NewzIntel.com

Category: Law

  • MIL-OSI USA: 2 MS-13 members sentenced for racketeering following ICE New England, partner investigation

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    BOSTON — An investigation by ICE Homeland Security Investigations New England alongside its law enforcement partners led to the July 15 sentencing of two members of La Mara Salvatrucha, or MS-13, for their roles in a previously-unsolved murder.

    Jose Vasquez aka Cholo aka Little Crazy, 31, was sentenced to 25 years in prison followed by five years of supervised release. In May 2025, Vasquez pleaded guilty to violent crime in aid of racketeering. He was already serving a 212-month prison sentence for a May 2018 federal conviction for conspiracy to participate in a racketeering enterprise. In total, Vasquez will serve a total of 37 years for his MS-13-related crimes.

    William Pineda Portillo aka Humilde, 31, a Salvadoran national who was unlawfully residing in Everett, was sentenced to 16 years in prison followed by three years of supervised release. He is subject to deportation upon completion of his sentence. In May 2023, Pineda Portillo pleaded guilty to conspiracy to participate in a racketeering enterprise conspiracy.

    Homeland Security Investigations New England Special Agent in ChargeMichael J. Krol, U.S. Attorney Leah B. Foley, FBI Boston Special Agent in Charge Ted E. Docks, Massachusetts State Police Col. Geoffrey D. Noble, Somerville Police Chief Shumeane Benford and Chelsea Police Chief Keith Houghton made the announcement July 17.

    Pineda Portillo and Vazquez were indicted by a federal grand jury along with other MS-13 members in September 2024. Specifically, Pineda Portillo and Vasquez conspired with others to murder a 28-year-old man on Dec. 18, 2010, in Chelsea. That evening, law enforcement responded to a 911 call in the vicinity of the Fifth Street on-ramp to Route 1 in Chelsea. There, they found the victim with approximately 10 stab wounds to his chest and back, along with injuries to his head. The victim was transported to a hospital, where he succumbed to his wounds. A recent reexamination of evidence collected during the initial investigation identified members of MS-13, including Vasquez, as having committed the murder.

    In the week leading up to the incident, Vasquez and other MS-13 members conspired to murder the victim because they believed he belonged to a rival gang. Evidence revealed that on the day of the murder, Pineda Portillo picked up Vasquez, other MS-13 members and the victim in Allston. Driving a vehicle registered to his father, Pineda Portillo took the MS-13 members and the victim to Chelsea, where Vasquez and the other gang members led him to an area under an on-ramp to Route 1. Once in the secluded area under the highway, an MS-13 member hit the victim in the head with a rock and another MS-13 member stabbed him with a machete. During the attack, Vasquez stabbed the victim with a knife. Vasquez’s palm print was identified on the handle of a silver kitchen knife recovered from the murder scene. The victim’s blood was also found on the knife.

    An undercover recording obtained approximately six weeks after the murder captured one MS-13 member acknowledging his participation in the murder and other gang members disciplining him for leaving Massachusetts after the murder without the gang’s permission.

    Pineda Portillo fled to El Salvador before investigators could interview him about his role in the murder. On or about April 29, 2015, after Pineda Portillo returned to the U.S., he arranged to sell a firearm loaded with eight rounds of ammunition to a cooperating witness in exchange for money.

    On or about June 1, 2015, Pineda Portillo conspired to murder an MS-13 member he incorrectly believed had been arrested and was cooperating with law enforcement. Specifically, in a conversation recorded by law enforcement, Pineda Portillo said, among other things: “I want that son of a bitch killed, man … You will see, homeboy! We are going to do a complete thing to that son of a bitch, dude.”

    Pineda Portillo was originally indicted in 2017. Shortly before the indictment was returned, he was deported to El Salvador. Approximately five years later, on May 10, 2022, Pineda Portillo was arrested as he tried to return to the U.S, illegally crossing the border into Texas from Mexico.

    According to court documents, after being arrested at the border, Pineda Portillo admitted that he was a member of MS-13. A fingerprint analysis indicated there was a warrant for his arrest. Pineda Portillo was then returned to the District of Massachusetts, where he remained in custody.

    ATF Boston, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services and the Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office provided valuable assistance in this case.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Repeat offender sentenced to 20 years in prison for trafficking narcotics and laundering the proceeds

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    ALEXANDRIA, Va. – A Connecticut man was sentenced today to 20 years in prison for conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, conspiracy to import GBL with intent to manufacture GHB, and concealment money laundering.

    In May 2024, investigators learned that Hatem S. Salem, 56, was importing quantities of GBL, a precursor for the “date-rape” drug GHB, into Virginia from China. From August 2024 through January 2025, law enforcement conducted five controlled purchases of various controlled substances, including cocaine, ketamine, MDMA, and over 100 grams of meth from Salem.

    On Jan. 30, investigators searched Salem’s residence in Shelton, Connecticut. Agents recovered 151 grams of meth, 626 grams of cocaine, various quantities of Ketamine, MDMA, and LSD, bottles containing GBL and GHB, and 157 boxes containing nearly 1,200 liters of suspected GBL in Salem’s basement. As part of his guilty plea, Salem admitted that over 2,000 liters of GBL was involved in the importation conspiracy.  Investigators also discovered a clandestine lab in Salem’s shed that contained substances and equipment for manufacturing GHB. A financial investigation revealed that Salem used various methods, such as convoluted transactions between business and personal bank accounts, to conceal or disguise the proceeds from his drug conspiracy. Investigators seized assets constituting proceeds of Salem’s drug trafficking conspiracy and property involved in money laundering, including approximately $370,000 in cash and $171,500 in cryptocurrency.

    Salem has several prior federal narcotics-related convictions. In 1999, Salem was convicted for conspiracy to distribute anabolic steroids, distribution of anabolic steroids, and making false statements. In 2005, Salem was convicted for distribution of GBL and GHB while he was on probation for his 1999 conviction. In 2015, Salem was convicted for unlawful importation of GBL with intent to manufacture GHB.

    Erik S. Siebert, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia; Christopher Heck, Acting Special Agent in Charge of Immigration and Customs Enforcement Homeland Security Investigations (ICE HSI) Washington, D.C.; and Kevin Davis, Fairfax County Chief of Police, made the announcement after sentencing by Senior U.S. District Judge Claude M. Hilton.

    Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Lauren Hahn and Assistant U.S. Attorney Annie Zanobini prosecuted the case.

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

    A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 1:25-cr-105.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Robbers who vandalized ATMs so they could steal cash when repair technicians opened the machines, arrested in Mississippi

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Seattle – Two Texas men made initial appearances Thursday July 17, 2025, in U.S. District Court in Seattle charged with conspiracy to commit robbery for their scheme to steal from banks by assaulting and threatening ATM technicians, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Teal Luthy Miller. Ahmon Hogg, 22, of Humble Texas and Seth Coles-Body, 23, of Houston, were identified as part of a robbery ring operating across the country. The men would allegedly disable ATM machines with a glue-like substance and when the technician showed up to fix the machine, they would threaten the technician to give them the cash containers, called cassettes, from the ATM.

    In December 2024, the pair allegedly were part of a gang that disabled ATMs on December 23 and 24, when the machines would be loaded with cash for the Christmas holiday. The coconspirators disabled a Bank of America ATM in Renton with a glue-like substance that caused the card reader to stop functioning. After the technician arrived and began repairing the machine, he was forcibly confronted by two men who brandished a screwdriver and demanded he open the machine and provide them with the cash cassettes. The technician did not open the machine and after a scuffle the technician was able to escape. Bank surveillance video did capture images of the robber’s vehicle and clothing. The men were wearing masks.

    The next day in Vancouver, Washington a technician was sent to repair a Bank of America ATM on SE Mill Plain Boulevard. Again, a glue-like substance had been used to disable the card reader. The technician noticed the cash dispenser was also jammed. As she started repairs, two men ran up and shoved her out of the way and grabbed five cash cassettes filled with currency. The men fled in a car that matched one seen the previous day in connection with the attempted robbery in Renton. Some of the clothing worn by the suspects was also a match for the Renton attempted robbery.

    Authorities also learned that a Bank of America ATM was disabled that same day in Battleground Washington, not far from Vancouver.

    While the investigations were ongoing in Washington, Hogg and Coles-Body were identified in connection to ATM tampering cases on January 3, 2025, in the Phoenix, Arizona area. ATMs for Bank of America and Wells Fargo had been tampered with – a card covered in glue had been inserted into the machines. The FBI set up surveillance on the ATMs and ultimately spotted a car that bank images connected to the tampering. The car and its occupants appeared to be waiting for a technician to arrive at the ATM. Law enforcement stopped the car and was able to identify Hogg and Coles-Body. They were released from custody.

    On March 7, 2025, a technician at a Bank of America in Redmond, Washington, reported he had been robbed. He was working on a machine where once again the card reader was disabled by a glue-like substance. Once the machine was open, two robbers ran up and stole cash canisters filled with money from the machine. Five of the canisters were later recovered, damaged, on the shoulder of highway 520.  A few days later, Coles-Body was stopped by U.S. Border Patrol attempting to travel into Mexico by Greyhound bus with approximately $209,000 in cash. The cash was seized, and Coles-Body was released.

    A criminal complaint and warrant for arrest were sworn on July 2, 2025. The men were arrested in a traffic stop in Mississippi, with stolen firearms found in their car. They made an initial appearance in Jackson Mississippi federal court on July 3, 2025, and the Magistrate Judge ordered the Marshal Service to transport them to Seattle.

    Conspiracy to commit robbery is punishable by up to five years in prison.

    The charges contained in the criminal complaint are only allegations.  A person is presumed innocent unless and until he or she is proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    The case is being investigated by the FBI and the Columbia River Organized Crime Task Force. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Amanda McDowell.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Tri-Cities Registered Sex Offender Facing Federal Charges for Assaulting ICE Agents

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Richland, Washington – Acting United States Attorney Stephanie Van Marter announced that Victor Martin Lara-Lopez, age 41, has been charged by complaint with two counts of Assault on a Federal Officer. Lara-Lopez made his initial appearance in federal court on July 17, 2025.

    According to court documents and information presented in court, on the morning of June 13, 2025, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Deportation Officers attempted to detain Lara-Lopez on an Administrative Warrant for Arrest of an Alien. The officers spotted Lara-Lopez driving his F-350 truck in Pasco, Washington.

    The officers, driving two separate vehicles, activated the emergency lights on their vehicles, parked in front of and behind Lara-Lopez, then approached the driver side window. Both officers were wearing ICE-issued ballistic vests with “POLICE” patches on the front and back.

    The officers instructed Lara Lopez to roll down the window. Lara-Lopez only rolled the window halfway down and refused a request to turn off the vehicle or give his name or identification to the officers.

    Lara-Lopez then attempted to roll up the window. One of officers stepped on the vehicle’s running board and attempted to keep the window down. Lara-Lopez took the vehicle out of park and started to back up. Both officers struggled with Lara-Lopez through the half-closed window in an attempt to gain control of Lara-Lopez and the vehicle.

    After reversing a short distance, Lara-Lopez put the vehicle in drive and began to drive forward. Both ICE agents jumped backward to avoid being crushed between the F-350 and the agent’s parked vehicle. Lara-Lopez drove up on the sidewalk, struck the agent’s vehicle, then sped off. Both agents remained at the scene and did not pursue Lara-Lopez.

    One of the ICE agents had bruises on their arm from the altercation. The other agent experienced pain and loss of mobility in their left shoulder.

    Later that day, a federal complaint and arrest warrant were obtained for Lara-Lopez.  Federal law enforcement authorities sought, but were unable to locate, Lara-Lopez for approximately one month.  During this time, a Washington State Department of Corrections warrant was also issued for Lara-Lopez after he failed to report to his Community Corrections Officer.  Lara-Lopez was under supervision by the Washington State DOC due to a conviction from 2022 for Child Molestation in the Second Degree with the Aggravating Circumstance of Position of Trust for which Lara-Lopez was sentenced to 36 months of imprisonment to be followed by 36 months of supervision.  Lara-Lopez was also sentenced to a number of conditions, to include a prohibition on contact with minors.

    On July 15, 2025, Law enforcement identified the same F-350 driven by Lara-Lopez on June 13th, driving on Highway 12 between Walla Walla and Pasco, Washington. Officers stopped the truck and the driver, a female, and a juvenile exited the vehicle. Lara-Lopez was also in the vehicle, but refused to exit until he was advised that K9 unit had been called to respond to the scene.  Lara-Lopez then exited from the passenger door of the truck and was arrested by law enforcement.

    “Every day, law enforcement officers in this district go to work to protect our community.  Often, they must contact individuals with serious criminal histories who do not want to be apprehended and present a danger to our community. It is not uncommon for law enforcement to be assaulted in the course of doing the job, which is not lawful and should never be acceptable,” stated Acting United States Attorney Stephanie Van Marter. “My office will continue to hold those accountable who use violence in attempt to avoid arrest.”

    This case was investigated by the FBI. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Laurel J. Holland.

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

    4:25-mj-07126-ACE

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Jury Finds Defendant Guilty in Drug Trafficking Conspiracy and Weapons Charges

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    DENVER – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Colorado announces that a jury found Nathan James Meek of Colorado Springs guilty of one count of possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, one count of possession with intent to distribute cocaine, one count of possession with intent to distribute marijuana, one count of possession of a firearm by a previously convicted felon, and one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking.

    According to evidence presented at trial, Meek sold large quantities of narcotics in the Colorado Springs area, including methamphetamine and fentanyl. He was arrested on January 18, 2024, and investigators recovered a cellphone, a firearm, 10 fentanyl pills, 6.2 grams of methamphetamine, and over $3,000 in cash from his person and vehicle. Officers obtained a search warrant for Meek’s apartment and recovered 2,202 grams of methamphetamine, 131 grams of fentanyl, 80 grams of cocaine, 698 grams of marijuana, and three firearms. Meek’s cellphone contained records of drug-related communications dating from January 1, 2024, through the time of his arrest.

    The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Colorado Springs Police Department.  The prosecution was handled by Assistant United States Attorneys Garreth Winstead and Daniel McIntyre.

    Case Number:  24-cr-00082-RMR-1

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: New Orleans Man Sentenced for Federal Gun Charges

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that JOSHUA HOGAN, (“HOGAN”), age 36, was sentenced on, July 8, 2025, by United States District Judge Brandon S. Long, after previously pleading guilty to a six-count Superseding Bill of Information. Counts One and Two charged HOGAN with distribution of Fentanyl, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(C).  Counts Three and Four charged HOGAN with distribution of Fentanyl, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(B).  Count Five charged HOGAN with possession with intent to distribute Fentanyl, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(C). Count Six charged HOGAN with felon in possession of a firearm/ammunition, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(8).

    HOGAN was sentenced to 66 months imprisonment as to all six counts of his Superseding Bill of Information, such terms to be served concurrently. Judge Long also ordered that HOGAN be placed on supervised release for a total of four years. This term of supervised release consists of three years as to Counts One, Two, Five, and Six, and four years, as to Counts Three and Four. All such terms to be served concurrently. Also, HOGAN is ordered to pay a $600 mandatory special assessment fee.

    In August 2023, as part of Operation Big Easy, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) became aware of the identity of HOGAN, a narcotics trafficker. According to court records, on August 3, 2023, ATF arranged for contact with HOGAN on a phone number HOGAN had provided previously and arranged for the purchase of a half ounce of fentanyl.  HOGAN met with two individuals who he believed to be legitimate buyers in the 1300 block of Tonti Street and purchased 13.89 grams of a substance that later tested positive for heroin and fentanyl for $600.

    On August 7, 2023, ATF again arranged for contact with HOGAN to arrange the purchase of an ounce of fentanyl for $1450. Again, two individuals who he believed to be legitimate buyers, met with HOGAN at a residence on Lapeyrouse Street and purchased 28.11 grams of a substance that later tested positive for heroin and fentanyl for $1450.

    On August 10, 2023, an individual who he believed to be legitimate buyer, contacted HOGAN to arrange for the purchase of two ounces of fentanyl for $2500. The individuals met HOGAN at the Lapeyrouse Street residence and purchased 56.05 grams of a substance that later tested positive for heroin and fentanyl for $2500.

    On August 21, 2023, HOGAN was contacted by an individual who he believed to be legitimate buyer, to arrange for the purchase of two ounces of fentanyl for $2500. The individuals met HOGAN at the Lapeyrouse Street residence and purchased 55.40 grams of a substance that later tested positive for heroin and fentanyl for $2500.

    On October 18, 2023, ATF prepared to execute an arrest warrant for HOGAN.  ATF simultaneously executed a previously obtained search warrant for HOGAN’s residence on Lapeyrouse Street. Inside the residence, agents recovered an additional 4.3 grams of fentanyl and a Polymer 80, nine-millimeter caliber pistol, bearing no serial number and equipped with an extended magazine, as well as ammunition, on the dresser in HOGAN’s bedroom

    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.

    Acting U.S. Attorney Simpson praised the work of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Sarah Dawkins of the Violent Crime Unit.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Former Boston Teacher Indicted for Child Exploitation

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Defendant is believed to have communicated with at least 20 underage females around the world; Engaged in sexualized conversations while teaching in class

    BOSTON – A former science teacher at Josiah Quincy Upper School in Boston has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Boston for allegedly coercing or enticing at least one underage female to engage in sexual conversations online and requesting she produce and send child sexual abuse material (CSAM) of herself.

    John Magee Gavin, 35, of Brookline, was indicted on one count of coercion and enticement of a minor; one count of receipt of child pornography; and one count of possession of child pornography. The defendant is currently in state custody on related charges and will appear in federal court in Boston on July 21, 2025 at 10:45 a.m.

    According to court filings, Gavin is a former teacher at the Josiah Quincy Upper School in Boston. Prior to that, he was a 6th grade teacher at the Academy of the Pacific Rim Charter Public School in Hyde Park and was a paraprofessional with the Brookline Public Schools.

    In January 2025, Gavin was allegedly identified as the owner of a Discord account who messaged at least 20 underage females between the ages of 12 and 17 years old located throughout the country, including Georgia, Texas, Tennessee, West Virginia, North Carolina and Florida, as well as the United Kingdom and Canada. It is alleged that, in these chats, Gavin disclosed that he was a teacher, engaged in sexual conversations and often asked the minors to send him pictures of themselves engaged in sexually explicit conduct – knowing that the children were underaged. He was arrested by local authorities in February 2025 and charged in Brookline District Court with enticing a child under 16, possession of child pornography and other offenses.

    A forensic review of evidence seized from Gavin’s Brookline residence  allegedly revealed approximately 147 files (94 images and 53 videos) on his iPhone depicting CSAM. It is alleged that the CSAM depicted rape of both female and male minors, ranging in age from approximately five to 17 years old.

    Further analysis of Gavin’s Discord account identified numerous chats with underage females in which he allegedly engaged in online masturbation sessions with the minors, solicitated images from and exchanged images with the minors and engaged in sexualized conversations with the minors while he was at school. The chats also allegedly included conversations in which Gavin expressed his sexual interest in certain students at Josiah Quincy. In one conversation, Gavin allegedly discussed his sexual interest in a freshman student at the school where he was employed as a teacher and fantasied about having sex with her.

    The charge of coercion and enticement of a minor provides for a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years and up to life in prison, at least five years and up to a lifetime of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. The charge of receipt of child pornography provides for a mandatory minimum sentence of five years and up to 20 years in prison, at least five years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. The charge of possession of child pornography provides for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, at least five years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.

    Members of the public who have questions, concerns or information regarding this case should call 617-748-3274 or contact USAMA.VictimAssistance@usdoj.gov.

    United States Attorney Leah B. Foley and Ted E. Docks, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation Boston Division made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the Brookline Police Department; the Tennessee Bureau of Investigations; and the Norfolk County District Attorney’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Luke A. Goldworm, Project Safe Childhood Coordinator and a member of the Major Crimes Unit, is prosecuting the case.

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

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Fargo Man Sentenced to 40 Years in Federal Prison for a Large Dangerous Drug Distribution Enterprise and Distribution of Drugs Resulting in Death

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

    FARGO:  Acting United States Attorney Jennifer Klemetsrud Puhl announced that Karmen Charles Fox, age 34 of Fargo, ND, appeared in United States District Court today, and was sentenced by Chief Judge Peter Welte to serve 480 months in federal prison, followed by 20 years of supervised release for the offenses of Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute and Distribute 400 grams or more of Fentanyl (Count 1); Conspiracy to Commit Money Laundering (Count 2); Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance (Fentanyl) (Count 3); Distribution of a Controlled Substance Resulting In Death (Count 4); Distribution of a Controlled Substance (fentanyl) (Count 5); Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance (methamphetamine) (Count 7); and Possession of Firearms by a Convicted Felon (Count 9).  Fox was also ordered to pay a $700 Special Assessment.   

    As reflected in court documents, federal law enforcement responded to an overdose death on the Spirit Lake Indian Reservation, North Dakota.  A subsequent investigation revealed that Karmen Fox was the primary source of the pills that were ingested by the victim.  Fox sold fentanyl pills to individuals throughout North Dakota, including on the Spirit Lake Indian Reservation and Fort Berthold Indian Reservation for further distribution, including codefendants Scott Roberts (Roberts), Kristin Carrington (Carrington), Chasity Lynn Feather (Feather), Aiana Richotte (Richotte), among other coconspirators. Throughout the conspiracy, Fox and his codefendants used CashApp and other money transfer services to transfer the drug proceeds.

    In December 2022, Fox distributed more than 100 fentanyl pills to Feather and Richotte who in turn drove the pills from Fargo to Devils Lake for further distribution.  While in Devils Lake, Richotte and the overdose victim smoked a pill.  Thereafter, the victim returned to her residence on the Spirit Lake Indian Reservation where she later died.  After the victim was found unresponsive by her significant other, he called emergency medical personnel who unsuccessfully performed life-saving measures.  

    Law enforcement later obtained search warrants for Richotte and Feather’s hotel room in Devils Lake as well as Feather’s person.  Law enforcement seized $1,293 from Feather’s purse and approximately 175 fentanyl pills from Feather’s person.

    Further investigation of the coconspirators’ social media accounts revealed that Scott Roberts and Fox discussed having previously distributed “thousands” of pills.  They also discussed the arrests of Feather and Richotte in Devils Lake on December 13, 2022.  On November 21, 2023, a search warrant was executed on Fox’s residence in Fargo. Law enforcement seized approximately 25 grams of methamphetamine, two grams of heroin, three firearms, and 34 boxes of various ammunition.  Fox was prohibited from possessing firearms because of two prior felony convictions, including Attempted Delivery of Controlled Substance-Heroin.

    Following a jury trial, Fox was found guilty of the above-mentioned offenses on March 19, 2025.  Fox’s coconspirators plead guilty and were sentenced to federal prison for the following terms of incarceration:

    • Roberts was sentenced to 120 months
    • Carrington was sentenced to 42 months
    • Richotte was sentenced to 28 months
    • Feather is awaiting sentencing.

    “Today’s action reflects the significant prison sentence that awaits those who choose to infect our community with fentanyl, methamphetamines and illegal firearms,” said Special Agent in Charge Alvin M. Winston Sr. of FBI Minneapolis. “Drug dealers can’t hide from law enforcement in North Dakota, or anywhere in this country. The FBI is proud of our role in this joint effort with our federal, state and local law enforcement partners.”

    “The defendant prioritized financial gain over human life and it’s my hope that his sentence will serve as a stark warning to others who are engaging in the same conduct,” said Acting US Attorney Puhl. “If you distribute dangerous narcotics that result in overdose deaths, you will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law”.

    This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation; BIA, Lake Region Narcotics Task Force; North Dakota Crime Lab, BCI; Cass County Task Force; and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).  This case was prosecuted by the US Attorney’s Office, District of North Dakota.

    # # #

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Luján Presses Nominee for Assistant Secretary for Indian Affairs on Commitment to Fund and Complete the Navajo-Gallup Water Supply Project

    US Senate News:

    Source: US Senator for New Mexico Ben Ray Luján

    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), a member of the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs, questioned Mr. William Kirkland during a nomination hearing to be Assistant Secretary for Indian Affairs within the Department of the Interior. Specifically, Senator Luján pressed Mr. Kirkland on his commitment to support the Navajo-Gallup Water Supply Project, which the Trump administration fails to adequately fund.

    An excerpt of the exchange is available here and below:

    Senator Luján: Mr. Kirkland, do you know how many Navajo brothers and sisters are waiting to have water delivered from the Navajo-Gallup Water project?

    Mr. Kirkland: I can’t give you that.

    Senator Luján: I’ll give it to you. 250,000. Mr. Kirkland, do you know how many recognized Indian water rights settlements are in New Mexico?

    Mr. Kirkland: I’m sure you have that number for me, I look forward to hearing it.

    Senator Luján: I’ll share that with you. Mr. Kirkland, do you know how much funding is needed for the FY26 budget to keep the Navajo-Gallup Water project on track?

    Mr. Kirkland: I look forward to hearing.

    Senator Luján: $175 million. Do you know if this fails, it will be the first Indian water rights settlement to fail in America’s history?

    Mr. Kirkland: No sir, I was not aware of that.

    Senator Luján: It would be. Mr. Kirkland, do you know how much the President’s budget, President Donald Trump, allocated for the Navajo-Gallup Water project?

    Mr. Kirkland: Not offhand, no sir.

    Senator Luján: Zero dollars. Is that okay?

    Background:

    Senator Luján has long supported efforts to fund and complete the Navajo-Gallup Water Supply Project. Senator Luján secured $137 million for the project through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law toward the total authorized project cost.

    In August 2024, Senator Luján and the N.M. Delegation welcomed a $267 million Navajo-Gallup Water Supply Project contract to design and build the San Juan Lateral Water Treatment Plant in northwest New Mexico. The plant is the largest and most important feature of the Navajo-Gallup Water Supply Project.

    In January 2025, Senator Luján announced $120 million for Fiscal Year 2025 for the Navajo-Gallup Water Supply Project using funding from the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation’s Reclamation Water Settlements Fund. The original version of the Navajo-Gallup Water Supply Project Amendments Act was passed out of the Senate Indian Affairs Committee in November 2023. However, new legislation is required to authorize additional time and resources to complete the project and for its long-term, sustainable operations and maintenance.

    For more information about the Navajo-Gallup Water Supply Project, click here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Warnock, Ossoff Deliver Upgrades for Johns Creek’s Bridges and Sidewalks

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock – Georgia

    Johns Creek, GA — Today, U.S. Senators Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-GA) and Jon Ossoff (D-GA) announced new federal funding to upgrade bridges and sidewalks in Johns Creek.

    Senators Warnock and Ossoff secured a $12.8 million investment through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law’s Better Utilizing Investments to Leverage Development (BUILD) grant program to help Johns Creek replace two bridges, build new sidewalks and a multi-use trail, and upgrade drainage systems on Old Alabama Road over the Chattahoochee Tributary.

    “Smart investments in our communities can bridge any political divide. This infrastructure funding will revitalize key bridges in the Johns Creek community and continue to keep our friends, families, and neighbors connected. I am proud to have worked with Senator Ossoff to get it done and will continue to champion federal investments in Georgia,” said Senator Reverend Warnock.

    “Johns Creek residents deserve safe bridges and sidewalks, and I am pleased to deliver the funds for these vital quality of life upgrades,” said Senator Ossoff. “It has been a pleasure working with Johns Creek leadership to get this done.”

    “This grant will help us improve safety and connectivity in the City and will benefit quality of life for our community,” said John Bradberry, Mayor of Johns Creek. “I’m grateful to our Georgia Congressional leaders for their support of our selection. Projects like this one help make Johns Creek one of the best places to live in the nation.”

    Senators Warnock and Ossoff continue delivering resources to upgrade Georgia’s infrastructure. In May, the senators delivered more than $13 million in federal funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to upgrade and help maintain Georgia’s regional airports.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Republicans Push Forward with Energy and Water Funding Bill that Weakens Our National Security and Increases Energy Costs

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09)

    **STATE-BY-STATE FACT SHEET** Republicans Slash Vital Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE) Funding for States

    Washington, DC — Today, House Democrats exposed how Republicans’ Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Subcommittee 2026 funding bill increases costs for American households, undermines infrastructure investments, and weakens our national security.

    The bill:

    • Increases energy costs, jeopardizes energy independence, and hurts United States’ competitiveness by slashing the Department of Energy’s Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy programs nearly in half, revoking more than $5 Billion from the Department of Energy’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law resources, and eliminating funding for the Office of Clean Energy Demonstrations.
    • Weakens national security and leaves Americans more vulnerable to nuclear threats by cutting the National Nuclear Security Administration’s Defense Nuclear Nonproliferation account by 17 percent.
    • Abandons commitments to communities to clean up radioactive waste by eliminating funding for the Corps of Engineers’ Formerly Utilized Sites Remedial Action Program and cutting the Department of Energy’s Office of Environmental Management by 9 percent.

    “Sadly, this Republican Energy and Water bill did not have bipartisan input, and does not meet the moment to set the course for our nation’s future in the new age frontiers of energy and water,” Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Subcommittee Ranking Member Marcy Kaptur (OH-09) said. “This bill cedes American leadership in the global energy race to adversaries including the Chinese Communist Party. It weakens vital nuclear nonproliferation programs that help keep our country and world safe. By turning their backs on communities suffering from the long lasting impact of our early atomic weapons programs, Republicans show the callous disregard they have for America’s forgotten communities. We must invest in energy independence in perpetuity — or we will live to regret it, as our children and grandchildren inherit a future devoid of opportunity. The passage of this ill considered, and careless bill will hurt our communities from coast to coast, and is a true disservice to all the generations to come.”

    Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur’s full remarks are here.

    “House Republicans are wrapping up a long, chaotic week by advancing yet another funding bill that increases costs. This time, they are raising energy costs for American families and businesses,” Appropriations Committee Ranking Member Rosa DeLauro (CT-03) said. “Their cut of nearly half the budget for Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy is a direct attack on the programs that lower energy bills for working families, create good-paying jobs in our communities, and keep America competitive. Republicans’ funding bill undermines the very programs that help us stop the spread of nuclear weapons, detect nuclear activity, and uphold arms control efforts that make America and the world safer – and it underfunds efforts to clean up sites contaminated by our nation’s early atomic energy program. Instead of working with Democrats to lower prices and invest in technology that promotes our energy independence, House Republicans are pushing a bill that raises energy costs for families and businesses and eliminates good-paying jobs.”

    During today’s markup, Democrats fought to make changes to Republicans’ bill, including to:

    • Prohibit the implementation of tariffs that would raise consumer energy prices.
    • Prevent the Department of Energy and other agencies from terminating critical projects simply based on the alignment with administration policies.
    • Prohibit the Republican’s Bonanza for Billionaires efforts to modify or terminate clean energy tax credits.
    • Increase funds for the Advanced Research Projects Agency – Energy (ARPA-E).

    These changes were rejected by House Republicans.

    A summary of the bill is here. A fact sheet is here.
    The text of the bill, before the adoption of amendments in full committee, is here. The bill report, before the adoption of amendments in full Committee, is here. Information on Community Project Funding in the bill is here.
    A state-by-state breakdown of the amount of funding House Republicans are trying to slash from the Department of Energy’s Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE) programs is here.

    # # #

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Hong Kong: Prison rule changes mark ‘dangerous erosion’ of prisoners’ rights

    Source: Amnesty International –

    Amendment allows Government to impose punitive conditions on people who have not been convicted of any crime

    ‘The overly broad definition of national security …. is now being weaponised to further isolate those already behind bars’ – Fernando Cheung

    Today, the Hong Kong government introduced immediate changes to the Prison Rules, granting the Correctional Services Department broad powers to restrict prisoners’ visits and meetings with lawyers – citing vague grounds such as safeguarding national security.

    In response, Fernando Cheung, Amnesty International Hong Kong Overseas’ spokesperson, said:

    “The latest prison rule amendments grant Correctional Services Department sweeping powers to ban visits on vague ‘national security’ grounds.

    “This represents a dangerous erosion of the right of detainees to communicate with the outside world and to receive visits from family, friends, and lawyers.

    “These changes strike at the heart of fair trial rights. When authorities can restrict lawyer visits citing national security, they’re effectively denying detainees the right to call upon legal assistance of their own choosing, as well as adequate time and facilities to prepare their defence and to communicate with counsel of their own choosing.

    “The Hong Kong government is undermining guarantees under international law by cancelling the policy that allowed remand detainees to receive meals and clothing from outside sources.

    “In the context of national security cases, where most defendants are denied bail and held in prolonged pre-trial detention, this amendment allows the Government to impose punitive conditions on individuals who have not been convicted of any crime.

    “The overly broad definition of national security introduced through the Beijing imposed National Security Law is now being weaponised to further isolate those already behind bars.”

    Further crushing of people’s rights

    This amendment undermines protection guaranteed under the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.

    On the fifth anniversary of the National Security Law’s enactment last month, Amnesty published research revealing that more than 80% of people convicted under the law have been wrongly criminalised and should never have been charged in the first place.

    View latest press releases

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Smithfield Man Pleads Guilty to Possessing Over 150 Improvised Explosive Devices and an Unregistered Short Barrel Rifle

    Source: US FBI

    NORFOLK, Va. – A Smithfield man pled guilty today to possession of an unregistered short barrel rifle and possession of an unregistered destructive device.

    According to court documents, on July 31, 2021, Brad Kenneth Spafford, 36, was admitted to an emergency room with a completely amputated right thumb, partially amputated right middle and index fingers, hearing loss, and scalp lacerations. Spafford falsely told the hospital his injuries were caused by fireworks. An investigation later revealed that Spafford’s injuries resulted from his misfire of a launcher at a family member’s rural property where Spafford routinely detonated explosives he made.

    On Dec. 17, 2024, law enforcement arrested Spafford for possession of an unregistered short barrel rifle. Immediately following Spafford’s arrest, law enforcement searched his Smithfield property and vehicles. Agents recovered an unregistered short barrel rifle and ammunition compatible with the rifle. Agents also found approximately 155 improvised explosive devices (IEDs) that appeared to be homemade pipe bombs. Some of the IEDs had handwritten identification on them, including “lethal” and “concussion.”

    Among the IEDs analyzed were propellant capabilities consistent with use in a launcher and IEDs capable of causing property damage, personal injury, or death. Investigators also recovered bomb-making equipment, along with riot gear, Tannerite, two empty grenade canisters, an improvised mine, precursor chemicals for explosive materials, and numerous rounds of homemade ammunition.

    Spafford is scheduled to be sentenced on Dec. 18 and faces up to 10 years in prison for each charge. Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    Erik S. Siebert, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, and Dominique Evans, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Norfolk Field Office, made the announcement after U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert J. Krask accepted the plea.

    The Suffolk Police Department, Norfolk Bomb Squad, Virginia State Police, Isle of Wight County Fire Rescue, and Isle of Wight Sheriff’s Office assisted in the investigation, with continued support from the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force in Norfolk.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Rebecca Gantt and Luke Bresnahan are prosecuting the case.

    A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:25-cr-3.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Three Defendants Sentenced to Combined 24 Years in Federal Prison for Armed Carjacking

    Source: US FBI

    CLEVELAND – The last of three defendants involved in a 2021 carjacking and kidnapping was sentenced this week. Anton Woodley, 22, Cashaun Woodley, 24, and Lavontay Johnson, 23, all of Cleveland, each previously pleaded guilty to carjacking after they used firearms to drive an individual around the city so they could steal his money and take his motor vehicle by force.

    Court documents show that on Dec. 12, 2021, a male victim visiting downtown Cleveland met two women who suggested they visit a nearby apartment building. After arriving, one of the women contacted the defendants to tell them about the man she had just met. She then worked out a plan to help them rob him. The Woodley brothers and Johnson traveled to the apartment and waited outside for the male victim to exit the building. When the victim appeared and walked out to his vehicle, the Woodley brothers and Johnson ambushed him at gunpoint. They pressed a pistol up against the back of his head and ordered him into the backseat of his car. The defendants abducted the victim and entered the car, with the Woodley brothers flanking the victim with guns while Johnson drove away.

    With a gun pressed into his side, the defendants demanded money from the victim. They forced him to transfer several hundred dollars out of his accounts and disclose his financial information on his cellphone. After some time driving around the east side of Cleveland, they released the victim on East 80th Street and then sped away in his vehicle.

    The victim’s car was recovered later that month when Garfield Heights police chased Johnson. As he fled the stolen vehicle on foot, officers found a Glock 23, 40 caliber pistol in Johnson’s flight path.

    U.S. District Court Judge Pamela A. Barker imposed the following sentences:

    • Anton Woodley was sentenced July 15, 2025, to 78 months (6.5 years) in prison, followed by three years of supervised release after imprisonment.
    • Lavontay Johnson was sentenced March 13, 2025, to 120 months (10 years) in prison, followed by three years of supervised release after imprisonment.
    • Cashaun Woodley was sentenced Dec. 19, 2024, to 100 months (8.3 years) in prison, followed by three years of supervised release. 

    Each defendant was ordered to pay $1,240 in restitution. This investigation was conducted by the FBI Cleveland Division, Cleveland Division of Police, and the Garfield Heights Police Department.

    Assistant United States Attorney Adam J. Joines prosecuted the case for the Northern District of Ohio.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Missouri Man Sentenced for Possessing Child Pornography

    Source: US FBI

    TULSA, Okla. – A Warrensburg, Missouri man was sentenced today for Possession of Child Pornography, announced U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson.

    U.S. District Judge Gregory K. Frizzell sentenced Jimmie Lloyd Skelton, 34, to 168 months imprisonment, followed by 15 years of supervised release. Upon his release, Skelton will also be required to register as a sex offender.

    According to court documents, the Claremore Police Department responded to a report of child exploitation. The homeowner found Skelton masturbating to a video of a child under 12 years old. When law enforcement searched the home, they found several electronic devices owned by Skelton. Investigators found videos that Skelton recorded secretly of the child victim.

    Skelton will remain in custody pending transfer to the U.S. Bureau of Prisons.

    The FBI and the Claremore Police Department investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Scott Dunn and Stacey Todd prosecuted the case.

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Armenian National Extradited to the United States Faces Federal Charges for Ransomware Extortion Conspiracy

    Source: US FBI

    PORTLAND, Ore.—An Armenian national extradited from Ukraine to the United States faces federal charges for his role in Ryuk ransomware attacks and extortion conspiracy targeting companies throughout the United States, including a technology company operating in Oregon.

    Karen Serobovich Vardanyan, 33, an Armenian national, has been charged with conspiracy, fraud in connection with computers, and extortion in connection with computers. Vardanyan was extradited from Ukraine to the United States on June 18, 2025.

    Levon Georgiyovych Avetisyan, 45, an Armenian national, has been charged with conspiracy, fraud in connection with computers, and extortion in connection with computers. Avetisyan is the subject of a United States extradition request in France. 

    Oleg Nikolayevich Lyulyava, 53, and Andrii Leonydovich Prykhodchenko, 53, both Ukrainian nationals, have been charged with conspiracy, fraud in connection with computers, and extortion in connection with computers. Lyulyava and Prykhodchenko are not in custody.

    According to court documents, between March 2019 and September 2020, Vardanyan and co-conspirators are alleged to have illegally accessed computer networks of victim companies to deploy Ryuk ransomware on hundreds of compromised servers and workstations. Ryuk ransomware is a type of malicious software designed to encrypt data on a victim’s computer or network and prevents the victim from accessing the encrypted files until a ransom is paid.

    Ryuk has been used to target thousands of victims worldwide across a variety of sectors, including private industry, state and local municipalities, local school districts, critical infrastructure, and hospitals and other healthcare services and providers. Ryuk attacks have severely disrupted these entities’ abilities to function by restricting access to data and impacting communications.

    As part of the scheme, ransom payments were extorted from victim companies in exchange for decryption keys to regain access to their data. A ransom note was placed on the computer systems demanding ransom payments in Bitcoin, a form of cryptocurrency, and provided an email address that victims could use to communicate with the cybercriminals. Vardanyan and co-conspirators are alleged to have received approximately 1,610 bitcoins in ransom payments from the victim companies, which was valued at over $15 million at the time of payment.

    Vardanyan made his first appearance in federal court June 20, 2025, before a U.S. Magistrate Judge. He was arraigned, pleaded not guilty, and ordered detained pending a seven-day jury trial scheduled to begin on August 26, 2025.

    If convicted, Vardanyan faces a maximum sentence of five years in federal prison, three years’ supervised release, and a fine of $250,000 for each count.

    The case is being investigated by the FBI. It is being prosecuted by Katherine A. Rykken, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.

    The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs provided significant assistance in securing Vardanyan’s arrest and extradition from Ukraine. The U.S. Attorney’s Office thanks the Ukrainian authorities for their assistance in this matter.

    An indictment is only an accusation of a crime, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Former Coach and Missouri Middle School Teacher Sentenced for Coercing, Enticing, and Sexually Abusing a Minor Child

    Source: US FBI

    TULSA, Okla. – A former coach and middle school teacher was sentenced today for six counts related to child exploitation and sexual abuse of a minor child, announced U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson. 

    U.S. District Judge Sara E. Hill sentenced Ronald Dale Sanders, 57, of Belton, Missouri, for Travel with Intent to Engage in Illicit Sexual Conduct, Sexual Abuse of a Minor in Indian Country, Abusive Sexual Contact with a Minor in Indian Country, Tampering with Evidence by Corrupt Persuasion, Coercion and Enticement of a Minor, and Production of Child Pornography.

    Judge Hill ordered Sanders to serve 360 months’ imprisonment, followed by lifetime supervision. Upon his release, Sanders will also be required to register as a sex offender.

    “Sanders is a dangerous child predator and every parent’s worst nightmare,” said U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson. “His career in teaching and coaching put him in a position to manipulate and exploit a minor child and their family to fulfill his sexual desires.”

    “As a teacher, the defendant held a position of trust in the eyes of his victim and the community. He violated that trust by exploiting a former student for his own sexual gratification,” said FBI Oklahoma City Acting Special Agent in Charge Joe Ogden. “There is no place in our society for predators like Ronald Sanders, and the FBI will continue to work tirelessly with our law enforcement partners to ensure they face justice.”

    On several occasions between August 2023 and October 2023, Sanders admitted to driving from Missouri to Oklahoma to engage in sexual acts with a 14-year-old. Court records show that Sanders began messaging with a former 6th-grade student through social media. The messages quickly turned into inappropriate sexual conversations, and he coerced the minor child to send him sexually explicit photos. Sanders manipulated the minor child into believing that they were in a relationship and to delete messages or deny their relationship if anyone asked. He purchased gifts for the minor child, including lingerie and a ring with Sanders’ initials on it.

    Court records show that Sanders’ employment career included teaching special education, middle school education, and coaching boys’ and girls’ teams. He used that background to insert himself into the minor child’s life by claiming he was a tutor and befriending the child’s family, attending school football games, and visiting the minor child during school. In October, one of the minor child’s parents caught Sanders outside their house late at night. When the parent attempted to confront Sanders, he hit their vehicle and sped off. The parent followed Sanders and called 911.

    Ottawa County Sheriff’s Office and the Oklahoma Highway Patrol pulled over Sanders. He had alcohol and sex toys inside his vehicle. The investigation revealed that Sanders was blatant in his pursuit of the minor child and that he had 1,000’s of messages with the minor child that contained sexually explicit material.

    Sanders will remain in custody pending transfer to the U.S. Bureau of Prisons.

    The FBI, the Miami Police Department, the Ottawa County Sheriff’s Office, and the Oklahoma Highway Patrol investigated the case. Miami Public Schools played a significant role in the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Alicia Hockenbury and Valeria Luster prosecuted the case.

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Honduran National Charged with Resisting, Assaulting, and Injuring ICE Officer During Traffic Stop

    Source: US FBI

    OKLAHOMA CITY – Today, JOSE MELGAR-RIVAS, 34, of Honduras, was charged by Complaint with assaulting, resisting, or impeding a federal officer resulting in bodily injury, announced U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.

    According to the Complaint, on July 15, 2025, officers with the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) pulled over a vehicle on NW 23rd Street in Oklahoma City. The driver, Melgar-Rivas, was a Honduran national and an ICE fugitive. The Complaint alleges that Melgar-Rivas refused the officer’s demands to exit the vehicle, and, as officers attempted to remove Melgar-Rivas from the vehicle, a struggle ensued. During the struggle, Melgar-Rivas put the vehicle into drive and fled the scene. As the vehicle accelerated, an ICE officer became trapped in the door of the vehicle, which caused the officer to be dragged down the road. The officer ultimately freed himself from the vehicle but sustained several injuries. Melgar-Rivas, who fled the scene, was arrested several hours later.

    “Ensuring the safety of law enforcement personnel in executing their lawful duties is paramount, and it remains a top priority of the Justice Department,” said United States Attorney Robert J. Troester. “Those who assault or interfere with members of law enforcement for simply doing their job enforcing the law must and will be held accountable.”

    “Those who assault federal officers will face swift and stern accountability for their actions,” said Travis Pickard, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Dallas Special Agent in Charge over North Texas and Oklahoma. “Violence and any threats of violence to a federal officer in the performance of their duties will result in an immediate and collaborative law enforcement response to track down the perpetrator.”

    “Assaults on federal agents will not be tolerated by the FBI,” said FBI Oklahoma City Acting Special Agent in Charge Joe Ogden. “We will continue to aggressively support and defend our fellow public servants so they can safely carry out their sworn duties.”

    If found guilty, Melgar-Rivas faces up to 20 years in federal prison, and a fine of up to $250,000.

    Melgar-Rivas appeared today in U.S. District Court in Oklahoma City and was ordered to be detained in federal custody pending further proceedings.

    The public is reminded this charge is merely an allegation, and that Melgar-Rivas is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

    This case is the result of an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations, the FBI Oklahoma City Field Office, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Removal Operations, and the Oklahoma City Police Department, with assistance from the U.S. Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Tiffany Edgmon is prosecuting the case.

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

    Reference is made to public filings for additional information.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Eight Young Mob Gang Members Indicted in Memphis on Racketeering, Murder, Robbery, Firearm and Drug Charges

    Source: United States Department of Justice Criminal Division

     Larry Wilson, of Memphis, Tennessee, made his initial appearance in federal court today for his role in Young Mob (YM), a violent street gang that allegedly commits crimes including murder, assault, arson, drug trafficking, kidnapping, robbery, and narcotics trafficking. Wilson is the last of eight Young Mob defendants charged to make his initial appearance related to this case.

    “As alleged, this gang shot and killed a member of a rival gang in a restaurant drive-through and robbed customers at gunpoint at another Memphis establishment, recklessly endangering innocent bystanders,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Matthew R. Galeotti of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “Gang violence that spills into our community spreads fear and insecurity in our neighborhoods. The Criminal Division, in partnership with our federal and local law enforcement colleagues, remains steadfast in our pursuit of gangs that inflict senseless violence in our country.”

    “This gang engaged in numerous unlawful activities, including acts of extreme violence, which demonstrated a blatant disregard for human life,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Jason Stankiewicz of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). “Through a coordinated effort, the ATF and its local, state, and federal partners worked tirelessly to dismantle the organization and ensure that its members are held accountable.”

    Larry Wilson, 35, Brian Lackland, 35, Paul Nelson, 32, Mohamed Samba, 25, Braxton Beck, 33, Edgar Smith, 39, Jerrod Cox, 32, and Cedric Jackson, 33, all Tennessee residents, were charged for their membership and association with YM. YM members signify their membership by wearing red and/or black clothing and jewelry with an “Eight Ball” or the letters YM or YMM. YM members and recruits are required to commit acts of violence to gain membership and maintain their status in the gang.

    On May 28, 2022, Samba and other, not-yet-identified, YM members, shot suspected rival KSBG gang members ─ murdering one and attempting to murder two others ─ in a McDonald’s restaurant drive-through in Memphis. After the shootings, YM members burned the stolen car used in the shooting.

    The indictment further alleges that on May 13, 2023, at Tug’s Casual Grill, a Memphis restaurant, Nelson, Cox, and another unnamed YM member robbed customers at gunpoint. The unnamed member was shot and killed. Nelson and Cox left the mortally wounded man in a nearby fire station parking lot and then drove their stolen vehicle to another location and burned it. 

    The indictment also alleges that on March 17, 2024, Lackland and Beck attempted the murder of a suspected gang rival, which was thwarted in part due to police presence in the area. In addition, on June 11 and June 12, 2024, Lackland, Wilson, Beck, and Jackson attempted to rob customers at a Memphis tattoo shop before abandoning the scene because of police presence. Undeterred, the same group, along with Smith this time, returned to the tattoo shop after police left the area and robbed multiple customers.

    As alleged, YM receives money and income from drug trafficking, kidnappings, and robberies. Such funds are used for gang purposes, including obtaining weapons and narcotics and providing support for YM gang members, including those in prison serving time for various crimes. YM also receives money and income from various musical interests, with defendant Lackland being a well-known rapper who goes by the stage name “Stupid Duke.”

    YM members and associates are also separately charged as part of a drug conspiracy that was responsible for the distribution of 400 grams or more of fentanyl and 500 grams or more of methamphetamine. Multiple members are also charged with various firearm offenses.  

    If convicted, Lackland, Samba, Nelson, Smith, and Cox face a maximum penalty of life in prison. If convicted, Wilson faces a maximum penalty of 60 years in prison, Beck faces a maximum penalty of 45 years in prison, and Jackson faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison.

    The ATF, Memphis Multi-Agency Gang Unit, and Memphis Police Homicide Unit are investigating the case.

    Trial Attorneys Brian P. Leaming and Amanda Kotula of the Criminal Division’s Violent Crime and Racketeering Section (VCRS) and Assistant U.S. Attorney P. Neal Oldham for the Western District of Tennessee are prosecuting the case.

    This case is part of the Criminal Division’s Violent Crime Initiative in Memphis conducted in partnership with the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the Western District of Tennessee and local, state, and federal law enforcement. The joint effort addresses violent crime by employing, where appropriate, federal laws to prosecute gang members and their associates in Memphis.

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Peters Secures Funding to Strengthen Public Safety, Michigan Manufacturing, and Great Lakes Protections in Appropriations Bill

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Michigan Gary Peters

    WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) helped secure funding in the Fiscal Year 2026 Commerce, Justice, Science and Related Agencies Appropriations Act to fund Michigan priorities, high-impact local projects, and federal programs that support manufacturing, our environment and Great Lakes, public safety, law enforcement, and cutting-edge research.

    “This bipartisan legislation advances critical projects in Michigan and across the country,” said Senator Peters. “The bill makes needed investments to strengthen public safety, support local law enforcement, and boost Michigan’s economic competitiveness. It will also help safeguard our state’s precious natural resources and the Great Lakes for future generations. I’m proud to have helped secure this funding and will keep working to get it across the finish line.”

    Meanwhile, the House of Representatives is considering their own funding bills. The Senate and House will then need to reach an agreement on a final funding bill and have it pass both chambers before being sent to the President to be signed into law.

    The bill includes numerous measures led and supported by Peters, including:

    Strengthening Michigan’s Manufacturing Sector

    Preventing Illegal Trump Administration Cuts to Manufacturing Programs: The bill included language Senator Peters authored to prevent the Department of Commerce from unilaterally defunding or withdrawing contracts from Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) Programs – like the Michigan Manufacturing Technology Center. The bill also includes $175 million for the MEP program despite the Trump Administration’s budget proposal to eliminate it. This program helps small and medium manufacturers grow their business, integrate advanced manufacturing techniques and technology, and works to strengthen our domestic manufacturing supply chain. For every dollar of federal investment, MEP generates $24.60 in new sales growth for manufacturers and $27.50 in new investment. This translates into $4.3 billion in new sales annually. In 2024, the Michigan Manufacturing Tech Center estimated they helped 584 businesses produce over $150 million in sales growth and over $100 million in investments. For every $1 of a company’s investment, the Center returns $18 in financial returns.

    Addressing Unfair Chinese Trade Practices: Peters secured language in the bill recognizing that non-allied nations like China are becoming large global exporters of electric vehicles and underscoring a concern that these electric vehicles will soon flood the U.S. market. Some Chinese motor vehicle producers are seeking to establish manufacturing plants in Mexico and other strategic locations to sidestep U.S. tariffs. Peters’ provision in the bill directs the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR), in consultation with other relevant departments and agencies, to examine non-allied nations’ non-market policies and practices related to electric vehicles, including policies that prevent U.S auto manufacturers from competing in their markets on a level playing field.

    USMCA: In the summer of 2026, the United States’ trade agreement with Mexico and Canada will undergo a mandatory review period. Peters secured language directing the Office of the United States Trade Representative to pursue changes to the agreement that will improve the agreement’s labor standards, prevent China from taking advantage of it, and onshore more manufacturing jobs throughout the United States, including Michigan.

    National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST): The bill invests heavily in the National Institute of Standards and Technology. These resources will help NIST advance research in cutting-edge fields like carbon dioxide removal, artificial intelligence, quantum information science, and cybersecurity. NIST will also develop standards, tools, and tests to help ensure AI systems operate safely.

    Making Michigan Communities Safer

    PAWS Act: Peters secured $3 million in the Fiscal Year 2026?Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act for the Emergency and Transitional Pet Shelter and Housing Assistance Grant Program, which was established by Peters’ Pet and Women Safety (PAWS) Act. The grant program, administered by the Department of Justice, provides emergency and transitional shelter options for domestic violence survivors with companion animals. Peters secured language in the Commerce, Justice, Science and Related Agencies Appropriations Act encouraging the Department of Justice to continue providing robust funding for grants under the program.

    Project Safe Neighborhood: Peters secured funding in the bill for the Project Safe Neighborhoods initiative – a nationwide law enforcement program that uses evidence-based and data-driven approaches to reduce violent crime. Last Congress, the Senate passed Peters’ bipartisan legislationto reauthorize the Project Safe Neighborhoods program.

    Promoting Community Policing in Oakland County: The bill includes $1 million to modernize Oakland County’s Courts and Law Enforcement Management Information Systems (CLEMIS), which will improve transparency of law enforcement activity and promote community policing.

    Improving Criminal Investigation in Van Buren County: Peters secured $576,000 in the bill for Van Buren County to support purchase of rapid-processing DNA technology, which will reduce a current backlog and enable crimes to be solved more efficiently.

    Purchasing New Patrol Vehicles in Kalamazoo: The bill includes $490,000 to help the City of Kalamazoo upgrade its public safety vehicles, which will allow personnel to respond to service calls safely and efficiently.

    Making Road Patrols Safer in Oakland County: The bill would provide $26,000 for the Oakland County Sherriff’s Office to purchase safety equipment for motorcycle patrol officers.

    Supporting Safe Traffic Stops in Warren: Peters secured $38,000 in the bill to help the City of Warren Police Department purchase new safety equipment to aid officers during traffic stops and investigations.

    Improving the Health of the Great Lakes: The bill includes $1,500,000 for the Great Lakes Commission to improve the health of the Great Lakes. Specifically, funding will help address water quality, nutrient pollution, harmful algal blooms, aquatic invasive species, and coastal management throughout the Great Lakes region.

    Upgrading Police Communications in Marquette: The bill would provide $264,000 for the City of Marquette to purchase new portable radios, which would improve emergency response for Marquette Police Department officers.

    Upgrading Aging Patrol Vehicle Fleet in Houghton: The bill includes $385,000 for the City of Houghton to purchase new police patrol vehicles, helping to improve emergency response throughout the region.

    Bolstering AI Research to Help Small and Medium Sized Manufacturers: Senator Peters secured $2,000,000 in this bill to support Michigan Tech’s research into and deployment of AI standards and practices that would help boost small and medium manufacturers in Michigan.

    Westland Police Technology Update: The bill also includes $100,000 to upgrade aging computer systems in police squad cars in Westland.

    Preventing Violence Against Women: The bill contains increased funding for the Office on Violence Against Women (OVW) and its lifesaving programs. Grants from OVW programs support training for police officers, state domestic violence and sexual assault coalitions, rape prevention programs, homicide reduction initiatives, domestic violence hotlines, women’s shelters, transitional housing, and rural support services. In addition, Peters secured language in the bill directing the Department of Justice to develop best practices, in consultation with Middle Eastern and North African (MENA) community-based organizations, for the investigation and prosecution of violence against MENA women.

    Improving Police-Community Relations: The bill provides funding for State and Local Law Enforcement Assistance and Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) Office grant programs which aim to strengthen police-community relations.

    Addressing Substance Use Disorder in Our Communities: The bill provides significant funding to help our communities and first responders address substance use disorders, including opioids, and to address drug trafficking.

    Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) Program: Peters helped secure funding for the Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) program. This program is critical to thousands of abused or neglected children who have highly trained and extremely dedicated advocates appointed on their behalf, and to child victims who are still waiting for the presence of a consistent, caring adult to speak for their best interests in the courtroom and in the community. This funding will help improve outcomes for every abused and neglected child, as was the intention of Congress when it enacted the Victims of Child Abuse Act of 1990.

    Investing in Sustainable Solutions to Protect Michigan’s Environment, Natural Resources

    Great Lakes Environmental Research Laboratory: The bill provides funding for the Great Lakes Environmental Research Lab (GLERL), which studies the dynamic environments and ecosystems of the Great Lakes. The work produced and shared by GLERL informs local decisions for safe and sustainable resource management throughout the Great Lakes Basin. GLERL research also plays a crucial role in the work carried out by the Coast Guard’s Center of Expertise for Oil Spill Preparedness and Response in Sault Ste Marie. Peters secured language in the bill recognizing the importance of continued support for the work of the Great Lakes Center of Expertise for Oil Spill Preparedness and Response, which examines the impacts of oil spills in freshwater environments and develops effective responses. Peters-led efforts made the Great Lakes Center of Expertise a reality. Peters authored and passed legislation into law establishing the Great Lakes Center of Expertise in 2018, and then successfully secured $4.5 million in total to kick-start the initiative the following year. Peters then announced the Great Lakes Center of Expertise will be headquartered in two Michigan locations to maximize research and operational capabilities. As a member of the Appropriations Committee, Peters has continued to secure funding to support the Center’s work.

    Great Lakes Monitoring: The U.S. Integrated Ocean Observing System (IOOS) is the nation’s premier ocean, coasts, and Great Lakes observing program. The bill provides funding to fill critical gaps in our nation’s ocean and Great Lakes observation infrastructure. It will also ensure the availability of coastal data to inform management decisions on oil spill planning and response, navigation safety, fisheries management, and harmful algal blooms.

    Addressing Harmful Algal Blooms: The bill supports the National Ocean Service’s research on harmful algal blooms (HABs). This funding is vital to preserving the health of the Great Lakes, which provide drinking water to more than 40 million people; support a $16 billion recreational boating industry; and draw 37 million anglers, hunters, and bird watchers each year. HABs, which produce toxic or harmful effects on people and wildlife, have been reported in the Great Lakes and in every U.S. coastal state. According to NOAA, their occurrence may be on the rise.

    Coastal Zone Management Grants: This bill provides much-needed funding for NOAA’s Coastal Zone Management Program, which provides grants to states with approved coastal zone management plans for the protection, restoration, and enhancement of coastal zone areas, including those in the Great Lakes region. All eight Great Lakes states have active Coastal Zone Management programs committed to preserving the health of the Lakes and the $6 trillion regional economy they help sustain. This unique program is essential to the economic and ecological importance of our coastlines and Great Lakes shorelines while supporting state and local efforts to address critical management issues such as coastal hazards, habitat, and water quality.

    Marine Debris Program: The NOAA Marine Debris Program is a joint effort that supports national and international efforts to prevent, identify, and reduce the occurrence of marine debris. The program leverages resources from state and local agencies, tribes, non-governmental organizations, academia, and industry for innovative research, outreach, and education initiatives. This bill provides funding to allow this important work to continue.

    Improving the Census Process to Ensure Michigan Communities Are Accurately Represented

    Census Bureau: The bill provides funding for the U.S. Census Bureau, however, it provides less funding than is required to meet the needs of the upcoming 2030 decennial census. The census and other key federal surveys are tied to important outcomes for communities in Michigan and across the country, including federal resources for education, health care and infrastructure. The resources allocated by this bill will give the Census Bureau the tools it needs to prepare for the 2030 Census, produce critical economic data, and ensure the public can access high-quality data that keeps pace with the needs of our nation. This funding is essential to ensuring the Bureau does not fall behind on crucial preparations and can control long-term costs. The Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, where Peters serves as Ranking Member, is responsible for conducting oversight of the Census Bureau. Peters previously convened a hearing in downtown Detroit to examine impacts of the 2020 Census on Michigan. Peters also convened a hearing in 2021 with senior federal officials to examine how lawmakers can work to improve operations at the Census Bureau. Peters has also pressed the Census Bureau to ensure it addresses 2020 Census undercounts and improves annual population data.

    Investing in Science, Innovation, and the STEM Workforce

    Michigan Technological University AI Program: Peters secured $2.5 million in funding from the Safe and Secure AI Manufacturing Implementation Program for Michigan Technological University to support research into and deployment of AI standards and practices to support small and medium manufacturers.

    National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA): The bill provides continued funding for key NASA science and STEM education programs that support cutting edge research and scholarships at Michigan’s Universities. The STEM education programs also strengthen our aerospace workforce pipeline. These programs were partially eliminated under the Trump Administration’s budget request.,

    Fully Fund the Artemis Space Mission: This bill includes full funding that Senator Peters’ championed for the Artemis Mission, which is set to take the United States back to the Moon as well as, eventually, to Mars. This mission was partially eliminated under the Trump budget proposal. The Artemis program is supported by Michigan Aerospace manufacturers and one of the astronauts participating in the upcoming Artemis III mission is a Michigander, Christina Koch.

    National Science Foundation: Senator Peters helped secure $9 billion in funding for the National Science Foundation. This level of funding avoids the catastrophic 55% cut proposed by the Trump Administration, which would have devastated U.S. scientific and STEM leadership, and harmed Michigan’s research institutions’ ability to continue to do cutting edge research.

    Implementation of Peters’ PROSWIFT Act: Peters secured funding for the pilot program Peters created through his Promoting Research and Observations of Space Weather to Improve the Forecasting of Tomorrow (PROSWIFT) Act. The program aims to strengthen our nation’s ability to predict severe space weather events and mitigate their harmful impacts on Earth – work being spearheaded at Michigan’s own Universities.

    Improving Access to Reentry: Peters secured language in the bill directing Residential Reentry Centers, where individuals often go between prison and full return to their communities, to better collect ID-related data. A 2022 Government Accountability Office (GAO) report found that opportunities exist to better assist incarcerated people with obtaining ID documents prior to release. Peters’ language requires an assessment from BOP regarding the feasibility of contracting with additional state DMVs to provide identification document services to qualifying individuals prior to release.

    National Marine Fisheries Services – Studying PFAS in Fish: The bill recognizes the threat posed by the concentration of PFAS detected in fish tissue. The bill directs NOAA to conduct fish tissue sampling and monitoring of PFAS to evaluate the impacts on aquatic health.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Columbia Man Sentenced to 14 Years in Federal Prison for Trafficking Cocaine through the U.S. Mail

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

    COLUMBIA, S.C. — Axel Gustavo Calderon-Rosado, 36, of Columbia, has been sentenced to 14 years in federal prison for trafficking cocaine.

    Evidence presented in court revealed that in 2021, the Richland County Sheriff’s Department and U.S. Postal Inspection Service began investigating Calderon-Rosado for his involvement in a drug trafficking operation that used the U.S. Postal Service to ship parcels of drugs and drug proceeds. Investigators identified Calderon-Rosado as a significant supplier of cocaine in both the Columbia and Lexington County areas. 

    According to the investigation, Calderon-Rosado regularly shipped large sums of cash to Puerto Rico, and in return, received kilogram quantities of cocaine by mail. Investigators identified two locations associated with Calderon-Rosado that he used for storing and distributing illegal drugs. On July 13 and Oct. 4, 2021, investigators intercepted two suspicious parcels addressed to locations associated with Calderon-Rosado. The first package contained approximately one kilogram of cocaine; the second, more than three kilograms.

    Following the October package, authorities executed an undercover operation involving the second package, and arrested Calderon-Rosado after he took possession of the cocaine. Law enforcement searched both associated addresses and seized more than $30,000 in cash, cocaine, marijuana, drug paraphernalia, including a kilogram press, multiple stolen firearms, and ammunition. A review of postal and financial records revealed that between April 2020 and November 2023, Calderon-Rosado received over 30 kilograms of cocaine through the mail as part of the trafficking operation.

    United States District Judge Mary Geiger Lewis sentenced Axel Gustavo Calderon-Rosado to 168 months imprisonment, to be followed by a four-year term of court-ordered supervision.  There is no parole in the federal system.

    This case was investigated by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the FBI Columbia field office, the Richland County Sheriff’s Department, the Columbia Police Department, and the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division.  Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ariyana Gore and Lamar Fyall prosecuted this case.

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Armed Career Criminal Sentenced To 15 Years After Selling Drugs And Firearm To Undercover Officer

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

    Tampa, Florida – U.S. District Judge Thomas Barber has sentenced Rodrick Quinelle Dallas (38, St. Petersburg) to 15 years in federal prison for possessing a firearm as a convicted felon and distributing cocaine. Dallas pleaded guilty in April 2025.

    According to court documents, on December 20, 2022, Dallas sold an undercover officer from the St. Petersburg Police Department a firearm and cocaine. Dallas received an enhanced sentence under the Armed Career Criminal Act based on his prior felony convictions for resisting an officer with violence and sale of cocaine.

    This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the St. Petersburg Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney David P. Sullivan.

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Narcotics Trafficker Who Brought Fentanyl from California to the DMV Sentenced to 108 Months in Federal Prison

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

                WASHINGTON – Ronte Ricardo Greene, 29, of the District of Columbia, was sentenced today in U.S. District Court to 108 months in federal prison for his role in a fentanyl trafficking conspiracy which distributed hundreds of thousands of lethal fentanyl-laced pills from Southern California to destinations throughout the United States, including Washington D.C. Greene was one of 24 co-defendants arrested over the course of 2023 in D.C., Virginia, Maryland, San Diego, and Los Angeles and charged in the conspiracy. The sentencing was announced by U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro.

                Greene, aka “Cardiddy,” pleaded guilty on Feb. 27, 2025, to conspiracy to distribute and possession with intent to distribute 40 grams of fentanyl. In addition to the 108-month prison term, Judge Colleen Kollar-Kotelly ordered Greene to serve five years of supervised release.

                Joining in the announcement of Greene’s sentencing today were Special Agent in Charge Ibrar A. Mian of the Drug Enforcement Administration Washington Division, Inspector in Charge Damon Wood of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, and Chief Pamela Smith of the Metropolitan Police Department.

                According to court documents, Greene entered into the conspiracy in 2022 after he was introduced to a Los Angeles-based drug trafficker who was a wholesale distributor of the counterfeit pills. Greene’s role was to travel to Southern California, purchase the fentanyl-laced pills, and return with them to the DMV where he would sell the pills to others.

                Greene regularly boasted of the money generated from his drug trafficking, and posted photos of himself on social media holding stacks of cash.

                When Greene was arrested on Nov. 15, 2023, he was in possession of about 100 fentanyl-laced pills.

                This investigation is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.

                The prosecutions followed a joint investigation by the DEA Washington Division and the USPIS Washington Division in partnership with the Metropolitan Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). The investigation had valuable support from the DEA Los Angeles, San Diego, and Riverside Field Offices, the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Washington Field Office, and the Charles County, Maryland Sheriff’s Office. Valuable assistance was provided by the U.S. Attorney’s Offices in the Central and Southern Districts of California, the Eastern District of Virginia, and the District of Maryland.

               The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Matthew Kinskey, Solomon Eppel, and Iris McCranie of the Violent Crimes and Narcotics Trafficking Division.

    DEFENDANT

    AGE

    LOCATION

    CHARGES/SENTENCE

    Hector David Valdez,

    aka “Curl”

     

    27

    		 Santa Fe Springs, California

    Conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl;

    conspiracy to commit international money laundering.

    Craig Eastman

     

    21

    		 Washington, D.C. Sentenced Feb. 6, 2025, to 165 months for conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute more than 40 grams of fentanyl.
    Charles Jeffrey Taylor

    21

    		 Washington, D.C. Pleaded guilty Feb. 28, 2025, to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl.
    Raymond Nava, Jr.

    21

    Bell Gardens,

    California

    		 Sentenced Sept. 17, 2024, to 14 years for conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl.
    Ulises Aldaz

    28

    Bell Gardens,

    California

    		 Sentenced June 28, 2024, to 95 months in prison for conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl.
    Max Alexander Carias Torres

    27

    Bell Gardens,

    California

    		 Conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl; conspiracy to commit international money laundering.
    Teron Deandre McNeil, aka “Wild Boy”

    35

    		 Washington, D.C. Conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl; Conspiracy to commit wire fraud.

    Marvin Anthony Bussie,

    aka “Money Marr”

    22

    		 Washington, D.C. Sentenced June 28, 2024, to 120 months in prison for conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl.
    Marcus Orlando Brown

    29

    		 Washington, D.C. Sentenced Oct. 3, 2024, to 108 months in prison for conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl.
    Columbian Thomas, aka “Cruddy Murda”

    27

    		 Washington, D.C. Sentenced Oct. 22, 2024, to 160 months in prison for conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl.
    Wayne Rodell Carr-Maiden

    35

    		 Washington, D.C. Sentenced April 29, 2024, to 45 months in prison for conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl.

    Andre Malik Edmond,

    aka “Draco”

    24

    		 Temple Hills, Maryland Sentenced July 22, 2024, to 130 months in prison for conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl.

    Treyveon James Johnson,

    aka “Treyski”

    21

    		 Alexandria, Virginia Sentenced Sept. 5, 2024, to 108 months in prison for conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl.

    Karon Olufemi Blalock,

    aka “Fat Bags”

    30

    		 Alexandria, Virginia Conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl; conspiracy to commit wire fraud; conspiracy to commit money laundering.

    Ronte Ricardo Greene,

    aka “Cardiddy”

    29

    		 Washington, D.C. Sentenced July 18, 2025, to 108 months for conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl.
    Melvin Edward Allen, Jr., aka “21”

    39

    		 Washington, D.C. Sentenced June 20, 2025, to 75 months for conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl.

    Darius Quincy Hodges,

    aka “Brick”

    34

    		 Glen Allen, Virginia Conspiracy to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl.

    Lamin Sesay,

    aka “Rock Star”

    28

    		 Alexandria, Virginia Sentenced May 30, 2025, to 110 months in prison for conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl.
    Paul Alejandro Felix

    26

    Glendale,

    California

    		 Sentenced Nov. 12, 2024, to 164 months in prison for conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl.

    Omar Arana,

    aka “Frogs”

    27

    Cudahy,

    California

    		 Sentenced May 2, 2025, to 93 months, for conspiracy to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl.
    Edgar Balderas, Jr., aka “Nano”

    27

    San Diego,

    California

    		 Sentenced May 8, 2025, to 148 months in prison for conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl.
    Raul Pacheco Ramirez

    31

    Long Beach,

    California

    		 Sentenced Nov. 26, 2024, to 95 months for conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl.
    Giovani Alejandro Briones

    31

    		 Victorville, California Sentenced Feb. 20, 2025, to 90 months for conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl.
    Alfredo Rodriguez Gonzalez

    27

    		 Rosarito, Mexico

    Conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl;

    conspiracy to commit international money laundering.

    23cr73

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Ashley Man Sentenced to 300 Months in Prison

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

    FORT WAYNE – Yesterday, Kyle T. Brady, 39 years old, of Ashley, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge Holly A. Brady after pleading guilty to possessing with intent to distribute a controlled substance, possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and being a felon in possession of a firearm, announced Acting United States Attorney M. Scott Proctor.

    Brady was sentenced to 300 months in prison followed by 10 years of supervised release.

    According to documents in the case, on two occasions in July of 2022, Brady distributed methamphetamine.  On July 19, 2022, a search warrant was served at Brady’s residence where approximately 250 grams of methamphetamine, a mixture of fentanyl and cocaine, and marijuana were found.  Officers also located two handguns, a shotgun, an AR-15 rifle, two ballistic vests, and over a thousand rounds of ammunition.  Brady has prior felony convictions for drug distribution and firearms offenses.  This is Brady’s seventh conviction related to drug distribution, and as such, he was determined to be a career offender.

    “Drugs, firearms, and large quantities of ammunition are never a good combination, especially when they are illegally possessed by a convicted felon,” said Proctor.  “The public is safer thanks to the combined efforts of the excellent team that investigated and prosecuted this case.” 

    This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, with the assistance of the Auburn Police Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration’s North Central Laboratory.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Stacey R. Speith.

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Shiprock Man Sentenced for Violent Knife Attack Causing Serious Injuries

    Source: US FBI

    ALBUQUERQUE – A Shiprock man was sentenced to 48 months in prison for attacking his ex-girlfriend with a knife, causing serious injuries.

    There is no parole in the federal system.

    According to court records, on November 2, 2024, Jane Doe, and her sister were stopped at a road construction zone when her ex-boyfriend, Tyrell Lee Johnson, 29, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, approached their vehicle. Johnson physically attacked Jane Doe, striking her head, stabbing her abdomen with a knife, and striking her with his vehicle as he fled the scene. Jane Doe sustained injuries, including an abdominal wound, bruises, and abrasions.

    Navajo Police located Johnson’s vehicle in Cudei, New Mexico, identified by its damaged front bumper, and apprehended him after a brief pursuit. Officers recovered a black folding knife from Johnson’s possession and confirmed he had no alcohol in his system during processing.

    Upon his release from prison, Johnson will be subject to three years of supervised release.

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

    The Farmington Resident Agency of the FBI’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Navajo Nation Department of Investigation and Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant United States Attorney Mark A. Probasco is prosecuting the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: $4.9 Million Secured for Victims of Ayudando Guardians Fraud Scheme Through Settlement and Asset Forfeiture

    Source: US FBI

    ALBUQUERQUE – The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Mexico announced today the recovery of $4.9 million for victims of the Ayudando Guardians fraud scheme. The U.S. Department of Justice has retained a third-party administrator to assist with disbursing the funds to victims of the decade-long embezzlement scheme that exploited vulnerable individuals under guardianship.

    The U.S. Marshals Servicedemanded coverage from Travelers Casualty and Surety Company of America (Travelers) under a “Wrap + Crime” policy for the losses sustained due to the criminal acts of Ayudando employees. Travelers Insurance denied coverage under the policy, so on March 31, 2022, the United States filed a civil action against Travelers in the United States District Court for the District of New Mexico (“Civil Action”). The United States pursued claims against Travelers for coverage under the policy, bad faith, and violation of the New Mexico Unfair Insurance Practices Act and the New Mexico Unfair Practices Act, alleging that Travelers’ denial of the United States’ claim was unfounded and frivolous, and that Travelers misrepresented the coverage afforded.

    On September 20, 2024, the parties participated in a settlement conference before the Honorable Gregory J. Fouratt, resulting in a settlement of the Civil Action. Travelers has agreed to pay the United States the amount of $4.9 million.

    On July 17, 2025, the U.S. District Court entered a final order of forfeiture in the related criminal case, awarding $4.9 million in funds obtained through the settlement with Travelers. The recovered funds satisfy a portion of the $6.8 million money judgment against Harris.

    In relation to the original criminal case, Harris, the former president and 95% owner of Ayudando, was sentenced to 47 years in prison, followed by three years of supervised release. Her husband, William S. Harris, who worked as a guardian, received a 15-year prison sentence, also followed by three years of supervised release. Sharon A. Moore, former chief financial officer and 5% owner, was sentenced to 20 years in prison. Craig M. Young, Susan Harris’ son, was sentenced to 71 months in federal prison.

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

    The Albuquerque Field Office of the FBI and the Phoenix Field Office of IRS Criminal Investigation conducted the criminal investigation with the assistance of the Complex Assets Unit and the U.S. Marshals Service, the Criminal Investigations Division of the Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Inspector General, and the Dallas Field Division of the Social Security Administration Office of Inspector General. The original criminal case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeremy Peña. The Civil Action and settlement were led by Assistant United States Attorneys Ruth Keegan and Jesse Hale, with assistance from Clifford Krieger, forfeiture counsel for the U.S. Marshals Service and several attorneys from the Social Security Administration. The asset forfeiture proceedings were overseen by Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen R. Kotz. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Former New York City Police Officer Sentenced to 40 Years’ Imprisonment for Sex Offenses Involving Minors

    Source: US FBI

    Defendant Was Convicted by a Federal Jury of Child Exploitation, Attempted Child Exploitation, and Coercion of a Minor

    Earlier today, in federal court in Brooklyn, Christopher Terranova, a former New York City Police Department (NYPD) officer, was sentenced by United States District Judge Kiyo A. Matsumoto to 40 years’ imprisonment for sexually exploiting, attempting to sexually exploit, and enticing and coercing three 15-year-old boys and a 12-year-old boy.  Terranova was employed as a police officer with the NYPD at the time of the charged conduct.  A federal jury convicted Terranova of the charges in November 2024.

    Joseph Nocella, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York and Christopher G. Raia, Assistant Director in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation, New York Field Office (FBI) announced the sentence.

    “The significant sentence the court imposed is a just outcome for the defendant’s abuse of his position as a police officer to groom and manipulate young boys, gain their trust, then sexually abuse and exploit them,” stated United States Attorney Nocella.  “The victims showed courage in coming forward to expose this predator, and the sentence imposed ensures that no other child will be harmed by the defendant while he spends decades in prison.”

    Mr. Nocella expressed his appreciation to the NYPD’s Internal Affairs Bureau for their assistance during the investigation.

    “Christopher Terranova, a former NYPD officer, targeted, and sexually exploited multiple minors, including some who were also victims in unrelated crimes,” stated FBI Assistant Director in Charge Raia.  “Terranova’s unthinkable actions violated his sworn duty to protect this community and reflect an egregious abuse of authority to satisfy his twisted desires.  May today’s sentencing reflect the FBI’s commitment to disrupting any sexual predator from further victimizing our city’s most vulnerable victims.”

    Between approximately December 2019 and May 2023, Terranova used social media to engage in sexually explicit conversations with underage boys and attempt to entice them into taking sexually explicit photographs of themselves and sharing them with Terranova.  Terranova used popular social media applications to message and gain the trust of underage boys whom he encountered socially, online, or through his job as a police officer.

    For example, between March 2023 and May 2023, Terranova targeted a 15-year-old boy he encountered at the 121st Precinct on Staten Island who was there to report that he had been robbed. Terranova obtained the victim’s cellphone number from the robbery complaint in an NYPD database and messaged him: “Hey… it’s Chris Terranova the cop you met at the 121 that day with mom, i just wanted to reach out to see if you were doing ok after the incident, I hate seeing these things happen to good Guys like yourself.”  In subsequent messages, Terranova inquired about the investigation, referred to his role as a police officer, and asked the victim if he had any interest in the police department or its youth programs. Terranova also suggested, “If [sic] here too if you ever want to talk[.] I been through a lot myself over the years so just know that little bro.”  Terranova then asked the victim to add him on “snap” or “the gram,” referring to Snapchat and Instagram.  On Snapchat, Terranova began asking the victim sexually explicit questions, sent the victim a photograph of Terranova’s genitals, and asked for a sexually explicit photograph of the victim.  The victim informed his mother about the inappropriate messages and she reported the matter to police.

    Terranova also engaged in hands-on sex acts with two of his minor victims.  One of those victims was the 15-year-old son of an acquaintance of Terranova.  While giving that victim a ride home from a birthday party, Terranova brought the victim to a secluded location where he directed the victim to engage in sex acts with him.

    Terranova met a third 15-year-old victim, who lived in Texas, on social media.   Terranova used his status as a police officer to gain the victim’s trust.  Terranova traveled to Texas at least 16 times to visit the victim, engaged in sexual acts with him and purchased a house in the victim’s neighborhood.  In one message, Terranova stated: “You being with me. . . and making love to me is more than a sign of everything happens for a reason.”   

    Terranova also met a 12-year-old victim locally while Terranova was on-duty and in uniform.  Terranova messaged the victim on Snapchat and began asking him sexually explicit questions and solicited sexually explicit photos.

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

    The government’s case is being handled by Office’s Human Trafficking and Civil Rights Section.  Assistant United States  Attorneys Rachel A. Bennek and Lauren A. Bowman are in charge of the prosecution, with the assistance of Paralegal Specialist Chelsea Guzman.

    The Defendant:

    CHRISTOPHER TERRANOVA
    Age: 35
    Staten Island, New York

    E.D.N.Y. Docket No. 23-CR-516 (KAM)

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Brooklyn-Based ‘Euro 380’ Gang Members Indicted on Racketeering Charges and Firearm-Related Murder

    Source: US FBI

    The Defendants’ Crimes Also Involved Armed Robberies, Drug Trafficking, Weapons Possession, and Assault in-Aid-of Racketeering

    Earlier today, in a federal court in Brooklyn, an 11-count superseding indictment was unsealed charging four Euro 380 gang members, Kashawn Mason, also known as “Jojo” and “Jojo Euro,” Daniel Horton, also known as “DayDay” and “DayDay Tz,” Ryan Nieves, also known as “Rocket” and “TooSturdy,” and Dylan Stanley, also known as “Brady,” with racketeering, firearm-related murder, multiple armed robberies, and assaults in-aid-of racketeering.  Mason and Stanley are also charged with distribution and possession with intent to distribute fentanyl.  Mason and Stanley were taken into custody today and will be arraigned this afternoon before United States Magistrate Judge James R. Cho.  Horton and Nieves are presently in federal custody and will be arraigned at a later date.     

    Joseph Nocella, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York;   Christopher G. Raia, Assistant Director in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation, New York Field Office (FBI); Jessica S. Tisch, Commissioner, New York City Police Department (NYPD); Eric Gonzalez, Brooklyn District Attorney; and Anne T. Donnelly, Nassau County District Attorney announced the superseding indictment.

    “As alleged in the superseding indictment, the defendants carried out a litany of violent crimes, including a senseless murder in furtherance of their gang, putting the Bedford Stuyvesant community at extreme risk of harm and turning housing developments into war zones,” stated United States Attorney Nocella.  “Today’s superseding indictment speaks loudly about the commitment of our Office to reducing gun violence, making our communities safe for law abiding residents who have been living in fear of violent gangs and bringing gang members to justice.  I commend our prosecutors and federal and state law enforcement partners for their tireless work dismantling gangs operating in Brooklyn and throughout the Eastern District.”

    Mr. Nocella also thanked the Nassau County Police Department and the New York State Department of Corrections for their valuable assistance.

    “To enhance their gang’s status and intimidate rivals, these four defendants allegedly participated in a myriad of criminal activity, including a retaliatory murder,” stated FBI Assistant Director in Charge Raia.  “Their alleged actions allowed tensions to violently erupt in a residential community and submitted bystanders to a senseless territorial gunfight.  Alongside our law enforcement partners, the FBI maintains its steadfast determination to disrupt any gangs’ reign of terror in our neighborhoods.  This operation is part of Summer Heat, the FBI’s nationwide initiative targeting violent crime during the summer months.”

    “The defendants in this case allegedly treated our Brooklyn neighborhoods like a warzone, firing 34 rounds in broad daylight, killing one person and injuring others, all to settle a gang score,” stated NYPD Commissioner Tisch.  “They robbed businesses, pushed fentanyl, and recruited teenagers to carry out violence.  Today’s indictment makes clear that we will not let violent gangs turn our communities into battlegrounds.  I want to thank our investigators and law enforcement partners for their relentless work to bring these defendants to justice.”

    “This was brazen, targeted violence that put entire communities at risk as these defendants allegedly opened fire near homes and businesses and robbed residents at gunpoint,” stated Brooklyn District Attorney Gonzalez.  “Brooklyn saw record-low gun violence last year, and we are committed to holding accountable anyone who imperils our progress improving the safety of our neighborhoods.  This indictment reflects the results of a strong collaboration between my Office, the NYPD, and federal law enforcement.  I commend U.S. Attorney Nocella, his team, and all of our partners for their outstanding work.”

    “Gun violence and gang-related crime know no borders, which is why strong law enforcement partnerships are crucial in the fight against them,” stated Nassau County District Attorney Donnelly.  “My office is proud to have assisted the U.S. Attorney’s Office, our local partners in New York City, and the FBI, in charging these defendants for their alleged crimes.  By working together across jurisdictions, we are sending a message that anyone who perpetrates violence in our communities will be met with justice.”

    As alleged in the superseding indictment and other court filings, Euro 380 gang is a violent street gang operating out of the Marcy Houses, a New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA) development in Bedford-Stuyvesant, Brooklyn.  Euro 380 is a subset of the Untouchable Gorilla Stone Nation (UGSN), a parent gang with members located in Brooklyn and elsewhere.  Members of Euro 380 have a longstanding rivalry with another gang known as the Bloodhound Brims and, more specifically, a subset of the Bloodhound Brims known as “900,” which also operates out of Bedford-Stuyvesant in the Tompkins and Sumner Houses, also NYCHA developments located less than two blocks from the Marcy Houses.

    On September 30, 2023, Nieves, Stanley and two juveniles walked from the Marcy Houses to the Sumner Houses intending to shoot and kill rival 900 gang members after one of their fellow Euro 380 members was murdered three days earlier.  After arriving at the Sumner Houses, Nieves and Stanley unleashed a fusillade of 34 rounds at a group of individuals they believed to be 900 gang members.  Kyle Forde was killed and two other individuals suffered non-fatal gunshot wounds.  The fatal shooting was allegedly ordered by Mason and another high-ranking Euro 380 member.

    Additionally, in September 2023 and November 2023, the defendants carried out three robberies in Brooklyn of individuals, a smoke shop, and a bodega during which they displayed firearms or what appeared to be a firearm.

    The charges in the superseding indictment are allegations, and the defendants are presumed to be innocent unless and until proven guilty.  If convicted, defendants Mason, Nieves, and Stanley face a maximum of life in prison.  Horton faces a maximum of 20 years’ imprisonment. 

    The government’s case is being handled by the Office’s Organized Crime and Gangs Section.  Assistant United States Attorneys Andy Palacio, Raffaela S. Belizaire, and Megan Larkin are in charge of the prosecution.

    The Defendants

    KASHAWN MASON (also known as “Jojo” and “Jojo Euro”)
    Age:  22
    Brooklyn, New York   

    DANIEL HORTON (also known as “DayDay” and “DayDay Tz”)
    Age:  23
    Brooklyn, New York   

    RYAN NIEVES (also known as “Rocket” and “TooSturdy”)
    Age:  20
    Brooklyn, New York

    DYLAN STANLEY (also known as “Brady”)
    Age:  22
    Brooklyn, New York   

    E.D.N.Y. Docket No. 24-CR-261 (ENV)

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Long Island MS-13 Gang Member Pleads Guilty to Role in Two 2016 Murders in Nassau County

    Source: US FBI

    Earlier today, in federal court in Central Islip, Kevin Cuevas Del Cid, also known as “Creeper,” “Malcriado,” “Sombra,” “Vinky,” and “Dabura,” a member of the Sailors Locos Salvatruchas Westside (Sailors) clique of La Mara Salvatrucha, also known as the MS-13, a transnational criminal organization, pleaded guilty to racketeering charges in connection with his participation in the May 21, 2016 murder of Kerin Pineda and the October 10, 2016 murder of Javier Castillo, both of whom were killed in Freeport, New York, as well as a conspiracy to distribute cocaine and marijuana.  The proceeding was held before United States District Judge Joan M. Azrack.  

    Joseph Nocella, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York; Christopher G. Raia, Assistant Director in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation, New York Field Office (FBI); and Patrick J. Ryder, Commissioner, Nassau County Police Department (NCPD), announced the guilty plea.

    “Today, the defendant pleaded guilty to the brutal killings of two young people, whose murders demonstrate the MS-13’s well-established obsession with committing extreme acts of violence and complete disregard for human life,” stated U.S. Attorney Nocella.  “Our Office and our law enforcement partners remain steadfast in our commitment to hold violent gang members accountable for the fear, destruction, and death they bring to our communities.”

    “Kevin Cuevas Del Cid, an MS-13 member, slaughtered two victims based on their assumed alliance with a rival gang. Del Cid’s attacks reflect the gang’s brutal rhetoric designed to intimidate and punish any perceived threat to its organization,” stated FBI Assistant Director in Charge Raia.  “The FBI remains committed to collaborating with our local law enforcement partners to eradicate this senseless gang violence from continuing to terrorize our communities.”

    “We are grateful to our federal partners for working together to take these dangerous criminals off our streets,” stated NCPD Commissioner Ryder.  “We have no tolerance for gang violence in Nassau County and we will never stop working to protect our citizens from these violent elements.”

    According to court filings and statements by the defendant at the guilty plea proceeding, the defendant participated in the murder of 20-year-old Kerin Pineda, who was killed because of his suspected membership in the 18th Street gang.  Specifically, in May 2016, Del Cid and other MS-13 members devised a plan where Del Cid created a fake Facebook profile of a young female to communicate with Pineda in order to lure Pineda out to be killed. On May 21, 2016,  Pineda went to a secluded wooded area near the Merrick-Freeport border believing that he was meeting the young female he had been communicating with on Facebook, who was, in fact, Del Cid.  When Pineda arrived, he was surrounded and violently attacked by Del Cid and the other MS-13 members, each of whom took turns hacking and slashing him with machetes.  Pineda’s body was then buried in a hole that had been dug in the ground the day before in anticipation of the murder.  Del Cid is the last of six previously charged MS-13 members to plead guilty to the Pineda murder.

    Del Cid also pleaded guilty to the murder of 15-year-old Javier Castillo, who, like Pineda, was killed because the MS-13 suspected him of being a member of the 18th Street gang.  On October 10, 2016, members of the Sailors clique in Brentwood convinced Castillo, who lived in Central Islip, to go with them to Freeport – approximately 30 miles away – to smoke marijuana.  Del Cid and the other MS-13 members took Castillo to an isolated marsh area along the water in Cow Meadow Park, in Freeport, where they attacked and killed him, taking turns hacking him with a machete.  Thereafter, the MS-13 members dug a hole and buried Castillo’s body, which was not recovered until one year later, in October 2017.  With Del Cid’s conviction, more than a half dozen MS-13 have been charged and pleaded guilty in connection with the Castillo murder.

    Del Cid, who was 16 years old at the time of the Pineda and Castillo murders, initially was charged by a juvenile information filed under seal on May 20, 2020. The government subsequently filed a motion to transfer Del Cid to adult status for prosecution, and an evidentiary hearing was held on June 3, 2022.  On July 6, 2022, United States Circuit Judge Joseph F. Bianco, sitting by designation, issued a Memorandum and Order granting the government’s motion, and ordering Del Cid be prosecuted as an adult.

    Today’s guilty plea is the latest achievement in a series of federal prosecutions by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of New York targeting members of the MS-13, a violent transnational criminal organization.  The MS-13’s leadership is based in El Salvador, Honduras, Guatemala, and Mexico, but the gang has thousands of members across the United States.  With numerous branches, or “cliques,” the MS-13 is the most violent criminal organization on Long Island.  Since 2003, hundreds of MS-13 members, including dozens of clique leaders, have been convicted on federal felony charges in the Eastern District of New York. A majority of those MS-13 members have been convicted on federal racketeering charges for participating in murders, attempted murders, and assaults.  Since 2010, this Office has obtained indictments charging MS-13 members with carrying out more than 75 murders in the Eastern District of New York, resulting in the convictions of dozens of MS-13 leaders and members in connection with those murders.  These prosecutions are the product of investigations led by the FBI’s Long Island Gang Task Force, which is comprised of agents and officers of the FBI, NCPD, Suffolk County Police Department, Nassau County Sheriff’s Department, Suffolk County Probation Office, Suffolk County Sheriff’s Office, the New York State Police, the Hempstead Police Department, the Rockville Centre Police Department, and the New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision.

    The case is part of Operation Take Back America, a Department of Justice initiative aimed at eradicating transnational criminal organizations, combating violent crime, and restoring the rule of law.

    This prosecution is also part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation.  OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.

    The government’s case is being handled by the Criminal Section of the Office’s Long Island Division.  Assistant United States Attorneys Paul G. Scotti, Justina L. Geraci, and Megan E. Farrell are in charge of the prosecution, with the assistance of Paralegal Specialist Kerry Ucci and Automated Litigation Specialist Michael Compitello.

    The Defendant:

    KEVIN CUEVAS DEL CID (also known as “Creeper,” “Malcriado,” “Sombra,” “Vinky,” and “Dabura”)
    Age: 25
    Freeport, New York

    E.D.N.Y. Docket No. 20-CR-251 (S-1) (JMA)

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Dmitry Chernyshenko: the federal project “Five Seas and Lake Baikal” was supplemented by the project “Balaklava Bay” in Sevastopol

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Ministry of Economic Development (Russia) – Ministry of Economic Development (Russia) –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    A meeting of the subcommittee on the implementation of tourism investment projects of federal significance of the Government Commission for the Development of Tourism in the Russian Federation was held under the chairmanship of Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Chernyshenko.

    The event was also attended by Deputy Minister of Economic Development of Russia Dmitry Vakhrukov, as well as representatives of the Ministry of Construction, the Ministry of Finance, the Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Energy, Rosreestr, JSC Corporation Tourism. RF and others.

    The meeting discussed the organization of work on the implementation of the project of federal year-round resorts “Five Seas and Lake Baikal”.

    Dmitry Chernyshenko emphasized that thanks to the implementation of the project, by 2030 an additional 10 million tourists will be able to vacation per year.

    “On the instructions of President Vladimir Putin, within the framework of the national project “Tourism and Hospitality”, we are working on the federal project “Five Seas and Lake Baikal” with a total funding volume for all projects until 2030 of 103 billion rubles. I would like to note that today we need to prioritize the objects, we will establish the order of projects, especially since there are instructions from the President and a number of initiatives to create resorts in other regions. Thus, the federal project “Five Seas and Lake Baikal” was supplemented by the project “Balaklava Bay” in Sevastopol,” the Deputy Prime Minister noted.

    Deputy Minister of Economic Development of Russia Dmitry Vakhrukov added that the implementation of the project of federal year-round resorts “Five Seas and Lake Baikal” will further increase the number of tourist trips around Russia, as well as expand the number of rooms.

    “Systematic work on the implementation of the federal project is carried out in strict accordance with the approved roadmaps. This indicates a high degree of involvement of the subjects and a clear understanding of the tasks. Most projects are being implemented within the planned timeframes. Work is constantly underway to balance the sources of financing the supporting infrastructure, attract and support investors. We are confident that this approach will contribute to the timely implementation of projects,” he said.

    Dmitry Vakhrukov reminded that the construction of resorts should become one of the priority tasks.

    Governor of Saint Petersburg Alexander Beglov called the Saint Petersburg Marina project significant for the city. To implement it, a structure for financing the construction of road facilities and, to a significant extent, engineering infrastructure has been defined to date. The plans include continuing work on including measures to create road infrastructure and street and road networks in the Infrastructure for Life.

    Deputy Governor of Zaporizhia Region Alexander Zinchenko presented a report on the Primorsk project, Governor of Irkutsk Region Igor Kobzev spoke about the Gates of Baikal and Baikal Sloboda, Deputy Chairman of the Government of the Republic of Buryatia Vyacheslav Sukhorukov – about Magic Baikal. Acting Minister of Resorts, Tourism and Olympic Heritage of Krasnodar Region Mikhail Zaritsky reported on the implementation of the New Anapa project, and Deputy Governor of Sevastopol Maria Litovko presented the Balaklava Bay project in Sevastopol.

    Information was also presented on the projects “Golden Sands” in the Republic of Crimea, “Caspian Coastal Cluster” in the Republic of Dagestan, “Primorye” in Primorsky Krai.

    In conclusion, Dmitry Chernyshenko called on the regions to more actively interact with federal ministries and departments in order to more quickly resolve issues related to project implementation.

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –