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Category: Law

  • MIL-OSI Security: The New England Strike Force Joins Nationwide Crackdown on Health Care Fraud

    Source: US FBI

    CONCORD- Acting U.S. Attorney Jay McCormack, together with Acting U.S. Attorneys Michael P. Drescher of the District of Vermont and Craig M. Wolff of the District of Maine, announces a sweeping enforcement action aimed at combatting health care fraud across New England. The enforcement action is a result of the collaboration and partnership between the Districts of New Hampshire, Vermont, and Maine, and the New England Strike Force.

    The New England Strike Force charged six defendants in connection with unrelated allegations including conspiracies to defraud the State of New Hampshire’s Medicaid program (NH Medicaid), Medicare, and other federal benefit programs, totaling over $14 million. The charges filed in federal court throughout New England are part of the Department of Justice’s 2025 National Health Care Fraud Takedown. The charges stem from various schemes, including a previously convicted social worker who submitted claims to NH Medicaid following his disbarment from billing federal health care programs, a conspiracy to submit false and fraudulent claims to Medicare for wrist, knee, and back braces and other equipment that were medically unnecessary, and a conspiracy to fulfill illegitimate prescriptions for drugs including Ozempic.

    The schemes charged in the District of New Hampshire include:

    Previously Convicted Felon Charged in New Scheme Fraudulently Billing Medicaid and Exploiting a Vulnerable Patient

    • United States v. Erik Alonso: Erik Alonso, age 54, of Miami, Florida, was charged by indictment with eight counts of health care fraud in connection with an alleged scheme to submit claims to NH Medicaid, despite being barred from billing federally funded health care programs following a previous heath care fraud related conviction in 2015. Alonso failed to disclose his exclusion to his employer, a Laconia, New Hampshire-based telehealth psychotherapy provider, and purportedly provided psychotherapy treatments to NH Medicaid beneficiaries between March 2022 and July 2024 via telehealth. In addition, Alonso allegedly exploited a psychotherapy patient by using purported psychotherapy sessions to seek and obtain assistance from that client with personal tasks, including preparing an application for a presidential pardon of his prior conviction and assisting him with applying for licensure in other New England states.  The case is being prosecuted by DOJ Trial Attorneys Danielle Sakowski, Thomas Campbell, and John Howard, and Assistant United States Attorney Matthew Vicinanzo of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Hampshire.

    Straw Owner of Health Care Company Used to Commit Fraud and Launder Illicit Proceeds

    • United States v. Leo Anzivino Jr.: Leo Anzivino, Jr., age 34, of Teaticket, MA, was charged by indictment with conspiracy to commit health care fraud, conspiracy to commit money laundering, and four counts of money laundering in connection with an alleged scheme to fraudulently obtain over $6 million in Medicare funds. According to the indictment, Anzivino, Jr. acted as the straw owner of a durable medical equipment (“DME”) company, Advanced Medical Supply (Advanced), and conspired with others to cause the submission of false and fraudulent claims to Medicare for DME.  The indictment further alleges that Anzivino falsified bank account documents, including beneficial ownership information, and conspired to launder fraudulent funds from the DME scheme to conceal and disguise the nature, source, origin, and control of the proceeds of the DME fraud.  Anzivino, Jr., made four transfers from one Advanced account at a New Hampshire bank to another Advanced account at a Massachusetts bank, totaling over $3 million dollars, to conceal a co-conspirator’s control over the funds. The government seized approximately $353,768.29 in assets tied to the alleged scheme.  This case is being prosecuted by DOJ Trial Attorneys Danielle Sakowski, Thomas Campbell, and Tiffany Wynn, and Assistant United States Attorney Matthew Vicinanzo of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Hampshire.

    The schemes charged in the District of Vermont include:

    Global Pharma and Money Laundering Scheme

    • United States v. Manthan Rohit Shah: Manthan Rohit Shah, 37, of Mumbai, India, was charged by indictment with misbranding prescription medication, conspiring to import controlled substances, and conspiring to commit international concealment money laundering.  As alleged in the indictment, Shah owned and operated Company-1, a pharma company based in Mumbai, India. Company-1 allegedly shipped controlled substances and misbranded pharmaceutical drugs, including drugs that contained potentially potent, dangerous, and/or addictive substances, into New England and across the United States.  Shah and Company-1 used fake prescriptions to provide a veneer of legitimacy for customer orders, despite the customers never obtaining such prescriptions.  Shah undertook various acts in furtherance of the drug conspiracy. For example, on or about May 6, 2025, Shah sent a text message to an undercover law enforcement agent regarding Company-1’s fulfillment of illegitimate prescriptions for 50 pens of the drug Ozempic, costing approximately $6,200, to be shipped from a location outside the United States to an address in Vermont.  Shah also conspired with others to direct the shipment of pharmaceutical drugs without valid prescriptions to a network of online pharmacies and call centers that fulfilled orders placed by customers in New England and across the United States. Shah then conspired with others to launder the funds from financial accounts in the United States, through shell companies, and to Shah’s company in India.  The case is being prosecuted by DOJ Trial Attorneys Patrick Brown, John Howard, and Thomas Campbell.

    Health Care Scheme Involving Purchase of Tulum Penthouse, High-Volume Cash Withdrawals

    • United States v. Evelyn Herrera: Evelyn Herrera, 61, of Loxahatchee, Florida, was charged by complaint with conspiracy to commit health care fraud in connection with an alleged scheme to fraudulently obtain approximately $6.5 million in Medicare funds.  According to the charging documents, Herrera, the owner of Merida Medical Supplies Inc., a purported DME company, submitted false and fraudulent claims to Medicare from individuals residing across New England for wrist, knee, and back braces and other equipment, which were medically unnecessary and ineligible for reimbursement by Medicare.  After the funds from these fraudulent services were deposited into a bank account controlled by Herrera, she allegedly conducted financial transactions and attempted to conceal the source, origin, and control of the health care fraud proceeds generated by Merida. For example, Herrera allegedly sent an international wire from her bank account, indicating it was to be used to purchase property in Mexico, and sent other funds to a cryptocurrency wallet that she controlled.  During the scheme, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (“CMS”) issued a payment suspension to Herrera for suspected fraud, after which Herrerra allegedly attempted to withdraw large amounts of cash from a bank and siphon funds off to other individuals.  The case is being prosecuted by Trial Attorneys Sarah Rocha, Thomas Campbell, and Tiffany Wynn.  The complaint was filed in the District of Vermont.

    Health Care CEO Indicted in Cross-Border Health Care Fraud Scheme

    • United States v. Donald Jani: Donald Jani, 39, of Maharashtra, India, was charged by indictment with health care fraud and conspiracy to commit health care fraud in connection with an alleged scheme to fraudulently obtain approximately $1.9 million in Medicare funds.  According to the indictment, Jani, the CEO of CSS Pain Relief, Inc., a purported DME company, submitted false and fraudulent claims to Medicare for DME.  Jani and his co-conspirators allegedly used the personal identifying information of elderly and disabled New England residents to fraudulently bill Medicare.  As part of the conspiracy, Jani unlawfully used the personal identifying information of medical providers in the District of Vermont and elsewhere to create the false appearance that the DME claims were premised on legitimate medical orders. The case is being prosecuted by Trial Attorneys Sarah Rocha, John Howard and Thomas Campbell.  The indictment was brought in the District of Vermont.

    The scheme charged in the District of Maine includes:

    Individual Charged in Health Care and Identity Theft Scheme

    • United States v. Joseph Dobie: Joseph Dobie, 36, of Lewiston, Maine, was charged by complaint with aggravated identity theft, false statements relating to health care matters, and unlawful use of Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program (“SNAP”) benefits in connection with an identity-theft scheme. As alleged in the complaint, Dobie used a stolen identity to fraudulently obtain Medicaid and SNAP benefits in Maine, while simultaneously receiving SNAP benefits in New York.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Nicholas Scott. The complaint was filed in the District of Maine.

    Additionally, the New England Strike Force provided valuable support in a nationwide investigation:

    Operation Gold Rush: Transnational Criminal Organization-Led Health Care Fraud and Money Laundering Scheme

    Outside of New Hampshire, Vermont, and Maine, the New England Strike Force also supported a nationwide investigation, Operation Gold Rush, which resulted in charges in the Eastern District of New York, the Northern District of Illinois, the Central District of California, the Middle District of Florida, and the District of New Jersey against 19 defendants in connection with the largest loss amount ever charged in a health care fraud case brought by the Department at $10.6 billion. Twelve of these defendants have been arrested, including four defendants who were apprehended in Estonia as a result of international cooperation with Estonian law enforcement and seven defendants who were arrested at U.S. airports and the U.S. border with Mexico, cutting off their intended escape routes as they attempted to avoid capture. The criminal case is being prosecuted by DOJ Fraud Section Assistant Chiefs Kevin Lowell and Shankar Ramamurthy, and Trial Attorneys Sara Porter, Andres Almendarez, Leonid Sandlar, Monica Cooper, Thomas Campbell, Danielle Sakowski, and Matthew Belz.  Trial Attorney Sara Porter initiated the investigation, which has been supported by members of multiple Strike Forces. The civil forfeiture proceeding is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney David C. Nelson of the District of Connecticut and Money Laundering and Asset Recovery Section Trial Attorneys Emily Cohen and Chelsea Rooney. Office of Public Affairs | National Health Care Fraud Takedown Results in 324 Defendants Charged in Connection with Over $14.6 Billion in Alleged Fraud | United States Department of Justice

    These charges are part of a strategically coordinated, nationwide law enforcement action that resulted in criminal charges against 324 defendants for their alleged participation in health care fraud and illegal drug diversion schemes that involved the submission of over $14.6 billion in intended loss and over 15 million pills of illegally diverted controlled substances. The defendants allegedly defrauded programs entrusted for the care of the elderly and disabled to line their own pockets. The United States has seized over $245 million in cash, luxury vehicles and other assets in connection with the takedown. Descriptions of each case involved in the national enforcement action are available at Criminal Division | 2025 National Health Care Fraud Takedown.

    The New England Strike Force’s cases are the result of investigations conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation; the United States Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General; the Food and Drug Administration, Office of Criminal Investigations; Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation; and the United States Department of Defense Office of Inspector General, Defense Criminal Investigative Service.

    Leveraging advanced data analytics, forensic accounting, interagency collaboration, and subject-matter expertise, the New England Strike Force investigates and prosecutes complex health care fraud and money laundering schemes across the region, focusing on both individuals and corporations engaged in criminal conduct. DOJ Fraud Section Assistant Chief Kevin Lowell leads the Strike Force.

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

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

    July 8, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Shiprock Man Faces Federal Charges for Fatal Stabbing During Residential Break-In

    Source: US FBI

    ALBUQUERQUE – A Shiprock man is facing a federal murder charge after allegedly breaking into a home and fatally stabbing a man during a violent altercation in the early morning hours.

    According to court documents, on Friday, June 27, 2025, Armondo Paul, 25, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, was arrested after officers from the Navajo Nation Police Department responded to a stabbing at a Shiprock residence. Upon arrival, officers found the victim deceased with a neck wound believed to be from a bladed weapon.

    The investigation revealed Paul went to a home after midnight and turned off the power to that residence. After a young woman and her father exited their home to investigate, Paul forcibly entered their residence armed with a knife. After a brief struggle, Paul stabbed the male in his neck. Paul then fled the scene; he was apprehended later that day.

    Paul is charged with second-degree murder. He will remain in custody pending trial, which has not been scheduled. If convicted of the current charge, Paul faces up to life in prison.

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

    The Farmington Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Navajo Nation Police Department and Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Zachary C. Jones is prosecuting the case.

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

    MIL Security OSI –

    July 8, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Video: Religious Liberty Commission – June 16, 2025

    Source: United States Department of Justice (video statements)

    The Religious Liberty Commission held its first hearing at the Museum of the Bible on June 16, 2025

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TdJlo1m7Y6Q

    MIL OSI Video –

    July 8, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: New Law Delivers Federal Funding to Reimburse Local Law Enforcement for Trump Security Costs in Palm Beach County

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Lois Frankel (FL-21)

    New Law Delivers Federal Funding to Reimburse Local Law Enforcement for Trump Security Costs in Palm Beach County

    West Palm Beach, FL, July 4, 2025

    The reconciliation bill signed into law includes critical funding to reimburse law enforcement agencies for overtime costs incurred while protecting the President. This new grant program will ensure local and state agencies are not left shouldering the financial burden of presidential security operations. The grant period will cover expenses over the next five years, providing long-term support for those on the front lines of public safety.

    Importantly, this grant program will give local Palm Beach County law enforcement an opportunity to recover millions of dollars from the federal government for security provided to President Trump while he is in our area.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    July 8, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Leader sends condolences to family and friends of Dr Fortune Gomo

    Source: Scotland – City of Dundee

    Dundee City Council Leader Cllr Mark Flynn has expressed his heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of Dr Fortune Gomo following the recent news of her death in the city.

    Council Leader Cllr Mark Flynn said: “On behalf of the city, I want to extend my deepest sympathies to Dr Gomo’s family, friends and everyone who knew her.

    “This is a deeply sad time for the community and our thoughts are with everyone affected.

    “I want to voice my support for the community at this difficult time and echo the appeal made by Police Scotland for anyone with any information that might assist in their investigation to come forward.”

    Police Scotland have appealed for anyone who was in the area at the time and witnessed the incident or has information that may assist them to contact 101 quoting incident number 2283 of 5th July 2025. 

    Information can also be given through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    July 8, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Mason County Man Sentenced for Methamphetamine Trafficking

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    COVINGTON, Ky. – A Maysville, Ky., man, David M. Elliot, 35, was sentenced on Thursday to 262 months in prison by Chief U.S. District Judge David Bunning, for possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine. 

    According to his plea agreement, on September 1, 2024, law enforcement stopped a vehicle driven by Courtney Beckett, Elliot’s co-defendant, for several traffic violations. Officers found a methamphetamine pipe in her pocket and removed the passenger, Elliot, from the vehicle. Officers found two bags of methamphetamine in Beckett’s purse and 165.5 grams of methamphetamine in Elliot’s waistband. 

    Elliot admitted that all the methamphetamine was his, that he and Beckett drove to the Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky region to purchase methamphetamine and were on their way back to Maysville, Ky., and he had instructed Beckett to hold the methamphetamine for him. In March 2022, Elliot was convicted of trafficking controlled substances in Mason Circuit Court and was on parole at the time of this offense. 

    Beckett was previously sentenced to 66 months in prison, followed by three years of supervised release. 

    Under federal law, Elliot must serve 85 percent of his prison sentence. Upon his release from prison, he will be under the supervision of the U.S. Probation Office for 10 years. 

    Paul McCaffrey, Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky; Jim Scott, Special Agent in Charge, DEA, Louisville Field Division; and Chief Casey Kilgore, Ft. Thomas Police Department, jointly announced the sentence.

    The investigation was conducted by the DEA and Ft. Thomas Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Joel King is prosecuting the case on behalf of the United States.

    – END –

    MIL Security OSI –

    July 8, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Man Pleads Guilty in Federal Court Following Robbery of a Montgomery Dry Cleaner Business

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

                MONTGOMERY, Ala. – Acting United States Attorney Kevin Davidson announced today that Zedekiah Sykes, 58, of Montgomery, Alabama, has pleaded guilty to his role in the March 10, 2025, robbery of a Montgomery dry cleaning business. Sykes entered his guilty plea in federal court on July 3, 2025.

                According to court records and Sykes’s plea agreement, on March 10, 2025, Sykes and three accomplices forced their way into the business, located on East South Street in Montgomery. The group shattered the front door with a rock to gain entry.

                Once inside, the assailants confronted the business owner and forced him into an office that housed a locked safe. One of the individuals brandished what appeared to be a handgun—later determined to be a BB gun—and demanded the owner open the safe. When the owner hesitated, struggling to recall the combination, one of the assailants struck him in the left eye, causing visible bruising and swelling. The group eventually gained access to the safe and stole approximately $8,000 in cash.

                The robbers then restrained the owner by zip-tying his hands and feet, then stole his cell phone and car keys. Sykes and the others fled the scene in the owner’s vehicle using the stolen keys.

                Sykes pleaded guilty to one count of Hobbs Act Robbery, a federal offense that carries a statutory maximum sentence of up to 20 years in prison. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled in the coming months.

    In a related development, on May 27, 2025, Spencer Thomas, 57, of Prattville, Alabama, was arrested and subsequently indicted for his involvement in the same robbery. An indictment is merely an allegation that a crime has been committed, and all defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.

                The Federal Bureau of Investigation, Montgomery Police Department, Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA), and the Metro Area Crime Suppression (MACS) Task Force investigated this case, with assistance from the Montgomery County District Attorney’s Office. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Paul Markovits.

                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 –

    July 8, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Another Member of the Marion Gardens Street Gang Sentenced to Multiple Life Sentences without the Possibility of Parole

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    NEWARK, N.J. – Five more members of the Marion Gardens street gang were sentenced by the Honorable Michael E. Farbiarz for their roles in the racketeering enterprise, U.S. Attorney Alina Habba announced.

    On July 2, 2025, Roger Pickett, a/k/a “Zy G,” 24, was sentenced to four consecutive terms of life imprisonment for racketeering conspiracy and three counts of murder in aid of racketeering, each stemming from a separate gang-related murder.  He was also sentenced to an additional consecutive sentence of 50 years’ imprisonment, consisting of 20 years’ imprisonment for Hobbs Act robbery, and three ten-year terms of imprisonment for discharging a firearm during a crime of violence.

    Also on July 2, 2025, Javon Williams, a/k/a “J45,” 28, was sentenced to 57 months’ imprisonment for racketeering conspiracy and Keith Anderson, a/k/a “Beef3,” 23, was sentenced to 18 months’ imprisonment for racketeering conspiracy.

    On July 1, 2025, Quaseame Wilson, a/k/a “Qua Gz,” 28, was sentenced to 195 months’ imprisonment for racketeering conspiracy, Hobbs Act robbery, and aiding and abetting the discharge of a firearm during a crime of violence.  On June 26, 2025, Anthony Rogers, a/k/a “MG,” 25, was sentenced to 54 months’ imprisonment for racketeering conspiracy.

    Earlier in June, three other members of the Marion Gardens street gang were sentenced for their roles in the racketeering conspiracy.  On June 17, 2025, Myron Williams, a/k/a “Money,” a/k/a “Tunchi,” 31, of Newark was sentenced to two terms of life imprisonment for racketeering conspiracy and murder in aid of racketeering, plus 240 months’ imprisonment for possession with intent to distribute controlled substances, and 120 months’ imprisonment for discharging a firearm during a crime of violence, with all sentences to run consecutively.  Also on June 17, 2025, Jawaad Davis, 23, of Jersey City, was sentenced to 170 months’ imprisonment for his role in the Marion Gardens street gang, which included orchestrating a robbery that resulted in murder.  Additionally, on June 5, 2025, Khalil Kelley, a/k/a “Billski,” 26, of Jersey City, was sentenced, to life imprisonment, plus a consecutive ten-year term of imprisonment for racketeering conspiracy, for his role in the Marion Gardens street gang and a gang-related murder.

    Three other individuals who previously pled guilty before trial are pending sentencing.  Each defendant will be sentenced before Judge Farbiarz in Newark as follows:

    Naim Richardson, a/k/a “Ninicks” July 16, 2025, at 11:00 a.m.
    Andre Alomar, a/k/a “Dre8” July 24, 2025, at 10:00 a.m.
    Herbert Thomas October 1, 2025, at 2:00 p.m.

    According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:

    Myron Williams, Khalil Kelley, Roger Pickett, Jawaad Davis, Anthony Rogers, Quaseame Wilson, Andre Alomar, Keith Anderson, Javon Williams, and Naim Richardson are all members and associates of the neighborhood street gang associated with the Marion Gardens Housing Complex. Since 2013, they and their fellow gang members have committed numerous acts of violence, including three separate murders, on March 29, 2021, Nov. 20, 2021, and Nov. 1, 2022.

    On March 29, 2021, Kelley and other gang members lured a rival gang member outside by sending him Instagram messages pretending to be the victim’s fellow gang member. When the victim opened the door to his residence, Kelley and another gang member brandished firearms, and the victim was shot multiple times in the chest, killing him. Pickett and Myron Williams then picked up Kelley and other gang members after they abandoned the murder vehicle in Newark.

    On Nov. 20, 2021, Myron Williams, Pickett, and Richardson lured a rival gang member outside by sending him Instagram messages pretending to be the second victim’s fellow gang member. Williams and another gang member shot the victim when he opened the door to his residence.

    On Nov. 1, 2022, Davis facilitated the murder of the third victim by coordinating a narcotics transaction with the victim and the victim’s associate. When the victim and his associate arrived at the Marion Gardens Housing Complex to complete the narcotics transaction, they were robbed of their narcotics supply. During the robbery, Pickett and Wilson held the victim and his associate at gunpoint. After a struggle ensued, Pickett shot and killed the victim while his associate fled. Pickett then fled the Marion Gardens Housing Complex with Wilson.

    For months, investigators observed and documented hundreds of narcotics transactions in and around the Marion Gardens Housing Complex.  The investigation likewise revealed that Herbert Thomas was a primary supplier of narcotics to the Marion Gardens street gang.

    When each defendant was arrested on March 17, 2023, law enforcement seized contraband at several different locations, including heroin, fentanyl, crack cocaine, narcotics packaging materials, ammunition, bulletproof vests, and a loaded handgun.

    U.S. Attorney Habba credited investigators of the Gang Intelligence Unit and the Homicide Unit of the Major Case Division of Hudson County Prosecutor’s Office, under the direction of Prosecutor Esther Suarez, and special agents of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), under the direction of Special Agent in Charge L.C. Cheeks Jr., and investigators of the Jersey City Police Department, under the direction of Director James Shea, with the investigation leading to the convictions. She also thanked the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Stefanie Roddy, and the U.S. Marshals, under the direction of U.S. Marshal Juan Mattos, for their assistance.

    This investigation was conducted as part of the Jersey City Violent Crime Initiative (VCI). The VCI was formed in 2018 by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Jersey, the Hudson County Prosecutor’s Office, and the Jersey City Police Department, for the sole purpose of combatting violent crime in and around Jersey City. As part of this partnership, federal, state, county, and city agencies collaborate to strategize and prioritize the prosecution of violent offenders who endanger the safety of the community. The VCI is composed of the U.S. Attorney’s Office, the FBI, the ATF, the Drug Enforcement Administration’s (DEA) New Jersey Division, the U.S. Marshals, the Department of Homeland Security – Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the Jersey City Police Department, the Hudson County Prosecutor’s Office, the Hudson County Sheriff’s Office, New Jersey State Parole, the Hudson County Jail, and the New Jersey State Police Regional Operations and Intelligence Center/Real Time Crime Center.

    The government is represented by First Assistant U.S. Attorney Desiree Grace, and Assistant U.S. Attorneys John Maloy and Javon Henry, of the Organized Crime and Gangs Unit of the U.S. Attorney’s Office’s Criminal Division in Newark.

                                                                           ###

    Defense counsel:

    Roger Pickett – Brandon Minde, Esq.
    Keith Anderson – Eric Jaso, Esq. and Francesca Simone, Esq.

    Javon Williams – Joseph Rubino, Esq.

    MIL Security OSI –

    July 8, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Jackson Man Pleads Guilty to Two Counts of Attempted Production of Child Pornography

    Source: US FBI

    Jackson, MS – On June 26, 2025, a Hinds County man pleaded guilty to two counts of attempting to produce of child pornography images of minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct.

    According to court documents, beginning in February of 2023, and continuing through December 2023, Joe Lewis, 54, attempted to persuade, induct, entice, and coerce minors into Face Timing him as the minors exposed their nude private area to him, thereby engaging in sexually explicit conduct for Lewis’ live viewing and recording.

    Acting U.S. Attorney Patrick A. Lemon of the Southern District of Mississippi and Special Agent in Charge Robert Eikhoff of the Federal Bureau of Investigation made the announcement.  The Jackson Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated the case.

    Lewis is scheduled to be sentenced on October 23, 2025, and faces a maximum penalty of thirty years per count in prison. A federal district judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Glenda R. Haynes prosecuted the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

    July 8, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Pearl River Community Man Sentenced to Three Years in Prison for Habitual Domestic Violence

    Source: US FBI

    Jackson, MS – A Pearl River Community man was sentenced to 37 months in prison for habitual domestic violence.

    According to court documents, Eric Shane Dan, 48, using his fist, struck his spouse causing a laceration to her face which required medical treatment. Dan was previously convicted of domestic assault on two separate occasions.

    Acting U.S. Attorney Patrick A. Lemon of the Southern District of Mississippi and Special Agent in Charge Robert Eikhoff of the Federal Bureau of Investigation made the announcement.

    The Federal Bureau of Investigation and Choctaw Police Department investigated the case.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Bert Carraway prosecuted the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

    July 8, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Man convicted of Hackney murder

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    A man has been convicted of murdering 53-year-old Derek Thomas, who was fatally stabbed outside his home in Hackney in July 2024.

    Today, Monday, 7 July, Kamar Williams, 34 (21.01.91) of West Ferry Road, E14, was found guilty of Derek’s murder following a trial at the Old Bailey.

    The court heard how, in the early evening of 30 July 2024, Williams sent threatening text messages to Derek’s daughter, who was William’s ex-partner, warning her to “watch this space”.

    Hours later, CCTV captured Williams driving a grey van along Benthal Road, N16. He stopped directly outside Derek’s home. Williams was wearing a pair of reflective trainers, which made him easily identifiable throughout the CCTV footage.

    Williams was seen pacing along Benthal Road, loitering near Derek’s home, before disappearing out of shot. Moments later, he returned to his van and drove away at 23:03hrs.

    At 23:04hrs, police received a 999 call from a member of the public reporting that a man had been stabbed with a ‘very big knife’. Officers and the London Ambulance Service attended, but despite their best efforts, Derek died at the scene.

    Detective Inspector John Marriott, who led the investigation, said: “This was a brutal and premeditated attack on a much-loved father. Kamar Williams showed clear intent that night, driving to Derek’s home, waiting for the right moment, and carrying out this senseless act of violence.

    “The swift response from our officers, combined with extensive CCTV, forensic work, and determination from our investigation team, led to his arrest and conviction.

    “Our thoughts remain with Derek’s family, who have shown immense strength throughout this ordeal.”

    Following the conviction, Derek’s family said: “Derek will be greatly missed by his family and friends, he was a dedicated family man and worked hard to provide for them. He was the life and soul of the family. Derek was always on hand to provide support, knowledge, advice and was a calming influence when it was required. His passing has left a massive hole in the lives of his wife, children, grandchildren, family and all that knew him. He was greatly loved by all and will never be forgotten.”

    The investigation progressed rapidly. On 1 August 2024, police were contacted about an abandoned grey van on Langford Close, E8. Inside, officers recovered a bank card belonging to Williams from the driver’s seat, directly linking him to the vehicle.

    Analysis of the Automatic Number Plate Recognition system showed that the van had travelled multiple times between the crime scene and Williams’ home address.

    Enquiries at a local hospital also revealed that Williams had sought treatment for a 5cm cut to his left knee on 31 July, the day after the murder—further evidence tying him to the violent incident.

    Williams repeatedly attempted to evade police. On 3 August, traffic officers tried to stop a silver BMW on Burnt Ash Hill, SE9, but the driver made off. It was later established that Williams was behind the wheel.

    In a further effort to avoid arrest, Williams left London temporarily. However, following a manhunt, officers identified and arrested him within the footprint of Notting Hill Carnival on 26 August 2024. He was charged with murder the following day.

    Kamar Williams was also found guilty of possession of an offensive weapon. He will be sentenced on Friday, 18 July at the same court.

    MIL Security OSI –

    July 8, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Police Commissioner commends sentencing in Magaqa case 

    Source: Government of South Africa

    Monday, July 7, 2025

    The National Police Commissioner of the South African Police Service (SAPS), General Fannie Masemola has commended the efforts of the investigating team in securing a 25-year imprisonment sentence imposed on hitman Sibusiso Ncengwa for the murder of Sindiso Magaqa in July 2017. 

    The SAPS Political Killings Task Team took over the case in July 2018 after their formation. Within a month, the first hitman, Ncengwa was arrested in August 2018 by the team. Six others were later arrested in December of the same year.

    This as the Pietermaritzburg High Court on Monday found Ngcengwa guilty on 11 counts with the breakdown as follows: 
    •    Count 1: Conspiracy to commit murder-25years
    •    Count 2: Murder -25 years
    •    Count  3: Attempted murder- 5 Years
    •    Count 4: Attempted murder- 5 years
    •    Count 5: Attempted murder-5years
    •    Count 6: Malicious damage to property – 3years
    •    Count 7: Malicious damage to property- 3 years
    •    Count 8: Malicious damage to property-3 years
    •    Count 9: Unlawful possession of a fully automatic firearm- 5years
    •    Count 10: unlawful Possession of firearms – 5 years.
    •    Count 11: unlawful possession of ammunition- 1year
    •    Count: 1,3 to 11 will run concurrently with Count 2 which is 25 years. 

    “Three other accused are still in custody with the third declared mentally unfit to stand trial. 

    “The third accused is in a mental institution. The trial of the two who are fit to stand trial is expected to be heard between 19 September 2025 to 21 October 2025 in the Pietermaritzburg High Court,” the police said. – SAnews.gov.za

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    MIL OSI Africa –

    July 8, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Chairwoman McClain Joins President Trump as He Signs The One Big Beautiful Bill Act Into Law

    Source: US House of Representatives Republicans

    The following text contains opinion that is not, or not necessarily, that of MIL-OSI –

    Chairwoman McClain Joins President Trump as He Signs The One Big Beautiful Bill Act Into Law

    Washington, July 4, 2025

    WASHINGTON—House RepublicanChairwomanLisa McClain (R-Mich.) joined President Donald Trump at the White House as he signed into law theOne Big Beautiful Bill Act.

    During the ceremony, President Trump recognized and thankedChairwomanMcClain for her leadership.

    ChairwomanMcClain released the following statement:

    “What a great moment for our country. Months of hard work have paid off, and it was an honor to be at the White House for this historical moment. I thank Speaker Mike Johnson for his leadership in getting this across the finish line in the House. And I thank President Trump for leading our country into our Golden Age. This is just the beginning,” ChairwomanMcClain said.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    July 8, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: SEC Small Business Advisory Committee to Discuss Regulatory Framework for Finders and Continue Exploring Regulation A

    Source: Securities and Exchange Commission

    The Securities and Exchange Commission’s Small Business Capital Formation Advisory Committee announced that it will hold a meeting at the SEC Headquarters in Washington D.C on Tuesday, July 22, 2025 at 10 a.m. E.T. The meeting will be open to the public, in-person, as well as webcast on the SEC website, and will explore Regulation A and the topic of “finders,” persons who assist companies with limited capital-raising activities in private markets.

    The meeting will start by finalizing discussion of potential regulatory improvements to Regulation A, building upon ideas generated during the previous committee meeting. In keeping with the committee’s efforts to promote small business capital formation, including access to capital for founders who are building businesses outside of prominent entrepreneurial hubs or without robust capital-raising networks, the committee will spend the remainder of the meeting exploring “finders” and related matters.  

    Staff from the SEC’s Division of Trading and Markets will provide the committee with an overview of the SEC’s 2020 release, which proposed a limited, conditional exemption from broker registration for “finders.” The committee will also learn more about the role of “finders” and possible regulatory solutions from industry practitioners Gary Ross, Managing Partner at Ross Law Group, and Kelley Arena, Founder at Golden Hour Ventures. As part of this discussion, the committee will explore potential principles, frameworks, conditions, and safeguards that could permit certain “finders” to engage in limited capital-raising activities.  

    For more information about the committee and the full agenda for the meeting, visit the committee webpage.

    The Small Business Capital Formation Advisory Committee provides advice and recommendations to the SEC on rules, regulations, and policy matters relating to small businesses.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    July 8, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Thailand’s judiciary is flexing its muscles, but away from PM’s plight, dozens of activists are at the mercy of capricious courts

    Source: The Conversation – Global Perspectives – By Tyrell Haberkorn, Professor of Southeast Asian Studies, University of Wisconsin-Madison

    Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra is swarmed by members of the media after a cabinet meeting at Government House on July 1, 2025. Anusak Laowilas/NurPhoto via Getty Images

    Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra is currently feeling the sharp end of the country’s powerful judiciary.

    On July 2, 2025, Thailand’s Constitutional Court suspended Paetongtarn from office as a result of a leaked phone conversation in which she was heard disparaging Thailand’s military and showing deference to former the prime minister of Cambodia, Hun Sen, despite an ongoing border dispute between the two countries. Initially set for 14 days, many onlookers believe the court’s suspension is likely to become permanent.

    Meanwhile, far from the prime minister’s office is Arnon Nampa, another Thai national whose future is at the mercy of the Thai judiciary – in this case, the Criminal Court.

    Arnon, a lawyer and internationally recognized human rights defender, is one of 32 political prisoners imprisoned over “lèse majesté,” or insulting the Thai monarchy. He is currently serving a sentence of nearly 30 years for a speech questioning the monarchy during pro-democracy protests in 2020. Unless he is both acquitted in his remaining cases and his current convictions are overturned on appeal, Arnon will likely spend the rest of his life in prison.

    The plights of Paetongtarn and Arnon may seem distant. But as a historian of Thai politics, I see the cases as connected by a judiciary using the law and its power to diminish the prospects for democracy in Thailand and constrain the ability of its citizens to participate freely in society.

    Familiar troubles

    The Shinawatra family is no stranger to the reach of both the Thai military and the country’s courts.

    Paetongtarn is the third of her family to be prime minister – and could become the third to be ousted. Her father, Thaksin Shinawatra, was removed in a 2006 military coup. Her aunt, Yingluck Shinawatra, was ousted prior to the May 22, 2014, coup. In common with past coups, the juntas who fomented them were shielded from the law, with none facing prosecution.

    For now, it is unclear whether Paetongtarn’s suspension is the precursor to another coup, the dissolution of parliament and new elections, or a reshuffle of the cabinet. But what is clear is that the Constitutional Court’s intervention is one of several in which the nine appointed judges are playing a critical role in the future of Thai democracy.

    Protecting the monarchy

    The root of the judiciary’s power can be found in the way the modern Thai nation was set up nearly 100 years ago.

    On June 24, 1932, Thailand transitioned from an absolute monarchy to a constitutional monarchy. Since then, the country has experienced 13 coups, as the country has shifted from democracy to dictatorship and back again.

    But throughout, the monarchy has remained a constant presence – protected by Article 112 of the Criminal Code, which defines the crime and penalty of lese majesté: “Whoever defames, insults, or threatens the king, queen, heir-apparent or regent shall be subject to three-to-fifteen years imprisonment.”

    The law is widely feared among dissidents in Thailand both because it is interpreted broadly to include any speech or action that is not laudatory and innocent verdicts are rare.

    Although Article 112 has been law since 1957, it was rarely used until after the 2006 coup.

    Since then, cases have risen steadily and reached record levels following a youth-led movement for democracy in 2020. At least 281 people have been, or are currently being, prosecuted for alleged violation of Article 112, according to Thai Lawyers for Human Rights.

    Challenging the status quo

    The 2020 youth-led movement for democracy was sparked by the Constitutional Court’s dissolution of the progressive Future Forward Party at the beginning of that year, the disappearance of a Thai dissident in exile in Cambodia, and economic problems caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

    In protests in Bangkok and in provinces across the country, they called for a new election, a new constitution and an end to state repression of dissent.

    Pro-democracy activist leader Arnon Nampa speaks to protesters.
    Peerapon Boonyakiat/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images

    On Aug. 3, 2020, Nampa added another demand: The monarchy must be openly discussed and questioned.

    Without addressing such a key, unquestionable institution in the nation, Arnon argued, the struggle for democracy would inevitably fail.

    This message resonated with many Thai citizens, and despite the fearsome Article 112, protests grew throughout the last months of 2020.

    Students at Thammasat University, the center of student protest since the 1950s, expanded Arnon’s call into a 10-point set of demands for reform of the monarchy.

    Making it clear that they did not aim to abolish the monarchy, the students’ proposal aimed to clarify the monarchy’s economic, political and military role and make it truly constitutional.

    As the protests began to seem unstoppable, with tens of thousands joining, the police began cracking down on demonstrations. Many were arrested for violating anti-COVID-19 measures and other minor laws. By late November 2020, however, Article 112 charges began to be brought against Arnon and other protest leaders for their peaceful speech.

    In September 2023, Arnon was convicted in his first case, and he has been behind bars since. He is joined by other political prisoners, whose numbers grow weekly as their cases move through the judicial process.

    Capricious courts

    Unlike Arnon, Paetongtarn Shinawatra is not facing prison.

    But the Constitutional Court’s decision to suspend her from her position as prime minister because of a leaked recording of an indiscreet telephone conversation is, to many legal minds, a capricious response that has the effect of short-circuiting the democratic process.

    So too, I believe, does bringing the weight of the law against Arnon and other political prisoners in Thailand who remain behind bars as the current political turmoil plays out.

    Tyrell Haberkorn does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Thailand’s judiciary is flexing its muscles, but away from PM’s plight, dozens of activists are at the mercy of capricious courts – https://theconversation.com/thailands-judiciary-is-flexing-its-muscles-but-away-from-pms-plight-dozens-of-activists-are-at-the-mercy-of-capricious-courts-260408

    MIL OSI –

    July 8, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Nations are increasingly ‘playing the field’ when it comes to US and China – a new book explains explains why ‘active nonalignment’ is on the march

    Source: The Conversation – Global Perspectives – By Jorge Heine, Outgoing Interim Director of the Frederick S. Pardee Center for the Study of the Longer-Range Future, Boston University

    Brazil President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, center, flanked by India Prime Minister Narendra Modi, left, and South Africa President Cyril Ramaphosa, speaks at the summit of Group of 20 leading economies in Rio de Janeiro on Nov. 19, 2024. Mauro Pimentel/AFP via Getty Images

    In 2020, as Latin American countries were contending with the triple challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, a global economic shock and U.S. policy under the first Trump administration, Jorge Heine, research professor at Boston University and a former Chilean ambassador, in association with two colleagues, Carlos Fortin and Carlos Ominami, put forward the notion of “active nonalignment.”


    Polity Books

    Five years on, the foreign policy approach is more relevant than ever, with trends including the rise of the Global South and the fragmentation of the global order, encouraging countries around the world to reassess their relationships with both the United States and China.

    It led Heine, along with Fortin and Ominami, to follow up on their original arguments in a new book, “The Non-Aligned World,” published in June 2025.

    The Conversation spoke with Heine on what is behind the push toward active nonalignment, and where it may lead.

    For those not familiar, what is active nonalignment?

    Active nonalignment is a foreign policy approach in which countries put their own interests front and center and refuse to take sides in the great power rivalry between the U.S. and China.

    It takes its cue from the Non-Aligned Movement of the 1950s and 1960s but updates it to the realities of the 21st century. Today’s rising Global South is very different from the “Third World” that made up the Non-Aligned Movement. Countries like India, Turkey, Brazil and Indonesia have greater economic heft and wherewithal. They thus have more options than in the past.

    They can pick and choose policies in accordance with what is in their national interests. And because there is competition between Washington and Beijing to win over such countries’ hearts and minds, those looking to promote a nonaligned agenda have greater leverage.

    Traditional international relations literature suggests that in relations between nations, you can either “balance,” meaning take a strong position against another power, or “bandwagon” – that is, go along with the wishes of that power. The notion was that weaker states couldn’t balance against the Great Powers because they don’t have the military power to do so, so they had to bandwagon.

    What we are saying is that there is an intermediate approach: hedging. Countries can hedge their bets or equivocate by playing one power off the other. So, on some issues you side with the U.S., and others you side with China.

    Thus, the grand strategy of active nonalignment is “playing the field,” or in other words, searching for opportunities among what is available in the international environment. This means being constantly on the lookout for potential advantages and available resources – in short, being active, rather than passive or reactive.

    So active nonalignment is not so much a movement as it is a doctrine.

    Tunisian President Habib Bourguiba, right, and Egyptian President Gamal Abdel Nasser attend the first Conference of Non-Aligned Countries in Belgrade, Yugoslavia, in September 1961.
    Keystone/Hulton Archive/Getty Images

    It’s been five years since you first came up with the idea of active nonalignment. Why did you think it was time to revisit it now?

    The notion of active nonalignment came up during the first Trump administration and in the context of a Latin America hit by the triple-whammy of U.S. pressure, a pandemic and the ensuing recession – which in Latin America translated into the biggest economic downturn in 120 years, a 6.6% drop of regional gross domestic product in 2020.

    ANA was intended as a guide for Latin American countries to navigate those difficult moments, and it led us to the publication of a symposium volume with contributions by six former Latin American foreign ministers in November 2021, in which we elaborated on the concept.

    Three months later, with the Russian invasion of Ukraine and the reaction to it by many countries in Asia and Africa, nonalignment was back with a vengeance.

    Countries like India, Pakistan, South Africa and Indonesia, among others, took positions that were at odds with the West on Ukraine. Many of them, though not all, condemned Russian aggression but also wanted no part in the West’s sanctions on Moscow. These sanctions were seen as unwarranted and as an expression of Western double standards – no sanctions were applied on the U.S. for invading Iraq, of course.

    And then there were the Hamas attacks on Israel on Oct. 7, 2023, and the resulting war in the Gaza Strip. Countries across the Global South strongly condemned the Hamas attacks, but the West’s response to the subsequent deaths of tens of thousands of Palestinians brought home the notion of double standards when it came to international human rights.

    Why weren’t Palestinians deserving of the same compassion as Ukrainians? For many in the Global South, that question hit very hard – the idea that “human rights are limited to Europeans and people who looked like them did not go down well.”

    Thus, South Africa brought a case against Israel in the International Court of Justice alleging genocide, and Brazil spearheaded ceasefire efforts at the United Nations.

    A third development is the expansion of the BRICS bloc of economies from its original five members – Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa – to 10 members. Although China and Russia are not members of the Global South, those other founding members are, and the BRICS group has promoted key issues on the Global South’s agenda. The addition of countries such as Egypt and Ethiopia has meant that BRICS has increasingly taken on the guise of the Global South forum. Brazil President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, a leading proponent of BRICS, is keen on advancing this Global South agenda.

    All three of these developments have made active nonalignment more relevant than ever before.

    How are China and the US responding to active nonalignment – or are they?

    I’ll give you two examples: Angola and Argentina.

    In Angola, the African country that has received most Chinese cooperation to the tune of US$45 billion, you now have the U.S. financing what is known as the Lobito Corridor – a railway line that stretches from the eastern border of the Democratic Republic of the Congo to Angola’s Atlantic coast.

    Ten years ago, the notion that the U.S. would be financing railway projects in southern Africa would have been considered unfathomable. Yet it has happened. Why? Because China has built significant railway lines in countries such as Kenya and Ethiopia, and the U.S. realized that it was being left behind.

    For the longest time, the U.S. would condemn such Chinese-financed infrastructure projects via the “Belt and Road Initiative” as nothing but “debt-trap diplomacy” designed to saddle developing nations with “white elephants” nobody needed. But a couple of years ago, that tune changed: The U.S. and Europe realized that there is a big infrastructure deficit in Asia, Africa and Latin America that China was stepping in to reduce – and the West was nowhere to be seen in this critical area.

    In short, the West changed it approach – and countries like Angola are now able to play the U.S. off against China for its own national interests.

    Then take Argentina. In 2023, Javier Milei was elected president on a strong anti-China platform. He said his government would have nothing to do with Beijing. But just two years later, Milei announced in an Economist interview that he is a great admirer of Beijing.

    Why? Because Argentina has a very significant foreign debt, and Milei knew that a continued anti-China stance would mean a credit line from Beijing would likely not be renewed. The Argentinian president was under pressure from the International Monetary Fund and Washington to let the credit line with China lapse, but Milei refused to do so and managed to hold his own, playing both sides against the middle.

    Milei is a populist conservative; Brazil’s Lula a leftist. So is active nonalignment immune to ideological differences?

    Absolutely. When people ask me what the difference is between traditional nonalignment and active nonalignment, one of the most obvious things is that the latter is nonideological – it can be used by people of the right, left and center. It is a guide to action, a compass to navigate the waters of a highly troubled world, and can be used by governments of very different ideological hues.

    Brazil President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva and Argentina President Javier Milei at the 66th Summit of leaders of the Mercosur trading bloc in Buenos Aires on July 3, 2025.
    Luis Robayo/AFP via Getty Images

    The book talks a lot about the fragmentation of the rules-based order. Where do you see this heading?

    There is little doubt that the liberal international order that framed world politics from 1945 to 2016 has come to an end. Some of its bedrock principles, like multilateralism, free trade and respect for international law and existing international treaties, have been severely undermined.

    We are now in a transitional stage. The notion of the West as a geopolitical entity, as we knew it, has ceased to exist. We now have the extraordinary situation where illiberal forces in Hungary, Germany and Poland, among other places, are being supported by those in power in both Washington and Moscow.

    And this decline of the West has not come about because of any economic issue – the U.S. still represents around 25% of global GDP, much as it did in 1970 – but because of the breakdown of the trans-Atlantic alliance.

    So we are moving toward a very different type of world order – and one in which the Global South has the opportunity to have much more of a role, especially if it deploys active nonalignment.

    How have events since Trump’s inauguration played into your argument?

    The notion of active nonalignment was triggered by the first Trump administration’s pressure on Latin American countries. I would argue that the measures undertaken in Trump’s second administration – the tariffs imposed on 90 countries around the world; the U.S. leaving the Paris climate agreement, the World Health Organization and the U.N. Human Rights Council; and other “America First” policies – have only underscored the validity of active nonalignment as a foreign policy approach.

    The pressures on countries across the Global South are very strong, and there is a temptation to give in to Trump and align with U.S. Yet, all indications are that simply giving in to Trump’s demands isn’t a recipe for success. Those countries that have gone down the route of giving in to Trump’s demands only see more demands after that. Countries need a different approach – and that can be found in active nonalignment.

    Jorge Heine does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Nations are increasingly ‘playing the field’ when it comes to US and China – a new book explains explains why ‘active nonalignment’ is on the march – https://theconversation.com/nations-are-increasingly-playing-the-field-when-it-comes-to-us-and-china-a-new-book-explains-explains-why-active-nonalignment-is-on-the-march-260234

    MIL OSI –

    July 8, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Partners across Derby unite to create a safer, more vibrant city centre

    Source: City of Derby

    A safer, more welcoming and vibrant night-time experience in Derby is being made possible thanks to a powerful partnership between local businesses, organisations, and community leaders. Their collective efforts are helping shape a city centre where people feel confident to visit, explore and enjoy Derby City; especially after dark.

    This work has recently earned Derby the prestigious Purple Flag accreditation, a national recognition awarded by the Association of Town and City Management (ATCM) to places that meet high standards for managing the evening and night-time economy.

    Organisations including Marketing Derby, Derby’s Business Improvement Districts (BIDs), the University of Derby, Derbion, Derbyshire Police, Vaillant, and Derby Museums have all played a vital role in improving safety, accessibility, and cultural appeal in the city after hours.

    From student safety initiatives led by the University of Derby, to late-night shopping and events at Derbion, to visible policing and coordinated city centre management by the BIDs, the efforts are wide-ranging and deeply collaborative. Companies like Vaillant are also engaging with community initiatives, reinforcing the importance of a collective approach to civic responsibility. This collaborative work not only supports Derby’s night-time economy, but also builds a stronger, more inclusive city one where everyone can feel proud to take part in its growth.

    Councillor Nadine Peatfield, Cabinet Member for City-Centre, Regeneration, Strategy, Policy and leader of Derby City Council, said:

    The Purple Flag is a powerful symbol of what we can achieve when our city works together. From the police and universities to businesses, venues and volunteers, everyone has a part to play in making Derby safer, more welcoming and more vibrant after dark. This isn’t just about awards — it’s about people in Derby. It’s about making sure everyone, from students to families to visitors, feels proud and confident to enjoy our city centre.

    We’re committed to building on this success, working with partners now and into the future to keep improving Derby’s evening experience for all; this includes the new appointment of a City Centre Manager”

    You can learn more about the Purple Flag award on the ATCM website.

    There is plenty going on in Derby, learn more about what’s on by visiting the Derby LIVE webpage. You can learn more about Derby Nightlife on the Visit Derby webpage.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    July 8, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Explore Modern Monarchies through the Law Library’s Newest Story Map

    Source: US Global Legal Monitor

    The Law Library is pleased to announce the publication of a new Story Map: Modern Monarchies Around the World. With contributions from former interns Kate Krause and Sam Walkow, this is the 12th Story Map to join the Law Library’s collection.

    The title page of the Modern Monarchies Story Map.

    Each country mapped is one of three types of monarchies: absolute, constitutional, or mixed. Each pop-up on the interactive map also includes links to our Guide to Law Online: Nations of the World for further learning.

    A screenshot from the interactive map feature of the Story Map, demonstrating the pop-up feature.

    You can learn more about how these monarchies change over time through the CIA World Factbook.

    We hope you enjoy the newest addition to our Story Map collection. Tell us any interesting facts you learn during your research, or what other topics you might like to see in future Story Maps!

    Subscribe to In Custodia Legis – it is free! – to receive interesting posts drawn from the Law Library of Congress’s vast collections and our staff’s expertise in U.S., foreign, and international law.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    July 8, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: UN Secretary-General’s Special Envoy for Road Safety Visits Latin America to launch UN Global Road Safety Campaign  

    Source: United Nations Economic Commission for Europe

    The United Nations Secretary-General’s Special Envoy for Road Safety, Jean Todt, will visit Mexico, Guatemala, Panama, Colombia and Brazil (23-27 June), to launch the UN global campaign #MakeASafetyStatement, in partnership with JCDecaux. During his visit, he will meet with key government officials, representatives of the international community, private and public sector leaders, and representatives of civil society to promote road safety initiatives and advocate for enhanced measures. 

    This mission aligns with the Global Plan for the Decade of Action for Road Safety 2021-2030, which aims to halve road fatalities by 2030. It follows the adoption of a new UN resolution on road safety at the 4th Global Ministerial Conference on Road Safety in Marrakech, Morocco, earlier this year (18-19February). 

    A Silent Pandemic

    Road traffic crashes claimed more than 145,000 lives across the Americas in 2021, according to the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), representing 12% of global road fatalities that year. Road crashes remain the leading cause of death for children and young people aged 5 to 29 years old globally imposing a significant social and economic burden. According to the World Bank, the cost of road crashes represents between 3% and 6% of GDP in the region.   

    Across the Americas, deaths on the road have registered a 9.37% drop in the decade to 2021. The region’s progress is above the 5% global drop in deaths in the period but is nowhere near fast enough to meet the global goal of halving road deaths by 2030.  

    Latin America is one of the most urbanized regions in the world, making road safety a crucial component of city development strategies. This underscores the urgent need to rethink mobility and invest in road safety. 

    Solutions exist 

    The good news is that solutions exist. Strengthening law enforcement, investing in education and public transport, enhancing road infrastructure and vehicle safety, developing bicycle lanes and pedestrian pathways — especially around schools —and improving post-crash care are all part of a safe and efficient mobility system. Additionally, mobilizing political leadership is crucial to increase funding and action.  

    A 2019 report commissioned by Bloomberg Philanthropies revealed that more than 25,000 lives could be saved and over 170,000 serious injuries prevented by 2030 if United Nations (UN) vehicle safety regulations were applied by four key countries in the region—Argentina, Chile, Mexico and Brazil. 

    “Every year we lose 1.19 million lives on the world’s roads, this is equivalent to the entire population of cities like Monterrey (Mexico), Guatemala or Campinas (Brazil). This is madness, because we know how to stop this carnage. With this campaign we call for urgent action to ensure safe roads for all, everywhere on the continent,” said Jean Todt, UN Special Envoy for Road Safety.   

    Jean-Charles Decaux, Co-CEO of JCDecaux said: “At JCDecaux, we are committed to improving the quality of life for people wherever they live, work and travel, offering innovative, sustainable street furniture and services that meet cities and citizens’ expectations. This is the core of our mission and that is why we are proud to partner with the United Nations and Jean Todt, the UN Secretary-General’s Special Envoy for Road Safety, to display this road safety campaign across our global media network. Following its successful rollout in over 50 countries since September 2023, the campaign’s launch in Latin America marks a key milestone, amplifying local road safety efforts and reinforcing public awareness. With our powerful and service-driven media, we are able to relay these vital prevention messages in high-impact locations, promote safe behaviour, and engage all our stakeholders around this major cause. The campaign’s positive tone, supported by international celebrities, helps inspire a new vision for public space: one that is safer, more inclusive, and more harmonious for all.” 

    #MakeASafetyStatement campaign  

    The global #MakeASafetyStatement campaign aims to promote road safety and create secure, inclusive, and sustainable streets worldwide. 

    Celebrities fronting the campaign in Latin America include football icon Ousmane Dembélé, F1 driver Charles Leclerc, tennis legend Novak Djokovic, singer and musician Kylie Minogue, motorcycle racer Marc Marquez, supermodel Naomi Campbell, and actors Patrick Dempsey and Michael Fassbender.  

    Thanks to the support of the International Olympic Committee, Latin American 2024 Olympic champions such as Juan-Manuel Celaya (Mexico, silver medal, diving), Adriana Ruano (Guatemala, gold medal, shooting women’s trap), Atheyna Bylon (Panama, silver medal, boxing), Angel Barajas (Colombia, silver medal, gymnastics), Rebecca Andrade (Brazil, gold medal, artistic gymnastics) have joined the initiative. 

    National focus 

    Mexico 

    In Mexico, 15 to 16,000 people die each year in road accidents.  This puts the fatality rate at 12.4 per 100,000 inhabitants, below the average for the Americas, and for countries such as the USA, Colombia or Brazil, but above Chile or Argentina.  The economic cost of road accidents is estimated at approximately 1.4% of GDP. 

    One third of all road deaths in Mexico are among pedestrians and motorcyclists, so protecting these vulnerable road users should be an urgent priority. It should be noted, however, that road crash statistics are very incomplete. 

    The National Law of Mobility and Road Safety of 2022 called for the adoption of the life-saving ‘safe systems’ approach that makes safety priority in all road-related policies and planning and is laid out in the Global Plan for the Decade of Action for Road Safety. An exemplary amendment to Mexico’s constitution underpinned the law, making ‘mobility under the conditions of safety, accessibility, efficiency, sustainability, quality, inclusion and equality,’ a universal right for all Mexicans.  

    Although the law mandated the use of certified helmets at the federal level, most Mexican states have not yet legislated mandatory use, resulting in low compliance rates. 

    Guatemala 

    Road crashes remain a significant public health issue in Guatemala, with some 2,352 deaths registered in 2024 on the country’s roads. This brings the death rate at 12.6 per 100,000 population, as per WHO estimates.  

    Motorcycles are involved in half of the crashes and riders represent some 60% of the victims.  Road crashes happen predominantly in urban areas and among vulnerable road users. 

    In the recent period, Guatemala has made some progress in addressing road safety, both through institutional strengthening and the improvement of monitoring systems, legislative response, and intersectoral coordination. 

    Guatemala is currently a party to only 1 of the 7 core UN Road Safety legals instruments and legislation on pedestrian protection and child restraint systems remains fragmented. Helmet use is mandatory, but technical standards are not fully aligned with international best practices (e.g., UN-certified helmet standards ECE 22.05). Enforcement also remains a key challenge.  

    Guatemala currently participates in a project of the UN Road Safety Fund (UN RSF) Safe School Zones, which supports infrastructure improvements and awareness campaigns to protect children around schools. 

    Panama 

    Panama achieved a 45% reduction in road fatalities between 2016 and 2021, from 440 to 243 deaths. Its rate of 7.3 deaths per 100,000 inhabitants is the fourth lowest on the continent.  

    However, it records a very high level of people with serious injuries after a crash, with about 21 cases per death.   

    Panama is currently implementing 2 projects under the UN Road Safety Fund: Safe School Zones, aimed at reducing child fatalities near schools, and Strengthening Road Safety Legislation, aiming at aligning national laws with global best practices. Two legislative improvements are currently under discussion, on pedestrian protection and child restraints. 

    Colombia 

    Some 8,146 people died on Colombia’s in 2022, a 24% increase compared to the average from 2017 to 2019, driven by the rise in the number of motorcycles (+ over 100%)  and cars (+58%) registered between 2010 and 2022Motorcyclists represented 60% of the victims, and pedestrians 21%. The death rate is at 16 per 100,000 population (WHO), for an economic toll estimated at some 3% of GDP. 

    In recent years, through ANSV (Agencia Nacional de Seguridad Vial), the government has worked with cities such as Bogotá, Medellín, and Cali to implement urban safety plans, including developing public transport (express buses and cable cars); upgrading pedestrian infrastructure; developing safer intersections and introducing speed control zones. 

    The new Road Safety strategy (2022-2031) adopted in 2022 officially adopted the Safe System approach. 

    Colombia implements three projects financed by the UNRS, focusing on: institutional strengthening and better crash data systems; Safe and Sustainable Urban Mobility Planning; and an Awareness Campaign for Road Safety and Behavior Change addressing National media and school-based outreach initiatives. 

    Brazil 

    In Brazil, the mortality rate is 15.7 per 100,000 inhabitants.  Pedestrians, cyclists, and motorcyclists—compose around 61% of all crash fatalities. The notable rise in motorcycle-related deaths observed over recent years calls for accrued efforts to enforce the use of proper helmets – aligned with UN regulations (e.g., ECE-22.05). 

    Road safety remains a key challenges with the economic toll of road crashes estimated at some 5% of GDP.  This is one powerful reason to rethink mobility and invest in road safety. 

    The adoption of the National Road Safety Plan (2019–2028) , aiming for a 50% reduction in fatalities by 2028, marks a strong direction, and laws exist on helmet usage, child restraints, speed, drink & drug driving, mobile phone ban, etc. However, enforcement gaps remain—especially in speed and seatbelt compliance among rear passengers.   

    Mandatory inspections of vehicles exist, but several modern safety requirements (ABS, Electronic Stability Control, pedestrian protection, etc.) have not yet been made mandatory.   

    The UN RSF Project Improving Crash Prevention on Federal Highways in Brazil develops an interoperable system for road data collection and analysis, enabling effective countermeasures. 

    Photo credit: JCDecaux

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

    July 8, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Simpson Cosponsors Bill to Protect Americans’ Energy Choices

    Source: US State of Idaho

    WASHINGTON—Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson cosponsored H.R. 3699 – the Energy Choice Act. This legislation would prohibit states or local governments from banning an energy service’s connection, reconnection, modification, installation, or expansion based on the type or source of energy to be delivered. This legislation is sponsored by Rep. Nick Langworthy (R-NY).
    “Energy freedom is key to strengthening our domestic energy supply and ensuring Americans have access to reliable sources that best meet their needs,” said Rep. Simpson. “The Energy Choice Act will lower prices in the long run while defending consumer choice against blue-state politicians working to ban certain types of energy. As a longtime member and former Chairman of the Energy and Water Appropriations Subcommittee, I’ve been proud to support policies related to energy production. I am also pleased that this bill supports both Idahoans’ needs and the Trump administration’s goals by protecting and unleashing American energy.”
    “As an Idaho home builder working to keep housing affordable for our citizens, I commend Rep. Mike Simpson for sponsoring the Energy Choice Act. This bill would ensure housing costs do not needlessly rise by preventing state and local governments from banning the use of natural gas energy in new homes. Such a ban would deprive consumers choice on how they heat and cool their homes and increase energy costs for families in Idaho because gas heating is often more cost-effective than electric systems,” said Steve Martinez, President of Tradewinds General Contracting.
    U.S. Senator Jim Justice (R-WV) has introduced companion legislation in the Senate.
    The full text of the legislation is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    July 8, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: US backs Nato’s latest pledge of support for Ukraine, but in reality seems to have abandoned its European partners

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Stefan Wolff, Professor of International Security, University of Birmingham

    Recent news from Ukraine has generally been bad. Since the end of May, ever larger Russian air strikes have been documented against Ukrainian cities with devastating consequences for civilians, including in the country’s capital, Kyiv.

    Amid small and costly but steady gains along the almost 1,000km long frontline, Russia reportedly took full control of the Ukrainian region of Luhansk, part of which it had already occupied before the beginning of its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.

    And according to Dutch and German intelligence reports, some of Russia’s gains on the battlefield are enabled by the widespread use of chemical weapons.

    Get your news from actual experts, straight to your inbox. Sign up to our daily newsletter to receive all The Conversation UK’s latest coverage of news and research, from politics and business to the arts and sciences.

    It was therefore something of a relief that Nato’s summit in The Hague produced a short joint declaration on June 25 in which Russia was clearly named as a “long-term threat … to Euro-Atlantic security”. Member states restated “their enduring sovereign commitments to provide support to Ukraine”. While the summit declaration made no mention of future Nato membership for Ukraine, the fact that US president Donald Trump agreed to these two statements was widely seen as a success.

    Yet, within a week of the summit, Washington paused the delivery of critical weapons to Ukraine, including Patriot air defence missiles and long-range precision-strike rockets. The move was ostensibly in response to depleting US stockpiles.

    This despite the Pentagon’s own analysis, which suggested that the shipment – authorised by the former US president Joe Biden last year – posed no risk to US ammunition supplies.

    This was bad news for Ukraine. The halt in supplies weakens Kyiv’s ability to protect its large population centres and critical infrastructure against intensifying Russian airstrikes. It also puts limits on Ukraine’s ability to target Russian supply lines and logistics hubs behind the frontlines that have been enabling ground advances.

    Despite protests from Ukraine and an offer from Germany to buy Patriot missiles from the US for Ukraine, Trump has been in no rush to reverse the decision by the Pentagon.

    Russia is now claiming to have completed its occupation of the province of Luhansk in eastern Ukraine.
    Institute for the Study of War

    Another phone call with his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin, on July 3, failed to change Trump’s mind, even though he acknowledged his disappointment with the clear lack of willingness by the Kremlin to stop the fighting. What’s more, within hours of the call between the two presidents, Moscow launched the largest drone attack of the war against Kyiv.

    A day later, Trump spoke with Zelensky. And while the call between them was apparently productive, neither side gave any indication that US weapons shipments to Ukraine would resume quickly.

    Trump previously paused arms shipments and intelligence sharing with Ukraine in March, 2025 after his acrimonious encounter with Zelensky in the Oval Office. But the US president reversed course after certain concessions had been agreed – whether that was an agreement by Ukraine to an unconditional ceasefire or a deal on the country’s minerals.

    It is not clear with the current disruption whether Trump is after yet more concessions from Ukraine. The timing is ominous, coming after what had appeared to be a productive Nato summit with a unified stance on Russia’s war of aggression. And it preceded Trump’s call with Putin.

    This could be read as a signal that Trump was still keen to accommodate at least some of the Russian president’s demands in exchange for the necessary concessions from the Kremlin to agree, finally, the ceasefire that Trump had once envisaged he could achieve in 24 hours.

    If this is indeed the case, the fact that Trump continues to misread the Russian position is deeply worrying. The Kremlin has clearly drawn its red lines on what it is after in any peace deal with Ukraine.

    These demands – virtually unchanged since the beginning of the war – include a lifting of sanctions against Russia and no Nato membership for Ukraine, while also insisting that Kyiv must accept limits on its future military forces and recognise Russia’s annexation of Crimea and four regions on the Ukrainian mainland.

    This will not change as a result of US concessions to Russia but only through pressure on Putin. And Trump has so far been unwilling to apply pressure in a concrete and meaningful way beyond the occasional hints to the press or on social media.

    Coalition of the willing

    It is equally clear that Russia’s maximalist demands are unacceptable to Ukraine and its European allies. With little doubt that the US can no longer be relied upon to back the European and Ukrainian position, Kyiv and Europe need to accelerate their own defence efforts.

    A European coalition of the willing to do just that is slowly taking shape. It straddles the once more rigid boundaries of EU and Nato membership and non-membership, involving countries such as Moldova, Norway and the UK.
    and including non-European allies including Canada, Japan and South Korea.

    The European commission’s white paper on European defence is an obvious indication that the threat from Russia and the needs of Ukraine are being taken seriously and, crucially, acted upon. It mobilises some €800 billion (£690 billion) in defence spending and will enable deeper integration of the Ukrainian defence sector with that of the European Union.

    At the national level, key European allies, in particular Germany, have also committed to increased defence spending and stepped up their forward deployment of forces closer to the borders with Russia.

    US equivocation will not mean that Ukraine is now on the brink of losing the war against Russia. Nor will Europe discovering its spine on defence put Kyiv immediately in a position to defeat Moscow’s aggression.

    After decades of relying on the US and neglecting their own defence capabilities, these recent European efforts are a first step in the right direction. They will not turn Europe into a military heavyweight overnight. But they will buy time to do so.

    Stefan Wolff is a past recipient of grant funding from the Natural Environment Research Council of the UK, the United States Institute of Peace, the Economic and Social Research Council of the UK, the British Academy, the NATO Science for Peace Programme, the EU Framework Programmes 6 and 7 and Horizon 2020, as well as the EU’s Jean Monnet Programme. He is a Trustee and Honorary Treasurer of the Political Studies Association of the UK and a Senior Research Fellow at the Foreign Policy Centre in London.

    – ref. US backs Nato’s latest pledge of support for Ukraine, but in reality seems to have abandoned its European partners – https://theconversation.com/us-backs-natos-latest-pledge-of-support-for-ukraine-but-in-reality-seems-to-have-abandoned-its-european-partners-260334

    MIL OSI –

    July 8, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: Enovix Launches AI-1™: A Revolutionary Silicon-Anode Smartphone Battery Platform

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    FREMONT, Calif., July 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Enovix Corporation (Nasdaq: ENVX) (“Enovix”), a leader in advanced silicon battery technology, today announced the launch of the AI-1TM platform, its Artificial Intelligence ClassTM batteries for the next generation of mobile smartphones that require significantly higher total energy storage and power to perform AI functions locally. This revolutionary silicon-anode smartphone battery platform is protected by 190 Enovix architecture-specific patents that enable the use of 100% active silicon anodes. Last week, the company sampled its first 7,350 milliampere-hour (mAh) AI-1 batteries to a leading smartphone OEM for qualification in the first ever 100% silicon-anode battery smartphone launch.

    With energy density exceeding 900 watt-hours per liter (Wh/L) and advanced capabilities for high discharge rate and long cycle life, Enovix believes AI-1 is the highest energy density battery commercially available in the market today. The company’s patented battery architecture overcomes the notorious silicon anode swelling problems, enabling exceptional performance without compromising safety or longevity. The higher energy density provided by the AI-1 enables smartphone manufacturers to take full advantage of AI-enabled applications without requiring frequent charging cycles.  

    AI-1 Performance Highlights*:

    • >900 Wh/L energy density – highest commercially available
    • Fast charging at 3C rates – 20% charged in 5 minutes, 50% charged in 15 minutes
    • 900+ cycles in standard smartphone usage based on initial unit testing
    • High discharge capability across wide temperature ranges – ideal for AI applications
    • Passed Enovix Safety Test Suite (ESTS): drop, tumble, thermal abuse, and external short circuit test

    * Based on internal testing

    “Enovix invented technology that led the industry in energy density for wearables in 2023 thanks to our unique architecture and the use of 100% silicon-anode technology,” said Dr. Raj Talluri, CEO of Enovix. “However, when I joined as CEO, I recognized that the portion of the wearables market immediately available to us would not be enough to support our full revenue plan, so I decided to take the opportunity to introduce our breakthrough battery to the much bigger smartphone market and the Enovix story to the smartphone accounts that I knew well from running Micron’s $6 billion mobile memory division. With the launch of AI Class technology, we are now sampling production AI-1 batteries to those customers who demand not only industry-leading energy density, but have other stringent requirements for cycle life, fast charging, and safety. Enovix is now positioned to support the next generation of smartphones in a 1.2-billion unit market.”

    T.J. Rodgers, Enovix Chairman, said, “The AI Class technology is a breakthrough in utilizing the significant but difficult-to-realize benefits of silicon anodes to win in the AI Class smartphone market. The approximate 80,000 wearable batteries produced in our Fremont fab – and even the fab itself – all had to be re-engineered to meet the challenges of the first AI-1 battery. To move from small wearable batteries – with low power consumption and 500-cycle life – to the big, high-power, AI Class batteries, we had to change the anode (five times), the cathode (three times), the electrolyte (ten-plus times), and even the stainless-steel constraint and separator. Each experimental set took months to create and evaluate, and that effort was only possible because of the scale of our 50-engineer R&D group which touts 30 PhDs. Making these major changes was the primary cause of the delay between my January 3, 2023 presentation to shareholders and the sampling of the AI-1. That two-year delay was frustrating, but we are now on the other side of the problem with 100 R&D man-years of distance added between us and our competitors. We have also discovered that our AI Class process, which produces 900 smartphone Wh/L of energy density, will produce wearable batteries meeting 2023 smartwatch requirements with over 1,000 Wh/L of energy density due to the added capabilities of the AI Class process.

    Rodgers continued, “An AI-1 battery, built in our Malaysian production facility, is shown in Figure 1. While it is only 1.79 cubic inches in volume, it holds 7.35 amp-hours of charge and 26.3 watt-hours of energy. Humans cannot comprehend the high rate of energy use in the AI world because it is dissipated invisibly by charging and discharging the 100 billion transistors on a modern AI chip. In the Figure, we also show the same 26.3 Whrs of energy applied to a human-scale problem, lifting a 4,948-pound truck to a working height of 4.7 feet on a commercially available hydraulic lift – three times on one battery charge.

    Rodgers concluded, “We have over $200 million in the bank and thank our shareholders for supporting us on every step of our journey. I started at Enovix in 2012 and have learned that making a new state-of-the-art battery is a decade-long marathon, a lot more difficult than a one-generation change in semiconductors under Moore’s Law. It all started that way for the Sony corporation, which took 10 years to bring the first lithium-ion battery to market in 1991. Fortunately, we expect future generations of the AI Class technology to reuse this foundation, allowing us to raise the bar on energy density progressively as we transfer each new AI process modification to our Malaysian factory.”

    AI-1 is currently available to select smartphone OEMs. Broader availability is expected later in 2025.

    Figure 1. The first AI-1 cell is just 1.79 cu. in. in volume, yet it contains 26.3 watt-hours of electrical energy, enough to power a typical car lift to raise and lower a 4,948-pound truck to a working height of 4.7 ft – three times per charge.

    About Enovix Corporation

    Enovix is a leader in advancing lithium-ion battery technology with its proprietary cell architecture designed to deliver higher energy density and improved safety. The Company’s breakthrough silicon-anode batteries are engineered to power a wide range of devices from wearable electronics and mobile communications to industrial and electric vehicle applications. Enovix’s technology enables longer battery life and faster charging, supporting the growing global demand for high-performance energy storage. Enovix holds a robust portfolio of issued and pending patents covering its core battery design, manufacturing process, and system integration innovations. For more information, visit https://www.enovix.com.

    Forward‐Looking Statements

    This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Forward-looking statements generally relate to future events or our future financial or operating performance and can be identified by words such as anticipate, believe, continue, could, estimate, expect, intend, may, might, plan, possible, potential, predict, should, would and similar expressions that convey uncertainty about future events or outcomes. Forward-looking statements in this press release include, without limitation, our expectations that AI-1 represents the highest energy density battery commercially available, that the AI-1 battery enables smartphone manufacturers to take full advantage of AI-enabled applications without compromising battery life, that our unique battery architecture enables exceptional performance without compromising safety or longevity, that the recently shipped smartphone samples exceed industry standards and meet certain demanding standards for fast charging, long cycle life, and temperature resilience, that we lead the industry in energy density for wearables, the benefits and the timing of our first expected commercial product launch, that we have upgraded our prior watch battery product to AI-1 standards and our long-term scale-up plans. Actual results and outcomes could differ materially from these forward-looking statements as a result of certain risks and uncertainties, including, without limitation, those risks and uncertainties and other potential factors set forth in our filings with the SEC, including in the “Risk Factors” and “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” sections of our most recently filed annual report on Form 10-K and quarterly reports on Form 10-Q and other documents that we have filed, or that we will file, with the SEC. For a full discussion of these risks, please refer to Enovix’s filings with the SEC, including its most recent Form 10-K and Form 10-Q, available at https://ir.enovix.com and www.sec.gov. Any forward-looking statements made by us in this press release speak only as of the date on which they are made and subsequent events may cause these expectations to change. We disclaim any obligations to update or alter these forward-looking statements in the future, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.

    Contacts:

    Investors
    Robert Lahey
    ir@enovix.com

    CFO
    Ryan Benton
    rbenton@enovix.com

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/f9db38ec-43e9-4d87-93de-22f1181c5b9d

    The MIL Network –

    July 8, 2025

  • Tesla slides as Musk’s ‘America Party’ sparks investor worries

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Tesla shares fell nearly 7% in premarket trading on Monday after CEO Elon Musk’s plans to launch a new U.S. political party raised investor doubts about his focus on the electric automaker’s future.

    The former head of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) unveiled the ‘America Party’ on Saturday, voicing his displeasure over President Donald Trump’s ‘One Big, Beautiful Bill’.

    This further escalates Musk’s feud with Trump even as Tesla posted a second straight drop in quarterly deliveries. Their discord over the tax bill erupted into an all-out social media brawl in early June, with Trump threatening to cut Musk’s government contracts and subsidies.

    “Investors are worried about two things – one is more Trump ire affecting subsidies and the other, more importantly, is a distracted Musk,” said Neil Wilson, UK investor strategist at Saxo Markets.

    Investors had in May cheered Musk’s decision to scale back political spending and remain Tesla CEO for another five years. He had spent nearly $300 million around Trump’s re-election campaign last year.

    “But now (they) are worried he’s going to (get) sucked back in and take his eye off Tesla,” Wilson said.

    The first signs of investor unease surfaced soon after Musk’s announcement, with investment firm Azoria Partners delaying the listing of a Tesla exchange-traded fund.

    Trump on Sunday called Musk’s plans to form the “America Party” “ridiculous”, saying the Musk ally he once named to lead NASA would have presented a conflict of interest given Musk’s business interests in space.

    TESLA BOARD MOVES

    Wedbush analyst Dan Ives, a Tesla bull, said many investors are feeling a “sense of exhaustion” over Musk’s insistence on immersing himself in politics.

    Azoria Partners CEO James Fishback posted several critical comments on X about Musk’s new party, and called for the Tesla board to clarify Musk’s political ambitions and evaluate if his political involvement is compatible with his obligations to Tesla as CEO.

    The new party undermines the confidence shareholders had that Musk would be focusing more on the company, Fishback said.

    Musk’s latest political move raises questions around Tesla board’s course of action. Its Chair Robyn Denholm in May denied a Wall Street Journal report that said board members were looking to replace the CEO.

    Tesla’s board, which has been criticized for failing to provide oversight of its combative, headline-making CEO, faces a dilemma managing him as he oversees five other companies and his personal political ambitions.

    “This is exactly the kind of thing a board of directors would curtail – removing the CEO if he refused to curtail these kinds of activities,” said Ann Lipton, a professor at the University of Colorado Law School and an expert in business law.

    “The Tesla board has been fairly supine; they have not, at least not in any demonstrable way, taken any action to force Musk to limit his outside ventures, and it’s difficult to imagine they would begin now.”

    Tensions with Trump, struggling sales and an aging vehicle line-up have hurt Tesla’s stock, even as the company bets on growth from autonomous vehicles.

    The stock, which soared to over $488 in December after Trump’s November re-election, has lost 35% since then and closed last week at $315.35.

    Tesla is the worst performing stock among “the Magnificent Seven” group of high-growth U.S. companies this year.

    (Reuters)

     

    July 8, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Africa: The Verdict is in and Greenpeace Won’t Accept Justice

    Source: APO

    Environmental hate group Greenpeace has once again launched an attack on the African Energy Chamber (https://EnergyChamber.org/) and Africa’s energy sector, citing the continent’s efforts to accelerate development as a coordinated attack on the right to dissent. Using the example whereby a jury in North Dakota issued a landmark ruling, ordering Greenpeace to pay $660 million in damages for malicious interference with the Dakota Access Pipeline, the organization has declared that companies such as the African Energy Chamber (AEC) utilize Strategic Lawsuit Against Public Participation – SLAPP suits – to intimidate and silence critics.

    Let us be clear: lawsuits like the example above are not tactical weapons to intimidate: it is a clear example of justice being served to organizations attempting to dismantle global development and community empowerment. The examples shared by Greenpeace are not “corporate weaponization of the law to dismantle civil society opposition” – it is a clear example of justice.

    Greenpeace has proven time and time again that it does not in fact care about people; it operates under a mandate to attack the energy industry. The AEC has been consistent in its calls, advocating for justice, inclusive development and equitable investments. On the other hand, Greenpeace has been consistent in its attacks, targeting projects that stand to make a difference in the world. As we have said before, the organization’s methods go beyond protesting – they involve a calculated strategy of misinformation, disruption and direct interference with energy infrastructure. When faced with the consequences of their actions – in this case, $$660 million worth – the organization blames investors, they blame the justice system and they blame the energy sector.  

    Africa is so close to unlocking significant economic development. With 125 billion barrels of crude oil, 620 trillion cubic feet of natural gas and abundant renewable energy potential, the continent is working hard to bring tangible benefits to its communities. Africa is not pursuing ambitious projects with the aim of exporting. Africa is accelerating development with the aim of creating greater value from its oil and gas resources – resources that western nations have long-benefited from.

    Organizations such as Greenpeace claim to stand on behalf of “concerned citizens,” yet they so carefully ignore the very citizens set to benefit from Africa’s oil and gas resources. We have said it time and time again, with over 600 million people living without access to electricity and over 900 million people living without access to clean cooking solutions, Africa cannot afford to leave these resources in the ground. This very statistic has led the citizens of Africa – not only corporations – to rally behind the call to “make energy poverty history.” And it is large-scale oil and gas projects that will achieve this goal. From Namibia’s Orange Basin to Libya’s Sirte to Angola’s Kwanza and Mozambique’s Rovuma, Africa’s oil and gas basins will transform the continent. Major investments stand to do more than extract resources, they create jobs, develop infrastructure, boost skills development and give hope to millions of Africans. These projects are being developed in close coordination with environmental groups.  

    Take the East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP), a vital infrastructure project set to connect Uganda’s oilfields with Tanzania’s Port of Tanga. EACOP developer TotalEnergies has placed environmental protection and community engagement at the very heart of development. The project is being developed through specialized measures geared towards protecting the environment as well as the rights of local communities. Environmental and Social Impact Assessments were carried out in compliance with the standards of the International Finance Corporation, third-party reviews were conducted, regular engagement with impact communities is deployed. Right from the design phase of these projects, special attention has been paid to information, consultation and consensus-building with all stakeholders. Over 70,000 people were consulted for the ESIAs and more than 20,000 meetings have been held to date with the populations concerned and civil society organizations. The project is an example of how oil companies are in fact working in close partnership with environmental authorities.

    Greenpeace’s attacks on the industry go beyond infrastructure. The organization strongly opposes oil and gas exploration, disrupting seismic data acquisition and drilling. Campaigns have been launched against Shell in South Africa, and as a result, the country has been unable to understand the wealth of resources it has offshore. Greenpeace is seeking donations to support its efforts to block development in South Africa, calling “To Hell with Shell.” Similarly, the organization is opposing Africa Oil Corp as it strives to unlock new development opportunities in South Africa. Greenpeace is appealing an Environmental Authorization received by Africa Oil Corp to conduct exploration. In Mozambique, Greenpeace has called for investors to stop financing vital projects, including major LNG developments that could transform southern Africa into an energy hub. By accosting funders, they have impacted developments in the Rovuma basin, leaving millions in energy poverty without a second thought. But the question is, why Africa? Greenpeace are fiercely opposing African exploration efforts but ignoring projects in other regions such as the Middle East. This is an intentional attack on the continent.

    Greenpeace is right. The lawsuit against it is not an isolated event – it is a demonstration of how Greenpeace continues to blame others for the damages it causes. Organizations such as the AEC have tried again and again to work with environmental groups, but they are not interested in partnerships. They only want disruption. Sustainable development is about people, it is about inclusivity and it is about democracy. We should ask ourselves: will we allow environmental groups to dictate what Africa deserves? Will we allow these groups to attack projects, prevent growth and disrupt the livelihoods of people? Or will be make energy poverty history and transform the lives of African people?  

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

    Media files

    .

    MIL OSI Africa –

    July 8, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Home Affairs makes progress on identity verification service 

    Source: Government of South Africa

    The Department of Home Affairs’ new identity verification service that enables government users and private sector clients to verify information against the National Population Register (NPR) is making progress since its rollout earlier this month.

    “The department is proud to report that it has already successfully onboarded government’s entire justice cluster to the upgraded service, which includes key public sector entities like the South African Social Security Administration (SASSA), the South African Police Service (SAPS) and the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development. 

    “This cluster alone is now successfully processing over 180 000 transactions per day through the new service, which consistently delivers results in less than one second, with an error rate well below one percent.”

    In a statement the Ministry of Home Affairs said that owing to years of under-pricing the service had broken down to the point where over half of all verification attempts failed – severely undermining social and financial inclusion, as the provision of services ranging from social grant payments to banking makes use of this service.

    READ | Home Affairs rolls out upgraded National Population Register from 1 July

    In a statement on Sunday, the Ministry of Home Affairs added that the system which was launched on 1 July 2025 is working well for private sector users that have been onboarded, and has delivered a major step towards making both government services more efficient and financial services more accessible and reliable.

    “One private sector user has already processed over one million records through the new off-peak batch option that would previously have gone into the real-time queue, directly contributing to a more stable NPR for all users,” it said.

    Additional help 

    However, despite extensive public consultations that included both written correspondence and in-person meetings over a period of a number of months, including the recent 30 days set aside explicitly for public consultation which ended at the end of May, some users had still not adequately prepared their systems to make use of the upgraded service. 

    “While a number of both public and private sector users have already proactively transitioned to the upgraded service, it is unfortunate that some users have not been as proactive. In particular, users that have been slower to make this critical transition have contacted the department to request assistance to avoid incurring higher costs, while they work to optimise their usage by moving as many verifications out of the R10 real-time queue to the off-peak queue, which attracts the lower charge of just R1.

    “In a gesture that reflects the department’s ongoing commitment to working in good faith with responsible users to repair the NPR, Home Affairs has decided to implement an additional measure to ensure cost effective fees for clients that have been slow to optimise their usage and are therefore not able to immediately take advantage of the new low-cost off-peak alternative,” it explained.

    While users must pay in terms of the new fee structure introduced by the amended regulations that went into effect on 1 July, the department has also provided an option for users to voluntarily elect to only have their usage costs incurred for the three-month period between 1 July and 30 September calculated at the end of October, based on their usage pattern during the month of October.

    “In effect, this means that the amount owed to Home Affairs will only be confirmed after users have had the three-month period to optimise their usage by moving as many verifications as possible out of the R10 real-time queue, into the R1 off-peak queue. 

    “Once the actual amount owed is calculated at the end of October, any amounts paid in excess of what would have been paid had usage been optimised from 1 July 2025, will be credited back to users,” said the department.

    Additionally, the department said that in terms of the lower-cost batch option, there is significant opportunity for cost savings. The intricacies of this can be dealt with by the department when interacting with users on verifications@dha.gov.za.

    “This measure not only reflects Home Affairs’ commitment to responsibly managing the transition process to ensure adequate investment in maintaining the new, world-class NPR verification service for many years to come, but also confirms that the new system and fee structure is working as intended,” said Home Affairs Minister, Dr Leon Schreiber.

    Clients that have been slow to optimise their usage and want to voluntarily make use of this measure to ensure that their transition to the upgraded service is as cost-effective as possible are encouraged to contact verifications@dha.gov.za. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

    July 8, 2025

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Greenpeace: Governments are not powerless in the face of deep sea miners colluding with Trump

    Source: Greenpeace Statement –

    Kingston, Jamaica – Governments still have a chance to protect the future of the deep ocean as the 30th Session of the International Seabed Authority (ISA) resumes today, with 37 now calling for a moratorium on deep sea mining – the only credible path to decisively resist predatory corporate seizure and prevent the irreversible harm the industry could unleash.

    This is the first time governments have gathered to discuss deep sea mining since The Metals Company (TMC) submitted the first ever application to commercially mine the international seabed. The move was encouraged by an executive order signed by US President Donald Trump aimed to fast-track deep-sea mining operations in both US and international waters, and has bolstered opposition to deep sea mining, not only to protect the environment but also to defend international cooperation and international law.[1]

    Greenpeace International campaigner Louisa Casson, who is attending the meeting, said: “We are witnessing the dangers that arise when nations take unilateral action without regard for collective consequences. We should learn from nature that ecosystems collapse without cooperation; our global systems are at risk when we fail to work together for the common good. The deep sea must not fall victim to predatory corporate seizure. It is time for governments at the ISA to commit to a moratorium—this is the only viable path to prevent the irreversible harm that deep-sea mining would unleash.”

    Nearly 200 governments have signed the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), often referred to as the “constitution of the ocean”, which establishes a global legal framework that prevents states from taking unilateral action to exploit them.

    In its latest financial filings, TMC acknowledged that many governments and the ISA are likely to view any deep sea mining permit issued under the Trump administration as a violation of international law.[2] This could result in lawsuits, being unable to sell minerals, and companies refusing to work with TMC throughout the supply chain. 

    Pressure is already mounting on Allseas, a company headquartered in Switzerland with significant presence in the Netherlands, who own the deep sea mining ship and machinery that TMC intends to rely on for commercial operations, and are also one of its largest shareholders. Last week, Greenpeace activists hung a banner from Allseas office in Delft, urging the company to break ties with Trump.[3]

    Recently, Dutch media reported that Climate Minister Sophie Hermans is raising concerns directly with Allseas over their involvement with TMC, while the Swiss government outlined its expectations for companies registered or active in Switzerland to follow international law and norms.[4][5] Allseas’ CEO has stated that the company “would not do anything illegal”.

    Moreover, TMC’s strategic collaboration with PAMCO is coming under new scrutiny, with the Japanese metal processing company admitting that it “consider(s) the establishment of the business via a route that has earned international credibility to be a material issue”.[6]

    The ISA risks caving in to corporate pressure with the President of the Council, H.E. Duncan Laki, circulating instructions to ISA parties to speed up discussions in an attempt to finalize a Mining Code by this year, which would pave the way for  commercial deep sea mining to begin in the international seabed.[7] These included strong limitations of intervention times or recourse to smaller meetings where observers were excluded. In response, Greenpeace has sent a letter to Secretary General Leticia Carvalho, warning that the ISA must not reward industry-led efforts to rush the adoption of the Mining Code.[8] Several governments have also voiced strong opposition, stating, “We categorically disassociate ourselves from any suggestion or interpretation that the Council is bound, legally or politically, to adopt the regulations by the end of the year.”[9] Other NGOs, Indigenous peoples and some States also addressed the issue.

    Louisa Casson added: “Governments are not powerless in the face of deep sea miners doing a doomed deal with Trump. They have both the authority and, now more than ever, the responsibility to act. With growing scientific concern, mounting public pressure, and unprecedented risks to fragile marine ecosystems, the time for courageous leadership is now”.

    ENDS

    Photos available in the Greenpeace Media Library

    Notes:

    [1] Trump’s executive order 

    [2] TMC’s Financial Fillings: “the announcement or implementation of this strategy may cause additional regulatory and political tensions, delay ISA decision-making, or impair our ability to secure or maintain exploration contracts or an exploitation contract under the ISA framework and may result in our need to engage in costly and time-consuming litigation to enforce our rights. In addition, UNCLOS parties and the ISA are under a legal obligation, under UNCLOS, not to recognise any commercial recovery permit issued to us under DSHMRA; many UNCLOS parties and the ISA are likely to regard such a permit as a violation of international law, including UNCLOS, which could affect international perceptions of the project, and could have implications for logistics, processing, and market access in UNCLOS parties for seabed minerals extracted under a US license and for downstream products containing them, or for partnerships involving foreign entities, and could also result in actions, pursuant to UNCLOS, against TMC under the national laws of UNCLOS parties, any or all of which could have a material adverse affect on our business, financial condition, liquidity, results of operations and prospects.”

    [3] Greenpeace Netherlands release

    [4] Dutch Cabinet raises concerns over Allseas 

    [5] Swiss government puts pressure on Allseas

    [6] Pacific Metals Company Financial Results Briefing 

    [7] Proposal by ISA President H.E. Duncan Laki

    [8] Letter to Secretary General Leticia Carvalho

    [9] Submission by Chile, Costa Rica and France 

    Contacts:

    Sol Gosetti, Media Coordinator for the Stop Deep Sea Mining campaign, Greenpeace International: +34 664029407, [email protected]

    Greenpeace International Press Desk: +31 (0) 20 718 2470 (available 24 hours), [email protected]

    MIL OSI NGO –

    July 8, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Further support for victims of crime

    Source: Scottish Government

    Victim Surcharge Fund opens for new applications.

    Organisations that support victims of crime can apply for a share of more than £700,000 from a fund financed by penalties imposed on offenders.

    More than 5,000 people have benefited from the Victim Surcharge Fund (VSF) since it was set up in 2019, with over £2.4 million awarded to 18 organisations.

    Support for victims can include help with essentials like food and clothing, repairs for property damaged as a result of crime, and emotional support.

    The fund has now opened for applications for the sixth time.

    Victims Minister Siobhian Brown said:

    “We know the impact of crime can be traumatic and it is absolutely right that offenders should be made to pay towards supporting victims. The additional support offered through the Victim Surcharge Fund is vital and allows support organisations to provide quick and practical help to victims and their relatives, covering costs, for example of emergency accommodation, food and clothing.

    “Although recorded crime is down significantly over the long term, I recognise that this is of little comfort for victims, which is why we will continue to put their needs at the heart of the criminal justice system. The Victim Surcharge Fund builds on our wider support which includes a significant package of reform proposed in the Victims, Witnesses, and Justice Reform Bill to ensure those impacted by crime are treated with compassion and their voices heard.”

    Michelle Herd, Chief Operating Officer and Co-Founder of Abernecessites, which has received funds from the Victim Surcharge Fund to support families fleeing domestic abuse said:

    “Feedback from the professionals we work with highlights the critical role of our service in preventing survivors from returning to abusive situations and addressing their concerns for their children’s well-being.

    “We have provided essentials such as clothing, school uniforms, shoes, bedding, storage units along with beds, kitchen essentials and white goods which were vital to enable families to move into a safe property or make their place of refuge homely. Having the basic essentials, even as simple as a child’s favourite toy that has been left behind can have a huge impact on the whole family.”

    Background

    The victim surcharge came into force in November 2019 and applies to those who commit an offence and are subsequently convicted and receive a court fine. Such offenders are charged an additional penalty – the victim surcharge. This is transferred to the VSF and distributed to organisations to supplement and enhance support for victims.

    The sixth round of applications for the VSF is now open. Organisations can request an application form by emailing VictimSurchargefund@gov.scot and should apply by 4 August 2025

    Victim Surcharge Fund: guidance – gov.scot

    Recorded Crime in Scotland, 2024-25 – gov.scot

    Victim Surcharge Fund – Annual Report – 2024-2025 – gov.scot

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    July 7, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New Prison Governor for the States of Jersey Prison Service07 July 2025 A new Prison Governor has been appointed to lead the States of Jersey Prison Service. Following a detailed selection process, Paul Yates OBE, the current Prison Governor at HMP Nottingham, will take… Read more

    Source: Channel Islands – Jersey

    07 July 2025

    A new Prison Governor has been appointed to lead the States of Jersey Prison Service.

    Following a detailed selection process, Paul Yates OBE, the current Prison Governor at HMP Nottingham, will take on the role from 1 September 2025, for a three-year term. 

    The selection process for the Prison Governor role was overseen by the Jersey Appointments Commission and involved a familiarisation day for candidates with a tour of HMP La Moye and a stakeholder discussion panel. 

    HMP Nottingham is a men’s Reception and Resettlement prison in the Sherwood area of Nottingham which serves courts in Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire. 

    Mr Yates began his criminal justice career in 1988, undertaking street-based youth work in Nottingham, joining the Nottinghamshire Probation Area in 1993 as a Relief Hostel Worker. He attended Nottingham Trent University from 1993 to 1996, leaving with a BSc Hons in Social Work and qualifying as a Probation Officer in 1996. 

    Mr Yates continued to work for Nottinghamshire Probation Area as a Probation Officer and Senior Probation Officer, during which time he gained an MSc in Criminology from Loughborough University. He transferred to the Derbyshire Probation Area in 2001 as Senior Probation Officer and latterly was promoted to Assistant Chief Probation Officer in 2003. His portfolio included responsibility for Derby City and South Derbyshire, Courts and Prisons. 

    In 2008, Mr Yates joined HM Prison Service on the Senior Prison Manager Programme, following which he was Deputy Governor at both HMP Sudbury & HMP & YOI Nottingham. In 2013, he was promoted to Governing Governor of HMP North Sea Camp, HMP & YOI Lincoln in 2016 and HMP Nottingham in 2022, where he remains today. 

    He has delivered custodial innovations and improvements at HMP & YOI Lincoln, including The Departure Lounge, Inmates Call Centre, reduced self-harm and violence through new debt strategy, and effective outcomes through close partnership with local charities. HMP Lincoln received its highest ever HMIP inspection score in 2019/2020 under Paul’s leadership. 

    Mr Yates was mentioned in Her Majesty the Queen, Birthday Honours list in 2021 and awarded an Order of the British Empire, OBE, medal for Services to Her Majesty’s Prison and Probation Services, Reducing Reoffending and Public Protection. He received his OBE in 2022 at Windsor Castle from His Royal Highness, The Prince of Wales, Prince William.

    Speaking about his appointment, Mr Yates said: “I am very pleased to take on this role. My priority is to build on the excellent work already in train by the team at HMP La Moye and I am looking forward to serving the States of Jersey, and the people of Jersey. At HMP Nottinghamshire I have pursued a passion for building a rehabilitative culture, reducing re-offending and public protection. 

    “I look forward to building on the work happening at La Moye and combining my skills and experience with that of the senior team at La Moye to ensure the best outcomes for all prisoners.” 

    Deputy Mary Le Hegarat, Minister for Justice and Home Affairs said: “I welcome Paul to the Justice and Home Affairs family in this important senior leadership role and look forward to the skills and experience he has built in his diverse career benefitting the States of Jersey Prison Service. Paul was chosen from a very strong field of external candidates. 

    “I would like to take this opportunity to thank Artur Soliwoda for the excellent role he has played as Acting Governor, leading HMP La Moye and the States of Jersey Prison Service.”​​

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    July 7, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Islanders urged to stay vigilant of counterfeit pet medicines 7 July 2025 Islanders urged to stay vigilant after toxic chemicals discovered in counterfeit pet medicines

    Source: Aisle of Wight

    Pet owners on the Isle of Wight are being urged to take extra care when buying flea and worm treatments online, following a national warning about dangerous counterfeit products that have already caused serious harm to animals.

    The Intellectual Property Office (IPO) and the Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) have issued an urgent alert after a cat required emergency surgery due to poisoning from a fake flea treatment.

    Tests revealed the product contained pirimiphos-methyl, a toxic insecticide that is highly dangerous to cats.

    While the incident occurred on the mainland, authorities are warning that counterfeit pet medicines are being sold across the UK, including through popular e-commerce platforms accessible to Island residents.

    Counterfeit treatments often mimic the packaging of trusted brands like FRONTLINE® but may contain harmful chemicals or lack active ingredients altogether. Warning signs include:

    • spelling mistakes or foreign languages on packaging;
    • unusual smells (such as white spirit or paraffin);
    • difficulty opening the packaging;
    • suspiciously low prices.

    “Pirimiphos-methyl is toxic to cats. Exposure to this insecticide can prevent the cat’s body from breaking down a substance called acetylcholine, leading to an overstimulation of the cat’s nervous system. 

    “This can cause symptoms such as vomiting, uncoordinated gait, muscle tremors, weakness, paralysis, increased sensitivity to touch, difficulty breathing, restlessness, urinary incontinence, low heart rate and seizures.

    “In some cases, even death can sadly occur. If you suspect your pet has been exposed to a counterfeit medicine, seek veterinary advice immediately.”  

    Island pet owners are encouraged to remain cautious when purchasing treatments for their animals. Always buy from trusted sources — ideally your local vet or a reputable retailer — rather than unknown third-party sellers online.

    When you receive a product, take a moment to inspect the packaging carefully. Look out for anything unusual, such as spelling mistakes, missing information, or strange smells, which could indicate a counterfeit.

    If you see these goods being offered for sale, whether on a website, social media post or on the high street, contact Trading Standards or Crimestoppers online or by calling 0800 555 111.

    In 2024 alone, the VMD seized over 18,000 illegal animal medicines and supplements. One online seller had already distributed over 200 batches of fake treatments before being shut down.

    James Potter, Trading Standards and community safety manager at the Isle of Wight Council, said: “The appeal of cheaper goods may seem tempting, but counterfeit goods will be of a very poor quality and will not have gone through the same amount of rigorous testing as genuine products.

    “The consequences of counterfeit goods have a serious impact and in addition, the purchase of illegal goods helps to fund other criminality. It also harms our local, honest businesses.

    “If you’re aware of counterfeit goods being sold, please report this to Trading Standards where we will use our range of enforcement powers to remove them from the market and pursue further action through the courts if required.”

    If you have you been personally affected by a poisoning case, you should report through the Veterinary Poisons Information Service (VPIS) questionnaire.

    If you encounter suspicious veterinary medicines or retailers, please also report them to the VMD Enforcement Team. (You can do so anonymously if preferred):

    Photo shows Smokey, a beloved cat who nearly died after being treated with a fake flea product bought online.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    July 7, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Prime Minister and Home Secretary mark 20th anniversary of 7/7

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 3

    News story

    Prime Minister and Home Secretary mark 20th anniversary of 7/7

    The Prime Minister and Home Secretary have paid tribute to victims and survivors of the 7/7 attacks and will join the nation in marking the 20th anniversary.

    Memorials will be held throughout the day alongside victims, survivors, loved ones and first responders to remember the 52 people killed and hundreds of others injured in the attacks.

    Ahead of the anniversary, the Prime Minister Keir Starmer said:

    Today the whole country will unite to remember the lives lost in the 7/7 attacks, and all those whose lives were changed forever.

    We honour the courage shown that day—the bravery of the emergency services, the strength of survivors, and the unity of Londoners in the face of terror.

    Those who tried to divide us failed. We stood together then, and we stand together now—against hate and for the values that define us of freedom, democracy and the rule of law.

    Marking 20 years, the Home Secretary, Yvette Cooper, said:

    Twenty years have passed since 7/7 but the passage of time makes what happened that day no less shocking. It was an appalling attack on our capital city and on democracy itself.

    As we come together to mark this anniversary, my thoughts remain with the victims, survivors and all who loved them. Amid the horror of that day, we saw the best of people, our emergency services, first responders and ordinary Londoners who bravely acted to help one another. Their courage continues to inspire us.

    We will always confront the threats facing this country to keep the public safe and preserve our way of life.

    The anniversary of a terrorist attack can re-trigger trauma for victims and survivors of terrorism. If you, or someone you know has been affected by terrorism, support is available at gov.uk/victimsofterrorism.

    The government has taken action to deliver strengthened support for victims and survivors of terrorism, announcing plans for a new dedicated support hub to help victims recover and rebuild their lives. Proposals for a new national day for victims and survivors of terrorism have also been consulted on, helping the country to remember and honour victims.

    The public will also be better protected through strengthened security of public events and venues following the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act, better known as Martyn’s Law, receiving royal assent in April.

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    Updates to this page

    Published 7 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    July 7, 2025
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