NewzIntel.com

Category: Law

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Dan Goldman Blasts Hill Republicans for Exacerbating Violence and Disorder at Metropolitan Detention Center

    Source: US Congressman Dan Goldman (NY-10)

    17 Inmates Have Died at the Metropolitan Detention Center Since 2020, Largely Due to Staffing Shortages and Poor Wages 

     

    Trump Admin Has Terminated Retention Bonuses for Bureau of Prison Correctional Officers and Cancelled Their Collective Bargaining Agreements 

     

    President’s FY26 Budget Does Not Include Funding for Law Mandating Meaningful Oversight of Federal Prisons 

     

    Rep. Dan Goldman: We must be living in Fantasyland. We’re trying to have a normal hearing doing oversight of the Bureau of Prisons when the President and Elon Musk are taking a hatchet to the Bureau, canceling the collective bargaining agreement for all of the correctional officers, eliminating retention bonuses for the correctional officers while making sure that every masked undercover Gestapo agent with ICE gets a $40,000 bonus.” 

     

    Rep. Dan Goldman: “My colleagues sit over there acting as if they’re really interested in correcting the Bureau of Prisons and all the problems that we have there. Then put some money where it is, because we all know that’s how you correct the problem. That’s how you implement the First Step Act. That’s how you implement and fund the Federal Prison Oversight Act, a bipartisan bill that we passed last Congress that has not been funded and can’t do anything. 

     

    Watch Full Committee Remarks Here 

    Washington, DC – Congressman Dan Goldman (NY-10) today at a House Judiciary Committee hearing condemned the impact of the Trump administration’s policies on the Brooklyn Metropolitan Detention Center (MDC) in his district, where 17 inmates have died since 2020, in large part due to correctional officers’ inability to effectively oversee the prison due to staffing shortages. The Congressman highlighted how the Trump administration is undermining the safety and security of both prison inmates and staff by eliminating corrections officers’ collective bargaining agreements and staff retention bonuses. 

    A rush transcript of Congressman Goldman’s committee remarks is below: 

    Congressman Goldman: Thank you very much, Mr. Chairman. And I would ordinarily appreciate this hearing very much, because the Bureau of Prisons is a critical component of the Department of Justice that is woefully underfunded and struggling to implement their mission.  

    But we must be living in Fantasyland. We’re trying to have a normal hearing doing oversight of the Bureau of Prisons when the President and Elon Musk are taking a hatchet to the Bureau, canceling the collective bargaining agreement for all of the correctional officers, eliminating retention bonuses for the correctional officers while making sure that every masked undercover Gestapo agent with ICE gets a $40,000 bonus. In fact, the bill you passed last week, that Republicans passed last week would give $12 billion in pay increases and bonuses to ICE and CBP, and nothing to the Bureau of Prisons. 

    And yet my colleagues sit over there acting as if they’re really interested in correcting the Bureau of Prisons and all the problems that we have there. Then put some money where it is, because we all know that’s how you correct the problem. That’s how you implement the First Step Act. That’s how you implement and fund the Federal Prison Oversight Act, a bipartisan bill that we passed last Congress that has not been funded and can’t do anything. 

    You are passing a partisan reconciliation bill. You have the purse strings. And yet we’re supposed to sit here thinking that you’re really serious about making sure that we’re helping the corrections officer. It’s just bogus.  

    And let’s take the Metropolitan Detention Center in my district in Brooklyn. Since 2020, there have been 17 inmates that have been killed, and the staffing shortages are devastating and have been devastating. 

    There have been numerous, numerous lockdowns simply because there is not enough staff. So, inmates are kept in isolation for multiple days at a time because of staffing shortages. There was a crackdown by the FBI and the Department of Justice in March. 25 inmates were arrested for all sorts of various smuggling efforts, violent assaults with scalpels. And, as my colleague from Florida said, smuggling cell phones.  

    There’s not enough staff to actually monitor what is going on. So, what did they do at MDC? Well, under President Biden, they implemented a retention bonus of 35% that enabled them to hire 87 additional people for that one location, the most in years and years. And it decreased lockdowns. 

    Since August of 2024, there have only been three days of lockdowns due to staff shortages. So, you would think that’s a productive way of boosting employment, boosting staffing, which I think every single one of our witnesses has said is an essential part of addressing the problems in the Bureau of Prisons.  

    So, what does President Trump do? Gets rid of the retention bonuses – gone. Gets rid of the collective bargaining agreement. How on earth do you think you are going to increase staffing by taking away all of the correction officers’ benefits, by taking away their retention bonus, which proved to be successful and is necessary.  

    And yet we’re here talking about implementing recidivism programs. It’s a joke. So, Mr. Biggs, you asked for some action items. 

    I’ll give you some action items.  

    Rep. Andy Biggs (AZ-05): Can I ask you a question? 

    Congressman Goldman: After I give you the action items, I’m happy to have a colloquy. One: restore the retention bonuses so that we can hire more corrections officers to implement all of the laws that we want to implement in a bipartisan way, and so we can keep the inmates safe. 

    Two:  restore the collective bargaining agreement rather than unilaterally canceling a negotiated collective bargaining agreement that gives the corrections officers very important protections.  

    And three: let’s fund the First Step Act. Let’s fund the Federal Prison Oversight Act, which has not been funded. There are three action items that you can take back to Mr. Trump to try to actually address the issues at the Bureau of Prisons. 

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General Bonta: Trump Administration Must Make a U-Turn on Illegal Withholding of Billions in Funding for EV Charging Infrastructure

    Source: US State of California

    BURLINGAME – California Attorney General Rob Bonta, California Governor Gavin Newsom, California Department of Transportation, and the California Energy Commission, today co-led a coalition of 17 attorneys general in filing a lawsuit against the Trump Administration for unlawfully withholding billions of dollars in funding approved by bipartisan majorities in Congress for electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure that would reduce planet-warming pollution, expand access to clean vehicles, and create thousands of green jobs. Under the direction of the President, the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) issued a directive to thwart Congress’s $5 billion program, the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) formula program, which would expand EV charging infrastructure nationwide. This directive purports to revoke the approval of all prior state EV infrastructure plans and withholds the distribution of federal funds to states. Specifically, in California, FHWA’s unlawful actions would cost the state more than $300 million, eliminate thousands of good-paying jobs, and dismantle a critical, emerging tech industry. 

    “The President continues his unconstitutional attempts to withhold funding that Congress appropriated to programs he dislikes. This time he’s illegally stripping away billions of dollars for electric vehicle charging infrastructure, all to line the pockets of his Big Oil friends,” said Attorney General Rob Bonta. “The facts don’t lie: The demand for clean transportation continues to rise, and California will be at the forefront of this transition to a more sustainable, low-emissions future. California will not back down, not from Big Oil, and not from federal overreach.”

    “When America retreats, China wins. President Trump’s illegal action withholding funds for electric vehicle infrastructure is yet another Trump gift to China – ceding American innovation and killing thousands of jobs,” said Governor Gavin Newsom. “Instead of hawking Teslas on the White House lawn, President Trump could actually help Elon – and the nation – by following the law and releasing this bipartisan funding.” 

    “California remains fully committed to developing a robust, reliable and accessible EV charging network which will help improve air quality and enhance the EV driving experience for all,” said California Energy Commission Chair David Hochschild.

    “Withholding funding now would be wasteful, illegal, performative, and only serve to delay the progress we’ve made in building a cleaner, more sustainable transportation future,” said California Transportation Secretary Toks Omishakin. “We will continue to stand up for Californians and the nation because the future of the planet depends on it.”

    In 2022, Congress passed the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), also known as the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. One provision of the IIJA appropriated $5 billion for NEVI to facilitate a national network of electric vehicle charging infrastructure across the states, making clean cars accessible and convenient for more consumers and markets. On Day One, President Trump issued an executive order directing federal agencies to immediately stop releasing certain funds appropriated through the IIJA, including $5 billion that Congress appropriated for electric vehicle charging stations under NEVI. Following that directive, FHWA effectively halted the NEVI program by, among other things, withholding billions in funds that Congress had directed to the States for building EV infrastructure.

    California continues to lead the nation in the adoption of zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs) and the development of supporting infrastructure to rapidly deploy funds to develop and ensure a reliable and easy-to-use charging network. To date, over 2 million ZEVs have been sold in California, representing more than 30% of all ZEVs sold in the United States. 

    The California Energy Commission anticipates that California will need several hundred thousand more EV charging ports to support light-duty cars and trucks and incrementally more charging ports for medium- and heavy-duty trucks and buses to meet climate goals. California’s State Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Deployment Plan, approved by the federal government, would leverage public funding and private investment to build out a statewide charging infrastructure, including $384 million from the NEVI program.

    The complaint filed today alleges that the NEVI directive was arbitrary and capricious and not in accordance with law under the federal Administrative Procedure Act, and in violation of the U.S. Constitution. The NEVI program was created by statute, and, as it is a formula program, the amounts due to states are allocated by Congress, not the President. The complaint asks the court to declare that the NEVI directive is unlawful and to permanently stop the administration from withholding the funds. The states also seek a preliminary injunction to halt the illegal withholding of NEVI funds to the states.

    In filing the lawsuit Attorney General Bonta was joined by the attorneys general of Washington, Colorado, Arizona, Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Maryland, Minnesota, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Oregon, Rhode Island, Wisconsin, Vermont, and the District of Columbia. 

    A copy of the complaint will be made available here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: AG Labrador Announces Victory in Lawsuit Opposing California’s Electric-Truck Mandates

    Source: US State of Idaho

    Home Newsroom AG Labrador Announces Victory in Lawsuit Opposing California’s Electric-Truck Mandates

    BOISE – Attorney General Raúl Labrador announced today that California has agreed to repeal its electric-truck mandates that reach well beyond California’s borders. Nebraska led a coalition of 17 states and the Nebraska Trucking Association in challenging a suite of California regulations called Advanced Clean Fleets in the Eastern District of California. Among other things, Advanced Clean Fleets would have required certain trucking companies to retire internal-combustion trucks and transition to more expensive and less efficient electric trucks. The rule targeted any fleet that operated in California regardless of where the fleet is headquartered. Given California’s large population and access to international ports, this rule would have had nationwide effects on the supply chain. In the settlement announced today, however, California has agreed not to enforce the rule and to outright repeal it.
    “California’s attempt to dictate trucking standards for the entire country was a blatant overreach that would have devastated industries far beyond its borders,” Attorney General Labrador said. “This is a win for Idaho’s truckers and for the families and businesses who rely on them. Our truckers should not be forced to comply with mandates dreamt up by regulators in Sacramento. I’m proud to have joined this successful coalition, and I will continue fighting for policies that protect Idaho’s economy and constitutional rights.” 
    As part of the settlement, California regulators pledged to commence rulemaking proceedings to formally scrub the rule from the books. California regulators also conceded that they cannot enforce California’s 2036 ban on the sale of internal-combustion trucks unless and until the ban receives a Clean Air Act preemption waiver from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Previously, Attorney General Labrador joined a 24-state coalition led by Nebraska in successfully opposing California’s request for a waiver. In addition to Attorney General Labrador, attorneys general from the following states joined the lawsuit against California regulators: Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Utah, West Virginia, and Wyoming. Also joining the lawsuit were the Nebraska Trucking Association and the Arizona State Legislature.
    Read the settlement here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cassidy, Republicans Celebrate Small Businesses Driving America into the Golden Age

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Louisiana Bill Cassidy
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA), Joni Ernst (R-IA), and a group of Senate Republicans introduced legislation declaring this week “National Small Business Week” to recognize the important role small businesses play in creating jobs and fueling the economy.
    “We need an economy which works for small business,” said Dr. Cassidy. “Small businesses create the majority of new jobs. That is President Trump’s goal, that is my goal.”
    “Main Street is roaring back under President Trump’s pro-growth policies that are ushering in a Golden Age,” said Senator Ernst. “This week, we celebrate the small businesses that mean so much more than the livelihoods they support and the jobs they create. These shops embody the American spirit and shape the culture of big cities and rural communities across America. I’m proud to recognize these entrepreneurs’ tremendous contributions and will continue to fight to ensure that they have a champion in Washington.”
    Senator Cassidy introduced the THRIVE Act to level the playing field for small businesses by directing the Small Business Administration to create a program that helps small businesses lock in the cost of commodities, like gasoline or lumber, in order to protect against the future volatile price of energy and other expenses.
    Cassidy and Ernst were joined by U.S. Senators Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Jon Husted (R-OH), James Lankford (R-OK), John Kennedy (R-LA), John Cornyn (R-TX), Susan Collins (R-ME), James Risch (R-ID), Ted Cruz (R-TX), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Mitch McConnell (R-KY), Steve Daines (R-MT), Jim Justice (R-WV), Thom Tillis (R-NC), Mike Crapo (R-ID), Roger Marshall (R-KS), Tommy Tuberville (R-AL), Katie Britt (R-AL), Dan Sullivan (R-AK), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), John Boozman, (R-AK), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), Josh Hawley (R-MO), John Barrasso (R-WY), John Curtis (R-UT), Jim Banks (R-IN), Deb Fischer (R-NE), Eric Schmitt (R-MO), Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), Todd Young (R-IN), John Hoeven (R-ND), Tim Scott (R-SC), Mike Rounds (R-SD), Lindsey Graham (R-SC), John Thune (R-SD), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS), Rick Scott (R-FL), and Jerry Moran (R-KS), 
    “Small businesses are the backbone of Louisiana’s economy and create good jobs across our country,” said Senator Kennedy. “This National Small Business Week, I’m proud to recognize everything small businesses do for America and keep fighting to throw out bad regulations that hold our economy back.”
    “Small businesses are the backbone of Idaho’s economy,” said Senator Risch. “During National Small Business Week, I’m proud to recognize the hard-working entrepreneurs who employ our neighbors, give back to our communities, and make the Gem State a special place to live and grow.”
    “National Small Business Week holds a special place in my heart because I know all too well the pressures and joy that come with owning a business and signing the front of a paycheck,” said Senator Scott. “This week I join my colleagues in celebrating their innovation, resilience, and drive that not only creates jobs but fosters community and inspires entrepreneurship across America. As a former small business owner myself, I’m committed to supporting them and ensuring they have the resources they need to thrive and succeed.”
    “As the son of a small business owner, I understand how vital small businesses are to Indiana’s economy,” said Senator Young. “I’m proud to stand with Hoosier small business owners and will continue advocating for policies that help them thrive.”
    “We can’t do Made-in-America without Ohio’s hardworking small business owners, entrepreneurs and job creators,” said Senator Husted. “This week recognizes their work to fuel our economy and drive the country forward, and I’ll continue supporting pro-growth policies that make the American dream achievable.”
    “We know that small businesses drive America’s innovations and economic strength,” said Senator Grassley. “Here in Iowa, they make up 99.3 percent of all businesses, and nearly half of Iowa employees work for a small business. In marking this special week, our resolution recognizes the power of small businesses and honors the men and women who work hard to keep our communities vibrant.”
    “Small businesses are the backbone of Wyoming’s economy,” said Senator Barrasso. “To celebrate National Small Business week, we honor these job creators in Wyoming and across the country. Senate Republicans will continue to work with President Trump to roll back harmful regulations and taxes so America’s small businesses can continue to thrive.”
    “In West Virginia, small businesses are an essential part of our economy, making up more than 98% of the businesses in our state and employing nearly half of our workforce,” said Senator Capito. “During National Small Business Week, I am proud to join my colleagues in recognizing and celebrating the critical contributions small businesses, like the female-owned Dolly’s Diner in Princeton I visited recently, make in West Virginia and across our country.”
    “By designating this week as National Small Business Week, we honor the small business owners who embody the entrepreneurial spirit that makes Texas the economic powerhouse it is today,” said Senator Cornyn.
    “Maine’s small businesses are the bedrock of Maine’s local economies and drive job creation throughout our state,” said Senator Collins. “As Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, I remain committed to championing small businesses, the job creating engines that power our nation’s economy.”
    “Fighting for hardworking families, small businesses, and local Main Streets across Alabama has always been a top priority for me,” said Senator Britt. “Small businesses are the backbone of our nation’s economy, and I’m proud to recognize our incredible job creators and entrepreneurs this Small Business Week. I remain steadfastly committed to advancing policies that slash burdensome red tape, provide access to opportunities and resources, and unleash American ingenuity.”
    “Small businesses are at the heart of Tennessee’s economy and a cornerstone of our communities,” said Senator Blackburn. “As we mark National Small Business Week, I’m honored to celebrate these hardworking entrepreneurs. Under President Trump’s new Golden Age for America, we are seeing small businesses start to thrive again. I’ll keep fighting in the Senate to stop the largest tax hike in history and to advance pro-growth policies that cut red tape, lower taxes, and foster an environment where small businesses across America and Tennessee can continue to grow and prosper.”
    “This resolution reaffirms our commitment to supporting entrepreneurs and small business owners in the Cowboy State who demonstrate incredible resilience and determination,” said Senator Lummis. “As they pursue their American dream, they sacrifice countless hours through hard work to overcome challenges and build something meaningful for their families and communities.”
    “Alaska’s small businesses are the cornerstone of our economy, keeping our communities strong and economically vibrant,” said Senator Sullivan. “Our local businesses are the first to give back—contributing to local causes, hiring people who live here, and listening to the needs of the people in our communities. I’m glad to join Senator Ernst in introducing a resolution that acknowledges the incredible work done by small businesses across the country to invest in their communities. I look forward to continuing to work with Alaska’s small businesses to support our crucial, innovative entrepreneurs.”
    “Small businesses are a driving force of North Dakota’s economy, fueling growth, creating jobs and supporting strong communities,” said Senator Hoeven. “Designating this week as National Small Business Week highlights the dedication and impact of entrepreneurs and small business owners both in our state and across the country.”
    “Small businesses employ over 65 percent of Montana’s workforce and represent 99 percent of all businesses in Montana, which boosts our local economies and creates new jobs in our communities,” said Senator Daines. “I’m proud to join my colleagues in celebrating National Small Business Week to recognize all the entrepreneurs and business owners whose innovation and hard work helps keep both Montana and our country a great place to live, work, and raise a family.”
     “I am proud to join my colleagues in celebrating National Small Business Week. Small businesses are the backbone of America, and thanks to the leadership of President Trump our nation’s entrepreneurs are finally empowered again with the resources and support they need to see their dreams come true,” said Senator Scott. “I’ve run businesses small and large, and I know the hard work these folks put in day-in and day-out to keep their doors open and employees on payroll. This week is a time to recognize these hardworking Americans who support our economy and create jobs in their communities as they live their American dream.”
    “Small businesses power our economy and represent core American values like hard work, taking risks and the pursuit of success,” said Senator Boozman. “I am pleased to join my colleagues in celebrating National Small Business week to applaud their local and regional investments that create jobs and sustain communities across Arkansas as well as nationwide. These entrepreneurs deserve our recognition and total support.”
    “Small businesses are the backbone of communities across America, and they represent the heart of Mississippi’s economy and way of life,” said Senator Hyde-Smith. “National Small Business Week is a time to celebrate the American dream, the drive of our entrepreneurs, and the ingenuity that powers growth and opportunity.  I’m proud to support this resolution and honor the small businesses that keep Mississippi strong and our nation thriving.”
    “As a former small business owner, I fully understand the challenges that small businesses face,” said Senator Marshall. “That’s why I remain committed to prioritizing Main Street over Wall Street by cutting red tape and taxes, opening new markets, and ensuring small businesses have the capital they need to grow and thrive. This week, we proudly recognize the lifeblood of our economy by honoring the remarkable contributions of small businesses and officially designating this week as National Small Business Week.”
    “Small businesses are the lifeblood of Idaho’s economy,” said Senator Crapo. “Idaho’s 200,131 small businesses have an outsized impact–making up 99.2 percent of businesses in the state and employing 56.6 percent of all Idaho employees.  I applaud the owners and employees who roll up their sleeves every day, work hard and power our economy.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Operation Restore Justice

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

    In an unprecedented nationwide operation to protect our children and mark April’s National Child Abuse Prevention Month, the FBI announces Operation Restore Justice, a five-day, sweeping FBI initiative to identify, track, and arrest child sex predators across the country in coordination with all 55 of our FBI field offices.

    —————————————————
    Follow us on social media:
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    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K1nwTQcuZac

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Lower Brule Man Sentenced to 27 Months in Federal Prison for for Possessing a Firearm While Using Drugs

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    PIERRE – United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Eric C. Schulte has sentenced a Lower Brule, South Dakota, man convicted of Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person. The sentencing took place on May 6, 2025.

    Stephen Biviano Zapata, age 28, was sentenced to two years and three months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release. He was also ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

    Zapata was indicted by a federal grand jury in September 2024. He pleaded guilty on January 27, 2025.

    This conviction stems from a traffic stop on March 27, 2024, in Lower Brule, in the Lower Brule Sioux Indian Reservation. Law enforcement was aware Zapata had an outstanding tribal arrest warrant. Upon his arrest officers searched Zapata’s person and vehicle locating three baggies containing methamphetamine, other drug paraphernalia, and an AR-style semi-automatic rifle with two magazines containing 48 rounds of ammunition. Zapata admitted to being a methamphetamine user and submitted a sample for urinalysis testing that was positive for methamphetamine. Zapata is prohibited from possessing firearms based on his drug use.

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

    This case was investigated by the FBI, the Bureau of Indian Affairs-Office of Justice Services, Lower Brule Agency, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan Dilges prosecuted the case.

    Zapata was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Shooting of 5-Year Old Child and an Adult in 2024 Gets District Man 156 Month Prison Term

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    WASHINGTON – Alante Partlow, 30, of the District, was sentenced today in Superior Court to 13 years in prison for shooting a 5-year-old child and an adult in April 2024, announced U.S. Attorney Edward R. Martin Jr. and Chief Pamela Smith of the Metropolitan Police Department.

    Partlow pleaded guilty Oct. 18, 2024, to two counts of aggravated assault while armed and one count of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence. In addition to the prison term, Superior Court Judge Robert Okun ordered five years of supervised release.

    According to the government’s evidence, with which Partlow agreed, at approximately 11:20 p.m. on April 23, 2024, the adult victim and a 5-year-old child were walking out of an apartment building in the Fort Totten neighborhood, after the adult had argued with Partlow. Partlow followed the victims outside and then fired multiple shots at the adult victim. The adult tried to shield the child and sustained multiple gunshot wounds. The child also sustained injuries.

    In announcing the sentence, U.S. Attorney Martin and Chief Smith commended the work of those who investigated the case from the Metropolitan Police Department and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia. They also acknowledged the work of Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael Roberts, who prosecuted the case.

    This law enforcement activity is part of President Donald J. Trump’s Make DC Safe and Beautiful Executive Order. The Executive Order directs a coordinated federal effort to reduce crime, enhance public safety, and restore pride in the nation’s capital through targeted enforcement, improved policing, and strategic partnerships.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Justice Department Announces Results Of Operation Restore Justice: 205 Child Sex Abuse Offenders Arrested in FBI-Led Nationwide Crackdown, Including 4 in the Western District of New York

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    BUFFALO, NY – Today, the Department of Justice announced the results of Operation Restore Justice, a coordinated enforcement effort to identify, track and arrest child sex predators.  The operation resulted in the rescue of 115 children and the arrests of 205 child sexual abuse offenders in the nationwide crackdown. The coordinated effort was executed over the course of five days by all 55 FBI field offices, the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section in the Department’s Criminal Division, and United States Attorney’s Offices around the country.

    “The Department of Justice will never stop fighting to protect victims — especially child victims — and we will not rest until we hunt down, arrest, and prosecute every child predator who preys on the most vulnerable among us,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “I am grateful to the FBI and their state and local partners for their incredible work in Operation Restore Justice and have directed my prosecutors not to negotiate.”

    “Every child deserves to grow up free from fear and exploitation, and the FBI will continue to be relentless in our pursuit of those who exploit the most vulnerable among us,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “Operation Restore Justice proves that no predator is out of reach and no child will be forgotten. By leveraging the strength of all our field offices and our federal, state and local partners, we’re sending a clear message: there is no place to hide for those who prey on children.”

    “These arrests should send a clear message that, together with our law enforcement partners at all levels, we will track down and prosecute those who target our children,” stated U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo. “Our office will never stop doing all that we can to protect children from these harmful predators.”

    “Operation Restore Justice’ sends a powerful message: the FBI is unwavering and united in its fight to protect our children,” said Matthew Miraglia, the Special Agent-in- Charge of the FBI’s Buffalo Field Office. “These arrests demonstrate the unwavering dedication of the FBI and our law enforcement partners. Our work does not stop here. The FBI is committed to holding predators accountable and pursuing justice for victims.”

    Arrested in the Western District of New York and charged with possession of child pornography are:

    Brian Keith, 68, of Niagara Falls, NY. During the execution of a search warrant on March 13, 2025, at Keith’s residence, Niagara Falls Police officers seized a DVR, laptop, five hard drives and two tablets. A review of the electronic devices recovered images of child pornography. Keith is a registered Level 3 sex offender.

    Matthew Kowalski, 25, of Kenmore, NY. In October 2024, he was sentenced to 10 years’ probation for Possessing a Sexual Performance of a Minor, a New York State Penal Law violation. On April 11, 2025, during an unannounced home visit by Erie County Probation Officers, a cellular phone with an SD card was found, which Kowalski was not permitted to possess. A search of the phone and SD card recovered multiple images and videos of suspected child pornography.

    Samari Thompson, 20, of Buffalo, NY. On November 4, 2024, investigators executed a search warrant at Thompson’s residence, seizing electronic devices, including a cellular telephone. A search of the cell phone recovered 48 images and 16 videos of suspected child pornography. Some of the images and videos depicted infants.

    Jamie R. Anderson, 25, of Buffalo, NY. In January 2022, Anderson was sentenced to 10 years’ probation for Possessing a Sexual Performance of a Minor, a New York State Penal Law violation. On July 3, 2024, the social media application Kik reported to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children that 13 video and image files of apparent child pornography were uploaded to their server. Subsequent investigation traced the uploaded files to Anderson. The investigation also determined that Anderson was the subject of two other tipline reports.

    Others arrested around the country are alleged to have committed various crimes including the production, distribution, and possession of child sexual abuse material, online enticement and transportation of minors, and child sex trafficking. In Minneapolis, for example, a state trooper and Army Reservist was arrested for allegedly producing child sexual abuse material while wearing his uniforms. In Norfolk, VA, an illegal alien from Mexico is accused of transporting a minor across state lines for sex. In Washington, D.C., a former Metropolitan Police Department Police Officer was arrested for allegedly trafficking minor victims.

    In many cases, parental vigilance and community outreach efforts played a critical role in bringing these offenders to justice. For example, a California man was arrested about eight hours after a young victim bravely came forward and disclosed their abuse to FBI agents after an online safety presentation at a school near Albany, N.Y.

    This effort follows the Department’s observance of National Child Abuse Prevention Month in April and underscores the Department’s unwavering commitment to protecting children and raising awareness about the dangers they face. While the Department, including the FBI, investigates and prosecutes these crimes every day, April serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of preventing these crimes, seeking justice for victims, and raising awareness through community education.

    The Justice Department is committed to combating child sexual exploitation. These cases were brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the 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, visit www.justice.gov/psc.

    The Department partners with and oversees funding grants for the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC), which receives and shares tips about possible child sexual exploitation received through its 24/7 hotline at 1-800-THE-LOST and on missingkids.org.

    The Department urges the public to remain vigilant and report suspected exploitation of a child through the FBI’s tipline at 1-800-CALL-FBI (225-5324), tips.fbi.gov, or by calling your local FBI field office.

    Other online resources:

    Electronic Press Kit

    Violent Crimes Against Children

    How we can help you: Parents and caregivers protecting your kids

    Arrests in the Western District of New York are the result of investigations by the Federal Bureau of Investigation Child Exploitation Task Force, the New York State Police, the Town of Tonawanda Police Department, the Niagara County Sheriff’s Office, the Erie County Probation Department, and the Niagara Falls Police Department.

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

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Two Mexican men arrested for illegal re-entry

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    BUFFALO, N.Y. – U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Israel De La Cruz San Juan, 29, and Candido De La Cruz San Juan, 34, both citizens of Mexico, were arrested and charged in separate criminal complaints with illegal re-entry of a removed alien, which carries a maximum penalty of two years in prison and a $250,000 fine.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Sasha Mascarenhas, who is handling the case, stated that according to the complaint, on April 27, 2025, Buffalo Border Patrol Station agents were conducting plain clothes surveillance, when they spotted an out-of-state work truck with construction equipment inside in Tonawanda, NY. It was determined that the registration on the truck had expired in September of 2024 and a traffic stop was conducted. Records checks determined that all three occupants, including Israel De La Cruz San Juan and Candido De La Cruz San Juan, were illegally present in the United States. Israel De La Cruz San Juan and Candido De La Cruz San Juan were taken into custody. Israel De La Cruz San Juan was previously removed from the United States in November 2017, and Candido De La Cruz San Juan was removed from the United States in May 2012, and July 2013.

    This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.

    The defendants made an initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge H. Kenneth Schroder, Jr. and were detained.

    The complaint is a result of an investigation by U.S. Border Patrol, under the direction of Patrol Agent in Charge Juan Ramirez.

    The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.     

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Cabell County Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Drug Crime

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Henry Rogers, 65 of Barboursville, pleaded guilty today to possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance.

    According to court documents and statements made in court, on February 17, 2023, law enforcement officers conducted a traffic stop of a vehicle driven by Rogers on U.S. Route 19 in the Birch River area of Nicholas County. As part of his guilty plea, Rogers admitted that he possessed a controlled substance containing methamphetamine seized by officers during the traffic stop. Rogers further admitted that officers executed a search warrant of his vehicle following that seizure and found an additional quantity of methamphetamine and a .380-caliber pistol in the trunk.

    Rogers is scheduled to be sentenced on August 21, 2025, and faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison, at least three years of supervised release, and a $1 million fine.

    Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the West Virginia State Police.

    United States District Judge Thomas E. Johnston presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney D. Keith Randolph is prosecuting the case.

    A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:24-cr-80.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Tooele County Man Indicted After Allegedly Assaulting Two Motorcyclists for “Trespassing”

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    SALT LAKE CITY, Utah – A federal grand jury returned an indictment today charging a Utah man with multiple violent crimes after he allegedly zip-tied, kidnapped, and assaulted two motorcyclists who were riding their bikes in Tooele County, Utah, when they unknowingly crossed onto the Skull Valley Indian Reservation.

    Russell Allen, 50, of Tooele County, Utah, was charged by complaint on April 28, 2025.

    According to court documents, on April 26, 2025, Allen and another person allegedly assaulted the victims and told them they were trespassing on Indian land. The victims were allegedly ordered to the ground facedown, zip-tied, kicked and threatened with a knife. Allen and the other person allegedly took the victims’ belongings, including their motorcycles, purportedly as an impound for trespassing. Law enforcement later recovered the motorcycles in a maintenance shed on Skull Valley Indian Reservation Road. However, a search warrant later showed that many of the stolen items (camera equipment, cash, gift cards, wallets, and cell phones) were not recovered. The victims were then transported in a truck traveling at an estimated 100 mph to a remote desert area. The victims were then released without any of their property and had to walk over 10 miles for help from the Dugway gate guards in a hike believed to have taken six or seven hours.

    Allen is charged with kidnapping, assault, and theft while within Indian Country. His initial appearance on the indictment is May 7, 2025, at 3:00 p.m. in courtroom 8.4 before a U.S. Magistrate Judge at the Orrin G. Hatch United States District Courthouse in downtown Salt Lake City.

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

    The case is being investigated by the FBI Violent Crimes Task Force.

    Assistant United States Attorney Sam Pead of the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Utah is prosecuting the case.

    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: Hopkinsville, Kentucky Man Sentenced to 30 Years in Federal Prison for Methamphetamine and Fentanyl Trafficking Conspiracy and Money Laundering

    Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)

    Paducah, KY – A Hopkinsville, Kentucky man was sentenced yesterday to 30 years in federal prison for his role in a methamphetamine and fentanyl trafficking conspiracy and money laundering. The sentence follows a conviction on all counts after a three-day jury trial earlier this year.

    U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge Jim Scott of the DEA Louisville Field Division, U.S. Postal Inspector in Charge Lesley Allison of the of the Pittsburgh Division, Special Agent in Charge Karen Wingerd, Cincinnati Field Office, IRS Criminal Investigation, Special Agent in Charge John Nokes of the ATF Louisville Field Division, and Chief Jason Newby of the Hopkinsville Police Department made the announcement.

    According to court documents, Robert Blaine, 46, was sentenced to 30 years in federal prison, followed by 10 years of supervised release, for one count of conspiring to distribute controlled substances and 7 counts of money laundering.

    Blaine was on supervised release for a federal drug trafficking conviction at the time he committed the instant offenses.

    According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, between May 20, 2020, and January 22, 2022, Blaine conspired with Roderick Tutt, 36, of Hopkinsville, Kentucky, and Jessica Ochoa, 40, of Phoenix Arizona, to possess with the intent to distribute over 50 grams of methamphetamine and over 400 grams of a fentanyl mixture. During that time frame, Blaine wired money to Ochoa as payment for the drugs and in furtherance of the overall conspiracy. Blaine also mailed a box containing $36,960 in U.S. currency to Ochoa that he obtained from proceeds of illegal drug sales. On January 21, 2022, Blaine arranged for Tutt to travel to Arizona to pick up fentanyl and methamphetamine from Ochoa. Tutt was supposed to bring the drugs back to Blaine in Hopkinsville. Tutt was arrested on the way back to Hopkinsville with 2,059 fentanyl pills and approximately 8 kilograms of methamphetamine.

    Blaine has previously been convicted of the following drug trafficking crimes.

    On or about June 13, 2008, in Fulton Circuit Court, Blaine was convicted of trafficking in marijuana, greater than 5 pounds.

    On or about January 6, 2009, in Caldwell Circuit Court, Blaine was convicted of first-degree trafficking in a controlled substance – cocaine.

    On or about August 27, 2009, in Christian Circuit Court, Blaine was convicted of first-degree trafficking in a controlled substance – cocaine.

    On or about October 14, 2014, in the United States District Court for the Western District of Kentucky, Paducah Division, Blaine was convicted of three counts of manufacturing, distributing, or dispensing a controlled substance, cocaine.

    Tutt and Ochoa previously pled guilty and were sentenced.

    On March 25, 2025, Tutt was sentenced to 2 years in prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, for conspiring with Blaine to possess with the intent to distribute over 50 grams of methamphetamine and 400 grams of a mixture and substance containing fentanyl.

    On March 25, 2025, Ochoa was sentenced to 7 years and 4 months in prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, for conspiring with Blaine to possess with the intent to distribute over 50 grams of methamphetamine and 400 grams of a mixture and substance containing fentanyl and seven counts of money laundering.

    There is no parole in the federal system.   

    This case was investigated by the DEA Paducah Post of Duty, the United States Postal Inspection Service Bowling Green Office, the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation Division Bowling Green Office, the ATF Bowling Green Field Office, and the Hopkinsville Police Department, with assistance from the FBI Louisville Field Division, the Tonto Apache Police Department, the DEA Phoenix Division, and the United States Postal Inspection Service Phoenix Division.   

    Assistant United States Attorney Leigh Ann Dycus, of the U.S. Attorney’s Paducah Branch Office, prosecuted the case with assistance from paralegal Cristy Crockett.

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

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Lower Brule Man Sentenced to 27 Months in Federal Prison for for Possessing a Firearm While Using Drugs

    Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)

    PIERRE – United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Eric C. Schulte has sentenced a Lower Brule, South Dakota, man convicted of Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person. The sentencing took place on May 6, 2025.

    Stephen Biviano Zapata, age 28, was sentenced to two years and three months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release. He was also ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

    Zapata was indicted by a federal grand jury in September 2024. He pleaded guilty on January 27, 2025.

    This conviction stems from a traffic stop on March 27, 2024, in Lower Brule, in the Lower Brule Sioux Indian Reservation. Law enforcement was aware Zapata had an outstanding tribal arrest warrant. Upon his arrest officers searched Zapata’s person and vehicle locating three baggies containing methamphetamine, other drug paraphernalia, and an AR-style semi-automatic rifle with two magazines containing 48 rounds of ammunition. Zapata admitted to being a methamphetamine user and submitted a sample for urinalysis testing that was positive for methamphetamine. Zapata is prohibited from possessing firearms based on his drug use.

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

    This case was investigated by the FBI, the Bureau of Indian Affairs-Office of Justice Services, Lower Brule Agency, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan Dilges prosecuted the case.

    Zapata was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service. 

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Rapid City Man Sentenced to Over Four Years in Federal Prison for Possessing a Firearm While a Felon

    Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)

    RAPID CITY – United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Camela C. Theeler has sentenced a Rapid City, South Dakota, man convicted of Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person. The sentencing took place on May 5, 2025.

    James Ladeaux, Jr., 35, was sentenced to four years and three months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

    Ladeaux was indicted for Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person by a federal grand jury in October 2024. He pleaded guilty on February 11, 2025.

    In July 2024, law enforcement observed Ladeaux driving a vehicle and failing to stop at a stop sign. When law enforcement attempted to initiate a traffic stop, Ladeaux drove off at a high rate of speed and a pursuit was initiated. The pursuit ended when a tire came off the vehicle Ladeaux was driving. Ladeaux fled on foot but was ultimately apprehended by law enforcement. Officers located a firearm and ammunition in Ladeaux’s vehicle. Ladeaux was previously convicted of a felony, making it unlawful for him to possess the firearm and ammunition.

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

    This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Rapid City Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Schroeder prosecuted the case.

    Ladeaux was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service. 

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  • MIL-OSI Canada: Ensuring access to justice for Albertans

    Albertans deserve to have access to a fair, accessible and transparent justice system. To strengthen the judiciary and improve access to justice for those involved in civil, criminal and family matters, Alberta’s government has appointed a new assistant chief justice and justice.

    “Alberta’s government is keeping its commitment to filling vacancies at the Alberta Court of Justice. We will continue to strengthen the capacity of our courts to ensure Albertans can get timely access to justice. I congratulate Justice Hancock and Clarissa Pearce, and I am confident they will excel in their new roles.”

    Mickey Amery, Minister of Justice and Attorney General

    The Honourable Justice David G. Hancock, ECA, is appointed assistant chief justice of the Alberta Court of Justice, Edmonton Family and Youth Division, effective today, and Clarissa V. Pearce, KC, will be appointed as a justice of the Alberta Court of Justice, Calgary Criminal Division and Calgary Region, effective May 14.

    “Congratulations to Justice Hancock on his appointment to assistant chief justice of Edmonton Family and Youth. His experiences and abilities will serve him well in maintaining access to justice for families in the Edmonton area. Further congratulations to Ms. Pearce on her appointment to the Alberta Court of Justice. She brings a wealth of experience and ability to the court.”

    James Hunter, chief justice, Alberta Court of Justice

    Since June 2023, Alberta’s government has made 23 judicial appointments including three assistant chief justices and nine new justices in 2024, and one assistant chief justice and two new justices in early 2025. These latest appointments bring that total to 25 appointments in less than two years.

    The Honourable Justice David G. Hancock, ECA received his bachelor of laws degree from the University of Alberta in 1979. Justice Hancock has been serving in the Edmonton Family and Youth Division since 2017. He began his career at Matheson & Company and became a partner. A former Premier, deputy premier, government house leader and cabinet minister, Justice Hancock was an elected representative in the Alberta legislature for more than 17 years. Currently, he is a committee board member for the Alberta Law Reform Institute, and – at the Alberta Court of Justice – is a member of the Edmonton Family and Youth Child Protection Committee, the Indigenous Strategies Committee, the Reforming Family Justice Advisory Committee and co-convener of the Reforming Family Justice System.

    Clarissa V. Pearce, KC received her bachelor of laws degree from Dalhousie University in 2007 and her master of laws degree from Harvard University in 2010. She started her career as an articled clerk at the Court of Queen’s Bench in Calgary (now Court of King’s Bench), practiced law at Norton Rose Fulbright (formerly Macleod Dixon LLP) until 2016, then was legal counsel at the Provincial Court of Alberta (now Alberta Court of Justice) and is presently executive legal counsel to the chief justice of the Alberta Court of Justice. In 2024, she was a member of the Indigenous Justice System – Knowledge Sharing Symposium Planning Committee for the Canadian Institute for the Administration of Justice and acted as a facilitator and co-master of ceremonies at the symposium when it took place on Tsuut’ina Nation. Currently, she is a board member of the Canadian Child Abuse Association.

    Quick facts

    • Lawyers with at least 10 years at the bar can apply to become a justice with the Alberta Court of Justice. 
    • Lawyers with at least five years at the bar can apply to become a justice of the peace. Justice of the peace appointments are for 10 years.
    • Applications are reviewed by the Alberta Judicial Council and Alberta Judicial Nominating Committee, and then recommended to the minister of justice and cabinet for appointment.

    Related information

    • Alberta’s government is actively recruiting justices and justices of the peace and encourages qualified lawyers to apply. Qualified lawyers who wish to be considered for appointment can access the application form online.

     Related news

    • Judicial appointments increase Albertans access to justice (April 9, 2025)
    • Increasing court capacity (Jan. 15, 2025)
    • Strengthening Alberta’s courts (Dec. 4, 2024)

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General Bonta Announces Fifth Edition of Disability Rights Handbook

    Source: US State of California Department of Justice

    Tuesday, May 6, 2025

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

    Releases updated chapters on access to buildings, telecommunications, benefits and services, service animals, and more

    OAKLAND – California Attorney General Rob Bonta today, through the California Department of Justice’s Disability Rights Bureau, announced the release of the fifth edition of “Legal Rights of Persons with Disabilities,” a publication that provides information regarding the rights of people with disabilities in California. This handbook summarizes state and federal laws that protect the rights of individuals with disabilities in many arenas, including in the workplace and in accessing facilities open to the public. The handbook covers disability rights and obligations in a variety of contexts including businesses and places of public accommodation, employment, housing, K-12 education, healthcare, voting, and telecommunications, with chapters released on an ongoing basis since January 2024.

    “At California DOJ, we are committed to ensuring that all individuals have access to inclusive and respectful environments free from discrimination, including discrimination based on disability,” said Attorney General Bonta. “Nearly one quarter of adults in California have a disability, and with the latest edition of this handbook, we aim to provide valuable information on disability rights to support accessibility and full participation for all Californians in every aspect of daily life.”

    Californians with disabilities face widespread discrimination, segregation, and exclusion in many aspects of everyday life. California’s disability rights laws are designed to provide protection from these harmful practices, but Californians are often unaware of the nature and scope of these complex laws. All chapters of the “Legal Rights of Persons with Disabilities” handbook are available at https://oag.ca.gov/civil/disability-rights including new and updated chapters on:

    1. Introduction to State and Federal Disability Rights Laws: This chapter provides an overview of major California state and federal laws that protect the rights of people with disabilities.
    1. Access to Businesses and Other Public Accommodations for People with Disabilities: This chapter discusses California and federal laws that prohibit disability-based discrimination in business establishments and other public accommodations. It also describes an individual’s options when they have experienced disability-based discrimination in business establishments and other public accommodations.
    2. Access to Healthcare for People with Disabilities: This chapter describes the state and federal laws that protect the rights of people with disabilities to access healthcare services, including hospitals and other facilities, services, insurance plans, and information offered by doctors’ offices and other medical providers. It also describes an individual’s options when they have experienced disability-based discrimination in healthcare services.
    3. Disability Rights in Employment: This chapter discusses major California and federal laws that protect people with disabilities from discrimination, harassment, and retaliation in employment. It also describes an individual’s options when they have experienced discrimination in employment because of their disability.
    4. Disability Rights in Housing: This chapter discusses California and federal laws that protect persons with disabilities from public and private housing discrimination. It also describes options when persons with disabilities have experienced discrimination in housing because of their disability.
    5. Disability Rights in K-12 Education: This chapter discusses the rights of students with disabilities in pre-school, primary, and secondary education under California state and federal law.
    6. Access to Voting for People with Disabilities: This chapter discusses access to polling places and the voting process under federal and state election laws. Additionally, this chapter describes an individual’s options when they have experienced dis­crimination because of their disability while registering to vote or voting.
    7. Access to Public and Private Buildings and Facilities for People with Disabilities: This chapter provides an overview of state and federal laws that set requirements for physical accessibility of both public and private buildings and facilities. In addition, this chapter provides information regarding options for individuals who have experienced discrimination regarding physical accessibility.
    8. Access to Telecommunications for People with Disabilities: Telecommunications services are services that allow people to communicate through cable, radio, television, satellite, or wire equipment and include a variety of services like telephone and text message services. This chapter details state and federal laws regarding telecommunication services ensuring that people with disabilities have equal access to said service. It also provides information if there are concerns about accessibility of a product or service.
    9. Benefits and Services for People with Disabilities: This chapter highlights state and federal benefits, programs, and services that are designed to assist people with disabilities.
    10. Service Animals: This chapter discusses the rights of people with disabilities to use service animals and emotional support animals under both federal and California laws. This chapter also provides the various complaint options people have when their rights regarding service or emotional support animals have been violated.

    Attorney General Bonta is committed to supporting the rights of Californians with disabilities and enforcing state laws that protect people from discrimination. He has supported an update to the Americans with Disabilities Act’s (ADA) Title II regulations concerning accessibility of web information and services of state and local government entities, defended access to housing for persons with disabilities, and recommended revisions to strengthen and protect the rights of students with disabilities under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. This handbook demonstrates the Attorney General’s ongoing commitment to enforcing these laws and ensuring that all Californians are protected from discrimination.

    For more information about the Disability Rights Bureau, visit our webpage at https://oag.ca.gov/civil/disability-rights.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Oamaru Police seek public’s help after violent incidents

    Source: New Zealand Police

    A man has been arrested as Oamaru Police investigate three serious, violent incidents in 24 hours.

    Sergeant Tony Woodbridge says members of the public have played a crucial role in the arrest, and while enquiries are ongoing, those involved are believed to be known to each other.

    Two of the incidents involved individuals entering residential addresses. The first occurred on Queens Crescent at 11.45pm on Tuesday, where one person was assaulted. The second incident occurred at a Thames Highway address at 4am on Wednesday, where another person was assaulted.

    Both victims were taken to hospital with moderate injuries.

    At 4.20pm on Wednesday, Police were called to a serious assault at Centennial Park in Oamaru, where a woman was knocked unconscious. A white station wagon then drove at the offender, before ramming a black Subaru Legacy.

    After the offender left in the Subaru, the victim got into the station wagon and the vehicle left the scene.

    “The third incident occurred in a busy area, in the vicinity of a number of people, and with hockey games being played nearby,” Sergeant Woodbridge says.

    “We would like to hear from anyone who was near the Centennial Park carpark, who saw or filmed the assault, or the vehicles leaving.”

    Yesterday (7 May), Police arrested a 27-year-old Oamaru man in relation to the incidents.

    He has been charged with breaching release conditions; four counts of assault with intent to injure; wounding with intent to commit grievous bodily harm; and two counts of burglary.

    “Such serious violent incidents are always of concern, and we know this will be unsettling. I want to assure the Oamaru community that these were not random acts of violence, and we are doing everything we can to hold those responsible to account.

    “We are still working to determine why this offending took place, and enquiries are ongoing to locate other people who may have been involved.

    “Police want to thank the members of the public who have assisted us with information so far. We still need to hear from anyone who may have witnessed these events, or anyone who has information that can assist us.”

    You can update Police online now or call 105 using the reference number 250507/6833.

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

    ENDS

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Justice Department Announces Results of Operation Restore Justice

    Source: United States Department of Justice (video statements)

    The Department of Justice announced the results of Operation Restore Justice, a coordinated enforcement effort to identify, track and arrest child sex predators. The operation resulted in the rescue of 115 children and the arrests of 205 child sexual abuse offenders in the nationwide crackdown. The coordinated effort was executed over the course of five days by all 55 FBI field offices, the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS) in the Department’s Criminal Division, and United States Attorney’s Offices around the country.

    Related: https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/justice-department-announces-results-operation-restore-justice-205-child-sex-abuse-offenders

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n-DjwnMS1rQ

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Lawler, Garbarino, LaLota, and Malliotakis Release Joint Statement on Status of World Trade Center Health Program

    Source: US Congressman Mike Lawler (R, NY-17)

    Lawler, Garbarino, LaLota, and Malliotakis Release Joint Statement on Status of World Trade Center Health Program

    Washington, D.C. , May 7, 2025

    Washington, D.C. – 5/7/2025… Today, Representatives Mike Lawler (NY-17), Andrew R. Garbarino (NY-02), Nick LaLota (NY-01), and Nicole Malliotakis (NY-11) released the following joint statement regarding the status of the World Trade Center Health Program:
     
    “After extensive conversations with the Administration, HHS has said that it is reinstating all 15 WTCHP workers and that Dr. Howard is fully empowered as program Administrator. While we appreciate this development, their employment should have never been in question. We remain in constant contact with advocates to ensure the program remains fully functional in service to our 9/11 responders and survivors, and we stand ready to take immediate and decisive action at the first sign that this is not the case.”
     
    Congressman Lawler is one of the most bipartisan members of Congress and represents New York’s 17th Congressional District, which is just north of New York City and contains all or parts of Rockland, Putnam, Dutchess, and Westchester Counties. He was rated the most effective freshman lawmaker in the 118th Congress, 8th overall, surpassing dozens of committee chairs.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Garbarino, Lawler, LaLota, and Malliotakis Release Joint Statement on Status of World Trade Center Health Program

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Andrew Garbarino (R-NY)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Representatives Andrew R. Garbarino (R-NY-02), Mike Lawler (R-NY-17), Nick LaLota (R-NY-01), and Nicole Malliotakis (R-NY-11) released the following joint statement regarding the status of the World Trade Center Health Program:

    “After extensive conversations with the Administration, HHS has said that it is reinstating all 15 WTCHP workers and that Dr. Howard is fully empowered as program Administrator. While we appreciate this development, their employment should have never been in question. We remain in constant contact with advocates to ensure the program remains fully functional in service to our 9/11 responders and survivors, and we stand ready to take immediate and decisive action at the first sign that this is not the case.”

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Twenty-Eight Month Prison Term for Felon Who Twice Possessed Firearms

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

    WASHINGTON – Deionta Person, 27, of the District of Columbia, was sentenced today in U.S. District Court to 28 months in federal prison in connection with being a felon in possession of a firearm, announced U.S. Attorney Edward R. Martin Jr., Special Agent in Charge Sean Ryan of the FBI Washington Field Office Criminal and Cyber Division, Chief Jessica M. E. Taylor of the United States Park Police (USPP), and Chief Pamela Smith of the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD).

    Person pleaded guilty on Jan. 15, 2025, to unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition by a felon. In addition to the 28-month prison term, U.S. District Court Judge Randolph D. Moss ordered Person to serve three years of supervised release.

    According to court documents, on Sept. 5, 2021, USPP officers observed four individuals, including Person, exit a vehicle and walk towards an apartment complex located in the 2600 block of Douglass Place, SE. As the officers attempted to stop the quartet, Person ran away. At the back of the apartment building on the 2700 block of Douglass Place, Person discarded a black Glock 22 .40 caliber handgun loaded with 21 rounds of ammunition. USPP subsequently recovered this firearm.

    On December 1, 2023, MPD officers observed Person seated in the driver’s seat of a vehicle parked on the 2700 block of Douglas Place, SE. As MPD officers attempted to speak to Person, he fled on foot down the sidewalk and discarded a Glock 30 .45 caliber handgun modified with a machine gun conversion device, loaded with 25 rounds.

    In June of 2018, Person was convicted of robbery in Prince George’s County, Maryland, and sentenced to 15 years in prison with 12 years suspended.

    This case was investigated by the U.S. Park Police and the Metropolitan Police Department  with assistance from the FBI. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jared English with valuable assistance from former Assistant U.S. Attorney Justin Song.

    24cr14

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Warren Announces Senate Forum on Trump’s Attacks on Education Access, Invites Secretary McMahon to Defend Actions

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts – Elizabeth Warren
    May 07, 2025
    Spotlight forum entitled “Stealing the American Dream: How Trump and Republicans Are Raising Education Costs for Families.”
    Text of Letter (PDF)
    Washington, D.C. – Today, Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Ranking Member of the Senate Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs Committee, announced that she will host a spotlight forum entitled “Stealing the American Dream: How Trump and Republicans Are Raising Education Costs for Families.” The forum is scheduled for 2:30 p.m. on Wednesday, May 14, 2025, at the Dirksen Senate Office Building in Room G11.
    The latest action in Senator Warren’s Save Our Schools campaign, this forum will examine how both the Trump administration’s attacks on the Department of Education and Congressional Republicans’ legislative plans will increase education costs and limit access to higher education for America’s students and borrowers.
    Senator Warren invited the following witnesses to attend the forum:
    Linda McMahon, Secretary, U.S. Department of Education
    Bonnie Latreille, Former Student Loan Ombudsman, U.S. Department of Education
    Jonathan Glater, Professor of Law & Associate Dean of J.D. Curriculum and Teaching, UC Berkeley School of Law
    Gilberto Gonzalez, Truck Driver, Prime Inc. 
    Tiffany Aliche, Personal Finance Creator, @thebudgetnista
    In a letter to Secretary McMahon, Senator Warren wrote, “Your appearance will provide you with an opportunity to defend the Trump administration’s policies, offer context for your actions to dismantle the Department of Education, and share your vision for ensuring that the American Dream becomes more attainable for all.”
    This forum follows President Trump’s signing of a March 2025 executive order seeking to abolish the Department of Education, and House Republicans advancing legislation last month to slash $351 billion in education spending. 
    Senator Warren has been a leader in the coordinated effort to fight back against President Trump’s attempts to abolish the Department of Education:
    On April 24, 2025, Senator Warren launched a new investigation into the harms of President Trump’s attacks on the Department of Education, seeking information on the impact of the Trump administration’s actions from the members of twelve leading organizations representing schools, parents, teachers, students, borrowers, and researchers.
    On April 10, 2025, following a request led by Senator Warren, the Department of Education’s Acting Inspector General agreed to open an investigation into the Trump administration’s attempts to dismantle the Department of Education.
    On April 2, 2025, Senators Elizabeth Warren and Mazie Hirono, along with Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer, sent a letter to Secretary of Education Linda McMahon regarding the Department of Government Efficiency’s proposed plan to replace the Department of Education’s federal student aid call centers with generative artificial intelligence chatbots.
    On April 2, 2025, Senator Elizabeth Warren launched the Save Our Schools campaign to fight back against the Trump administration’s efforts to dismantle the Department of Education (ED) and highlight the consequences for every student and public school in America.
    On March 27, 2025, Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) led a letter to Acting Department of Education Inspector General (IG) René Rocque requesting that the IG conduct an investigation of the Trump Administration’s attempts to dismantle the Department of Education.
    On March 20, 2025, Senators Elizabeth Warren and Bernie Sanders led a letter to Secretary of Education Linda McMahon regarding the Trump Administration’s decision to slash the capacity of Federal Student Aid to handle student aid complaints.
    On February 24, 2025, in a response to Senator Warren, Secretary McMahon gave her first public admission that she “wholeheartedly” agreed with Trump’s plans to abolish the Department of Education.
    On February 11, 2025, Senators Elizabeth Warren and Andy Kim sent Linda McMahon, Secretary-Designate for the U.S. Department of Education, a 12-page letter with 65 questions on McMahon’s policy views in advance of her nomination hearing.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Read More (Steube, Titus Introduce Bill to Counter Drone Threats at Stadiums and Public Events)

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Greg Steube (FL-17)

    May 07, 2025 | Press ReleasesWASHINGTON — U.S. Representatives Greg Steube (R-Fla.) and Dina Titus (D-Nev.) this week led a bipartisan coalition to introduce the Disabling Enemy Flight Entry and Neutralizing Suspect Equipment (DEFENSE) Act, legislation that permits trained state and local law enforcement officers to intercept and disable hostile drones at stadiums and other large-scale events protected by temporary flight restrictions.“Whether it’s a packed stadium or a large outdoor gathering, our communities deserve to enjoy these moments without fear of surveillance or disruption from above,” said Rep. Steube. “The DEFENSE Act gives law enforcement the tools they need to protect Americans attending high-profile events from dangerous and unauthorized drones.”“People travel to Las Vegas from all over the world to experience our world class entertainment and live sporting events,” said Rep. Dina Titus. “I am proud to co-lead this bill to give our state and local law enforcement the tools they need to keep fans, athletes, performers, and stadium workers safe from aerial threats.”Current law authorizes only federal authorities to counter rogue drone incursions. While state and local authorities often have a larger presence at sporting events, the gap created in real-time event security denies state and local officials the ability to address unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) that threaten the safety of the stadium attendees. The DEFENSE Act would change that by authorizing the Department of Homeland (DHS) and the Department of Justice (DOJ) to extend temporary authority to state and local officers—provided they receive proper training and oversight—to use approved counter-UAS technology to detect, monitor, and respond to airborne threats. Authorized equipment would be limited to systems approved by DHS in coordination with DOJ, Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Federal Communications Commission (FCC), and National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA). The bill also requires full federal oversight and compliance with airspace and privacy laws.Representatives Steube and Titus partnered with four of their House colleagues, Representatives Rudy Yakym (R-Ind.), Cory Mills (R-Fla.), Jill Tokuda (D-Hawaii), and Lou Correa (D-Calif.) as well as Senators Tom Cotton (R-Ark.) and Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.) who have proposed companion legislation in the Senate.“Stadiums and spectators at large events are vulnerable to unauthorized drone activity, which puts both public safety and national security at risk,” said Senator Cotton. “Our bill empowers local authorities to safeguard large public gatherings from aerial threats.”
    “Major events — including sports and live entertainment — play a significant role in supporting our economy in Las Vegas and across the country, and we need to ensure they are safe,” said Senator Rosen. “Our bipartisan bill would enable state and local law enforcement to better mitigate threats posed by drones to the security of these high attendance events.” 
    “The DEFENSE Act allows local law enforcement to step in when drones threaten large public events,” said Rep. Yakym. “Whether it’s a sold-out game or a concert, this act ensures people can enjoy these moments without worrying about what’s flying overhead.”“With the growing number of drones in use it is paramount that our state and local law enforcement agencies are able to be granted the proper authority to protect citizens at large events and gatherings,” said Rep. Mills. “Events like NASCAR races, rallies, or other large public events should be safe and this bill provides the ability for local law enforcement agencies to protect their citizens.”“As we continue to see the rise of drones and unmanned aircraft systems as a potential threat to public safety, it’s critical that state and local law enforcement have the tools and resources they need to protect our communities, especially at large-scale events that are at increased risk,” said Rep. Tokuda. “I’m proud to join this bipartisan effort to ensure that our local partners in law enforcement can respond quickly and effectively to unauthorized drone activity and keep our people safe from harm.”“The economic engine of Orange County is tourism. From sports to live concerts, Orange County is proud to host hundreds of outdoor events each year. We must ensure that these major events which draw thousands of attendees are safe,” said Rep. Correa. “I’m proud to join my colleagues—Democrat and Republican—in introducing this commonsense, bipartisan legislation to give state and local law enforcement the tools they need to counter threats posed by drones and other unauthorized aircraft.”This legislation has the backing of numerous national sports organizations, including the NFL, MLB, NCAA, and NASCAR, which have all expressed support for expanding drone countermeasure authority to protect fans, players, and event staff. For additional background, see this report from ESPN.“The NFL applauds the bipartisan group of sponsors for their leadership in introducing the DEFENSE Act in the House of Representatives. As the threat of illicit drone activity continues to rise, it is critical that our state and local law enforcement partners have the tools and resources they need to keep fans safe at major sporting events across the country.   This legislation will help to do just that, and we urge Congress to adopt it as soon as possible.  Doing so is vital to the security of our homeland.”  —Cathy Lanier, Chief Security Officer, National Football League“Major League Baseball (MLB) applauds the leadership of Representatives Greg Steube, Dina Titus, Lou Correa, Cory Mills, and Rudy Yakym in introducing H.B. 3207, the DEFENSE Act. This bill is crucial for enabling trained state and local law enforcement to use counter-drone technology to safeguard sporting venues from unauthorized unmanned aircraft systems (UAS or drones). MLB has long recognized the threat that unauthorized drones pose to its 30 stadiums nationwide, and has urged Congress to take the requisite steps to provide law enforcement with the tools and authority necessary to protect our fans, players, and employees. If enacted, this bipartisan bill will enhance the safety of America’s pastime for the 70 million fans attending our games each year. We look forward to collaborating with the bill’s sponsors and others to advance this important piece of legislation.” —David Thomas, Major League Baseball Senior Vice President of Security and Ballpark Operations“Drone related threats continue to pose real risks for events and communities across the country. The DEFENSE Act, introduced by Representatives Steube, Titus, Correa, Mills, and Yakym, provides important authority to trusted law enforcement agencies around the country who are integral partners at each of our races.” —Allen Taylor, Managing Director, Security, NASCAR“The NCAA remains concerned about the threat of unauthorized drones at NCAA championships and college sporting events. The safety of the competitors, fans, and staff that work at NCAA events is our top priority and we applaud Rep. Steube and Rep. Titus for their leadership on this issue.” —Tim Buckley, Senior Vice President of External Affairs, NCAA“The safety of our teams and fans is a key priority at athletics events.   The SEC commends Representatives Greg Steube and Dina Titus for introducing this important legislation that is intended to provide public safety officials on campuses and in the communities they serve with enhanced measures to address unauthorized drone usage, and for joining the bipartisan leadership of Senator Tom Cotton and Senator Jacky Rosen on this issue.” —SEC Commissioner Greg SankeyRead the full bill here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Historic breakthrough: over 40 Nigerian civil society organisations unite to launch climate justice movement

    Source: Greenpeace Statement –

    Abuja, Nigeria: May 7, 2025 –In a watershed moment for the promotion of environmental justice in Nigeria, more than 40 Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) joined forces to launch the Nigerian Climate Justice Movement (CJM). A declaration was issued at the end of a landmark two-day event held in Abuja. The declaration reinforces the resolve of CSOs in holding corporations accountable for environmental damage and biodiversity destruction while amplifying Africa’s demands in global climate justice debates.

    The Climate Justice Movement, spearheaded by Greenpeace Africa, aims to connect isolated climate voices and responses under one umbrella movement to collectively address the disproportionate impact of climate change on the African continent. 

    Ogunlade Olamide Martins, Associate Director (Climate Change) for Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa (CAPPA), one of the signatories, stated: “This declaration represents a turning point for grassroots environmental movements in Nigeria. For too long, our struggles have been fragmented despite facing common threats from extractive industries. By uniting under the Climate Justice Movement, we multiply our collective power and create space for community voices to shape the solutions.”

    Sherelee Odayar, Oil and Gas Campaigner at Greenpeace Africa, said:  “For decades, oil giants like Shell have extracted billions in profits from Nigerian soil while leaving behind devastated ecosystems and broken communities. Recent media investigations exposing Shell’s negligence in the Niger Delta is an example of the toxicity and selfish, unempathetic profiteering that communities have endured for generations. Through this declaration, we’re sending a clear message: the era of unchecked pollution and corporate impunity is over – it’s time for polluters to pay.”

    Cynthia Moyo, Climate and Energy Campaigner at Greenpeace Africa, said: “Nigeria stands at a crossroads in its energy future. As we witness intensifying flooding in the Niger Delta and advancing desertification in the north, it’s clear that climate change requires systemic solutions. This movement isn’t just about cleaning up past damage – it’s about shaping a just transition that centres African realities and protects communities from both climate impacts and false solutions like carbon trading that simply perpetuate exploitation.”

    Elizabeth Atieno, Food Security Campaigner at Greenpeace Africa, highlighted the connection between pollution and food security: “Oil spills have contaminated once-fertile soils and fishing grounds across the Niger Delta, creating a food crisis that disproportionately affects women and children. When farmers can’t farm and fisherfolk can’t fish, entire communities face malnutrition and economic devastation. Climate justice is fundamentally about securing the right to food sovereignty in the face of corporate environmental abuses.”

    Despite contributing minimally to global greenhouse gas emissions, Africa suffers some of the most severe climate impacts, with warming already exceeding the global average. Between July and October 2024, floods affected 34 states across Nigeria, impacting over 4 million people, with more than 300 lives lost and over 2,854 people injured. Nigeria’s catastrophic 2022 floods killed over 600 people, displacing 1.4 million citizens, and affecting more than 4.4 million across 33 states. The disaster destroyed over 200,000 homes and damaged 676,000 hectares of farmland, worsening food insecurity in a country already facing economic challenges. 

    Another signatory, Ibrahim Muhammad Shamsuddin, Program Manager at Yanayl Haki Afriqya, added, “The youth of Nigeria are demanding accountability from corporations and policymakers. We refuse to inherit a country where profits routinely take precedence over people and planet, having lived the realities that climate change impacts pose to our communities. This declaration is our pledge to transform environmental advocacy in Nigeria from isolated campaigns into a formidable, unified force that drives positive change towards access to a safe and healthy environment for all, which is a fundamental human right.”

    The CJM declaration outlines comprehensive demands, including immediate remediation of oil-polluted sites in the Niger Delta, compensation for communities affected by decades of extraction, ending gas flaring practices, transitioning to renewable energy infrastructure, strengthening regulatory frameworks against corporate environmental abuses and rejection of false solutions like carbon trading. 

    The coalition brings together diverse organisations working across environmental sectors, including ocean conservation, forest protection, climate advocacy, and community rights. CJM Nigeria is the fourth launch, with successful previous launches in the DRC, Cameroon, and Ghana.

    The coalition will now focus on implementing a coordinated action plan, engaging government authorities, and expanding the movement across West Africa. 

    ENDS

    For more information or interview requests, please contact:

    Dr. Ignatius Emeka Onyekwere, Media Consultant for CJM Nigeria, [email protected], +234 810 038 5897

    Ferdinand Omondi, Communication Manager, Greenpeace Africa, [email protected], +254 722 505 233

    Notes to Editors:

    About Greenpeace Africa:

    Greenpeace Africa is an independent environmental campaigning organisation established in 2008 that operates across the African continent with offices in Senegal, Kenya, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Cameroon and South Africa. As part of the global Greenpeace network, the organisation works to protect and conserve Africa’s natural environment while advocating for peace and environmental justice. 

    About the Climate Justice Movement

    The Climate Justice Movement (CJM) is a pan-African initiative that unites grassroots organisations to address environmental challenges across the continent.

    The CJM represents a cornerstone of Greenpeace Africa’s strategy to build people-powered movements that challenge corporate environmental exploitation while elevating local communities as agents of change in environmental decision-making processes.

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Lightning: Xi Jinping Calls for Jointly Advancing Correct Historical View of World War II, Sending Strong Signal of Upholding International Fairness and Justice

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    Xinhua | 08. 05. 2025

    Keywords:

    Source: Xinhua

    Flash: Xi Jinping Calls for Jointly Advancing the Correct Historical View of World War II, Sending a Strong Signal of Upholding International Fairness and Justice Flash: Xi Jinping Calls for Jointly Advancing the Correct Historical View of World War II, Sending a Strong Signal of Upholding International Fairness and Justice

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Name release: Fatal crash, Leithfield

    Source: New Zealand Police

    Police can now release the name of the man who died following a crash on SH1, Leithfield on 15 April.

    He was 49-year-old Ndafunzwa Musesengwa, of Amberley.

    Police send our condolences to his family and friends at this difficult time.

    The circumstances of the crash are under investigation.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: BRAVO’S “the Real Housewives of Rhode Island” Is Reality!

    Source: US State of Rhode Island

    Providence, RI — “The Real Housewives of Rhode Island” Set against the shores of the Ocean State, “The Real Housewives” franchise expands into the world of a tight-knit circle of Rhode Islanders who have deep community roots and families that go back generations. With aspirational lives, thriving businesses and tangled family dynamics, these decade-long friendships prove that in a state this small, there’s no escaping your past � or each other.

    “The Real Housewives of Rhode Island” is produced by Evolution Media. Lucilla D’Agostino, Joseph Ferraro and Jen McClure-Metz executive produce. Andy Cohen is also an executive producer.

    Steven Feinberg, Executive Director of the Rhode Island Film & TV Office, stated, “One of the most popular reality-shows ever to grace television, “The Real Housewives” franchise sparked an avalanche of enthusiasm when word spread that this entertaining series just might land in the Ocean State. Well, good news, folks. “The Real Housewives of Rhode Island” is ready to roll and take the world by storm! Action!”

    “We’re excited to welcome ‘The Real Housewives’ and their millions of viewers to Rhode Island,” said Governor Dan McKee. “Our state is home to vibrant communities, amazing food, rich history, and stunning coastal beauty�perfect for the spotlight. This is a great opportunity to support our local economy and bring national attention to all Rhode Island has to offer.”

    “From the recent filming of ‘Ella McCay’ to HBO’s ‘The Gilded Age,’ Rhode Island is an incredible backdrop for a wide range of productions. The filming of ‘The Real Housewives of Rhode Island’ is a great way to showcase some of the Ocean State’s world-class dining and hospitality,” said House Speaker K. Joseph Shekarchi. “I am very proud to be a strong supporter of the Rhode Island Film & Television Office, because the arts are a vital part of Rhode Island’s culture and economy. From catering and site usage for filming to increasing tourism, the film and TV industry generates revenue for our local businesses and brings in millions of dollars to our state.”

    President of the Senate Valarie J. Lawson said “I am pleased to welcome Bravo’s ‘Real Housewives’ franchise to Rhode Island, and I am excited for the show’s millions of fans to get a glimpse into our state’s rich history, culture, and natural beauty. Thank you to Steve Feinberg and the Rhode Island Film & Television Office for your outstanding work to secure so many productions that generate excitement in our communities while showcasing the Ocean State to audiences around the globe.”

    The Rhode Island Film & TV Office is a government agency under the umbrella of the Rhode Island State Council on the Arts (RISCA).

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Professor Bird Awarded Fulbright Scholarship to Conduct Legal Research in Finland

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    Business Law professor Robert Bird has been selected as a U.S. Fulbright Scholar and will spend three months studying human-centered legal strategy and design in Finland next semester.

    “I’m excited about this opportunity to collaborate with my peers in Finland, who are doing some interesting work on strategic legal design,’’ he said. “I believe this research will add value to organizations, make complex contracts easier to understand, and benefit my students as well.’’

    The Fulbright is a prestigious award granted to faculty based on their previous leadership and contributions to society. The program was created to increase mutual understanding between the people of the U.S. and other countries, and is the world’s largest international educational exchange program. UConn typically has four or five Fulbright professors each year.

    Bird will be based at the University of Vaasa, a seaside campus, approximately a four-hour train ride north of Helsinki. The university is ranked as the top college in Finland for business administration, and recently underwent extensive renovations to enhance sustainability. The Fulbright award is co-sponsored by the Fulbright Finland Foundation and the University of Vaasa.

    The goal of the project is to develop innovative contracts and other legal tools to make the documents easier for people to understand, minimize disputes, and add more valuable for organizations.

    For example, sustainable supply chain contracts and codes of conduct are typically filled with complex language and legal jargon, Bird said. By using design methods to transform them into visually appealing and accessible documents, the professor and his colleagues believe they can foster greater participation, enhance trust-building, and maximize collaboration.

    In addition to his work in Finland, Bird plans to complete some guest lectures at other universities in Europe, as part of his sabbatical.

    When he returns to UConn for the spring 2026 semester, Bird will host a Legal Strategy Summit at UConn which will include a discussion of new legal designs based on his Fulbright experience.

    “I’m looking forward to being an ambassador for UConn, for Husky values, and for the United States,’’ he said. “I’m looking forward to working with outstanding Finish colleagues. European scholars often think about things differently than we do and I hope to bring that back to UConn and to the United States.’’

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Justice Department and Federal Trade Commission Seek Information on Unfair and Anticompetitive Practices in Live Ticketing

    Source: US State of North Dakota

    Today, the Justice Department and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) jointly launched a public inquiry to identify unfair and anticompetitive practices and conduct in the live concert and entertainment industry. The agencies invite members of the public to submit comments and information on harmful practices and on potential regulation or legislation to protect consumers in the industry. The Agencies will use the information in their preparation of the report and recommendations directed by President Trump’s Executive Order 14254, Combating Unfair Practices in the Live Entertainment Market.   

    “Competitive live entertainment markets should deliver value to artists and fans alike,” said Assistant Attorney General Abigail Slater of the Justice Department’s Antitrust Division. “We will continue to closely examine this market and look for opportunities where vigorous enforcement of the antitrust laws can lead to increased competition that makes tickets more affordable for fans while offering fairer compensation for artists.”

    “Many Americans feel like they are being priced out of live entertainment by scalpers, bots, and other unfair and deceptive practices,” said FTC Chairman Andrew N. Ferguson. “Now their voices are being heard. President Trump has sent a clear message that bad actors who exploit fans and distort the marketplace will not be tolerated. The FTC is proud to help deliver on that promise and restore fair and competitive markets that benefit ordinary Americans.”

    On March 31, President Trump issued Executive Order 14254, Combating Unfair Practices in the Live Entertainment Market. The Executive Order directs the Attorney General and the FTC to “ensure that competition laws are appropriately enforced in the concert and entertainment industry.” The Executive Order also directs the FTC to “rigorously enforce the Better Online Tickets Sales Act, 15 U.S.C. 45c.”

    The Executive Order also directs the Attorney General, with the Secretary of the Treasury and the Chairman of the FTC, to submit a report that identifies “recommendations for regulations or legislation necessary to protect consumers” in the industry. In furtherance of this direction, the agencies will work together, along with the Secretary of the Treasury, on a joint report, with the FTC taking the lead on issues relating to the Better Online Ticket Sales Act.

    The agencies therefore seek information from the public about unfair and anticompetitive conduct and practices in the live concert and entertainment industry. The agencies also encourage comments providing information on the competitive effects of current state and federal regulations and laws in the live concert and entertainment industry, including the secondary ticketing market.

    The public will have 60 days to submit comments at Regulations.gov, no later than July 6, 2025. Once submitted, comments will be posted to Regulations.gov (Docket No. ATR-2025-0002). All market participants are invited to provide comments, including consumers, artists, small businesses, trade groups, industry analysts, and other entities that are impacted by anticompetitive practices in the live concert and entertainment industry.

    The Justice Department, along with 40 state and district attorneys general, is also currently litigating a civil antitrust lawsuit brought last year against Live Nation Entertainment Inc. and its wholly-owned subsidiary, Ticketmaster LLC for monopolization and other unlawful conduct that thwarts competition in markets across the live entertainment industry. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: FBI New Orleans Announces Results of Operation Restore Justice

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

    Four individuals from across the state of Louisiana were charged between April 29 and May 2, 2025, during Operation Restore Justice, a nationwide initiative to identify, track, and arrest child predators. The operation coincided with the annual nationwide observance of Child Abuse Prevention Month in April. FBI agents were joined by our partners across the country in arresting 205 subjects and rescuing 115 children during the surge of resources deployed for Operation Restore Justice.

    “The FBI is unwavering in its fight to protect children,” said Jonathan Tapp, special agent in charge of FBI New Orleans. “Each arrest is a powerful testament to the tireless efforts of the FBI and our dedicated law enforcement partners to protect the most vulnerable among us. It reaffirms the FBI’s commitment to pursuing justice for victims and hold predators accountable.”

    “This joint operation signals our unrelenting effort to identify and prosecute those individuals responsible for the sexual exploitation of our nation’s youth,” stated Acting United States Attorney Michael M. Simpson. “Together with our law enforcement partners, our office stands ready and committed to utilizing our collective resources to bring justice to both the victims and the perpetrators of these crimes.”

    “This nationwide effort has made its way to the Western District of Louisiana and the U.S. Attorney’s Office stands ready to join with the FBI and our state and local law enforcement partners to continue this investigation,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook. “These types of crimes against minor children are reprehensible and we are committed to doing what we can to get these child predators off of our streets.”

    Three of the subjects arrested in Louisiana were charged following a joint undercover operation by the FBI, Alexandria Police Department, and Louisiana State Police. One of those individuals faces federal charges that will be prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana. The other two face state charges that will be prosecuted by the Rapides Parish District Attorney’s Office. The fourth subject was indicted in the Eastern District of Louisiana on five separate counts, including sexual exploitation of children, distributing child sexual material (CSAM), receiving CSAM, and transmitting extortionate interstate communications (see press release from the USAO EDLA).

    The FBI proactively identifies individuals involved in child sexual exploitation and the production of child sexual abuse material through our far-reaching, nationwide network of personnel and law enforcement partners. The Crimes Against Children (CAC) program provides a rapid, proactive, and comprehensive capacity to counter all threats of abuse against children. This capacity leverages partnerships within the FBI’s 89 Child Exploitation Human Trafficking Task Forces (CEHTTFs) across the country. Additionally, the FBI has Intelligence Analysts assigned to address the VCAC threat, both at Headquarters and the field. The FBI also leads a Violent Crimes Against Children International Task Force which includes nearly 100 International Task Force Officers representing over 60 countries to expand our ability to address the threat worldwide. 

    The FBI also partners with the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC), which receives and shares tips about possible child sexual exploitation received through its 24/7 hotline at 1-800-THE-LOST and on missingkids.org. In further partnership and collaboration with NCMEC, the FBI launched the Endangered Child Alert Program (ECAP) in 2004 to identify individuals involved in the sexual abuse of children and the production of child sexual abuse material. To date, ECAP has identified 36 individuals.

    For more information about the crimes investigated by the FBI as well as the variety of resources we provide to protect and keep children safe, please visit:

    Violent Crimes Against Children — FBI

    Parents, Caregivers, Teachers — FBI

    Welcome to sos.fbi.gov — FBI Safe Online Surfing (SOS)

    As always, the FBI urges the public to remain vigilant and report any suspect crime against a child to 911 and local law enforcement immediately, as well as the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI (225-5324), online at tips.fbi.gov, or by contacting your local FBI field office.

    Additional Resources

    An electronic press kit that includes an interview with the Darren Cox, the FBI’s Deputy Assistant Director for the Criminal Investigative Division can be found here: FBI DVIDS Page (suggested: “Courtesy: FBI”). The raw interview is designed to be edited by each media outlet for the needs of their media market.

    MIL Security OSI –