperation of the Indian and German air forces during exercise TARANG SHAKTI in August 2024 as well as the port call in Goa and joint naval exercises between the German Naval Frigate “Baden-Württemberg” along with the Combat Support Ship “Frankfurt Am Main” and the Indian Navy. Germany also welcomed the port call of Indian naval ship INS TABAR to Hamburg in July 2024.

    26. Both governments agreed to intensify bilateral exchanges on security and defence issues also through enhancing research, co-development and co-production activities bilaterally, under EU mechanisms and with other partners. In this regard, both sides will support enhanced industry level cooperation in the defence sector with a specific focus on technology collaboration, manufacturing/co-production and co-development of defence platforms and equipment. Germany also welcomes India’s application for observer status in the Eurodrone Programme of OCCAR (Organisation for Joint Armament Co-operation).Partnering for Critical and Emerging Technologies, Science and Innovation

    27. Both leaders expressed their appreciation on the successful 50 years of long standing collaboration in science and technology between the two countries and reaffirmed their support to expand it further through launching the ‘India-Germany Innovation and Technology Partnership Roadmap’ which will serve as a guideline to the public and private sectors and research institutions of the two countries to take forward our cooperation in the areas of renewable energy, start-ups, semiconductors, AI and quantum technologies, climate risk and sustainable resource management, climate change adaptation as well as agroecology Both leaders further identified space and space technologies as an important and promising area for future prosperity, development, and possible cooperation.

    28. The two leaders expressed their satisfaction at the growing exchanges between the two countries in the field of research & education and growing number of Indian students studying in Germany. Both leaders also acknowledged the flagship role of the Indo-German Science and Technology Centre (IGSTC) in promoting bilateral industry-academia strategic research and development partnerships. Both leaders welcomed the recent initiatives of IGSTC and signing of Joint Declaration of Intent to support 2+2 projects in the field of advanced materials. Understanding the importance of IGSTC, both leaders expressed their desire to expand and forge new partnerships anchored in shared values and driven by innovation led technology development and manufacturing.

    29. Both Leaders acknowledged the launching of the first ever basic research consortia model between the two countries namely, International Research Training Group (IRTG), jointly by Department of Science and Technology (DST) & German Research Foundation (DFG) with the involvement of first group of researchers from IISER Thiruvananthapuram and Würzburg University on Photoluminescence in Supramolecular Matrices. Underpinning science and innovation landscape, they expressed their desire to initiate an Indo-German Innovation and Incubation Exchange Programme to leverage collective expertise and capacity for fostering scientific innovation and incubation ecosystems of academic & research institutions.

    30. Both Leaders also expressed their appreciation and satisfaction over the high level of engagement as exemplified by India’s participation in mega-science facilities at Facility for Anti-Proton and Ion Research (FAIR) and Deutsche Elektronen Synchrotron (DESY) in Germany. They extended their commitment including financials to ensure timely execution of the FAIR facility. The two leaders also acknowledge the continuation of the cooperation at the synchrotron radiation facility PETRA-III and the free-electron laser facility FLASH at DESY.

    31. Both governments welcomed the steadily increasing partnerships in Higher Education which facilitate dual and joint degrees and intensify collaborative research and academic and institutional exchanges between Universities and Institutions of Higher Education. In particular, both sides expressed their appreciation and full support for the first ever Indo-German joint Masters degree programme in “Water Security & Global Change”, a joint initiative of TU Dresden, RWTH-Aachen and IIT-Madras (IITM) funded by DAAD as well as a new initiative of TU Dresden and IITM to conclude an agreement establishing a “transCampus” to deepen bilateral cooperation in teaching, research, innovation and entrepreneurship. Both governments also welcomed the signing of the MoU between IIT Kharagpur and the DAAD, which will enable joint funding for Indo-German university cooperation projects. Both sides expressed their strong support for the dedicated call of the “German Indian Academic Network for Tomorrow” (GIANT) under SPARC (Scheme for Promotion of Academic and Research Collaboration) highlighting cooperation between Indian and German universities.

    32. With a view to further strengthening digital and technology partnerships between India and Germany, both governments agreed to share experience and expertise in digital public infrastructure (DPI), e.g. to explore ways in which Germany can leverage India’s expertise in DPI and the strengths of the Indian IT industry to drive innovation and digital transformation in both countries. As an important forum for exchanges on digital topics such as internet governance, tech regulations, digital transformation of economy, and emerging digital technologies, both sides welcomed the finalization of the Work Plan for 2023-24 formulated by the Indo-German Digital Dialogue (IGDD).

    33. Both sides will endeavour to leverage AI to advance the SDG, recognizing the need for an innovation-friendly, balanced, inclusive, human-centric and risk-based approach to the governance of AI. Digital solutions such as image detection and AI are playing an important role in revolutionising agriculture by assisting farmers and enhancing agricultural productivity, climate resilience, carbon sinks and sustainability. Both countries are running national programmes to facilitate the growth of digital agriculture and have agreed to intensify their Cooperation in Digital Agriculture, AI and IoT to foster ongoing cooperation, innovation and exchanges for modernising agriculture.

    34. Both governments underlined the strategic importance of collaboration in the field of critical and emerging technologies, innovation and skill development. Reaffirming the priorities for bilateral cooperation, as laid down in the Innovation and Technology Partnership Roadmap, both governments agreed to focus on collaboration in innovation, skill development and critical and emerging technologies. Forging closer linkages between the industry and academia of the two countries in key technology areas would be prioritized, in recognition of a shared commitment to ensuring an open, inclusive and secure technology architecture, built on mutual trust and respect, and reflecting shared values and democratic principles. Based on that, the two countries would achieve outcome oriented and mutually beneficial technology collaboration in identified sectors.

    35. In furthering cooperation in the field of research in disaster mitigation, tsunami warnings, coastal hazards, early warning systems, disaster risk reduction and oceanography, polar sciences, biology and biogeochemistry, geophysics and geology, both Governments welcomed the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding between Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS) and Helmholtz-Zentrum Potsdam – Deutsches GeoForschungsZentrum, and between National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research (NCPOR) and AlfredWegener-Institut, Helmholtz-Zentrum für Polar- und Meeresforschung (AWI).

    36. Both Governments also welcomed the bilateral agreement in the biological, physical and mathematical sciences between National Centre for Biological Sciences (NCBS) and International Centre for Theoretical Sciences (ICTS), both centres of the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR), under the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE), India and Max-Planck-Gesellschaft (MPG), Germany. This agreement will facilitate the exchange of scientists, including students and research staff, between the various Max Planck Institutes with ICTS and NCBS.

    37. Both Leaders noted with appreciation the collaboration between M/s New Space India Ltd and M/s GAF AG for upgrading the international ground station at Neustrelitz, Germany for the reception and processing of data from OceanSat – 3 and RISAT – 1A satellites. Partnership for a Green and Sustainable Future

    38. Both sides acknowledged the need for green, sustainable, climate resilient and inclusive development to achieve net zero emissions. Both governments aim to substantially enhance bilateral, trilateral and multilateral cooperation in climate action and sustainable development. Both sides acknowledged the progress achieved thus far under the Indo-German Green and Sustainable Development Partnership (GSDP). This partnership, guided by shared commitments, seeks to accelerate the implementation of the goals outlined in the Paris Agreement and the SDGs. In this context, both sides stressed the need to work jointly for an ambitious outcome of the upcoming UNFCCC COP29, in particular on the New Collective Quantified Goal (NCQG). Both sides will respond positively to the outcomes of COP28, including the first Global Stocktake, in light of national circumstances.

    39. Both sides appreciated the stocktaking of progress during the Ministerial meeting on the GSDP objectives. To contribute to the implementation of the GSDP, both sides are committed to regular dialogue within the existing working groups and other bilateral formats and initiatives. The next meeting of the Ministerial Mechanism shall take place at the latest within the framework of the next India-Germany Inter-Governmental Consultations, to conduct a stocktaking of the progress on GSDP objectives to achieve the Paris Agreement goals and SDGs. Both sides reaffirmed their intention to closely cooperate on combatting climate change and therefore expressed their intention to hold a meeting of the Indo-German Climate Working Group in the near future.

    40. Under the umbrella of the GSDP, both sides inter alia:

    a. Launched the Indo-German Green Hydrogen Roadmap. The Leaders agreed that the Roadmap will help support India’s ambition for production, usage and export of Green Hydrogen while also contributing to a swifter adoption of Green Hydrogen as a sustainable source of energy in both countries

    b. Launched the GSDP Dashboard, a publicly accessible online tool, which showcases the intensive cooperation between Germany and India under the GSDP. It gives an overview of key innovations and the broad range of experience covered by India-Germany cooperation. It facilitates stocktaking of the joint progress towards achieving GSDP objectives, and provides key information to relevant stakeholders on innovative solutions for global challenges.

    c. Signed a Joint Declaration of Intent to renew and further elevate the partnership in accordance with a shared vision to promoting in India sustainable urban mobility for all, recognizing the importance of green and sustainable urbanization for inclusive social and economic development and the strong results of the Green Urban Mobility Partnership since its establishment in 2019.

    d. Highly appreciated the achievements and vision for the future of the International Solar Alliance (ISA) and agreed to intensify our cooperation within ISA.

    e. Appreciated the cooperation in the area of halting deforestation and degradation and reversing the trend by restoring forest landscapes in support of the implementation of the Rio Conventions and the SDGs.

    41. The leaders acknowledged that the Indo-German Energy Forum (IGEF), through its various activities, has played a pivotal role in strengthening the general bilateral economic relations between Germany and India, promoting economic growth, and addressing global climate change challenges.

    42. Both sides underscored the role of the 4th Global RE-INVEST Renewable Energy Investors Meet & Expo, held in September 2024 in Gandhinagar with Germany as a partner country, in bringing together key stakeholders in the renewable energy sector. Both governments recalled the ‘India-Germany Platform for Investments in Renewable Energy Worldwide’ which was launched during RE-INVEST as a key initiative to fast-track renewable energy investments, foster business collaborations and expand global supply chains. The platform will accelerate the expansion of renewable energy in India and worldwide through exchanges on green financing, technology and business opportunities.

    43. Both governments expressed their wish to continue to strengthen the cooperation through the Joint Working Group on Biodiversity and acknowledged that CBD COP 16 marks a crucial moment in the global effort to implement the goals of the Global Biodiversity Framework.

    44. Recalling the deliberations and outcomes of the Joint Working Group on Waste management and Circular Economy which has created opportunities by intensifying exchanges on experiences and technologies between the two countries, both sides agreed to explore the possibility of deepening cooperation within these structures, for instance, focusing future work on inter alia Solar Waste recycling. They appreciated the Indo-German environment cooperation on the effective and efficient implementation of ambitious objectives and policies in order to prevent waste, especially plastics, from entering the marine environment. India and Germany agreed to closely cooperate towards establishing a global legally binding agreement on plastic pollution.

    45. Both leaders acknowledged the progress made under the Triangular Development Cooperation (TDC), which pools mutual strengths and experiences to offer sustainable, viable and inclusive projects in third countries as per their priorities to support the achievement of SDGs and climate targets in Africa, Asia and beyond. Both sides welcomed the encouraging results of the pilot projects in Cameroon, Ghana and Malawi, and the progress made in the ongoing initiatives with Benin and Peru. In view of the successful implementation of the aforementioned initiatives, both governments have agreed to commence upscaling of the pilot projects with Cameroon (agriculture), Malawi (women entrepreneurship) and Ghana (horticulture) in 2024 and beyond. Furthermore, both sides welcomed the start of the three millet related pilot projects: two with Ethiopia and one with Madagascar. Additionally, both sides have launched the institutional mechanism to reach out to the partners, select and implement their joint initiatives on a full scale and to this end, both governments established a Joint Steering Committee and a Joint Implementation Group.

    46. The leaders reaffirmed that Gender Equality is of fundamental importance and investing in the empowerment of women and girls has a multiplier effect in implementing the 2030 Agenda. They reiterated their commitment to encourage women-led development and enhancing womens’ full, equal, effective and meaningful participation as decision-makers for addressing global challenges inclusively while noting Germany’s Feminist Foreign and Development Policies in this regard. Both sides reaffirmed their desire to strengthen Indo-German cooperation on promoting the critical role of women in green and sustainable development.

    47. In addition, both sides welcomed the milestones already achieved with respect to the existing initiatives and new commitments for financial and technical cooperation under the framework of the GSDP, as follows:

    a.New commitments in all core areas of the GSDP of more than 1 billion EUR as agreed during the negotiations on development cooperation between the Government of India and the Government of the Federal Republic of Germany in September 2024, adding up to accumulated commitments of around 3.2 billion EUR since beginning of the GSDP in 2022;

    b.Under the Indo-German Renewable Energy Partnership, the cooperation focused on innovative solar energy, green hydrogen, other renewables, grid integration, storage and investments in the renewable energy sector to facilitate an energy transition and to address the need for a reliable, round the clock renewable power supply.

    c.The “Agroecology and Sustainable Management of Natural Resources” cooperation benefits the vulnerable rural population and small-scale farmers in India by fostering income, food security, climate resilience, soil health, biodiversity, forest ecosystems and water security.

    d.Both sides reiterated their intention to continue their successful collaboration on sustainable urban development.

    Building resilience through Trade and Economic collaboration

    48. Both leaders hailed the consistent high performance in terms of bilateral trade between the two countries in the recent years and encouraged stakeholders in India and Germany to further strengthen trade and investment flows. The leaders also noted the strong two-way investments between India and Germany and the positive impacts of such investments in diversifying the global supply chains. In this context, the leaders expressed confidence that the APK 2024, the bi-annual flagship forum of German Business with participation of top-level business executives from Germany, is a crucial platform to showcase the immense opportunities available in India for German businesses.

    49. Both sides underlined the long-standing presence of German businesses in India and Indian businesses in Germany and agreed to work towards deepening economic and trade linkages between the two countries. In this context, both sides welcomed the holding of the meeting of the India-Germany CEO Forum which serves as a high-level platform to engage business and industry leaders from India and Germany. They also underlined the achievements of the Indo-German Fast Track Mechanism to resolve trade and investment related issues, and are ready to continue its operation.

    50. In recognition of the importance of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs)/Mittelstand in economic growth and job creation, both sides acknowledged the growth in bilateral investment and the success of the ‘Make in India Mittelstand’ Programme, which supports German Mittelstand enterprises seeking to invest and do business in India. In a similar vein, both governments also recognised the key role played by start-ups in fostering innovation, and commended the German Accelerator (GA) for successfully facilitating start-ups to address the Indian market, and welcomed plans to establish its presence in India. Both sides noted that a corresponding programme to assist Indian start-ups in gaining market access in Germany could further enhance economic cooperation between the two countries.

    Strengthening Labour Markets, Mobility and People-to-People Ties

    51. As bilateral cooperation on skilled migration expands across multiple fronts, involving collaboration between federal and state governments, as well as private sector stakeholders, both sides committed to full implementation of the provisions of the Migration and Mobility Partnership Agreement (MMPA). In line with the commitments outlined in the MMPA both sides remain dedicated to promoting fair and legal labor migration. This approach is guided by international standards that ensure migrant workers are treated with dignity and respect, including fair recruitment practices, transparent visa processes, and the protection of workers’ rights. By focusing on these principles, both countries aim to facilitate the mobility of skilled workers in a manner that benefits all parties while safeguarding against exploitation and ensuring compliance with international labor standards.

    52. Building on the MMPA, the two sides concluded a JDI in the field of Employment and Labour, to enhance bilateral cooperation and exchange in areas of mutual interest between the respective ministries. The German side informed that it will support a feasibility study on international reference classification, a G20 commitment undertaken by the Indian G20 presidency in 2023. Both leaders look forward to the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding in the field of occupational diseases, rehabilitation and vocational training of workers with disabilities between the Employees’ State Insurance Corporation (ESIC), the Directorate General of Employment (DGE) and the German Social Accident Insurance (DGUV).

    53. Both leaders noted that Indian professionals comprise over 1/4th of all blue card holders in Germany and that Indian students now represent the largest cohort of international students in Germany. Regarding this, they recognized the complementarities that exist between the requirements of skills and talents in Germany and the vast reservoir of young, educated and skilled persons in India, who can be an asset to the German labour market. The Federal Employment Agency will deepen the existing exchange with the National Skill Development Council, India (NSDC) and other similar Government agencies at national and state levels. Both sides welcomed the launch of the new national strategy of the German Federal government to promote skilled migration from India.

    54. Both leaders also expressed satisfaction on the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding on Skill Development and Vocational Education and Training which would leverage the strengths of India and Germany towards creating a pool of skilled workforce in India and strengthening the participation of women, especially in the areas of green skills. Both sides agreed to include elements of facilitating international mobility of labour.

    55. Both sides remain committed to the goal of expanding the teaching of the German language in India, including in secondary schools, universities and vocational education centers. They encouraged Indian and German States, culture centers and educational institutions to further promote the teaching of each other’s languages in India and Germany, including the training of language teachers. Both sides welcomed the joint efforts of the DAAD and the Goethe Institute to develop a format for the formalized training and further education of German teachers leading to a university certificate recognized in India.

    56. Both sides reaffirmed the contribution of highly skilled professionals for economic growth, noted with satisfaction the results achieved under the programme “Partnering in Business with Germany”, and renewed the JDI on advanced training of corporate executives and junior executives from India.

    57. With the Migration and Mobility Partnership Agreement (MMPA), both sides also agreed to address irregular migration. For this purpose, both sides established a cooperation in the field of return since the entry into force of the MMPA. Both sides welcomed the progress achieved so far and underline the importance of further developing and streamlining cooperation through appropriate procedural arrangements.

    58. The leaders welcomed the growing ties between the two sides and their respective nationals. They acknowledged the wide range of Consular issues stemming from these growing ties and the need for dialogue on all matters related to Consular issues. They agreed to work towards early establishment of an appropriate format for a bilateral dialogue on various Consular, Visa and other issues affecting nationals of the other side residing in their respective territories.

    59. Both sides acknowledged the role of their youth as cultural ambassadors and catalysts for innovation and promoting people – people linkages between the two countries. In this context, both leaders stressed on the importance of youth cooperation and noted the proposal for establishing forum for youth exchanges and delegations between both sides. Both sides also agree to facilitate student exchanges on a mutual basis.

    60. Both sides noted with satisfaction the substantial work being done in the field of culture and welcomed efforts towards expanding scope of the Memorandum of Understanding on Museum Cooperation between Indian and German national museums such as the Prussian Heritage Foundation and the National Gallery of Modern Art, India.

    61. In line with the G20 New Delhi Leader’s Declaration (2023), both leaders underscored the intention to cooperate closely with regards to the restitution and protection of cultural goods and the fight against illicit trafficking of cultural property at national, regional and state levels to enable its return and restitution to the country and community of origin as relevant, and called for sustained dialogue and action in that endeavour.

    62. Both Governments also appreciated substantial cultural and academic exchanges made possible via initiatives such as the establishment of Indian academic chairs at universities in Germany.

    63. Both leaders expressed satisfaction at the deliberations held at the 7th IGC and reaffirmed their commitment to further expand and deepen the Indo-German Strategic Partnership. Chancellor Scholz thanked Prime Minister Modi for his warm hospitality and conveyed that Germany looks forward to hosting the next IGC.

     

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: CHANAKYA DEFENCE DIALOGUE 2024 CULMINATES AT NEW DELHI

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 25 OCT 2024 6:38PM by PIB Delhi

    The second edition of the Indian Army’s flagship international seminar, the Chanakya Defence Dialogue, culminated on 25th October at the Manekshaw Centre in Delhi. This two-day event brought together policymakers, strategic thinkers, academia, defence personnel, veterans, scientists, and subject matter experts from India and abroad to examine India’s strategic directions and developmental priorities.

    The Chanakya Defence Dialogue 2024, themed “Drivers in Nation Building: Fueling Growth Through Comprehensive Security,” sparked essential discussions on the integration of security dynamics within the broader context of national and international policymaking. Prominent speakers from India, the United States, Russia, Israel, and Sri Lanka, offered a global perspective on how security influences our nation’s developmental trajectory toward Viksit Bharat @2047. The dialogue aimed not only to analyse the current landscape but also to formulate visionary strategies for sustainable and inclusive growth.

    On the second day, the dialogue featured two special addresses. Dr S Somanath, Chairman of ISRO, emphasised on the pivotal role India’s space sector plays in strengthening national security. The ISRO Chief discussed the significance of space in modern times, especially given the growing congestion and competition within the realm of satellite communication, navigation, space science, and earth observation. He noted that space has become a crowded and contested field, with natural, accidental, and intentional hazards like jamming, anti-satellite (ASAT) threats, manoeuvering vehicles, and directed energy weapons creating complex operational risks. Addressing these issues, ISRO is focusing on Space Situational Awareness (SSA), a comprehensive approach involving observation, analysis, and mitigation, to ensure the safety of its assets and national interests in space.

    He highlighted advancements in satellite technology, space-based surveillance, and communication systems critical for enhancing the country’s defence capabilities and growth in the sector.

    Furthermore, the ISRO Chief discussed the importance of enhancing observation capabilities, underscoring the need for satellites with low revisit times and high refresh rates for military use. Privatisation and the launch of additional satellites were also identified as crucial to strengthening India’s strategic posture in space. He also emphasised the growing use of indigenous components in India’s space sector, with rockets now comprising 95% and satellites 60% domestically sourced materials. This shift is supported by stringent mechanisms for thoroughly inspecting any foreign-imported components, ensuring quality and security in all equipment. These advancements mark a substantial step toward achieving ‘Atmanirbharta’ (self-reliance) in the space domain. As ISRO advances its SSA initiatives and satellite deployment, it is committed to bolstering both national and global space security through innovation and collaboration, ensuring preparedness against emerging space challenges.

    The second special address by Ms Ruchira Kamboj, Former Permanent Representative of India to the UN, was on India’s evolving and influential role in shaping today’s multilateral world. The lecture covered six important themes: India’s historical role as a UN founding member; its tenure on the UN Security Council under the 5S framework articulated by the Hon’ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi; a strong anti-terrorism stance; significant contributions to UN peacekeeping; the call for essential reforms in the UNSC; and India’s soft power stance , which supports the Global South through initiatives like yoga, climate-resilient crops, and a commitment to peace and multilateralism. She highlighted nation’s consistent advocacy for reforming global governance structures to make them more representative and equitable. She also underlined India’s leadership in addressing pressing global challenges such as climate change, sustainable development, and global health crises, while also championing the rights of developing nations. She stressed upon the importance of safeguarding India’s strategic interests by leveraging its diplomatic clout, actively participating in peacekeeping operations, and fostering global partnerships. Additionally, she pointed to India’s push for a permanent seat in the UN Security Council, showcasing its growing stature as a responsible and constructive global actor, committed to promoting a rules-based international order and ensuring the voices of the Global South are heard in shaping future multilateral frameworks.

     The second day of Chanakya Defence Dialogue 2024 was structured into three sessions, covering key aspects of comprehensive security, with prominent speakers sharing their insights: –

    Session 1: Social Cohesion and Inclusive Growth: Pillars of a Secure Nation. 

    The session was chaired by Shri RR Swain (IPS), Former DGP, Jammu & Kashmir Police, in his Address, he emphasised the vital link between a secure environment and economic growth, investment and social progress. He shed light on separatist politics, noting that false narratives spread by terrorist factions are part of a “well-oiled machine” aimed at destabilising India through a “battle of narratives.”

    Swain highlighted the significant improvements in governance over the past decade, emphasising efforts toward equality and fairness across communities without discrimination. Yet, he acknowledged ongoing challenges, particularly in promoting social growth, countering substance abuse, and dispelling terrorist propaganda that suggests nothing positive can come from the region. These remain critical areas of focus to ensure sustained peace and progress in Jammu and Kashmir.

     This session delved into internal security, legal frameworks, and the importance of societal unity. Panelists Dr. Sudhanshu Trivedi (MP), Ms. Meenakshi Lekhi (Former MP and lawyer), and Gen. V K Singh (Retd) discussed how India can strengthen its security structures through enhanced social unity, equitable economic development, and fostering institutional trust. Dr. Trivedi highlighted the role of a cohesive society, emphasising that India’s nationalistic spirit bolsters resilience in its armed forces and strengthens individual resolve. He cited the Kargil War as an example of India’s unified approach, in contrast to other nations, and underscored the Agnipath scheme’s role in fostering cohesion. Ms. Lekhi spoke to the role of law enforcement and justice as pillars of stability, noting challenges like political interference, resource limitations, and the need for technology enhancements. Advocating for accountability, equality, and community engagement, she reinforced India’s zero-tolerance approach to terrorism, describing state-sponsored activities like the Khalistan movement as serious threats. Gen. V K Singh emphasised the need for synergy across security agencies to prevent fragmented efforts, proposing a framework for convergence that includes timely intelligence integration, resource coordination, and capability building. He highlighted the need for control over false narratives on social media and deliberated upon the internal security as every citizen’s responsibility.

    The panel collectively underscored that India’s security requires a robust integration across social, legal, and defense domains, each reinforcing the other to strengthen India against internal and external threats. The panel also proposed evidence-based policies for equitable resource distribution and inclusive economic growth, addressing disparities and reinforcing national unity. Best practices for reforming law enforcement and judicial systems were discussed, including community-engaged policing, judicial impartiality, and anti-corruption measures to boost public trust. Strategies for cultivating a shared national identity, enhancing social cohesion through inclusive education, and balancing security with social development were also explored. Finally, the session addressed ways to tackle insurgency and terrorism through socio-economic and political reforms, improve intelligence sharing, and enhance coordination between security agencies.

    Session 2: Blurring Frontiers: The Convergence of Technology & Security. 

    Chaired by Lt Gen Raj Shukla (Retd), this session explored the intersection of technology and security. Panelists Dr. Chintan Vaishnav (NITI Aayog), Brig Gen Eran Ortal (SIGNAL Group, Israel), and Mr. Dmitry Stefanovich (IMEMO, Russia) discussed emerging technologies—such as artificial intelligence, quantum computing, IoT, and blockchain—and their role in enhancing security through better threat detection, operational efficiency, and data integrity, while also addressing the new vulnerabilities and ethical challenges they bring. The panel provided evidence-based policy recommendations to strengthen cyber resilience, protect critical infrastructure, and tackle emerging technological threats. They also examined how to balance technological innovation with strong security measures, and proposed ethical guidelines for AI in security applications, ensuring alignment with societal values and privacy concerns.

    Session 3: Groundbreakers: Shaping Land Warfare, Reflections for the Indian Army.

    The final session, Chaired by Vice Admiral A B Singh (Retd), examined the Indian Army’s integration of advanced technologies to enhance battlefield readiness. Panelists Dr. Konstantin Bogdanov (IMEMO, Russia), Prof. Amit Gupta (University of Illinois, US), and Dr. Patrick Bratton (US Army War College) discussed how emerging technologies – such as artificial intelligence, unmanned systems, cyber warfare tools, and autonomous weapons – can strengthen the Indian Army’s capabilities by improving surveillance, precision strikes, and multi-domain operations, while also addressing new vulnerabilities and ethical concerns. The discussion highlighted the dual challenges of rapid technological advancements and evolving security threats, emphasizing the need to balance innovation with strong defense strategies.

    The panel explored ways to integrate these technologies into the Army’s infrastructure, enhance the resilience of critical military assets, and ensure protection against sophisticated threats. The session also stressed the importance of fostering indigenous defense technologies in line with the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative, reducing reliance on foreign technologies, and encouraging strategic partnerships between the military, technology experts, and industry leaders to drive innovation and develop responsible solutions for current and future challenges.

    In his closing address, Lt Gen N S Raja Subramani, Vice Chief of the Army Staff (VCOAS), highlighted the Indian Army’s dedication to a secure and prosperous Bharat, emphasising on critical themes spanning geopolitics, economics, environmental concerns, space, multilateral issues, technology and the shifting dynamics of land warfare. He emphasised the intrinsic link between economic growth and national security, underscoring the military’s central role in a “Whole of Nation” approach to defence. Strategic partnerships with other nations were noted as essential for deterring larger adversaries, with a balanced blend of hard and soft power deemed crucial – acknowledging that soft power alone cannot secure victory in conflicts. He highlighted the India’s leadership as a voice for the Global South, calling for reliable and resilient supply chains as vital for stability. He also stressed the importance of including local communities in border area development, which not only benefits the armed forces but also promotes regional economic and community growth. With the nature of warfare evolving, he concluded by underscoring the importance of training and technological proficiency as essential tools for addressing modern security challenges.

    The CDD 2024 served as a landmark platform for strategic thinkers, policymakers, and security specialists to forge resilient frameworks for India’s future. Through its diverse discussions, the dialogue fostered collaborative problem-solving and explored solutions that can influence India’s strategic direction on National Security and endeavours towards Viksit Bharat @2047.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment and World Bank host a Seminar on ‘Economic Inclusion for Vulnerable Populations’

    Source: Government of India

    Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment and World Bank host a Seminar on ‘Economic Inclusion for Vulnerable Populations’

    Focus – Optimizing India’s social protection delivery systems by integrating insights from successful international practices

    Posted On: 25 OCT 2024 6:03PM by PIB Delhi

    The Union Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment (MoSJE) successfully organised a seminar on ‘Economic Inclusion for Vulnerable Populations’, in collaboration with the World Bank, today in New Delhi. This seminar is part of an ongoing series of consultations, focusing on optimizing India’s social protection delivery systems by integrating insights from successful international practices.

     

    Under a non-lending technical assistance framework, the Ministry’s collaboration with the World Bank seeks to foster a community of practice dedicated to extending social protection to the vulnerable sections of the society. The primary aim is to enhance the effectiveness of social protection schemes, ensuring that the most marginalized communities receive robust and timely support.

     

    The event commenced with a welcome address by Secretary (DoSJE), Shri Amit Yadav, setting a purposeful tone for the discussion. In his address Shri Yadav said, “Our Department delivers its mandate through its various schemes and programmes that are targeted at the most destitute segments of society. Alongside our Department seeks to gain better understanding of these segments of population. For this we engage in collaborative efforts with people/organisations having experience of working in this sector. We are proactively trying to upscale our engagements with NGOs, knowledge partners, religious organisations for better implementation of our schemes so that benefits reach those that need them the most. This seminar series is an outcome of one such endeavour”.

     

     

    Keynote addresses by Shri Shailesh Kumar Singh, Secretary, Ministry of Rural Development (MoRD), and Shri Atul Kumar Tiwari, Secretary, Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE), underscored the government’s commitment to an inclusive social protection framework addressing economic vulnerabilities across rural and urban settings.

    Shri Ajay Srivastava, Economic Advisor (DoSJE), presented an overview of some interventions of the Department in this field. Further insights were shared by Ms. Swati Sharma, Joint Secretary (MoRD), on the transformational impact of the National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM). Ms. Shalini Pandey, Director, Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA), discussed the SvaNidhi Scheme’s role in urban economic resilience, while Shri Amit Meena, Deputy Secretary (MSDE), shared updates on initiatives of the Ministry for skill upgradation.

    Global insights from the World Bank were presented by Ms. Dalal Moosa, Senior Economist, Mr. Muderis Abdulahi Mohammed, Senior Social Protection Specialist, and Ms. Aneeka Rahman, Senior Social Protection Economist. Their perspectives illuminated the critical role of international collaboration in advancing India’s social safety nets. Ms. Parikrama Chowdhry, Lead (Policy) at J-PAL South Asia, emphasized the value of integrating local and global best practices to drive effective economic inclusion for marginalized groups.

    This seminar marks a pivotal step in reinforcing India’s social protection system through a collaborative, evidence-based approach. The Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment reiterates its dedication to broadening service delivery and providing enduring support for the nation’s vulnerable populations.

     

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment successfully concludes Grand Finale ‘SAMAGAM’, showcasing month-long Initiatives for Senior Citizens

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Union Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment successfully concludes Grand Finale ‘SAMAGAM’, showcasing month-long Initiatives for Senior Citizens

    A Nation can only progress when the elderly are cared for and valued: Shri Ramdas Athawale

    Government’s mission to create an inclusive society, where senior citizens are not only supported but celebrated: Shri B. L. Verma

    Posted On: 25 OCT 2024 6:03PM by PIB Delhi

    The Union Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment (MoSJE) successfully hosted the Grand Finale ‘SAMAGAM’ today in New Delhi. The event marked the culmination of a comprehensive series of month-long activities and initiatives aimed at enhancing the dignity, respect, and security of senior citizens across the country. On this occasion, a short movie was also played encompassing all the month-long activities taken during the celebration of International Day of Older Persons, 2024.

    The event was graced by distinguished dignitaries, including Union Ministers of State (SJE), Shri Ramdas Athawale and Shri B. L. Verma. Other dignitaries gracing the occasion included Dr. Vinod Kumar Paul, Member NITI Aayog, whose presence underscored the Government’s continued commitment to senior citizens’ welfare.

     

     

    Shri Ramdas Athawale addressed the gathering with a focus on the economic and social empowerment of senior citizens. He applauded the Ministry’s efforts to bridge the gap between government policies and on-ground implementation, particularly through direct engagement with elderly communities in rural and urban areas. He reiterated the importance of schemes that provide financial security and healthcare, emphasizing that a Nation can only progress when the elderly are cared for and valued.

    In his keynote address, Shri B.L. Verma emphasized the critical role senior citizens play in shaping the Nation’s values and heritage. He reaffirmed the Government’s mission under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi is to create an inclusive society, where senior citizens are not only supported but celebrated. The Minister also highlighted key achievements over the past month, including increased outreach through health camps, pension schemes, skill development programmes for elderly workers, and awareness campaigns aimed at fostering intergenerational solidarity. The Minister praised the collaboration between various Ministries, Departments, and stakeholders, which made the month-long celebration a resounding success.

     

    Dr. Vinod Kumar Paul highlighted the need for continuous innovation in policy design and service delivery to meet the growing needs of India’s ageing population. He spoke about the Government’s future plans, including expanding digital literacy programmes tailored for senior citizens, enhancing access to geriatric healthcare services, and creating more age-friendly public spaces. His address also touched on the importance of mental health services and the need to combat loneliness and isolation among the elderly.

    A wide range of activities were organized during the month of October, as a part of celebration of International Day of Older Persons.

     

    • On the 1st of October, Union Minster for Social Justice and Empowerment, Dr. Virendra Kumar presided over a Pledge taking ceremony at the Air Force Bal Bharati School, Lodi Road, New Delhi. This was followed by a walkathon where the students participated with their grandparents. Rashtriya Vayoshree Camps at 51 different locations were organized across India, focussing on providing assistive devices to senior citizens, enhancing their mobility for their overall well-being. (Press Release: https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2060836)
    • A Talk Series was flagged from National Institute of Social Defence (NISD) on 17th October on the theme of ‘Ageing with Dignity’. Dr. Dnyaneshwar Manohar Mulay, IFS, Ex-Member National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) and Shri Rajeev Bansal, Member Secretary, Delhi State Legal Services Authority (DSLSA) were the esteemed speakers.
    • A Mega Cultural Event ‘Aradhana’ was organized on 24th October at Dr. Ambedkar International Centre celebrating ‘Graceful Ageing: Life begins at 60’. It showcased performance by artists aged 60 years and above, highlighting the message of active ageing, Guru Shishya paramapara, intergenerational solidarity, Indian traditional systems of care and respect. The audience, which included senior citizens, government officials, and other delegates, applauded these initiatives as a significant step toward creating a more inclusive society for the elderly. (Press Release: https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2067910)
    • In addition to this, various activities were carried out at the Regional Resource Training Centres (RRTCs), Old Age Homes and other associated NGOs to ensure widespread observance. A nationwide quiz on senior citizens’ rights and welfare schemes was launched on the MyGov platform. The quiz encourages awareness among all age groups, especially the youth, on the importance of respecting and caring for older persons. A dedicated pledge on MyGov invites citizens to commit to the cause of ensuring dignity, respect, and welfare for senior citizens in their communities. Letters were sent to various Ministries/Departments, States/UTs urging them to initiate specific activities aimed at enhancing the well-being of senior citizens. These include programmes focusing on intergenerational bonding and family values.

     

    The Grand Finale ‘SAMAGAM’ is not just a conclusion of a series of events, but a reaffirmation of Government’s commitment to senior citizens’ well-being and focused on ensuring that the elderly in the country lead lives filled with dignity, security, and happiness. The Ministry expressed gratitude to everyone who contributed to the success of the month-long celebrations and the Grand Finale. The Vote of Thanks was delivered by the Joint Secretary (MoSJE), Ms. Monali Dhakate, who acknowledged the collaborative efforts that brought these impactful initiatives to life.

    The Ministry reaffirmed its future objectives, focusing on areas such as enhancing access to healthcare, providing financial support, increasing digital literacy among seniors, and fostering greater societal awareness and sensitivity toward the elderly. The Ministry also encouraged citizens, especially the younger generation, to actively engage in efforts to support and care for senior citizens. The successful conclusion of ‘SAMAGAM’ signals the beginning of a long-term vision where the government, along with the public, continues to work toward building a society that ensures the well-being of every senior citizen in India.

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and guidance of Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah, MHA has been conducting the Special Campaign 4.0 within the Ministry and across its offices

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and guidance of Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah, MHA has been conducting the Special Campaign 4.0 within the Ministry and across its offices

    MHA is fully committed to achieve its targets set for the Special Campaign 4.0

    During the campaign, 144 MP References, 41 Parliamentary Assurances, 142 References from State Governments and 109 PMO References have been identified for disposal

    4000 Public Grievances and 180 Appeals have been identified so far, out of which, 2163 Public Grievances and 48 Appeals have been disposed of

    A total of 19864 square feet of space has been freed after scrap disposal with Rs. 52,40,754/- of revenue being generated

    All the Divisions within the MHA, along with the UTs, upload the data related to Special Campaign on the intra-Ministry portal, which has been one of the best practices of MHA

    Posted On: 25 OCT 2024 3:59PM by PIB Delhi

    Under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and guidance of Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah, MHA has been conducting the Special Campaign 4.0 within the Ministry and across its Attached/Subordinate offices. MHA is fully committed to achieve its targets set for the Special Campaign 4.0. During the campaign, special focus has been laid on field/outstation offices having public interface, across the country.

    The campaign commenced with the preparatory phase from 15th September, 2024 wherein the Ministry of Home Ministry identified a total of 7751 Campaign sites. Out of these, so far, Special Campaign has been conducted at 5000 sites. During the campaign, 144 MP References, 41 Parliamentary Assurances, 142 References from State Governments and 109 PMO References have been identified for disposal. Also, a total of 4000 Public Grievances and 180 Appeals have been identified so far, out of which, 2163 Public Grievances and 48 Appeals have been disposed of.

    Additional Secretary (Coordination), MHA, convened a meeting with all the Divisions of MHA and the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs), and they were encouraged to actively participate in the campaign. The daily progress is being monitored at Joint Secretary-level in the Ministry. All the Divisions within the MHA, along with the UTs, upload the data related to Special Campaign on the intra-Ministry portal. This has been one of the best practices of MHA and facilitates acquiring correct data in a limited time frame.

    The campaign is being run in full swing in the MHA and significant progress has been reported in reviewing of files – both physical and electronic. Out of a total of 202459 physical files and 136387 electronic files identified for review, 183596 physical files and 90014 electronic files have been reviewed so far. A total of 19864 square feet of space has been freed after scrap disposal and Rs. 52,40,754/- of revenue has been generated including those of the CAPFs.

    The campaign is being conducted in all the attached/subordinate offices of MHA. Some of the highlights of the activities undertaken in various field offices/units are:

    So far, approximately 500 posts, with the hashtag #SpecialCampaign4 have been posted on X platform (earlier Twitter) to create awareness and promote the activities of MHA under the campaign.

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    Read this release in: Hindi

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Support from the Horizon Europe programme for Israeli companies involved in the ongoing genocide in Palestine – E-001930/2024

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001930/2024/rev.1
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Anthony Smith (The Left), Marc Botenga (The Left), Rudi Kennes (The Left), Manon Aubry (The Left), Jonas Sjöstedt (The Left), Hanna Gedin (The Left), Rima Hassan (The Left), Per Clausen (The Left), Leila Chaibi (The Left), João Oliveira (The Left), Lynn Boylan (The Left), Kathleen Funchion (The Left), Jussi Saramo (The Left), Merja Kyllönen (The Left), Emma Fourreau (The Left), Konstantinos Arvanitis (The Left), Pernando Barrena Arza (The Left), Dario Tamburrano (The Left), Danilo Della Valle (The Left), Mario Furore (The Left), Mimmo Lucano (The Left), Damien Carême (The Left), Younous Omarjee (The Left), Pasquale Tridico (The Left), Li Andersson (The Left), Anja Hazekamp (The Left), Estrella Galán (The Left), Giorgos Georgiou (The Left), Arash Saeidi (The Left), Ilaria Salis (The Left), Catarina Martins (The Left), Marina Mesure (The Left)

    Since 7 October 2023, and the beginning of the Israeli Government’s military offensive in Gaza, the EU has approved EUR 126 million in support of 130 projects involving Israeli participants through the Horizon Europe programme and the EU-Israel Association Agreement. Among these participants are arms companies developing technologies used against Palestinian civilians. Israel is the largest non-European beneficiary of EU security-related funding.

    Article 2 of the EU-Israel Association Agreement makes its continuation conditional on respect for human rights. The EU Treaties prohibit the funding of ‘expenditure arising from operations having military or defence implications’ – a ban that should apply, given the plausible risk of genocide in Gaza recognised by an International Court of Justice order on 26 January 2024, and the illegal occupation of Palestinian territories, for which the UN General Assembly adopted a resolution on 18 September 2024 demanding that Israel end the occupation within 12 months.

    Will the Commission:

    • 1.Condemn the involvement of Israeli companies in the ongoing genocide in Gaza that have received EU financial support through the Horizon Europe programme?
    • 2.Exclude these companies from EU financial support?
    • 3.Propose to the Council that it suspend the EU-Israel Association Agreement?

    Submitted: 2.10.2024

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Joint Statement by FBI and CISA on People’s Republic of China Activity Targeting Telecommunications

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

    The U.S. government is investigating the unauthorized access to commercial telecommunications infrastructure by actors affiliated with the People’s Republic of China.

    After the FBI identified specific malicious activity targeting the sector, the FBI and the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) immediately notified affected companies, rendered technical assistance, and rapidly shared information to assist other potential victims. The investigation is ongoing, and we encourage any organization that believes it might be a victim to engage its local FBI field office or CISA. 

    Agencies across the U.S. government are collaborating to aggressively mitigate this threat and are coordinating with our industry partners to strengthen cyber defenses across the commercial communications sector.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hickenlooper, Bennet, Colleagues Send Amicus Brief Urging Federal Court to Protect Access to Emergency Abortions

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator John Hickenlooper – Colorado
    Members urge the Ninth Circuit to affirm emergency stabilizing treatment to patients, including abortion care when necessary
    Ninth Circuit Court received the case after the Supreme Court dismissed it in June
    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senators John Hickenlooper and Michael Bennet, along with 258 other members of congress, submitted an amicus brief to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 9th Circuit calling on the court to allow Medicare-funded hospitals to provide life-saving care that may include abortion care. The court is considering Moyle v. United States and Idaho v. United States which concern the Emergency Medical Treatment and Labor Act (EMTALA), a federal law that requires hospitals that receive Medicare funding to provide necessary “stabilizing treatment” to patients experiencing medical emergencies, which can include abortion care.
    “[T]he 99th Congress passed EMTALA to ensure that every person who visits a Medicare-funded hospital with an ‘emergency medical condition’ is offered stabilizing treatment,” wrote the lawmakers.
    “Congress chose broad language for that mandate, requiring hospitals that participate in the Medicare program to provide ‘such treatment as may be required to stabilize the medical condition.’… That text—untouched by Congress for the past three decades—makes clear that in situations in which a doctor determines that abortion constitutes the ‘[n]ecessary stabilizing treatment’ for a pregnant patient, federal law requires the hospital to offer it.”
    After the Dobbs decision in 2022, Idaho passed a law making it a felony for a doctor to terminate a patient’s pregnancy unless it is “necessary” to prevent the patient’s death. The Department of Justice sued the State of Idaho, arguing that the state’s law is preempted by EMTALA in those circumstances in which abortion may not be necessary to prevent imminent death, but still constitutes the necessary stabilizing treatment for a patient’s emergency medical condition. The district court agreed; however, Idaho Republicans appealed that ruling to the Supreme Court. In March, Hickenlooper and 257 of his colleagues filed an amicus brief asking the Supreme Court to affirm the district court decision. In June, the Supreme Court sent the case back to the Ninth Circuit Court and reinstated the district court’s injunction.
    In their brief, the lawmakers ask the Ninth Circuit to uphold the district court’s ruling. They argue that the congressional intent, text, and history of EMTALA make clear that covered hospitals must provide abortion care when it’s needed to stabilize a patient’s emergency medical condition, and that EMTALA preempts Idaho’s abortion ban in emergency situations that present a serious threat to a patient’s health.
    The full amicus brief is available HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Pedestrian injured in Broadview crash

    Source: South Australia Police

    A pedestrian suffered serious facial injuries when he was hit by a car at Broadview overnight.

    Emergency services were called to Regency Road, Broadview about 1.15am on Saturday 26 October.

    The pedestrian, a 20-year-old Broadview man, was taken to hospital by ambulance.  His injuries are serious, but not considered life-threatening at this time.

    The driver of the Toyota sedan, a 22-year-old Golden Grove man, was not injured in the crash.

    Major Crash investigators attended the scene to assist patrols examine the scene and investigate the crash.

    The car was towed from the scene and the road reopened at 3.15am.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Governor Katie Hobbs Follows Through on Promise to Secure Arizona’s Water Future

    Source: US State of Arizona

    Hobbs Takes Action to Shut Down Bad Actor Developers, Protect Groundwater

    Phoenix, AZ – In case you missed it, Governor Katie Hobbs took major action this week to secure Arizona’s water future. On Monday, the Arizona Department of Real Estate issued cease-and-desist orders to a developer attempting to skirt water supply laws to make a profit off illegally pumping Arizona groundwater. Then on Wednesday, ADWR took the first steps towards the creation of a Willcox basin AMA. 

    Here’s what they’re saying:

    Ed Curry, Willcox basin farmer: “This announcement of a potential AMA is a new beginning for the Willcox Basin, and we must continue to work together to move forward to protect our groundwater supplies. I am thankful for the courage of Governor Hobbs and her administration to tackle these issues head on.”

    Mike Laws, Mayor of Willcox: “Our community is facing difficult decisions as Arizona moves forward with an Active Management Area for the Willcox Basin. While there are a range of views on the AMA, the urgency of addressing our water challenges cannot be overstated. Governor Hobbs has demonstrated a strong commitment to protecting Arizona’s water resources, and with no legislative solutions in place, the Governor and Arizona Department of Water Resources have acted with the tools available to them.”

    Steve Kisiel, Willcox Basin homeowner: “Today’s announcement by ADWR to initiate the AMA designation process gives me hope that we will finally have a secure water future here in the Willcox Basin.”

    Mark Jove, WIllcox Basin winegrower: “We support and welcome this step taken towards protecting our water supplies. As a small business vineyard in the Willcox groundwater basin we’ve experienced firsthand the alarming declines in our local water levels due to decades of unchecked, unlimited groundwater pumping. An AMA designation would finally put us on a path to stabilizing this precious and shared resource to safeguard local growers and business owners.”

    Cochise Groundwater Stewards: “For years, we’ve pleaded for groundwater management that protects our property, our families, and our economy. Legislators from both parties have introduced workable bills throughout the last five years – none received a hearing. With the Legislature apparently abandoning us in rural Arizona, it’s time for ADWR to designate a new AMA here. Finally, we are being heard.” 

    MORE BELOW:

    Arizona Republic: AZ regulators issue cease-and-desist for developer they say is building ‘wildcat’ subdivisions

    • State officials allege two limited liability corporations owned by Andrei Polukhtin, 2PHDS and Morning Vista Homes, are building so-called “wildcat” subdivisions via unregulated lot splits in Rio Verde Foothills. That neighborhood made national news last year when it lost its primary water supply.

    • Some areas of the state heavily reliant on groundwater, including most of Maricopa County, are designated as active management areas. There, property owners generally must show real estate regulators proof of legal rights to a 100-year supply of water before selling parcels for larger developments.

    • The action signals growing interest in upholding water and development requirements by state regulators. Democratic Gov. Katie Hobbs directed the Arizona Department of Real Estate last year to take increased action to prevent wildcat developments from popping up around the state.

    KJZZ: Hobbs administration to Rio Verde Foothills developer: Cease and desist amid water concerns

    • Arizona Gov. Katie Hobbs’ administration says it has sent a cease and desist letter to a developer trying to get around water regulations in the unincorporated community of Rio Verde Foothills.

    • Hundreds of homes in Rio Verde Foothills were cut off from their water supply in 2023 due to drought restrictions in neighboring Scottsdale. The state Legislature had to step in to negotiate a temporary fix for the community.

    • Hobbs said she still wants the legislature to take action to close the wildcat subdivision loophole.

    Arizona Daily Star: Arizona takes major step toward regulating groundwater pumping in Willcox area

    • The Arizona Department of Water Resources said Wednesday it’s taking the first steps to usher in groundwater pumping regulation in the Willcox Basin, whose aquifer has dramatically declined due to unregulated pumping by farmers.

    • A group calling itself Cochise Water Stewards said Wednesday that “enough is enough” after a decade-long wait for solutions to Willcox’s collapsing aquifer.

    • Vance Williams, a resident of the Sunizona area southeast of Willcox, said, “I am grateful that ADWR has finally decided to take the first step toward establishing an AMA to protect the groundwater in the Willcox basin. I just wish it had happened sooner as my well in Sunizona went dry in 2020 and I have heard from many other neighbors across the basin whose wells have gone dry.”

    • “The AMA will stop any new large agricultural operations from moving into our area while also putting a halt to expansion of existing irrigation,” Williams said. “I am hopeful that the AMA will also reduce current pumping levels, a necessary step needed to save our aquifer. Thank you to Governor Hobbs and her staff for working to protect the groundwater in the Willcox Basin.”

    Arizona Agenda: Hobbs makes her move

    • Yesterday morning, group chats and inboxes were buzzing in Southeast Arizona: Gov. Katie Hobbs and the Arizona Department of Water Resources have begun the process of designating the Willcox Basin as an “Active Management Area,” which will limit groundwater pumping in the area.

    • And it would be a historical milestone as the first state-initiated “subsequent AMA” in Arizona, highlighting Hobbs’ role as the first governor to push the ADWR to take rural groundwater management seriously.

    • Besides being a strong political move by Hobbs, an AMA designation will “stop the bleeding” in the Willcox Basin while the Legislature continues its policy battles.

    • And now that Hobbs has proven willing to put AMAs in place, legislative stalemate tactics will no longer be an option for her policy opponents. They’ll have to come up with statutory amendments or AMA alternatives that actually pass through the Legislature and survive Hobbs’ veto pen.

     

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General Bonta Secures Felony Conviction of Sirron Croskey for Armed Robbery, Reckless Evading, and Possession of a Loaded Firearm in Public

    Source: US State of California

    Friday, October 25, 2024

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

    OAKLAND – California Attorney General Rob Bonta today announced the felony conviction of Sirron Croskey for armed robbery, reckless evading, and possession of a loaded firearm in public. Croskey carried out multiple robberies across Contra Costa, Alameda, Santa Clara, and Napa counties, targeting victims in casino parking lots while brandishing a loaded, unregistered firearm to facilitate the crimes. After committing his final robbery in Napa County, Croskey attempted to evade law enforcement by engaging in a high-speed chase with deputies from the Contra Costa Sheriff’s Office. He ultimately left behind the vehicle and the firearm that had been utilized in all the robberies and fled on foot. 

    “Californians deserve to live their lives free from the shadow of violence,” said Attorney General Bonta. “I am immensely proud of my team for their unwavering commitment to justice and for ensuring that those who violate the law are held responsible. When we work together, we get results that create a safer and more secure California for everyone.”

    Croskey pled guilty to one felony count of Reckless Evading, one felony count of Carrying a Loaded Unregistered Firearm in Public, two felony counts of Second-Degree Robbery, and admitted two enhancements for Personal Use of a Firearm. He was sentenced on October 23, 2024 in Contra Costa Superior Court to 9 years, 8 months in State Prison and was ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $9,855 to seven different victims.

    The investigation was conducted by the Contra Costa Sheriff’s Office, the American Canyon Police Department, the Livermore Police Department, the San Jose Police Department and the Department of Justice’s Bureau of Gambling Control. The DOJ’s Special Prosecution Section handled the prosecution of this case. 

    DOJ’s Special Prosecution Section investigates and prosecutes complex criminal cases occurring in California, including fraud, public corruption, “underground economy” crimes, human and labor trafficking, fentanyl trafficking, and organized retail theft. 

    A copy of the criminal complaint can be found here.

    # # #

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Greenfield — Update: Missing man located deceased

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    October 25, 2024, Greenfield, Nova Scotia… The 78-year-old man who was reported missing from Port Hawkesbury on October 3, 2023, has been located deceased.

    His remains were found by a hunter in a wooded area in Greenfield, close to where his abandoned vehicle was parked.

    The death is not believed to be suspicious in nature; however, the investigation is ongoing.

    Our thoughts are with the man’s loved ones at this difficult time.

    File #: 2023-1472245

    -30-

    Contact:

    Sgt. Deepak PRASAD

    Public Information Officer
    Nova Scotia RCMP
    rcmpns-grcne@rcmp-grc.gc.ca

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Colorado man convicted of attempting to entice a minor to engage in illegal sexual activity

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Gabriel Estrada, 30, of Denver, Colorado, was convicted by a federal jury for attempting to entice a minor to engage in illegal sexual activity. The four-day trial was held before U.S. District Court Judge Alan B. Johnson.

    According to trial evidence, Estrada used a chat app to meet up with a 13-year-old persona for sexual intercourse. An undercover agent posed as a 13-year-old female, living in Laramie, Wyoming. Estrada messaged the 13-year-old persona asking if she would have sex with him. He went on to ask the 13-year-old persona if she had any friends that would like to join them in the sexual encounter and asked about her sexual experience. Estrada then drove the two hours from his home to Laramie after confirming the minor would engage in other sexual acts with him. Estrada arrived at the location, along with other physical evidence indicative of his intent to engage in sexual acts with the minor and an iPhone. The iPhone contained the text messages to the 13-year-old persona. Estrada testified that he made the decision to drive from his apartment in Denver to Laramie, even after the minor told him her age. Estrada said he did not believe she was actually 13.

    Sentencing has been set for Jan. 13, 2025. Estrada faces 10 years to life imprisonment, up to a $250,000 fine, five years to life supervised release and a $100 special assessment. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors in both cases.

    This crime was investigated by the Laramie Police Department and Federal Bureau of Investigation and the case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Z. Seth Griswold.

    Case No. CR-24-00033

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Welch, Blumenthal Call on Dept. of Justice to Investigate Elon Musk’s Cash Sweepstakes to Swing-State Voters

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.), and U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), members of the Senate Judiciary Committee, today wrote to U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland asking the Department of Justice to investigate whether Elon Musk, through his political action committee America PAC, has violated federal campaign finance law by providing cash rewards to individuals in seven swing states if they sign a petition that requires them to be registered to vote.  
    Section 10307(c) of Title 52 of the U.S. Code states it is illegal if an individual “pays or offers to pay or accepts payment either for registration to vote or for voting.” Earlier this week, CNN reported the Department had warned Musk and his super PAC that his actions may be in violation of the law. 
    “Musk’s reward scheme appears to violate federal campaign finance law. It is explicitly designed to induce people to register to vote. Moreover, the Department of Justice’s own Election Crimes Manual states that a violation of federal campaign finance laws can occur when ‘cash’ or ‘lottery chances’ are ‘intended to induce or reward the voter for engaging in one or more acts necessary to cast a ballot,’” the lawmakers write.  
    “There is no place for vote buying in our democracy. As the Department has recognized, voting should never ‘degenerate into a spending contest, with the victor being the candidate who can pay the most voters’…” the lawmakers conclude.“…Permitting this scheme to proceed without consequences makes a mockery of democracy and the law. We urge you to investigate whether Elon Musk’s cash prizes are prohibited payments for voter registration and take appropriate enforcement action, including prosecution, if his actions prove to be illegal.” 
    Read the letter below and download it here: 
    Dear Attorney General Garland,
    As you know, Elon Musk has been providing cash rewards to voters in seven states if they sign a petition related to his political action committee—America PAC. Individuals must be a registered voter, or register to vote, to qualify for his financial giveaways, which include payments of $47, $100, and a $1 million daily lottery. Campaign finance law states it is illegal if anyone “pays or offers to pay…either for registration to vote or for voting.” 
    Musk’s reward scheme appears to violate federal campaign finance law. It is explicitly designed to induce people to register to vote. Moreover, the Department of Justice’s own Election Crimes Manual states that a violation of federal campaign finance laws can occur when “cash” or “lottery chances” are “intended to induce or reward the voter for engaging in one or more acts necessary to cast a ballot.” 
    There is no place for vote buying in our democracy. As the Department has recognized, voting should never “degenerate into a spending contest, with the victor being the candidate who can pay the most voters.” According to public reports, the Department warned America PAC this week that the petition lottery may be in violation of federal law. If so, permitting this scheme to proceed without consequences makes a mockery of democracy and the law. We urge you to investigate whether Elon Musk’s cash prizes are prohibited payments for voter registration and take appropriate enforcement action, including prosecution, if his actions prove to be illegal. 
    Sincerely, 
    Senator Peter Welch 
    Senator Richard Blumenthal 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Twelve Defendants Charged in Alleged Methamphetamine Conspiracy

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    MACON, Ga. – A newly unsealed federal indictment charges a dozen defendants with allegedly participating in a methamphetamine production and trafficking conspiracy operating out of a ten-acre Walton County property.

    According to the indictment unsealed on Oct. 23, and the search warrant, as well as statements made public in court, on Aug. 13, 2024, a federal search warrant was executed at 2370 Mountain Creek Church Road, Monroe, Georgia, as part of a joint law enforcement operation, where agents seized a total of 4,346 grams of “finished” crystal methamphetamine, 22 gallons of liquid methamphetamine (approximately equivalent to 377 kilograms of finished crystal methamphetamine) and $5,401. A federal search warrant was also executed on a Chevrolet Traverse occupied by Yuretzi Gomez, Yirla Gomez, Rafael Gomez and Uriel Garcia where agents recovered 1,046 grams of methamphetamine and $4,350 in cash. In addition, agents seized 4,523 grams of methamphetamine inside a Camaro occupied by Jared Calhoun and Ebony Jones-Tate.

    The following defendant charged by indictment will have his initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Charles H. Weigle on Nov. 4:

    James Len Ramey, 52, of Comer, Georgia, is charged with one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine and one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. If convicted, the defendant faces a maximum sentence of life imprisonment with a mandatory minimum sentence of ten years in prison and a $10 million fine.

    The following defendants charged by indictment have had their initial appearances before U.S. Magistrate Judge Weigle:

    Christopher Hyatt, 44, of LaGrange, Georgia, is charged with one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine. If convicted, the defendant faces a maximum sentence of life imprisonment with a mandatory minimum sentence of ten years in prison and a $10 million fine;

    Kendell Cawthon, 59, of Baldwin, Georgia, is charged with one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine and one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. If convicted, the defendant faces a maximum sentence of life imprisonment with a mandatory minimum sentence of ten years in prison and a $10 million fine;

    Bonterris Turner, 44, of Athens, Georgia, is charged with one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine and one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. If convicted, the defendant faces a maximum sentence of life imprisonment with a mandatory minimum sentence of ten years in prison and a $10 million fine;

    Demetrius Appling, 36, of Crawford, Georgia, is charged with one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine and one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. If convicted, the defendant faces a maximum sentence of life imprisonment with a mandatory minimum sentence of ten years in prison and a $10 million fine;

    Andrea Robinson, 44, of Cleveland, Georgia; is charged with one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. If convicted, the defendant faces a maximum of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine;

    Yuretzi Adame Gomez, 39, of Mexico, is charged with one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine and one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. If convicted, the defendant faces a maximum sentence of life imprisonment with a mandatory minimum sentence of ten years in prison and a $10 million fine;

    Yirla Adame Gomez, 24, of Mexico, is charged with one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine and one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. If convicted, the defendant faces a maximum sentence of life imprisonment with a mandatory minimum sentence of ten years in prison and a $10 million fine;

    Rafael Gomez Flores, 21, of Mexico, is charged with one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine and one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. If convicted, the defendant faces a maximum sentence of life imprisonment with a mandatory minimum sentence of ten years in prison and a $10 million fine;

    Uriel Garcia, 32, of Mexico, is charged with one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine and one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. If convicted, the defendant faces a maximum sentence of life imprisonment with a mandatory minimum sentence of ten years in prison and a $10 million fine;

    Jared Calhoun, 32, of Birmingham, Alabama, is charged with one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine and one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. If convicted, the defendant faces a maximum sentence of life imprisonment with a mandatory minimum sentence of ten years in prison and a $10 million fine; and

    Ebony Jones-Tate, 32, of Birmingham, Alabama, is charged with one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine and one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. If convicted, the defendant faces a maximum sentence of life imprisonment with a mandatory minimum sentence of ten years in prison and a $10 million fine.

    The case is being investigated by the FBI’s Middle Georgia Safe Streets Gang Task Force, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI), the Walton County Sheriff’s Office, the Athens-Clarke County Police Department and the Georgia State Patrol (GSP).

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Mike Morrison is prosecuting the case for the Government.

    An indictment is only an allegation of criminal conduct, and all defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty in a court of law beyond a reasonable doubt.

    MACON, Ga. – A newly unsealed federal indictment charges a dozen defendants with allegedly participating in a methamphetamine production and trafficking conspiracy operating out of a ten-acre Walton County property.

    According to the indictment unsealed on Oct. 23, and the search warrant, as well as statements made public in court, on Aug. 13, 2024, a federal search warrant was executed at 2370 Mountain Creek Church Road, Monroe, Georgia, as part of a joint law enforcement operation, where agents seized a total of 4,346 grams of “finished” crystal methamphetamine, 22 gallons of liquid methamphetamine (approximately equivalent to 377 kilograms of finished crystal methamphetamine) and $5,401. A federal search warrant was also executed on a Chevrolet Traverse occupied by Yuretzi Gomez, Yirla Gomez, Rafael Gomez and Uriel Garcia where agents recovered 1,046 grams of methamphetamine and $4,350 in cash. In addition, agents seized 4,523 grams of methamphetamine inside a Camaro occupied by Jared Calhoun and Ebony Jones-Tate.

    The following defendant charged by indictment will have his initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Charles H. Weigle on Nov. 4:

    James Len Ramey, 52, of Comer, Georgia, is charged with one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine and one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. If convicted, the defendant faces a maximum sentence of life imprisonment with a mandatory minimum sentence of ten years in prison and a $10 million fine.

    The following defendants charged by indictment have had their initial appearances before U.S. Magistrate Judge Weigle:

    Christopher Hyatt, 44, of LaGrange, Georgia, is charged with one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine. If convicted, the defendant faces a maximum sentence of life imprisonment with a mandatory minimum sentence of ten years in prison and a $10 million fine;

    Kendell Cawthon, 59, of Baldwin, Georgia, is charged with one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine and one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. If convicted, the defendant faces a maximum sentence of life imprisonment with a mandatory minimum sentence of ten years in prison and a $10 million fine;

    Bonterris Turner, 44, of Athens, Georgia, is charged with one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine and one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. If convicted, the defendant faces a maximum sentence of life imprisonment with a mandatory minimum sentence of ten years in prison and a $10 million fine;

    Demetrius Appling, 36, of Crawford, Georgia, is charged with one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine and one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. If convicted, the defendant faces a maximum sentence of life imprisonment with a mandatory minimum sentence of ten years in prison and a $10 million fine;

    Andrea Robinson, 44, of Cleveland, Georgia; is charged with one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. If convicted, the defendant faces a maximum of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine;

    Yuretzi Adame Gomez, 39, of Mexico, is charged with one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine and one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. If convicted, the defendant faces a maximum sentence of life imprisonment with a mandatory minimum sentence of ten years in prison and a $10 million fine;

    Yirla Adame Gomez, 24, of Mexico, is charged with one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine and one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. If convicted, the defendant faces a maximum sentence of life imprisonment with a mandatory minimum sentence of ten years in prison and a $10 million fine;

    Rafael Gomez Flores, 21, of Mexico, is charged with one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine and one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. If convicted, the defendant faces a maximum sentence of life imprisonment with a mandatory minimum sentence of ten years in prison and a $10 million fine;

    Uriel Garcia, 32, of Mexico, is charged with one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine and one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. If convicted, the defendant faces a maximum sentence of life imprisonment with a mandatory minimum sentence of ten years in prison and a $10 million fine;

    Jared Calhoun, 32, of Birmingham, Alabama, is charged with one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine and one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. If convicted, the defendant faces a maximum sentence of life imprisonment with a mandatory minimum sentence of ten years in prison and a $10 million fine; and

    Ebony Jones-Tate, 32, of Birmingham, Alabama, is charged with one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine and one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. If convicted, the defendant faces a maximum sentence of life imprisonment with a mandatory minimum sentence of ten years in prison and a $10 million fine.

    The case is being investigated by the FBI’s Middle Georgia Safe Streets Gang Task Force, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI), the Walton County Sheriff’s Office, the Athens-Clarke County Police Department and the Georgia State Patrol (GSP).

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Mike Morrison is prosecuting the case for the Government.

    An indictment is only an allegation of criminal conduct, and all defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty in a court of law beyond a reasonable doubt.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: New Jersey Man Charged For Multi-Year, Multi-Million Dollar Fraud

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Damian Williams, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York; James E. Dennehy, the Assistant Director in Charge of the New York Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (“FBI”); Thomas Fattorusso, the Special Agent in Charge of the New York Field Office of the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation (“IRS-CI”); and Francis J. Russo, the Director of the New York Field Office of U.S. Customs and Border Protection (“CBP”),  announced today the arrest of ARSEN LUSHER, who orchestrated a scheme to defraud more than 20 investors of more than $5 million between 2017 and 2021.  LUSHER was arrested earlier today and will be presented this afternoon before U.S. Magistrate Judge Gary Stein.

    U.S. Attorney Damian Williams said: “For years, the defendant allegedly solicited investors’ funds by representing that he had a hugely profitable trucking business.  That wasn’t true, and the defendant instead allegedly used the funds to run a classic Ponzi scheme, enriching himself along the way.  When luck ran out, the victims sustained millions of dollars in losses.  Today’s arrest serves as a stark reminder that the illusion of success built on fraud and deceit will inevitably fail.”

    FBI Assistant Director James E. Dennehy said: “For four years, Arsen Lusher allegedly defrauded numerous victims of more than $5 million by cycling their investments to conceal the business’s inability to produce its promised returns, and altered official tax documents to reflect inflated balances in furtherance of this ploy.  The alleged empty assurances allowed the defendant to wrongfully haul in funding from investors and selfishly benefit from their losses.  The FBI will continue to disrupt and hit the brakes on any investment scheme rooted in deceit.”

    IRS-CI Special Agent in Charge Thomas Fattorusso said: “It’s alleged Lusher acted with impunity for years, deceiving over 20 investors out of more than five million dollars.  He created a ‘get-rich-quick’ scheme, then sold his victims a dream of high-returns on their investment.  Instead of a profit, investors were left with a loss of money and of trust.  Today’s arrest ensures that Lusher can now be held accountable for his alleged fraud.”

    CBP Director Francis J. Russo said: “U.S. Customs and Border Protection is proud to have played an important role in this investigation that resulted in the takedown of an elaborate conspiracy to defraud the United States.  This case serves as a great example of how collaborative law enforcement efforts can dismantle nefarious enterprises that cause economic harm to their competitors.”

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

    Between 2017 and 2021, LUSHER engaged in a scheme to defraud more than 20 victims of more than $5 million.  LUSHER and a small group of trusted lieutenants acting at LUSHER’s direction solicited investments from the victims, usually by representing that LUSHER had a profitable trucking business that enjoyed delivery and installation contracts with multiple large retailers.  LUSHER and his lieutenants typically represented that the victims’ investments would fund the purchase of trucks, each truck costing around $45,000.  Through written and signed investment agreements, LUSHER and his lieutenants normally guaranteed the victims that their investments would generate high rates of return over a fixed period—typically between 30 and 40 percent over one or two years.  In that way, LUSHER succeeded in raising more than $40 million.

    In fact, though, LUSHER did not have a large trucking business.  Instead, LUSHER had a small trucking business that performed a small amount of work—less than $300,000—for just one large retailer.  The amount that LUSHER earned from his legitimate trucking business could not have compensated the victims and produced the promised returns.

    Indeed, LUSHER did not use the victims’ funds to purchase trucks or to grow his trucking business.  Instead, for years, LUSHER engaged in a Ponzi scheme: LUSHER paid earlier victims with later victims’ funds.  LUSHER also used the victims’ funds to enrich himself, such as by gambling or shopping for high-end goods.  In that way, LUSHER was able to sustain his scheme for a number of years.  But in early 2021, the scheme collapsed, leaving numerous victims with losses totaling more than $5 million. 

    LUSHER used fake documents to carry out his scheme.  For example, in December 2020, LUSHER caused to be sent to a particular victim an apparent U.S. Income Tax Return for an S Corporation for one of the companies that LUSHER controlled and used to perpetrate his scheme.  That alleged tax return was falsified:  the accountant listed as having prepared the return did not, in fact, prepare it.  And in February 2021, LUSHER altered account balances on an email sent by a bank employee to make it appear that LUSHER’s companies had healthy account balances when, in fact, they did not.  Specifically, while the bank employee wrote that LUSHER’s companies had account balances of $8,767.26 and $320.76, LUSHER altered the bank employee’s email before forwarding it to state that his companies had account balances of $1,228,767.26 and $987,320.76 (italics and bold added).  In other words, LUSHER altered the bank employee’s email such that the account balances for his companies were approximately 140 times and 3,078 times greater than they actually were.  LUSHER then caused that falsified email to be sent to a particular victim.

    If you believe you or your family has been a victim of LUSHER’s fraud, please contact XtremeHDtips@fbi.gov.

    *                *                *

    LUSHER, 49, of Millstone, New Jersey, is charged with one count of wire fraud, which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, and one count of aggravated identity theft, which carries a mandatory consecutive sentence of two years in prison.

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

    Mr. Williams praised the outstanding investigative work of the FBI, the IRS, the CBP, and the New York City Police Department. 

    This case is being handled by the Office’s General Crimes Unit.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Joseph H. Rosenberg is in charge of the prosecution.

    The charges contained in the Complaint are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

    [1] As the introductory phrase signifies, the entirety of the text of the Complaint, and the description of the Complaint set forth in this press release, constitute only allegations, and every fact described should be treated as an allegation.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Individual On Parole For Robbery In New Jersey Indicted For Two More Robberies In Florida

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Tampa, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces the  unsealing of an indictment charging Jose Rodriguez (65, New Jersey) with robbery, attempted robbery, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. If convicted on all counts, Rodriguez faces a maximum penalty of life in federal prison. 

    According to court documents, on August 4, 2024, Rodriguez entered a pizza restaurant located in a shopping plaza in Tampa and attempted to rob the restaurant at gunpoint. The clerks fled in fear, and Rodriguez ultimately left empty handed.

    Approximately one month later, on September 11, 2024, Rodriguez returned to the same plaza. This time, he walked into a cellphone store and attempted to rob it at gunpoint. During the robbery, Rodriguez directed an employee to the business’s safe in a back room while stating, “Don’t move or I’ll shoot you.”

    Two days later, ATF special agents and deputies from the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office found the vehicle used during the two incidents. Surveillance of that vehicle identified Rodriguez, and a subsequent search warrant of his residence revealed a pistol—which he is prohibited from possessing due to his status as a convicted felon. That pistol had been reported stolen by an elderly man in New Jersey whom Rodriguez had previously cared for. At the time of these incidents, Rodriguez was on parole in New Jersey for robbery.

    An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty. 

    This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, and the Tampa Police Department. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Diego F. Novaes.

    This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Lady Anne Dodd to be awarded top civic honour

    Source: City of Liverpool

    Anne, Lady Dodd, the wife of beloved comic Sir Ken Dodd, is set to receive one of Liverpool’s greatest accolades.

    Lady Dodd will be admitted to the city’s Roll of Citizen of Honour, after a decision made by Councillors tonight (Wednesday 22 January).

    Lady Dodd is one of the Trustees of the Ken Dodd Charitable Foundation, which works to support performing arts charities and organisations. In the past six years, the Foundation has made over 50 donations to more than 30 charities, many of which are based in Liverpool and Merseyside.

    Some of the recipients of these donations include Liverpool Women’s Hospital Charity, Liverpool Theatre School, and Alder Hey Children’s Hospital.

    Outside of the Foundation, Lady Dodd has personally supported a number of projects in the City. Her contributions to her local community were highlighted through letters of recognition from St John the Evangelist Church and Happiness Hall in Knotty Ash, as well as Knotty Ash Primary School.

    Tonight’s meeting also saw Councillors agree to award the Liverpool Law Society with the Freedom of Association for their work to provide free legal advice to those in need who may otherwise be unable to access it.

    Lord Mayor of Liverpool, Councillor Richard Kemp CBE said: “Anne, Lady Dodd works tirelessly to improve the lives of others, and she is well deserving of the Citizen of Honour title.

    “Lady Dodd has supported countless organisations and community projects both in Liverpool and further afield. Her compassion and generosity have made a significant difference to thousands of lives.

    “Her work, both individually and through the Kenn Dodd foundation, is often done without great fanfare. It is clear that Lady Dodd does not help others for recognition, but for a genuine love for her community and her desire to support those who need it the most.”

    Leader of Liverpool City Council, Cllr Liam Robinson said: “The Citizen of Honour accolade recognises people who make an exceptional contribution to the City and Anne, Lady Dodd is the perfect embodiment of this.

    “Not only has she worked closely with community groups and organisations in her home of Knotty Ash, but her work through the Kenn Dodd Charitable Foundation has seen millions of pounds donated to an incredible number of Liverpool and Merseyside charities.

    “Lady Dodd’s selfless support and dedication to those in need make her an incredible role model.”

    Anne, Lady Dodd said: “When I received the letter from Liverpool City Council I was amazed, overwhelmed, undeserved, I feel, but so honoured to hear that I would receive this award. 

    “I love Liverpool, my adopted home for over fifty years. During the last six years, as Trustees running The Ken Dodd Charitable Foundation with Ken’s nephew, John Lewis, I have met so many incredible workers and volunteers in a variety of charitable organisations, and particularly Liverpool Hospitals, who give extra time and effort to making people’s lives better.

    “My family, friends and I are so very proud to have this recognition for spending what really have been joyful times doing all the things that Ken’s legacy and his wishes have enabled me to do on his behalf since he passed away in 2018.

    “I am very much looking forward to the ceremony and receiving the Citizen of Honour scroll.  I am truly thrilled to bits or as Ken would say, I am completely discomknockerated!”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: profitflex247.com: BaFin warns of website and points to identity theft

    Source: Bundesanstalt für Finanzdienstleistungsaufsicht – In English

    The website operator appears under the name ProfitFlex247, without using a legal form. He does not provide any information about his place of business. The operator claims to be authorised and regulated by the UK Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). It links to the FCA’s homepage to a publication there about the registration of the company Flex Instant Services Ltd. The BaFin has no information about a possible connection between Flex Instant Services Ltd and the website profitflex247.com. Rather, it is assumed that the company’s identity has been stolen.

    Recently, a large number of websites with almost identical content have come to light, and BaFin has also issued warnings about these. In all cases, the presentation on the websites begins with the following sentence: ‘Step Into the Trading Arena with Confidence & [name of website]’ or, more recently, ‘Enter the trading arena with confidence & [name of website]’. In addition, BaFin has evidence of a link between the ‘Step Into the Trading Arena with Confidence’ platform series and the ‘Trade Wisely’ platform series, which BaFin has also already warned about.

    Anyone offering financial or investment services in Germany requires the permission of BaFin. However, some companies offer such services without the required permission. Information on whether a particular company is authorised by BaFin can be found in the company database.

    The information provided by BaFin is based on section 37 (4) of the German Banking Act (Kreditwesengesetz – KWG).

    Please be aware:

    BaFin, the German Federal Criminal Police Office (Bundeskriminalamt – BKA) and the German state criminal police offices (Landeskriminalämter) recommend that consumers seeking to invest money online should exercise the utmost caution and do the necessary research beforehand in order to identify fraud attempts at an early stage.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –