NewzIntel.com

Category: Law

  • MIL-OSI Security: New Haven Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Role in Catalytic Converter Theft Ring

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Marc H. Silverman, Acting United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that MERVIN FIGUEROA, 27, of New Haven, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Sarala V. Nagala in Hartford to 14 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for offenses related to his participation in a stolen catalytic converter trafficking ring.

    According to court documents and statements made in court, law enforcement has been investigating the theft of catalytic converters from motor vehicles across Connecticut.  A catalytic converter contains precious metals, can easily be removed from its vehicle, and is difficult to trace, making it a desirable target for thieves.  The average scrap price for catalytic converters currently varies between $300 and $1,500, depending on the model and type of precious metal component.

    The investigation revealed that Alexander Kolitsas owned and operated Downpipe Depot & Recycling LLC (“Downpipe Depot”), which had a warehouse on Park Avenue in East Hartford.  Kolitsas and Downpipe Depot purchased stolen catalytic converters from a network of thieves, including Figueroa, and then transported and sold the catalytic converters to recycling businesses in New York and New Jersey.  Kolitsas instructed his suppliers on the types of converters that would obtain the most profit upon resale, and he would often meet with them and transact business at his home in Wolcott late at night or behind a family member’s restaurant in Middlebury after hours.

    Starting in January 2022, Kolitsas maintained electronic invoices reflecting the purchase of stolen catalytic converters from Figueroa and other suppliers.  In several of the invoices, Kolitsas permitted his suppliers to use fictitious names or business names in order to create the appearance of proper recordkeeping while obscuring from his records the true source of the stolen converters.  The invoices show that between approximately January 26 and May 31, 2022, Kolitsas and Downpipe Depot paid approximately $3,345,675 to purchase stolen converters from his co-conspirators.

    The invoices reflect that Downpipe Depot paid Figueroa $169,840 for catalytic converters, including converters that were stolen in two separate incidents from vehicles at U-Haul Moving and Storage in Naugatuck.  In messages between Kolitsas and Figueroa, Kolitsas told Figueroa that he needed to remove anti-theft tags that U-Haul had placed on the converters before Kolitsas would take them.  The investigation revealed that Figueroa also stole converters from school buses.

    Figueroa was arrested on November 15, 2023.  On October 29, 2024, he pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit interstate transportation of stolen property and one count of interstate transportation of stolen property.

    Figueroa, who is released on a $50,000 bond, is required to report to prison on June 2.

    Kolitsas pleaded guilty to related charges and awaits sentencing.

    This investigation is being led by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Division (IRS-CI), and the East Hartford Police Department.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Lauren C. Clark and A. Reed Durham through the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) Program.  OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations through a prosecutor-led and intelligence-driven approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies.  Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Georgia man sentenced to over 4 years in prison for bank fraud and aggravated identity theft

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    BILLINGS – An Atlanta, Georgia man who defrauded banks in multiple states was sentenced today to 57 months in prison to be followed by 5 years supervised release, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.  The defendant was also ordered to pay $161,401.17 in restitution.

    Stanford Wilvin Lightfoot, 33, pleaded guilty in November 2024 to bank fraud and aggravated identity theft.

    U.S. District Judge Susan P. Watters presided.

    The government alleged in court documents that for approximately 5 months in 2023, Stanford Lightfoot was a member of a large fraud ring that had been defrauding banks in Montana, Maine and Missouri.  In each location, Lightfoot and other coconspirators would travel to the state from the base of operations in Atlanta, Georgia.  Once there, they would recruit local homeless individuals who possessed valid ID cards.  They would then take these homeless individuals to local banks and provide them with fraudulent checks from real accounts.  These checks all possessed forged signatures of real people and were, therefore, means of identification.  The homeless individuals would then attempt to cash the checks and, if successful, would provide the money to Lightfoot and his coconspirators.  If the homeless individuals were caught by police, they would be abandoned to take the blame.  In Montana, Lightfoot hit multiple banks in Belgrade, Bozeman, and Livingston utilizing local homeless individuals to forge checks in excess of $20,000.

    The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case and the investigation was conducted by the FBI, Livingston Police Department, Belgrade Police Department, and Bozeman Police Department.

    XXX

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Tackling catalytic converter and scrap metal theft

    [. Legislative and regulatory changes would enhance sales reporting requirements for businesses, allow officers to issue tickets rather than a court summons where appropriate and streamline the administration of justice for certain minor offenses.

    “Scrap metal-related crime such as copper wire and catalytic converter theft is a serious problem that threatens public safety, critical infrastructure, the economy and the environment. These amendments give local law enforcement the flexibility needed to respond effectively to this dangerous and costly criminal behaviour and will help restore the sense of security that has been stolen from communities and rural residents throughout the province in recent years.”

    Mike Ellis, Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Services

    Improving scrap metal sales monitoring

    Legislative and regulatory amendments would provide solutions to what local law enforcement agencies have cited as barriers to timely and consistent enforcement since the act came into force in 2020. To support the identification and monitoring of unusual sales, purchasers would be required to record important transaction details to improve the traceability of illicit scrap metal.

    If the bill passes, the government plans to amend regulations to require the dollar value of the sale, the type of and per-ounce price of the metal purchased, and, in the case of catalytic converters, the vehicle identification number and/or proof of ownership to be recorded and reported to a database accessible to law enforcement.

    “This legislation will help to decrease incidents of copper theft while safeguarding the uninterrupted access to emergency services and the internet that Albertans expect.”

    Brian Lakey, vice-president, Service Reliability Center, Telus

    Reducing barriers to enforcement

    If the bill passes, the government is planning amendments to the Procedures Regulation and the Justice of the Peace Regulation to streamline enforcement process and improve court efficiency. Law enforcement would be able to issue violation tickets for certain offences, allowing charges to be laid more quickly.

    Additional planned regulatory changes would set specified penalties for minor offences and give justices of the peace authority to handle them. Individuals can choose to pay the fine or dispute the charge in traffic court. These updates would free up court resources to focus on more serious matters.

    “Streamlining the enforcement of penalties ensures that justice is served swiftly, and resources are focused where they are needed most. By empowering justices of the peace to hear cases related to illegal activity concerning scrap metal, the court system can focus on more complex cases while maintaining fairness and accessibility for Albertans.”

    Mickey Amery, Minister of Justice and Attorney General

    These amendments target costly and dangerous criminal activity while protecting Alberta’s legitimate scrap metal industry and law-abiding recyclers.

    Quick facts

    • Instances of copper wire theft have the potential to disrupt critical services such as power and internet access, which may put Albertans at risk of being unable to reach critical services such as police or emergency services in times of need.
      • Between 2021 and 2024, copper wire theft in Alberta increased by 93 per cent, with the Calgary Police Service, Edmonton Police Service and RCMP reporting respective increases of 135 per cent, 76 per cent and 88 per cent.

    Related information

    • Improving public safety
    • Bill 49: Public Safety and Emergency Services Statutes Amendment Act, 2025

    Related news

    • Protecting Albertans from metal theft (June 18, 2020)

    Multimedia

    • Watch the news conference
    • Listen to the news conference

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: MENG SOUNDS ALARM ON TRUMP ADMINISTRATION’S CUTS TO FEDERAL FUNDING FOR AMERICAN MANUFACTURERS

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Grace Meng (6th District of New York)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Rep. Grace Meng (D-NY), Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies, released the following statement in response to the Trump Administration’s decision to cut federal funding for small and medium-sized American manufacturers:

    At the same time that President Trump was finalizing his announcement of reckless tariffs with the stated goal of boosting domestic manufacturing, his administration began quietly and illegally stealing funding from Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) centers that provide invaluable support to small and medium-sized U.S. manufacturers across the country. This once again reveals the dishonest contradiction at the heart of this administration. You can’t claim to champion American manufacturers while simultaneously dismantling the very programs that help them survive and compete. 

    These MEP centers are lifelines for small and medium-sized manufacturers in our communities. They provide the hands-on expertise that family-owned shops rely on to modernize, train workers, source materials, connect with new customers, and keep good jobs in America. When Elon Musk and the other billionaires running this administration illegally slash this funding, they’re not just cutting a government program – they’re cutting the legs out from under hardworking Americans in machine shops and fabrication plants across our country. 

    Let me be clear: just last month, Congress appropriated $175 million for the MEP program, and the President himself signed this into law. Now his administration has told these centers that their work to support American small businesses and workers no longer aligns with his priorities. Eliminating funding for the MEP program is not just wrong-headed – it’s clearly illegal. 

    President Trump wants credit for talking tough on trade while quietly pulling the rug out from under the very businesses he claims to protect. Our manufacturers don’t need empty promises and chaotic tariffs that raise prices on the materials they use and the groceries that feed their families – they need practical support to keep up with rapidly evolving technologies and economic circumstances. I expect the President to restore support for all MEP centers and fully implement the funding approved last month. My colleagues on both sides of the aisle should understand the importance of this program for their constituents and stand against illegal cuts. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General Pamela Bondi Statement on Supreme Court Stay of Maryland District Court Order

    Source: US Justice – Antitrust Division

    Headline: Attorney General Pamela Bondi Statement on Supreme Court Stay of Maryland District Court Order

    Attorney General Pamela Bondi released the following statement regarding the U.S. Supreme Court’s temporary administrative stay blocking the district court’s order that Salvadoran national Kilmar Armando Abrego Garcia must be returned to the United States by midnight tonight:”We welcome this stay from the Supreme Court as we continue to fight this case and protect the executive branch from judicial overreach.” 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Louisiana Woman Who Provided a Child for Pornographic Photoshoot Pleads Guilty

    Source: US State Government of Utah

    A Louisiana woman pleaded guilty today to receiving child sexual abuse material produced by a photographer she arranged to take the images.

    According to court documents, Hannah Kinchen, 40, of Gonzales, coordinated with a photographer, who self-identified as a “pedophile,” to conduct photoshoots for the minor victim’s modeling career. During the photoshoots, Kinchen allowed and assisted the photographer in posing the minor victim wearing scanty attire, including thongs and G-strings. The photographer sent and Kinchen received most of the images through a file-sharing website on the internet. Some of the resulting images qualified as child pornography and some were later sold.

    Kinchen pleaded guilty to one count of receipt of child pornography. She is scheduled to be sentenced on July 15 and faces a mandatory minimum penalty of five years in prison and a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    Head of the Justic Department’s Criminal Division, Matthew R. Galeotti; Acting U.S. Attorney April M. Leon for the Middle District of Louisiana; and Acting Special Agent in Charge Jonathan Tapp of the FBI New Orleans Field Office made the announcement.

    The FBI New Orleans Division – Baton Rouge Resident Agency investigated the case.

    Trial Attorney Rachel L. Rothberg of the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS) and Assistant U.S. Attorney Kristen L. Craig for the Middle District of Louisiana are prosecuting the case, with substantial assistance from CEOS Trial Attorney Charles Schmitz.

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

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Serious crash Nullarbor

    Source: New South Wales – News

    Police and emergency services are responding to a serious crash on the Nullarbor.

    About 6am on Tuesday 8 April, police received a report of a serious crash involving a truck and car on the Eyre Highway. The crash is about 75km’s from the Western Australian border.

    Motorists travelling across the border on the Eyre Highway should expect lengthy delays.

    Further information will be provided when known.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Wyoming National Guard Counterdrug Program combats drug threats through education and prevention

    Source: US State of Wyoming

    Wyoming National Guard

    By Sgt. Joseph Burns

    CHEYENNE, Wyo. – Since its inception in 1989, the Wyoming National Guard Counterdrug Program plays a vital part in the battle against illicit drugs and transnational criminal threats.

    Designed to harness the unique capabilities of the National Guard, the program continues to deliver measurable results through its partnerships with law enforcement, schools and community organizations.

    In the past year alone, the counterdrug program has made major strides in reducing the impact of narcotics across the state. Through close coordination with law enforcement, the program directly supported operations that led to the arrest of 207 individuals connected to drug-related crimes. These efforts also resulted in the seizure of 9.8 pounds of fentanyl and 20.27 pounds of methamphetamine—dangerous substances with the potential to devastate communities.

    “The results we’re seeing are a testament to the commitment and professionalism of our team,” said Sgt. Maj. Katherine Zwiefel, Wyoming Counterdrug coordinator. “Every pound of drugs taken off the street, every partnership we strengthen, and every student we reach—it all adds up to lives saved.”

    Beyond interdiction and law enforcement support, the Wyoming Counterdrug Program has significantly expanded its prevention and education outreach. Working closely with educators and local coalitions, Guardsmen delivered classroom presentations to more than 1,794 students, spent over 75 hours in youth mentorship and leadership development activities designed to prevent substance abuse before it begins.

    In the last year, the team dedicated over 40 hours to coalition engagement and trained 20 personnel in the administration of Narcan, enhancing Wyoming’s readiness to respond to opioid overdoses.

    “Our greatest weapon in the fight against addiction is education,” Zwiefel added. “When we connect with kids early and give them the tools to succeed, we’re building stronger communities and a healthier future.”

    The program’s holistic approach—combining military expertise, community engagement and interagency cooperation—continues to evolve in response to emerging drug threats, including the opioid epidemic.

    “The counterdrug program is an essential piece of our statewide response to the drug crisis,” said Brig. Gen. Michelle Mulberry, Cowboy Guard Director of the Joint Staff. “Their work not only helps take drugs off the streets but also builds resilience in our schools and strengthens the partnerships that protect our communities.”

    Members of the Wyoming National Guard and Colorado National Guard Counterdrug Program, the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation, Park County Sheriff’s Office, Powell Police Department, Cody Police Department, Healthy Park County Coalition and other partners pose for a photo and flew around the state to make neighborhoods safer by supporting the Drug Enforcement Administration’s National Prescription Drug Take Back Day, in Jackson, Wind-River, Riverton, Johnson County, Park County, and Sheridan, Wyoming, Oct. 28, 2024. This initiative provides a safe and anonymous way for the public to dispose of unused prescription medications, which play a significant role in prescription drug abuse. (U.S. Army National Guard photo)

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Louisiana Woman Who Provided a Child for Pornographic Photoshoot Pleads Guilty

    Source: United States Attorneys General

    A Louisiana woman pleaded guilty today to receiving child sexual abuse material produced by a photographer she arranged to take the images.

    According to court documents, Hannah Kinchen, 40, of Gonzales, coordinated with a photographer, who self-identified as a “pedophile,” to conduct photoshoots for the minor victim’s modeling career. During the photoshoots, Kinchen allowed and assisted the photographer in posing the minor victim wearing scanty attire, including thongs and G-strings. The photographer sent and Kinchen received most of the images through a file-sharing website on the internet. Some of the resulting images qualified as child pornography and some were later sold.

    Kinchen pleaded guilty to one count of receipt of child pornography. She is scheduled to be sentenced on July 15 and faces a mandatory minimum penalty of five years in prison and a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    Head of the Justic Department’s Criminal Division, Matthew R. Galeotti; Acting U.S. Attorney April M. Leon for the Middle District of Louisiana; and Acting Special Agent in Charge Jonathan Tapp of the FBI New Orleans Field Office made the announcement.

    The FBI New Orleans Division – Baton Rouge Resident Agency investigated the case.

    Trial Attorney Rachel L. Rothberg of the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS) and Assistant U.S. Attorney Kristen L. Craig for the Middle District of Louisiana are prosecuting the case, with substantial assistance from CEOS Trial Attorney Charles Schmitz.

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: California Department of Justice Investigating San Joaquin County Sheriff’s Department Officer-Involved Shooting Under AB 1506

    Source: US State of California

    Monday, April 7, 2025

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

    **The information provided below is based on preliminary details regarding an ongoing investigation, which may continue to evolve** 

    OAKLAND – California Attorney General Rob Bonta today announced that the California Department of Justice (DOJ), pursuant to Assembly Bill 1506 (AB 1506), is investigating and will independently review an officer-involved shooting (OIS) that occurred in Stockton, California on Monday, April 7, 2025 at approximately 11:14 a.m. The OIS incident resulted in the death of one individual and involved personnel from the San Joaquin County Sheriff’s Department. 

    Following notification by local authorities, DOJ’s California Police Shooting Investigation Team initiated an investigation in accordance with AB 1506 mandates. Upon completion of the investigation, it will be turned over to DOJ’s Special Prosecutions Section within the Criminal Law Division for independent review. Anyone that has information related to this officer-involved shooting incident and wishes to report it may do so by calling (916) 210-2871. 

    More information on the California Department of Justice’s role and responsibilities under AB 1506 is available here: https://oag.ca.gov/ois-incidents.

    # # #

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Las Vegas Man Sentenced to Over 16 Years of Federal Imprisonment for Drug Distribution

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Memphis, TN – A federal judge has sentenced Timothy Edwards, 49, formerly of Memphis, to 197 months in federal prison for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute drugs. Joseph C. Murphy, Jr., Interim United States Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, announced the sentence today.

    According to the information presented in court, on April 1, 2021, members of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) responded to a local UPS Store regarding a suspicious package which was found to contain 6,793.5 grams of marijuana and 1,247 grams of methamphetamine.  During the investigation, DEA was alerted to a second package being shipped to the UPS store.  This package was intercepted on June 3, 2021.  It contained 4.9 pounds of marijuana.  Both packages were shipped from California to Memphis, TN.  The first package had Edwards listed as the recipient, and the second was sent to a P.O. Box associated with Edwards.    

    In October 2024, a jury trial was held, and Edwards was found guilty of two counts of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances (marijuana and methamphetamine). On April 3, 2025, United States District Judge Mark S. Norris sentenced Edwards to a total of 197 months of federal imprisonment, to be followed by five years of supervised release.  There is no parole in the federal system.

    This case was investigated by the DEA and the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office (SCSO)-Memphis Division.  This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) operation.  OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.

    Interim United States Attorney Murphy thanked Assistant United States Attorney Michelle Kimbril-Parks, who prosecuted this case, as well as the DEA and the SCSO-Memphis Division who investigated the case.

    ###

    For more information, please contact the media relations team at USATNW.Media@usdoj.gov. Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office on Facebook or on X at @WDTNNews for office news and updates.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Jury convicts Marion County drug dealer

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    EAST ST. LOUIS, Ill. – Following a two-day trial, a jury found a Centralia man guilty of federal charges for distributing cocaine and fentanyl in Marion County.

    A federal jury convicted Broderick K. Currie, also known as Broderick K. Wooters, 36, of one count of distribution of a controlled substance: cocaine and one count of distribution of a controlled substance: fentanyl.

    “As a career offender, this defendant has sold drugs in southern Illinois and caused irrevocable harm to families for many years,” said U.S. Attorney Steven D. Weinhoeft. “The lethality of fentanyl cannot be understated, and another dealer off the streets is a win for our region.”

    The evidence presented at trial proved Broderick sold nearly 12 grams of cocaine and one gram of fentanyl to a confidential source in February 2024 in Marion County.

    “The conviction of the defendant provides an opportunity to remind everyone that the mission of the Springfield Southern Illinois TOC-West Task Force is to relentlessly pursue and destroy drug trafficking organizations operating in the Southern Illinois region,” said FBI Springfield Special Agent in Charge Christopher Johnson. “If you are distributing controlled substances, especially deadly fentanyl, cocaine, and methamphetamine, we will find you and hold you accountable.”

    Currie’s distribution charges are punishable by up to 30 years’ imprisonment per count. His sentencing hearing is scheduled for Aug. 12.

    The FBI Springfield Field Office’s Southern Illinois TOC-West Task Force led the investigation, and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Dan Carraway and Dan Kapsak prosecuted the case. The TOC-West Task Force has multiple members, this investigation was supported by Fayette County Sheriff’s Office, Carlyle Police Department, Mt. Vernon Police Department, and Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office.

    The case was investigated under the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces. OCDETF identifies, disrupts and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the U.S. using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Former Sheriff’s Deputy Sentenced to 65 Years in Prison for Child Sex Crimes

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    ST. LOUIS – U.S. District Judge Matthew T. Schelp on Monday sentenced a former Phelps County Sheriff’s deputy to 65 years in prison for soliciting and/or receiving sex acts and child sexual abuse material from multiple minors and destroying evidence to impede the FBI.

    Judge Schelp also ordered Justin Bradley Durham, of Rolla, to pay $79,160 in restitution to victims. Durham pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court in St. Louis in October to one count of production of child pornography, two counts of receiving child pornography and three counts of destroying records in a federal investigation.

    Durham admitted requesting and receiving a sexually explicit video from a 15-year-old in 2013. He later provided $200 to the victim after she engaged in sex acts with him. He also admitted engaging in sex acts multiple times with a 17-year-old victim, including in his patrol vehicle. He exchanged sexually explicit images and videos with her. Durham met the second victim in 2016 when her friend contacted the police and he responded to the call.

    The FBI interviewed Durham in 2023 after learning that his PayPal account had been used to send money to another account associated with the sale of child pornography. Durham denied purchasing child pornography and claimed that he hadn’t accessed his Dropbox account for years. He refused agents’ request to search his cell phone. Two days later, Durham bought a new phone, destroyed his old phone and deleted about 37 gigabytes of data in his Dropbox account before deactivating it. Among those files were hundreds of sexually explicit images and videos, including files containing child sexual abuse material. Durham was terminated by the Sheriff’s Department on Aug. 9, 2023, and arrested by them. In jail, he told FBI agents that he also destroyed a laptop computer, threw away his phone and conducted a “digital footprint scrub” of his online accounts, his plea agreement says.

    Durham also sent sexual letters to inmates at the Phelps County Jail, solicited sexually explicit images from other women, including a woman who was on parole, according to a sentencing memo filed by Assistant U.S. Attorney Kyle Bateman.

    “Justin Durham avoided detection by exploiting what he knew about law enforcement. He often targeted vulnerable victims, some of whom suffered from mental health issues, poverty, or sexual abuse,” said Special Agent in Charge Ashley Johnson of the FBI St. Louis Division. “We applaud the bravery of the two victims who came forward to help end Durham’s disgraceful abuse.”

    Sheriff Michael P. Kirn expressed his firm belief that accountability and transparency are essential in maintaining public trust. “The actions of individuals like Justin Durham are not representative of our dedicated law enforcement community. We will continue to ensure that justice is served and that ethical standards are upheld,” he asserted.

    “This case serves as a reminder that the law applies equally to all, and the commitment to justice remains paramount. The Sheriff’s Office will continue to advocate for integrity and accountability within the law enforcement community and beyond,” Sheriff Kirk said.

    The FBI and the Missouri State Highway Patrol investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kyle Bateman is prosecuting the case.

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: MEXICAN NATIONAL INDICTED FOR ILLEGAL RE-ENTRY INTO THE UNITED STATES BY A REMOVED ALIEN AND FALSE REPRESENTATION OF A SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    A federal grand jury recently returned a three-count indictment charging Edgar Javier Castillo-Rodriguez, age 53, of Mexico, with illegal re-entry into the United States by a removed alien and false representation of a Social Security number. Castillo-Rodriguez appeared for his arraignment and pled not guilty to the pending charges.

    According to court documents, Castillo-Rodriguez, an alien who had previously been removed from the United States on or about October 30, 1996, at or near Brownsville, Texas, and on or about November 6, 2000, at or near El Paso, Texas, was again found in the United States on or about October 29, 2024, without having obtained the consent of the Attorney General of the United States or his successor, the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security.

    On October 29, 2024, Castillo-Rodriguez knowingly and falsely represented to the Ascension Parish Sheriff’s Office a Social Security number that had not been assigned to him by the Commissioner of Social Security.

    On April 21, 2023, Castillo-Rodriguez knowingly and falsely represented to a potential employer a false Social Security number that had not been assigned to him by the Commissioner of Social Security.

    This matter is being investigated by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement – Department of Homeland Security, Social Security Administration, Gonzales Police Department, Ascension Parish Sheriff’s Office, and Louisiana State Police, and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jeremy S. Johnson.

    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.

    NOTE: An indictment is an accusation by a grand jury.  The defendant is presumed innocent until and unless adjudicated guilty at trial or through a guilty plea.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Ponte Vedra Man Indicted For Conspiracy To Traffic Firearms And Controlled Substances (DOJ)

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

    acksonville, Florida – United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe announces the unsealing of an indictment charging Braden Huston Hobbs (27, Ponte Vedra) with conspiracy to traffic firearms, conspiracy to deal firearms without a license, dealing firearms without a license, making a materially false statement to a licensed firearms dealer, conspiracy to distribute controlled substances—including 500 grams or more of cocaine, and possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute. If convicted, Hobbs faces a minimum sentence of 5 years, up to 95 years, in federal prison.

    According to court documents and proceedings, law enforcement began investigating Hobbs when several firearms he had purchased were recovered during unrelated search warrant executions by law enforcement agencies. These firearms were recovered in the homes of drug distributors and a convicted felon. Additionally, during a series of controlled purchase operations conducted in the summer of 2024, agents purchased 11 firearms from two co-conspirators. Hobbs was the original purchaser of multiple firearms purchased from these two co-conspirators. Cellphone records later showed that at least one of the co-conspirators regularly purchased firearms from Hobbs.

    Through further investigation, agents discovered that between March 2022 and June 2024, Hobbs had purchased more than 120 firearms from 3 different federally licensed firearms dealers in Jacksonville, with 67 of those firearms being purchased between January and June 2024. Hobbs then sold those firearms to others. On multiple occasions, Hobbs advertised firearms for sale to potential customers before completing the purchase of the firearms from the federally licensed firearms dealer.

    Customers typically paid Hobbs in cash for the firearms or traded drugs for the firearms. Hobbs was aware that some of his customers intended to resell the firearms and were drug users or drug distributors. Furthermore, Hobbs asked his co-conspirators to assist him in finding buyers for the firearms and the co-conspirators advertised Hobbs’s firearms for sale. Although he engaged in the business of dealing firearms, Hobbs is not a federally licensed firearms dealer, as required by federal law.

    When Hobbs purchased the firearms from the federally licensed firearms dealers, he indicated on the required ATF Form 4473 that he was the actual buyer or transferee of the firearms. In addition, Hobbs indicated that he was not a user of or addicted to controlled substances. Both statements were false. Hobbs was not the actual buyer or transferee of the firearms, and he was a habitual user of controlled substances.

    In addition, Hobbs was distributing controlled substances, including over 500 grams of cocaine and Adderall. He routinely advertised controlled substances for sale and coordinated deals. Hobbs often sold the controlled substances to the same customers to whom he was selling firearms. On June 26, 2024, Hobbs was arrested by the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office for driving under the influence and trafficking in cocaine. During a search of Hobbs’s car, officers located approximately 330 grams of cocaine and 17 grams of Adderall, as well as various items used to package and distribute controlled substances.

    An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty.

    This case is being investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, the United States Secret Service, the North Florida HIDTA Tri-County Narcotics Task Force with the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, the St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office, and the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Elisibeth Adams.

    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).

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Expanding municipal police service options

    [. If passed, Bill 49 would lay additional groundwork for the new police service.

    Proposed amendments to the Police Act recognize the unique challenges faced by different communities and seek to empower local governments to adopt strategies that effectively respond to their specific safety concerns, enhancing overall public safety across the province.

    If passed, Bill 49 would specify that the new agency would be a Crown corporation with an independent board of directors to oversee its day-to-day operations. The new agency would be operationally independent from the government, consistent with all police services in Alberta. Unlike the Alberta Sheriffs, officers in the new police service would be directly employed by the police service rather than by the government.

    “With this bill, we are taking the necessary steps to address the unique public safety concerns in communities across Alberta. As we work towards creating an independent agency police service, we are providing an essential component of Alberta’s police framework for years to come. Our aim is for the new agency is to ensure that Albertans are safe in their communities and receive the best possible service when they need it most.”

    Mike Ellis, Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Services

    Additional amendments would allow municipalities to select the new agency as their local police service once it becomes fully operational and the necessary standards, capacity and frameworks are in place. Alberta’s government is committed to ensuring the new agency works collaboratively with all police services to meet the province’s evolving public safety needs and improve law enforcement response times, particularly in rural communities. While the RCMP would remain the official provincial police service, municipalities would have a new option for their local policing needs.

    Once established, the agency would strengthen Alberta’s existing policing model and complement the province’s current police services, which include the RCMP, Indigenous police services and municipal police. It would help fill gaps and ensure law enforcement resources are deployed efficiently across the province.

    Related information

    • Improving public safety
    • Bill 49: Public Safety and Emergency Services Statutes Amendment Act, 2025

    Related news

    • Keeping Alberta families and communities safe (March 13, 2024)

    Multimedia

    • Watch the news conference
    • Listen to the news conference

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICE, federal partners arrest illegal Guatemalan sex offender in Northern Virginia

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    FALLS CHURCH, Va. — U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, working with federal law enforcement partners from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration; and the Diplomatic Security Service, apprehended an illegally present Guatemalan national and convicted sex offender, Ander Cortez-Mendez, 21, in Falls Church,Virginia, April 2.

    “Ander Cortez-Mendez is a convicted sex offender, and exactly the type of illegal alien that ICE officers seek to remove from Washington, D.C. and Virginia,” said ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Washington, D.C. Field Office Director Russell Hott. “We refuse to allow such offenders to continue to threaten the residents of our neighborhoods. ICE Washington, D.C. and our law enforcement partners will continue to arrest and remove criminal aliens from the streets of our communities.”

    U.S. Border Patrol apprehended Cortez-Mendez Feb. 04, 2018, after he illegally entered the United States near Rio Grande Valley, Texas. The next day, USBP issued Cortez-Mendez a notice to appear before a Justice Department immigration judge.

    Officers with the Fairfax County Police Department arrested Cortez-Mendez, March 16, 2024, for sex crimes.

    ICE Washington, D.C. lodged an immigration detainer against Cortez-Mendez with the Fairfax County Adult Detention Center, March 18, 2024; however, the detention center refused to honor the ICE detainer and released Cortez-Mendez back into the community.  

    The Fairfax County Circuit Court found Cortez-Mendez guilty of consensual sexual intercourse with a child May 20, 2024. The court sentenced Cortez-Mendez to three months in prison but suspended the entire prison sentence.

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

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

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reps. Pettersen, Jacobs Issue Statements on Speaker Johnson’s Deal Blocking Parental Proxy Voting Resolution

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Brittany Pettersen (Colorado 7th District)

    WASHINGTON — U.S. Representatives Brittany Pettersen (D-CO) and Sara Jacobs (D-CA) issued the following statements after Speaker Mike Johnson struck a deal that effectively blocks their bipartisan resolution to allow proxy voting for new parents in Congress. The agreement would replace their proposed policy with a limited “pairing” system that maintains outdated practices and fails to provide real solutions for lawmakers who are new parents.

    Rep. Brittany Pettersen said: “We are so grateful to Rep. Anna Paulina Luna for championing this issue that matters deeply to us, and so many other families. Her partnership was essential in building broad bipartisan support from a majority of the House. When the Speaker refused to act, she continued working to make the House a more welcoming place for families. But the reality is — this outcome does not address the barriers we’ve fought so hard to overcome.

    “When Speaker Johnson refused to bring our resolution to the floor for a vote – regardless of how many Members supported it – we followed the rules and tried to force a vote by filing a discharge petition and received the necessary signatures to bring it forward. Instead of letting us vote, he has instead gone to historic lengths to kill our resolution and make sure the large majority of his Members don’t have a voice. Let’s be clear: these changes are not a win for us and Speaker Johnson has turned his back on moms and dads in Congress and working families.

    “I am deeply grateful for the outpouring of support from colleagues on both sides of the aisle and the women and moms across the nation. I know that you’re as disappointed as I am that we’re not changing the Rules in Congress to make it more likely that people like us have a seat at the table. But our fight is far from over. I promise I won’t stop working on behalf of moms, our families, and most importantly our kids.”

    Rep. Sara Jacobs said: “From the very beginning, our shared goal has been to support new parents so they can do their jobs and vote on behalf of their constituents while also taking care of themselves and their families. Unfortunately, this ‘deal’ falls short of that goal – silencing new parents and perpetuating the status quo and the notion that Congress is ineffective and obsolete. I won’t accept the way Congress has always done things, and the American people won’t either. We will keep pushing for innovative ways to support young people and parents in Congress – including by modernizing how we vote – even if it takes a Democratic majority to do so.”

    Background:

    In January, Pettersen introduced the bipartisan Proxy Voting for New Parents Resolution alongside Representatives Anna Paulina Luna (R-FL), Sara Jacobs (D-CA), and Mike Lawler (R-NY). After Republican Leadership refused to move forward with their bipartisan legislation, the Members used a rare procedural move called a discharge petition, collecting 218 signatures from a majority of the House.

    This procedural tool is used to bypass Leadership and force a vote on the floor. However, despite broad bipartisan support, Speaker Johnson went to extreme lengths to block the measure from advancing. The Members defeated Johnson’s attempts to kill the discharge petition last week, bringing legislative business to a halt. Still, Speaker Johnson continued to ignore House rules and refused to bring the resolution forward for a vote.

    This work is the latest in Pettersen’s continued efforts to make government more inclusive and accessible, especially for young families. During her time in the Colorado legislature, she was the first state lawmaker in Colorado history to take parental leave after giving birth to her son, Davis. Pettersen had to seek permission from Leadership and categorize her absence as a “chronic illness” in order to be paid while on leave. That’s why she brought legislation to change the outdated law and allow for paid parental leave for all future Colorado state lawmakers.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NADLER, GILLIBRAND, SCHUMER, JEFFRIES, GARBARINO, GOLDMAN LEAD BIPARTISAN PUSH CALLING ON PRESIDENT TRUMP TO REVERSE CUTS TO WORLD TRADE CENTER HEALTH PROGRAM

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jerrold Nadler (10th District of New York)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Representative Jerrold Nadler (D-NY),  U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Representative Andrew Garbarino (R-NY), Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY), House Democratic Leader Jeffries (D-NY), and Representative Dan Goldman (D-NY) are leading a bipartisan letter calling on President Trump and HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to reverse cuts to National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) staff that provide critical support for the World Trade Center Health Program (WTCHP).

    The WTCHP offers medical monitoring and treatment for first responders and survivors diagnosed with 9/11-related health conditions, including many types of cancers, respiratory illnesses, and more. The cuts include the dismissal of Dr. John Howard, the administrator of the WTCHP, who makes critical decisions regarding covered conditions and ensures the WTCHP complies with statutes enacted by Congress. The WTCHP also currently uses NIOSH staff to determine the awards of research grants in the amount of nearly $20 million a year, an annual requirement of the program to fund research on 9/11 conditions and care.They were joined on the letter by Representatives Mike Lawler (R-NY), Nick LaLota (R-NY), Nicole Malliotakis (R-NY), Paul Tonko (D-NY), Laura Gillen (D-NY), Pat Ryan (D-NY), Grace Meng (D-NY), Nydia Velázquez (D-NY), Gregory Meeks (D-NY), Ritchie Torres (D-NY), George Latimer (D-NY), Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY), Tom Suozzi (D-NY), Adriano Espaillat (D-NY), Tim Kennedy (D-NY), Yvette Clarke (D-NY), Josh Riley (D-NY), Joseph Morelle (D-NY), Josh Gottheimer (D-NJ), John Larson (D-CT), Jahana Hayes (D-CT), Mikie Sherrill (D-NJ), and Nellie Pou (D-NJ), as well as Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT).

    “We were appalled at the recent announcement that the Department of Health and Human Services cut two-thirds of the staff at the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), under which the WTCHP operates,” wrote the lawmakers. “We understand that your plan is to ultimately eliminate all NIOSH staff in the next few days. The WTCHP relies on NIOSH staff to fulfill many of its obligations under the law, and eliminating staff that implement it, especially as more and more responders and survivors fall ill with 9/11-related conditions, will directly interfere with program operations and undermine access to the treatment these heroes have earned and deserve. Congress has continually reaffirmed its bipartisan commitment to the responders and survivors of September 11th. We stand ready to work with you to reverse these cuts to ensure that current and future participants receive the coverage and care that Congress has continuously provided.” 

    “I am glad that the members of the NY Congressional Delegation are working together in a bipartisan manner to demand answers as to what Secretary Kennedy is doing. Why fire Dr. Howard, a Trump appointee, why fire the NIOSH staff the Doctors and epidemiologists that support the WTC Health Program, who is going to approve cancer treatments for 9/11 responders and survivors this week when they are seeking help, why fire the CDC staff that handle the programs contracts and grants, who is going to handle the contracts and grants that are the heart of this program? The Secretary needs to either answer all these questions or restore Dr .Howard and the NIOSH,  CDC staff that were doing this work who were terminated. This wasn’t a scalpel or even a chainsaw this was bulldozer that is leveling the program,” said Benjamin Chevat, Executive Director of the Citizens for Extension of the James Zadroga Act, Inc.

    In February 2025, the Trump administration drastically reduced the workforce of the World Trade Center Health Program. In response, Senator Gillibrand, Congressman Garbarino, and a number of their bipartisan colleagues in the House called on the administration to reverse the cuts, and the program’s staffing levels were ultimately restored.

    After years of efforts and calls on the federal government, Congress established the WTCHP on a bipartisan basis in 2011 with a five-year authorization to provide medical treatment and monitoring for 9/11 responders and survivors suffering from the effects of the toxins at Ground Zero. The program covers the lifespans of all exposed, including responders and survivors of the attack on the World Trade Center, the Pentagon, the Shanksville crash site, children who were in schools in downtown Manhattan on 9/11 and during clean-up, and those who have since experienced, or are expected to experience, adverse health effects that are linked to the attacks in the coming years. The program was reauthorized in 2015 and extended through 2090 with bipartisan support. In 2022, lawmakers delivered $1 billion for the WTCHP in the end-of-year spending bill, and in 2023, they secured an additional $676 million for the program.


     The full text of the members’ letter to President Trump and Secretary Kennedy is available here or below:

    Dear President Trump and Secretary Kennedy,  

    The World Trade Center Health Program (WTCHP) provides critical medical treatment, research, and monitoring to over 137,000 responders and survivors of the September 11th terrorist attacks, living in every state and nearly every Congressional district. The WTCHP serves first responders and survivors from the World Trade Center and lower Manhattan, the Pentagon, and the crash site in Shanksville, Pennsylvania. This vital program provides life-saving care to the heroes who answered the call to serve in one of our nation’s darkest hours and the survivors who are forced to live with the health consequences from the attacks every single day.  

    We were appalled at the recent announcement that the Department of Health and Human Services cut two-thirds of the staff at the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), under which the WTCHP operates. We understand that your plan is to ultimately eliminate all NIOSH staff in the next few days.  

    Since the establishment of the WTCHP in 2011, the number of program enrollees has more than doubled from 61,000 to 137,000. The WTCHP relies on NIOSH staff to fulfill many of its obligations under the law, and eliminating staff that implement it, especially as more and more responders and survivors fall ill with 9/11-related conditions, will directly interfere with program operations and undermine access to the treatment these heroes have earned and deserve.  

    For example, the WTCHP does not employ any staff physicians or individuals with medical degrees. Under the statute medical doctors need to approve certifications of members coming forward with new conditions that meet the requirements of the law for them to receive treatment.  The WTCHP has always used NIOSH doctors to perform this work. 

    Additionally, the WTCHP does not have a staff epidemiologist and has always used NIOSH epidemiologists to review pending petitions for considering whether to add new conditions to the list of covered conditions. The WTCHP also currently uses NIOSH staff to determine the awards of research grants in the amount of nearly $20 million dollars a year, an annual requirement of the program to fund research on 9/11 conditions and care. 

    We are extremely concerned regarding the dismissal of Dr. John Howard, the Program Administrator of WTCHP. Since the program’s inception, Dr. Howard has faithfully served as the Administrator, playing a critical role as the final decision-maker on determining which petitioned conditions should be covered and ensuring the WTCHP is adhering to the explicit statutes enacted by Congress. His institutional knowledge is unmatched and allows the program to operate effectively and efficiently. It is estimated that over 400,000 individuals were exposed to toxins or other hazards on 9/11, and we are gravely concerned that his termination will undermine the essential work the WTCHP does.

    Finally, we are concerned about the termination of the staff at the Office of Acquisition Services at NIOSH. The Office of Acquisition Services oversees all contracts for the WTCHP’s Nationwide Provider Network (NPN), which is a vast network of contracted health providers throughout the country that provide the medical monitoring and treatment for program enrollees who live outside the New York metropolitan area. This office ensures these contracts and providers meet the needs of enrollees and provides oversight and quality assurance for the NPN. Without this coordinating mechanism, current contracts could receive little oversight and that future contracts could lapse, undermining access to enrollee care. 

    We are asking that the Administration provide answers on how the WTCHP will be impacted by these massive layoffs. Please respond to the below list of questions by April 9th, 2025.  

    1. Is the Administration planning to terminate all NIOSH staff? 
    2. What was the justification for the termination of Dr. Howard?  
    3. Since there are no doctors on the staff of the WTCHP, and the statue requires doctors to sign off on certifications that allow for treatment of members, what is the administration’s plan to rectify this as all of the NIOSH medical staff that performed this function have been terminated? 
    4. Since the WTCHP used the staff of NIOSH, especially epidemiologists to review pending petitions under the law to consider covering new conditions, what provisions has HHS made to supply the necessary staff to fulfill that role for the WTCHP? 
    5. What is the status of pending petitions to add autoimmune disease and cardiac conditions to the program? The program announced in December 2024 that eligible individuals can expect an answer by March 2025. 
    6. WTCHP utilized NIOSH staff to determine the approximately $20 million of annual research awards required under the statute that are normally announced in March. What staff will be assisting WTCHP in making these decisions and when will the awards for 2025 be announced?  
    7. Has the administration consulted with advocates or career staff on the impacts these cuts may have on WTCHP service delivery?  
      1. If you have not, please explain why.  
    8. What office will oversee the contracts and contracting process if there is no staff at the Office of Acquisition Services?  

    Congress has continually reaffirmed its bipartisan commitment to the responders and survivors of the September 11th attacks. We stand ready to work with you to reverse these cuts to ensure that current and future participants receive the coverage and care that Congress has continuously provided. 

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: ACT Budget: What’s in it for Belconnen

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Canberra’s Food Organics and Garden Organics (FOGO) pilot program will be expanded.

    2024–25 ACT Budget snapshot – Belconnen

    • New health centre for West Belconnen
    • FOGO pilot expanded
    • More housing for Belconnen
    • New and upgraded community facilities
    • Belconnen Transitway feasibility study

    With the ACT’s population set to reach 500,000 people by the end of 2027, the 2024–25 ACT Budget is funding the services and infrastructure this growing city needs.

    Through this year’s Budget, the ACT Government is delivering more public health services, providing cost of living relief for those who need it most, and improving housing choice, access and affordability.

    Some of the projects funded in Belconnen include:

    A new health centre for West Belconnen

    The 2024–25 ACT Budget is investing in health programs and infrastructure throughout the city.

    This includes funding to design and plan a new health centre in West Belconnen. This will help provide the right services closer to where people live.

    The Government is also investing in a new North Canberra Hospital, including upgrades to existing buildings to maintain services during construction and design work to relocate some existing services.

    More housing for Belconnen

    The ACT Government’s Indicative Land Release Program for 2024–25 to 2028–29 will help cater to the ACT’s growing population.

    As part of the program, 2,012 new homes are planned for Belconnen.

    FOGO pilot expanded

    Canberra’s Food Organics and Garden Organics (FOGO) pilot program will be expanded.

    This will generate useful information on how households in different types of multi-unit developments use the service.

    The pilot currently services 5,300 households in Belconnen, Bruce, Cook and Macquarie.

    An additional 1,150 units will be added, increasing the pilot by more than 20 per cent.

    New and upgraded community facilities

    The Budget will support new and upgraded community facilities and infrastructure across the region.

    This includes:

    • the expansion of the Belconnen Basketball Stadium
    • the replacement of the existing pavilion at Jamison Oval
    • upgrades to the Emu Bank foreshore
    • improving local shops at Charnwood Group Centre, Evatt, Kippax Group Centre, and Macquarie
    • delivering a new green waste processing facility and landscape depot in West Belconnen.

    The Government will also respond to community feedback regarding resources at ACT libraries. There will be new portable phone chargers and more power boards and charging stations, in addition to improving building security.

    More funding for mowing and horticulture

    The combination of unpredictable weather and a growing city have increased demands on those taking care of Canberra’s grass, trees, weeds and gardens.

    The Budget includes funding for 10 full-time positions and eight additional mowers to deliver an expanded baseline capacity in the ACT’s mowing teams.

    In the low season, mowing crews will assist with horticultural work across the city, including weeding, road edging and maintenance.

    Belconnen to City Transitway feasibility study

    The Government will undertake a bus transitway feasibility study to investigate potential upgrades to the transport corridor between Belconnen and the City.

    The study will focus on improving bus services to minimise congestion and delays between two of Canberra’s major population hubs.

    This initiative will be partially funded through a matching contribution from the Commonwealth Government.

    The Budget will also provide funding to finalise the duplication of William Hovell Drive and Gundaroo Drive between Ginninderra Drive and the Barton Highway.

    Support for education

    The region will benefit from a new suite of system-wide literacy and numeracy initiatives, called Strong Foundations, being rolled out across ACT public schools. The program will ensure all students have access to consistent, high-quality literacy and numeracy education.

    There will also be a range of school upgrades across Canberra as part of the ACT Government’s annual Asset Renewal Program.

    This includes roof replacement work at Charnwood Dunlop Primary School and Melba Copland Secondary School.

    The Budget also includes funding to deliver:

    • Strathnairn Primary School in the Ginninderry area, which will cater for over 600 preschool to year 6 students
    • a 130-place Early Childhood Education and Care service.

    Find out what else has been funded as part of the 2024-25 ACT Budget by clicking here.

    The ACT’s horticulture and mowing teams will receive a funding boost.

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    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: ACT Budget: What’s in it for the Inner North, Inner South and City

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    The Budget will fund path improvements across the Inner North, Inner South and City.

    2024–25 ACT Budget snapshot – Inner North, Inner South and City

    • A new Inner South Health Centre
    • More housing for the region
    • Path improvements across the region
    • The electrification of Alfred Deakin High School
    • More funding for mowing and horticulture

    With the ACT’s population set to reach 500,000 people by the end of 2027, the 2024–25 ACT Budget is funding the services and infrastructure this growing city needs.

    Through this year’s Budget, the ACT Government is delivering more public health services, providing cost of living relief for those who need it most, and improving housing choice, access and affordability.

    Some of the projects funded in the Inner North, Inner South and City include:

    A new Inner South Health Centre

    The 2024–25 ACT Budget is investing in health programs and infrastructure throughout the city.

    This includes funding to build the new Inner South Health Centre in Griffith. This will help provide the right services closer to where people live.

    More housing for the region

    The ACT Government’s Indicative Land Release Program for 2024–25 to 2028–29 will help cater to the ACT’s growing population.

    As part of the program, 4,587 new homes are planned for the Inner North, Inner South and City region.

    Road and path improvements across the region

    Funding received through the 2024–25 ACT Budget will see improvements made to paths across the Inner North, Inner South and City.

    Walkers, cyclists and those riding scooters can expect to see better line marking, completed missing links and more lighting as they exercise or head to and from work.

    Other investments across the region include:

    • progressing Light Rail Stage 2A, which includes design and construction of an extension from the existing Light Rail Stage 1 terminus at Alinga Street to a new stop at Commonwealth Park
    • road improvements along Beltana Road in Pialligo
    • construction of the Garden City Cycle Route.

    The electrification of Alfred Deakin High School

    The Electrification of Gas Assets Program is a 17-year commitment by the ACT Government to replace all gas-powered assets used within Government owned and operated buildings.

    The program will abolish and electrify over 1,000 gas assets and will contribute to the goal of net zero emissions from Government operations by 2040.

    Funding in the 2024–25 ACT Budget will allow for cooling upgrades at Alfred Deakin High School as part of the program.

    New and upgraded community facilities

    The 2024–25 ACT Budget will support new and upgraded community facilities and infrastructure across the region.

    This includes responding to community feedback regarding resources at ACT libraries. There will be new portable phone chargers and more power boards and charging stations, in addition to improving building security.

    This Budget will also provide support for:

    • finalising construction of the new Acton Emergency Services Station to house ACT Ambulance Service and ACT Fire & Rescue staff
    • undertaking capital upgrades at the City Police Station and planning for future accommodation requirements
    • improving local shops at Narrabundah.

    More funding for mowing and horticulture

    The combination of unpredictable weather and a growing city have increased demands on those taking care of Canberra’s grass, trees, weeds and gardens.

    The Budget will include funding for 10 full-time positions and eight additional mowers to deliver an expanded baseline capacity in our mowing teams.

    In the low season, mowing crews will assist with horticultural work across the city, including weeding, road edging and maintenance.

    Support for education

    The region will benefit from a new suite of system-wide literacy and numeracy initiatives, called Strong Foundations, being rolled out across ACT public schools. The program will ensure all students have access to consistent, high-quality literacy and numeracy education.

    There will also be a range of school upgrades across Canberra as part of the ACT Government’s annual Asset Renewal Program.

    This includes:

    • the refurbishment of the existing Lyneham High School gymnasium
    • roof replacement work at Dickson College
    • continuing the modernisation and expansion of Majura Primary School, Telopea Park High School and Narrabundah College
    • progressing the UNSW Canberra City Campus project.

    Find out what else has been funded as part of the 2024-25 ACT Budget here.

    Canberra’s mowing teams and resources have been expanded.

    Get ACT news and events delivered straight to your inbox, sign up to our email newsletter:


    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Cost-of-living relief for Canberrans

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    There is a comprehensive cost-of-living package included in this year’s Budget.

    The ACT Government is offering continued support to Canberrans most impacted by cost of living pressures.

    Cost of living pressures are being felt across the country and this year’s ACT Budget does more for low-income households.

    Supporting apprentices and trainees

    One initiative is a new, one-off $250 payment to support local apprentices and trainees.

    Apprentices and trainees have a restricted earning capacity while they are obtaining their qualification.

    This payment recognises the financial pressures these Canberrans are facing.

    The ACT Government will contact eligible apprentices and trainees by the end of September. It is not necessary to apply for the payment.

    Assisting families with schooling costs

    The ACT Government is also expanding the Future of Education Equity Fund.

    The Fund has been hugely successful in supporting students and families in need, helping them with the costs of their education.

    Already in 2024, the Future of Education Equity Fund has supported more than 5000 students in Canberra.

    More families will be able to get financial assistance with things like textbooks, music lessons and sporting equipment.

    Electricity, Gas and Water Rebate

    Over 40,000 low-income households in Canberra will also benefit from an increase to the Electricity, Gas and Water Rebate.

    The payment will be increased to $800 per year, helping these households with their home energy costs.

    When combined with the $300 Federal Government energy payment, one in five Canberra households will receive $1,100 in assistance towards their energy bills.

    Targeted cost of living support

    These initiatives are part of a comprehensive cost of living package included in this year’s Budget. The package also includes:

    • expanding the Utilities Hardship Fund, including increasing vouchers from $100 to $300, to support more households to change their energy use
    • extending the Rent Relief Fund to support more Canberrans on low incomes who are experiencing rental stress or severe financial hardship
    • expanding public transport concession fares to include Canberrans with a Commonwealth Low-Income Health Care Card, to support more people accessing buses and light rail
    • additional funding to Roundabout Canberra, Scouts ACT, Fearless Women and Women’s Health Matters to support these community organisations to continue delivering essential services to vulnerable Canberrans
    • additional funding for emergency material and financial aid programs and food relief services, to support vulnerable Canberrans in need of food and other necessities
    • increasing assistance through the Taxi Subsidy Scheme, including increasing the subsidy for ride users, further reducing out-of-pocket costs for vulnerable Canberrans
    • increasing the Life Support Rebate to $150 a year, to support more Canberrans using electric life support equipment to treat a life-threatening condition.

    Find more on cost-of-living support at act.gov.au/money-and-tax/cost-of-living-support

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    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Helping First Nations children thrive

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Koori Preschool provides Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children aged 3 to 5 years with a play-based, culturally safe learning program.

    Proud First Nations women Chloe Spratt and Amanda Flemming are driven to help Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children thrive.

    They wear many hats as the Early Years Engagement Officers at the ACT Government’s Child and Family Centres.

    Central to their role is engaging with parents about their children’s education – and this begins with Koori Preschool.

    Koori Preschool provides Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children aged 3 to 5 years with a play-based, culturally safe learning program.

    Each week, Chloe and Amanda visit Canberra’s five Koori Preschools to meet with families and staff.

    Parents and carers get to know them during drop-off and pick-up times and can approach them to discuss support they might need.

    School staff can also discuss any concerns with Chloe or Amanda – with consent from the family. Chloe and Amanda can then link the family to relevant services for support which could include referral into the Child and Family Centres or Child Development Service to assist addressing the individual needs of families.

    Both officers are determined to help Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children have a positive experience of school.

    “I’ve been in the Early Years Engagement Officer for four years and I am very passionate about supporting our children in community and working so closely with the Koori Preschool program,” Chloe said.

    They work tirelessly to empower families to play an active role in their child’s learning journey.

    Such efforts have played a role in the success of Koori Preschool.

    Enrolments have increased over the past five years and school readiness among First Nations preschoolers has also improved.

    An additional 100 places at Koori Preschool were funded in last year’s budget.

    Both women regard their work as not just a job, but a calling. This dedication illustrates the power of advocacy in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander early childhood development.

    “Being that person who family feel culturally connected to and feel safe to yarn with you is a great sense of belonging in the community,” Amanda said.

    “I love that as An Early Years Engagement Officer I can help give the best start to the little Borri and help the families get the support they may need for their family.

    “I enjoy being able to see the Borris go from strength to strength from the early intervention they may be linked into with the child development.

    “I think the best part is when you visit each school the Borri running up to you and saying ‘Aunty Manda, can you came and play with me’ or ‘can you be my partner on the bus’ when I join them on learning on country,” she said.

    Koori Preschools operate at five school sites around Canberra, with curriculum aligned with the Early Years Learning Framework.

    • Ngunnawal Primary School
    • Kingsford Smith School
    • Narrabundah Early Childhood School
    • Wanniassa School
    • Richardson Primary School.

    Parents and carers can enrol Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children in Koori Preschool at any time between the ages of three and five.

    Koori Preschool enrolments are now open for the 2025 school year.

    Find out more or enrol now.

    For more information about the services and supports available at Child and Family Centres.

    Amanda, left, and Chloe love being able to help Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander kids have the best start to their education.

    Narrabundah Early Childhood School is one of Canberra’s five Koori Preschools.

    Chloe loves connecting with the children.

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    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Expanding health services for children and young people

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Canberra families will have better access to paediatric health services where and when they need it.

    Canberra families will have access to more paediatric health services in both the hospital and the community, as part of the 2024–25 ACT Budget funding.

    The investment will expand paediatric inpatient care as well as community-based paediatric services.

    Eight inpatient paediatric beds at Canberra Hospital will be funded.

    This will ensure Canberra Health Services can continue to support unwell children and young people when they need specialist paediatric care.

    A new paediatric critical care team will also be established at Canberra Hospital.

    The team will provide leadership and specialty skills in paediatric critical care to treat and care for children and young people.

    They will also provide better coordination, support and upskilling of existing staff in this area.

    There will be additional resourcing to expand multidisciplinary rehabilitation services for children with complex and chronic conditions – where care is shared between local and interstate hospitals.

    This funding will develop a model of care to support children in a more sustainable and integrated way.

    Budget funding will also support critically unwell newborns, with additional cots added the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit and Special Care Nursery at Canberra Hospital.

    The ACT Government will establish a new location for community-based paediatric services.

    This will give families with children with – or at risk of – developmental delays or certain health conditions easier access to services they need, outside of a hospital setting.

    These investments will support implementation of actions in the Child and Adolescent Clinical Services Plan 2023–2030 and the opening of dedicated paediatric critical care spaces in Canberra Hospital’s new Critical Services Building.

    This Budget builds on the range of Government investments in paediatric services, as well as the expansion of the Centenary Hospital for Women and Children.

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    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Fact Sheet: Eliminating Barriers for Federal Artificial Intelligence Use and Procurement

    US Senate News:

    Source: The White House
    SUPPORTING AND EMBRACING AMERICAN INNOVATION: Under PresidentTrump’s leadership, America is well-positioned to maintain its global dominance in artificialintelligence (AI) innovation. Today, the White House Office of Management and Budget, incoordination with the Assistant to the President for Science and Technology, issued two revised policies to facilitate responsible AI adoption to improve public services. These policies fundamentally shift perspectives and direction from the prior Administration, focusing now on utilizing emerging technologies to modernize the Federal Government.
    The Executive Branch is shifting to a forward-leaning, pro-innovation and pro competition mindset rather than pursuing the risk-averse approach of the previousadministration.
    The Federal Government will no longer impose unnecessary bureaucratic restrictions on the use of innovative American AI in the Executive Branch.
    By embracing AI adoption, agencies will be more agile, cost-effective, and efficient.
    This shift will deliver improvements to the lives of the American public while enhancingAmerica’s global dominance in AI innovation.
    PROMOTING RAPID AND RESPONSIBLE AI ADOPTION: M-25-21 gives agencies thetools necessary to embrace AI innovation, while maintaining strong protections for Americans’ privacy, civil rights, and civil liberties.
    Agencies will empower AI leaders to remove barriers to AI innovation.
    Agency Chief AI Officer roles are redefined to serve as change agents and AI advocates, rather than overseeing layers of bureaucracy.
    Chief AI Officers are tasked with promoting agency-wide AI innovation and adoption for lower risk AI, mitigating risks for higher-impact AI, and advising on agency AI investments and spending.

    Agencies will produce an AI adoption maturity assessment to better track progress andneeds.
    Policies introduce a single “high-impact AI” category to track AI use cases that requireheightened due diligence because of potential impacts on the rights or safety of theAmerican people.
    Accountability for AI will mirror the existing process for using government IT, instead ofcreating new layers of approvals.
    Use of American AI will be maximized when seeking new AI solutions.
    DRIVING EFFECTIVE AND EFFICIENT AI ACQUISITION: M-25-22 provides agencieswith concise, effective guidance on how to acquire best-in-class AI quickly, competitively, and responsibly.
    Agencies must support a competitive American AI marketplace, maximizing the use of American AI systems and services in support of American AI leadership, human flourishing, economic competitiveness, and national security.
    This policy recognizes the importance of competition, communicating clear and specific requirements that avoid vendor lock-in.
    The new approach removes burdensome agency reporting requirements and optimizes the acquisition process, while continuing to protect privacy and ensure lawful use ofgovernment data.
    Agencies will use performance-based techniques to best harness the rapidly developing AI marketplace and create an online shared repository of resources and tools to assist with AI procurement.
    AI WORKING FOR AMERICANS: Federal agencies are maximizing the benefits of AI topromote human flourishing, economic competitiveness, and national security. Illustrativeexamples include the following:
    The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) optimizes patient care through AI tools that help identify and standardize Veterans’ care.
    The VA uses AI to support the identification and analysis of pulmonary nodulesduring lung cancer screening exams. The AI functionality improves detection of these nodules, assisting clinicians with life-saving diagnoses.

    The Department of Justice (DOJ) improves public safety by leveraging AI to protect theAmerican public.
    The DOJ is using AI to better understand the global drug market and the impact of illicit drugs on communities and individuals, in order to further drug traffickinginvestigations and protect the American public.

    The National Aeronautics Space Administration (NASA) expands humanity’s ability tosafely traverse Mars by using AI.
    NASA is using AI on the Mars2020 Rover to help it navigate with limited directionfrom Earth, optimizing scientific discovery from the rover’s sensors and assuring it safely traverses the planet’s hazardous terrain.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Budget delivers significant stamp duty cuts

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    A range of new and expanded measures will further support Canberrans to find a home that suits their needs.

    The ACT Government is supporting more Canberrans to buy a home by extending a range of stamp duty concessions and exemptions.

    Funding in the 2024–2025 ACT Budget will save many more first home buyers tens of thousands of dollars when they buy their first home.

    It also includes specific assistance for downsizers, people with a disability and those fleeing domestic violence.

    Home Buyer Concession Scheme

    The ACT Government is making major changes to the Home Buyer Concession Scheme.

    Buyers are eligible for the full stamp duty concession on the first $1 million of property value.

    This will save eligible Canberrans up to $34,000 in tax when they purchase their home.

    The Budget expands the scheme from 1 July 2024 to:

    1. increase the income eligibility threshold to $250,000 a year for homebuyers who have not owned a property in the previous five years (this is an increase from $170,000 a year for homebuyers who have not owned a property in the previous two years)
    2. enable homebuyers with children to earn an additional $4,600 per child and stay eligible (up from an additional $3,330 per child).

    People fleeing family violence can have owned a property in the previous five years.

    Helping more Canberrans buy a new apartment or townhouse

    The Government has also temporarily expanded the stamp duty concession for off-the-plan unit-titled apartments and townhouses to include properties valued up to $1 million in 2024-25.

    This will begin from 1 July 2024 and will support more Canberrans to buy an apartment or townhouse.

    Currently, homebuyers do not have to pay stamp duty on off-the-plan unit-titled apartments and townhouses valued up to $800,000.

    Supporting more housing options in existing suburbs

    The Budget will temporarily extend the RZ1 Unit Duty Exemption Scheme to include properties valued up to $1 million in 2024-25.

    This will align with the Off-The-Plan Unit Duty Exemption.

    Announced in October 2023, this Scheme applies to the first transfer of unit-titled dwellings on suburban residential (RZ1) blocks.

    It is for purchases valued up to $800,000, between 27 November 2023 and 30 June 2026.

    The announcement coincided with the commencement of the new Territory Plan, which allows dual occupancy developments on large suburban residential blocks (over 800 square metres).

    This extension further supports the development of more dual-occupancy homes in existing suburbs.

    It will create more opportunities for Canberrans to find a home, including people looking to downsize in the suburbs they’ve long called home.

    More support for people with a disability

    The existing Disability Duty Concession Scheme is available to eligible homebuyers with a disability.

    The scheme will be extended from 1 July 2024 to provide a full stamp duty concession on the first $1 million of property value, to further support people with a long-term or permanent disability.

    As a result, a partial concession is now available for properties over $1 million. Previously, the scheme was limited to properties valued up to $1 million.

    There will also be a new Severe Disability Duty Exemption from 1 July 2025 to support people with a severe disability, and their carers, to find a home.

    This new exemption will mean people with severe disability and their carers will not have to pay stamp duty if the home they are buying is their principal place of residence.

    The home does not have to be bought by a Special Disability Trust.

    Supporting more pensioners to downsize

    The Government has also extended the Pensioner Duty Concession Scheme from 1 July2024.

    Pensioners will receive a full stamp duty concession on the first $1 million of property value.

    A partial concession will be available for properties over $1 million.

    This extension will support more pensioners to downsize.

    The existing scheme provides a full stamp duty concession for homes valued up to $550,000, with a decreasing concession to zero for homes valued between $550,000 and $765,000. 

    These 2024-25 ACT Budget initiatives relate to the ACT Wellbeing Framework’s housing and home wellbeing domain.

    For more information, visit the ACT Revenue Office website​​​​​​​.

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    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Missouri State Archives Hosts Program Honoring Deaf Poet and Civil War Correspondent Laura Redden Searing

    Source: US State of Missouri

     

     

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

     April 7, 2025

    Missouri State Archives Hosts Program Honoring Deaf Poet and Civil War Correspondent Laura Redden Searing

    JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. — Missouri Secretary of State Denny Hoskins announced an upcoming public program at the Missouri State Archives that will celebrate the legacy of a trailblazing Deaf Missourian. Poet of the Rebellion: Laura Redden Searing and Deaf History in Missouri will take place at 7 p.m. on Thursday, April 17, 2025, at the James C. Kirkpatrick State Information Center in Jefferson City.

    Hosted by the Missouri State Archives and the Friends of the Missouri State Archives, the event features Lawrence Yates, President of the Missouri Association of the Deaf, and Becky M. Davis, Executive Director of the Missouri Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing. Together, they will highlight the remarkable life and literary contributions of Laura Redden Searing—a 19th-century journalist and poet who, despite being Deaf, made her mark as a prominent Civil War correspondent under the pen name Howard Glyndon.

    “Searing’s story reminds us of the power of perseverance, creativity, and the profound impact of diverse voices in our shared history,” said Secretary Hoskins. “We are proud to share her legacy and elevate awareness of Missouri’s rich Deaf heritage.”

    Searing broke barriers in an era when both women and individuals with disabilities faced significant societal limitations. As a correspondent for The St. Louis Republican, she reported from Washington, D.C., during the Civil War and penned poetry inspired by her experiences on the battlefield.

    This program comes amid growing national recognition of Deaf culture and history, highlighted by award-winning films and television featuring Deaf performers. The event underscores Missouri’s own contributions to this important narrative.

    An American Sign Language interpreter will be present, and all are welcome to attend.

    For more information about the Missouri State Archives, visit www.sos.mo.gov/archives.

    The event will also be live streamed on the Missouri State Archives Facebook page. 

    About the Missouri State Archives
    The Missouri State Archives, a division of the Secretary of State’s Office, preserves and provides access to the state’s historic records. Through educational programming, exhibits, and community outreach, the Archives connects Missourians with their shared past.

    About Secretary of State Denny Hoskins

    Denny Hoskins, CPA, was elected Missouri’s 41st Secretary of State in November 2024. With a strong background in business and public service, he is committed to improving government efficiency, transparency, and supporting Missouri families.

    For more information, please contact: Rachael Dunn, Director of Communications, via email at [email protected].

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Rumble & Rebel News sue MP Saks & others for conspiring to violate free speech rights

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO, April 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Rumble Canada, (NASDAQ: RUM), the high-growth video platform and cloud services provider, has joined Rebel News Network and its founder, Ezra Levant, in suing the government of Canada, Member of Canadian Parliament Ya’ara Saks, and other officials, for conspiring to deprive them of their constitutional right to free expression. The lawsuit, filed today in the Ontario Superior Court of Justice, alleges that the defendants unsuccessfully tried to block two lawful and peaceful public gatherings celebrating free speech in the Toronto area last year simply because they disagreed with the political points of view of the organizers and participants. The suit alleges that the officials tried to thwart the events, which included Donald J. Trump Jr. as a featured speaker, by imposing unreasonably high charges for security measures that were not needed and designed only to prevent the events from taking place. The plaintiffs are seeking reimbursement in the amount of $37,177.80 for the excessive security costs, $250,000 in punitive damages, and legal expenses, and have requested a trial in Toronto.  

    Specifically, the suit alleges that the defendants tried to scuttle the events, promoted as “Rumble Live” and “Rebel News Live” on May 10 & 11, 2024, by enforcing unjustifiable fees for security measures they knew were unnecessary and exorbitant. The gatherings were planned and held by the two companies after they entered into a lawful contract to rent a venue in North York, Ontario that typically hosts wedding receptions and other private events.

    Referencing internal communications, the complaint alleges that the defendants had been told by local police there was no indication of planned protests or threats of unrest or violence surrounding the gatherings, yet they still imposed outrageously high security charges—more than the cost of putting on the events themselves—in a failed attempt to derail the festivities. More emails make the case that officials worked on ways to shut down the celebrations based on the political beliefs of the people they expected to be involved.

    “If it happens on or near our property, we might attract an undesirable crowd,” wrote one official in an email to colleagues.

    “I am wondering if you think there is any language within the lease agreement that would permit us to stop this event from happening,” wrote another. “Based on my review, I don’t think there is, but I would appreciate your opinion.”

    Both “Rumble Live” and “Rebel News Live” were wildly successful and transpired without incident.

    “The Defendants knew that there was no way for them to lawfully prevent the Event from proceeding,” the lawsuit alleges. “Nonetheless, they sought to, and did, interfere with the contractual relationship between Rebel News and the [venue], successfully pressuring the venue to impose the Unwarranted Costs on the Plaintiffs, contrary to the Agreement. These actions constitute unlawful inducement of breach of contract, for which the Plaintiffs have suffered damages as a result of paying for expenses well-above the contracted rate set out in the Agreement.”

    Further, the rental agreement contained language that expressly protected the plaintiffs’ rights to free speech.

    “The [venue] Agrees to: uphold free speech principles and contractual obligations, irrespective of the event’s content or the public’s reaction to such content,” the rental agreement read. “The [venue] shall not cancel or postpone the event due to external pressures, including but not limited to public dissent, social media campaigns, safety concerns (other than those unrelated to the event), or politically motivated requests.”

    Indeed, a public statement from MP Saks revealed that she had political motivations for attempting to interfere, specifically identifying her adversary in an upcoming election and his relationship with Rebel News.

    “My conservative opponent, Roman Baber, has been platformed by and interacted with Rebel News at every opportunity,” she wrote on X on May 10, 2024. “Rebel News is clearly supporting Roman Baber.”

    This is not the first time that government officials have been accused of interfering with the plaintiffs’ constitutional rights. In 2023, Levant and Rebel News alleged that they had been blocked from viewing official government accounts on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter), depriving them of access to government information and the ability to engage in public discourse or represent their views as journalists and citizens. In January 2024 a federal judge issued a consent order that required the plaintiffs to be unblocked.

    Listed as defendants in this new lawsuit are MP Saks and several officials with Canada Lands Company Limited, which operates Downsview Park where the venue is located, and a representative of security services at CN Tower.

    ABOUT RUMBLE

    Rumble is a high-growth video platform and cloud services provider that is creating an independent infrastructure. Rumble’s mission is to restore the internet to its roots by making it free and open once again. For more information, visit: corp.rumble.com.

    Contact: press@rumble.com

    ABOUT REBEL NEWS NETWORK

    Rebel News is a federal company carrying on business as an independent online news and media company operating across Canada and around the world. Rebel News has been granted media accreditation by governments in Canada and around the world, including the United States, the United Kingdom, the European Union, Sweden, the Netherlands, and India. Rebel News is a member of the Independent Press Gallery of Canada and can be found online at rebelnews.com.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Verizon Frontline provides critical Unmanned Aircraft Systems support for New Orleans PD during Mardi Gras

    Source: Verizon

    Headline: Verizon Frontline provides critical Unmanned Aircraft Systems support for New Orleans PD during Mardi Gras

    What you need to know:

    • The Verizon Frontline Crisis Response Team supported the New Orleans Police Department (NOPD) with Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) support during the busiest week of Mardi Gras.
    • The NOPD requested the support of the Verizon Frontline team due to their experience with advanced UAS technology and long-standing commitment to meeting the mission-critical communications needs of the public safety community.
    • The team conducted more than 140 flights, totalling over 45 hours in the air, to assist NOPD in its mission of keeping officers and festival attendees safe.

    NEW ORLEANS – The Verizon Frontline Crisis Response Team recently completed a deployment in support of the New Orleans Police Department (NOPD) during the city’s annual Mardi Gras celebrations.

    To help enhance situational awareness for first responders during Mardi Gras, the NOPD requested the Verizon Frontline Crisis Response Team provide UAS overwatch support during the busiest week of festivities. The team conducted more than 140 flights, totalling over 45 hours in the air, to assist NOPD in achieving its mission of keeping the festivities safe.

    UAS overwatch missions assist public safety agencies with threat assessment and real-time decision making while helping reduce risk to personnel and increasing efficiency of operations.

    “We’re honored to be asked to support New Orleans first responders during a large-scale event like Mardi Gras,” said Chris Sanders, a senior manager who leads the Verizon Frontline Crisis Response Team’s UAS program. “This is the first time UAS is being used on a large scale during Mardi Gras, and to be asked for by name speaks to how much our public safety partners trust us and how Verizon Frontline remains on the cutting edge when it comes to leveraging technology to support our nation’s first responders.”

    “Mardi Gras is one of the largest events the NOPD manages each year, and ensuring the safety of our residents and visitors is our top priority,” said Officer Reese Harper, NOPD director of communications. “Utilizing Unmanned Aircraft Systems during this year’s festivities provided our officers with enhanced situational awareness, helping us monitor crowds, respond more effectively to potential concerns, and keep the celebration safe for everyone. We are always exploring ways to strengthen public safety through innovation and strategic resources.”

    Held annually, the Mardi Gras celebrations in New Orleans date back to the 16th century and the city’s origins. The multi-day celebration consists of parades and carnival festivities, where millions of people attend. Mardi Gras also generates over $1 billion for the economy in New Orleans.

    The mission of the NOPD is to provide professional police services to the public in order to maintain order and protect life and property. In order to accomplish this mission, the NOPD is committed to the philosophy of Community Oriented Policing as a means to inform organizational decisions and prioritize crime fighting and quality of life initiatives by engaging each neighborhood and community organization in collaborative problem-solving partnerships.

    The Verizon Frontline Crisis Response Team provides on-demand, emergency assistance during crisis situations to government agencies and emergency responders on a 24/7 basis at no cost to the supported agencies. Verizon Frontline Crisis Response Team members set up portable cell sites, Wi-Fi hotspots, charging stations and other Verizon Frontline devices and solutions that enable communications and/or improve network performance.

    Verizon Frontline is the advanced network and technology built for first responders – developed over three decades of partnership with public safety officials and agencies on the front lines – to meet their unique and evolving needs. Learn more at our site.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: More affordable and public housing for Canberra

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    The ACT Government is increasing housing supply, access and choice to meet the needs of our growing city.

    This year’s Budget makes significant investments to deliver more housing in Canberra – particularly for those who need it most.

    The Budget includes:

    • expanding the Affordable Housing Project Fund to $80 million to grow the number of affordable rental properties
    • $108 million in extra funding for new public housing, and to improve existing public housing – this takes the Housing ACT Capital Works Program to over $530 million over four years
    • a taskforce to improve repairs and maintenance of public housing and oversee a pilot for insourcing maintenance of two large multi‑unit properties.

    These initiatives will help ensure the right mix of housing options to suit a range of household incomes. It will also meet the housing needs of a growing Canberra, which is on track to reach 500,000 people by 2027.

    Affordable Housing Project Fund

    This Budget provides a significant boost to the Affordable Housing Project Fund, established last year.

    The Fund has so far supported six projects, which will deliver 280 affordable rentals.

    ACT Housing Strategy 5-Year Snapshot

    The Government has today released the ACT Housing Strategy 5-Year Snapshot.

    This outlines what has been achieved so far under the ACT Housing Strategy 2018–2028.

    The funding in this year’s Budget will support the Government’s commitment to provide another 600 affordable rentals and 400 public housing dwellings.

    Find more information on increasing housing choice, access and affordability in the ACT.

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    MIL OSI News –