NewzIntel.com

Category: Law Enforcement

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Dan Goldman Works to Protect Americans from Reckless Gun Dealers

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Dan Goldman (NY-10)

    Licensed Firearms Sellers Often Allowed to Continue Operating Despite Violating Federal Firearm License Law

    Lax Enforcement Has Put Guns in Hands of Domestic Abusers, Drug Traffickers, and Violent Felons

    Read the Bill Here

    Washington, DC – Congressman Dan Goldman (NY-10) joined Congresswoman Julia Brownley (CA-26) in introducing the ‘Protecting Americans from Reckless Gun Dealers Act,’ which would require the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) to publish detailed annual reports on the number of gun dealers that have violated Federal Firearm License law and the outcomes of resulting disciplinary actions.

    “For far too long, negligent firearm dealers have been flouting existing law and flooding our streets with weapons of war, endangering our communities and fueling the gun violence public health crisis,” Congressman Dan Goldman said. “Any firearm dealer who knowingly allows a gun to fall into the wrong hands must face consequences, and I’m proud to join my colleagues in ensuring the ATF holds reckless licensed gun dealers accountable for their dangerous business practices.”

    While the ATF is charged with investigating and holding gun dealers who violate federal gun laws accountable, many gun dealers who violate the law continue to sell guns without having their Federal Firearm License revoked or without facing other disciplinary actions.

    In June 2021, the Biden Administration issued guidance ordering ATF inspectors to implement a zero-tolerance policy against licensed Federal firearm dealers who willfully sell to prohibited purchasers or sell guns without conducting background checks. As a result, the ATF revoked more firearm licenses in 2022 than in any year since 2008.

    The ‘Protecting Americans from Reckless Gun Dealers Act’ would require the ATF to annually report: 

    • The number of ATF inspections completed each month.

    • The number of federal firearm licenses revoked that year, including names and locations of gun dealers whose licenses have been revoked.

    • The number of federal firearm licenses not renewed in lieu of revocation that year, including names and locations of gun dealers whose licenses have not been renewed.

    • The number of federal firearms licensee inspections resulting in a Qualifying Violation for a revocation, regardless of inspection outcome.

    • The number of Inspections with Qualifying Violations where revocation was ultimately not pursued.

    • The number of non-revocation remedial actions taken by the ATF.

    Congressman Goldman is committed to holding gun dealers and manufacturers accountable for their role in perpetuating the gun violence epidemic.

    In January, the Congressman cosponsored the ‘Federal Firearm Licensee Act,’ which would modernize and strengthen the federal requirements for anyone who facilitates gun sales, including gun shops, gun shows, and websites. The legislation would update sections in the U.S. Code directed at federal firearms licensees (FFLs) that have not been updated in 30 years.

    In 2023, Goldman cosponsored the ‘Equal Justice for Victims of Gun Violence Act,’ which would ensure that victims of gun violence have their day in court, that negligent gun manufacturers are held liable when they disregard public safety, and that gun trace data can be accepted as evidence in court.

    Congressman Goldman has also cosponsored the ‘Default Proceed Sale Transparency Act’ to address the ‘Charleston Loophole,’ which allows some gun sales to be completed without a completed Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) background without a completed Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) background check.

    Congressman Goldman is a Vice Chair of the House Gun Violence Prevention Task Force and is Chair of the Dads Caucus Gun Violence Prevention Working Group.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Dan Goldman Leads Democratic Efforts to Put a Spotlight on Project 2025 With New Documentary Style Video Series

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Dan Goldman (NY-10)

    New Documentary Video Series Details Project 2025’s Threat to Reproductive Freedom, Workers’ Rights, Environmental Protections, Public Education, and American Democracy

    Video Series Comes as Democrats Seek to Employ New Strategies to Meet the American People Where They Are, Capitalize on Strength of Social and Non-Traditional Media

    Series Features 13 Members of Congress, American Federation of Teachers President Randi Weingarten, Planned Parenthood Vice President Karen Stone, NY League of Conservation Voters President Julie Tighe, and Accountable.US President Caroline Ciccone

    View Video on Project 2025’s Threat to Democracy Here

    View the Trailer for the Series Here

    Washington, D.C. – Congressman Dan Goldman (NY-10) released the first full-length video in his five-part video documentary series detailing Project 2025’s threat to democracy, reproductive freedom, workers’ rights, environmental regulation, and public education. The series will feature interviews with Congressman Goldman and 12 of his House Democratic colleagues from across the country, as well as American Federation of Teachers President Randi Weingarten, Planned Parenthood Vice President Karen Stone, NY League of Conservation Voters President Julie Tighe, and Accountable.US President Caroline Ciccone. 

    As an increasing share of Americans consume their news from non-traditional sources on Instagram, YouTube, and other social media sites, Congressman Goldman’s series marks an effort by Democrats to reach audiences where they are in a diversified media landscape. Across various social media platforms, the first two videos of the series have received over 400,000 views, signaling the potential of this new format to reach large numbers of Americans.

    “Project 2025’s shocking plan to gut checks and balances, restrict abortion access, decimate public education, pollute our air and water, and endanger American workers for the sole benefit of Republican authoritarian extremists is utterly reprehensible and incredibly dangerous,” Congressman Dan Goldman said. “This document is a detailed guide for how a second Trump administration will dismantle our democracy, and it is critical that the American people understand exactly how Trump intends to do it. I am proud to be joined by so many of my colleagues and policy leaders to expose this radical plan to reshape American society as we know it.”

    Congressional Equality Caucus Co-Chair Becca Balint said, “Project 2025 is a far-right plan by Trump allies to impose Christian nationalist values onto every American. It goes completely against our American values to promote a strong, resilient democracy; in fact this plan aims to erode our democratic institutions by gutting checks and balances and seizing power for the presidency. Project 2025 is nothing short of an anti-freedom and anti-equality agenda: it further attacks reproductive rights and disproportionately harms communities of color and our LGBTQI+ community. Project 2025 would increase gun violence rather than protect our communities. And its plan to abolish the Department of Education would hurt millions of families whose kids go to public schools, teachers who are already underpaid, and students. It’s dangerous and we must take it extremely seriously. I’m proud to be a part of this series to help Americans understand the threat it poses to our values and democratic norms.”

    Pre-K and Child Care Caucus Co-Chair Suzanne Bonamici said, “Project 2025 is a blueprint for MAGA extremists to undermine government and destroy programs and policies that support working families. It’s the product of people who held top positions in the previous administration and special interest groups that hold significant influence over the GOP’s agenda. I’m working with my colleagues to counter this extremist plan and to educate Americans about its potentially devastating effects.”

    Pro-Choice Caucus Task Force Chair Judy Chu said, “Trump and his allies’ Project 2025 is a 900 page comprehensive plan for MAGA Republicans to grab power for themselves, enrich their allies, and shatter our already fragile democracy. Project 2025 touches on every agency in the federal government and is January 6th extremism crafted into a governing ideology: fire tens of thousands of civil servants to replace them with partisan loyalists, abolish checks and balances, chip away at church-state separation, and impose a far-right agenda that rips away our freedoms and takes money out of pockets. It’s so critical for House Democrats to work together to shine a light on as many details of this plan as possible so we can equip ourselves and the American people with the information we need to fight back and make certain we put systems into place to protect us from these extreme policies.”

    Freshman Leadership Representative Jasmine Crockett said, “Let me make it plain: Project 2025 is the GOP’s attack plan against the American constitution. It doesn’t just undermine the progress made in this country forwomen, people of color, and LGBTQIA folks over the past century; it undermines the very principles of self-government that our country was founded on. If our Founding Fathers were to read Project 2025, they would have thought it was sent over by King George himself. It’s a blueprint for authoritarianism, a blueprint for monarchy, and a blueprint for a right-wing dictatorship in America that will end our democratic experiment for good. If the majority of Americans were to read and understand this plan – a plan authored by hundreds of members of former President Trump’s administration – they would reject it as un-American and dangerous. Thank you to Congressman Goldman for bringing us together to break down Project 2025 from every angle – no matter how engaged you are, you can still learn something from this series.”

    Committee on Natural Resources Vice Ranking Member Sydney Kamlager-Dove said, “Project 2025 poses a grave threat, not just to our democracy but to our planet, too. This hostile takeover of the federal government would depose dedicated public servants and install Trump loyalists and climate denialists at the EPA, enabling Republicans to slash environmental protections at the behest of Big Oil. But Project 2025 doesn’t stop at encouraging the world’s worst polluters—this agenda also seeks to discontinue air quality, clean energy, and decarbonization programs by overturning the Inflation Reduction Act, harming the health of our communities and the environment, eliminating clean energy jobs, and exacerbating the climate crisis. With Project 2025, Republicans have shown that they will continue to put polluters over people—this plan must be stopped.”

    Homeland Security Subcommittee on Counterterrorism, Intelligence and Law Enforcement Ranking Member Seth Magaziner said, “Donald Trump’s Project 2025 will hand a future Trump administration nearly unlimited power to ban abortion, take away healthcare for people with preexisting conditions, and rip away the freedoms that Americans have fought hard for. Trump’s Project 2025 is dangerous, cruel, and out-of-touch with the needs of the American people. We will not let Trump and Congressional Republicans take us back.”

    House Bipartisan Task Force for Combating Antisemitism Co-Chair Kathy Manning said, “Project 2025 is simply a more detailed blueprint of Donald Trump’s extreme MAGA agenda that promises to roll back Americans’ basic rights and freedoms. Because of Donald Trump and the three extreme MAGA Justices he appointed to the Supreme Court to overturn Roe. v. Wade, one in three women of reproductive age lives in a state with a Trump abortion ban. Now, his extreme Project 2025 plans will attack reproductive freedoms even further by targeting abortion pills and contraception coverage, and threatening IVF treatments. Project 2025 would also ban the mailing of abortion medications, equipment, or materials, effectively creating a nationwide, backdoor abortion ban — without the approval of Congress.”

    Labor Caucus Co-Founder Donald Norcross said, “Project 2025 is a 920-page manifesto designed to tell every American how to live their life. If enacted into law, Project 2025 would destroy the 250-year-old system of checks and balances that make up our democracy and completely dismantle almost every labor standard that protects workers. As a union electrician and co-chair of the Labor Caucus, it pains me to see a document that would strip away worker protections and fair labor practices that working families have been fighting for decades. I’m proud to join Rep. Goldman in this video series to help explain the threat Project 2025 poses to American values, ideals, and freedoms.”

    Subcommittee on the Weaponization of the Federal Government Ranking Member Stacey Plaskett said, “Project 2025 is the playbook for Donald Trump’s second term, which will ensure that the few have power over the many and that the rule of law as we know it, is gone. It is a plan to ensure that the federal government no longer acts as a check on the greed and desire for absolute power that Trump and his cohort of friends share. In every way, Project 2025 will make Americans less safe and less free. Republicans know that these ideas are not popular with the people of America and that’s why they hide from the facts, obfuscate the truth and distract the public’s attention with wild claims to vilify minorities and keep us divided. It is imperative that we all do our part to ensure that Donald Trump is not allowed to enforce the clear and present danger that the Project 2025 master plan represents to American democracy.”

    American Federation of Teachers President Randi Weingarten said, Project 2025 is about institutionalizing Trumpism. It’s about going after educational opportunity, economic opportunity and equal opportunity. It’s about going after the legitimacy of elections. This is the stuff of demagogues and dictators, not democracies. This is not the promise of America. We can and must do better than this—for the sake of our families and the future of our republic.”

    Accountable.US President Caroline Ciccone said, “Project 2025 isn’t about serving the people; it’s about ensuring that political loyalty becomes the guiding rule. They want to replace our government’s independent watchdogs with partisan loyalists, dismantling checks and balances to consolidate power in the executive branch. With a captured Supreme Court and a weaponized Department of Justice, the next conservative administration would have all the tools they needed to drive America closer and closer to their idealized far-right dystopia, at the cost of our personal freedoms.”

    A third of all U.S adults say they regularly get their news from Facebook or YouTube, and nearly 20% report preferring to receive their news from social media. As more Americans turn to non-traditional platforms such as social media, YouTube, and online searches to stay informed Congressman Goldman is focused on ensuring that important information reaches all Americans in this rapidly transforming media landscape.

    Featured in the videos are Representatives: Congressional Equality Caucus Co-Chair Becca Balint (VT-AL), Pre-K and Child Care Caucus Co-Chair Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01), Pro-Choice Caucus Task Force Chair Judy Chu (CA-28), Freshman Leadership Representative Jasmine Crockett (TX-30), Democratic Women’s Caucus Chair Lois Frankel (FL-22), Dads Caucus Founder and Chair Jimmy Gomez (CA-34), Committee on Natural Resources Vice Ranking Member Sydney Kamlager-Dove (CA-37), Homeland Security Subcommittee on Counterterrorism, Intelligence and Law Enforcement Ranking Member Seth Magaziner (RI-02), House Bipartisan Task Force forCombating Antisemitism Co-Chair Kathy Manning (NC-06), Labor Caucus Co-Founder Donald Norcross (NJ-01), Subcommittee on the Weaponization of the Federal Government Ranking Member Stacey Plaskett (VI-AL), and Sustainable Energy and Environment Coalition Co-Chair Paul Tonko (NY-20). 

    Project 2025 is a comprehensive plan for the next conservative president to swiftly enact the most anti-democratic and archconservative agenda in the history of this country. It lays the groundwork for Donald Trump to seize power, gut checks and balances, and enact a radical agenda. It touches on every department and agency within the federal government.

    The Heritage Foundation, a right-wing think tank funded by shady dark money interests, has been plotting Project 2025, an unprecedented scheme to help the next conservative president quickly enact the most radical agenda in the history of the country. The plan is laying the groundwork for a new president to seize power and enact broad changes that are deeply unpopular with the American people. This includes vastly expanding the ability of the president to purge civil servants who are not sufficiently loyal to this extreme right-wing agenda.

    • Within the first 180 days of taking office, the plan calls for attacks on reproductive rights, the rule of law, and the expansion of the cruel and inhumane immigration policies from the Trump administration. Project 2025 is a comprehensive plan that would touch every department of the federal government and fundamentally reshape the lives of the American people. The Project’s four-pronged strategy that includes:

      • A laundry list of extreme policies to be enacted across the federal government;

      • A blueprint for how to use existing authority – or expand the power of the presidency – to implement right-wing policy proposals;

      • A database of right-wing ideologues who wholeheartedly endorse this power grab and far-right policies;

      • Training for staff so they can more efficiently enact this extreme agenda.

    While Project 2025 is being run out of the Heritage Foundation, its advisors include former Trump White House aides like Stephen Miller, and more than half the groups supporting the effort have received $21.5 million in funding from Leonard Leo’s dark money network.

    Congressman Dan Goldman is a member of the Stop Project 2025 Task Force.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Atlanta Attorney Pleads Guilty in Syndicated Conservation Easement Tax Scheme

    Source: United States Department of Justice Criminal Division

    A Georgia man pleaded guilty last week to obstructing the IRS related to his participation in the promotion of abusive syndicated conservation easement tax shelters.

    According to court documents and statements made in court, Vi Bui was an attorney and partner at Sinnott & Co., an Atlanta-based company. Beginning in at least in 2012 and continuing through at least May 2020, Bui participated in a scheme to defraud the IRS by organizing, marketing, implementing and selling illegal syndicated conservation easement tax shelters created and organized by Jack Fisher, Sinnott and others. For their involvement in the scheme, Fisher and Sinnott were convicted at trial and in January sentenced to 25 and 23 years in prison, respectively.

    The scheme entailed the creation of partnerships that would purchase land and land-owning companies and then donate conservation easements over that land or the land itself. Appraisers would allegedly generate fraudulent and inflated appraisals of the conservation easements. The partnerships then claimed a charitable contribution tax deduction based on the inflated value of the conservation easement, resulting in a fraudulent tax deduction flowing to the wealthy clients who purchased units in the partnership. Many of these clients joined the tax shelters after the donation of the interest in land and after the close of the relevant tax year. Bui knew that, to make it appear that the participants had timely purchased their units in the tax shelters, Fisher, Sinnott and others backdated and instructed others to falsify documents, including subscription agreements, checks and other documents. And in at least one instance, Bui falsified documents himself.

    Bui anticipated that the syndicated conservation easement transactions would be audited. To deceive the IRS, Bui and others took steps to make the partnerships appear as legitimate real estate development companies. They would create and disseminate lengthy documents disguising the true nature of the transaction, institute sham “votes” for what to do with the land that the partnership owned despite knowing that outcome was predetermined and falsify paperwork, such as appraisals and subscription agreements.

    In one instance, when investigators conducted an undercover operation in 2018, Bui, believing that the IRS was auditing an individual’s 2014 tax return, prepared false documents that made it appear that the materials were executed before the purported donation of the conservation easement in 2014 and before the 2014 tax returns had been filed.

    Bui earned substantial income for his role in the illegal scheme. He also used the fraudulent tax shelters to evade his own taxes, filing false personal tax returns from 2013 through 2018 that claimed false tax deductions from the illegal syndicated conservation easement tax shelters.

    Bui is scheduled to be sentenced on Feb. 13, 2025, and faces a maximum penalty of three years in prison. Bui also faces a period of supervised release, restitution and monetary penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    To date, in addition to the convictions of Fisher and Sinnott noted above, nine additional defendants have pleaded guilty to criminal conduct related to the syndicated conservation easement tax shelter scheme, including appraiser Walter Douglas “Terry” Roberts, accountants Stein Agee; Corey Agee, CPA; Ralph Anderson, CPA; James Benkoil, CPA; Victor Smith, CPA; William Tomasello, CPA; Herbert Lewis,  CPA; and Attorney Randall Lenz.

    Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Stuart M. Goldberg of the Justice Department’s Tax Division, U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Buchanan for the Northern District of Georgia and Chief Guy Ficco of the IRS Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI) made the announcement. They also thanked U.S. Attorney Dena J. King for the Western District of North Carolina for her office’s assistance.

    IRS-CI and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service investigated the case.

    Trial Attorneys Richard M. Rolwing, Parker Tobin, Jessica Kraft and Nicholas J. Schilling Jr., of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher Huber and deputy chief of the complex frauds section for the Northern District of Georgia  are prosecuting the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Justice Department Issues Comprehensive Proposed Rule Addressing National Security Risks Posed to U.S. Sensitive Data

    Source: United States Department of Justice Criminal Division

    Note: Read the Department’s fact sheet on this matter here.

    The Justice Department today issued a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) to implement President Biden’s Executive Order 14117 (the E.O.) of Feb. 28, “Preventing Access to Americans’ Bulk Sensitive Personal Data and United States Government-Related Data by Countries of Concern.” The E.O. addresses the national security threat posed by the continued effort of certain countries of concern to access and exploit certain kinds of Americans’ sensitive personal data. The President charged the Justice Department with the responsibility of establishing and implementing this new national security regulatory program to address these risks. On March 5, the Department’s Advance Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (ANPRM) was published in the Federal Register. Informed by extensive stakeholder outreach and careful consideration of comments the NPRM addresses public comments received on the ANPRM and proposes a rule to establish this new program and implement the E.O.

    This comprehensive proposed rule would implement the E.O. by establishing categorical rules for certain data transactions that pose an unacceptable risk of giving countries of concern or covered persons access to government-related data or bulk U.S. sensitive personal data. Among other things, the proposed rule identifies classes of prohibited and restricted transactions, identifies countries of concern and classes of covered persons to whom the proposed rule applies, identifies classes of exempt transactions, explains the Department’s methodology for establishing bulk thresholds, provides the Department’s initial assessment of economic and other regulatory impacts, establishes processes to issue licenses authorizing certain prohibited or restricted transactions, issue advisory opinions, and designate covered persons, and addresses recordkeeping, reporting, and other due-diligence obligations for covered transactions.

    The Justice Department’s National Security Division requests public comment on the proposed rule within 30 days of its publication in the Federal Register. The Department seeks comments on the proposed rule from industry, trade association groups, civil society, subject-matter experts, organizations and entities potentially affected by the proposed rule, and others with interest in the rule or expertise on data security and cybersecurity. The public may submit written comments on the NPRM at http://www.regulations.gov.

    The proposed rule is tailored to address the specific national security risks stemming from access by countries of concern and covered persons to Americans’ bulk sensitive personal data and certain sensitive U.S. government-related data. These measures complement the United States’ commitment to promoting an open, global, interoperable, reliable, and secure internet; protecting human rights online and offline; supporting a vibrant, global economy by promoting cross-border data flows that are required to enable international commerce and trade; and facilitating open investment.

    As previewed in the ANPRM, the proposed rule does not authorize the imposition of generalized data localization requirements to store Americans’ bulk sensitive personal data or U.S. Government-related data or to locate computing facilities used to process such data in the United States. As also previewed in the ANPRM, the proposed rule also does not broadly prohibit U.S. persons from engaging in commercial transactions, including exchanging financial and other data as part of the sale of commercial goods and services with countries of concern or covered persons, or impose measures aimed at a broader decoupling of the substantial consumer, economic, scientific, and trade relationships that the United States has with other countries. To reflect this, the NPRM proposes a new exemption for telecommunications services, provides further clarity on exemptions regarding financial services and intra-corporate-group transfers that were previewed in the ANPRM, and seeks public comment on a new proposed exemption for clinical-trial data.

    The proposed rule’s prohibitions and restrictions are consistent with other access restrictions on sensitive personal data that have been imposed in other contexts, including for transactions reviewed by the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS) and the Committee for the Assessment of Foreign Participation in the U.S. Telecommunications Services Sector (Team Telecom). As the ANPRM previewed, the proposed rule exempts several classes of data transactions from the scope of its prohibitions and restrictions, including certain personal communications, financial services, corporate group transactions, transactions authorized by Federal law and international agreements, investment agreements subject to a CFIUS action, telecommunication services, biological product and medical device authorizations, clinical investigations, and others.

    As explained in the NPRM, countries of concern can use their access to these types of data to engage in malicious cyber-enabled activities and malign foreign influence activities, bolster their military capabilities, and track and build profiles on U.S. individuals (including members of the military and other Federal employees and contractors) for illicit purposes such as blackmail and espionage. Countries of concern can also exploit this data to collect information on activists, academics, journalists, dissidents, political opponents, or members of nongovernmental organizations or marginalized communities to intimidate them, curb political opposition, limit freedoms of expression, peaceful assembly, or association, or enable other forms of suppression of civil liberties.

    The proposed rule would require vendor agreements, employment agreements, and investment agreements that qualify as restricted transactions to comply with the separately proposed security requirements that have been developed by the Department of Homeland Security’s Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Agency (CISA) in coordination with the Justice Department. These proposed security requirements require U.S. persons engaging in a restricted transaction to comply with organizational and system-level requirements, such as ensuring that basic organizational cybersecurity policies, practices, and controls are in place, and data-level requirements, such as data minimization and masking, encryption, and privacy-enhancing techniques. CISA is concurrently making these proposed security requirements available for public comment at http://www.regulations.gov.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Extra support for jurors thanks to launch of pioneering scheme

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Jurors on the most traumatic cases will be better supported than ever with access to round-the-clock help and free counselling sessions.

    • jurors in traumatic cases to receive 24/7 support and free counselling sessions
    • first-of-its kind scheme underway in 14 courts across the country
    • Six free sessions for jurors who hear disturbing evidence, including murder, abuse and cruelty

    In a new pilot launched earlier this month, jurors in 14 Crown Courts across the country will be able to self-refer themselves for 6 free counselling sessions with specially trained counsellors, as well as access a 24/7 helpline for support, advice and information. 

    Crown Courts from across the country taking part in the test scheme include The Old Bailey in London, Liverpool,  Birmingham, Bristol and Teesside. These courts hear some of the country’s most serious cases – including the trial of Ian Huntley at The Old Bailey and the recent trial of Piran Ditta Khan, convicted of the murder of PC Sharon Beshenivsky, at Leeds Crown Court.

    The justice system depends on the public joining a jury when they are called, and today’s news will provide further reassurance that those who hear distressing evidence such as murder, abuse and cruelty will get the support they need, when they need it.

    Justice Minister Heidi Alexander said:   

    Jury service is an essential part of criminal justice which underpins the impartiality and fairness that runs through our legal system.

    Offering free emotional and mental support is a significant step forward to help jurors performing a vital public service who have heard distressing and traumatic evidence in often demanding, long and high-profile cases.

    While many people find their experience of jury service to be fulfilling, some can experience significant distress after hearing traumatic evidence. Court staff are always on hand to support during the trial, but until now, any further help was limited to being signposted to a GP, the 111 telephone line for mental health crisis support, or the Samaritans. 

    The pilot is funded by the Ministry of Justice, provided by Vita Health Group (VHG), and will run for approximately six months. During that time the government will identify how best to direct resources on an ongoing basis to support the jurors who give their time to serve the criminal justice system.

    Notes to editors

    • Leaflets will be made available to all jurors in the pilot courts once they have finished a trial. At this point, jurors will have the opportunity to self-refer to VHG should they feel they need the support of a bespoke counselling service as a direct result of their jury service. 
    • The programme is expected to be rolled out in Mold Crown Court in Wales in the coming months.
    • Full list of regions and crown courts taking part in the pilot:
      • Yorkshire: Leeds
      • North-East: Teesside
      • North-West: Liverpool, Carlisle
      • South East: Oxford, Luton
      • South-West: Winchester, Bristol, Gloucester
      • Midlands: Nottingham, Birmingham
      • London: Central Criminal Court, Snaresbrook, Kingston Upon Thames

    Updates to this page

    Published 21 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Name release, Whangamarino death

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Police can now release the name of the man who died from injuries inflicted in an assault at Hampton Downs last Monday.

    He was 43-year-old Darshak Narran, from South Auckland.

    Darshak was located with critical injuries on the roadside in the vicinity of the Hampton Downs Racetrack. He never regained consciousness and died in Auckland Hospital last Thursday, 17 October.

    Two men have been arrested and charged with Darshak’s murder. They have been remanded in custody to appear next on 5 November in the High Court at Hamilton.

    The investigation is ongoing as Police work to locate other people believed to have been involved in the fatal assault.

    Police are again asking anyone who was travelling on Hampton Downs Road between 10pm on Sunday 13 October and 1am on 14 October to make contact, particularly if you have dashcam footage.

    If you have any information that could help our enquiries, please update us online now or call 105.

    Please use the reference number 241014/2225.

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

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Recapture of inmate from the Stan Daniels Healing Centre – Section 81 facility

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    At approximately 10:55 pm on October 19, 2024, inmate William Mackinaw was apprehended by the Red Deer Detachment of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police.

    October 21, 2024 – Edmonton, Alberta – Correctional Service Canada

    At approximately 10:55 pm on October 19, 2024, inmate William Mackinaw was apprehended by the Red Deer Detachment of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police.

    This inmate had been unlawfully at large from the Stan Daniels Healing Centre, a Section 81 facility operated by the Native Counselling Services of Alberta (NCSA), since January 4, 2024.

    NCSA and the Correctional Service of Canada are conducting an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident.

    Ensuring the safety and security of institutions, staff, and public remains the highest priority in the operations of the federal correctional system.

    Jeff Campbell
    Regional Communications Manager
    Regional Headquarters – Prairies
    (306) 222-2258

    Follow the Correctional Service of Canada on X and Facebook.
    For more information, please visit our website.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Team Maryland Announces More Than $38 Million for Critical Transportation & Port Infrastructure Projects in Baltimore

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Maryland Ben Cardin
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Ben Cardin and Chris Van Hollen, Congressmen Kweisi Mfume, Governor Wes Moore (all D-Md.), and Maryland Transportation Secretary Paul J. Wiedefeld today announced $38,406,076 in U.S. Department of Transportation awards to rehabilitate the Dundalk Marine Terminal and the Curtis Creek Drawbridge. This investment will improve vital infrastructure at and around the Port of Baltimore, which is critical to Maryland’s economy.
    “With these grants, the federal government is recognizing that Baltimore is home to nationally significant supply chain infrastructure that is overdue for investment and improvement. We are seeing once again how the Biden-Harris Administration’s historic Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act is delivering for Maryland, and we will continue to push for federal commitments to our infrastructure, including the rebuilding of the Francis Scott Key Bridge,” said Senator Cardin. 
    “Through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, we continue to deliver historic resources to upgrade everything from our transportation network to the Port of Baltimore. With these major federal investments, we are priming the Port for future growth – while sustaining the thousands of jobs it already supports – and modernizing an essential bridge for commuting and commerce. These efforts will help drive Baltimore’s economic success and create more good paying jobs for Marylanders,” said Senator Van Hollen.
    “This monumental federal investment is a transformative display of the continued unity among us in Team Maryland to deliver for all of those who have been personally affected by the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge and continue to navigate the recovery alongside us. After speaking with so many of those impacted, I was and remain inspired by their grit, fierceness, and commitment to getting through this disaster together,” said Congressman Kweisi Mfume.
    “These two projects reinforce the Moore-Miller Administration’s commitment to making Maryland more competitive by investing in our critical infrastructure, including our world-class Port of Baltimore,” said Governor Moore. “We are grateful for the partnership from the Biden-Harris Administration, the U.S. Department of Transportation and our Congressional delegation in supporting projects that will serve all Marylanders and help expand our growing economy.”
    “Together, these federal grants will support increased economic growth at the Port of Baltimore and the greater Baltimore region,” said Secretary Wiedefeld. “The funding will support critical rehabilitation efforts at the Dundalk Martine Terminal, the largest publicly owned terminal in the Port, and the Curtis Creek Drawbridge on I-695.  Thank you to our federal delegation and partners for their continued commitment in rebuilding Baltimore’s infrastructure better than before.”
    “Thanks to the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, the Biden-Harris administration is carrying out ambitious, complex transportation projects that will shape our country’s infrastructure for generations to come,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg. “With this latest round of awards, dozens of major and much-needed projects – projects that are often difficult to fund through other means – are getting the long-awaited investment they need to move forward.”
    The funding was awarded by the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Infrastructure for Rebuilding America Grant Program (INFRA), which has administered historic levels of federal investments through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act.
    $30,906,076, Dundalk Marine Terminal: Awarded to the Maryland Port Administrationto reconstruct Berth 11, consisting of the rehabilitation and replacement of 597 linear feet of wharf deck including pilings, substructure, storm water drainage, utilities, and installation of new mooring bollards, cleats, pneumatic fenders, flood barriers, and tidal gates.
    $7,500,000, Curtis Creek Drawbridge Rehabilitation: Awarded to the Maryland Transportation Authority to rehabilitate parallel drawbridges over Curtis Creek on I-695. The project will replace portions of the reinforced concrete deck, perform repairs to the exposed steel superstructure and existing catwalks, remove and replace bridge parapets, traffic lights, and low-level lights, and install new electrical service systems, drainage systems, and pavement markings.
    The Infrastructure for Rebuilding America Grant Program provides funding for multimodal freight and highway projects of national or regional significance to improve the safety, efficiency, and reliability of the movement of freight and people in and across rural and urban areas. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cassidy Announces $4 Million for 11 Louisiana Infrastructure, Transportation, Economic Development Projects from His Infrastructure Law

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Louisiana Bill Cassidy
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) announced Louisiana will receive $4,084,100.00 from the Delta Regional Authority (DRA) to boost economic development and improve the quality of life for Louisiana communities and residents thanks to his Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA).
    “This is great news for Louisiana and an investment in our economy and workforce,” said Dr. Cassidy. “Thanks to the Infrastructure Law, which I helped negotiate, we can expect to see even more dollars coming our way.” 
    The 11 new investment projects will improve water and sewer systems, update transportation infrastructure, and bolster electrical reliability for 18,000 residents in communities across Louisiana. 
    Funding for these projects is provided by the States’ Economic Development Assistance Program (SEDAP), which provides direct investment into community-based and regional projects to support basic public infrastructure, transportation infrastructure, workforce training and education, and small businesses development with an emphasis on entrepreneurship, and the Community Infrastructure Fund (CIF), which targets physical infrastructure projects that help build safer, more resilient communities in the Delta region. DRA coordinates directly with the Office of the Governor for the State of Louisiana and its local development districts for program funding implementation.
    Grant Awarded
    Recipient
    Project Description
    $509,000.00
    City of West Monroe
    This grant will provide federal funding to update and improve 770 feet of sewer infrastructure in Downtown West Monroe to help bolster the city’s growth, development and economic sustainability. 
    $509,000.00
    Town of Maurice
    This grant will provide federal funding to make water system improvements to service the town’s rapidly increasing population, remedy existing public health concerns and violations, and improve residents’ quality of life.
    $509,000.00
    North Desoto Water System
    This grant will provide federal funding to construct a new drinking water booster station to serve the Town of Stonewall, and other surrounding areas, to improve water storage and pumping capacity for the purposes of alleviating pressure on existing undersized stations, ensuring reliable water supply, and supporting new residential and economic developments.
    $509,000.00
    City of Minden
    This grant will provide federal funding for a water main replacement project to guarantee that the city’s distribution system continues to receive sufficient water and to improve the overall reliability, sustainability and fire protection of the system.
    $454,000.00
    Town of Marion
    This grant will provide federal funding to repair, rehabilitate and improve a 64-year-old sewer lift station to address poor conditions and health-code violations linked to the existing station and to provide and maintain adequate sewer service for residents.
    $418,100.00
    City of Kaplan
    This grant will provide federal funding to support a sewer system improvement project, which involves a comprehensive rehabilitation of the system to improve the resiliency and functionality of the city’s sewer collection system.
    $375,000.00
    Ouachita Parish
    This grant will provide federal funding for an emergency operations center renovation project, a critical infrastructure project that will play a vital role in ensuring effective emergency management and response capabilities in the region. 
    $304,000.00
    Ochsner LSU Health – Monroe Medical Center
    This grant will provide federal funding to install a new electrical distribution system to improve the center’s electrical infrastructure, resulting in increased electrical reliability and capacity and expansion of community services. 
    $218,000.00
    Village of Plaucheville
    This grant will provide federal funding to construct a new water main, which will reduce service disruptions and improve the water system for the entire village.
    $199,000.00
    Town of Lockport
    This grant will provide federal funding to make critical improvements to the sewer and wastewater treatment systems that are foundational to the town’s ability to sustain its rich Cajun cultural heritage, a livable community, and the increasingly important tourism economy.
    $80,000.00
    Town of Waterproof
    This grant will provide federal funding for a sewer improvement project that will replace the backup pumps inside of five sewer lift stations, providing additional capacity to meet usage demands from the town’s residents, businesses and detention center while also addressing regulations set by the Department of Environmental Quality.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: California Man Pleads Guilty to Selling Unapproved Drugs with Intent to Defraud over the Internet

    Source: US Department of Health and Human Services – 3

    Department of Justice
    U.S. Attorney’s Office
    District of Vermont

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
    Thursday, October 17, 2024

    Burlington, Vermont – The Office of the United States Attorney for the District of Vermont announced that on October 17, 2024, Jeremy Brown, 55, of Simi Valley, California, pleaded guilty to introducing into interstate commerce new drugs not approved by the Food and Drug Administration (“FDA”) with the intent to defraud or mislead.

    According to court records, between March 2019 and December 2023, Brown operated a company, Warrior Labz SARMs, and accompanying websites through which he sold unapproved versions of prescription drugs and other substances. Specifically, Brown sold Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators (“SARMs”), which are substances similar to anabolic steroids; unapproved versions of erectile-dysfunction drugs Viagra and Cialis; and unapproved versions of weight-loss drugs Ozempic, Wegovy, and Rybelsus.

    Brown falsely claimed on his websites that the drugs offered for sale were for “research purposes only” and “not for human consumption.” Alongside those claims, however, were claims that the drugs would provide various benefits affecting the structure and function of the human body.

    Brown obtained the bulk of the drugs he sold from China. Brown did not verify shipping or storage conditions, nor did he use a lab to verify the contents of the drugs he received from China. But he falsely claimed on his websites that his company used only the highest quality pharmaceutical grade ingredients and U.S. manufacturing practices.

    After receiving a warning letter from the FDA in June 2023, Brown continued to sell unapproved drugs over the internet. Between August and December 2023, Brown made three sales of unapproved drugs to an undercover law enforcement account in Vermont.

    Brown faces up to three years in prison and a $250,000 fine. The actual sentence, however, will be determined by the Court with guidance from the advisory United States Sentencing Guidelines and the statutory sentencing factors.

    “Drugs that are produced and distributed outside the FDA’s oversight present the risk of harm to the public health,” said Special Agent in Charge Fernando McMillan, FDA Office of Criminal Investigations, New York Field Office.  “We remain committed to pursuing and bringing to justice those who attempt to subvert the regulatory functions of the FDA by distributing unapproved, and potentially dangerous, products.”

    United States Attorney Nikolas P. Kerest commended the investigatory efforts of the Food and Drug Administration and the United States Postal Inspection Service.

    The prosecutor is Assistant United States Attorney Corinne Smith. Brown is represented by Rick Collins, Esq. and Lisa Shelkrot, Esq.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Orlando Doctor Indicted For Offering To Inject Silicone For Gluteal Augmentation Procedure

    Source: US Department of Health and Human Services – 3

    Department of Justice
    U.S. Attorney’s Office
    Middle District of Florida

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
    Thursday, October 17, 2024

    Orlando, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces the unsealing of an indictment charging Nhan Pham (54, Orlando) with three counts of violations of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act for receiving in interstate commerce and proffering delivery of an adulterated device, misbranding a device after its shipment in interstate commerce, and failing to register as a device manufacturer. If convicted, Pham faces up to three years in federal prison on each count. The indictment also notifies Pham that the United States intends to forfeit any adulterated or misbranded device, any property used to commit the violations, and any proceeds traceable to the offense.

    According to the indictment, in October 2019, Pham received liquid silicone in interstate commerce and offered to inject the silicone into a person’s body for a gluteal augmentation procedure. Such use of injectable silicone has not been approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

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

    “Injectable silicone for body contouring is not FDA-approved and can cause serious injury and even death,” said Special Agent in Charge Justin C. Fielder, FDA Office of Criminal Investigations Miami Field Office. “We will continue to investigate and bring to justice those who place American consumers at risk.”

    This case was investigated by the FDA Office of Criminal Investigations and the Metropolitan Bureau of Investigation, with assistance from the Pasco Sheriff’s Office and the United States Marshals Service. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Diane Hu.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Election Officers Named for Northern District of Ohio

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    CLEVELAND – United States Attorney Rebecca C. Lutzko has named two Assistant United States Attorneys (AUSAs) as District Election Officers for the U.S. Attorney’s Office (USAO) for the Northern District of Ohio.

    AUSAs Megan R. Miller and Ava R. Dustin will lead the USAO’s efforts to implement the Justice Department’s nationwide Election Day Program for the upcoming Nov. 5, 2024, general elections.

    These AUSAs will oversee the district’s handling of Election Day complaints in consultation with the Justice Department’s Civil Rights, Criminal, and National Security Divisions in Washington, D.C. The USAO for the Northern District of Ohio serves the 40 northern counties in the state. AUSA Miller covers the Northeastern counties of Ohio, while AUSA Dustin covers the Northwestern counties.

    Federal law protects against election-related crimes such as threatening violence against election officials or staff, intimidating or bribing voters, buying and selling votes, impersonating voters, altering vote tallies, stuffing ballot boxes, and marking ballots for voters against their wishes or without their input. It also contains special protections for voters’ rights, to ensure that voters can vote free from interference, including intimidation and other acts designed to prevent or discourage people from voting or voting for the candidate of their choice. The Voting Rights Act also protects the right of voters to mark their own ballot or to be assisted by a person of their choice, for example, if a voter needs assistance because of a disability or inability to read or write in English.

    “The right to vote is the cornerstone of American democracy. Every citizen must be able to vote without interference or discrimination, and to have that vote counted in a fair and free election. As it has for years, the Department of Justice will work tirelessly to protect the integrity of our nation’s election process,” said U.S. Attorney Lutzko for the Northern District of Ohio. “We encourage anyone who has specific information about voting-rights concerns, including access or intimidation-related issues, or specific information about fraudulent election activity, to please provide that information to the Department of Justice. Our goal is to ensure that those who wish to vote can freely exercise this right if they choose, and that those who seek to corrupt it are brought to justice.”

    The Department’s longstanding Election Day Program furthers these goals and also seeks to ensure public confidence in the electoral process by providing local points of contact within the Department for the public to report possible federal election law violations.

    AUSAs Miller and Dustin will be on duty in the Northern District of Ohio while the polls are open Tuesday, Nov. 5. AUSA Miller can be reached at 216-338-4479 and AUSA Dustin at 419-215-5444 to respond to complaints of voting rights concerns or fraudulent election activity. They will ensure that such complaints are directed to the appropriate authorities.

    In addition, the FBI will have dedicated special agents, known as Election Crime Coordinators, available in each field office and resident agency throughout the country to receive allegations of election fraud and other election abuses on Election Day. The Election Crime Coordinator for the Cleveland Field Office is Special Agent Nicole Long, who can be reached at 312-835-2276.  Tips also may be submitted online at tips.fbi.gov.

    Complaints about possible violations of the federal voting rights laws may also be made directly to the Civil Rights Division in Washington at civilrights.justice.gov or by phone at 1-800-253-3931.

    In the case of a crime of violence or intimidation, please call 911 immediately and before contacting federal authorities. Please note: State and local police have primary jurisdiction over polling places, and almost always have faster reaction capacity in an emergency. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: South Texan sent to prison for receiving child porn via messaging app

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    McALLEN, Texas – A 21-year-old resident of Edinburg has been ordered to prison for receipt of child pornography depicting prepubescent minors, announced U.S. Attorney Alamdar S. Hamdani.

    Lazaro Segundo-Vazquez pleaded guilty May 15, 2023, admitting he received over 1,800 images and video files containing child sexual abuse material.

    Chief U.S. District Judge Randy Crane has now sentenced Segundo-Vazquez to 78 months in federal prison. He must also pay $3,000 in restitution to three victims and will serve 10 years on supervised release following completion of his prison term. During that time, he will have to comply with numerous requirements designed to restrict his access to children and the internet. Segundo-Vazquez will also be ordered to register as a sex offender.

    An alert from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children led authorities to a residence in Edinburg appearing to be uploading child pornography to a Google account. The investigation revealed Segundo-Vazquez received images and videos containing child sexual abuse material via a third-party messaging application on his cellular phone.

    Segundo-Vazquez admitted to receiving child sexual abuse material that included videos and images of prepubescent children and toddlers. The material depicted children engaged in sexual acts with adults and other children. Segundo-Vazquez then uploaded several images of child sexual abuse material to a Google account.

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

    Homeland Security Investigations – Rio Grande Valley Child Exploitation Task Force conducted the investigation.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Cahal P. McColgan prosecuted the case, which was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood (PSC), a nationwide initiative the Department of Justice (DOJ) launched in May 2006 to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section leads PSC, which marshals federal, state and local resources to locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children and identifies and rescues victims. For more information about PSC, please visit DOJ’s PSC page. For more information about internet safety education, please visit the resources link on that page.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Poplar Bluff Man Admits Recording His Rape of Minor

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

    CAPE GIRARDEAU – A man from Poplar Bluff, Missouri on Friday admitted recording his rape of a minor with an intellectual disability.

    Jason R. Hicks-Simpson, 46, pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court in Cape Girardeau to one count of sexual exploitation of a minor.

    The 17-year-old victim sought help from Hicks-Simpson’s girlfriend in getting the abuse to stop, according to the plea agreement. The girlfriend contacted the victim’s mother, who called the Poplar Bluff Police Department in March of 2024. The victim told investigators that Hicks-Simpson had been sexually abusing her since she was five, the plea says. She also said Hicks-Simpson threatened to kill her and her kittens if she did not keep it a secret.

    After his arrest, Hicks-Simpson told police that it had only happened once several months earlier. Investigators found videos dating back to May of 2023 on his phone, the plea says.

    Hicks-Simpson is scheduled to be sentenced Jan. 31, 2025. As part of the plea agreement, both sides have agreed to recommend 20 years in prison.

    The Poplar Bluff Police Department and the FBI investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Julie Hunter is prosecuting the case.

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Are academics more likely to answer emails from ‘Melissa’ or ‘Rahul’? The answer may not surprise you

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Megan MacKenzie, Professor and Simons Chair in International Law and Human Security, Simon Fraser University

    Onehundredseventyfive/Unsplash, CC BY

    Universities are supposed to be places where all students can learn, free from discrimination.

    A key part of this ideal is academics welcoming all students to study and research, regardless of their racial background.

    But as our new research shows, Australian academics responded differently to potential PhD students, depending on whether they were called “Melissa” or “Rahul”.

    Racism on campus

    Many overseas and Australian studies have shown racism is both a historical and ongoing problem for universities.

    A 2020 Australian study showed universities tend to be run by older, white men. A 2021 UK study showed academics from different cultural backgrounds face racism at work.

    But there has been less specific attention paid to those trying to become academics.

    The main way people start an academic career is via a doctoral degree. In the Australian system, before a student is accepted they usually require an established academic to agree to supervise them. So a student’s initial communication with a potential supervisor is very important.

    To start a PhD, students usually need to have a supervisor lined up.
    Jacob Lund/Shutterstock

    How we set up our research

    To investigate whether racism is playing a role at the entrance point to PhD study, in 2017 we sent about 7,000 emails from fictitious students to academics based at the main campuses of Australia’s Group of Eight universities (billed as Australia’s top research universities).

    These are the Australian National University, Monash University, University of Adelaide, University of New South Wales, University of Melbourne, University of Sydney, University of Western Australia and University of Queensland.

    We emailed staff ranked senior lecturer or above, as these are the levels most likely to be supervising PhD students. Academics were identified by university websites, and we sent emails to everyone who fit our rank criteria across all disciplines.

    In this process, we found 70% of relevant academics were male and 84% were white. This did not improve in the more senior ranks – more than 68% of professors were white men.

    What did the email say?

    The emails asked for an meeting to talk about potential PhD supervision.

    They were identical apart from the senders’ names. These names were tested to be associated with male and female and with white-European, Indigenous, South Asian, Chinese and Arab identities. Recipients were randomly allocated to different name groups.

    The emails indicated the sender was an Australia-based student with fluent English. It conveyed an interest in the recipient’s research and urgency in meeting because the sender was only on campus for several days. It also noted “I have recently finished my honours degree” (a common path into a PhD in Australia) and was sent from a University of Sydney email address.

    We emailed about 7,000 senior academics as part of our study.
    Tipa Patt/Shutterstock

    What did we find?

    Responses agreeing to a meeting or requesting further information were categorised as “positive”. Those who declined a meeting were “non-positive”. Automated replies and those who did not reply were “non-responses”.

    Of 6,928 emails sent, 2,986 (43.1%) received a reply within 24 hours and 2,469 (35.6%) received a positive reply. There were 3,942 (56.9%) non-responses and 517 (7.5%) non-positive responses (declining a meeting).

    We initially planned to give academics a week to respond, but after IT at one university noticed several staff had received emails with identical text, we ended the experiment after 24 hours.

    From here, the results were stark: emails from names associated with non-white racial groups received significantly fewer responses and positive replies than those from names typically associated with white individuals.

    An email from “Melissa Smith” was far more likely to get a positive response than an identical email from “Grace Chen Jinyan” (six percentage points lower) or “Omar al-Haddad” (nine percentage points lower).

    The most dramatic gap was in the positive response rates to Melissa Smith, compared with “Rahul Kumar”. The rate of positive responses to Melissa was 12 percentage points higher than for Rahul.

    Overall, our statistical analysis showed the white-sounding names averaged a 7% higher reply rate and a 9% higher positive response rate than the non-white sounding names. Both these findings were highly statistically significant, meaning we can be very confident the results were not due to chance.

    Of course, some faculty members may simply have been unable to meet with the student, or may have missed the email. However, given the randomisation used, it is reasonable to assume bias explains the gap in responses to students with different names.

    This is alarming because it suggests racial bias is quietly influencing who gets a foot in the door of academia even before formal admissions processes begin.

    Silver linings

    One seemingly positive finding was academics at the more junior end of our study group appeared to show less bias towards students of different backgrounds.

    For academics at senior lecturer or associate professor levels, Melissa was 10.5% more likely to receive a positive response than Rahul, while the corresponding figure for full professors was 14.7%.

    However, junior academics often have little institutional power or much of a say on hiring. More research is needed to explore whether generational change is achievable (albeit painfully slow).

    We also found that, unlike similar US studies, there was no significant bias against female students. In fact, there was some evidence of positive bias, or preference, for female students.

    Our study found academics did not discriminate against potential candidates based on gender.
    Matej Kastelic/ Shutterstock

    Backlash to our study

    We based our study on a peer-reviewed study carried out in the United States, and followed a research ethics protocol approved by our university.

    However, minutes after academics received our follow-up email telling them they had been part of a research study (part of our ethics protocol), the backlash began.

    The University of Sydney, our home institution at the time, received more than 500 inquiries about the study. While some were curious or supportive, the majority were complaints. These were primarily about our use of deception (a well-researched and supported method of studying bias). Megan MacKenzie, the more junior author (at the time a senior lecturer), received calls threatening her with consequences for her career.

    Although unpleasant, the reaction was revealing. It reinforces other research on how defensive racial majorities can be when they believe they are suspected of bias. It also complements work showing internal resistance to diversity efforts in higher education.

    What can we do?

    Universities pride themselves on being meritocracies, where the best ideas and brightest minds rise to the top. But our study suggests racial bias is undermining this principle by influencing who is even considered for an academic career.

    There is growing acknowledgement racism is a significant problem on Australian university campuses (as well as in broader society). In May, the federal government asked the Australian Human Rights Commission to study the prevalence and impact of racism at Australian universities.

    But this study is not due to deliver its final report until June 2025, and any ensuing action will be further away still.

    What can be done now to tackle this issue?

    First, universities need to acknowledge academia remains overwhelmingly white and male, in spite of efforts to increase diversity.

    Second, universities also need to acknowledge the existence of racial bias, the need for ongoing research into how it operates in higher education and the most effective strategies to tackle it.

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

    – ref. Are academics more likely to answer emails from ‘Melissa’ or ‘Rahul’? The answer may not surprise you – https://theconversation.com/are-academics-more-likely-to-answer-emails-from-melissa-or-rahul-the-answer-may-not-surprise-you-241352

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Grassley Demands Explanation from Biden-Harris Admin on Failure to Vet Afghan Terrorist, Requests Watchdog Review

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Iowa Chuck Grassley

    BUTLER COUNTY, IOWA – U.S. Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) is pressing the Justice Department (DOJ), FBI and Homeland Security Department (DHS) for details on its vetting of an Afghan national arrested for plotting an Election Day terrorist attack.

    Grassley, who for years has raised concerns regarding Afghan vetting procedures, obtained and is following up on an unclassified I-94 immigration document revealing that derogatory information on the Afghan national, Nasir Ahmad Tawhedi, was referred for further assessment. Grassley is calling on DOJ, FBI and DHS to explain what actions were taken to investigate this derogatory information, and when.

    Grassley additionally wrote the DOJ Office of Inspector General (OIG) requesting it review the DOJ and FBI’s assessment, investigation and tracking of Afghan evacuees allowed entry into the United States as part of Operation Allies Refuge and Operations Allies Welcome.

    Grassley this morning discussed his oversight push, saying: “I hope you know I won’t stop fighting to protect Americans and to pursue accountability.” Listen to audio of Grassley HERE and read his letters below:

    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congresswoman Sylvia Garcia’s Statement on Specialist Vanessa Guillén’s Legacy

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Sylvia Garcia (TX-29)

    Houston, TX – Congresswoman Sylvia R. Garcia (D-TX-29) issued the following statement on the life and legacy of Army Specialist Vanessa Guillén, a constituent from Texas’ 29th Congressional District, in response to the publication of today’s article in The Atlantic:

    “Vanessa was and always will be an American hero, who inspired the I Am Vanessa Guillén Act. When it was signed into law, it was the most consequential change to the Uniform Code of Military Justice in decades, finally removing the investigation and prosecution of sexual assault and harassment from the military chain of command.

    “Today, as we do every day, let’s remember Vanessa for the person she was. She loved her family, her country, and her community. Vanessa’s story helped fuel a movement that has made our country and world a better place. She represents the very best of the Mexican American and Latino community.

    “The #IAmVanessaGuillen movement was a tidal wave because she connected with so many, and so many of us saw ourselves in her. Today, the same as every day since April 22, 2020, may we continue to honor and uplift her memory. We must do all we can to ensure the safety and well-being of every servicemember that is currently serving or has served our country.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Arrests – Domestic violence – Darwin

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Northern Territory Police have made multiple arrests in relation to domestic violence across Darwin.

    Yesterday, investigators from Strike Force Lyra attended a Domestic Violence incident in Leanyer and arrested a 34-year-old man within his vehicle.  While apprehending the offender, officers located dangerous drugs within the vehicle. The 34-year-old has since been charged with a number of domestic violence offences, drug offences, traffic offences, possess property, and fail to submit to saliva testing. He was granted bail to appear Darwin Local Court on 13 November 2024.

    Members from Strike Force Lyra also arrested a 38-year-old man yesterday in the Darwin area for an alleged domestic violence aggravated assault over the weekend. The man allegedly assaulted his female partner with broken glass, resulting in injuries. He was arrested without incident and has since been charged with Aggravated assault and breach domestic violence order. He was remanded to appear in Darwin Local Court today.

    Detective Acting Sergeant Katherine Lumsden said “ Domestic and Family Violence has no place in our community and we appreciate the brave victims who reported these incidents to police.

    Anyone with information on domestic and family violence is urged  to contact police on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. In an emergency, always dial triple zero.

    Support services for those affected by domestic violence are available, including 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732) and Lifeline (13 11 14).

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: August crime statistics

    Source: South Australia Police

    Police involved in the Operation Mandrake anti-gang crime initiative have arrested six individuals involved in four separate crime sprees in August.

    The alleged offenders, who are either known persons of interest to investigators or associates, are facing dozens of charges including serious criminal trespass involving 16 residential and business break-ins, the illegal use of five vehicles, using stolen credit cards and petrol theft.

    Despite the crime series contributing 33 individual property related offences to the August rolling crime statistics, an overall decrease in offences against property of two per cent was recorded in the period.

    Assistant Commissioner (Metropolitan Operations Service) Scott Duval said the criminal activities of those allegedly involved in the crime series presented a significant risk to community safety and well-being.

    “They are breaking into houses, they are breaking into business premises, they are stealing cars,’’ he said.

    “And they do drive at high speeds in stolen vehicles, often filming their exploits and posting to social media.

    “This activity is clearly a risk to other road users, their behaviour is dangerous and extreme.’’

    Mr Duval said police were often frustrated by the fact some of the young offenders continued to offend after being released on bail by the Youth Court.

    “We have numerous examples of multiple offences being committed by individuals who have been released on bail on numerous occasions. They are serious recidivist offenders,’’ he said.

    The August rolling year figures reveal the number of shop thefts continued to increase with 17,956 offences reported during the period, compared with 16,802 in the previous period. While the overall figure increased, the increase has slowed considerably over the past six reporting periods as police continue to successfully target recidivist offenders.

    The latest statistics also reveal house break-ins recorded a three per cent decrease in the period with 5,691 offences reported, compared with 5,840 in the corresponding period.

    Car theft and illegal use of a motor vehicle also decreased during the period with 325 fewer incidents – 3,582 compared with 3,907 in the corresponding period. Theft from a motor vehicle also fell considerably, from 10,604 offences to 8,834 offences.

    Fraud and deception related offences also showed a significant decline with a 26 per cent decrease to 4,192 offences compared with 5,686 offences in the previous period.

    The number of family and domestic abuse related offences reported to police has continued to be high with the rolling year figures revealing 13,028 offences were reported to police.

    The number of sexual offences reported to police decreased by eight per cent from 2,566 offences to 2,357 offences in the latest period. An identical decrease was recorded in the July 2023 to July 2024 period.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Road closure, Onehunga

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Parts of Captain Springs Road and Church Road in Onehunga are closed while emergency services respond to an incident in the area this afternoon.

    Motorists are asked to avoid the area and expect delays while the incident is resolved.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre
     

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Israel’s actions in Gaza, backed by the US, are shaking the world order to its core

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Tristan Dunning, Sessional Academic, School of Social Sciences, Macquarie University

    While the killing of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar could have provided an off-ramp for the conflict in Gaza, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s ongoing vows of “total victory” make this seem unlikely.

    The concept of “total victory”, however, is extremely problematic. Every time Israel declares an area cleared of Hamas and then withdraws, Hamas, which carried out the horrific attack on southern Israel on October 7 2023, has quickly returned to reestablish control.

    As a result, there has been a marked Israeli escalation in northern Gaza in recent days, and much discussion about a so-called “general’s plan” being pushed by some right-wing members of Netanyahu’s government.

    Concocted by a former Israeli general, Giora Eiland, the plan is, in essence, to forego negotiations, bisect the enclave and give northern Gaza’s 400,000 inhabitants the bleak choice between leaving and dying.

    We don’t know whether Netanyahu will officially endorse the plan. Israeli leaders reportedly told US Secretary of State Antony Blinken this week they are not implementing it. However, it nonetheless has broad support among Israel’s political and military elite.

    The Israeli military has already issued expulsion orders to the people of northern Gaza. The government has said anyone who remains would be considered a military target and will be deprived of food and water.

    While Israel denies obstructing humanitarian aid, the World Food Program said no food aid entered northern Gaza for two weeks in early October. While some aid has been entering since then, thousands are still at risk of starvation and outbreaks of preventable diseases.

    Moreover, many Palestinians, including the sick, elderly and wounded, are unable to move and have nowhere to go. The prospect of the overcrowded and unprotected tent cities of the south is hardly enticing.

    Israeli human rights groups say the military had been deliberately blocking aid to give the population no choice but to leave northern Gaza. Israel may now be backtracking under pressure from the United States, which has given Netanyahu’s government a 30-day deadline to increase the amount of aid it allows into Gaza or risk losing US weapons funding.

    Undermining international norms and rules

    Israel’s war against Gaza, and now Lebanon, has repeatedly challenged the foundations of the liberal international rules-based order set up after the second world war, as well as the tenets of international law, multilateral diplomacy, democracy and humanitarianism.

    The norms of the liberal world order are expressed in various institutions, such as:

    • the UN Charter
    • the UN Security Council, with its notionally legally binding resolutions
    • the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in The Hague
    • the Geneva Conventions governing the rules of war
    • the Universal Declaration of Human Rights
    • and the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court (ICC), among many others.

    Recently, the ICJ ruled Israel’s occupation of the West Bank, Gaza Strip and East Jerusalem is illegal and ordered it to withdraw. In response, Netanyahu said the court had made a “decision of lies”.

    In a separate case, South Africa brought a charge to the ICJ, alleging Israel has committed genocide against the Palestinian people over the past year. The world’s top court has preliminarily ruled there is a “plausible” case for a finding of genocide, and said Israel must take measures to ensure its prevention.

    At this juncture, however, human rights groups and others have argued that Israel has failed to comply with this order, thereby undermining one of the key institutions of the liberal world order.

    This is compounded by the fact that few major democratic states have been willing to strongly condemn Israel’s failure to comply with international law in Gaza – or have done so belatedly – let alone intervened in any concrete fashion.

    In addition, the UN Security Council has failed – primarily due to the veto power exercised by the US – to take any tangible measures to enforce its own resolutions against Israel, as well as the rulings of the ICJ.

    This is fuelling widespread perceptions of hypocrisy in relation to the accountability of notionally democratic states for alleged violations of humanitarian law, compared with other nations that don’t have great power patrons.

    In the early 1990s, for instance, the UN Security Council unanimously passed several resolutions against Iraq’s invasion of Kuwait, followed a decade later by resolutions demanding Saddam Hussein’s regime comply with weapons inspection mandates. The US and its allies used these resolutions as the legal justification for their invasion of Iraq. Ultimately, no weapons of mass destruction were found. Then UN Secretary General Kofi Annan later said the invasion of Iraq was illegal and contrary to the UN Charter.

    However, dozens of UN Security Council resolutions concerning Israel have been passed and not enforced. Many others have been vetoed by the US.

    The prosecutors of the ICC have also requested arrest warrants for Netanyahu and Defence Minister Yoav Gallant for alleged crimes against humanity (in addition to several Hamas leaders, now dead). The warrants for Netanyahu and Gallant were met with indignation by some Western politicians. Yet, the West broadly praised the ICC’s arrest warrant against Russian President Vladimir Putin.

    Furthermore, the US Congress attempted to sanction the court over the Netanyahu arrest warrant, once again underscoring the often selective way in which international law is applied by nation states.

    A crisis of legitimacy for the world order

    Democratic states like to present themselves as the protectors, and sometimes enforcers, of the liberal world order, ensuring continued international peace and security.

    Indeed, Israel and its supporters often characterise its military actions as the forward defence of the democratic world against tyrannical larger powers, as a means of protecting itself from adversaries that want to destroy it. The problem is Israel’s actions often directly contradict the liberal world order it purports to defend, thereby undermining its legitimacy.

    Failure to rein in Israel’s actions has led to accusations of “double standards” regarding international law. The US and Germany provide Israel with 99% of its arm imports and diplomatic cover. Although Germany has stopped approving new weapons exports to Israel, both countries certainly have more leverage to stop the carnage in Gaza if they wish.

    The West’s self-abrogated moral superiority is arguably in tatters as it continues to undermine the principles of the liberal world order. The question is: if this world order falls, what will the new world order look like?

    Tristan Dunning has signed a statement of solidarity with Palestine from academics in Australian universities.

    Shannon Brincat has signed a statement of solidarity with Palestine from academics in Australian universities.

    Martin Kear does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Israel’s actions in Gaza, backed by the US, are shaking the world order to its core – https://theconversation.com/israels-actions-in-gaza-backed-by-the-us-are-shaking-the-world-order-to-its-core-241460

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI China: Chinese, European scholars discuss human rights issues

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    Over 60 officials and human rights scholars from China and European countries including Germany, Britain, Sweden, France, Italy, Spain, Portugal and the Czech Republic gathered in Berlin on Tuesday for a seminar focused on the protection of “new and emerging rights.”

    The seminar addressed key topics including social rights, economic inequality, the intersection of digital technology and human rights, and protecting human rights in the context of climate change.

    Ma Huaide, vice president of China Society for Human Rights Studies and president of China University of Political Science and Law, said the protection of emerging rights has become a new issue in global human rights development.

    Ma emphasized China’s efforts in protecting citizens’ online security and privacy rights, as well as promoting environmental protection and green development. He also called for global cooperation to adopt a “humanity first” approach, promote true multilateralism to avoid imbalances in the global governance of emerging rights, and foster consensus through openness and fairness.

    Helga Zepp-LaRouche, founder and chairperson of the German think tank Schiller Institute, praised China’s vision of a shared future for mankind, as well as initiatives like the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative, and the Global Civilization Initiative, which transcend narrow geopolitical interests to address modern human rights needs.

    Jure Zovko, president of the International Academy for the Philosophy of the Sciences, underscored the importance of dialogue between civilizations, urging mutual learning to protect human beings and their living conditions, while mitigating the risks associated with globalization.

    Jiang Jianxiang, director of the Central South University Human Rights Center, said that the diversity of emerging rights concepts and their protection reflects the cultural diversity of the international community. He highlighted the potential for new insights through deeper cooperation and exchanges between Chinese and European human rights institutions and scholars.

    First held in 2015, the seminar, now in its eighth edition, is an institutionalized platform for in-depth exchanges and cooperation on human rights between China and Europe.

    This year’s seminar was co-hosted by the China Society for Human Rights Studies and the Central South University Human Rights Center, organized by the German and Chinese Culture Foundation, and co-organized by the University of Munster and the International Academy for the Philosophy of the Sciences.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Appeal for sightings of missing swimmer

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Police, Coastguard and Surf Life Saving New Zealand have continued to search for a man believed missing in the water off Onerahi, Northland.

    The 83-year-old man was reported missing on Monday 21 October and is believed to have been swimming off Onerahi on Sunday 20 October.

    The man typically goes for a daily swim in the Whangārei Harbour and wears a wetsuit and pink swim cap.

    The Police Eagle Helicopter has been deployed in the area and has conducted a wide search of the area. Coastguard will be conducting a dummy exercise in the water, to detect currents.

    Police are appealing to the public, and in particular to motorists who were in the Beach Road area in Onerahi on the morning of Sunday 20 October between 8am – 11am.

    If you saw the swimmer or have any dashcam footage from the area that relates, please update us at 105 online or call 105 referencing file number 241021/1742.

    Police would like to thank Far North Search and Rescue, squads from Waipu Cove Surf Life Saving Club, Whangārei Heads Volunteer Surf Life Saving Patrol, volunteers from Northland Coastguard Air Patrol and Coastguard Whangarei who are involved in the search.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Grill seekers – Burglars cooking up trouble with a stolen BBQ.

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    At about 3.30pm on Monday afternoon, two people broke a window to enter a house in Fairfield Hamilton setting off the house alarm which alerted a passerby.

    They were then seen running from the address carrying a television set.

    Witnesses saw them ditch the television over a back hedge, then leave in a white Holden vehicle, which had been parked in the driveway of the victim’s house.

    Police units recognised the description of the vehicle as it had been spotted acting suspiciously in the area earlier in the day. 

    At about 4.45pm, Police located the Holden vehicle and two people matching the descriptions of the burglars. 

    They were found at the shops in Dinsdale, parked in a disability car park.

    The offenders were trying to sell a BBQ at the Dollar Dealers when they were confronted by Police.

    Both attempted to resist the officer, and they were sprayed with O/C spray and arrested, without further incident.

    Inspector Andrea McBeth, Area Commander Hamilton City says, “This is a good catch and we appreciate the people who called us so quickly with good descriptions.

    This incident serves as a timely reminder to anyone leaving their property unattended for a period of time to take steps to make sure it’s secure.

    Burglars are largely opportunistic. Alarms will help discourage any burglar looking for easy entry and, in this case, it did.  It alerted members of the public who were able to help.

    Locks on windows and doors can be effective, as well as security signage, CCTV, alarms, and sensor lights.

    Be wary of posting too much information on social media about holiday or travel plans, or photos of inside your home, as this can make your property a vulnerable target while you’re away.

    Keep in contact with your neighbours and let each other know if you notice anything unusual.

    Call Police straight away on 111 if you see or suspect anything suspicious at your home or a neighbour’s.

    When reporting activity, it’s helpful to take note of the number of people, clothing they wear, and any vehicles present.

    You can make a report after the fact using our 105 service, either by phone or online.

    A woman aged 22 is charged with burglary and a man aged 40 is charged with burglary, resisting arrest, obstructing police, and possession of an offensive weapon.  They both appeared in the Hamilton District Court today. 

    The driver of the Holden vehicle also received a number of tickets including one for illegally parking in a disability car park.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Public–Private Partnership Monitor: Georgia

    Source: Asia Development Bank

    This report is part of an ADB flagship series that considers financing options and assesses constraints, such as low awareness and insufficient PPP opportunities at both local and national levels. The report also details how Georgia’s PPP Agency and PPP Law are supporting efforts to attract investment partners and bolster critical infrastructure that can further strengthen the economy.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Ringleader and Insider Each Sentenced to Prison in Bank Fraud Conspiracy

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    ALBANY, NEW YORK – Allahson Allah, age 54, of Albany, and Caeshara Cannon, age 35, of Albany, were sentenced this week to federal prison for their roles in a bank fraud conspiracy targeting SEFCU.  United States Attorney Carla B. Freedman and Erin Keegan, Special Agent in Charge of the Buffalo Field Office of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), made the announcement. 

    According to an indictment returned last year, court records, and statements made by prosecutors in court, between February 2022 and October 2022, Allah, together with codefendant Evan Cutler, age 25, of Queensbury, New York, managed a conspiracy targeting SEFCU in which the conspirators obtained customer personal identifying information and impersonated people to fraudulently obtain cash and credit from SEFCU.  Cannon was a Member Service Representative at SEFCU and provided Allah and Cutler with customer account information to use in creating counterfeit checks that were presented for negotiation at SEFCU branches all over the Capital Region.  The conspirators also applied for loans at SEFCU in the names of individuals whose identities they had stolen and withdrew the proceeds in cash. In total, the conspiracy netted the conspirators $88,800, with intended losses of over $100,000.

    Yesterday, Allah was sentenced by United States District Judge Anne M. Nardacci to a total term of imprisonment of 57 months, followed by 3 years’ post-release supervision, and was ordered to pay restitution to SEFCU in the amount of $88,800.   Today, Cannon was sentenced by Judge Nardacci to a term of imprisonment of 16 months, followed by 2 years’ post-release supervision.  Cannon was also ordered to pay restitution to SEFCU in the amount of $77,200.

    Coconspirator Davon Parson, age 20, of Albany, was sentenced earlier this year to 15 months’ incarceration followed by 2 years’ post-release supervision, with restitution in the amount of $9,000, following his plea to bank fraud conspiracy and aggravated identity theft.  Coconspirators Cutler and Dnauticah Taylor-Sterman, age 21, of Albany, have also pled guilty to bank fraud conspiracy and aggravated identity theft and are scheduled to be sentenced later this year. 

    HSI investigated the case, with assistance from the Bethlehem Police Department.  Assistant United States Attorney Benjamin S. Clark is prosecuting this case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Half-Brothers Sentenced for Murdering their Sister and her Family, Including Three Children, in their Tijuana Home

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    SAN DIEGO – Half-brothers Christopher Baltezar Hernandez and Victor Armondo Aguilar were sentenced in federal court today to six consecutive life terms and 45 years, respectively, for the premeditated execution of their sister, her three children – ages 9, 8 and 4 – and her significant other in their Tijuana home. The siblings had been involved in a bitter dispute over property prior to the murder.

    “I cannot understand how one can point a gun in front of a child’s face and pull the trigger,” U.S. District Judge Linda Lopez told the defendants during the sentencing hearing. She described the murders as “horrific,” “completely incomprehensible,” and “cold, intentional, planned, calculated, and callous.”

    Aguilar, of Tijuana, pleaded guilty in October 2023 and Hernandez, of Fresno, California, pleaded guilty in December 2023, each to a single count of conspiring to murder a U.S. citizen in a foreign country and five counts of stalking resulting in death. The half-brothers are U.S. citizens. The sister and her children were also U.S. citizens; the significant other was a Mexican national.

    According to their plea agreements, on December 3, 2021, the day of the murders, Hernandez traveled from Fresno to Tijuana through San Diego, armed with an assault rifle, .223 caliber ammunition, and two revolver speed loaders. Hernandez met up with Aguilar in Tijuana, where they acquired a revolver.

    The half-brothers, armed with the firearms and wearing dark clothes and gloves, went to the victims’ residence in Tijuana. According to the plea agreements, which identified the victims by their initials, the defendants first shot and killed the sister, J.H., and her eight-year-old daughter, A.M.M., in the kitchen. The significant other, G.M.V., was shot and killed in a bedroom while he attempted to shield the other two children. The bedroom door was forced open and nine-year-old A.M. and four-year-old S.M. were each shot in the head.

    “Borders do not shield criminals from justice when Americans are victimized abroad,” said U.S. Attorney Tara McGrath. “These executioners were charged, convicted, and held to account in a U.S. court. The Department of Justice will continue to use every available tool to protect Americans from harm at home and abroad.”

    “Jealousy and greed led to one family’s devastating loss of five loved ones,” said FBI San Diego Special Agent in Charge Stacey Moy. “Hernandez’s and Aguilar’s well-deserved prison sentences reflect their total disregard for human life. While their imprisonment will never bring back these lives, we hope it offers some peace to the victims’ family. The FBI, alongside our local and international law enforcement partners, remains dedicated to seeking justice and will not hesitate to hold accountable those involved in violent crimes, whether in the United States or abroad.”

    While there were likely multiple motivations for the murders, the primary reason was a dispute over the ownership of numerous properties in Mexico. According to court documents, in the months leading up to the murders, the sister retained an attorney to help in the property dispute, which prompted Hernandez to text her: “We already know about the lawyer.” Hernandez asked, “You think you can just fuck us over and nothing will happen?” Hernandez then mentioned J.H.’s attorney’s name and that he had the attorney “in are[sic] hands.” Hernandez continued to say, “Fuck you and all your family” and, “The truth is I’m not fucking around. You thought you were going to make a dumbass out of me but no. You’re not going to have anything.” Hernandez then challenged J.H. to “…try me and see how much you can handle because with me you’re not going to be able to finish it.”

    Hernandez had a long history of threats against his sister and her children. In May 2019, J.H. called 911 stating Hernandez was threatening to shoot her and her kids in the head. Hernandez and J.H. had the same parents; Aguilar and J.H. were half-siblings. It’s unclear if J.H. and her significant other were married.

    According to the plea agreements, the murders occurred after months of meticulous and obsessive planning and premeditation. Hernandez and Aguilar had researched the victims’ address and the surrounding area online more than 200 times. Hernandez also bought the parts and built a fully functional .223 caliber assault rifle. The week before, Hernandez researched “ar15 jam clearing” and “ar15 room clearing” and watched ten different videos related to tactical firearms training. Hernandez also researched how to build a hidden compartment in his Toyota Corolla and discussed contingency plans with others, among other preparatory steps. The day before the murders, Hernandez bought a pair of revolver speed loaders, and on the day of the murders, Hernandez and Aguilar acquired a revolver in Tijuana, Mexico.

    Aguilar searched for and listened to a podcast related to homicide investigations just hours before the murders. Minutes before the murders, Hernandez removed the SIM card from his phone, and returned it about a half-hour after the murders.

    Following the murders, Hernandez researched numerous news articles about the killings and searched, “does the fbi investigate murders.” Hernandez and Aguilar also deleted their location and messaging history.

    This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Mario Peia, Matthew Brehm and Fred Sheppard.

    DEFENDANTS                                             Case Number 22cr778-LL                              

    Christopher Baltezar Hernandez                    Age: 27                                   Fresno, CA

    Victor Armondo Aguilar                                Age: 22                                   Tijuana, MX

    SUMMARY OF CHARGES

    Conspiracy to Murder – Title 18, U.S.C., Section 1117

    Maximum penalty: Life in prison

    Stalking Resulting in Death – Title 18, U.S.C., Section 2261A

    Maximum penalty: Life in prison

    INVESTIGATING AGENCIES

    Federal Bureau of Investigation

    San Diego County Sheriff’s Department

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: EDB announces arrangements for second round of Basic Law and National Security Law Test in 2024/25 school year

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         The Education Bureau (EDB) today (October 23) announced that the second round of the Basic Law and National Security Law Test (BLNST) in the 2024/25 school year will be open for application from 9am on October 25 to 5pm on November 7. The test will be held on December 15 (Sunday).
          
         The target participants for the second round of the test are persons with a bachelor’s degree or those who will attain a bachelor’s degree in the 2024/25 or 2025/26 academic year and are planning to join or change to another secondary school, primary school or kindergarten to take up a teaching post. Applications can be made through the EDB’s online application system (www.edb.gov.hk/en/blnst). Limited places for the test will be available on a first-come, first-served basis. Those who have already obtained a pass result in the BLNST organised by the EDB, the Civil Service Bureau or recruiting departments/grades for degree holders will not be accepted to sit the test again.

         Starting from the 2023/24 school year, all newly appointed teachers in public sector schools, Direct Subsidy Scheme schools and kindergartens joining the Kindergarten Education Scheme (including newly joined teachers and teachers changing schools) are required to pass the BLNST in order to be considered for appointment. The requirement applies to all ranks of the teacher grade including principals.

         The EDB is conducting five rounds of the BLNST for degree holders and non-degree holders respectively this school year. Details are available on the EDB webpage (www.edb.gov.hk/en/blnst). The third to fifth rounds of the test will be held in April, June and July 2025 respectively. Relevant arrangements will be announced in due course.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: New Norfolk man charged over vehicle incident

    Source: Tasmania Police

    New Norfolk man charged over vehicle incident

    Wednesday, 23 October 2024 – 3:08 pm.

    A 23-year-old New Norfolk man has been charged with causing grievous bodily harm and failing to stop after being involved in a crash, after an incident in New Norfolk last week.
    The man was arrested today, and police will allege he deliberately drove his vehicle at another man on Burnett St about 7:20pm on Monday, 14 October.
    The man suffered significant injuries and has since being receiving medical attention in hospital. The men are known to each other.
    The charged man is expected to appear in the Hobart Magistrates Court later this evening.
    Anyone with information about this incident should contact police on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers Tasmania at crimestopperstas.com.au.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ21: Crackdown on pedestrians crossing roads without complying with traffic rules

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         Following is a question by the Hon Chan Pui-leung and a written reply by the Secretary for Transport and Logistics, Mr Lam Sai-hung, in the Legislative Council today (October 23):Question:      Regarding the crackdown on pedestrians crossing roads without complying with traffic rules, will the Government inform this Council:(1) whether it has compiled statistics on the number of pedestrian casualties in traffic accidents in the past five years, with a breakdown by cause of accident;(2) whether it has compiled statistics on the number of traffic contraventions involving pedestrians in the past five years and, among such cases, the respective numbers of verbal warnings given and prosecutions instituted (including summonses) by the Police (set out by relevant contravention);(3) whether it has analysed the reasons for pedestrians not complying with the traffic rules for crossing roads, for example, whether such acts were caused by objective factors such as road design, traffic system, etc; if it has, of the details; if not, the reasons for that;(4) of (i) the 10 traffic black spots in Hong Kong with the highest number of traffic accidents involving pedestrian casualties and the number of accidents involved, and (ii) the 10 traffic black spots in Hong Kong with the highest number of traffic contraventions involving pedestrians and the respective numbers of jaywalking cases in the past five years; in respect of such traffic black spots, of the improvement measures put in place by the authorities, including whether they will consider extending the duration of green signal of pedestrian traffic lights or adding footbridges; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that;(5) given that the Police conducted a number of large-scale territory-wide law enforcement operations against jaywalking in the past, whether the authorities have assessed the effectiveness of such operations; whether they will consider increasing the amount of penalties for pedestrians who do not comply with traffic rules for crossing roads; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that; and(6) how the authorities will further step up efforts in publicity and education on road safety, so as to enhance pedestrians’ awareness on road safety?Reply:President,     Having consulted the Transport Department (TD) and the Hong Kong Police Force (Police) in respect of crackdown on pedestrians crossing roads without complying with traffic rules, my reply to the various parts of the question raised by the Hon Chan Pui-leung is as follows:(1) and (2) The numbers of pedestrian casualties by casualty contributory factors and degree of injury in traffic accidents as well as the enforcement figures on pedestrian offences by the Police in the past five years are provided in Annex 1 and Annex 2 respectively. On the whole, from 2020 to 2023, the yearly casualty number ranged between about 2 300 and 2 800. The pedestrian casualty number involved in traffic accidents happened in the first half of 2024 has decreased by about 10 per cent compared to the same period in 2023. This reflects that the recent enhanced safety improvement measures are effective. The Government will continue to implement relevant road safety enhancement measures. The ratio of pedestrian contributory factors to accidents has decreased from about 30 per cent in 2020 to 22 per cent in the first nine months in 2024.(3) and (4) The Government has been striving to provide a safe, reliable and efficient traffic and transport system, including the provision of appropriate pedestrian crossing facilities during the planning and design of pedestrian network, for pedestrian to cross the road conveniently at suitable locations. The Government also proceeds with various walkability enhancement and pedestrian safety improvement measures at suitable locations, which include footpath widening, provision or improvement of pedestrian crossings, provision of raised crossings, provision of additional traffic signs and road markings, setting up of low speed limit zones, replacement of Belisha beacons at zebra crossings as well as installation of auxiliary devices that project a red light at signalised junctions. These measures improve pedestrians’ walking experience on one hand and enhance road safety on the other.     According to the quarterly blacksite locations published by the TD, the top 10 pedestrian blacksites and the numbers of accidents happened thereat in the past five years are provided in Annex 3. Relevant departments do not have statistics of the reason(s) of pedestrian offences. Having said that, the Police make reference to the information on accident blackspots when prioritising enforcement actions and publicity/education activities at district levels.(5) Road safety is one of the Commissioner’s Operational Priorities of the Police. Apart from conducting territory-wide enforcement actions against pedestrian offences periodically, the Police will closely monitor the issue of pedestrian safety and continue to adopt multi-pronged approach through publicity, education and enforcement to strengthen public awareness on pedestrian safety, thereby reducing traffic accidents.      From the second half of 2023 to September 2024, the Police have co-ordinated a total of three territory-wide thematic operations on pedestrian safety. With the concerted efforts of the Police and stakeholders, the number of accidents involving pedestrians as a whole in the first three quarters of 2024 has dropped, which is detailed as follows:      The Government will keep in view the penalties for traffic offences and will propose amendments timely so that the relevant penalties can maintain their deterrence to safeguard pedestrian safety.(6) The Government attaches great importance to road safety and has been closely collaborating with the Road Safety Council to promote road safety amongst different road users (including pedestrians) through various publicity and education channels. Examples include production and broadcasting of television and online publicity video clips, publication and distribution of Road Safety Bulletins and leaflets, affixing publicity covers on traffic signal controllers, conducting road safety talks in primary and secondary schools and elderly centres, disseminating information on social media platforms, to educate different road users about road safety matters that require their attention, such as obeying traffic rules and traffic signals, proper use of crossing facilities, following the Road Crossing Code and staying alert at all times. We will continue to carry out publicity and education activities to enhance road users’ awareness on safety.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –