NewzIntel.com

Category: United States of America

  • MIL-OSI Security: Prime Capital Ventures Owner Indicted for Wire Fraud Conspiracy

    Source: US FBI

    ALBANY, NEW YORK – Kris Roglieri, age 45, of Queensbury, New York, was indicted yesterday on a wire fraud conspiracy charge in connection with the operation and collapse of his purported commercial lending business, Prime Capital Ventures, LLC. Roglieri had been previously indicted on five counts of wire fraud, and yesterday’s superseding indictment added a wire fraud conspiracy charge and seeks the forfeiture of millions of dollars’ worth of vehicles, watches and real estate that Roglieri purchased as part of his fraudulent scheme.

    United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III and Craig L. Tremaroli, Special Agent in Charge of the Albany Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), made the announcement.

    According to the superseding indictment, Roglieri operated Prime Capital Ventures, LLC (“Prime Capital”) and, between March 2022 and January 2024, conspired with others to fraudulently obtain tens of millions of dollars from Prime Capital’s clients. The indictment alleges that Roglieri and his co-conspirators fraudulently promoted Prime Capital as a lending business capable of making large commercial loans, and deceived clients into sending Prime Capital “Interest Credit Account” (or “ICA”) payments based on false promises that these payments would allow Prime Capital to make these large loans and that the ICA payments would be refunded if those loans did not materialize.

    United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III said: “As alleged, Kris Roglieri perpetrated a massive fraudulent scheme against clients across the country that came to Prime Capital Ventures for loans to fund their business projects. Instead of giving these clients legitimate loans, Roglieri gave them lies, and spent millions of dollars on his made-for-Instagram extravagant lifestyle. He spent millions on exotic vehicles and watches, and on private international jet travel, including a vacation to Anguilla that he took as Prime Capital was in bankruptcy proceedings and with the company’s creditors beset with confusion, anger and grief. But today’s indictment shows that these crimes ultimately did not pay for Roglieri, as he now faces the prospect of many years in prison.”

    FBI Special Agent in Charge Craig L. Tremaroli stated: “Today’s indictment illustrates the staggering depth of the alleged fraud committed by Mr. Roglieri. The FBI takes very seriously our responsibility to investigate and pursue those who commit fraud for personal gain. We will continue working with our law enforcement partners to hold accountable those who use illegal means and criminal behavior to take advantage of others.”

    The charges in the superseding indictment are merely accusations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

    The superseding indictment alleges that Prime Capital held itself out as a commercial lending business, but never had the ability to legitimately fund loans. As part of contractual arrangements with its borrower clients situated across the country, Prime Capital obtained upfront interest payments from prospective borrowers while it sought to secure loans for those borrowers; these upfront interest payments were characterized by Prime Capital as the “Interest Credit Account” payment, or “ICA” payment for short. ICA payments did not represent fees to Prime Capital. Instead, each borrower’s upfront ICA payment would be debited over time as the loan was funded and accrued more interest. An ICA payment would also be refundable if Prime Capital failed to secure a loan for the borrower client. Depending on the size of the loan that Prime Capital promised, an ICA payment could be in the millions of dollars.  Prime Capital obtained ICA payments as large as $20 million.

    The indictment alleges that because Prime Capital never had a source of loan funding, Roglieri used ICA payments from newer borrower clients to partially fund loans to, and to refund ICA payments to, older borrower clients, contrary to promises that each ICA payment would be kept in a pledged account and would be used only for the benefit of the client that made the ICA payment.  Roglieri also drew on ICA payments to pay his debts and buy the following, all of which the Government has since seized or secured, and is now seeking to forfeit:

    • A Ferrari LaFerrari F150, a Ferrari Enzo, a Ferrari 812 Competizione, and a Ferrari engine table (this is a table with a Ferrari engine as its base);
    • Eight Mercedes Benzes including a Mercedez Benz SLR McLaren;
    • A Porsche Carrera;
    • A Maserati MC 12 Corse;
    • Two Richard Mille watches;
    • Six Rolex watches;
    • A multi-million-dollar residential property in Virginia Beach, Virginia; and
    • $764,000.83 seized from bank accounts.

    Roglieri has been in custody since his arrest on a criminal complaint on May 31, 2024. United States District Judge Mae D’Agostino has set a firm trial date of January 5, 2026.

    If convicted of wire fraud or wire fraud conspiracy, Roglieri faces up to 20 years in prison and a maximum $250,000 fine, as well as up to 3 years of post-imprisonment supervised release. A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the particular statutes the defendant is convicted of violating, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other factors. The Government is also seeking an asset forfeiture money judgment in the amount of $183,818,821.82.

    Two co-conspirators have pled guilty in connection with this case. Kimberly Owen, a/k/a Kimberly “Kimmy” Humphrey, age 41, and her brother Christopher Snyder, age 45, both of Virginia Beach, have each pled guilty to a charge of wire fraud conspiracy. Both Owen and Snyder admitted to conspiring with each other and Roglieri to defraud Prime Capital clients.

    The FBI is conducting this ongoing investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Joshua R. Rosenthal and Michael Barnett are prosecuting this case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Analysis: What’s the right way to mark Juneteenth? The newest US holiday is confusing Americans

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Timothy Welbeck, Director of the Center for Anti-Racism, Temple University

    Martha Yates Jones and Pinkie Yates sit in a decorated buggy for Juneteenth 1908 in front of Houston’s Antioch Baptist Church. African American Library at The Gregory School, Houston Public Library

    The United States’ newest federal holiday, celebrated annually on June 19, has quickly become its most puzzling one. Four years after President Joe Biden signed the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act, Americans have wrestled with what to make of the holiday.

    What is Juneteenth? What is the proper way to celebrate it? Should holiday observers attend barbecues and cookouts? Should Juneteenth’s observance be a day of learning? Is there a way to acknowledge the holiday without misappropriating it?

    This confusion likely emerged because many Americans did not even learn about Juneteenth until around when it became a federal holiday in 2021. Moreover, the Trump administration and state legislatures across the country have further complicated matters with their increased efforts to ban the type of education that led to the national recognition of the holiday in the first place.

    ‘All slaves are free’

    Juneteenth – short for June Nineteenth – recognizes the day in 1865 when Maj. Gen. Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas, with roughly 2,000 federal troops from the 13th Army Corps. Upon arriving, Granger issued General Order No. 3. The order read:

    “The people of Texas are informed that, in accordance with a proclamation from the Executive of the United States, all slaves are free. This involves an absolute equality of personal rights and rights of property between former masters and slaves, and the connection heretofore existing between them becomes that between employer and hired labor. The freedmen are advised to remain quietly at their present homes and work for wages. They are informed that they will not be allowed to collect at military posts and that they will not be supported in idleness either there or elsewhere.”

    The official handwritten record of General Order No. 3, preserved at the National Archives Building in Washington, D.C.
    National Archives

    Granger’s order effectively freed 250,000 enslaved people in the region.

    Though President Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation, which freed the enslaved in all the states that had seceded from the U.S., nearly 2½ years earlier, Texas, a Confederate state, rebelled against it.

    At the time, Texas had a minimal number of Union soldiers to enforce the proclamation’s emancipation of enslaved people residing within Confederate territory. Consequently, many of those enslaved in Texas remained ignorant of the proclamation’s potential impact on their lives, or of the fact the Civil War had functionally ended two months earlier.

    In an interview published in 1941, for example, Laura Smalley of Hempstead, Texas, remembered how her enslaver fought for the Confederacy in the Civil War. He returned without informing those whom he enslaved of their freedom. In her interview, she recounted,
    “Old master didn’t tell, you know, they was free … I think now they say they worked them, six months after that.”

    ‘Second Independence Day’

    June 19, 1865, a Monday, changed that.

    The news of emancipation culminated a generations-long struggle for Black people to obtain a modicum of freedom in the U.S.

    For this reason, some refer to Juneteenth as the nation’s second Independence Day. The end of bondage was ostensibly codified in the 13th Amendment ratified later that year.

    Spontaneous Juneteenth celebrations emerged almost immediately. Celebrants referred to the day as “Emancipation Day,” “Freedom Day,” “Juneteenth” and “Jubilee Day.” The latter title alluded to the biblical period following seven sabbatical cycles that resulted in canceling debts and freeing the enslaved.

    Flake’s Bulletin, a weekly, Galveston-based publication, reported on an Emancipation Celebration occurring on Jan. 2, 1866, that included upward of 800 people. A similar gathering occurred in Galveston on June 19, 1866, in what is now the church known as Reedy Chapel AME. Annual celebrations continued, beginning in southeastern Texas, with events such as historical reenactments, parades, picnics, music and speeches.

    Emancipation Day celebration, June 19, 1900, in ‘East Woods’ on East 24th Street in Austin, Texas.
    Mrs. Grace Murray Stephenson, Austin History Center, Austin Public Library

    Legacies of slavery

    While the holiday marked a joyous occasion for some, Juneteenth met early and persistent opposition, particularly in the time following Reconstruction.

    For years, local reporting spoke of Juneteenth, as the Galveston Historical Foundation put it, in a “flagrantly racist nature.” Additionally, the racist stereotyping – “idleness” – in the final sentence of Granger’s order simultaneously illustrated its complicated nature while also “[foreshadowing] that the fight for freedom would continue,” National Archives staffer Michael Davis wrote in 2020.

    Historian Keisha Blain explains, “The enslavement of Black people in the U.S. may have ended but the legacies of slavery still shape every aspect of Black life.”

    Advocates such as Opal Lee, commonly referred to as the “grandmother of Juneteenth,” pressed for Juneteenth celebration to continue and, ultimately, for it to be made a national holiday.

    Lee began her advocacy in earnest during the mid-1970s in the Fort Worth, Texas, area. The oldest member of the National Juneteenth Observance Foundation, Lee spearheaded several campaigns to draw attention to Juneteenth. These campaigns included initiatives such as an online petition promoting the holiday’s observance launched in 2019 that amassed 1.6 million signatures.

    In speaking on the significance of Juneteenth, Lee said, “Freedom is for everyone. I think freedom should be celebrated from the 19th of June to the Fourth of July; however, none of us are free until we are all free. We are not free yet, and Juneteenth is a symbol of that.”

    Opal Lee, whose advocacy culminated in Juneteenth becoming a federal holiday in 2021, is known as the ‘grandmother’ of Juneteenth.
    AP Photo/LM Otero

    National recognition

    Because of this advocacy, Juneteenth has grown from relatively obscure regional celebrations to, starting in 2021, a federal holiday.

    The establishment of the holiday was the capstone of initiatives during the racial reckoning. Historians refer to the racial reckoning as the time period beginning in the summer of 2020 until the spring of the following year that witnessed heightened attention to America’s nagging history of racism.

    This reckoning included the historic protests prompted by the murders of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor and Ahmaud Arbery.

    During this time, numerous institutions, ranging from colleges and universities to major companies, made commitments to racial equity. The recognition of Juneteenth represented a symbolic means to honor those commitments.

    In remarks marking his signing of the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act, Biden said, “Juneteenth marks both the long, hard night of slavery and subjugation, and a promise of a brighter morning to come.”

    President Joe Biden signs the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act on June 17, 2021.
    Evan Vucci/AP

    Backtracking on gains

    But within a year, some had already begun to argue the nation had, as community organizer Braxton Brewington wrote, “betrayed the spirit of Jubilee Day.”

    Many of the racial equity commitments made during the racial reckoning quickly vanished within a year or two. Economist William Michael Cunningham revealed American companies pledged $50 billion to racial equity efforts in 2020, yet had only spent $250 million by 2021.

    By the spring of 2025, companies such as Walmart and McDonald’s announced they will discontinue their diversity, equity and inclusion work. Moreover, Walmart will stop using the term altogether. Amazon, Meta and dozens of other large corporations made similar announcements.

    And members of the Trump administration have mounted continual attacks on diversity, equity and inclusion policies and used the term as a politically expedient slur to deride Black people. This is also exacerbated by the Trump administration’s challenges to birthright citizenship, a key right that gave citizenship to the formerly enslaved and later guaranteed important rights to the entire populace.

    This major shift has fueled arguments that the U.S. has regressed from efforts toward racial equity and thus undermined the meaning of Juneteenth. And such backtracking arguably makes some Juneteenth celebrations performative exercises rather than celebrations of true racial equity.

    As one critic asked, has the holiday devolved “into an exploitative and profit-driven enterprise for companies that disregard the true significance of this day to the Black community?”

    All of this has led to increasing confusion over how to commemorate Juneteenth, if at all. Juneteenth is not the first federal holiday with a complicated history. Nevertheless, with other complex holidays, Americans had years to process their misgivings. In short, the nation is still deciding what it means to be free.

    Between 2021-2023, Timothy Welbeck received honorariums from companies like 1Hotels, AON, Aramark, Campbell Soup, Jazz Pharmaceuticals, and Merrill Lynch, to deliver invited keynote addresses on subject matter similar to that discussed in this article.

    – ref. What’s the right way to mark Juneteenth? The newest US holiday is confusing Americans – https://theconversation.com/whats-the-right-way-to-mark-juneteenth-the-newest-us-holiday-is-confusing-americans-258436

    MIL OSI Analysis –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Press Release: Federal Bank Regulatory Agencies Seek Comment to Address Payments and Check Fraud

    Source: US Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation FDIC

    CategoriesBusiness, Commerce, MIL-OSI, United States Federal Government, United States Government, United States of America, US Commerce, US Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation FDIC, US Federal Government, US Insurance Sector, USA

    The federal bank regulatory agencies today announced a request for comment on potential actions to help consumers, businesses, and financial institutions mitigate risk of payments fraud, with a particular focus on check fraud. For purposes of the request for information, payments fraud generally refers to the use of illegal means to make or receive payments for personal gain, including scams.

    Because payments fraud may involve multiple institutions and payment methods, no single agency or private-sector entity can address payments fraud on its own. Therefore, the agencies are seeking public comment on discrete actions, collectively or independently, to mitigate payments fraud, including check fraud, within their respective bank regulation and payments authorities.

    Input is requested on five potential areas for improvement and collaboration:

    • External collaboration among the agencies, Federal Reserve Banks, and industry stakeholders;
    • Consumer, business, and industry education by the agencies and Federal Reserve Banks to educate about payments fraud;
    • Regulation and supervision to mitigate payments fraud, including opportunities the Board may have related to check fraud;
    • Payments fraud data collection and information sharing; and
    • Federal Reserve Banks’ operator tools and services to reduce payments fraud.

    In addition to seeking public input, the agencies will also continue looking for additional opportunities to effectively collaborate across other state and federal agencies given the importance of interagency coordination to help mitigate payments fraud.

    Comments must be received within 90 days after date of publication in the Federal Register.

    ATTACHMENT:

    # # #

    MEDIA CONTACTS: 

    FDIC: Julianne Breitbeil, (202) 898-6895

    FRB: Laura Benedict, (202) 452-2955

    OCC: Andrea Cox, (202) 649-6870

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Vermont Soldier brings mountain expertise to NATO training in North Macedonia

    Source: United States Army

    U.S. Army Pfc. Jenifer Calzaretta, assigned to Alpha Company, 3rd Battalion, 172nd Infantry Regiment, (Mountain), 86th Infantry Brigade Combat Team (Mountain), Vermont National Guard, poses for a photo while demonstrating climbing equipment during a static display event in Kavadarci, North Macedonia, June 1, 2025. The static display was a community outreach event connecting local citizens with military forces from Albania, Austria, Italy, Montenegro, North Macedonia and the U.S, all joined together for training at exercise Immediate Response 2025. Demonstrating global deterrence and the U.S. Army’s ability to rapidly deploy U.S.-based combat power in Europe and the Arctic region alongside Allies and partners, DEFENDER 25 brings U.S. troops together with forces from 29 Allied and partner nations to build readiness through large-scale combat training from May 11-June 24, 2025. DEFENDER 25 increases the lethality of the NATO alliance through large-scale tactical training maneuvers and long-range fires, builds unit readiness in a complex joint, multinational environment and leverages host nation capabilities to increase the U.S. Army’s operational reach. During three large-scale combat training exercises—Swift Response, Immediate Response, and Saber Guardian—Ally and partner forces integrate and expand multi-domain operations capability, demonstrating combined command and control structures and readiness to respond to crisis and conflict. (Photo Credit: U.S. Army photo by Maj. Joe Legros) VIEW ORIGINAL

    KRIVOLAK, North Macedonia — Among the thousands of troops participating in Immediate Response 2025, one Soldier stands out — not for rank or years of military experience, but for the expertise she brings from her civilian life to the rugged mountains of North Macedonia.

    U.S. Army Pfc. Jenifer Calzaretta, assigned to Alpha Company, 3rd Battalion, 172nd Infantry Regiment (Mountain), 86th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, Vermont National Guard, joined the military just one month before her 38th birthday. Now, for the first time, she finds herself training in North Macedonia, where she and her fellow soldiers are working alongside members of the Armed Forces of North Macedonia during one of NATO’s premier military exercises.

    “I graduated basic training and went straight into the mountain unit,” said Calzaretta. “While I’m relatively new to the military, my civilian experience as a climbing instructor comes in handy and made the transition into a mountain unit much easier.”

    U.S. Army Pfc. Jenifer Calzaretta, assigned to Alpha Company, 3rd Battalion, 172nd Infantry Regiment, (Mountain), 86th Infantry Brigade Combat Team (Mountain), Vermont National Guard, poses for a photo while demonstrating climbing equipment during a static display event in Kavadarci, North Macedonia, June 1, 2025. The static display was a community outreach event connecting local citizens with military forces from Albania, Austria, Italy, Montenegro, North Macedonia and the U.S, all joined together for training at exercise Immediate Response 2025. Demonstrating global deterrence and the U.S. Army’s ability to rapidly deploy U.S.-based combat power in Europe and the Arctic region alongside Allies and partners, DEFENDER 25 brings U.S. troops together with forces from 29 Allied and partner nations to build readiness through large-scale combat training from May 11-June 24, 2025. DEFENDER 25 increases the lethality of the NATO alliance through large-scale tactical training maneuvers and long-range fires, builds unit readiness in a complex joint, multinational environment and leverages host nation capabilities to increase the U.S. Army’s operational reach. During three large-scale combat training exercises—Swift Response, Immediate Response, and Saber Guardian—Ally and partner forces integrate and expand multi-domain operations capability, demonstrating combined command and control structures and readiness to respond to crisis and conflict. (Photo Credit: U.S. Army photo by Maj. Joe Legros) VIEW ORIGINAL

    Calzaretta is here as a participant in Immediate Response 2025, part of the greater Defender series of exercises, featuring multinational training in the Balkan region of Europe.

    Her expertise in navigating rugged terrain is particularly valuable during the exercise, which focuses on live-fire drills, airborne and amphibious operations, as well as chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear training. For mountain soldiers, terrain mastery is critical, and Calzaretta brings a unique skill set to the multinational training environment.

    “I’m also a 240B gunner, so I’m not afraid of a physical challenge,” she added. “I’m the only enlisted female in Alpha Company and everyone has way more military experience, but they value my expertise on the mountain. Together, I’m excited to build a lethal mountain force with the North Macedonians.”

    Training alongside NATO forces, including troops from Albania, Austria, Italy, Montenegro, North Macedonia and the U.S, Immediate Response 2025 is designed to test NATO’s readiness and operational coordination, including responses to cyberattacks. For Soldiers like Calzaretta, it’s an opportunity to forge lasting bonds with allied forces and enhance multinational readiness in complex operational environments.

    “Immediate Response 25 is a joint exercise involving eight partners and allies,” said U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Gregory Knight, adjutant general of the Vermont National Guard. “It truly validated not only the training value of Krivolak Training Area, but the interoperability of our forces as we become better together.”

    U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Gregory Knight, the adjutant general of the Vermont National Guard, greets a soldier from the Republic of North Macedonia after a multinational live-fire exercise during Immediate Response 25 at the Krivolak Training Area, North Macedonia, June 2, 2025. Demonstrating global deterrence and the U.S. Army’s ability to rapidly deploy U.S.- based combat power in Europe and the Arctic region alongside Allies and partners, DEFENDER 25 brings U.S. troops together with forces from 29 Allied and partner nations to build readiness through large-scale combat training from May 11-June 24, 2025. DEFENDER 25 increases the lethality of the NATO alliance through large-scale tactical training maneuvers and long-range fires, builds unit readiness in a complex joint, multinational environment and leverages host nation capabilities to increase the U.S. Army’s operational reach. During three large-scale combat training exercises—Swift Response, Immediate Response, and Saber Guardian—Ally and partner forces integrate and expand multi-domain operations capability, demonstrating combined command and control structures and readiness to respond to crisis and conflict. (Photo Credit: U.S. Army photo by Sgt. 1st Class Christopher Osburn) VIEW ORIGINAL

    The U.S. Department of Defense State Partnership Program between North Macedonia and the Vermont National Guard has been going strong since 1993. Along with the relationship, the two military forces also share similar mountainous topographies, enabling the sharing of best practices in areas such as climbing, mountaineering and cold weather survival.

    Spread throughout the Balkan region for the exercise, the 86th IBCT also conducted mountain operations together with the Hellenic Armed Forces, including on Greece’s most famous peak, Mt. Olympus.

    U.S. Army Pfc. Jenifer Calzaretta, assigned to Alpha Company, 3rd Battalion, 172nd Infantry Regiment, (Mountain), 86th Infantry Brigade Combat Team (Mountain), Vermont National Guard, explains the importance of climbing equipment and mountain training to U.S. Army Col. Daniel Sqyres, defense attache, U.S. Embassy Skopje, during a static display event in Kavadarci, North Macedonia, June 1, 2025. The static display was a community outreach event connecting local citizens with military forces from Albania, Austria, Italy, Montenegro, North Macedonia and the U.S, all joined together for training at exercise Immediate Response 2025. Demonstrating global deterrence and the U.S. Army’s ability to rapidly deploy U.S.-based combat power in Europe and the Arctic region alongside Allies and partners, DEFENDER 25 brings U.S. troops together with forces from 29 Allied and partner nations to build readiness through large-scale combat training from May 11-June 24, 2025. DEFENDER 25 increases the lethality of the NATO alliance through large-scale tactical training maneuvers and long-range fires, builds unit readiness in a complex joint, multinational environment and leverages host nation capabilities to increase the U.S. Army’s operational reach. During three large-scale combat training exercises—Swift Response, Immediate Response, and Saber Guardian—Ally and partner forces integrate and expand multi-domain operations capability, demonstrating combined command and control structures and readiness to respond to crisis and conflict. (Photo Credit: U.S. Army photo by Maj. Joe Legros) VIEW ORIGINAL

    With her civilian and military experience converging in North Macedonia, Calzaretta embodies the spirit of the Citizen-Soldier, proving the kind of leadership, adaptability and expertise which extends far beyond time spent in uniform.

    As Immediate Response 2025 progresses, Clazaretta and her fellow soldiers continue honing their skills, ensuring they are prepared for real-world challenges in dynamic, unpredictable terrain.

    About the 86th IBCT

    The 86th IBCT includes units in six states, including Vermont, New Hampshire, Maine, Massachusetts, Connecticut and Colorado. The brigade’s mission is to provide a trained and ready mountain IBCT capable of deploying anywhere in the world, under any climactic conditions, to conduct decisive action when directed by appropriate command authority. The 86th IBCT frequently utilizes the Army Mountain Warfare School in Jericho, Vermont, to train in individual military mountaineering skills so the entire brigade can be skilled in such warfare.

    About Defender 2025

    Demonstrating global deterrence and the U.S. Army’s ability to rapidly deploy U.S.-based combat power in Europe and the Arctic region alongside Allies and partners, DEFENDER 25 brings U.S. troops together with forces from 29 Allied and partner nations to build readiness through large-scale combat training from May 11-June 24, 2025. DEFENDER 25 increases the lethality of the NATO alliance through large-scale tactical training maneuvers and long-range fires, builds unit readiness in a complex joint, multinational environment and leverages host nation capabilities to increase the U.S. Army’s operational reach. During three large-scale combat training exercises—Swift Response, Immediate Response, and Saber Guardian—Ally and partner forces integrate and expand multi-domain operations capability, demonstrating combined command and control structures and readiness to respond to crisis and conflict.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Michigan National Guard father and son reunited in Kosovo

    Source: United States Army

    U.S. Army Maj. Ryan Reynolds, a public affairs officer assigned to the 126th Theater Public Affairs Support Element, 63rd Troop Command, Michigan National Guard, and his son, Spc. Joey Reynolds, a UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter maintainer assigned to Delta Company, 2nd General Support Aviation Battalion, 238th Aviation Regiment (2-238 GSAB), Michigan National Guard, reunite at Camp Bondsteel, Kosovo, June 3, 2025. Ryan is in the Balkans for a two-week overseas deployment for training (ODT) supporting exercise Immediate Response 2025, part of NATO’s largest annual exercise series titled Defender Europe. Joey is currently serving on a nine-month deployment in Kosovo. Though deployed under very different circumstances, their commitment to service and a little coordination led to a memorable reunion on foreign soil.

    Demonstrating global deterrence and the U.S. Army’s ability to rapidly deploy U.S.-based combat power in Europe and the Arctic region alongside Allies and partners, DEFENDER 25 brings U.S. troops together with forces from 29 Allied and partner nations to build readiness through large-scale combat training from May 11-June 24, 2025. DEFENDER 25 increases the lethality of the NATO alliance through large-scale tactical training maneuvers and long-range fires, builds unit readiness in a complex joint, multinational environment, and leverages host nation capabilities to increase the U.S. Army’s operational reach. During three large-scale combat training exercises—Swift Response, Immediate Response, and Saber Guardian—Ally and partner forces integrate and expand multi-domain operations capability, demonstrating combined command and control structures and readiness to respond to crisis and conflict. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Grace Wajler) (Photo Credit: Sgt. Grace Wajler)

    VIEW ORIGINAL

    CAMP BONDSTEEL, Kosovo – The military has a way of bringing people together in unexpected ways, and for U.S. Army Maj. Ryan Reynolds and his son, Spc. Joey Reynolds, that sentiment is especially true. Though deployed under very different circumstances, their commitment to service and a little coordination led to a memorable reunion on foreign soil.

    Maj. Reynolds, a public affairs officer assigned to the 126th Theater Public Affairs Support Element (TPASE), 63rd Troop Command, Michigan National Guard, arrived in the Balkans for a two-week overseas deployment for training (ODT) in support of exercise Immediate Response 2025, part of NATO’s largest annual exercise series titled Defender Europe.

    “I knew my son, Joey, was deploying with his unit to Kosovo, but I didn’t realize we might have the chance to meet,” said Reynolds. “That’s not something people normally get to do. But, I deployed with that same unit to Kuwait several years ago and reached out to a few colleagues about the possibility.”

    U.S. Army Maj. Ryan Reynolds, a public affairs officer assigned to the 126th Theater Public Affairs Support Element, 63rd Troop Command, Michigan National Guard, and his son, Spc. Joey Reynolds, a UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter maintainer assigned to Delta Company, 2nd General Support Aviation Battalion, 238th Aviation Regiment (2-238 GSAB), Michigan National Guard, reunite at Camp Bondsteel, Kosovo, June 3, 2025. Ryan is in the Balkans for a two-week overseas deployment for training (ODT) supporting exercise Immediate Response 2025, part of NATO’s largest annual exercise series titled Defender Europe. Joey is currently serving on a nine-month deployment in Kosovo. Though deployed under very different circumstances, their commitment to service and a little coordination led to a memorable reunion on foreign soil.

    Demonstrating global deterrence and the U.S. Army’s ability to rapidly deploy U.S.-based combat power in Europe and the Arctic region alongside Allies and partners, DEFENDER 25 brings U.S. troops together with forces from 29 Allied and partner nations to build readiness through large-scale combat training from May 11-June 24, 2025. DEFENDER 25 increases the lethality of the NATO alliance through large-scale tactical training maneuvers and long-range fires, builds unit readiness in a complex joint, multinational environment, and leverages host nation capabilities to increase the U.S. Army’s operational reach. During three large-scale combat training exercises—Swift Response, Immediate Response, and Saber Guardian—Ally and partner forces integrate and expand multi-domain operations capability, demonstrating combined command and control structures and readiness to respond to crisis and conflict. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Grace Wajler) (Photo Credit: Sgt. Grace Wajler)

    VIEW ORIGINAL

    Ryan and the 126th TPASE are responsible for providing photos and videos, documenting the enhanced multinational lethality and readiness at Immediate Response. His North Macedonia-based public affairs team wrapped up coverage of the culminating combined arms live-fire exercise earlier in the day, meaning Ryan had just enough time to visit his son later that afternoon.

    Meanwhile, Spc. Reynolds, a UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter maintainer assigned to Delta Company, 3rd General Support Aviation Battalion, 238th Aviation Regiment (3-238 GSAB), Michigan National Guard, is currently serving on a nine-month deployment in Kosovo. Seeing his father in-person while on deployment was a moment few service members ever experience.

    1 / 2 Show Caption + Hide Caption – U.S. Army Maj. Ryan Reynolds, a public affairs officer assigned to the 126th Theater Public Affairs Support Element, 63rd Troop Command, Michigan National Guard, and his son, Spc. Joey Reynolds, a UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter maintainer assigned to Delta Company, 2nd General Support Aviation Battalion, 238th Aviation Regiment (2-238 GSAB), Michigan National Guard, reunite at Camp Bondsteel, Kosovo, June 3, 2025. Ryan is in the Balkans for a two-week overseas deployment for training (ODT) supporting exercise Immediate Response 2025, part of NATO’s largest annual exercise series titled Defender Europe. Joey is currently serving on a nine-month deployment in Kosovo. Though deployed under very different circumstances, their commitment to service and a little coordination led to a memorable reunion on foreign soil.

    Demonstrating global deterrence and the U.S. Army’s ability to rapidly deploy U.S.-based combat power in Europe and the Arctic region alongside Allies and partners, DEFENDER 25 brings U.S. troops together with forces from 29 Allied and partner nations to build readiness through large-scale combat training from May 11-June 24, 2025. DEFENDER 25 increases the lethality of the NATO alliance through large-scale tactical training maneuvers and long-range fires, builds unit readiness in a complex joint, multinational environment, and leverages host nation capabilities to increase the U.S. Army’s operational reach. During three large-scale combat training exercises—Swift Response, Immediate Response, and Saber Guardian—Ally and partner forces integrate and expand multi-domain operations capability, demonstrating combined command and control structures and readiness to respond to crisis and conflict. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Grace Wajler) (Photo Credit: Sgt. Grace Wajler)

    VIEW ORIGINAL

    2 / 2 Show Caption + Hide Caption – U.S. Army Maj. Ryan Reynolds, a public affairs officer assigned to the 126th Theater Public Affairs Support Element, 63rd Troop Command, Michigan National Guard, and his son, Spc. Joey Reynolds, a UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter maintainer assigned to Delta Company, 2nd General Support Aviation Battalion, 238th Aviation Regiment (2-238 GSAB), Michigan National Guard, reunite at Camp Bondsteel, Kosovo, June 3, 2025. Ryan is in the Balkans for a two-week overseas deployment for training (ODT) supporting exercise Immediate Response 2025, part of NATO’s largest annual exercise series titled Defender Europe. Joey is currently serving on a nine-month deployment in Kosovo. Though deployed under very different circumstances, their commitment to service and a little coordination led to a memorable reunion on foreign soil.

    Demonstrating global deterrence and the U.S. Army’s ability to rapidly deploy U.S.-based combat power in Europe and the Arctic region alongside Allies and partners, DEFENDER 25 brings U.S. troops together with forces from 29 Allied and partner nations to build readiness through large-scale combat training from May 11-June 24, 2025. DEFENDER 25 increases the lethality of the NATO alliance through large-scale tactical training maneuvers and long-range fires, builds unit readiness in a complex joint, multinational environment, and leverages host nation capabilities to increase the U.S. Army’s operational reach. During three large-scale combat training exercises—Swift Response, Immediate Response, and Saber Guardian—Ally and partner forces integrate and expand multi-domain operations capability, demonstrating combined command and control structures and readiness to respond to crisis and conflict. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Grace Wajler) (Photo Credit: Sgt. Grace Wajler)

    U.S. Army Maj. Ryan Reynolds, a public affairs officer assigned to the 126th Theater Public Affairs Support Element, 63rd Troop Command, Michigan National Guard, and his son, Spc. Joey Reynolds, a UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter maintainer assigned to Delta Company, 2nd General Support Aviation Battalion, 238th Aviation Regiment (2-238 GSAB), Michigan National Guard, reunite at Camp Bondsteel, Kosovo, June 3, 2025. Ryan is in the Balkans for a two-week overseas deployment for training (ODT) supporting exercise Immediate Response 2025, part of NATO’s largest annual exercise series titled Defender Europe. Joey is currently serving on a nine-month deployment in Kosovo. Though deployed under very different circumstances, their commitment to service and a little coordination led to a memorable reunion on foreign soil.

    Demonstrating global deterrence and the U.S. Army’s ability to rapidly deploy U.S.-based combat power in Europe and the Arctic region alongside Allies and partners, DEFENDER 25 brings U.S. troops together with forces from 29 Allied and partner nations to build readiness through large-scale combat training from May 11-June 24, 2025. DEFENDER 25 increases the lethality of the NATO alliance through large-scale tactical training maneuvers and long-range fires, builds unit readiness in a complex joint, multinational environment, and leverages host nation capabilities to increase the U.S. Army’s operational reach. During three large-scale combat training exercises—Swift Response, Immediate Response, and Saber Guardian—Ally and partner forces integrate and expand multi-domain operations capability, demonstrating combined command and control structures and readiness to respond to crisis and conflict. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Grace Wajler) (Photo Credit: Sgt. Grace Wajler)

    U.S. Army Maj. Ryan Reynolds, a public affairs officer assigned to the 126th Theater Public Affairs Support Element, 63rd Troop Command, Michigan National Guard, and his son, Spc. Joey Reynolds, a UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter maintainer assigned to Delta Company, 2nd General Support Aviation Battalion, 238th Aviation Regiment (2-238 GSAB), Michigan National Guard, reunite at Camp Bondsteel, Kosovo, June 3, 2025. Ryan is in the Balkans for a two-week overseas deployment for training (ODT) supporting exercise Immediate Response 2025, part of NATO’s largest annual exercise series titled Defender Europe. Joey is currently serving on a nine-month deployment in Kosovo. Though deployed under very different circumstances, their commitment to service and a little coordination led to a memorable reunion on foreign soil.

    Demonstrating global deterrence and the U.S. Army’s ability to rapidly deploy U.S.-based combat power in Europe and the Arctic region alongside Allies and partners, DEFENDER 25 brings U.S. troops together with forces from 29 Allied and partner nations to build readiness through large-scale combat training from May 11-June 24, 2025. DEFENDER 25 increases the lethality of the NATO alliance through large-scale tactical training maneuvers and long-range fires, builds unit readiness in a complex joint, multinational environment, and leverages host nation capabilities to increase the U.S. Army’s operational reach. During three large-scale combat training exercises—Swift Response, Immediate Response, and Saber Guardian—Ally and partner forces integrate and expand multi-domain operations capability, demonstrating combined command and control structures and readiness to respond to crisis and conflict. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Grace Wajler) (Photo Credit: Sgt. Grace Wajler)

    VIEW ORIGINAL

    That connection runs deep and those same colleagues now look after Joey as one of their own.

    “When Ryan called me up, I was all about making this reunion happen,” said U.S. Army Lt. Col. Brian Snook, the aviation task force commander of Task Force Griffin in support of Kosovo operations and commander of the 3-238 GSAB. “Our unit is still in the transition stage of taking over this mission from the previous unit here in Kosovo, so it was good timing all the way around. Plus, how often do a father and son get to meet on deployment?!”

    The 3-238 GSAB is in Kosovo to facilitate the movement of personnel, equipment and supplies across the entire area of operations. As a member of the Kosovo Force (KFOR), they serve under a NATO-led international peacekeeping mission established in 1999 to maintain a safe and secure Kosovo, ensure freedom of movement and support broader international efforts for stability in the region.

    “I still keep in contact with a number of my deployment buddies,” said Ryan. “It’s a special feeling to now count my son among this number.”

    The reunion in Kosovo may have been brief, but it underscored the powerful ties of service and family—a reminder that while deployments separate loved ones, they can also bring them together in unexpected and meaningful ways.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Gilford Man Sentenced to Five Years in Federal Prison for Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine and Fentanyl

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    CONCORD – A Gilford man was sentenced today in federal court for drug offenses, Acting U.S. Attorney Jay McCormack announces.

    Spiros Athanasopoulos, 46, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Paul J. Barbadoro to 60 months in federal prison and 3 years of supervised release.  In February 2025, Athanasopoulos pleaded guilty to possession with the intent to distribute a controlled substance.

    “This sentence reflects the serious danger posed by those who traffic fentanyl and methamphetamine, especially when they also attempt to flee law enforcement and endanger the public,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Jay McCormack. “Our office remains committed to holding drug traffickers accountable and protecting our communities from the devastating impact of these drugs.”

    “It doesn’t matter if it’s a large-scale drug trafficking organization, or an individual like Spiros Athanasopoulos who was distributing fentanyl and methamphetamine out of his home in Gilford, New Hampshire, the FBI and our law enforcement partners will do everything we can to put those who have furthered the scourge of drugs in our neighborhoods out of business,” said Ted E. Docks, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division. “Investigations like this prove the essential value of strong law enforcement partnerships as we work together to make our communities safer.”

    “Drugs like fentanyl and methamphetamine are causing tremendous damage to our communities,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge, Stephen Belleau, New England Field Division.  “Those who distribute these drugs are endangering the safety of the citizens of the Granite State. DEA’s top priority is combatting the drug epidemic by working with our local, state and federal partners to bring to justice anyone who distributes these poisons.”

    According to court documents and statements made in court, in June 2021, Athanasopoulos fled from the New Hampton Police Department on a stolen motorcycle. The chase ended in a crash and law enforcement recovered a jar containing fentanyl and methamphetamine that Athanasopoulos threw from his backpack during the chase. Later that evening, law enforcement searched Athanasopoulos’s home and found large quantities of fentanyl and methamphetamine, as well as money, several firearms, and body armor. Laboratory testing confirmed that Athanasopoulos possessed more than 100 grams of fentanyl and more than 200 grams of methamphetamine.

    The Federal Bureau of Investigation and Drug Enforcement Administration led the investigation. Valuable assistance was provided by the Gilford Police Department and the New Hampton Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Matthew T. Hunter prosecuted the case.

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Gilford Man Sentenced to Five Years in Federal Prison for Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine and Fentanyl

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    CONCORD – A Gilford man was sentenced today in federal court for drug offenses, Acting U.S. Attorney Jay McCormack announces.

    Spiros Athanasopoulos, 46, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Paul J. Barbadoro to 60 months in federal prison and 3 years of supervised release.  In February 2025, Athanasopoulos pleaded guilty to possession with the intent to distribute a controlled substance.

    “This sentence reflects the serious danger posed by those who traffic fentanyl and methamphetamine, especially when they also attempt to flee law enforcement and endanger the public,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Jay McCormack. “Our office remains committed to holding drug traffickers accountable and protecting our communities from the devastating impact of these drugs.”

    “It doesn’t matter if it’s a large-scale drug trafficking organization, or an individual like Spiros Athanasopoulos who was distributing fentanyl and methamphetamine out of his home in Gilford, New Hampshire, the FBI and our law enforcement partners will do everything we can to put those who have furthered the scourge of drugs in our neighborhoods out of business,” said Ted E. Docks, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division. “Investigations like this prove the essential value of strong law enforcement partnerships as we work together to make our communities safer.”

    “Drugs like fentanyl and methamphetamine are causing tremendous damage to our communities,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge, Stephen Belleau, New England Field Division.  “Those who distribute these drugs are endangering the safety of the citizens of the Granite State. DEA’s top priority is combatting the drug epidemic by working with our local, state and federal partners to bring to justice anyone who distributes these poisons.”

    According to court documents and statements made in court, in June 2021, Athanasopoulos fled from the New Hampton Police Department on a stolen motorcycle. The chase ended in a crash and law enforcement recovered a jar containing fentanyl and methamphetamine that Athanasopoulos threw from his backpack during the chase. Later that evening, law enforcement searched Athanasopoulos’s home and found large quantities of fentanyl and methamphetamine, as well as money, several firearms, and body armor. Laboratory testing confirmed that Athanasopoulos possessed more than 100 grams of fentanyl and more than 200 grams of methamphetamine.

    The Federal Bureau of Investigation and Drug Enforcement Administration led the investigation. Valuable assistance was provided by the Gilford Police Department and the New Hampton Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Matthew T. Hunter prosecuted the case.

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Arizona Woman Faces Assault Charges for 2023 Incident

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    ALBUQUERQUE – An Arizona woman is facing federal charges for allegedly assaulting two individuals.

    According to court documents, on December 30, 2023, Shaina Shorty, 35, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, assaulted Jane Doe 1 and Jane Doe 2 and the assaults resulted in serious bodily injury.

    Shorty is charged with two counts of assault resulting in serious bodily injury and will remain on conditions of release pending trial, which has not yet been scheduled. If convicted of the current charges, Shorty faces up to eight years in prison.

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

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

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Arizona Woman Faces Assault Charges for 2023 Incident

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    ALBUQUERQUE – An Arizona woman is facing federal charges for allegedly assaulting two individuals.

    According to court documents, on December 30, 2023, Shaina Shorty, 35, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, assaulted Jane Doe 1 and Jane Doe 2 and the assaults resulted in serious bodily injury.

    Shorty is charged with two counts of assault resulting in serious bodily injury and will remain on conditions of release pending trial, which has not yet been scheduled. If convicted of the current charges, Shorty faces up to eight years in prison.

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

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

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Former State Employee Sentenced for Taking Bribes to Approve Fraudulent Claims for Unemployment Insurance Benefits

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    DETROIT – A Detroit resident was sentenced today for her role in a scheme to steal unemployment assistance funds, announced United States Attorney Jerome F. Gorgon Jr.  Danielle Moore, 41, was sentenced to 41 months in prison after having pleaded guilty to conspiring to engage in wire fraud.

    Gorgon was joined in the announcement by Special Agent in Charge Cheyvoryea Gibson, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Detroit Field Division; Megan Howell, Special Agent-in-Charge, Great Lakes Region, U.S. Department of Labor-Office of Inspector General; and Megan Howell, Special Agent-in-Charge, Great Lakes Region, U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General.

    Moore was sentenced by United States District Judge Susan K. DeClercq.

    Moore was employed by the State of Michigan (SOM), Michigan Works Agency (MWA) and was assigned to work as a claims examiner for the Michigan Unemployment Insurance Agency (MUIA) during the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in the spring of 2020. She admitted to taking bribes to process fraudulent claims. As a result of Moore’s crimes, the State of Michigan paid out approximately $1,507,057.08 in fraudulent unemployment claims that should have been disbursed to unemployed Americans during a historic time of need.

    Moore was also ordered to pay $1,507,057.08 in restitution.

    United States Attorney Gorgon stated: “We remain committed to prosecuting those who choose to profit through the theft of government funds earmarked for those members of our community who are truly in need.”

    “Ms. Moore, as a former state employee, betrayed the public’s trust by taking advantage of her position and conspiring to steal funds meant to support unemployed workers during a national crisis,” said Cheyvoryea Gibson, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI in Michigan. “Her actions were not only criminal but also a direct insult to the countless families and businesses struggling to survive the economic fallout of the pandemic. The FBI, along with our law enforcement partners, will continue to investigate and hold accountable anyone who chooses to defraud essential relief programs and exploit moments of national vulnerability for personal gain.”

    “Former State of Michigan employee Danielle Moore engaged in an unemployment insurance fraud scheme by facilitating the approval of at least 40 fraudulent claims for incarcerated individuals. Moore abused her position by accessing sensitive employment information and state data systems for her own personal financial gain. We will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to investigate those who seek to exploit this critical benefit program, particularly when an insider threat is involved,” said Megan Howell, Special Agent-in-Charge, Great Lakes Region, U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General.

    “UIA holds its employees to lofty ethical standards. When a staff member breaks that trust for personal gain, it is particularly disappointing,” said Jason Palmer, Director of the Michigan UIA. “Danielle Moore used her insider status to help steal money meant for fellow Michiganders who relied on their jobless benefits to survive. She failed her colleagues and failed the taxpayers of Michigan and is now being held accountable for her selfish acts.”

    The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Timothy J. Wyse. The investigation was conducted jointly by the Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General, Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Detroit Area Public Corruption Task Force, and the Unemployment Insurance Agency, Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Former State Employee Sentenced for Taking Bribes to Approve Fraudulent Claims for Unemployment Insurance Benefits

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    DETROIT – A Detroit resident was sentenced today for her role in a scheme to steal unemployment assistance funds, announced United States Attorney Jerome F. Gorgon Jr.  Danielle Moore, 41, was sentenced to 41 months in prison after having pleaded guilty to conspiring to engage in wire fraud.

    Gorgon was joined in the announcement by Special Agent in Charge Cheyvoryea Gibson, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Detroit Field Division; Megan Howell, Special Agent-in-Charge, Great Lakes Region, U.S. Department of Labor-Office of Inspector General; and Megan Howell, Special Agent-in-Charge, Great Lakes Region, U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General.

    Moore was sentenced by United States District Judge Susan K. DeClercq.

    Moore was employed by the State of Michigan (SOM), Michigan Works Agency (MWA) and was assigned to work as a claims examiner for the Michigan Unemployment Insurance Agency (MUIA) during the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in the spring of 2020. She admitted to taking bribes to process fraudulent claims. As a result of Moore’s crimes, the State of Michigan paid out approximately $1,507,057.08 in fraudulent unemployment claims that should have been disbursed to unemployed Americans during a historic time of need.

    Moore was also ordered to pay $1,507,057.08 in restitution.

    United States Attorney Gorgon stated: “We remain committed to prosecuting those who choose to profit through the theft of government funds earmarked for those members of our community who are truly in need.”

    “Ms. Moore, as a former state employee, betrayed the public’s trust by taking advantage of her position and conspiring to steal funds meant to support unemployed workers during a national crisis,” said Cheyvoryea Gibson, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI in Michigan. “Her actions were not only criminal but also a direct insult to the countless families and businesses struggling to survive the economic fallout of the pandemic. The FBI, along with our law enforcement partners, will continue to investigate and hold accountable anyone who chooses to defraud essential relief programs and exploit moments of national vulnerability for personal gain.”

    “Former State of Michigan employee Danielle Moore engaged in an unemployment insurance fraud scheme by facilitating the approval of at least 40 fraudulent claims for incarcerated individuals. Moore abused her position by accessing sensitive employment information and state data systems for her own personal financial gain. We will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to investigate those who seek to exploit this critical benefit program, particularly when an insider threat is involved,” said Megan Howell, Special Agent-in-Charge, Great Lakes Region, U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General.

    “UIA holds its employees to lofty ethical standards. When a staff member breaks that trust for personal gain, it is particularly disappointing,” said Jason Palmer, Director of the Michigan UIA. “Danielle Moore used her insider status to help steal money meant for fellow Michiganders who relied on their jobless benefits to survive. She failed her colleagues and failed the taxpayers of Michigan and is now being held accountable for her selfish acts.”

    The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Timothy J. Wyse. The investigation was conducted jointly by the Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General, Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Detroit Area Public Corruption Task Force, and the Unemployment Insurance Agency, Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Passaic County Convicted Felon Admits to Trafficking Fentanyl and Heroin and Possessing Firearm in Furtherance Of Drug Trafficking

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    NEWARK, N.J. – A Passaic County, New Jersey man admitted to possessing quantities of fentanyl and heroin he intended to distribute, and possessing a firearm in furtherance of the drug trafficking crime, U.S. Attorney Alina Habba announced.

    Luis Polanco, 35, of Wayne, New Jersey pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Brian R. Martinotti to an Indictment charging him with one count of possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon, one count of possessing with intent to distribute controlled substances, and one count of possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.

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

    Law enforcement investigated Polanco for his drug distribution in Passaic, New Jersey, including from his residence.  Polanco was arrested after law enforcement searched his residence and vehicle, which revealed Polanco to be in possession of controlled substances that tested positive for more than 40 grams of fentanyl and more than 100 grams of heroin, as well as other paraphernalia used for packaging drugs.  Law enforcement also recovered a 9-millimeter semi-automatic handgun, 158 rounds of 9-millimeter ammunition and four rounds of .40 caliber ammunition.

    The drug charge carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 5 years in prison, a maximum potential penalty of 40 years in prison and a maximum fine of $5 million.  The felon in possession of a firearm charge carries a maximum potential penalty of 15 years in prison and a maximum fine of $250,000.  The possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime charge carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 5 years in prison, which must be imposed consecutively to any other sentence imposed, a maximum potential penalty of life in prison, and a maximum fine of $250,000.  Sentencing is scheduled for October 21, 2025.

    U.S. Attorney Habba credited special agents of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge L.C. Cheeks Jr., Newark Field Division, as well as the Passaic County Prosecutor’s Office, under the direction of Prosecutor Camelia M. Valdes, the Wayne Township Police Department, under the direction of Police Chief Joseph Rooney, and the Paterson Police Department, under the direction of under the direction of Officer In Charge Patrick Murray, with the investigation leading to this guilty plea.

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

    The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Michelle L. Goldman of the Narcotics/OCDETF Unit in Newark.

                                                                           ###

    Defense counsel: Jason F. Orlando, Esq.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Business Owner Sentenced After Receiving More than $1.6 Million in Funds from the CARES Act

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    TULSA, Okla. – A former Oklahoma man with business ties in Florida was sentenced today after pleading guilty to four counts of bank fraud, announced U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson.

    U.S. District Judge Sara E. Hill sentenced Shawn Ray Murnan, 57, of Windemere, Florida, to 33 months imprisonment, followed by five years of supervised release. Judge Hill further ordered Murnan to pay $1,641,796.47 in restitution to the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA).

    “In 2020, the CARES Act funding was established to provide emergency financial assistance to help businesses that were disrupted,” said U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson. “Investigators and prosecutors are committed to finding those like Murnan who steal government funding and prosecuting them to the fullest extent of the law.”

    From April 2020 through October 2021, Murnan admitted to falsifying several CARES Act applications to the SBA. Murnan was the owner of numerous business ventures in Oklahoma, Florida, and other states. He submitted 14 applications on behalf of his businesses, including Blujett, LLC, which was based in Broken Arrow. He submitted applications claiming to have several employees and falsified his payroll expenses. Murnan requested more than two million and successfully received $1,641,796.47 from seven Paycheck Protection Program loans and two Economic Injury Disaster Loans. After receiving the funds, Murnan applied for the loans to be forgiven. 

    Previously released on bond, Murnan was taken into custody following the sentencing today, where he will remain pending transfer to the U.S. Bureau of Prisons.

    The Office of Inspector General for the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System and Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, the Office of Inspector General for the Small Business Administration, and the U.S. Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney David Whipple prosecuted the case.

    The Fraud Section leads the Criminal Division’s prosecution of fraud schemes that exploit the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP). Since the inception of the CARES Act, the Fraud Section has prosecuted over 150 defendants in more than 95 criminal cases and has seized over $75 million in cash proceeds derived from fraudulently obtained PPP funds, as well as numerous real estate properties and luxury items purchased with such proceeds. More information can be found at Justice.gov/OPA/pr/justice-department-takes-action-against-covid-19-fraud.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Rio Rancho Woman Faces Federal Charges for Trafficking Over 120 Pounds of Fentanyl

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    ALBUQUERQUE – A Rio Rancho woman faces federal drug trafficking charges after a significant seizure during a routine traffic stop on Interstate 40 within the Laguna Pueblo Reservation.

    According to court documents, on June 11, 2025, a Bureau of Indian Affairs officer conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle for excessive window within the Laguna Reservation. The officer detected the odor of marijuana and observed drug paraphernalia in plain view upon approaching the vehicle. The driver, Jordan Baldwin, 22, admitted to possessing marijuana and was asked to exit the vehicle. Baldwin also admitted to using a straw found in her possession to snort cocaine.

    The officer conducted a probable cause search of the vehicle, locating additional drug paraphernalia and Xanax pills in the front passenger area. In the trunk, the officer discovered a large black duffle bag containing a substantial quantity of blue pills, which, based on his training and experience, he believed to be fentanyl. Field tests later confirmed the pills as fentanyl, with a gross weight of 122.22 pounds, equating to approximately 504,140 pills.

    Black duffle bag containing fentanyl pills

    Fentanyl pills on a scale

    Baldwin is charged with possession with intent to distribute and distribution of 400 grams and more of fentanyl and will remain on conditions of release pending trial, which has not yet been scheduled. If convicted of the current charges, Baldwin faces a mandatory minimum of 10 years and up to life in prison.

    U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison made the announcement today.

    The Bureau of Indian Affairs investigated this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jesse Pecoraro is prosecuting the case.

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Forrest County Siblings Sentenced in Federal Court for COVID Relief Fraud

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Hattiesburg, MS – A Forrest County man and woman were sentenced today in federal court for their role in an unemployment insurance fraud scheme related to the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act. Thaddieus Cooper, 31, was sentenced to 27 months in prison. Artista Garner, 37, was sentenced to probation for a term of three years. Both were ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $12,600 to the Mississippi Department of Employment Security.

    According to court documents and statements made in court, Garner, 37, of Hattiesburg, assisted her brother, Cooper, 31, in applying for unemployment insurance benefits with the Mississippi Department of Employment Security. As an inmate in the Mississippi Department of Corrections (MDOC), Cooper was not entitled to receive unemployment insurance benefits. Cooper was serving a sentence of six years in MDOC custody for armed robbery. Garner used the unemployment funds for her personal benefit and transferred some of the funds to Cooper via his commissary fund.

    The unemployment insurance benefits were federally subsidized through the CARES Act in response to the pandemic.

    A federal grand jury returned an indictment against Cooper and Garner on September 10, 2024. Both Cooper and Garner pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud on January 30, 2025.

    “These sentences demonstrate that those who defraud the government will be held accountable,” said Acting United States Attorney Patrick Lemon. “These defendants took advantage of a program developed to help families facing difficult times. The United States Attorney’s Office remains committed to working with our law enforcement partners to uncover and prosecute pandemic-related fraud wherever it occurs.”

    “Artista Garner engaged in a scheme to defraud the Mississippi Department of Employment Security by filing for unemployment insurance benefits on behalf of co-defendant, Thaddieus Cooper. Cooper was incarcerated that the time and thus ineligible for unemployment benefits. Garner and Cooper stole taxpayer funds from a program intended to assist American workers who lost their jobs due to the COVID-19 pandemic,” stated Mathew Broadhurst, Special Agent-in-Charge of the Southeast Region, U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General. “We will continue to work closely with the U.S. Attorney’s Office and our other law enforcement partners to protect the integrity of U.S. Department of Labor programs.”

    “The dedicated team at the State Auditor’s office is proud to work with federal prosecutors to deliver record results for taxpayers,” said State Auditor Shad White. “Thank you to my team of investigators and to the prosecutors for bringing this case to a close.”

    The U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General and the Mississippi Office of the State Auditor investigated the case.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Kimberly Purdie prosecuted the case.

    This case was prosecuted as part of the Department of Justice’s National Unemployment Insurance Fraud Task Force (NUIFTF). In response to the unprecedented scope of Unemployment Insurance (UI) fraud, the Department of Justice established the NUIFTF. The NUIFTF is a prosecutor-led multi-agency task force with representatives from FBI, DOL-OIG, IRS-CI, HSI, DHS-OIG, USPIS, USSS, SSA-OIG, FDIC-OIG, and other agencies. Members of the NUIFTF are working with state workforce agencies, financial institutions, and other law enforcement partners across the country to fight UI fraud, and consumers should be vigilant in light of these threats and take the appropriate steps to safeguard themselves.

    The CARES Act is a federal law enacted on March 29, 2020, designed to provide emergency financial assistance to the millions of Americans who are suffering the economic effects caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. One source of relief provided by the CARES Act is the authorization that expands states’ ability to provide unemployment insurance for many workers impacted by COVID-19, including for workers who are not ordinarily eligible for unemployment insurance benefits.

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Carthage Woman Pleads Guilty to Arson

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Jackson, MS – On June 12, 2025, a Leake County woman pleaded guilty to setting fire to a Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians tribal member’s home located in the Pearl River Community of the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians.

    According to court documents, in September of 2021, Lashandell F. Thomas, 25, attempted to burn down the residence by starting a fire in the interior of the home.  Thomas was indicted in January of 2022.

    Acting U.S. Attorney Patrick A. Lemon of the Southern District of Mississippi, made the announcement.  The Choctaw Police Department investigated the case.

    Thomas is scheduled to be sentenced on October 10, 2025, and faces a maximum penalty of life in prison. A federal district judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kevin J. Payne and Brian K. Burns prosecuted the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: MEXICAN NATIONAL SETNENCED FOR FIREARM POSSESSION

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Jackson, MS – A citizen of Mexico was sentenced today to 12 months in prison for possession of a firearm by a prohibited person and illegal re-entry into the United States after having been removed or deported.

    According to court documents and statements made in open court, Erik Sel Camacho-Lara, 31, was arrested by the Ridgeland Police Department for possession of a stolen firearm after law enforcement responded to a call for service at a Ridgeland residence. The caller was a minor child that resided in the home. The minor child told Ridgeland Police that Camacho-Lara was armed and had possibly discharged a firearm inside the home. Responding officers were forced to make entry into the home to apprehend Camacho-Lara. Officers opened a bedroom door inside the home and heard the slide of a semi-automatic handgun being manipulated. Once inside the room, Officers saw Camacho-Lara holding a handgun. After speaking with officers, Camacho-Lara surrendered the firearm and was taken into custody. The United States Department of Homeland Security Investigations then took over the investigation. A biometric verification confirmed Camacho-Lara’s identity and revealed that he had been previously removed from the United States on April 2, 2013, by United States Border Patrol Agents in Texas. Camacho-Lara pleaded guilty to the charged conduct on March 6, 2025.

    Acting U.S. Attorney Patrick A. Lemon of the Southern District of Mississippi and Eric P. DeLaune, Special Agent-in-Charge for Homeland Security Investigations in New Orleans, Louisiana, made the announcement.

    The United States Department of Homeland Security Investigations investigated the case with assistance from the Ridgeland Police Department.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Samuel Goff prosecuted the case.

    This case was investigated by the Mississippi Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) as part of Operation Take Back America. HSTFs, which were established by President Trump in Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion, are joint operations led by the Department of Justice and the Department of Homeland Security. Operation Take Back America is a nationwide federal 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: MEXICAN NATIONAL SETNENCED FOR FIREARM POSSESSION AND ILLEGAL RE-ENTRY AFTER REMOVAL

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Jackson, MS – A citizen of Mexico was sentenced today to 12 months in prison for possession of a firearm by a prohibited person and illegal re-entry into the United States after having been removed or deported.

    According to court documents and statements made in open court, Erik Sel Camacho-Lara, 31, was arrested by the Ridgeland Police Department for possession of a stolen firearm after law enforcement responded to a call for service at a Ridgeland residence. The caller was a minor child that resided in the home. The minor child told Ridgeland Police that Camacho-Lara was armed and had possibly discharged a firearm inside the home. Responding officers were forced to make entry into the home to apprehend Camacho-Lara. Officers opened a bedroom door inside the home and heard the slide of a semi-automatic handgun being manipulated. Once inside the room, Officers saw Camacho-Lara holding a handgun. After speaking with officers, Camacho-Lara surrendered the firearm and was taken into custody. The United States Department of Homeland Security Investigations then took over the investigation. A biometric verification confirmed Camacho-Lara’s identity and revealed that he had been previously removed from the United States on April 2, 2013, by United States Border Patrol Agents in Texas. Camacho-Lara pleaded guilty to the charged conduct on March 6, 2025.

    Acting U.S. Attorney Patrick A. Lemon of the Southern District of Mississippi and Eric P. DeLaune, Special Agent-in-Charge for Homeland Security Investigations in New Orleans, Louisiana, made the announcement.

    The United States Department of Homeland Security Investigations investigated the case with assistance from the Ridgeland Police Department.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Samuel Goff prosecuted the case.

    This case was investigated by the Mississippi Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) as part of Operation Take Back America. HSTFs, which were established by President Trump in Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion, are joint operations led by the Department of Justice and the Department of Homeland Security. Operation Take Back America is a nationwide federal 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: Univest Securities, LLC Announces Closing of $8 Million Public Offering for its Client Chanson International Holding (NASDAQ: CHSN)

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    New York, June 16, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Univest Securities, LLC (“Univest”), a member of FINRA and SIPC, and a full-service investment bank and securities broker-dealer firm based in New York, today announced the closing of Public Offering (the “Offering”) of approximately $8 million for its client Chanson International Holding (NASDAQ: CHSN) (the “Company”), a provider of bakery, seasonal, and beverage products through its chain stores in China and the United States.

    The offering is comprised of 16,000,000 units (each a “Unit”), consisting of one Class A ordinary share of the Company, par value $0.001 per share (the “Class A Ordinary Shares”), or in lieu thereof, a pre-funded warrant, one series A warrant to purchase one Class A Ordinary Share (each, a “Series A Warrant”) and one series B warrant to purchase one Class A Ordinary Share (each, a “Series B Warrant”). The public offering price of the Units is $0.50 per Unit. Each of the Series A Warrants and the Series B Warrants will have an exercise price of $0.525 per Class A Ordinary Share and be exercisable beginning on the date of the issuance date and ending on the two and half anniversary of the issuance date.

    The aggregate gross proceeds to the Company were approximately $8 million, before deducting placement agent fees and other estimated expenses payable by the Company, excluding the exercise of any warrant offered. The Company intends to use the net proceeds from this offering to open new stores in China and in the U.S., and the specific allocation of net proceeds to each market will be based on market conditions.

    Univest Securities, LLC acted as the sole placement agent.

    The securities described above were offered by the Company pursuant to a registration statement on Form F-1 (File No. 333-287404) previously filed and declared effective by the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) on June 12, 2025. A final prospectus supplement and accompanying prospectus describing the terms of the proposed offering were filed with the SEC and are available on the SEC’s website located at http://www.sec.gov. Electronic copies of the final prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus may be obtained, by contacting Univest Securities, LLC at info@univest.us, or by calling +1 (212) 343-8888.

    This press release does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy, nor will there be any sales of such securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of such jurisdiction. Copies of the prospectus supplement relating to the registered direct offering, together with the accompanying base prospectus, can be obtained at the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov.

    About Univest Securities, LLC

    Registered with FINRA since 1994, Univest Securities, LLC provides a wide variety of financial services to its institutional and retail clients globally including brokerage and execution services, sales and trading, market making, investment banking and advisory, wealth management. It strives to provide clients with value-add service and focuses on building long-term relationship with its clients. For more information, please visit: www.univest.us.

    About Chanson International Holding

    Founded in 2009, Chanson International Holding is a provider of bakery, seasonal, and beverage products through its chain stores in China and the United States. Headquartered in Urumqi, China, Chanson directly operates stores in Xinjiang, China and New York, United States. Chanson currently manages 63 stores in China, and 3 stores in New York City while selling on digital platforms and third-party online food ordering platforms. Chanson offers not only packaged bakery products but also made-in-store pastries and eat-in services, serving freshly prepared bakery products and extensive beverage products. Chanson aims to make healthy, nutritious, and ready-to-eat food through advanced facilities based on in-depth industry research, while creating a comfortable and distinguishable store environment for customers. Chanson’s dedicated and highly-experienced product development teams constantly create new products that reflect market trends to meet customer demand. For more information, please visit the Company’s website: http://ir.chanson-international.net/.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains forward-looking statements as defined by the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements include statements concerning plans, objectives, goals, strategies, future events or performance, and underlying assumptions and other statements that are other than statements of historical facts. When the Company uses words such as “may, “will, “intend,” “should,” “believe,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “project,” “estimate” or similar expressions that do not relate solely to historical matters, it is making forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve risks and uncertainties that may cause the actual results to differ materially from the Company’s expectations discussed in the forward-looking statements. These statements are subject to uncertainties and risks including, but not limited to, the uncertainties related to market conditions and the completion of the initial public offering on the anticipated terms or at all, and other factors discussed in the “Risk Factors” section of the registration statement filed with the SEC. For these reasons, among others, investors are cautioned not to place undue reliance upon any forward-looking statements in this press release. Additional factors are discussed in the Company’s filings with the SEC, which are available for review at www.sec.gov. Univest Securities LLC and the Company undertakes no obligation to publicly revise these forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances that arise after the date hereof.

    For more information, please contact:

    Univest Securities, LLC

    Edric Guo

    Chief Executive Officer

    75 Rockefeller Plaza, Suite 18C

    New York, NY 10019

    Phone: (212) 343-8888

    Email: info@univest.us

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Federal bank regulatory agencies seek comment to address payments and check fraud

    Source: US State of New York Federal Reserve

    Official websites use .govA .gov website belongs to an official government organization in the United States.

    Secure .gov websites use HTTPSA lock (
    Lock
    Locked padlock icon

    ) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Justice Department Highlights Enforcement Efforts Protecting Older Americans from Transnational Fraud Schemes in Recognition of 2025 World Elder Abuse Awareness Day

    Source: US State of California

    Note: The cases underlined hyperlink to press releases

    In recognition of World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, Attorney General Pamela Bondi announced that the Justice Department is reinvigorating efforts to protect older Americans from transnational schemes that cost billions of dollars, often stealing their life savings. In the past few weeks alone, investigators and prosecutors have arrested and filed cases against foreign fraudsters and domestic actors who have knowingly facilitated foreign-based crimes.

    “Prosecutors across the country are stepping up the fight against malicious schemes that target older Americans,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “We are working with domestic law enforcement and foreign counterparts every day to hold criminals accountable and ensure that justice is done for our seniors both here at home and abroad.”

    These include cases involving romance fraud, lottery fraud, tech support fraud, and grandparent scams. Romance fraud is a confidence scheme where a perpetrator feigns romantic interest with a victim only to later extract money or property under false pretenses. Lottery fraud schemes trick victims into believing they have won a non-existent lottery or sweepstakes prize in order to extract fake fees, taxes, or other fabricated charges from the victim. Tech support fraud scams involve perpetrators tricking victims into believing that their computer or phone has a problem, often through fake pop-up messages, and to later seek funds from the victims in order to “fix” the “problem.” Grandparent scams, another type of confidence scheme, involve scammers impersonating a grandchild or close family member who experiences a fictitious emergency and needs money from the victim as soon as possible.

    Transnational Elder Fraud

    Lottery Fraud

    United States v. Troy Murray; United States v. Cutter Murray. On June 11, the Department’s Consumer Protection Branch filed an Information in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida charging Troy Murray also known as “Steve Dixson” with conspiracy to commit wire fraud. The Branch also filed Troy Murray’s agreement to plead guilty. According to court documents, Troy Murray sold to lottery fraud scammers, including Jamaicans, his lead list database containing the names, and personal information of over seven million elderly American consumers. Scammers then used these lists to defraud those elderly victims. Additionally, Cutter Murray, Troy Murray’s son, will plead guilty to one count of money laundering for receiving and then laundering $1.6 million of the fraudulent funds Troy Murray obtained. Several purchases were in excess of $10,000. This case was investigated by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service.

    United States v. Dennis Anderson; United States v. Frank Angelori. On June 9, the Consumer Protection Branch filed court documents charging Dennis Anderson and Frank Angelori for facilitating additional Jamaica-based elder fraud. According to court documents, Anderson and Angelori were lead list brokers and business partners, who from as early as 2015 until at least March 2020, knowingly sold lists containing consumer names and contact information of mostly older Americans to Jamaican clients who perpetrate lottery fraud on senior citizens. These cases were investigated by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service.

    United States v. Deeno Jackson. On May 30, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Arizona announced an indictment charging Deeno Jackson, 27, a citizen of Jamaica with wire fraud and conspiracy to commit wire fraud. According to court documents, Jackson and others engaged in a lottery fraud scheme targeting elderly victims in Arizona and throughout the United States. One victim lost over $400,000 from the scheme.

    United States v. Jimmy Smith. On April 1, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Connecticut announced charges against Jimmy Smith, 30, a citizen of Jamaica, who resided in Hinesville, Georgia. According to court documents, Smith and others defrauded at least four victims residing in Connecticut, New York, Texas, and California, by telling them they had won a Publishers Clearing House Sweepstakes and needed to pay taxes or money to claim the prize.

    Romance Fraud

    United States v. Charles Uchenna Nwadavid. On April 9, the U.S. Attorney’s Office (USAO) for the District of Massachusetts announced charges against Charles Uchenna Nwadavid, a citizen of Nigeria who was arrested after landing at the Dallas-Fort Worth Airport. In January 2024, a grand jury indicted Nawadavid on one count of mail fraud and two counts of money laundering. Between approximately 2016 to September 2019, Nwadavid allegedly participated in romance scams that tricked victims into sending money abroad.

    United States v. Otuo Amponsah et al. On May 13, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Ohio unsealed charges against Otuo Amponsah, Anna Amponsah, Hannah Adom, Portia Joe, Abdoul Issaka Assimiou, and Dwayne Asafo Adjei for their participation in conspiracies to commit wire fraud and money laundering. According to court documents, from December 2017 through March 2024, the defendants used various wire fraud and romance fraud schemes — often targeting elderly individuals in the United States — to obtain funds from victims by means of false pretenses. The defendants shared funds obtained from victims with co-conspirators in the Republic of Ghana and elsewhere. This case was investigated by the FBI.

    United States v. Clinton Ogedegbe. On April 15, a grand jury in the Western District of North Carolina returned an indictment against Clinton Ogedegbe, charging him with one count of money laundering conspiracy and one count of concealment money laundering. According to court documents, from July 2023 through at least February 2024, Ogedegbe and his co-conspirators carried out a scheme to launder the proceeds of romance fraud schemes typically targeting elderly and other vulnerable victims. This case was investigated by the FBI.

    United States v. Joseph Kwadwo Badu Boateng also known as “Dada Joe Remix.” On May 30, a grand jury indictment was unsealed in the District of Arizona charging Joseph Boateng also known as “Dada Joe Remix,” a citizen of Ghana, with conspiracy to commit wire fraud and conspiracy to commit money laundering. According to court documents, from at least 2013 through March 2023, Boateng and his co-conspirators engaged in a romance/inheritance scheme that targeted elderly American victims and others around the world. The co-conspirators falsely represented that they had gold and jewels and that to release such items, taxes and fees or other costs would be required. Ghanian authorities arrested Boateng on May 28 pursuant to a U.S. request for his extradition. This case was investigated by the FBI.

    United States v. 679,981.22 Tether, et al. On June 3, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Ohio announced the filing of a civil forfeiture complaint against 679,981.22 in the Tether cryptocurrency suspected of being fraudulently obtained as part of a romance/investment scam. According to court documents, one victim was targeted via LinkedIn and another victim was targeted though the dating App “Coffee Meets Bagel.”  

    United States v. John Muriuku Wamuigah. On May 22, Malaysia extradited Kenyan national John Muriuku Wamuigah to stand trial in the District of Connecticut on a wire fraud charge.  According to court documents, Mamuiga and others executed a scheme to defraud using business email compromise and romance scams. The scheme involved exploitation of elderly victims through romance scams to serve as unwitting money mules.

    United States v. Dwayne Asafo Adjei et al. On June 4, a superseding indictment sought by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Ohio was unsealed. It charges David Onyinye Abuanekwu, Dwayne Asafo Adjei, Nancy Adom, Eric Aidoo, and Nader Wasif with wire fraud and money laundering conspiracies. According to court documents, from December 2017 through March 2024, the defendants used various wire fraud and romance fraud schemes — often targeting elderly individuals in the United States — to obtain funds from victims by means of false pretenses. The defendants shared in funds obtained from victims with co-conspirators in the Republic of Ghana and elsewhere. This case was investigated by the FBI.

    Tech Support / Imposter Fraud

    United States v. Rakeshkumar Patel. On May 21, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware announced Indian national Rakeshkumar Patel’s guilty plea to one count of wire fraud conspiracy for his role in an elder fraud scam targeting Americans. According to court documents, the scheme involved at least $2.1 million in loss from victims who were contacted over the phone by fraudsters posing as federal agents who convinced victims their identities had been stolen and that they were under federal investigation.   

    United States v. Nanjun Song et al. On May 21, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Rhode Island announced the indictment of eight individuals for their roles in orchestrating and executing an elaborate transnational fraud and money laundering scheme targeting elderly citizens in the United States and Canada. According to court documents, pop-up messages on seniors’ computers making various false claims lured victims to call live agents, who informed the victims that their financial assets were at risk or could be garnished, among other false claims. Law enforcement identified approximately 300 individuals in at least 37 states who suffered known losses exceeding $5 million.

    United States v. Atharva Shailesh Sathawane. On May 27, a grand jury in the Northern District of Florida charged Atharva “Andy” Sathawane with one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and one count of conspiracy to commit money laundering. According to court documents, Sathawane and his co-conspirators defrauded elderly victims throughout the United States into providing money and gold in response to fraudulent telephone calls and electronic messages. This case was investigated by the FBI, U.S. Secret Service, Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigations, and the Gainesville Police Department.

    Grandparent Scams

    United States v. Johnny Cepeda. On May 30, a grand jury in the District of New Jersey indicted Jhonny Cepeda of New York, NY, with wire fraud conspiracy. According to court documents, Cepeda served as a courier in a “grandparent” or “family-in-need-of-bail” scam operated from call centers in the Dominican Republic. The scam targeted elderly Americans, deceiving numerous victims into believing that a loved one had been arrested and urgently needed cash for bail and other legal services. This case was investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Social Security Administration Office of the Inspector General, and the FBI.

    Mail Fraud

    United States v. Georg Ingenbleek. On May 14, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Jersey announced that Georg Ingenbleek, 58, a citizen of Germany, was extradited to the United States to face an indictment charging him with two counts of mail fraud. According to court documents, from at least 2011 through 2016, Ingenbleek orchestrated a massive mail fraud scheme targeting elderly and otherwise vulnerable victims with false and fraudulent psychic solicitations. Ingenbleek had been a fugitive since being indicted in 2020.

    Domestic Elder Fraud

    While prosecuting perpetrators who believe they are hidden abroad is one focus of the Department’s work, the Department also remains focused on domestic actors who prey on American seniors and domestic actors who facilitate foreign-based schemes. Fraud can erode American seniors’ trust in markets and other important public institutions, furthering a feeling of isolation and helplessness for individuals who worked for decades to have a secure retirement.

    Matters Relating to Domestic Perpetrators

    United States v. Kenneth W. Mattson. On May 22, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northen District of California announced the arrest of Kenneth Mattson, who is charged with wire fraud, money laundering, and obstruction of justice. According to court documents, for more than a decade, Mattson allegedly solicited and obtained millions of dollars in investments from hundreds of investors — many of whom were nearing or in retirement — in what he represented were legitimate and safe interests of limited partnerships that owned real estate.  Those representations were false: although many of the partnerships were real entities, Mattson’s victims, referred to in the indictment as “off-books investors,” never had interests in those partnerships.  

    United States v. Jon Kubler. On May 23, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of North Carolina announced charges against Jon Kubler of Redondo Beach, California. According to court documents, from December 2017 to April 2023, Kubler orchestrated a $4 million investment scheme that targeted elderly and vulnerable victims. Despite not being licensed as an investment adviser, Kubler allegedly provided investment planning and management services to victims who were unsophisticated investors, elderly, and the beneficiaries of settlements or life insurance proceeds.  

    United States v. Sunil Patel et al. On April 15, a grand jury in the Southern District of New York charged Sunil Patel, Ratansha Vakil, and Lakhmichand Lohani with conspiracy to commit money laundering, conspiracy to commit bank fraud, and bank fraud. According to court documents, from April 2023 through December 2023, the defendants laundered the proceeds of an elder fraud scheme, in which the defendants’ co-conspirators made phone calls to elderly victims, told them their assets or personal information was at risk, and directed them to send their money in the form of cashiers’ checks to limited liability companies controlled by the defendants. This case was investigated by the FBI.

    United States v. Kendall Grey. On June 10, Kendall Grey pled guilty to one count of bank fraud in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Georgia. According to court documents, from July 2022 through January 2023, in his role as a bank insider, Grey facilitated a retirement account scam. Scammers involved in the scheme tricked an investment management company into authorizing a distribution to an imposter posing as the true accountholder. They created phony identification documents for the victim accountholder in order to open bank accounts in the victim’s name, which were used to receive and launder the stolen funds.

    Recovering Victim Loss

    In addition to holding fraudsters to account, the Department is committed to recovering money for victims whenever possible. Victims face many challenges in financially recovering from fraud schemes — and that is even more true for older victims. Many retired seniors are no longer earning income and cannot count on market appreciation to grow their retirement savings. Perpetrators may have already spent or forwarded victim funds beyond the reach of U.S. law enforcement. Victims may not have the resources to pursue legal action or hire legal representation. These, and other reasons, make it critically important that the Department do whatever it takes to achieve substantial victim restitution in cases we investigate and prosecute.

    Today, the Attorney General announced the successful conclusion of the Consumer Data Victim Compensation Fund, managed by the Consumer Protection Branch of the Civil Division. In 2021, the Department of Justice reached Deferred Prosecution Agreements (DPAs) with two separate data companies, Epsilon Data Management and KBM Group, under the terms of which the two companies admitted to selling or renting the data of millions of American consumers to the perpetrators of mass mailing fraud schemes. Such schemes typically involved letters sent by mail falsely promising large cash prizes or other rewards in exchange for payment of a fee. In 2022, a third consumer data company, Wiland Inc., signed a Non-Prosecution Agreement with the Department of Justice that included an additional $4.4 million in victim compensation.

    As a part of their DPAs, Epsilon and KBM funded the operation of a Claims Administrator to more effectively reimburse victims. In total, as of June 2025, the fund has returned over $129 million to over 100,000 victims across the country.

    National Elder Fraud Hotline

    In addition to returning money to victims of elder fraud, the Department also supports older victims through its National Elder Fraud Hotline campaign. The National Elder Fraud Hotline is a free, national resource for older adults and their loved ones experiencing financial fraud. Supported by the Office for Victims of Crime, the National Elder Fraud Hotline is staffed by professionals who have experience working with older adults. Staff are continuously updated on the latest scams, are trained to make referrals and warm hand-offs for resources and services in the older adult’s local area and can assist older adults in placing a report with the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3), a report which has the potential to freeze funds (although freezing funds cannot be guaranteed).

    If you or someone you know is age 60 or older and has been a victim of financial fraud, help is standing by at the National Elder Fraud Hotline: 1-833-FRAUD-11 (1-833-372-8311). The hotline is open Monday through Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. ET. English, Spanish, and other languages are available.

    For more information about the department’s efforts to help older Americans and to combat elder abuse, neglect, financial exploitation and fraud, please visit the department’s Elder Justice webpage (at elderjustice.gov). For more information about the Consumer Protection Branch and its enforcement efforts, visit its website at www.justice.gov/civil/consumer-protection-branch. Elder fraud complaints may be filed with the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov/  or at 877-FTC-HELP. The Department of Justice provides a variety of resources relating to elder fraud victimization through its Office for Victims of Crime, which can be reached at www.ovc.gov.

    The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs provided substantial assistance working with foreign authorities to secure the arrest and extradition to the United States of perpetrators abroad.

    The Department notes that for all cases discussed above, facts included in a Complaint, Information, or Indictment are only allegations, and all defendants are innocent until proven guilty by evidence beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Justice Department Highlights Enforcement Efforts Protecting Older Americans from Transnational Fraud Schemes in Recognition of 2025 World Elder Abuse Awareness Day

    Source: United States Attorneys General

    Note: The cases underlined hyperlink to press releases

    In recognition of World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, Attorney General Pamela Bondi announced that the Justice Department is reinvigorating efforts to protect older Americans from transnational schemes that cost billions of dollars, often stealing their life savings. In the past few weeks alone, investigators and prosecutors have arrested and filed cases against foreign fraudsters and domestic actors who have knowingly facilitated foreign-based crimes.

    “Prosecutors across the country are stepping up the fight against malicious schemes that target older Americans,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “We are working with domestic law enforcement and foreign counterparts every day to hold criminals accountable and ensure that justice is done for our seniors both here at home and abroad.”

    These include cases involving romance fraud, lottery fraud, tech support fraud, and grandparent scams. Romance fraud is a confidence scheme where a perpetrator feigns romantic interest with a victim only to later extract money or property under false pretenses. Lottery fraud schemes trick victims into believing they have won a non-existent lottery or sweepstakes prize in order to extract fake fees, taxes, or other fabricated charges from the victim. Tech support fraud scams involve perpetrators tricking victims into believing that their computer or phone has a problem, often through fake pop-up messages, and to later seek funds from the victims in order to “fix” the “problem.” Grandparent scams, another type of confidence scheme, involve scammers impersonating a grandchild or close family member who experiences a fictitious emergency and needs money from the victim as soon as possible.

    Transnational Elder Fraud

    Lottery Fraud

    United States v. Troy Murray; United States v. Cutter Murray. On June 11, the Department’s Consumer Protection Branch filed an Information in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida charging Troy Murray also known as “Steve Dixson” with conspiracy to commit wire fraud. The Branch also filed Troy Murray’s agreement to plead guilty. According to court documents, Troy Murray sold to lottery fraud scammers, including Jamaicans, his lead list database containing the names, and personal information of over seven million elderly American consumers. Scammers then used these lists to defraud those elderly victims. Additionally, Cutter Murray, Troy Murray’s son, will plead guilty to one count of money laundering for receiving and then laundering $1.6 million of the fraudulent funds Troy Murray obtained. Several purchases were in excess of $10,000. This case was investigated by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service.

    United States v. Dennis Anderson; United States v. Frank Angelori. On June 9, the Consumer Protection Branch filed court documents charging Dennis Anderson and Frank Angelori for facilitating additional Jamaica-based elder fraud. According to court documents, Anderson and Angelori were lead list brokers and business partners, who from as early as 2015 until at least March 2020, knowingly sold lists containing consumer names and contact information of mostly older Americans to Jamaican clients who perpetrate lottery fraud on senior citizens. These cases were investigated by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service.

    United States v. Deeno Jackson. On May 30, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Arizona announced an indictment charging Deeno Jackson, 27, a citizen of Jamaica with wire fraud and conspiracy to commit wire fraud. According to court documents, Jackson and others engaged in a lottery fraud scheme targeting elderly victims in Arizona and throughout the United States. One victim lost over $400,000 from the scheme.

    United States v. Jimmy Smith. On April 1, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Connecticut announced charges against Jimmy Smith, 30, a citizen of Jamaica, who resided in Hinesville, Georgia. According to court documents, Smith and others defrauded at least four victims residing in Connecticut, New York, Texas, and California, by telling them they had won a Publishers Clearing House Sweepstakes and needed to pay taxes or money to claim the prize.

    Romance Fraud

    United States v. Charles Uchenna Nwadavid. On April 9, the U.S. Attorney’s Office (USAO) for the District of Massachusetts announced charges against Charles Uchenna Nwadavid, a citizen of Nigeria who was arrested after landing at the Dallas-Fort Worth Airport. In January 2024, a grand jury indicted Nawadavid on one count of mail fraud and two counts of money laundering. Between approximately 2016 to September 2019, Nwadavid allegedly participated in romance scams that tricked victims into sending money abroad.

    United States v. Otuo Amponsah et al. On May 13, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Ohio unsealed charges against Otuo Amponsah, Anna Amponsah, Hannah Adom, Portia Joe, Abdoul Issaka Assimiou, and Dwayne Asafo Adjei for their participation in conspiracies to commit wire fraud and money laundering. According to court documents, from December 2017 through March 2024, the defendants used various wire fraud and romance fraud schemes — often targeting elderly individuals in the United States — to obtain funds from victims by means of false pretenses. The defendants shared funds obtained from victims with co-conspirators in the Republic of Ghana and elsewhere. This case was investigated by the FBI.

    United States v. Clinton Ogedegbe. On April 15, a grand jury in the Western District of North Carolina returned an indictment against Clinton Ogedegbe, charging him with one count of money laundering conspiracy and one count of concealment money laundering. According to court documents, from July 2023 through at least February 2024, Ogedegbe and his co-conspirators carried out a scheme to launder the proceeds of romance fraud schemes typically targeting elderly and other vulnerable victims. This case was investigated by the FBI.

    United States v. Joseph Kwadwo Badu Boateng also known as “Dada Joe Remix.” On May 30, a grand jury indictment was unsealed in the District of Arizona charging Joseph Boateng also known as “Dada Joe Remix,” a citizen of Ghana, with conspiracy to commit wire fraud and conspiracy to commit money laundering. According to court documents, from at least 2013 through March 2023, Boateng and his co-conspirators engaged in a romance/inheritance scheme that targeted elderly American victims and others around the world. The co-conspirators falsely represented that they had gold and jewels and that to release such items, taxes and fees or other costs would be required. Ghanian authorities arrested Boateng on May 28 pursuant to a U.S. request for his extradition. This case was investigated by the FBI.

    United States v. 679,981.22 Tether, et al. On June 3, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Ohio announced the filing of a civil forfeiture complaint against 679,981.22 in the Tether cryptocurrency suspected of being fraudulently obtained as part of a romance/investment scam. According to court documents, one victim was targeted via LinkedIn and another victim was targeted though the dating App “Coffee Meets Bagel.”  

    United States v. John Muriuku Wamuigah. On May 22, Malaysia extradited Kenyan national John Muriuku Wamuigah to stand trial in the District of Connecticut on a wire fraud charge.  According to court documents, Mamuiga and others executed a scheme to defraud using business email compromise and romance scams. The scheme involved exploitation of elderly victims through romance scams to serve as unwitting money mules.

    United States v. Dwayne Asafo Adjei et al. On June 4, a superseding indictment sought by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Ohio was unsealed. It charges David Onyinye Abuanekwu, Dwayne Asafo Adjei, Nancy Adom, Eric Aidoo, and Nader Wasif with wire fraud and money laundering conspiracies. According to court documents, from December 2017 through March 2024, the defendants used various wire fraud and romance fraud schemes — often targeting elderly individuals in the United States — to obtain funds from victims by means of false pretenses. The defendants shared in funds obtained from victims with co-conspirators in the Republic of Ghana and elsewhere. This case was investigated by the FBI.

    Tech Support / Imposter Fraud

    United States v. Rakeshkumar Patel. On May 21, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware announced Indian national Rakeshkumar Patel’s guilty plea to one count of wire fraud conspiracy for his role in an elder fraud scam targeting Americans. According to court documents, the scheme involved at least $2.1 million in loss from victims who were contacted over the phone by fraudsters posing as federal agents who convinced victims their identities had been stolen and that they were under federal investigation.   

    United States v. Nanjun Song et al. On May 21, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Rhode Island announced the indictment of eight individuals for their roles in orchestrating and executing an elaborate transnational fraud and money laundering scheme targeting elderly citizens in the United States and Canada. According to court documents, pop-up messages on seniors’ computers making various false claims lured victims to call live agents, who informed the victims that their financial assets were at risk or could be garnished, among other false claims. Law enforcement identified approximately 300 individuals in at least 37 states who suffered known losses exceeding $5 million.

    United States v. Atharva Shailesh Sathawane. On May 27, a grand jury in the Northern District of Florida charged Atharva “Andy” Sathawane with one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and one count of conspiracy to commit money laundering. According to court documents, Sathawane and his co-conspirators defrauded elderly victims throughout the United States into providing money and gold in response to fraudulent telephone calls and electronic messages. This case was investigated by the FBI, U.S. Secret Service, Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigations, and the Gainesville Police Department.

    Grandparent Scams

    United States v. Johnny Cepeda. On May 30, a grand jury in the District of New Jersey indicted Jhonny Cepeda of New York, NY, with wire fraud conspiracy. According to court documents, Cepeda served as a courier in a “grandparent” or “family-in-need-of-bail” scam operated from call centers in the Dominican Republic. The scam targeted elderly Americans, deceiving numerous victims into believing that a loved one had been arrested and urgently needed cash for bail and other legal services. This case was investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Social Security Administration Office of the Inspector General, and the FBI.

    Mail Fraud

    United States v. Georg Ingenbleek. On May 14, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Jersey announced that Georg Ingenbleek, 58, a citizen of Germany, was extradited to the United States to face an indictment charging him with two counts of mail fraud. According to court documents, from at least 2011 through 2016, Ingenbleek orchestrated a massive mail fraud scheme targeting elderly and otherwise vulnerable victims with false and fraudulent psychic solicitations. Ingenbleek had been a fugitive since being indicted in 2020.

    Domestic Elder Fraud

    While prosecuting perpetrators who believe they are hidden abroad is one focus of the Department’s work, the Department also remains focused on domestic actors who prey on American seniors and domestic actors who facilitate foreign-based schemes. Fraud can erode American seniors’ trust in markets and other important public institutions, furthering a feeling of isolation and helplessness for individuals who worked for decades to have a secure retirement.

    Matters Relating to Domestic Perpetrators

    United States v. Kenneth W. Mattson. On May 22, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northen District of California announced the arrest of Kenneth Mattson, who is charged with wire fraud, money laundering, and obstruction of justice. According to court documents, for more than a decade, Mattson allegedly solicited and obtained millions of dollars in investments from hundreds of investors — many of whom were nearing or in retirement — in what he represented were legitimate and safe interests of limited partnerships that owned real estate.  Those representations were false: although many of the partnerships were real entities, Mattson’s victims, referred to in the indictment as “off-books investors,” never had interests in those partnerships.  

    United States v. Jon Kubler. On May 23, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of North Carolina announced charges against Jon Kubler of Redondo Beach, California. According to court documents, from December 2017 to April 2023, Kubler orchestrated a $4 million investment scheme that targeted elderly and vulnerable victims. Despite not being licensed as an investment adviser, Kubler allegedly provided investment planning and management services to victims who were unsophisticated investors, elderly, and the beneficiaries of settlements or life insurance proceeds.  

    United States v. Sunil Patel et al. On April 15, a grand jury in the Southern District of New York charged Sunil Patel, Ratansha Vakil, and Lakhmichand Lohani with conspiracy to commit money laundering, conspiracy to commit bank fraud, and bank fraud. According to court documents, from April 2023 through December 2023, the defendants laundered the proceeds of an elder fraud scheme, in which the defendants’ co-conspirators made phone calls to elderly victims, told them their assets or personal information was at risk, and directed them to send their money in the form of cashiers’ checks to limited liability companies controlled by the defendants. This case was investigated by the FBI.

    United States v. Kendall Grey. On June 10, Kendall Grey pled guilty to one count of bank fraud in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Georgia. According to court documents, from July 2022 through January 2023, in his role as a bank insider, Grey facilitated a retirement account scam. Scammers involved in the scheme tricked an investment management company into authorizing a distribution to an imposter posing as the true accountholder. They created phony identification documents for the victim accountholder in order to open bank accounts in the victim’s name, which were used to receive and launder the stolen funds.

    Recovering Victim Loss

    In addition to holding fraudsters to account, the Department is committed to recovering money for victims whenever possible. Victims face many challenges in financially recovering from fraud schemes — and that is even more true for older victims. Many retired seniors are no longer earning income and cannot count on market appreciation to grow their retirement savings. Perpetrators may have already spent or forwarded victim funds beyond the reach of U.S. law enforcement. Victims may not have the resources to pursue legal action or hire legal representation. These, and other reasons, make it critically important that the Department do whatever it takes to achieve substantial victim restitution in cases we investigate and prosecute.

    Today, the Attorney General announced the successful conclusion of the Consumer Data Victim Compensation Fund, managed by the Consumer Protection Branch of the Civil Division. In 2021, the Department of Justice reached Deferred Prosecution Agreements (DPAs) with two separate data companies, Epsilon Data Management and KBM Group, under the terms of which the two companies admitted to selling or renting the data of millions of American consumers to the perpetrators of mass mailing fraud schemes. Such schemes typically involved letters sent by mail falsely promising large cash prizes or other rewards in exchange for payment of a fee. In 2022, a third consumer data company, Wiland Inc., signed a Non-Prosecution Agreement with the Department of Justice that included an additional $4.4 million in victim compensation.

    As a part of their DPAs, Epsilon and KBM funded the operation of a Claims Administrator to more effectively reimburse victims. In total, as of June 2025, the fund has returned over $129 million to over 100,000 victims across the country.

    National Elder Fraud Hotline

    In addition to returning money to victims of elder fraud, the Department also supports older victims through its National Elder Fraud Hotline campaign. The National Elder Fraud Hotline is a free, national resource for older adults and their loved ones experiencing financial fraud. Supported by the Office for Victims of Crime, the National Elder Fraud Hotline is staffed by professionals who have experience working with older adults. Staff are continuously updated on the latest scams, are trained to make referrals and warm hand-offs for resources and services in the older adult’s local area and can assist older adults in placing a report with the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3), a report which has the potential to freeze funds (although freezing funds cannot be guaranteed).

    If you or someone you know is age 60 or older and has been a victim of financial fraud, help is standing by at the National Elder Fraud Hotline: 1-833-FRAUD-11 (1-833-372-8311). The hotline is open Monday through Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. ET. English, Spanish, and other languages are available.

    For more information about the department’s efforts to help older Americans and to combat elder abuse, neglect, financial exploitation and fraud, please visit the department’s Elder Justice webpage (at elderjustice.gov). For more information about the Consumer Protection Branch and its enforcement efforts, visit its website at www.justice.gov/civil/consumer-protection-branch. Elder fraud complaints may be filed with the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov/  or at 877-FTC-HELP. The Department of Justice provides a variety of resources relating to elder fraud victimization through its Office for Victims of Crime, which can be reached at www.ovc.gov.

    The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs provided substantial assistance working with foreign authorities to secure the arrest and extradition to the United States of perpetrators abroad.

    The Department notes that for all cases discussed above, facts included in a Complaint, Information, or Indictment are only allegations, and all defendants are innocent until proven guilty by evidence beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Lummis Earns Defender of Limited Government Award, Ranked as 5th Most Conservative Senator

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Wyoming Cynthia Lummis

    June 16, 2025

    Washington, D.C. – Senator Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) today earned the “Defender of Limited Government Award” for her conservative, pro-Wyoming voting record by the Institute for Legislative Analysis. 
    The ranking was based on over 100,000 votes – the most expansive study performed on the U.S. Congress. According to the ranking, Senator Lummis is also the 5th most Conservative Member of the U.S. Senate. 
    “The people of Wyoming sent me to the U.S. Senate to champion limited government and conservative values – and I’ve stood firm in that mission every single day,” said Lummis. “I’m honored to accept this award from the Institute for Legislative Analysis and will continue the fight to shrink our government and defend our fundamental liberties.”
    “The Institute for Legislative Analysis is proud to recognize Senator Cynthia Lummis with our Defender of Limited Government Award,” said ILA CEO Ryan McGowan. “Senator Lummis ranks among the top ten U.S. Senators whose voting record most consistently aligns with the limited government principles enshrined in the U.S. Constitution. Her record demonstrates strong leadership in lowering costs for working families by advancing policies that promote American energy dominance. We thank her for her dedication to fiscal responsibility and her commitment to ensuring prosperity for future generations.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hagerty Reintroduces Legislation to Ban Sanctuary Cities From Receiving Federal Subsidies

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Tennessee Bill Hagerty

    Representative Ralph Norman is leading the effort in the U.S. House of Representatives

    WASHINGTON—Last week, United States Senator Bill Hagerty (R-TN), a member of the Senate Banking Committee, reintroduced the No Community Development Block Grants for Sanctuary Cities Act, legislation to amend the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974 to prevent sanctuary cities from receiving federal subsidies. Representative Ralph Norman (R-SC-05) has introduced companion legislation in the U.S. House of Representatives.

    “Cities that encourage illegal immigration shouldn’t be rewarded with federal housing subsidies,” said Senator Hagerty. “The Trump administration has made it clear that illegal immigration will not be tolerated anywhere in the United States, and cities that defy American sovereignty will face the consequences. I’m pleased to reintroduce this legislation that prevents taxpayer dollars from flowing to sanctuary cities that refuse to enforce the law.”

    “It’s simple: if you’re going to ignore federal immigration law, don’t expect to get a dime of federal tax dollars,” said Congressman Norman. “Sanctuary cities are putting politics over public safety, and that’s unacceptable. This bill makes clear that cities choosing to harbor illegal immigrants at the expense of public safety will no longer receive taxpayer money.”

    Full text of the No Community Development Block Grants for Sanctuary Cities Act can be found here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Boston Globe: Warren, Markey call for probe into ‘escalating aggression’ by federal agents in immigration raids

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts – Elizabeth Warren

    June 12, 2025

    Massachusetts Senators Elizabeth Warren and Edward J. Markey have called for an investigation into the “increasingly aggressive and intimidating tactics” used by federal agents in immigration raids across the country, according to a letter sent Wednesday to the US Department of Homeland Security.

    “ICE’s escalating aggression is not making us safer,” read the letter, which was cosigned by all nine of the state’s representatives in Congress.

    US Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents are hiding their identities, targeting sensitive locations, inflicting physical harm and psychological terror, and “stoking fear,” the letter said.

    The seven-page letter comes amid several days of fiery protests in Los Angeles as immigration agents sweep job sites, factories, and graduation ceremonies.

    …

    Read the full story here.

    By:  Tonya Alanez
    Source: Boston Globe

    Previous Article

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  • MIL-OSI USA: CBS News: Warren urges Trump to “abandon” DOGE’s “inefficient and harmful” agenda in new letter

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts – Elizabeth Warren
    June 12, 2025
    Democratic Sen. Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts is urging President Trump to “reverse course” on the Department of Government Efficiency’s efforts to cut government spending and agencies, advocating instead that he implement her policy proposals to find savings, days after a split between Elon Musk and the president spilled into public view.
    “Although Mr. Musk and DOGE have failed at achieving their purported savings goals, you could choose to end this government waste while avoiding dangerous cuts to important federal Programs,” Warren wrote in a letter to Mr. Trump along with Rep. Melanie Stansbury of New Mexico, the top Democrat on the House DOGE subcommittee. “You should learn from Elon Musk and DOGE’s mistakes, end your attacks on critical federal programs, and instead act on these recommendations.”
    The Democrats penned a letter to Mr. Trump outlining “DOGE’s failures,” along with recommendations that they said would save the U.S. more than $2 trillion over 10 years. The letter, obtained exclusively by CBS News, follows a letter Warren wrote to Musk in January, outlining the 30 recommendations.
    …
    Read the full story here.
    By:  Kaia HubbardSource: CBS News
    Previous Article

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: The New York Times: Elizabeth Warren: Trump Is Right About This One Thing

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts – Elizabeth Warren

    June 12, 2025

    It is possible that hell has frozen over. President Trump and I agree on something very important: Abolish the debt limit.

    The debt limit is a political tool that allows the minority party to threaten economic collapse, forcing Congress to negotiate its demands. It serves no other function. None. It has no impact on spending, and it doesn’t restrain the growth of the national debt.

    I’ve pushed publicly and privately, whether Democrats or Republicans have been in charge, to scrap the debt ceiling permanently. Now, with Mr. Trump’s support, our country could finally get rid of this form of brinkmanship that has, for decades, threatened the stability of our economy.

    …

    Read the full story here.

    By:  Senator Elizabeth Warren
    Source: New York Times

    Previous Article

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  • MIL-OSI USA: NEWS: Sanders Statement: “The U.S. Must Not Be Dragged into Netanyahu’s War Against Iran”

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Vermont – Bernie Sanders

    WASHINGTON, June 16 – Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) today released the following statement amid Israel’s illegal, unilateral attacks on Iran:

    Netanyahu started this war with a surprise unilateral attack against Iran, which has already killed hundreds of people and wounded many more. This attack was specifically designed to sabotage American diplomatic efforts: Israel assassinated the man overseeing Iran’s nuclear negotiating team, despite the fact that further talks with the United States were scheduled for Sunday. Whatever you think of the corrupt and authoritarian Iranian regime, this attack clearly violates international law and the United Nations Charter. 

    The United States must not be dragged into another of Netanyahu’s wars — not militarily or financially. The U.S. Constitution is crystal clear: there can be no offensive use of military force — against Iran or any other country — without an explicit authorization from Congress. No such authorization exists, and any such involvement would be illegal. Congress must not yield on this issue of enormous consequence. 

    And let’s remember who Benjamin Netanyahu is: He is a war criminal under indictment by the International Criminal Court for the use of starvation as a method of warfare and directing attacks against the civilian population in Gaza. At this very moment, in Gaza, Israel continues to prevent the U.N. and other aid groups from delivering desperately needed humanitarian aid to starving civilians. In just the last two weeks, Israeli forces have killed hundreds of civilians trying to reach the few militarized aid distribution sites the Israeli government has permitted to operate. 

    Netanyahu’s illegal, unilateral attack on Iran is just his latest violation of international law. Under his extremist government, Israel is increasingly becoming a rogue state and a pariah among nations. The United States must not be a part of this war.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Israel issues evacuation warning to Tehran residents ahead of airstrikes

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    JERUSALEM, June 16 (Xinhua) — Israel on Monday issued an evacuation warning to residents of a Tehran city district, urging them to urgently leave the area ahead of Israeli airstrikes.

    In a post in Persian and Arabic on the X social media site, IDF spokesman Avichai Adraei advised residents of District C, located in the northeastern part of the city, to evacuate.

    “In the coming hours, the Israeli army will carry out an operation in this area, as it has done in recent days in other parts of Tehran, to strike at the military infrastructure of the Iranian regime,” Adraei said.

    “Being in this area is life-threatening. For your safety, we urge you to evacuate immediately,” he added.

    District C of Tehran houses several important government institutions, government offices and semi-governmental organizations, as well as communications and intelligence facilities.

    The IDF said in a statement that since the morning, Israeli warplanes have been hitting trucks carrying weapons and surface-to-air missile launchers that are heading from western Iran towards Tehran.

    Also on Monday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Israel Katz visited the Tel Nof air base in the south of the country. During the visit, Netanyahu noted that the Israeli Air Force “controls the skies over Tehran.” He stressed: “We are on track to achieve our two main goals: eliminating the nuclear threat and eliminating the missile threat.” –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Yale Budget Lab Finds Bottom 80% Of U.S. Households Lose Under Trump/Republican Agenda

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Don Beyer (D-VA)

    Last week during a hearing by the House Committee on Ways and Means, Secretary of Treasury Scott Bessent responded to questioning about deficit effects of H.R. 1 by Rep. Don Beyer (D-VA) by suggesting that the bill would be fully offset through revenue raised by tariffs imposed on other countries by President Trump [as Beyer pointed out, this claim did not account for interest on debt accrued by the bill].

    Numerous studies have found that the cost of tariffs, which are taxes on imports, are ultimately paid by consumers in the form of higher prices. Yale Budget Lab subsequently released updated economic analysis studying the combined distributional effects of Trump’s tariffs and H.R. 1 on household incomes, which found that these combined policies “would reduce after-tax-and-transfer incomes on average among the bottom 80 percent of U.S. households,” with the bottom ten percent of households seeing “an average reduction of more than 6.5 percent in incomes, while those at the top would see an increase of nearly 1.5 percent.”

    Beyer, who serves as Senior House Democrat on Congress’ Joint Economic Committee, issued the following statement on Yale Budget Lab’s findings:

    “The Trump-Republican agenda is a massive transfer of wealth to the richest people in the country from everyone else, with the middle class losing while billionaires rake in enormous gains. As Trump’s tariffs crush working families with higher prices, Republicans are poised to raise the costs of health care, energy, and housing, while kicking 16 million people off their health care. These stunningly immoral and irresponsible policies inflict the most damage on those with the least ability to absorb it, and severely worsen the danger of both a recession and a fiscal crisis. This is a disaster for our economy and our country.”

    CHART: Combined effects of H.R. 1 as passed in the House and Trump’s tariffs (Chart by Yale Budget Lab, original may be found here):

    The regressive distributional effects are the effect of regressive policy. Center on Budget and Policy Priorities analysis found the House-passed H.R. 1 “would cut health coverage by over $1 trillion and SNAP by nearly $300 billion, while giving the wealthy $1.6 trillion in tax cuts.”

    The net effect of these policies is a drag on the economy. Goldman Sachs finds “the hit to growth from tariffs will more than offset the boost to growth from” the House-passed Republican tax bill.

    Chart via Goldman Sachs Global Investment Research

    MIL OSI USA News –