NewzIntel.com

Category: Law

  • MIL-OSI Security: Mexican National Sentenced to More Than Four Years in Federal Prison for Smuggling and Labor Trafficking Scheme

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

    Marc H. Silverman, Acting United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that MARIA DEL CARMEN SANCHEZ POTRERO, also known as Maria Carmela Sanchez, 71, a citizen of Mexico last residing in Hartford, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Kari A. Dooley in Bridgeport to 51 months of imprisonment for her involvement in a scheme to smuggle aliens into the U.S., harbor them at Hartford area residences, force them to work, and threaten to harm them in various ways if they failed to pay exorbitant fees, interest, and other living expenses.

    According to court documents and statements made in court, beginning in September 2022, the FBI and Hartford Police interviewed several Mexican nationals who disclosed that they were smuggled from Mexico into the U.S. and transported to Hartford.  The investigation revealed that victims typically arranged with Sanchez and others in Connecticut and Mexico to cross the border into the U.S. in exchange for a fee of between $15,000 and $20,000 that each would need to pay once they were in the U.S.  In most cases, the victims were required to turn over a property deed as collateral before leaving Mexico.  They were then smuggled across the border and transported to Hartford area residences, including Sanchez’s residence on Madison Street in Hartford, often at a substantial risk of bodily injury or death.

    After the victims arrived in Connecticut, they were told that they would have to pay approximately $30,000, with interest, and that they would have to pay Sanchez and her co-coconspirators for rent, food, gas and utilities.  Sanchez and her co-conspirators created false documents for the victims, including Permanent Residence cards and Social Security cards, and helped the victims find employment in the Hartford area.  In addition to their own jobs, some victims were required to perform housework and yardwork without compensation and without having their debt reduced.

    Victims were rarely provided with an accounting of their debt.  If victims failed to make regular payments, or in amounts that Sanchez and her co-conspirators expected, they were sometimes threatened, including with threats to harm family members in Mexico, to take property in Mexico that had been secured as collateral, to reveal victims’ immigration status to U.S. authorities, and to raise their interest payments.

    To date, investigators have identified 19 victims of this scheme. Multiple victims were minors, and at least two were smuggled into the U.S. unaccompanied by a relative or legal guardian.

    Sanchez has been detained since her arrest on March 1, 2023.  On October 24, 2024, she pleaded guilty to conspiracy to encourage and induce, bring in, transport, and harbor aliens.

    Judge Dooley ordered Sanchez to pay restitution of $574,608.

    Sanchez faces immigration when she completes her prison term.

    This investigation has been conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Hartford Police Department, U.S. Department of Labor – Office of Inspector General, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Angel Krull and Shan Patel.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Arizona Man Sentenced to 15 years after Kidnapping a 13-Year-Old to Engage in Sexual Conduct

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    SALT LAKE CITY, Utah – Tadashi Kura Kojima, also known as Aaron Michael Zeman, 29, of Tucson, Arizona, was sentenced to 180 months’ imprisonment and a lifetime of supervised release, after he kidnapped a Utah teenager to engage in illegal sexual activity.

    The sentence, imposed by Judge Howard C. Nielson, Jr., comes after Kojima pleaded guilty in November 2024 to transportation of a minor with intent to engage in criminal sexual activity.  

    According to court documents and statements made at Kojima’s change of plea and sentencing hearings, Kojima admitted that between December 26, 2022 to December 28, 2022, he traveled from Arizona and kidnapped a 13-year-old from Utah. They were located in Nebraska and Kojima was arrested. The purpose of traveling was to engage in sexual activity with the victim. See prior press release: Arizona Man Arrested for Kidnapping a Utah Teenager is Facing Federal Charges Including Intent to Engage in Sexual Conduct with a Minor.

    The case was investigated jointly by the FBI Salt Lake City Field Office, Layton Police Department and Grand Island Police Department in Nebraska.

    The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Utah 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 https://www.justice.gov/psc.
     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Gov. and First Lady Kemp Open New State Patrol Post in Buckhead Community

    Source: US State of Georgia

    ATLANTA – Governor Brian P. Kemp, accompanied by First Lady Marty Kemp, Speaker Jon Burns, Mayor Andre Dickens, Department of Public Safety (DPS) Commissioner Col. Billy Hitchens, state and local leaders, and law enforcement officers, hosted a ceremony today at the Governor’s Mansion celebrating the opening of the new State Patrol Post located on the mansion grounds that will serve the broader Buckhead community and surrounding parts of Atlanta. The 1,750-square-foot facility and garage bay, designed by Houser Walker Architecture, sits adjacent to the entrance of the Governor’s Mansion on Woodhaven Road NW and maintains the historical integrity of the surrounding grounds.

    “Keeping our communities safe is my top priority and today’s milestone would not have been possible without the leadership and support of our partners in the General Assembly,” said Governor Brian Kemp. “Thanks to the General Assembly, Mayor Dickens, and the brave and dedicated work of state and local law enforcement, we are witnessing a historic reduction in violent crime in our capital city. With the opening of this new post, we’re furthering our collaborative approach to taking criminals off our streets and bringing them to justice.”

    This new GSP facility was made possible by the addition of $1.3 million in the FY24 budget by the Georgia House of Representatives and approved by the entire General Assembly.

    “It was a great day to celebrate the opening of the new Georgia State Patrol Post in Buckhead, which will serve the greater Atlanta community and contribute to the safety of our entire state for generations to come,” said Speaker Jon Burns. “Atlanta is stronger when Buckhead is safer, and that’s why the House was proud to invest over $1 million to support this new Georgia State Patrol post. We will continue leading efforts to crack down on crime, bolster public safety, and support our law enforcement heroes and their families every step of the way.”

    “Effective public safety involves partnerships, coordination, and collaboration,” said Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens. “I believe I can speak for Chief Schierbaum when I say that the Atlanta Police Department and the City of Atlanta look forward to working hand-in-hand with our State Patrol colleagues. This new post represents our shared commitment to fostering trust in all our communities as we continue to Move Atlanta Forward.”

    Approximately 35 Troopers will be able to utilize the post, with 13 Troopers directly assigned to the facility, providing increased accessibility to and around-the-clock security for the Buckhead community and surrounding areas.

    “We are happy to open a new POST that will allow our Troopers to better serve their community while enforcing Georgia’s traffic laws and holding criminals accountable,” said DPS Commissioner Col. Billy Hitchens. “The new POST, along with our partnership with the Atlanta Police Department, gives us a tremendous advantage against those who choose to break the law, and the crime rates will continue to lower.”

    Construction of the new Georgia State Patrol post was completed in March 2025.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Elma man pleads guilty to production and possession of child pornography

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Matthew A. Steele, 53, of Elma, NY, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge John L. Sinatra, Jr. to production and possession of child pornography involving a prepubescent minor, which carry a mandatory minimum penalty of 15 years in prison, a maximum of 30 years, and a fine of $250,000.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron J. Mango, who is handling the case, stated that between July 2008, and July 2010, Steele produced images of child pornography with a minor female (victim) on several occasions from the time she was approximately nine years old until she was approximately 12 years old. Some of the images were distributed by Steele to other unknown individuals. On March 11, 2024, investigators executed a search warrant at his residence, seizing two electronic devices. A forensic review of the devices recovered numerous sexually explicit images of the victim created by Steele. In addition, 45 images of child pornography, not involving the victim, that Steele obtained over the internet were recovered. Some of the images included prepubescent minors and depicted violence against children.

    The plea is the result of an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Erin Keegan, the New York State Police, under the direction of Major Amie Feroleto, the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.

    Sentencing is scheduled for August 13, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. before Judge Sinatra.

    # # # #

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: YORK COUNTY – Shapiro Administration, PA Office of Attorney General to Encourage Participation in National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day, Get Unwanted Meds off the Street

    Source: US State of Pennsylvania

    April 16, 2025 – York, PA

    ADVISORY – YORK COUNTY – Shapiro Administration, PA Office of Attorney General to Encourage Participation in National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day, Get Unwanted Meds off the Street

    The Shapiro Administration and the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General will join York County officials tomorrow to encourage Pennsylvanians across the Commonwealth to take part in National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day on Saturday, April 26.

    Individuals may drop off unwanted prescription and over-the-counter medication at any of the hundreds of secure locations throughout the state.

    WHO:
    Dr. Latika Davis-Jones, Secretary, Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs
    Major General John Pippy, Adjutant General, Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMVA)
    Sergeant Logan Brouse, Pennsylvania State Police
    Kara Bowser, Senior Counsel, Office of Attorney General
    Jonathan Bowman, Acting Deputy Secretary, Department of Aging
    Michael Muldrow, York City Police Commissioner

    WHEN:
    April 16, 2025; 11:00 AM

    WHERE:
    York City Police Department; 50 West King Street, York PA 17401

    VISUALS:
    Photos and video may be taken of a take-back box and DMVA’s collection truck which will both be onsite

    RSVP:
    Please email stdugan@pa.gov and share the reporter’s name and media outlet who wishes to attend.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Annual Energy Outlook 2025

    Source: US Energy Information Administration

    Introduction

    The Annual Energy Outlook 2025 (AEO2025) explores potential long-term energy trends in the United States. AEO2025 is published in accordance with Section 205c of the Department of Energy Organization Act of 1977 (Public Law 95-91), which requires the Administrator of the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) to prepare an annual report that contains trends and projections of energy consumption and supply. These projections are used by federal, state, and local governments; industry; trade associations; and other planners and decisionmakers in the public and private sectors.

    We prepared the AEO by using the National Energy Modeling System (NEMS) to project a set of scenarios that, taken together, represent a range of outcomes for the U.S. energy system. AEO2025 represents the culmination of a year-long effort that enabled major upgrades to NEMS.

    Our policy assumptions are central to understanding our AEO2025 projections. In most of the cases we model, we only consider laws and regulations implemented as of December 2024. As is the case every time we prepare an AEO, a cutoff date is necessary to enable us to conclude our modeling and integrate the final results for publication. Therefore, legislation, regulations, executive actions, and court rulings after that date are not included. We are releasing the model results without a lengthy market analysis this year.

    The U.S. energy system underwent major changes in the first quarter of the 21st century as oil and natural gas production surged, renewables were deployed more widely, and energy consumption patterns changed. AEO2025 can help stakeholders examine the ways in which the system could further change through 2050.

    Energy markets are complex. Energy models are simplified representations of energy production and consumption, laws and regulations, and producer and consumer behavior. Projections are highly dependent on the data, methodologies, model structures, and assumptions used in their development. These results are not predictions of what will happen. Instead, AEO2025 results represent modeled projections of what could happen given certain assumptions and methodologies.

    Consistent with our historical practices and statutory mission, we do not independently propose or advocate future legislative and regulatory changes, although at times we do analyze scenarios based on existing policy proposals. Our assumptions documents provide additional details on the assumptions we included in AEO2025, and an overview of the laws and regulations included in AEO2025 is available on the AEO website.

    AEO2025’s projections reflect business-as-usual trends, given known technological and demographic trends and current laws and regulations, and so provides a policy-neutral Reference case and an accompanying set of core side cases that can be used to analyze policy initiatives. For some readers, this approach may be unsatisfying because policy rarely remains static for long periods. But the purpose of basing projections on laws and regulations as of December 2024 is to provide a comparison point for further analysis; without such a reference point, critical information about incremental changes to energy system outcomes based on new assumptions is lost.

    Because policies can have meaningful impacts on the energy sector, we have also included two alternative policy cases this year to help stakeholders to examine the effects of regulations implemented since our last AEO. When compared with the Reference case, one case allows stakeholders to examine the effects of recent regulations on power plants and the other recent regulations targeting vehicle fuel economy and emissions.

    Modeled Cases

    Outcomes concerning future technology, demographics, and resources cannot be known with any degree of certainty. We address many key uncertainties in our projections through alternative cases. In AEO2025, we ran 11 cases to model a range of assumptions. In addition to the two alternative policy cases we examined this year, we also include eight core side cases, which we have presented in prior releases of the AEO. A detailed explanation of each case is available on the website, and a brief description is in the following sections.

    AEO2025 Reference case

    Our Reference case assesses how the U.S. energy markets could operate under laws and regulations current as of December 2024 and under historically observed technological growth assumptions.

    Alternative Electricity case

    Our Alternative Electricity case assumes the Clean Air Act (CAA) Section 111 rule implemented by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in April 2024 to regulate carbon dioxide emissions from new gas-fired combustion turbines and existing coal, oil, and gas-fired steam generating units is not in place, and the affected generators are able to operate under rules existing prior to April 2024. In this case, existing coal-fired plants continue operating without requiring modifications to reduce emissions, and generation from new natural gas-fired combined cycle units isn’t constrained based on whether the plant has installed carbon capture equipment.

    Alternative Transportation case

    Our Alternative Transportation case assumes the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s Corporate Average Fuel Economy standards and EPA’s vehicle tailpipe emission standards for model years 2027–2032 are not in place. The case also assumes the California Air Resources Board’s zero-emission vehicle sale mandates for trucks issued since our last published AEO are not in place. Rules affecting fuel economy and tailpipe emissions that were issued for model years 2026 and earlier remain in place. In this case, introduction of new electric vehicle (EV) models and building of EV charging infrastructure are based on growth in EV sales and registrations rather than on announced public and private sector plans. In addition, manufacturer reshoring of EV and battery supply chains, including growth in eligibility for credits under the Inflation Reduction Act, is slower than in the Reference case.

    High and Low Oil Price cases

    In the High Oil Price case, the price of Brent crude oil increases to $155 per barrel (b) in 2050, compared with $91/b in the Reference case and $47/b in the Low Oil Price case.

    High and Low Oil and Gas Supply cases

    The High Oil and Gas Supply case assumes ultimate recovery for new tight oil, tight gas, or shale gas wells are 50% higher than in the Reference case. The case also assumes 50% higher undiscovered resources in Alaska and offshore fields. Technological improvement is assumed to be 50% faster. The Low Oil and Gas Supply case assumes the converse.

    High and Low Zero-Carbon Technology Cost cases

    The Low Zero-Carbon Technology Cost case assumes faster cost declines for electricity-generating technologies that produce zero emissions as construction and manufacturing experience grows, resulting in 40% lower costs than in the Reference case in 2050. The High Zero-Carbon Technology Cost case, conversely, assumes no additional cost reductions from learning with additional deployment of these electricity generating technologies.

    High and Low Economic Growth cases

    The High Economic Growth case assumes the compound annual growth rate for U.S. GDP is 2.1% through 2050, and the Low Economic Growth case assumes a 1.2% rate. By contrast, the Reference case assumes the U.S. GDP annual growth rate is 1.8% over the projection period.

    Major changes for AEO2025

    In 2024 we made significant updates to NEMS, and an overview of the changes can be found in our assumptions documents and in the module-specific fact sheets. Briefly, the model that underpins our outlook now includes three new modules:

    • The Hydrogen Market Module, which represents hydrogen production and pricing, including the impacts of policy, storage, and logistics
    • The Carbon Capture, Allocation, Transportation, and Sequestration Module, which allocates projected supply of captured CO2 across the energy system either for enhanced oil recovery or storage
    • The Hydrocarbon Supply Module, which improves the representation of upstream oil and natural gas resources, replacing the legacy NEMS Oil and Gas Supply Module

    In addition to the new modules, we have extensively enhanced many existing modules to better reflect market dynamics and emerging technologies. We will provide additional details in the AEO2025 model documentation in the coming months.

    We have rewritten and modernized significant portions of the NEMS code base. The source code associated with NEMS is now available via GitHub under an open-source license.

    In addition to changes to NEMS, we also updated the way we calculate primary energy consumption of electricity generation from noncombustible renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, hydroelectric, and geothermal. We now calculate consumption of noncombustible renewable energy for electricity generation using the captured energy approach, which applies a constant conversion factor of 3,412 British thermal units per kilowatthour (Btu/kWh), using the heat content of electricity. This approach is a change from our previous methodology, called the fossil fuel equivalency approach, and is consistent with the methodology now used for all EIA products and reports.

    The captured energy approach is more consistent with international energy statistics standards than the fossil fuel equivalency approach.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General’s Office sues Seattle Public Schools over illegal treatment of pregnant and nursing employees

    Source: Washington State News

    SEATTLE – The Washington state Attorney General’s Office today filed a civil rights lawsuit against Seattle Public Schools, alleging repeated failures to provide reasonable accommodations to pregnant and nursing employees as required by state law.

    The office’s investigation found Seattle Public Schools routinely failed to provide legally required accommodations to pregnant and nursing employees such as flexible restroom breaks, modified work schedules, and the ability to sit more frequently. One employee, while eight months pregnant, was unable to sit her entire workday.

    These practices affected employees across various schools over several years. The state’s investigation revealed that Seattle Public Schools did not have a district-level policy for how to handle pregnancy accommodation requests from employees.

    The district also failed to provide reasonable break time to express milk, or clean and private locations for nursing employees to pump. Employees were walked in on while expressing milk, endured painful clogged ducts, and experienced infections like mastitis. One employee felt “they had no choice but to take leave to continue breastfeeding,” according to the complaint.

    The suit also alleges the school district violated state law by retaliating against employees who sought reasonable accommodations. These included negative performance reviews for employees who requested accommodations, admonishing employees for having doctors’ appointments, and removing employees from preferred classroom assignments.

    In some cases, employees were wrongfully left unpaid or without benefits during or immediately after their pregnancies.

    “These employees suffered mentally, physically, and financially because of the school district’s actions,” Attorney General Nick Brown said. “The Legislature has been clear that employers must accommodate the health needs of their pregnant and nursing workers, which is why Washington has laws banning employers from doing what Seattle Public Schools did to its employees.”

    The practices detailed in the suit, dating back to at least 2021, violate the state Healthy Starts Act and the Washington Law Against Discrimination.

    Prior to filing suit, the Attorney General’s Office approached the district about these concerns and sought to resolve the matter, but those discussions were unsuccessful.

    The lawsuit, filed in King County Superior Court, seeks to halt Seattle Public Schools from engaging in its discriminatory practices and award restitution to each impacted employee. Assistant Attorney General Diane Lopez, AGO Investigator Jennifer Sievert, and Paralegal Panda Halford are handling the case for the AGO.

    If you have experienced pregnancy discrimination at Seattle Public Schools, we want to hear from you. Contact our Civil Rights Division by emailing seattleschoolslawsuit@atg.wa.gov or by calling 833-660-4877 and selecting Option 5. Current and former employees may also submit a complaint using the AGO’s online form.

    The lawsuit can be found here.

    -30-

    Washington’s Attorney General serves the people and the state of Washington. As the state’s largest law firm, the Attorney General’s Office provides legal representation to every state agency, board, and commission in Washington. Additionally, the Office serves the people directly by enforcing consumer protection, civil rights, and environmental protection laws. The Office also prosecutes elder abuse, Medicaid fraud, and handles sexually violent predator cases in 38 of Washington’s 39 counties. Visit www.atg.wa.gov to learn more.

    Media Contact:

    Email: press@atg.wa.gov

    Phone: (360) 753-2727

    General contacts: Click here

    Media Resource Guide & Attorney General’s Office FAQ

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Ventura Man Arrested on Federal Grand Jury Indictment Alleging Fraudulent Representations Regarding Helicopter Parts

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    LOS ANGELES – A Ventura County man was arrested today on a 10-count federal grand jury indictment alleging his company and he defrauded customers by misleading them as to the nature of helicopter parts, making the customers believe that the parts had fewer service hours than they in fact had.

    Jared Michael Swensen, 48, of Ventura, is expected to make his initial appearance and be arraigned on the indictment this afternoon in United States District Court in downtown Los Angeles. 

    Also charged in the indictment is Swensen’s Oxnard-based company, J&J Enterprises LLLP, which did business as “Light Helicopter Depot.” Both Swensen and his company are charged with two counts of wire fraud and eight counts of fraud involving aircraft parts.

    According to the indictment that a federal grand jury returned on April 10, Swensen and Light Helicopter solicited and accepted work to overhaul and maintain helicopters. In performing the overhaul work, the defendants were expected to remove helicopter parts that had reached or were approaching their life limit and to replace them with new parts, parts that had just been overhauled or parts that had substantially fewer hours in service.

    After removing helicopter parts – including main rotor blades and main rotor spindles – that were substantially used or near their life limit, the defendants allegedly installed older, not overhauled parts that in some cases were closer to their life limit than they represented. If these parts failed, a helicopter likely would crash.

    Swensen and his company allegedly made materially false entries in the helicopter’s maintenance logbook and fraudulently altered sales orders and packing slips to correspond with the false entries – misrepresenting the age of the helicopter parts as being years newer than their actual age.

    The defendants also fraudulently altered Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) release certificates – used to certify that an aircraft part was airworthy – to falsely claim that the certificate was issued more than two years after its actual issuance date.

    Swensen and Light Helicopter then sent invoices and received payments in connection with this work. The indictment alleges two such fraudulently induced payments from customers in February and May of 2023.

    The indictment further alleges the defendants made a series of fraudulent representations related to helicopter parts that involved false writings, entries, and records from April 2020 to August 2023.

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

    If convicted, Swensen would face a statutory maximum sentence of 20 years in federal prison for each count of wire fraud and up to 15 years in federal prison for each count of fraud involving aircraft parts. Light Helicopter Depot, if convicted, would be fined up to $10 million for each aircraft parts fraud count and up to $1 million for each wire fraud count.

    The United States Department of Transportation Office of Inspector General is investigating this matter. The FAA provided assistance.

    Assistant United States Attorneys Dennis Mitchell and Danbee Kim of the Environmental Crimes and Consumer Protection Section are prosecuting this case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Durbin, Grassley, Lee Urge DOJ To Protect Vital Antitrust Field Offices

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Dick Durbin
    April 14, 2025
    Senators to Justice Department: “The closure of the Chicago and San Francisco field offices would weaken antitrust enforcement in two vital sectors of the economy: agriculture and tech.”
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, along with Senators Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee, and Mike Lee (R-UT), Chairman of the Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on Antitrust, are advocating for the Chicago and San Francisco antitrust field offices to remain open. Many agricultural and tech antitrust cases are referred to these offices.  
    “Now more than ever, antitrust enforcement is needed in the agricultural and technology sectors. Industries like meatpacking, fertilizers, and seeds are consolidating at an alarming rate. And Americans are struggling to afford their groceries. Additionally, the Antitrust Division has ongoing investigations into, and litigation against, large technology platforms,” the Senators wrote. 
    “We strongly urge you to reconsider the Department’s plans to shut down these critical field offices. We should be ramping up our enforcement operations across America, not scaling them back. At a time when Americans are deeply concerned about food prices and the influence of Big Tech, DOJ must root out any anticompetitive behavior that drives up prices, decreases quality or stifles innovation. Maintaining these field offices will further that objective,” the Senators concluded. 
    Read the Senators’ full letter here. 
    On March 25, 2025, the Department of Justice (DOJ) proposed eliminating its antitrust field offices in Chicago, Illinois, and San Francisco, California.  
    The Chicago field office plays a critical role in enforcing antitrust laws in the agricultural sector. The office serves as the main antitrust enforcement team in the Midwest and helped spearhead the landmark prosecution of Archer Daniels Midland for price-fixing of animal feed additives. This investigation culminated in the defendant pleading guilty and agreeing to pay the largest antitrust fine ever imposed at the time. 
    The San Francisco field office maintains a key role in civil enforcement, focusing on the technology and media industries, as well as criminal enforcement, prosecuting violations including bid-rigging and price-fixing. The San Francisco office recently led two of the Antitrust Division’s largest criminal investigations – the first culminating in over $125 million in fines and the second culminating in over $1.39 billion in fines, as well as 13 executives being sentenced to prison terms ranging from six months to three years. 
    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Klobuchar, Lee Urge DOJ to Investigate Fanatics-Ticketmaster Agreement

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn)
    WASHINGTON — U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Mike Lee (R-UT) are urging the Department of Justice’s Antitrust Division to investigate the recent Live Nation-Ticketmaster and Fanatics agreement that would allow Ticketmaster to sell secondary tickets to sporting events through the Fanatics sports app despite reports that Fanatics explored entering the ticket resale market itself. 
    “We write to express our concern that Live Nation-Ticketmaster has entered yet another concerning transaction that may undermine competition, deter innovation, and ultimately harm consumers seeking to buy tickets online,” wrote the Senators. “Last month, reporting indicated that Live Nation-Ticketmaster and Fanatics reached an agreement that would allow Ticketmaster to sell secondary tickets to sporting events through the Fanatics sports app.”
    “This deal may raise competitive concerns, especially in light of Live Nation-Ticketmaster’s history of anticompetitive conduct detailed in the Justice Department’s lawsuit against Live Nation, which cites numerous transactions to “eliminate rivals, expand its network, and grow its moat,” in addition to a track record of charging high fees to consumers,” the Senators continued. “Though not an acquisition, this deal appears that it may have the effect of eliminating a potential rival in secondary sports ticket sales, expanding its ticketing network, and growing its moat through anticompetitive means.”
    The full letter is available here and below. 
    Dear Assistant Attorney General Slater,
    We write to express our concern that Live Nation-Ticketmaster has entered yet another concerning transaction that may undermine competition, deter innovation, and ultimately harm consumers seeking to buy tickets online.
    Last month, reporting indicated that Live Nation-Ticketmaster and Fanatics reached an agreement that would allow Ticketmaster to sell secondary tickets to sporting events through the Fanatics sports app. This deal may raise competitive concerns, especially in light of Live Nation Ticketmaster’s history of anticompetitive conduct detailed in the Justice Department’s lawsuit against Live Nation, which cites numerous transactions to “eliminate rivals, expand its network, and grow its moat,” in addition to a track record of charging high fees to consumers. Though not an acquisition, this deal appears that it may have the effect of eliminating a potential rival in secondary sports ticket sales, expanding its ticketing network, and growing its moat through anticompetitive means.
    Since its founding in 2002, Fanatics has grown exponentially, disrupting various sports-related markets, including those for officially licensed merchandise, sports memorabilia, and trading cards. Recently, Fanatics announced an ambitious plan to “evolve into a leading global digital sports platform,” seeking to become a one-stop shop for sports fans. To this end, Fanatics has secured official licensing deals with major sports leagues, acquired Topps trading cards, and launched Fanatics Collectibles and Fanatics Betting and Gaming, where it claims to serve “approximately 95% of the addressable online sports bettor market in the U.S.” In short, Fanatics has a strong track record of aggressive expansion into new sports-related markets and appeared poised to enter the online ticketing market for sporting events as a potential competitor to Ticketmaster.
    But instead of using its expertise in developing complex online marketplaces and its strong relationships with every major sports league in the country to enter the online ticketing market, Fanatics instead partnered with a company that the Justice Department has found controls more than 70 percent of all primary tickets sold from NBA and NHL arenas and has “a growing share of ticket resales in the secondary market.” Reporting about the deal confirms that Fanatics “explored possible M&A, and it also looked into building its own platform before settling on the Ticketmaster partnership.”
    While the terms of the deal are not public, that Fanatics entered an agreement with an online ticketing monopolist, rather than innovate, disrupt, and compete themselves as they have in numerous other sports-related markets, raises significant questions about whether Live Nation-Ticketmaster used its monopoly power to prevent Fanatics from entering the online ticketing market, depriving consumers of the benefits of competition. Given Live Nation-Ticketmaster’s long history of anticompetitive conduct, we urge you to look into this deal to determine if any antitrust laws were broken and whether consumers were illegally denied the benefits of new competition in this market.
    We appreciate your attention to this important issue. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: PCSP highlights new scam targeting grieving families

    Source: Northern Ireland City of Armagh

    The Policing and Community Safety Partnership (PCSP) is supporting renewed warnings from the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) as criminals stoop to new lows, targeting grieving families with heartless scams.

    Police have seen a rise in cases where scammers are targeting family members of the deceased, claiming to be from the funeral service providers. As with any scam, their aim remains unchanged – to trick individuals into handing over personal and financial details, paving the way for more sophisticated scams, where the losses can be substantial and even life-changing.

    Detective Inspector Harris from PSNI’s Organised Crime Department said: “The lengths scammers go to are not only extensive but disgraceful. Our advice is don’t respond to unknown calls and texts; don’t give away personal information to people you don’t know; don’t transfer money to unknown people. Where possible, do any transactions in-person with the funeral service provider, so as you know where your money is going.

    “We understand this isn’t always an option, but where it is, proceed accordingly and if something doesn’t seem quite right, don’t continue – report it to your local officers.

    “Scammers think they’re smart but following these rules will show them you’re smarter. Stop. Check. Report.”

    As part of its ongoing work, the PCSP is committed to raising public awareness of scams and fraud prevention. Through community engagement, education, and partnership with PSNI and ScamwiseNI, the PCSP helps ensure residents are equipped to recognise and resist scams – especially those exploiting vulnerable moments like bereavement.

    Alderman Mark Baxter, Chair of the PCSP said, “No one should have to worry about being scammed while grieving the loss of a loved one. That’s why we are reminding everyone of the importance of staying alert and informed. Educating our community on how scams work is vital to protecting people’s money and their peace of mind.”

    The public is urged to remember the simple yet powerful message: Stop. Check. Report.

    • STOP – Don’t be rushed. Pause before sharing information or sending money.
    • CHECK – Use trusted sources to verify who you’re dealing with. Contact service providers directly.
    • REPORT – Report any suspicious activity to police online at www.psni.police.uk/makeareport, by calling 101, or via www.actionfraud.police.uk.

    More information and guidance is available at www.nidirect.gov.uk/scamwiseni or follow the ScamwiseNI Facebook page @scamwiseni.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: JEFFRIES, SCHUMER JOINT STATEMENT ON THE SAVE SOCIAL SECURITY DAY OF ACTION

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Hakeem Jeffries (8th District of New York)

    Know Your Immigration Rights

    If you or a loved one encounter immigration enforcement officials, it is essential that you know your rights and have prepared your household for all possible outcomes.

    Ask for a warrant: The Fourth Amendment of the Constitution protects you from unreasonable search and seizure. You do not have to open your door until you see a valid warrant to enter your home or search your belongings.

    Your right to remain silent: The Fifth Amendment protects your right to remain silent and not incriminate yourself. You are not required to share any personal information such as your place of birth, immigration status or criminal history.

    Always consult an attorney: You have a right to speak with an attorney. You do not have to sign anything or hand officials any documents without speaking to an attorney. Try to identify and consult one in advance.

    The New York City Office of Civil Justice and the Mayor’s Office of Immigrant Affairs (MOIA) support a variety of free immigration legal services through local nonprofit legal organizations. To access these resources, dial 311 and say “Action NYC,” call the MOIA Immigration Legal Support Hotline at 800-354-0365 Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. or visit MOIA’s website.

    Learn more here: KNOW YOUR IMMIGRATION RIGHTS  – Congressman Hakeem Jeffries

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Man Charged with Threatening Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard and Her Family

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

    ATLANTA – Aliakbar Mohammad Amin has been arrested and charged pursuant to a criminal complaint with transmitting interstate threats to injure Director of National Intelligence (DNI) Tulsi Gabbard and her family. 

    “Threatening to harm public officials is a criminal act that cannot be excused as political discourse,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Richard S. Moultrie, Jr.  “Our Office, in coordination with our law enforcement partners, will vigorously prosecute individuals who commit these acts of violence.”

    “The FBI sees all threatening communications as a serious federal offense. We will employ every investigative tool and resource available to identify those responsible and ensure they are prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law,” said Paul Brown, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Atlanta. “Let this arrest serve as a clear warning: if you engage in this kind of criminal behavior, you will be caught and you will go to prison.”

    According to Acting U.S. Attorney Moultrie, the complaint, and other information presented in court: Between March 29 and April 1, 2025, Amin allegedly sent text messages that included threats against DNI Gabbard and her husband, including the following statements: 

    • “You and your family are going to die soon” and “I will personally do the job if necessary.”
    • “Death to America means death to America literally, Tulsi is living on borrowed time.
    • “The home you two own . . . is a legitimate target and will be hit at a time and place of our choosing.”
    • “Prepare to die, you, Tulsi, and everyone you hold dear. America will burn.”

    During the investigation, federal agents also discovered similar threats allegedly made by Amin in social media posts, including an image depicting a firearm pointed at a photograph of DNI Gabbard,  and a second image of a firearm pointed at a photograph of DNI Gabbard and her husband. Federal agents later recovered a firearm while executing a warrant to search Amin’s home.

    Aliakbar Mohammad Amin, 24, of Lilburn, Georgia, was charged on April 11, 2025, via a previously sealed criminal complaint alleging a violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 875(c). He was ordered detained pending trial by a U.S. Magistrate Judge after making his initial appearance in federal court.

    This case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

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

    For further information please contact the U.S. Attorney’s Public Affairs Office at USAGAN.PressEmails@usdoj.gov or (404) 581-6280.  The Internet address for the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Georgia is http://www.justice.gov/usao-ndga.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Fort McMurray — Wood Buffalo RCMP investigate flight from police, seize guns

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    On Mar. 25, 2025 at approximately 3 p.m., Wood Buffalo RCMP Crime Reduction Unit (CRU) were conducting patrols in downtown Fort McMurray when they noted a speeding vehicle leaving the area. CRU continued to observe the vehicle, a red GMC Acadia, and attempted to conduct a traffic stop on Thickwood Drive in Fort McMurray. The vehicle failed to stop for Police, proceeded to Timberline Drive and onto Gladstone Drive. Wood Buffalo RCMP Police Dog Services attended, pre-emptively blocking the path of the suspect vehicle. The suspect vehicle slowed and attempted to flee by reversing into police. The suspect was not successful. RCMP were able to prevent the vehicle from fleeing any further and arrested the six occupants of the vehicle without further incident. There were no injuries to any occupants or police and only minor damage to the police vehicle.

    During a subsequent search of the vehicle incidental to arrest, Police located and seized:

    • Loaded 12-gauge shotgun

    • Pellet style handgun

    • Hard body armour

    A 35-year-old individual, a resident of Fort McMurray, is facing charges:

    • Unauthorized Possession of a Prohibited Weapon

    • Possession of a Firearm in a vehicle

    • Operation while Prohibited

    • Dangerous Operation of a Motor Vehicle

    • Two Counts Possession of a Weapon contrary to an order

    • Flight from Police

    • Three counts Fail to Comply with Release Order

    The 35-year-old individual was held for a judicial interim release order. He was remanded into custody and is set to appear in the Alberta Court of Justice in Fort McMurray on March 27, 2025.

    A 33-year-old individual, a resident of Fort McMurray, is facing charges:

    • Unauthorized Possession of a Prohibited Weapon

    • Possession of a Firearm in a vehicle

    • Fail to comply with Probation Order

    • Three counts Fail to Comply with Release Order

    The 33-year-old individual was held for a judicial interim release order. He was remanded into custody and is set to appear in the Alberta Court of Justice in Fort McMurray on March 27, 2025.

    A 42-year-old individual, a resident of Fort McMurray, is facing charges:

    • Unauthorized Possession of a Prohibited Weapon

    • Possession of a Firearm in a vehicle

    • Possession of Weapon contrary to Order

    • Five counts Fail to Comply with Release Order

    The 42-year-old individual was held for a judicial interim release order. He was remanded into custody and is set to appear in the Alberta Court of Justice in Fort McMurray on March 27, 2025.

    A 33-year-old individual, a resident of Fort McMurray, is facing charges:

    • Unauthorized Possession of a Prohibited Weapon

    • Possession of a Firearm in a vehicle

    • Two counts Fail to Comply with Release Order

    The 33-year-old individual was held for a judicial interim release order. She was remanded into custody and is set to appear in the Alberta Court of Justice in Fort McMurray on March 27, 2025.

    The other two vehicle occupants were released from police custody on Appearance Notices. Both females, who cannot be named until an Information is sworn, are set to appear in the Alberta Court of Justice in Fort McMurray on April 30, 2025.

    Wood Buffalo RCMP continue to investigate the incident. RCMP encourage the public to report any criminal or suspicious activity to police. Reports tell us where to look, who to look for, and where to patrol in the future. If you see a crime in progress, dial 911. If you wish to remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), online at www.P3Tips.com or by using the “P3 Tips” app available through the Apple App or Google Play Store.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Coast Guard, Puerto Rico Police rescue 3 boaters from grounded vessel on Morillo Cay, Guayama, Puerto Rico

    Source: United States Coast Guard

     

    04/15/2025 12:17 PM EDT

    A Coast Guard aircrew and a Puerto Rico Police marine crew rescued three boaters, two men and a woman, from a grounded recreational vessel on Morillo Cay in Guayama, Puerto Rico, Thursday night. The 19-foot recreational vessel reportedly was transiting at high speed when it ran hard aground ejecting one of the three passengers onboard who sustained an open wound to his forehead. “The teamwork and coordination between the Coast Guard and responding Puerto Rico Police enabled us to successfully execute this mission and we are grateful for their partnership,” said Lt. Christian Welch, Coast Guard MH-60T Jayhawk co-pilot for the case. “This case emphasizes the importance of safe boating practices, especially while operating at night.”

    For more breaking news follow us on Twitter and Facebook.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Anderson Man Found Guilty of Impersonating Homeland Security Officer and Possessing Molotov Cocktails

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    INDIANAPOLIS— A federal jury has found Joshua W. Stearman, 42, of Anderson, Indiana, guilty of unlawfully possessing incendiary bombs, commonly referred to as Molotov cocktails, and falsely impersonating an officer or employee of the United States.

    According to court documents and evidence introduced at trial, on December 12, 2023, at approximately 1:47 a.m., a police officer in Ingalls, Indiana, was dispatched to an address that had recently been vandalized multiple times, including with fires set in the driveway and inside the mailbox at that address. Dispatch received a report of a suspicious man walking toward the house carrying something but who ran back to his red Toyota RAV4 when the house’s security lights came on.

    The officer located the RAV4 and pulled it over. As the officer approached, Stearman pressed against the window his ID as well as an unknown government identification that included a government seal at the bottom. Repeatedly, Stearman claimed he was a Homeland Security Officer returning from a “mission.” Stearman was wearing black gloves with black duct tape around his wrists.

    Eventually, Stearman exited the vehicle and was placed in custody. Inside the vehicle, officers found four bottles containing a yellow-brown liquid that gave off an odor of fuel, as well as what appeared to be small pieces of wood or kindling inside of them. All four had a piece of cloth or fabric sticking out from under the cap. Officers also found a lighter in the vehicle.

    During the trial, experts from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) testified about their analysis of the four bottles. An ATF Forensic Chemist testified that she had analyzed the liquid inside the bottles, and each was found to contain gasoline. Then, an ATF Destructive Device Examiner testified how each of the bottles was designed to be used as an incendiary bomb: The wick is ignited by an open flame and the device is thrown against a surface, with the intent that the ignitable liquid and wooden sticks inside will spread fire to a combustible surface against which it was thrown.  Incendiary bombs, commonly known as Molotov cocktails, are a type of destructive device that is generally unlawful to possess under federal law.

    The ATF and Ingalls Police Department investigated this case, with valuable assistance provided by Lapel, Indiana Police Department and the Department of Homeland Security. Chief U.S. District Judge Tanya Walton Pratt presided over the trial and will sentence Stearman at a later date.

    Acting U.S. Attorney John E. Childress thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Jayson W. McGrath and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Nate Walter, who are prosecuting this case.

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    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Yatahey Man Faces Federal Charges for Sexual Assault

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    ALBUQUERQUE – A Yatahey man is facing charges in federal court in connection with a violent sexual assault.

    According to court documents, on March 29, 2025, Jane Doe reported that she has been sexually assaulted the day before by Fernando Brown, 34, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation. Following the assault, Jane Doe was transported to Gallup Indian Medical Center for treatment. When questioned by law enforcement, Brown allegedly admitted to continuing sexual activity after Jane Doe repeatedly told him to stop and also disclosed prior instances of physical violence against Doe.

    Brown is charged with aggravated sexual abuse and will remain in custody pending trial, which has not been set. If convicted of the current charges, Brown faces up to life in prison.

    Acting U.S. Attorney Holland S. Kastrin and Raul Bujanda, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.

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

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Red Deer — Red Deer RCMP Crime Reduction Team execute search warrant

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    On March 19, 2025, the Red Deer RCMP Crime Reduction Team executed a search warrant on a residence in the Rosedale neighbourhood of Red Deer. As a result of the search warrant, police have seized approximately 800 grams of cocaine, packing materials, a digital scale and approximately $14,495 of Canadian currency.

    A youth (16) was arrested on scene and was found in possession of 16 pre-packaged bags of cocaine and 2 spitballs of cocaine. The youth, who cannot be named under Youth Criminal Justice Act, has been charged with the following offences:

    • Possession of a controlled substance for the purpose of trafficking

    • Proceeds of crime over $5000

    • Illegal possession of government documents

    The youth was taken before a Justice of the Peace and was released on a Release Order with conditions. They are scheduled to appear in court on April 3, 2025, at the Alberta Court of Justice in Red Deer.

    “This arrest is part of our ongoing efforts to disrupt street level drug trafficking within Red Deer. Drug trafficking poses a threat to the safety and well-being of everyone, and we are committed to holding those involved responsible,” said Sgt. Robert Daisley. “We encourage anyone who sees suspicious activity to report it. If you see something, say something”

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICE arrests Guatemalan alien charged with murder, assault after release by noncooperative jurisdiction

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    BALTIMORE — U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement arrested Rene Pop-Chub, 32, an illegal alien and Guatemalan citizen, April 12, in Hyattsville, Maryland, after Prince Georges County Department of Corrections failed to honor an ICE immigration detainer, releasing him back into the public.

    Pop is pending charges for murder, second-degree assault, and reckless endangerment.

    “The arrest of Rene Pop-Chub underscores the critical importance of cooperation between federal and local counterparts,” said ICE Baltimore Acting Field Office Director Nikita Baker. “When jurisdictions refuse to honor our immigration detainers, they put their own communities at risk — as was the case here, where a dangerous illegal alien charged with murder and assault was released back onto the streets. Thanks to the unwavering dedication and tireless efforts of our officers, this individual has been taken back into custody. Their work ensures that he will now face justice and will no longer pose a threat to public safety in Maryland.”

    The U.S. Border Patrol arrested Pop June 13, 2013, in Falfurrias, Texas, and issued him an order of expedited removal. Pop was removed from the United States to Guatemala Sept. 24, 2013. The Border Patrol arrested Pop in Cowlic, Arizona, Dec. 11, 2017, after he illegally reentered the U.S. and issued him a notice of intent to reinstate a prior order of removal. ICE removed Pop from the U.S. to Guatemala Dec. 28, 2017.

    Pop reentered the United States for a third time on an unknown date at an unknown location without being inspected, admitted, or paroled by an immigration officer. The Prince George’s County Police Department arrested Pop Aug. 19, 2024, and charged him with first-degree assault. ICE Baltimore lodged an immigration detainer with the Prince George’s County Department of Corrections Oct. 9, 2024. The District Court for Prince George’s County forwarded Pop’s case to the Circuit Court for Prince George’s County Oct. 31, 2024, for the offense of murder, assault first-degree, second-degree assault, and reckless endangerment. The charges are currently pending. The PGCDC declined to honor ICE’s immigration detainer and released Pop from custody April 8. ICE Baltimore arrested Pop in Hyattsville, April 12, and issued him a notice of intent to reinstate a prior order of removal. Pop has been transferred to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.

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

    Learn more about ICE’s mission to increase public safety in our communities on X, formerly known as Twitter, at @EROBaltimore.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Cochrane — Cochrane RCMP Crime Reduction Unit recover over $200,000 of stolen vehicles

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    In January of 2025, Cochrane RCMP Crime Reduction Unit began an investigation into the re-vinning and fraudulent registration of stolen vehicles in the area of Cochrane. With the assistance of community partners, the police launched an investigation into the suspect.

    Through the investigation, it was learned that the operation spanned across Alberta and into Saskatchewan. With assistance from the Wynyard RCMP, Saskatchewan RCMP’s Auto Theft Unit and Saskatoon Police Service, a Ford Expedition and a Lexus RX350 were recovered, resulting in the arrest of a suspect.

    In March 2025, Cochrane RCMP recovered a Ford F150 and then executed a search warrant at a Calgary residence, resulting in the seizure of a re-vinned Dodge Ram. The total value of recovered vehicles across the two provinces exceeds $200,000.

    A 32-year-old individual, a resident of Calgary, was charged with the following:

    • Fraud Over $5000;

    • Altering a VIN;

    • Uttering Forged Documents;

    • Possession of Property Obtained by Crime over $5000; and

    • Possession for the Purposes of Trafficking a Controlled Substance.

    The individual is scheduled to appear on April 28, 2025, at the Alberta Court of Justice in Cochrane.

    “The success of this investigation demonstrates the exceptional work of our investigators and the strong relationships we have with our partner law enforcement agencies and the community” says Inspector Dave Brunner, Commanding Officer of the Cochrane RCMP.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Grande Prairie — Grande Prairie RCMP Crime Reduction Unit conducts multiple drug-related arrests

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Throughout the month of February, the Grande Prairie RCMP Crime Reduction Unit (CRU) conducted multiple drug-related arrests. Included in the arrests are the following instances:

    On Feb. 3, 2025, Grande Prairie RCMP CRU members, while on an unrelated call, witnessed a drug exchange involving an individual known to police. This individual had been arrested twice in Oct. 2024 for similar offences, brought before a justice of the peace and released on both occasions. As a result of the investigation, 36g of fentanyl were seized and a 36-year-old individual, a resident of Grande Prairie, was charged with:

    • Possession of fentanyl for the purpose of trafficking;
    • Possession of property obtained by crime; and
    • Failure to comply with release order (x4).

    The 36-year-old individual was brought before a justice of the peace and remanded into custody. He is to appear before the Alberta Court of Justice in Grande Prairie on Dec. 2, 2025.

    On Feb. 19, 2025, Grande Prairie RCMP CRU conducted a traffic stop in the Grande Prairie area, resulting in the arrest of three individuals. A search of the vehicle and its occupants revealed:

    • 95g of cocaine;
    • 126 oxy pills;
    • $1660 in Canadian currency; and
    • Unstamped tobacco products.

    As a result of the investigation, the following individuals were arrested and charged:

    A 50-year-old, 30-year-old individuals, both residents of Grande Prairie as well as a 23-year-old individual, a resident of Clairmont, Alta., were charged with:

    • Possession of cocaine for the purpose of trafficking;
    • Possession of oxy for the purpose of trafficking;
    • Possession of property obtained by crime; and
    • Possession of unstamped tobacco.

    All individuals were released on conditions after their arrest and are to appear before the Alberta Court of Justice in Grande Prairie on June 4, 2025.

    On Feb. 20, 2025, Grande Prairie RCMP CRU conducted a traffic stop in the Grande Prairie area, from which a vehicle fled. The vehicle was later located by CRU members, who safely arrested the driver, who had multiple outstanding warrants, including one for assault with a weapon. A search of the vehicle incidental to arrest revealed 86g of methamphetamines and 5g of fentanyl.

    As a result of the investigation, a 44-year-old individual, a resident of Peace River, Alta. was charged with:

    • Possession of methamphetamines for the purpose of trafficking;
    • Possession of fentanyl for the purpose of trafficking;
    • Dangerous Driving;
    • Flight from Peace Officer; and
    • Failure to comply with release order (x2).

    The 44-year-old individual was brought before a justice of the peace and remanded into custody, to appear before the Alberta Court of Justice in Peace River on April 7, 2025.

    On Feb. 27, 2025, Grande Prairie RCMP CRU conducted a traffic stop in the Grande Prairie area, resulting in the arrest of three individuals. A search of the vehicle and its occupants revealed:

    • A handgun, complete with extra ammunition. The handgun was later discovered to have been stolen during a break and enter;
    • 13 grams of fentanyl;
    • 33 grams of cocaine; and
    • 33 grams of methamphetamines.

    As a result of the investigation, the following individuals were arrested and charged:

    A 41-year-old individual, a resident of Crooked Creek, Alta., and a 54-year-old individual, a resident of Grande Prairie, were charged with:

    • Possession of fentanyl for the purpose of trafficking;
    • Possession of cocaine for the purpose of trafficking;
    • Possession of methamphetamines for the purpose of trafficking;
    • Possession of property obtained by crime under $5000; and
    • Firearms-related offences (x6).

    A 41-year-old individual, a resident of Grande Prairie, was charged with:

    • Possession of fentanyl for the purpose of trafficking;
    • Possession of cocaine for the purpose of trafficking;
    • Possession of methamphetamines for the purpose of trafficking;
    • Possession of property obtained by crime under $5000;
    • Firearms-related offences (x6); and
    • Failure to comply with release order.

    All individuals were brought before a justice of the peace and originally remanded into custody. Shea and Trautman have since been released. All three are to appear before the Alberta Court of Justice in Grande Prairie on April 9, 2025.

    “I would like to start by thanking the members of the Grande Prairie RCMP CRU for their hard work and dedication in keeping our community safe” said Staff Sergeant Groenen of the Grande Prairie RCMP. “Grande Prairie RCMP CRU believes in our mission to help our community and we do so by ensuring that drugs such as Fentanyl are removed from our streets and that those peddling in such goods are brought before the courts.”

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Biddeford Man Sentenced for Child Exploitation Offense

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    PORTLAND, Maine: A Biddeford man was sentenced on Monday in U.S. District Court in Portland for possessing child sex abuse materials.

    U.S. District Judge Nancy Torresen sentenced Jeffrey Gray, 63, to 10 years in prison to be followed by a lifetime of supervised release. Gray pleaded guilty on February 13, 2023.

    According to court records, in September 2022, federal agents executed a search warrant at Gray’s  residence following reports that he had shared child sexual abuse material over a peer-to-peer file sharing network. Investigators seized eight electronic devices, and based on material recovered from several of those devices, executed a second search warrant in November 2022, recovering three additional devices. A forensic examination of the devices revealed hundreds of child sexual abuse images. Gray has a previous conviction in Rockingham (New Hampshire) Superior Court in 2012 for aggravated felonious sexual assault.

    Homeland Security Investigations and the Maine State Police investigated the case.

    To report an incident involving the possession, distribution, receipt or production of child sexual abuse material: Child sexual abuse material – referred to in legal terms as “child pornography” – captures the sexual abuse and exploitation of children. These images document victims’ exploitation and abuse, and they suffer revictimization every time the images are viewed. In 2023, the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC) received 36 million reports of the possession, manufacture, or distribution of child sexual abuse materials. To file a report with NCMEC, go to https://report.cybertip.org or call 1-800-843-5678. If you are in Maine and you or someone you know has been sexually assaulted or abused, you can get help by calling the free, private 24-hour statewide sexual assault helpline at 1-800-871-7741.

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

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    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Lorton man sentenced to 18 years in prison for sexually exploiting children on Snapchat

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    ALEXANDRIA, Va. – A Lorton man was sentenced today to 18 years in prison for sexually exploiting minor girls as young as nine years old and enticing them to create and send him sexually explicit images and videos of themselves on Snapchat.

    According to court documents, between at least May 1, 2021, and May 8, 2024, Jose Alejandro Belmonte Cardozo, 31, used Snapchat to find minor girls and entice them to send him child sexual abuse material (CSAM). Belmonte Cardozo created different Snapchat accounts depending on the scheme he used to obtain CSAM from the minors.

    For example, Belmonte Cardozo used a particular account to catfish two 15-year-old girls, convincing them that he was a teenage boy. He sent the minors pictures that he claimed depicted him, but which actually depicted a boy who appeared to be approximately 16 years old. Belmonte Cardozo persuaded the minors to send him CSAM, which he surreptitiously recorded on a second cell phone to avoid the in-app notification. He then saved the recordings to a password-protected hidden folder on his cell phone.

    Belmonte Cardozo used a second account to convince other minors to send him CSAM in exchange for admission to a phony group chat he purported to administer. Once Belmonte Cardozo obtained CSAM from the minors, he enticed them to send him additional images and videos.

    Belmonte Cardozo amassed more than 1,000 images and videos of children engaged in sexually explicit conduct on five different electronic devices. On May 8, 2024, he transported two cellphones containing approximately 600 sexually explicit images and videos of minors, into the United States at Dulles International Airport.

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

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Lauren Halper and Zoe Bedell prosecuted the case.

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

    A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 1:24-cr-125.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Preston County Convicted Felon Admits to Firearms Violation

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Pedro Antonio Pacheco, age 46, of Kingwood, West Virginia, has admitted to the unlawful possession of a firearm. 

    According to court documents, Pacheco was stopped for a traffic violation. The officer noticed a firearm laying on the passenger seat. Pacheco is prohibited from having firearms because of prior felony drug convictions.

    Pacheco is facing up to 15 years in federal prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Christie Utt is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government.

    The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the West Virginia State Police investigated.

    U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.

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  • MIL-OSI Australia: Have your say on street upgrades in the city and Dickson

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Our CBR is the ACT Government’s key channel to connect with Canberrans and keep you up-to-date with what’s happening in the city. Our CBR includes a monthly print edition, email newsletter and website.

    You can easily opt in or out of the newsletter subscription at any time.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Popular course on security and defence issues concludes

    Source: Government of Iceland

    The Ministry for Foreign Affairs, in cooperation with the Ministry of Justice, concluded its fourth biannual course on security and defence issues last week.

    The course is designed to strengthen knowledge and awareness of security and defence affairs among professionals in government ministries, public agencies, academia, the private sector, and civil society. It forms part of the Ministry’s continued efforts to broaden understanding of Iceland’s approach to security and defence in a shifting strategic environment.

    “At a time when the security environment in Europe and the North Atlantic is undergoing rapid change, it is more important than ever to deepen public understanding and dialogue about Iceland’s security and defence,” says Þorgerður Katrín Gunnarsdóttir, Minister for Foreign Affairs. “These courses have proven immensely valuable, and I am confident that participants leave with a stronger grasp of the issues and their relevance to Iceland’s role internationally.”

    Specialists from the Ministry for Foreign Affairs offered participants an overview of Iceland’s security and defence policy and the Government’s main priorities in the field. As part of the week-long course, participants visited Keflavík Air Base, the National Commissioner of the Icelandic Police, and the Icelandic Coast Guard.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Red Deer — Red Deer RCMP arrest three

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    On Feb. 12, 2025, Red Deer RCMP Crime Reduction Team (CRT) arrested three people as a result of a drug trafficking investigation.

    Officers executed search warrants at businesses in the downtown and South Hill neighbourhoods and a residence in the Highland Green neighbourhood of Red Deer. As a result of the investigation, police seized a significant amount of Canadian currency, 1.1 kilograms of cocaine, 1.3 kilograms of methamphetamine, 6 grams of fentanyl, and 51 oxycodone tablets, along with other items and materials used in the trafficking of controlled substances. In addition, police seized more than 6000 unstamped cigarettes, ammunition, two shotguns, four rifles, and a handgun.

    A 37-year-old resident of Red Deer, has been charged with the following offences:

    • Possession for the purpose of trafficking x2
    • Fail to comply with conditional sentence order
    • Possession of property obtained by crime over $5000
    • Unsafe storage of firearms
    • Possession of a prohibited weapon when knowing possession is unauthorized
    • Possession of weapon with ammo without licence x2
    • Tampering with serial number of a firearm
    • Possession of weapon obtained by crime
    • Fraud less than or equal to $5000
    • Selling tobacco products
    • Weapons possession contrary to order

    The 37-year-old individual was taken before a justice of the peace and was remanded into custody. He is scheduled to appear in court on Feb. 27, 2025, at the Alberta Court of Justice in Red Deer.

    A 59-year-old resident of Red Deer, has been charged with the following offences:

    • Possession for the purpose of trafficking x2
    • Possession of property obtained by crime over $5000
    • Unsafe storage of firearm
    • Possession of a prohibited weapon when knowing possession is unauthorized
    • Possession of weapon with ammo without licence x2
    • Tampering with serial number of a firearm
    • Possession of weapon obtained by crime

    The 59-year-old individual was taken before a justice of the peace and was released on a release order. Her most recent court appearance was on Feb. 20, 2025, at the Alberta Court of Justice in Red Deer.

    A 22-year-old resident of Red Deer, has been charged with the following offences:

    • Possession for the purpose of trafficking x2
    • Possession of property obtained by crime over $5000
    • Unsafe storage of firearm
    • Possession of a prohibited weapon when knowing possession is unauthorized
    • Possession of weapon with ammo without licence x2
    • Tampering with serial number of a firearm
    • Possession of weapon obtained by crime
    • Fraud less than or equal to $5000
    • Selling tobacco products

    The 22-year-old individual was taken before a justice of the peace and was released on a release order. Her most recent court appearance was on Feb. 20, 2025, at the Alberta Court of Justice in Red Deer.

    If you have information regarding the trafficking of illicit drugs or any other illegal activity within the City of Red Deer, please contact Red Deer RCMP at 403-406-2200. If you wish to remain anonymous, you can contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), online at www.P3Tips.com or by using the “P3 Tips” app available through the Apple App or Google Play Store. To report crime online, or for access to RCMP news and information, download the Alberta RCMP app through Apple or Google Play.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: High River — RCMP Southern Alberta District Crime Reduction Unit charge two for stolen trailer

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    On March 21, 2025, the RCMP Southern Alberta District Crime Reduction Unit (RCMP SADCRU) became aware of a theft of a utility trailer, valued at $32,000, that was stolen from a business in High River. SADCRU began an investigation and was able to locate the trailer. During the course of the investigation, two suspects were arrested. They were in possession of the trailer and a stolen 2018 Dodge Ram 3500 (value$60,000), stolen from a business in Crossfield.

    A 32-year-old and a 28-year-old individual, both residents of Calgary, have been charged with the following:

    • Trafficking stolen property
    • Possession of methamphetamine

    The 32-year-old individual will be appearing in Alberta Court of Justice in Calgary on May 21, 2025, and the 28-year-old individual on May 22, 2025.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: H.R. 1789, Promptly Ending Political Prosecutions and Executive Retaliation Act of 2025

    Source: US Congressional Budget Office

    H.R. 1789 would allow a current or former President or Vice President to remove to federal court a civil action or criminal prosecution brought against them in a state court. Under current law, the option for removal is limited to cases where the defendant is a federal official or an officer of the legislative or judicial branch, acting in an official capacity. In addition, the bill would create a presumption of legal immunity for those officials, establish procedures and standards of evidence for removal of proceedings, and authorize the Attorney General to represent or pay for private representation of officials who are the subject of a charge or claim. The legislation would apply to cases that are pending on the date of enactment and those filed in state courts thereafter.

    CBO expects that cases that are removed from state to federal courts under the bill would result in additional costs for the federal judiciary. There is significant uncertainty surrounding the number of cases that would be removed and the duration of the resulting litigation. Using information from the Administrative Office of the U.S. Courts, CBO estimates that the cost of removing those cases to federal court would be less than $500,000 over the 2025-2030 period. That spending would be subject to the availability of appropriated funds.

    In addition, any payments made by the Attorney General to compensate private counsel retained by officials who are the subject of a charge or claim would be recorded in the budget as direct spending. There is significant uncertainty surrounding the number of cases that would be removed, the duration of resulting litigation, and the extent to which the Department of Justice would pay for private counsel. Because CBO expects that the number of affected cases would be small, any increase in direct spending would be insignificant.

    Litigants in state courts also would need to pay a filing fee to remove their case to federal court. Such fees are recorded in the budget as revenues, and courts can spend those fees without further appropriation. Because CBO expects that the number of affected cases would be small, CBO estimates that the effect on direct spending and revenues would be insignificant.

    The CBO staff contact for this estimate is Jon Sperl. The estimate was reviewed by H. Samuel Papenfuss, Deputy Director of Budget Analysis.

    Phillip L. Swagel

    Director, Congressional Budget Office

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Panamanian Doctor Pleads Guilty in Criminal Fraud Case Expected to Save U.S. Government $25M

    Source: US Justice – Antitrust Division

    Headline: Panamanian Doctor Pleads Guilty in Criminal Fraud Case Expected to Save U.S. Government $25M

    Based on assistance provided by the United States, Panamanian authorities have obtained a criminal plea from Dr. Rolando Chin, a surgeon residing in Panama, in connection with a widespread fraud scheme perpetrated against the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) by Dr. Chin and others in Panama.

    MIL OSI USA News –