NewzIntel.com

Category: Law

  • MIL-OSI Security: Two Monroe County Men Charged With Drug Trafficking And Firearms Offenses

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    SCRANTON – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Eli Valentine Calero, age 43, of East Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania, and John Charles Ehrhard, Jr., age 56, of Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania, were indicted yesterday, April 8, 2025, by a federal grand jury on drug trafficking and firearms charges. 

    According to Acting United States Attorney John C. Gurganus, the superseding indictment alleges that between May 2024 and March 2025, Calero and Ehrhard, Jr. conspired to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute over 500 grams of methamphetamine, in Monroe County, Pennsylvania.  The indictment alleges that during that time Ehrhard, Jr. distributed methamphetamine on multiple occasions and possessed a firearm and ammunition in furtherance of his drug trafficking, when he was prohibited from possessing a firearm due to a prior felony conviction. The indictment further alleges that on March 12, 2025, Calero possessed over 500 grams of methamphetamine and cocaine for distribution.

    The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Pennsylvania State Police. Assistant United States Attorney Jenny P. Roberts 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. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).

    The maximum penalty under federal law for this offense is lifetime imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.

    Indictments are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court.

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    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Federal Grand Jury Indicts Honduran National for Illegally Possessing Firearm and Illegal Re-Entry After Having Been Removed from the U.S. on 2 Prior Occasions

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Bowling Green, KY – A federal grand jury in Bowling Green, Kentucky, returned an indictment today charging a Honduran national with illegally re-entering the United States and possessing a firearm.   

    U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge Rana Saoud of Homeland Security Investigations, Nashville, Sam Olson, Field Office Director for Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) Chicago, U.S. Immigration Customs Enforcement, and Special Agent in Charge John Nokes of the ATF Louisville Field Division made the announcement.

    According to the indictment, Alexis Pinto-Mejia, age 38, a citizen of Honduras, was charged with possessing a firearm on February 25, 2024, in Warren County, Kentucky, knowing he was illegally and unlawfully in the United States. Pinto-Mejia was also charged with illegally re-entering the United States after having previously been denied admission, excluded, deported, and removed from the United States on or about April 4, 2006, and July 6, 2016.

    The defendant previously made an initial appearance before a U.S. Magistrate Judge of the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Kentucky on a federal complaint and arrest warrant. The Court ordered the defendant detained pending trial. If convicted, he faces a maximum sentence of 17 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. The Court ordered the defendant detained pending trial.

    There is no parole in the federal system.

    This case is being investigated by HSI Bowling Green, ATF Bowling Green, and ICE ERO.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark J. Yurchisin II, of the U.S. Attorney’s Bowling Green Branch Office, 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. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).

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

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    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Jury Finds Man Guilty in Shooting at Social Club Which Left an NFL Prospect Paralyzed

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

                WASHINGTON – Roger Lee Jones, 42, of Washington, D.C., was found guilty by a Superior Court jury, on April 7, 2025, of one count of assault with intent to kill while armed and other related charges, for shooting a man in retaliation for an earlier dispute at a social club. The verdict was announced U.S. Attorney Edward R. Martin, Jr. and Chief Pamela Smith of the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) and followed a two week trial.

                The jury also found Jones guilty of three counts of possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, one count of aggravated assault while armed, one count of assault with a dangerous weapon, one count of carrying a pistol without a license, one count of unauthorized use of a vehicle, one count of simple assault, one count of fleeing a law enforcement officer, and one count of threats. Superior Court Judge Danya A. Dayson scheduled sentencing for June 13, 2025.

                According to the evidence presented at trial, on January 22, 2022, Victim 1 was working as a security guard at Kick Axe Throw Social located in Northeast, DC. Jones was a patron there with his ex-girlfriend and child’s mother, Victim 2. At the establishment, Jones got into an argument with Victim 2, took the keys to Victim 2’s vehicle, and left the bar with the keys.  After Jones left the bar, Victim 2 called Jones to ask for the return of her vehicle. 

                At approximately 12:10 a.m., Jones returned to the front of Kick Axe Throw Social where Victim 2 was waiting. Jones refused to return the keys or the vehicle, and then violently attacked Victim 2 by punching her multiple times in the face.  Security staff intervened and stopped Jones’s assault.  In response, Jones made threatening statements to the security staff, then left the scene in Victim 2’s vehicle. Victim 1 was not one of the security staff who broke up the fight.

                After leaving Kick Axe Throw Social, Jones called an accomplice, who drove to the defendant’s location. Jones and the accomplice then drove back to Kick Axe using the accomplice’s vehicle. 

                Meanwhile, Victim 2 traveled to her home and called Jones to again ask him to return her vehicle. Jones replied by telling Victim 2 to stay where she was and that he was coming to kill her. 

                At 1:07 a.m., as Victim 1 was standing by the trunk of his car preparing to leave Kick Axe Throw Social, Jones approached Victim 1 from behind and fired seven shots at him from close range. Victim 1 suffered gunshot wounds to his chest and back and was paralyzed immediately from the waist down. Prior to the incident, Victim 1 was a National Football League (NFL) prospect. The defendant and the accomplice then fled the scene in the accomplice’s vehicle.

                At approximately 1:54 a.m., as police officers with the Metropolitan Police Department were assisting Victim 2 by her residence, Victim 2 and the officers spotted her vehicle being operated with its headlights off.  Officers immediately began to follow the vehicle with emergency equipment activated, but Jones refused to comply with officer commands to stop the vehicle. Jones was able to make good his escape.

                Jones was identified through surveillance footage, cell phone tracking data, vehicle data, and ballistics evidence linking the gun used in this incident to a shooting committed on February 19, 2022, by the accomplice.

                In announcing the verdict, U.S. Attorney Martin and Chief Smith commended the work of officers and detectives of the Metropolitan Police Department who investigated the case. They also commended the work of Assistant U.S. Attorneys Edward Dunn and Benjamin Helfand, who investigated the case, and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Lauren Miller and Travis Wolf, who prosecuted the case at trial. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Convicted Felon Guilty at Trial of Illegally Possessing a Firearm

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    MACON, Ga. – A Baldwin County man with a prior aggravated assault conviction, who had a pistol with an extended magazine during a tense standoff with deputies, was found guilty by a federal jury of illegally possessing a firearm this week.

    Dormaine Mitchell, 39, of Milledgeville, Georgia, was found guilty of one count of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon on April 8, following a two-day trial that began on April 7. Mitchell faces a maximum sentence of 15 years in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release and a $250,000 fine. U.S. District Judge C. Ashley Royal is presiding over the case. A sentencing date will be determined by the Court.

    “We are relieved that no one was injured in this incident and thankful to the officers who effectively managed a tense and dangerous situation,” said Acting U.S. Attorney C. Shanelle Booker. “Alongside our law enforcement partners, the U.S. Attorney’s Office will vigorously pursue justice against repeat offenders who disregard federal law and illegally possess firearms.”

    “A prohibited person in possession of stolen firearms is a clear and present danger to our communities,” said ATF Assistant Special Agent in Charge Beau Kolodka of the Atlanta Field Division. “We are incredibly grateful for the courage and quick action of our law enforcement partners who responded to this high-risk situation. Their dedication ensured a safe outcome for everyone involved. ATF is proud to stand shoulder to shoulder with our partners as we work together to protect the public and pursue justice.”

    “Law enforcement has a strong footprint in Baldwin County, and this case demonstrates the positive outcomes resulting from the collaboration between the Sheriff’s Department and our federal partners,” said Baldwin County Sheriff Bill Massee.

    According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, a Baldwin County Sheriff’s deputy observed the defendant driving erratically by running off the side of the road and into oncoming traffic on Vinson Highway near Laboratory Road on Oct. 13, 2022. The officer stopped the vehicle and noticed the driver, Mitchell, had a strong smell of alcohol and slurred speech. Mitchell told the officer he did not have weapons in the car. However, when Mitchell reached for his wallet, the officer saw the extended magazine of a Glock 22 pistol sticking out from between the driver’s seat and the center console. The officer pulled her weapon and commanded Mitchell to put his hands on the steering wheel. The officer then saw Mitchell lower his right hand. The officer called for backup, took cover and gave verbal commands. At some point during their encounter, Mitchell moved the firearm and placed it on the passenger seat of the vehicle. More officers arrived, and Mitchell was taken into custody. While Mitchell was escorted to the police car, he told the officer, “You better be glad it didn’t go bad.” Mitchell has a lengthy criminal history, including a prior aggravated assault conviction in Baldwin County, Georgia, Superior Court. It is illegal for a convicted felon to possess a firearm.

    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).

    The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Baldwin County Sheriff’s Office, along with assistance from the Milledgeville Police Department and the Georgia Department of Community Supervision, are investigating the case.

    Deputy Criminal Chief Will Keyes and Assistant U.S. Attorney Julius Jefferson are prosecuting the case for the Government.
     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Lower Ship Harbour — Update: RCMP arrests woman involved in hate motivated crime in Lower Ship Harbour

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    RCMP Halifax Regional Detachment has arrested a woman involved in a hate motived crime that occurred in Lower Ship Harbour.

    On March 25, at approximately 11:10 a.m., RCMP officers received a report of mischief at a residential property on West Ship Harbour Rd. The mischief is considered to be motivated by hate based on race, national or ethnic origin, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression.

    As a result of the investigation and information from the pubic, a 64-year-old woman from Dartmouth was identified as being involved in the incident. She was arrested on April 6 and will be facing a charge of Mischief.

    The woman was later released and is scheduled to appear in Dartmouth Provincial Court on May 12 at 9:30 a.m.

    File #: 25-40728

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Shaheen, Collins, King, Kelly, Heinrich Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Address PFAS Contamination in Private Wells

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Hampshire Jeanne Shaheen
    (Washington, D.C.) – U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Susan Collins (R-ME), Angus King (I-ME), Mark Kelly (D-AZ) and Martin Heinrich (D-NM) are reintroducing bipartisan legislation to address per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) contamination in private wells. The Technical Fix for the State Response to Contaminants Program bill would ensure that states have the flexibility to use $5 billion provided in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law for PFAS and other emerging contaminants in small and disadvantaged communities to assist private well owners.
    “Nearly half of all Granite Staters get their water supply at home from private wells—they shouldn’t have to worry that the water they’re drinking is unsafe,” said Senator Shaheen. “Our bipartisan legislation would ensure that assistance from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to help communities address toxic PFAS is available to more Granite Staters, regardless of where their drinking water comes from.”
    “PFAS and other harmful contaminants have been discovered in private water systems in Maine and across the country, and contamination will only become more evident as testing becomes more readily available,” said Senator Collins. “It is crucial that the funding we provided through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law be executed with the appropriate flexibility not only to support public water systems but also to help address contamination for those who rely on private wells. With more than half of Maine residents getting their drinking water from private wells, and an estimated 23 million people or more nationwide relying on residential wells, it is important that the historic investments in safe drinking water help all families.”
    “Every Maine community and household deserves access to clean drinking water that is free of harsh or toxic chemicals like PFAS,” said Senator King. “The bipartisan Technical Fix for the States Response to Contaminations Program is responsible legislation that will allow states more flexibility when it comes to mitigating PFAS contamination and provide assistance to those communities that rely on private wells. I want to thank my colleagues for taking this bipartisan step forward to protecting our drinking water and shared public health.”
    “In Arizona, many families rely on their own wells for their drinking water, and they deserve to know that water is safe and free of dangerous PFAS contamination,” said Kelly. “This fix will give states the flexibility to use existing federal funding to address contamination in private wells, helping make sure families in small and rural communities have access to clean, safe water.”
    “Safe water is essential to the health and well-being of New Mexicans,” said Heinrich. “That’s why I’m proud to cosponsor legislation that will protect rural communities from dangerous forever chemicals by ensuring states can use funding to access new technology that detects and gets rid of water contaminants in private wells. Everyone deserves clean and safe drinking water.”
    Congress intended Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funding for small and disadvantaged communities to be available for states to address private well contamination. However, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency initially interpreted the statute as only allowing for assistance to private wells if the purpose of the activity was to consider connecting private wells to public water systems. In the Fiscal Year 2024 government funding legislation, Senator Shaheen successfully secured language to temporarily address this issue for that year’s funding. The Technical Fix for the State Response to Contaminants Program would be a permanent fix.
    Senator Shaheen leads efforts in Congress to uncover the potential health effects related to PFAS contamination, respond to the chemical exposure and remediate polluted sites. As a lead negotiator of water provisions in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, Senator Shaheen worked to secure $10 billion to specifically address PFAS and other emerging contaminants, $5 billion of which is targeted to small and disadvantaged communities. To date, New Hampshire has received more than $325 million in water infrastructure funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, including $66 million to address PFAS.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General Bonta Files Amicus Brief in Support of Inclusive Curriculum

    Source: US State of California

    OAKLAND – California Attorney General Rob Bonta today, as part of a multistate coalition of 19 attorneys general, filed an amicus brief before the U.S. Supreme Court in Mahmoud v. Taylor in support of the Montgomery County Board of Education’s decision to incorporate LGBTQ+ inclusive books into its curriculum. In their brief, the attorneys general argue that the incorporation of LGBTQ+ inclusive books into language arts curriculum falls within state and local governments’ discretion to shape their curriculum and does not infringe on the free exercise right of religion.  

    “Representation in our curriculum isn’t just about inclusion, it’s about making sure every student has the opportunity to see themselves reflected in the stories and lessons they engage with,” said Attorney General Bonta. “By making sure curriculum reflects the diverse identities and experiences of all students, we create an environment where all students can thrive and feel a sense of belonging. At the California Department of Justice, we will continue to stand up for the rights of LGBTQ+ students and ensure that all of our students are provided with a learning environment that fosters a culture of respect, empathy, and belonging.”

    The Montgomery County Board of Education, like other school authorities around the country, is charged with one of the most important functions of government — nurturing successive generations of children into capable citizens of a diverse but unified nation. Recognizing the importance of this responsibility, courts have long afforded state and local governments significant discretion to craft school policies in order to best serve this goal, so long as they act within the constraints of state and federal law. This discretion encompasses not only what schools teach, but also how they create an environment that is conducive to educating their students. LGBTQ + students face disproportionate levels of stereotyping, discrimination, and even violence, with profound psychological and educational consequences. The books at issue here address these problems by promoting tolerance of, and respect for, people who are LGBTQ+.

    In the amicus brief, the coalition urges the Supreme Court to affirm the ruling made by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit arguing that:

    • The county’s efforts to ensure safe and supportive learning environments for LGBTQ+ students fall within state and local governments’ broad discretion to shape public education.
    • States have a responsibility to protect students from harm including LGBTQ+ youth, who experience disproportionately high levels of discrimination and violence.
    • Exposure to these books do not violate the free exercise of religion.

    In filing the amicus brief, Attorney General Bonta joins the attorneys generals of Massachusetts, Maryland, Connecticut, Colorado, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Hawaii, Illinois, Maine, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, and Washington.

    A copy of the brief can be found here. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Natuashish — Natuashish RCMP investigates residential arson, seeks public’s assistance

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Natuashish RCMP is investigating a residential arson that occurred on April 9, 2025. Police are seeking information from the public.

    Shortly after 2:15 a.m. today, Natuashish RCMP received a report of a residence on fire on Pokue Street in Natuashish and attended the scene to find the home fully engulfed in flames. The owner was not at home when the fire started. Evidence gathered as part of the investigation suggests that the fire was intentionally set.

    The investigation is continuing.

    Natuashish RCMP asks the public to check for any available surveillance footage in the area of Pokue Street around the time of the fire and to report any suspicious activity or information about this incident to the detachment by calling (709)-478-8900. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers: #SayItHere 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), visit www.nlcrimestoppers.com or use the P3Tips app.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Pickens County man arrested on Child Sexual Abuse Material* chargesRead More

    Source: US State of South Carolina

    (COLUMBIA, S.C.) – South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson announced the arrest of Dacus Ethen King, 35, of Easley, S.C., on six charges connected to the sexual exploitation of a minor. Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force investigators with the Pickens County Sheriff’s Office made the arrest. Investigators with the Attorney General’s Office, also a member of the state’s ICAC Task Force, assisted with this investigation.

     

    Investigators received a CyberTipline report from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC), which led them to King. Investigators state King distributed and possessed files of child sexual abuse material.  

     

    King was arrested on April 8, 2025. He is charged with one count of sexual exploitation of a minor, second degree (§16-15-405), a felony offense punishable by up to 10 years imprisonment; and five counts of sexual exploitation of a minor, third degree (§16-15-410), a felony offense punishable by up to 10 years imprisonment on each count.

     

     

    The case will be prosecuted by the Attorney General’s Office.

     

    Attorney General Wilson stressed all defendants are presumed innocent unless and until they are proven guilty in a court of law.

     

     

     

    * Child sexual abuse material, or CSAM, is a more accurate reflection of the material involved in these heinous and abusive crimes. “Pornography” can imply the child was a consenting participant.  Globally, the term child pornography is being replaced by CSAM for this reason.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Defendants Charged Following Armed Coup Attack in the Democratic Republic of the Congo

    Source: US State of California

    Three defendants transferred from the DRC to the U.S. and one other arrested in Utah after Armed Coup Attack to overthrow the DRC government

    Note: View the criminal complaint.

    A criminal complaint was unsealed today in the District of Utah charging Marcel Malanga, 22, Tyler Thompson, 22, Benjamin Zalman-Polun, 37, and Joseph Peter Moesser, 67, all U.S. citizens, with conspiring to provide material support and resources, conspiracy to use weapons of mass destruction, conspiracy to bomb places of government facilities, and conspiracy to kill or kidnap persons in a foreign country, among other offenses.

    Malanga, Thompson, and Polun are expected to make their initial appearances at the federal courthouse in Brooklyn, New York. Moesser is expected to make his initial appearance on April 10 at the federal courthouse in Salt Lake City. After their initial appearances in New York, it is expected that Malanga, Thompson, and Polun will appear in Salt Lake City, Utah, for further legal proceedings.

    As alleged in the complaint, the defendants conspired to unlawfully carry out a coup d’état in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). The coconspirators conducted an armed military operation (Armed Coup Attack) specifically targeting DRC President Félix Tshisekedi and Deputy Prime Minister for the Economy Vital Kamerhe (Kamerhe), attacking both the Palais de la Nation (the official residence and principal workplace of the president) and Kamerhe’s private residence in Kinshasa, DRC. Men wearing camouflage fatigues and armed with weapons attacked and entered the Palais de la Nation. Armed men also attacked Kamerhe’s residence, which was riddled with bullet holes after the attack. At least six people died during the attack, including two police officers protecting Kamerhe’s residence, and at least one innocent civilian. The goal of these rebel forces was to overthrow the DRC government, establish a new government known as the New Zaire, and install Christian Malanga, now deceased, as the president of the New Zaire.

    Christian Malanga acted as a leader and organizer of these rebel forces. It was the goal of these rebel forces to topple the DRC government and to murder President Félix Tshisekedi, Kamerhe, and others, with the goal of installing Christian as the new president of the DRC. Marcel Malanga also held himself out as a leader of the rebel forces and identified himself as the “Chief of Staff of the Zaire army.” Polun was Christian Malanga’s chief of staff. Moesser was the explosives maker, explosives technician, and explosives supplier. Thompson was a soldier and drone specialist/operator.

    Also as alleged in the complaint, Christian Malanga, Marcel Malanga, Thompson, Polun, and Moesser conspired to provide material support and resources including services, training, expert advice or assistance, communication equipment, weapons, explosives, and personnel to the rebel army which was formed to overthrow the DRC government. Further, the defendants conspired to acquire and use weapons of mass destruction during the Armed Coup Attack. The coconspirators planned to use bombs that could be deployed to their targets by drone(s). Targets included people, private residences, and public buildings. They also intended to attach a flamethrower device to a drone and use it as an incendiary device to light people on fire.

    The defendants planned, scouted out targets, and identified victims for the Armed Coup Attack, with the purpose and intent to murder other persons, including high-level DRC government officials. They recruited others to join in the Armed Coup Attack as personnel for the rebel army and, in some cases, recruited personnel in exchange for money. The defendants also acquired and attempted to acquire explosive and incendiary devices with the purpose and intent to use such devices to target individuals, private property, and DRC government buildings. Coconspirators communicated with and procured destructive devices, to include carrier devices such as drones, explosives, incendiary devices, and delivery mechanisms, from businesses, private parties, and at least one individual associated with a foreign military to effectuate the Armed Coup Attack.

    Additionally, they procured from businesses and private parties, military equipment to include firearms, ammunition, uniforms, communication equipment, and communication jamming equipment. The coconspirators planned to transport weapons, explosives, and resources from the United States to the DRC to effectuate the Armed Coup Attack, and they then transported weapons and resources to the DRC. Further, the defendants engaged in firearms and weapons training in the United States and in Africa to provide services and support during the conspiracy and Armed Coup Attack.

    If convicted, the defendants face a maximum penalty of up to 15 years in prison for each count of conspiring to provide material support and resources; and up to life in prison for each count of conspiracy to use weapons of mass destruction, conspiracy to bomb places of government facilities, and conspiracy to kill or kidnap persons in a foreign country. Additionally, if convicted, Malanga and Thompson each face a maximum penalty of up to 15 years in prison for each count of taking a firearm out of the United States to engage in a felony. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    Sue J. Bai, head of the U.S. Department of Justice National Security Division, Acting U.S. Attorney Felice John Viti for the District of Utah, and Special Agent in Charge Mehtab Syed of the FBI Salt Lake City Field Office made the announcement.

    The case is being investigated by the FBI Salt Lake City Field Office, with assistance by the FBI New York Field Office and the FBI’s Legal Attaché Office in Nairobi, Kenya, which oversees the Democratic Republic of Congo.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Bryan R. Whittaker, Chief, National Security and Cybercrimes Section, and Jonathan Stowers of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Utah, and Trial Attorney Tanya Senanayake of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section are prosecuting the case. The Criminal Division’s Office of International Affairs has also provided substantial assistance to the prosecution team.

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

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Defendants Charged Following Armed Coup Attack in the Democratic Republic of the Congo

    Source: United States Attorneys General 7

    Three defendants transferred from the DRC to the U.S. and one other arrested in Utah after Armed Coup Attack to overthrow the DRC government

    Note: View the criminal complaint.

    A criminal complaint was unsealed today in the District of Utah charging Marcel Malanga, 22, Tyler Thompson, 22, Benjamin Zalman-Polun, 37, and Joseph Peter Moesser, 67, all U.S. citizens, with conspiring to provide material support and resources, conspiracy to use weapons of mass destruction, conspiracy to bomb places of government facilities, and conspiracy to kill or kidnap persons in a foreign country, among other offenses.

    Malanga, Thompson, and Polun are expected to make their initial appearances at the federal courthouse in Brooklyn, New York. Moesser is expected to make his initial appearance on April 10 at the federal courthouse in Salt Lake City. After their initial appearances in New York, it is expected that Malanga, Thompson, and Polun will appear in Salt Lake City, Utah, for further legal proceedings.

    As alleged in the complaint, the defendants conspired to unlawfully carry out a coup d’état in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). The coconspirators conducted an armed military operation (Armed Coup Attack) specifically targeting DRC President Félix Tshisekedi and Deputy Prime Minister for the Economy Vital Kamerhe (Kamerhe), attacking both the Palais de la Nation (the official residence and principal workplace of the president) and Kamerhe’s private residence in Kinshasa, DRC. Men wearing camouflage fatigues and armed with weapons attacked and entered the Palais de la Nation. Armed men also attacked Kamerhe’s residence, which was riddled with bullet holes after the attack. At least six people died during the attack, including two police officers protecting Kamerhe’s residence, and at least one innocent civilian. The goal of these rebel forces was to overthrow the DRC government, establish a new government known as the New Zaire, and install Christian Malanga, now deceased, as the president of the New Zaire.

    Christian Malanga acted as a leader and organizer of these rebel forces. It was the goal of these rebel forces to topple the DRC government and to murder President Félix Tshisekedi, Kamerhe, and others, with the goal of installing Christian as the new president of the DRC. Marcel Malanga also held himself out as a leader of the rebel forces and identified himself as the “Chief of Staff of the Zaire army.” Polun was Christian Malanga’s chief of staff. Moesser was the explosives maker, explosives technician, and explosives supplier. Thompson was a soldier and drone specialist/operator.

    Also as alleged in the complaint, Christian Malanga, Marcel Malanga, Thompson, Polun, and Moesser conspired to provide material support and resources including services, training, expert advice or assistance, communication equipment, weapons, explosives, and personnel to the rebel army which was formed to overthrow the DRC government. Further, the defendants conspired to acquire and use weapons of mass destruction during the Armed Coup Attack. The coconspirators planned to use bombs that could be deployed to their targets by drone(s). Targets included people, private residences, and public buildings. They also intended to attach a flamethrower device to a drone and use it as an incendiary device to light people on fire.

    The defendants planned, scouted out targets, and identified victims for the Armed Coup Attack, with the purpose and intent to murder other persons, including high-level DRC government officials. They recruited others to join in the Armed Coup Attack as personnel for the rebel army and, in some cases, recruited personnel in exchange for money. The defendants also acquired and attempted to acquire explosive and incendiary devices with the purpose and intent to use such devices to target individuals, private property, and DRC government buildings. Coconspirators communicated with and procured destructive devices, to include carrier devices such as drones, explosives, incendiary devices, and delivery mechanisms, from businesses, private parties, and at least one individual associated with a foreign military to effectuate the Armed Coup Attack.

    Additionally, they procured from businesses and private parties, military equipment to include firearms, ammunition, uniforms, communication equipment, and communication jamming equipment. The coconspirators planned to transport weapons, explosives, and resources from the United States to the DRC to effectuate the Armed Coup Attack, and they then transported weapons and resources to the DRC. Further, the defendants engaged in firearms and weapons training in the United States and in Africa to provide services and support during the conspiracy and Armed Coup Attack.

    If convicted, the defendants face a maximum penalty of up to 15 years in prison for each count of conspiring to provide material support and resources; and up to life in prison for each count of conspiracy to use weapons of mass destruction, conspiracy to bomb places of government facilities, and conspiracy to kill or kidnap persons in a foreign country. Additionally, if convicted, Malanga and Thompson each face a maximum penalty of up to 15 years in prison for each count of taking a firearm out of the United States to engage in a felony. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    Sue J. Bai, head of the U.S. Department of Justice National Security Division, Acting U.S. Attorney Felice John Viti for the District of Utah, and Special Agent in Charge Mehtab Syed of the FBI Salt Lake City Field Office made the announcement.

    The case is being investigated by the FBI Salt Lake City Field Office, with assistance by the FBI New York Field Office and the FBI’s Legal Attaché Office in Nairobi, Kenya, which oversees the Democratic Republic of Congo.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Bryan R. Whittaker, Chief, National Security and Cybercrimes Section, and Jonathan Stowers of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Utah, and Trial Attorney Tanya Senanayake of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section are prosecuting the case. The Criminal Division’s Office of International Affairs has also provided substantial assistance to the prosecution team.

    A 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: Two Missouri Individuals Charged with Dealing Firearms without a License and Other Offense

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – Two individuals were indicted by a federal grand jury in separate cases this week for dealing in firearms without a license and other offense.

    A California, Missouri Man Indicted for Dealing Firearms without a License and Possession of an Unregistered Firearm

    According to an indictment returned this week, Aubrey Foxworthy, 81, of California, Missouri, was charged with dealing firearms in Morgan and Moniteau Counties from approximately June 2, 2023 through September 9, 2024.  He did not have a federal firearms license to deal firearms.  Foxworthy was also charged with possession of a rifle with a barrel length less than 16 inches and that rifle was not registered to him in the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record.

    A Popular Bluff, Missouri Man Indicted for Dealing Firearms without a License

    According to an indictment returned this week, Philip Leroy Rains, 75, of Popular Bluff, Missouri, was charged with dealing firearms in Morgan County from approximately April 1, 2023 through April 4, 2024.  He did not have a federal firearms license to deal firearms.

    The charges contained in this indictment are simply accusations, and not evidence of guilt. Evidence supporting the charges must be presented to a federal trial jury, whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence.

    Under federal statutes, if convicted of dealing in firearms without a license, a prison sentence of up to 5 years and a fine of up to $250,000 is authorized.  Under federal statutes, if convicted of possession of an unregistered firearm, a prison sentence of up to 10 years and a fine of up to $10,000 is authorized.  The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes, as the sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled after the completion of a presentence investigation by the United States Probation Office.

    These cases are being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron M. Maness. These cases were investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Jefferson City Police Department, and the Boone County Sheriff’s Office.

    Project Safe Neighborhoods

    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: Allston Man Charged with Allegedly Trafficking “Date Rape” Drug and Methamphetamine

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    BOSTON – An Allston man has been indicted for trafficking methamphetamine and 1,4-Butanediol (BDO), an analogue of Gamma Hydroxybutyrate (GHB) – more commonly known as the “date rape drug” – out of his Allston home.

    Peter Schiepers, 32, is charged with one count of distribution and possession with the intent to distribute five grams or more of methamphetamine; two counts of distribution and possession with the intent to distribute Butanediol (an analogue of GHB); and two counts of distribution and possession with the intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine. Schiepers was arraigned yesterday.

    According to the charging documents, in November 2024, law enforcement received information that Schiepers was supplying methamphetamine in and around the Boston area. Between November 2024 and February 2025, a cooperating source conducted multiple controlled purchases allegedly from Schiepers.

    Specifically, in January 2025, it is alleged that Schiepers conducted a transaction for one ounce of methamphetamine. In February 2025 he allegedly sold four ounces of methamphetamine and a liter of BDO. Schiepers allegedly told an undercover officer that he received the BDO in Chinese shampoo bottles and that he also used an application that allowed him to anonymously send some shipments to hotels and convenience stores nearby.
     
    The charge of possession with intent to distribute five grams or more of methamphetamine provides for a minimum sentence of five years and up to 40 years in prison, at least three years and up to a lifetime of supervised release and a fine of up to $5 million. The charge of possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine provides for a minimum sentence of 10 years and up to life in prison, at least three years and up to a lifetime of supervised release and a fine of up to $10 million. 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.

    United States Attorney Leah B. Foley and Stephen D. Belleau, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration’s New England Field Office made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the Boston Police Department and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service’s Boston Division. Assistant U.S. Attorney John O. Wray of the Narcotics & Money Laundering Unit is prosecuting the case.

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Worcester Man Sentenced to Eight Years in Prison for Drug Distribution Conspiracy

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    BOSTON – A Worcester man was sentenced yesterday in federal court in Worcester for his involvement in a cocaine distribution conspiracy.

    Luis Torres, 47, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Margaret R. Guzman to eight years in prison, to be followed by four years of supervised release. The Court also entered a judgement of forfeiture of $26,480 in cash. In June 2024, Torres pleaded guilty to one count of conspiring to possess with the intent to distribute and to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine and one count of use of a communication facility to facilitate a drug felony. Torres was indicted by a federal grand jury in December 2022.

    Torres conspired with others to coordinate delivery of a package from Puerto Rico known by him to contain 4 – 6 kilograms of cocaine and to take possession of the cocaine with the intent to distribute it. In June 2022, law enforcement intercepted the package and executed a controlled delivery during which another individual accepted the package while Torres sat in a nearby car. Torres was arrested at the scene and $26,480 in cash was recovered.

    United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; Michael J. Krol, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in New England; Stephen Belleau, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration, New England Field Division; and Colonel Geoffrey D. Noble, Superintendent of the Massachusetts State Police made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kaitlin Brown of the Worcester Branch Office prosecuted the case.
     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: ILLEGAL ALIEN SENTENCED TO 46 MONTHS’ FEDERAL PRISON FOR REENTRY OFFENSE

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    PENSACOLA, FLORIDA – Rafael Sanchez-De La Rosa, 51, a Mexican citizen, was sentenced to 46 months in federal prison for Illegal Reentry by Removed Alien.  The sentence was announced by Michelle Spaven, Acting United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.

    “Enforcing immigration laws is a priority of the Department of Justice,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Spaven.  “This sentence reflects the seriousness of committing crimes while being in our country illegally.  The Northern District of Florida and our law enforcement partners are committed to keeping our communities safe.”

    “This case highlights the serious public safety risks posed by individuals who repeatedly violate our laws, both criminal and immigration,” U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Office (ICE-ERO) Miami Acting Field Office Director Juan Agudelo. “Despite being removed from the United States on multiple occasions, Mr. Sanchez-De La Rosa unlawfully re-entered the country and continued to endanger lives through repeated DUI offenses. ICE remains committed to working with local law enforcement partners to identify and remove those who present a threat to our communities.”

    On May 5, 2024, at around 1:30 a.m., Sanchez-De La Rosa was arrested by the Pensacola Police Department (PPD) and charged with his third driving under the influence (DUI) within ten years, amongst other offenses.  Sanchez-De La Rosa had been speeding nearly twenty miles over the speed limit.  PPD located two open containers in the center console of his vehicle, and Sanchez-De La Rosa admitted to consuming at least eight beers.  Federal officers with ICE subsequently determined Sanchez-De La Rosa was present in the United States illegally.  Sanchez-De La Rosa had been previously removed from the United States to Mexico in 2017 and again in 2018.  Sanchez-De La Rosa has now been convicted of DUI in Escambia County three times, in 2014, 2015, and 2024, two of which cases were felony convictions.  During his first DUI offense, Sanchez-De La Rosa seriously injured his passenger, requiring hospitalization.

    Sanchez-De La Rosa has an ICE detainer lodged against him and will begin deportation proceedings after he serves his federal prison term.  Sanchez-De La Rosa’s imprisonment will be followed by three years of supervised release, meaning if he returns to the United States during such timeframe, he will potentially face an additional period of incarceration related to violating his supervision.

    This conviction was the result of an investigation conducted by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Enforcement Removal Operations (ERO) Pensacola.  Assistant United States Attorney Jennifer Callahan prosecuted the case.

    This case is part of Operation Take Back America (https://www.justice.gov/dag/media/1393746/dl?inline ) 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).

    The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access available public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Obernolte Introduces the Election Results Accountability Act to Restore Public Trust in Federal Elections

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jay Obernolte (R-Hesperia)

    Washington, D.C. –This week, Congressman Jay Obernolte (CA-23) introduced the Election Results Accountability Act, legislation aimed at improving transparency and restoring trust in the democratic process by setting federal deadlines for ballot counting and the certification of election results.

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | April 9, 2025  

    Contact: Connor Chapinski, (202) 225-5861  

      

    Rep. Obernolte Introduces the Election Results Accountability Act to Restore Public Trust in Federal Elections 

    Washington, D.C. –This week, Congressman Jay Obernolte (CA-23) introduced the Election Results Accountability Act, legislation aimed at improving transparency and restoring trust in the democratic process by setting federal deadlines for ballot counting and the certification of election results. 

    The bill amends the Help America Vote Act of 2002 to require all states to count and publicly report no less than 90% of ballots cast in federal elections within 72 hours of polls closing. Additionally, it mandates that states complete the ballot count and certify the final results within two weeks of election day. 

    “Some states took over a month to certify the results of the 2024 elections. That length of delay erodes the public’s trust in our electoral system,” said Rep. Obernolte. “Timely certification of federal election results is not only critical for public confidence but also essential for ensuring that newly elected members can fully participate in key activities such as orientations, leadership elections, and committee assignments.” 

    “California took longer than virtually any other state in the nation to certify the results of the 2024 elections. This ridiculous delay fosters distrust and confusion about the direction of our government and responsiveness to voters,” said Rep. Kiley. “Other states manage to complete election results faster and without incident- there’s no reason California can’t get this job done in a more timely manner. Enough is enough.” 

    “Having accurate and timely results for our elections is critical to strengthening the integrity and confidence in our democracy,” said Rep. Calvert. “I am proud to cosponsor the Election Results Accountability Act and thank Rep. Obernolte for introducing this important legislation.” 

    “For years, several states – including California – have turned election day into a month of voting that has singlehandedly damaged the credibility of our democracy,” said Rep. Issa. “That’s why I’m supporting Rep. Obernolte’s bill establishing a commonsense standard giving every American voter enduring confidence in the timely counting of valid ballots and the ultimate results of our federal elections.” 

    “In California it can take weeks to certify election results, which undermines the public trust necessary for free and fair elections,” said Rep. Valadao. “Californians—and all Americans—deserve to know the results of their elections in a timely and transparent manner. I’m proud to join my colleagues to introduce this bill which will help restore some confidence in our democratic process.”

    “Establishing clear procedures for the timely and transparent certification of federal election results is long overdue,” said Rep. Fong. “Americans deserve to have confidence in the election process that defines our country, which is why I am proud to support this legislation. For us in California, this is critically important.” 

    The legislation includes commonsense exceptions for circumstances outside of a state’s control—such as natural disasters, public health emergencies, cyberattacks, or technical failures—as well as allowances for recounts and for the first-time implementation of new election procedures. 

    To enforce compliance, states that fail to meet the deadlines without qualifying exemptions may be denied federal election funds unless they submit a corrective compliance plan to the U.S. Election Assistance Commission (EAC) and the Department of Justice (DOJ). The EAC and DOJ must jointly certify both the failure and the adequacy of a state’s plan before federal funding is restored. 

    The Election Results Accountability Act will apply to all federal elections held 90 days after enactment. Read the full bill here.  

     ##   

    Obernolte.house.gov  

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Valadao Leads Legislation to Restore Public Trust in the Democratic Process

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman David G. Valadao (California)

    WASHINGTON – Today, Congressman David Valadao (CA-22) joined Reps. Jay Obernolte (CA-23), Vince Fong (CA-20), Ken Calvert (CA-41), Kevin Kiley (CA-03), Tom McClintock (CA-05), and Darrell Issa (CA-48) to introduce the Election Results Accountability Act. This bill aims to improve transparency and restore trust in the democratic process by setting federal deadlines for ballot counting and certification of election results. 

    “In California it can take weeks to certify election results, which undermines the public trust necessary for free and fair elections,” said Congressman Valadao. “Californians—and all Americans—deserve to know the results of their elections in a timely and transparent manner. I’m proud to join my colleagues to introduce this bill which will help restore some confidence in our democratic process.”

    “Some states took over a month to certify the results of the 2024 elections. That kind of delay erodes the public’s trust in our electoral system,” said Rep. Obernolte. “Timely certification of federal election results is not only critical for public confidence but also essential for ensuring that newly elected members can fully participate in key activities like leadership elections and committee assignments.”

    “Establishing clear procedures for the timely and transparent certification of federal election results is long overdue,” said Rep. Fong. “Americans deserve to have confidence in the election process that defines our country, which is why I am proud to support this legislation. For us in California, this is critically important.” 

    “Having accurate and timely results for our elections is critical to strengthening the integrity and confidence in our democracy,” said Rep. Calvert. “I am proud to cosponsor the Election Results Accountability Act and thank Rep. Obernolte for introducing this important legislation.” 

    “California took longer than virtually any other state in the nation to certify the results of the 2024 elections. This ridiculous delay fosters distrust and confusion about the direction of our government and responsiveness to voters,” said Rep. Kiley. “Other states manage to complete election results faster and without incident- there’s no reason California can’t get this job done in a more timely manner. Enough is enough.” 

    “For years, several states – including California – have turned election day into a month of voting that has singlehandedly damaged the credibility of our democracy,” said Rep. Issa. “That’s why I’m supporting Rep. Obernolte’s bill establishing a commonsense standard giving every American voter enduring confidence in the timely counting of valid ballots and the ultimate results of our federal elections.” 

    Background:

    The Election Results Accountability Act includes common sense exceptions for circumstances outside a state’s control, such as natural disasters, public health emergencies, cyberattacks, or technical failures, as well as allowances for recounts and the first-time implementation of new election procedures. To enforce compliance, states that fail to meet the deadlines without qualifying exemptions may be denied federal election funds unless they submit a corrective compliance plan to the U.S. Election Assistance Commission (EAC) and the Department of Justice (DOJ). The EAC and DOJ must jointly certify both the failure and the adequacy of a state’s plan before federal funding is restored.

    This legislation will apply to all federal elections held 90 days after enactment.

    The Election Results Accountability Act would:

    • Amend the Help America Vote Act of 2002 to require all states to count and publicly report no less than 90% of ballots cast in federal elections within 72 hours of polls closing.
    • Mandate that states complete the ballot count and certify final results within two weeks of election day.
    Read the full bill here.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Province Funds Power of Attorney App

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Nova Scotians now have a free tool to help them plan for the future and protect their financial well-being.

    The Province has provided funding for a new power of attorney app, developed through a partnership with the Legal Information Society of Nova Scotia. The app allows users to create a legally valid power of attorney, ensuring they can designate a trusted person to manage their finances and property if they become unable to do so themselves.

    “Government is committed to improving access to justice for all Nova Scotians. The power of attorney app will provide peace of mind by helping more Nova Scotians plan for the future and protect their financial well-being,” said Becky Druhan, Attorney General and Minister of Justice. “The legal landscape is changing, and we are working to ensure Nova Scotians have access to the tools and resources they need. By leveraging technology, we are making it easier for people to navigate the justice system and make informed decisions about their future.”

    Improving access to justice is a key priority for the Department, and the power of attorney app is one of several initiatives underway to modernize and enhance justice services in Nova Scotia.

    The power of attorney app is the latest addition to the society’s online suite of free, user-friendly estate planning and wellness tools. The Province invested $135,000.

    Quotes:

    “Having a plan in place in the event you can no longer make decisions for yourself is so important – it helps to ensure people and their families are protected. This free tool is a game-changer, empowering Nova Scotians to take control of their future and safeguard their finances. I urge all, especially older, Nova Scotians, to start the conversation and take the steps they need to protect themselves now, before they need to.”
    — Barbara Adams, Minister of Seniors and Long-Term Care

    “It’s important that everyone, regardless of income, has access to the legal tools and resources they need to plan for the future and document their wishes. We’re proud to partner with the Province to provide this important new resource for Nova Scotians.”
    — Dianna Burns, Legal Information Counsellor and project co-ordinator, Legal Information Society of Nova Scotia

    Quick Facts:

    • the Legal Information Society of Nova Scotia is a charitable organization providing Nova Scotians with information and resources since 1982
    • power of attorney is the seventh free app available through the society; others cover personal directives, work safety, safe spaces, small claims court, will preparation and financial help for people under 25

    Additional Resources:

    The free power of attorney app, called the POA-E app, is available at: https://www.legalinfo.org/poa

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Murphy, Blumenthal, 35 Senators Introduce Bicameral Legislation To Guarantee Union Rights For Public Workers

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Connecticut – Chris Murphy

    April 09, 2025

    WASHINGTON—U.S. Senators Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), a member of the U.S. Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee, and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) joined 35 of their Senate colleagues in reintroducing the Public Service Freedom to Negotiate Act, bicameral legislation to guarantee the right of public sector employees to organize, act concertedly, and bargain collectively in states that currently do not afford these basic protections. This comes at a critical time, after President Trump’s recent executive order ended collective bargaining for over a million federal workers.
    “Trump has already stripped hundreds of thousands of federal workers of their collective bargaining rights, and even more public sector workers could be next. Unions built the middle class, and they’re still the best tool for workers to fight for better pay and fair treatment. This legislation would make sure our teachers, firefighters, and more than a million Americans who serve their communities have a seat at the negotiating table,” said Murphy.
    “The Public Service Freedom to Negotiate Act ensures that teachers, nurses, child welfare workers, firefighters, and so many others who serve our communities are afforded the same right to join a union as workers in the private sector,” said Blumenthal. “All workers deserve the free and unhindered opportunity to organize and collectively bargain for better pay, benefits, and working conditions.”
    The Public Service Freedom to Negotiate Act would establish baseline federal protections to ensure all public service workers can join a union and negotiate workplace conditions—regardless of state law. Unlike private sector workers, there is currently no federal law protecting the freedom of public sector workers to join a union and collectively bargain for fair wages, benefits, and improved working conditions.
    Specifically, this bill would set a minimum nationwide standard of collective bargaining rights that states must provide, including allowing public service workers to join together and have a voice on the job to improve both working conditions and the communities in which they live and work. The legislation gives public service workers the freedom to:
    Join together in a union selected by a majority of employees; 
    Collectively bargain over wages, hours and terms and conditions of employment; 
    Access dispute resolution mechanisms; 
    Use voluntary payroll deduction for union dues; 
    Engage in concerted activities related to collective bargaining and mutual aid; 
    Have their union be free from requirements to hold rigged recertification elections; and 
    File suit in court to enforce their labor rights. 
    U.S. Senators Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Angela Alsobrooks (D-Md.), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-Del.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.), Chris Coons (D-Del.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), John Fetterman (D-Pa.), Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Andy Kim (D-N.J.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), Ed Markey (D-Mass.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Patty Murray (D-Wash.), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Gary Peters (D-Mich.), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), Elissa Slotkin (D-Mich.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.) and Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) also cosponsored the legislation.
    The Public Service Freedom to Negotiate Act is endorsed by the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME); the Communications Workers of America (CWA); American Federation of Teachers (AFT); AFL-CIO; Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU); Department for Professional Employees, AFL-CIO (DPE); International Brotherhood of Teamsters; International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM); International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE); International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers (IFPTE); International Union of Police Associations (IUPA); International Union of Painters & Allied Trades (IUPAT); Laborer’s International Union of North America (LiUNA); National Education Association (NEA); National Nurses United; Service Employees International Union (SEIU); Transport Workers Union of America (TWU); UNITE HERE!; United Autoworkers; United Steelworkers (USW).
    Full text of the legislation is available HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tuberville Speaks with Trump USDA Nominees About Trade, Importance of Getting People off Government Assistance and into Self-Sufficiency

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Tommy Tuberville (Alabama)
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) spoke with the Honorable Stephen Vaden, President Trump’s nominee to be Deputy Secretary of Agriculture, and Tyler Clarkson the nominee for General Counsel of the U.S. Department of Agriculture at a U.S. Senate Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry (Ag) hearing. During the hearing, Senator Tuberville asked both nominees about what they will do to promote domestic trade and enforce already-existing SNAP work requirements, if they are confirmed.
    Excerpts from Senator Tuberville’s remarks can be found below, and his full remarks can be found on YouTube or Rumble.
    TUBERVILLE: “Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Thank you, Senator Justice. Awesome. I just had my first picture taken with Babydog, so I’m excited. That made my day. So, I’m glad you brought him up here today.”
    JUSTICE: “It’s a girl.”
    TUBERVILLE: “Oh, it’s a girl.”
    JUSTICE: “A big girl.”
    TUBERVILLE: “A big girl, yeah. Thank you, guys, for being here. And, like Senator Justice says, my phone—I’ve had to put in a new phone line for the farmers. They’re getting killed. It’s almost over. I mean, you know, they can’t even see the light at the end of the tunnel. And we need a Farm Bill, we need to help them, we need to understand the situation we’re in. Thank God for the tariffs, [and] for President Trump. He’s trying to right the ship. We’ll see what happens, but we’ve got to help our farmers.”
    ON REDUCING TRADE BARRIERS FOR DOMESTIC FARMERS:
    TUBERVILLE: “Mr. Vaden, domestic peanut growers in my state and across the country have been at a competitive disadvantage in the marketplace due to non-tariff trade barriers on peanuts from aflatoxin and in the European Union. Would you commit to ensuring USDA and the U.S. Trade Representative—USTR—would work together on President Trump’s agenda to reduce trade barriers and prioritize market access for our farmers?”
    VADEN: “Absolutely, Senator. I know you just joined us, but earlier in response to a question from one of your colleagues, I noted that when it comes to American agriculture, oftentimes, the barriers that are actually keeping us out of the market aren’t formal tariffs, they’re not taxes, they’re, as you have noted with regard to your peanut farmers in Alabama—they are phony phytosanitary concerns. And those concerns cannot be allowed.”
    […]
    VADEN: “Whether it be human health or animal and plant health. And they use it as a barrier to keep our products out. Our products grown by American farmers are grown with the best technology, with the best scientific advancement and there should be no concern from any international purchaser that if they’re buying American they’re getting anything other than the best. And I will have no problems, sir, voicing this to the President’s trade team.”
    ON ENFORCING SNAP WORK REQUIREMENTS:
    TUBERVILLE: “Thank you. This is for both of you. The Biden administration made individuals reliant on the SNAP program and the federal government to provide for them. SNAP should be a hand up, not a handout. And we need to get Americans back to work. I think we all agree with that. A big part of this is due to the Biden administration’s 21%increase in SNAP benefits through a Thrifty Food Plan update, amounting to over $250 billion in spending without congressional authority. Do either of you have ideas on how to enforce existing work requirements for SNAP recipients?”
    VADEN: “Well, Senator, I think your question points out something very important. The work requirement that is contained within SNAP is not voluntary. It is a statutory mandate passed by this Congress. And failing to enforce the work requirement isn’t a policy choice. It’s a choice not to enforce the plain text of a law that Congress has passed. So, I appreciate you pointing out that the purpose of SNAP should be gauged on, not how many people are on it at any given period of time. But rather, as you have pointed out, how successful the program is at giving people a helping hand when they need it, and then working to transition them to self-sufficiency and entering the workforce so that they can become self-sustaining members of society. And that’s really how we ought to be judging the success of SNAP, how successful it is and helping people make that transition, and the work requirement is an important part of that.”
    TUBERVILLE: “Thank you.”
    CLARKSON: “Thank you for the question, Senator. I think the judge laid it out perfectly. PRWORA [Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act] made very clear that there are work requirements associated with SNAP. I’d also note on my wife’s behalf, who was an Auburn graduate, ‘War Eagle.’ So I’d be remiss if I didn’t share that today.”
    TUBERVILLE: “Thank you. Thank you. And we all wanna take care of people that need—that are needy. We really wanna take care of everybody, but the problem is we’re like a business. And we’ve run this thing too far. They’re not gonna be any money for anybody. We’re gonna be dead broke. And we’re headed in that direction. So, we need to be a precursor for what’s going on in this country and watch what’s happening and understand that we need to help people, but we can’t help everybody just because they don’t wanna do anything. And so, at the end of the day, we have got to understand the significance of our debt and the direction that all these entitlements give out to. Again, we are a generous country. We always have been. So, I know you guys will do a great job. We’re looking forward to voting for you. And so now I’ll turn it over to my colleague here.”
    Senator Tommy Tuberville represents Alabama in the United States Senate and is a member of the Senate Armed Services, Agriculture, Veterans’ Affairs, HELP and Aging Committees.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Titus Pushes to Fully Fund Reproductive Health Care Services Through Title X

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Dina Titus (1st District of Nevada)

    Washington, DC – Today Congresswoman Dina Titus (D-NV), a member of the Congressional Pro-Choice Caucus, introduced legislation with Representatives Sharice Davids (KS-03) and Judy Chu (CA-28) to increase access to family planning and reproductive health care services by funding the Title X Family Planning Program. The Expanding Access to Family Planning Act would bolster funding for Title X, the only federal program dedicated to providing family planning services for low-income individuals. Senators Tina Smith (D-MN) and Patty Murray (D-WA) introduced companion legislation in the Senate.

    As of 2020, nearly fifty percent of family planning users in Nevada were uninsured, with roughly the same percentage at or below the Federal Poverty Level. The program has been flat funded for the last eleven years, leading to substantial program cuts at the state level. From 2019 to 2022, Nevada’s five Title X grantees lost a quarter of their funding collectively. The program still lacks sufficient funding to meet the growing nationwide need for family planning care, especially as the Trump Administration freezes millions of dollars of Title X funding, worsening barriers for family planning users.

    “The Trump Administration is denying women across Nevada and the U.S. the freedom to make decisions about their own bodies and their families’ futures,” said Rep. Dina Titus (NV-01). “By fully funding family planning services, we can protect women’s rights to access lifesaving preventive care, birth control, and other reproductive health services at a time when these freedoms are under constant attack.”

    “In Kansas and across the country, people are being turned away from the only places they can afford to get basic, lifesaving reproductive care — all because the Trump Administration is playing politics with their health,” said Rep. Sharice Davids (KS-03). “This bill protects trusted providers and ensures access to cancer screenings, birth control, and STI testing, no matter your income, where you live, or how you vote.”

    “While the Trump-Musk administration freezes Title X funding around the country, threatening family planning and health screenings for hundreds of thousands of women, Democrats are fighting back with the bicameral introduction of the Expanding Access to Family Planning Act,” said Rep. Judy Chu (CA-28). “Trump and Congressional Republicans may not care about providing American women the freedom to plan their futures, but we do. And we are backing it up with this legislation to guarantee stable funding for Title X, improve health clinics’ infrastructure, and protect their access to comprehensive, affordable reproductive health care.”

    The Expanding Access to Family Planning Act would:

    • Provide $512 million in mandatory funding for Title X services annually for 10 years;
    • Deliver $50 million in mandatory funding for clinic construction, renovation, and related infrastructure enhancements annually for 10 years;
    • Reinstate regulations prohibiting discrimination of providers who deliver Title X services, and
    • Require that pregnancy counseling be nondirective and include information about prenatal care and delivery, infant care, foster care, adoption, and pregnancy termination, unless a patient is uninterested in receiving information about an option.

    This legislation has been endorsed by the Guttmacher Institute, National Family Planning & Reproductive Health Association, National Women’s Law Center, National Council of Jewish Women, Physicians for Reproductive Health, Planned Parenthood Federation of America, Power to Decide, Reproductive Freedom for All, and Upstream USA.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Washington man indicted on 11 counts of sex trafficking children, production of child sexual abuse material, and forced labor, following ICE, law enforcement partner investigation

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    RICHLAND, Wash. – U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Homeland Security Investigations Seattle acting Special Agent in Charge Matt Murphy and acting United States Attorney Richard R. Barker announced that on April 2, a federal grand jury for the Eastern District of Washington returned an indictment charging Jonathan Michael Atkinson, age 34, with 11 criminal counts including Sex Trafficking Children, Production and Attempted Production of Child Pornography, Online Enticement of a Minor, and Forced Labor, following an ICE HSI, law enforcement partner investigation.

    The criminal charges against Atkinson carry a maximum sentence of up to a lifetime in prison.

    “Human trafficking is a heinous crime that preys on the most vulnerable members of our communities and the most effective way we can dismantle these criminal networks is through strong partnerships,” said Matthew Murphy, acting Special Agent in Charge of HSI Seattle. “HSI is proud to work alongside our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners to protect victims, bring traffickers to justice, and put an end to this exploitation.”

    Atkinson was arrested on April 8 by the Southeast Regional Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, consisting of HSI, Richland Police Department, Kennewick Police Department, and the Benton County Sheriff’s Office. Additional assistance was provided by Pasco Police Department, ATF and DEA. Atkinson will be arraigned in federal court on April 10.

    “The U.S. Attorney’s office for the Eastern District of Washington will continue to aggressively prosecute all versions of human trafficking,” stated Acting United States Attorney Richard Barker. “We will continue to work closely with our federal, state, local, and Tribal law enforcement partners to seek justice for the most vulnerable among us.”

    If members of the public have any information regarding this case, please contact the Pasco Police Department.

    This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and the Southeast Regional Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Laurel J. Holland and Stephanie A. Van Marter.

    Early intervention is critical. If you suspect a child may be a victim of online CSEA, call the Know2Protect Tipline at 1-833-591-KNOW (5669) or visit the NCMEC CyberTiplineTM. If you believe a child has been abducted or is in immediate danger, contact local law enforcement and the NCMEC Tipline at 1-800-THE-LOST (1-800-843-5678).

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

    Know2Protect (K2P) is a national public awareness campaign from the Department of Homeland Security. K2P’s aim is to educate and empower children, teens, parents, trusted adults, and policymakers to prevent, combat, and report online child sexual exploitation and abuse. For more information, please visit our YouTube playlists at Know2Protect Campaign PSA Playlist and Know2Protect Digital Safety Series Playlist on the DHS main channel. Additional resources are available at know2protect.gov and @Know2Protect on Instagram, Facebook and X).

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Minister Burke announces €17 million for innovative Cancer and neonatal treatments

    Source: Government of Ireland – Department of Jobs Enterprise and Innovation

    9th April 2025

    Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Peter Burke, and Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, James Lawless, today announced funding of €17 million for two additional projects under Call 7 of the Disruptive Technologies Innovation Fund (DTIF).

    The announcement took place in the National Institute for Bioprocessing Research and Training (NIBRT), Co. Dublin.  NIBRT is a partner in the “Can-Vas” project which has been awarded €10.7m

    This first of its kind in-human study treats infants with a type of brain damage, as well as expanding the pipeline of cell and gene therapies for rare and seriously debilitating diseases. NIBRT are working with three other partners on this project – Deantusaiocht Slainte HiTech Teoranta, University College Cork, INFANT Research Centre and the lead partner, HAON Life Sciences.

    An additional project – LOTUS – has been awarded €6.4m which will develop a complete smart system to facilitate at-home anti-cancer treatment (SACT) with monitoring, enabling cancer patients to self-administer treatment in their own home.  Representatives of the consortium comprised of Luminate Medical – the lead partner, Gentian Health, University of Galway and Trinity College Dublin were also in attendance at today’s event.

    Announcing today’s projects, the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment, Peter Burke said: 

    “I am delighted to announce awards of over €17 million to two exciting and hugely innovative projects under Call 7 of the Disruptive Technologies Innovation Fund. These two projects demonstrate the importance of the fund in leveraging emerging technologies for the well-being of our citizens. The technology in these projects will provide life-changing solutions for patients undergoing cancer treatment and for new and expectant parents where the safety and well-being of their unborn child is paramount. By funding these projects, the Government is maintaining its commitment to investing in cutting-edge technologies, with consequent benefits for the health care sector and other national research priority areas.

    Since the Fund launch in 2018, my Department has awarded over €393 million in funding to 107 collaborative DTIF projects. Importantly, the fund is giving enterprises and research institutions opportunities to engage and connect with some of the brightest minds in Ireland, to conceive ideas, build relationships and foster knowledge-sharing for the benefit of all.”

    James Lawless, Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science added:

    “It is great to see projects with a strong potential to deliver impactful health care solutions becoming recipients of the Disruptive Technologies Innovation Fund.  We are now financing 404 project partners from our enterprise and research sectors which are bringing forward novel and innovative ideas that will not only benefit our health services but focus on tackling wider sectoral and economic challenges associated with demands emerging around developments with Artificial Intelligence, sustainability and digitalisation. What makes this Fund unique is its ability to foster collaborative research that builds strong relationships that will benefit our citizens, our economy and generating high quality jobs for our graduates.”

    The projects announced today bring the total number awarded to 107. This is no small feat. It underscores the critical role of disruptive technologies, on a national scale, and recognises the Government’s continued commitment to advancing and supporting the development of these transformative and lifechanging technologies.”

    Kevin Sherry, interim CEO, Enterprise Ireland said:

    “Enterprise Ireland is proud to support the Disruptive Technologies Innovation Fund, which continues to drive impactful collaborations between Ireland’s leading enterprises and research institutions. These newly funded projects exemplify the power of innovation in addressing critical healthcare challenges, from advancing cancer treatment solutions to pioneering life-saving therapies for newborns. By investing in cutting-edge technologies, we are strengthening Ireland’s position as a global leader in innovation, fostering high-value job creation, and delivering real-world benefits for patients and society. We look forward to seeing these transformative projects progress and make a lasting impact.”

    DTIF Call 7 remains open for project applications which can be submitted at any time up to the closing date of 30 April 2025.

    Note to Editors

    The Disruptive Technologies Innovation Fund (DTIF) is a €500 million fund established under the National Development Plan (NDP) in 2018. The Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment manages the DTIF with administrative support from Enterprise Ireland.

    The purpose of the Fund is to drive collaboration between Ireland’s world-class research base and industry as well as facilitating enterprises to compete directly for funding in support of the development and adoption of these technologies. The aim is to support investment in the development and deployment of disruptive technologies and applications on a commercial basis.

    DTIF Call 7 applications are assessed by panels of international experts against four criteria – quality of the disruptive technology, excellence of overall approach, economic impact and sustainability, and strength of the collaboration.

    Since the Fund was launched in 2018, a total of 107 projects have been awarded funding of over €393m. The 404 project partners involved are operating in every region across the country, with 60% of those partners located outside of Dublin.

    Prospective applicants can obtain detailed information on the Fund and on the application process through enterprise.gov.ie/DTIF. 

    Disruptive Technologies Innovation Fund (DTIF) Call 7 Award Details 

    Project Description

    Consortium Members

    Research Priority Area

    Regional Location

    Total DTIF Award 

    Can-Vas Cell Therapy Platform: Unlocking life-changing treatments for neonatal brain injury

    1. HAON Life Sciences   

    2. Deantusaiocht Slainte HiTech Teoranta 

    3. NIBRT

    4. University College Cork (INFANT)

    Health & Wellbeing

    Dublin, Galway and Cork

    €10.7m

    A technology breakthrough to enable At Home cancer care in oncology patients

    1. Luminate Medical

    2. Gentian Health

    3. University of Galway

    4. Trinity College Dublin

    Health & Wellbeing

    Dublin, Clare and Galway

    €6.4m

    ENDS

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    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Man convicted for fatal stabbing of mother at Notting Hill Carnival

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    A man who was caught on camera stabbing a mother in front of her three-year old daughter at last year’s Notting Hill Carnival has been found guilty of murder.

    Cher Maximen, who was 32, was with friends and her daughter just off the Carnival parade route on Sunday, 25 August 2024 when she was caught up in a fight involving multiple men. She was stabbed and died in hospital six days later.

    On Wednesday, 9 April at the Old Bailey, Shakeil Thibou, 20 (29.05.04), of Masbro’ Road, Hammersmith and Fulham, was convicted of Cher’s murder, attempted GBH with intent and possession of an offensive weapon.

    Detective Chief Inspector Alex Gammampila, from the Met’s Specialist Crime Command, said: “My heart goes out to Cher’s family and friends. She was a loving mother who went to Notting Hill Carnival to enjoy what should have been a carefree day in the company of friends and her young daughter. Her life was ended in the most senseless way.

    “In stark contrast, Shakeil Thibou went to Carnival not to be part of the celebration, but to engage in violence. Why else would he have arrived armed with a large knife and seeking confrontation?

    “His reckless and dangerous actions took Cher’s life and narrowly avoided killing a second man too.

    “The investigation team has worked diligently and tirelessly to build a case against him. Their work has made sure Cher’s family and friends have been able to get justice.

    “They had to go through the pain of witnessing her final moments throughout the trial. I commend their bravery and the dignified way they have handled this tragedy. I hope that today’s result brings some small amount of closure for them.”

    Vyleen Maximen, Cher’s grandmother, said: “Cher, my first born grandchild, my friend. I held you in my arms when you were born. 32 years of loving, of laughing, playing, crying and holidaying with you. I will no longer have that pleasure ever again. Not seeing you get married or have more children.

    “Life will never be the same. Ever. We just have to live life, the best that we can and I will raise your daughter Cher, until my last breath. I will never hear your key opening my front door and shouting ‘Hello Nanny’.”

    TJ Jacobs, relative of Cher and Godmother to Cher’s daughter, said: “We would like to express our deepest gratitude to the jury for helping ensure justice is served for our beloved Cher Maximen – affectionately known to us as Princess Cher, Ri Ri, Churbs, Churburt, Cher Bear and Bear.

    “What happened to us has completely turned our lives upside down. Losing Cher has filled our hearts with immeasurable sadness.

    “Cher was pure magic – radiant, loving, passionate, and kind. She brought creativity, style and flawless flair to everything she did. She was a dedicated mother, a devoted granddaughter, niece, sister, and friend. This senseless act of violence has cut short a life that had so much more to offer the world and was only just beginning to blossom. Like many young adults, life hadn’t always been easy for Cher, but she was just discovering who she was and who she could become.

    “Even when life felt unfair, Cher remained kind, caring, and a fierce protector of those she loved – qualities that were evident even in her final moments. Her smile lit up every corner of every room, and her laugh echoed through hallways. Her journey was an example of resilience against the odds, showing that no matter the challenges, young people can emerge with strength, determination, and the will to strive for better.

    “We will never recover from this loss, but we are determined to ensure that Cher’s daughter – now being raised by her beloved great-grandmother (Cher’s much-loved grandmother), along with her village of aunties, uncles, and Godparents – receives the love, support, and care she needs as we navigate life without her. Cher’s four-year-old daughter was her everything – her reason, her drive, and now her legacy. Cher’s unwavering devotion to her role as a mother was evident to all who knew her.

    “Our family is devastated, but we would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to the emergency responders, medical professionals, and law enforcement officers involved in this case.

    “Knife crime continues to devastate communities across the UK. The government must urgently address the root causes – the systemic failures in education, children’s services, youth services, mental health services impacting the many disengaged and disenfranchised young people. Offering them the tools to overcome challenges rather than fall victim to them. This is not just about reducing crime; it’s about saving lives, restoring hope, and building safer, stronger communities.”

    The court heard that Cher had spent the afternoon with her daughter and her friends among a crowd in Golborne Road which was just off the parade route.

    Just before 18:00hrs, a fight broke out in the crowd. CCTV and police officers’ body worn video footage shown during the trial shows Shakeil attempting to stab a man in the abdomen. Cher was caught up in the melee and knocked to the floor, grabbing onto Shakeil’s coat as she tried to get back to her feet.

    In an effort to defend herself and her daughter, Cher kicked out and was stabbed in the groin as she did so, falling to the ground.

    Officers rushed to her aid and provided emergency medical treatment until the arrival of paramedics. She was transported to hospital in a critical condition but despite the efforts of medical teams she died on Saturday, 31 August.

    Video footage showed that moments before Cher was stabbed, Shakeil’s brothers – Sheldon Thibou and Shaeim Thibou, along with an unidentified male, fought with one man. Sheldon can be seen wielding an illegal stun gun. An officer who intervened to try to break up the fight was assaulted by both brothers.

    The three brothers and an associate fled the scene, but CCTV footage recovered during the investigation showed that Shakeil, when leaving carnival was captured on CCTV changing his outer clothing with an associate and calmly making his way out of the area.

    An investigation started immediately after the incident, with officers running images captured on bodyworn video cameras through facial recognition software, revealing a match for Sheldon and Shaeim Thibou. Further research identified Shakeil.

    A significant manhunt was launched which saw officers search a number of addresses across west London.

    Shakeil was found lying on the floor under a sleeping bag when officers found him in the early hours of Tuesday, 27 August. During a search of the address they found a distinctive bag he’d been seen wearing on footage captured at Carnival.

    His jacket had been discarded at the scene after it came off in the struggle. It was sent for forensic testing and DNA found on it was a 1 in a billion match for Shakeil – further proof that he had committed the stabbing.

    Detectives would also spend weeks trawling through hundreds of additional hours of CCTV and body worn video footage, as well as messages on mobile phones recovered at the time of the brothers’ arrest.

    This helped to further establish a watertight case that Shakeil and his brothers were at Carnival at the time of Cher’s murder.

    Sheldon Thibou, 25 (23.01.00), of Star Road, Hammersmith and Fulham and Shaeim Thibou, 22 (20.02.03), of Charleville Road, Hammersmith and Fulham stood trial alongside their brother.

    Sheldon was found guilty of violent disorder. He had also previously pleaded guilty to the possession of an illegal stun gun.

    Sheldon and Shaeim were both found guilty of assaulting an emergency worker. 

    Shakeil and Shaeim will be sentenced at the Old Bailey on Friday, 16 May.

    Sheldon will be sentenced in due course at a court that is yet to be confirmed.

    TJ Jacobs and Vyleen Maximen added:

    “We would also like to say a special thank you to:

    “Police officers Alex Gammampila, Charlotte Carter, Andy Miller, Kevin Newton, Dan Hobbs and Dave Davies.

    “Emma Currie and Peter Hutton from the Crown Prosecution Service.

    “Prosecuting Counsel Edward Brown KC and Phillip McGhee.

    “Sharon Macaulay, Ravandeep Khela and Wendy Rixon from Taylor Rose Solicitors.

    “Barrister Oliver Wooding from St John’s Chambers.

    “Gulizar Candemir from the Children’s Team at Freeman Solicitors.

    “Barrister Alison Brooks from Staple Inn Chambers.

    “These individuals have supported us tirelessly throughout this unimaginable experience. Their efforts and dedication have been a source of comfort during this dark and painful time.”

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Funding Suicide Prevention for Uniformed Personnel

    Source: US State of New York

    overnor Kathy Hochul today announced the award of 18 grants to expand resiliency and suicide prevention efforts among military veterans and uniformed personnel, including law enforcement, firefighters, emergency medical service personnel, correction officers and emergency dispatchers. Administered through the New York Office of Mental Health’s Suicide Prevention Center of New York, the CARES UP initiative will provide $60,000 over two years to four law enforcement agencies; three fire departments; three EMS services; three emergency communications organizations; two corrections agencies and three organizations serving veterans.

    “New York’s first responders and uniformed personnel routinely go above and beyond the call of duty, and often at great personal expense,” Governor Hochul said. “This funding will ensure these organizations and agencies are better equipped to cultivate resilience and mental wellness among their ranks to help properly address stress and trauma they encounter in the line of duty.”

    In addition, the Office of Mental Health (OMH) also provided awards of $40,000 over two years to 11 organizations previously funded through CARES UP to sustain their mental health and wellness initiatives. These sustainability awards were made possible after Governor Hochul successfully increased funding for the program in the FY25 Enacted Budget to $3 million annually.

    The CARES UP program provides organizations with $30,000 annually to increase suicide prevention efforts and wellness programming in their agencies. First responder agencies work closely with the Suicide Prevention Center to receive training from national subject matter experts on topics such as resiliency, mental health and wellness, suicide prevention and peer support and implement agency-specific actions to address their unique needs.

    The initiative also provides these grants to support veterans’ organizations via Onward Ops. Recipient organizations use the funding to promote social welfare of service members transitioning back to their communities after their tour of duty ends.

    New York State Office of Mental Health Commissioner Dr. Ann Sullivan said, “It is important to recognize the stress and cumulative trauma first responders and veterans experience as they do their jobs and the toll that this can take on their mental health. CARES UP works with their organizations to mitigate this stress, build resilience and support mental wellbeing. By building and expanding this program, Governor Hochul is demonstrating her commitment to the mental wellness of our veterans, first responders and their families.”

    Studies have shown the cumulative stress and trauma are common in uniformed personnel professions and have placed these individuals at greater risk of suicide. To better understand the mental health-related challenges facing individuals working in public safety fields, the New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services partnered with SUNY New Paltz’s Institute for Disaster Mental Health to complete a first responder needs assessment survey of more than 6,000 individuals in law enforcement, emergency medical services, fire services, emergency communications and emergency management from every region.

    The assessment showed more than half of the participants experience high levels of stress, burnout, anxiety and depression related to their jobs, and that they may not seek help due to their fear of facing stigma. Thoughts of suicide were reported by 16 percent of respondents — a level four times higher than the general population of the state.

    Likewise, New York veterans die by suicide at a rate nearly two times higher than civilians — a rate that has remained relatively unchanged since 2012. Veterans under the age of 55 consistently experience the highest rates of suicide in New York.

    New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services Commissioner Jackie Bray said, “Our first responders encounter unimaginable situations at work on a daily basis that most of us will never face, and then they go home and try to manage the normal activities of everyday life. It is vital that we work to ensure they have the resources they need to take care of themselves at work and at home. While the results of the First Responder Mental Health Needs Assessment may not be surprising, we now have specific details about the toll this work can take on people’s mental health and can work together on developing the kind of help that can make a positive difference in their lives.”

    New York State Department of Veterans’ Services Commissioner Viviana DeCohensaid, “Our courageous Service Members and Veterans are our best, brightest and bravest. Yet they often carry invisible burdens long after the uniform comes off. This critical support acknowledges those challenges and delivers real tools for healing and mental wellness. We are grateful to Governor Hochul for her steadfast leadership and unwavering commitment to the wellbeing of our Veterans and Service Members. This vital funding — and the essential services it enables — will ultimately save lives.”

    New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services Commissioner Rossana Rosado said, “Our law enforcement officers and first responders demonstrate remarkable strength and bravery every day, but we know that their professions are filled with stress and trauma, often helping people during their worst moments. It is vital that these professionals can access the help that they need, such as confidential services and support that address their unique experiences. At DCJS, we prioritize officer wellness in our basic training requirements for law enforcement, as well as our professional development offerings. I commend Governor Hochul’s steadfast leadership and commitment to our officers and first responders and am pleased to work with the Office of Mental Health, Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services, and other agencies on this important issue.”

    New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Acting Commissioner Amanda Lefton said, “DEC’s Environmental Conservation Police Officers and Forest Rangers, put their lives on the line to protect New Yorkers and our critical natural resources. There’s no such thing as a routine call, they encounter unexpected and, at times, tragic circumstances in their work. We know that can take a toll on the mental well-being of our first responders that effects them at work and at home. Governor Hochul, DEC and our partners know that we need to take care of our first responders, as they care for us. We are committed to provided mental wellness tools and resources to meaningfully support our first responders and their families.”

    State Senator Samra G. Brouk said, “As Chair of the Senate Committee on Mental Health, I have observed how peer support can dramatically improve mental health outcomes for individuals in crisis. The CARES UP program utilizes the power of peer support and suicide prevention efforts to address the unique needs of our first responders and veterans. I applaud Governor Hochul for her continued investment in expanding mental health services for individuals who serve our communities.”

    Assemblymember Steve Stern said, “As the Chairman of the New York State Assembly Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, I applaud Governor Hochul’s announcement that our local heroes, who serve all of us, will have access to the services they need and deserve. Far too many of our soldiers, veterans, first responders and law enforcement professionals have struggled with mental health challenges and take their own lives. That is absolutely unacceptable, and these grants to improve resiliency, wellness, support and suicide prevention will be an important part of saving lives.”

    Assemblymember Jo Anne Simon said, “Our veterans and uniformed personnel face a growing mental health crisis, and we must meet this moment with support and sustained investment. These grants will help address the unique mental health needs of those who have served and sacrificed by expanding access to suicide prevention and wellness programs. Thank you to Governor Hochul for supporting the organizations on the front lines of this crisis as New York State strives to strengthen our mental health services.”

    This year’s CARES UP recipients include:

    Capital Region:

    • Albany County Corrections*
    • Albany City Police Department*
    • Albany County Sheriff’s Office
    • Clifton Park & Half Moon Emergency Corps*
    • Colonie EMS*
    • Veterans and Community Housing Coalition
    • Watervliet Fire Department*

    Central New York:

    • Eastern Paramedics Inc.
    • Onondaga County Department of Communication Services

    Mid-Hudson:

    • Clarkstown Police Department*
    • Village of Mamaroneck Police Department*
    • New Windsor Police Department
    • Pleasant Valley Fire District
    • Port Chester Police Department*
    • Orange County Emergency Services Emergency Communications
    • Orange County Emergency Services – Police Services Division
    • Orange County Emergency Services – Fire Services Division
    • City of Rye Fire Department

    Long Island:

    • Nassau County Sheriff’s Department
    • Sayville American Legion Post 651
    • Suffolk County Police Department
    • Suffolk County Sheriff’s Department*

    Mohawk Valley:

    • Utica Center for Development Inc.

    North Country:

    • St. Lawrence County Correctional Facility

    Southern Tier:

    • Village of Liberty Police Department
    • Sullivan County Division of Public Safety

    Western New York:

    • Allegany County Sheriff’s Department*
    • City of Olean Fire Department*
    • Town of West Seneca Police Department

    * Denotes organizations receiving sustainability funding.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: A Jefferson City Man Charged with Felon in Possession of a Firearm

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – A Jefferson City, Mo., man was indicted by a federal grand jury for being a felon in possession of a firearm.

    Robert Michael Matthews, 42, was charged in an indictment returned by a federal grand jury in Jefferson City, Mo.

    The indictment charges Matthews with possessing a Ruger model American, 9-millimeter pistol on March 13, 2025. Under federal law, it is illegal for anyone who has been convicted of a felony to be in possession of any firearm or ammunition. According to the indictment, Matthews has prior violent felony convictions to include a 2000 conviction for robbery in the second degree, a 2015 conviction for unlawful use of a weapon, and a 2024 conviction for unlawful use of a weapon.

    The charges contained in this indictment are simply accusations, and not evidence of guilt. Evidence supporting the charges must be presented to a federal trial jury, whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence.

    This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron M. Maness It was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Jefferson City Police Department.

    Project Safe Neighborhoods

    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: Georgia Man Sentenced for $300,000 Romance Fraud Scheme

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – A Georgia man was sentenced in federal court for his role in an online romance scam with elderly victims in Missouri, Minnesota, and New Jersey.

    Badetito O. Obafemi, 42, was sentenced by U.S. Chief District Judge Beth Phillips to 24 months in federal prison without parole. The court also sentenced Obafemi to three years of supervised release following incarceration and ordered him to pay restitution of $311,520 to the victims of his crime.

    On April 18, 2024, Obafemi pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit money laundering. Obafemi admitted to his participation in a romance scam which targeted victims in Taney County, Mo., Northfield, Minn., and Bergen County, N.J., from June 2016 through at least March 2018.

    The perpetrators of the romance scams used online communications to develop relationships with the victims. The scammers then began to request money from the victims for a variety of reasons, including business expenses, medical expenses, travel expenses, and food.

    According to court records, the Taney County victim was contacted via Facebook by an individual claiming to be “Kevin Condon” in May 2016. Following several conversations by email, phone, and Facebook, “Condon” convinced the victim to send him money for expenses related to his overseas business project and various medical issues. Conspirators stole a total of $27,460 from the Taney County victim. “Condon” also attempted to convince the victim to deposit $40,000 into an account controlled by Obafemi, purportedly to pay a court in South Africa for his release from jail.

    Obafemi conspired with the perpetrators to receive wire transfers from the victims, coordinating the necessary bank account information, the timing of transfers, and the transfer of funds across accounts. Obafemi received funds in his personal accounts as well as those of two businesses, EasyTickets, LLC, and Goeasy Logistics, LLC, which he owned and operated out of his Georgia residence.

    This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Casey Clark. It was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, the FBI and the Northfield, Minn., Police Department.

    Information about the Department of Justice’s Elder Fraud Initiative is available at www.justice.gov/elderjustice. Additional information about the Consumer Protection Branch and its elder fraud enforcement efforts may be found at www.justice.gov/civil/consumer-protection-branch. If you or someone you know is age 60 or older and has been a victim of financial fraud, help is available at the National Elder Fraud Hotline: 1-833-FRAUD-11 (1-833-372-8311).

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Boston Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Firearm Offense

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

    Defendant accelerated moped at law enforcement before being arrested in possession of a loaded firearm

    BOSTON – A Boston man pleaded guilty today in federal court in Boston to illegally possessing a firearm and ammunition.

    Kyvon Ross, 26, pleaded guilty to one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition before U.S. District Court Judge Patti B. Saris who scheduled sentencing for July 16, 2025.

    According to the charging documents, on Oct. 3, 2024, Ross was approached by law enforcement after driving a moped at a high speed and without a rear license plate. Ross accelerated directly at one of the officers before losing control of the moped and falling to the ground. Ross violently resisted arrest and was found in possession of a loaded Glock handgun with an obliterated serial number.  

    Ross is prohibited from possessing firearms and ammunition due to multiple prior felony convictions, including a 2021 federal conviction for being a felon in possession of a firearm.

    The charge of possessing ammunition after being convicted of a felony provides for a sentence of up to 15 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of a $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.

    United States Attorney Leah B. Foley and Jodi Cohen, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Field Division made the announcement today. The Boston Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives provided valuable assistance with the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney William F. Abely, Chief of the Criminal Division, is prosecuting the case.
     

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Edit-obernolte.house.gov/user

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jay Obernolte (R-Hesperia)

    Washington, D.C. –This week, Congressman Jay Obernolte (CA-23) introduced the Election Results Accountability Act, legislation aimed at improving transparency and restoring trust in the democratic process by setting federal deadlines for ballot counting and the certification of election results.

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | April 9, 2025  

    Contact: Connor Chapinski, (202) 225-5861  

      

    Rep. Obernolte Introduces the Election Results Accountability Act to Restore Public Trust in Federal Elections 

    Washington, D.C. –This week, Congressman Jay Obernolte (CA-23) introduced the Election Results Accountability Act, legislation aimed at improving transparency and restoring trust in the democratic process by setting federal deadlines for ballot counting and the certification of election results. 

    The bill amends the Help America Vote Act of 2002 to require all states to count and publicly report no less than 90% of ballots cast in federal elections within 72 hours of polls closing. Additionally, it mandates that states complete the ballot count and certify the final results within two weeks of election day. 

    “Some states took over a month to certify the results of the 2024 elections. That length of delay erodes the public’s trust in our electoral system,” said Rep. Obernolte. “Timely certification of federal election results is not only critical for public confidence but also essential for ensuring that newly elected members can fully participate in key activities such as orientations, leadership elections, and committee assignments.” 

    “California took longer than virtually any other state in the nation to certify the results of the 2024 elections. This ridiculous delay fosters distrust and confusion about the direction of our government and responsiveness to voters,” said Rep. Kiley. “Other states manage to complete election results faster and without incident- there’s no reason California can’t get this job done in a more timely manner. Enough is enough.” 

    “Having accurate and timely results for our elections is critical to strengthening the integrity and confidence in our democracy,” said Rep. Calvert. “I am proud to cosponsor the Election Results Accountability Act and thank Rep. Obernolte for introducing this important legislation.” 

    “For years, several states – including California – have turned election day into a month of voting that has singlehandedly damaged the credibility of our democracy,” said Rep. Issa. “That’s why I’m supporting Rep. Obernolte’s bill establishing a commonsense standard giving every American voter enduring confidence in the timely counting of valid ballots and the ultimate results of our federal elections.” 

    “In California it can take weeks to certify election results, which undermines the public trust necessary for free and fair elections,” said Rep. Valadao. “Californians—and all Americans—deserve to know the results of their elections in a timely and transparent manner. I’m proud to join my colleagues to introduce this bill which will help restore some confidence in our democratic process.”

    “Establishing clear procedures for the timely and transparent certification of federal election results is long overdue,” said Rep. Fong. “Americans deserve to have confidence in the election process that defines our country, which is why I am proud to support this legislation. For us in California, this is critically important.” 

    The legislation includes commonsense exceptions for circumstances outside of a state’s control—such as natural disasters, public health emergencies, cyberattacks, or technical failures—as well as allowances for recounts and for the first-time implementation of new election procedures. 

    To enforce compliance, states that fail to meet the deadlines without qualifying exemptions may be denied federal election funds unless they submit a corrective compliance plan to the U.S. Election Assistance Commission (EAC) and the Department of Justice (DOJ). The EAC and DOJ must jointly certify both the failure and the adequacy of a state’s plan before federal funding is restored. 

    The Election Results Accountability Act will apply to all federal elections held 90 days after enactment. Read the full bill here.  

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    Obernolte.house.gov  

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ranking Member Jayapal’s Opening Statement at Subcommittee Hearing on the Consequences of Trump’s Chaotic and Lawless Immigration Enforcement

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal (7th District of Washington)

    WASHINGTON — Today, Rep. Pramila Jayapal, Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Immigration, Integrity, Security, and Enforcement, delivered opening remarks at the subcommittee hearing on Donald Trump’s reckless and lawless immigration enforcement, which is undermining local law enforcement and threatening public safety.

    Below are Ranking Member Jayapal’s remarks, as prepared for delivery, at the subcommittee hearing.

    WATCH Ranking Member Jayapal’s opening statement.

    Ranking Member Pramila Jayapal

    Subcommittee on Immigration, Integrity, Security, and Enforcement

    Hearing on “Sanctuary Jurisdictions: Magnet for Migrants,

    Cover for Criminals”

    April 9, 2025

    Ever since President Trump came into office, my colleagues have been happy to sit back and let him run roughshod over our laws. President Trump, Tom Homan, and Stephen Miller led you to believe that this was about criminal immigrants who threaten public safety, despite the fact that research clearly shows that immigrants commit fewer crimes than Americans. They led you to believe that they were FOR the immigrants who did things legally, those folks had nothing to worry about. They even led you to believe that somehow getting rid of immigrants would be good for American jobs, for bringing down costs for the American public, and that this was all about caring about YOU versus them.

    Well, as people’s 401K accounts plummet with Trump’s crazy and chaotic economic policies and as costs of everything Americans need to buy keep going up instead of down, the effects of Trump’s unconstitutional and unlawful actions against ALL immigrants are causing fear and havoc in communities across the country.

    Let me be clear: Trump has targeted immigrants who are here lawfully—suspending refugee admissions—a program once hailed by both parties and the faith community everywhere as the cornerstone of humanitarian assistance. They are revoking the very programs that created legal pathways for immigrants to enter that effectively brought down numbers at the border.

    In revoking student visas and green cards of legal permanent residents, many of whom are married to U.S. citizens, they are going after every single immigrant, fabricating stories about these immigrants being “criminals,” even deporting them to other countries in violation of judicial orders.

    All of this leads us to ask once again, as the 4th circuit said earlier this week in the case of a Maryland father who was “mistakenly” deported to a Salvadorean prison by the Trump administration, “If due process is of no moment, what is stopping the Government from removing and refusing to return a lawful permanent resident or even a natural born citizen?”

    This obsession to weaponize every part of the U.S. government against immigrants is hurting Americans. It’s taking away critical resources for crime prevention, counterterrorism, drug interdiction, and other law enforcement at the Department of Justice and Homeland Security Investigations and terrorizing all immigrants and their US citizen family members, including those with no criminal background and with legal status.

    Now, they want to coerce state and local law enforcement to help them round up immigrants by threatening to cut off their transportation and law enforcement funds if they do not comply—even though multiple courts have held that this is illegal and numerous research studies and law enforcement officials have confirmed that keeping the longstanding distinction between federal immigration and local law enforcement actually helps keep communities safer.

    In 2019, my home state of Washington passed the Keep Washington Working Act with bipartisan support. It is a commonsense law to ensure that local policy remains focused on public safety rather than enforcing federal immigration law.

    We know that when local police act as immigration agents, immigrant communities and their families are less likely to come forward to report a crime when they are a witness or even a victim. It destroys the trust police rely on to preserve public safety in communities. Courts have ruled multiple times that states have the right to enact laws like the Keep Washington Working Act.

    And despite what you might hear today the law does allow information sharing with the federal government when necessary for an ongoing criminal investigation, or pursuant to a court order or judicial warrant.

    As the Trump administration continues to bully and intimidate the country to bend the knee, we won’t be intimidated. I fully support Attorney General Nick Brown’s efforts to ensure that everyone in our state follows our laws.

    The Major Cities Chiefs Association has repeatedly reaffirmed that, across the country, if law enforcement officers are viewed by members of the immigrant community as colluding or working with immigration law enforcement officers, this would “result in increased crime against immigrants in the broader community, create a class of silent victims and eliminate the potential for assistance from immigrants in solving crimes or preventing future terroristic acts.”

    The Major Cities Chiefs Association also explained that cooperation with the immigrant community is a crucial part of solving crime and preventing further criminal activity within the entire community, including ensuring protections for victims of domestic violence and sexual abuse. Instead of trashing the rights of every American and destroying communities and our economy, this subcommittee should be holding hearings on why Mahmoud Khalil remains detained, simply for expressing pro-Palestinian views that Trump doesn’t like. Or why Alfredo Juarez, a longtime labor leader, has been detained in my state apparently simply for organizing farmworkers for fair wages. Or why a local roofing company just had a raid where 37 immigrants who are longtime residents and building affordable housing for our communities were picked up and jailed. Or why the Administration refuses to return Kilmar Abrego Garcia to the US to reunite with his US citizen wife and three children, even after admitting to mistakenly deporting him to a Salvadorean gulag.

    Let’s have a hearing on the disappearing and kidnapping of people across this country, instead of hurting public safety by undermining policies of local jurisdictions.

    Issues: Immigration

    MIL OSI USA News –