NewzIntel.com

Category: Law

  • MIL-OSI Security: Petersburg meth trafficker sentenced to five years in prison

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    RICHMOND, Va. – A Petersburg woman was sentenced today to five years in prison for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.

    According to court documents, between June 28, 2024, and July 2, 2024, Miranda Lynn Hubert, 29, distributed 141.75 grams of meth. On July 2, 2024, Hubert, who had several outstanding warrants at the time, arrived at a 7-Eleven in Richmond to sell meth. Law enforcement took Hubert into custody and conducted a search of her vehicle. Investigators recovered 84 grams of meth, a handgun, and a digital scale.

    Hubert was convicted previously for possession of a controlled substance, possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance, larceny, probation violation, entering a house to commit larceny, and assault and battery.

    Erik S. Siebert, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia; Stanley M. Meador, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Richmond Field Office; and Jason S. Miyares, Attorney General of Virginia, made the announcement after sentencing by Senior U.S. District Judge Robert E. Payne. The Prince George County Police Department assisted in the investigation of this case.

    Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Eric Gilliland, an Assistant Attorney General with the Virginia Attorney General’s Office, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Olivia L. Norman prosecuted the case.

    A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 3:24-cr-168.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Marion County man convicted of federal sex trafficking violations

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    TYLER, Texas – A Jefferson man has been found guilty of federal sex trafficking violations in the Eastern District of Texas, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Abe McGlothin, Jr.

    Corey Lamar Johnson, 42, was found guilty by a jury on all counts following a six-day trial before U.S. District Judge J. Campbell Barker, on May 19, 2025. Specifically, the jury convicted Johnson of two counts of sex trafficking, conspiracy to commit sex trafficking, obstruction of a sex trafficking investigation, three counts of interstate transportation for purposes of prostitution, and conspiracy to violate the Travel Act.  Johnson’s co-defendants, Jessica Smith and Rachel Walker, previously pleaded guilty to related charges.     

    “Congratulations to the team who brought Corey Johnson to a well-deserved appointment with justice,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Abe McGlothin, Jr.  “For far too long, the defendant treated vulnerable, young women in ways no person should ever be treated, but today justice was served. There is no more important work for the U.S. Attorney’s Office than to rescue the oppressed and protect those who cannot protect themselves.”

    “The defendant used violence and threats of violence to compel his victims to engage in commercial sex for his profit,” said Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “There is no place in a civilized society for the defendant’s inhumane conduct, and the Justice Department is committed to punishing human trafficking and achieving justice for its victims.”

    On June 15, 2023, Johnson and two co-conspirators were named in an indictment returned by a federal grand jury, charging them with sex trafficking conspiracy, sex trafficking, transportation, obstruction of justice, and conspiracy to violate the Travel Act.

    Evidence presented at trial showed that Johnson trafficked young women across the United States and compelled them to engage in commercial sex through force, threats of force, fraud, and coercion.  Johnson recruited vulnerable, young women through social media posts that boasted of his lavish lifestyle.  He promised the victims he recruited that they could also achieve such a lifestyle.  Once they were recruited, Johnson introduced the victims to commercial sex, and when the victims wanted to leave him, he became violent, using force and threats, brandishing firearms, and bragging about having “beat” a murder charge, all to keep the victims engaged in commercial sex for his profit.

    At sentencing, Johnson faces a minimum sentence of 15 years and a maximum sentence of life in federal prison as well as mandatory restitution.  The statutory sentence prescribed by Congress is provided here for information purposes, as the sentencing will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors.  A sentencing hearing will be scheduled after the completion of a presentence investigation by the U.S. Probation Office.

    This case was investigated by the Texas Department of Public Safety Criminal Investigations Division with assistance from the Canton Police Department, the Chandler Police Department, the Arlington Police Department, and the Bossier City Police Department.  It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Robert A. Wells, and James Mack Noble, IV, and Trial Attorney Slava Kuperstein of the Civil Rights Division’s Human Trafficking Prosecution Unit with the assistance of Trial Attorney Julie Pfluger and Assistant U.S. Attorney Nathaniel C. Kummerfeld.

    Anyone who has information about human trafficking should report that information to the National Human Trafficking Hotline toll-free at 1-888-373-7888, which is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. For more information about human trafficking, please visit www.humantraffickinghotline.org. Information on the Justice Department’s efforts to combat human trafficking can be found at www.justice.gov/humantrafficking.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Bowie County man convicted of federal drug trafficking violations

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    TEXARKANA, Texas – A Texarkana man has been found guilty of federal drug trafficking violations in the Eastern District of Texas, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Abe McGlothin, Jr.

    Deablo Deshon Lewis, 34, was found guilty by a jury of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute fentanyl, methamphetamine, and marijuana and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime following a three-day trial before U.S. District Judge Robert W. Schroeder, III, on May 15, 2025.

    According to information presented in court, Lewis was arrested on April 1, 2021, in Texarkana, Arkansas, after agreeing to sell 150 counterfeit oxycontin “M-30” pills to another person.  After the arrest, Lewis admitted that he had marijuana at his home in Texarkana, Texas, and a search warrant was issued.  During the search, officers located over 2,800 counterfeit “M-30” pills containing fentanyl, over 700 “ecstasy” pills containing methamphetamine, over 180 counterfeit Xanax pills containing clonazolam, bulk marijuana, THC edibles, and synthetic marijuana products.  Officers also recovered two loaded firearms.  In February 2022, after being released on bond, officers stopped a vehicle leaving a suspected drug transaction with Lewis. The occupant confirmed that they had just purchased counterfeit “M-30” pills from Lewis.  A search warrant was issued, and officers discovered additional fake “M-30” pills containing fentanyl and hundreds more “ecstasy” pills containing methamphetamine.

    At sentencing, Lewis faces up to 40 years in federal prison.  The statutory maximum sentence prescribed by Congress is provided here for information purposes, as the sentencing will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors.  A sentencing hearing will be scheduled after the completion of a presentence investigation by the U.S. Probation Office.

    This case was investigated by the Texarkana (Texas) Police Department, Texarkana (Arkansas) Police Department, Texas Department of Public Safety, Drug Enforcement Administration, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Bowie County Sheriff’s Office, Miller County (Arkansas) Sheriff’s Department. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ryan Locker, Lauren Richards, and Jonathan Hornok.

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  • MIL-OSI USA: ICE Washington, D.C. arrests illegal Guatemalan gang member with extensive criminal history

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    FAIRFAX, Va. — U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement arrested an illegally present Guatemalan gang member with an extensive history of criminal activity that includes a multitude of charges and convictions for assault and battery, burglary, credit card fraud, trespassing and drug crimes. Officers with ICE Washington, D.C. arrested Mykol Santos-Santos, 25, in Fairfax May 12, after the Fairfax County Adult Detention Center refused to honor ICE’s 16th immigration detainer lodged against him.

    Santos-Santos resisted the arrest heavily, resulting in the injury of an ICE officer.

    “Mykol Santos-Santos is a habitual offender. He is a documented member of a violent criminal gang with a lengthy criminal history and represents an egregious danger to our Virginia communities,” said ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Washington, D.C. Field Office Director Russell Hott. “While we are happy to have arrested him, we find it inexcusable that local law enforcement refused to honor 16 separate immigration detainers against Santos-Santos, forcing ICE officers to make an at large arrest where one of our officers was injured. We could have worked together with local law enforcement to arrange a safe transfer of custody. Instead, they decided to place politics ahead of public safety, and as a result one of our brave officers was injured. ICE Washington D.C. will continue to prioritize the safety of our public by arresting and removing criminal alien threats to our communities.”

    U.S. Border Patrol arrested Santos-Santos July 11, 2014, after he illegally entered the United States near Hidalgo, Texas. Border Patrol officials issued him a notice to appear before a Justice Department immigration judge.

    ICE Washington, D.C. arrested Santos-Santos July 17, 2018, during a targeted enforcement operation in Annandale, Virginia.

    On Jan. 2, 2019, a Justice Department immigration judge granted him an $8,000 immigration bond.

    On June 30, 2023, a Justice Department immigration judge ordered Santos-Santos removed from the United States to Guatemala.

    Between Feb. 20, 2020, and May 8, 2025, Fairfax County Police arrested Santos-Santos at least 30 times and charged him with crimes including assault and battery, drug possession, drug possession with intent to distribute, burglary, theft, larceny, trespassing, property damage, obstruction of justice, attempting to flee police, failure to appear and violating court orders.

    Between June 17, 2022, and May 12, 2025, ICE Washington, D.C. lodged 16 separate immigration detainers against him with the Fairfax County Adult Detention Center. The facility ignored all 16 detainers and released Santos-Santos back into the community on each occasion.  

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

    Learn more about ICE’s mission to increase public safety in our communities on X at @EROWashington.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Former Contractor of USAID-Funded Program Extradited to the United States, Convicted and Sentenced for Conspiracy to Obtain Grant Money Through Fraud

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

                WASHINGTON— Stephen Paul Edmund Sutton, 53, a United Kingdom citizen, pleaded guilty and was sentenced today for his participation in a fraud scheme, perpetrated when he was employed by a  contracting firm that implemented a U.S. Agency for International Development-funded (USAID) power distribution program (PDP) in Pakistan, announced U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro and Acting Assistant Inspector General for Investigations Sean Bottary.

                Sutton pleaded guilty to conspiring to commit theft concerning a program receiving federal funds, which is a felony. In his role as a Logistics Operations Manager, Sutton took kickbacks of USAID-funds used to pay for the services rendered. After fighting extradition for more than two years, Sutton was extradited to the United States. District Court Judge Amit P. Mehta sentenced Sutton to time-served and ordered that Sutton be turned over to immigration authorities.

                He pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit theft concerning a program receiving federal funds. He was sentenced to time-served and one day of supervised release.

                According to court documents, PDP was a component of U.S. government assistance to the government of Pakistan to support its energy sector. Launched in September 2010, the five-year program was designed to facilitate improvements in Pakistan’s government-owned electric power distribution companies through interventions and projects addressing governance issues, technical and non-technical losses, and low revenue collection. The main goal of the PDP was to improve the commercial performance of the participating distribution companies through technology upgrades and improvements in processes, procedures, and practices, as well as training and capacity building. Under the PDP contract, Sutton’s employer subcontracted through purchase orders with vendors in Pakistan for certain goods and services.

                From May through November 2015, Sutton and his co-conspirator, an employee supervised by Sutton, participated in a kickback scheme by creating two companies, obtaining PDP purchase orders for forklift and crane services for the companies, and distributing the profits to themselves. As part of the scheme, his co-conspirator arranged for low-grade local vendors to provide the services for at least half the contract rates, and Sutton ensured that the company paid the invoices despite suspicions raised by an accounts payable officer. U.S. government sentencing documents indicate the agency was defrauded of almost $100,000 and that for his part, Sutton received at least $21,000 in kickbacks.

                Sutton’s co-conspirator is also charged by indictment and his case is pending disposition. 

                This case was investigated by the USAID Office of Inspector General and was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Emily Miller and former Special Assistant United States Attorneys Scot Morris and Nicholas Coates of the Fraud, Public Corruption, and Civil Rights Section. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs provided significant assistance in securing the arrest and extradition of Sutton from the UK.

    20-cr-252

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  • MIL-OSI Security: 5 Connecticut Residents Charged with Defrauding Connecticut and Washington Small Business Loan Programs

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, and P.J. O’Brien, Special Agent in Charge of the New Haven Division of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, today announced that a federal grand jury in New Haven has returned a 20-count indictment charging MYCALL OBAS, 42, of Danbury, MBALI NCUBE, 35, of Danbury, PIERRE OBAS, 49, of Danbury, TERESA VARGAS, 43, of Hartford, and STEPHEN WALKER, 30, of New Canaan, with offenses related to fraudulent small business loan applications in Connecticut and Washington.

    The indictment was returned on May 14, 2025.  Mycall Obas, Ncube, Pierre Obas, and Vargas were arrested on May 15, and Walker was arrested today.  Each has entered a plea of not guilty and is released on bond pending trial.

    According to the indictment, the National Development Council (“NDC”), now known as Grow America, was a not-for-profit lender that provided capital to small businesses, including through state-sponsored small business loan programs.  The Connecticut Small Business Boost Fund (“CT Boost”) was an economic initiative supported by the Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development that connects Connecticut small businesses and non-profits with support services, including access to flexible funding for capital expenditures.  The Small Business Flex Fund (“Flex”) was an economic initiative supported by the Washington State Department of Commerce that connected Washington state small businesses and nonprofits with support services, including access to flexible funding for capital expenditures.  NDC worked with CT Boost and Flex to provide loan funding to small businesses in Connecticut and Washington, respectively.

    As alleged in the indictment and statements made in court, Mycall Obas, Ncube, Pierre Obas, and Walker used stolen personal and business identities, or created false business identities, to apply to NDC for small business loans through the CT Boost and Flex programs.  In connection with the loan applications, they created and submitted false business records, including fraudulent certificates of organization, false income statements, false balance sheets, and false tax returns.  Vargas, who was a contractor for NDC and responsible for processing and underwriting small business loan applications, processed some of the fraudulent loan applications and submitted them to NDC for approval.  She also specifically requested to be the loan processor on certain loan applications submitted by her co-conspirators in order to further the scheme. 

    It is alleged that the co-conspirators applied for and obtained 12 loans totaling more than $2 million through this scheme.

    The indictment charges each of the five defendants with one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, one count of conspiracy to commit money laundering, and multiple counts of wire fraud.  Each of these charges carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years.  The indictment also charges each of the five defendants with one more counts of making illegal monetary transactions, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years on each count.  Mycall Obas and Pierre Obas are also charged with aggravated identity theft, which carries a mandatory term of imprisonment of two years.

    U.S. Attorney Sullivan stressed that an indictment is not evidence of guilt.  Charges are only allegations, and each defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

    This matter is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with the assistance of the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Division, and the Meriden and Danbury Police Departments.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephanie T. Levick.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Ojo Amarillo Man Charged in Brutal Assault

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    ALBUQUERQUE – A Ojo Amarillo man has been charged by criminal complaint with assault following an incident that left the victim with multiple fractures and severe facial injuries.

    According to court documents, on May 6, 2025, the Navajo Nation Police Department responded to a residence in Ojo Amarillo, New Mexico, where officers discovered the victim suffering from extensive facial lacerations, swelling, and a right eye swollen shut. She was immediately transported to San Juan Regional Medical Center for emergency treatment.

    The victim reported that Kyle Kee, 33, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, attacked her without warning, striking her repeatedly in the face, back, and stomach. The assault only ended when a phone call interrupted the attack. The victim said that Kee had previously assaulted her and was on probation for a prior offense.

    Officers located Kee hiding in a nearby field. After initially attempting to evade capture, Kee was apprehended and became verbally aggressive, spitting on and kicking an officer during the arrest.

    Medical records confirm the victim sustained an orbital fracture, nasal bone fractures, multiple contusions, and a laceration above her right eye requiring sutures.

    Keeis charged with assault resulting in serious bodily injury and will remain in custody pending trial, which has not been set. If convicted, Kee faces up to 10 years in prison.

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

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

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

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  • MIL-OSI Security: D.C. Man Sentenced to More Than 30 Years for Violent Armed Robbery Spree in Prince George’s County

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Greenbelt, Maryland – Today, U.S. District Judge Lydia K. Griggsby sentenced William David Hill, aka Old Man, aka Tank, 68, of Washington, D.C., to more than 33 years in federal prison followed by five years of supervised release. This sentence is in connection with two armed commercial robberies — and the discharging of a firearm during one of the robberies — in November 2016. 

    Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the sentence with Special Agent in Charge William J. DelBagno of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) – Baltimore Field Office.

    On July 3, 2019, following a seven-day trial, a federal jury convicted Hill and co-defendant Ronnell Francis Lewis of the robberies.  According to the evidence presented at trial, on November 22, 2016, Lewis, Hill, and a co-conspirator robbed an auto repair business in Clinton, Maryland. 

    Specifically, the evidence showed that the robbers entered the business brandishing firearms and ordered two employees to get on the ground.  The defendants took money from the victims’ pockets and ordered them into the front office.  They then bound and gagged one victim with zip ties and duct tape, respectively.  The second victim fought. As a result, the robbers shot and ultimately paralyzed the second victim, before fleeing in a vehicle that they stole earlier in the day.

    As detailed at trial, on November 26, 2016, the defendants also robbed a barbershop in Seat Pleasant, Maryland.  According to the trial testimony, the two defendants entered the business, ordered everyone on the ground, and then robbed them. 

    During the robbery, the defendants threatened the victims with violence.  According to the evidence, the robbers put the cash in a dark, single-strap duffle bag and fled in a stolen minivan. 

    Police saw the minivan at a traffic light and attempted to halt the vehicle, but the driver refused to stop, fleeing into Washington, D.C.  Law enforcement eventually stopped Lewis and the driver and seized their vehicle. The third person, later identified as Hill, escaped but authorities eventually apprehended him.

    This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone.  Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts.  PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.

    U.S. Attorney Hayes commended the FBI for its work in the investigation and thanked the Prince George’s County Police Department, Seat Pleasant Police Department, and the Metropolitan Police Department for their assistance.  Ms. Hayes also thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys Megan S. McKoy and Elizabeth Wright who prosecuted the case.

    For more information about the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to help the community, visit www.justice.gov/usao-md and https://www.justice.gov/usao-md/community-outreach.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Haysville woman indicted for distributing child pornography

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    WICHITA, KAN. – A Kansas woman made her initial appearance in federal court after a grand jury in Wichita returned an indictment charging her with distributing child sexual abuse materials. 

    According to court documents, Addilynn Jean Onuffer, 23, of Haysville is charged with three counts of distribution of child pornography for alleged actions that took place between June 2024 and July 2024. 

    The defendant made initial court appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Brooks Severson of the U.S. District Court for the District of Kansas. 

    The Kansas Internet Crimes Against Children Taskforce (ICAC) and Wichita Police Department are investigating the case.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Molly Gordon is prosecuting the case.

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

    An indictment is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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  • MIL-OSI Security: Retired U.S. Navy Admiral Found Guilty in Bribery Scheme

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

                WASHINGTON – Admiral Robert Burke (USN-Ret.), 62, of Coconut Creek, Florida, was found guilty of bribery today in connection with accepting future employment at a government vendor in exchange for awarding that company a government contract.   

              Following a five-day trial, a federal jury found Burke guilty of conspiracy to commit bribery, bribery, performing acts affecting a personal financial interest, and concealing material facts from the United States. U.S. District Court Judge Trevor N. McFadden scheduled sentencing for August 22, 2025. 

              The verdict was announced by U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro, Matthew R. Galeotti Head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, Special Agent in Charge Greg Gross of the Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS) Economic Crimes Field Office, and Assistant Director in Charge Steven J. Jensen of the FBI Washington Field Office.   

              “When you abuse your position and betray the public trust to line your own pockets, it undermines the confidence in the government you represent,” said U.S. Attorney Pirro. “Our office, with our law enforcement partners, will root out corruption – be it bribes or illegal contracts – and hold accountable the perpetrators, no matter what title or rank they hold.”

              According to court documents and as the evidence proved at trial, from 2020 to 2022, Burke was a four-star Admiral who oversaw U.S. naval operations in Europe, Russia, and most of Africa, and commanded thousands of civilian and military personnel. The two co-defendants Kim and Messenger were the co-CEOs of a company (Company A) and provided a workforce training pilot program to a small component of the Navy from August 2018 through July 2019. The Navy terminated a contract with Company A in late 2019 and directed Company A not to contact Burke. 

              Despite the Navy’s instructions, the co-defendants met with Burke in Washington, D.C., in July 2021, to reestablish Company A’s business relationship with the Navy. At the meeting, the charged defendants agreed that Burke would use his position as a Navy Admiral to steer a contract to Company A in exchange for future employment at the company. They further agreed that Burke would use his official position to influence other Navy officers to award another contract to Company A to train a large portion of the Navy with a value one of the co-defendants allegedly estimated to be “triple digit millions.” 

              In December 2021, Burke ordered his staff to award a $355,000 contract to Company A to train personnel under Burke’s command in Italy and Spain. Company A performed the training in January 2022. Thereafter, Burke promoted Company A in a failed effort to convince another senior Navy Admiral to award another contract to Company A. To conceal the scheme, Burke made several false and misleading statements to the Navy, including by falsely implying that Company A’s employment discussions with Burke only began months after the contract was awarded and omitting the truth on his required government ethics disclosure forms. 

              In October 2022, Burke began working at Company A at a yearly starting salary of $500,000 and a grant of 100,000 stock options. 

              This case was investigated by the Defense Criminal Investigative Service, Naval Criminal Investigative Service, and the FBI’s Washington Field Office. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Rebecca G. Ross for the District of Columbia and Trial Attorneys Trevor Wilmot and Kathryn E. Fifield of the Criminal Division’s Public Integrity Section. It was investigated and indicted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Joshua Rothstein.

    24cr265

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Westwego Woman Guilty of Conspiracy to Commit Mail Fraud by Defrauding State Offices of Unemployment Insurance

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – Acting United States Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced today that REHA JANEE ARVIE,(“ARVIE”), age 34, of Westwego, LA, pled guilty to Conspiracy to Commit Mail Fraud, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1349. ARVIE faces up to twenty (20) years imprisonment, up to three (3) years of supervised release, a fine up to $250,000.00, or twice the gross gain to the defendant, or twice the gross loss to any victim, and a $100.00 mandatory special assessment fee.

    According to the indictment, beginning in or around July 2020, ARVIE defrauded, and attempted to defraud, various state offices of Unemployment Insurance (“UI”) through the submission of approximately 100 fraudulent UI applications. ARVIE recruited friends and family, via Facebook, to file these fraudulent UI applications. Additionally, ARVIE filed fraudulent UI applications for herself and others, in various states including Arizona, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Indiana, Missouri, Nevada, Pennsylvania, Utah, Texas, and the territory of Guam. ARVIE charged those for whom she filed fraudulent UI claims fees, ranging from    $1,200.00 to $1,500.00. For example, ARVIE obtained $267,612.00 in UI benefits from California’s Employment Development Department. Moreover, during the investigation, ARVIE lied to federal agents during an interview.

    Sentencing in this matter is scheduled for September 10, 2025, before United States District Judge Sarah S. Vance.

    On May 17, 2021, the Attorney General established the COVID-19 Fraud Enforcement Task Force to marshal the resources of the Department of Justice in partnership with agencies across government to enhance efforts to combat and prevent pandemic-related fraud. The Task Force bolsters efforts to investigate and prosecute the most culpable domestic and international criminal actors and assists agencies tasked with administering relief programs to prevent fraud by, among other methods, augmenting and incorporating existing coordination mechanisms, identifying resources and techniques to uncover fraudulent actors and their schemes, and sharing and harnessing information and insights gained from prior enforcement efforts. For more information on the Department’s response to the pandemic, please visit https://www.justice.gov/coronavirus. The Department of Veterans Affairs, Office of the Inspector General, is an active member of the PRAC Fraud Task Force.

    “The PRAC was established to promote transparency and facilitate coordinated oversight of the federal government’s COVID-19 pandemic response. The PRAC’s 20 member Inspectors General identify major risks that cross program and agency boundaries to detect fraud, waste, abuse, and mismanagement in the more than $5 trillion in COVID-19 spending, including spending via the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), and Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program. This case was also supported by the PRAC’s Pandemic Analytics Center of Excellence, which applies the latest advances in analytic and forensic technologies to help OIGs and law enforcement pursue data-driven pandemic relief fraud investigations.”

    Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.

    The United States Attorney’s Office would also like to acknowledge the assistance of the U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General; the Department of Veterans Affairs, Office of Inspector General; the National Unemployment Insurance Fraud Task Force; The Pandemic Response Accountability Committee; the United States Department of Homeland Security Office of Inspector General COVID Fraud Unit; and the California Employment Development Department with this matter. The prosecution of this case is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Brian M. Klebba, Chief of the Financial Crimes Unit.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Jefferson Man Convicted of Sex Trafficking Two Victims in Texas

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    A federal jury in the Eastern District of Texas convicted Corey Lamar Johnson, 42, of Jefferson, Texas, today on two counts of sex trafficking and related charges for his conduct in trafficking multiple young women in several states, compelling the victims to engage in commercial sex through acts and threats of physical and psychological harm. Specifically, the jury convicted Johnson of two counts of sex trafficking, conspiracy to commit sex trafficking, obstruction of a sex trafficking investigation, three counts of interstate transportation for purposes of prostitution, interstate travel in aid of racketeering, and conspiracy to commit interstate travel in aid of racketeering. Johnson’s co-defendants, Jessica Smith, 38, and Rachel Walker, 31, previously pleaded guilty respectively to conspiracy to commit interstate travel in aid of racketeering, and interstate transportation for purposes of prostitution sex trafficking.    

    “The defendant used violence and threats of violence to compel his victims to engage in commercial sex for his profit,” said Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “There is no place in a civilized society for the defendant’s inhumane conduct, and the Justice Department is committed to punishing human trafficking and achieving justice for its victims.”

    “Congratulations to the team who brought Corey Johnson to a well-deserved appointment with justice,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Abe McGlothin Jr. for the Eastern District of Texas. “For far too long, the defendant treated vulnerable, young women in ways no person should ever be treated, but today justice was served. There is no more important work for the U.S. Attorney’s Office than to rescue the oppressed and protect those who cannot protect themselves.”

    Evidence at trial showed that Johnson recruited young and vulnerable women through alluring posts online of his supposedly extravagant lifestyle. Johnson promised the victims he recruited that they, too, could achieve such a lifestyle. Once recruited, however, Johnson had the victims engage in commercial sex acts, and when the victims wanted to leave Johnson, he turned violent, using threats, physical force, brandishing his firearms, and bragging about having “beat” a murder charge, all to keep the victims engaging in commercial sex for his profit.

    A sentencing hearing will be scheduled at a later date. Johnson faces a minimum penalty of 15 years in prison and a maximum penalty of life in prison as well as mandatory restitution. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    The Texas Department of Public Safety investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Nathaniel Kummerfeld and Robert Wells for the Eastern District of Texas, and Trial Attorney Slava Kuperstein of the Civil Rights Division’s Human Trafficking Prosecution Unit are prosecuting the case.

    Anyone who has information about human trafficking should report that information to the National Human Trafficking Hotline toll-free at 1-888-373-7888, which is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. For more information about human trafficking, please visit www.humantraffickinghotline.org. Information on the Justice Department’s efforts to combat human trafficking can be found at www.justice.gov/humantrafficking.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Miller-Meeks Leads Letter Inviting Pope Leo XIV to Address Congress

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Mariannette Miller-Meeks’ (IA-02)

    Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Mariannette Miller-Meeks (IA-01) is leading a formal letter to Speaker Mike Johnson requesting an invitation for Pope Leo XIV to address a Joint Session of Congress.

    The letter comes just days after Congresswoman Miller-Meeks joined a historic congressional delegation to the Vatican for the (inaugural) Mass of Pope Leo XIV—the first American pope—alongside Vice President JD Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and nearly 20 members of Congress.

    “Pope Leo XIV represents a profound moment in both American and world history,” said Miller-Meeks. “His life, leadership, and message of faith are already uniting people across the globe. Whether you’re Catholic or not, his message is one of human dignity, responsibility, and truth. It would be an incredible honor for Congress and the American people to hear directly from him. At a time when the world is searching for moral clarity and renewed purpose, Congress should welcome that message.”

    If accepted, Pope Leo XIV would become only the second pontiff in history to address a Joint Session of Congress.

    Joining Rep. Miller-Meeks in penning this letter are Reps. Jeff Hurd (CO), Michael T. McCaul (TX), Chuck Fleischmann (TN), Don Bacon (NE), Tom Barrett (MI), Buddy Carter (GA), Mark B. Messmer (IN), Rob Bresnahan Jr. (PA), Glenn Grothman (WI), Carlos Gimenez (FL), Darin LaHood (IL), Rick Crawford (AR), and Michael V. Lawler (NY).

    To read the full letter to Speaker Mike Johnson, please click HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Inside the FBI Podcast: Protecting Chinese Students from Scammers

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) (video statements)

    On this episode of the Inside the FBI Podcast, we’re warning the public about a financial fraud scheme involving scammers who impersonate Chinese law enforcement and target the U.S.-based Chinese community—in particular, Chinese students attending American universities. For a full transcript and additional resources, visit https://www.fbi.gov/news/podcasts.

    If you believe you’ve been contacted by an individual or group claiming to be a Chinese authority, contact your local FBI field office. You can visit https://www.fbi.gov/fieldoffices for more information.

    And if you’ve experienced or witnessed any fraudulent or suspicious activities, please report them to the FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center at https://www.ic3.gov as soon as you can. Be sure to include as much transaction information as possible, such as wire instructions, wallet addresses, telephone numbers, and text or email communications.

    —————————————————
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    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EAA_Yh1Adw0

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Mfume, Van Hollen, Members of Maryland Congressional Delegation Introduce Bill to Award Henrietta Lacks the Congressional Gold Medal

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Kweisi Mfume (MD-07)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representative Kweisi Mfume (D-MD-07) and Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) are introducing the Henrietta Lacks Congressional Gold Medal Act, in the United States House of Representatives and the United States Senate. This legislation would posthumously award a Congressional Gold Medal to Henrietta Lacks in recognition of her immortal “HeLa cells” which have made invaluable contributions to global health, scientific research, our quality of life, and patients’ rights. Since the American Revolution, Congress has commissioned gold medals as its highest expression of national appreciation for distinguished achievements and contributions.

    The bill receives support from Members of the Maryland Congressional Delegation, including Senator Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD) and Representatives Steny Hoyer (D-MD-05), Jamie Raskin (D-MD-08), Glenn Ivey (D-MD-04), April McClain Delaney (D-MD-06), Sarah Elfreth (D-MD-03), and Johnny Olszewski (D-MD-02). These lawmakers makeup 27 Members of the U.S. House who have signed on as original cosponsors. The legislation is also endorsed by HELA100: Henrietta Lacks Initiative and the Henrietta Lacks Legacy Group (HLLG).

    “I am honored to introduce this legislation in the U.S. House to provide both the spirit of Mrs. Lacks and her descendants the gratitude and recognition this lineage deserves. Her ‘HeLa cells’ have altered the future of medical science, and the world continues to benefit from Mrs. Lacks’ contributions and sacrifice,” said Congressman Kweisi Mfume. “During a time in our country where the Trump administration shamefully seeks to erase Black history from the American story, the legacies of Black historymakers like Mrs. Lacks must be uplifted, and we must continue to deliver our message back to President Trump: you erase it, we will replace it,” he concluded.

    “Without knowing it at the time of her cancer treatment, Henrietta Lacks would go on to change the course of modern medicine. Her cells unlocked a breakthrough in medical research, leading to treatments and cures that are bettering people’s lives to this day. But Mrs. Lacks never consented to the use of her cells – nor did she receive rightful credit for the monumental contributions she made. That’s why it’s all the more important that we recognize her with the Congressional Gold Medal, Congress’ highest expression of appreciation,” said Senator Chris Van Hollen.

    “The Lacks Family is grateful to our friends Congressman Kweisi Mfume and Senator Chris Van Hollen for their leadership and continued commitment toward awarding a Congressional Gold Medal to my grandmother, Henrietta Lacks,” said Alfred Lacks Carter, Jr., grandson of Henrietta Lacks. “This Mother’s Day has even more meaning. I applaud the introduction of this Act in the spirit of my mother, Deborah Lacks, who worked tirelessly to ensure that her mother, Henrietta Lacks, was celebrated as the Mother of Modern Medicine,” he concluded.

    “Awarding Henrietta Lacks a Congressional Gold Medal as the world celebrates her 105th birthday this year is truly a fitting honor. Our Hennie’s contributions to science, medicine, and research have saved lives and created cures – here in the U.S. and worldwide. As my grandfather, Lawrence Lacks, Sr., Henrietta Lacks’ eldest son, often said, ‘We are proud of all the good that she has done for the world.’ As the next generation, we are reclaiming her story to make certain the world recognizes her impact,” said Veronica Robinson, Senior Advisor, HELA100: Henrietta Lacks Initiative, great granddaughter of Henrietta Lacks.

    “On behalf of the Board of Directors of the Henrietta Lacks Legacy Group (HLLG), it is our pleasure to write this letter of support for your bill that would award posthumously a Congressional Gold Medal to Henrietta Lacks in recognition of her immortal cells that have had a revolutionary effect on modern medicine and other scientific innovations,” wrote Dr. Adele Newson-Horst, Chair, HLLG Board of Directors and Servant Courtney Speed, Founder and President, HLLG.  

    In 1951, it was discovered that Mrs. Henrietta Lacks, of Baltimore, had a large, malignant tumor on her cervix. However, unbeknownst to Mrs. Lacks or her family, medical researchers took samples of her tumor during her treatment without her consent. Henrietta Lacks’ cells, now known as ‘‘HeLa cells,” doubled every 20 to 24 hours whereas other human cells died in the same time period.

    Lacks’ prolific cells continue to replicate to this day and contribute to remarkable advances in medicine resulting in several Nobel Prize award-winning discoveries and groundbreaking advancements. These scientific discoveries include the development of the polio vaccine and drugs used to treat cancer, HIV/AIDS, hemophilia, leukemia, and Parkinson’s disease. Her cells were even sent into space to survey long-term effects on living cells and tissues.

    The bill text for the Henrietta Lacks Congressional Gold Medal Act is available by clicking here.

    The Life of Henrietta Lacks

    • Henrietta Lacks was born in Roanoke, Virginia in 1920 and later moved to Baltimore, Maryland with her husband and family of 5 children.
       
    • At the age of 31, she sought treatment from The Johns Hopkins Hospital for prolonged bleeding.
       
    • At the time, the hospital was one of a few that would treat African Americans. Shortly after her admission to the hospital, she was diagnosed with an aggressive cervical cancer that would lead to her untimely death only 8 months later.
       
    • This tragedy left Henrietta Lacks’ husband and 5 children to go on without her.
       
    • Despite Mrs. Lacks’ passing, her life continued under unique circumstances. Researchers took cells from Henrietta Lacks without her consent or the consent of her relatives and discovered that they were unlike any other known cells before.
       
    • Mrs. Lacks’ cells, now referred to as, “HeLa cells,” were remarkably durable and prolific, which allowed them to be used extensively in scientific research.
       
    • The cells had the unparalleled capacity to reproduce and were deemed immortal; meaning, where other human cells would die, “HeLa cells” doubled every 20 to 24 hours.
       
    • Henrietta Lacks’ immortal cells have been used by researchers, resulting in several Nobel Prize award-winning discoveries and groundbreaking advancements.
       
    • These scientific discoveries include the development of the polio vaccine and drugs used to treat cancer, HIV/AIDS, hemophilia, leukemia, and Parkinson’s disease. Her cells were even sent into space to survey long-term effects on living cells and tissues.
       
    • Henrietta Lacks’ story garnered the attention of the nation and was chronicled in a Primetime Emmy Award-nominated HBO film entitled, “The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks.”   
       
    • In October of 2024, Johns Hopkins University and Johns Hopkins Medicine broke ground on the Henrietta Lacks Building.
       
      • The new 34,000-square-foot building will be located on the East Baltimore campus and support multiple programs of the Berman Institute, Johns Hopkins University and the School of Medicine, and will house flexible program and classroom space for educational, research, and community use purposes.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Wyden Sounds Alarm on Harmful Impacts of SAVE Act, Trump’s Anti-Voter Executive Order, in Native Communities

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Ron Wyden (D-Ore)

    May 19, 2025

    Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Ron Wyden, D-Ore., said today he has written the Trump administration about the challenges Native communities will face under Trump’s “election integrity” executive order and the SAVE Act, including requirements documenting proof of citizenship and restricting mail-in voting.

    The SAVE Act passed by the Republican-controlled House and Trump’s executive order would require Native Americans to use a government issued state ID to register to vote instead of their Tribal IDs which are currently accepted in nearly every state and have been for decades. The SAVE Act also has an in-person requirement for voter-registration that would force Tribal voters in rural areas to travel significant distances to prove their citizenship and register to vote. 

    “Enactment of new voter registration policies under the Executive Order and the SAVE Act would lead to mass disenfranchisement of eligible Native voters and further depress the Native vote,” Wyden and colleagues wrote Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum. “Tribal IDs generally lack place of birth information required by the legislation, and the vast majority of these IDs lack the specific U.S. citizenship documentation required by the Executive Order. And the SAVE Act’s in-person requirement would exacerbate existing barriers, such as requiring IDs that list residential mailing addresses, by forcing many Native voters to travel great distances, including costly flights or multi-hour drives, to reach their local elections office or polling place.”

    Wyden and his colleagues  also highlighted that the vote-by-mail restrictions would disproportionately hurt Native Americans who rely on mail-in voting because of their lack of transportation and rural locations. Trump’s executive order penalizes states that accept absentee or mail-in ballots received after Election Day, harming Native voters in Oregon, especially as the State processes ballots for days as long as they were postmarked by Election day. 

    “As Secretary of the Interior, you have a special moral and legal responsibility to uphold our nation’s trust and treaty obligations,” continued the senators. “If implemented, the sweeping federal mandates included in the Executive Order and the SAVE Act would disenfranchise eligible Native voters who are following state laws. We encourage your active engagement with the White House and the Department of Justice to ensure that Native communities are able to exercise the franchise fully and have their voices heard at the ballot box.”

    In addition to Wyden, the letter was also led by U.S. Senators Alex Padilla, D-Calif., and Brian Schatz, D-Hawai’i, and signed by U.S. Senators Catherine Cortez Masto, D-Nev., Kirsten Gillibrand, D-N.Y., Mazie Hirono, D-Hawai’i, Tim Kaine, D-Va., Amy Klobuchar, D-Minn., Edward J. Markey, D-Mass., Jeff Merkley, D-Ore., Jacky Rosen, D-Nev., Tina Smith, D-Minn., Chris Van Hollen, D-Md., and Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass.

    Text of the letter is here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congresswoman Torres Leads 100 Colleagues in Supporting $400 Million in Funding for Immigrant Legal Representation

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Norma Torres (35th District of California)

    May 19, 2025

    Letter Calling for Robust Investment in Due Process for Immigrants and Asylum Seekers Facing Removal Proceedings

    Washington, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Norma Torres (CA-35),  joined by 100 of her colleagues, led a letter to the  House Appropriations Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies Chair urging $400 million in funding for legal representation, to ensure the right to due process enshrined in the Constitution. 

    The lawmakers’ letter calls attention to the lack of guaranteed legal counsel in immigration proceedings, noting that more than 40 percent of individuals—and a staggering 70 percent of those in detention—face removal proceedings without a lawyer.

    “Our immigration courts are overwhelmed and increasingly complex. Without legal representation, thousands of vulnerable individuals are left to face deportation alone, often in a language they do not speak,”  said The Members. “Legal representation is not just a safeguard for the individual, but a necessary component of an efficient and fair immigration system. This funding is about justice, dignity, and ensuring everyone has their fair day in court.”

    The $400 million request would build on the $50 million included in the House FY2022 Appropriations Bill (H.R. 4505) to expand access to legal services. In their letter, the Members cite clear data: individuals with legal counsel are five times more likely to obtain legal relief and are significantly more likely to appear in court, which increases court efficiency and reduces case backlogs.

    The letter also denounces the misuse of outdated laws such as the Alien Enemies Act and certain provisions of the Immigration and Nationality Act, which have been exploited to detain and deport legal residents for engaging in constitutionally protected activities. Judges have warned that without due process for immigrants, there is no due process for citizens either, because authorities could simply claim someone isn’t a citizen, denying them the opportunity to prove their citizenship.

    “Weaponizing our legal system to punish lawful residents or silence dissent is un-American. This investment in legal representation is a direct step toward restoring due process and upholding our nation’s fundamental values,” the Members Continued.

    Full letter

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    Carta pide una inversión significativa en el proceso para los inmigrantes y solicitantes de asilo que se enfrentan a un proceso de expulsión

    Washington, D.C. – Hoy, la Congresista Norma Torres (CA-35) unida a 100 de sus colegas, dirigió una carta al Presidente de la Subcomisión de Asignaciones para Comercio, Justicia, Ciencia y Agencias Relacionadas de la Cámara de Representantes, instando a destinar 400 millones de dólares a la financiación de la representación legal, para garantizar el derecho al debido proceso consagrado en la Constitución.

    La carta de los legisladores llama la atención sobre la falta de garantía de asesoramiento jurídico en los procedimientos de inmigración, señalando que más del 40 por ciento de las personas – y un asombroso 70 por ciento de los detenidos – enfrentan procedimientos de deportación sin un abogado.

    “Nuestros tribunales de inmigración están desbordados y son cada vez más complejos. Sin representación legal, miles de personas vulnerables se enfrentan solas a la deportación, a menudo en un idioma que no hablan,” dijeron los Miembros. “La representación legal no es sólo una salvaguarda para el individuo, sino un componente necesario de un sistema de inmigración eficiente y justo. Esta financiación tiene que ver con la justicia, la dignidad y la garantía de que todo el mundo tenga su día justo en los tribunales.”

    La solicitud de 400 millones de dólares se basaría en los 50 millones incluidos en el proyecto de ley de asignaciones para el año fiscal 2022 de la Cámara de Representantes (H.R. 4505) para ampliar el acceso a los servicios jurídicos. En su carta, los diputados citan datos claros: las personas con asistencia letrada tienen cinco veces más probabilidades de obtener ayuda legal y es mucho más probable que comparezcan ante los tribunales, lo que aumenta la eficiencia de los tribunales y reduce la acumulación de casos.

    La carta también denuncia el uso indebido de leyes obsoletas como la Ley de Enemigos Extranjeros y ciertas disposiciones de la Ley de Inmigración y Nacionalidad, que han sido explotadas para detener y deportar a residentes legales por participar en actividades constitucionalmente protegidas.

    “Armar nuestro sistema legal para castigar a los residentes legales o silenciar la disidencia es antiestadounidense. Esta inversión en representación legal es un paso directo hacia la restauración del debido proceso y la defensa de los valores fundamentales de nuestra nación,” Continuaron los Miembros.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: First Partner joins conversation on expanding access to capital for female founders

    Source: US State of California 2

    May 19, 2025

    SACRAMENTO — First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom joined Marcie Frost (CEO, CalPERS) and Cassandra Lichnock (CEO, CalSTRS) at the annual Catalyst event for a candid conversation on the role California’s public institutions can play in opening access to funding for women and diverse entrepreneurs.

    California is now the fourth largest economy in the world and the center of the world’s investment-backed innovation economy, with Bay Area venture capitalists alone raising more than $151 billion in funds over the past five years— more than the rest of the U.S. combined. Yet, women and underrepresented voices are systematically overlooked: 

    • In 2023, women-founded companies raised $3.2 billion from VCs, just 2.8% of all U.S. VC activity. In comparison, all-male-founded companies raised $114 billion. (Pitchbook and Deloitte, Carta)
    • Women of color received just 0.39% of VC funding in 2023 and 0.13% of funding in 2022. (Fearless Fund)
    • Although the percentage of female VC check writers has grown from 9% to 15.5% in the U.S, 64% of venture firms still don’t have any female partners (female investors who are able to write checks). (All Raise)

    “California is the global center of the innovation economy because we embrace new ways of thinking and fresh ideas. But if we’re missing out on more than half of the population’s entrepreneurial breakthroughs, we’re leaving a lot on the table. The current system doesn’t reflect a lack of talent. It reflects a lack of access and that’s something we must change. And it’s something we’re uniquely positioned to do here in California. Because we know that when women and diverse founders lead, they deliver results —not just for investors—but for entire communities.”

    First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom

    At the event, Siebel Newsom, Frost, and Lichnock also discussed how California is making strides to shift the structural conditions that limit economic opportunity for all: 

    • CalPERS has shifted private equity focus away from just large-scale managers to include mid-market, growth, and venture—segments viewed as “undercapitalized.” 33% of CalPERS-backed managers now qualify as “diverse,” compared to an industry average of 21% across eight peer public pension funds. 
    • SB 54, California’s Venture Capital Diversity Disclosure Law, which will require VC firms operating in California to disclose demographic data on funded founders to boost transparency.
    • SB 826, California’s first-in-the-nation “women on boards” law, although later challenged by the courts, this law helped boost the seats women held on California’s public company board to 30% — up from 15.5% in 2018.  
    • AB 2927, requires all high school students to take a personal finance course. It helps to ensure the next generation—especially girls from underserved communities—have the knowledge to build financial independence early.

    Through the First Partner’s work with California for all Women and her nonprofit the California Partners Project, she has championed efforts to help increase representation of women and close the gender wealth gap–including a board playbook series, co-created with Stanford’s VMware Women’s Leadership Innovation Lab and Stanford Graduate School of Business, to help companies boost talent and representation on boards. 

    “Women are the innovators and entrepreneurs that are helping solve societal issues yet remain significantly underrepresented in getting the capital they need to turn ideas into reality,” said Marcie Frost, CEO of CalPERS. Data shows businesses that are majority-owned by women only get 2-percent of venture capital investments in the United States. This gap highlights persistent systemic barriers and biases within the venture capital ecosystem, underscoring the need for more inclusive investment practices and equitable access to funding opportunities that align with our fiduciary duty and requirement to diversify assets.”

    Marcie Frost, CEO of CalPERS

    Research shows that women and diverse leaders deliver outsized results: 

    • Research from Boston Consulting Group indicates that women-owned startups can generate significantly more revenue per dollar invested, potentially leading to greater wealth for investors. 
    • Venture capital firms with more women investing partners outperform their peers—seeing 1.5% higher fund returns and nearly 10% more profitable exits. 

    First Partner, Press releases

    Recent news

    May 19, 2025

    News What you need to know: California’s battery storage capacity now exceeds 15,700 megawatts, an unprecedented milestone that reflects the Newsom administration’s continued leadership in building the grid of the future. SACRAMENTO — California continues to rapidly…

    May 16, 2025

    News What you need to know: The state is investing almost $1.7 billion for improvements to California’s highway system, including $86.5 million for improvements to infrastructure damaged during the Los Angeles firestorms earlier this year. SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin…

    May 16, 2025

    News SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom kicked off #WorldTradeMonth with a round of key international interviews with journalists from major broadcast networks in Canada, Japan, Mexico, South Korea, and the United Kingdom. In the interviews, Governor Newsom addressed…

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Marshals Arrest Teen Charged with Reckless Endangerment Who Was on Bond for Previous Attempted Murder, Reckless Endangerment Charges

    Source: US Marshals Service

    Henderson County, TN – On May 19, 2025, the U.S. Marshals Service (USMS) arrested Dawson Maness for Felony Reckless Endangerment against a law enforcement officer.

    On May 16, 2025, a State Trooper with the Tennessee Highway Patrol (THP) met a white Chevrolet truck traveling left of center of the roadway in Henderson County, TN. The Trooper was forced to run off the road to avoid a collision with the truck. When the Trooper activated his emergency equipment, the truck fled the scene in a reckless manner, endangering the lives of others. An investigation by the THP determined that Dawson Maness was the driver.

    The USMS Two Rivers Violent Fugitive Task Force in Jackson was asked to assist in finding and apprehending Maness. This morning, deputy marshals and task force officers went to Maness’ residence on Bargerton Road in Lexington, TN and took him into custody.

    This was not the task force’s first encounter with Maness. He was released from jail on bond for a December 2024, incident where he is alleged to have shot and struck a FedEx delivery truck during a road rage incident in Jackson, TN. The Jackson Police Department charged him with Attempted First-Degree Murder and Felony Reckless Endangerment. The USMS subsequently arrested him at his home on January 22, 2025, for those charges.

    The U.S. Marshals Service Two Rivers Violent Fugitive Task Force is a multi-agency task force within Western Tennessee. The TRVFTF has offices in Memphis and Jackson, and its membership is primarily composed of Deputy U.S. Marshals, Shelby, Fayette, Tipton, and Gibson County Sheriff’s Deputies, Memphis and Jackson Police Officers, Tennessee Department of Correction Special Agents and the Tennessee Highway Patrol. Since 2021, the TRVFTF has captured over 3,000 violent offenders and sexual predators.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Appeal to trace a man who was last seen in a hospital in east London

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    Officers are appealing for the public’s help trace a man who was last seen at a hospital In Leytonstone.

    Aleks Abutayun, 29, was last seen at 17:00hrs on Monday, 19 May after he left Whipps Cross Hospital in Leytonstone.

    He is described as a white man and 5ft8 tall. He is of a medium build, with short dark hair and a beard.

    Aleks was last known to be wearing a grey cardigan, green trainers and brown chino trousers. He has links to Hollow Ponds, Epping Forest and Waltham Forest.

    Met officers are becoming increasingly concerned for Aleks’ wellbeing and if seen, we are advising people to call police rather than approach him.

    Please call 999 immediately if you see Aleks, quoting CAD5635/19MAY.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: No Credit Check Loans – Credit Clock is the Number 1 Pick for US Customers

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Memphis, May 19, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —

    Do you have a hard time making both ends meet and require immediate cash? In most cases, having a poor credit score can make it tough to locate a lender that is willing to give you a no credit check loan.

    However, there’s no need to worry—we have good news for you. Our team has extensively researched the American market and identified the most exceptional lenders that offer no credit check loans.

    These loans help you cover unexpected expenses and financial shortfalls. As such, they serve as reliable financial aid for emergencies and assist between pay periods. Read on to get more insight on them.

    Click Here to Apply 

    Top US No Credit Check Loan Lenders

    1. Credit Clock: Longer loan repayment periods

    Credit Clock is a top selection for borrowers with bad credit and no credit history looking to obtain no credit check loans in the US in 2025. The company is best known for its longer repayment periods, which give the borrower ample time to repay the loan. The loan amounts start from $100 to $5,000. This amount range ensures that you meet your financial needs. On top of that, no extra charges or costs are added to the loan.

    Below are some of the benefits of using Credit Clock as your preferred lender:

    • Flexible repayment periods of up to 24 months.
    • Fast approval processes.
    • Flexible lending amounts.
    • Reputable lenders.
    • Soft credit checks.
    • No hidden charges or costs.

    Credit Clock ensures that you get your loans in time through same-day approvals, helping your financials meet your needs.

    What Is a No Credit Check Loan?

    A no credit check loan is a type of loan that does not require the lender to perform credit checks on the borrower. As such, credit history and credit score are not important factors to consider when approving such loans. This fact makes no credit check loans a suitable borrowing option for individuals who have poor credit scores or bad credit histories and have no chance of being granted loans by financial institutions.

    These loans do not require any security as collateral and are usually accompanied by interest rates that are relatively higher than those offered by conventional financial institutions. Therefore, it is highly advised that you thoroughly examine the fees, rates, and terms before taking them.

    What Are the Examples of No Credit Check Loans

    Several types of loans can be extended to borrowers without having hard credit checks performed. They include:

    1. Payday loans – These are short-term loans that are taken to be repaid on the borrower’s next payday. They are taken in small amounts that could range from a few hundred dollars to a few thousand dollars and are meant to cover unexpected expenses before payday.
    2. Car title loans – These are secured loans that use the vehicle as collateral. The lenders of car title loans tend to hold onto the title of the vehicle until the loan is paid back in full. It is key to note that they have high-interest rates and fees.
    3. Cash advance – A cash advance is a type of short-term loan that allows you to borrow money against your future paycheck. Cash advances can be obtained through your credit card or a payday lender.
    4. No credit check installment loans – An installment loan is a type of loan that is repaid over time through a series of scheduled payments or, better yet, installments. They can be used for various purposes, such as home repairs, medical bills, or car purchases, and are available through a variety of lenders.
    5. Personal lines of credit – A personal line of credit is a flexible borrowing option that allows you to access funds as needed, up to a predetermined credit limit. These are similar to credit cards, but instead of a revolving credit limit, you are given a line of credit that you can draw from as needed.

    What to Look at to Get the Best No Credit Check Loan

    When obtaining a no credit check loan, there are important aspects that must be considered to ensure you not only get the best lenders and offers but also make an informed decision. Some of those factors include:

    1. Interest rates – The interest rate, being the amount that the lender charges on the loan has to be compared between various lenders to ensure that you get the lowest rates available.
    2. Fees – It is important to read carefully the terms of the loans and understand all the fees associated with the loan before agreeing to it. These fees may include origination fees and late repayment fees among others.
    3. Online reviews – It is of the essence to take a sneak peek at the online reviews of the possible lenders to have a glimpse of what previous borrowers have to say. This will give you an idea of the lender’s reputation and customer service.
    4. Licensing – Laws regarding no credit check loans are not similar in all states. As such, it is important to ensure that the lender you choose is licensed to operate in your state and is compliant with all state laws. Licensed lenders tend to follow the regulations on fee limits, interest rates, and loan terms.
    5. Terms – Understand the loan terms and conditions, such as the repayment period, payment frequency, and any penalties for early or late repayment. Ensure that the terms are favorable and suit your financial needs.

    Alternatives to No Credit Check Loans

    When you need quick cash, you may consider getting a no credit check loan. However, it is important to note that there are several alternatives to no credit check loans. Here are some options, especially if you have a good credit score:

    1. Personal loans – If you have a good credit score, you may be able to qualify for a personal loan from a bank, credit union, or online lender. Personal loans typically have lower interest rates than no credit check loans and may have more flexible repayment terms.
    2. Co-signer loans – Getting a co-signer with good credit to apply for a loan gives you a higher chance of approval and getting a favorable interest rate. However, it is important to repay the loan on time to improve your credit and avoid leaving the co-signer responsible for the payments.
    3. Credit unions – Unlike banks, credit unions offer loans at lower interest rates than most traditional lenders. They often provide flexible repayment terms and lower fees.
    4. Secured loans – Secured loans require collateral, such as a car or property, to secure the loan. They have lower interest rates than unsecured loans as the collateral reduces the risks associated.
    5. Bad credit loan lenders – These are lenders who are specifically designed for borrowers with poor credit scores. These lenders offer loans with higher interest rates and fees, but they are more willing to lend a helping hand if you have a low credit score.

    Eligibility Criteria for No Credit Check Loans

    Even though no credit checks are performed for no credit check loans, there are several other background checks that lenders perform to ensure eligibility. They are:

    • A US citizenship.
    • Be at least 18 years of age.
    • A verifiable source of income.
    • An active bank account.
    • Functional contact details.

    The above qualifications are easily met by a fair share of applicants and as a result, high approval rates are attributed to no credit check loans.

    In addition, the application processes are easy to follow, and the cash payouts are almost instantaneous, as they are instantly approved.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Do I have to visit a physical store to apply for a no credit check loan?

    No, most lenders offering no credit check loans have online applications. You can apply for the loan online and receive the funds directly deposited to your bank account.

    How much can I borrow?

    The amount you can borrow depends on the lender’s policies. The maximum amount you can get from a no credit check loan is $50,000.

    Do I have to pay fees?

    Not necessarily. Most lenders do not charge prior or extra fees for loans. Nonetheless, some charge application fees, processing fees, and late payment fees. The fees vary by lender, and you should review the terms and conditions carefully before accepting a loan offer.

    Are no credit check loans a good idea?

    No credit check loans are a good option for people with bad credit or no credit history who need quick cash. However, it is vital to ensure that you can adhere to the loan’s terms and policies.

    What happens if I miss a loan repayment?

    If you miss a loan repayment for a no credit check loan, you will likely face additional fees and interest charges. In addition, your credit score may be negatively impacted, making it harder for you to obtain credit in the future. Some lenders may also report late payments to credit bureaus, which can lower your credit score. It’s important to contact your lender as soon as possible if you think you may miss a payment and work out a plan to avoid any negative consequences.

    Company Name:Payday Ventures Ltd (trading as Credit Clock)
    Email:business@paydayventures.com
    Phone:+44 208 064 1293

    Disclaimer & Affiliate Disclosure

    The information presented in this press release is provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice, lending advice, or legal guidance. Credit Clock is not a lender, does not make credit decisions, and does not issue any loan or financial product directly. All loans are subject to the approval criteria and underwriting processes of independent third-party lenders or lending networks, which may include additional checks and verification of eligibility.

    Loans facilitated through the Credit Clock platform are available to individuals aged 18 and over, contingent upon status, state of residence, and the criteria set by lending partners. Availability of products and services may vary by jurisdiction and may not be accessible to residents of all U.S. states. Services are explicitly unavailable in the following states: Arkansas, Connecticut, New Hampshire, New York, Montana, South Dakota, Vermont, West Virginia, Indiana, and Minnesota.

    This press release may contain references to third-party offers, services, or products. Any representations, benefits, rates, or terms mentioned are subject to change at the sole discretion of the respective provider. No guarantees are made regarding loan approval, loan amounts, or funding timelines. While some lenders may offer loans up to $5,000, this amount is not guaranteed and will depend on individual qualifications and lender policies. Some lenders may conduct soft or hard credit checks with credit bureaus such as Experian, Equifax, or TransUnion, or use alternative credit reporting systems.

    No Guarantee of Loan Approval or Terms

    Completing the online form does not constitute a loan application and does not guarantee approval, qualification, or receipt of funds. Credit Clock uses a proprietary algorithm to connect users with potential lenders based on the borrower’s profile and the available lending options within its network. Not all lenders or loan products are accessible through this service, and users are encouraged to independently evaluate all available financial solutions to determine what best suits their individual needs.

    Funding Model and Compensation Disclosure

    This website does not charge users any fees for submitting loan requests. The operator of this website is a broker, not a direct lender. Compensation is received from lenders, lender networks, and other marketers in the network when a user is matched and offered a financial product or alternative lending option through this platform.

    Annual Percentage Rates (APR) and Terms

    Representative APRs for installment loans accessed through this service may range from 5.99% to 35.99%. The minimum repayment term is 61 days. Actual APRs and loan terms may vary depending on the borrower’s creditworthiness, financial history, state of residence, and lender assessment. APR disclosures are based on historical lender data and are illustrative only; they do not reflect a guarantee of rates. Not all users will qualify for the lowest advertised rates.

    Tribal Lender Disclosures

    Some lending partners may operate under tribal jurisdiction and are governed by federal and tribal laws, not state law. As such, rates, fees, and loan terms may differ substantially from those offered by state-licensed lenders and may be higher in certain cases. Consumers should review all loan agreements thoroughly before accepting terms.

    Publisher & Syndication Partner Disclaimer

    The content herein is distributed for informational purposes only and reflects the opinions of the original source at the time of publication. All facts, figures, representations, and claims regarding loan services or benefits are provided by Credit Clock and are subject to change without notice. Neither the publisher of this press release nor any affiliated distribution or syndication network shall be held liable for errors, inaccuracies, outdated information, or omissions contained herein. This release may contain typographical errors or inadvertent misstatements.

    Parties interested in financial products described herein are strongly advised to conduct independent due diligence, verify terms directly with lenders, and seek appropriate legal or financial counsel prior to entering any agreement.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: India: Authorities should immediately terminate ‘unwarranted’ investigation and release Professor Ali Khan Mahmudabad

    Source: Amnesty International –

    Responding to the arrest of Professor Ali Khan Mahmudabad in Delhi, India, for ‘sedition’ following his social media post, Aakar Patel, chair of board at Amnesty International India, said:

    “The Haryana police must stop treating Professor Ali Khan Mahmudabad like a criminal simply for expressing an opinion. The shameful arrest of the Professor for a social media post seeking support for justice for victims of lynching and ‘bulldozer injustice’ in the country is a violation of his rights to freedom of expression and liberty.

    “Accusing Professor Ali Khan Mahmudabad of sedition and other charges is not only absurd and completely unwarranted but also shows how authorities have been consistently misusing the law to target anyone who has a critical view in the country. Section 152 of the Indian criminal code, Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), which the professor has been accused of, is nothing but a new version of the old sedition law which the Supreme Court had stayed in 2022. In its new avatar, the law is once again being used to censor critical voices and create a climate of fear.  

    “The Indian government should urgently repeal this pernicious legislation and comply with their international human rights obligations. The Haryana Police must immediately release Professor Ali Khan Mahmudabad and terminate the investigation against him.”

    The Haryana police must stop treating Professor Ali Khan Mahmudabad like a criminal simply for expressing an opinion.

    Aakar Patel, chair of board at Amnesty International India

    Background:

    Ali Khan Mahmudabad is an associate professor and the head of political science department at Ashoka University in India. On 8 May, in a social media post he said that he was glad to see right-wing praise for Colonel Sophia Qureishi, who was one of the Indian armed forces spokespersons for media briefings on Operation Sindoor, but they should also speak up for ‘victims of mob lynchings, arbitrary bulldozing’ and the ruling-party ‘BJP’s hate mongering.’

    The Haryana State Women’s Commission, however, accused the professor of attempting to “vilify national military actions”. Based on this along with a BJP Youth Wing leader’s complaint, the Haryana police filed a report against the Professor based on articles 152 (sedition), 353 (statements conducing to public mischief) and 79 (word, gesture or act intended to insult modesty of a woman) of the BNS.

    Professor Ali Mahmudabad was arrested on 18 May from his Delhi residence and currently subject to 2-day police custody. He has defended his comments and said that they had been misunderstood.

    Last year, the Rajasthan High Court had ruled against the misuse of Section 152 to suppress legitimate dissent

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI: Licensed Crypto Mining Platforms Like F2Hash Redefine Global Landscape Amid Bitcoin Boom

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    New York City, NY, May 19, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —

    In a landmark development for the digital asset industry, licensed and regulated cloud mining platforms are emerging as the backbone of Bitcoin’s post-$100K resurgence. Spearheaded by industry leaders such as F2Hash, the market is witnessing a profound shift from fragmented, independent miners to scalable, compliant, and sustainable infrastructure. As profitability metrics soar and institutional capital floods in, the global mining map is being redrawn—fast.

    F2Hash, among the top-tier mining entities, has become a symbol of this evolution. Founded in 2022 and headquartered in Nicosia, Cyprus, F2Hash operates with a licensed framework under CySEC and FINMA banking oversight. The platform now controls 12.5 EH/s of hash rate and achieves a remarkable 92% use of renewable energy, thanks to its integration with the EU’s Green Mining Initiative.

    “Mining is no longer a guessing game. Our mission is to bring structure, trust, and sustainability to the process,” said Konstantin Vassilev, CEO of F2Hash. “We’re not just adapting to this new era—we’re helping define it. With institutional confidence rising, it’s the platforms that offer transparency, compliance, and energy efficiency that will lead the charge.”

    Cloud mining in 2025 looks fundamentally different from years past. Instead of managing physical machines, users opt for mining contracts that leverage large-scale, high-efficiency facilities. ASIC hardware now achieves performance benchmarks upwards of 450 TH/s, enhanced by liquid cooling technologies that minimise energy loss. Profitability has jumped sharply, with licensed cloud contracts offering 18–24% ROI annually, outpacing home mining setups burdened by higher energy costs.

    According to recent industry data, licensed platforms now command over 65% of global hash power. This includes major players such as:

    • BitFuFu, a Bitmain-backed platform that raised $300M in Series C funding and operates under Dubai’s Virtual Asset Mining Law.
    • CryptMain, innovating with a nuclear-backed mining protocol, is leading in European markets.
    • BitDeer, publicly listed on NYSE, is known for its energy-optimised smart routing systems.
    • ECOS, an Armenian-based firm focused on carbon offset contracts and flexible terms.
    • NiceHash, the largest hash marketplace, which now offers institutional DeFi integration.
    • Hashing24, a veteran platform now bridging mining with Bitcoin Layer 2 infrastructure.

    F2Hash stands out not only for its performance but also for its operational model—offering fixed-term mining contracts with daily payouts and real-time monitoring dashboards for users. Its solar-powered data centers and instant withdrawal systems provide the scalability and environmental accountability regulators demand.

    As governments enforce tighter controls on energy usage and financial flows, platforms like F2Hash are well-positioned to benefit. The EU’s upcoming Climate-Neutral Mining Directive is expected to further favor regulated operators using renewable energy and advanced cooling systems, which can boost energy efficiency by 40%.

    Industry experts suggest that by 2026, up to 75% of global mining could be concentrated in regulated cloud platforms. Meanwhile, traditional financial institutions continue to enter the space, with mining-backed ETFs, structured investment products, and derivative instruments gaining traction.

    The crypto mining industry is shedding its anarchic roots and embracing structured, sustainable growth. For companies like F2Hash, this is more than a market shift—it’s the beginning of a new industrial era.

    For more information, visit F2Hash’s website or contact Nikolai Terskikh at support@f2hash.com.

    Media Contact Detailsz
    Contact Name:  Nikolai Terskikh
    Contact Email: info@f2hash.com
    City/Country: Dimofontos, Nicosia, Cyprus
    Website: https://f2hash.com

    Disclaimer: The information provided in this press release is not a solicitation for investment, nor is it intended as investment advice, financial advice, or trading advice. Cryptocurrency mining and staking involve risk. There is potential for loss of funds. You should practice due diligence, including consultation with a professional financial advisor, before investing in or trading cryptocurrency and securities.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Prioritisation of climate commitments – E-001899/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001899/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    César Luena (S&D)

    With regard to the European Union’s climate commitments, the reform of the European Climate Law should include a 90 % emission reduction target for 2040, in line with the goal of achieving climate neutrality by 2050. What is more, the Commission will have to present the EU’s nationally determined contribution (NDC) under COP30 as part of global efforts to uphold the Paris Agreement.

    • 1.When does the Commission intend to submit its reform of the European Climate Law to include the goal of reducing emissions by 90 % by 2040 and the EU’s new NDC for COP30?
    • 2.How will the Commission’s recent proposal to review the priorities of the cohesion policy and the European Regional Development Fund, which limits the 30 % climate mainstreaming target, affect efforts to meet the 2040 climate goal?
    • 3.What guarantees can the Commission offer that the greater flexibility in the use of cohesion funds and the new prioritisation will not jeopardise the EU’s climate goals?

    Submitted: 13.5.2025

    Last updated: 19 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Compatibility of the Italian law criminalising surrogacy abroad with EU law – E-001871/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001871/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Carolina Morace (The Left), Valentina Palmisano (The Left), Danilo Della Valle (The Left), Mario Furore (The Left), Gaetano Pedulla’ (The Left), Giuseppe Antoci (The Left), Pasquale Tridico (The Left)

    Italian Law No 169/2024 criminalises surrogacy for Italian citizens even if it takes place abroad. This legislation risks infringing citizens’ right to free movement (Article 21 TFEU) and the principle of mutual recognition of public documents, including those relating to parenthood (Article 81 TFEU, Regulation (EU) 2016/1191).

    It could also result in serious discrimination against children born through surrogacy in Member States where the practice is legal, undermining their right to continuity of family status and violating Articles 21 and 24 of the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights.

    In the V.M.A. case (C-490/20), the Court of Justice ruled that Member States must recognise a parent-child relationship legally established in another Member State to ensure the child’s full enjoyment of their citizenship rights.

    In view of the above:

    • 1.Does the Commission believe that this Italian law is compatible with EU law?
    • 2.What measures will it take to protect children’s rights and guarantee the free movement of families with children born through surrogacy in other Member States?

    Submitted: 12.5.2025

    Last updated: 19 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Withdrawal of authorisation of the drug Ocaliva for treatment of primary biliary cholangitis – E-001881/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001881/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Stefano Cavedagna (ECR), Ruggero Razza (ECR), Carlo Ciccioli (ECR), Michele Picaro (ECR)

    On 30 August 2024, the European Commission removed the marketing authorisation for the drug Ocaliva (obeticholic acid), used to treat primary biliary cholangitis, a rare, chronic and progressive liver disease.

    As a result of this decision, Advanz Pharma Specialty Medicine Italia voluntarily withdrew the drug from sale in Italy and it was taken off the list maintained under Law No 648/96 of drugs paid for by the national health service.

    Ocaliva was the only approved second-line treatment for patients who do not respond to or cannot tolerate ursodeoxycholic acid treatment, and its withdrawal has left many patients without any viable treatment options.

    Although the European Medicines Agency has suggested compassionate use or programmes for designated patients, access to such measures remains fragmented at European level, giving rise to inequalities in access to treatment.

    Can the Commission therefore say:

    • 1.Whether, in view of the provisions of EU law, it believes measures such as the purchase of Ocaliva from abroad should be taken to enable Italian patients to continue their treatment?
    • 2.How it intends to ensure continuity of treatment for patients without any valid therapeutic alternatives, even given the emergence of new drugs?

    Submitted: 12.5.2025

    Last updated: 19 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Need for a European strategy for sustainable road tourism and parking infrastructure for camper vans and caravans – E-001876/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001876/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Elena Kountoura (The Left)

    A recent law in Greece[1] has extended the existing ban on parking for camper vans and caravans to areas including archaeological sites, coastlines, beaches, forest edges and public spaces[2]. Despite referring to Article 34 of the Greek Highway Code[3], this extension of scope has not been accompanied by the corresponding development of necessary infrastructure set out for municipal, fenced and equipped parking areas.

    However, despite the existence of the legal framework, the lack of infrastructure such as camper stops and organised municipal sites makes it practically impossible for camper vans and caravans to park or stay anywhere legally. This has left European citizens with camper vans or caravans facing confusion and uncertainty and unable to comply with requirements, especially in areas lacking signs, information or infrastructure provision[4].

    Given that Greece is still struggling to attract caravanners, owing to its lack of adequate infrastructure and policies, and given that in the EU the sector generates EUR 120 billion a year, will the Commission say:

    • 1.Does it intend to include objectives for developing parking and service infrastructure for camper vans and caravans in the Member States in the upcoming European sustainable tourism strategy, with a view to strengthening the EU’s road tourism policy?
    • 2.Will it consider establishing a European framework of guidelines or common minimum standards for such infrastructure in the context of free movement and European tourism policy?
    • 3.Does it intend to finance, through the European structural funds or other instruments, the development of appropriate infrastructure in Greek tourist destinations?

    Submitted: 12.5.2025

    • [1] Law 5170/2025 (Government Gazette A 6/20-01-2025), https://www.taxheaven.gr/law/5170/2025.
    • [2] This amendment also includes a ban on private landowners hosting more than one camping vehicle for free.
    • [3] Specifically, Article 34 of the Greek Highway Code establishes the possibility of parking camping vehicles in appropriate fenced areas designated by the relevant municipalities or communities, which also ensure their security, while a joint decision of the ministers for the interior, public administration and decentralisation, transport and communications, public order and the environment, spatial planning and public works lays down detailed rules for implementation and makes provision for costs relating to security, maintenance, etc.
    • [4] The absence of an organised strategy to promote road tourism compromises this alternative form of tourism, which is systematically supported in other EU countries, where there are more than 30 000 camper stops.
    Last updated: 19 May 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Norcross Celebrates Opening of New Food Assistance Center in Gloucester Township

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Donald Norcross (1st District of New Jersey)

    WASHINGTON, DC– Today, Congressman Donald Norcross (NJ-01) released a statement to celebrate the grand opening of the Mary Ann Wardlow Center for Community Nutrition in Gloucester Township. Congressman Norcross secured $475,000 in Community Project Funding to help fund this new center. 

    “I’m honored to have secured funding to ensure that no one in our community goes hungry,” said Congressman Donald Norcross. “Camden County has done great work to tackle food insecurity. The new Mary Ann Wardlow Center for Community Nutrition will expand the reach of the current food program and better serve families and seniors throughout our community. I will continue to fight in Congress for funding to reduce food insecurity in South Jersey and around the nation.” 

    The center was created to expand upon the county’s growing need for home delivered meals to residents in need. The building is named after nutrition activist and Lawnside Mayor, Mary Ann Wardlow, who has been a long-time organizer and advocate for Meals on Wheels. Wardlow was instrumental in creating a congregate site offering nutritional programs to her town. 

    Too many families in South Jersey are affected by food insecurity. In 2024, the Food Bank of South Jersey distributed 23.4 million pounds of food, provided 19.5 million meals, and served 185,000 people, including 67,000 children, per month. In Camden County, 87,052 residents rely on SNAP to feed themselves and their families.   

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: City Committee approves over £500K Investment for local play areas

    Source: Scotland – Highland Council

    At today’s meeting of the Inverness City Area Committee members agreed an investment of £512,052 to improve play areas across all seven wards over the coming year.

    Decisions on allocating funds received from the Scottish Government’s Play Park Renewal Fund are taken by Area Committees based on a blend of play park conditions and the criteria used by Government which is based on the 0–14-year-old population and rurality.

    The total allocation from the Scottish Government play parks renewal programme for the Inverness Area is £838,162 which has been split equally between the seven Wards, providing each with £119,737 per Ward over the five-year programme. The annual revenue budget for play parks in the Inverness Area 2025/26 is £65,200 and includes labour, plant and fleet, materials, and some contractor costs.

    Spread over the Highlands the Council is responsible for 319 play parks and over 2083 pieces of play equipment.  58 of these play areas are in Inverness. The provision of play parks in not a statutory duty, but the inspection and maintenance of equipment once installed, is a mandatory requirement.

    Leader of Inverness and Area, Councillor Ian Brown said: “Playparks have positive social and mental health benefits for children and young people so it’s great news that significant funding to invest in so many play areas across our wards has been agreed today. I’d like to thank local members, officers and local community groups for all the work they have done to prioritise the spend to where it is most needed.

    “Like everything mechanical or structural, play equipment has a finite life, and at the end of its life it becomes unsafe for children to play on, and must be replaced. The investment over 2025/26 will benefit our local communities and keep our play parks open and safe for our children now and into the future.”

    The Council would welcome any local groups that are interested in supporting further investment in their play parks for example by accessing funding sources that are not open to the Council. If any groups are interested in boosting the investment in their playparks they can email Highland Council’s Play Strategy Coordinator who can support them with this at: amenity.services@highland.gov.uk

    Details of investment agreed are:

    For Ward 12 – £102,336

    • Balnain Road Play Area; £26,350 for a refurbishment project
    • Aird Road Play Area; £20,000 to install inclusive items
    • Strathglass Play area; £3650 to go towards a community refurbishment project
    • Abertaff Play Area; £2,500 to go towards a community refurbishment project
    • Jenkins Park Play Area; £2,500 to go towards a community refurbishment project
    • Milton of Drumnadrochit Play Area; £151 to remove and replace fence
    • Kiltarlity Play Area; £47,185 to go towards a community refurbishment project

    For Ward 13  –  £72,225

    • Whin Park Play Area; £8,225 to complete the refurbishment project
    • Lawers Way Play Area; £22,000 for a refurbishment project
    • Blackpark Terrace Play Area; £10,000 for a new bench and inclusive slide
    • Mile End Place Play Area; £20,000 for a carousel, monkey bars or zipline
    • Charleston View Play Area; £12,000 for a slide or basket swing

    For Ward 14 – £55,000

    • Benula Road Play Area; £35,000 for a refurbishment project
    • Hawthorn Drive Play Area; £15,000 for a teenage climbing unit, hammock & zip line
    • Lochalsh Road Play Area; £5,000 to replace bark with grass matting surfacing

    For Ward 15 – £73,304

    • Castle Heather Play Area; £4,990 for MUGA panels
    • MacDonald Park Play Area; £25,450 to resurface MUGA and carry out footpath works
    • Holm Park Play Area; £3,350 to replace goals and reseed
    • Ardbreck Play Area; £34,514 for a refurbishment project
    • Evan Barron Road Play Area; £5,000 to remove swings and install pretend road

    For Ward 16 – £56,000

    • Grebe Avenue Play Area; £40,000 for a refurbishment project
    • Walker Park Play Area; £6,000 to replace bark with grass matting surfacing
    • Lochiel Road Play Area; £10,000 to add an inclusive item

    For Ward 17 – £93,187

    • Cameron Drive Play Area; £53,187 for replacing the wetpour with grass matting surfacing
    • Smithton Pitches Play Area; £40,000 for a refurbishment project

    For Ward 19- £60,000

    • Inshes Park Play Area; £30,000 for a replacement cable runway, springy, basket swing and parkour equipment
    • Burn Brae Play Area; £30,000 for a refurbishment project

    A map of Highland Council play areas and further information is available on the Council’s website 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: FALQs: Government Formation in Norway

    Source: US Global Legal Monitor

    This blog post is part of our Frequently Asked Legal Questions series.

    Earlier this year, on January 29, 2025, the Center Party announced that it would leave the two-party coalition government in Norway, prompting the question: how are governments formed in Norway? And what happens when a party leaves the government coalition?

    1. How is a government formed in Norway?

    Norway is a constitutional monarchy with a unicameral assembly, the Storting (Norwegian parliament), which represents the people. (Arts. 1, 49 Norwegian Constitution (Grunnloven).)

    Government formation is regulated in the Norwegian Constitution. Article 12 provides that the Norwegian king heads the Council of State, made up of a prime minister and no less than seven other members. (Art. 12 Norwegian Constitution.)

    In practice, a new government is formed when the sitting government resigns and the Norwegian king asks a new prime minister to form a government. As part of this process, the king consults the resigning prime minister, the president of the Norwegian parliament, and/or parliamentary leaders before selecting a new prime minister.

    The prime minister does not need to have the active support of a majority of the Norwegian parliament but must not have a majority of the Norwegian parliament against him. (Negative parliamentarianism.) A formal vote is not made in favor of the prime minister, but instead a formal vote can be made to oust the prime minister. (See question 5 below.)

    When the prime minister chooses his or her members of government, those members need not be members of the parliament and, if they are members of the parliament, they cannot meet or vote in parliament. (Art. 62, para. 2 Norwegian Constitution.) The prime minister can either head a single party majority or minority government or head a majority coalition or minority coalition government.

    2. Are coalition governments common?

    Yes, over the last 40 years, only five governments, most spanning one to two years each, have not been coalition governments while 10 governments have been coalition governments with between two and four coalition parties each.  During that time, the longest coalition government was Jens Stoltenberg’s coalition government between The Norwegian Labour Party (Labour), the Center Party, and the Socialist Left Party, from 2005 to 2013, and the longest one party government was Gro Harlem Brundtland’s Labour government, from 1990 to 1996. The current Labour single party government, under Jonas Gahr Støre, is the first single party government since 2001.

    3. Do coalition governments formalize their cooperation?

    Yes. For example, the most recent coalition government, the Labour – Center Party coalition under Prime Minister Støre, formalized their relationship in a government agreement known as the Hurdalsplatformen (literally, the Hurdal Platform), named after where the agreement was signed.

    4. Can parties leave the government coalition without causing the government to fail?

    Yes, a party can leave the government without automatically causing a vote in parliament when the remaining government party or parties have enough support in parliament. Specifically, in the case of the Center Party leaving the government they announced they would not initiate a vote of no confidence procedure in the Norwegian parliament and would continue to support Støre as prime minister, but as an opposition party. Similarly, Prime Minister Støre explained that he would not step down.

    The move to leave a coalition government is not without consequence, and when the Center Party announced that it was leaving the government, it also meant that a number of Norwegian ministers left their positions and had to be replaced.  However, because the Labour Party still had sufficient support in parliament, the government did not need to be dissolved and no new prime minister needed to be appointed.

    5. When does a government fail?

    Under the Norwegian Constitution, the government, as well as its individual minister members, is subject to votes of no confidence (Mistillitsforslag). If a vote of no confidence is successful, the individual member or the whole government must leave. (Art. 15 Norwegian Constitution.) Several individual members of government coalitions have been subject to votes of no confidence. For example, the sitting prime minister’s government was subject to a proposal for a vote of no confidence against Tonje Brennan in 2024, over information that she had presented to the Norwegian parliament. That proposal was voted down 88 to 13.

    In addition to votes of no confidence, the Norwegian parliament can also vote on votes of criticism (kritikkvedtakk), whereby a sitting member of government is criticized for an action or inaction. For example, in 2023, Justice Minister Emilie Enger Mehl survived a vote of criticism over the government’s handling of Ukraine.

    An parliamentary overview of all the votes of no confidence and votes of criticism can be found here.

    6. Can a snap election be called?

    No, under Norwegian law, the parliament cannot be dissolved in the middle of a term. The members are elected for four years and serve for four years. (Arts. 54, 71 Norwegian Constitution.) Thus, if a government suffers a vote of no confidence a new vote must be made to elect a different prime minister or same prime minister with different coalition members. The prime minister does not need a majority to support him or her and typically relies on the silent support of members of parliament.

    7. Is it common that parties leave government coalitions?

    It is not uncommon for party coalitions to change during the course of a government. For example, in 2020, the Progress Party left the Conservative Party four-party-coalition government under Erna Solberg and the government coalition continued as a three party coalition between the Conservative Part, the Liberals, and the Christian Democrats.

    8. When is the next election to Parliament?

    Elections must be held every four years before September 30. (§ 54 Constitution.) By law, elections are held on a Monday in September. (§9-1 Valgloven.) The next parliamentary election is scheduled for September 8, 2025.

    9. Additional Law Library of Congress Online resources

    Norway

    Government formation across the Globe

     

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