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Category: Legal Issues

  • MIL-OSI Security: Dermatology Providers Agree to Pay Nearly $850,000 to Resolve Allegations of False Wound Repair Claims

    Source: United States Attorneys General

    Forefront Dermatology S.C. and Henghold Surgery Center LLC, have agreed to pay $847,394 to resolve allegations that they violated the False Claims Act by knowingly causing the submission of falsely coded claims to Medicare for wound repair procedures.

    Forefront owns and operates a dermatology practice in Florida doing business as Henghold Dermatology. Henghold Surgery Center is an ambulatory surgery center that closed in 2023, and is wholly owned by William B. Henghold, M.D. Both the practice and surgery center performed wound repair procedures following Mohs micrographic surgery, a method of skin cancer removal.

    The United States alleged that Henghold Dermatology and Henghold Surgery Center caused the submission of false claims to Medicare by using inaccurate wound repair billing codes for which Medicare paid more money than it would have paid for the wound repairs that were actually performed — a practice known as “upcoding.” Specifically, Henghold Dermatology and Henghold Surgery Center falsely coded linear repairs as if they were flap repairs and falsely coded smaller flap repairs as if they were larger flap repairs.

    “Improperly billing Medicare depletes valuable government resources that provide necessary medical care to millions of Americans,” said Assistant Attorney General Brett A. Shumate of the Justice Department’s Civil Division. “We will hold accountable health care providers who enrich themselves by defrauding federal health care programs.”

    “This office will continue to aggressively root out fraud, waste, and abuse in our healthcare system by pursuing providers who submit false claims to Medicare,” said U.S. Attorney John P. Heekin for the Northern District of Florida. “We will hold those who attempt to defraud the federal government accountable to the fullest extent of the law.”

    “Schemes that cause Medicare to pay for costlier services than were actually performed waste taxpayer funding, threatening the integrity of this federal health care program,” said Deputy Inspector General for Investigations Christian J. Schrank of the U.S. Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). “Working together with our law enforcement partners, HHS-OIG will continue to investigate allegations of improper billing schemes to protect taxpayer-funded health care programs and the people served by them.”

    The civil settlement includes the resolution of claims brought under the qui tam or whistleblower provisions of the False Claims Act by Christopher Wolfe, M.D., a former Forefront employee. Under those provisions, a private party can file an action on behalf of the United States and receive a portion of any recovery.  The qui tam case is captioned U.S. ex rel. Wolfe v. Henghold et al., No. 3:23-cv-21624 (N.D. Fla.). Dr. Wolfe will receive $152,531 in connection with the settlement.

    The resolution obtained in this matter was the result of a coordinated effort between the Justice Department’s Civil Division, Commercial Litigation Branch, Fraud Section, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida, with assistance from HHS-OIG.

    The investigation and resolution of this matter illustrates the government’s emphasis on combating healthcare 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 the Department of Health and Human Services at 800-HHS-TIPS (800-447-8477).

    The matter was investigated by Trial Attorney Colin Shannon and Assistant U.S. Attorneys John Spaccarotella, Mary Ann Couch, and Marie Moyle for the Northern District of Florida.

    The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only and there has been no determination of liability.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Press Release – Compassionate Message Regarding Humanitarian Crises Wednesday 30 July 2025

    Source: Channel Islands – States of Alderney

    Media Release

    30 July 2025

    Compassionate Message Regarding Humanitarian Crises

    The States of Alderney endorse the compassionate message from the government of Guernsey in highlighting the humanitarian situation in Gaza alongside the numerous other humanitarian crises in the world, and the commitment to upholding the principles of International Law.

    Ends

    Please contact Gill Trousdale in the President’s Office by email president.alderney@gov.gg or telephone 01481 820001.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: More transport choices are coming to Mackworth

    Source: City of Derby

    Derby’s final mobility hub is underway, bringing more transport choices to residents in Mackworth.

    Building on the success of similar schemes elsewhere in the city, the new mobility hub will be installed at the Prince Charles Avenue shopping precinct, giving residents and local businesses greater choice when deciding how they travel around their local community.

    Mobility hubs provide greater opportunities to use sustainable and active travel methods – such as walking and cycling – making it easier to access local amenities. It is hoped that they will also draw more people into the area and enhance the local economy.

    Work on site to install the Prince Charles Avenue mobility hub is expected to be completed later this summer and will include:

    • Electric vehicle (EV) charging and dedicated parking for up to three EVs
    • An Enterprise Car Club location (subject to expected demand)
    • An accessible seating area with bike storage, designed in consultation with local businesses, ward councillors and the Police
    • Interactive information totem with live travel updates

    Councillor Carmel Swan, Cabinet Member for Climate Change, Transport and Sustainability said:

    This mobility hub will be the final piece of the jigsaw in delivering enhanced, sustainable transport choices to our communities. 

    A welcome addition to our ever-growing transport network, the Mackworth mobility hub will support our work to combat climate change through reduced pollution and congestion in Derby.

    The Mackworth mobility hub will add to the network of hubs already completed or in construction in Six Streets, Chaddesden, Allenton and Normanton/Arboretum. As well as providing alternative transport choices, the hubs help the Council to learn more about the community’s travel needs and preferences, helping to shape future schemes. 

    Mobility hubs are funded by the Department for Transport (DFT)’s Future Transport Zones Fund, which was awarded to Derby City Council to trial new and exciting developments in transport.

    Residents who would like to know more about the mobility hubs can get in touch with the Future Transport Zones team by emailing traffic.management@derby.gov.uk.
    Ends. 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Man who threatened to stab father in rap video sentenced to jail

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    A man has been sentenced to jail for murdering a father in front of his young child in a barbershop in Leyton.

    Josh McKay, 33, was stabbed in the neck by Renai Belle in a targeted attack and died from his injuries at the scene. During the Metropolitan Police investigation, officers discovered a rap video showing Belle threaten Josh before the attack.

    Belle, 30 (20.02.95), of Swaythling Close, Edmonton was sentenced to 26 years and 12 months in prison on Wednesday, 30 July at the Old Bailey. He was previously convicted for Josh’s murder and possession of a knife on Wednesday, 4 June.

    A man and woman were also convicted and sentenced for separate offences.

    Josh’s mother, Bash Kehinde said: “Today’s sentencing changes nothing for me and my family. I will never see my beautiful son. And his two children will now face life without their hero.

    “To all of the mothers of murdered children, I understand your pain, the sadness and sense of loss that is unbearable. It is made worse because it was all so senseless.

    “Josh was a beautiful happy kind man and an active and loving father. The world is less kind, less bright and less funny without him here.”

    Detective Inspector Chris Griffith, from Specialist Crime North, who led the investigation, said: “This was a savage and pre-planned attack, committed in broad daylight and with scant regard for passers-by. What took place left the local community reeling, and two young children without their father.

    “My heart goes out to Josh’s family and friends. He was a loving parent, whose life was ended in the most horrendous way.

    “I hope that today’s result provides Josh’s family with some closure, and allows the community to feel safer knowing that Belle is no longer free to commit such heinous crimes.”

    The court heard that Josh was at a barbershop on Lea Bridge Road with his son on Saturday, 6 July. Around 15:00hrs, as shown on CCTV seized by the investigation team, Belle entered the shop wearing a balaclava where he stabbed Josh in the neck in a pre-meditated attack following a long-standing dispute. Belle was then chased away by Josh.

    Members of the public rushed to Josh’s aid and attempted to provide medical treatment until the arrival of officers and paramedics. Despite their best efforts, Josh died from his injuries.

    A determined investigation began immediately in which officers painstakingly combed through more than 100 hours of CCTV footage to track Belle’s movements and understand what took place.

    Officers discovered that Belle was the passenger in a car being driven by his partner, Tenika Parker. Having seen Josh enter the barbershop, the pair drove to the address of man called Daniel Cooper. In doorbell footage later seized, Cooper was seen providing Belle with the balaclava and knife that would be used minutes later to murder Josh. Belle was then driven back to the barbers nearby before stabbing Josh. He was helped to escape by Parker in the waiting car.

    A manhunt led to the arrest of Belle at an address in Pincott Road, SW19 on Monday 8 July, 2024.

    As part of officers’ determination to further establish a watertight case against Belle, further enquiries led them to discover a rap video on YouTube showing Belle threaten Josh in advance of the attack, more proof that it was pre-planned.

    Parker was initially arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender on Sunday, 7 July in India Dock Road, Poplar. She was stopped by police while driving the car that had been identified as involved in the murder. During a search of Parker’s vehicle, officers found distinct black sliders Belle was seen wearing in CCTV footage, as well as traces of blood that officers sent for forensic testing. This provided a DNA match to Josh. Parker was rearrested on Wednesday, 2 October, and charged with perverting the course of justice after CCTV footage showed her attempting to clean her car after the attack to remove any evidence.

    Cooper was arrested after handing himself in to police on Thursday, 11 July. During a search at Cooper’s property, officers discovered two knives matching the branding of the weapon that was left at the scene of Josh’s murder. Forensic testing on the balaclava and knife discarded by Belle at the scene of Josh’s murder found DNA that matched with Cooper.

    On Wednesday, 4 June, Tenika Parker, 39 (21.02.86), of Canterbury Road, Leytonstone and Daniel Cooper, 22 (20.02.03) of Gosport Road, Leytonstone stood trial alongside Belle.

    Parker was convicted of possession of a knife and perverting the course of justice. On Wednesday, 30 July, she was sentenced at the Old Bailey to 2 years and 3 months years in prison.

    Cooper had previously pleaded guilty to possession of a knife but was acquitted of other offences. He was sentenced on Friday, 6 June for 7.5 months. He has since been released due to time already served.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Analysis: Windrush scandal: those left to apply for compensation without legal help missed out on tens of thousands of pounds

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Jo Wilding, Lecturer in law, University of Sussex

    The Windrush scandal has been one of the biggest miscarriages of justice in Britain, affecting tens of thousands of people. The government set up a scheme in 2019 to award compensation to those who had been wronged by racist immigration legislation over decades, left unable to prove their immigration status.

    But in a new report, I have found that how much victims receive through the scheme has little to do with how they were wronged, and more to do with whether they can access a lawyer. Those who applied without legal support were offered tens of thousands of pounds less than when they appealed with legal representation.

    The research, produced with law reform charity Justice and Dechert LLP’s pro bono team, provides empirical evidence of precisely what lawyers do that makes a difference.

    Our research participants, who were claiming compensation over the Windrush scandal were offered, on average, £11,000 when applying to the scheme without a lawyer. But when applying for review with legal representation, the award was more than £83,000. One of our participants was refused any compensation when he applied alone, but eventually received £295,000 with the help of a lawyer.

    Why lawyers are needed

    We conducted an in-depth review of ten files where a claimant first applied for compensation without a lawyer, received a refusal or a low offer of compensation, and then applied with a lawyer for review of that decision.

    We reviewed another seven files from people who could never have claimed alone, because of street homelessness, dementia or serious health conditions.

    The team interviewed each lawyer and (where possible) the claimant, to identify exactly what a lawyer does that makes a difference.

    The Home Office insists lawyers are unnecessary because the scheme’s own caseworkers will help find evidence. But our findings suggest serious failings in those efforts. One of the main contributions of lawyers was expertise in finding decades-old evidence and demonstrating how it meets the standard of proof for the Windrush compensation scheme.

    One of our claimants applied for compensation for having been refused housing assistance (leaving her homeless) based on a misunderstanding of her immigration status. The Home Office caseworkers emailed her local council and asked whether there was a record of her being refused housing assistance 20 years earlier. The council replied that there was not. The caseworker treated that as evidence that she had never made an application.

    When a lawyer got involved, he asked the council to confirm how long they kept housing application records. The answer was 12 years, so there was never any prospect of evidence existing from 20 years ago. The lawyer then managed to track down her housing file with the housing solicitors who represented her.

    Lawyers knew how to request files from public bodies, understood the references to statutes in those files and, most importantly, were able to spot when key documents were missing.

    The lawyers in the cases we reviewed took detailed witness statements from claimants. Those made by claimants alone averaged 1.5 pages, whereas those made by lawyers were at least 15 pages, containing far more relevant detail showing how the claimant met the scheme criteria.

    Lawyers acted as a “buffer” between claimant and Home Office. Claimants told our research team that they felt the Home Office spoke to them with more respect once they had a lawyer. Often, claimants were ready to give up and accept the refusal because they were exhausted and frustrated with fighting the Home Office.

    The Windrush scandal has affected tens of thousands of people.
    James Ivor Wadlow/Shutterstock

    The findings are consistent with other peer-reviewed research exploring what lawyers or representatives add to cases in the family courts and the tribunals: a 15%-18% “representation premium” in chances of success. In some cases, this can be achieved through pre-hearing advice.

    All of our participants had a lawyer either through Law Centres funded by a charity, a university law clinic, or private law firms doing the work pro bono. Some firms also do the work on a no-win-no-fee basis, typically taking 25%-30% of the claimant’s damages but on occasion up to 67%. Given that it takes 32-103 hours to prepare the case, the lawyer’s fee may still underrepresent the work they did.

    Compensation schemes and legal support

    Recent reports have revealed serious problems with the compensation schemes for both the Post Office and the infected blood scandals. The chairs of the respective public inquiries, Sir Wyn Williams and Sir Brian Langstaff, criticised gaps in the provision of access to legal advice and recommended funded legal advice for all claimants.

    The Post Office Horizon IT scandal has four compensation schemes for different categories of victim. In each, claimants can choose between a fixed payment (£75,000) or an individual assessment of loss. In three of those schemes, funded legal advice is available to help claimants choose between those options. In the Horizon Shortfall Scheme, though, it is not available unless and until they reject the fixed payment and opt for individual assessment.

    The infected blood compensation scheme includes funded legal representation for “core” route claimants – those directly affected. But the inquiry report says it should also be available for claims by affected family members.

    Only the Windrush scheme has no provision at all for funded legal representation at any stage. All representation is either a matter of charity, or paid for from the damages, which may leave very little for the claimant.

    Yet the Windrush scheme is arguably the most complicated, with a 44-page claim form compared with just eight for the Horizon Shortfall Scheme. The infected blood claim form is largely completed by medical personnel. The Windrush scheme has complex eligibility requirements compared with the other schemes, and often demands an immigration lawyer’s expertise.

    As our research found, lawyers were able to advise Windrush claimants on whether the offer of compensation was fair or whether they should apply for review. Our empirical evidence, along with the reports, suggest all compensation schemes involving state harm to citizens should include free legal representation for claimants.

    In response to the report, a Home Office spokesperson told the Guardian: “Earlier this year, we launched a £1.5m advocacy support fund to provide dedicated help from trusted community organisations when victims are applying for compensation. However, we recognise there is more to be done, which is why ministers are continuing to engage with community groups on improvements to the compensation scheme, and will ask the new Windrush commissioner to recommend any further changes they believe are required.”

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

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

    – ref. Windrush scandal: those left to apply for compensation without legal help missed out on tens of thousands of pounds – https://theconversation.com/windrush-scandal-those-left-to-apply-for-compensation-without-legal-help-missed-out-on-tens-of-thousands-of-pounds-261046

    MIL OSI Analysis –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Justice Department Releases Guidance for Recipients of Federal Funding Regarding Unlawful Discrimination

    Source: United States Attorneys General

    WASHINGTON – Today, the Department of Justice released Guidance to ensure that recipients of federal funding do not engage in unlawful discrimination.  In particular, it clarifies that federal antidiscrimination laws apply to programs or initiatives that involve discriminatory practices, including those labeled as Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (“DEI”) programs.  Entities that receive federal funds, like all other entities subject to federal antidiscrimination laws, must ensure that their programs and activities comply with federal law and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, or other protected characteristics—no matter the program’s labels, objectives, or intentions.

    “This Department of Justice will not stand by while recipients of federal funds engage in illegal discrimination,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “This guidance will ensure we are serving the American people and not ideological agendas.”

    “The federal government must ensure that taxpayer money is used lawfully and for the public good,” said Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon. “The very foundation of our anti-discrimination laws rests on the principle that every American deserves equal opportunity, regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, or other protected characteristics.”

    This new Guidance emphasizes the significant legal risks of initiatives that involve discrimination based on protected characteristics and offers non-binding best practices to help entities that receive federal funds avoid the risk of violations and the revocation of federal grant funding.

    Read the Guidance HERE.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Luján, Merkley Demand Public Release of Epstein Files

    US Senate News:

    Source: US Senator for New Mexico Ben Ray Luján

    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) and U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.) have launched an effort to direct the U.S. Department of Justice to publicly release all files related to the investigation of Jeffrey Epstein and his associates.

    Senators Luján and Merkley introduced the Epstein Files Transparency Act to ensure full transparency for the American people, accountability for those involved with Epstein, and justice for victims.  As story after story trickles out about the Trump administration’s handling of the Epstein Files, the Epstein Files Transparency Act is critical to restoring the public’s trust in government and includes strong protections to redact appropriate information to protect victims’ privacy and national security, while explicitly prohibiting redactions based on reputational harm or political sensitivity.

    “President Trump promised the American people transparency and accountability on Jeffrey Epstein and his horrible crimes. The Trump administration has failed to deliver on this promise and as a result has lost the trust of the American people. That’s why I’m partnering with Senator Merkley to launch this effort to provide the public with full transparency relating to the investigation of Jeffrey Epstein and his associates and help deliver justice for the victims,” said Senator Luján.

    “The rich and powerful cannot use their influence, money, and connections to cover up the abuse of our most vulnerable,” said Senator Merkley. “We have a government of ‘We the People,’ not ‘We the Powerful.’ To restore the public’s trust, the American people deserve the truth about Jeffrey Epstein and those connected to him.”

    Earlier this month, U.S. Representatives Thomas Massie (R-KY) and Ro Khanna (D-CA) introduced a bipartisan resolution in the House calling for consideration of the Epstein Files Transparency Act.

    The legislation is co-sponsored by U.S. Senators Dick Durbin (D-IL), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), Andy Kim (D-NJ), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), Peter Welch (D-VT), Mark Warner (D-VA), Jack Reed (D-RI), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Chris Coons (D-DE), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), and Michael Bennet (D-CO).

    Full text of the Epstein Files Transparency Act as introduced in the Senate can be found here. The Senators intend to force Senate consideration of the legislation as soon as possible.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Justice Department Releases Guidance for Recipients of Federal Funding Regarding Unlawful Discrimination

    Source: US Justice – Antitrust Division

    Headline: Justice Department Releases Guidance for Recipients of Federal Funding Regarding Unlawful Discrimination

    WASHINGTON – Today, the Department of Justice released Guidance to ensure that recipients of federal funding do not engage in unlawful discrimination.  In particular, it clarifies that federal antidiscrimination laws apply to programs or initiatives that involve discriminatory practices, including those labeled as Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (“DEI”) programs.  Entities that receive federal funds, like all other entities subject to federal antidiscrimination laws, must ensure that their programs and activities comply with federal law and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, or other protected characteristics—no matter the program’s labels, objectives, or intentions.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General Sunday, Senator Pennycuick to Host Law Enforcement Roundtable for Berks, Montgomery Counties

    Source: US State of Pennsylvania

    July 31, 2025 – Douglassville, PA

    ADVISORY – Attorney General Sunday, Senator Pennycuick to Host Law Enforcement Roundtable for Berks, Montgomery Counties

    WHAT:
    Attorney General Dave Sunday and Pa. Senator Tracy Pennycuick will host law enforcement and community leaders from Berks and Montgomery counties to discuss current public safety issues and trends, and ways to collaborate to achieve common goals.

    Attorney General Sunday and Senator Pennycuick will be available for media interviews prior to the roundtable event, which is closed to the public/media. Media attendees will be invited to take video/photographs of the group assembling for opening remarks, and will then be asked to depart so the group can have open discussion about sensitive matters.

    WHO:
    Dave Sunday, Attorney General of Pennsylvania
    Pa. Senator Tracy Pennycuick
    Berks County, Montgomery County law enforcement leaders

    WHEN & WHERE:
    9:45 A.M., Thursday, July 31, 2025

    Monarch Fire Company
    50 Pennsylvania Avenue
    Douglassville, Pa. 19518

    MEDIA RSVP:
    Credentialed media must RSVP to press@attorneygeneral.gov.

    Media may arrive beginning at 9:45 A.M.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: New police unit bolsters B.C.’s response to human trafficking

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    The Province is strengthening its efforts to combat human trafficking with the creation of a new, co-ordinated provincial response team.

    The counter human trafficking unit (CHTU) will enhance the detection, investigation and prosecution of human trafficking crimes, while expanding support for victims and targeting organized crime networks operating in British Columbia.

    “Human trafficking occurs in all areas of our province, and we all have a role to play in helping to prevent these horrific crimes,” said Nina Krieger, Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General. “The creation of this new unit marks a significant step forward in our government’s efforts to assist police in identifying and supporting victims of human trafficking, while also strengthening evidence-gathering to ensure those responsible for these crimes are held accountable.”

    The CHTU is a 12-member team that will lead the provincial response to the issue of human trafficking through intelligence, education and investigation. The unit will work with police departments and other agencies to provide increased training to officers and additional capacity in investigations and intelligence-gathering on cases throughout the province. They will also help strengthen the response to these crimes by promoting experts in the field of human trafficking to support criminal prosecutions. 

    “Human trafficking is a complex and often hidden crime that requires specialized skills and resources from police,” said Chief Supt. Elija Rain, officer in charge of the B.C. RCMP major crime section. “From education to detection, investigation, prosecution and working closely with policing and community partners, the creation of this dedicated team strengthens our overall response to human trafficking in every corner of B.C.”

    The funding for the CHTU is made available from the Province’s $230-million investment into the Provincial Police Service to enable the B.C. RCMP to hire officers in specialized units, such as the major crime section, the internet child exploitation unit and the BC Highway Patrol.

    The Province’s broader response to human trafficking includes a focus on enhancing community-led supports for survivors, increasing community capacity to respond to human trafficking and enforcement efforts through police departments. More than $60 million is provided annually to support more than 475 front-line victim-service and violence against women programs in the province that offer emotional support, information, referrals and practical assistance to victims of violence, including victims of human trafficking. This includes funding for 70 new sexual-assault services and five sexual-assault centres to support victims of sexual violence in the province.

    Human trafficking is a serious violation of human rights involving the exploitation of vulnerable individuals for profit. Due to their often hidden and complex nature, many human trafficking offences go undetected or unreported. In 2023, 43 incidents were reported to police in B.C., though the actual number may be higher as experts note human trafficking is significantly under-reported.

    Quotes:

    Jennifer Blatherwick, parliamentary secretary for gender equity –

    “We know that human trafficking and gender-based violence are closely connected. Over 90% of police-reported human trafficking victims are women and girls, and one-third of them are trafficked by an intimate partner. Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQIA+ people are at a higher risk, as are survivors of gender-based violence, which is why this new unit will support the important work underway as part of B.C.’s gender-based violence action plan.”

    Amna Shah, MLA for Surrey City Centre –  

    “One incident of human trafficking is too many. This new 12-member unit will help our Province proactively respond to the issue of human trafficking in B.C. and ensure victims have the support they need. The B.C. RCMP is working hard to address these crimes and keep our communities safe.”

    Jenea Gomez, director, Illuminate Anti-Human Trafficking Programs –

    “It is an honour to work alongside the Province of British Columbia and this newly formed response team to ensure that legal and social mechanisms support our common goal of seeing survivors live free from exploitation. Illuminate has worked closely with the RCMP Counter-Exploitation Unit for many years, and we will continue to bring our expertise to the Counter Human Trafficking Unit for the support of survivors seeking safety and justice.”

    Quick Facts:

    • The Province provided $230 million to support the RCMP Provincial Police Service to hire 256 members over three years.
    • Two hundred and twenty-five positions have been staffed and actions for the remaining 31 positions are expected to be completed by spring 2026.
    • The United Nations has designated July 30 as World Day Against Trafficking in Persons to raise awareness of the situation of victims of human trafficking and for the promotion and protection of their rights.

    Two backgrounders follow.

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Warner & Kaine Ask Navy for Answers Regarding Death of Seaman Angelina Resendiz

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Virginia Tim Kaine

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine, Ranking Member of the Senate Armed Services Subcommittee on Seapower, (both D-VA) sent a letter to Secretary of the Navy John Phelan asking the U.S. Navy for answers regarding the death of Seaman Angelina P. Resendiz, who was found dead on June 9 in Norfolk after being reported missing since May 29. Resendiz was assigned to the destroyer James E. Williams at Naval Station Norfolk. In the letter, the senators request a briefing from the Navy and more information about the period of Resendiz’s disappearance and death and the Navy’s adherence to policies and procedures. They also express concerns regarding public accounts of the condition of Seaman Resendiz’s remains upon arrival in Texas.

    “We write to inquire about the Navy’s handling of the tragic death of Seaman Angelina P. Resendiz,” wrote the senators. “While we acknowledge the Navy’s engagement with congressional offices to date, ongoing questions and concerns related to the period of her disappearance, the circumstances leading to her death, and the Navy’s policies and procedures throughout, demand answers.”

    The senators continued, “As the Navy continues its investigation, it is critical that you provide Congress with significantly greater detail about the circumstances of Seaman Resendiz’s disappearance and death, including a more fulsome accounting of the Navy’s engagement with Seaman Resendiz’s loved ones and fellow sailors who had raised concerns about her well-being.”

    “We urge you to provide clarity around the actions taken by the Navy upon first learning of Seaman Resendiz’s absence, and Navy leaders’ adherence to a range of protocols and procedures … we ask for detail on what investigative steps were taken, and when, by the Navy and its Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS), as well as the interactions with local and Virginia State Police,” the senators wrote. “We have serious questions as to what policies and procedures govern dignified transfer of remains after an investigation, and whether those were followed in this instance.”

    Full text of the letter is available here and below:

    Dear Secretary Phelan,

    We write to inquire about the Navy’s handling of the tragic death of Seaman Angelina P. Resendiz. While we acknowledge the Navy’s engagement with congressional offices to date, ongoing questions and concerns related to the period of her disappearance, the circumstances leading to her death, and the Navy’s policies and procedures throughout, demand answers. We urge the swift and thorough completion of the criminal investigation, and an associated administrative investigation as the service examines the circumstances of Seaman Resendiz’s death.

    In response to our engagement, along with that of broader congressional colleagues, the Navy has provided some initial information related to this tragic case. As the Navy continues its investigation, it is critical that you provide Congress with significantly greater detail about the circumstances of Seaman Resendiz’s disappearance and death, including a more fulsome accounting of the Navy’s engagement with Seaman Resendiz’s loved ones and fellow sailors who had raised concerns about her well-being. This information is vital in helping to fully understand the response from the Navy, as well as state and local law enforcement.

    Additionally, we urge you to provide clarity around the actions taken by the Navy upon first learning of Seaman Resendiz’s absence, and Navy leaders’ adherence to a range of protocols and procedures, including those outlined in MILPERSMAN 1600-040, which governs absent enlisted and officer personnel. Furthermore, we ask for detail on what investigative steps were taken, and when, by the Navy and its Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS), as well as the interactions with local and Virginia State Police. Finally, we reiterate our concern over the public accounts from the family about the grief and anger caused by the condition of Seaman Resendiz’s remains upon arrival in Texas. We have serious questions as to what policies and procedures govern dignified transfer of remains after an investigation, and whether those were followed in this instance.

    As you must surely understand, your timely response on these matters is especially important to community advocates, Seaman Resendiz’s loved ones, the broader Navy family, and Members of Congress. As such, we request a briefing from relevant Navy and installation leadership by August 14, 2025, in order to further address a range of questions and concerns about the case – from the initial reports of Seaman Resendiz’s missing status, up to and including the return of her remains to Texas.

    Sincerely,

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Durbin Statement On Senate Confirmation Of Emil Bove To Serve As A Lifetime Circuit Court Judge

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Dick Durbin

    July 29, 2025

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, today released the following statement after the Senate voted to confirm Emil Bove’s nomination to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit:

     

    “Mr. Bove’s primary qualification appears to be his blind loyalty to this President. As Acting Deputy Attorney General, Mr. Bove personally ordered the terminations of dozens of career federal prosecutors who worked to put violent January 6 offenders behind bars. Mr. Bove even made the outrageous claim that the prosecutions of January 6 rioters were ‘a grave national injustice that has been perpetrated upon the American people.’ He doubled down on this sentiment during his confirmation process—and further insulted the law enforcement officers who kept us safe from those rioters. He even ordered prosecutors to dismiss charges against Eric Adams forblatantly corrupt reasons.

    “On top of this, three whistleblowers have come forward to shine further light on Mr. Bove’s alleged misconduct. One whistleblower, a career Justice Department lawyer, not only provided evidence of Mr. Bove’s failure to fulfill his ethical obligations as a lawyer, but also demonstrated that his activities are part of a broader pattern by President Trump and his allies to undermine the Justice Department’s commitment to the rule of law.

    “He is a terrible choice for the Third Circuit, and I think it’s a dire mistake by my Republican colleagues to confirm him for a lifetime position on the federal bench.”

    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Highlighting the Impacts of Paying Off New York’s UI Debt

    Source: US State of New York

    overnor Kathy Hochul and Heather Mulligan, President and CEO of the Business Council of New York State, visited local business owner, Eli Smith, to discuss the impacts of using nearly $7 billion to pay off the federal Unemployment Insurance (UI) Trust Fund loan and replenish the Fund — a move that will bring the Fund to solvency, increase benefits for unemployed New Yorkers and cut costs to businesses. The Governor reached agreement to take this action back in May as part of the FY26 Enacted Budget.

    “With the Unemployment Insurance Trust Fund loan paid off, businesses and workers across the state will feel and see the financial relief that they deserve during a time when inflation is just so high,” Governor Hochul said. “New York State continues to work to put money back into the pockets of New Yorkers, cut costs for our businesses and uplift the state’s economy.”

    The Business Council of New York State President and CEO Heather Mulligan said, “On behalf of businesses across New York State, we are grateful that Governor Hochul found the UI debt to be a priority and agreed to fully pay off the remaining balance that had been a strain on all businesses, especially smaller employers across the state. This multi-billion-dollar burden served as an added tax on our employers for the past four years, restricting them from reinvesting in their businesses or local economies. We appreciate the willingness of the Assembly leadership to work with Governor Hochul and the business community to make the UI fund solvent.”

    Before the COVID-19 pandemic, the UI Trust Fund had a positive balance of nearly $2.5 billion. However, due to the economic downturn caused by the pandemic, the balance was paid out to unemployed New Yorkers, requiring the State to borrow from the federal government to continue paying eligible claims. Paying off the debt and making the fund solvent allows the State to increase the maximum UI benefit rate for unemployed New Yorkers so that it better aligns with other states. The maximum weekly benefit to unemployed workers, which has been frozen because of the debt, will increase from $504 to $869 in October.

    By paying off the debt, the State is also putting money back in the pockets of business owners, whose contribution rates had continued to climb while the debt was paid down. Employers are projected to save an average of $100 per employee in 2026 and $250 per employee in 2027. Additionally, the taxable wage base will increase in 2026, strengthening the trust fund over time and helping to maintain affordable tax rates for New York’s employers in the long term.

    E. Smith Contractors President Eli Smith said, “By paying off the unemployment debt I will save more than $300 per employee, and with about 50 workers in New York, that savings adds up. I can take that savings and invest in new equipment, workforce development or other ways to improve my business. I appreciate the Governor and the Legislature taking this step and also the advocacy of the Business Council of New York State.”

    New York State Department of Labor Commissioner Roberta Reardon said, “I thank Governor Hochul and the Legislature for paying off New York’s Unemployment Insurance Trust Fund debt, which is a win for both businesses and workers statewide. This action will cut costs for our businesses and increase benefits for unemployed New Yorkers when they need it most. By stabilizing this critical safety net for our workforce, we’re ensuring New York State is more affordable for all.”

    Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said, “The need for increased Unemployment Insurance contributions was a piece of New York’s greater post-COVID economic recovery challenge. By paying off the remaining federal Unemployment Insurance debt through the State Budget, Governor Hochul and the State Legislature are improving New York’s business climate and offering a direct, tangible benefit to businesses of all sizes across the state.”

    Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie said, “Our small businesses have been clear – paying off the unemployment insurance debt has been a huge relief. Now they can shift that cost towards growing and thriving within our communities and we can provide better coverage for our unemployed families as they get back on their feet. The Assembly Majority fought hard for this inclusion in the budget as we understood the critical benefit this would have to small businesses and New York’s hardworking families as they continue to make our state a place we’re all proud to call home.”

    State Senator Jessica Ramos said, “Paying off the Unemployment Insurance debt was long overdue and it’s a win for both workers and small businesses across New York. During the pandemic, our UI system was a lifeline, but for too long the burden of repayment fell unfairly on businesses while workers were stuck with frozen benefits. With this year’s budget, we finally turned the page. We’re raising benefits to meet the realities of today’s economy and easing the load on employers who kept our communities going. I’m grateful to Governor Hochul for working with us to get this done. This is what responsible, pro-worker, pro-business policy looks like.”

    Assemblymember Harry B. Bronson said, “Paying off this debt was critical for all New Yorkers and our job creators. We secured relief for employers — especially small businesses, while ensuring unemployed New Yorkers receive substantially increased benefits that help them afford housing, groceries, and basic necessities during their job search. With today’s cost of living, these enhanced benefits make the difference between families staying afloat or falling behind. This action supports both workers facing hardship and creates an environment where businesses can grow and hire.”

    Empire State Development Board Chair Kevin Law said, “Governor Hochul’s leadership in paying off New York’s Unemployment Insurance Trust Fund debt is a major win for businesses and workers — on Long Island and across the state. This critical step delivers real financial relief to employers while strengthening benefits for those who need them most. By reducing costs and restoring stability to the fund, we’re creating the conditions for sustained growth, economic resilience, and job creation.”

    Long Island Association President and CEO Matt Cohen said, “The UI debt was one of the last lingering reminders of the economic toll of the Covid pandemic and so the LIA applauds Governor Hochul and the New York State Legislature for delivering this significant relief to our business community.”

    HIA-LI President and CEO Terri Alessi-Miceli said, “We are grateful to Governor Hochul and the State Legislature for eliminating this burden on New York’s employers. Business owners on Long Island and the state can see meaningful relief that lowers the cost of doing business and strengthens our economy.”

    Business Council of Westchester President and CEO Marsha Gordon said, “Replenishing the State’s Unemployment Insurance (UI) Fund has been one of the Business Council of Westchester’s (BCW) top legislative priorities. For years, businesses have shouldered the burden of paying over $5 billion dollars towards this debt, which was an added tax that significantly impacted their operations. The BCW applauds the governor’s leadership and commitment to extinguishing the UI debt, which will remove the serious negative impact that businesses across the state were facing.”

    Capital Region Chamber, and the Center for Economic Growth (CEG) President and CEO Mark Eagan said, “Paying off the $7 billion outstanding federal unemployment insurance trust fund loan is a huge win for businesses, large and small. By paying off this loan, the UI program’s financial stability will be restored, and employers will no longer be saddled with higher UI taxes. We are grateful to Governor Hochul and the state legislature for addressing this outstanding debt in the final budget.”

    Acting President and CEO of CenterState Syracuse Ben Sio said, “Across New York, small and mid-sized businesses will benefit from the important decision by Governor Hochul and the legislature to pay off New York’s nearly $7 billion unemployment insurance debt. For a small business, the thousands of dollars saved by the elimination of the mandatory UI surcharge to pay off this debt will translate into new investment into those businesses, new equipment or an added employee. Simply put, this is a win for New York’s economy.”

    Greater Rochester Chamber President and CEO Bob Duffy said, “Governor Hochul’s decision to use $8 billion to restore solvency to the State’s unemployment insurance trust fund will have significant impacts on every business in New York State, from mom-and-pop shops to major legacy corporations. We have heard directly from our members that this decision will save them tens of thousands of dollars each year — savings that can be used to grow, create jobs, and invest in New York State. At a time of much uncertainty for businesses, these savings help stabilize the business community and ensure New York State remains competitive. We applaud the Governor’s leadership on this issue, and are proud to have worked alongside her and our other partners to secure this well-deserved funding for our business and labor community.”

    Greater Utica Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Kari Puleo said, “Paying off the unemployment insurance debt is a game-changer for businesses across the Mohawk Valley. It eases the financial pressure our employers have been carrying since the pandemic and frees up resources to reinvest in their operations, their workforce, and their growth. It’s a meaningful step forward that strengthens our local economy and supports a brighter future for the region.”

    Greater Binghamton Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Stacey Duncan said, “Over the past four years, New York State employers have faced significant challenges due to an unpredictable business climate, coupled with significant Unemployment Insurance costs. After depleting its UI Trust Fund in 2020, the state borrowed $11 billion to cover pandemic-related claims, saddling employers with maximum UI rates and interest assessment surcharges, costing small businesses over $6 billion. We are deeply grateful to Governor Hochul and the Legislature for recognizing the urgency of this issue and taking meaningful steps to support and prioritize the needs of small businesses.”

    North Country Chamber of Commerce President Garry Douglas said, “Relief from this massive UI debt to the federal government caused by the pandemic was a top priority for business and we join in thanking Governor Hochul and legislative leaders for the full payback of almost $7 billion. This huge UI debt would otherwise have fallen on employers, including small business, through higher UI costs until paid off, even though the pandemic shutdowns and impacts were not their fault. This important and needed relief is highly welcome for all employers.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Fact Sheet: President Donald J. Trump Addresses Threats to the United States from the Government of Brazil

    US Senate News:

    Source: US Whitehouse
    ADDRESSING A NATIONAL EMERGENCY: Today, President Donald J. Trump signed an Executive Order implementing an additional 40% tariff on Brazil, bringing the total tariff amount to 50%, to deal with recent policies, practices, and actions by the Government of Brazil that constitute an unusual and extraordinary threat to the national security, foreign policy, and economy of the United States.
    The Order declares a new national emergency using the President’s authority under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act of 1977 (IEEPA) and establishes an additional 40% tariff to address the Government of Brazil’s unusual and extraordinary policies and actions harming U.S. companies, the free speech rights of U.S. persons, U.S. foreign policy, and the U.S. economy.
    The Order finds that the Government of Brazil’s politically motivated persecution, intimidation, harassment, censorship, and prosecution of former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro and thousands of his supporters are serious human rights abuses that have undermined the rule of law in Brazil.
    USING LEVERAGE TO SAFEGUARD OUR INTERESTS: President Trump has consistently reaffirmed his commitment to defending the United States’ national security, foreign policy, and economy against foreign threats, including by safeguarding free speech, protecting U.S. companies from unlawful censorship coercion, and holding human rights abusers accountable for their lawless behavior.
    Recently, members of the Government of Brazil have taken unprecedented actions to tyrannically and arbitrarily coerce U.S. companies to censor political speech, deplatform users, turn over sensitive U.S. user data, or change their content moderation policies on pain of extraordinary fines, criminal prosecution, asset freezes, or complete exclusion from the Brazilian market. This undermines not only the viability of U.S. companies’ business operations in Brazil but also the policy of the United States in promoting free and fair elections and safeguarding fundamental human rights at home and abroad.
    For example, since 2019, Brazilian Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes has abused his judicial authority to threaten, target, and intimidate thousands of his political opponents, shield corrupt allies, and suppress dissent, often in coordination with other Brazilian officials, including other justices on Brazil’s Supreme Federal Court, to the detriment of U.S. companies operating in Brazil.
    Justice de Moraes has unilaterally issued hundreds of orders to secretly censor his political critics. When U.S. companies have refused to comply with these orders, he imposed substantial fines, ordered the companies’ exclusion from Brazil’s social media market, threatened their executives with criminal prosecution, and, in one case, froze the assets of a U.S. company in Brazil in an effort to coerce compliance.
    In fact, in addition to jailing individuals without trial for social media posts, Justice de Moraes is currently overseeing the Government of Brazil’s criminal prosecution of Paulo Figueiredo, a U.S. resident, for speech he made on U.S. soil, and has supported criminal investigations into other U.S. persons after they exposed his gross violations of human rights and corruption.

    President Trump is defending American companies from extortion, protecting American persons from political persecution, safeguarding American free speech from censorship, and saving the American economy from being subject to the arbitrary edicts of a tyrannical foreign judge.
    PUTTING AMERICA FIRST: By imposing these tariffs to address the Government of Brazil’s reckless actions, President Trump is protecting the national security, foreign policy, and economy of the United States from a foreign threat. In line with his election mandate, President Trump has also taken other actions to achieve peace through strength and ensure foreign policy reflects U.S. values, sovereignty, and security.
    On Day One, President Trump signed an “America First Policy Directive” to the Secretary of State that declared that the United States’ foreign policy must always put the interests of America and its citizens first.
    Consistent with this directive, on May 28, 2025, Secretary Rubio announced a visa restriction policy targeting foreign nationals responsible for the censorship of protected expression in the United States.
    Pursuant to that policy, on July 18, President Trump directed Secretary Rubio to revoke visas belonging to Justice de Moraes, his allies on the Court, and their immediate family members for their role in enabling Justice de Moraes’ human rights violations against Brazilians and free speech violations against Americans.
    Preserving and protecting the free speech rights of all Americans and defending American companies from coerced censorship will remain at the forefront of President Trump’s America First foreign policy strategy.
    President Trump has successfully used tariffs in the past to advance America’s interests and address other urgent national security threats and is doing so again today.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: McConnell Introduces Kentuckian at Judicial Nomination Hearing

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kentucky Mitch McConnell

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today before members of the U.S. Senate Committee on the Judiciary in support of S. Chad Meredith, of Lexington, President Trump’s nominee to serve as a district judge for the Eastern District of Kentucky:

    “Mr. Chairman and distinguished Members of the Committee, today it is my distinct privilege to introduce my fellow Kentuckian, Chad Meredith.

    “President Trump made an outstanding choice for his nomination to the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Kentucky. Earlier this year, I proudly recommended Chad to the White House and as you will see from today’s hearing, he has the intellect, skill, and experience to excel as a federal district court judge.

    “One of the Senate’s most important constitutional responsibilities is to offer its advice and consent with respect to executive nominations, and I take very seriously the responsibility to carefully consider every nominee, especially for vacancies in my home state. 

    “Chad is a bright lawyer with a stellar resume and a distinguished record of public service, but I would like to share with you how I first met him.

    “Chad interned with my office in 2003. The internship program provides college students with the opportunity to enhance their education as well as increase their knowledge of issues important to both the Commonwealth and our country. Interns are selected on the basis of strong scholastic and extracurricular achievements as well as an interest in the governmental process, and I’ve been impressed to watch a former McIntern through the decades succeed in the legal field, public service, and now to be nominated to the federal bench.

    “Chad graduated summa cum laude from Washington and Lee University and summa cum laude from the University of Kentucky College of Law. Following his formal education, he sharpened his legal skills with two judicial clerkships with then-District Judge Amul Thapar on the Eastern District of Kentucky and Judge John Rogers on the Sixth Circuit.

    “He served as the first – that’s right, the first – Solicitor General for the Commonwealth of Kentucky. As the Solicitor General from 2019 to 2021, Chad oversaw all civil and criminal appellate litigation involving the Commonwealth. He earned a reputation for being fair-minded and professional, and for having a strong work ethic.

    “From throughout the country, we have dozens of current and former state solicitors general expressing their strong support for Chad’s nomination, saying, ‘As Kentucky’s first Solicitor General, Chad distinguished himself in diverse areas of federal and state law. Chad also exhibits the temperament necessary to serve as a District Judge…As Chad’s professional peers who have witnessed his work, we are confident that he possesses the qualities to serve with distinction as a District Judge.’

    “Additionally, it’s quite notable to hear from hundreds of lawyers calling Chad ‘fair-minded’. These attorneys come from many diverse backgrounds and include civil litigators, prosecutors, and criminal defense attorneys. They hold various political views and judicial philosophies and are supporting this nomination saying, ‘we all agree that our legal system needs judges who carefully and honestly evaluate the arguments made by the parties and do what the law requires. We all believe that Chad will excel as a District Judge.’

    “Amid Chad’s great professional success in private practice, even his colleagues know his value as an excellent lawyer and a careful thinker will serve our nation well, saying, ‘As much as we don’t want to lose him, our loss would be the public’s gain.’

    “This is all very resounding support and where that support runs deepest is with Chad’s family. I’d like to recognize his father, Kentucky State Senator Steve Meredith and his mother, Karen. They are both here and I know are very proud of Chad… and so is his wonderful wife, Rebekah, and we can bet that each of their children, Ben, Grace, Emma, and Daniel are beaming with pride for their dad.

    “Also joining today to support Chad’s commitment to public service is Kentucky State Representative Samara Heavrin, as well as many more members of his family, his friends, and colleagues.

    “Mr. Chairman, thank you for the opportunity to come by and put in a good word. I am confident that Chad Meredith, who has demonstrated devotion to the rule of law and the Constitution, will serve the people of Kentucky and our country well on the federal bench. I appreciate this committee’s consideration of his nomination, and I look forward to his confirmation.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Murray, Smith Introduce New Bill to Restore Medicaid Funding for Planned Parenthood

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington State Patty Murray

    Bicameral legislation to reverse “defund” Planned Parenthood provision in Republicans’ reconciliation bill is endorsed by Planned Parenthood & more than 125 original cosponsors

    Senator Murray has led the fight in the Senate against Republican efforts to defund Planned Parenthood, offered an amendment to strip “defund” provision out of the reconciliation bill—Republicans blocked it

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), a senior member and former chair of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee, joined Senator Tina Smith (D-MN) and U.S. Representatives Laura Friedman (CA-30), Nikema Williams (GA-5), and Chris Pappas (NH-1) in introducing theRestoring Essential Healthcare Act this week, a bicameral bill that repeals the federal ban on Medicaid reimbursements to Planned Parenthood that Republicans recently enacted as part of their partisan reconciliation legislation, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act.

    The legislation strikes Section 71113 of Republicans’ reconciliation bill, which prohibits federal Medicaid payments to Planned Parenthood clinics that offer reproductive health care and other essential health care services. The provision puts nearly 200 Planned Parenthood clinics at risk of closure, endangering access to health care for more than two million patients across the country.

    “Republicans have been pushing for years to defund Planned Parenthood, because they want to ban abortion nationwide—and they don’t care if they rip away access to cancer screenings, contraception, or other essential preventive care for millions of women in the process,” said Senator Murray. “Our bill is simple: it would reverse the provision Republicans enacted into law that cuts Planned Parenthood and other women’s health clinics off from federal Medicaid funding. In many communities, Planned Parenthood is the only place women can go to get basic preventive care, no matter their income. I’m proud to join my colleagues in this effort to save essential health care.”

    “I worked at Planned Parenthood. I saw how controlling your own health care allows you to make the best decisions about the course of your life – your education, your work and your family,” said Senator Smith. “Planned Parenthood offers so much more than abortion services. In many communities it is the only clinic to provide cancer screenings, birth control, and STI screening. This bill takes a critical step to restore Medicaid funding to Planned Parenthood, to ensure these clinics are equipped with the resources they need to provide essential health care, and to give patients back the right to choose their health care provider.” 

    “President Trump and his allies in Congress chose to devastate our nation’s already fractured health care system when they passed a backdoor abortion ban ‘defunding’ Planned Parenthood. With this provision, they have put nearly 200 health centers at risk of closing and threatened over a million people’s access to cancer screenings, STI testing and treatment,  birth control, and other essential services, all in order to push an unpopular, anti-abortion agenda. We are thankful to Sens. Smith (D-MN) and Murray (D-WA) and Reps. Friedman (D-CA-30), Pappas (D-NH-1), and Williams (D-GA-5) for introducing the Restoring Essential Healthcare Act, and for championing access to high-quality, affordable reproductive care. Everyone deserves health care, and we will continue to fight every day to make that possible,” said Alexis McGill Johnson, president and CEO of Planned Parenthood Action Fund.

    The ban on Medicaid reimbursements to Planned Parenthood could leave thousands of patients in every state with no place to seek essential reproductive care and other vital health services. Every year, Planned Parenthood provides health care to more than two million people, including STI testing, breast exams, birth control, HPV vaccines, and other critical services. 

    The Restoring Essential Healthcare Act has been endorsed by Planned Parenthood Federation of America, Center for Reproductive Rights, Reproductive Freedom Caucus, All* Above All, Guttmacher Institute, National Abortion Federation, National Asian Pacific American Women’s Forum, National Council of Jewish Women, National Family Planning & Reproductive Health Association, National Latina Institute for Reproductive Justice, National Network of Abortion Funds, National Partnership for Women & Families, National Women’s Law Center Action Fund, Reproductive Freedom for All, Physicians for Reproductive Health, Power to Decide.

    There are 133 original cosponsors of the Restoring Essential Healthcare Act in the House, including Williams*, Pappas*, Amo, Auchincloss, Balint, Barragán, Bell, Beyer, Bonamici, Brownley, Budzinski, Carbajal, Carson, Carter, Case, Casten, Castor, Cherfilus-McCormick, Chu, Cisneros, Clarke, Cleaver, Cohen, Correa, Craig, Crockett, Davids, Davis, DeGette, DelBene, Deluzio, DeSaulnier, Dexter, Doggett, Elfreth, Escobar, Evans, Fletcher, Foushee, Frankel, Frost, Garamendi, Garcia (TX), Goldman, Goodlander, Gottheimer, Horsford, Houlahan, Hoyle, Huffman, Ivey, Jacobs, Jackson, Johnson (GA), Kamlager-Dove, Kaptur, Kelly, Kennedy, Khanna, Krishnamoorthi, Landsman, Larson, Lee (PA), Leger Fernandez, Levin, Liccardo, Lieu, Lofgren, Lynch, Mannion, Matsui, McBath, McBride, McClellan, McGovern, McIver, Meeks, Menendez, Meng, Min, Moore, Morelle, Morrison, Moulton, Mullin, Nadler, Norton, Olszewski, Panetta, Pelosi, Peters, Pettersen, Pingree, Pocan, Pou, Quigley, Ramirez, Randall, Raskin, Ross, Ryan, Salinas, Scanlon, Schakowsky, Schneider, Sewell, Sherman, Sherrill, Simon, Sorensen, Soto, Stansbury, Stanton, Stevens, Strickland, Sykes, Takano, Thanedar, Thompson (CA), Titus, Tlaib, Tokuda, Tonko, Torres (NY), Torres (CA), Trahan, Underwood, Veasey, Velázquez, Wasserman Schultz, Waters, Watson Coleman, Wilson.

    Senator Murray has been the leading voice in the Senate speaking out and raising the alarm against Republican efforts to defund Planned Parenthood. After the Parliamentarian allowed Republicans to proceed with their long-sought goal of defunding Planned Parenthood in their reconciliation bill, Senator Murray put forward an amendment to strike the provision—Republicans blocked it.

    At her recent Senate forum on the anniversary of the Dobbs decision, Senator Murray spoke about Republicans’ plan to institute a backdoor nationwide abortion ban and laid out how defunding Planned Parenthood is a key part of that strategy. Last month, Senator Murray delivered a lengthy speech on the Senate floor where she laid out in detail how Republicans’ One Big Beautiful Bill Act will rip away health care from millions of Americans, shutter the doors of hospitals and health care clinics across the country, make the largest cuts to Medicaid and nutrition assistance in history, and blow up the national debt—all so Republicans can fund massive tax breaks for billionaires.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Pending EU infringement proceedings that the Sicily Region is involved in and the EU sanctions it is shouldering – E-002903/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002903/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Giuseppe Antoci (The Left)

    Article 258 TFEU provides for infringement proceedings against a Member State that does not comply with EU legislation.

    The cost of the financial penalties imposed by the Court of Justice of the European Union is indirectly borne by citizens and territories, effectively restricting their rights.

    Italy is among the Member States with the highest number of open infringement proceedings, a number of which specifically involve the Sicily Region and come with hefty financial sanctions.

    However, neither the Sicily Region’s official website[1] nor that of the competent Italian ministry provide a comprehensive and transparent list of the pending EU infringements and sanctions involving Sicily.

    The principle of transparency and the citizens’ right to information are laid down in the Treaty on European Union (TEU)[2], which provides for the active involvement of civil society in monitoring the implementation of EU law.

    Information on infringements and sanctions is crucial in enabling citizens to pressure regional and national institutions to take the measures needed to comply with EU law in a timely manner.

    In the light of the above:

    • 1.Could the Commission reveal all the pending infringement proceedings which the Sicily Region is party to, all the sanctions that have already been applied to Italy as well as their total value, which represents a burden for the region?
    • 2.How does the Commission assess the current level of transparency and information provided to citizens about EU infringements and their related sanctions? Does it think that it could take action in order to ensure that this information is shared in a transparent manner?

    Submitted: 15.7.2025

    • [1] https://pti.regione.sicilia.it/portal/page/portal/PIR_PORTALE/PIR_LaStrutturaRegionale/PIR_AssEnergia/PIR_Dipartimentodellacquaedeirifiuti/PIR_Areetematiche/PIR_Altricontenuti/PIR_Procedurediinfrazione.
    • [2] Articles 10 and 11 TEU.
    Last updated: 30 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Jacksonville Convicted Child Sex Offender Indicted for Using the Internet to Access Child Sexual Abuse Materials

    Source: US FBI

    Jacksonville, Florida – United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe announces that Matthew Eric Baumgardner (49, Jacksonville) has been arrested and charged by indictment for using the internet to access child sexual abuse materials. If convicted, Baumgardner faces a minimum penalty of 10 years, up to 20 years, in federal prison and a potential lifetime term of supervised release. He was arrested on July 28, 2025, and has been ordered detained pending trial.

    Baumgardner is a registered child sex offender who was convicted in 2017 of possessing photographs depicting the sexual performance by a child, traveling to meet a minor for unlawful activity, and unlawful use of a two-way communication device.

    This case was investigated by the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney D. Rodney Brown.

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

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Dan Goldman’s Statement on Joining Lawsuit Demanding Trump Administration Allow Access to Immigration Detention Facilities

    Source: US Congressman Dan Goldman (NY-10)

    Read the Lawsuit Here

    “For months, masked, unidentified ICE agents have been illegally detaining hundreds of non-violent, law-abiding immigrants and holding them for days or weeks in federal facilities in my district without beds, showers, sufficient food, or proper medical care.  

    “Despite repeated efforts, DHS and ICE blocked me from conducting my oversight obligations to inspect these reported inhumane conditions and hold ICE accountable. 

    Today, fellow Members of Congress and I are filing suit.  

    “The Department of Homeland Security’s refusal is illegal. The law clearly states that Members of Congress must be granted access to any DHS facility used “to detain or otherwise house” immigrants. DHS has repeatedly ignored this legal requirement and blocked multiple attempts by me to observe a facility in my district at 26 Federal Plaza.

    “These actions constitute a direct violation of federal law and a dangerous obstruction of congressional authority. 

    “We did not arrive at this decision lightly. We have given DHS and Secretary Noem every opportunity to comply with the law. We have asked our Republican colleagues in the majority to join us in supporting their own congressional authority. I have even provided prior notice of my visits, even though the statute expressly permits unannounced visits. At every turn, I have been rebuffed. When a federal agency willfully defies the law and blocks congressional oversight, Members of Congress have both the right and the obligation to act. 

    “If House Republicans will not stand up for their own rights and obligations to conduct vital congressional oversight, then my Democratic colleagues and I are left with no choice but to go to the courts to do so. As Donald Trump escalates his mass deportation agenda with an infusion of $45 billion to detain and imprison immigrants, it is even more critical that Members of Congress be allowed to assert our statutory right to conduct oversight of ICE’s operations and provide transparency to the American people.” 

    ### 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICE Philadelphia arrests Mexican national with warrant for rape in Pennsylvania

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    PHILADELPHIA — U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations Philadelphia and Homeland Security Investigations Philadelphia, IRS Philadelphia and ATF Philadelphia arrested Silvestre Herrera-Vasquez, a 48-year-old citizen of Mexico, in Malvern July 28.

    “The arrest of dangerous criminal illegal aliens like Herrera-Vasquez demonstrates ICE’s absolute commitment to ensuring the safety and security of our communities,” said ERO Philadelphia Field Office Director Brian McShane. “I commend our partner agencies for continuing to collaborate with ERO in finding, arresting and removing these individuals. By working together, we are able to leverage our collective resources and expertise to apprehend dangerous criminals and uphold the law. Our partnerships are essential in our mission to protect the public and maintain the integrity of our immigration system.”

    Herrera-Vasquez entered the United States at an unknown date and time.

    The Philadelphia Police Department arrested him May 15, 2011, under the alias “Alex Acosta,” for retail theft. He was convicted on Aug. 17, 2011, and fined. On Jan. 10, 2014, the Philadelphia Police Department issued a warrant for Herrera-Vasquez under the alias “Marcos Garcia-Reyes” for strongarm rape.

    Herrera-Vasquez will be processed for expedited removal and will remain in ICE custody pending removal proceedings.

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

    Learn more about ICE Philadelphia’s mission to increase public safety in our Pennsylvania, Delaware and West Virginia communities on X at @EROPhiladelphia.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Collin County felon sentenced to 19 years in federal prison for drug trafficking and firearms violations

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

    SHERMAN, Texas – A Princeton man has been sentenced to 19 years in federal prison for drug trafficking and firearms violations in the Eastern District of Texas, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs.

    Larry Wayne Culverhouse, 39, pleaded guilty to possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime; felon in possession of a firearm; and possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute and was sentenced to 228 months in federal prison by U.S. District Judge Amos L. Mazzant, III, on July 30, 2025.

    According to information presented in court, on August 30, 2023, Culverhouse was found in possession of 504.3 grams of methamphetamine and a firearm.  Further investigation revealed Culver was a convicted felon and prohibited from owning or possessing firearms.

    This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).

    This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and prosecuted by Acting U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs.

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Columbia Falls man sentenced to prison for pointing a laser at a helicopter

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

    MISSOULA – A Columbia Falls man who pointed a laser-mounted firearm at a helicopter was sentenced today to eight months in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release, and a $15,000 fine, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.

    Travis Kurt Myers, 57, pleaded guilty in March 2025 to one count of aiming a laser pointer at an aircraft.

    U.S. District Judge Dana L. Christensen presided.

    The government alleged in court documents that Flathead County Sheriff’s deputies received a report from a delivery driver that had a green laser pointed at his vehicle and then heard a gunshot in Columbia Falls, Montana. Another witness also reported Myers had pointed a gun at her and discharged it at the ground. As deputies were interviewing the witness, they continued to hear gunshots coming from the area. Aerial surveillance was requested.

    A helicopter equipped with thermal-capable cameras was able to locate Myers outside his residence with a firearm. Myers repeatedly pointed the firearm with a laser mounted on it at the helicopter. The pilots were able to see the laser and able to capture it on their cameras. The pilots observed the gun being fired but were unsure if he had it pointed in their direction. Law enforcement officers on the ground near Myers’ residence could hear the helicopter in flight, supporting Myers had knowledge he was aiming the laser at the helicopter.

    Law enforcement took Myers into custody without incident. They obtained a search warrant for the property and located numerous firearms and hundreds of rounds of ammo. They located an unregistered silencer and a rifle with a green laser attached.

    The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case. The investigation was conducted by the ATF and the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office.

    XXX

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Dauphin County Man Sentenced To 115 Months’ Imprisonment For Firearm Offense

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

    HARRISBURG – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Philip Shearer, age 49, of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, was sentenced on July 14, 2025, to 115 months’ imprisonment and three years of supervised release by United States District Judge Karoline Mehalchick for one count of possession of an unregistered firearm.

    According to Acting United States Attorney John Gurganus, Shearer previously pled guilty to possession of an unregistered firearm—specifically, a privately-manufactured short-barrel rifle.  Shearer further admitted to possessing over 1,000 rounds of ammunition, several high-capacity magazines, and other tactical gear including night vision goggles and a ghillie suit, all of which were found in Shearer’s Harrisburg home. Shearer had 14 prior criminal convictions, including five driving under the influence convictions, an indecent assault conviction, and a domestic violence conviction. Shearer also attempted to purchase a firearm twice but was denied based on his background check. He then turned to making the firearms himself.

    “The sentencing of Philip Shearer emphasizes the serious dangers posed by felons who unlawfully possess and manufacture firearms,” said Special Agent in Charge of HSI Philadelphia Edward V. Owens. “Homeland Security Investigations is dedicated to collaborating with our law enforcement partners, like ATF and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania, to ensure that dangerous criminals with a history of violence are not allowed to possess firearms.”

    “Protecting our communities from dangerous criminals like Philip Shearer is a top ATF priority,” said Eric DeGree, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) Philadelphia Field Division. “With 14 criminal convictions, including multiple driving under the influence, indecent assault, and a domestic violence conviction, the law duly prohibits him from owning the unregistered short-barrel rifle he manufactured for himself after he was prevented from buying a firearm. Working with Homeland Security Investigations and the United States Attorney’s Office, we are making our communities safer one case at a time.”

    The matter was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.  Assistant United States Attorney Stephen Dukes prosecuted the case.

    This case is part of Operation Take Back America (https://www.justice.gov/dag/media/1393746/dl?inline), a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).

    # # #

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Two Sentenced in Fentanyl Drug Trafficking Organization

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

    MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Two people have been sentenced for their roles in an Eastern Panhandle drug trafficking organization.

    The indictment, returned in January 2024 against Gary Brown, Jr. and eighty-one others, charged that the defendants caused substantial amounts of fentanyl, methamphetamine, and cocaine to be distributed in Berkeley and Jefferson Counties.

    Darien Jacob Horton, also known as “Dee Jae,”, age 25, of Shenandoah Junction, West Virginia, was sentenced to 135 months in federal prison. Horton was one of the distributors in the operation, purchasing large quantities of fentanyl capsules and other drugs for redistribution. Horton has prior convictions of attempted murder, firearms violations, and domestic battery.

    Jennifer Nicole Barthlow, age 41, of Charles Town, West Virginia, was sentenced to 27 months in federal prison. Barthlow was one of Brown’s distributors.

    Of the 82 defendants, 81 have been convicted. Including this week’s two, 74 defendants have been sentenced. Brown, Jr. was sentenced to 327 months in federal prison in May 2025.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Lara Omps-Botteicher and Kyle Kane prosecuted the cases on behalf of the government.

    U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided.

    Investigative agencies include the Federal Bureau of Investigation (Pittsburgh Field Division and Baltimore Field Division); the Drug Enforcement Administration; the U.S. Department of Homeland Security Investigations; the United States Postal Inspection Service; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; the United States Marshals Service;  the Eastern Panhandle Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; the West Virginia State Police; the West Virginia Air National Guard; the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office; the Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office; Ranson Police Department; Martinsburg Police Department; Charles Town Police Department; the Berkeley County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office; Stafford County Sheriff’s Office (Virginia); Frederick County Sheriff’s Office (Maryland); Frederick County Sheriff’s Office (Virginia); Winchester Police Department; and the Clarke County Sheriff’s Office (Virginia).

    This investigation is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Gregg County man sentenced to 30 years in federal prison for trafficking fentanyl

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

    TYLER, Texas – A Longview man who sold fake prescription drugs has been sentenced to 30 years in federal prison for trafficking fentanyl in the Eastern District of Texas, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs.

    Kym Andrew Wallace, also known as Trigga, 28, pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute fentanyl resulting in death and was sentenced to 360 months in federal prison by U.S. District Judge Jeremy D. Kernodle on July 30, 2025.

    According to information presented in court, Wallace admitted to selling what were supposed to be prescription pills, which a 17-year-old juvenile consumed them and died from a fentanyl overdose on May 29, 2024.  Following the overdose of the juvenile victim, investigators analyzed pills purchased from Wallace and determined they contained fentanyl.  Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid commonly used as an analgesic or anesthetic that is 100 times more potent than morphine and 50 times more potent than heroin, according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH).  The pills purchased from Wallace were round and light blue, bearing the markings “M” and “30,” which are the same manufacturer’s markings for 30 milligram tablets of generic oxycodone.

    “Thirty years in a federal prison cannot compare to the lifetime sentence of grief that the victim’s family faces as the result of Wallace’s actions,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs.  “Wallace deserves every day of this 360-month sentence.  Our office, and our law enforcement partners, will continue to aggressively work to protect our communities from drug traffickers like Wallace.”

    This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).

    This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration; Gregg County Sheriff’s Office; and Longview Police Department.  This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Lucas Machicek.

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Titusville Resident Indicted on Child Exploitation Charges

    Source: US FBI

    ERIE, Pa. – A resident of Titusville, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Erie on charges of violating federal laws relating to the sexual exploitation of children, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

    The four-count Indictment named David Garrett Struchen, 20, as the sole defendant.

    According to the Indictment, in and around June and July of 2024, Struchen induced a minor to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing a depiction of such conduct. Struchen also possessed these depictions and distributed them to the minor victim.

    The law provides for a total sentence of up to 30 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, if any, of the defendant.

    Assistant United States Attorney Christian A. Trabold is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

    The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Titusville Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment.

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

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Two teenagers convicted after fatal stabbing of Daejaun Campbell

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    Two teenagers have been convicted of murder and manslaughter in relation to the death of a 15-year-old boy in Woolwich, in an unprovoked attack – the exact motive for the attack remains unclear. A third teenager was acquitted of murder.

    Two appeared at the Old Bailey today and the jury returned their verdicts after a six week trial.

    Marko Balaz, 19 (20.12.2005) of Sewell Road, SE2, was convicted of manslaughter and a 17-year-old boy was convicted of murder.

    Jacob Losiewicz, 18 (22.07.2006) of Church Manorway, SE2, was acquitted of murder on Tuesday, 30 July.

    The victim, 15-year-old Daejaun Campbell, was fatally stabbed following a disturbance on Eglington Road, SE18.

    Detective Chief Inspector Kate Blackburn said: “Daejaun’s murder shocked the local community and will forever impact his grieving family and those who loved him.

    “I commend the strength of Daejaun’s family, in particular his mother, throughout this awful ordeal. She has demonstrated exceptional courage and composure throughout this trial and has become an advocate to raise awareness of the dangers of young people carrying knives and the devastation that knife violence causes.”

    A murder investigation was launched on Sunday, 22 September 2024 after police were called to reports of the stabbing of a boy on Eglington Road, SE18.

    Witnesses called the police at around 18:30hrs to reports of a boy screaming for help and being chased down the street before being attacked with what looked like a machete. Brave members of the public ran to help Daejaun, who was lying on the floor after sustaining multiple stab wounds.

    London Ambulance Service and HEMS attended the scene but sadly Daejaun died a short time later in the road where he had been stabbed.

    A murder investigation commenced, quickly identifying a car which had been used to bring the defendants to the scene. CCTV footage including doorbell camera footage was identified which showed the teenagers leaving a property to attack Daejaun. The identities of the group were soon established.

    Losiewicz was arrested the following day with the distinctive top he was wearing during the murder being recovered on his bedroom floor, but his tracksuit bottoms and sliders were missing. During his interview, Losiewicz denied being involved in Daejaun’s murder and claimed to be a witness who ran from the scene after being scared. He claimed to have been unable to stop the attack.

    Balaz was arrested at his home address on 25 September where he denied any involvement, claimed to have been at home during the offence and denied any prior knowledge of Daejaun or his murder. Balaz was, however on an electronically monitored tag which demonstrated he was lying and had travelled to Eglinton Road at the time of the murder. Officers were to later find multiple internet searches on Balaz’s phone around relating to Daejaun’s murder.

    The 17-year-old boy was arrested on 27 September. His phone was analysed and messages were found which showed he was worried about spending 20 years in prison after killing someone and joking with friends that his life was “about to take a massive turn”. Losiewicz sliders were found in the 17 year old’s house and Daejaun’s blood was found on them. At trial he admitted to stabbing Daejaun but claimed he did so in self defence, as Daejaun also had a knife.

    All three were charged with murder and remanded into custody.

    DCI Kate Blackburn added: “We have never fully established why Daejaun was murdered in such a brutal way. I believe it is likely because he did not live in the area and had been exploited into dealing drugs there. It is possible that the defendant’s were linked to an opposing drugs line.

    “This group were willing to bring a machete out in broad daylight and use it to kill a 15-year-old boy who, when challenged, threw his knife away and ran in the opposite direction.

    “Today’s convictions conclude a lengthy and emotional investigation, and we can expect the two convicted teenagers to spend a considerable time in prison. However, they will still be able to have lives after their incarceration, Daejaun was not given that opportunity.

    “I hope that the conviction today provides some sense of justice to Deajuan’s family.”

    The pair will be sentenced at the same court on Monday, 6 October.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hawley Advances PELOSI Act to Ban Congressional Stock Trading Out of Committee 

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Josh Hawley (R-Mo)

    Wednesday, July 30, 2025

    Today, U.S. Senator Josh Hawley (R-Mo.), along with members of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, voted to advance the Preventing Elected Leaders from Owning Securities and Investments(PELOSI) Act, which would ban members of Congress from trading or holding individual stocks. 

    “Americans have watched politicians earn a fortune using information not available to the general public while the average family struggles to get by. It’s just wrong,” Senator Hawley said. “Members of Congress should be focused on delivering results for their constituents, not returns on investments. It’s time to find out where members stand. It’s time we restore trust in Congress and ban all members from trading and holding stocks.” 

    The PELOSI Act would ban lawmakers and their spouses from purchasing, selling or holding individual stocks for the duration of the lawmaker’s time in office. Lawmakers would be allowed to invest in diversified mutual funds, exchange-traded funds, or U.S. Treasury bonds while in office.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Padilla Questions 9th Circuit Nominee Eric Tung on Sexist Comments, Narrow Legal Experience

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.)

    Padilla Questions 9th Circuit Nominee Eric Tung on Sexist Comments, Narrow Legal Experience

    WATCH: Padilla warns of Trump’s pattern of nominating extremely partisan ideologues to the bench

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, pressed Eric Tung, nominee to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit, headquartered in San Francisco, on his extreme conservative ideology, including his past public comments decrying “radical feminists try[ing] to blur gender roles” and his role leading anti-labor protests pushing messages including “end mandatory maternity leave.”

    During Tung’s nomination hearing, Padilla underscored the concerning pattern of Republicans confirming partisan ideologues as the Supreme Court and conservative judges continue to erode public trust through extreme rulings that break longstanding legal precedent.

    Both Padilla and Senator Adam Schiff (D-Calif.) previously opposed the nomination of Tung, and instead recommended Republican judges previously nominated by President Trump to the district court. The Trump Administration’s refusal to meaningfully consult with home‑state Senators on these nominees follows a pattern of bypassing of the Senate’s advice‑and‑consent duty, including Trump’s recent power grab to keep Bill Essayli empowered as top prosecutor for the Central District of California.

    Padilla also slammed Tung for lacking the necessary trial litigation experience to serve a lifetime appointment as a judge. Tung has never served as the sole or lead counsel in a case tried to verdict or to judgment from the bench, and he estimates that only 10 percent of his work has been on criminal cases.

    • “I’m opposed because Mr. Tung believes in a conception of the Constitution that rejects equality and liberty, and that would turn back the clock and continue to exclude vast sections of the American public from enjoying equal justice under the law.”
    • “In just the last few years, we’ve seen what extreme, conservative ideology has done to erode public trust in institutions like the judiciary, including and especially the Supreme Court, as long-established legal precedents have taken a back seat to whatever novel conservative legal approach accomplishes the desired political outcome. By continuing to confirm extreme ideologues to the federal bench, the Senate would be doing California and the American people a deep disservice.”
    • “During the first six months in office, Donald Trump has mounted a historic attack on our nation’s justice system. He’s tried to remake the Department of Justice and even the federal bench in his own image, rewarding those who have demonstrated their loyalty to him over the rule of law.”

    In his questioning, Padilla blasted Tung for his past sexist comments and criticism of the “welfare state” and “dissolution of the family.” Tung has said he believes “in gender roles and that women are simply better than men at some things. When these radical feminists try to blur gender roles, they undermine institutions like marriage — institutions which hold society together.” Tung dodged Padilla’s questioning on his past comments and refused to say when his viewpoints changed on women’s role in the workplace.

    • PADILLA: Mr. Tung, can you list for us the things that you believe women are “simply better at than men?”
    • TUNG: Senator, again, the comments you’re referencing, and captured by a Yale Daily News reporter, were captured over 20 years ago when I was an undergraduate in college.
    • PADILLA: I understand that, but that was 2006 not 1956. Even the year 2006, I don’t think the country’s mood level and the law was what you’re suggesting here. … Do you still believe that women should stay home and not go out into the workplace?
    • TUNG: Senator, the suggestion that I think women should not be provided with the same professional opportunities as men is inaccurate.
    • PADILLA: So at what point in the last 20 years, not 50 or 60, just in the last 20 years, did your mind change on this?
    • TUNG: Senator, my views on policy matters and sociological matters that you’re referencing again, are the subject of wide debate, and for that reason, as a nominee sitting here today before the committee, I cannot answer under judicial canons.

    Padilla also questioned Tung on his leadership of an anti-Labor Day protest and attacks against workers. At Yale, Tung was the president of a group called “the Committee for Freedom” that organized a protest on Labor Day, with protesters pushing messages including “end mandatory maternity leave — it hurts women,” and “workers of the world, get back to work!” Tung told the Yale campus that “unionized labor hurts consumers,” while proudly holding a sign that read “Union NO.” Padilla questioned how individuals with questions about labor law could trust Tung as a judge given his harsh anti-labor viewpoints.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: WATCH: Padilla Exposes Alarming Surge in Voter Suppression, Republican Push for Racial Gerrymandering in Texas During Spotlight Forum

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.)

    WATCH: Padilla Exposes Alarming Surge in Voter Suppression, Republican Push for Racial Gerrymandering in Texas During Spotlight Forum

    Padilla: “Instead of running on a record of clawing away health care coverage to pay for tax cuts for billionaires, they’re trying to rig the rules of the game.”

    WATCH: Padilla: “The Trump Administration is not focused on protecting your right to vote. They’re focused on denying it.”

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senators Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Rules and Administration and California’s former Secretary of State, and Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, convened a Rules and Judiciary Committee Democrats spotlight forum titled “Protecting the Future of American Democracy: Fighting a Surge in Voter Suppression.”

    Padilla’s remarks at the forum focused on recent trends in disturbing voter suppression tactics, including:

    • The Trump Administration’s efforts to pressure Texas and other states to undertake mid-decade racial redistricting for partisan political purposes;
    • The six-month long effort to overturn the election for the State Supreme Court in North Carolina by the targeted disenfranchisement of eligible voters after they cast their ballots, including military voters serving our country overseas; and
    • The change in mission of the DOJ Civil Rights Division’s Voting Section to focus on unsubstantiated voter fraud claims, and the DOJ’s demands for multiple states’ sensitive voter information.

    During the forum, Padilla uncovered recently received DOJ requests to Los Angeles, San Diego, and San Francisco for their voter data, setting up a potential purge of voter rolls.

    Padilla also shed light on potential violations of the Hatch Act committed by senior Trump Administration political appointees regarding their partisan redistricting efforts in Texas. He highlighted his letter to the independent Office of Special Counsel requesting an investigation into senior Trump Administration officials for any role they are playing in carrying out the president’s partisan scheme to racially gerrymander Texas and other states, calling it “a clear violation of the Hatch Act.”

    Democratic Senators heard from former U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder, North Carolina Supreme Court Associate Justice Allison Riggs, LMU Loyola Law School Professor Justin Levitt, and Vet Voice Foundation Chief Executive Officer Janessa Goldbeck on systematic attacks on the right to vote.

    Key excerpts from Senator Padilla’s opening remarks are included below:

    Key Excerpts

    • “Today, just one week ahead of the 60th anniversary of the Voting Rights Act of 1965, we’re witnessing a disturbing trend, a coordinated campaign frankly, of voter suppression led by the Trump Administration. Their goal is to amplify their false narrative of insecure elections, to justify their power grabs and to make it harder to register to vote, to stay on the rolls, and to actually cast your ballot.”
    • “What started with the Trump Executive Order on Election Integrity and the Republicans’ SAVE Act has now moved on to the wholesale weaponization of the Department of Justice: The Department of Justice’s Voting Section has reversed their mission statement to drop voting rights protection and prioritize alleged voter fraud. And now, all across the country, the Department of Justice is demanding that states turn over voter rolls — not just a list of names, but a lot of sensitive, private, and confidential information for folks that are registered to vote.”
    • “The last few months, Trump and his Republican allies have seen the thin margins in the House and can feel the political winds shifting. Instead of running on a record of clawing away health care coverage to pay for tax cuts for billionaires, they’re trying to rig the rules of the game. From the South Lawn of the White House, Donald Trump has directed the Department of Justice and state officials to redraw congressional maps in Republicans’ favor.”
    • “The Trump Administration is not focused on protecting your right to vote. They’re focused on denying it.”
    • “Colleagues, if we want to defend the future of American democracy, we can’t afford to wait until election season rolls around to act. We’ve got to raise the alarm today by shining a spotlight on the shocking voter suppression efforts coming out of the White House.”

    Senator Padilla has led the charge in fighting back against the Trump Administration’s unprecedented efforts to suppress the right to vote. Earlier this month, Padilla, Durbin, and Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.) led 13 Senators in raising the alarm on the DOJ Civil Rights Division’s policy shift to focus on unsubstantiated voter fraud investigations. Padilla and Senators Gary Peters (D-Mich.) and Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.) also recently expressed serious concerns that recent changes to and the expanded use of the insufficiently tested Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) Systematic Alien Verification for Entitlements (SAVE) program could purge eligible citizens from state voter rolls. Previously, Padilla led 11 Senators in introducing the Defending America’s Future Elections Act to repeal Trump’s illegal anti-voter executive order and prevent the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) from accessing sensitive voter registration data and state records. He also led 14 Democratic Senators in calling on Trump to revoke his illegal anti-voter executive order and issued a statement slamming the order when it was announced.

    This spotlight forum is the second in a series of Rules Committee Democrats’ forums focused on protecting the future of America’s elections.

    The series continues to underscore the dangers of the Trump Administration’s unprecedented attacks on election security, integrity, and funding required to smoothly administer elections and protect American democracy. The first spotlight forum in May focused on Congressional Republicans’ Safeguard American Voter Eligibility (SAVE) Act and Trump’s illegal anti-voter executive order, both of which threaten to disenfranchise millions of eligible American citizens.

    Padilla’s full remarks, as delivered, are available below:

    Good afternoon and thank you all for being here for today’s spotlight forum on “Protecting the Future of American Democracy: Fighting a Surge in Voter Suppression.”

    I’m Senator Alex Padilla, Ranking Member of the Rules and Administration Committee here in the Senate. Joined by my colleage, Senator Dick Durbin, Ranking Member of the Judiciary Committee. I’m still getting used to that. I’m used to just calling you Chairman. I was spoiled for the prior four years.

    And just one quick word of housekeeping as we set the stage for the hearing, our Senate Democratic Caucus lunch is a few minutes from adjourning, so you’ll see an influx of members during either our opening statements or your opening statements. There’s a lot of interest in the conversation today, one that the majority has no interest in holding at the subcommittee level or at the committee level in either of our committees. But the issues are important to make sure we shed light on them. So looking forward to your testimony, the question, answer, discussion portion of it, and a lot of engagement from our colleagues.

    Today, just one week ahead of the 60th anniversary of the Voting Rights Act of 1965, we’re witnessing a disturbing trend, a coordinated campaign frankly, of voter suppression led by the Trump Administration.

    Their goal is to amplify their false narrative of insecure elections, to justify their power grabs and to make it harder to register to vote, to stay on the rolls, and to actually cast your ballot.

    What started with the Trump Executive Order on Election Integrity and the Republicans’ SAVE Act has now moved on to the wholesale weaponization of the Department of Justice:

    The Department of Justice’s Voting Section has reversed their mission statement to drop voting rights protection and prioritize alleged voter fraud.

    And now, all across the country, the Department of Justice is demanding that states turn over voter rolls — not just a list of names, but a lot of sensitive, private, and confidential information for folks that are registered to vote.

    In fact, this month, Los Angeles, San Diego, and San Francisco, counties, local jurisdictions, were also hit with those requests — a move that looks a lot like they’re laying the groundwork for mass voter purges.

    Their actions are also helping to embolden election deniers outside of the federal government.

    Just look to this past November, when even after leading her opponent by over 700 votes and winning two separate recounts, North Carolina Supreme Court Justice candidate Allison Riggs was forced to defend her victory in court for six months before taking office.

    Now, taking a page from Trump’s playbook, her Republican challenger sought to undo the votes of over 65,000 North Carolinians — many of which were cast by military voters serving overseas.

    Today, even after Justice Riggs has taken her seat, the Trump Administration has now taken up the cause and sued North Carolina, threatening to disenfranchise around 100,000 previously registered voters.

    But the last few months, Trump and his Republican allies have seen the thin margins in the House and can feel the political winds shifting.

    Instead of running on a record of clawing away health care coverage to pay for tax cuts for billionaires, they’re trying to rig the rules of the game.

    From the South Lawn of the White House, Donald Trump has directed the Department of Justice and state officials to redraw congressional maps in Republicans’ favor.

    Earlier today, I wrote to the Office of Special Counsel requesting an investigation into senior officials for any role they are playing in carrying out the president’s partisan scheme.

    It’s a clear violation of the Hatch Act in my view.

    So no, the Trump Administration is not focused on protecting your right to vote. They’re focused on denying it.

    Colleagues, if we want to defend the future of American democracy, we can’t afford to wait until election season rolls around to act.

    We’ve got to raise the alarm today by shining a spotlight on the shocking voter suppression efforts coming out of the White House.

    And for that reason, I’m looking forward to hearing more about each of our witnesses’ experiences.

    With that, let me recognize Senator Dick Durbin.

    MIL OSI USA News –