NewzIntel.com

Category: United States of America

  • MIL-OSI Security: ‘Machine Gun-Trafficking’ Drug Dealer Sentenced to More Than Fifteen Years in Federal Prison

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

    PROVIDENCE – Jose Marrero, 36, of Woonsocket, describe in court documents as a “violent, machine gun-trafficking, kilogram-level drug dealer” was sentenced today to more than fifteen years in federal prison, having pleaded guilty to charges of possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking, possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, and possession of a firearm by a prohibited person, announced acting United States Attorney Sara Miron Bloom.

    Court documents illustrate that Jose Marrero, 36, previously convicted twice in Rhode Island state court on drug trafficking charges, freely displayed photographs and videos on social media of himself in possession of drugs and firearms, notably semi-automatic pistols, AR-15 style rifles, and semi-automatic pistols that have been modified with machinegun conversion devices. Marrero displayed himself and others in possession of the weapons in his apartment, while watching TV, playing video games, drinking alcohol, and driving around the streets of Rhode Island. He also made social media posts demonstrating himself and others actively firing the modified fully automatic weapons.

    Additionally, court documents reveal videos of the defendant in possession of multiple kilos of cocaine and of numerous messages between Marrero and others that “not only convey his leadership but just how active, eager, and dangerous of a drug trafficker he is.”  Text messages illustrate conversations between Marrero and a drug supplier, and how he, Marrero, organized people to move two kilograms of drugs per week. In some of his messages, Marrero discusses having drug runners, complaining about their behavior and demanding higher productivity from them, directing them to locations to provide certain quantities of drugs to customers, and discussing debts owed to him.

    Marrero made it well known, to his drug trafficking counterparts and otherwise, that he possessed numerous firearms. He prominently displayed himself and others with an array of firearms on his social media account. Excerpts from Marrero’s text messages demonstrate that he enlisted his girlfriend and other acquaintances to purchase firearms for him, as he was unable to do so himself due to his past felony convictions; that he accepted firearms as payment for drug sales; and that he solicited an associate to obtain guns for him, notably “any glocks” that he could get his hands on.

    Marrero was sentenced today by U.S. District Court Chief Judge John J. McConnell, Jr. to 181 months of incarceration to be followed by 5 years of federal supervised release.

    The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Christine D. Lowell, Stacey A. Erickson, and Sandra R. Hebert.

    The matter was investigated by ATF, with the assistance of Massachusetts State Police, Woonsocket Police Department, Central Falls Police Department, and West Warwick Police Department.

    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).

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    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Kennedy and Rep. Murphy in the Washington Examiner: Congress should not stand by as DEI destroys American medical schools

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator John Kennedy (Louisiana)
    WASHINGTON – Sen. John Kennedy (R-La.) and Rep. Greg Murphy (R-N.C.) penned this op-ed in the Washington Examiner to explain why Congress should pass the EDUCATE Act to prevent medical schools from prioritizing diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) over merit.
    Key excerpts of the op-ed are below:
    “When patients lie on the operating table, they don’t care what their doctors look like or which political parties they support. They just want a safe and successful operation. 
    “Many medical schools, however, apparently believe that patients have the wrong priority. These universities place diversity, equity, and inclusion above all else, even if it means worse outcomes for patients. This obsession with racial quotas is destroying some of America’s best medical schools.” 
    . . .
    “The U.S. is home to the most gifted and innovative doctors on Earth, and it’s not by happenstance. We sought them out by making medical school one of the most impressive, merit-based institutions in our country. 
    “It’s wrong for universities, which are supported by American taxpayers, to prioritize the DEI agenda over merit in any academic program, but it’s lethal to do this in medical schools. It needs to stop. There is no reward for being stupid.
    “Congress should not stand by as this dangerous foolishness drives more medical schools into the ground.”
    Read Kennedy and Murphy’s full op-ed here.
    Text of the EDUCATE Act is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kennedy, Cornyn, Cruz, colleagues introduce resolution honoring Border Patrol’s 101st anniversary

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator John Kennedy (Louisiana)
    WASHINGTON – Sen. John Kennedy (R-La.), a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, today joined Sens. John Cornyn (R-Texas), Ted Cruz (R-Texas) and 15 colleagues in introducing a resolution honoring the brave men and women of the U.S. Border Control for their service to our country ahead of the agency’s 101st anniversary.
    “We owe the men and women of the U.S. Border Patrol a debt of gratitude for all they do to secure our border and keep Americans safe. I’m proud to join my colleagues in honoring these brave and effective officials on their 101st anniversary,” said Kennedy.
    The senators’ resolution: 

    Supports policies that improve Border Patrol agents’ working conditions, including increasing access to key technology and equipment needed to secure the border, and better the agency’s ability to recruit, hire and retain agents.

    Sens. Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Katie Britt (R-Ala.), Ted Budd (R-N.C.), Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), Susan Collins (R-Maine), Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), John Hoeven (R-N.D.), James Lankford (R-Okla.), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.), Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.), Jim Risch (R-Idaho), Rick Scott (R-Fla.) and Thom Tillis (R-N.C.) also cosponsored the resolution. 
    The full resolution is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hoeven Outlines Efforts to Strengthen Market Opportunities for U.S. Cattle Industry

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for North Dakota John Hoeven
    05.22.25
    Senator Discusses Need for More Competitive & Transparent Cattle Market, Urges Nominee to Push Back on Barriers to U.S. Beef Exports
    WASHINGTON – At a hearing of the Senate Agriculture Committee this week, Senator John Hoeven discussed efforts to strengthen market opportunities for the nation’s cattle industry. With Mr. Dudley Hoskins, the nominee to be Under Secretary of Agriculture for Marketing and Regulatory Programs, Hoeven outlined the need to:
    Fully enforce the Packers and Stockyards Act to help ensure more competitive and transparent cattle markets.
    As chairman of the Senate Agriculture Appropriations Committee, Hoeven has worked to provide additional funding for the Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) to enforce the law and investigate anti-competitive practices.
    Hoskins highlighted the Cattle Contract Library pilot program that Hoeven established as an example of how to create greater price transparency for cattle producers.

    Secure fair access to foreign markets for U.S. beef producers and push back against artificial barriers impacting U.S. exports.

    “There is a real need for greater price discovery in cattle markets, which would provide our ranchers with more transparency and access to a more competitive market. That’s a win for both producers and consumers,” said Hoeven “Between our efforts to ensure enforcement of the Packers and Stockyards Act, advance my Cattle Contract Library pilot program and reinstate MCOOL, we’re working to strengthen the U.S. domestic cattle market. At the same time, we need to remove artificial trade barriers used to block U.S. livestock producers from accessing foreign markets. That’s why we support the Trump administration as it works to secure better trade deals for U.S. ag producers. We look forward to working with Mr. Hoskins to continue advancing these priorities.”
    In addition, Hoeven invited Dr. Scott Hutchins, the nominee to be Under Secretary of Agriculture for Research, Education and Economics, to visit North Dakota to learn firsthand about:
    The state’s leadership in precision agriculture technology development, including the innovative work occurring under the Agricultural Research Service (ARS) partnership at Grand Farm.
    The Agricultural Risk Policy Center (ARPC) that Hoeven has worked to stand up at North Dakota State University (NDSU). The center will:
    Help address farm and agribusiness challenges through in-depth policy and economic analysis.

    • • Complement the work conducted at similar centers currently housed at the University of Missouri, Texas A&M University and the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Coons, colleagues introduce trio of bipartisan bills to advance American nuclear energy

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Delaware Christopher Coons
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Chris Coons (D-Del.) has introduced three bipartisan bills in recent days focused on strengthening U.S. nuclear energy policy and international collaboration. The legislation focuses on enhancing civil nuclear exports, financing, and streamlining the nuclear licensing process to reduce red tape.
    “To lower costs for consumers and combat climate change, the U.S. and the rest of the world need to be able to rely on sources of clean and abundant power, including nuclear energy,” said Senator Coons. “Right now, however, barriers that we have erected for domestic and international nuclear development stunt our energy independence here at home and give China and Russia the upper hand abroad. I’m pushing for these three bills because I know how important it is for the United States to on the cutting edge of clean, safe, affordable nuclear power.”
    The three bills Senator Coons has introduced are:
    The Efficient Nuclear Licensing Hearings Act with Senator Tim Scott (R-S.C.), which would remove the Nuclear Regulatory Commission’s (NRC) mandatory hearing requirement created by the Atomic Energy Act of 1954 without limiting opportunities for public engagement in order to enhance and boost the efficiency of the NRC in reviewing new reactor applications. The text of the bill is available here. 
    The International Nuclear Energy Act with Senator Jim Risch (R-Idaho), which would support the U.S. domestic nuclear energy industry’s leadership and offset China’s and Russia’s growing influence on international nuclear energy development. The bill would create an office to coordinate nuclear export strategies and financing, promoting regulatory harmonization and standardization, and enhancing safeguards and security. The bill would also form programs to support international nuclear energy collaboration and calls for a cabinet-level biennial summit focused on nuclear safety along with industry and government relationships. The text of the bill is available here.
    The International Nuclear Energy Financing Act with Senator Dave McCormick (R-Pa.), which would encourage more financing for nuclear energy projects to create more U.S. jobs. The legislation would do this by empowering the Treasury to leverage its influence to ensure that international financial institutions support U.S. nuclear exports. The text of the bill is available here.
    Senator Coons is a Co-Chair of the bipartisan Senate Climate Solutions Caucus.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Lee Introduces OFF Act to Protect Farmers, Cut Government Waste

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Utah Mike Lee
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) introduced the bipartisan Opportunities for Fairness in Farming (OFF) Act today with Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) to protect agricultural producers and cut government waste by enforcing transparency in checkoff programs. Senators Rand Paul (R-KY) and Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) cosponsored the legislation.
    “America’s farmers are being ripped off by federal checkoff programs that take farmers’ money and play favorites with who they serve,” said Senator Mike Lee. “These programs have a reputation for hurting farmers through financial fraud and deceptive practices. The OFF Act will implement accountability measures to cut waste, enforce transparency, and ensure that our farmers get the services they pay for.”
    “America’s farmers and ranchers deserve accountability and transparency when it comes to how their checkoff dollars are being spent,” said Senator Booker. “Checkoff dollars too often get channeled to lobbying groups who advocate against the best interests of many of the farmers who are required to pay into the program. This bipartisan bill will prohibit conflicts of interest and anti-competitive practices in these checkoff programs and will ensure that these programs work better for our farmers and ranchers.”
    “We must change the agricultural checkoff programs that put money in the hands of corporate lobbyists at the expense of farmers and ranchers,” said Senator Warren. “The OFF Act will put commonsense safeguards in place to ensure accountability and transparency for our farmers.”
    The OFF Act is endorsed by organizations representing over 200,000 American farmers and ranchers.
    “We commend Senators Booker and Lee for their important work on fighting for fairness in the Beef Checkoff,” said United States Cattlemen’s Association President Justin Tupper. “USCA looks forward to this bill preserving the original intent of the Checkoff and implementing more transparency and accountability. The Checkoff must work for cattle producers who both support and benefit from it.”
    “America’s farmers and ranchers are fed up with their hard-earned money landing in the hands of corporate lobbyists,” said Farm Action Fund President and Missouri farmer Joe Maxwell. “We face enough hurdles as it is; the last thing we need is our own dollars extracted against our will and then used to illegally lobby on behalf of the largest corporations that are already squeezing us out of the market. It’s the USDA’s job to prevent this abuse, and they continue to fail us. The OFF Act’s common-sense reforms would ensure USDA performs stringent oversight so that farmers know exactly where their money is going.”
    “We are grateful to Senator Lee and Senator Booker for their work to bring accountability and transparency to the beef checkoff program and to recognize that the cattle and beef production systems in the USA are not one size fits all,” said Carrie Balkcom, Executive Director, American Grassfed Association. “The OFF act will allow cattle and beef producers of all production methods to be served by the dollars that they pay into the system.”
    “We applaud this bipartisan bill introduced by Senator Booker and Senator Lee to bring needed transparency and accountability to the antiquated beef checkoff program that has long been used to undermine the interests of America’s independent cattle producers,” said Bill Bullard, CEO, R-CALF USA.
    “We applaud the Members of Congress for their longterm leadership and for introducing the bipartisan, bicameral OFF Act and call on both the House and Senate Agriculture Committee leaders to stand up for American family farmers by moving this legislation swiftly through their committees,” said Taylor Haynes, President of the Organization for Competitive Markets. “If we’re going to be forced to pay into USDA’s checkoff programs then the very least we should expect is transparency, accountability, and oversight of our hard-earned dollars, and the OFF Act accomplishes just that.”
    “Scandal after scandal has proven the longterm corruption in the beef, dairy, and pork checkoff programs that continue to utilize our own tax dollars against us and the day of reckoning is here,” said Mike Schultz, Founder of the Kansas Cattlemen’s Association and Vice-President at the Organization for Competitive Markets. “American family farmers are up in arms and are determined to see justice in the 119th Congress with the enactment of the OFF Act. Clean up decades of corruption.” 
    Background:
    Under checkoff programs, farmers, producers, importers, and other stakeholders in the marketing chain join together to pool resources, advancing demand for their products through marketing and research. Slogans like “Got Milk?” and “Beef. It’s What’s for Dinner,” are the result of checkoff program marketing campaigns that allowed agricultural producers to access large-scale advertising by promoting their product categories as a whole without individual branding. These campaigns are directed by multiple boards and are funded by checkoff dollars, which stakeholders pay through regular business activities.
    Unfortunately, some checkoff programs have exhibited fraudulent and unethical behavior. One investigation by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) found that a subcontractor organization had used checkoff program funding to award its employees unauthorized bonuses totaling approximately $302,000 – then requested further funds to remedy its poor financial situation. More recent audits reveal the USDA’s oversight of checkoff programs still needs improvement.
    The Opportunities for Fairness in Farming (OFF) Act would:
    Prohibit checkoff boards with an annual assessment revenue of over $20 million from entering into contracts to carry out checkoff activities with parties that also work to influence government policy.
    Exempt institutions of higher education.
    Prohibit board members and employees of checkoff programs from engaging in any act that may involve a conflict of interest.
    Prohibit engagement in anticompetitive activity, deceptive practices, or disparaging practice.
    Require that contracts entered into by the board be recorded to describe goods and services provided/costs incurred.
    Require checkoff boards to publicize a transparent budget.
    Require periodic audits of checkoff boards by the Inspector General of USDA.
    Require periodic audits of checkoff boards by the Comptroller General.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Secretary of State Gregg M. Amore Presents Civic Leadership Awards to High School Students

    Source: US State of Rhode Island

    PROVIDENCE, RI � On Monday, May 19, 2025, Secretary of State Gregg M. Amore honored the 130 high school students selected as 2025 Rhode Island Civic Leadership Award winners at a State House ceremony. The award is given annually to high school students who have made outstanding contributions to their schools and communities over the past year.

    “Every year, it’s a great honor to celebrate students who are committed to public service and civic engagement,” said Secretary of State Gregg M. Amore. “These young civic leaders deserve recognition for their accomplishments inside and outside of the classroom, as well as their efforts to make their communities a better place.”

    Schools from around Rhode Island nominated students who have excelled in areas such as public service, leadership, and academic achievement.

    Photos of award winners are available here.

    The ceremony was recorded by Capitol TV and can be viewed online here.

    The students honored were:

    Achievement First Providence High School Alejandra Guissell Avila Estrada Zachareus Desrosiers

    Barrington Christian Academy Polly Bosch Lincoln Wright

    Barrington High School Anaaya Deshpande Andres Gil

    Beacon Charter High School for the Arts Kiara Canterbury Micah St. Onge

    Bishop Hendricken High School Shane Ciunci Lincoln Tiernan

    Blackstone Academy Charter School Kadjatou Diallo Jayilson Fernandes

    Blackstone Valley Prep High School Safiyatu Gassama Angel Hernandez

    Block Island School Chase Hatfield Maximus Walsh

    Burrillville High School Spencer Wayland Arrow Yuszczak

    Central Falls Senior High School Edgar Ardon Flores Sofia Lopez Callejas

    Chariho Regional High School Ryan Sheldon Nicholas Wilusz

    Charles E. Shea High School Joseph Manu Behnema Sirleaf

    Coventry High School Raegan Garcia Ryan Pina

    Cranston High School East Oliver Cruz Madelyn Hart

    Cranston High School West Sophia DiBenedetto Promise Pitts

    Cumberland High School Brett Hawkins Brody Vroegindewey

    Dr. Jorge Alvarez High School Yazan Alothman Emma Garcia

    East Greenwich High School Emma Sheahan-Nguyen Wen Xin Shi

    East Providence High School Pooja Ezhilmaran Acadia Ullucci

    E-Cubed Academy August Kletzian Melissa Paula

    Exeter-West Greenwich Regional High School Ayden Enos Clare Titus

    The Greene School Adriel Falowo Kyannie Fernandez

    Hope High School Julian Genao Elmer Poz Benito

    Jacqueline M. Walsh School for the Performing & Visual Arts Isabella Benavides Melissa Paulin

    Johnston Senior High School Olivia Forgetta Bennett McClish

    La Salle Academy Derek La Fazia Carter Rankin

    Lincoln School Ruby Verkuijlen

    Lincoln Senior High School Helen Green David Lucci

    Middletown High School Taylor Bridges Chloe Tysor

    The Metropolitan Regional Career & Technical Center Marcel Anderson Osayro Urizar Vargas

    Moses Brown School Sophie Hesser Josselyn Wolf

    Mount Pleasant High School Anthony Berroa Testimony Thompson

    Mount Saint Charles Academy Emma Foxon Aidan Quinn

    Mt. Hope High School Jessica Deal Gavin Stegall

    Narragansett High School Hannah Abrams Mia DeLuise

    NEL/CPS Construction & Career Academy Alfredo Cuthburt Anniyah Wright

    North Kingstown Senior High School Benjamin Butera Fiona Wilk

    North Providence High School Isabelle Desanges Gabriella Paulino Cabrera

    North Smithfield High School Emerson Deschene Leah Goodwin

    Paul Cuffee Upper School Sofia Alabede Mia Medeiros

    Pilgrim High School Laryssa Farrell Sean Skinnard

    Ponaganset High School Mackenzie Bell Omar Sasa

    Portsmouth High School Andrew Rodrigues Hanalei Streuli

    The Prout School Madeline Monaco Madeleine Pisano

    Providence Country Day School Cedric Ye

    Rhode Island Nurses Institute Middle College Charter High School Aillyn Ospina Bedoya Lia Tavarez Sobalvarro

    Rocky Hill Country Day School Wilbur Conterio Luke Lehouiller

    Rogers High School Hannah Conroy Kira Parsons

    School One Ibrahim Mohammed Sienna Wills

    Scituate High School Annette Hartley Cameron Healey

    Sheila Skip Nowell Leadership Academy Jaziyah Lewis Zi’Rell Rivers

    Smithfield Senior High School Kyla Alberg Shane Trainor

    South Kingstown High School Samuel Cadman Jay Thornber

    St. Andrew’s School Yosmel Amparo-Moya Violet Vandale

    St. George’s School Reese Starling

    St. Mary Academy – Bay View Ariana Bobiak Sophie Sullivan

    St. Patrick Academy Genesis Monzon Morales Ashly Urbina

    Saint Raphael Academy Michael Duschang Sara Lebeuf

    Tiverton High School Evan Duda Norah Winslow

    Toll Gate High School Jaylene Le Estherangelica Santana

    Trinity Academy for the Performing Arts Samia Perez Wilde Rosales-Gousie

    Trinity Christian Academy Mateo Ghoshal Vargas Michael Susi

    Village Green Virtual Charter School Zoey Dupuis Nyzaiah Law

    Warwick Area Career and Technical Center Gianna Gioffreda

    West Warwick Senior High School Michael Andruchow Lucas Martins

    William E. Tolman Senior High School Melissa Gomes-Ramos Danicah Xavier

    Woonsocket High School Gabriella Alves David Vega

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General Bonta, Governor Newsom Slam U.S. Senate’s Illegal Efforts to Stop California’s Clean Vehicle Policies

    Source: US State of California

    Thursday, May 22, 2025

    Contact: (916) 210-6000, agpressoffice@doj.ca.gov

    SACRAMENTO – California Attorney General Rob Bonta and California Governor Gavin Newsom announced today that the state will file a lawsuit as Republicans in the U.S. Senate target California’s clean vehicles program.

    “With these votes, Senate Republicans are bending the knee to President Trump once again,” said Attorney General Rob Bonta. “The weaponization of the Congressional Review Act to attack California’s waivers is just another part of the continuous, partisan campaign against California’s efforts to protect the public and the planet from harmful pollution. As we have said before, this reckless misuse of the Congressional Review Act is unlawful, and California will not stand idly by. We need to hold the line on strong emissions standards and keep the waivers in place, and we will sue to defend California’s waivers.”

    “This Senate vote is illegal,” said Governor Gavin Newsom. “Republicans went around their own parliamentarian to defy decades of precedent. We won’t stand by as Trump Republicans make America smoggy again — undoing work that goes back to the days of Richard Nixon and Ronald Reagan — all while ceding our economic future to China. We’re going to fight this unconstitutional attack on California in court.”

    Background

    Under the direction of President Trump, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) transmitted three California waivers – for the Advanced Clean Cars II (ACCII), Omnibus and Advanced Clean Trucks (ACT) regulations – to Congress as rules subject to Congressional Review Act (CRA) procedures. Earlier in the month, the Republican-controlled U.S. House of Representatives illegally used the CRA to attempt to undo these waivers, which authorize California’s clean cars and trucks regulations. This move breaks with decades of bipartisan recognition that these waivers are not “rules” subject to the CRA and directly contradicts the determinations of the nonpartisan Government Accountability Office and Senate Parliamentarian, both of whom concluded that the CRA’s process does not apply to California’s waivers.

    The Clean Air Act requires the EPA to set federal emission standards for air pollutants from new motor vehicles or new motor vehicle engines that cause or contribute to air pollution and endanger public health or welfare. Under the Clean Air Act, California may adopt emission requirements independent from EPA’s regulations, and EPA is required to waive preemption for those requirements, absent certain limited circumstances not present here.

    For more than 50 years, California has exercised its right under the Clean Air Act to pursue solutions that address the persistent air pollution challenges that our state faces.

    # # #

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Federal Indictment Charges Rockford Man with Arson

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

    ROCKFORD — A Rockford man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for allegedly maliciously destroying – by means of fire and explosive materials – a building at 201 15th Ave. in Rockford.

    JAMES PURIFOY, 50, committed the arson on Jan. 22, 2023, according to an indictment returned today in U.S. District Court in Rockford.  Arraignment has not yet been scheduled.

    The indictment was announced by Andrew S. Boutros, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois, Christopher Amon, Special Agent-in-Charge of the Chicago Field Division of the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and Douglas S. DePodesta, Special Agent-in-Charge of the Chicago Field Office of the FBI.  The Rockford Fire Department and Rockford Police Department assisted in the investigation.  The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jessica S. Maveus.

    The public is reminded that an indictment contains only charges and is not evidence of guilt.  The defendant is presumed innocent and entitled to a fair trial at which the government has the burden of proving guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.  The minimum sentence for the arson count is five years in federal prison, while the maximum sentence is 20 years.  If convicted, the Court must impose a reasonable sentence under federal sentencing statutes and the advisory U.S. Sentencing Guidelines.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Chicago Man Sentenced to 50 Years in Prison for Kidnapping, Carjacking, and Firearm Offenses

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

    CHICAGO — A Chicago man has been sentenced to 50 years in federal prison for kidnapping three drivers and sexually assaulting two of them at gunpoint.

    ANDREW ANANIA, 29, kidnapped an Uber driver on March 8, 2021, in Darien, Ill.  Anania showed the driver a gun and forced her to drive to Chicago and park in alleys, where he sexually assaulted her before fleeing on foot.  On March 10, 2021, Anania and another man, WALTER MORAN, kidnapped a woman who was on her way to work in Cicero, Ill.  Anania pointed a gun at the driver and instructed her to drive to Chicago, where Moran exchanged gunfire with others on the street.  The pair eventually released the victim and took her car.  A jury earlier this year convicted Anania on kidnapping, carjacking, and firearm charges in connection with those incidents.

    Anania pleaded guilty prior to trial to another kidnapping and carjacking.  That incident occurred on Feb. 27, 2021, in Chicago, when Anania got in a vehicle with the driver, claimed he had a gun, and sexually assaulted her.  The woman escaped when the car stopped at an intersection.  Anania fled in the vehicle and crashed it a short time later.

    Anania committed all of the offenses while awaiting trial in a separate, unrelated federal firearm case not assigned to the sentencing judge in this matter.  Anania had been released on bond in that case after multiple court hearings at which the government repeatedly sought pre-trial detention.

    U.S. District Judge Edmond E. Chang imposed the 50-year prison sentence during a hearing on May 13, 2025, in federal court in Chicago.

    The sentence was announced by Andrew S. Boutros, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois, and Douglas S. DePodesta, Special Agent-in-Charge of the Chicago Field Office of the FBI.  Substantial assistance was provided by the Cicero, Ill. Police Department, Darien, Ill. Police Department, Summit, Ill. Police Department, Stickney, Ill. Police Department, Chicago Police Department, and the U.S. Marshals Service.  The government was represented by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Cornelius Vandenberg, Megan Donohue, and Hayley Altabef.

    Moran, of Cicero, Ill., pleaded guilty last year to kidnapping and carjacking charges.  Judge Chang sentenced Moran in April to 15 years and eight months in federal prison.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Federal Judge Sentences Chicago Street Gang Member to 34 Years in Prison for Murdering a Man and Threatening a Witness

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

    CHICAGO — A member of a violent Chicago street gang has been sentenced to 34 years in federal prison for murdering a man to maintain and increase his position in the gang.

    DIONTAE HARPER, 25, of Chicago, admitted in a plea agreement that he murdered Paul Harris on May 13, 2020.  Harper and another man fired multiple shots at Harris as he sat in a vehicle at a gas station in the 8600 block of South Halsted Street in Chicago’s Auburn Gresham neighborhood. Harper stated in the plea agreement that he committed the murder to maintain and increase his position in the Faceworld street gang, a criminal organization based on the South Side of Chicago whose members engaged in violent crimes and trafficked narcotics.

    While Harper was detained in law enforcement custody earlier this year, he made threatening statements directed toward a witness.

    Harper pleaded guilty in January to a federal charge of discharging a firearm during a crime of violence, causing Harris’s death.  U.S. District Judge Manish S. Shah imposed the 34-year prison sentence during a hearing on May 8, 2025, in federal court in Chicago.

    Harper’s sentence was announced by Andrew S. Boutros, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois, Douglas S. DePodesta, Special Agent-in-Charge of the Chicago Field Office of the FBI, and Larry Snelling, Superintendent of the Chicago Police Department.  The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Julia Schwartz, Sushma Raju, and Matthew Moyer.

    Two other individuals – the other shooter of Harris and the getaway driver – pleaded guilty to committing murder in aid of racketeering and are awaiting sentencing.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Twelve Years in Prison for Suburban Chicago Man Who Trafficked Fentanyl and Illegally Possessed Handgun

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

    CHICAGO — A suburban Chicago man who trafficked fentanyl and cocaine and illegally possessed a loaded handgun has been sentenced to 12 years in federal prison.

    WILLIAM FILLYAW possessed the drugs and gun on Oct. 28, 2022, in the parking lot of his apartment complex in Gurnee, Ill.  Fillyaw carried a backpack that contained the cocaine packaged in quarter-ounce quantities, the fentanyl wrapped in three square bricks, and the handgun.  Fillyaw intended to sell the fentanyl and cocaine on the streets, and he acknowledged possessing the gun in connection with his drug trafficking activities. The firearm had no serial number and had been assembled from a gun kit, making it an untraceable “ghost gun.”

    Fillyaw, 47, pleaded guilty earlier this year to federal drug and firearm charges.  U.S. District Judge Matthew F. Kennelly imposed the 12-year prison sentence during a hearing on Friday in federal court in Chicago.

    The sentence was announced by Andrew S. Boutros, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois, and Michael E. Hensle, Special Agent-in-Charge of the Milwaukee, Wis., Field Office of the FBI.  Valuable assistance was provided by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, Milwaukee Police Department, Cudahy, Wis. Police Department, and Wisconsin State Patrol.

    “Narcotics distribution and firearm offenses are serious crimes that adversely impact the people who live and work in the Northern District of Illinois,” Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirsten Moran and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Niranjan Emani argued in the government’s sentencing memorandum.  “The increased presence of ghost guns in Chicago, and the country in general, is troubling, as they are often used in crimes and are difficult to trace.”

    Holding illegal firearm possessors accountable through federal prosecution is a centerpiece of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN).  In the Northern District of Illinois, the U.S. Attorney’s Office and law enforcement partners have deployed the PSN program to attack a broad range of violent crime issues facing the district, particularly firearm offenses.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Five Romanians Admit Bank Fraud Involving ATM Skimming Devices

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

    ST. LOUIS – Five Romanian nationals have admitted installing skimming devices on St. Louis area ATMs to harvest bank account information from customers and commit fraud.

    Mihai Vlaicu, 48, and Mihai Florin Marinescu, 37, pleaded guilty Wednesday in U.S. District Courtin St. Louis to one count of conspiracy to commit bank fraud.

    Laurentiu Miguel Ivan, 33, pleaded guilty to the same charge in March and Nelu Nae, 37, and Venera Isabelle Dumitru, 28, pleaded guilty to the charge in April. A sixth person indicted in the case, Ianus Nita, 53, has not yet been arrested.

    In their plea agreements, the five admit stealing bank account information via skimming devices and then using, or attempting to use, that information to withdraw money from ATMs.

    Around January of 2024, Vlaicu and Marinescu installed skimming devices on at least two bank ATMs, one in Clayton and one in Frontenac. They obtained the information of at least six victims, and then used cloned cards to try and withdraw cash.

    On five days in April, Dumitru and Ivan used account information from two other victims to withdraw cash from ATMs in St. Louis. Ivan obtained $1,421 and Dumitru obtained $1,070.50.

    On April 25, Dumitru and Ivan tried to withdraw cash from a St. Louis County ATM using an account number belonging to another victim. On April 30, Vlaicu tried to withdraw money from a St. Louis County ATM using the banking information of six victims.

    On May 2, Marinescu unsuccessfully tried to install a skimming device on an ATM in south St. Louis County. Nae retrieved the device the next day.

    On May 9, Marinescu installed a skimming device on an ATM in Wildwood. On May 11, Nita withdrew cash belonging to two victims from a St. Louis County ATM.

    On May 28, Marinescu and Nae installed a skimming device on an ATM in St. Louis, which was located and removed by law enforcement before Nita and Vlaicu could retrieve it.

    The conspirators were using an Airbnb in St. Louis County as a base for their criminal activity. Investigators found a laptop computer there containing hundreds of videos of customers entering their PINs when they used an ATM outfitted with a skimming device. They also found skimming devices, installation tools, a large amount of cash and numerous gift cards at the rented residence.

    Ivan is scheduled to be sentenced June 25, Dumitru on July 10, Nae on July 23 and Marinescu and Vlaicu on August 20. The charge carries a penalty of up to 30 years in prison, a $1 million fine or both prison and a fine.

    Ivan, Dumitru, Marinescu are not legally in the United States.

    The FBI, the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department, the Webster Groves Police Department, the Clayton Police Department and the Frontenac Police Department investigated the case with assistance from the St. Louis County Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Gwen Carroll is prosecuting the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Two Convicted in St. Louis of Laundering Drug Proceeds for Sinaloa Cartel

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

    ST. LOUIS – Two men were convicted Wednesday of all charges related to their laundering of money in the St. Louis area for the Sinaloa drug cartel.

    Carl Von Garrett, 54, of St. Charles, Missouri and Tobiyyah Israel, 38, of Ohio, were each found guilty by a jury in U.S. District Court in St. Louis of one count of conspiracy to commit money laundering and one count of money laundering. Von Garrett was also found guilty of one additional count of money laundering. The trial began on May 12.

    Two others have already pleaded guilty and been sentenced in the case. Luis Miguel Hernandez, 38, of Phoenix, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit money laundering and two counts of money laundering and Antonio Jones, 51, of Florissant, Missouri, pleaded guilty to two counts of money laundering. Hernandez was sentenced in January to 87 months in prison and Jones was sentenced to 37 months in prison.

    As part of his plea agreement, Hernandez admitted being driven by Von Garrett to a meeting with an undercover Drug Enforcement Administration task force officer in St. Louis on March 1, 2021, to deliver $100,095 in drug proceeds. Hernandez then arranged a series of meetings between Jones and the task force officer. On March 8, 2021, Jones handed over $100,000. Jones delivered $150,030 on March 17 and $100,000 on March 31. On April 8, Jones delivered $109,740 and $100,100 on May 18. On May 25, 2021, Jones delivered $100,100.

    During closing arguments Tuesday, Assistant U.S. Attorney Jim Delworth told jurors that Von Garrett was the “focal point” of the conspiracy and Israel was a courier, like Jones. On April 14, Israel picked up $221, 020 from Von Garrett. Von Garrett was stopped by investigators, who found six phones and a ledger that contained dates and amounts of money roughly corresponding to cash drops, Delworth said. Israel told investigators that he’d been promised $1,000 to pick up the cash, and that he’d done so once before.

    The money drops continued. On May 18, Jones delivered $110,100 and $100,100 one week later.

    Both men are scheduled to be sentenced on August 21.

    The Drug Enforcement Administration, IRS-Criminal Investigation, the FBI, the St. Louis County Police, the Bridgeton Police Department, the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department, and the St. Charles County Police Department investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jim Delworth and Ricardo Dixon are prosecuting the case.

    This prosecution is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Bowling Green, Kentucky Man Sentenced to Federal Prison and Ordered to Pay $40,000 in Restitution for Odometer Tampering

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Bowling Green, KY – A Bowling Green man was sentenced yesterday to 1 year and 6 months in federal prison, and was ordered to pay $40,000 in restitution, for wire fraud, conspiracy to commit odometer tampering, and four counts of odometer tampering.

    U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky and Special Agent in Charge Kevin Porter of the U.S. Department of Transportation made the announcement.

    “Let this case serve notice to like-minded fraudsters that taking advantage of our citizens comes at a cost – federal prison and large fines,” said U.S. Attorney Bennett.  

    Randy Huff, 59, owner of South Side Auto Sales in Bowling Green and Huff’s Auto Sales in Beaver Dam, was sentenced to 1 year and 6 months in prison, followed by 1 year of supervised release, for wire fraud, conspiracy to commit odometer tampering, and four counts of odometer tampering. According to court documents, between June 2018 and January 2023, Huff, aided and abetted by an employee, devised a scheme to defraud buyers of used cars by fraudulently reducing the mileage shown on the odometers of vehicles sold at his used car lots. In the scheme, Huff purchased high mileage vehicles at auction, then directed his employees to replace the vehicles’ odometers with ones showing lower mileage. Buyers were not informed of the odometer replacements.

    Huff was also ordered to pay $40,000 in restitution.

    On March 11, 2025, an employee at South Side Auto Sales, Donnie Wilson, 51, also of Bowling Green, was sentenced to probation for a term of 3 years, and ordered to pay $10,000 in restitution for wire fraud, conspiracy to commit odometer tampering, and four counts of odometer tampering.

    There is no parole in the federal system.

    This case was investigated by the U.S. Department of Transportation and the Kentucky Department of Transportation.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Raymond McGee, of the U.S. Attorney’s Paducah Branch Office and Assistant U.S. Attorney Madison Sewell of the Louisville Office, prosecuted the case.

    The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates that odometer fraud in the United States results in consumer losses of more than $1 billion annually and has established a special hotline to handle odometer fraud complaints. Individuals with information related to odometer tampering should call (800) 424-9393, or email odometerfraud@dot.gov.

    More information on odometer fraud is available on the NHTSA website, https://www.nhtsa.gov/equipment/odometer-fraud.

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Emporia man sentenced to over five years in prison for armed robbery

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    RICHMOND, Va. – An Emporia man was sentenced yesterday to five years and five months in prison for a Hobbs Act Robbery.

    According to court documents, on Aug. 19, 2023, David Earl Gay, 60, entered a Walmart in Emporia, approached a clerk, and told her that he had a gun in his pocket, that if she did anything he would shoot her, and to hand him all the money. The clerk complied, handing him money from the service desk. Gay fled the Walmart in a rusted white van.

    Law enforcement responded to the address where the van was registered and located the van. Investigators executed a search warrant on the trailer located at that address and found Gay inside. Gay had some of the money from the robbery in his pants pocket. Investigators then found additional money from the robbery in a metal shed on the property.

    Gay was previously convicted of, among other crimes, breaking and entering, uttering forged paper or instrument, common law forgery, uttering forged check, statutory burglary, larceny, possession of stolen goods or property, forgery of instrument, abuse of a child – neglect, contributing to the delinquency of a minor, and armed bank robbery. At the time he robbed the Emporia Walmart, Gay was on supervised release for his armed bank robbery conviction.

    Erik S. Siebert, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, and Stanley M. Meador, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Richmond Field Office, made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge M. Hannah Lauck.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Patrick J. McGorman, Stephen E. Anthony, and Vetan Kapoor prosecuted the case.

    A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 3:24-cr-23.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Baltimore Man Sentenced to Five Years in Federal Prison for Possession of Firearm and Ammunition by Prohibited Person

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Defendant possessed firearm and ammunition while engaging in drug trafficking activity

    Baltimore, Maryland – Brandon Carroll, 32, of Baltimore, Maryland, was sentenced to five years in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, for possession of a firearm and ammunition by a prohibited person.

    Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the sentence with Special Agent in Charge Toni M. Crosby, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), and Commissioner Richard Worley, Baltimore Police Department (BPD).

    According to the guilty plea, on April 25, 2023, BPD officers observed Carroll engaging in multiple hand-to-hand drug exchanges. When an arrest team approached Carroll, he attempted to flee on a dirt bike but fell.  Law enforcement then took him into custody.

    While searching Carroll, officers recovered 32 gelcaps — containing a mixture of fentanyl and oxycodone pills — and a key to a nearby Hyundai vehicle. After officers found the vehicle, a trained K-9 detected the presence of narcotics inside.

    A search of the vehicle yielded a Beretta Nano 9mm pistol loaded with five rounds of ammunition; 35 additional rounds of 9mm ammunition; and a Smith & Wesson magazine for a .40 caliber handgun. Additionally, law enforcement discovered 844 units of a fentanyl mixture packaged for distribution; eight units of cocaine packaged for distribution; 14 Suboxone strips; two digital scales with white residue; two plastic bags of packaging material; $2,443 in cash; and mail that belonged to Carroll and the vehicle’s registered owner. Due to a prior felony conviction, Carroll is prohibited from possessing firearms and ammunition.

    This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone.  On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

    U.S. Attorney Hayes commended the ATF and BPD for their work in the investigation. Ms. Hayes also thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney James O’Donohue who prosecuted the case.

    For more information about the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to help the community, visit www.justice.gov/usao-md and https://www.justice.gov/usao-md/community-outreach.

    # # #

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Two Florida Men Plead Guilty for Their Roles in Years-Long Off-the-Books Payroll Scheme

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Defendants Caused Combined Tax Loss of Nearly $10M and Facilitated Employment of Undocumented Aliens

    Two Florida men pleaded guilty today before Magistrate Judge Leslie Hoffman Price for the Middle District of Florida for their roles in a years-long off-the-books payroll scheme. The pleas must be accepted by a U.S. district court judge.

    The following is according to court documents and statements made in court: Michael Mayorga and Francisco Alvarez conspired with others to operate an illegal, off-the-books cash payroll system for construction workers to avoid paying employment taxes to the IRS and to defraud workers’ compensation insurance companies. Through the scheme, Mayorga and Alvarez facilitated the employment of undocumented aliens working illegally in the United States.   

    From 2015 to 2022, Alvarez and Mayorga and their co-conspirators created a series of shell companies to run an unlicensed check cashing and cash courier service business that cashed approximately $89 million in checks from subcontractors in the construction industry. The subcontractors used the cash to pay their workers. Mayorga provided bookkeeping and tax preparation services for some of the shell companies, and Alvarez and others facilitated the distribution of millions in cash to subcontractors. Mayorga also prepared false returns for the shell companies and members of the conspiracy that Alvarez, and others, filed. Specifically, Alvarez caused the filing of false tax returns and tax documents on behalf of one of the shell companies.   

    In total Mayorga caused a tax loss to the IRS of $8,647,824.

    In total Alvarez caused a tax loss to the IRS of $2,331,731.

    In addition to the tax crimes, Alvarez filed a false worker’s compensation insurance application. This allowed the shell companies to pay small insurance premiums. After fraudulently getting the insurance, Alvarez “rented” it to subcontractors so that the subcontractors could falsely provide proof of insurance when placing bids with contractors. Mayorga also provided false documents to insurance companies auditing them.

    Alvarez and Mayorga will be sentenced at a later date. They each face a maximum penalty of five years in prison, a period of supervised release, restitution, and monetary penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Karen E. Kelly of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe for the Middle District of Florida made the announcement.

    IRS Criminal Investigation and Homeland Security Investigations are investigating.

    Senior Litigation Counsel Sean Beaty and Trial Attorneys Kavitha Bondada and Rebecca A. Caruso of the Tax Division and Assistant U.S. Attorney Amanda Daniels for the Middle District of Florida are prosecuting the case. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Fairfield County man arrested on federal child pornography charges

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    COLUMBUS, Ohio – A Lancaster man was arrested yesterday afternoon on federal child pornography charges and appeared in federal court in Columbus today.

    It is alleged that Carson A. Bigham, 23, possessed, distributed or received child pornography.

    According to charging documents, law enforcement received two separate Cybertips from the National Center of Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) related to a Columbus man who was charged with federal child pornography crimes in March, including exploitation of a minor.  One report was from Kik messenger regarding the distribution of 13 child pornography files. The second report was from Sniffies LLC, a map-based hookup application for gay, bisexual and bicurious men.

    As part of their investigation, devices were seized from the Columbus man. Law enforcement’s forensic review of the devices revealed conversations between the Columbus man and Bigham. In the conversations, Bigham allegedly uses the screenname “daddy.” The conversations between the two men were sexual in nature and included discussions about engaging in sex with minors. Bigham also allegedly received child pornography during these discussions, including files which depicted prepubescent minors engaged in sex acts with adults.

    Law enforcement officers learned that Bigham is employed as a Columbus firefighter and photographs of Bigham match those sent to the Columbus man during their conversations.

    Kelly A. Norris, Acting United States Attorney for the Southern District of Ohio; Jared Murphey, acting Special Agent in Charge, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Detroit; Franklin County Sheriff Dallas Baldwin; other members of the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office’s Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force; and officials from the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Columbus Airport Group and Fairfield County Sheriff’s Office announced the charges. Assistant United States Attorney Emily Czerniejewski is representing the United States in this case.

    A criminal complaint merely contains allegations, and defendants are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.

    # # #

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Southern Utah Man Arrested and Charged after Allegedly Damaging an ICE Transit Van

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    ST. GEORGE, Utah – A Southern Utah man accused of damaging government property, specifically a Department of Homeland Security Transit Van, appeared in court today.  The indictment charging Ryan Michael Gaines, 32, of Santa Clara, Utah, was unsealed on Tuesday.

    According to court documents, in the morning of April 21, 2025, it was discovered that an ICE Transit Van had been damaged over the weekend at the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Removal Operations (ICE ERO) office in St. George. The St. George Police Department was called and responding officers located surveillance footage that showed a light-colored Jeep pull into camera view in the ICE office parking lot. Shortly thereafter, an adult male wearing a black balaclava and ski goggles activated a motion sensor and was caught on surveillance camera. The suspect then approached the ICE Transit Van and ripped pieces from the passenger side mirror. The same type of damage was made on the driver’s side mirror. City-wide surveillance captured a matching Jeep – owned by and registered to Gaines at a Santa Clara address – in the area just a few minutes before and then after the incident.

    As alleged in court documents, the same day as the discovery of the damage, officers contacted Gaines near his place of employment and arrested him for the incident. Officers found Gaines’ Jeep at his residence and were able to match it with the Jeep seen in the surveillance footage. Also at Gaines’ residence, officers located a pair of ski goggles and a balaclava that matched the ones worn by the individual that committed the damage to the ICE Transit Van. The estimated cost to fix the damage is over $2,900.  

    Gaines’ initial appearance on the indictment took place before a U.S. Magistrate Judge at the courthouse located at 206 West Tabernacle Street, St. George, Utah 84470.

    The case is being investigated jointly by the St. George Police Department and the FBI Salt Lake City Field Office, St. George Resident Agency.

    Assistant United States Attorney Brady Wilson of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Utah is prosecuting the case.

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Federal Jury Convicts Tampa Felon For Illegally Possessing Firearms

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Tampa, FL –United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe announces that a federal jury has found Cortevious Torrez Crews (31, Tampa) guilty of possessing a firearm and ammunition as a convicted felon. Crews faces a maximum sentence of 15 years in federal prison. A sentencing date has not yet been set. 

    According to the evidence presented at trial, on May 3, 2024, law enforcement conducted a traffic stop of Crews’ car in Clearwater Beach, Florida. When officers searched the car, they located two firearms. Despite knowing he was a felon and that he was prohibited from owning firearms, Crews had purchased one of the recovered firearms off the streets about a week earlier. 

    This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Clearwater Police Department, and the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Michael R. Kenneth. The forfeiture was handled by Assistant United States Attorney James A. Muench.

    This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Automotive Finco Corp. Announces Loan Extension and Quarterly Cash Dividends

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Not for distribution to United States newswire services or for dissemination in the United States. This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any of the securities in the United States.

    TORONTO, May 22, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Automotive Finco Corp. (NEX: AFCC-H) (the “Company”) is pleased to announce that it has declared quarterly cash dividends of $0.0513 per common share ($0.205 per common share on an annual basis) with the initial dividend payable on July 31, 2025 to shareholders of record as of June 30, 2025. The dividend is an eligible dividend.

    The declaration, timing, amount and payment of future cash dividends are subject to the board of directors’ continuing determination that the payment of dividends is in the best interests of the Company and its shareholders and that such dividends comply with all laws and agreements of the Company applicable to the declaration and payment of cash dividends. As such, no assurances can be made that any future dividends will be declared and/or paid.

    Additionally, the Company advises that pursuant to the loan agreement made by Automotive Finance Limited Partnership to AA Finance Co LP (the “Borrower”) on November 18, 2024, the Borrower has elected to extend the loan six months with the maturity date now being November 18, 2025.

    About Automotive Finco Corp.

    Automotive Finco Corp. is a finance company focused exclusively on the auto retail sector. In addition to its interest in Automotive Finance Limited Partnership, the Company may also pursue other direct investments and financing opportunities across the auto retail sector.

    Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

    For further information please refer to the Company’s website at www.autofincocorp.com or contact Shannon Penney, Chief Financial Officer, at shannon.penney@rogers.com or (905) 619-4996.

    Cautionary statement regarding forward-looking information

    Certain disclosures in this release constitute “forward-looking information” within the meaning of Canadian securities legislation. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts and are generally, but not always, identified by words such as the following: expects, plans, anticipates, believes, intends, will, estimates, projects, assumes, potential and similar expressions. Forward-looking statements also include reference to events or conditions that will, would, may, could or should occur, including, without limitation, statements regarding the Company’s dividend policy and the Company’s intention to pay a quarterly dividend. In making the forward-looking statements in this news release, the Company has applied certain factors and assumptions that the Company believes are reasonable, including, without limitation, that the Company’s financial position will allow it to pay quarterly dividends in accordance with the dividend policy. However, the forward-looking statements in this news release are subject to numerous risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause future results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in such forward-looking statements, including without limitation, that a quarterly dividend will not be payable in accordance with the dividend policy or at all; and those applicable risks, uncertainties and factors set forth in the Company’s disclosure record under the Company’s profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca.There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements and forward- looking information. Readers are cautioned that reliance on such information may not be appropriate for other purposes. The Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking statement, forward-looking information or financial outlook that are incorporated by reference herein, except in accordance with applicable securities laws.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Scholten Fights to Protect Health Care for Millions During All Night Rules Committee Hearing

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Hillary Scholten – Michigan

    WASHINGTON, DC – Today, during a Rules Committee hearing that began at 1 a.m., U.S. Congresswoman Hillary Scholten (MI-03) introduced several critical amendments, including to protect affordable health care for millions of Americans and funding for the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative. As House Republicans push forward a budget proposal that would slash nearly a trillion dollars from Medicaid, gut food assistance, threaten our Great Lakes and drive up costs for hard-working families, Scholten offered a starkly different approach–one focused on protecting coverage and lowering premiums.

    “There’s so much that’s harmful in this bill–but let’s focus on health care. Republicans are trying to take health care away from people while they sleep and they are hoping no one notices,” said Rep. Scholten. “But I am paying attention, and I’m offering a better path forward–one that protects families and ensures affordable health care is not just a luxury for the wealthy.”

    WATCH: Rep. Scholten delivers remarks at all night Rules Committee Hearing

    Her amendment would make the enhanced Affordable Care Act subsidies permanent. These subsidies, which have helped drive the uninsured rate to historic lows, are set to expire on December 31, 2025–putting more than 4.2 million people at risk of losing coverage, according to the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office.

    Scholten’s amendment eliminates the income cap that currently cuts off eligibility at 400% of the federal poverty line and maintains a cap on premium contributions so that no family pays more than 8.5% of their income toward health insurance. These provisions help ensure that working-class and middle-class Americans, including small business owners, self-employed workers, and families in the coverage gap, can continue to access affordable care.

    In Michigan, over 374,000 people rely on these enhanced subsidies for their coverage. If allowed to expire, many of these families would face unaffordable premium hikes or lose insurance altogether. Scholten emphasized that while Republicans are focused on ripping coverage away from children, seniors, and people with disabilities, she’s focused on keeping and expanding coverage. Her amendment offers a responsible, proven solution to keep people covered.

    In addition to her health care amendment, Scholten introduced three others focused on protecting Michigan jobs, clean water, and American clean energy leadership. One amendment would protect Michigan’s intercity passenger rail project between Grand Rapids and Chicago by preventing the Secretary of Transportation from prematurely removing projects from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law’s Corridor Identification and Development Program. 

    Scholten also introduced an amendment that would fund the Environmental Protection Agency’s regional clean water programs–including the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative–which is vital to Michigan’s economy and environment and yields more than triple the return on investment. 

    Finally, Scholten proposed extending the Section 48 Investment Tax Credit for clean energy projects through the end of 2025 to ensure regulatory certainty and continued investment in renewable natural gas systems, especially those critical to rural and agricultural communities.

    Through all of these efforts, Rep. Scholten reaffirmed her commitment to fighting for hard-working families.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: McConnell Opening Statement at SAC-D Hearing on FY 26 Budget Request for National Guard and Reserve Forces

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kentucky Mitch McConnell

    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell (R-KY), Chairman of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense, delivered the following opening statement at today’s hearing “A Review of the President’s Fiscal Year 2026 Budget Request for the National Guard and Reserves Forces”: 

    “We’ll begin today’s hearing to receive testimony on the posture of the National Guard Bureau and Reserve Components. I’d like to start by thanking the witnesses: 

    “General Steven Nordhaus, the Chief of the National Guard Bureau; Lieutenant General Robert Harter, the Chief of Army Reserve; My understanding is that Vice Admiral Lacore is unable to testify this morning due to an illness — I hope she recovers quickly.

    I welcome Rear Admiral Luke Frost – Director, Reserve Warfare, Office of the Chief of Naval Operations in her absence; 

    “Lieutenant General Loni Anderson, the Commander of Marine Forces Reserve; and Lieutenant General John Healy, the Chief of Air Force Reserve. 

    “The Subcommittee is grateful for your service to the nation in uniform, and we’ll look forward to your candid testimony. 

    “Our discussion today will be oriented toward the President’s Budget Request for FY 2026. 

    “The exact details of the request are still to come, but the topline summary released by the Office of Management and Budget gives proponents of robust national defense plenty to be concerned about, already. 

    “Annual topline investment in the Department of Defense is a measure of national will. It sends a message to allies and adversaries, alike, about the strength of our resolve. And it appears that the message for the coming year is one of weakness. 

    “Nobody in this room needs a reminder of how much the Department relies on stable and predictable funding to drive the crucial functions of development, acquisitions, and procurement. Nor is anyone here naïve to the increasingly coordinated forces that threaten to undermine U.S. interests around the world. 

    “But when we talk about the consequences of short-changing our armed forces, we have to recognize that these effects are often compounded for the guard and reserve. 

    “And the harder we have to scrape for funding to meet unfunded requirements of the Department of Defense, the harder it will be to support the growing needs of the Guard and Reserve. 

    “Despite playing an increasingly significant operational role, guard and reserve units still struggle to access top-of-the-line kit. Despite so often taking the lead in engagement with allied and partner forces, they face persistent hurdles in maintaining adequate infrastructure, equipment, and personnel.

    The current strategic landscape and operational realities give us no reason to suspect that the demand for highly-trained, well-equipped citizen servicemembers will diminish anytime soon. 

    “Last year, it was guardsmen – including Kentuckians – defending Tower 22 from Iran-backed attack, and sustaining casualties in the process. 

    “Adding new missions without adequate resourcing can strain Guard units’ training calendars. 

    “I’ll be interested in the witnesses’ candid observations on these headwinds impacting readiness. And I’ll look forward to discussing them in more detail during the question and answer session.” 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kentucky’s Congressional Delegation Supports Gov. Beshear’s Request for a Third Presidential Disaster Declaration in 2025

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kentucky Mitch McConnell
    WASHINGTON, DC – Kentucky’s bipartisan federal delegation, led by Dean of the House Hal Rogers (KY-05), including U.S. Senators Mitch McConnell and Rand Paul, Congressmen Brett Guthrie (KY-02), Andy Barr (KY-06), James Comer (KY-01), Thomas Massie (KY-04) and Morgan McGarvey (KY-03), sent a letter to President Donald Trump expressing their support for Governor Andy Beshear’s request for the third major disaster declaration of the year for the Commonwealth of Kentucky. The request comes as a result of devastating storms, including an EF4 tornado that took the lives of at least 19 individuals in southern Kentucky since May 16, 2025.  
    “This severe weather event has resulted in catastrophic damage, and 19 Kentuckians have lost their lives. Entire neighborhoods have been destroyed or severely damaged, with homes, businesses and essential infrastructure suffering widespread loss. Critical roadways have been washed out, vital utilities disabled, and basic government services disrupted. The storm’s destruction spans more than 600 miles across the Commonwealth,” the letter stated. “We urge your swift approval of federal disaster assistance to help Kentucky communities begin the process of recovering and rebuilding.” 
    The National Weather Service’s final report confirmed an EF4 tornado traveled over 55 miles through Russell, Pulaski and Laurel counties, staying on the ground for an hour and a half with winds reaching a peak of 170 miles per hour.
    President Trump has already approved two major disaster declarations for Kentucky, including: 
    Declaration DR-4860 was approved after a deadly severe storm on February 14, 2025 that caused widespread flooding, resulting in the loss of least 22 lives in Kentucky. More than $43 million have been approved for Individual Assistance, with 6,895 applications approved.
    Declaration DR-4864 was approved after a deadly severe storm, beginning on April 2, 2025, that caused historic flooding, resulting in the loss of at least seven lives in Kentucky. The flooding, landslides, mudslides and tornadoes impacted 85 counties in Kentucky. 
    Click here to download the delegation’s joint letter to President Trump.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Welch, Sanders, Gillibrand: “We have a responsibility to expand federal support for Lake Champlain” 

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.) today led U.S. Senators Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) and Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.) in sending a letter to bipartisan leadership of the Senate Appropriations Committee urging Congress to provide robust federal funding for programs supporting the Lake Champlain basin. In their letter, the lawmakers emphasized the importance of federal programs to Lake Champlain that support critical work in the basin, from fostering a climate-resilient watershed to promoting outdoor recreation and wildlife conservation.  
    “As Congress considers the Fiscal Year 2026 Bills for Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies, Energy and Water Development, State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs, and Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies, we ask you to continue to provide robust federal funding for programs supporting the Lake Champlain basin,” wrote the Senators. “Lake Champlain provides significant environmental, recreational, historic, and educational value to our region. We have a responsibility to expand federal support for the lake so our constituents can benefit from these opportunities for generations to come.” 
    The Lake Champlain Basin Program was first created in 1990 and long-championed by Senator Patrick Leahy (D-Vt.) in a landmark effort to protect the lake’s unique ecological, economic, and cultural significance. In 2022, the program was formally renamed the Patrick Leahy Lake Champlain Basin Program. 
    The lawmakers requested financial support for the following programs: 

    Lake Champlain Basin Program  
    Heritage Partnership Program 
    Lake Champlain Sea Lamprey Control Program 
    Great Lakes Fishery Commission 
    U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Aquatic Plant Control Laboratory 
    Sea Grant National College Program (Lake Champlain Sea Grant) 

    Senator Welch has championed efforts to support the Lake Champlain Basin in the Senate. Last Congress, Sens. Welch, Sanders, and Gillibrand sent a letter to the bipartisan leadership of the Senate Appropriations Committee urging Congress to provide robust federal funding for programs supporting the basin, including the LCBP.  
    Last year, Senator Welch led Sens. Sanders, Gillibrand, and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y) in introducing the bicameral Lake Champlain Basin Program Reauthorization Act, legislation that would reauthorize the Lake Champlain Basin Program (LCBP) for ten years at $55 million to support interstate conservation and the health of the Lake Champlain Basin. 
    Read the full text of the letter. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Reverend Warnock Warns GOP Cuts to Food Assistance Will Harm Rural Families, Economies

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock – Georgia

    Senator Reverend Warnock Warns GOP Cuts to Food Assistance Will Harm Rural Families, Economies

    Senator Reverend Warnock’s new white paper, “SNAPing a Lifeline for Georgia’s Children and Families” exposes the hidden harm of Washington Republicans’ plan to pay for their tax cut to billionaires by shifting the cost of nutrition assistance to the states, ultimately making it harder for Georgia families to cover their grocery bill

    The report finds that Georgia families would suffer the most under this GOP tax bill with a projected loss of over $860 million, disproportionately affecting Georgia’s rural communities. Over 77% of Georgia counties with the highest rates of families who rely on SNAP to buy nutritious food are rural

    1 in 8 Georgians – or 1.4 million people, rely on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) throughout the state. SNAP helps vulnerable families supplement their budget by just $6.16 per day and lifts millions of Americans out of poverty each year

    In 2023, stores and retailers in Georgia saw over $3.6 billion in revenue thanks to SNAP, helping local grocery stores keep their doors open

    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-GA) released new findings on the harm Congressional GOP cuts from the nutrition assistance program would have on Georgians across the state, especially rural areas. The new white paper titled “SNAPing a Lifeline for Georgia’s Children and Families: How Washington Republicans Are Robbing Georgia’s Poor to Pay the Rich” finds that Georgia could be levied with a massive unfunded mandate of over $860 million dollars that risks nutrition benefits for children, seniors, and people with disabilities, devastating families and rural communities that rely on the program to help afford groceries.

    The paper finds that rural communities stand to bear the brunt of these impacts. Over 77% of Georgia counties with the highest rates of SNAP participation are rural, and the economic impact of the proposed funding cuts to these communities would be staggering. By helping families spend their dollars locally, SNAP supports rural economies at a higher rate than many of their metro-Atlanta counterparts. Estimates show every dollar of federal investment in SNAP generates $1.79 in economic activity for local businesses. In 2023, stores and retailers in Georgia saw revenues of over $3.6 billion from SNAP benefits, helping local groceries keep their doors open.

    “Washington Republicans’ plan to terminate funding for lifesaving programs that help working families cover the cost of groceries to pay for tax cuts for billionaires is not only immoral, it hurts our economy,” said Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock. “This proposal is bad for Georgia. It’ll make it more likely that children, seniors, veterans and individuals with disabilities go hungry. I will do everything in my power to protect these critical programs and help the many families across Georgia that are just trying to get by.”

    With control of the House, Senate, and White House, Washington Republicans are rushing through a massive budget reconciliation bill that terminates funding for lifesaving programs like SNAP to pay for their tax cuts for billionaires. According to the House Republicans’ bill provisions advanced by the House Agriculture Committee on May 14, 2025, beginning in 2028, Washington Republicans would require all states to pay a 5% cost-share, shifting the burden from the federal government to the states. However, most states have higher payment error rates, like Georgia, and would have to pay even more.

    If the bill becomes law, Georgia could be on the hook for $867 million in new costs on the state budget, leaving children, seniors, and disabled people more likely to be unable to afford groceries. 

    A full copy of the paper can be found HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Bacon Issues Statement on Reconciliation Bill Vote

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Don Bacon (2nd District of Nebraska)

    Bacon Issues Statement on Reconciliation Bill Vote

    Washington – Rep. Don Bacon (NE-02) issued the following statement about the Reconciliation Vote earlier this morning:

    “No expectant mothers, single parents, children, disabled, or elderly are losing SNAP or Medicaid benefits. That misinformation is being spread to try and scare people.

    “By passing this bill, we will strengthen these programs through an audit of the programs, removal of those who should not be receiving benefits, and making sure that able-bodied adults without dependents are fulfilling work and volunteer requirements that are already in place for the program. Those who are eligible for Medicaid and SNAP are not touched by this bill. We protected those who need Medicaid and SNAP.

    “We have also made the tax cuts permanent, saving the average Nebraska family of four making $80,000 from a tax increase of about $1,700.

    “Additionally, this bill includes crucial defense spending increases, supplementing national defense by approximately $144 billion over four years, ensuring we can properly maintain our military readiness and take care of our troops. We’re strengthening our borders through a new $12 billion grant fund to support states’ border security efforts and approximately $90 billion in total border security investments.

    “I worked closely with Republican leadership to advocate for the needs of Nebraskans and this bill, while not perfect, reflects that.”

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Beyer Statement on Federal Court Blocking Trump’s Illegal Assault on the Department of Education

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

    Congressman Don Beyer (D-VA) today issued the following statement in response to Judge Myong J. Joun’s order blocking the Trump Administration and the “Department of Government Efficiency’s” (DOGE) illegal efforts to gut the Department of Education and mandating the reinstatement of wrongfully terminated staff:

    “This ruling is a victory for millions of students, educators, and families across the country who rely on the Department of Education’s programs, protections, and support. Judge Joun accurately determined that the Trump Administration and DOGE’s political purge of the Department of Education was unlawful and reaffirmed that the executive branch cannot unilaterally work toward abolishing a congressionally established agency without the approval of Congress. I am grateful that thanks to Judge Joun’s ruling, more than 1,300 wrongfully terminated employees must be reinstated to fulfill the Department’s statutorily mandated functions.

    “Donald Trump, Elon Musk, and Linda McMahon’s actions – reductions in force and the eliminations of entire offices, including key Office for Civil Rights (OCR) hubs – inhibited the Department from being able to carry out its statutory obligations. Their abuse of the federal civil service targeted attorneys, student aid workers, and civil rights office staff and had detrimental effects on our schools. It left millions of students and teachers without essential services they need, including the enforcement of anti-discrimination laws and support for students with disabilities. Their attempted purge of the Department of Education is a direct assault on the protection of student’s rights and the promise of equal opportunity through education. It was a gross betrayal of American students.

    “Today’s decision brings much-needed relief for students, educators, our public servants in the Department of Education, and civil rights across the country. It restores the rule of law and sends a clear message that our nation’s promise of equal educational opportunity cannot be unraveled by political whim.”

    Beyer has been critical of illegal attempts by the Trump Administration and “DOGE” to dismantle the Department of Education, and has led efforts to restore the Department’s ability to fulfill its statutorily required mandates. He also met with Education Secretary Linda McMahon to discuss the serious harm these actions inflicted upon his constituents, and on students and educators across the country.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Grothman Introduces Bill to End Housing Tax Program That Enriches Developers and Fails Tenants

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Glenn Grothman (R-Glenbeulah 6th District Wisconsin)

    Congressman Glenn Grothman (R-WI), joined by Congressman Paul Gosar (R-AZ), introduced the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit Elimination Act, which will repeal the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC), an outdated, costly, and ineffective program that has primarily enriched politically-connected developers and banks, while doing little to reduce housing costs for low-income Americans.

    Currently, LIHTC provides tax credits to developers to subsidize the construction and rehabilitation of affordable housing units. These subsidies cover around 70% of a project’s cost. However, rather than benefiting tenants, the program has become a cash grab for developers and banks. The elimination of LIHTC will save taxpayers a staggering $69.1 billion over a ten-year period.

    “The Low-Income Housing Tax Credit is another way for developers to get rich, while hardworking taxpayers foot the bill,” said Grothman. “It’s absurd that the federal government is paying 70% of construction costs to private developers, who often use these funds to build lavish and costly housing units. We need to stop throwing money at a broken system and instead focus on reducing supply constraints that make it so difficult to build affordable housing in the first place.

    “Despite its original intent, LIHTC fails to effectively serve low-income tenants. The primary beneficiaries are rich developers, banks, law firms, and state bureaucracies. Only 24% of the programs’ costs benefit low-income households in the form of rent savings. Its elimination will save taxpayer dollars, end the funneling of money to corrupt developers, and allow us to refocus on solutions that work for hardworking Americans.”

    “Unfortunately, the government subsidy meant to ease the financial burden of tenants is ripe with abuse.  Instead of creating affordable housing for those who need it most, the program produces costly low-income housing and lines the pockets of greedy developers and banks,” said Congressman Paul Gosar.

    “The Low-Income Housing Tax Credit is a textbook case of good intentions gone wrong. After nearly four decades and billions in federal subsidies, the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit has done more for banks and developers than for struggling renters. It’s time Congress ended this inefficient corporate welfare program,” said Adam Michel, Director of Tax Policy Studies at the Cato Institute.

    “Since its inception in 1986, the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) has been plagued by the Five Cs: crowding out, cost, complexity, corruption, and cartel,” said Edward Pinto and Tobias Peter, Co-Directors AEI Housing Center. “LIHTC developments often displace housing that the private market would have produced without subsidies, creating a crowding-out effect. The cost to taxpayers is staggering, with the average LIHTC unit priced at approximately $450,000—compared to zero for private developments that would have otherwise been built. The program’s excessive complexity has given rise to a cartel-like ecosystem dominated by a small cadre of developers and nonprofits, who have profited handsomely, while calling for even more subsidies. This has bred corruption and inefficiency. At its core, LIHTC reflects a misguided emphasis on the futile task of building ever more expensive subsidized housing, rather than on policies that allow for the building of housing that is affordable. We applaud Representative Grothman for taking this step to sunset this fundamentally flawed program.”

    Background Information

    Currently, the federal government provides a tax credit, the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC), to developers to subsidize the construction and rehabilitation of housing units with income limits and rent caps for eligible tenants. These LIHTC tax credits subsidies cover roughly 70% of the cost of qualified housing projects.

    A 2009 study found for a large sample of projects that the construction costs per square foot of LIHTC projects were 20 percent higher than for average industry projects.

    Because of the complex structure of the program, most of the LIHTC benefits go to the developers and banks, rather than the tenants. A 2017 study found that “tenants capture at most 24% of the [LIHTC] development subsidies.” The ability for states and localities to dole out these lucrative tax credits breeds corruption and funneling subsidies to politically connected developers.

    The Low-Income Housing Tax Credit Elimination Act would end this costly, inefficient, and corrupt program. To lower housing costs, policymakers should focus on reducing supply constraints on housing, not funneling tax dollars to politically connected developers.

    According to the Congressional Budget Office, repealing LIHTC would save taxpayers $69.1 billion over ten years.

    -30- 

    U.S. Rep. Glenn Grothman (R-Glenbeulah) is serving his fifth term representing Wisconsin’s 6th Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives. 

    MIL OSI USA News –