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Category: Law

  • MIL-OSI Security: Buckhannon Man Indicted on Child Pornography Charges

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

    WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – David Walter McCauley has been indicted by a federal grand jury on child pornography charges, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.

    McCauley, age 66 of Buckhannon, West Virginia, is charged with two counts of production and one count of possession of child pornography. The indictment alleges that McCauley enticed a 17-year-old boy to engage in sexually explicit conduct for photo and video production. The indictment further charges McCauley with knowingly possessing illegal images on his computer.

    “As alleged, David McCauley produced child pornography involving a juvenile boy on multiple occasions,” said U.S. Attorney Ihlenfeld. “Those who prey upon and exploit our youth will be held accountable, no matter their status in the community.”

    McCauley faces at least 15 years and up to 30 years in prison for each of the production charges and up to 10 years on the possession charge. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Kimberley Crockett is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government.

    The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Pittsburgh Police Department, and the Upshur County Sheriff’s Office.

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

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

    MIL Security OSI –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: FBI Philadelphia Highlights Cyber Safety during National Cybersecurity Awareness Month

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

    October is National Cybersecurity Awareness Month and FBI Philadelphia wants to remind the public of important cyber safety tips to protect themselves all year long.

    National Cybersecurity Awareness Month is hosted every October by the Department of Homeland Security and the National Cyber Security Alliance. Agencies including the FBI have joined this initiative to raise awareness about cybersecurity, and provide tips the public can take to mitigate cybercrime and protect themselves and their systems.

    “Our daily lives occur online: from staying connected with family and friends to shopping, banking, and even working remotely,” said Wayne A. Jacobs, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Philadelphia. “It it critical we all take steps to navigate the Internet safely and to protect ourselves from cyber criminals lurking behind a reused password, a misleading hyperlink, or an outdated operating system.”

    Protecting our digitally connected world is a priority for the FBI, but it is not something we can do alone. There are important steps everyone can take to protect themselves when navigating the online landscape.

    Below are some cyber safety tips anyone can implement:

    • Keep systems and software up to date and install a strong, reputable anti-virus program.
    • Be careful when connecting to a public Wi-Fi network and do not conduct any sensitive transactions, including purchases, when on a public network.
    • Create a strong and unique passphrase for each online account.
    • Set up multi-factor authentication on all accounts that allow it.
    • Examine the e-mail address in all correspondence and scrutinize website URLs before responding to a message or visiting a site
    • Don’t click on anything in unsolicited e-mails or text messages.
    • Be cautious about the information you share in online profiles and social media accounts. Sharing things like pet names, schools, and family members can give scammers the hints they need to guess your passwords or the answers to your account security questions.
    • Don’t send payments to unknown people or organizations that are seeking monetary support and urge immediate action.

    The Internet Crime Complaint Center, or IC3, is the FBI’s central hub for reporting cybercrimes. In addition to filing a complaint through IC3, you can view public service announcements and consumer alerts published by the FBI on the emerging and current cybercrime trends impacting the public.

    If you are the victim of a cyber-enabled crime or fraud, file a report with the Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) as soon as possible at ic3.gov.

    FBI Philadelphia can be reached at (215) 418-4000.

    MIL Security OSI –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Pittsburgh Felon Charged with Escape and Bank Robbery

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

    PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A former resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of escape and bank robbery, United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan announced today.

    The two-count Indictment named John J. Flick, 58, as the sole defendant.

    According to the Indictment, on September 2, 2024, Flick left a halfway house in Pittsburgh, where he was serving out a previous sentence for a 2021 bank robbery. The Indictment further alleges that, on the following day, Flick robbed a bank in Dormont.

    The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to 25 years in prison, a fine of up to $500,000, or both. Under the federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history of the defendant.

    Assistant United States Attorney Shaun E. Sweeney is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

    The Federal Bureau of Investigation, United States Marshals Service, and Allegheny County Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment.

    An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

    MIL Security OSI –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Vice President of Asphalt Paving Company Pleads Guilty to Bid Rigging

    Source: US State Government of Utah

    Sixth Individual Pleads Guilty in Ongoing Investigation of Collusion in Michigan-Area Asphalt Industry

    A senior executive of a Michigan asphalt paving company pleaded guilty today for his role in two separate conspiracies to rig bids for asphalt paving services contracts in Michigan.

    According to court documents, David A. Coppola, vice president of Taylor-based Al’s Asphalt Paving Company Inc. (Al’s Asphalt), conspired with Asphalt Specialists LLC (ASI), F. Allied Construction Company Inc. (Allied) and employees from those companies to rig their bids. Coppola participated in the two conspiracies from March 2013 through November 2018, and from June 2013 through June 2019, respectively.

    Today’s guilty plea is the ninth in the Antitrust Division’s ongoing investigation into collusion in the Michigan asphalt paving industry. Coppola’s employer, Al’s Asphalt, and its president pleaded guilty in January, and, in 2023, Allied and two of its executives pleaded guilty, as did ASI and two of its former executives. On July 31, Al’s Asphalt was sentenced to pay a fine of $795,661.31.

    In both charged conspiracies, the co-conspirators coordinated each other’s bid prices so that the agreed-upon losing company submitted intentionally non-competitive bids. These bids gave customers the false impression of competition when, in fact, the co-conspirators had already decided who would win the contracts.

    “Americans expect and deserve the benefits of competitive markets — including for vital aspects of our transportation infrastructure like asphalt paving services,” said Director of Criminal Enforcement Emma M. Burnham of the Justice Department’s Antitrust Division. “The division and our law enforcement partners will continue to hold accountable executives who seek to profit at the expense of consumers.”

    “The Department of Transportation Office of Inspector General (DOT OIG) continues to work closely with our law enforcement partners and the Justice Department’s Antitrust Division to target individuals who knowingly participate in bid rigging and other anti-competitive activities,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Anthony Licari of DOT OIG’s Midwestern Region. “Today’s guilty plea shows our commitment to bringing to justice those who engage in illegal and unfair practices that adversely impact transportation projects.”

    “Activities related to bid-rigging and collusion do not promote an environment conducive to open competition which harms the consumer,” said Executive Special Agent in Charge Kenneth Cleevely of the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) Office of Inspector General. “The guilty plea in this case represents a win for all law enforcement agencies who investigate those who engage in this type of harmful conduct to ensure that justice is served.”

    Coppola pleaded guilty to two counts of violating Section One of the Sherman Act. Coppola faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and a $1 million fine. The fine may be increased to twice the gain derived from the crime or twice the loss suffered by the victims of the crime if either amount is greater than the statutory maximum fine. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    The Antitrust Division’s Chicago Office and Offices of Inspectors General for the DOT and USPS investigated the case, as part of an ongoing operation investigating bid rigging and other anticompetitive conduct in the asphalt paving services industry.

    Anyone with information in connection with this investigation should contact the Antitrust Division’s Complaint Center at 888-647-3258 or visit http://www.justice.gov/atr/report-violations.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Russian Man Sentenced for Running an Illegal Money Transmitting Business

    Source: US State Government of Utah

    Feliks Medvedev, 43, of Buford, Georgia, was sentenced today to three years and 10 months in prison, followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $10,000 fine for conducting an unlicensed money transmitting business which transferred over $150 million in Russian money. 

    According to the court documents and other information presented in court, Medvedev is a Russian citizen who resides in North Georgia. He registered eight companies in Georgia that were used to transmit more than $150 million in over 1,300 transactions. The companies were purportedly headquartered in Buford and Dacula, Georgia, but they did not have typical business expenses or employees. The money was used, in part, to purchase over $65 million in overseas gold bullion. Medvedev transferred millions of dollars overseas from multiple bank accounts in the United States.

    As part of the conspiracy, Medvedev worked with a Russian company and was directed by multiple Russian nationals at that company to make illegal transfers of funds. Subsequent to Medvedev’s indictment, on Sept. 14, 2023, the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control, acting pursuant to Executive Order 14024, sanctioned two of Medvedev’s alleged co-conspirators: Russian national Alexey Chubarov and his company KSK Group. Earlier this year, on Feb. 13, Chubarov, KSK Group and Russian national Lev Solyannikov were separately indicted in the Northern District of Georgia for conspiring with Medvedev.

    Medvedev was convicted of the charges on Feb. 7, after he pleaded guilty.

    The FBI and the Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Industry and Security are investigating the case.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Christopher J. Huber and Norman L. Barnett for the Northern District of Georgia are prosecuting the case.

    This case was coordinated through the Justice Department’s Task Force KleptoCapture, an interagency law enforcement task force dedicated to enforcing the sweeping sanctions, export controls and economic countermeasures that the United States, along with its foreign allies and partners, has imposed in response to Russia’s unprovoked military invasion of Ukraine. Announced by the Attorney General on March 2, 2022, and under the leadership of the Office of the Deputy Attorney General, the task force will continue to leverage all of the department’s tools and authorities to combat efforts to evade or undermine the collective actions taken by the U.S. government in response to Russian military aggression.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Op Orca — smishing scam smashed

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    A sophisticated smishing scam using technology never before seen in New Zealand has been disrupted in a coordinated, multi-agency effort, preventing widescale financial losses.

    The Department of Internal Affairs (DIA) Digital Messaging and Systems Team was alerted to the scam in late July after irregularities were identified between information received via DIA’s 7726 public reporting system and banking and mobile network early warning systems.

    Police and DIA, supported by other government agencies, the banking and mobile phone sectors as well as Australia’s AFP-led Joint Policing Cybercrime Coordination Centre, quickly launched Operation Orca.

    A search warrant was executed at a residential address in central Auckland on Friday 23 August, resulting in the arrest of a 19-year-old man and the seizure of a smishing device.

    The device, known as an SMS Blaster, is a false cell tower which tricks nearby mobile devices into connecting to a fraudulent network.

    Smishing, which is a form of phishing, involves the SMS Blaster sending fraudulent text messages purporting to be from banks to trick people into sharing or verifying sensitive information, such as passwords or credit card details.

    Police National Organised Crime Group Director Detective Superintendent Greg Williams says this is the first time an SMS Blaster has been found operating in New Zealand.

    “By working together, we have been able to counter this technology, locate the alleged offender and prevent what could have been large-scale financial losses for many New Zealanders.

    “The device in question is believed to have sent thousands of scam text messages, including around 700 in one night.

    “The text claimed the recipient’s bank account was being checked for fraudulent funds and urged them to click a verification link.

    “This redirected the recipient to phishing sites, imitating official bank domains, where unsuspecting customers then entered their personal details, including customer ID and password.

    “Almost 120 people are known to have been affected, however, I’m pleased to say no financial losses have been reported.

    “Cyber-enabled scams are becoming increasingly prevalent, with unscrupulous fraudsters stopping at nothing in their attempts to swindle innocent people out of their hard-earned money.

    “NZ Police recognise the life-changing impact of financial crime and will continue to work closely with partner agencies and private industries to keep New Zealanders safe.”

    DIA Manager Digital Messaging Joe Teo says this operation is a great example of government and industry working in fast-paced unison to achieve a single goal, protecting New Zealanders.

    “We will continue to work closely with our domestic and international partners to combat the spread of harmful SMS messages.

    “If you receive a scam SMS text message, please report it free of charge by forwarding the message to 7726 and following the prompts.”

    Telecommunications Forum CEO Paul Brislen says the speed of the response is good news for consumers.

    “By working closely with banking and law enforcement we were able to identify and react quickly to this new threat, potentially saving thousands of customers from fraudulent activity.”

    ANZ NZ’s Head of Customer Protection Alan Thomsen says the bank continues to monitor all customer transactional activity in real time to minimise risk and loss to their customers.

    “This smishing scam is the latest version of one that has been around for several years, and sadly won’t be the last.

    “ANZ will never send our customers text messages asking them to click on a link to log into internet banking or provide their customer information.”

    ASB Executive General Manager for Technology and Operations David Bullock says the nature of this scam shows how important cross-sector collaboration is to keep New Zealanders safe.

    “No one industry can solve the problem of scams working alone.

    “We remind New Zealanders to exercise caution, not click on links in text messages, or provide personal information, log-in details or transfer any money after receiving a cold call or text message.  

    “If you think your account has been compromised, call your bank as soon as possible on its publicly listed phone number.”

    The arrested man has been charged with interfering with a computer system and is due to reappear in Auckland District Court on Tuesday 10 December 2024.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Loudermilk Highlights DoD IG Report Flaws, Sets Record Straight on January 6, 2021 National Guard Delay

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Barry Loudermilk (R-GA)

    Washington D.C. (September 25, 2024) | This week, Rep. Barry Loudermilk (GA-11), Chairman of the House Administration Committee’s Oversight Subcommittee, held time on the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives, where he highlighted the flaws within the DoD IG’s report of the events of January 6, 2021.

    TOP TAKEAWAYS:

    President Trump ordered Senior DoD leaders to “make sure it was safe,” a directive which they ignored.

    In newly obtained DoD IG transcripts, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Mark Milley, specifically recalled a conversation between the Acting Secretary of Defense, Chris Miller, and President Trump, where the President gave directives for them to ENSURE they had “sufficient National Guard or Active duty soldiers to make it a safe event” and to “do whatever you have to do, just make sure it’s safe.”

    In turn, President Trump was told by Secretary Miller that they had a plan, and they’ll have it covered. DESPITE this directive from the President, Miller, in his DoD IG interview, dismissed it, stating: “I interpreted it as President Trump banter.”
     
    According to D.C. National Guard Commanding General William Walker, had he been present at this meeting, he would have interpreted the President’s directive with greater urgency. And yet, these facts were HIDDEN from the American public for years by this Administration. 
     
    The January 6 Select Committee claimed that he wanted the chaos, they pushed that he called for an insurrection, but nothing could be further from the truth. 

    DoD Officials were concerned about the “optics” of having soldiers at the Capitol.

    Director of the Army Staff, Lieutenant General Walter Piatt later would say: “was optics a concern for us as we prepared to use soldiers downtown in Washington D.C? Absolutely.”

    As “optics” concerns were being discussed and Secretary McCarthy claimed he was ‘developing a plan’, the D.C. National Guard was ready to move, less than 2 miles from the Capitol – awaiting Secretary McCarthy’s authorization. During these crucial hours, Secretary McCarthy stated a concept of operations plan or “CONOP” was being developed – yet McCarthy never communicated with the Capitol Police nor D.C. National Guard

    What’s more, the National Guard already had a plan. Secretary McCarthy had previously observed rehearsals of the National Guard executing a Civil Disturbance mission. Therefore, McCarthy used this CONOP as a delay tactic as he knew that the D.C. National Guard was prepared to execute this mission.

    Over 2 hours were wasted to allegedly develop his “plan,” and to this day, his CONOP has never been produced. Why has no one, including the DoD IG, seen this alleged “plan?” You don’t have to be the Secretary of the Army to see this for what it was: a way to delay the deployment of the National Guard—who was ready and waiting less than two miles from the Capitol.

    The DoD IG knew there were inconsistencies in their report, and published it anyways.

    Army Secretary Ryan McCarthy was asked specifically about his actions following Miller’s 3:04pm order by the Select Committee, multiple Senate Committees, and the DoD IG. When asked by the DoD IG in March 2021, Secretary McCarthy stated that one of his staff conveyed the order to deploy to the DC National Guard within minutes of Miller’s verbal order.

    The DOD IG report alleged that McCarthy personally conveyed this order to deploy within minutes without explanation or providing evidence to support this assertion. Major General Walker, the DC National Guard Commanding General has consistently refuted that any order was relayed at 3:04pm.

    Almost one year later in testimony to the Select Committee, McCarthy testified that he completed his “CONOP” around 4:35pm and called Sec Def Miller and received his approval. In testimony to the Select Committee when asked about the 4:35pm call McCarthy finally admitted that he never directly spoke to Major General Walker at 4:35pm.

    Instead, Secretary McCarthy changed his story and told the Select Committee that a member of his staff who “had the authority to speak as the Secretary of the Army” was communicating with the D.C. National Guard on his behalf on January 6. This revision to his previous version of events is significant. The individual McCarthy claimed made this call “on his behalf” testified to the DoD IG that it was Secretary McCarthy who conveyed the order at 4:35pm.
     
    Let me pause here. The conflicting testimony raises serious doubts about the actions of numerous senior DoD officials failing to follow direct orders resulting in the delayed deployment of the DC National Guard. The ONLY reason Congress is now aware of these significant conflicting versions of events is because of the courageous DC National Guardsmen who testified in front of my Subcommittee, AND because my Subcommittee forced the DoD IG to produce the witness interviews revealing these conflicting versions of events which I’ve now shared publicly. 

    As Secretary McCarthy’s story changed, it started to align with Major General Walker’s testimony. Yet the DoD IG report alleged that General Walker’s congressional testimony was untrue or “mischaracterized” without any evidence to support an allegation that Walker committed perjury.

    Whistleblowers alerted to the flaws in the DoD IG report.

    In April 2024, members of the National Guard came forward as Whistleblowers to set the record straight. Risking their own careers, these Whistleblowers came forward to ensure the name and reputation of the men and women of the National Guard would not be tarnished. 

    The D.C. National Guard is the only military organization within the Department of Defense over which the President of the United States has direct and immediate command authority. The President’s command authority has been delegated to the Secretary of Defense, and the Secretary of Defense has further delegated operational control of the D.C. National Guard to the Secretary of the Army.

    On January 6, 2021, the D.C. National Guard reported to the Secretary of the Army, Ryan McCarthy. On January 5, Secretary McCarthy, took it upon himself to place unprecedented restrictions on the D.C. National Guard to prevent any movement to the Capitol without his explicit permission.

    This tied the hands of the National Guard and placed sole tactical and operational command of their movements in the hands of McCarthy.

    To watch Rep. Loudermilk’s full remarks on the U.S. House floor, click here.

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

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cortez Masto, Rosen Announce Over $20 Million to Improve Public Safety

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Nevada Cortez Masto
    Grant funding breakdown available here.
    Las Vegas, Nev. – Today, U.S. Senators Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), and Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.) announced more than $20 million in new federal funding they secured to improve public safety in Nevada. These funds from the Department of Justice (DOJ) will support state, local, and Tribal law enforcement, courts, and services for victims of crime and abuse across Nevada. The full list of DOJ grants Sens. Cortez Masto and Rosen helped secure is available here.
     “Every Nevadan deserves to feel safe in their home and in their community, and that’s what this funding is about,” said Cortez Masto. “I will always stand proudly with law enforcement and advocates in Nevada to hold criminals accountable, keep our communities safe, and deliver the support and justice that victims deserve.”
    “One of my top priorities in the U.S. Senate is to deliver the resources to keep Nevada families safe,” said Senator Rosen. “This funding will help advance public safety, support victims, and fight crime across our state – including in our rural and Tribal communities. I’ll always work across the aisle to support our law enforcement and public safety.”
    Senators Cortez Masto and Rosen consistently push for the resources Nevada’s law enforcement community needs. Last week, they announced nearly $1 million in COPS funding for Nevada police, on top of the $1 million in COPS funding they secured in 2023. Recently, they also highlighted nearly $1 million in federal community project funding to provide mental health training and support to thousands of firefighters, law enforcement officers, and first responders. Both Senators also helped reauthorize the Violence Against Women Act last year, which provides critical support to victims of domestic violence across the country.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Shaheen, Collins Applaud Senate Passage of Bipartisan Resolution to Establish October 2nd as Energy Efficiency Day

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Hampshire Jeanne Shaheen
    (Washington, DC) – U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Susan Collins (R-ME) announced their bipartisan resolution to designate today, October 2, 2024, as Energy Efficiency Day passed the Senate unanimously. The resolution celebrates and promotes the economic and environmental benefits gained from investing in energy efficiency.
    “Investing in energy efficiency benefits our environment, our businesses and Granite State families,” said Senator Shaheen. “I’m proud the Senate passed our bipartisan resolution designating today as Energy Efficiency Day and celebrating the key role energy efficiency programs play in creating jobs, lowering costs for families and reducing our carbon footprint.”
    “The adoption of energy efficient practices saves consumers in Maine and across the country money,” said Senator Collins. “This resolution is an important reminder of the significant advancements we have made in energy efficiency over the past decade, most recently through the bipartisan infrastructure law.”
    The text of the Senators’ resolution can be found HERE.
    Co-sponsoring the resolution are U.S. Senators Chris Coons (D-DE), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Jack Reed (D-RI), Joe Manchin (I-WV), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Peter Welch (D-VT), Angus King (I-ME), Tina Smith (D-MN), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Richard Durbin (D-IL), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Ed Markey (D-MA), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Sherrod Brown (D-OH), Mark Warner (D-VA) and Amy Klobuchar (D-MN).
    Shaheen has championed work to secure federal investments in clean energy and energy efficiency initiatives and to lower energy costs across New Hampshire. In the FY24 government funding bills, Shaheen helped defend key efficiency programs at the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) from cuts, including securing $366 million for weatherization efforts and $66 million for the State Energy Program, which works to bring down energy bills for families and communities. Shaheen also secured continued support for the annual U.S. Energy and Employment Report (USEER) that tracks key jobs data in the energy sector.
    Recently, Shaheen, as Chair of the U.S. Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, hosted a field hearing and resource fair at the University of New Hampshire in Manchester on  investments in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and the Inflation Reduction Act that can help small businesses lower their energy costs, transition to the clean energy economy and build resilience. Following the field hearing, small businesses participated in a resource fair and met with federal agencies and state business support programs.
    Shaheen was a lead negotiator of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which made huge investments in energy efficiency, including $550 million for Industrial Research and Assessment Centers and assistance for small- and medium-sized manufacturers to implement efficiency upgrades based upon her longstanding bipartisan legislation with former U.S. Senator Rob Portman. Granite Staters looking for energy efficiency resources can check out Senator Shaheen’s Federal Energy Resource Guide.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Costa, Bipartisan Colleagues Introduce Legislation to Expand the Use of Hydrogen to Lower Costs and Reduce Emissions

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jim Costa Representing 16th District of California

    FRESNO, Calif. – U.S. Representatives Jim Costa (CA-21), Eric Sorensen (IL-17), Marc Molinaro (NY-19), Nikki Budzinski (IL-13), and Don Bacon (NE-02) introduced the bipartisan Hydrogen for Industry Act, which creates a program for hydrogen to be used to produce building materials such as steel, cement, glass, chemicals, and fuel.  

    “I am proud to introduce this bipartisan legislation to provide funds for demonstration projects that will showcase hydrogen’s ability to decarbonize the manufacturing, transportation, and agricultural industries,” said Costa. “Sustained investment in hydrogen is necessary to bolster U.S. energy independence and further efforts to cut greenhouse gas emissions in half by 2035.” 

    BACKGROUND
    Hydrogen energy will play an important role as we transition the industrial and transportation sectors to a carbon net-zero future. By promoting the use of hydrogen, the United States can reduce pollution, lower costs for consumers, and help our nation remain competitive in the growing hydrogen economy.     

    The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law authorized $8 billion to develop large-scale hydrogen production programs across the country. Since 2021, there have been major investments in California’s 21st Congressional District, including $24 million for hydrogen-powered buses in Fresno, CA. 

    Costa has been a champion for dairy digesters, and there are over 15 digesters in his district that have allowed dairy farms to advance their sustainability goals and provide a key feedstock for hydrogen production.

    The Hydrogen for Industry Act builds on the Bipartisan Infrastructure law by supporting the development of hydrogen as an emissions reduction solution, including: 

    • Establishing a commercial-scale demonstration program for hydrogen use in heavy industry.
    • Providing competitive grants to hydrogen demonstrations in industries such as iron and steel, cement, chemicals, and refining, among other industrial products.
    • Directing the Secretary of Energy, Secretary of Commerce, and Secretary of Transportation to jointly conduct a study on the impact, cost, and safety. 

     
    The bipartisan Senate version of the bill, S.646, the Hydrogen for Industry Act of 2023, was introduced on March 2, 2023, by Senators John Cornyn (R-TX), Chris Coons (D-DE), Bill Cassidy (R-LA), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), and Ben Ray Luján (D-NM).  

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Russian Man Sentenced for Running an Illegal Money Transmitting Business

    Source: United States Attorneys General

    Feliks Medvedev, 43, of Buford, Georgia, was sentenced today to three years and 10 months in prison, followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $10,000 fine for conducting an unlicensed money transmitting business which transferred over $150 million in Russian money. 

    According to the court documents and other information presented in court, Medvedev is a Russian citizen who resides in North Georgia. He registered eight companies in Georgia that were used to transmit more than $150 million in over 1,300 transactions. The companies were purportedly headquartered in Buford and Dacula, Georgia, but they did not have typical business expenses or employees. The money was used, in part, to purchase over $65 million in overseas gold bullion. Medvedev transferred millions of dollars overseas from multiple bank accounts in the United States.

    As part of the conspiracy, Medvedev worked with a Russian company and was directed by multiple Russian nationals at that company to make illegal transfers of funds. Subsequent to Medvedev’s indictment, on Sept. 14, 2023, the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control, acting pursuant to Executive Order 14024, sanctioned two of Medvedev’s alleged co-conspirators: Russian national Alexey Chubarov and his company KSK Group. Earlier this year, on Feb. 13, Chubarov, KSK Group and Russian national Lev Solyannikov were separately indicted in the Northern District of Georgia for conspiring with Medvedev.

    Medvedev was convicted of the charges on Feb. 7, after he pleaded guilty.

    The FBI and the Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Industry and Security are investigating the case.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Christopher J. Huber and Norman L. Barnett for the Northern District of Georgia are prosecuting the case.

    This case was coordinated through the Justice Department’s Task Force KleptoCapture, an interagency law enforcement task force dedicated to enforcing the sweeping sanctions, export controls and economic countermeasures that the United States, along with its foreign allies and partners, has imposed in response to Russia’s unprovoked military invasion of Ukraine. Announced by the Attorney General on March 2, 2022, and under the leadership of the Office of the Deputy Attorney General, the task force will continue to leverage all of the department’s tools and authorities to combat efforts to evade or undermine the collective actions taken by the U.S. government in response to Russian military aggression.

    MIL Security OSI –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Sixty-Eight Defendants Charged in Indictment of Dozens of Members and Associates of California White Supremacist Gang

    Source: United States Attorneys General

    Federal and local law enforcement today arrested 42 members and associates of the SFV Peckerwoods, a San Fernando Valley, California-based white supremacist street gang, on a 76-count federal grand jury indictment alleging they engaged in a years-long pattern of racketeering activity that included trafficking of drugs — including fentanyl — illegal firearms possession, and COVID-19 benefits and loan fraud.

    “The Justice Department has dealt a decisive blow to the San Fernando Valley (SFV) Peckerwoods, a violent white supremacist gang that we charge is responsible for trafficking deadly fentanyl and other drugs, committing robberies, and perpetrating financial fraud to fund both their criminal enterprise and that of the Aryan Brotherhood,” said Attorney General Merrick B. Garland. “With today’s charges and arrests, the Justice Department, together with our state, local, and federal partners has targeted the heart of this gang’s operations, and we will continue to zero in on the criminal enterprises that endanger our communities.”

    The indictment unsealed today charges a total of 68 defendants with a score of federal crimes: conspiracy to violate the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) Act, conspiracy to distribute controlled substances, distribution of controlled substances, bank fraud, conspiracy to commit bank fraud, aggravated identity theft, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition by a felon, and possession of 15 or more unauthorized access devices.

    The defendants arrested today are expected to be arraigned this afternoon in U.S. District Court in downtown Los Angeles.

    During the investigation, law enforcement seized large quantities of illegal firearms, and dozens of pounds of fentanyl, methamphetamine, and heroin, according to the indictment.

    “The Peckerwoods’ violent white-supremacist ideology and wide-ranging criminal activity pose a grave menace to our community,” said U.S. Attorney Martin Estrada for the Central District of California. “By allegedly engaging in everything from drug-trafficking to firearms offenses to identity theft to COVID fraud, and through their alliance with a neo-Nazi prison gang, the Peckerwoods are a destructive force. In prosecuting the members of the Peckerwoods criminal organization, our office is carrying out its mission to protect the public from the most dangerous threats.”

    “This operation, led by our Joint Terrorism Task Force, disrupted a racially motivated violent extremist group who engaged in a wide range of criminal activity,” said Assistant Director in Charge Akil Davis of the FBI Los Angeles Field Office. “This case strikes at the heart of our collective mission to rid our communities of the corrosive elements that fuel violence and extremism that greatly impact our way of life. The FBI, along with our federal, state, and local partners, remains strongly committed to working every day to make sure the people of the Southland remain safe.”

    “The San Fernando Valley Peckerwoods, the Aryan Brotherhood, and their associates are fused by one thing: hatred,” said Special Agent in Charge Matthew Allen of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Los Angeles Field Division. “It appears, however, that the business of hate was not enough for them. Driven by greed, they engaged in other crimes, including drug distribution, pushing out deadly fentanyl onto our streets. Operating from corners of the San Fernando Valley, they conducted their crimes within and beyond the 8-1-8 community. Today’s large-scale indictments and arrests reflect our relentless commitment to dismantling criminal organizations that continue to harm our communities.”

    According to the indictment that a grand jury returned on Sept. 26, the Peckerwoods is a street gang based in communities in the San Fernando Valley whose members engage in a wide variety of criminal activity, including drug trafficking, violent crime, and fraud. As a white supremacist gang, the Peckerwoods at times takes orders from the Aryan Brotherhood, California’s dominant prison-based white supremacist gang, and maintains an alliance with the Mexican Mafia prison gang, which controls most Latino street gangs in California. The Peckerwoods use Nazi tattoos, graffiti, and iconography to indicate their violent white supremacy extremist ideology. These tattoos and iconography include swastikas, the symbol “88”, used by violent white supremacy extremists as code for “Heil Hitler”, and images of Nazi aircraft.

    Members and associates of the gang used social media to share information with each other about their criminal activities and gang rules, to identify gang members in good standing, and to target people who broke the gang’s rules. The social media use included a members-only Facebook group and private, direct messages between the gang’s members and associates.

    From at least December 2016 to September, Peckerwoods members conducted and participated in the affairs of their criminal enterprise by engaging in violence and threats of violence to preserve and expand the gang’s criminal operations, which promoted a climate of fear. Members and associates of the gang illegally maintained firearms and ammunition in furtherance of these aims.

    To generate revenue for the gang, its members trafficked narcotics, including fentanyl, heroin, and methamphetamine. Specifically, lead defendant Claire Patricia Haviland, 62, of Chatsworth, California, and co-defendants Brian Glenn Ekelund, 53, of Chatsworth, and Brianne Brewer, 38, of North Hollywood, California, maintained and oversaw drug stash houses where large quantities of fentanyl, heroin, methamphetamine, and other drugs were stored prior to distribution. Haviland and Ekelund allegedly mailed illegal drugs to customers and used applications such as Zelle and CashApp to receive money from drug buyers and send money to their drug sources.

    They also generated revenue via robberies and financial fraud and participated in identity theft schemes. For example, from at least March 2021 to July 2023, defendants Sean Craig Gluckman, 35, of Encino, California; Maria Anna James, 30, of Canyon Country, California; and others submitted false and fraudulent applications for the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), which was designed to aid businesses harmed by the economic fallout from the COVID-19 pandemic. The defendants – posing as sole proprietors – signed fraudulent PPP loan applications on behalf of individuals incarcerated in California state prisons and collected a portion of the fraudulently obtained proceeds from co-conspirators as payment for their assistance.

    In April 2021, Gluckman submitted an application that falsely stated he was a self-employed “artist/writer” with a gross income of nearly $250,000. Later that month, he obtained a PPP loan in the amount of $20,833. In a separate scheme, Gluckman submitted fraudulent unemployment insurance (UI) applications in the names of other people to the California Employment Development Department (EDD) to fraudulently obtain jobless benefits.

    “The proliferation of gang related organized crime deteriorates the core of our society,” said Chief Dominic Choi of the Los Angeles Police Department. “Taking guns out of the hands of gang members and drugs from our streets is just one more step towards reducing this deterioration. Today is yet another example of how local, regional, and federal law enforcement, with a matched dedication, are working together to investigate, apprehend and prosecute criminals.”          

    “When criminal organizations cross jurisdictional lines, it makes conducting investigations and subsequent prosecutions much more difficult,” said Sheriff Jim Fryhoff of the Ventura County, California, Sheriff’s Office. “Having our federal law enforcement partners involvement in such cases greatly enhances our ability to protect not only the citizens of our county, but also those of our region of the state.”

    If convicted, the defendants face a maximum penalty of life in prison.

    The FBI, DEA, Los Angeles Police Department, and Ventura County Sheriff’s Office are investigating the case. The Simi Valley Police Department; California Highway Patrol; Glendale Police Department; Burbank Police Department; Redondo Beach Police Department; Beverly Hills Police Department; Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department; U.S. Marshals Service; Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; Department of Veterans Affairs Police; Department of Labor; Federal Bureau of Prisons; Los Angeles County Probation Department; Los Angeles County Department of Children and Family Services; Pasadena Fire Department; U.S. Customs and Border Protection; and IRS Criminal Investigation provided assistance in the investigation.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Reema M. El-Amamy, Jeremiah M. Levine, and Alexander Su for the Central District of California are prosecuting this case.

    On May 17, 2021, the Attorney General established the COVID-19 Fraud Enforcement Task Force to marshal the resources of the Justice Department in partnership with agencies across government to enhance efforts to combat and prevent pandemic-related fraud. The Task Force bolsters efforts to investigate and prosecute the most culpable domestic and international criminal actors and assists agencies tasked with administering relief programs to prevent fraud by, among other methods, augmenting and incorporating existing coordination mechanisms, identifying resources and techniques to uncover fraudulent actors and their schemes, and sharing and harnessing information and insights gained from prior enforcement efforts. For more information on the department’s response to the pandemic, please visit http://www.justice.gov/coronavirus.

    On Sept. 15, 2022, the Attorney General selected the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices for the Central and Eastern Districts of California to jointly head one of three national COVID-19 Fraud Strike Force Teams. The Justice Department established the Strike Force to enhance existing efforts to combat and prevent COVID-19 related financial fraud. The Strike Force combines law enforcement and prosecutorial resources and focuses on large-scale, multistate pandemic relief fraud perpetrated by criminal organizations and transnational actors, as well as those who committed multiple instances of pandemic relief fraud. The Strike Force uses prosecutor-led and data analyst-driven teams to identify and bring to justice those who stole pandemic relief funds. Additional information regarding the Strike Force may be found at http://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/justice-department-announces-covid-19-fraud-strike-force-teams.

    Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Justice Department’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at (866) 720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at http://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.

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

    MIL Security OSI –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Vice President of Asphalt Paving Company Pleads Guilty to Bid Rigging

    Source: United States Attorneys General

    Sixth Individual Pleads Guilty in Ongoing Investigation of Collusion in Michigan-Area Asphalt Industry

    A senior executive of a Michigan asphalt paving company pleaded guilty today for his role in two separate conspiracies to rig bids for asphalt paving services contracts in Michigan.

    According to court documents, David A. Coppola, vice president of Taylor-based Al’s Asphalt Paving Company Inc. (Al’s Asphalt), conspired with Asphalt Specialists LLC (ASI), F. Allied Construction Company Inc. (Allied) and employees from those companies to rig their bids. Coppola participated in the two conspiracies from March 2013 through November 2018, and from June 2013 through June 2019, respectively.

    Today’s guilty plea is the ninth in the Antitrust Division’s ongoing investigation into collusion in the Michigan asphalt paving industry. Coppola’s employer, Al’s Asphalt, and its president pleaded guilty in January, and, in 2023, Allied and two of its executives pleaded guilty, as did ASI and two of its former executives. On July 31, Al’s Asphalt was sentenced to pay a fine of $795,661.31.

    In both charged conspiracies, the co-conspirators coordinated each other’s bid prices so that the agreed-upon losing company submitted intentionally non-competitive bids. These bids gave customers the false impression of competition when, in fact, the co-conspirators had already decided who would win the contracts.

    “Americans expect and deserve the benefits of competitive markets — including for vital aspects of our transportation infrastructure like asphalt paving services,” said Director of Criminal Enforcement Emma M. Burnham of the Justice Department’s Antitrust Division. “The division and our law enforcement partners will continue to hold accountable executives who seek to profit at the expense of consumers.”

    “The Department of Transportation Office of Inspector General (DOT OIG) continues to work closely with our law enforcement partners and the Justice Department’s Antitrust Division to target individuals who knowingly participate in bid rigging and other anti-competitive activities,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Anthony Licari of DOT OIG’s Midwestern Region. “Today’s guilty plea shows our commitment to bringing to justice those who engage in illegal and unfair practices that adversely impact transportation projects.”

    “Activities related to bid-rigging and collusion do not promote an environment conducive to open competition which harms the consumer,” said Executive Special Agent in Charge Kenneth Cleevely of the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) Office of Inspector General. “The guilty plea in this case represents a win for all law enforcement agencies who investigate those who engage in this type of harmful conduct to ensure that justice is served.”

    Coppola pleaded guilty to two counts of violating Section One of the Sherman Act. Coppola faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and a $1 million fine. The fine may be increased to twice the gain derived from the crime or twice the loss suffered by the victims of the crime if either amount is greater than the statutory maximum fine. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    The Antitrust Division’s Chicago Office and Offices of Inspectors General for the DOT and USPS investigated the case, as part of an ongoing operation investigating bid rigging and other anticompetitive conduct in the asphalt paving services industry.

    Anyone with information in connection with this investigation should contact the Antitrust Division’s Complaint Center at 888-647-3258 or visit http://www.justice.gov/atr/report-violations.

    MIL Security OSI –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Justice Department Secures Agreement with Maryland Department of State Police to Resolve Allegations of Race and Gender Discrimination in State Trooper Hiring Process

    Source: United States Attorneys General

    The Justice Department announced today that it has reached a settlement agreement with the Maryland Department of State Police (MDSP) to resolve the United States’ claims that MDSP’s hiring process for state troopers violates Title VII of the Civil Rights Act. Specifically, the United States alleges that MDSP uses a written test that discriminates against Black candidates and a physical fitness test that discriminates against female candidates. The agreement must still be approved by a federal judge.

    The settlement agreement resolves a civil pattern and practice investigation the Civil Rights Division opened on July 15, 2022. As part of the investigation, the division conducted an in-depth review of MDSP’s hiring practices, the composition of its sworn personnel, applicant data, and information received from the Maryland State Police, and concluded the State’s written and physical fitness tests do not meaningfully distinguish between applicants who can and cannot perform the position of Trooper. These tests also had the effect of disqualifying Black and female applicants from the hiring process at significantly disproportionate rates. The department thus concluded that these tests violate Title VII.

    “Equal employment opportunities in law enforcement are not just a core civil right but essential to ensuring that those who serve reflect the rich racial and gender diversity of the communities they are sworn to protect,” said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “The underrepresentation of Blacks and women in law enforcement undermines public safety and runs contrary to the principle of equal opportunity which is central in our job market. This agreement requires the Maryland Department of State Police to institute meaningful reforms, remove unlawful barriers in its hiring process, and provide restitution and relief to those already harmed, ensuring that all qualified applicants have a fair chance to serve. The Justice Department will continue working to ensure equal access to employment opportunities for all Americans.”

    “This settlement agreement is a reflection of our continued mission to protect the civil rights of all Marylanders, including those of our sworn law enforcement officers,” said U.S. Attorney Erek L. Barron for the District of Maryland. “Law enforcement agencies have a responsibility to protect all citizens equally. We are pleased that MDSP is committed to ensuring that its hiring processes will not discriminate on the basis of race or gender.” 

    The complaint, filed today in the District of Maryland, alleges that MDSP’s use of a written test called the Police Officer Selection Test (POST) disproportionately excludes Black candidates, and its use of a physical fitness test called the Functional Fitness Assessment Test (FFAT) disproportionately excludes female candidates, from employment as troopers. The United States alleges that MDSP’s uses of the POST and the FFAT are not job related or consistent with business necessity, and thus, violate Title VII.

    Under the terms of the consent decree, MDSP will:

    • Adopt written and physical fitness tests that do not discriminate in violation of Title VII;
    • Provide data to the United States on the administration of the new tests to ensure compliance;
    • Pay $2.75 million in back pay to applicants who were disqualified by MDSP’s use of the challenged tests; and
    • Hire up to 25 applicants who were unfairly disqualified by those tests and who successfully complete MDSP’s new trooper screening and selection process.

    Title VII is a federal statute that prohibits employment discrimination based on race, sex, color, national origin, and religion. Title VII prohibits not only intentional discrimination but also employment practices that result in a disparate impact on a protected group, unless such practices are job related and consistent with business necessity.

    You can learn more about the contents of the agreement from this fact sheet and a statement from Assistant Attorney General Clarke here.

    The full and fair enforcement of Title VII is a top priority of the Civil Rights Division. The Division has issued a new fact sheet on Combating Hiring Discrimination by Police and Fire Departments to help applicants for public safety jobs understand their Title VII rights to be free from discriminatory hiring processes. More information about the Civil Rights Division can be found at http://www.justice.gov/crt.

    Senior Trial Attorneys Emily Given and Cheyenne N. Chambers of the Civil Rights Division’s Employment Litigation Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Kimberly Phillips for the District of Maryland are handling this matter.

    MIL Security OSI –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: DOJ Secures Agreement with MD State Police to Resolve Allegations of Discrimination in Hiring

    Source: United States Attorneys General

    The Justice Department announced today that it has reached a settlement agreement with the Maryland Department of State Police (MDSP) to resolve the United States’ claims that MDSP’s hiring process for state troopers violates Title VII of the Civil Rights Act. Specifically, the United States alleges that MDSP uses a written test that discriminates against Black candidates and a physical fitness test that discriminates against female candidates. The agreement must still be approved by a federal judge.

    MIL Security OSI –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Texas Hospital CEO to Pay Over $5.3M to Settle Kickback Allegations Involving Laboratory Testing

    Source: United States Attorneys General

    Former hospital chief executive officer (CEO) Jeffrey Madison, of Georgetown, Texas, has agreed to pay $5,343,630 to resolve allegations under the False Claims Act involving illegal payments to physicians for laboratory referrals in violation of the Anti-Kickback Statute. Madison also has agreed to cooperate with the Justice Department’s investigations of, and litigation against, other participants in the alleged schemes.

    “The Justice Department will continue to pursue individuals — including C-suite executives — who commit health care fraud,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Brian M. Boynton, head of the Justice Department’s Civil Division. “Kickbacks to physicians from laboratories or other healthcare providers can undermine healthcare decision-making, subject patients to unnecessary medical services and waste taxpayer funds.”

    The Anti-Kickback Statute prohibits offering, paying, soliciting or receiving remuneration to induce referrals of items or services covered by Medicare, Medicaid and other federally funded health care programs. The Anti-Kickback Statute is intended to ensure that medical providers’ judgments are not compromised by improper financial incentives and are instead based on the best interests of their patients.

    The settlement announced today resolves allegations in a lawsuit alleging that Madison, the former CEO of Little River Healthcare (Little River), a critical access hospital in Rockdale, Texas, caused the submission of false claims for laboratory testing to Medicare, Medicaid and TRICARE from January 2015 to June 2018. Madison allegedly agreed to a kickback scheme in which Little River paid commissions to recruiters who used purported management service organizations (MSOs) to pay kickbacks to doctors to induce their laboratory testing referrals to Little River. The settlement resolves allegations that Madison knowingly signed, and caused others to sign, false certifications in Medicare cost reports regarding Little River’s compliance with the Anti-Kickback Statute, and thereby caused the submission of false claims to federal health care programs.

    In addition, the settlement resolves allegations in the same lawsuit that, after defendant Doyce Cartrett Jr., M.D., of Silsbee, Texas, informed Little River of his potential laboratory testing referral volume, Madison agreed to have Little River pay Cartrett $2,000 per month in kickbacks disguised as purported medical director fees from February 2015 to May 2017, to induce Cartrett to shift his laboratory testing referrals to Little River. Madison allegedly agreed for Little River to pay the monthly fees, even though Little River did not receive any genuine medical director services from Dr. Cartrett.

    Madison did not contest, and accepted responsibility for, the allegations against him in the United States’ amended complaint. Under the terms of the settlement agreement, Madison was excluded from participating in federal healthcare programs for 25 years. The lawsuit is captioned United States, et al. ex rel. STF LLC v. True Health Diagnostics LLC et al., No. 4:16-cv-547 (EDTX).

    “Seeing past a corporate entity and holding individuals responsible for making the decisions to engage marketers to pay providers for their laboratory referrals is what justice requires,” said U.S. Attorney Damien M. Diggs for the Eastern District of Texas. “This settlement is a testament to our continued efforts to combat fraud against our federal healthcare programs and to hold accountable all participants who profited from knowingly violating the laws meant to guard against overutilization of medical services and protect the public fisc.”

    “Illegal kickback payments, even when disguised as medical director fees, undermine and corrupt the medical decision-making process,” said Special Agent in Charge Jason E. Meadows of the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). “Both the payer and recipient benefit from these schemes, but it is ultimately the taxpayers who foot the bill. HHS-OIG will continue collaborating with law enforcement and prosecutors to protect the Medicare trust fund that millions of Americans depend on.”

    “Our nation’s uniformed military service members and their families should never have to question the integrity of their healthcare providers,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Ryan Settle of the Department of Defense Office of Inspector General, Defense Criminal Investigative Service (DCIS), Southwest Field Office. “Medical decisions influenced by greed destroy the fundamental element of trust in patient care. This settlement reinforces the commitment the DCIS shares with our law enforcement partners and the Justice Department to pursue all available remedies against those who conspire to commit fraud against our Military Health System.”

    The settlement was the result of a coordinated effort between the Civil Division’s Commercial Litigation Branch, Fraud Section, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Texas, with assistance from HHS-OIG and DCIS. The United States has recovered over $52 million relating to conduct involving MSO kickbacks to health care providers, which includes recoveries from 46 physicians.

    Trial Attorneys Christopher Terranova and Gavin Thole of the Civil Division’s Commercial Litigation Branch, Fraud Section, and Assistant U.S. Attorneys James Gillingham and Betty Young for the Eastern District of Texas handled the case.

    The government’s pursuit of this matter illustrates the government’s emphasis on combating health care fraud. One of the most powerful tools in this effort is the False Claims Act. Tips and complaints from all sources about potential fraud, waste, abuse and mismanagement can be reported to HHS at 1-800-HHS-TIPS (800-447-8477).

    Settlement

    MIL Security OSI –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Justice Department and Colorado Judiciary Improve Language Access in Courts for Individuals with Limited English Proficiency

    Source: US State of California

    Note: View the release in Somali here. 

    The Justice Department announced today that the Colorado Judiciary has taken significant steps to ensure meaningful language access for people with limited English proficiency (LEP) who interact with the state court system.

    In July 2023, the department’s Civil Rights Division engaged the Colorado Judiciary after receiving complaints that the courts were not providing needed language services to individuals with LEP as required by Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (Title VI). Title VI prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color and national origin by recipients of federal financial assistance.

    In response to the department’s inquiry, the Colorado Judiciary identified proactive steps already taken to address the concerns raised in the complaint and worked with the division to make a variety of other improvements made to its language access program.

    “Providing accurate and timely interpreter services in and outside of the courtroom is paramount to ensuring that all court users are provided equal access to justice,” said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “The actions taken by the Colorado Judiciary stand as a model and show a true commitment to building a strong language access program.”

    In the year since the Justice Department began working with the Colorado Judiciary, the court has hired a new language access coordinator; revised the Office of Language Access Financial Policy; began to create a new scheduling system for interpreters; purchased new equipment to be used for court interpretation including headsets and iPads; trained court staff and interpreters; and implemented other key improvements.

    The department will continue to monitor the implementation of these changes, and it welcomes feedback from the public. Complaints about discriminatory practices may be reported through the Civil Rights Division’s website at civilrights.justice.gov.

    More information about the Civil Rights Division is available on its website at http://www.justice.gov/crt. Information about limited English proficiency and Title VI is available at www.lep.gov, and information specific to courts can be found at http://www.lep.gov/state-courts.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Gov. Justice presents $500,000 check to Bob Burdette Center to expand afterschool tutoring program

    Source: US State of West Virginia

    CHARLESTON, WV — Gov. Jim Justice delivered a $500,000 check today to the Bob Burdette Center to support the expansion of its afterschool program, as it launches a new two-year pilot initiative focused on improving tutoring access for at-risk students in Kanawha County.
     

    The pilot program will serve two schools on Charleston’s West Side, Mary C. Snow Elementary and Edgewood Elementary, both located in economically disadvantaged areas. The program’s certified teachers will provide one-on-one tutoring to help students improve their math and reading skills.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Police prepare to welcome larger wings as application numbers soar

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Huge numbers of people are applying to join New Zealand Police, as a new recruitment campaign and changes to application criteria help to stimulate growing interest.

    Applications to become a police officer have been trending upwards in 2024, including a sustained spike in applications, Assistant Commissioner, Leadership, Talent and Development, Jill Rogers says.

    To keep up with the upswing in applications Police leaders have made the decision to increase the capacity of recruit wings at the Royal New Zealand Police College (RNZPC) from 80 to 100 from April next year.

    “From July, our recruitment billboards have been highly visible and changes to the application criteria prompted a major surge.

    “This has considerably expanded our talent pool.

    “With 1371 applications, July 2024 had highest number of applications for any month since the Police national recruitment database was created in 2014.

    “August had a total of 1037 applications, the second highest month on record. 

    “With an average of 526 applications each month in the first six months of 2024, compared with 334 applications each month in the first six months of 2023, we know we are heading in the right direction.

    “All together, when including our major spike in applications, by the end of August Police has received more than 5500 applications in 2024.

    “This is more than double the amount received across the same period in 2023.

    “To accommodate a major influx of applications and get these recruits into training and out keeping our communities safe faster, we have made the decision to increase the size of our wings to 100 recruits next year.

    “Our maximum wing size is usually 80, but we don’t want a blockage at the end of our pipeline for people waiting for a wing.

    “We want them to flow through each step.

    “A model that enables larger wings will also support us to deliver on the Government’s commitment of 500 additional officers.

    “This will mean some changes for other courses at RNZPC, but we are working through options to deliver them within districts or online.

    “This model has been successfully run for investigation courses since 2020.”

    Police are also seeing positive trends with our attrition, which remains low, and in August 2024 was just 4.8%.

    To put Police’s attrition rate in context, in 2023 reported turnover across public sector departments ranged from 11% to 54% with an average of 20%.

    “With more than 10,000 constabulary employees some movement is always expected, but our monitoring suggests there aren’t significant numbers of staff heading overseas.

    “Our best measure for estimating this movement shows that between 1 January 2023 and 1 July 2024, 115 constabulary staff have resigned from New Zealand Police to move to Australia.

    “This is based on us receiving a vetting request from an Australian police jurisdiction for a staff member who then subsequently resigns within the next 12 months.

    “Although this is not conclusive, this does indicate that departures to work in Australia only make up a small portion, less than a seventh of our low attrition.

    “So far in 2024, 73 former Constabulary employees have either re-joined as a Constabulary employee or applied to do so. 

    “This means a good proportion of officers who have left in recent years have applied to return.

    “We are committed to putting more officers on the frontline to enhance community safety and prevent crime and harm.

    “Achieving this growth in recruits is and will continue to require a massive effort from everyone involved in attracting, selecting, and training the new officers.

    “We want to continue to move forward and keep building on this positive momentum.

    “I would like to acknowledge everyone in Police for their hard work that will benefit both Police and the wider community,” Assistant Commissioner Rogers says.

    New Cops

    Whether you’re taking your first steps into the workforce or considering a career change, the best time to apply is right now.

    The earlier you start your recruitment journey, the sooner you’ll be ready to start your training.

    We’re also encouraging ex-constabulary staff that are considering rejoining NZ Police to express their interest on newcops.govt.nz.

    In November, billboards will be updated to feature police officers from your local area.

    The ads will continue to target the regions where recruitment is needed most.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre
     

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Justice Department and Colorado Judiciary Improve Language Access in Courts for Individuals with Limited English Proficiency

    Source: United States Attorneys General 7

    Note: View the release in Somali here. 

    The Justice Department announced today that the Colorado Judiciary has taken significant steps to ensure meaningful language access for people with limited English proficiency (LEP) who interact with the state court system.

    In July 2023, the department’s Civil Rights Division engaged the Colorado Judiciary after receiving complaints that the courts were not providing needed language services to individuals with LEP as required by Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (Title VI). Title VI prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color and national origin by recipients of federal financial assistance.

    In response to the department’s inquiry, the Colorado Judiciary identified proactive steps already taken to address the concerns raised in the complaint and worked with the division to make a variety of other improvements made to its language access program.

    “Providing accurate and timely interpreter services in and outside of the courtroom is paramount to ensuring that all court users are provided equal access to justice,” said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “The actions taken by the Colorado Judiciary stand as a model and show a true commitment to building a strong language access program.”

    In the year since the Justice Department began working with the Colorado Judiciary, the court has hired a new language access coordinator; revised the Office of Language Access Financial Policy; began to create a new scheduling system for interpreters; purchased new equipment to be used for court interpretation including headsets and iPads; trained court staff and interpreters; and implemented other key improvements.

    The department will continue to monitor the implementation of these changes, and it welcomes feedback from the public. Complaints about discriminatory practices may be reported through the Civil Rights Division’s website at civilrights.justice.gov.

    More information about the Civil Rights Division is available on its website at http://www.justice.gov/crt. Information about limited English proficiency and Title VI is available at http://www.lep.gov, and information specific to courts can be found at http://www.lep.gov/state-courts.

    MIL Security OSI –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: ERO New York City arrests Venezuelan noncitizen and Tren de Aragua gang member convicted of criminal possession of a firearm

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    NEW YORK — On Sept. 28, Enforcement and Removal Operations New York City arrested Javier Jose Albornoz Marchan, 22, an unlawfully present Venezuelan citizen and member of the Tren de Aragua transnational criminal organization, who was convicted by the Bronx County Supreme Court of criminal possession of a weapon — possession of a firearm. Albornoz was one of eight noncitizens arrested by the New York City Police Department March 27, and was charged with weapons and drug related offenses.

    ERO Fugitive Operations officers took Albornoz into custody on Staten Island, pursuant to a warrant of arrest, and transferred him to the ERO New York City office for processing. Albornoz remains in custody without bond, pending removal proceedings.

    “Sanctuary jurisdictions undermine public safety and put our communities at unnecessary risk,” said ERO New York City Field Office Director Kenneth Genalo. “New York City and state leaders should reevaluate the policies that prevent local law enforcement from cooperating with ERO. It is unconscionable this felon was running free in New York for the last three weeks when he could have immediately been apprehended upon release from local custody. Thankfully, through the due diligence of our courageous officers and our law enforcement partners, this individual was swiftly apprehended and denied the ability to reoffend.”

    On Sept. 22, 2022, U.S Border Patrol encountered Albornoz near EL Paso, Texas. Officials released him into the United States as an alternative to detention and a condition of parole due to detention capacity at the Central Processing Center in El Paso, Texas. Albornoz never reported to ERO for processing.

    On June 18, 2023, the Moonachie Police Department arrested Albornoz for the crime of shoplifting-under-ringing. On June 21, 2023, the Municipal Court of Teterboro remanded Albornoz’s charges to the lower court and released him on his own recognizance.

    On Jan. 6, 2024, the Woodbridge Police Department in New Jersey arrested Albornoz for the crimes of shoplifting-take merchandise without paying and burglary tools-manufacture. On Jan. 8, ERO Newark lodged an immigration detainer for Albornoz with the Middlesex County Jail in North Brunswick, New Jersey. On the same date, the Middlesex County Jail ignored the detainer and released Albornoz from local custody without notifying ERO.

    On March 27, the NYPD arrested Albornoz for criminal possession of a weapon in the second degree: loaded firearm; criminal possession weapon in the second degree: loaded firearm on school grounds; criminal possession of a controlled substance with intent to sell; and acting in manner to injure child less than 17.

    On April 1, ERO New York City lodged an immigration detainer against Albornoz’s release with the New York Department of Corrections at Rikers Island.

    On Sept. 5, the Bronx County Supreme Court convicted Albornoz of criminal possession of a firearm and sentenced him to six months of imprisonment. The next day, the New York City Department of Corrections at Rikers Island released Albornoz back into the community after he served his sentence, despite an active detainer in place, without notifying ERO.

    On Sept. 27, the FBI New York’s Safe Streets Task Force notified ERO New York City of possible threats made by Albornoz to local law enforcement and requested assistance with locating and apprehending him.

    Detainers are critical public safety tools because they focus enforcement resources on removable noncitizens who have been arrested for criminal activity. Detainers increase the safety of all parties involved — ERO personnel, law enforcement officials, removable noncitizens and the public — by allowing an arrest to be made in a secure and controlled custodial setting as opposed to at-large within the community. Because detainers result in the direct transfer of a noncitizen from state or local custody to ERO custody, they also minimize the potential that an individual will reoffend. Additionally, detainers conserve scarce government resources by allowing ERO to take criminal noncitizens into custody directly rather than expending resources locating these individuals at-large.

    Noncitizens placed into removal proceedings receive their legal due process from federal immigration judges in the immigration courts, which are administered by the Executive Office for Immigration Review. The Executive Office for Immigration Review is an agency within the U.S. Department of Justice and is separate from the Department of Homeland Security and ICE. Immigration judges in these courts make decisions based on the merits of each individual case. ERO officers carry out the removal decisions made by the federal immigration judges.

    ERO uses intelligence driven operations that target public safety threats, such as convicted criminal noncitizens and gang members, who have violated our nation’s immigration laws, including those who illegally reenter the country after being removed and immigration fugitives ordered removed by federal immigration judges. ERO officers prioritize enforcement actions in accordance with the Guidelines for the Enforcement of Civil Immigration Law issued by DHS Secretary Alejandro N. Mayorkas on Sept. 30, 2021, and reinstituted on June 28 — obtaining and reviewing entire criminal and administrative records and any other investigative information available, when taking decisive law enforcement actions.

    Members of the public can report crimes and suspicious activity by dialing 866-347-2423 or completing ICE’s online tip form.

    Learn more about ERO New York City’s mission to preserve public safety on X, formerly known as Twitter, at @ERONewYork.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New powers for banks to combat fraudsters

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 3

    Banks to be given new powers to protect consumers against scams.

    • New rules extend maximum delay for suspicious payments by 72 hours
    • Gives banks more time to investigate and break the spell of fraudsters

    Banks will be given new powers to delay and investigate payments that are suspected of being fraudulent, helping to protect consumers against scammers.  

    New laws proposed by the Government today will extend the time that payments can be delayed by 72 hours where there are reasonable grounds to suspect a payment is fraudulent and more time is needed for the bank to investigate.  

    This will give banks more time to break the spell woven by fraudsters over their victims and tackle the estimated £460 million lost to fraud last year alone.

    Economic Secretary to the Treasury, Tulip Siddiq said:

    Hundreds of millions of pounds are lost to scammers each year, targeting vulnerable communities and ruining the lives of ordinary people.  

    We need to protect these people better, which is why we are giving banks more time to investigate suspicious payments and break the criminal spell that scammers weave.

    Minister of State with Responsibility for Fraud, Lord Sir David Hanson said:

    Fraud is a crime that can devastate lives, and anyone can be affected.  

    That’s why measures like this are so crucial to provide banks the investigative powers they need to better protect customers from this appalling crime.

    Fraud accounts for over a third of all crime perpetrated in England and Wales, making it the most prevalent form of crime commitment in the country. This has been driven by a growing number of purchase scams and the emergence of so-called ‘romance scams’, where victims target vulnerable people and trick them into transferring large amounts of money by pretending to be interested in a romantic relationship.  

    The new rules will help protect people against these types of scams by allowing banks up to an additional 72 hours to investigate suspicious payments. Currently banks must either process or refuse a payment by the end of the next business day.

    Which? Director of Policy and Advocacy, Rocio Concha said:

    This is a positive step in the fight against fraud. While it should not affect the vast majority of everyday payments, it’s important that banks can delay a bank transfer and take action if they think a customer is being targeted by a scam. 

    These measures should be used in a careful and targeted way. Financial firms of all sizes should also ensure they share intelligence and work with the police and other authorities to shut down accounts used for fraud and pursue the criminals behind them.

    UK Finance Managing Director of Economic Crime, Ben Donaldson said:

    UK Finance has long called for firms to be allowed to delay payments in high-risk cases where fraud is suspected, and we are delighted to see proposed new laws supporting this.  

    This could allow payment service providers time to get in touch with customers and give them the advice and support they need to avoid being coerced by the criminals who want to steal their money. This could potentially limit the psychological harms that these awful crimes can cause and stop money getting into the hands of criminals.

    Banks who have reasonable grounds to suspect a payment is fraudulent will need to inform customers when a payment is being delayed. They will also need to explain what the customer needs to do in order to unblock the payment.  

    The need for evidence to trigger a delay will help protect people and businesses from unnecessary payment delays. Banks will also be required to compensate customers for any interest or late payment fees they incur as a result of delays.

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    Updates to this page

    Published 3 October 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: October 2nd, 2024 N.M. Delegation Welcomes $21 Million to Tackle Crime, Keep Communities Safe

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Mexico Martin Heinrich
    WASHINGTON — U.S. Senators Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) and Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), and U.S. Representatives Teresa Leger Fernández (D-N.M.), Melanie Stansbury (D-N.M.), and Gabe Vasquez (D-N.M.) are welcoming $20,706,897 from the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) to help New Mexico’s law enforcement solve crimes, support survivor services, improve violence prevention, and keep communities safe.
    The grants will be distributed through the DOJ’s Office on Violence Against Women (OVW) and the Office of Justice Programs (OJP).
    “I’m proud to announce over $20 million to better equip New Mexico’s law enforcement with the tools and resources needed to keep our communities safe. This significant investment will help tackle crime, hold dangerous criminals accountable, and deliver justice and support for survivors,” said Heinrich. “A safer New Mexico depends on solving crimes and supporting survivors, and I will continue to fight for the resources we need for both.”
    “This nearly $21 million in federal funding will deliver critical resources to help law enforcement solve crimes, support victims of violent crime, and boost violence prevention across New Mexico,” said Luján. “I’m proud to welcome this federal funding and I will keep fighting for federal resources to keep New Mexico communities safe.”
    “1 in 4 women have been beaten by an intimate partner in their lifetime. This funding from the Department of Justice focuses on providing more services to the survivors of domestic violence  survivors of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking,” said Leger Fernández. “To effectively investigate and prosecute these crimes, the grants also increase the resources going to law enforcement.  I’m pleased that the funding benefits communities across my district, from the Pueblos to Santa Fe to Hobbs to our state agencies. Together we keep New Mexico safe.”
    “This almost $21 million investment into our communities is crucial in making New Mexico a safer place for everyone,” said Stansbury. “Victims of crimes deserve justice, and law enforcement needs the tools to give victims that justice. This funding is pivotal in achieving that goal.”
    “I’m proud to welcome over $20 million for law enforcement organizations across our state and Tribal communities. This funding will support law enforcement’s ability to reduce crime, make our neighborhoods safer and ensure justice for victims,” said Vasquez. “Our law enforcement officers and community organizations are working tirelessly, and this investment will help them continue to protect and serve New Mexicans. I’m committed to fighting for more federal resources to keep us safe.”
     

    Recipient

    City

    Project Title

    Grant

    Award Amount

    Coalition to Stop Violence Against Native Women

    Albuquerque

    OVW Fiscal Year 2024 Grants to Tribal Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Coalitions Invitation to Apply

    OVW

    $414,147

    County of Bernalillo

    Albuquerque

    Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office CAST Unit Expansion Project

    OJP

    $376,078

    Enlace Comunitario

    Albuquerque

    OVW Fiscal Year 2024 Grants to Enhance Culturally Specific Services for Victims of Domestic Violence, Dating Violence, Sexual Assault and Stalking Program

    OJP

    $450,000

    New Mexico Asian Family Center

    Albuquerque

    OVW Fiscal Year 2024 Grants to Enhance Culturally Specific Services for Victims of Domestic Violence, Dating Violence, Sexual Assault and Stalking Program

    OJP

    $475,000

    New Mexico Asian Family Center

    Albuquerque

    OVW Fiscal Year 2024 Legal Assistance for Victims

    OVW

    $600,000

    New Mexico Immigrant Law Center

    Albuquerque

    OVW Fiscal Year 2024 Legal Assistance for Victims

    OVW

    $750,000

    City of Albuquerque

    Albuquerque

    BJA FY24 Formula DNA Capacity Enhancement for Backlog Reduction (CEBR)

    OJP

    $490,190

    La Casa

    Las Cruces

    OVW Fiscal Year 2024 Rural Domestic Violence, Dating Violence, Sexual Assault, and Stalking Program

    OVW

    $500,000

    Mescalero Apache Tribe

    Mescalero

    SMART FY 2024 Support for Adam Walsh Act Implementation Grant Program

    OJP

    $288,368

    New Mexico Department of Public Safety

    Santa Fe

    New Mexico FY24 NCHIP

     

    $2,224,200

    New Mexico Department of Public Safety

    Santa Fe

    BJA FY24 Byrne State Crisis Intervention Program Formula Solicitation

    OJP

    $1,633,050

    NM Department of Public Safety

    Santa Fe

    BJS FY24 National Criminal History Improvement Program

    OJP

    $2,224,200

    Santa Fe Dreamers Project

    Santa Fe

    OVW Fiscal Year 2024 Legal Assistance for Victims

    OVW

    $750,000

    New Mexico Department of Public Safety

    Santa Fe

    BJA FY24 Project Safe Neighborhoods Formula Grant Program

    OJP

    $167,378

    New Mexico Department of Public Safety

    Santa Fe

    BJA FY24 Formula DNA Capacity Enhancement for Backlog Reduction (CEBR)

    OJP

    $300,437

    New Mexico Department of Public Safety

    Santa Fe

    BJA FY24 Paul Coverdell Forensic Science Improvement Grants Program- Formula

    OJP

    $294,696

    Pueblo of Acoma

    Pueblo of Acoma

    FY 2024 CTAS Purpose Area 6 Award: Pueblo of Acoma

    OJP

    $450,000

    Pueblo of Acoma

    Pueblo of Acoma

    FY24 U.S. Department of Justice Coordinated Tribal Assistance Solicitation

    OJP

    $450,000

    Pueblo of Acoma

    Pueblo of Acoma

    OVC FY24 Tribal Victim Services Set-Aside Formula Program – Invited to Apply

    OJP

    $254,413

    Pueblo of Acoma

    Pueblo of Acoma

    FY24 U.S. Department of Justice Coordinated Tribal Assistance Solicitation

    OJP

    $900,000

    Pueblo of Isleta

    Isleta

    FY24 U.S. Department of Justice Coordinated Tribal Assistance Solicitation

    OJP

    $900,000

    Pueblo of Isleta

    Isleta

    BJA FY24 Rural and Small Department Violent Crime Reduction Program

    OJP

    $300,000

    Pueblo of Jemez

    Jemez Pueblo

    FY24 U.S. Department of Justice Coordinated Tribal Assistance Solicitation

    OJP

    $900,000

    Pueblo of San Felipe

    Algodones

    OVC FY24 Tribal Victim Services Set-Aside Formula Program – Invited to Apply

    OJP

    $229,973

    Pueblo of Taos

    Taos

    OVC FY24 Tribal Victim Services Set-Aside Formula Program – Invited to Apply

    OJP

    $229,973

    Pueblo of Zuni

    Zuni

    Empowering Tribal Resilience: Enhancing Zuni Tribal Justice Systems (Tribal Youth Programs)

    OJP

    $76,000

    Pueblo of Zuni

    Zuni

    FY24 U.S. Department of Justice Coordinated Tribal Assistance Solicitation

    OJP

    $76,000

    Pueblo of Zuni

    Zuni

    FY24 U.S. Department of Justice Coordinated Tribal Assistance Solicitation

    OJP

    $394,498

    Pueblo of Zuni

    Zuni

    OVC FY24 Tribal Victim Services Set-Aside Formula Program – Invited to Apply

    OJP

    $282,632

    Pueblo of Zuni

    Zuni

    FY24 U.S. Department of Justice Coordinated Tribal Assistance Solicitation

    OJP

    $885,691

    Santo Domingo Pueblo

    Santo Domingo

    OVC FY24 Tribal Victim Services Set-Aside Formula Program – Invited to Apply

    OJP

    $229,973

    Sexual Assault Services of Northwest New Mexico

    Farmington

    OVW Fiscal Year 2024 Rural Domestic Violence, Dating Violence, Sexual Assault, and Stalking Program

    OVW

    $700,000

    Sexual Assault Services of Northwest New Mexico

    Farmington

    OVW Fiscal Year 2024 Tribal Sexual Assault Services Program

    OVW

    $610,000

    Sheris House of Hope

    Hobbs

    OVW Fiscal Year 2024 Transitional Housing Assistance Grants for Victims of Domestic Violence, Dating Violence, Sexual Assault and Stalking Program

    OVW

    $400,000

    Valencia Shelter Services

    Los Lunas

    OVW Fiscal Year 2024 Rural Domestic Violence, Dating Violence, Sexual Assault, and Stalking Program

    OVW

    $500,000

    MIL OSI USA News –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Man charged with wounding following Rokeby incident

    Source: Tasmania Police

    Man charged with wounding following Rokeby incident

    Thursday, 3 October 2024 – 8:40 am.

    A 36 year old Howrah man has been arrested and charged with wounding and Assault, following an incident at Rokeby yesterday afternoon.It is alleged the man drove his vehicle through a residential fence and at two occupants of that residence, who were standing on the front lawn.The occupants were forced to jump out of the way of the vehicle. It is also alleged that the man stabbed one of the occupants in the arm when he attempted to gain entry to the vehicle.The man was detained by the occupants until police arrived shortly afterwards.He has been charged and will appear in the Hobart Magistrates Court later today.Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or at crimestopperstas.com.au. Information can be provided anonymously.

    MIL OSI News –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: FBI Marks One Year Since October 7, 2023, Hamas Attack

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

    “The United States continues to be in a heightened threat environment, and the FBI is fully engaged to detect and stop any potential threats to the American people. As we mark one year since the October 7, 2023, attack by Hamas, the ongoing conflict in the Middle East calls for vigilance by the FBI, our law enforcement partners, and members of the public. 

    It is essential to be watchful for threats against Jewish, Muslim, and Arab communities and institutions and to immediately contact law enforcement to report any suspicious activity. We continue to share intelligence with our law enforcement partners here and overseas and continue discussions with faith-based organizations, the private sector, and others about their concerns.

    We must remember the hostages and the innocent lives lost throughout the Mideast over the last year. At the same time, the FBI remains focused on our mission to protect the American people and prevent acts of terrorism and hate.”

    MIL Security OSI –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Cops cotton on to crossbow in Karaka

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Police located an assortment of drugs and a crossbow during a vehicle search in Karaka yesterday.

    At about 10.30am, Police conducted a vehicle stop on Harbourside Drive due to the registered owner having a warrant to arrest.

    Counties Manukau South Area Response Manager, Acting Senior Sergeant Carl Alexander, says the driver was identified in relation to the warrants and an initial search located a quantity of drugs and cash.

    “Officers then searched the vehicle and located what is believed to be more drugs, including cannabis and methamphetamine, cash and crossbow was also located in the boot.

    “We will continue to work hard to disrupt the distribution of drugs in our communities.

    “This arrest is another example of the ongoing action we are taking to target this type of activity and it’s also one less dangerous weapon off the street,” he says.

    “We encourage anyone with concerns around suspicious or potentially criminal behaviour in their neighbourhood to report it to Police.”

    A 31-year-old man will appear in Papakura District Court today charged with possession of an offensive weapon and possession for supply of methamphetamine and cannabis.

    ENDS.

    Holly McKay/NZ Police

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Australia: UPDATE: Escape Custody – Darwin

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Northern Territory Police have apprehended the 14-year-old male who escaped custody yesterday in Darwin.

    He was located and arrested a short time ago by Detectives from Strike Force Trident and the Dog Operations Unit in Malak.

    Police would like to thank the public for their assistance.

    MIL OSI News –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Jury Convicts Colorado City Men in Child Sexual Abuse Conspiracy

    Source: United States Department of Justice (Human Trafficking)

    PHOENIX, Ariz. – Today, a federal jury in Phoenix found LaDell Jay Bistline, Jr., 45, and Torrance Bistline, 36, both of Colorado City, Arizona, guilty of multiple charges related to their participation in a years-long child sexual abuse conspiracy that spanned several states and victimized at least 10 children. The defendants committed their crimes with others, including co-defendant Samuel Rappylee Bateman, the self-proclaimed leader of a religious sect based in Colorado City. Bateman and nine of his other followers pleaded guilty to charges related to the child sexual abuse conspiracy and were not part of the trial against brothers LaDell Jay Bistline, Jr. and Torrance Bistline.

    “Today’s verdict is a step towards justice for the victims of LaDell and Torrance Bistline,” said U.S. Attorney Gary Restaino. “The Bistlines used their positions of power and trust to sexually exploit children and to profane their community. The devastating trauma and harm they inflicted is unfathomable. But today’s guilty verdicts hold them to account – for their despicable acts, for their breach of trust, and for their complete indifference to the mental and psychological scars their victims will live with for the rest of their lives. The United States Attorney’s Office, along with its state and federal law enforcement partners and other agencies, will continue to work tirelessly to protect the most vulnerable from abuse and exploitation, and to help them heal.”

    “Protecting children is one of the many noble missions of the FBI,” said FBI Phoenix Special Agent in Charge Jose A. Perez. “Adults who exploit children for illicit activities are a danger and a disgrace. Today’s verdicts reflect the unwavering dedication by the FBI and its partners to ensure those who prey on children are held accountable and brought to justice.”

    LaDell Jay Bistline, Jr. was convicted of one count of Receipt of Child Pornography; one count of Transfer of Obscene Material to a Minor; two counts of Persuading or Coercing Travel to Engage in Sexual Activity; two counts of Using a Means of Interstate Commerce to Persuade or Coerce a Minor to Engage in Sexual Activity; and two counts of Transportation of a Minor for Criminal Sexual Activity.

    Torrance Bistline was convicted of one count of Using a Means of Interstate Commerce to Persuade or Coerce a Minor to Engage in Sexual Activity; two counts of Destruction of Records in an Official Proceeding; one count of Conspiracy to Commit Destruction of Records in an Official Proceeding; one count of Tampering with an Official Proceeding; and one count of Conspiracy to Commit Tampering with an Official Proceeding.

    LaDell Jay Bistline, Jr. and Torrance Bistline were followers of Bateman, who represented himself as a religious prophet. In 2020 and 2021, Bateman’s followers gave their minor daughters and wards to him as child “brides” to sexually abuse. Bateman and others transported the victims between states, including Nebraska, Colorado, Utah, and Arizona to facilitate the sexual abuse. LaDell Jay Bistline, Jr. delivered two of his own daughters to Bateman to become child “brides” when the girls were nine and 11 years old. LaDell Jay Bistline, Jr. also participated in group sexual activity involving children, including one event he watched over a video livestream. Torrance Bistline, who financially supported Bateman’s group, sexually abused one of Bateman’s child “brides” during a group sexual activity. Torrance Bistline later tried to destroy and hide evidence to interfere with the investigation.

    LaDell Jay Bistline, Jr. and Torrance Bistline each face a minimum penalty of 10 years in prison and a maximum penalty of life in prison. Sentencing for LaDell Jay Bistline, Jr. is currently scheduled for December 16, 2024, and sentencing for Torrance Bistline is currently scheduled for December 20, 2024, before United States District Judge Susan M. Brnovich. Bateman is currently scheduled to be sentenced by Judge Brnovich on October 28, 2024. Several other defendants have already been sentenced, and the remaining defendants will be sentenced in the coming months.

    The Phoenix Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation in this case. The United States Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, Phoenix, is handling the prosecution. The United States Attorney’s Office continues to extend special gratitude to the Arizona Department of Child Safety for its work rescuing and protecting Arizona children impacted by this matter, the Colorado City Police Department, the Iron County (Utah) Sheriff’s Office, the U.S. Marshals Service, and the St. George Resident Agency of the FBI’s Salt Lake City Field Office for their assistance in this matter.

    CASE NUMBER:            CR-22-8092-PHX-SMB
    RELEASE NUMBER:    2024-135_Bistline

    # # #

    For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
    Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, on X @USAO_AZ for the latest news.

    MIL Security OSI –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Minister welcomes larger Police recruitment wings

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Associate Police Minister Casey Costello has welcomed the Police announcement that recruitment wings at the Police College will be expanded to 100 recruits next year.

    “This is good news on two fronts – it reflects the fact that more and more New Zealanders are valuing policing and seeing it as a career. It will also help us to achieve the target of increasing frontline Police numbers by 500 officers.”

    “The coalition Government is serious about improving law and order and that starts with resourcing Police so they can effectively respond to the needs of our communities,” Ms Costello says.

    “We want New Zealanders to feel safe and be safe in their communities and we value Police and their work. Police officers do a great job, and the Government is backing them.

    “The fact applications to join Police have doubled from last year, while attrition rates remain low, shows that New Zealanders feel the same way.” 

    This year’s Budget included $191 million over four years to fund the recruitment and retention of 500 more sworn Police officers and $34.6 million in capital to ensure they are properly equipped to do their jobs.

    Ms Costello said Police were also working to build stronger connections with community groups such as Māori and Pasifika wardens and Community Patrols New Zealand and support initiatives to provide a pathway to Police.

    A series of targeted recruitment events is currently underway to reach communities across New Zealand. These were held in Auckland on Sunday and Wellington yesterday and will take place in Christchurch on Saturday and Dunedin on Sunday 6 October.  

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

    January 23, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Cybersecurity Awareness Month: Securing our world—together

    Source: Microsoft

    Headline: Cybersecurity Awareness Month: Securing our world—together

    As Cybersecurity Awareness Month marks its 21st year, it’s clear that this year stands out. Phishing emails have become more convincing, and fraud has increased, making cyberattackers seem legitimate—as if they were Microsoft support or even the fraud detection services from your bank.1 And threat actors are taking advantage of the rise of AI, using it to enhance and fine-tune their strategies.

    To add to the complexity, dedicated cybersecurity teams are currently resource constrained, especially compared to their cyberattackers. Globally, the cybersecurity workforce gap has widened this year, with four million roles left unfilled in 2023—a nearly 13% year-on-year increase.2

    To help our global defenders, Microsoft has put together the Be Cybersmart Kit, designed to educate everyone on best practices for going passwordless, not falling for sophisticated phishing or fraud, device protection, AI safety, and more.

    Empower everyone to be a cybersecurity champion

    Help educate everyone in your organization with cybersecurity awareness resources and training curated by the security experts at Microsoft.

    In partnership with the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) and the National Cybersecurity Alliance (NCA) we have focused on four simple best practices:

    • Use strong passwords and consider a password manager. 
    • Turn on multifactor authentication.
    • Learn to recognize and report phishing.
    • Make sure to keep your software updated.

    “Cybersecurity is not a one-time thing, but that doesn’t mean it has to be a hassle. Small changes in our technology habits can be easy, like using multifactor authentication or keeping your devices and software up to date. All the bad news about the latest data breaches can leave us feeling powerless, but adopting simple, repeatable behaviors goes a long way to protecting our families and businesses. It’s important to stay safe online because your data is worth protecting.”

    —Lisa Plaggemie, Executive Director, NCA

    The Be Cybersmart Kit goes further, providing information and infographics that cover six of the most universally important elements of cybersecurity. These areas of focus are AI Safety, Cybersecurity 101, Devices, Fraud, Phishing, and Passwords. For example, the AI Safety infographic delivers new guidance that focuses on the safe use of AI tools within your organization, including making sure you haven’t become overconfident in AI-generated content and search results and that you’re using the AI tools provisioned by your IT organization.

    Empower your security teams with the Be Cybersmart Kit

    The Be Cybersmart Kit is a great starting point, and it’s just one of the many resources Microsoft has put together on its Cybersecurity Awareness site. Those seeking more in-depth resources can access expert-level learning paths, certifications, and technical documentation to continue their cybersecurity education. And for students pursuing the field of cybersecurity, the Microsoft Cybersecurity Scholarship Program and many more educational opportunities are here to help. The goal of all these programs is to help foster a security-first culture and continuous learning for students and professionals alike.

    “CISA is excited to lead the federal government’s efforts to reduce online risk during this 21st Cybersecurity Awareness month and every month. We work with government and industry to raise cybersecurity awareness and help everyone, from individuals to businesses to all levels of government, stay safe online in our ever-connected world. Protecting ourselves online is about taking a few simple, everyday steps to keep our digital lives safe.”

    —Jen Easterly, Director, CISA

    The cyberthreats we face in the era of AI

    AI-enhanced phishing threats and social engineering are on the rise. These threats are often highly targeted and present fewer of the tell-tale signs of their traditionally generated counterparts. In the FBI’s 2023 Internet Crime Report, the agency states that its Internet Crime Complaint Center fielded more than 800,000 cyber incident complaints. The FBI estimates the total losses associated with these incidents to be greater than USD10 billion.2

    To better understand phishing-related risk factors in the era of AI, Microsoft has collaborated with Fortra to put together the Phishing Benchmark Global Report. The report found that 10.4% of phishing simulation participants clicked the email phishing link they were sent—a 3.4% increase over the previous year.3 Even more worrying, 60% of users who clicked on the email link also ultimately submitted their password to the phishing website.3 These attacks target tens of millions of users annually, and with AI-enhanced features they are more and more likely to evade traditional security layers like firewalls and email security measures. AI can also aid cyberattackers in setting up their phishing sites in locations that internet browsers and security providers are less capable of detecting as high-risk.

    In the era of AI, we are all cyberdefenders. Despite this, 52% of employees still say their job has nothing to do with cybersecurity.3 This couldn’t be further from the truth. Employees are the first and last line of defense—and Microsoft recognized the importance of this when we created the Secure Future Initiative. Our Chief Executive Officer Satya Nadella has led the charge himself as Microsoft puts “security above all else, before all other features and investments.” This is why educating everyone on staying cybersafe is so important right now. Whether you point your employees to some of the resources linked in this article, highlight your own in-house resources, or bring in outside experts, it’s time to act now.

    We all have a role to play as cyberdefenders both at work and home. Identity and device protection can help protect individuals and their families from malicious cyberthreats—and Microsoft is making it easier than ever to stay safer on unsecure Wi-Fi with the expansion of privacy protection. Consumers can get the added protection of a VPN on their phones and computers when on-the-go in places like coffee shops or airports. And now, device notifications alert users to unsafe Wi-Fi connections guiding them to turn on VPN for a safer connection.

    For informed individuals looking to further broaden their understanding of the landscape, Microsoft invites you to join the Build a Security-First Culture in the Era of AI webinar on October 30, 2024. Let’s all do our part to secure our world—together.

    Get the Be Cybersmart Kit

    To learn more about Microsoft Security solutions, visit our website. Bookmark the Security blog to keep up with our expert coverage on security matters. Also, follow us on LinkedIn (Microsoft Security) and X (@MSFTSecurity) for the latest news and updates on cybersecurity.

    1Bold action against fraud: Disrupting Storm-1152, Microsoft. August 7, 2024.

    2Cybersecurity Workforce Study, ISC2.

    3Phishing Benchmark Global Report, Fortra.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

    January 23, 2025
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