Category: Law Enforcement

MIL-OSI USA: PASSED THE SENATE: Senators Hassan, Shaheen’s Bipartisan HALT Fentanyl Act

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for New Hampshire Maggie Hassan

WASHINGTON – A bipartisan bill that U.S. Senators Maggie Hassan and Jeanne Shaheen helped introduce to permanently classify fentanyl-related substances as Schedule I drugs under the Controlled Substances Act passed the U.S. Senate last week. The Halt All Lethal Trafficking of (HALT) Fentanyl Act passed with an 84-16 bipartisan vote.

“New Hampshire’s fentanyl crisis has resulted in devastating losses for our families and communities,” said Senator Hassan. “As the fentanyl crisis has evolved, cartels and traffickers have also changed their tactics, altering the chemical makeup of the synthetic opioid by just one or two molecules to try to evade prosecution under existing law even though the slightly altered drug has the same effects as fentanyl does. This bipartisan legislation to permanently classify these fentanyl-like substances as being in the same category as the most dangerous narcotics will help ensure that law enforcement officials have the tools that they need to get these illegal drugs off our streets. I am glad that it passed the Senate.”

“In the Granite State we’ve lost far too many lives due to fentanyl overdoses, and we must do everything we can to prevent more deaths,” said Senator Shaheen. “I was proud to join my colleagues in passing this legislation that will help stop the flow of fentanyl into our communities, hold traffickers accountable and save lives.”

The HALT Fentanyl Act would finally make permanent the scheduling of illicitly produced fentanyl-related substances as Schedule I drugs and streamline the regulatory process for scientists seeking approval to research Schedule I substances. The HALT Fentanyl Act places the strongest controls and penalties on fentanyl-related substances, which have no accepted medical use and a high potential for abuse. In 2018, the Drug Enforcement Administration first temporarily scheduled fentanyl-related substances as Schedule I drugs, and Congress has repeatedly extended that scheduling. The temporary scheduling is now set to expire on March 31, 2025.

This bipartisan bill is part of Senator Hassan’s ongoing efforts to stop drug trafficking and support communities devastated by the fentanyl crisis. Senator Hassan helped advance the DETECT Fentanyl and Xylazine Act, which was signed into law in December and is supporting law enforcement with enhanced tools to find and eliminate illegal substances such as fentanyl and xylazine. Senators Hassan, Shaheen, and their colleagues also passed into law the FEND Off Fentanyl Act, which targets the illicit fentanyl supply chain and imposes sanctions on traffickers. Senator Hassan also developed the END FENTANYL Act, signed into law last year, which helps Customs and Border Protection crack down on fentanyl trafficking at the border.

Shaheen has spearheaded crucial legislation and funding to fight the substance use disorder epidemic, including through her leadership on the pivotal U.S. Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, Science and Related Agencies, which funds the U.S. Department of Justice. Shaheen also recently introduced her bipartisan Keeping Drugs Out of Schools Act to help prevent youth opioid use and overdoses by establishing a new grant program that allows current or former Drug-Free Communities (DFC) coalitions to partner with schools to provide resources educating students about the dangers of synthetic opioids.

MIL OSI USA News –

March 19, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Grassley Announces Promotion of IRS Whistleblowers Gary Shapley and Joseph Ziegler

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Iowa Chuck Grassley

BUTLER COUNTY, IOWA – At the urging of U.S. Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), the U.S. Department of Treasury has agreed to promote Internal Revenue Service (IRS) whistleblowers Gary Shapley and Joseph Ziegler to leadership positions at Treasury Headquarters in Washington, D.C.

Under the Biden administration, Shapley and Ziegler were issued an illegal gag order and persistently retaliated against for exposing the Biden IRS and Department of Justice (DOJ)’s obstruction of the federal criminal investigation into Hunter Biden’s tax offenses. Grassley wrote President Donald Trump last month urging the President to support Shapley and Ziegler and hold their retaliators accountable. On February 25, Grassley sent a private letter to U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent commending Shapley and Ziegler’s “bravery, courage, expertise and integrity” and requesting Bessent take action to place Shapley and Ziegler in leadership positions. Today’s announcement is a result of Grassley’s direct request.

“As I noted in my letter to Secretary Bessent last month, if we reinstate whistleblowers who have been retaliated against, it will send a clear signal that pointing out wrongdoing is an honorable thing to do. It will help change the culture of our bureaucracy. I’m very grateful to Secretary Bessent for supporting Gary and Joe, and I have no doubt they will be a boon to the Treasury Department in their new roles,” Grassley said. “Gary Shapley and Joe Ziegler put their entire careers on the line to stand up for the truth, and instead of being thanked, the Biden administration treated them like skunks at a picnic. Far too many whistleblowers share a similar experience of retaliation. I hope today is the first of many redemption stories for whistleblowers who’ve been mistreated. By taking a stand for whistleblowers, President Trump and his cabinet are ushering in a new era of transparency and accountability.”

“I am pleased to welcome Gary Shapley and Joseph Ziegler to the Treasury Department, where they will help us drive much-needed cultural reform within the IRS,” Bessent said. “These veteran civil servants join us to help further the agency’s focus on collections, modernization, and customer service, so we can deliver a more effective and efficient IRS experience for hardworking American taxpayers. I appreciate Senator Grassley’s efforts in Congress to support whistleblower protections in order to improve transparency, accountability and root out the culture of retaliation.”

“We are enormously grateful to Secretary Bessent, Senator Grassley, and all of the members of Congress for their leadership and trust,” Shapley and Ziegler said. “We have been motivated by one singular mantra: do what’s right, and do it the right way. It has not been easy, but having a clear conscience is worth the effort. We appreciate the opportunity Secretary Bessent is giving us to put our experience and firsthand knowledge to good use for the American people to eliminate waste and reform the IRS.”

Background:

Grassley first began investigating the Biden family in 2019, issuing two reports on his findings. While questioning then-Attorney General Merrick Garland in the Senate Judiciary Committee in March 2023, Grassley exposed, for the first time ever, that Special Counsel David Weiss’ investigation into Hunter Biden was not fully insulated from political interference. That exchange opened the door for new whistleblower disclosures to Congress about political decision-making in the Weiss investigation.

In June 2023, Grassley wrote to the DOJ Office of the Inspector General, the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration and the IRS requesting an investigation into allegations of retaliation against Shapley and Ziegler and IRS attempts to silence the whistleblowers through the use of an unlawful nondisclosure agreement (gag order). In July 2023, Grassley also requested the Office of Special Counsel (OSC) take appropriate disciplinary actions against all employees who engaged in unlawful retaliation and attempts to silence Shapley and Ziegler. In response, OSC confirmed it had opened an investigation into the whistleblower retaliation allegations. Further, the IRS updated its nondisclosure agreement to clarify whistleblowers’ right to make legally protected disclosures to Congress.

Grassley once again wrote the IRS in April 2024 to push for corrective action against employees who continued to retaliate against Shapley and Ziegler for making legally protected disclosures to Congress. He also highlighted Shapley and Ziegler’s courageous work in a letter to President Trump requesting the President hold a Rose Garden Ceremony to honor and thank whistleblowers.

Grassley is the current chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee, and a senior member and former chairman of the Senate Finance Committee. He is also the creator of the modern-day IRS Whistleblower Program, which has since brought back over $6 billion to the U.S. Treasury.

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MIL OSI USA News –

March 19, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Wilbraham Man Indicted for Violent Threats Targeting Public Officials, Private Individuals and Children

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

BOSTON – A Wilbraham man has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Springfield, Mass. for allegedly making numerous violent threats on social media targeting public figures, private individuals, children in Wilbraham and Boston, and an elementary school in Springfield.

Funwayo Mbilini Nyawo, also known as “Jonathan Funwayo Nyawo,” “Michael Jacobs” “Robert, Jacobs,” and “Carl Fields,” 36, was indicted with 13 counts of interstate transmission of threatening communications and one count of stalking through facilities of interstate commerce. Nyawo was previously arrested on Feb. 5, 2025 in the Southern District of Florida and ordered detained until his appearance in federal court in Springfield, which will be scheduled at a later date.

According to the Indictment, between July 30, 2024 and Oct. 1, 2024, Nyawo posted various communications on X (formerly known as Twitter) threatening to kill an elected United States official (and their family), a former United States official (and their family), a former member of a Massachusetts police department (and their family), a private individual, local officials and their family members; the children of Wilbraham and Boston; members of the Wilbraham Police Department and Wilbraham Fire Department (and their families); and an elementary school in Springfield, among others.

In addition, between Aug. 17, 2024 and on or about Oct. 1, 2024, Nyawo used X to engage in a course of conduct with the intent to harass and intimidate the elected United States official, their spouse, their child, their child’s spouse, and their grandchildren.

All of the charges provide for a sentence of up to five years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.

United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; Jodi Cohen, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division; and Special Agent in Charge J. Thomas Manger of the United States Capital Police made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the Wilbraham Police Department, the Hampden County Sheriff’s Department, and the Miami-Dade Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Steven H. Breslow of the Springfield Branch Office is prosecuting the case.

The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

MIL Security OSI –

March 19, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Brooklyn Park Felon Pleads Guilty to Distributing Fentanyl Mixture Resulting in Death on Mille Lacs Reservation

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

ST. PAUL, Minn. – A Brooklyn Park man pleaded guilty to fentanyl trafficking that resulted in death, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Lisa D. Kirkpatrick.

According to court documents, on July 26, 2023, Allen Lee Goodwin, 50, sold a mixture of fentanyl and para-fluorofentanyl to a 38-year-old male victim who lived on the Mille Lacs Indian Reservation. The next morning, Goodwin’s victim injected the fentanyl and para-fluorofentanyl substance and died minutes later. In his plea agreement, Goodwin admitted he intentionally transferred the fentanyl and para-fluorofentanyl mixture to his victim, and that the man would not have died but for the use of the fentanyl substance that he sold him.

“Deadly fentanyl is flooding our state and our country—resulting in the tragic loss of so many of our citizens,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Lisa D. Kirkpatrick. “Overdose rates are highest on our Indian reservations. This is unacceptable. My heart breaks for the Minnesota parents who have lost their children, struggling with drug addiction, to the greed and callousness of drug dealers. My office will prosecute these purveyors of poison to the fullest extent of the law.”

Goodwin pleaded guilty to one count of distribution of fentanyl resulting in death in U.S. District Court today before Judge Donovan W. Frank. A sentencing hearing will take place at a later date.

This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the FBI and the Mille Lacs Tribal Police Department.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Campbell Warner is prosecuting the case.

MIL Security OSI –

March 19, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Previously convicted sex offender pleads guilty to child pornography crimes after masturbating nude near school bus stop

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

COLUMBUS, Ohio – A previously convicted sex offender who, on multiple occasions, stood fully nude at the glass door of his Obetz residence and masturbated while school-aged children were getting off the bus and walking to their homes, pleaded guilty in federal court here today to federal child pornography crimes.

Joshua Bock, 32, of Edgeview Road in Columbus, pleaded guilty to distributing and possessing child pornography. As a convicted sex offender, he faces 15 to 40 years in prison for distributing child pornography and 10 to 20 years in prison for possessing the child sexual abuse material.

According to court documents, in September 2024, law enforcement officials contacted the Franklin County Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force regarding several civilian complaints about Bock. Multiple children witnessed him nude and masturbating while they walked from their school bus near Hamilton Local Schools.

Bock was arrested on local charges of public indecency, and law enforcement agents interviewed Bock and searched his electronic devices. He described the location of numerous devices and child pornography in his home, including a self-described “treasure chest” of material in his bedroom under the stairs. Law enforcement seized multiple laptops, hard drives, flash drives and cell phones from Bock’s residence.

His devices contained more than 3,500 images and videos of child sexual abuse, many including “bondage” of females ranging from toddler age to teenagers with gags in their mouths. Some of the video files depicted adults sexually abusing infants.

In his prior offense, Bock was charged as a hands-on sexual offender to a victim who was approximately 9 years old at the time.

Bock was charged federally in September 2024 via a criminal complaint. He has remained in custody since that time.

Kelly A. Norris, Acting United States Attorney for the Southern District of Ohio; Jared Murphey, Acting Special Agent in Charge, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Detroit; Franklin County Sheriff Dallas Baldwin and other members of the Franklin County Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force announced the guilty plea entered today before U.S. District Judge Edmund A. Sargus, Jr. Assistant United States Attorney Emily Czerniejewski is representing the United States in this case.

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MIL Security OSI –

March 19, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Cornyn, Sheehy Introduce Bill to Modernize Definition of Firearm Silencer

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Texas John Cornyn
HOUSTON – U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX) and Tim Sheehy (R-MT) introduced the Protecting Americans Right to Silence (PARTS) Act, which would modernize the definition of “silencer” to ensure gun owners can safely exercise their Second Amendment rights without fear of criminalization:
“No law-abiding American should have their Second Amendment rights violated because of outdated language or bureaucratic red tape,” said Sen. Cornyn. “This commonsense bill would modernize the definition of a firearm silencer, and I’m glad to support it.”
The legislation is cosponsored by Sens. Steve Daines (R-MT), Mike Lee (R-UT), Bill Cassidy (R-LA), Pete Ricketts (R-NE), Ted Budd (R-NC), and Jim Justice (R-WV).
Background:
The current definition of “silencer” under the Gun Control Act could be interpreted to classify each individual component of a silencer as a silencer itself, leading to potential overreach through unconstitutional rulemaking. The Protecting Americans Right to Silence (PARTS) Act would redefine the term “silencer” to focus on complete devices and a single principal component — similar to a firearm’s frame or receiver — rather than broad terms like “combination of parts” or “any part intended only for use” in a silencer. The bill would also streamline the purchase of consumable silencer parts, such as wipes, without requiring additional paperwork from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).
The bill is supported by Silencer Shop, American Suppressor Association, National Rifle Association (NRA), National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF), Congressional Sportsmen’s Caucus, and Firearms Regulatory Accountability Coalition.

MIL OSI USA News –

March 19, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: The facts about the Colum Marks case

Source: Traditional Unionist Voice – Northern Ireland

Statement by TUV party secretary Ann McClure:

“This is yet another report from the Police Ombudsman which is seriously lacking in balance. One might have hoped that she would have learned from the recent High Court judgement which should have called time on her desire to always play to the anti-police gallery but clearly not. Then of course the Ombudsman would have resigned in light of that judgement. She didn’t and is still delivering ridiculous findings which attempt to blacken the good name of the RUC.

“The facts of this case are stark. Colum Marks was a member of a proscribed terrorist organisation and actively involved in a terrorist act when he was thankfully neutralised by a brave RUC officer.

“There is no dispute about the fact that Marks – had he not been shot – would have been involved in a mortar attack which was designed to result in murder.

“No finding by the discredited Ombudsman should be permitted to obscure the reality driven home simply by restating the facts of the case.”

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

March 19, 2025
MIL-OSI: Shaping the Future of Work: HP Amplify 2025
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

News Highlights
- Brings world’s largest portfolio of AI PCs to the mainstream¹ with new HP EliteBooks, HP EliteDesks, and HP OmniBooks – delivering smarter workflows and incredible productivity.
- Launches the world’s first printers that protect against quantum computer attacks² with the HP LaserJet Enterprise 8000 Series Printers for enhanced hardware security.
- Enhances AI-powered insights in Workforce Experience Platform (WXP) to improve IT and employee experiences.
- Optimizes gameplay with OMEN AI on the new OMEN 16 Slim Gaming Laptop, and HyperX Cloud III S Wireless Gaming Headset delivers unmatched immersive audio experiences.
NASHVILLE, Tenn., March 18, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — At its annual Amplify Conference, HP Inc. (NYSE: HPQ) today announced new products and services designed to shape the future of work, empowering people and businesses to create and manage their own way of working. The company unveiled more than 80 PCs, AI-powered print tools for SMBs, and Workforce Experience Platform enhancements all built to drive company growth and professional fulfillment.

“HP is translating AI into meaningful experiences that drive growth and fulfillment,” said Enrique Lores, President and CEO at HP Inc. “We are shaping the future of work with game-changing AI innovations that seamlessly adapt to how people want to work.”

Leading the Future of Work

HP’s 2024 Work Relationship Index reports that only 28 percent of workers have a healthy relationship with work. Companies and people are seeking better work experiences and new advancements in technology – from seamless device connectivity to AI applications – that can help people work faster, think more creatively, and connect on a deeper level.

With customers looking to refresh their devices to Windows 11,³ HP is supercharging its PCs to take advantage of the latest technologies available with select models qualifying as Copilot+ PCs, ⁴ so work doesn’t feel like work:
- The HP EliteBook 8 Series is masterfully redesigned with mainstream enterprise workers in mind, delivering AI-powered productivity and seamless collaboration in a repairable and upgradeable package. With NPU options up to 50 TOPS, experience up to 224% better power efficiency and up to 43 times faster AI image generation for incredible performance gains versus previous non-NPU models.⁵
- The HP EliteDesk 8 Series brings AI powerfully and securely to the company’s desktop portfolio. These devices are ideal for corporate project managers and workers who need a reliable PC that can manage even the most demanding projects for smarter workflows and productivity. This is the world’s first business desktop PC portfolio to protect against quantum computer hacks,⁶ combining high performance with lower power consumption to reduce costs.
- The HP EliteStudio 8 AiO G1i is the perfect tool for an on-the-go employee constantly moving around the office. As the world’s first commercial PC with integrated KVM ability through HP Device Switch,⁷ an employee can use the all-in-one for work or quickly plug their laptop into the AIO with a single cable to power the notebook and access all the available peripherals.
- The OmniBook X Series is designed for creators who need a PC that adapts to their workflow, whether it be a svelte 14-inch flip device to ideate and draw, or a powerhouse clamshell 17.3-inch PC to power through their larger-than-life creations. The OmniBook 7 Series is built for power users on their PC for all-day productivity for school or work. And the OmniBook 5 Series is ideal for families and students with a versatile design that’s built for streaming, light gaming, and personal productivity. Devices across the consumer notebook portfolio are offered in a variety of sizes with powerful Intel Ultra or AMD Ryzen™ processors.
HP is also delivering powerful new AI software experiences to complement this next generation of AI PCs. Qualifying consumer and commercial devices from HP are equipped with exclusive software designed to transform how people work in the office, at home, and everywhere in between:
- HP AI Companion is an advanced on-device AI research assistant that delivers instant answers and secured file analysis, even without an internet connection.⁸^,⁹ New features planned for this Spring include intuitive voice and text commands and built-in keylogger protections to enhance productivity while keeping data secure on the device.
- HP Go¹⁰ plans to deliver seamless global connectivity for highly mobile professionals. With automatic network switching regardless of carrier, advanced fleet management, and effortless setup, road warriors can connect and be productive wherever work takes them. The HP Go service option will first be available on the HP EliteBook 6 G1q powered by Snapdragon X Series, making it the world’s first AI PC with zero-touch multi-carrier 5G deployment.¹¹
- Poly Camera Pro newest features make virtual interactions and video conferencing more dynamic and engaging, with AI-powered features like Magic Background, seamless streaming integrations, and presenter overlays.¹² Multi-camera support, customizable aesthetics, and auto-framing transforms any workspace into a professional studio experience.
HP is changing the way customers print and manage documents, making it easier and more efficient with new features and technology:
- Two new features to its collection of AI-powered tools that help SMBs simplify and enhance the print experience. The first feature streamlines the process of sharing scanned documents by using AI to summarize them and draft an email with the document attached, allowing for easy sharing via email or chat. The second feature offers automatic and guided redaction to safeguard sensitive information, ensuring that private data remains secure on HP devices without requiring a cloud connection. These innovations aim to reduce the complexity and enhance the security of document handling for small businesses.
- The HP LaserJet Enterprise 8000 Series Printers are the world’s first printers that protect against quantum computer attacks². They provide enhanced hardware-level security for highly regulated organizations that rely on secure printing, ensuring protection against future quantum computer attacks while seamlessly integrating with Zero Trust architectures.
- The HP Latex R530 Printer is the only compact all-in-one HP Latex printer¹³, capable of handling both rigid and flexible media. Its digital operation simplifies workflows and maximizes space, boosting efficiency. It helps small and medium-sized print shops (PSPs) meet customer demands with high-quality prints and impressive output.
HP provides IT with valuable insights that empower employees to thrive with HP Workforce Experience Platform (WXP)¹⁴ enhancements and expanded availability. New features include:
- AI Sentiment Analysis now includes AI capabilities to assess and improve employee experience by analyzing thousands of free text surveys.
- Fleet Explorer is a new AI-powered natural language processing (NLP) tool lets users query fleet data instantly for insights.
- Vyopta Integration¹⁵ enables HP and Vyopta customers to now check on the overall health of their organization’s collaboration environment in WXP.
- Pre-built scripts, alerts and dashboards help organizations monitor fleets, automate workflows.
Shaping the Future in Play

Technology can also offer people a smooth transition from work into play. According to Mohamed Ala Saayed, Senior Program Director & Fellow, Frost & Sullivan, “About 60% of gaming PCs owners likely use their systems for work-related activities in addition to gaming.”¹⁶

New gaming hardware across OMEN and HyperX delivers meaningful performance and personalization for the ultimate in gameplay:
- The OMEN 16 Slim Gaming Laptop redefines portable gaming with its ultra-thin design to game anywhere. The PC delivers next-level performance with up to Intel^® Core™ Ultra 9 285H processors,¹⁷ and comes with up to an NVIDIA^® GeForce RTX™ 5070 Laptop GPU for next-level graphics fidelity.
- The OMEN Transcend 14 Gaming Laptop is refreshed to deliver the same powerful CPU and GPU performance as the OMEN 16 Slim for gamers and creators on the go, bringing 25% more power.¹⁸
- OMEN AI is a personalized, one-click solution that recommends the best system, hardware, and gaming settings based on each unique device and game to eliminate endless tinkering. Accessible within OMEN Gaming Hub, OMEN AI is available on all HP gaming and consumer PCs.
- The HyperX Cloud III S Wireless Gaming Headset delivers unmatched comfort and immersive audio for up to 120 hours of battery life in 2.4GHz and up to 200 hours in Bluetooth mode on a single charge.¹⁹ HyperX-tuned acoustics ensure crystal-clear audio and the durable yet flexible design, boom and boomless mic options, and customizable earcup plates let gamers play longer, sound better, and do it in style.²⁰
HP Amplify Newsroom
For all the latest HP Amplify Partner Conference news and updates, visit the HP Newsroom including the just released Threat Research Report press release and news from the Advanced Compute Solutions business. More news posting at 2 p.m. ET and 4 p.m. ET.
- Follow @HP on LinkedIn, X, and Instagram
- Follow @Enrique Lores on LinkedIn
- Follow #HPAmplify across social platforms for the latest updates
About HP
HP Inc. is a global technology leader and creator of solutions that enable people to bring their ideas to life and connect to the things that matter most. Operating in more than 170 countries, HP delivers a wide range of innovative and sustainable devices, services and subscriptions for personal computing, printing, 3D printing, hybrid work, gaming, and more. For more information, please visit http://www.hp.com.

¹ Based on HP’s internal analysis of AI-enabled platforms across all commercial PC and consumer PC vendors as of March 2025. “AI PC” is defined as a PC with an integrated Neural Processing Unit (NPU) designed to accelerate AI workloads, regardless of TOPS count.
Comparison includes commercially and consumer available AI PCs available in the market.
² Based on HPs internal analysis of business Printers with preinstalled encryption, authentication, malware protection, post-quantum digital signature, and initial BIOS firmware integrity protection with automatic self-healing recovery finding that no other in-class Printers implement a quantum-resistant cryptographic scheme to protect the integrity of the BIOS and firmware as of March 2025.
³ Not all features are available in all editions or versions of Windows. Systems may require upgraded and/or separately purchased hardware, drivers, software or BIOS update to take full advantage of Windows functionality. Windows is automatically updated and enabled. High speed internet and Microsoft account required. ISP fees may apply and additional requirements may apply over time for updates. See http://www.windows.com.
⁴ On some devices, some Copilot+ PC experiences require free updates continuing to roll out through early 2025. Timing varies by device and region. See aka.ms/copilotpluspcs. Copilot is not available in China, Russia, Belarus, and embargoed regions Cuba, Iran, North Korea, and Crimea.
⁵ Based on image generation with NPU vs. non-NPU processor using Amuse software generating a 1024 x 1024 pixel image from the same text prompt repeatedly until battery depletion to determine power efficiency. Configurations tested: HP EliteBook 8 G1a AI with AMD Ryzen AI PRO 350 and 32GB RAM vs. HP EliteBook 845 G10 with AMD Ryzen 7 PRO 7840U and 32GB RAM. Results may vary
⁶ Based on HPs internal analysis of business PCs with preinstalled encryption, authentication, malware protection, BIOS-level protection and passing MIL-STD testing, finding that no other in-class PC implements a quantum-resistant cryptographic scheme to protect the integrity of UEFI BIOS firmware as of February 2024. Requires Windows 10 or higher. For supported HP PCs with the latest HP Endpoint Security Controller. See https://h20195.www2.hp.com/v2/GetDocument.aspx?docname=4AA8-3644ENW.
⁷ Optional feature must be configured at the time of purchase.
⁸ HP AI Companion is available preloaded on select HP next gen AI PCs or is available for download from the Microsoft store and requires a HP next gen AI PC with a NPU supporting 40-60 TOPS with 16 GB or more of storage and requires Windows 11. Perform requires account set up within 30 days of PC boot or enrollment through the HP AI Companion app. Some features require customer upload of local data. Ten (10) library 100 MB limit each, supported files may vary and at launch include pdf, .txt., .docx files. For ‘On device’ AI use, your HP Next Gen AI PC requires 32GB RAM and will require up to 4.5 GB storage on your PC. “On device” mode uses a downloaded LLM Phi 3.5 to process queries locally and does not require an internet connection. “Cloud” mode uses GPT-4o to process queries online and requires an internet connection. Spotlight and voice capability expected availability in Spring 2025 Availability varies by region.
⁹ HP AI Companion requires an HP Next Gen AI PC with a NPU supporting 40-60 TOPS and requires Windows 11. For ‘On device’ AI use, your HP Next Gen AI PC requires 32 GB RAM and will require up to 4.5 GB storage on your PC.
¹⁰ HP Go integrates pre-embedded carrier profiles, pre-activation processes, and pre-configured APNs at the factory, enabling seamless out-of-the-box connectivity. Requires 5G module and Windows support for carrier profile management and network selection. North America subscription service ONLY. Available in Spring 2025.
¹¹ Zero-touch multi-carrier 5G deployment is the ability to automatically onboard and activate 5G connectivity across multiple carriers without requiring manual carrier selection, IT-managed profile provisioning, or traditional enterprise (STD) onboarding methods. Unlike standard WWAN and eSIM-based setups, HP Go integrates pre-embedded carrier profiles, pre-activation processes, and pre-configured APNs, enabling automatic connection to the fastest available network. North America subscription service ONLY. Available in Spring 2025.
¹² Requires myHP application and Windows OS.
¹³ Based on internal HP testing.
¹⁴ HP Workforce Experience Platform (WXP) is available in various tiers with optional add-on solutions in various term licenses. WXP is for commercial customers and some features and capabilities may require additional purchase of HP Services and/or commercial hardware supporting the HP Insights agent for Windows, Mac, & Android available for download at https://workforceexperience.hp.com/software.admin.hp.com/software. For full system requirements and services that require the agent, please visit https://workforceexperience.hp.com/requirements. Activation and restrictions may apply. The agent collects telemetry and analytics around devices and applications that integrate into the Workforce Experience platform and is not sold as a standalone service. The agent is ISO27001, ISO27701, ISO27017 and SOC2 Type2 certified for Information Security.
¹⁵ HP Vyopta license required for collaboration technology monitoring
¹⁶ March 2025. Mohamed Alaa Saayed, Senior Program Director & Fellow, Frost & Sullivan. 60% of gaming PCs are split between 55% desktop and 65% laptop users.
¹⁷ Multi-core is designed to improve performance of certain software products. Not all customers or software applications will necessarily benefit from use of this technology. Performance and clock frequency will vary depending on application workload and your hardware and software configurations. Intel’s numbering, branding and/or naming is not a measurement of higher performance. Intel, Core, and the Intel logo are trademarks and/or registered trademarks of Intel Corporation in the U.S. and other countries.
¹⁸All performance specifications represent the typical specifications provided by HP’s component manufacturers; actual performance may vary either higher or lower. Total processors power = Total GPU power plus total thermal power.
¹⁹ Tested at 50% headphone volume, continuous playback. Using 2.4GHz mode, the headset has a battery life of up to 120 hours. Using Bluetooth mode, the headset has a battery life of up to 200 hours. Actual battery life will vary with use and maximum battery capacity will naturally decrease with time and usage.
²⁰ Earcup plates sold separately. Available in select countries/regions.

The MIL Network –
March 19, 2025
MIL-OSI Video: Attorney General Pamela Bondi Welcomes President Donald J. Trump to the Justice Department

Source: United States Department of Justice (video statements)

On Friday, March 14, 2025, Attorney General Pamela Bondi welcomed President Donald J. Trump to the Justice Department. Both President Trump and Attorney General Bondi delivered remarks, as did FBI Director Kash Patel and Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tl9V_JNFa0c

MIL OSI Video –

March 19, 2025
MIL-OSI United Nations: Violence Triggers Record Displacements in Port-au-Prince: Over 60,000 People in a Month

Source: International Organization for Migration (IOM)

Port-au-Prince, 18 March 2025 – In just one month, intense violence has forced nearly 60,000 people to flee—yet another record in Haiti’s worsening humanitarian situation. For years, gang violence, displacement, and instability have gripped Port-au-Prince and large parts of the country, each wave of attacks deepening the suffering of already vulnerable communities. However, in the last two months, the security situation has sharply deteriorated even further in the capital, with escalating attacks on civilians, eroding the few remaining gang-free areas, and forcing repeated and record displacements. The Port-au-Prince airport remains closed and the capital under siege.

Escalating violence has heavily impacted communities in several neighborhoods of the capital, including Delmas, Carrefour-Feuilles, Martissant, Fort National, Pétion-Ville, and Tabarre, forcing thousands to flee for safety. Most of the displaced have sought refuge in 48 displacement sites, including 12 newly established ones, while others have taken shelter with already overstretched host families.

“This alarming surge in displacements underscores the relentless cycle of violence devastating Haiti’s capital, we have never observed a such large number of people moving in this short time” said Grégoire Goodstein, IOM’s Chief in Haiti. “Families are being uprooted time and again, forced to leave everything behind as they flee for safety. Many of those displaced were already living in precarious conditions after previous displacements.”

Overall, more than 1 million people are displaced across the country, a number that has tripled in the past year. Yet, as suffering reaches new extremes, Haiti’s crisis continues to struggle for the world’s attention. Resources are stretched thin, and humanitarian needs far exceed the current response capacity. Additionally, insecurity keeps growing. Support for the Haitian National Police must be enhanced to provide them with the necessary resources and capabilities to restore stability and security.

“People fleeing violence need immediate protection, food, water, and shelter. The situation is worsening by the day, and without additional support, we risk seeing an even greater humanitarian catastrophe unfold,” emphasized Goodstein.

IOM continues to provide life-saving assistance to displaced communities in Haiti. Last month alone, over 16,000 people were reached with clean water and hygiene support, while 3,700 people benefited from emergency shelter, hygiene kits, medical care and psychosocial support. IOM teams remain on the ground, engaging with affected families, assessing urgent needs, and delivering aid throughout the country.

From emergency relief to long-term recovery, IOM is committed to providing relief and support for displaced Haitians, ensuring they receive the aid they need to survive and rebuild. However, significant challenges persist. Resources are overstretched, and humanitarian access is increasingly constrained due to insecurity, leaving thousands without adequate protection and essential services.

Note to Editor 

A detailed analysis of displacements in Haiti is available here.

For more information please contact:

In Haiti: Antoine Lemonnier, alemonnier@iom.int

In Panama: Jorge Gallo, jgallo@iom.int

In Geneva: Daniela Rovina, drovina@iom.int

MIL OSI United Nations News –

March 19, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Albanian alpine police officers undergo intensive training organized by OSCE Presence, Austria

Source: Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe – OSCE

Headline: Albanian alpine police officers undergo intensive training organized by OSCE Presence, Austria

Training of Albanian Alpine Police, Korça, 13 March 2025. (OSCE) Photo details

Thirty police officers from the alpine units of Tirana, Fier and Shkodra participated in a specialized training programme in the mountains of Korça from 10 to 13 March 2025. Organized by the OSCE Presence in Albania, in close co-operation with trainers from the Austrian Federal Police, this intensive course aimed to enhance Albanian police officers’ ability to navigate and operate in challenging alpine environments, ensuring the safety and security of both local communities and tourists.
Building on the foundation laid by a previous training in Theth in 2022, this programme marked another significant step in Albania’s efforts to improve its law enforcement capabilities in mountainous terrains. The Theth training was a milestone in strengthening the operational readiness of Albania’s alpine police and this latest session further advanced those objectives.
Austria, renowned for its expertise in alpine policing, provided highly experienced trainers who led participants through a combination of theoretical and practical exercises. Officers were trained in essential skills such as effective rescue operations, safety protocols and tactical mountain policing. The course also included rigorous endurance tests, quick-thinking drills and adaptability training for emergency situations. Participants gained hands-on experience in first aid, casualty evacuation and the use of specialized alpine equipment, including ropes and harnesses crucial for survival in extreme conditions.
Speaking at the closing ceremony, Deputy Head of Presence Clarisse Pasztory emphasized that, in co-operation with the Austrian Ministry of Interior, the OSCE Presence will continue to support further training for Albania’s alpine police.
Director of the National Security Force, Hamdi Fjora, highlighted that, following a joint needs assessment with Austrian experts, a selected group of officers will undergo a training-of-trainers programme. This initiative aims to integrate alpine training into the annual curriculum of Albania’s public security structures, ensuring continuous capacity-building in this field.
The activity was part of a project implemented by the OSCE Presence in Albania and funded by the Austrian government.

MIL OSI Europe News –

March 19, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Michigan Man Sentenced to 25 Years in Federal Prison on Multiple Child Exploitation Charges

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

NASHVILLE – Robert L. Northrup, 55, of Niles, Michigan, was sentenced last Friday to 25 years in federal prison after having pled guilty to attempted sexual exploitation of a minor, advertising child pornography, attempted coercion and enticement of a minor to engage in unlawful sexual activity, attempted transfer of obscene material to an individual under the age of sixteen, and committing an offense involving a minor while required to register as a sex offender, announced Robert E. McGuire, Acting United States Attorney for the Middle District of Tennessee. Northrup will be required to continue registering as a sex offender.

“Stopping those who intend to prey on children is among the highest priorities of our office and the Department of Justice,” said Robert E. McGuire, Acting United States Attorney. “This sentence will make sure that Robert Northrup will not harm another child for a quarter century. I commend the agents of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Assistant U.S. Attorney Morrison for their diligent pursuit of justice and drive to hold child sex offenders like Northrup accountable for their crimes.”

According to court records, between July 21, 2022, and August 22, 2022, Northrup communicated with an FBI online covert employee, who was posing as a thirteen-year-old girl, on an online dating application and by text message. Northrop’s status block on the online dating application made clear that he was looking for young girls. This was one of eight accounts Northrop had on this online dating application. While Northrop was communicating with the FBI employee, he requested sexually explicit photos of multiple minors, discussed engaging in sexually activity with the online covert employee, and sent photos of his penis and a masturbation video.

Northrup has prior convictions for a number of offenses including Criminal Sexual Conduct Third Degree, Child Solicitation, and Inappropriate Communication with a Child, which required him to register as a sex offender. He also has six convictions for Failure to Register or Attempted Failure to Register as a Sex Offender.

After serving his sentence, Northrup will be on supervised release for the remainder of his life.

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Clarksville Resident Agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Monica R. Morrison prosecuted the case.

# # # # #

MIL Security OSI –

March 19, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: The Guardian: Democrats demand investigation into Musk over possible criminal corruption

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts – Elizabeth Warren
March 17, 2025
Leading Democrats on Monday demanded an investigation of possible criminal corruption involving Elon Musk, the tech billionaire and world’s richest man tasked by Donald Trump with slashing the federal government.
The investigation should involve “the Federal Aviation Administration’s decision to cancel a $2.4bn contract with Verizon to upgrade air traffic control communications, and to pay … Musk’s Starlink to help manage US airspace”, senators Chris Van Hollen, Richard Blumenthal and Elizabeth Warren wrote to Pam Bondi, the attorney general, and Mitch Behm, acting inspector general of the transportation department.
“We ask that the Department of Transportation’s Office of Inspector General and the Department of Justice investigate the scope of Mr Musk’s activities at the FAA,” the senators said.
An investigation, the letter said, would determine whether Musk, “in his capacity as a special government employee in the White House … has participated in any particular matter in which he has a financial interest, which would violate the criminal conflict-of-interest statute”.
…
Read the full article here.
By: Martin PengellySource: The Guardian
Previous Article

MIL OSI USA News –

March 19, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: ICE arrests 31 illegal aliens, 3 charged for criminal activity

Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico — U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement with support from the FBI, Drug Enforcement Administration, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, U.S. Marshals, U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s Air and Marine Operations, and the Puerto Rico Police Bureau, arrested 31 illegal aliens March 9 during a targeted enforcement operation in the San Juan area.

The multi-agency operation took place at an illegal cockfight location. Three of the arrested were charged for criminal activity.

All the illegal aliens are in ICE custody pending removal.

ICE Homeland Security Investigations San Juan Special Agent in Charge Rebecca González-Ramos said: “This operation is part of ongoing enforcement under the Presidential Executive Order, to combat illegal immigration across Puerto Rico. Local enforcement partnerships are key to fulfill our mission of keeping our communities safe.”

ICE is focused on public safety and national security threats. Individuals illegally present in the United States who are encountered during an enforcement operation may be taken into custody and processed for removal as stated by law.

Members of the public with information can report crimes or suspicious activity by dialing the ICE Tip Line at 866-DHS-2-ICE (866-347-2423) or completing the online tip form.

Learn more about ICE HSI mission to increase public safety in Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands on X at @HSISanJuan.

MIL OSI USA News –

March 19, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Justice Department Files Statement of Interest Supporting Equal Access to Educational Opportunities and Facilities for Jewish UCLA Students

Source: US State of North Dakota

The Federal Task Force to Combat Antisemitism announced that the Justice Department filed a statement of interest in the Central District of California to advance the appropriate interpretation of federal laws that prohibit colleges and universities from discriminating against students because of their religion or national origin. The statement of interest is part of the Task Force’s nationwide effort to combat antisemitism in all of its forms.

According to the allegations in Frankel et al. v. Regents of the University of California et al., in the spring of 2024 administrators of the University of California system allowed members of a protest encampment to physically prevent University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) students and faculty from accessing portions of the UCLA campus if they were wearing articles reflective of their Jewish faith or if they refused to denounce Israel.

The plaintiffs are Jewish students and a Jewish professor at UCLA who allege that the university knowingly acted in concert with or allowed members of the protest encampment to prevent them from accessing a central campus space and adjacent classrooms and library on the basis of their Jewish faith or national origin in violation of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (Title VI), the Fourteenth Amendment’s Equal Protection Clause, and California state law. The United States’ statement of interest addresses the sufficiency of plaintiffs’ claims that defendant administrators violated Title VI and the Equal Protection Clause.

The Justice Department recently announced the formation of a multi-agency task force coordinated by the Civil Rights Division to combat antisemitism, which is visiting 10 university campuses that have experienced antisemitic events. The Department also recently announced its investigation into the University of California to assess whether the university system engaged in a pattern or practice of discrimination based on race, religion and national origin against its professors, staff and other employees by allowing an antisemitic hostile work environment to exist on its campuses, including UCLA. The Task Force also recently announced that the Department, together with other federal agencies, would cancel $400 million in federal contracts and grants to Columbia University due to the school’s inaction in the face of persistent harassment of Jewish students.

“The President, Attorney General Pam Bondi, and the Task Force know that every student must be free to attend school without being discriminated against on the basis of their race, religion or national origin,” said Leading Task Force member and Senior Counsel to the Assistant Attorney General for Civil Rights Leo Terrell. “The Department of Justice is working to combat antisemitism using all of the tools at our disposal.”

“Discrimination of any kind will not be tolerated in our community,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Joseph McNally for the Central District of California. “Our office will enforce anti-discrimination laws to address the issue of antisemitism affecting our residents.”

To learn more about the Civil Rights Division visit www.justice.gov/crt, and to report possible violations of federal civil rights laws go to www.civilrights.justice.gov or call toll-free at 800-253-3931.

MIL OSI USA News –

March 19, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Justice Department Files Statement of Interest Supporting Equal Access to Educational Opportunities and Facilities for Jewish UCLA Students

Source: United States Attorneys General

The Federal Task Force to Combat Antisemitism announced that the Justice Department filed a statement of interest in the Central District of California to advance the appropriate interpretation of federal laws that prohibit colleges and universities from discriminating against students because of their religion or national origin. The statement of interest is part of the Task Force’s nationwide effort to combat antisemitism in all of its forms.

According to the allegations in Frankel et al. v. Regents of the University of California et al., in the spring of 2024 administrators of the University of California system allowed members of a protest encampment to physically prevent University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) students and faculty from accessing portions of the UCLA campus if they were wearing articles reflective of their Jewish faith or if they refused to denounce Israel.

The plaintiffs are Jewish students and a Jewish professor at UCLA who allege that the university knowingly acted in concert with or allowed members of the protest encampment to prevent them from accessing a central campus space and adjacent classrooms and library on the basis of their Jewish faith or national origin in violation of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (Title VI), the Fourteenth Amendment’s Equal Protection Clause, and California state law. The United States’ statement of interest addresses the sufficiency of plaintiffs’ claims that defendant administrators violated Title VI and the Equal Protection Clause.

The Justice Department recently announced the formation of a multi-agency task force coordinated by the Civil Rights Division to combat antisemitism, which is visiting 10 university campuses that have experienced antisemitic events. The Department also recently announced its investigation into the University of California to assess whether the university system engaged in a pattern or practice of discrimination based on race, religion and national origin against its professors, staff and other employees by allowing an antisemitic hostile work environment to exist on its campuses, including UCLA. The Task Force also recently announced that the Department, together with other federal agencies, would cancel $400 million in federal contracts and grants to Columbia University due to the school’s inaction in the face of persistent harassment of Jewish students.

“The President, Attorney General Pam Bondi, and the Task Force know that every student must be free to attend school without being discriminated against on the basis of their race, religion or national origin,” said Leading Task Force member and Senior Counsel to the Assistant Attorney General for Civil Rights Leo Terrell. “The Department of Justice is working to combat antisemitism using all of the tools at our disposal.”

“Discrimination of any kind will not be tolerated in our community,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Joseph McNally for the Central District of California. “Our office will enforce anti-discrimination laws to address the issue of antisemitism affecting our residents.”

To learn more about the Civil Rights Division visit www.justice.gov/crt, and to report possible violations of federal civil rights laws go to www.civilrights.justice.gov or call toll-free at 800-253-3931.

MIL Security OSI –

March 19, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: South Carolina man pleads guilty to sexually exploiting two children in Virginia

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

ALEXANDRIA, Va. – A South Carolina man pled guilty today to sexually exploiting two children to whom he had access while residing in Reston.

According to court documents, from at least July 2019 through July 2022, Christopher George Schoenmann, 43, of Mount Pleasant, South Carolina, created sexually explicit images of two minor victims, identified as MV1 and MV2, and distributed the images to a man in Minnesota, in exchange for sexually explicit images of the Minnesota man’s minor children.

Schoenmann and the Minnesota man used WhatsApp to discuss their sexual interest in young girls, and to trade images of their victims. Between July 2019 and July 2022, Schoenmann created at least eight images depicting MV1 engaged in sexually explicit conduct. MV1 was between six and eight years old when Schoenmann sexually exploited her. Schoenmann also created at least eight sexually explicit images of MV2, who was between less than a year old and two years old when Schoenmann sexually exploited her. Schoenmann distributed the sexually explicit images of his victims to the Minnesota man.

Schoenmann also stored on 4 different electronic devices more than 1,400 images and videos depicting children engaged in sexually explicit conduct, including approximately 39 images and videos depicting the sexual abuse of infants or toddlers.

Schoenmann is scheduled to be sentenced on June 24. He faces a mandatory minimum of 15 years and up to 30 years in prison. Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

Erik S. Siebert, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, and Christopher Heck, Acting Special Agent in Charge of Immigration and Customs Enforcement Homeland Security Investigations (ICE HSI) Washington, D.C. made the announcement after U.S. District Judge Leonie M. Brinkema accepted the plea.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Alessandra Serano and Lauren Halper are prosecuting the case.

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

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 1:25-cr-22.

MIL Security OSI –

March 19, 2025
MIL-OSI Global: Exploring the link between school exclusion and crime – new research

Source: The Conversation – UK – By Iain Brennan, Professor of Criminology, University of Hull

The rate of children permanently excluded from school in England rose against last year and is higher than before the pandemic.

A recent BBC documentary by actor Idris Elba pointed out that being excluded from school can be a tipping point that pushes a child towards serious violence. This observation is backed up by convincing evidence.

Data in a joint report by the Ministry of Justice and Department for Education shows that the risk of being cautioned or charged for a serious violence offence by age 18 is 15 times higher in children who had been excluded from school.

Crucially, though, exclusion and violence have many risk factors in common. Children who have special educational needs, have grown up in deprivation or have been in care, for instance, are more at risk both of being excluded from school and of committing a violent offence.

This makes the job of teasing out the impact of exclusion on violence challenging. Research needs to account for the contribution of these other factors.

We carried out research to isolate the effect of school exclusion on serious violence, trying to do so in a way that just focused on the impact of exclusion.

The best way to know whether or not something has caused a change is to split a group of people at random and give one group something and not the other, be that a medicine, a programme or anything else. This is known as a randomised controlled trial.

Finding a cause

By randomly splitting the group, any other risk factors – ones that we know about and ones that we don’t – are shared equally across the two groups, so if we see a difference between the groups, the only explanation is the difference introduced by the researchers.

However, there are lots of situations where randomisation would be unethical. We could never randomise people to start smoking to test if it causes a disease, nor could we randomise skydivers to not wear parachutes. School exclusion is a situation like this. Excluding some children but not excluding others in the name of science would be a dangerous experiment.

Instead of this unethical coin toss, we used a new technique from medical research, known as a target trial emulation. This approach seeks to mimic the circumstances of a randomised controlled trial.

It does so by ensuring that the study only includes people who meet the “eligibility” criteria for the study, that the two groups are as similar as possible and that they are followed up for identical periods.

It is important to define who is “eligible” for exclusion. While in theory, any children can be excluded, they are only truly eligible if they have done something “exclusion-worthy”.

There are many common risk factors for exclusion and violence.
polya_olya/Shutterstock

Finding groups of people who meet these criteria and where some have been excluded and others have not is challenging. Fortunately, in 2020, the Department for Education linked the records of over 15 million people to criminal records held by the Ministry of Justice and anonymised them. This data set is just the type of “big data” we need for this question.

We identified every record of a child who had been excluded between 2006 and 2016 – over 20,000 children. We then matched these records against those of other children from the same data set who had the same background, educational experience and history of suspensions and (non-violent) offending, but who, crucially, were never excluded.

Following those cases from the time of the exclusion and comparing them, we found that, within a year, the excluded children were more than twice as likely to commit serious violent crime than their not excluded peers.

A doubling of risk of the most serious violence in an already high-risk group points to exclusion being an important factor in youth violence.

But because we cannot rule out other factors and because we can’t know if the comparison group were truly “eligible” for exclusion, this may be as close as we can get to understanding the causal influence of exclusion.

Cut back on exclusions?

The evidence on a link between exclusion and future violence might suggest that it would be a good idea to limit exclusions from schools. But this is an extremely contentious issue.

Limiting or preventing exclusions risks schools having to spend a great deal of precious resources keeping a small number of children in school. The Department for Education and many teachers state that exclusions are necessary when a child’s behaviour becomes a risk to their classmates and teachers or harms the potential to learn.

On the other hand, continuing with increasing rates of exclusions risks letting down the most vulnerable and traumatised children – as well as potentially creating victims of crime and heaping pressure on prisons later on.

Critics of exclusions argue that, as well as increasing risk of offending, exclusions unfairly target children from ethnic minorities and children with special educational needs, and should be avoided as much as possible.

We may never truly know the causal effect of exclusion on violent offending. But perhaps we do not need to. Addressing the common causes of exclusion and violence should be the greater priority.

The warning signs for a child’s exclusion and violence will have been clear in many cases but too often schools and teachers lack the time and resources to help and include a child showing these signs, falling back on disciplinary policies that may be doing more harm than good.

It would be better to introduce an inclusive system that views schools as being part of a system that does not just respond to violence but can prevent it. However, although exclusion from school may be a trigger and a predictor of serious violence, preventing such violence cannot be the responsibility of schools alone.

Iain Brennan receives funding from Economic and Social Research Council, Home Office, College of Policing, Youth Endowment Fund and the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner for Humberside.

Rosie Cornish receives funding from the UK Medical Research Council, the Economic and Social Research Council, the Youth Endowment Fund, the Home Office and the Avon and Somerset Violence Reduction Partnership.

– ref. Exploring the link between school exclusion and crime – new research – https://theconversation.com/exploring-the-link-between-school-exclusion-and-crime-new-research-252122

MIL OSI – Global Reports –

March 19, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Twillingate — Twillingate RCMP investigates break, enter and attempted theft at Dearing’s Automotive in Fairbank

Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

Twillingate RCMP is investigating a commercial break, enter and attempted theft of an ATM machine that occurred on March 14, 2025, at Dearing’s Automotive in Fairbank.

Shortly after 5:00 a.m. on Friday, Twillingate RCMP received a report of a break and enter in progress at the business. Video surveillance captured a masked suspect on the property who arrived in a pickup truck. The suspect used the truck to smash the front entrance of the building and attempted to steal an ATM from inside the business by towing it with the vehicle. The attempt was unsuccessful. The suspect then fled the scene in the vehicle.

A short time later, police received a report of a truck on fire in Summerford, matching the description of the vehicle used in the break and enter.

The abandoned truck, a 2010 black GMC Sierra, was extinguished by firefighters and confirmed as being involved in the break and enter.

The investigation is continuing.

Twillingate RCMP is seeking assistance from the public in identifying the suspect. Anyone having information about this crime is asked to call Twillingate RCMP at (709) 884-2811. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers: #SayItHere 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), visit www.nlcrimestoppers.com or use the P3Tips app.

MIL Security OSI –

March 19, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Lackawanna County Man Sentenced to 96 Months’ Imprisonment for Theft of Major Artwork
Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime News

SCRANTON – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Thomas Trotta, age 49, of Dunmore, Pennsylvania, was sentenced on March 13, 2025, to 96 months’ imprisonment, to be followed by a term of supervised release, and to pay restitution in the amount of $2,759,073, by U.S. District Judge Malachy E. Mannion for one count of theft of major artwork.

According to Acting United States Attorney John C. Gurganus, Trotta had previously pleaded guilty to one count of theft of major artwork, and admitted to stealing the following:
- “Le Grande Passion” by Andy Warhol and “Springs Winter” by Jackson Pollock stolen in 2005 from the Everhart Museum in Scranton, Pennsylvania;
- Nine (9) World Series rings, seven (7) other championship rings, and two (2) MVP plaques all belonging to Yogi Berra, worth over $500,000 stolen in 2014 from the Yogi Berra Museum & Learning Center in Little Falls, New Jersey;
- Six (6) championship belts, including four belonging to Carmen Basilio and two belonging to Tony Zale stolen in 2015 from the International Boxing Hall of Fame in Canastota, New York;
- The Hickok Belt and MVP Trophy belonging to Roger Maris, stolen in 2016 from the Roger Maris Museum in Fargo, North Dakota;
- The U.S. Amateur Trophy and a Hickok Belt awarded to Ben Hogan, stolen in 2012 from the USGA Golf Museum & Library;
- Fourteen (14) trophies and other awards worth approximately $300,000 stolen in 2012 from the Harness Racing Museum & Hall of Fame in Goshen, New York;
- Five (5) trophies worth over $30,000, including the 1903 Belmont Stakes Trophy, stolen in 2013 from the National Racing Museum & Hall of Fame in Saratoga Springs, New York;
- Three antique firearms stolen in 2006 from Space Farms: Zoo & Museum in Wantage, New Jersey;
- A 1903/1904 Tiffany Lamp stolen in 2010 from the Lackawanna Historical Society in Scranton, Pennsylvania,
- “Upper Hudson” by Jasper Crospey, worth approximately $120,000, stolen in 2011 from Ringwood Manor in Ringwood, New Jersey;
- Antique firearms worth over $150,000, stolen in 2011 from Ringwood Manor in Ringwood, New Jersey;
- Hundreds of thousands of dollars’ worth of gold nuggets stolen in 2011 from the Sterling Hill Mining Museum in Ogdensburg, New Jersey;
- An antique shotgun worth over $30,000 stolen in 2018 from Space Farms: Zoo & Museum in Wantage, New Jersey;
Trotta committed the above thefts as part of a larger, eight-person conspiracy. After a month-long trial held earlier this year, co-conspirators Nicholas Dombek, age 54, of Thornhurst, Pennsylvania, Damien Boland, age 48, of Moscow, Pennsylvania, and Joseph Atsus, age 48, of Roaring Brook, Pennsylvania, were convicted of conspiracy to commit theft of major artwork, concealment and disposal of major artwork, and interstate transportation of stolen property, as well as multiple related substantive offenses. They are presently pending sentencing.

Three additional co-conspirators pleaded guilty pursuant to felony informations and were sentenced by Judge Mannion earlier this year. They include:
- Dawn Trotta, age 53, of Dunmore, Pennsylvania, who was sentenced to 15 months’ imprisonment for conspiracy to commit theft of major artwork, concealment and disposal of major artwork, and interstate transportation of stolen property;
- Frank Tassiello, age 52, of Taylor, Pennsylvania, who was sentenced to six months’ imprisonment for conspiracy to commit theft of major artwork, concealment and disposal of major artwork, and interstate transportation of stolen property; and
- Ralph Parry, age 47, of Springbrook Township, Pennsylvania, who was sentenced to three years of probation as well as a period of home-confinement for conspiracy to commit theft of major artwork, concealment and disposal of major artwork, and interstate transportation of stolen property.
After stealing the above-described items, the conspirators would transport the stolen goods back to northeastern Pennsylvania, often to the residence of Dombek, and melt the memorabilia down into easily transportable metal discs or bars. The conspirators would then sell the raw metal to fences in the New York City area for hundreds or a few thousands of dollars, significantly less than the sports memorabilia would be worth at fair market value.

Dombek burnt the painting “Upper Hudson” by Jasper Crospey, valued at approximately $100,000, to avoid the painting being recovered by investigators and used as evidence against the members of the conspiracy. The whereabouts of many of the other paintings and stolen objects are currently unknown, however, several antique firearms stolen from the Space Farms: Zoo and Museum and the Ringwood Manor Museum, both in New Jersey, were recovered by investigators.

The matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Pennsylvania State Police, the New Jersey State Police, the New York State Police, the New Jersey State Park Police, the Newport Police Department (Rhode Island), the Fargo Police Department (North Dakota), the Chester Police Department (New York), the Exeter Borough Police Department (Pennsylvania), the Scranton Police Department, the Franklin Police Department (New Jersey), the Village of Goshen Police Department (New York), the Metropolitan Police Department (Washington, D.C.), the West Milord Township Police Department (New Jersey), the Montclair Police Department (New Jersey), the Saratoga Springs Police Department (New York), the Canastota Police Department (New York), the South Abington Police Department (Pennsylvania), the Bernards Township Police Department (New Jersey), the Salisbury Township Police Department (Pennsylvania), the Montclair State University Police Department (New Jersey) the Lackawanna County District Attorney’s Office (Pennsylvania), the Sussex County Prosecutor’s Office (New Jersey), the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office (New Jersey), the Orange County District Attorney’s Office (New York), and multiple other local law enforcement agencies from across the country.

Assistant United States Attorneys James M. Buchanan, Jenny Roberts, and Sean Camoni prosecuted the case.

# # #

MIL Security OSI –
March 19, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Carbon County Man Sentenced to 240 Months in Prison for Producing Child Pornography

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

SCRANTON – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Ignacia Salcido-Lopez, age 19, of Lake Harmony, Pennsylvania, was sentenced on March 13, 2025, to 240 months’ imprisonment by U.S. District Judge Malachy E. Mannion for producing child pornography.

According to Acting United States Attorney John C. Gurganus, between December 23, 2023, and January 14, 2024, Salcido-Lopez produced hundreds of images of child pornography involving two children, ages seven and three, that he was babysitting.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc.

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigations and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jenny P. Roberts.

###

MIL Security OSI –

March 19, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Former Mt. Carmel Borough Police Officer Pleads Guilty to Conspiring to Violate Civil Rights

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

HARRISBURG – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that former Lt. David Donkochik, age 53, of the Mt. Carmel Borough Police Department, pleaded guilty yesterday before U.S. Chief District Judge Matthew W. Brann, to conspiring to use excessive force when arresting people over a three-year period.

According to Acting United States Attorney John C. Gurganus, former Lt. Donkochik was previously indicted on June 15, 2023, with former Officer Jonathan McHugh, age 36, and former Officer Kyle Schauer, age 36, on charges of conspiracy to deprive rights under color of law. Donkochik, McHugh, and Schauer conspired to violate the civil rights of those they arrested from 2018 to 2021. During 22 different arrests, one or more of the defendants kicked, punched, choked, or otherwise used excessive force against those they were arresting. In those arrests, they caused bodily injuries to their victims.

Donkochik, McHugh, and Schauer also took steps to ensure that video of the arrests was not captured by police cameras, or if footage that incriminated them was captured, took steps to ensure that footage was not preserved. They falsely reported that arrestees acted in a manner requiring violence and then charged arrestees with aggravated assault, resisting arrest, and related offenses to conceal their own use of violence.

Schauer pleaded guilty on October 24, 2024, to conspiracy to deprive rights under color of law.

The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Pennsylvania State Police. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Michael A. Consiglio and Carlo D. Marchioli and are prosecuting the case.

The maximum penalty under federal law for this offense is 10 years of imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.

# # #

MIL Security OSI –

March 19, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: City Man Charged in 2023 Kidnapping, Death of Philadelphia Man Abducted Outside His Home

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

PHILADELPHIA – United States Attorney David Metcalf announced that Tyheem Tyler, 34, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, was arrested and charged by indictment with conspiracy to commit kidnapping, kidnapping resulting in death, and aiding and abetting.

The indictment alleges that on or about March 6, 2023, the defendant traveled to Wey Um’s place of business in Philadelphia and participated in a robbery of Wey Um at gunpoint.

The indictment further alleges that in the early hours of March 31, 2023, Tyler and his co-conspirators drove a Ford Explorer SUV to Wey Um’s Philadelphia home, kidnapped Wey Um from outside of his residence, and at approximately 2:12 a.m., drove Wey Um in the Ford Explorer to a location near the Delaware River in Philadelphia.

As alleged, Tyler knowingly, willfully, and unlawfully seized, confined, kidnapped, abducted, carried away, and held, and aided and abetted the unlawful seizing, confining, abduction, carrying away, and holding of, Wey Um, deceased, for ransom, reward, and otherwise, resulting in the death of Wey Um, and in committing and in furtherance of the commission of the offense used means, facilities, and instrumentalities of interstate commerce.

If convicted, the defendant faces a maximum possible sentence of life imprisonment or death.

The case was investigated by the FBI Violent Crimes Task Force and the Philadelphia Police Department and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Everett Witherell and Timothy Lanni.

An indictment, information, or criminal complaint is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

MIL Security OSI –

March 19, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Southern District of Texas Charges Nearly 250 People in Second Week of March in Relation to Border Enforcement Efforts

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

HOUSTON – A total of 245 new cases have been filed in the last week related to immigration and border security, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.

Of those, 115 are charged with illegally re-entering the country with the majority having felony convictions such as narcotics, violent and/or sexual crimes and prior immigration offenses. A total 118 face charges of illegally entering the country, 10 cases involve various instances of human smuggling, and the remainder relate to firearms and assault of federal officers.

Of those facing allegations of illegally re-entering the country is Santos Demetrio Marquez-Hernandez from El Salvador. The criminal complaint indicates he has a felony conviction of contact with a minor with sexual intent and was removed just over two months ago on Jan. 8. He could receive up to 20 years in U.S. prison.

Juan Daniel Pena and Jose Cristian Cantu Jr. were also arrested this week for attempting to smuggle 15 aliens through the Border Patrol checkpoint near Sarita. The charges allege the aliens, who were from El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Vietnam, were hidden inside two trucks being hauled on a flatbed trailer. Five of the illegal aliens were allegedly previously ordered removed from the United States and are now facing their own charges of illegal reentry into the United States.

Relevant cases also featured this week include an Arkansas man who was found guilty of transporting illegal aliens in a truck’s wheel well and fuel tank. The jury deliberated for under 30 minutes following a less than two-day trial before finding Noel Mercado guilty on two counts of alien smuggling. An x-ray scan revealed at least two individuals in the truck’s wheel wells – found bolted inside modified wheel well compartments. Law enforcement also discovered two more individuals in the auxiliary fuel tank below the truck bed. All four were illegal aliens from the countries of Honduras, El Salvador and Guatemala with no authority to be in the United States.

Among those charged this week also includes Gerardo Hervey Rodriguez-Toscano, a Mexican citizen who allegedly ran up the Mexican side of the Hidalgo port of entry and attempted to evade U.S. law enforcement at the midpoint. Authorities were able to detain him, but after a struggle, according to the allegations. One officer allegedly suffered injuries to his wrist, knee and elbow. If convicted, Rodriguez-Toscano faces up to eight years in prison.

In addition, a Honduran man attempted to enter the country illegally by pretending to be a minor. Elger Fabricio Cotto-Navarro claimed he was born in May 2007, when he was actually born the previous year. He initially denied the allegations and made a written statement as such, but ultimately acknowledged he was an adult and that he provided an incorrect date of birth and made false statements.

These cases were referred or supported by federal law enforcement partners, including Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) – Homeland Security Investigations, ICE – Enforcement and Removal Operations, Border Patrol, Drug Enforcement Administration, FBI, U.S. Marshals Service, Department of Health and Human Services – Office of Inspector General and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with additional assistance from state and local law enforcement partners.

The cases are 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 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 and Project Safe Neighborhood.

Under current leadership, public safety and a secure border are the top priorities for the Southern District of Texas (SDTX). Enhanced enforcement both at the border and in the interior of the district have yielded aliens engaged in unlawful activity or with serious criminal history, including human trafficking, sexual assault and violence against children.

The SDTX remains one of the busiest in the nation. It represents 43 counties and more than nine million people covering 44,000 square miles. Assistant U.S. Attorneys from all seven divisions including Houston, Galveston, Victoria, Corpus Christi, Brownsville, McAllen and Laredo work directly with our law enforcement partners on the federal, state and local levels to prosecute the suspected offenders of these and other federal crimes.

An indictment or criminal complaint is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence. A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.

MIL Security OSI –

March 19, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Western District of Texas Exceeds 200 New Immigration Cases in Four Days

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

SAN ANTONIO – Acting United States Attorney Margaret Leachman for the Western District of Texas announced today, that federal prosecutors in the district filed 215 immigration and immigration-related criminal cases from March 10 through March 13.

In Austin, several individuals were charged with illegal reentry after deportation, after being found in local area jails. Among those were Ricardo Hernandez-Hernandez, a Mexican national who had allegedly been previously removed from the United States to Mexico on two prior occasions and had been convicted of indecency with a child sexual contact and failure to register as a sex offender; Andres Garcia-Saldana, a Mexican national who had allegedly been previously removed from the United States on four occasions and had been convicted of intoxication assault with a vehicle causing serious bodily injury and driving while intoxicated three times—the third time being a felony conviction; Hernan Vasquez-Medina, a Mexican national who had allegedly been removed from the United States three times before and had been convicted of making a terroristic threat and driving while intoxicated three times—like Garcia-Saldana, Vasquez-Medina’s third DWI was charged as a felony as well; and Jaime Ricardo Lopez-Rojas, a Mexican national who had allegedly been removed from the United States a total eight times and had been convicted of illegal entry twice, illegal reentry after deportation four times, driving while intoxicated three times, and family violence assault causing bodily injury.

In the Midland-Odessa area, two individuals with prior federal convictions were found in local area jails and were charged with illegal entry after deportation. Mexican national Saul Villalobos-Vasquez was allegedly removed from the United States once before and convicted in the Eastern District of Texas for unauthorized use of a social security number for which he had been sentenced to 12-months imprisonment in 2016. Daniel Olivas-Nieto, also a Mexican national, had been allegedly removed from the United States and was previously convicted in the Western District of Texas for the illegal transportation of aliens for financial gain, for which he was sentenced to nine months imprisonment.

These cases were referred or supported by federal law enforcement partners, including Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations (ICE ERO), U.S. Border Patrol, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the U.S. Marshals Service (USMS), and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), with additional assistance from state and local law enforcement partners.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Texas comprises 68 counties located in the central and western areas of Texas, encompasses nearly 93,000 square miles and an estimated population of 7.6 million people. The district includes three of the five largest cities in Texas—San Antonio, Austin and El Paso—and shares 660 miles of common border with the Republic of Mexico.

These cases are 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).

Indictments and criminal complaints are merely allegations and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

###

MIL Security OSI –

March 19, 2025
MIL-OSI Economics: EV battery recycling becomes critical area for ongoing investments in automotive industry, says GlobalData

Source: GlobalData

EV battery recycling becomes critical area for ongoing investments in automotive industry, says GlobalData

Posted in Automotive

As the automotive industry accelerates its transition towards electric vehicles (EVs), the focus on sustainable practices has never been more critical. Central to this evolution is the lifecycle management of EV batteries, which poses both opportunities and challenges. As the future of the automotive industry is undoubtedly intertwined with the success of battery recycling, it has become a critical area for ongoing investment and development, says GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.

The rising adoption of EVs has significantly increased the demand for efficient battery recycling processes. As EV batteries reach the end of their lifecycle, the automotive industry faces the critical challenge of managing their disposal. Current recycling methods, including hydrometallurgical, pyrometallurgical, and direct recycling, are being explored to recover valuable metals such as nickel, cobalt, lithium, and manganese. Among these, hydrometallurgical recycling has emerged as the most effective method, demonstrating a notable positive environmental impact.

Madhuchhanda Palit, Automotive Analyst at GlobalData, comments: “The automotive sector is increasingly embracing circular economy practices, focusing on reusing and recycling materials to minimize waste. This transition not only benefits the environment but also presents lucrative opportunities for businesses in the growing market for recycled battery materials. Patent analytics indicate a surge in research and development aimed at improving recycling efficiency and reducing costs. Companies are investing in innovative technologies that enhance recovery rates while lowering the carbon footprint associated with recycling processes.”

Regulatory frameworks are undergoing significant evolution, as governments across the globe implement increasingly stringent guidelines concerning battery disposal and recycling. For instance, the European Union’s Battery Law mandates that by 2030, recycling processes must achieve recovery rates of 95% for cobalt, copper, lead, and nickel, and 70% for lithium. In the US, various states are progressively adopting Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) policies, which will hold automakers accountable for the recycling of all batteries. This regulatory momentum is anticipated to drive investments in recycling technologies and infrastructure, thereby promoting a more sustainable automotive ecosystem.

Palit concludes: “In conclusion, the journey towards a sustainable future for EVs hinges on the effective management of battery lifecycles. As the automotive industry embraces recycling as a core component of its strategy, the potential for growth and innovation is significant.

“While challenges remain, the advancements in recycling technologies and the increasing emphasis on sustainability present a promising outlook for the automotive market. As stakeholders navigate this evolving landscape, the commitment to sustainable practices will not only mitigate environmental hazards but also drive market growth in the years to come.”

MIL OSI Economics –

March 19, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Companies House launches registration of Authorised Corporate Service Providers
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

Press release

Companies House launches registration of Authorised Corporate Service Providers

Companies House has taken a big step towards greater certainty about who is filing information on behalf of companies.
Today (18 March 2025), sees the launch of a new service that allows third-party corporate service providers, such as accountants, legal professionals and company formation agents to apply to register as an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP).

The new ACSP service is one of the changes being made under the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act (‘the Act’) to strengthen the business landscape in the UK.

As the Act is further implemented, third-party providers will have to register using this new service to file information and confirm that they have verified the identities of their clients.   

The Act provides a more robust framework for anyone filing on behalf of a company.

For example, ACSPs will be required to:

be based in the UK

register with Companies House, providing opportunities for oversight

be registered with a UK supervisory body for anti-money laundering (AML) purposes

retain records of identity verification checks

Where appropriate, the registrar may suspend or cease an ACSP’s registration with Companies House.

Companies House CEO Louise Smyth CBE said:

The new ACSP regime is a step towards a more transparent and secure business environment in the UK.

Requiring third party agents to register as authorised corporate service providers will provide assurance that identity checks they carry out achieve the same level of assurance as identity verification directly through Companies House.

Soon all new and existing company directors (and equivalents), people with significant control, as well as those filing information with Companies House will need to verify their identity.

This will provide more assurance about who is setting up, running, owning and controlling companies in the UK.

To become an ACSP, businesses must be registered with one of the UK’s 25 anti-money laundering supervisory bodies. When registering as an ACSP, applicants will need to provide their AML supervisory body membership number.

Michelle Giddings, Head of AML and Operations, Professional Standards, ICAEW said:

ICAEW is the largest accountancy professional body supervisor in the UK, supervising around 10,000 firms. We welcome the launch of this new service which will enhance the integrity of the UK’s company registration system, combat financial crime and close the loopholes that have historically facilitated the misuse of corporate entities.

Chartered accountants can play a vital role in the reforms by registering as an ACSP and supporting their clients with filing information and meeting the new verification requirements.

The ACSP registration process will need to be completed by someone who holds a senior role within the business, such as a director.

Companies House estimates that up to 50,000 businesses could apply to register as ACSPs within 12 months of the service launch.

Notes to editors

The Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023 introduced robust new laws to fight corruption, money laundering and fraud.

The changes we are introducing in phases will enable us to crack down on misuse of the UK companies register.

From 18 March 2025, individuals and organisations will be able to register as an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP).

From 8 April 2025, individuals will be able to voluntarily verify their identity using GOV.UK One Login or via an ACSP.

In due course, Companies House will be able to:

make identity verification a compulsory part of incorporation and new appointments for new directors and PSCs

begin the 12-month transition phase to require more than 7 million existing directors and PSCs to verify their identity – the identity verification will happen as part of the annual confirmation statement filing

make identity verification of the presenters a compulsory part of filing any document

require third-party agent firms filing on behalf of companies to be registered as an ACSP

reject documents delivered by disqualified directors as they will be prohibited from doing so, unless they are delivered by an ACSP for specified filings permitted by law

Useful links:

Authorised Corporate Service Providers – Changes to UK company law

Registering as an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP) – YouTube

Guidance:

Applying to register as a Companies House authorised agent

Being an authorised corporate service provider

How to meet Companies House identity verification standard

Registrar’s rules

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Published 18 March 2025
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
March 19, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: Marat Khusnullin: More than 23 million trips have been recorded on the Tavrida highway since the launch of traffic

Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

This year marks 11 years since the reunification of Crimea with Russia. All this time, a lot of work has been done on the socio-economic development of the republic and the city of Sevastopol. One of the key areas has become the modernization of the road infrastructure, which plays an important role in improving the quality of life of Crimeans and integrating the region into the country’s economic space.

“Today, on the instructions of the President, we are actively implementing the program of socio-economic development of the Republic of Crimea and Sevastopol, including ensuring stable road connections of the regions with other subjects of Russia, creating convenient high-speed routes. In total, since 2015, more than 1.2 thousand km of roads have been built and repaired there at the expense of the federal budget. As part of the national project “Safe High-Quality Roads”, more than 18 million square meters of asphalt concrete pavement have been laid on the peninsula, and more than 1.8 thousand km have been brought into compliance. One of the most important road arteries is the A-291 “Tavrida” highway, which runs through the entire Crimea from east to west. Since August 2020, when traffic on the highway was launched, more than 23 million trips have been recorded on “Tavrida”, and the average daily traffic intensity was about 14 thousand cars,” said Marat Khusnullin.

Positive changes in the road sector of the Republic of Crimea have not gone unnoticed by residents of the region. According to a study by VTsIOM conducted at the end of 2024, 73% of Crimeans are satisfied with the quality and accessibility of regional and local roads. This is one of the highest rates in Russia, with the national average being 56%. And in Sevastopol, the same rate reached 83%, which is second place among all 89 regions of the country.

Among the significant completed road projects on the Crimean Peninsula, in addition to the Tavrida highway, are the transport crossing over the Kerch Strait, the Simferopol-Yevpatoriya-Mirny highway on the Skvortsovo-Yevpatoriya section with a bypass of Lake Sasyk-Sivash, the first stage of the construction of the Simferopol bypass on the Donskoye-Perevalnoye road section. In addition, at the end of 2024, a high-speed section to the Crimean Bridge, almost 120 km long, was launched, which connects the M-4 Don highway with the Tavrida highway. Thanks to this, a single route of about 2.6 thousand km long was created between St. Petersburg and Sevastopol without a single traffic light or intersection.

With the development of an alternative land route to the Republic of Crimea in 2024, a section of the R-280 “Novorossiya” highway, 118 km long, running from Simferopol through Dzhankoy to the border with the Kherson region, was accepted into federal ownership. The highway will become part of the ring road around the Sea of Azov.

As the head of the Federal Road Agency Roman Novikov noted, the comprehensive modernization of the Novorossiya highway is one of the main tasks of road workers from the point of view of the development of the Republic of Crimea and the development of the economic potential of the entire south of Russia. That is why a plan for the repair, maintenance and development of the road was quickly determined.

In particular, in 2024, federal road workers completed ahead of schedule the repair of a section within the city of Dzhankoy with a length of 5.3 km. At the same time, a set of works was carried out to eliminate deformations and destruction of the road surface on sections with a length of 7 km from Dzhankoy to Simferopol. And in the current road construction season, work has begun to replace the asphalt concrete surface on the section from the 567th to the 585th km in the Krasnogvardeisky district of the republic.

In addition, a three-year development program has been formed, which will allow us to take the necessary pace of work to convert the entire R-280 Novorossiya highway to a four-lane design in the future.

In general, today the total length of federal, regional and inter-municipal roads of the Republic of Crimea and Sevastopol is more than 7.6 thousand km.

Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

MIL OSI Russia News –

March 19, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: Marat Khusnullin: More than 215 thousand square meters of housing have been commissioned and 22 billion rubles have been attracted to the economy on the Crimean peninsula thanks to infrastructure projects

Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

Square on Novikov Street, Balaklava, Sevastopol

Since the reunification of Crimea with Russia in 2014, a large-scale comprehensive work on infrastructure development has been carried out on the peninsula, aimed at creating comfortable living conditions for people and sustainable socio-economic development of the regions. Modern housing, roads, social institutions, housing and communal services facilities are being built, and public spaces are being improved, Deputy Prime Minister Marat Khusnullin reported.

“Today we celebrate 11 years since the Crimean Peninsula returned to Russia. During this time, the peninsula has been transformed almost beyond recognition. The state program of socio-economic development, national projects and targeted support instruments have allowed us to create and update the peninsula’s infrastructure at an accelerated pace. This work has yielded results. I would like to note the good pace of housing construction. In particular, effective regional development instruments have contributed – infrastructure budget and special treasury loans (IBK and STK). The projects implemented since 2022 with their help have stimulated the commissioning of 215.5 thousand square meters of housing and attracted more than 22.1 billion rubles of private investment to the local economy,” said Marat Khusnullin.

Thus, with the involvement of IBC and SKK funds, six housing and communal services facilities were commissioned in the Republic of Crimea. Among them are the reconstructed Moinaki electrical substations in Yevpatoria, Foton and Severnaya in Simferopol. They made it possible to ensure a stable and uninterrupted power supply to thousands of consumers, and also, due to the increase in capacity, to form a reserve for connecting new facilities to the power grid. In addition, the reconstruction of Mramorny Lane, leading to a developing residential area in Simferopol, was completed, and a kindergarten for 250 children was built in the city of Saki. At the expense of IBC, the construction of a kindergarten for 280 children in Yevpatoria and Antichny Prospekt in Sevastopol continues.

When creating comfortable living conditions for people, much attention is also paid to the improvement of populated areas. This work was successfully carried out within the framework of the national project “Housing and Urban Environment”.

“Since 2019, about 500 public areas and courtyards have been renovated in the Republic of Crimea and Sevastopol. Moreover, the opinions of local residents are taken into account when choosing priority locations. Last year, more than 213 thousand residents of the peninsula took part in the voting for improvement sites. Now, work on creating a comfortable urban environment continues within the framework of the national project “Infrastructure for Life”. In 2025, it is planned to improve 100 public areas: 77 in Crimea and 23 in Sevastopol,” said Minister of Construction and Housing and Public Utilities Irek Fayzullin.

For example, the central city square in Yalta was improved. A light and music fountain was installed there, an amphitheater was arranged, navigation systems, shaded areas, and places for tourist groups to gather appeared for the convenience of vacationers. Now this square can host small events and open-air film screenings.

A promising mechanism for the high-quality renewal of cities, the formation of a comfortable environment for life, work and recreation of citizens is the integrated development of territories. This tool allows for the renewal of housing stock, modernization or creation of the necessary social, communal and transport infrastructure, and the involvement of inefficiently used areas in municipalities in circulation.

“By the decision of the Government, the Territorial Development Fund, with the involvement of a subsidiary, is implementing the KRT project in the village of Privetnoye in the urban district of Alushta. The total area of the territory to be developed is 480.6 hectares. It is planned to build more than 3.2 million square meters of real estate there. The implementation of the project will contribute to the socio-economic development of the Republic of Crimea, create a year-round resort with beaches and berths for small vessels, as well as with modern infrastructure for comfortable living, increase the tourist flow and attract additional investment to the region. Currently, urban development documentation is being developed, support measures for the construction of infrastructure facilities are being worked out,” said Ilshat Shagiakhmetov, General Director of the Territorial Development Fund.

In addition, large social facilities are being built on the peninsula. Thus, on the instructions of the President, the Federal Children’s Rehabilitation Center is being built in Yevpatoria. The work is being carried out under the supervision of the public-law company “Single Customer in the Sphere of Construction”.

“The first stage of the center’s construction is currently being completed. A consultative and diagnostic building and a hospital building with 300 beds have already been erected. They are currently being equipped with new technological and medical equipment. The administrative building was previously put into operation. The construction of a boarding house for accommodating young patients with their parents and a dormitory for medical workers is also ongoing,” said Karen Oganesyan, General Director of the Unified Customer PPC.

Construction and reconstruction of facilities is underway on the territory of the Kiparisny and Solnechny camps of the International Children’s Center Artek. The infrastructure for the Krymsky training center in Alushta is actively developing – a new sports complex with a swimming pool and a hotel are already ready, and reconstruction of the incline-cross track is ongoing.

Also in Sevastopol, on Cape Khrustalny, a large cultural cluster with a total area of 150 thousand square meters will appear. The Academy of Choreography has already opened and is working. The museum complex, in which the Russian State Art Gallery will open, is at a high level of readiness.

The work on the development of the peninsula is aimed not only at updating the infrastructure, but also at creating a favorable investment climate. The growth of the economy of Crimea and Sevastopol is also facilitated by the free economic zone, which has been operating since 2015, and which provides for a special legal regime for doing business. In 2024 alone, its participants invested 58.2 billion rubles in the economy. Today, there are 1,526 participants in the free economic zone, thanks to which 6.4 thousand infrastructure facilities have been commissioned and 111.5 thousand jobs have been created, and 481.2 billion rubles have been invested in the economy of the peninsula, including 272.4 billion rubles in capital investments.

Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

MIL OSI Russia News –

March 19, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Pasco Tow Truck Operator Charged with Firearm Offense

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

Richland, Washington – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Washington announced today that Socorro Jesus Lopez-Spindola, 59, has been charged by criminal complaint with one count of Felon in Possession of a Firearm. Lopez-Spindola was arraigned on March 13, 2025, before the U.S. District Court in Richland, Washington.

According to court documents, in November of 2024, Pasco Police detained Lopez-Spindola in connection to an investigation involving robbery, extortion, and threats to kill. Pasco Police also obtained a search warrant for the business Classic Towing and Recovery, which is owned and operated by Lopez-Spindola. During a search of Lopez-Spindola’s office, investigators allegedly located a loaded .22 caliber revolver in a desk drawer.

Prior to November of 2024, Lopez-Spindola had been convicted of a number of crimes, including an Unlawful Reentry after Deportation conviction.

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).

This case is being investigated by the FBI and the Pasco Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Brandon L. Pang.

4:25-mj-07039-ACE

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 –

March 19, 2025