Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (c)
AKRON, Ohio – Brandon E. Crawford, 24, of Copley, Ohio, was sentenced March 11, 2025, by U.S. District Judge David Ruiz to 13 years in prison after he admitted to committing child sexual abuse related offenses (CSAM), also known as child pornography. He pleaded guilty to receipt and distribution of visual depictions of minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct and possession of child pornography. He was also ordered to serve 10 years of supervised release after imprisonment and register as a sex offender, per the Adam Walsh Child Protection and Safety Act.
According to court documents, Crawford admitted to receiving and distributing CSAM files from about November 2022 to January 2024. During a search warrant execution, federal investigators seized a cellphone that contained sexually explicit content of children. During the investigation, they found that Crawford used social media applications on his cellphone to trade CSAM with others, including at least one image that involved a minor under the age of 12.
The investigation was conducted by the FBI-Akron Field Office. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Peter E. Daly for the Northern District of Ohio.
To report child exploitation, please visit cybertipline.org, or call 1-800-843-5678, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Source: United States Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-New Mexico)
Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) joined U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY), and 28 Senate Democrats in urging Attorney General Pam Bondi to appoint a Special Counsel to thoroughly and impartially investigate whether any of the government officials involved in the Signal chat security breach violated federal criminal law. On March 24, The Atlantic’s editor in chief reported that President Trump’s National Security Advisor Michael Waltz had included him in a group text chain with several high-ranking national security officials where highly sensitive, classified, or controlled information was shared and discussed over Signal—an unsecure commercial messaging app.
“In addition to the reckless inclusion of a journalist in the chat, we are deeply concerned about this serious breach in the proper handling of such information and deliberations,” the Senators wrote. “Appointment of a Special Counsel is appropriate where the Department may have a conflict of interest or extraordinary circumstances are present, a criminal investigation is warranted, and it is in the public interest to appoint an outside Special Counsel to investigate the matter. Such circumstances are clearly present here.”
The Signal chat group started by Mr. Waltz included Vice President JD Vance, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard, and Central Intelligence Agency Director John Ratcliffe, among at least 18 other high-ranking government officials. In addition to discussing the sensitive foreign policy implications of military strikes against Houthi targets in Yemen, these officials proceeded to discuss key operational information regarding the precise timing of the planned attacks, the types of military aircraft and munitions to be used, and the targets and results of the strikes as they occurred. An unprecedented security breach of this magnitude involving top senior government officials presents the kind of extraordinary circumstances clearly contemplated by the Special Counsel regulations.
“These officials conducted a highly sensitive discussion, including of clearly classified or controlled information, over the commercial messaging app Signal, including in some instances on personal devices and while traveling in foreign countries, rather than using the secure U.S. government channels and facilities that are designed and required for the sharing of such information. Despite subsequent claims to the contrary by you, President Trump, and several of the officials involved, including in testimony before Congress, some of the information they shared and discussed over Signal would almost certainly be considered classified or, at a minimum, controlled, prior to and in the immediate aftermath of an impending strike,” the Senators wrote.
In the letter, the Senators raised concerns if the Signal chat violated federal law. For example, gross negligence in handling national defense information may violate the Espionage Act. Importantly, other laws, including the Federal Records Act, require the preservation of certain government records. Destruction of government records or property may constitute a violation of various criminal statutes. Subsequent statements to Congress and testimony before the Houseand Senate Intelligence Committees by several of the officials involved raise additional concerns about potential violations of federal criminal laws that prohibit making false statements to Congress, committing perjury in testimony to Congress, inducing another person to commit perjury, or conspiring to commit any of the foregoing actions.
“During your confirmation hearing before the Senate Judiciary Committee, you assured the American people that everyone will be held to ‘an equal, fair system of justice’ if you were confirmed as Attorney General, and that ‘no one is above the law.’ As the individuals most seriously implicated in this incident include senior officials at the highest levels, including several of your fellow cabinet members, appointment of a Special Counsel is necessary to ensure that the investigation and any ensuing prosecutions are fair, impartial, and independent and that no official, regardless of seniority or political affiliation, is above the law. The people of this country deserve the assurance that this matter will be taken seriously and addressed swiftly. To do so, we urge you to appoint a Special Counsel immediately,” the Senators concluded.
The letter was also signed by U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Peter Welch (D-VT), Jack Reed (D-RI), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Andy Kim (D-NJ), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Chris Coons (D-DE), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Tina Smith (D-MN), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE), Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), John Fetterman (D-PA), Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Patty Murray (D-WA), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Ed Markey (D-MA), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), and Gary Peters (D-MI).
Full text of the letter is available here and below:
Dear Attorney General Bondi:
On March 24, The Atlantic’s editor in chief reported that President Trump’s National Security Advisor Michael Waltz had included him in a group message chain with several high-ranking national security officials where highly sensitive, classified, or controlled information was shared and discussed over Signal—an unsecure commercial messaging app. In addition to the reckless inclusion of a journalist in the chat, we are deeply concerned about this serious breach in the proper handling of such information and deliberations. Given the extraordinary circumstances of this shocking incident and the significant public interests at stake, it is imperative that you immediately appoint a Special Counsel to thoroughly and impartially investigate whether any of the government officials involved violated federal criminal law.
Appointment of a Special Counsel is appropriate where the Department may have a conflict of interest or extraordinary circumstances are present, a criminal investigation is warranted, and it is in the public interest to appoint an outside Special Counsel to investigate the matter. Such circumstances are clearly present here.
The Signal chat group started by Mr. Waltz included Vice President JD Vance, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard, and Central Intelligence Agency Director John Ratcliffe, among at least 18 other high-ranking government officials. In addition to discussing the sensitive foreign policy implications of military strikes against Houthi targets in Yemen, these officials proceeded to discuss key operational information regarding the precise timing of the planned attacks, the types of military aircraft and munitions to be used, and the targets and results of the strikes as they occurred. An unprecedented security breach of this magnitude involving top senior government officialspresents the kind of extraordinary circumstances clearly contemplated by the Special Counsel regulations.
These officials conducted a highly sensitive discussion, including of clearly classified or controlled information, over the commercial messaging app Signal, including in some instances on personal devices and while traveling in foreign countries, rather than using the secure U.S. government channels and facilities that are designed and required for the sharing of such information. Despite subsequent claims to the contrary by you, President Trump, and several of the officials involved, including in testimony before Congress, some of the information they shared and discussed over Signal would almost certainly be considered classified or, at a minimum, controlled, prior to and in the immediate aftermath of an impending strike.
These shockingly reckless breaches of security protocols for safeguarding sensitive and classified information clearly warrant an investigation into whether any of the government officials involved violated federal laws pertaining to the proper safeguarding and preservation of such information. For example, gross negligence in handling national defense information may violate the Espionage Act. Importantly, other laws, including the Federal Records Act, require the preservation of certain government records. Signal allows users to schedule messages for deletion after certain time periods and Mr. Waltz appears to have set the chat messages to delete initially after one week and then later in the chat changed the setting to delete messages after four weeks. Destruction of government records or property may constitute a violation of various criminal statutes. Subsequent statements to Congress and testimony before the House and Senate Intelligence Committeesby several of the officials involved raise additional concerns about potential violations of federal criminal laws that prohibit making false statements to Congress, committing perjury in testimony to Congress, inducing another person to commit perjury, or conspiring to commit any of the foregoing actions.
Even prior to his first Administration, President Trump campaigned for the need to prosecute and “lock up” individuals who allegedly “bypass government security” or “sent and received classified information on an insecure server.” Further, as an avowedly loyal and zealous advocate for the President, you echoed these same sentiments prior to your confirmation. Given the extraordinary nature of this security breach by senior Trump Administration officials, the likelihood that these actions needlessly endangered American lives and our nation’s security, the importance of putting our nation’s security before partisan political interests, and the range of federal criminal laws that may have been violated, it is imperative that the Department of Justice conduct a thorough investigation to assess the extent of the damage and determine whether any criminal charges are warranted against any of the government officials involved.
During your confirmation hearing before the Senate Judiciary Committee, you assured the American people that everyone will be held to “an equal, fair system of justice” if you were confirmed as Attorney General, and that “no one is above the law.” As the individuals most seriously implicated in this incident include senior officials at the highest levels, including several of your fellow cabinet members, appointment of a Special Counsel is necessary to ensure that the investigation and any ensuing prosecutions are fair, impartial, and independent and that no official, regardless of seniority or political affiliation, is above the law.
The people of this country deserve the assurance that this matter will be taken seriously and addressed swiftly. To do so, we urge you to appoint a Special Counsel immediately.
They have arrived ahead of enhanced Air Policing missions as part of NATO’s commitment to maintaining regional security and airspace integrity.
This deployment highlights the UK’s dedication to supporting NATO allies, and promoting the collective security of Europe.
“The arrival of our Typhoon aircraft here at Malbork marks a proud moment for our team as we prepare to take on this vital NATO mission. It is a privilege to be in Poland, a country with which the United Kingdom shares a long and storied history of friendship and cooperation, that predates the NATO Alliance. This enduring bond, forged through shared values and mutual respect, reinforces the importance of NATO’s collective purpose and strengthens the foundation of our partnership.
“We are here to defend and deter, standing ready to protect against any threat, whilst reassuring our allies of the UK’s commitment to NATO and the region. Additionally, we strive to foster partnership, advance interoperability, develop trust, and reinforce collaboration and unity among our NATO member partners. Together, we reaffirm our unwavering commitment to NATO’s collective defence, safeguarding the skies and fortifying bonds among our allies.”
Wing Commander Christopher Jacob Commanding Officer, 140 Expeditionary Air Wing
140 EAW deployment is part of NATO’s ongoing air policing program, which safeguards allied airspace in areas with limited local air defence resources. This mission serves as a reminder of the UK’s unwavering commitment to NATO’s collective defence and the importance of maintaining peace and stability across the region.
The owners must now carry out compliance works to the building, on the approach to Wolverhampton city centre, soon or risk facing further fines.
It is part of a crackdown by the Vacant Properties Taskforce to encourage owners of empty properties to properly maintain them and actively bring them back into use.
Jagir Singh, Jaswant Singh and Kalwant Singh, all of Ednam Road, Goldthorn Hill, Wolverhampton, were found guilty of not complying with a Section 215 notice (Town and Country Planning Act 1990), at Dudley Magistrates Court on Wednesday 26 March.
Each defendant was fined £660 and ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £264 and costs of £495 – totalling £4,257.
Compliance works include replacing the existing boards over the windows, repairing all damaged, missing and broken doors, removal of all vegetation from the building and rubbish from the site, cleaning all graffiti from the doors and brickwork, and fixing rainwater goods to ensure discharge of rainwater without leaks.
The Presiding Justice considered the former Brewbakers building to be an outstanding building and should be brought back into use.
City of Wolverhampton Council Leader, Councillor Stephen Simkins, said: “Despite not being the owner of the site, the council is determined to see the former Brewbakers building brought back to life, so it brings jobs, opportunities and investment to Wolverhampton.
“That is exactly why my administration launched the Vacant Properties Taskforce – to tackle dishevelled, vacant commercial properties, left by landlords to blight our streets.
“The benefits of reusing empty buildings and developing vacant sites are considerable, including the provision of new jobs and homes. It helps attract investment to an area, lifts its character and appearance, reduces anti social behaviour and can help boost the wellbeing of residents, workers and visitors.
“The Vacant Properties Taskforce has a mandate to monitor these buildings, ensure they are well maintained as a minimum, and look to bring some important and iconic properties back into use.”
HONG KONG, April 01, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Waton Financial Limited (“WTF” or the “Company”), a British Virgin Islands-incorporated holding company that provides of securities brokerage and financial technology services primarily through its Hong Kong subsidiaries, Waton Securities International Limited and Waton Technology International Limited, today announced the pricing of its initial public offering of an aggregate of 4,375,000 ordinary shares, no par value per share (the “Ordinary Shares”), at a public offering price of $4.00 per share (the “Offering”).
In addition, the Company has granted the underwriters of the Offering a 45-day option to purchase up to an additional 656,250 Ordinary Shares at the initial public offering price (the “Over-allotment”), less underwriting discounts and commissions. The gross proceeds to WTF from the Offering (assuming that the Over-allotment is not exercised), before deducting underwriting discounts and commissions and estimated offering expenses payable by WTF, is expected to be approximately $17,500,000.
The Ordinary Shares are expected to begin trading on the Nasdaq Capital Market under the ticker symbol “WTF” on April 1, 2025. The Offering is expected to close on April 2, 2025, subject to customary closing conditions.
The Offering is conducted on a firm commitment basis. CATHAY SECURITIES, INC. is acting as representative of the underwriters for the offering, with Dominari Securities LLC acting as co-underwriter (collectively, the “Underwriters”). Carey Olsen Singapore LLP, Han Kun Law Offices LLP and Hunter Taubman Fischer & Li LLC are acting as British Virgin Islands legal counsel, Hong Kong legal advisers and U.S. securities counsel, respectively, to the Company. Kaufman & Canoles, P.C. is acting as U.S. securities counsel to the Underwriters for the Offering.
The Offering is being conducted pursuant to the Company’s Registration Statement on Form F-1 (File No. 333-283424) previously filed with and subsequently declared effective by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) on March 31, 2025. The Offering is being made only by means of a prospectus. Before you invest, you should read the prospectus and other documents the Company has filed or will file with the SEC for more information about the Company and the Offering. You may get these documents for free by visiting EDGAR on the SEC’s website atwww.sec.gov. Alternatively, electronic copies of the prospectus relating to the Offering may be obtained from CATHAY SECURITIES, INC. at 40 Wall Street, Suite 3600, New York, NY 10005, or by telephone at +1 (855) 939-3888.
This press release has been prepared for informational purposes only and shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities, and no sale of these securities may be made in any state or jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state or other jurisdiction.
Certain statements in this press release are “forward-looking statements” as defined under the federal securities laws, including, but not limited to, statements concerning plans, objectives, goals, strategies, future events or performance, and underlying assumptions and other statements that are other than statements of historical facts. These forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties and are based on the Company’s current expectations and projections about future events that the Company believes may affect its financial condition, results of operations, business strategy and financial needs, including the expectation that the Offering will be successfully completed. Investors can find many (but not all) of these statements by the use of words such as “believe”, “plan”, “expect”, “intend”, “should”, “seek”, “estimate”, “will”, “aim” and “anticipate”, or other similar expressions in this press release. The Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent occurring events or circumstances, or changes in its expectations, except as may be required by law. Although the Company believes that the expectations expressed in these forward-looking statements are reasonable, it cannot assure you that such expectations will turn out to be correct, and the Company cautions investors that actual results may differ materially from the anticipated results and encourages investors to review other factors that may affect its future results in the Company’s registration statement and other filings with the SEC.
About Waton Financial Limited (“Waton”)
Waton Financial Limited is a British Virgin Islands-incorporated holding company with operations primarily conducted through its wholly-owned subsidiaries in Hong Kong, Waton Securities International Limited and Waton Technology International Limited. Waton provides a suite of financial services, including securities brokerage, asset management, and software licensing and other support services, catering to a diverse clientele of retail and institutional investors. Waton leverages technology and a client-centric approach with the aim to deliver innovative and reliable financial solutions.
For further information, please contact:
Waton Financial Limited Investor Relations Department Email: ir@waton.com
Joanna Nefs has been appointed for a six-month term as acting chair of the Mental Health Review Board, starting Tuesday, April 1, 2025.
The review board is an independent tribunal established under the Mental Health Act. The board conducts panel hearings for patients admitted by physicians and detained involuntarily in provincial mental-health facilities in a manner consistent with the principles of fundamental justice and Section 7 of the Charter of Rights and Freedoms.
Nefs holds a master in public policy degree, 2017-18; a juris doctor, 2008-11; and a bachelor’s degree in political science, 2006-08, all from York University.
From 2020 until 2024, Nefs was the CEO of AIDE Canada, a national initiative funded by the Public Health Agency of Canada. It focused on delivering information and resources to people with developmental disabilities and diagnosed with autism and their families.
From 2018 until 2020, Nefs was executive director of the International Centre for Criminal Law Reform and at the United Nations, working on projects with the UN Office on Drugs and Crime and at the UN Secretariat for the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. From 2012 until 2018, Nefs was the assistant Crown attorney at the Ontario Ministry of the Attorney General.
From January until May 2018, Nefs taught a course at Osgoode Hall law school about representing clients with mental illnesses and addictions.
Since 2020, Nefs has been a member and alternate chair of B.C.’s Mental Health Review Board.
Learn More:
For more information about the Mental Health Review Board, visit: https://www.bcmhrb.ca/
MACON, Ga. – A resident of Macon pleaded guilty to a federal gun charge this week for illegally possessing a firearm when he was taken into custody for violating his probation.
Terico Jaques Balkcom, 46, of Macon, pleaded guilty to one count of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon before U.S. District Court Judge Marc T. Treadwell on March 31. Balkcom faces a maximum of 15 years in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release and a maximum $250,000 fine. A sentencing date will be determined by the Court. There is no parole in the federal system.
“It is illegal for a convicted felon to possess a firearm,” said Acting U.S. Attorney C. Shanelle Booker. “Our office is collaborating with our law enforcement partners to hold repeat convicted felons accountable when they are found violating federal law.”
“Ensuring public safety is our top priority, the GBI will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to hold individuals accountable who violate the law, especially those with a history of criminal behavior,” said GBI Director Chris Hosey.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Balkcom was stopped by the Georgia State Patrol (GSP) for having an obscured tag on May 20, 2024. Balkcom was known to have an active warrant for violating state probation for a felony conviction out of Bibb County, Georgia, Superior Court. The GSP trooper could smell the odor of alcohol and performed a field sobriety test. Balkcom presented a false ID, claiming to be “Benjamin Brown.” When the officer asked for his date of birth, Balkcom answered that it was a different date from what was on the fake identification. A GBI agent familiar with Balkcom arrived and confirmed it was Balkcom. Balkcom was taken into custody based on the active probation warrant. Agents found a 9mm pistol inside a Crown Royal bag that also contained Balkcom’s prescription medication. Balkcom was recorded on a jail phone call discussing the gun and also three ounces of marijuana that officers found inside the vehicle. Balkcom has several prior convictions and probation violations in Bibb County Superior Court. He was on probation for a 2018 conviction in Bibb County for crossing state or county guard lines with weapons, intoxicants, or drugs without consent. It is illegal for a convicted felon to possess a firearm.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs) and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
The case was investigated by the Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) with assistance from Georgia State Patrol.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Joy Odom is prosecuting the case for the Government
Harbour Breton RCMP responded to a residential disturbance that happened on a property in Belleoram on March 30, 2025. A firearm was discharged. The investigation led to the arrest of 27-year-old Trent Poole.
Shortly after 3:30 a.m. on Sunday, Harbour Breton RCMP received the report of a disturbance where one man reported being threatened by another. While police were responding, further information was received stating that a firearm was discharged outside on a residential property.
Poole was arrested without further incident and a firearm was seized. No one was injured.
Poole attended court on Monday, charged with the following criminal offences:
Possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose
Careless use of a firearm
Discharging a firearm with intent to wound an individual
Failure to comply with a condition of a release order
He was released by the court on a number of conditions and is set to appear in court at a later date.
Detectives continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the death of a man and a woman in Thamesmead.
Police were called shortly before 15:00hrs on Tuesday, 11 March after concerns were raised for the welfare of the occupants of an address in Holstein Way, Thamesmead.
Emergency services attended and gained entry to the property.
Once inside they located a man and woman with serious injuries. They were sadly declared dead at the scene.
Both of their next of kin have been informed and continue to be supported by specially trained officers.
Formal identification has taken place. The woman who died was 51-year-old Michelle Mileham and the man who died was 53-year-old Gordon Mileham – they were siblings.
A post-mortem examination gave cause of death for both parties as stab injuries. Michelle’s death is being treated as murder; Gordon’s death is not being treated as suspicious and police are not looking for anyone else in connection with this incident.
An inquest will open on 10 April at Croydon Coroner’s Court.
Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (c)
HOUSTON – Two Venezuelan nationals and alleged members of the recently designated foreign terrorist organization known as the Tren de Aragua (TdA) have been arrested on charges filed in the Southern District of Texas (SDTX), announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
Jesus Miguel Barreto Lezama, 29, who was residing in Houston, has now appeared in federal court in Houston.
Also in custody is Briley Jesus Ballera Farias aka Derek, 32, who was arrested March 30 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, where he made his initial appearance.
A federal grand jury returned the indictment Jan. 29.
According to the allegations in the indictment, both men participated in a conspiracy, along with others, to import more than five kilograms of cocaine into the United States from Venezuela and Colombia. Barreto Lezama is also charged with importing nearly five kilograms of cocaine into the United States from Colombia between June 26, 2024, and July 3, 2024.
If convicted, they face a up to life in federal prison and a possible $10 million maximum fine.
The FBI and Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) conducted the investigation with the assistance of the Colombian National Police. FBI-Houston’s Safe Streets Gang Task Force made the Houston arrest with the assistance of the Houston Police Department, DEA, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and U.S. Marshals Service.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Casey N. MacDonald and Anibal J. Alaniz are prosecuting the case along with Trial Attorney David C. Smith from the Department of Justice’s Joint Task Force Vulcan.
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 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 and Project Safe Neighborhood.
This case is also part of JTFV, which was created in 2019 to destroy MS-13 and now expanded to target TdA. It is comprised of U.S. Attorney’s Offices across the country, including SDTX; Southern and Eastern Districts of New York; Districts of New Jersey, Utah, Massachusetts, Nevada, Alaska; Northern District of Ohio; Eastern District of Texas; Southern District of Florida; Eastern District of Virginia; Southern District of California; and the District of Columbia; as well as the Department of Justice’s National Security Division and the Criminal Division. Additionally, the FBI; DEA; Immigration and Customs Enforcement – Homeland Security Investigations; Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; U.S. Marshals Service; and Federal Bureau of Prisons have been essential law enforcement partners and spearheaded JTFV’s investigations.
An indictment is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence. A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
Nature strips help create Canberra’s “garden city” character.
Nature strips, otherwise known as street verges, help create Canberra’s “garden city” character.
On most streets, nature strips include footpaths for people walking and cycling. Meaning there are certain things a nature strip can and cannot be used for.
Looking after verges is a responsibility shared by the ACT Government and residents, and there are lots of ways Canberrans can use them.
Read up on which plants you can use and avoid spiky plants and any weeds or plants that have been declared pest plants. Natives are a great place to start, especially if you are new to landscaping – but if you prefer an exotic grass, a dryland blend is the go-to in Canberra’s climate.
Remember to keep all plants below 50 centimetres (or 20 centimetres if you live in a bushfire prone area ).
Install compacted gravel
Adding gravel to your nature strip can help capture water runoff and improve the quality of stormwater.
There are some limits on the amount and size of gravel you can use so be sure to do your research.
Use organic mulch
When adding organic mulch like pine bark to your verge, please ensure it is free of stones, soils and other contaminants.
Keep a 50 millimetre clearance from tree trunks and remember to rake it flush with surrounding levels.
Erect temporary protective fencing
If you’ve just planted grass or plants and you want to protect your newly refreshed nature strip, you can erect temporary fencing made of rope or string, supported by stakes.
The fencing can be up for a maximum of 13 weeks. It mustn’t pose a safety hazard to the public.
Install garden edging
You can install garden edging on your verge if it’s made of stone, brick or timber.
The edging can have a maximum height of 150 millimetres, and a depth of 100 millimetres below the surface of the nature strip.
Always remember to contact Before you Dig – 1100, before you start work.
Things you can do to your nature strip that require approval:
erect bollards to prevent parking on the nature strip
modify an existing driveway or construct a new driveway
store landscaping materials for longer than two weeks
store a skip or construction material.
Things that are unlikely to be approved for your nature strip:
ponds
water fountains
permanent fencing
retaining walls
letterboxes
shipping containers
chicken runs
play equipment
boulders
pavers or concrete paths
new trees.
Parking on the nature strip is prohibited and remember that if you live in a heritage precinct – like some areas of Ainslie, Braddon, Reid and parts of the inner south – you may not be able to make changes to the nature strip in front of your home.
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
This International Women’s Day, the ACT Public Service (ACTPS) celebrates the theme: ‘Count Her In: Invest in Women. Accelerate Progress’.
The ACTPS is a diverse, progressive public service within which 64.6 per cent of employees identify as female.
Women now comprise 56 per cent of the ACTPS Senior Executive Service.
A record low gender pay gap
This increased representation of women in leadership has driven the Service’s narrowing gender pay gap over the last year.
The ACTPS gender pay gap reached a record low of -0.1 per cent in June 2023. The ACT labour force sits at 10 per cent and the national gender pay gap at 13.3 per cent.
Employee spotlight
The ACTPS encourages an inclusive culture by acknowledging and showcasing the contributions of all staff.
Below, five female employees share their thoughts on International Women’s Day, working for the ACTPS and how they’ve seen the gender landscape change at work throughout their careers.
Rachael Dawes – Senior Director Urban Treescapes
Urban Treescapes Senior Director Rachael Dawes
Senior Director Rachael Dawes manages the Urban Treescapes business unit within City Services. Urban Treescapes is tasked with managing and protecting Canberra’s urban trees.
“I’m incredibly proud to be a woman working in the ACTPS caring for our urban forest, but particularly proud of the positive results of increased gender diversity in the team,” she said.
“When you have an inclusive environment, understanding and supporting each other, we can combine these diverse skills and lived experiences to respond to the changing conditions and needs of our environment”.
“There has been significant advancement in ACT urban forest management in recent years with the release of the Urban Forest Strategy and Urban Forest Act, which could not have happened without the vision and drive of the women in our team,” she said.
A career change led Rachael into forestry, and she urges women beginning their careers to look beyond perceived traditional career options.
“Explore your networks, ask questions, take chances and follow your interests and see what career path they can lead you down,” she said.
Arooj Fatima – Customer Service Operator, Access Canberra Contact Centre
Arooj Fatima of Access Canberra
Every day, Access Canberra Customer Service Officer Arooj Fatima assists Canberrans via phone.
From vehicle registration enquiries to Fix My Street requests, Fatima is the first point of contact on many issues.
First attracted to the role for its flexibility, she brings to it myriad skills including active listening, empathy, patience and problem solving.
“There needs to be an acknowledgement and inclusion of women in all aspects of society. Women need to be fully included, supported, and empowered in all fields to contribute to a more prosperous future for all,” she said.
Arooj says she has seen women make significant progress over the course of her career.
“Women are serving and being valued at all employment levels i.e., manager, team leaders and administrative roles. They are excelling in every field,” she said.
“I feel immensely proud to be a woman working for the ACTPS because of the respect, value, and recognition that I get. I feel so comfortable with the work environment, work life balance and flexibility. I feel included and appreciated for every little progress that I make. I am provided the opportunity to undertake various training and roles for my professional development,” she said.
Katie Smith – Principal, Duffy Primary School
Principal Katie Smith, right, with Deputy Principal Arilia Abell
Principal Katie Smith leads an all-female leadership team at Duffy Primary.
“By setting a strong example of supporting women, Deputy Principal Arilia Abell and I work to create a more inclusive and diverse work environment for future generations. Our presence in the school community showcases the importance of investing in women, inspiring both girls and boys to expect equality and inclusivity in their future workplaces,” she said.
Katie has seen progress in terms of gender equality during her career.
“One notable advancement is the increased representation of women in leadership roles such as principals and executive roles. Efforts to promote gender equality in education have led to greater recognition of female educators’ contributions and capabilities,” she said.
This year’s IWD theme resonates with Katie. “It speaks to our commitment to uplifting and supporting the capabilities of all women in our school community, providing opportunities for growth and success,” she said.
“For young women starting their careers: believe in yourself, set clear goals, seek mentorship, embrace learning, build a supportive network, speak up, prioritise balance, embrace challenges, stay flexible, and stay true to your values and passions.”
Rebecca Power, Project Director, CIT Woden Campus – Women in Construction advocate
Project Director Rebecca Power, third from right
Project Director Rebecca Power works describes her work as “Celebrating gender diversity, equity and inclusion in construction and on Major Projects Canberra construction sites”.
“In an industry where gender inclusion is still challenging, Major Projects Canberra strives towards our social objectives to encourage and enable women and girls to reach their potential, contribute to innovation and ideas, and be leaders in their individual fields and professions within our industry,” she said.
“I’m excited by the opportunity to continue to tell women’s stories in our industry, empower women to achieve and grow their careers while opening up mentoring pathways for women who are just beginning their careers, laying the foundations for a brighter future in infrastructure to inspire real progress. I want to continue to advocate for meaningful change and I am committed to this cause.”
“It provides guidance and leadership while empowering women to achieve their goals and aspirations in the construction industry,” she said.
Janet Zagari, Deputy CEO, Canberra Health Services
Janet Zagari is the Deputy Chief Executive Officer at Canberra Health Services.
With 28 years in the health industry under her belt, her focus is on the service’s strategic direction, looking at cross-government priorities, operational planning and commissioning of new services.
“We know that diversity in the workforce generates better outcomes,” Janet said.
“Acknowledging the well-documented barriers that women face to participating in employment and the under representation of women in some industries and at senior levels, investing in women to create greater opportunities and genuinely believing that there is a value add to doing so is key to moving organisations forward.”
She cites increased representation of women graduating from medical school as a pronounced change in Australia.
“It is useful to stop and look back over the course of your career to think about what has changed, because it is easy to only see how far we still have to go and not to think about how far we have come,” she said.
“There are more women in traditionally male dominated areas of clinical practice, and better recognition of the value that women bring.”
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Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
Chloe and her husband launched Hosking Bikes in February 2023.
In 2023, Canberran Chloe Hosking made the switch from pro-cyclist touring around Europe to launching her own bike company here in Canberra with the help of an ICON grant.
“I never set out to start a bike company, just like I never intended to become a professional cyclist, I came home with a lot of ideas,” Chloe said.
“With my husband Jack’s experience in start-up software companies and all of my industry connections, we launched Hosking Bikes in February 2023 and had bikes in market by June.
“Most business owners will know that capital raising is often one of the hardest parts of starting a business, so the grant was a huge help,” she said.
Chloe received $30,000 in matched funding last year from the ICON grant program. This enabled her to develop prototypes and help with marketing activities.
ICON grants are currently open and close 16 April 2024.
The ICON grants are delivered by the Canberra Innovation Network (CBRIN), which receives funding from the ACT Government to support entrepreneurs, innovators and start-ups, like Hosking.
Chloe wanted to create a bike tailored to the needs of women.
“Over the years, I felt I wanted to change the lack of female representation in the industry,” she said.
“When you look at the top five cycle brands, only 13 per cent of the executive and board are women. And a recent study showed that 50 per cent of the women in the industry are thinking about leaving.
“The only way to change that is to have people in the room to change the narrative.”
Wanting to see more women on bikes, Hosking Bikes is one way she’s making it more accessible.
“Cycling has given me so much, and I want women to experience the joy that I got and get from cycling. Even if they don’t go pro.
“Creating a brand like Hosking Bikes that champions getting more women on bikes is the way to do that. We’ve also created a bike that’s half the cost of other bikes and we’re very focused on building an inclusive community to support more women into the sport,” she said.
Chloe has some wise words for any women looking to start a business.
“Believe in yourself 100 per cent. As an athlete you learn that you lose a lot more than win, but you keep working toward success, even if it’s not a race.
“But also, don’t let them doubt you! They will, but ignore them!” she said.
RCMP NL encourages the public to protect themselves and vulnerable family or friends in the community against fraud and scams.A number of various online and telephone scams remain in circulation, as well as local scams on buy and sell sites and reports of fraudulent credit card use.
What to watch out for:
Police will never ask for money
Courts may ask for money, but you need to pay in person
You never have to pay to claim a prize
Be suspicious of “winning” a prize in a contest you never entered
Use reputable or first party websites when booking hotels or call the company directly
Never send cash in the mail to people you don’t know
Remember, if it seems too good to be true, it is. If you are unsure whether who you are speaking with on the phone, online, or even in person is legitimate or not, don’t be afraid to say no, leave the conversation, or get a second opinion.
RCMP NL encourages the public to discuss financial and digital safety with elders and vulnerable adults in their family or community. For more information, visit the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre athttps://antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca/index-eng.htm
Source: United States Senator for Illinois Dick Durbin
April 01, 2025
The Senators wrote: “These shockingly reckless breaches of security protocols for safeguarding sensitive and classified information clearly warrant an investigation into whether any of the government officials involved violated federal laws”
WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, along with Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) and 29 Senate Democrats sent a letter to U.S. Attorney General (AG) Pam Bondi urging her to appoint a Special Counsel to thoroughly and impartially investigate whether any of the government officials involved in the Signal chat security breach violated federal criminal law. On March 24, The Atlantic’s editor in chief reported that President Trump’s National Security Advisor Michael Waltz had included him in a group text chain with several high-ranking national security officials where highly sensitive, classified, or controlled information was shared and discussed over Signal—an unsecure commercial messaging app.
“In addition to the reckless inclusion of a journalist in the chat, we are deeply concerned about this serious breach in the proper handling of such information and deliberations,” the Senators wrote.“Appointment of a Special Counsel is appropriate where the Department may have a conflict of interest or extraordinary circumstances are present, a criminal investigation is warranted, and it is in the public interest to appoint an outside Special Counsel to investigate the matter. Such circumstances are clearly present here.”
The Signal chat group started by Mr. Waltz included Vice President JD Vance, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard, and Central Intelligence Agency Director John Ratcliffe, among at least 18 other high-ranking government officials. In addition to discussing the sensitive foreign policy implications of military strikes against Houthi targets in Yemen, these officials proceeded to discuss key operational information regarding the precise timing of the planned attacks, the types of military aircraft and munitions to be used, and the targets and results of the strikes as they occurred. An unprecedented security breach of this magnitude involving top senior government officials presents the kind of extraordinary circumstances clearly contemplated by the Special Counsel regulations.
“These officials conducted a highly sensitive discussion, including of clearly classified or controlled information, over the commercial messaging app Signal, including in some instances on personal devices and while traveling in foreign countries, rather than using the secure U.S. government channels and facilities that are designed and required for the sharing of such information. Despite subsequent claims to the contrary by you, President Trump, and several of the officials involved, including in testimony before Congress, some of the information they shared and discussed over Signal would almost certainly be considered classified or, at a minimum, controlled, prior to and in the immediate aftermath of an impending strike,” the Senators wrote.
In the letter, the Senators raised concerns if the Signal chat violated federal law. For example, gross negligence in handling national defense information may violate the Espionage Act. Importantly, other laws, including the Federal Records Act, require the preservation of certain government records. Destruction of government records or property may constitute a violation of various criminal statutes. Subsequent statements to Congress and testimony before the House and Senate Intelligence Committees by several of the officials involved raise additional concerns about potential violations of federal criminal laws that prohibit making false statements to Congress, committing perjury in testimony to Congress, inducing another person to commit perjury, or conspiring to commit any of the foregoing actions.
“During your confirmation hearing before the Senate Judiciary Committee, you assured the American people that everyone will be held to ‘an equal, fair system of justice’ if you were confirmed as Attorney General, and that ‘no one is above the law.’ As the individuals most seriously implicated in this incident include senior officials at the highest levels, including several of your fellow cabinet members, appointment of a Special Counsel is necessary to ensure that the investigation and any ensuing prosecutions are fair, impartial, and independent and that no official, regardless of seniority or political affiliation, is above the law. The people of this country deserve the assurance that this matter will be taken seriously and addressed swiftly. To do so, we urge you to appoint a Special Counsel immediately,” the Senators concluded.
Along with Durbin and Schumer, today’s letter was also signed by U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), Peter Welch (D-VT), Jack Reed (D-RI), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Andy Kim (D-NJ), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Chris Coons (D-DE), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Tina Smith (D-MN), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE), Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), John Fetterman (D-PA), Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Patty Murray (D-WA), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Ed Markey (D-MA), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), and Gary Peters (D-MI).
Full text of today’s letter is available here and below:
March 31, 2025
Dear Attorney General Bondi:
On March 24, The Atlantic’s editor in chief reported that President Trump’s National Security Advisor Michael Waltz had included him in a group message chain with several high-ranking national security officials where highly sensitive, classified, or controlled information was shared and discussed over Signal—an unsecure commercial messaging app. In addition to the reckless inclusion of a journalist in the chat, we are deeply concerned about this serious breach in the proper handling of such information and deliberations. Given the extraordinary circumstances of this shocking incident and the significant public interests at stake, it is imperative that you immediately appoint a Special Counsel to thoroughly and impartially investigate whether any of the government officials involved violated federal criminal law.
Appointment of a Special Counsel is appropriate where the Department may have a conflict of interest or extraordinary circumstances are present, a criminal investigation is warranted, and it is in the public interest to appoint an outside Special Counsel to investigate the matter. Such circumstances are clearly present here.
The Signal chat group started by Mr. Waltz included Vice President JD Vance, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard, and Central Intelligence Agency Director John Ratcliffe, among at least 18 other high-ranking government officials. In addition to discussing the sensitive foreign policy implications of military strikes against Houthi targets in Yemen, these officials proceeded to discuss key operational information regarding the precise timing of the planned attacks, the types of military aircraft and munitions to be used, and the targets and results of the strikes as they occurred. An unprecedented security breach of this magnitude involving top senior government officials presents the kind of extraordinary circumstances clearly contemplated by the Special Counsel regulations.
These officials conducted a highly sensitive discussion, including of clearly classified or controlled information, over the commercial messaging app Signal, including in some instances on personal devices and while traveling in foreign countries, rather than using the secure U.S. government channels and facilities that are designed and required for the sharing of such information. Despite subsequent claims to the contrary by you, President Trump, and several of the officials involved, including in testimony before Congress, some of the information they shared and discussed over Signal would almost certainly be considered classified or, at a minimum, controlled, prior to and in the immediate aftermath of an impending strike.
These shockingly reckless breaches of security protocols for safeguarding sensitive and classified information clearly warrant an investigation into whether any of the government officials involved violated federal laws pertaining to the proper safeguarding and preservation of such information. For example, gross negligence in handling national defense information may violate the Espionage Act. Importantly, other laws, including the Federal Records Act, require the preservation of certain government records. Signal allows users to schedule messages for deletion after certain time periods and Mr. Waltz appears to have set the chat messages to delete initially after one week and then later in the chat changed the setting to delete messages after four weeks. Destruction of government records or property may constitute a violation of various criminal statutes. Subsequent statements to Congress and testimony before the House and Senate Intelligence Committees by several of the officials involved raise additional concerns about potential violations of federal criminal laws that prohibit making false statements to Congress, committing perjury in testimony to Congress, inducing another person to commit perjury, or conspiring to commit any of the foregoing actions.
Even prior to his first Administration, President Trump campaigned for the need to prosecute and “lock up” individuals who allegedly “bypass government security” or “sent and received classified information on an insecure server.” Further, as an avowedly loyal and zealous advocate for the President, you echoed these same sentiments prior to your confirmation. Given the extraordinary nature of this security breach by senior Trump Administration officials, the likelihood that these actions needlessly endangered American lives and our nation’s security, the importance of putting our nation’s security before partisan political interests, and the range of federal criminal laws that may have been violated, it is imperative that the Department of Justice conduct a thorough investigation to assess the extent of the damage and determine whether any criminal charges are warranted against any of the government officials involved.
During your confirmation hearing before the Senate Judiciary Committee, you assured the American people that everyone will be held to “an equal, fair system of justice” if you were confirmed as Attorney General, and that “no one is above the law.” As the individuals most seriously implicated in this incident include senior officials at the highest levels, including several of your fellow cabinet members, appointment of a Special Counsel is necessary to ensure that the investigation and any ensuing prosecutions are fair, impartial, and independent and that no official, regardless of seniority or political affiliation, is above the law.
The people of this country deserve the assurance that this matter will be taken seriously and addressed swiftly. To do so, we urge you to appoint a Special Counsel immediately.
-30-
HERNDON, Va., April 01, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Today, Unissant Inc. (Unissant) announced the addition of Brigitte Custer as Vice President, Strategy and Solutions. In her new role, Custer will spearhead strategic initiatives and drive solution development with an emphasis on the national security vertical. Her appointment comes at a pivotal moment in Unissant’s growth, as the company expands its capabilities to address the increasingly complex challenges faced by its clients.
Custer’s addition underscores Unissant’s unwavering commitment to delivering advanced solutions for agencies safeguarding national health and security. For more than three decades, she has served as a technology strategist and trusted advisor to executives and agency heads across the U.S. Intelligence Community, Department of Justice, Department of Homeland Security, Department of Defense, Federal Law Enforcement, and now currently for the Intelligence and National Security Alliance (INSA). Prior to Unissant, she held senior leadership positions at CGI, GDIT, Deloitte and operated as an independent strategy consultant.
“Brigitte’s exceptional blend of strategic vision, technical expertise, and dedication to community engagement makes her the perfect fit for Unissant,” remarked President and CEO Sumeet Shrivastava. “We are excited to welcome her and look forward to her contributions in driving our strategic growth and delivering impactful solutions to our clients.”
Custer stated, “My professional journey has always been driven by a desire to bridge the gap between technology and mission needs. I’m excited to join a company that shares this vision and is committed to delivering innovative solutions with mission impact.”
About Unissant Mission-focused, data-driven—Unissant Inc. (Unissant) delivers for the agencies that keep our nation healthy and safe. Keeping people and mission at the forefront, we apply our domain expertise, data acumen, and technology know-how to achieve breakthrough results. Agencies turn to Unissant for our expertise in AI, advanced analytics, digital excellence, and cybersecurity solutions. Our proven frameworks drive successful execution of complex projects at enterprise scale. With an unwavering commitment to advancing mission outcomes, our teams engineer human-centered, innovative solutions that accelerate time to value. We bring honesty, integrity, and dependability to every interaction with our employees, clients, and partners.
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
World news story
Belgo-British Conference 2025
The biennial conference saw business, academia, government and civil society debate shared challenges in national security, public health and societal cohesion.
On Tuesday 25 March, the 25th anniversary edition of the Belgo-British conference was hosted by the Belgian FPS Foreign Affairs, Foreign Trade and Development Cooperation at the Egmont Palace.
Justice Ministers from both the UK and Belgium, Minister Annelies Verlinden and Lord Ponsonby of Shulbrede, gave opening remarks on the topic of Belgium and the United Kingdom: Resilient Partners in a Changing World.
Theo Francken, Minister of Defence and Foreign Trade, gave a closing speech.
Professor Alexander Mattelaer and Michelle Haas, moderators from the Egmont Institute, and moderator Sir Robin Niblett, from the UK’s Royal Institute of International Affairs (Chatham House), facilitated discussions on national security, public health sector, and bridging generational and societal divides from expert speakers including decision-makers from politics, civil society, business and academia from both the UK and Belgium.
The Belgian Ambassador to the UK, Jeroen Cooreman, and British Ambassador to Belgium, Anne Sherriff, were present.
Justice Minister Annelies Verlinden said:
Since my appointment as Minister of Justice and the North Sea, I have placed particular importance on our bilateral relationship with the United Kingdom. Our legal challenges transcend borders. The challenges we face whether at sea, against organised crime or in the fight against climate change are complex and interconnected. But Belgium stands ready to lead and to partner with the UK, with our neighbours and with the world.
Justice Minister Lord Ponsonby said:
I am delighted to attend the Belgo-British Conference to discuss the important ways our two great nations can co-operate with each other on security, trade, and innovation. In this uncertain world, it is vital that we work closely with our allies, like Belgium, so we are prepared to face current, emerging, and new challenges as one. We have enjoyed a close relationship for many years, and I look forward to our continued co-operation which will help boost security and growth in both our countries and across Europe.
The Immigration Department today estimated that around 4.58 million passengers will pass through Hong Kong’s sea, land and air control points during the upcoming Ching Ming festive period from April 3 to 6.
In consultation with the Shenzhen General Station of Exit & Entry Frontier Inspection and other Mainland authorities, the department estimates that around 3.91 million passengers will pass through land boundary control points.
The number of outbound and inbound passengers using land boundary control points will be relatively higher on April 4 and 6, with around 561,000 and 608,000 passengers respectively.
It is estimated that passenger traffic at the Lo Wu, Lok Ma Chau Spur Line and Shenzhen Bay control points will be heavy, with a daily average forecast of about 231,000, 211,000 and 149,000 passengers respectively.
To cope with the anticipated heavy traffic during the festive period, the department has minimised leave for frontline officers for flexible deployment and the operation of extra clearance counters and kiosks.
Additionally, the department, together with Police, the Customs & Excise Department and the MTR Corporation, will set up a joint command centre at the Lo Wu Control Point to make necessary arrangements.
It will also establish close communication with Mainland authorities, including the Shenzhen General Station of Exit & Entry Frontier Inspection. To ensure a smooth passenger traffic flow, conditions will be closely monitored and appropriate traffic diversion plans will be adopted when necessary.
All land boundary passengers should plan in advance, avoid making their journeys during busy periods and keep track of radio and TV broadcasts on traffic conditions at various control points. The busy times at boundary control points are available on the department’s website.
Passengers may also check the estimated waiting times at each land boundary control point at any time or place via the Immigration Mobile Application.
The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government today said it strongly disapproved of and rejected the untruthful remarks, slanders and smears against various aspects of Hong Kong in the US’ so-called 2025 Hong Kong Policy Act Report, saying it was apparent the report was compiled to serve the political purpose of maintaining US hegemony.
By piling up false stories and narratives, they were clearly crafted to serve the political interest of the US in order to suppress the development rights and security interests of others, the Hong Kong SAR Government added.
In a statement, it strongly condemned the wanton slander and political attacks in the report on Hong Kong where the “one country, two systems” principle is successfully implemented.
“The Hong Kong SAR is an inalienable part of the People’s Republic of China, and as a local administrative region that enjoys a high degree of autonomy under the principle of “one country, two systems”, comes directly under the jurisdiction of the Central People’s Government.
“The US once again told fallacies about Hong Kong by replacing the rule of law with political manipulation and confounding right and wrong, and blatantly interfering in Hong Kong affairs which are entirely China’s internal affairs. The US’ attempt to undermine the stability and prosperity of Hong Kong will only expose its slyness and will never succeed.”
The statement said that the so-called “sanctions” arbitrarily imposed against the officials of the Hong Kong and the central authorities who perform their duties in accordance with the law by the US at the same time as publishing the report smacks of despicable political manipulation to intimidate the relevant officials safeguarding national security.
“These grossly interfere in China’s internal affairs and Hong Kong affairs, and seriously violate the international law and the basic norms governing international relations. It once again, clearly exposed the US’ barbarity under its hegemony, which is exactly the same as its recent tactics in bullying and coercing various countries and regions.
“Despising the ‘sanctions’ by the US and not intimidated by such despicable behavior, Hong Kong will resolutely discharge the duty of safeguarding national security, and its government will make every effort to protect the legitimate rights and interests of all personnel.”
The statement also broke down in detail its solemn rejection of the report’s slandering remarks.
As repeatedly stressed by the Hong Kong SAR Government, the laws safeguarding national security in Hong Kong are for safeguarding national sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity; and ensuring the full and faithful implementation of the principle of “one country, two systems” under which the people of Hong Kong administer Hong Kong with a high degree of autonomy.
“The US Government has vilified the Hong Kong SAR’s legislative work, as well as law enforcement agencies, prosecutorial and judicial authorities, in claiming that fulfilment of their duties constituted an ‘erosion of rights and freedoms’.
“The fact is that the US has been ignoring the non-interference principle under international law, interfering with other countries’ internal affairs, grooming agents, instigating ‘colour revolutions’, and even creating social unrest and multiple humanitarian disasters through economic and military coercion, causing suffering to people in many countries.”
Referring to the Hong Kong National Security Law (HKNSL) and the Safeguarding National Security Ordinance (SNSO), the statement noted that they have an extraterritorial effect.
As the law enforcement department of Hong Kong safeguarding national security, Police are duty bound to pursue the liability of those who have allegedly endangered national security overseas, and those absconders hiding in the US and other Western countries are wanted because they continue to blatantly engage in activities endangering national security.
Police are duty bound to put the persons concerned on the wanted list in accordance with the law, and it is necessary to take all lawful measures, including the measures specified under section 89 of the SNSO, to strongly combat the acts of abscondment, and such action is fully justified, necessary and legitimate.
“The extraterritorial effect for the laws safeguarding national security fully aligns with the principles of international law, international practice and common practice adopted in various countries and regions. Quite a number of countries would also impose similar measures on wanted criminals, including cancellation of passports.”
As regards the electoral system, the statement pointed out that the improved electoral system puts in place legal safeguards to ensure the full implementation of “patriots administering Hong Kong”.
Noting that keeping political power in the hands of patriots is a political rule commonly adopted around the world, it said that regardless of one’s background in Hong Kong, whoever meets the requirements and criteria of patriots can participate in elections in accordance with the law and serve the public by entering into the governance structure after getting elected.
Additionally, reforming District Councils (DCs) is an important part of improving district governance, and the DCs have returned to their rightful positioning under Article 97 of the Basic Law as advisory and service bodies that are not organs of political power, and the principle of “patriots administering Hong Kong” has been fully implemented, which is of great significance.
The statement highlighted that the Hong Kong SAR Government safeguards independent judicial power and fully supports the Judiciary in exercising its judicial power independently, safeguarding the due administration of justice and the rule of law.
The Court of Appeal in an important judgment decided in May 2024 that there are at least three areas where the court would make judgment while giving the executive deference on assessment on national security: first, where a fundamental right of the person affected by the measure is engaged; second, where the requirement of a fair trial is in issue; and third, where the question of open justice is raised.
The vilification of the US against Hong Kong that the executive influences how the court should interpret laws’ goes completely against the fact, the statement said.
Saying that all cases concerning offences endangering national security will be handled by the prosecution and judicial authorities of Hong Kong in a fair and timely manner in strict compliance with Article 42(1) of the HKNSL, the statement added that so-called ‘indefinite detention’ does not exist at all.
“The US’ detention against an individual whom it sees as a ‘terrorist’ for up to 20 years without charge is the real ‘indefinite detention’.”
The statement emphasised that the Hong Kong SAR Government steadfastly safeguards the rights and freedoms enjoyed by Hong Kong people as protected under the law, noting that since Hong Kong’s return to the motherland, human rights in the city have always been robustly guaranteed constitutionally by both the Constitution and the Basic Law.
The HKNSL and the SNSO also clearly stipulate that human rights shall be respected and protected in safeguarding national security in Hong Kong, and that the rights and freedoms its residents enjoy under the Basic Law and the provisions of the International Covenant on Civil & Political Rights (ICCPR) and the International Covenant on Economic, Social & Cultural Rights as applied to Hong Kong, shall be protected in accordance with the law.
Just as the case with other places in the world, such rights and freedoms are not absolute. The ICCPR also expressly states that some of them may be subject to restrictions as prescribed by law that are necessary for protection of national security, public safety, public order or the rights and freedoms of others, etc.
Regarding national education, the statement stressed that it is an important part of the curricula for primary and secondary schools as well as kindergartens with a view to deepening Hong Kong students’ understanding of the country’s national affairs, history and culture, the Constitution and the Basic Law as well as national security.
“Implementation of national education, including national security education, is the legitimate duty of education authorities all over the world.
“Different places attach great importance to implementing national security education and developing their students’ sense of national identity, including knowledge of their respective constitution, their own history, culture, geography, etc.”
Headline: U.S. Attorneys for Southwestern Border Districts Charge More than 960 Illegal Aliens with Immigration-Related Crimes During the Fourth week in March as part of Operation Take Back America
Since the inauguration of President Trump, the Department of Justice is playing a critical role in Operation Take back America, a nationwide initiative to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve total elimination of cartels and transitional criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from 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).
Goldman Leads Letter With Four Colleagues Arguing Trump Appointees’ Incompetence is in Violation of the Espionage Act
Read the LetterHere
Washington, DC – Congressman Dan Goldman (NY-10) last week led 4 of his colleagues in sending a letter to Attorney General Pam Bondi demanding she appoints an independent special counsel to investigate the security breach involving senior Trump officials sharing classified military plans on an unsecured messaging app.
Given the potential violations of the law and AG Bondi’s position in the Administration, the members demanded the appointment of an independent special counsel to avoid conflicts of interest.
“As Attorney General, it is your responsibility to uphold criminal laws that protect the security of our nation and its military. It is also your duty, as you acknowledged during your Senate confirmation hearing, to enforce these laws impartially, including by avoiding the appearance of conflicts of interest. We trust that you will act swiftly and decisively by appointing a special counsel to investigate this breach and, if warranted, prosecute anyone who knowingly and willfully violated our criminal laws, putting at risk the safety and security of our most sensitive secrets and our servicemen and women. Thank you for your attention to this critical matter,” the members concluded.
New York Times: Signal Chat Disclosure Poses Early Test for F.B.I. and Justice Dept.
March 25, 2025
On Tuesday, Representative Dan Goldman, Democrat of New York, called on Ms. Bondi to appoint a special counsel to investigate the Signal group, arguing that her status as a member of Mr. Trump’s cabinet made it impossible for her “to conduct an investigation without the appearance of a conflict of interest.”
New York Times: Top Officials Reject Responsibility for Information Shared in Signal Chat
March 25, 2025
Representative Dan Goldman, Democrat from New York, is preparing to send a letter to Attorney General Pam Bondi requesting that a special counsel be appointed to investigate the incident involving top Trump administration national security officials accidentally adding a journalist to discussions of military operations.
“Given the gravity of this error and the need for independent review, we believe that your appointment of a special counsel to investigate the conduct of these senior administration officials in this case is both urgent and necessary,” wrote Mr. Goldman, according to a draft of the letter obtained by the New York Times.
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Last week, Representative Val Hoyle (OR-04) was ranked as one of the most effective first-term lawmakers in the 118th Congress (2023-25) by the Center for Effective Lawmaking (CEL). Rep. Hoyle was the second highest ranked Democratic freshman and eighth highest ranked freshman overall.
“Since my time in the Oregon State House, I have prided myself on being an honest and effective broker who can bring people together from across the aisle to find solutions while still holding true to my values,” Rep. Hoyle said. “Effective lawmaking usually doesn’t make headlines, but it should always make life easier for working people and that is exactly what I came to Congress to do. I am humbled to be recognized by the Center for Effective Lawmaking for meeting that mark last congress, and I look forward to building on that work.”
The CEL also issued this statement alongside the award announcement: “Our analysis found that Representative Hoyle ranked as one of the most effective freshman lawmakers in the entire House. We congratulate the Representative for her hard work and setting an example for promoting the importance of effective lawmaking.”
Background
Every Congress, CEL ranks the most effective House Members and Senators, and freshman Members in both houses.
Since the inauguration of President Trump, the Department of Justice is playing a critical role in Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve total elimination of cartels and transitional criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from 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).
Last week, the U.S. Attorneys for Arizona, Central California, Southern California, New Mexico, Southern Texas, and Western Texas charged more than 960 defendants with criminal violations of U.S. immigration laws.
The Southern District of Texas filed 257 cases in relation to immigration and border security. Of those, 98 face allegations of illegally re-entering the country with the majority having felony convictions such as narcotics, violent and/or sexual crimes and prior immigration offenses, among others. A total of 132 face charges of illegally entering the country, 23 cases involve various instances of human smuggling, and the remainder relate to firearms and other immigration matters. Among those charged as part of these new cases include two illegal alien human smugglers who engaged in a dangerous pursuit and crash.
The Western District of Texas announced that federal prosecutors in the district filed 261 immigration and immigration-related criminal cases.
The District of Arizona brought immigration-related criminal charges against 260 defendants. Specifically, the United States filed 96 cases in which aliens illegally re-entered the United States, and the United States also charged 155 aliens for illegally entering the United States. In its ongoing effort to deter unlawful immigration, the United States also filed nine cases against nine individuals responsible for smuggling illegal aliens into and within the District of Arizona.
The Central District of California filed criminal charges against 20 defendants who allegedly were found in the U.S. following removal. Many of the defendants charged previously were convicted of felony offenses before they were removed from the United States, offenses that include vandalism and firearms crimes.
The Southern District of California filed 90 border-related cases this week, including charges of transportation of illegal aliens, reentering the U.S. after deportation, deported alien found in the United States, and importation of controlled substances. In addition to reactive border-related crimes, the Southern District of California also prosecuted a significant number of proactive cases related to terrorism, organized crime, drugs, white-collar fraud, violent crime, cybercrime, human trafficking and national security. Recent developments in those and other significant areas of prosecution can be found here.
The District of New Mexico brought the following criminal charges in New Mexico: 37 individuals were charged this week with Illegal Reentry After Deportation (8 U.S.C. 1326), six individuals were charged this week with Alien Smuggling (8 U.S.C. 1324), and 32 individuals were charged this week with Illegal Entry (8 U.S.C. 1325). In a significant case, a criminal complaint was filed against David Serrano-Dominguez, a Mexican national illegally present in the U.S., charging him with being an alien in possession of firearms, possession of an unregistered short-barrel rifle, and reentry of a deported alien. HSI agents arrested Serrano-Dominguez at an apartment complex in Deming, NM, where he had been residing. Agents had identified social media posts showing Serrano-Dominguez in possession of and discharging handguns and rifles. Following his arrest, agents discovered 10 firearms and approximately 500 rounds of ammunition in the apartment. Among the firearms was an unregistered short-barreled rifle.
We are grateful for the hard work of our border prosecutors in bringing these cases and helping to make our border safe again.
EL PASO, Texas – A Cuban national was sentenced in a federal court in El Paso to 111 months in prison for conspiracy to transport illegal aliens, conspiracy to harbor aliens, and sexual assault of an alien.
According to court documents, Humberto Yosvany Arriola-Rivero, 30, assisted in the harboring of illegal aliens and managed a stash house in El Paso. He also was an occupant in a vehicle that fled law enforcement that was transporting more than a dozen illegal aliens in April 2023. An investigation revealed that Arriola-Rivero sexually assaulted one of the illegal aliens at the El Paso stash house. Arriola-Rivero was indicted by a federal grand jury on May 17, 2023 and was arrested Sept. 7, 2023. He pleaded guilty Aug. 27, 2024.
“It’s important to note that Arriola-Rivero is being held responsible not only for the significant role he played in human smuggling operations, but also for his abhorrent decision to further dehumanize and sexually violate one of his victims,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Margaret Leachman. “This sentence makes it clear to smugglers in El Paso and across the southern border, that if you engage in alien smuggling in our district, you will be held accountable.”
“Justice was served today for a stash house operator who organized the smuggling of hundreds of illegal aliens and sexually assaulted one of them, all while cramming individuals into tractor-trailers in the sweltering Texas heat,” said ICE Homeland Security Investigations Special Agent in Charge for El Paso, Jason T. Stevens. “HSI is committed to aggressively targeting human smugglers and smuggling organizations that continuously exploit individuals for profit. We will relentlessly pursue these criminals who prey on vulnerable people, ensuring they are held accountable for their actions.”
HSI investigated the case with assistance from the U.S. Border Patrol.
Since the inauguration of President Trump, the Department of Justice is playing a critical role in Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve total elimination of cartels and transitional criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from 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).
Last week, the U.S. Attorneys for Arizona, Central California, Southern California, New Mexico, Southern Texas, and Western Texas charged more than 960 defendants with criminal violations of U.S. immigration laws.
The Southern District of Texas filed 257 cases in relation to immigration and border security. Of those, 98 face allegations of illegally re-entering the country with the majority having felony convictions such as narcotics, violent and/or sexual crimes and prior immigration offenses, among others. A total of 132 face charges of illegally entering the country, 23 cases involve various instances of human smuggling, and the remainder relate to firearms and other immigration matters. Among those charged as part of these new cases include two illegal alien human smugglers who engaged in a dangerous pursuit and crash.
The Western District of Texas announced that federal prosecutors in the district filed 261 immigration and immigration-related criminal cases.
The District of Arizona brought immigration-related criminal charges against 260 defendants. Specifically, the United States filed 96 cases in which aliens illegally re-entered the United States, and the United States also charged 155 aliens for illegally entering the United States. In its ongoing effort to deter unlawful immigration, the United States also filed nine cases against nine individuals responsible for smuggling illegal aliens into and within the District of Arizona.
The Central District of California filed criminal charges against 20 defendants who allegedly were found in the U.S. following removal. Many of the defendants charged previously were convicted of felony offenses before they were removed from the United States, offenses that include vandalism and firearms crimes.
The Southern District of California filed 90 border-related cases this week, including charges of transportation of illegal aliens, reentering the U.S. after deportation, deported alien found in the United States, and importation of controlled substances. In addition to reactive border-related crimes, the Southern District of California also prosecuted a significant number of proactive cases related to terrorism, organized crime, drugs, white-collar fraud, violent crime, cybercrime, human trafficking and national security. Recent developments in those and other significant areas of prosecution can be found here.
The District of New Mexico brought the following criminal charges in New Mexico: 37 individuals were charged this week with Illegal Reentry After Deportation (8 U.S.C. 1326), six individuals were charged this week with Alien Smuggling (8 U.S.C. 1324), and 32 individuals were charged this week with Illegal Entry (8 U.S.C. 1325). In a significant case, a criminal complaint was filed against David Serrano-Dominguez, a Mexican national illegally present in the U.S., charging him with being an alien in possession of firearms, possession of an unregistered short-barrel rifle, and reentry of a deported alien. HSI agents arrested Serrano-Dominguez at an apartment complex in Deming, NM, where he had been residing. Agents had identified social media posts showing Serrano-Dominguez in possession of and discharging handguns and rifles. Following his arrest, agents discovered 10 firearms and approximately 500 rounds of ammunition in the apartment. Among the firearms was an unregistered short-barreled rifle.
We are grateful for the hard work of our border prosecutors in bringing these cases and helping to make our border safe again.
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
Eating out doesn’t have to cost a lot.
Whether it’s two-for-one burgers or a cheap schnitty, who doesn’t love a good food deal?
We asked Canberrans on the We Are CBR Instagram page to tell us about the best weekly meal specials across the capital. So, bookmark or screenshot this list, for it is now your guide for eating out for less in Canberra!
All week deals
Kickstart Expresso – $14.90 Tradies Special – one large coffee and toasted sandwich
Loquita – $15 for 3 tacos
Old Canberra Inn – $21 vegan curry with rice and flatbread
Café Momo at Bruce – $12 bacon and egg roll and a coffee
Dickson Tradies – $15 bacon and egg roll and a coffee
Dolly’s – $12 bacon and egg roll and coffee
The Fish Shack – $20 Shack Basket: 3 pieces of fish, calamari rings, prawns, chips or salad
Flatheads O’Connor – $10 bacon and egg roll and a coffee
Raiders Gungahlin – $16 lunches including schnitzel, fish or curry.
Weekdays
Ainslie Football Club – $16 schnitzel with chips and coleslaw
Bleachers Bar – $20 lunch specials including steak, parmigiana, burgers or fish, all with chips
Caribou – $22 burger and soft drink
Eighty Twenty – $10.90 bacon and egg roll or wrap with a coffee
Appointments are available Monday to Friday, 9am – 4.20pm.
24 hours before your appointment you will receive a reminder text and email appointment reminder.
You can also cancel or change your appointment online if you can’t make it.
Virtual queuing
At busier times, you may be able to join a virtual queue by scanning a QR code when you arrive at a Service Centre.
By doing this, you don’t have to wait at the Service Centre. You can go grab a coffee or tick off something else on your to-do list.
All Access Canberra Service Centres are conveniently located in town centres, meaning there’s plenty of nearby options to keep you occupied whilst you wait.
You’ll receive a text message when it’s time to re-join the physical queue.
Languages on name badges
Access Canberra has a diverse team working at their Service Centres. Across the five locations, more than nine languages are spoken.
Team members who speak a language other than English will have the languages they speak listed on their name badges.
If you speak a language listed on a team member’s name badge, please feel free to chat with them in that language.
Next time you need to visit an Access Canberra Service Centre, consider using one of these services to make your day a little easier.
Remember, you can do most transactions online. It’s quick and available 24/7.
If you’d rather speak with someone over the phone, give Access Canberra a call on 13 22 81. The call centre operates Monday to Friday 8am – 6pm, and 9am – 5pm on weekends and public holidays.
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Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
With a range of recycling and reuse options available, think before disposing during your spring clean.
If you’re planning a spring clean to spruce up your home, apartment, or townhouse there are several resources available to help you minimise your waste.
ACT recycling fast facts:
Around 250 tonnes of recycling from the ACT and our surrounding councils are sorted each day at the Materials Recovery Facility in Hume
12% of an average landfill household bin are items that could have been recycled
Whatever you’re looking to dispose of search for it in our Recyclopaedia for options to help you reduce, reuse and recycle.
Furniture and bulky waste
Whether you’re clearing out the garage, shed or opening up your living areas, there’s probably some furniture you’d like to dispose of. Make sure you consider these options:
Items in a reusable condition can be dropped off for free at Goodies Junction (conditions apply).
You can sell items on an online marketplace.
Book a free bulky waste collection. Canberrans are entitled to one free roadside bulky waste booking each year.
Disposing of an old mattress? Drop it off at Soft Landing in Hume. Fees apply.
Electronics
Disposing of a spare TV, computer, printer, modem, phone or other electronic device? If working, these items can be used again. If not, electronics are full of recyclable materials. Take a look at these options:
If working:
If broken or damaged:
Clothing, blankets and fabrics
If you’re cleaning out the wardrobe, consider donating, selling, swapping and reusing before disposing of garments and clothes.
Sell items on an online marketplace.
Donate to businesses or charities such as the Salvation Army, St Vincent de Paul, Another Chance, GIVIT or Koomarri Cut Cloth.
Hazardous waste – Cleaning products, oils paint and batteries
It’s important not to place hazardous waste in your kerbside wheelie bins or put them down the drain as they are harmful to the environment.
Hazardous waste, including cleaning products, paints, pesticides, batteries, poisons, pool chemicals, gas bottles and oil, can be dropped off for free at a Resource Management Centre.
Paper, cardboard, glass bottles, aluminium and steel cans
The ACT has five recycling drop-off centres where you can recycle excess empty household containers and packaging for free. The centres are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
You can also drop off eligible bottles, cans and cartons to earn 10 cents per item with the Container Deposit Scheme. There’s 19 return points across the ACT.
To see more information recycling tips and resources, visit the Recyclopaedia.
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The only transactions that need to be done in person are registrations that require a photo (for example a new driver licence, proof of identity or WWVP card or to arrange number plates for new registrations or custom plates).