NewzIntel.com

Category: Law Enforcement

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reed & Justice Introduce Bipartisan Strengthening Local Food Security Act

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Rhode Island Jack Reed
    WASHINGTON, DC – In an effort to strengthen the nation’s food supply chain network, bolster economic opportunities for local farmers and food producers, and increase access to fresh, local nutritious food in underserved communities and schools, U.S. Senators Jack Reed (D-RI) and Jim Justice (R-WV) teamed up to introduce the Strengthening Local Food Security Act (S. 2338).
    This new bill would create a permanent grant program for state and tribal governments to procure local foods for distribution to nearby hunger relief programs and schools.
    The bipartisan proposal would leverage government procurement and purchasing power to increase access to locally-sourced, fresh, healthy, and nutritious food in underserved communities and schools and in turn, help family farmers, fishermen, and local food producers grow their markets. This grant program would:
    Support local economic development by creating new access to the hunger relief market for local farmers and fishermen, creating a new, reliable stream of orders for small, beginning, and underserved farmers, ranchers, and fishers, giving these businesses the financial security to invest and further expand.
    Strengthen our domestic agriculture supply chain by investing in local food distribution. The bill would help build local businesses that support durable and resilient local food systems.
    Combat food insecurity by providing fresh, nutritious, local food to underserved communities and schools, feeding more families and helping ease the strain on the hunger relief system.
    “Food prices are up and food banks are experiencing rising demand. We’ve got to feed those in need. The Strengthening Local Food Security Act makes family farmers and fishermen part of the solution, putting fresh, healthy food on the table in a cost-effective manner that strengthens the local economy too,” said Senator Jack Reed. “This bill will feed students and families and plant seeds of economic development for farmers, fishermen, and others throughout the nation’s food supply chain.”
    “In West Virginia, we know the value of hard work and locally grown food. The Strengthening Local Food Security Act helps our farmers, ranchers, and fishermen get more of their local food onto more tables. It puts money back into our communities and keeps people fed. That’s a win-win all around. I look forward to working to get this done for our local producers, food banks, and schools,” Senator Jim Justice said.
    The Strengthening Local Food Security Act is supported by a wide range of farmers, food hubs, coalitions, and business networks from across the country, including the National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition, National Farmers Union, the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture, and the Farm Credit Council.
    In Rhode Island, the bill is supported by several leading organizations, including: the Rhode Island Community Food Bank, Farm Fresh Rhode Island, and the Rhode Island Food Policy Council.
    “At a time when we’re serving more people than ever before, this type of legislation is critical, both for Rhode Island families and for our state’s economy,” said Melissa Cherney, incoming CEO of the Rhode Island Community Food Bank. “We’re honored to support Senator Reed’s bill.”
    “It’s always a good time to invest in Rhode Island’s farmers. This bill will increase fairness by opening valuable wholesale markets to our smaller-scale producers. Even better, it does so while supporting the state’s economy and feeding our communities,” said Nessa Richman, Network Director of the Rhode Island Food Policy Council.
    “Over 40 percent of people in Rhode Island do not have enough to eat. This bill helps to address that issue by partnering with local farmers as part of the solution. Farm Fresh RI is excited by the opportunity to strengthen the agricultural supply chain, support local economic development and provide nutritious food to children and food insecure families,” said Jesse Rye, Executive Director of Farm Fresh Rhode Island.
    “Farm Credit applauds Senators Reed and Justice for their leadership in introducing the Strengthening Local Food Security Act of 2025. This bill is a strategic investment in American agriculture—supporting farmers, strengthening supply chains, and helping schools and communities access locally produced food. This bill will help boost regional economies and improve food security across the country,” said Christy Seyfert, President and CEO, Farm Credit Council.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: West Virginia Delegation Applauds Disaster Declaration Approval for Ohio and Marion Counties

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for West Virginia Shelley Moore Capito

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) and Jim Justice (R-W.Va.), as well as U.S. Reps. Carol Miller (W.Va.-01) and Riley Moore (W.Va.-02), applauded President Donald Trump’s approval of a Major Disaster Declaration and an Emergency Declaration for Ohio and Marion counties.

    “The West Virginia Congressional Delegation is grateful to the Trump administration for the major disaster declaration and emergency declaration giving the approval of our state’s request for federal disaster aid. The flooding that occurred saw devastating loss of life and property, and we are glad that much-needed help is on the way to help these communities recover and rebuild. We commend the bravery of the first responders who sprang into action and the local leaders, churches, and charities who have been on the ground helping victims begin to rebuild their lives,” the lawmakers said. 

    The Major Disaster Declaration means that the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Individual Assistance program will be able to provide financial aid to homeowners and renters affected by the June flooding. 

    The delegation sent a letter to President Trump and FEMA Acting Regional Administrator Hutchinson expressing strong support of the governor’s Major Disaster Declaration request in Ohio and Marion counties. You can view a copy of that letter here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cornyn, Coons, Colleagues Introduce Bill to Protect State and Local Judges

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Texas John Cornyn

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX), Chris Coons (D-DE), Jerry Moran (R-KS), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), and Josh Hawley (R-MO) today introduced the Countering Threats and Attacks on Our Judges Act, which would establish a State Judicial Threat Intelligence and Resource Center to provide technical assistance, training, and threat monitoring for state and local judges and court personnel:

    “With threats against judges and their families increasing at an alarming rate, more must be done to protect them,” said Sen. Cornyn. “This legislation would establish a much-needed resource center to identify and respond to bad actors, ensuring our nation’s courts and the Americans who work in them every day are safe.”

    “Public servants should be able to do their jobs free from threats to themselves or their families – and that includes our state and local judges,” said Sen. Coons. “Our nation has seen increasing political violence that has too often ended in tragedy – threatening those just trying to serve their country and threatening our democratic system built on respect for the rule of law. I’m proud this bipartisan bill unanimously passed the Senate last year and I look forward to working with my colleagues to get this bill to the president’s desk.”

    “Judges perform a critical community service at every level of our justice system,” said Sen. Moran. “Regardless of how a judge rules on a case, any form of harassment or intimidation is unacceptable. In response to growing threats and attacks against members of the judiciary, this legislation would provide needed resources and support to local law enforcement tasked with protecting judges and courthouses.”

    “Online mobs have increasingly lobbed violent threats against judges, including in Rhode Island, for ruling against the Trump administration.  Judges and court officials must be able to conduct their work without fearing for their lives or their family’s safety,” said Sen. Whitehouse. “This timely bipartisan bill would bolster security at courthouses and judges’ homes to help protect the integrity of our judicial system.  We also need to make sure that orchestration of threats is properly investigated.”

    “We’re seeing an alarming surge of dangerous threats and actions targeting judges across this nation – stoking the flames of violence towards public servants and their families,” said Sen. Shaheen. “Our bipartisan legislation offers a commonsense solution to this troubling trend by establishing a State Judicial Threat Intelligence and Resource Center to implement enhanced security measures to keep judges, their families and their staff out of harm’s way.”

    U.S. Representatives Michael McCaul (TX-10) and Lucy McBath (GA-06) introduced companion legislation in the House.

    Background:

    The Countering Threats and Attacks on Our Judges Act would create a State Judicial Threat Intelligence and Resource Center to:

    • Provide technical assistance to state and local judges and court personnel around judicial security;
    • Provide physical security assessments for courts, homes, and other facilities where judicial officers and staff conduct court-related business;
    • Conduct research to identify, examine, and advance best practices around judicial security;
    • And be housed within the existing State Justice Institute, a private nonprofit and nonpartisan corporation established by Congress in 1984.

    The legislation is supported by the Conference of Chief Justices (CCJ), Conference of State Court Administrators (COSCA), Council of Chief Judges of the State Courts of Appeal (CCJSCA), National Association for Presiding Judges and Court Executive Officers (NAPCO), National District Attorneys Association (NDAA), National Council of Juvenile and Family Court Judges (NCJFCJ), National Center for State Courts (NCSC), American Judges Association (AJA), National Council of Juvenile and Family Court Judges (NCJFCJ), and National Center for State Courts (NCSC).

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: UK bans Gaza protest group – could the same thing happen in Australia?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Shannon Bosch, Associate Professor (Law), Edith Cowan University

    More than 100 people were arrested in the United Kingdom on the weekend for supporting Palestine Action, a protest group that opposes Britain’s support of Israel.

    Palestine Action was recently proscribed as a terrorist organisation, placing it in the same category as Hamas, al-Qaeda and Islamic State.

    Many of those arrested were simply holding signs that read: “I oppose genocide, I support Palestine Action”. They were predominantly aged over 60.

    In recent weeks, an 83-year-old vicar, a former government lawyer and various pensioners have been taken into custody and could be jailed for up to 14 years if found guilty of belonging to the protest group.

    Simply holding a sign or wearing a T-shirt with the words “Palestine Action” could be punishable with a six-month jail term.

    The protesters say they refuse to be silenced:

    If we cannot speak freely about the genocide that is occurring […], if we cannot condemn those who are complicit in it […] then the right to freedom of expression has no meaning, and democracy and human rights in this country are dead.

    Police arresting protestors calling for the terrorism ban to be overturned.

    So what is Palestine Acton and why is “middle England” up in arms over its designation as a terrorist group?

    Activist network

    Palestine Action is a UK-based activist network founded in 2020 with the stated aim of “ending global participation in Israel’s genocidal and apartheid regime”.

    The group views the British government as complicit in Israeli war crimes in Gaza. It also aspires to halt UK arms exports through disruptive protests and vandalism.

    Members have generally targeted Israeli-linked businesses, such as defence company Elbit Systems, by damaging equipment or blocking entrances.

    Supporters include grassroots activists, civil liberties advocates, health professionals, clergy and prominent figures such as Pink Floyd musician Roger Waters.

    Serious concerns

    Palestine Action was officially proscribed in the UK on July 5, after campaigners sprayed paint into the engines of two Voyager aircraft at an air force base.

    The final vote was overwhelming: 385 MPs supported the ban, while just 26 opposed it.

    Under the Terrorism Act 2000, membership, support, or public endorsement of a proscribed group is a criminal offence punishable by sentences up to 14 years.

    The UK government argues the group’s actions exceeded legal protest and raised serious security concerns.

    Since then, scores of people have been searched and arrested at rallies in support of Palestine Acton.

    Blurring the lines

    Critics, including Amnesty International, civil liberties groups and The Guardian editorial board warn the ban blurs the line between non-violent civil disobedience and terrorism. They argue it also threatens democratic dissent through a statutory abuse of power.

    Counter-terrorism laws permit extraordinary interference in due process and other fundamental human rights protections. Consequently, they must always be used with the highest degree of restraint.

    The UK already had legislation in place to deal with criminal damage and violent disorder.

    United Nations legal and human rights experts have spoken out against treating the actions of protesters who damage property without the intent to injure people as terrorism:

    According to international standards, acts of protest that damage property, but are not intended to kill or injure people, should not be treated as terrorism.

    Abuse of power

    Designating Palestine Action as a terrorist organisation appears to be aimed at curtailing free expression, the assembly and association of those who support the protest action against Israel’s war on Gaza.

    Placing it in the same legal category as Hamas seems designed to reduce public sympathy for the group.

    Palestine Action is challenging its proscription in the UK High Court. Lawyers for the group argue the Joint Terrorism Analysis Centre has assessed the vast majority of its activities to be lawful:

    On nature and scale, the home secretary [Yvette Cooper] accepts that only three of Palestine Action’s at least 385 actions would meet the statutory definition of terrorism […] itself a dubious assessment.

    The lawyers further argue proscription was “repugnant” and an “authoritarian abuse of power”.

    Australian version?

    There are no indications from the intelligence community that any direct affiliate of Palestine Action (UK) operates in Australia.

    However, there are pro-Palestinian activist organisations, including a Palestine Action Group Sydney, which is part of the Australian Palestine Advocacy Network (APAN).

    Broader solidarity movements such as Students for Palestine, are active in protests on university campuses and against arms shipments to Israel.

    Domestic terrorism powers

    Traditional boundaries between “activism”, “extremism”, “hate-crime” and “terrorism” are rapidly blurring in Australia.

    The attorney general may list (“proscription” is a UK term) any organisation as a “terrorist organisation” if they are satisfied it is “advocating terrorism”. This would mean criminalising the expression of support, instruction, or praise of terrorist acts or offences.

    The latest addition to the 31-member list is Terrorgram, an online terrorism advocacy chatroom.

    Australia’s extensive definition of “terrorist act”, currently under review, expressly excludes

    advocacy, protest, dissent or industrial action and which is not intended to cause serious or life-endangering harm or death or to create a serious risk to the safety or health of the public.

    This suggests an Australian version of a Palestine Action undertaking similar conduct to its UK cousin would not meet the legal threshold for listing.

    However, the recent Terrorgram listing makes reference to advocacy for “attacks on minority groups, critical infrastructure and specific individuals”.

    This suggests the UK and Australian governments are becoming more aligned in interpreting “violent” protest to include violence against property, rather than just against people.

    Short of listing, a significant suite of investigative, coercive and preventative executive exists that could be deployed if a similar organisation appears in Australia.

    The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. UK bans Gaza protest group – could the same thing happen in Australia? – https://theconversation.com/uk-bans-gaza-protest-group-could-the-same-thing-happen-in-australia-261562

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Call for information – Aggravated robbery – Daly River Region

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    The NT Police Force are calling for information in relation to an aggravated robbery that occurred in the Daly River Region on Tuesday morning.

    Around 8am, police received reports that an 84-year-old male had been assaulted and had his vehicle stolen approximately 1 kilometre from the Woolianna Road and Daly River Road intersection.

    It is alleged that a group of four youths threw rocks at an 84-year-old and his vehicle after her refused to give them a lift.

    The victim exited his Toyota Hilux, and one male youth entered the vehicle and attempted to drive away from the location, but the vehicle stalled. At this time the victim attempted to remove the keys from the Hilux; however, the group allegedly began assaulting him before stealing the vehicle and fleeing the scene.

    Daly River Police attended, and the 84-year-old male was transported to the Daly River Clinic for assessment with minor injuries.

    The vehicle and the alleged offenders remain outstanding, and investigations are ongoing.

    Police urge anyone with information to make contact on 131 444, quoting reference number NTP2500073955. Anonymous reports can be made through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via https://crimestoppersnt.com.au/.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA Offers Relief to Arkansas Small Businesses, Private Nonprofits and Residents Affected by April Storms and Flooding

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced the availability of low interest federal disaster loans to Arkansas small businesses, private nonprofits and residents affected by severe storms, tornadoes and flooding occurring April 2‑22. The SBA issued a disaster declaration in response to a request received from Gov. Sarah Sanders on July 18.

    The disaster declaration includes the Arkansas counties of Cross, Hempstead, Lawrence and Little River.

    Businesses and nonprofits are eligible to apply for business physical disaster loans and may borrow up to $2 million to repair or replace disaster-damaged or destroyed real estate, machinery and equipment, inventory, and other business assets.

    Homeowners and renters are eligible to apply for home and personal property loans and may borrow up to $100,000 to replace or repair personal property, such as clothing, furniture, cars, and appliances. Homeowners may apply for up to $500,000 to replace or repair their primary residence.

    Applicants may be eligible for a loan increase of up to 20% of their physical damages, as verified by the SBA, for mitigation purposes. Eligible mitigation improvements include insulating pipes, walls and attics, weather stripping doors and windows, and installing storm windows to help protect property and occupants from future disasters.

    SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is available to eligible small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries and private nonprofit organizations impacted by financial losses directly related to this disaster. The SBA is unable to provide disaster loans to agricultural producers, farmers, or ranchers, except for aquaculture enterprises.

    EIDLs are for working capital needs caused by the disaster and are available even if the business did not suffer any physical damage. They may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable, and other bills not paid due to the disaster.

    “One distinct advantage of SBA’s disaster loan program is the opportunity to fund upgrades reducing the risk of future storm damage,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the SBA. “I encourage businesses and homeowners to work with contractors and mitigation professionals to improve their storm readiness while taking advantage of SBA’s physical damage loans.”

    Interest rates are as low as 4% for businesses, 3.625% for nonprofits and 2.75% for homeowners and renters, with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not begin to accrue and payments are not due until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.

    The SBA encourages applicants to submit their loan applications promptly. Applications will be prioritized in the order they are received, and the SBA remains committed to processing them as efficiently as possible.

    To apply online, visit sba.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.

    The deadline to return physical damage applications is Sept. 22, 2025. The deadline to return economic injury applications April 22, 2026.

    ###

    About the U.S. Small Business Administration

    The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow, expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: WATCH: Padilla Sets the Record Straight on Trump Administration’s Harmful Mass Deportation Agenda

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.)

    WATCH: Padilla Sets the Record Straight on Trump Administration’s Harmful Mass Deportation Agenda

    Highlighted testimony from Alejandro Barranco — a veteran and the son of Narciso, who was violently detained by masked CBP agents in Orange County

    WATCH: Padilla criticizes Trump and Republicans for backtracking on pledge to target violent criminalsWASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Immigration Subcommittee, joined a Senate Judiciary Subcommittee hearing to set the record straight on President Trump and Stephen Miller’s cruel mass deportation campaign, blasting the Administration for intentionally stoking fear and scapegoating immigrants.
    Padilla emphasized that far from the Trump Administration’s stated plan to target violent criminals, less than 10 percent of immigrants whom Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has taken into custody have serious criminal convictions, and there has been a staggering 500 percent increase in the number of arrests of noncitizens without criminal records. He stressed that these ICE sweeps often illegally profile and target people based on their race, accents, or occupation, while hurting the economy by ripping away farm workers, service industry employees, and other essential workers.
    Padilla called out Republicans for attempting to distract from the sharp turn in public opinion away from the President’s immigration policy by relitigating complaints from the Biden presidency more than six months into Trump’s second term. An all-time record 79 percent of Americans believe immigration is a good thing for the country.
    He also criticized the $150 billion funding surge to carry out Trump’s enforcement agenda in Republicans’ billionaire-first reconciliation bill, underscoring that ICE’s budget is now larger than the budget of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI); Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF); Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA); U.S. Marshals Service, and Bureau of Prisons combined.
    “It’s clear why we’re here today: we’re here because Donald Trump is scapegoating immigrants,” Padilla said in committee. “It’s always been his outlet. This is their break-glass-in-case-of-emergency option when public sentiment turns against them and their agenda. It hasn’t been about only targeting violent criminals and it’s certainly not about fixing or modernizing our immigration system.”
    Padilla questioned three witnesses on the Trump Administration’s harmful immigration enforcement. He asked Deborah Fleischaker, a former ICE Acting Chief of Staff and longtime Department of Homeland Security official, to set the record straight that the Biden Administration encouraged ICE to do its job to detain violent criminals. He also highlighted the need for additional funding beyond immigration enforcement to support the hiring of more immigration judges and asylum officers.
    Padilla heard further from Alejandro Barranco — a Marine veteran and the eldest son of Narciso Barranco, who was violently detained by masked Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agents in Orange County — about the dangers of indiscriminate immigration enforcement, including sweeping up hardworking people with no history of violent crime.
    PADILLA: The way they present it, the way they talk about President Biden’s administration and prior Democratic administrations is like it was never a priority for Democratic administrations to go after criminals, and that Democrats and Democratic administrations just didn’t care about the presence of dangerous people in our communities. Simply not true. … Ms. Fleischaker, you were in ICE leadership. In your view, in your experience, did the Biden Administration ever restrain ICE from pursuing serious criminals?
    FLEISCHAKER: We absolutely did not stop ICE agents from enforcing the law and going after public safety threats. In fact, we encouraged them to do so. We very much want to want to find and arrest public safety threats in the community. […]
    PADILLA: I don’t think anyone here would disagree with the idea of rooting out the ‘worst of the worst,’ even if we disagree over what immigration policy should be, but I believe it’s unacceptable that these raids are so indiscriminate that they end up sweeping up people with no history of violent crime, hardworking people trying to give their children a better life, like Alejandro’s father, Narciso. Alejandro, question is for you. … Is there anything else that you would like to share about the cruelty with which your father was treated or what your family’s gone through?
    BARRANCO: I think that the way they treated him and the way they handled that situation was very unprofessional. It showed men who were not trained. It doesn’t seem like it. … They were running with guns in their hand, with fingers on the trigger, pointing it at civilian vehicles. And honestly, I don’t think that’s for the best of public safety, and I believe that they should have better training and go out and chase after the real criminals.
    PADILLA: Well, I couldn’t agree more, and the more resources, personnel, funding, and otherwise that’s directed at again, just broad-based enforcement is less focus, less prioritization of those violent criminals that we know are out there, the Administration knows are out there, but they’re not the clear priority or focus.
    Padilla also expressed concern about indiscriminate immigration raids creating widespread fear, keeping people home from work, businesses, church, and public spaces, while limiting the reporting of crimes. He heard from Dr. Giovanni Veliz, a retired Minneapolis Police Department Commander, about the importance of building trust with immigrant communities to combat crime and keep police officers safe.
    Video of Senator Padilla’s opening remarks is available here, and his questions are available here.
    More information on the hearing is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Federated Farmers Statement on Greenpeace

    Source: Federated Farmers

    Federated Farmers Statement: Greenpeace vandals must lose charitable status

    Federated Farmers is renewing its call for Greenpeace to be stripped of its charitable status immediately, following the extreme activist group’s latest illegal publicity stunt.

    “Greenpeace need to be held accountable for their repeated illegal activity and the spread of harmful misinformation,” Southland Federated Farmers president Jason Herrick says.
    “How can they be recognised as a charity when they’re breaking all kinds of laws trespassing on private property, vandalising public property, and intimidating the community?
    “Last night’s vandalism of the world-famous trout statue in Gore reinforces why these activists need to lose their status as a charity. I think it’s a total abuse of charitable status.”
    Herrick says Greenpeace’s vandalism of the statue and welcome sign is a shameless attempt to divide the small rural community and spread anti-farming propaganda.
    “These activists are total cowards who are slinking around in the shadows vandalising property under the cover of darkness,” Herrick says.
    “There’s a reason they’ve done this at night. They knew it was dodgy behaviour – and that they’d never get away with it in Gore during daylight hours.
    “We’re a tight-knit community down here in Southland. Farming plays a huge role in not only our local economy, but in our social fabric too.
    “There’s no way we’re going to put up with this nonsense. Greenpeace should hang their heads in shame.”
    In April, Federated Farmers called for the Government to immediately strip Greenpeace of its charitable status after the group’s illegal occupation of Port Taranaki.
    Charitable status in New Zealand is intended to support organisations that advance public benefit through education, relief of poverty, and other recognised charitable purposes.
    Under the Charities Act, organisations must operate for the public good and not primarily serve political or advocacy purposes.
    Herrick says he sees Greenpeace’s ongoing illegal activity as clear evidence that it no longer meets these criteria for charitable status.
    “There are plenty of amazing, honest charities doing fantastic work out there – but Greenpeace is not one of them.
    “It’s become little more than an extreme activist group that’s disrupting legitimate businesses and spreading harmful misinformation – repeatedly and deliberately.”
    Federated Farmers lodged a formal complaint with Charities Services in April, requesting a formal inquiry into Greenpeace’s conduct and eligibility for charitable status.
    A copy was also sent to Community and Voluntary Sector Minister Hon Louise Upston and Minister of Internal Affairs Hon Brooke van Velden.
    The complaint focuses on Greenpeace’s repeated involvement in premeditated unlawful protest activity.
    That includes the 2024 protest at Fonterra’s Te Rapa dairy factory where seven individuals were arrested, and last year’s occupation of Straterra’s Wellington office, where five were arrested during a staged lockdown.
    “We urge Charities Services to act decisively on our existing complaint and strip Greenpeace of its charitable status quickly,” Herrick says.
    “I can’t see any way they meet the requirements for registration under the Charities Act 2005.
    “Hardworking Kiwi taxpayers should not be forced to subsidise their illegal attacks and extremist political agendas through tax breaks for their donors.
    “Law-breaking groups cannot hide behind charitable privileges while threatening livelihoods with misinformation about farming.”
    Herrick says it’s not just Greenpeace that needs to be held accountable for how it’s operating as a charity.
    “I think Charities Services and the Government need to be held accountable too and answer some tough, but fair, questions about how this rort of the rules is being allowed to continue.
    “There is absolutely no way Greenpeace should be allowed to constantly break the law and still be recognised as a charity.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Ministers Burke and Dillon Initiate Public Consultation on Review of Employment Permit Occupations lists

    Source: Government of Ireland – Department of Jobs Enterprise and Innovation

    23rd July 2025

    Peter Burke, Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment, and Alan Dillon, Minister of State for Small Business, Retail and Employment, have today announced the opening of the consultation period inviting submissions from stakeholders on the status of occupations on the employment permits Occupations Lists. The Lists are used to administer Ireland’s employment permits policy. They consist of the Ineligible Occupations List – occupations for which there is an adequate supply of labour and skills with Ireland and the EEA, and for which an employment permit will not be issued, and the Critical Skills Occupations List – occupations in short supply in Ireland and across the EEA.

    The last review of the occupations lists took place in 2023, and resulted in 11 additional roles being placed on the Critical Skills Occupations List, and 32 roles being made eligible for a General Employment Permit. 

    Minister Burke said:

    “I am delighted to launch this next review of the eligible occupations for employment permits. At a time of full employment, with over 2.81 million people at work, and with 90,000 new jobs created in the last year, it is vital that we continue to have a strong and flexible employment permits system to allow non-EEA nationals to fill the skill and labour gaps we cannot access in Ireland or Europe and to ensure our economy remains competitive. 

    “As demonstrated by the changes made to the employment permit system over the last year, the system is responsive to the needs of the sectors and industries it serves. This full review will allow us to ensure the system remains up-to-date in a way that serves both workers and employers.”

    Minister Dillon added:

    “Our economic migration policy accommodates the arrival of non-EEA nationals to fill skills and labour gaps in the domestic economy in the short to medium term. These workers are a vital part of the Irish economy. My Department’s reviews of the system promote an integrated approach to address these labour market deficiencies in the longer term and ensure we can continue to meet our labour needs.

    “Where employers or stakeholders are facing challenges in recruiting a specific occupation and believe it should be eligible for an employment permit, or believe a certain occupation should move onto the critical skills list, now is their opportunity to share this feedback.

    “With the consultation running over the summer period, there is plenty of time for interested employers and sectors who use the employment permits system to provide their feedback. Employer’s observations are vital in helping inform the department on how the list system is operating and where it can be improved.”

    The submission process is an opportunity for stakeholders to provide additional information and potentially different perspectives on the nature and extent of skill shortages.  

    Submissions will be accepted through the online consultation form made available on the Department’s website and will be open from 23 July to 19 September.

    Notes for Editor

    Background

    The Employment Permits System

    The Irish State’s general policy is to promote the sourcing of labour and skills needs from within the workforce of Ireland, the European Union and other EEA states. Policy in relation to applications for employment permits remains focused on facilitating the recruitment from outside the EEA of highly skilled personnel, where the requisite skills cannot be met by normal recruitment or by training.  Employment permit policy is part of the response to addressing skills deficits which exist and are likely to continue into the medium term, but it is not intended over the longer term to act as a substitute for meeting the challenge of up-skilling the State’s resident workforce, with an emphasis on the process of lifelong learning, and on maximising the potential of EEA nationals to fill our skills deficits.

    The Occupations Lists

    The Employment Permits system is designed to attract highly skilled workers from outside the EEA to Ireland, to meet skills demand in the economy where those skills can’t be accessed through the resident labour force.  For the purposes of the employment permits system, occupations fall into three categories:

    • Occupations listed on the Critical Skills Occupations List are highly skilled professional roles that are in high demand and are not always available in the resident labour force.  Occupations on this list are eligible for a Critical Skills Employment Permit (CSEP) and include roles such as medicine, ICT, sciences, finance and business.  Special “fast-track” conditions attach to this permit type including the eligibility to apply to the Department of Justice for family members to accompany the permit holder immediately; and after two years may apply to the Department of Justice for permission to work without the requirement for an employment permit. 
    • Ineligible occupations are those with evidence suggesting there are sufficient Irish/EEA workers to fill such vacancies. Employment permits are not granted for these occupations.
    • Every other job in the labour market, where an employer cannot find a worker, is eligible for an employment permit.  For General Employment Permits, Seasonal Employment Permits and Contract for Services Employment Permits the employer is required to undertake a Labour Market Needs Test. If no-one suitable applies for the job, the employer is free to apply for an employment permit. Occupations such as these may be skills of a more general nature and are typically eligible for a General Employment Permit (GEP).  This permit type is renewable and after five years the applicant may apply to the Department of Justice for long term residency permission.  

    The Critical Skills and Ineligible Occupations Lists Review

    It is vital that the employment permits scheme is responsive to changes in economic circumstances and labour market conditions. Therefore, it is necessary to review the Critical Skills and Ineligible Occupations Lists periodically, in accordance with the changing needs of the labour market. 

    The review process utilises research undertaken by the Expert Group on Future Skills Needs (EGFSN) and other experts in the labour market, including the Skills and Labour Market Research Unit (SLMRU) at SOLAS. The Department also invites submissions from industry representatives, other Government Departments and any other stakeholders who might have a case to make, via a periodic open consultation on the Department’s website. The Department also seeks the observations of the Inter-Departmental Group which oversees the review process.

    An occupation may be considered for inclusion on the critical skills occupation list or removal from the ineligible lists provided that:

    • shortage exists across the occupation, despite attempts by industry to train and there are no suitable Irish/EEA nationals available to undertake the work;
    • development opportunities for Irish/EEA nationals are not undermined;
    • genuine skills shortage exists and that it is not a recruitment or retention problem; and
    • the Government education, training, employment and economic development policies are supported.

    Submission process

    As part of this review process, submissions are sought from employers, representative bodies, Government Departments, Agencies, and other interested parties relating to occupations currently included on or absent from the lists.

    The submission process is an opportunity for stakeholders to provide additional information and potentially different perspectives on the nature and extent of skill shortages.  Stakeholder submissions are a vital source of information, helping inform the Department’s final assessment of the status of occupations. 

    ENDS

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    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Cutting-edge personalised treatments, made while you wait, will deliver specialised care to patients more quickly

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    Cutting-edge personalised treatments, made while you wait, will deliver specialised care to patients more quickly

    New regulations effective today will make it faster and easier for cutting-edge cancer treatments and personalised gene therapies to be made right where patients are treated.

    Patients will receive faster access to life-saving, personalised treatments made at their hospital, clinic or near their homes instead of waiting weeks for therapies manufactured hundreds of miles away, under new UK legislation that comes into force today (23 July).

    This world first regulations, introduced by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA), allows breakthrough personalised medicines to be prepared in small or individual batches – bringing care closer to the patient.

    A cancer patient could now have their immune cells collected, modified to fight their specific cancer, and returned within days rather than months. A child with a rare genetic disorder could receive a freshly prepared therapy with only minutes of shelf life, made and given on the spot.

    The change will cut waiting times where every hour counts, help free up NHS beds, and improve access to innovative therapies that were previously out of reach.

    Health and Social Care Secretary Wes Streeting said:

    “This world-first legislation is a game-changer for patients. Cancer treatments tailored in days, not months. Life-saving therapies made at your bedside, not hundreds of miles away.

    “Our Plan for Change promised to build an NHS fit for the future. Today we’re delivering on that pledge by bringing cutting-edge care directly to patients when they need it most.

    “We are turning around our NHS with waiting lists at their lowest for two years – this type of therapy means patients can be treated and return home more quickly.”

    Science Minister Lord Vallance said:

    “This world-first framework gives the NHS and innovators a clear, safe way to bring advanced treatments from the lab to the patient’s bedside. It’s a powerful example of how smart regulation can help more patients benefit from the best of British science.

    “We’re determined to clear the path for more health innovation of this sort. Our recently-published Life Sciences Sector Plan sets out our clear vision to do just that – with a view to unlocking growth, investment, and delivering a stronger, prevention-focused healthcare system.”

    MHRA Chief Executive Lawrence Tallon said:

    “Patients will now receive highly personalised treatments more quickly and nearer to their bedside, with the same rigorous standards as all medicines.

    “This is especially important where every hour matters, or where a treatment is so specific it simply can’t be made in advance.

    “It’s a landmark moment that opens the door to a future where highly personalised treatment – made for one person, in one place, at one time – becomes part of routine care.

    “The UK is leading the world in this next generation of medical innovation, and as the UK regulator for medicines and medical devices, we’re determined to play our role in providing the supportive regulatory framework to help our health partners and medicines innovators bring can bring these new treatments to patients.”

    From months to days

    Until now, personalised treatments such as CAR-T cancer therapy had to be sent to specialised manufacturing facilities often far away, causing long delays. In some cases, patients became too unwell to receive the therapy in time, or the medicine’s short shelf life meant it couldn’t be delivered at all.

    Hospitals were only able to offer these treatments through complicated, one-off arrangements, creating uncertainty for patients and doctors about whether treatment could go ahead.

    From today, hospitals, ambulances and local care settings in the UK have a pathway to carry out the final manufacturing steps for these personalised or time-sensitive treatments on-site, using clear, regulated protocols. This mirrors how chemotherapy or antibiotics are prepared locally, but with the same strict safeguards for more advanced therapies. A central control site will provide detailed instructions and oversight, while hospitals complete the process closer to the patient.

    Supporting care closer to home

    The legislation also supports the use of mobile manufacturing units – offering a safer alternative for patients too unwell to travel, or whose weakened immune systems mean hospital visits carry extra risk.

    This change enables care to be delivered where it’s most appropriate, including community settings or even at home, supporting the NHS ambition, as set out in the 10 Year Health Plan for England, to expand ‘hospital at home’ models such as virtual wards.

    Backed by law – and leading the world

    The legislation, known as The Human Medicines (Amendment) (Modular Manufacture and Point of Care) Regulations 2025, makes the UK the first country in the world to introduce a dedicated legal framework for medicines made at the point of care.

    Following strong support during the public consultation, the framework covers a broad range of innovative products, including cell and gene therapies, tissue-engineered treatments, 3D printed products, blood products, and medicinal gases.

    To support implementation, the MHRA published detailed guidance earlier this year and has worked closely with other UK regulators, the NHS, industry, academics and healthcare professionals to ensure clarity around how the legislation applies in practice. Today, the MHRA has added information on how to apply for a decentralised manufacture designation. Companies can also access MHRA scientific advice at any stage of development.

    The move strengthens the UK’s leadership in safe, decentralised manufacturing and is expected to boost research, trials and patient access to cutting-edge treatments. The MHRA is also working internationally to support similar changes in other countries, recently being centrally involved in the first global workshop on point-of-care manufacturing, through the International Coalition of Medicines Regulatory Authorities (ICMRA).

    Cell and Gene Therapy Catapult Chief Executive Matthew Durdy said:

    “This change demonstrates how the MHRA is leading in the UK’s commitment to being at the forefront of modern healthcare, innovation and regulation. The MHRA has recognised that some practices are better with more flexibility, and that in a technology enabled world which allows better training, information and communication, flexibility can be enabled without compromising safety.

    “This is not just a step forward for innovative medicines such as cell and gene therapies, it is a step towards enabling truly personalised medicine. We applaud this change introduced by the MHRA and look forward to a future where more patients can receive therapeutics tailored to their needs, quickly, cost-effectively and sustainably.”

    NHS England National Director for Specialised Commissioning John Stewart said:

    “The NHS in England was the first health system in Europe to adopt personalised cancer medicines and has since built a strong track record as an early leader in the use of potentially curative gene therapies.

    “The advanced treatments of today, will become the everyday healthcare of tomorrow, and forward-thinking regulatory changes like this will help enable the NHS to evolve patient care to deliver complex treatments to more people, in more places.”  

    Notes to editors 

    1. The regulations will take effect across the UK from 23 July 2025. For more information, visit The Human Medicines (Amendment) (Modular Manufacture and Point of Care) Regulations 2025
    2. Supporting guidance and updates can be accessed at Decentralised manufacture hub – GOV.UK
    3. Products manufactured at the point of care are eligible for support through the MHRA ILAP pathway, which is in place to accelerate time to market and facilitate patient access.
    4. Government response to consultation on proposals to support the regulation of medicines manufactured at the Point of Care – GOV.UK
    5. The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) is responsible for regulating all medicines and medical devices in the UK by ensuring they work and are acceptably safe. All our work is underpinned by robust and fact-based judgements to ensure that the benefits justify any risks. 
    6. The MHRA is an executive agency of the Department of Health and Social Care. 
    7. For media enquiries, please contact the newscentre@mhra.gov.uk, or call on 020 3080 7651.

    Updates to this page

    Published 23 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tuberville, Cruz Introduce Bill Targeting Funders of Violent Interstate Protests

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Tommy Tuberville (Alabama)

    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) joined U.S. Senator Ted Cruz (R-TX) in introducing the Stop Financial Underwriting of Nefarious Demonstrations and Extremist Riots (Stop FUNDERs) Act. The legislation would add rioting to the list of Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO) predicate offenses, giving the U.S. Department of Justice authority to use the full suite of RICO tools against entities who fund or coordinate violent interstate riots, such as the ones recently seen in Los Angeles, California.

    “77 million Americans voted for President Trump and his America First policy agenda – and that includes arresting and deporting illegal aliens,” said Senator Tuberville.“Democrats don’t like that – so they are rioting in the streets and violently attacking law enforcement officers. This cannot stand. My colleagues and I are introducing a bill to make sure the Department of Justice has the tools it needs to go after anti-American terrorist groups and their funders who are protecting illegal rapists, murderers, and criminals. We have to cut these violent riots off at the source. The adults are back in charge, and law and order will prevail.”

    “Every American has the right to freedom of speech and peaceful protest, but not to commit violence,” said Senator Cruz.“Domestic NGOs and foreign adversaries fund and use riots in the United States to undermine the security and prosperity of Americans. My legislation will give the Department of Justice the tools it needs to hold them accountable, and I urge colleagues to pass it expeditiously.”

    U.S. Senators Bill Hagerty (R-TN), Mike Lee (R-UT), Thom Tillis (R-NC), John Cornyn (R-TX), and Josh Hawley (R-MO) also joined the legislation. U.S. Representative Beth Van Duyne (R-TX-24) introduced companion legislation in the U.S. House of Representatives.

    This bill is supported by Heritage Action and National Right to Work Committee.

    Senator Tommy Tuberville represents Alabama in the United States Senate and is a member of the Senate Armed Services, Agriculture, Veterans’ Affairs, HELP and Aging Committees.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Springfield Man Sentenced to 25 Years for Methamphetamine Trafficking, Illegal Firearms

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – A Springfield, Mo., man was sentenced in federal court today for his role in a conspiracy to distribute large amounts of methamphetamine in Greene County, Mo., and possessing firearms.

    Russell Lee Deck, Jr., 47, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Brian C. Wimes to a total sentence of 25 years in federal prison without parole, followed by three years of supervised release.

    On Nov. 8, 2024, Deck pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and one count of possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. Deck admitted he participated in a conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine in Greene County from June 1 to Aug. 25, 2022, and to possessing firearms.

    The drug trafficking conspiracy ended when a Springfield police officer attempted to conduct a traffic stop on Deck on Aug. 18, 2022. When the officer pulled behind Deck’s vehicle in a hotel parking lot and activated his lights, Deck put the car in reverse and rammed the officer’s vehicle. The officer got out of his vehicle, pulled his duty weapon, and ordered the vehicle’s occupants to stop. Instead, Deck drove forward, then put his vehicle in reverse and rammed the officer’s vehicle again before fleeing the parking lot.

    A police pursuit ensued, with Deck driving at a high rate of speed in a residential neighborhood, while Deck’s passenger shot at the officer’s vehicle. The pursuit ended when Deck crashed into a Jeep SUV at an intersection. While the Jeep suffered significant damage, the innocent driver appeared to be unharmed. Deck’s passenger fled the crash on foot and was arrested after Greene County deputies found the passenger hiding under a car. Shell casings and damage from gunfire were located throughout the neighborhood.

    Officers removed Deck from the wrecked vehicle and found two bags containing a total of 46.2 grams of methamphetamine in Deck’s pockets. Inside Deck’s vehicle, officers found two handguns on the front passenger side floorboard.

    Deck’s passenger who fired the shots during the pursuit, Blake Basten, was sentenced in federal court to a total sentence of 10 years for two counts of felon in possession of a firearm on Feb. 27, 2024.

    Deck’s co-defendant in the drug trafficking conspiracy, Justin Hollingsworth, was sentenced to a total sentence of 18 years for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime on June 24, 2024.

    This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephanie Wan. It was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Springfield, Mo., Police Department.

    Project Safe Neighborhoods

    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 Security: Springfield Man Sentenced to 25 Years for Methamphetamine Trafficking, Illegal Firearms

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – A Springfield, Mo., man was sentenced in federal court today for his role in a conspiracy to distribute large amounts of methamphetamine in Greene County, Mo., and possessing firearms.

    Russell Lee Deck, Jr., 47, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Brian C. Wimes to a total sentence of 25 years in federal prison without parole, followed by three years of supervised release.

    On Nov. 8, 2024, Deck pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and one count of possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. Deck admitted he participated in a conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine in Greene County from June 1 to Aug. 25, 2022, and to possessing firearms.

    The drug trafficking conspiracy ended when a Springfield police officer attempted to conduct a traffic stop on Deck on Aug. 18, 2022. When the officer pulled behind Deck’s vehicle in a hotel parking lot and activated his lights, Deck put the car in reverse and rammed the officer’s vehicle. The officer got out of his vehicle, pulled his duty weapon, and ordered the vehicle’s occupants to stop. Instead, Deck drove forward, then put his vehicle in reverse and rammed the officer’s vehicle again before fleeing the parking lot.

    A police pursuit ensued, with Deck driving at a high rate of speed in a residential neighborhood, while Deck’s passenger shot at the officer’s vehicle. The pursuit ended when Deck crashed into a Jeep SUV at an intersection. While the Jeep suffered significant damage, the innocent driver appeared to be unharmed. Deck’s passenger fled the crash on foot and was arrested after Greene County deputies found the passenger hiding under a car. Shell casings and damage from gunfire were located throughout the neighborhood.

    Officers removed Deck from the wrecked vehicle and found two bags containing a total of 46.2 grams of methamphetamine in Deck’s pockets. Inside Deck’s vehicle, officers found two handguns on the front passenger side floorboard.

    Deck’s passenger who fired the shots during the pursuit, Blake Basten, was sentenced in federal court to a total sentence of 10 years for two counts of felon in possession of a firearm on Feb. 27, 2024.

    Deck’s co-defendant in the drug trafficking conspiracy, Justin Hollingsworth, was sentenced to a total sentence of 18 years for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime on June 24, 2024.

    This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephanie Wan. It was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Springfield, Mo., Police Department.

    Project Safe Neighborhoods

    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 Security: Springfield Man Indicted for Assaulting Postal Worker

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – A Springfield, Mo., man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for assaulting a postal worker.

    Courtney J. Ellis, 45, was charged today in a one count indictment with assaulting an employee of the U.S. Postal Service while they were performing their official duties. Today’s indictment replaces a felony criminal complaint filed June 23, 2025.

    According to an affidavit filed in support of the original complaint, on June 18, 2025, Ellis struck the victim on the head with a wooden board while he was delivering mail to Ellis’s address. The victim, who was delivering mail along that route for the first time, was wearing a USPS uniform and driving a marked USPS delivery vehicle. After striking the victim, Ellis yelled that he didn’t belong in the neighborhood and followed him back to his vehicle where he continued to yell at and threaten the victim until he drove away.

    The charges contained in this indictment are simply accusations, and not evidence of guilt. Evidence supporting the charges must be presented to a federal trial jury, whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence.

    This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Randall D. Eggert. It was investigated by the United States Postal Inspection Service and the Springfield, Mo., Police Department.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Bridgeport Man Sentenced to 8 Years in Prison for Drug and Firearm Offenses

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that ERIC HERMAN, 32, of Bridgeport, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Victor A. Bolden in New Haven to 96 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for drug distribution and firearm possession offenses.

    According to court documents and statements made in court, following two fatal overdoses involving fentanyl in 2021, both of which are believed to be connected to Herman, the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Bridgeport High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) Task Force and Stratford Police Department began investigating Herman’s drug trafficking activities.  In May and June 2022, investigators made two controlled purchases of fentanyl, heroin, and crack cocaine from Herman.

    Herman was arrested on September 15, 2022.  At the time of his arrest, he possessed a distribution quantity of cocaine, a loaded 9mm “ghost gun” with a laser sight attached, and additional rounds of ammunition.

    Herman’s criminal history includes state felony convictions for drug and firearm offenses.  It is a violation of federal law for a person previously convicted of a felony offense to possess a firearm or ammunition that has moved in interstate or foreign commerce.

    Herman has been detained since his arrest.  On March 24, 2025, he pleaded guilty to two counts of possession with intent to distribute, and distribution of, cocaine base (“crack”), fentanyl, and heroin; one count of possession with intent to distribute cocaine; and one count of unlawful possession of ammunition by a felon.

    Herman pleaded guilty in state court to narcotics and manslaughter charges stemming from an overdose death investigation and was sentenced to 20 years of imprisonment, suspended after eight years, and five years of probation.  Judge Bolden ordered Herman’s federal sentence to run concurrently with his state sentence.

    The DEA’s HIDTA Task Force includes personnel from the DEA Bridgeport Resident Office, the Connecticut State Police, and the Bridgeport, Danbury, Norwalk, Stamford, and Stratford Police Departments.  This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Karen L. Peck.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Special Police Officer Pleads Guilty to Violating an Arrestee’s Rights

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

                WASHINGTON – Brigette O. Robertson of Washington, D.C. pled guilty today to violating the constitutional rights of a detained citizen by stomping on her face in June 2023, announced U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro.

                Joining in the announcement was FBI Assistant Director in Charge Steven J. Jensen of the Washington Field Office.

                U.S. District Judge Dabney L. Friedrich took Robertson’s guilty plea and scheduled sentencing for Oct. 21, 2025.  For the offense to which she pled guilty – a misdemeanor count of violating constitutional rights – the defendant faces a potential penalty of up to one year in prison and a fine of up to $100,000.

                According to court documents, on June 24, 2023, Robertson was employed by Specific Protection Services, LLC., as a Special Police Officer (SPO). She was licensed in the District of Columbia to act and to carry out law enforcement actions as a SPO. That day, while in full uniform and vested with police powers, Robertson was assigned to and providing security services at a McDonald’s restaurant on the 3900 block of Minnesota Avenue, NE.

                At about 3:30 p.m., Robertson got into a verbal altercation with a patron at the restaurant.  The altercation escalated into a physical confrontation. Metropolitan Police Department officers responded to the scene.  After the patron was under the control of an MPD officer, the patron remained prone on the ground.  Robertson stepped over the patron and, while doing so, stomped on the patron’s face. The stomp to the face caused the patron to experience pain and bleeding. The stomp was without legal justification and in violation of the individual’s constitutional rights.

    Use-of-force investigations generally

                The U.S. Attorney’s Office reviews police-involved use of force to determine whether sufficient evidence exists to conclude that any officers violated either federal criminal civil rights laws or District of Columbia law. To prove civil rights violations, prosecutors must typically be able to prove that the involved officers willfully used more force than was reasonably necessary.  Proving “willfulness” is a heavy burden. Prosecutors must not only prove that the force used was excessive, but must also prove, beyond a reasonable doubt, that the officer acted with the deliberate and specific intent to do something the law forbids. 

                The U.S. Attorney’s Office remains committed to investigating allegations of excessive force by law enforcement officers and will continue to devote the resources necessary to ensure that all allegations of serious civil rights violations are investigated fully and completely.

                The FBI Washington Field Office and the Metropolitan Police Department Internal Affairs Division investigated the case. Prosecuting the case is Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael Truscott for the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia’s Fraud, Public Corruption, and Civil Rights Section.

    25cr167

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Joplin Man Indicted for Felon in Possession of Firearm

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – A Joplin, Mo., man has been indicted by a federal grand jury in connection with his possession of a firearm recovered following a shooting in Joplin, Mo.

    Andrew M. Reed, 22, was charged in a single count indictment with being a felon possession of a firearm. Today’s indictment replaces a federal criminal complaint filed on July 2, 2025.

    According to an affidavit filed in support of the original complaint, police officers responded to the area of 5th and Joplin Avenue in Joplin, Mo., on Feb. 15, 2025, in reference to gunshots, and recovered several spent cartridge casings in the area. Officers recovered a firearm with a thirty-round extended magazine loaded with ammunition consistent with the spent shell casings. Surveillance footage from a nearby business showed a male, later identified as Reed, hiding the firearm.

    Reed has prior felony convictions and is prohibited from possessing firearms. Under federal law, it is illegal for anyone who has been convicted of a felony to be in possession of any firearm or ammunition.

    The charges contained in this indictment are simply accusations, and not evidence of guilt. Evidence supporting the charges must be presented to a federal trial jury, whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence.

    This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Anthony M. Brown It was investigated by the United States Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and the Joplin, Mo., Police Department.

    Operation Take Back America

    This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Zuni Man Charged in Unprovoked Stabbing That Left Victim Seriously Injured

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    ALBUQUERQUE – A Zuni man has been charged in federal court for allegedly stabbing another man without provocation, causing serious injuries.

    According to court documents, on the night of June 16, 2025, Adrian Cheama, 36, an enrolled member of the Zuni Pueblo, allegedly approached the victim while he was walking with a friend along a residential street in Zuni, New Mexico. Without provocation, Cheama stabbed the victim in the abdomen with a weapon described as either a circular metal pole or a knife, then walked away laughing. The victim sustained serious injuries as a result.

    Multiple witnesses placed Cheama at the scene and described him carrying a backpack and a baton-like object before and during the attack. The investigation revealed that Cheama had previously made statements suggesting he was looking for the victim.

    Cheama is charged with assault resulting in serious bodily injury and assault with a dangerous weapon. He will remain in custody pending trial, which has not yet been scheduled. If convicted of the current charges, Cheama faces up to 10 years in prison.

    U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Philip Russell, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.

    The Gallup Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Zuni Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron Jordan is prosecuting the case.

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: ‘We knocked her out with some gummies:’ trafficker sent to prison for conspiring to smuggle toddler from Mexico

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    LAREDO, Texas – A 23-year-old Laredo woman has been ordered to prison for her role in an unaccompanied minor smuggling ring, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.

    Vanessa Valadez pleaded guilty Sept. 20, 2024, admitting she smuggled a child into the United States for financial gain.

    U.S. District Judge Keith P. Ellison has now ordered her to serve 18 months in federal prison to be immediately followed by three years of supervised release.

    “Those that choose to engage in the human trafficking business are not good people. They aren’t motivated by altruism or sympathy. They are paid to traffic in human beings, and they treat people they smuggle as nothing more than cargo,” said Ganjei. “The Southern District of Texas will not rest until all such smuggling rings—particularly those that deal in children—are completely eradicated.”

    “The sentencing of this individual underscores the serious consequences for those who exploit and endanger vulnerable populations, especially children,” said Immigration and Customs Enforcement – Homeland Security Investigations (ICE-HSI) San Antonio Special Agent in Charge Craig S. Larrabee. “Drugging children to facilitate human smuggling is not only criminal it’s inhumane. HSI is committed to identifying and dismantling the criminal networks behind these horrific acts and ensuring those responsible are brought to justice.”

    From August to September 2023, Valadez and other family members operated a child smuggling ring working to bring young illegal minors from Nuevo Laredo, Mexico, into the United States. All the children were under the age of five. 

    On the night of Sept. 19, 2023, members of the smuggling ring retrieved a young girl from a stash house which the organization members operated. The co-conspirators smuggled the girl across the border and delivered her to Valadez in downtown Laredo. Co-conspirators then took the child further into the United States and delivered her to unknown people.

    Two days later, the ring attempted to transport another young girl. However, law enforcement intercepted them following a routine border inspection at the Juarez Lincoln Bridge in Laredo. To carry out their scheme, co-conspirators had sedated the girl with melatonin gummies and used an unlawfully obtained birth certificate to deceive authorities into believing the girl was a family member. 

    The investigation revealed the smuggling ring had attempted to similarly transport at least four girls into the United States, three of whom remain unidentified and their whereabouts are unknown. Members of the smuggling ring obtained birth certificates of U.S. citizen children to pose as a family unit at ports of entry to the United States. At times, organization members used melatonin gummies to sedate at least one child to ensure a successful smuggling attempt. 

    One text message uncovered in the investigation showed an image depicting an unconscious child and a caption, “La noquiamos con unas gomitas,” translated in English as “we knocked her out with some gummies.”

    Co-conspirators Ana Laura Bryand, 47, Dallas; her niece Kayla Marie Bryand, 20, Jose Eduardo Bryand, 43, and Nancy Guadalupe Bryand, 44, all of Laredo; and Lizeth Esmeralda Bryand Arredondo, 32, Mexico, previously pleaded guilty and have all already been sentenced to federal prison.

    ICE-HSI conducted the investigation with Customs and Border Protection’s Office of Field Operations and assistance from Border Patrol, Laredo Police Department, Department of Health and Human Services – Office of the Inspector General and FBI. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael Makens and former Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Terence A. Check Jr. prosecuted the case. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Felon Indicted for Illegal Possession of a Firearm Following Arrest in Northwest D.C.

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Defendant Charged as Part of Make D.C. Safe and Beautiful Initiative

               WASHINGTON – David Oday Smith, 39, of the District of Columbia, has been charged in an indictment, unsealed today in U.S. District Court, on a federal firearms charge as part of the “Make D.C. Safe and Beautiful” initiative. 

               The indictment was announced by U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro, Special Agent in Charge Anthony Spotswood of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), and Chief Pamela Smith of the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD).

               Smith is charged federally with one count of unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition by a felon.

               According to court documents, on July 14, 2025, members of the MPD’s Fourth District Crime Suppression Team were on patrol on the 5700 block of Georgia Avenue Northwest, when they noticed Smith hiding behind a bus stop with a black satchel.

               As officers approached, Smith immediately fled and eventually discarded his black satchel. Officers searched the satchel and discovered a Glock 27 .40 caliber pistol, containing one .40 caliber round loaded in the chamber and 14 additional rounds in the magazine.

               Smith is prohibited from possession of a firearm and ammunition due to multiple prior felony convictions, including a 2009 second degree murder conviction in Prince George’s County, Maryland.

               This case is being prosecuted under the Make D.C. Safe and Beautiful initiative. Make D.C. Safe Again is a law enforcement initiative in support of President Trump’s Executive Order to Make D.C. Safe and Beautiful. Make D.C. Safe Again aims to crack down on gun violence, prioritize federal firearms violations, pursue tougher penalties for offenses, and seek detention for federal firearms violators.

               The case is being investigated by the ATF Washington Field Office and the Metropolitan Police Department. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney David B. Liss is prosecuting the case.

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

    25cr207

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Local man gets over 10 years after picking up and delivering “aparatos”

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    LAREDO, Texas – A 25-year-old Laredo resident has been sentenced for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.

    Fernando Tadeo Cerda, 25, pleaded guilty July 19, 2023.

    U.S. District Judge Keith P. Ellison has now ordered Cerda to serve 120 months in federal prison to be immediately followed by five years of supervised release for the drug trafficking conviction. At the hearing, the court considered Cerda was subject to a mandatory 10 years in prison due to being previously convicted of smuggling aliens. 

    Cerda had also admitted he violated his term of supervised release and received another nine months to be served consecutively for a total 129-month-term of imprisonment.  

    The investigation revealed Cerda had conspired with his uncle, Jesus Garza, to coordinate delivery of large amounts of cocaine. 

    On Nov. 27, 2020, Cerda met with Garza and provided him a duffle bag containing the drugs. As Garza departed the location in Laredo, law enforcement conducted a traffic stop and discovered the bag with five bricks which contained over 5,000 grams of cocaine.

    Cerda later admitted Garza had instructed him to pick up and deliver “aparatos” (kilograms of cocaine). He further stated he made a total of four deliveries and was paid $1,000.

    He will remain in custody pending transfer to a Federal Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.

    Garza, 63, Laredo, had also pleaded guilty and later sentenced to 48 months in prison. 

    Drug Enforcement Administration and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found on the Department of Justice’s OCDETF webpage. 

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Brandon Scott Bowling prosecuted the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: 11 Venezuelan Nationals and One Columbian National Indicted for Financial Fraud in the District of Utah

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    SALT LAKE CITY, Utah – An indictment was unsealed today charging a dozen foreign nationals of bank fraud and engaging in transactions involving criminally derived property. The defendants were indicted by a federal grand jury in April 2025 at the U.S. District Court in Salt Lake City. Eleven Venezuelan nationals and one Colombian national are accused of committing financial fraud crimes after they allegedly participated in a scheme to defraud banks in Utah and elsewhere.

    According to court documents, between January 2023 and June 2023, the defendants were involved in a scheme to defraud financial institutions by opening accounts and presenting fraudulent cashier’s checks to be deposited to those accounts. In some instances, defendants deposited multiple counterfeit checks at different branches on the same day. Defendants then laundered the funds by check, cashier’s check, and cash withdrawal.

    Defendants are residents of Salt Lake County:

    1.    Gilberto Emiro Andrade-Romero, 36, of Venezuela
    2.    Felipe Enrique Linares-Lobo aka Carlos M. Hidalgo Noguera, 32, of Venezuela
    3.    Alexis Jose Calixto-Bracho, 25, of Venezuela
    4.    Daniel Jose Fuenmayor-leal, aka Enais Inciarte-Urdaneta, 34, of Venezuela
    5.    Yeritza Astrid Cuello-Plata, 40, of Venezuela
    6.    Federico Javier Gutierrez-Pirela, 36, of Venezuela
    7.    Hendry Ricardo Martinez-Concho, 42, of Venezuela
    8.    Cristina Paola Nava-Yoris, 24, of Venezuela
    9.    Patricia Del Carmen Orozco-Cuello, 37, of Colombia
    10.    Ismael Norberto Rodriguez-Moreno, 47, of Venezuela
    11.    Jorge Luis Urribarri-Vento, 32, of Venezuela
    12.    Rayner Jose Delgado-Quiroz, 24, of Venezuela

    Acting United States Attorney Felice John Viti for the District of Utah made the announcement.

    The case is being investigated by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and a HSI Task Force Officer with the Salt Lake City Police Department.

    Assistant United States Attorneys Brent L. Andrus and Carl D. Lesueur of the District of Utah are prosecuting the case.

    This is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) and Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN).

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Statement by Rep. Dan Goldman on DOJ’s Announcement That It Would Meet With Ghislaine Maxwell

    Source: US Congressman Dan Goldman (NY-10)

    “In a further effort to conceal the Epstein Files to protect President Trump, the Department of Justice is yet again using the criminal justice system for political purposes by belatedly and improperly seeking cooperation from Ghislaine Maxwell, who is serving a 20-year sentence on convictions for conspiring with Jeffrey Epstein to sexually abuse minors. 

    “As Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche well knows from his lengthy tenure as a prosecutor and supervisor in the Southern District of New York, this is almost certainly not the first time the DOJ has inquired about cooperation from Ghislaine Maxwell, who, as a matter of course, would have been offered the opportunity to reduce her sentence in return for truthful and forthright information about Epstein and all others involved in the scheme.  

    “DAG Blanche is now doing an end-run around the SDNY and its institutional policies by acting as a political agent of President Trump to forestall the release of the full Epstein files by tacitly floating a pardon for Maxwell in return for information that politically benefits President Trump. 

    “Maxwell’s information is only as credible as any corroboration found in the Epstein files, including recordings, witness interviews, electronic communications, and photographs and videos. Neither the grand jury testimony nor Maxwell’s compromised information will expose the full extent of the conspiracy, including all those who may be included in the files.   

    “Do not be fooled: this latest delay tactic is yet another effort to conceal the Epstein files. Full transparency will only occur when DOJ releases the full and complete Epstein files, as they promised.”     

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New operational partnership with delivery giants to combat illegal working

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    New operational partnership with delivery giants to combat illegal working

    New agreement between Home Office and top food delivery firms will help stop illegal working in the delivery sector

    More delivery riders caught sharing their accounts with migrants who have no right to work in the UK will be suspended, as part of the government’s UK-wide crackdown on illegal working under the Plan for Change.

    A new agreement between the Home Office and Deliveroo, Just Eat and Uber Eats will ensure delivery firms receive new information concerning the locations of asylum hotels to help tackle illegal working.

    Under existing security measures, any delivery riders caught sharing their accounts with migrants who have no right to work in the UK will be suspended. This new agreement goes further to ensure more people who are breaking the rules can be caught.  

    Efforts by the companies to crack down on illegal account sharing through real-time identity and Right to Work checks have been successful and have led to thousands being offboarded from platforms. Despite this, there continues to be abuse in the system. Under the new agreement, the firms will be empowered to go further in detecting patterns of misuse, identify unauthorised account sharing and quickly suspend accounts.

    The move comes after a commitment made by the firms during a roundtable last month, chaired by Ministers, to implement new security measures. This includes increased facial verification checks and fraud detection tools meaning only verified users can access their platforms. The Home Office will continue to collaborate closely with the three companies, with meetings taking place in the coming weeks to update on progress and delivery.

    Today’s announcement is part of the government’s work to step up enforcement across the UK targeting illegal working hotspots, with a focus on the gig economy and migrants working illegally as delivery riders. It forms a key part of a whole system approach to tackle illegal migration from every angle, by ending the false promise of jobs used by smuggling gangs to sell spaces on small boats.

    Home Secretary Yvette Cooper, said:

    Illegal working undermines honest business, exploits vulnerable individuals and fuels organised immigration crime.

    By enhancing our data sharing with delivery companies, we are taking decisive action to close loopholes and increase enforcement.

    The changes come alongside a 50% increase in raids and arrests for illegal working under the Plan for Change, greater security measures and tough new legislation.

    Eddy Montgomery, Director of Enforcement, Compliance and Crime at the Home Office, said:

    This next step of co-ordinated working with delivery firms will help us target those who seek to work illegally in the gig economy and exploit their status in the UK.

    My teams will continue to carry out increased enforcement activity across the UK and I welcome this additional tool to disrupt and stop the abuse of our immigration system.

    A Deliveroo spokesperson said:

    Deliveroo has led the sector in introducing security measures to prevent the abuse of our platform and tackle the sophisticated criminals seeking new ways to exploit all delivery platforms’ systems. We are fully committed to working with the government as we continue to collectively combat illegal working.

    A Just Eat spokesperson said:

    Just Eat is committed to tackling any illegal working via our platform. We continue to invest significant resources to strengthen our systems against abuse by individuals and organised criminal groups seeking to evade right to work rules. We are working closely with the Home Office and our industry partners to address any loopholes in the industry’s checks, as well as collaborating on data sharing and enforcement.

    An Uber Eats spokesperson said:

    Uber Eats is fully committed to tackling illegal work and will continue to work with the Home Office and industry. We have introduced a range of state of the art detection tools to find and remove fraudulent accounts. We are constantly reviewing our tools and finding new ways to detect and take action on people who are trying to work illegally.

    Since the government came into power one year ago, there have been more than 10,000 illegal working visits across multiple sectors, leading to 7,130 arrests, up around 50% compared to the year before. This marks the first time in a 12-month period where more than 10,000 visits have taken place.

    Almost 750 illegal working civil penalty notices were also handed to businesses caught violating immigration rules in the first quarter of the year, marking the highest level since 2016 – and an 80% increase compared to the same time last year. 

    The government is tightening the law by making it a legal requirement for all companies, including the gig economy, to check that anyone working for them has the legal right to do so. This will end the abuse of flexible working arrangements. The new measures will be introduced through the landmark Border Security, Asylum and Immigration Bill.

    The fight against illegal working forms just one part of government’s work to bolster border security across the system.

    Since coming into power one year ago, the government has returned 35,000 people with no right to be in the UK including failed asylum seekers, immigration and foreign national offenders. There are now fewer asylum hotels open than since the election, saving millions of taxpayers’ money.

    This is on top of a new groundbreaking deal with the French which will mean that, for the very first time, illegal migrants will be sent back to France. This targets the heart of the criminal smuggling gangs’ business model and sends a clear message that these life-threatening journeys are pointless and a waste of thousands of pounds. 

    The deal seeks to detain and return migrants who arrive via small boat, and an equal number of migrants will be able to come to the UK from France through a new legal route – fully documented and subject to strict security checks.

    Updates to this page

    Published 22 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Luján Secures Nearly $190 Million in Federal Investments for New Mexico in Committee-Passed Appropriations Bills

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-New Mexico)

    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) announced funding secured for New Mexico communities through the Appropriations Committee’s bipartisan passage of the Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies (MilCon-VA) Appropriations Bill and Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies (CJS) Appropriations Bill.

    From both appropriations bills, Senator Luján secured $189,820,000 for key local projects that will strengthen our national security, boost violence intervention programs, and equip law enforcement with the resources needed to keep New Mexico communities safe.  

    “Across New Mexico, these vital investments will deliver resources to enhance public safety in our communities and upgrade infrastructure at our military bases to boost our military’s readiness and safety,” said Senator Luján. “This funding will equip our brave law enforcement officers with the tools they need to protect New Mexicans, support programs aimed at reducing youth violence and violence in Tribal communities, and reinforce critical infrastructure at our military bases. I’m proud to have fought to secure these investments for our communities, and I’ll continue working to deliver the federal support our families and communities need and deserve.”

    The Committee process is the first step, and the appropriations bills will next be considered by the full U.S. Senate.

    Senator Luján Secured Nearly $190 Million for the Following Local Projects:

    Strengthening New Mexico’s Air Force Bases:

    • $90,000,000 for Cannon Air Force Base to construct a 192-bed dormitory. Secured by Senator Luján and Senator Heinrich.
    • $83,000,000 for Kirtland Air Force Base to construct a Space Rapid Capabilities Office. Secured by Senator Luján and Senator Heinrich.
    • $8,100,000 for infrastructure upgrades at Cannon Air Force Base, specifically for ADAL Security Forces Facility. Secured by Senator Luján and Senator Heinrich.
    • $2,000,000 for infrastructure upgrades at Kirtland Air Force Base, specifically for the design for the Wyoming Gate Project. Secured by Senator Luján and Senator Heinrich.
    • $700,000 for infrastructure upgrades at Holloman Air Force Base, specifically for the design for the Holloman High Speed Test Track. Secured by Senator Luján and Senator Heinrich.

    Boosting Public Safety Throughout New Mexico:

    • $1,069,000 for the City of Albuquerque’s Real Time Crime Center for the purchase of law enforcement technology.
    • $1,042,000 for Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office to purchase a new fleet of vehicles.
    • $1,031,000 for the New Mexico Department of Public Safety Police to provide 5G technology in fleet vehicles. Secured by Senator Luján, Senator Heinrich, and Representative Stansbury in the House-companion bill.
    • $1,000,000 for UNM Office of the Medical Investigator DNA processing laboratory to allow for the purchase of equipment for DNA identification. Secured by Senator Luján and Senator Heinrich.
    • $500,000 for Bernalillo County public safety technology upgrades to address high rates of crime in the Albuquerque metro area. Secured by Senator Luján, Senator Heinrich, and Representative Vasquez in the House-companion bill.
    • $250,000 for the San Juan County Partnership’s Law Enforcement Assisted Diversion (LEAD) program to assist in mitigating individuals with substance use disorder or mental/behavioral health challenges from continuously interacting with law enforcement.

    Funding Violence Intervention and Prevention Programs:

    • $1,0350,000 for the City of Albuquerque’s expansion of school-based violence intervention program to assist at risk students by improving grades and reducing youth violence.
    • $93,000 for the Coalition to Stop Violence Against Native women to address challenges in domestic violence and sexual violence in Tribal communities.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: 155th Joint Mekong River Patrol Begins

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    KUNMING, July 22 (Xinhua) — Law enforcement agencies from China, Laos, Myanmar and Thailand on Tuesday launched the 155th joint patrol of the Mekong River to combat cross-border crime.

    The patrol officially began at around 9 a.m. Tuesday, when three Chinese vessels left Jingha Port in southwest China’s Yunnan Province. Patrol vessels from Laos and Myanmar also set out from ports in Laos and Myanmar at the same time, heading to a pre-designated area.

    The four-day, three-night joint patrol involves more than 100 law enforcement officers from China, Laos, Myanmar and Thailand, as well as seven patrol vessels from those countries, excluding Thailand. The mission will include combined water-land inspections and training in some key waters on the Mekong River, aimed at combating drug trafficking, fraud, smuggling and illegal migration.

    During the patrol, the relevant law enforcement agencies of the four countries will also hold an information-sharing meeting in Chiang Saen, Thailand, to review the security situation in the Lancang-Mekong basin and identify priority areas for further cooperation.

    The previous joint patrol ended at the end of June this year. During it, representatives of the joint patrol group organized various preventive actions in villages, schools and enterprises in the coastal zone, distributing more than 1,000 anti-drug leaflets and 4,000 educational materials.

    The Mekong River, known in China as the Lancangjiang, is one of the most important waterways for transboundary shipping in Southeast Asia. Joint patrols of the Mekong involving China, Laos, Myanmar and Thailand have been conducted since December 2011. –0–

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Update 15: Alberta wildfire update (July 22, 3 p.m.)

    Source: Government of Canada regional news (2)

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI: First Bank Announces Second Quarter 2025 Net Income of $10.2 Million

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    HAMILTON, N.J. , July 22, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — First Bank (Nasdaq Global Market: FRBA) (“the Bank”) today announced results for the second quarter of 2025. Net income for the second quarter of 2025 was $10.2 million, or $0.41 per diluted share, compared to $11.1 million, or $0.44 per diluted share, for the second quarter of 2024. Return on average assets, return on average equity and return on average tangible equityi for the second quarter of 2025 were 1.04%, 9.77% and 11.16%, respectively, compared to 1.23%, 11.52% and 13.40%, respectively, for the second quarter of 2024. 

    Second Quarter 2025 Performance Highlights:

    • Total loans of $3.33 billion at June 30, 2025 grew $91.2 million, or 11.3%, annualized, from the linked quarter ended March 31, 2025.
    • Total deposits were $3.17 billion at June 30, 2025, increasing $48.4 million, or 6.2% annualized, from the linked quarter ended March 31, 2025.
    • Net interest margin measured 3.65% for the second quarter of 2025, remaining stable compared to the first quarter of 2025.
    • Tangible book value per shareii grew to $14.87 at June 30, 2025, increasing 11.1%, annualized, from $14.47 at March 31, 2025.
    • Strong asset quality continued, with nonperforming assets decreasing to 0.40% of total assets at June 30, 2025, compared to 0.42% at March 31, 2025 and 0.56% at June 30, 2024. 

    “We are pleased to report growth in high-quality loans and deposits that continues to enhance our core earnings profile,” said Patrick L. Ryan, President and CEO of First Bank. “Our team’s robust performance in expanding commercial and industrial (“C&I”) loans and non-interest bearing deposits during the first half of 2025 demonstrates effective execution of our strategy to grow deep middle market commercial relationships. We have achieved substantial organic growth in our primary areas of focus while maintaining a stable net interest margin, solid asset quality, and an efficiency ratio that remained below 60% for the 24th consecutive quarter. These successes positioned First Bank to deliver an 11.1% annualized increase in tangible book value per share during the second quarter.”

    Mr. Ryan added, “We anticipate our pace of loan growth will likely moderate in the second half of 2025 as we continue to prioritize relationship-building and profitability over volume amid continued competition in the deposit market. With a focus on continuing to maximize our risk-adjusted returns on shareholders’ equity, we expect to realize additional benefits from the prudent management of our capital, such as the reduced debt costs afforded by our recent subordinated debt issuance, and by delivering enhanced returns to our shareholders through share buybacks. Furthermore, we remain committed to proactive investments designed to scale our business and achieve top quartile profitability relative to our peers.”

    Income Statement

    In the second quarter of 2025, the Bank’s net interest income increased to $34.0 million, growing $3.5 million, or 11.4%, compared to the same period in 2024. The increase was primarily driven by an increase of $3.6 million in interest income, reflecting higher average loan balances, which outpaced the $140,000 increase in interest expense. Net interest income increased $1.9 million, or 6.0%, over the linked quarter of 2025. This increase was primarily driven by a $3.4 million increase in interest income, primarily due to higher average loan balances and yields, partially offset by an increase of $1.5 million in interest expense, primarily resulting from higher average borrowings during the second quarter of 2025.

    The Bank’s tax equivalent net interest margin measured 3.65% for the second quarter of 2025, increasing by three basis points from 3.62% for the prior year quarter, and remaining stable as compared to the linked quarter ended March 31, 2025. The modest improvement from the prior year quarter was driven by an improved interest rate spread, reflecting declines in average rates on deposits and borrowings which outpaced the reduction in average rates on earning assets. The Bank’s net interest margin remained stable as compared to the linked quarter primarily due to a slight increase in average rates on loans and a slight decrease in average rate on deposits, offset by the increased cost on subordinated debt. The Bank’s tax equivalent net interest margin includes the impact of amortization and accretion of premiums and discounts from fair value measurements of assets acquired and liabilities assumed in acquisitions. The net impact of amortization of premiums and accretion of discounts from fair value measurements of assets acquired and liabilities assumed in acquisitions was a $2.7 million increase in net interest income during the second quarter of 2025, compared to $2.8 million for the quarter ended March 31, 2025.

    The Bank recorded a credit loss expense totaling $2.6 million during the second quarter of 2025, compared to credit loss expense totaling $1.5 million for the first quarter of 2025 and $63,000 for the second quarter of 2024. The increased credit loss expense for the second quarter of 2025 is primarily due to the Bank’s loan growth during the quarter, and to a lesser extent, slight increases in net charge-offs and specific reserves. The Bank’s credit loss expense for the second quarter of 2024 reflected the Bank’s strong and stable asset quality and modest loan growth during the quarter.

    In the second quarter of 2025, the Bank recorded non-interest income totaling $2.7 million, compared to $689,000 during the same period in 2024 and $2.0 million during the first quarter of 2025. Non-interest income increased from both periods primarily due to higher loan fee income and a $397,000 gain on the sale of a corporate facility acquired through Malvern acquisition. Additionally, during the second quarter of 2024, the Bank recorded approximately $900,000 in net realized losses on the sale of certain loans as part of its balance sheet repositioning initiatives taken following its acquisition of Malvern Bank in 2023.

    Non-interest expense for the second quarter of 2025 was $20.9 million, an increase of $2.9 million, or 16.2%, compared to $18.0 million for the prior year quarter. Higher non-interest expense was largely due to an increase of $1.1 million in salaries and employee benefits related to a larger employee base and $863,000 in one-time executive severance payments, a $429,000 increase in other expense primarily due to a settlement loss of $220,000 relating to a letter of credit commitment acquired through the Malvern Bank acquisition and other miscellaneous increases related to the Bank’s significant growth over the last twelve months, and $268,000 in higher occupancy and equipment costs due to ongoing branch network optimization initiatives and new branch locations added over the past year.

    On a linked quarter basis, non-interest expense increased $483,000 from $20.4 million for the first quarter of 2025. The linked quarter growth primarily reflects increases of $841,000 in salaries and employee benefits costs primarily related to the aforementioned executive severance payments and settlement loss during the second quarter. This was partially offset by a decrease in other real estate owned (“OREO”) expense due to an $815,000 impairment of an OREO asset recorded during the linked quarter and the subsequent $34,000 gain on the sale of that property during second quarter 2025.

    Income tax expense for the three months ended June 30, 2025 was $3.0 million with an effective tax rate of 22.9%, compared to $2.1 million with an effective tax rate of 16.2% for the second quarter of 2024. The effective tax rate for the second quarter of 2024 was lower due to the recognition of a $1.1 million tax benefit associated with the enactment of the New Jersey Corporate Transit Fee during that period and the related revaluation of the Bank’s deferred tax assets. Income tax expense for the six months ended June 30, 2025 was $5.8 million with an effective tax rate of 22.8%. We anticipate our future effective tax rate will be relatively stable and should not be significantly impacted by any recent legislative tax changes.

    On July 4, 2025, subsequent to the end of the Company’s second fiscal quarter, the one big beautiful bill (“OBBB”) was enacted into law. The legislation includes a number of significant tax-related provisions, including changes affecting corporate tax incentives, international tax provisions, and various business credits and deductions. Pursuant to ASC 740, Income Taxes, the Company will recognize the effects of the OBBB in the third fiscal quarter of 2025, the period in which the legislation was enacted. The Company is currently evaluating the potential impact of the OBBB on its financial statements and, based on its preliminary assessment, does not expect the legislation to have a material impact.

    Balance Sheet

    The Bank reported total assets of $4.02 billion as of June 30, 2025, an increase of $403.6 million, or 11.2%, from $3.62 billion at June 30, 2024. Total loans increased $329.3 million, or 11.0%, to $3.33 billion at June 30, 2025 compared to $3.00 billion at June 30, 2024. The increase reflects strong organic loan growth, particularly in the C&I and owner-occupied commercial real estate portfolios. 

    Total assets increased $239.0 million, or 6.3%, from December 31, 2024 to June 30, 2025. Total loans as of June 30, 2025 increased $183.0 million, or 5.8%, from $3.14 billion at December 31, 2024, reflecting strong organic loan growth, particularly in the C&I and owner-occupied commercial real estate portfolios. The Bank’s cash and cash equivalents increased by $73.0 million, or 26.8%, compared to December 31, 2024, as management continued to maintain adequate on-balance sheet liquidity. 

    The Bank reported total deposits of $3.17 billion as of June 30, 2025, an increase of $200.6 million, or 6.8%, from $2.97 billion at June 30, 2024. Deposit growth was primarily due to our team’s success in attracting new deposit relationships while also maintaining existing balances amid heightened industry-wide pricing competition. Total deposits as of June 30, 2025 increased by $112.3 million, or 3.7%, from $3.06 billion at December 31, 2024, due to a combination of in-market commercial and consumer balances, offset somewhat by a decline in government related deposit balances. Compared to December 31, 2024, non-interest bearing demand deposits increased by $70.9 million to comprise 18.6% of total deposits, up from 17.0%. Over the same period, interest-bearing demand deposits decreased by $75.2 million to comprise 17.5% of total deposits at June 30, 2025, down from 20.6% at December 31, 2024. Time deposits expanded by $73.4 million, or 10.3%, during the first half of 2025.

    During the six months ended June 30, 2025, stockholders’ equity increased by $13.2 million, or 3.2%, primarily due to net income, partially offset by dividends and share repurchases.

    As of June 30, 2025, the Bank continued to exceed all regulatory capital requirements to be considered well-capitalized. The tangible stockholders’ equity to tangible assets ratioiii measured 9.34% as of June 30, 2025 compared to 9.56% at December 31, 2024. The decline from December 31, 2024, was primarily due to the asset growth during the period.

    Asset Quality

    First Bank’s asset quality metrics remained favorable during the second quarter of 2025. Total nonperforming assets declined from $17.3 million at December 31, 2024 to $16.0 million at June 30, 2025, primarily due to the sale of the Bank’s OREO asset during the second quarter of 2025, partially offset by the addition of nonperforming loans. Total nonperforming loans increased from $11.7 million at December 31, 2024 to $16.0 million at June 30, 2025.

    The Bank recorded net charge-offs of $796,000 during the second quarter of 2025, compared to net recoveries of $15,000 in the first quarter of 2025 and net charge-offs of $175,000 in the second quarter of 2024. The allowance for credit losses on loans as a percentage of total loans measured 1.23% at June 30, 2025, compared to 1.21% at both March 31, 2025 and June 30, 2024.

    Liquidity and Borrowings

    Management believes the Bank’s current liquidity position, coupled with our various contingent funding sources, provides the Bank with a strong liquidity base and a diverse source of funding options. The Bank’s cash and cash equivalents increased by $56.8 million, or 19.7%, compared to March 31, 2025, ensuring adequate on-balance sheet liquidity. Borrowings increased by $44.9 million compared to March 31, 2025, as the Bank utilized Federal Home Loan Bank (“FHLB”) advances to support loan growth, while continuing to maintain adequate available borrowing capacity at the FHLB.

    Subordinated Debt Issuance

    On June 18, 2025, the Bank announced the closing of a $35.0 million private placement of fixed-to-floating rate subordinated notes with a maturity date of June 30, 2035 and a fixed rate of interest of 7.125% per annum for the first five years. Thereafter, the notes will pay interest at a floating rate, reset quarterly, equal to the then current three-month Secured Overnight Financing Rate (“SOFR”) plus 343 basis points. The notes may be redeemed at the option of the Bank, without penalty, on or after June 30, 2030. The Bank intends to use the proceeds of this issuance to redeem the Bank’s $30.0 million fixed-to-floating rate subordinated notes due June 1, 2030 (the “2020 notes”) on September 1, 2025, as well as for general corporate purposes. Previously, the 2020 notes carried a fixed rate of 5.50% per annum. On June 1, 2025, the 2020 notes began repricing quarterly at a rate equal to the current three-month term SOFR rate plus 538 basis points. The 2020 notes repriced to a rate of 9.704% per annum on June 1, 2025. The notes have been structured to qualify as Tier 2 capital for regulatory purposes.

    Cash Dividend Declared

    On July 15, 2025, the Bank’s Board of Directors declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.06 per share to common stockholders of record at the close of business on August 8, 2025, payable on August 22, 2025.

    Share Repurchase Program

    During the second quarter of 2025 the Bank repurchased 193,185 shares of common stock at an average price of $14.71 per share, under the share repurchase program authorized in October 2024. Through June 30, 2025, 543,185 shares have been repurchased from the current share repurchase plan with a total cost of $8.0 million or $14.81 per share on average. The share repurchase program provides for the repurchase of up to 1.0 million shares of First Bank common stock with an aggregate repurchase amount of up to $16.0 million. The share repurchase program will expire on September 30, 2025.

    Conference Call and Earnings Release Supplement

    Additional details on the quarterly results and the Bank are included in the attached earnings release supplement. http://ml.globenewswire.com/Resource/Download/5917a538-bdcd-4a25-b364-99fd7d36addb

    First Bank will host its earnings call on Wednesday, July 23, 2025 at 9:00 AM Eastern Time. The direct dial toll free number for the live call is 1-800-715-9871 and the access code is 3909613. For those unable to participate in the call, a replay will be available by dialing 1-800-770-2030 (access code 3909613) from one hour after the end of the conference call until October 21, 2025. Replay information will also be available on First Bank’s website at www.firstbanknj.com under the “About Us” tab. Click on “Investor Relations” to access the replay of the conference call.

    About First Bank

    First Bank is a New Jersey state-chartered bank with 27 full-service branches in Cinnaminson, Delanco, Denville, Ewing, Fairfield, Flemington, Hamilton, Lawrence, Monroe, Morristown, Pennington, Randolph, Somerset, Summit, Trenton and Williamstown, New Jersey; Coventry, Devon, Doylestown, Lionville, Malvern, Media, Paoli, Trevose, Warminster and West Chester, Pennsylvania; and Palm Beach, Florida. With $4.02 billion in assets as of June 30, 2025, First Bank offers a full range of deposit and loan products to individuals and businesses throughout the New York City to Philadelphia corridor. First Bank’s common stock is listed on the Nasdaq Global Market under the symbol “FRBA.”

    Forward Looking Statements

    This press release contains certain forward-looking statements, either express or implied, within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements include information regarding First Bank’s future financial performance, business and growth strategy, projected plans and objectives, and related transactions, integration of acquired businesses, ability to recognize anticipated operational efficiencies, and other projections based on macroeconomic and industry trends, which are inherently unreliable due to the multiple factors that impact economic trends, and any such variations may be material. Such forward-looking statements are based on various facts and derived utilizing important assumptions, current expectations, estimates and projections about First Bank, any of which may change over time and some of which may be beyond First Bank’s control. Statements preceded by, followed by or that otherwise include the words “believes,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “intends,” “projects,” “estimates,” “plans” and similar expressions or future or conditional verbs such as “will,” “should,” “would,” “may” and “could” are generally forward-looking in nature and not historical facts, although not all forward-looking statements include the foregoing. Further, certain factors that could affect our future results and cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to: whether First Bank can: successfully implement its growth strategy, including identifying acquisition targets and consummating suitable acquisitions, integrate acquired entities and realize anticipated efficiencies, sustain its internal growth rate, and provide competitive products and services that appeal to its customers and target markets; difficult market conditions and unfavorable economic trends in the United States generally, and particularly in the market areas in which First Bank operates and in which its loans are concentrated, including the effects of declines in housing market values; the impact of public health emergencies, on First Bank, its operations and its customers and employees; an increase in unemployment levels and slowdowns in economic growth; First Bank’s level of nonperforming assets and the costs associated with resolving any problem loans including litigation and other costs; changes in market interest rates may increase funding costs and reduce earning asset yields thus reducing margin; the impact of changes in interest rates and the credit quality and strength of underlying collateral and the effect of such changes on the market value of First Bank’s investment securities portfolio; the extensive federal and state regulation, supervision and examination governing almost every aspect of First Bank’s operations, including changes in regulations affecting financial institutions and expenses associated with complying with such regulations; uncertainties in tax estimates and valuations, including due to changes in state and federal tax law; First Bank’s ability to comply with applicable capital and liquidity requirements, including First Bank’s ability to generate liquidity internally or raise capital on favorable terms, including continued access to the debt and equity capital markets; and possible changes in trade, monetary and fiscal policies, laws and regulations and other activities of governments, agencies, and similar organizations. For discussion of these and other risks that may cause actual results to differ from expectations, please refer to “Forward-Looking Statements” and “Risk Factors” in First Bank’s Annual Report on Form 10-K and any updates to those risk factors set forth in First Bank’s proxy statement, subsequent Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q or Current Reports on Form 8-K. If one or more events related to these or other risks or uncertainties materialize, or if First Bank’s underlying assumptions prove to be incorrect, actual results may differ materially from what First Bank anticipates. Accordingly, you should not place undue reliance on any such forward-looking statements. Any forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date on which it is made, and First Bank does not undertake any obligation to publicly update or review any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise. All forward-looking statements expressed or implied, included in this communication are expressly qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement. This cautionary statement should also be considered in connection with any subsequent written or oral forward-looking statements that First Bank or persons acting on First Bank’s behalf may issue.                                                                                                                                                  

    This press release contains “non-GAAP” financial measures, which management uses in its analysis of First Bank’s performance. Management believes these non-GAAP financial measures allow for better comparability of period to period operating performance. Additionally, First Bank believes this information is utilized by regulators and market analysts to evaluate a company’s financial condition and therefore, such information is useful to investors. These disclosures should not be viewed as a substitute for operating results determined in accordance with GAAP, nor are they necessarily comparable to non-GAAP performance measures that may be presented by other companies. A reconciliation of the non-GAAP measures used in this presentation to the most directly comparable GAAP measures is provided in the accompanying financial tables.

    i Return on average tangible equity is a non-GAAP financial measure and is calculated by dividing net income by average tangible equity (average equity minus average goodwill and other intangible assets). For a reconciliation of this non-GAAP financial measure, along with the other non-GAAP financial measures in this press release, to their comparable GAAP measures, see the financial reconciliations at the end of this press release.

    ii Tangible book value per share is a non-GAAP financial measure and is calculated by dividing common shares outstanding by tangible equity (equity minus goodwill and other intangible assets).  For a reconciliation of this non-GAAP financial measure, along with the other non-GAAP financial measures in this press release, to their comparable GAAP measures, see the financial reconciliations at the end of this press release.

    iii Tangible stockholders’ equity to tangible assets ratio is a non-GAAP financial measure and is calculated by dividing tangible equity (equity minus goodwill and other intangible assets) by tangible assets (total assets minus goodwill and other intangible assets). For a reconciliation of this non-GAAP financial measure, along with the other non-GAAP financial measures in this press release, to their comparable GAAP measures, see the financial reconciliations at the end of this press release.

    FIRST BANK
    CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION
    (in thousands, except for share data, unaudited)
     
        June 30, 2025   December 31, 2024
    Assets            
    Cash and due from banks   $ 35,860     $ 18,252  
    Restricted cash     9,900       14,270  
    Interest bearing deposits with banks     299,131       239,392  
    Cash and cash equivalents     344,891       271,914  
    Interest bearing time deposits with banks     747       743  
    Investment securities available for sale, at fair value (amortized cost of $86,666 and $84,083, respectively)     81,891       77,413  
    Equity securities, at fair value     1,904       1,870  
    Investment securities held to maturity, net of allowance for credit losses of $203 and $206, respectively (fair value of $41,941 and $42,770, respectively)     45,749       47,123  
    Restricted investment in bank stocks     18,009       14,333  
    Other investments     13,556       11,612  
    Loans held for sale     2,127       –  
    Loans, net of deferred fees and costs     3,327,288       3,144,266  
    Less: Allowance for credit losses     (40,877)       (37,773)  
    Net loans     3,286,411       3,106,493  
    Premises and equipment, net     17,987       21,351  
    Other real estate owned, net     –       5,637  
    Accrued interest receivable     14,505       14,267  
    Bank-owned life insurance     86,980       85,553  
    Goodwill     44,166       44,166  
    Other intangible assets, net     7,860       8,827  
    Deferred income taxes, net     25,032       25,528  
    Other assets     27,520       43,516  
    Total assets   $ 4,019,335     $ 3,780,346  
                 
    Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity            
    Liabilities:            
    Non-interest bearing deposits   $ 590,209     $ 519,320  
    Interest bearing deposits     2,578,004       2,536,576  
    Total deposits     3,168,213       3,055,896  
    Borrowings     326,802       246,933  
    Subordinated debentures     64,343       29,954  
    Accrued interest payable     4,443       3,820  
    Other liabilities     33,155       34,587  
    Total liabilities     3,596,956       3,371,190  
    Stockholders’ Equity:            
    Preferred stock, par value $2 per share; 10,000,000 shares authorized; no shares issued and outstanding     –       –  
    Common stock, par value $5 per share; 40,000,000 shares authorized; 27,630,039 shares issued and 24,905,790 shares outstanding and 27,375,439 shares issued and 25,100,829 shares outstanding, respectively     136,640       135,495  
    Additional paid-in capital     125,290       124,524  
    Retained earnings     193,395       176,779  
    Accumulated other comprehensive loss     (3,525)       (4,925)  
    Treasury stock, 2,724,249 and 2,274,610 shares, respectively     (29,421)       (22,717)  
    Total stockholders’ equity     422,379       409,156  
    Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity   $ 4,019,335     $ 3,780,346  
                     
    FIRST BANK
    CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
    (in thousands, except for share data, unaudited)
     
        Three Months Ended June 30,   Six Months Ended June 30,
        2025     2024     2025     2024  
    Interest and Dividend Income                            
    Investment securities—taxable   $ 1,246     $ 1,278     $ 2,434     $ 2,460  
    Investment securities—tax-exempt     41       36       92       74  
    Interest bearing deposits with banks, Federal funds sold and other     3,487       3,482       6,484       6,507  
    Loans, including fees     54,394       50,763       105,946       100,082  
    Total interest and dividend income     59,168       55,559       114,956       109,123  
                                 
    Interest Expense                            
    Deposits     21,276       22,386       42,120       43,172  
    Borrowings     3,256       2,193       5,668       4,309  
    Subordinated debentures     627       440       1,067       784  
    Total interest expense     25,159       25,019       48,855       48,265  
    Net interest income     34,009       30,540       66,101       60,858  
    Credit loss expense (benefit)     2,558       63       4,102       (635)  
    Net interest income after credit loss expense (benefit)     31,451       30,477       61,999       61,493  
                                 
    Non-Interest Income                            
    Service fees on deposit accounts     382       350       738       694  
    Loan fees     568       117       894       219  
    Income from bank-owned life insurance     723       609       1,516       1,394  
    Gains on sale of loans, net     75       (900)       104       (671)  
    Gains on recovery of acquired loans     100       56       124       174  
    Gain on sale of other assets     397       –       397       –  
    Other non-interest income     457       457       900       843  
    Total non-interest income     2,702       689       4,673       2,653  
                                 
    Non-Interest Expense                            
    Salaries and employee benefits     11,959       9,968       23,077       20,006  
    Occupancy and equipment     2,350       2,082       4,814       4,108  
    Legal fees     279       240       647       556  
    Other professional fees     924       929       1,650       1,685  
    Regulatory fees     684       640       1,368       1,242  
    Directors’ fees     260       270       542       512  
    Data processing     893       749       1,698       1,555  
    Marketing and advertising     503       377       902       673  
    Travel and entertainment     251       285       487       529  
    Insurance     233       251       447       495  
    Other real estate owned expense, net     69       129       989       217  
    Other expense     2,462       2,033       4,630       4,185  
    Total non-interest expense     20,867       17,953       41,251       35,763  
    Income Before Income Taxes     13,286       13,213       25,421       28,383  
    Income tax expense     3,047       2,140       5,801       4,798  
    Net Income   $ 10,239     $ 11,073     $ 19,620     $ 23,585  
                                 
    Basic earnings per common share   $ 0.41     $ 0.44     $ 0.78     $ 0.94  
    Diluted earnings per common share   $ 0.41     $ 0.44     $ 0.77     $ 0.93  
                                 
    Basic weighted average common shares outstanding     25,029,164       25,129,199       25,073,368       25,084,558  
    Diluted weighted average common shares outstanding     25,234,120       25,258,785       25,335,743       25,228,888  
    FIRST BANK
    AVERAGE BALANCE SHEETS WITH INTEREST AND AVERAGE RATES
    (dollars in thousands, unaudited)
     
        Three Months Ended June 30,
        2025     2024  
        Average         Average   Average         Average
        Balance   Interest   Rate (5)   Balance   Interest   Rate (5)
    Interest earning assets                                    
    Investment securities (1) (2)   $ 135,094     $ 1,295       3.84 %   $ 146,289     $ 1,321       3.63 %
    Loans (3)     3,296,031       54,394       6.62 %     2,997,892       50,763       6.81 %
    Interest bearing deposits with banks,                                    
    Federal funds sold and other     276,488       3,079       4.47 %     224,503       3,101       5.56 %
    Restricted investment in bank stocks     17,960       276       6.16 %     11,178       243       8.74 %
    Other investments     15,402       132       3.44 %     12,136       138       4.57 %
    Total interest earning assets (2)     3,740,975       59,176       6.34 %     3,391,998       55,566       6.59 %
    Allowance for credit losses     (39,507)                   (36,784)              
    Non-interest earning assets     251,475                   263,698              
    Total assets   $ 3,952,943                 $ 3,618,912              
                                         
    Interest bearing liabilities                                    
    Interest bearing demand deposits   $ 606,838     $ 3,701       2.45 %   $ 591,222     $ 3,813       2.59 %
    Money market deposits     1,064,363       8,917       3.36 %     1,061,593       10,559       4.00 %
    Savings deposits     140,301       694       1.98 %     158,158       619       1.57 %
    Time deposits     781,299       7,964       4.09 %     678,197       7,395       4.39 %
    Total interest bearing deposits     2,592,801       21,276       3.29 %     2,489,170       22,386       3.62 %
    Borrowings     319,494       3,256       4.09 %     171,533       2,193       5.14 %
    Subordinated debentures     34,966       627       7.17 %     29,880       440       5.89 %
    Total interest bearing liabilities     2,947,261       25,159       3.42 %     2,690,583       25,019       3.74 %
    Non-interest bearing deposits     548,279                   497,205              
    Other liabilities     36,960                   44,480              
    Stockholders’ equity     420,443                   386,644              
    Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity   $ 3,952,943                 $ 3,618,912              
    Net interest income/interest rate spread (2)           34,017       2.92 %           30,547       2.85 %
    Net interest margin (2) (4)                 3.65 %                 3.62 %
    Tax equivalent adjustment (2)           (8)                   (7)        
    Net interest income         $ 34,009                 $ 30,540        
    (1) Average balance of investment securities available for sale is based on amortized cost.
    (2) Interest and average rates are presented on a tax equivalent basis using a federal income tax rate of 21%.
    (3) Average balances of loans include loans on nonaccrual status.
    (4) Net interest income divided by average total interest earning assets.
    (5) Annualized.
    FIRST BANK
    AVERAGE BALANCE SHEETS WITH INTEREST AND AVERAGE RATES
    (dollars in thousands, unaudited)
     
        Six Months Ended June 30,
        2025     2024  
        Average         Average   Average         Average
        Balance   Interest   Rate (5)   Balance   Interest   Rate (5)
    Interest earning assets                                    
    Investment securities(1) (2)   $ 134,686     $ 2,545       3.81 %   $ 146,719     $ 2,549       3.49 %
    Loans(3)     3,233,747       105,946       6.61 %     2,988,707       100,082       6.73 %
    Interest bearing deposits with banks,                                    
    Federal funds sold and other     255,378       5,654       4.46 %     213,831       5,811       5.46 %
    Restricted investment in bank stocks     16,059       576       7.23 %     10,800       442       8.23 %
    Other investments     14,731       254       3.48 %     12,003       254       4.26 %
    Total interest earning assets(2)     3,654,601       114,975       6.34 %     3,372,060       109,138       6.51 %
    Allowance for credit losses     (38,847)                   (37,196)              
    Non-interest earning assets     256,261                   262,465              
    Total assets   $ 3,872,015                 $ 3,597,329              
                                     
    Interest bearing liabilities                                    
    Interest bearing demand deposits   $ 625,682     $ 7,728       2.49 %   $ 605,081     $ 7,479       2.49 %
    Money market deposits     1,054,742       17,548       3.36 %     1,038,250       20,348       3.94 %
    Savings deposits     141,395       1,344       1.92 %     160,135       1,193       1.50 %
    Time deposits     749,765       15,500       4.17 %     674,872       14,152       4.22 %
    Total interest bearing deposits     2,571,584       42,120       3.30 %     2,478,338       43,172       3.50 %
    Borrowings     277,245       5,668       4.12 %     169,337       4,309       5.12 %
    Subordinated debentures     32,478       1,067       6.57 %     36,175       784       4.33 %
    Total interest bearing liabilities     2,881,307       48,855       3.42 %     2,683,850       48,265       3.62 %
    Non-interest bearing deposits     534,877                   489,353              
    Other liabilities     38,755                   42,534              
    Stockholders’ equity     417,076                   381,592              
    Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity   $ 3,872,015                 $ 3,597,329              
    Net interest income/interest rate spread(2)           66,120       2.92 %           60,873       2.89 %
    Net interest margin(2) (4)                 3.65 %                 3.63 %
    Tax equivalent adjustment(2)           (19)                   (15)        
    Net interest income         $ 66,101                 $ 60,858        

    (1) Average balance of investment securities available for sale is based on amortized cost.
    (2) Interest and average rates are presented on a tax equivalent basis using a federal income tax rate of 21%.
    (3) Average balances of loans include loans on nonaccrual status.
    (4) Net interest income divided by average total interest earning assets.
    (5) Annualized.

    FIRST BANK
    QUARTERLY FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
    (in thousands, except for share and employee data, unaudited)
     
        As of or For the Quarter Ended
        6/30/2025   3/31/2025   12/31/2024   9/30/2024   6/30/2024
    EARNINGS                              
    Net interest income   $ 34,009     $ 32,092     $ 31,594     $ 30,094     $ 30,540  
    Credit loss expense     2,558       1,544       234       1,579       63  
    Non-interest income     2,702       1,971       2,176       2,479       689  
    Non-interest expense     20,867       20,384       19,124       18,644       17,953  
    Income tax expense     3,047       2,754       3,915       4,188       2,140  
    Net income     10,239       9,381       10,497       8,162       11,073  
                                   
    PERFORMANCE RATIOS                              
    Return on average assets(1)     1.04%       1.00%       1.10%       0.88%       1.23%  
    Return on average equity(1)     9.77%       9.20%       10.27%       8.15%       11.52%  
    Return on average tangible equity(1) (2)     11.16%       10.54%       11.82%       9.42%       13.40%  
    Net interest margin(1) (3)     3.65%       3.65%       3.54%       3.48%       3.62%  
    Yield on loans(1)     6.62%       6.59%       6.62%       6.73%       6.81%  
    Total cost of deposits(1)     2.72%       2.75%       2.89%       3.06%       3.01%  
    Efficiency ratio(2)     56.24%       57.65%       56.98%       58.49%       55.88%  
                                   
    SHARE DATA                              
    Common shares outstanding     24,905,790       25,045,612       25,100,829       25,186,920       25,144,983  
    Basic earnings per share   $ 0.41     $ 0.37     $ 0.42     $ 0.32     $ 0.44  
    Diluted earnings per share     0.41       0.37       0.41       0.32       0.44  
    Book value per share     16.96       16.57       16.30       15.96       15.61  
    Tangible book value per share(2)     14.87       14.47       14.19       13.84       13.46  
                                   
    MARKET DATA                              
    Market value per share   $ 15.47     $ 14.81     $ 14.07     $ 15.20     $ 12.74  
    Market value / Tangible book value(2)     104.03%       102.35%       99.16%       109.83%       94.65%  
    Market capitalization   $ 385,293     $ 370,926     $ 353,169     $ 382,841     $ 320,347  
                                   
    CAPITAL & LIQUIDITY                              
    Stockholders’ equity / assets     10.51%       10.69%       10.82%       10.70%       10.86%  
    Tangible stockholders’ equity / tangible assets(2)     9.34%       9.47%       9.56%       9.41%       9.50%  
    Loans / deposits     105.02%       103.73%       102.89%       101.23%       101.02%  
                                   
    ASSET QUALITY                              
    Net charge-offs (recoveries)   $ 796     $ (15)     $ (155)     $ 386     $ 175  
    Nonperforming loans     15,978       11,584       11,677       12,014       14,227  
    Nonperforming assets     15,978       16,406       17,314       17,651       20,226  
    Net charge offs (recoveries)/ average loans(1)     0.10%       (0.00%)       (0.02%)       0.05%       0.02%  
    Nonperforming loans / total loans     0.48%       0.36%       0.37%       0.39%       0.47%  
    Nonperforming assets / total assets     0.40%       0.42%       0.46%       0.47%       0.56%  
    Allowance for credit losses on loans / total loans     1.23%       1.21%       1.20%       1.21%       1.21%  
    Allowance for credit losses on loans / nonperforming loans     255.83%       338.60%       323.48%       311.59%       254.81%  
                                   
    OTHER DATA                              
    Total assets   $ 4,019,335     $ 3,880,759     $ 3,780,346     $ 3,757,653     $ 3,615,731  
    Total loans     3,327,288       3,236,039       3,144,266       3,087,488       2,998,029  
    Total deposits     3,168,213       3,119,794       3,055,896       3,050,070       2,967,634  
    Total stockholders’ equity     422,379       414,915       409,156       402,070       392,489  
    Number of full-time equivalent employees     335       315       318       313       294  

    (1) Annualized.
    (2) Non-U.S. GAAP financial measure that we believe provides management and investors with information that is useful in understanding our financial performance and condition. See accompanying table, “Non-U.S. GAAP Financial Measures,” for calculation and reconciliation.
    (3) Tax equivalent using a federal income tax rate of 21%.

    FIRST BANK
    QUARTERLY FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
    (dollars in thousands, unaudited)
     
        As of the Quarter Ended
        6/30/2025   3/31/2025   12/31/2024   9/30/2024   6/30/2024
    LOAN COMPOSITION                              
    Commercial and industrial   $ 706,849     $ 651,690     $ 576,625     $ 546,541     $ 530,996  
    Commercial real estate:                              
    Owner-occupied     707,766       694,113       671,357       688,988       647,625  
    Investor     1,192,716       1,160,549       1,181,684       1,170,508       1,143,954  
    Construction and development     161,361       200,262       205,096       193,460       190,108  
    Multi-family     309,189       308,217       287,843       267,861       270,238  
    Total commercial real estate     2,371,032       2,363,141       2,345,980       2,320,817       2,251,925  
    Residential real estate:                              
    Residential mortgage and first lien home equity loans     160,935       142,298       142,769       144,081       144,978  
    Home equity–second lien loans and revolving lines of credit     62,738       52,438       51,020       49,763       46,882  
    Total residential real estate     223,673       194,736       193,789       193,844       191,860  
    Consumer and other     29,248       29,760       31,324       29,518       26,321  
    Total loans prior to deferred loan fees and costs     3,330,802       3,239,327       3,147,718       3,090,720       3,001,102  
    Net deferred loan fees and costs     (3,514)       (3,288)       (3,452)       (3,232)       (3,073)  
    Total loans   $ 3,327,288     $ 3,236,039     $ 3,144,266     $ 3,087,488     $ 2,998,029  
                                   
    LOAN MIX                              
    Commercial and industrial     21.2%       20.1%       18.3%       17.7%       17.7%  
    Commercial real estate:                              
    Owner-occupied     21.3%       21.5%       21.4%       22.3%       22.3%  
    Investor     35.8%       35.9%       37.6%       37.9%       37.9%  
    Construction and development     4.8%       6.2%       6.5%       6.3%       6.3%  
    Multi-family     9.3%       9.5%       9.1%       8.7%       8.7%  
    Total commercial real estate     71.3%       73.1%       74.6%       75.2%       75.2%  
    Residential real estate:                              
    Residential mortgage and first lien home equity loans     4.8%       4.4%       4.6%       4.7%       4.7%  
    Home equity–second lien loans and revolving lines of credit     1.9%       1.6%       1.6%       1.6%       1.6%  
    Total residential real estate     6.7%       6.0%       6.2%       6.3%       6.3%  
    Consumer and other     0.9%       0.9%       1.0%       0.9%       0.9%  
    Net deferred loan fees and costs     (0.1%)       (0.1%)       (0.1%)       (0.1%)       (0.1%)  
    Total loans     100.0%       100.0%       100.0%       100.0%       100.0%  
                                             
    FIRST BANK
    QUARTERLY FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
    (dollars in thousands, unaudited)
     
        As of the Quarter Ended
        6/30/2025   3/31/2025   12/31/2024   9/30/2024   6/30/2024
    DEPOSIT COMPOSITION                              
    Non-interest bearing demand deposits   $ 590,209     $ 535,584     $ 519,320     $ 519,079     $ 499,765  
    Interest bearing demand deposits     553,909       629,974       629,099       597,802       574,515  
    Money market and savings deposits     1,241,277       1,197,517       1,198,039       1,235,637       1,199,382  
    Time deposits     782,818       756,719       709,438       697,552       693,972  
    Total Deposits   $ 3,168,213     $ 3,119,794     $ 3,055,896     $ 3,050,070     $ 2,967,634  
                                   
    DEPOSIT MIX                              
    Non-interest bearing demand deposits     18.6%       17.2%       17.0%       17.0%       16.8%  
    Interest bearing demand deposits     17.5%       20.2%       20.6%       19.6%       19.4%  
    Money market and savings deposits     39.2%       38.4%       39.2%       40.5%       40.4%  
    Time deposits     24.7%       24.2%       23.2%       22.9%       23.4%  
    Total Deposits     100.0%       100.0%       100.0%       100.0%       100.0%  
                                             
    FIRST BANK
    NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES
    (in thousands, except for share data, unaudited)
     
        As of or For the Quarter Ended
        6/30/2025   3/31/2025   12/31/2024   9/30/2024   6/30/2024
    Return on Average Tangible Equity                              
    Net income (numerator)   $ 10,239     $ 9,381     $ 10,497     $ 8,162     $ 11,073  
                                   
    Average stockholders’ equity   $ 420,443     $ 413,672     $ 406,579     $ 398,535     $ 386,644  
    Less: Average Goodwill and other intangible assets, net     52,301       52,805       53,278       53,823       54,347  
    Average Tangible stockholders’ equity (denominator)   $ 368,142     $ 360,867     $ 353,301     $ 344,712     $ 332,297  
                                   
    Return on average tangible equity(1)     11.16%       10.54%       11.82%       9.42%       13.40%  
                                   
    Tangible Book Value Per Share                              
    Stockholders’ equity   $ 422,379     $ 414,915     $ 409,156     $ 402,070     $ 392,489  
    Less: Goodwill and other intangible assets, net     52,026       52,507       52,993       53,484       54,026  
    Tangible stockholders’ equity (numerator)   $ 370,353     $ 362,408     $ 356,163     $ 348,586     $ 338,463  
                                   
    Common shares outstanding (denominator)     24,905,790       25,045,612       25,100,829       25,186,920       25,144,983  
                                   
    Tangible book value per share   $ 14.87     $ 14.47     $ 14.19     $ 13.84     $ 13.46  
                                   
    Tangible Equity / Tangible Assets                              
    Stockholders’ equity   $ 422,379     $ 414,915     $ 409,156     $ 402,070     $ 392,489  
    Less: Goodwill and other intangible assets, net     52,026       52,507       52,993       53,484       54,026  
    Tangible stockholders’ equity (numerator)   $ 370,353     $ 362,408     $ 356,163     $ 348,586     $ 338,463  
                                   
    Total assets   $ 4,019,335     $ 3,880,759     $ 3,780,346     $ 3,757,653     $ 3,615,731  
    Less: Goodwill and other intangible assets, net     52,026       52,507       52,993       53,484       54,026  
    Tangible total assets (denominator)   $ 3,967,309     $ 3,828,252     $ 3,727,353     $ 3,704,169     $ 3,561,705  
                                   
    Tangible stockholders’ equity / tangible assets     9.34%       9.47%       9.56%       9.41%       9.50%  
                                   
    Efficiency Ratio                              
    Non-interest expense   $ 20,867     $ 20,384     $ 19,124     $ 18,644     $ 17,953  
    Less: Other real estate owned write-down     –       815       –       362       –  
    Adjusted non-interest expense (numerator)   $ 20,867     $ 19,569     $ 19,124     $ 18,282     $ 17,953  
                                   
    Net interest income   $ 34,009     $ 32,092     $ 31,594     $ 30,094     $ 30,540  
    Non-interest income     2,702       1,971       2,176       2,479       689  
    Total revenue     36,711       34,063       33,770       32,573       31,229  
    Add: Losses on sale of investment securities, net     –       –       –       555       –  
    (Subtract) Add: (Gains) losses on sale of loans, net     (75)       (29)       (38)       (135)       900  
    (Subtract): Gain on sale of other assets     (397)       –       –       –       –  
    Less: Bank Owned Life Insurance Incentive     –       (88)       (168)       (1,116)       –  
    Add: Executive Officer Severance Benefits     863       –       –       –       –  
    Adjusted total revenue (denominator)   $ 37,102     $ 33,946     $ 33,564     $ 31,877     $ 32,129  
                                   
    Efficiency ratio     56.24%       57.65%       56.98%       57.35%       55.88%  
                                   

    (1) Annualized.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Newhouse Votes for Responsible Land Management, Unleashing Natural Resources

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Dan Newhouse (4th District of Washington)

    Headline: Newhouse Votes for Responsible Land Management, Unleashing Natural Resources

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Dan Newhouse (WA-04) released the following statement upon committee passage of the Fiscal Year 2026 Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act. 

    “In my four years as Chairman of the Congressional Western Caucus, I worked hard to counter the Biden administration’s top-down regulations that threatened our public lands and natural resources across the West. This legislation is a course correction from the previous administration to unleash the resources we have under our feet, protect public lands for all who enjoy their benefits, and prioritize conservation over preservation across the United States. I also secured critical funding for three water infrastructure projects in Othello, Winthrop, and Oroville to address the water supply and distribution challenges these communities face,” said Rep. Newhouse. 

    Newhouse added, “I thank Subcommittee Chairman Mike Simpson and Full Committee Chairman Tom Cole for their leadership and commitment to funding priorities that support our rural way of life.” 

    The Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill provides a total discretionary allocation of $37.971 billion, which is $2.54 billion (6%) below the Fiscal Year 2025 enacted level. 

    The bill fully funds the Payments in Lieu of Taxes (PILT) program, estimated at $550 million, and prioritizes funding for Tribes and Wildland Fire Management.  

    Champions American energy dominance and reduces regulatory burdens by: 

    • Providing the OMB requested increase of $13.6 million for offshore oil and gas development at the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management and the OMB requested increase of $15 million for onshore oil and gas development at the Bureau of Land Management.
    • Requiring the Secretary of the Interior to conduct onshore and offshore oil and gas lease sales.
    • Prohibiting the use of the social cost of carbon, which has stymied new development.
    • Prohibiting the EPA from imposing the methane fee on oil and gas producers created by the Democrats’ Inflation Reduction Act.
    • Prohibiting multiple U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service rulings used to weaponize the Endangered Species Act against land users and energy producers.

    Protects access to public lands by: 

    • Blocking restrictions on hunting, fishing, and recreational shooting on federal lands.
    • Preventing additional regulations on ammunition, ammunition components, or fishing tackle under the Toxic Substances Control Act or any other law.
    • Prohibiting restrictions on where standard lead ammunition and fishing tackle can be used on certain federal lands or waters unless conditions are met.
    • Stopping the Bureau of Land Management’s Conservation and Landscape Health rule to ensure continued access to public lands for grazing, recreation, and energy development.

    Bolsters U.S. national security and border protections by:  

    • Reducing our reliance on foreign countries for critical minerals by promoting access to resources here at home through blocking certain lease withdrawals in Minnesota and reinstating mineral leases in the Superior National Forest.
    • Promoting domestic mining by ensuring ancillary mining activities can be approved, which is a fix to the Rosemont decision that created additional red tape and regulatory uncertainty for mining operations.
    • Ensuring chemical and pesticide manufacturers are not overburdened with requirements that would drive businesses overseas and threaten American competitiveness.
    • Prohibiting funds for the National Park Service to provide housing to an alien without lawful status.
    • Providing $771.84 million for Tribal Public Safety and Justice programs, which is a 39% increase over the FY25 enacted level.

    Newhouse secured funding for the following projects in Washington’s Fourth District in this legislation:

    City of Othello 

    Amount Secured: $1,000,000  

    The City of Othello is 100 percent reliant on a rapidly depleting groundwater supply and after several years of data collection, study completions, and pilot test studies, the City of Othello has developed an Aquifer Storage and Recovery (ASR) strategy to mitigate declining water levels in the Wanapum Basalt aquifer. The ASR method has proven to be effective, and the City has progressed to the stage of predesign. The City is requesting funding assistance with the next phase of “design” to build a permanent solution that will result in a sustainable, reliable, environmentally responsible water supply plan for the Othello region.

    City of Winthrop 

    Amount Secured: $1,500,000 

    The proposed project will improve the reliability of the Town of Winthrop’s water source and distribution system. The town only has one functioning well (Well #1). If that well goes down, the town only has a day or two of water available in its three reservoirs. Well #2 has been approved as an emergency water source by Department of Health, but it needs to be rehabilitated to be in regular use. 

    Scope of work includes: 

    • Rehabilitation of Well #2, including new pump, motor, piping, electrical/controls, generator backup, and a new well house.
    • Repairs to the Town’s East Reservoir, including waterproofing, concrete repairs, and altitude valve replacement. 

    Community benefits include public health and safety, fire protection, and water conservation. Winthrop is ranked #6 on the Washington DNR’s burn probability list. Given the community’s vulnerability to wildfire, ensuring a resilient and redundant water supply system with reliable fire flow capacity is critical for public safety. 

    City of Oroville 

    Amount Secured: $1,400,000 

    The project will result in new, upgraded water pipes that ensure safe and reliable drinking water to Oroville’s north end area. The City of Oroville requests $1,750,000 for construction of the first phase of the project which consists of approximately 3,500 lineal feet of aging and undersized water transmission main piping serving the “North End” of the City’s water system. The existing water t-mains consist of 4-inch and 6-inch deteriorated PVC pipe, which cannot provide adequate fire flow or service pressure and are prone to leaking. The project will replace these existing, undersized transmission mains with 12-inch transmission mains along 20th from Main St to Juniper St, and along Juniper St and Main St from 20th St to 23rd St. The project will also replace existing, undersized water transmission mains with 8-inch transmission mains along Deerpath Dr from 21st St to 23rd St, and along 23rd St from Deerpath Dr to Westlake Ave. 

    Bill text before amendments can be found here. 

    ### 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Raleigh County Woman Pleads Guilty to Federal Drug Crime

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    BECKLEY, W.Va. – Carey Ann Trotter, also known as “Carey Ann Metz-Wood,” 41, of Crab Orchard, pleaded guilty today to aiding and abetting possession with intent to distribute 5 grams or more of methamphetamine.

    According to court documents and statements made in court, on July 1, 2024, Trotter possessed approximately 10.51 grams of methamphetamine and a total of 25.95 grams of para-fluorofentanyl, a synthetic opioid, in several packages. As part of her guilty plea, Trotter admitted that she intended to use some of the controlled substances and aid and abet another individual in the possession and distribution of controlled substances.

    Trotter further admitted to possessing a Glock model 21 .45-caliber pistol, a CBC model 817 .17-caliber rifle, and a 26-round high-capacity magazine for .45-caliber ammunition. Federal law prohibits a person with a prior felony conviction from possessing a firearm or ammunition. Trotter knew she was prohibited from possessing a firearm because of her prior felony conviction for delivery of oxycodone in Raleigh County Circuit Court on January 3, 2017.

    Trotter is scheduled to be sentenced on November 7, 2025, and faces a mandatory minimum of five years and up to 40 years in prison, at least four years of supervised release, and a $5 million fine.

    Trotter’s co-defendant, Joshua Mason Trotter, 44, of Crab Orchard, pleaded guilty on May 27, 2025, to being a felon in possession of a firearm. Joshua Mason Trotter admitted to possessing the Glock model 21 .45-caliber pistol and CBC model 817 .17-caliber rifle on July 1, 2024. He is scheduled to be sentenced on September 26, 2025.

    Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Raleigh County Sheriff’s Office.

    United States Magistrate Judge Omar J. Aboulhosn presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney JC MacCallum is prosecuting the case.

    This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) and Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN).

    A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 5:25-cr-22.

    ###

     

    MIL Security OSI –