NewzIntel.com

Category: Natural Disasters

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Desperate situation for people fleeing Zamzam camp in Sudan

    Source: Médecins Sans Frontières –

    Following the Rapid Support Forces’ (RSF) large-scale ground offensive on Zamzam camp that started on 11 April, hundreds of thousands of people have joined the communities already besieged and deprived of lifesaving aid in El Fasher, the neighbouring capital city of North Darfur, Sudan. 25,000 more people reached Tawila, further west, where overwhelmed Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) teams are currently expanding activities to cope with the most pressing medical needs.

    We are making an urgent appeal to put an end to the siege and the atrocities, to deliver humanitarian aid, including by airdropping food and medicines to El Fasher if necessary, and to allow those who wish to flee to do so safely.

    The RSF and their allied armed groups stormed Zamzam, Sudan’s largest displacement camp, which used to host at least 500,000 people near El Fasher, after months of an increasingly tight siege on the area. By 16 April, the camp, by then largely destroyed, was reportedly under RSF control. The majority of people living in Zamzam are believed to have fled to El Fasher, where they remain trapped, out of reach of humanitarian aid and exposed to ongoing attacks and further mass violence. 

    While MSF teams in Tawila saw over 25,000 people arriving from Zamzam and nearby areas between 12 and 15 April, displaced people are now arriving more sporadically and at great risk for their lives along the way. Our teams set up a health post at the entrance of Tawila to provide the new arrivals with water and immediate nutritional and medical support. We refer critical cases to the local hospital where we have been working since last October. About 1,600 patients so far have required emergency outpatient services, mainly because of severe dehydration.

    “We are treating children who were literally dying of thirst on their journeys. We have received so far over 170 people with gunshot and blast injuries and 40 per cent of them are women and girls,” says Marion Ramstein, MSF project coordinator in Tawila. “People tell us that many injured and vulnerable people could not make the trip to Tawila and were left behind. Almost everyone we talk to said they lost at least one family member during the attack.”

    Horrific reports emerge from Zamzam camp, where hundreds of people are estimated to have been killed. Fighters were said to be going door-to-door, shooting people hiding in their homes and burning large parts of the camp. Casualties include eleven staff from the humanitarian organisation Relief International, which was running the only remaining clinic in the camp after MSF suspended all its activities in Zamzam in February due to escalating violence and blockades. 

    We urge the RSF and all armed groups in the area to spare and protect civilians and ensure that those who want to flee can do so without further harm. States and diplomatic actors must use their leverage to translate hollow statements into concrete actions. There have been repeated warnings from the UN and many observers about the risks of mass killings and ethnic violence in El Fasher and the surroundings displacement camps, mostly inhabited by people from the non-Arab Zaghawa and Fur ethnic groups, while most of the RSF fighters and their allies originate from Arab tribes.

    After two years of a catastrophic war on people met by neglectful indifference, it remains inconceivable to simply resign ourselves to the current collective failure to provide vital assistance where it’s most needed.

    “A massive humanitarian response is needed, now more urgently than ever. If the roads to El Fasher are blocked, then air operations must be launched to bring food and medicines to the estimated one million people trapped there and being starved,” Rasmane Kabore, MSF head of mission in Sudan. “A scaled-up response is also needed in Tawila, where some of the survivors are being received and local capacities are overwhelmed.”

    MSF and several other actors are launching emergency interventions in Tawila, but much more is needed in terms of water, food, medical care and shelter. 

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Reps. Peters & Obernolte Introduce Bill to Increase Transparency on Disaster Spending

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Scott Peters (52nd District of California)

    Today, Representatives Scott Peters (D-CA-50) and Jay Obernolte (R-CA-23) introduced the Disclosing Aid Spent to Ensure Relief (DISASTER) Act, which would require the federal government to create and provide a detailed accounting of how disaster relief money provided by Congress is spent. This would allow Congress to more accurately budget for disaster relief funds in future years and better ensure the American people get the help they need when they need it most. 

    Since 1980, the United States has endured 403 weather and climate disasters where overall damages exceeded $1 billion — altogether, those events cost $2.945 trillion. The federal government plays a vital role in helping communities recover from disasters of all kinds, yet we do not know the true scope of its involvement because the federal government produces no single estimate of how much it spends on disaster-related assistance. And much of this spending is unplanned and therefore not included in the annual federal budget. The DISASTER Act would require the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) to use data it already gathers under the Budget Control Act (BCA) to produce an annual disaster spending estimate for Congress. 

    “When disaster strikes our communities, the recovery can be slow and costly,” said Rep. Peters. “The costs to the federal government are on the rise as disasters become more frequent and more devastating. We should know exactly how much recovery efforts cost, so our budget can correctly account for them, and better plan for future disasters.” 

    “At a time when our national debt is soaring, Congress has a responsibility to ensure that every taxpayer dollar is spent effectively,” said Rep. Obernolte. “The DISASTER Act will bring much-needed transparency to federal disaster spending by requiring a clear accounting of where, how, and why these funds were spent. This commonsense reform will help us identify inefficiencies, strengthen preparedness, and improve coordination across federal agencies in times of crisis.” 

    Original cosponsors from both parties of the legislation include Representatives Hillary Scholten (D-MI-3), Steve Womack (R-AR-3), Jared Moskowitz (D-FL-23), and David Valadao (R-CA-22). 

    “Disasters are getting larger, more widespread, and more expensive,” said Rep. Moskowitz. “It’s critical that we fully fund the preparation, response, and recovery for these disasters, but it’s also critical that Congress knows where these targeted funds are going. By passing the DISASTER Act, we can take a commonsense step towards transparency, ensuring that taxpayers and their representatives in Washington have a more comprehensive account of how federal disaster-related assistance is allocated.” 

    “The Central Valley is no stranger to natural disasters—from severe droughts to flooding—and when disaster strikes, it’s critical we have a clear and accurate picture of where federal dollars are going,” said Rep. Valadao. “Unfortunately, that information isn’t currently easy to track. With better transparency and accountability, we can ensure taxpayer dollars are used effectively to help communities recover and prepare for future disasters, and I’m proud to join Rep. Peters in support.” 

    This legislation passed in the House of Representatives in 2019 by a voice vote.  

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Highland Park Man Involved in Violent Robberies Sentenced to 20 Years in Prison

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    DETROIT – Christopher Bey, a 50-year old from Highland Park, Michigan, was sentenced yesterday to 20 years in federal prison after pleading guilty to Interference with Commerce by Robbery, Use of a Firearm in Relation to a Crime of Violence, and being a Felon in Possession of a Firearm relating to an armed robbery, shooting, and attempted armed robbery, all of which occurred in the City of Pontiac, Acting United States Attorney Julie A. Beck announced today.

    Beck was joined in the announcement by Special Agent in Charge James Dier of the ATF’s Detroit Division and Sheriff Michael Bouchard of the Oakland County Sheriff’s Office.

    “Removing violent offenders from our community is one the office’s top priorities,” stated Acting  U.S. Attorney Julie Beck.  “We will not stop being laser-focused on aggressively prosecuting dangerous individuals who persist in terrorizing our citizens. The strategies we use to identify the drivers of violence, who we then prosecute, works. We are truly making our community safer,” she stated.

    “This 20-year sentence is RIGHTEOUS. Mr. Bey is a sociopathic serial shooter who has consistently shown an inability to follow societal rules.  It most certainly sends a clear message: if you use a firearm to shoot an innocent member of our community, there is absolutely no limit on the resources ATF will expend to hunt you down and hold you accountable for your cowardly conduct,” said ATF Detroit Special Agent in Charge James Deir. “Everyone deserves to feel safe when they go to work to provide for their family.  Armed criminals motivated by greed have no place in our Michigan community, and ATF will tirelessly work with our state and local partners to remove the most dangerous offenders off our streets and put them where they belong: behind bars.”

    Bey robbed a Boost Mobile store in the city of Pontiac on February 4, 2023. After entering the store, Bey brandished a firearm and demanded money from the store employee. The employee fully complied with Bey’s demands. Nevertheless, Bey pulled a potato from his pants, affixed it to the barrel of the revolver, and shot the victim twice in the stomach. The victim was in the hospital for approximately one month. Bey later admitted to the ATF that he got the idea to use the potato as a silencer from watching a movie.

    Bey attempted to rob a Dollar General Store in the City of Pontiac on March 24, 2023. After entering the store, Bey handed a store employee a note while pointing a gun at the employee. He ordered the employee to the storeroom and directed the employee to apply handcuffs to himself. A customer accidentally entered the storeroom and fought with Bey, who ran out of the store.

    Bey was also charged with being a felon in possession of a firearm. According to court records, during the robbery investigations, law enforcement observed social media posts of Bey holding a firearm with his face obscured by a ski mask. Law enforcement was able to use other images from his social media accounts to determine Bey’s identity.

    On July 26, 2023, the Pontiac Gun Violence Task Force (GVTF), assisted by, Oakland County Sheriff’s Office’s K9 Unit, Customs Border Protection – Aviation Enforcement, and the Detroit Police Department, arrested Christopher Lee Bey.  Bey has been in custody since his arrest.

    The GVTF was established by the ATF and the Oakland County Sheriff’s Office. The GVTF is tasked with investigating the unlawful possession of firearms and the use of firearms to commit violent crimes within Pontiac, Oakland County, and the Eastern District of Michigan.

    This case was prosecuted by the Violent & Organized Crime Unit of the United States Attorney’s Office.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Ryan Ellison Appointed as United States Attorney for the District of New Mexico

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    ALBUQUERQUE – Ryan Ellison has been appointed as the United States Attorney for the District of New Mexico by U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi. Mr. Ellison was sworn in by United States District Judge Margaret Strickland on April 18, 2025.

    “I am grateful for the opportunity to serve the people of New Mexico in this role,” said Mr. Ellison. “For however long I serve as United States Attorney, my primary objective will be to keep New Mexicans safe through the vigorous enforcement of Federal law. Under my leadership, the United States Attorney’s Office will do its part to stem the unlawful flow of people and drugs into our country. We will also not lose sight of our responsibility to combat violent crime, gang activity, child predators, and to zealously advocate on behalf of the United States’ civil interests. Together with our federal, tribal, state, and local law enforcement partners, the United States Attorney’s Office will work tirelessly to make New Mexico a safer place to live, work, raise a family, and run a business. And we will make New Mexico a far less attractive place to commit a crime.”

    Mr. Ellison, born and raised in Alamogordo, New Mexico, graduated from the University of Arizona with a business degree in 2010. He earned his Juris Doctor and MBA from Texas Tech University in 2013. Since 2018, Mr. Ellison has served as an Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of New Mexico in the Las Cruces Branch Office, most recently as Supervisory Assistant U.S. Attorney of the Violent and General Crimes Section.

    As an Assistant U.S. Attorney, Mr. Ellison prosecuted members of the Syndicato de Nuevo Mexico (“SNM”) prison gang. To date, more than 175 SNM gang members and associates have been charged with serious federal crimes, making the ongoing SNM prosecution the largest criminal case ever brought in the District of New Mexico. He has also investigated and prosecuted other violent crimes, including VICAR murder, RICO conspiracy, carjacking resulting in death, kidnapping resulting in death, murder-for-hire, and various firearms, immigration, and national security offenses.

    Prior to joining the Department of Justice, Mr. Ellison worked as an Assistant District Attorney in the 47th Judicial District Attorney’s Office in Texas and as an associate attorney in private practice.

    As U.S. Attorney, Mr. Ellison will be responsible for overseeing federal criminal prosecutions and civil litigation involving the United States in the District of New Mexico. Ellison leads a dedicated team of over 150 prosecutors and support professionals with offices located in Albuquerque and Las Cruces. The District of New Mexico encompasses 33 counties and shares a 180-mile international border with Mexico. It is home to five National Forests, four major military installations, two National Laboratories, 19 pueblos, two Apache tribes, and one-third of the Navajo Nation.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: 205 charged with illegal entry or reentry as part of new cases filed this week in efforts to secure southern border

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    HOUSTON – A total of 216 more cases have been filed in immigration and border security-related matters from April 11-17, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei. 

    As part of those cases, 86 face allegations of illegally reentering the country with the majority having felony convictions such as narcotics, firearms or sexual offenses, or prior immigration crimes. A total of 119 people face charges of illegally entering the country while 11 cases involve various instances of human smuggling.  

    Some of those charged with felony reentry include Mexican national Alejandro Contreras-Zapata, who was allegedly found near Roma. The charges allege he had been previously sentenced to 20 years in prison for aggravated assault with a deadly weapon before his removal March 7.

    Erika Camacho-Rodriguez is also a convicted felon and illegally returned recently, according to the complaint. Authorities found her near Roma, having been removed March 31 following a conviction for transporting illegal aliens as the charges allege. She is also from Mexico.

    Another case charges Cesar Garcia-Rivas, a Mexican male found in the United States near Rio Grande City. He had allegedly been removed Oct. 21, 202o, and had previously received a 70-month sentence for kidnapping. 

    Three other men were apprehended near Laredo and had just been removed within the last five months, according to their charges. The criminal complaints allege Daniel Fimbres and Jose Alejandro Rodriguez-Panjol had just been removed Feb. 19 and 28, respectively, while Delfino Lopez-Roque was removed Nov. 24, 2024.

    All six of these illegal aliens and others charged in some of the cases filed this week face up to 20 years in federal prison if convicted of illegally returning to the United States without authorization. 

    Other relevant matters this week include the jury conviction of a 25-year-old Laredo woman for conspiracy to transport, attempting to transport and bringing in and attempting to bring a three-year-old minor to the United States. Salma Galilea Veliz planned to have the boy assume the identity of her biological son in an effort to smuggle him into the United States. In exchange, she would be paid $2,500.

    In another jury trial resulting in a guilty verdict, a known human smuggler was convicted of possessing child sexual abuse material (CSAM). The jury deliberated for approximately 15 minutes before finding Jose Rodriguez Jr. guilty after a one-day trial. When he was initially arrested in August 2024 for transporting aliens, authorities also discovered 150 images of CSAM on his phone. The evidence included numerous files depicting sexual assaults of prepubescent children.

    Also announced this week was the indictment of two illegal aliens and a Laredo man for various firearms offenses. The investigation began March 21 when law enforcement discovered the location of a firearm allegedly used in a crime. Upon searching the residence, authorities allegedly discovered two machine gun conversion devices, a backpack that contained magazines and ammunition as well a .38 special and .22LR ammunition. Also on the property was a grey backpack containing a 9mm S&W handgun, according to the complaint. Erick Lopez Jr., 18, Laredo, is charged with possession of a machine gun, while Erick Lopez-Rivera Sr., 37, and Marcos Lora-Morales, 24, both illegal aliens unlawfully residing in Laredo, are facing charges of alien in possession of ammunition and alien in possession of a firearm and ammunition, respectively. Lopez-Rivera Sr. is also charged with felony reentry of an alien.

    These cases were referred or supported by federal law enforcement partners, including Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) – Homeland Security Investigations, ICE – Enforcement and Removal Operations, Border Patrol, Drug Enforcement Administration, FBI, U.S. Marshals Service and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with additional assistance from state and local law enforcement partners.

    The cases are 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 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 and Project Safe Neighborhood.

    Under current leadership, public safety and a secure border are the top priorities for the Southern District of Texas (SDTX). Enhanced enforcement both at the border and in the interior of the district have yielded aliens engaged in unlawful activity or with serious criminal history, including human trafficking, sexual assault and violence against children.  

    The SDTX remains one of the busiest in the nation. It represents 43 counties and more than nine million people covering 44,000 square miles. Assistant U.S. Attorneys from all seven divisions including Houston, Galveston, Victoria, Corpus Christi, Brownsville, McAllen and Laredo work directly with our law enforcement partners on the federal, state and local levels to prosecute the suspected offenders of these and other federal crimes. 

    An indictment or criminal complaint is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence. A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: XRP News: XploraDEX Presale Enters Final 72 Hours – Last Call Before XRP’s First AI Decentralized Exchange Goes Live

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    ZURICH, Switzerland, April 18, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — With just 72 hours left on the clock, the presale for XploraDEX’s $XPL Token has entered its final and most intense phase. What began as one of the most ambitious launches on XRPL is now transforming into a full-blown movement, as traders, whales, and DeFi pioneers scramble to secure their position before the door shuts for good.

    XploraDEX is not just a new decentralized exchange. It’s a smart trading ecosystem powered by artificial intelligence, designed specifically for the XRP Ledger. The platform promises to usher in a new generation of on-chain trading, where decisions are informed by predictive analytics, behavior-based automation, and real-time machine learning insights.

    Join $XPL Presale

    Over the past two weeks, XploraDEX has captured the attention of the wider crypto community. What started with grassroots momentum quickly evolved into a presale frenzy. Today, over 96% of the $XPL allocation has been claimed, with new participants arriving by the minute as FOMO reaches a boiling point.

    The $XPL token is the core of this revolution. Holders gain access to a suite of premium tools and benefits, including:

    • AI-generated market analysis and trade execution signals
    • Automated strategy deployment based on user risk profiles
    • Access to private staking pools and yield opportunities
    • Launchpad participation for future XRPL-based token sales
    • Protocol governance rights that let holders help shape the platform

    Participate in $XPL Presale

    But beyond features, what’s truly driving this rush is timing. XploraDEX is launching at a pivotal moment when demand for advanced, efficient DeFi solutions on XRPL is skyrocketing. Unlike traditional DEXs that rely on outdated methods and guesswork, XploraDEX provides data-driven precision that adapts with the market.

    In the final 72 hours of the presale, activity has spiked across all fronts. The XploraDEX Telegram is flooded with new users, Twitter mentions are trending, and high-value wallets continue to deploy capital into $XPL. This is no longer just a presale—it’s the tipping point before a historic launch.

    Once the sale ends, $XPL will debut on XRPL-based DEXs at a significantly higher valuation. Platform rollout will begin immediately, starting with staking, AI beta modules, and liquidity farming. Those who acted early will gain not just token value, but first access to the most intelligent trading interface XRPL has ever seen.

    Buy $XPL Token Now

    This is your last call to move early, think long-term, and be part of a smarter wave of DeFi. In 72 hours, this chapter closes—and the next one belongs to those who made the leap.

    Join the $XPL Presale While You Still Can: https://sale.xploradex.io

    Stay connected and Join the XploraDEX AI Revolution

    Website | $XPL Token Presale | X | Telegram

    Contact:
    Oliver Muller
    oliver@xploradex.io
    contact@xploradex.io

    Disclaimer: This press release is provided by the XploraDEX. The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this content are solely those of the content provider and do not necessarily reflect the views of this media platform or its publisher. We do not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information presented. We do not guarantee any claims, statements, or promises made in this article. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, or trading advice.

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    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/b0e1f941-9e56-4655-bc90-2a10bd837b1d

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Serial Dollar Store Robber Sentenced

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. – A Forsyth County, North Carolina, man was sentenced today in Greensboro to a total of 22 years in prison after pleading guilty to a string of armed robberies in Forsyth, Guilford, Alamance, and Rockingham Counties, announced Acting United States Attorney Randall S. Galyon of the Middle District of North Carolina (MDNC).   

    BYRON CLAY SCOTT, age 33, was sentenced to 240 months imprisonment for the robberies plus 3 years of post-release supervision by the Honorable Thomas D. Schroeder, United States District Judge in the United States District Court for the MDNC. SCOTT was also sentenced to 24 months to run consecutive to that sentence for committing the robberies while he was on post-release supervision for another armed robbery out of Forsyth County from 2013. In addition to prison and supervision, SCOTT was ordered to pay $21,005.38 in restitution and to forfeit a 9mm handgun.

    According to court records, between November 2023 and January 2024, SCOTT and one or more unknown individuals committed at least 10 armed robberies of Dollar General and Family Dollar Stores in Winston-Salem, Greensboro, Burlington, and Reidsville. Video surveillance obtained from each of the stores showed the robbers wearing Halloween style face masks, gloves, and dark clothing. All but one of the robberies occurred at night, near closing time. SCOTT was arrested on January 15, 2024, by the Winston-Salem Police Department after they responded to a call for a robbery in progress. When they searched the vehicle SCOTT was driving, they found copies of his birth certificate and Social Security card, along with gloves and masks in the back seat, which were consistent with the gloves and masks worn during each of the robberies. Data obtained from electronic tracking on the vehicle SCOTT was driving and review of SCOTT’s search history on his phone tied him to each of the robberies.

    SCOTT pleaded guilty on January 6, 2025, to five counts of interference with commerce by robbery, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1951(a).

    The case was investigated by the Winston-Salem Police Department, the Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office, the Greensboro Police Department, the Burlington Police Department, the Rockingham County Sheriff’s Office, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Piedmont Safe Streets Task Force. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Tracy M. Williams-Durham.

    Since 1992, the FBI’s Safe Streets Violent Crime Initiative has successfully aligned FBI Agents, state and local law enforcement investigators, and federal and state prosecutors onto SSTFs to reduce violent crime. This nationwide initiative brings resources together in a “force multiplier concept” and utilizes the expertise of each agency.  SSTFs focus primarily upon street gang and drug-related violence through sustained, proactive, coordinated investigations to obtain prosecutions on violations such as racketeering, drug conspiracy, and firearms violations.

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: KDY Crew Member Sentenced to 180 Months for Armed Carjacking and Marijuana Distribution

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    WASHINGTON – Jovan Terrell Williams, 20, of the District of Columbia, was sentenced today in U.S. District Court to 180-months in federal prison in connection with the November 2023 armed carjacking of a Chevrolet Corvette and for his participation in the Kennedy Street Crew drug trafficking conspiracy.

                The sentencing was announced by U.S. Attorney Edward R. Martin, Jr., ATF Special Agent in Charge Anthony Spotswood of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives – Washington Field Division, Special Agent in Charge Ibrar A. Mian of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Washington Division, Special Agent in Charge Kareem Carter, of the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Washington D.C. Field Office, and Chief Pamela Smith of the Metropolitan Police Department.

                Williams, aka “Chewy,” pleaded guilty on September 5, 2024, to carjacking while armed and conspiracy to distribute more than 100 kilos of marijuana. In addition to the 180-month prison term, U.S. District Judge Beryl A. Howell ordered Williams to serve five years of supervised release.

                Williams is the last of 17 KDY members to be sentenced in this case. Yesterday, on April 17, co-defendant and KDY leader Kenneth Ademola Olugbenga, 29, was sentenced to 160 months in prison. 

                According to court documents, Williams was a member of the Kennedy Street Crew, a violent drug trafficking organization which operated open-air drug markets on an 11-block stretch of Kennedy Street in Northwest, as well as surrounding streets. Like many drug trafficking organizations (DTOs), KDY armed itself with fire power to facilitate the drug trade, defend its territory from rival crews, and commit other violent crimes. Following a takedown operation in June 2023, most defendants charged by indictment for their roles in the KDY DTO were apprehended. Williams, however, remained a fugitive for months.

                On November 17, 2023, at approximately 7:40 p.m., Williams—while still a fugitive—carjacked an individual at gunpoint on the 1800 block of Half Street, SW, stealing the victim’s 2021 Chevrolet Corvette. Williams was armed and wearing a ski mask when he and two associates ran from stolen Audi and Lexus sedans and advanced towards the owner of the Corvette, who knelt in surrender.

                While pointing a gun at the car owner, Williams took the keys to the Corvette, a Tesla key attached to an Apple Air Tag, and Apple Air Pods. Williams and his associates then drove away in the stolen cars. Approximately 40 minutes later, the stolen Audi and Lexus were used in an armed robbery of three individuals on 8th and P Streets NW.

                Later that evening, at 9:53 p.m., law enforcement tracked the Apple Air Tag stolen from the carjacking victim to an apartment building on the 4700 block of Benning Road NE. Officers found and arrested Williams and two associates in the building’s laundry room. Following the arrests, officers recovered a “ghost gun” from inside a washing machine. In a hole in the laundry room’s ceiling, officers found three more concealed firearms: a black pistol, a black Glock 19 with an obliterated serial number, and another black pistol outfitted with a “switch” that would allow it to fire as a machine gun.

                Earlier that year, on January 26, 2023, law enforcement executing a residential search warrant encountered Williams along with several other KDY crew members on the 1700 block of D Street, NE. Also in the residence, law enforcement recovered 10 firearms, assorted ammunition, 21 kilos of marijuana packed in suitcases, and 40 grams of fentanyl-laced pills. The firearms included a privately manufactured AR-style .223 caliber pistol (a ghost gun) modified to fire as a machine gun, and a Draco 7.62 x 39mm pistol. DNA profiles obtained from both firearms linked both weapons to Williams, who acknowledged that he possessed them in connection with the drug trafficking conspiracy.

                This investigation was conducted under the auspices of the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.

                This case was investigated by ATF’s Washington Field Division, the Metropolitan Police Department, the DEA’s Washington Division, and the FBI Washington Field Office Violent Crimes Task Force, with assistance from the IRS-Criminal Investigation Washington, D.C. Office.

                The matter is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Matthew W. Kinskey and Sitara Witanachchi of the of the Violence Reduction and Trafficking Offenses Section of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia. 

    KDY DEFENDANTS

    NAME

    AGE

    SENTENCES
    Kenneth Ademola Olugbenga 29 Sentenced March 17, 2025, to 160 Months in Prison after Pleading Guilty to Conspiracy to Distribute and Possess with the Intent to Distribute 500 Grams or more of Cocaine Base, and a Detectable Amount of Marijuana; and Possessing a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Offense.
    Khali Ahmed Brown, aka “Migo Lee” 24 Sentenced January 16, 2025, to 168 Months after Pleading Guilty to Conspiracy to Distribute 100 Kilograms or More of Marijuana and 400 Grams or More of Fentanyl and Oxycodone; Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Offense; and Assault with a Dangerous Weapon.
    Keion Michael Brown 21 Sentenced January 16, 2025, to 147 Months for Conspiracy to Distribute 100 Kilograms or More of Marijuana and Oxycodone and Possessing a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime.
    Miasiah Jamal Brown, aka “Michael Jamal Crawford” 23 Sentenced August 16, 2024, to Five Years for Possessing a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime.
    Tristan Miles Ware, aka “Greedy” 24 Sentenced December 13, 2024, to 120 Months for Conspiracy to Distribute 100 Kilos of Marijuana; and Possessing a Firearm During a Drug Trafficking Crime.
    Jovan Williams, aka “Chewy” and “Choo” 20 Sentenced April 18, 2025 to 180 Months for Conspiracy to Distribute 100 Kilograms or More of Marijuana and Armed Carjacking.
    Herman Eric-Bibmin Signou, aka “Herman Signour” 25 Sentenced March 22, 2024, to 40 Months for Conspiracy to Distribute and Possess with Intent to Distribute 100 Kilograms of More of Marijuana
    Cameron Xavier Reid 28 Sentenced May 31, 2024, to 60 Months for Conspiracy to Distribute 100 Kilograms of More of Marijuana.
    Warren Lawrence Fields, III, aka B-Dub 26 Sentenced May 16, 2024, to 60 Months for Possessing a Firearm During a Drug Trafficking Offense and for Conspiracy to Commit Money Laundering.
    Juwan Demetrius Clark, aka “Squirrel” 28 Sentenced January 10, 2025, to 37 Months for Conspiracy to Commit Money Laundering.
    Aaron DeAndre Mercer, aka “Curby,” 34 Sentenced September 13, 2024, to 120 Months for Conspiracy to Distribute 400 Grams or More of Fentanyl, Marijuana, and Cocaine Base.
    David Penn, aka “Turtle” 32 Sentenced November 15, 2024, to 220 Months for Conspiracy to Distribute Marijuana, 40 Grams or More of Fentanyl, and a Mixture of Cocaine Base; and Two Counts of Possessing a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Offense.
    Ronald Lynn Dorsey, aka “Ron G” and “HBGeezy” 31 Sentenced September 13, 2024, to 30 Months for Conspiracy to Commit Money Laundering.
    Antonio Reginald Bailey, aka “Boy Boy,” and “Fellow King” 24 Sentenced February 8, 2024, to 24 Months for Receiving a Firearm While Under Indictment.
    Anthony Trayon Bailey, aka “Fat Ant,” and “Bizzle” 29 Sentenced April 26, 2024, to 15 Months for Conspiracy to Distribute 100 Kilograms or More of Marijuana, 400 Grams or More of Fentanyl, and a Mixture and Substance Containing a Detectable Amount of Cocaine Base.
    Angel Enrique Suncar, aka “Coqui” 31 Sentenced December 12, 2024, to 60 Months for Possessing a Firearm During a Drug Trafficking Crime.
    Adebayo Adediji Green 31 Sentenced August 16, 2024, to 60 Months for Possessing a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime.

                Defendant Cameron Reid is from Falmouth, VA; all remaining defendants are from Washington, D.C.

    23cr202 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Attorney’s Office Filed 135 Border-Related Cases This Week

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    SAN DIEGO – Federal prosecutors in the Southern District of California filed 135 border-related cases this week, including charges of transportation of illegal aliens, bringing in aliens for financial gain, reentering the U.S. after deportation, deported alien found in the United States, and importation of controlled substances.

    The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of California is the fourth-busiest federal district, largely due to a high volume of border-related crimes. This district, encompassing San Diego and Imperial counties, shares a 140-mile border with Mexico. It includes the San Ysidro Port of Entry, the world’s busiest land border crossing, connecting San Diego (America’s eighth largest city) and Tijuana (Mexico’s second largest city).

    In addition to reactive border-related crimes, the Southern District of California also prosecutes a significant number of proactive cases related to terrorism, organized crime, drugs, white-collar fraud, violent crime, cybercrime, human trafficking and national security. Recent developments in those and other significant areas of prosecution can be found here.

    A sample of border-related arrests this week:

    • On April 15, Jesus Manuel Zuniga Huerta and Jose Alberto Flores Avalos of Mexico were arrested at the Otay Mesa Port of Entry and charged with importing deadly fentanyl into the U.S. According to a complaint, Customs and Border Protection officers discovered 148 pounds of fentanyl in the rear frame well of a tractor-trailer driven by Zuniga Huerta.
    • On April 15, Brian Jaime Sanchez, a Mexican national, was arrested and charged with Bringing in Aliens for Financial Gain. According to a complaint, Customs and Border Protection officers found an undocumented immigrant concealed in the trunk of Sanchez’s car as he attempted to cross the border at the Tecate Port of Entry.
    • On April 17, Sergio Villalba-Serrano, a Mexican national, was arrested and charged with Departed Alien Found in the United States. According to a complaint, Villalba-Serrano was taken into custody near the Tecate Port of Entry after his Cadillac was stopped by U.S. Border Patrol agents. Villalba-Serrano had previously been deported on October 26, 2019, from Laredo, Texas.

    Also this week, a number of defendants with criminal records were convicted by a jury or sentenced for border-related crimes such as illegally re-entering the U.S. after previous deportation. Here are a few of those cases:

    • On April 10, 2025, following a three-day trial, a federal jury convicted seven-time felon Miguel Rolon of conspiring to bring in aliens and bringing in two aliens for financial gain.  During trial, the evidence showed that Rolon picked up two Guatemalan nationals at a stash house in Tijuana, Mexico, coached the aliens to weave a fictious backstory to customs officers, and attempted to smuggle the same aliens into the United States using others’ U.S. passports at the San Ysidro Port of Entry. Rolon is scheduled to be sentenced on July 7, 2025.
    • On April 18, 2024, Javier Gracia-Meza, a Mexican national, who was previously convicted of a felony illegal reentry offense, was sentenced in federal court to 15 months in custody for again entering the United States illegally.
    • On April 18, 2025, Cruz Torres-Gonzalez, a Mexican national who was previously convicted of five felony immigration offenses, was sentenced in federal court to 54 months in custody for again entering the U.S illegally.
    • On April 18, 2025, Pablo Lazcano-Quinonez, a Mexican national who was previously convicted of felony conspiracy to distribute marijuana, felony possession/use of drug paraphernalia, and two illegal reentry offenses, was sentenced in federal court to 15 months in custody for again entering the U.S illegally.
    • On April 18, 2025, Jesus Eduardo Morga-Ceballos – a Mexican national who was previously convicted of a felony controlled substance offense in 2014, a misdemeanor criminal threat with intent to terrorize in 2014, and a felony illegal reentry in 2023 – was sentenced in federal court to 101 days in custody for again entering the U.S illegally.

    Pursuant to the Department’s Operation Take Back America priorities, federal law enforcement has focused immigration prosecutions on undocumented aliens who are engaged in criminal activity in the U.S., including those who commit drug and firearms crimes, who have serious criminal records, or who have active warrants for their arrest. Federal authorities have also been prioritizing investigations and prosecutions against drug, firearm, and human smugglers and those who endanger and threaten the safety of our communities and the law enforcement officers who protect the community.

    The immigration cases were referred or supported by federal law enforcement partners, including Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations (ICE ERO), Customs and Border Protection, U.S. Border Patrol, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the U.S. Marshals Service (USMS), and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), with the support and assistance of state and local law enforcement partners.

    Indictments and criminal complaints are merely allegations and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cantwell, Murray, Randall Introduce Legislation to Place Lower Elwha Klallam Tribe and Quinault Indian Nation Lands into Trust

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington Maria Cantwell
    04.18.25
    Cantwell, Murray, Randall Introduce Legislation to Place Lower Elwha Klallam Tribe and Quinault Indian Nation Lands into Trust
    The Lower Elwha Kallam Tribe Project Lands Restoration Act is one of the last steps of the Elwha and Glines Canyon Dam removal project & will help restore fisheries
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Patty Murray (D-WA) and Representative Emily Randall (D, WA-06) introduced a pair of bills to transfer land back to the Lower Elwha Klallam Tribe and Quinault Indian Nation to be held in trust. Land is taken into trust when land is transferred to the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) to be held in trust for the benefit of the tribe.
    “The Lower Elwha Klallam Tribe led a historic regional effort to restore salmon runs by removing obsolete dams along Elwha River,” said Sen. Cantwell. “Now, it’s time to return over 1,000 acres of land that was taken to build the dams and allow the Lower Elwha Klallam people to reclaim ancestral lands.” 
    “For generations, the Lower Elwha Klallam Tribe have acted as stewards of the lands along the Elwha River—transferring this land back to Tribal ownership is not only the right thing to do, but it will support important Tribal-led habitat restoration and salmon recovery efforts, improving these precious ecosystems for everyone,” said Senator Murray. “As the Trump administration shutters Bureau of Indian Affairs and Indian Health Service facilities, fires the people responsible for ensuring our nation is living up to its trust obligations to Tribes, and terminates federal funding that is owed to our Tribes, I will keep fighting back with everything I have and working to ensure that Tribes in the Pacific Northwest have the support they need to not just survive, but to thrive.”
    “Since time immemorial the Lower Elwha Klallam and the Quinault Indian Nation have stewarded these lands and waters for today’s inhabitants, and for the benefit of the next seven generations,” said Rep. Randall. “These bills — transferring land into trust and restoring the original reservation lands — are part of our federal government’s promise, our constitutional responsibility, and our treaty obligation to protect Tribal Lands and the people who call them home.”
    Lower Elwha Klallam Tribe Project Lands Restoration Act:
    This bill would transfer three parcels of land totaling 1,082 acres to the BIA to be held in trust for the Lower Elwha Klallam Tribe.
    The land is just outside the boundaries of the Olympic National Park and includes 1,061 acres originally acquired by the National Park Service to demolish two dams along the Elwha River.
    The two remaining parcels were acquired by the U.S. Department of the Interior to construct a pipeline to transfer surface water to the Tribe’s new fish hatchery – the House of Salmon.
    The land transfer would boost habitat restoration efforts led by the Lower Elwha Tribe and federal agencies, aiding in the recovery of all five species of Pacific salmon and other native fish, including Chinook, coho, chum, pink and sockeye salmon, along with steelhead and bull trout.
    This bill is an important action in the decades long effort to restore the Elwha River.
    “The Tribe is excited by the introduction of this bill by Senators Maria Cantwell and Patty Murray and Congresswoman Emily Randall,” said Chairwoman Frances Charles, Lower Elwha Klallam Tribe. “This bill is an important final action to the dam removal project and the restoration of the Elwha River ecosystem and salmon fisheries. The transfer of these lands along the Elwha River to the Tribe will safeguard the federal investment in the restoration of the river and fisheries through tribal management of the resources. The bill will also protect the Tribe’s sacred cultural homelands by restoring them to the stewardship of the Tribe.”
    The proposal for the land to be taken into trust is supported by WSDOT, the Makah Tribe, and the City of Port Angeles.
    “Returning 72 acres of the Quinault Indian Nation’s original reservation will restore the Tribe’s ancestral lands and help preserve one of the area’s last remnants of old growth forest as a living museum for future generations,” said Sen. Cantwell.
    “The Quinault Indian Nation Land Transfer Act will right a historic wrong by transferring 72 acres of land from the Forest Service to be held in trust for the Quinault Nation, more than 100 years after the forced breakup and sale of their lands irrevocably changed their way of life,” said Senator Murray. “I’m proud to be part of this important effort to fulfill our nation’s promise to the people of the Quinault Indian Nation—and I’ll keep doing everything I can to fight back against Trump and Elon’s disastrous cuts across the federal government that are hurting Tribes and undermining our nation’s ability to live up to our trust and treaty obligations.”
    Quinault Indian Nation Land Transfer Act:
    This bill would transfer 72 acres from the Forest Service to the Bureau of Indian Affairs to be held in trust for the Quinault Indian Nation.
    The 72 acres, known as Allotment 1157, was originally part of the Quinault reservation that was established by the Treaty of Olympia of 1856.
    After the passage of the Dawes Act of 1887, the Quinault Indian Reservation was separated into individual allotments and in 1928, Allotment 1157 was given to away through a Trust Deed signed by President Calvin Coolidge.
    The Allotment was eventually sold to a timber company and was purchased by the U.S. Forest Service in 1996 for conservation.
    Allotment 1157 is one of the last remnants of old growth forest, particularly old growth cedar, that were a significant part of the Quinault’s reservation.
    The Quinault Nation plans to utilize this land as a living museum for educational purposes, where students and college interns will learn how to preserve other historical places. Trees and downed wood on this land will be utilized for cultural purposes as has been done in the past. 
    The proposal for the land to be taken into trust is supported by Jefferson and Grays Harbor County, the Hoh Tribe, and the Quileute Tribe. A document containing written letters of support is available HERE.
    With the passage of the Dawes Act in 1867, the Quinault Reservation was broken up into 80-acre allotments, many given to individual Tribal Members. As private interests quickly moved in to buy up the allotments, including allotment 1157, reservation land was lost to the Tribe.
    “The forced breakup of our reservation erased one of the foundations of our way of life, our view that the land and waters of our homeland were for communal use by all. The Quinault Indian Nation Land Transfer Act will help right a historic wrong,” said Quinault Indian Nation President Guy Capoeman. “This legislation helps fulfill the promise the United States government made to the Quinault Nation that the lands set aside for the Quinault Indian Reservation will always belong to the Quinault Nation. We thank Senators Maria Cantwell and Patty Murray and Congresswoman Emily Randall for introducing this important legislation and for her leadership in Congress.” 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Two Individuals Indicted for Meth Trafficking

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – A Mountain Home, Ar., woman and a Bakersfield, Mo., man were arrested today following a nine-count indictment by a federal grand jury for trafficking methamphetamine in southwest Missouri.

    Virginia Perreira, 36, and John Zastrow, 34, were charged in a nine-count indictment returned under seal by a federal grand jury in Springfield, Mo., on April 1, 2025. The indictment was unsealed and made public today following the arrests of Perreira and Zastrow.

    The indictment alleges that Perreira and Zastrow participated in a conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine from March 12, 2024, to Jan. 22, 2025. Perreira is charged with one count of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and four counts of distribution of methamphetamine. Zastrow is charged with one count of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine, three counts of distribution of methamphetamine, one count of possessing methamphetamine with the intent to distribute, and one count of unlawfully possessing a firearm.

    The charges contained in this indictment are simply accusations, and not evidence of guilt. Evidence supporting the charges must be presented to a federal trial jury, whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence.

    Under federal statutes, if convicted of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine a maximum prison sentence of life imprisonment and a fine of up to $10,000,000 is authorized. If convicted of distribution of methamphetamine, a prison sentence of up to 40 years and a fine of up to $5,000,000 is authorized under federal statutes. The charge of unlawful possession of a firearm has a maximum prison sentence of 15 years and a fine of up to $250,000 authorized under federal statutes. The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes, as the sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled after the completion of a presentence investigation by the United States Probation Office.

    This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Christine I. Schlegl. It was investigated by the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the South Central Missouri Drug Task Force, and the Ozark County, Mo., Sheriff’s Office. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SR 302 fish barrier removal work begins April 28 in Mason County near Victor

    Source: Washington State News 2

    Reduced speed limit, lane closures needed for project prep work

    VICTOR – Work to replace two undersized culverts that carry Victor Creek under State Route 302 in Mason County will start Monday, April 28, and travelers should prepare for delays.

    Construction crews working for the Washington State Department of Transportation are correcting barriers to fish migration in Victor Creek. The creek runs under SR 302 just north and west of East Highlander Drive. The older, smaller culverts block access to salmon, steelhead and bull trout. Replacing the culverts helps safeguard the state’s fish population, the environment and the economy and helps satisfy a federal court injunction. The new culverts also make the roadway more resilient to flooding.

    Keeping people moving during construction

    Starting Monday, April 28, crews will begin building a temporary single-lane bypass road to keep travelers moving while they build the new 42-foot-long bridge over the creek. The bypass lane will help keep traffic flowing once the culvert work begins this summer.

    Two signals will alternate directions of traffic through the work zone, including both drivers and bicyclists. The current 40 mph speed limit will be temporarily reduced to 25 mph between milepost 4.0 and milepost 4.3 during construction.

    Travelers are advised to add travel time to reach their destinations.

    This project is expected to be complete in fall 2025.

    Travelers can receive email updates about roadwork on state highways in Mason County. Real-time information is available via the WSDOT app and WSDOT Travel Center Map.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NASA Glenn to Test Air Quality Monitors Aboard Space Station

    Source: NASA

    As NASA prepares to return to the Moon, studying astronaut health and safety is a top priority. Scientists monitor and analyze every part of the International Space Station crew’s daily life—down to the air they breathe. These studies are helping NASA prepare for long-term human exploration of the Moon and, eventually, Mars.
    As part of this effort, NASA’s Glenn Research Center in Cleveland is sending three air quality monitors to the space station to test them for potential future use on the Moon. The monitors are slated to launch on Monday, April 21, aboard the 32nd SpaceX commercial resupply services mission for NASA.
    Like our homes here on Earth, the space station gets dusty from skin flakes, clothing fibers, and personal care products like deodorant. Because the station operates in microgravity, particles do not have an opportunity to settle and instead remain floating in the air. Filters aboard the orbiting laboratory collect these particles to ensure the air remains safe and breathable.
    Astronauts will face another air quality risk when they work and live on the Moon—lunar dust.
    “From Apollo, we know lunar dust can cause irritation when breathed into the lungs,” said Claire Fortenberry, principal investigator, Exploration Aerosol Monitors project, NASA Glenn. “Earth has weather to naturally smooth dust particles down, but there is no atmosphere on the Moon, so lunar dust particles are sharper and craggier than Earth dust. Lunar dust could potentially impact crew health and damage hardware.”
    Future space stations and lunar habitats will need monitors capable of measuring lunar dust to ensure air filtration systems are functioning properly. Fortenberry and her team selected commercially available monitors for flight and ground demonstration to evaluate their performance in a spacecraft environment, with the goal of providing a dust monitor for future exploration systems.

    Glenn is sending three commercial monitors to the space station to test onboard air quality for seven months. All three monitors are small: no bigger than a shoe box. Each one measures a specific property that provides a snapshot of the air quality aboard the station. Researchers will analyze the monitors based on weight, functionality, and ability to accurately measure and identify small concentrations of particles in the air.
    The research team will receive data from the space station every two weeks. While those monitors are orbiting Earth, Fortenberry will have three matching monitors at Glenn. Engineers will compare functionality and results from the monitors used in space to those on the ground to verify they are working as expected in microgravity. Additional ground testing will involve dust simulants and smoke.
    Air quality monitors like the ones NASA is testing also have Earth-based applications. The monitors are used to investigate smoke plumes from wildfires, haze from urban pollution, indoor pollution from activities like cooking and cleaning, and how virus-containing droplets spread within an enclosed space.
    Results from the investigation will help NASA evaluate which monitors could accompany astronauts to the Moon and eventually Mars. NASA will allow the manufacturers to review results and ensure the monitors work as efficiently and effectively as possible. Testing aboard the space station could help companies investigate pollution problems here on Earth and pave the way for future missions to the Red Planet.

    “Going to the Moon gives us a chance to monitor for planetary dust and the lunar environment,” Fortenberry said. “We can then apply what we learn from lunar exploration to predict how humans can safely explore Mars.”
    NASA commercial resupply missions to the International Space Station deliver scientific investigations in the areas of biology and biotechnology, Earth and space science, physical sciences, and technology development and demonstrations. Cargo resupply from U.S. companies ensures a national capability to deliver scientific research to the space station, significantly increasing NASA’s ability to conduct new investigations aboard humanity’s laboratory in space.
    Learn more about NASA and SpaceX’s 32nd commercial resupply mission to the space station:
    https://www.nasa.gov/nasas-spacex-crs-32/

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: West Virginians should be prepared for a storm anytime

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: West Virginians should be prepared for a storm anytime

    West Virginians should be prepared for a storm anytime

    West Virginians should be prepared for a storm anytimeCHARLESTON, W

    Va

    – A storm can impact the residents of West Virginia at any time so it is important to be prepared year-round

    Make sure you can receive alerts and warnings quickly through several different technologies no matter where you are–at home, at school, at work, or in the community

    Know your area’s severe weather risk and practice your emergency plan with your family and pets

    In other words, know whether to shelter in place or go to your identified safe place, which could mean leaving town or deciding to stay with friends or family

     Before extreme weather happens, it’s a good idea to invest in a NOAA Weather Radio

    A public service offered by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, weather information is broadcast directly and continuously from your nearest National Weather Service office

    Click Emergency Alerts | Ready

    gov to learn more

    Some communities use the Emergency Alert System, a national public warning system, to deliver warnings of imminent threats to specific areas

    A severe weather threat such as a tornado warning can be sent by state and local public safety officials

    If your community has outdoor warning sirens, become familiar with their warning tone(s)

    If you don’t have a safe room you can access in an emergency, the next best protection is a small, interior, windowless room or basement on the lowest level of your home or a sturdy building

      12 Ways to Prepare: Sign up for alerts and warnings, make a plan, save for a rainy day, practice emergency drills, test family communications, safeguard documents, plan with your neighbors, make your homes safer, know your evacuation routes, make a supply kit, get involved in your community, and document and insure your property

      For more information on West Virginia’s disaster recovery, visit emd

    wv

    gov, West Virginia Emergency Management Division Facebook page, www

    fema

    gov/disaster/4861, and www

    facebook

    com/FEMA

     ### FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during and after disasters

    Follow FEMA online, on X @FEMA or @FEMAEspanol, on FEMA’s Facebook page or Español page and at FEMA’s YouTube account

    Also, follow on X FEMA_Cam

     For preparedness information follow the Ready Campaign on X at @Ready

    gov, on Instagram @Ready

    gov or on the Ready Facebook page

       
    kimberly

    fuller
    Fri, 04/18/2025 – 12:50

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: At Harrisburg Bureau of Fire Station 1, Governor Shapiro, First Family, and Chef Robert Irvine Serve Lunch to Firefighters and First Responders, Honoring Their Heroic Response to Arson at Governor’s Residence

    Source: US State of Pennsylvania

    April 17, 2025 – Harrisburg, PA

    At Harrisburg Bureau of Fire Station 1, Governor Shapiro, First Family, and Chef Robert Irvine Serve Lunch to Firefighters and First Responders, Honoring Their Heroic Response to Arson at Governor’s Residence

    Governor Josh Shapiro, First Lady Lori Shapiro, and their family visited Harrisburg Bureau of Fire Station 1 to serve lunch and thank the firefighters who responded to the arson attack at the Governor’s Residence this past Sunday. The First Family was joined by Chef Robert Irvine, who helped prepare and serve the meal. The Robert Irvine Foundation sponsored the meal – and have sponsored similar meals alongside the Governor and First Lady for Pennsylvania veterans at the Governor’s Residence.

    Firefighters from Harrisburg Bureau of Fire Station 1, Progress Volunteer Fire Department,Lemoyne Volunteer Fire Department, and the Defense Logistics Agency in New Cumberland all responded to the early morning fire. Governor Shapiro recognized members of the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) Local 428 for their courage in protecting both the community and the First Family.

    “This weekend, our family witnessed the incredible bravery and excellence of our firefighters and first responders,” said Governor Shapiro. “These brave firefighters ran towards danger to keep us safe and today, my family and I were honored to serve them lunch and thank them not just for what they did for us – but for what they do every day to keep families all across Harrisburg safe. Chef Irvine does extraordinary work to honor first responders and veterans across the globe – I’m grateful to him and his team for coming out today to help us give back to the folks who give so much to their communities.”

    List of Speakers:
    Governor Josh Shapiro
    First Lady Lori Shapiro

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: In Visit to Bethlehem Fire Department, Governor Shapiro Highlights Plan to Increase State Support for Pennsylvania Firefighters

    Source: US State of Pennsylvania

    April 18, 2025 – Bethlehem, PA

    In Visit to Bethlehem Fire Department, Governor Shapiro Highlights Plan to Increase State Support for Pennsylvania Firefighters

    Governor Josh Shapiro visited the Bethlehem Memorial Fire Station to thank first responders for their work and highlight key proposals in his 2025-26 proposed budget aimed at strengthening fire companies and preventing disasters before they happen.

    In the face of significant danger, Pennsylvania’s professional and volunteer firefighters continue to rise to the challenge, responding to more calls even as their ranks decline. That’s why the Governor is continuing to advocate for more state support to help firefighters get the equipment, personnel, and resources they need to build safer communities for all Pennsylvanians.

    Governor Shapiro has witnessed firsthand how firefighters run towards danger to keep us safe. Yesterday, the Governor and the First Family joined Chef Robert Irvine and the Robert Irvine Foundation at Harrisburg Bureau of Fire Station 1 to thank the firefighters who responded to the arson attack at the Pennsylvania Governor’s Residence on April 13th.

    List of Speakers:
    Michael Reich, Fire Chief for the City of Bethlehem Fire Department
    Governor Josh Shapiro
    President Bob Brooks, Pennsylvania Professional Fire Fighters Association
    Bethlehem Mayor J. William Reynolds
    Senator Lisa Boscola
    Representative Jeanne McNeill
    Representative Jennifer O’Mara

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kansas City Resident Arrested and Charged in Connection with Tesla Arson

    Source: US State of California

    Note: View the affidavit here.

    A Kansas City resident, attending college in Boston, was arrested and made his initial court appearance today in U.S. District Court in Massachusetts, to face federal charges related to an arson at a Tesla business in Kansas City, Missouri.

    According to the criminal complaint, filed in the Western District of Missouri and unsealed today, Owen McIntire, 19, is charged with one count of unlawful possession of an unregistered destructive device and one count of malicious damage by fire of any property used in interstate commerce.

    “Let me be extremely clear to anyone who still wants to firebomb a Tesla property: you will not evade us,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “You will be arrested. You will be prosecuted. You will spend decades behind bars. It is not worth it.”

    “Crimes have consequences. The people behind these violent and dangerous attacks on private property will face decades in prison — we will not make deals and we will not negotiate,” said Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche. 

    “This is the second arrest this week of a suspect charged with targeting Tesla, more proof that the FBI will not stand for these destructive acts,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “These actions are dangerous, they are illegal, and we are going to arrest those responsible. We will work with our partners at the Department of Justice to hold accountable anyone who commits such crimes. I commend our FBI teams in Kansas City and Boston for their work.”

    “ATF’s Special Agents and forensic experts recovered and analyzed key evidence—including Molotov cocktails—used in this deliberate and dangerous arson attack,” said Acting Director Dan Driscoll of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF). “This wasn’t vandalism — it was a violent criminal act. Thanks to the relentless work of ATF special agents, and our close coordination with the FBI and local law enforcement, we now have a suspect in custody. I am committed to ensuring ATF continues to stand on the front lines of public safety. ATF will not tolerate those who incite political violence in our communities.”

    According to an affidavit filed in support of the federal criminal complaint, on Thursday, March 17, at approximately 11:16 p.m., an officer with the Kansas City, Missouri, Police Department (KCMOPD) in the vicinity of the Kansas City (KC) Tesla Center observed smoke coming from a grey Cybertruck parked in the KC Tesla Center parking lot. The officer also observed an unbroken suspected incendiary device near the burning Cybertruck. KCMOPD recovered the unbroken incendiary device, also known as a Molotov cocktail. The fire spread from the Cybertruck to a second Cybertruck in the lot. The Kansas City Fire Department responded to the scene to extinguish the fire.

    The Cybertrucks had sale prices of $105,485 and $107,485. Additionally, two charging stations were damaged by the fire, each of which is valued at approximately $550.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Sean Foley and Trey Alford for the Western District of Missouri and Trial Attorney Patrick Cashman of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section are prosecuting the case.

    The FBI Kansas City and Boston Field Offices, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Kansas City, Missouri, Police Department are investigating 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 OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Levin & Senator Padilla Host Roundtable with Veterans and Service Providers in San Diego to Highlight Impact of VA Cuts

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Mike Levin (CA-49)

    April 16, 2025

    Rep. Levin & Senator Padilla discuss importance of protecting essential VA benefits

    San Diego, CA — Today, U.S. Representative Mike Levin (D-Calif.-49) and U.S. Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) hosted a roundtable in San Diego alongside veterans, Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) service providers, and regional stakeholders to highlight the importance of protecting veterans’ benefits and discuss concerns regarding the Trump Administration’s plan for mass cuts to the VA workforce. The Administration is planning to cut more than 80,000 VA jobs, threatening access to the health care, housing services, educational opportunities, and other essential benefits veterans deserve.

    The demand for VA services is high. The VA delivered a record number of health care appointments and benefits in 2024, including over 127 million appointments. Nearly 800,000 veterans have enrolled in VA health care since the Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics (PACT) Act was signed into law in 2022, expanding VA benefits to those exposed to toxic substances. Padilla promised to continue fighting to defend these essential PACT Act benefits for the hundreds of thousands of now VA-eligible veterans.

    Padilla also highlighted his bipartisan legislation introduced last week, the Housing Unhoused Disabled Veterans Act, to ensure veterans experiencing homelessness and receiving disability payments maintain access to crucial housing support. California has the most veterans in the nation and was home to 28 percent of all veterans experiencing homelessness in the United States last year, according to the Department of Housing and Urban Development’s January 2024 point-in-time count. There are 9,300 homeless veterans across the state, including 865 homeless veterans in San Diego, according to the same count.

    “When Americans enlist, they swear an oath to defend our nation. And in return, we owe it to them to thank them for their sacrifice and take care of them after their service. Is this Elon’s way of saying thank you? With every day that goes by, more and more veterans are at risk of being fired,” said Representative Levin. “I won’t stand for it, and I will fight to ensure it won’t happen anymore. This constant chaos is eroding the public trust and is testing the limits of the American public’s patience. I want to be clear: I support efficiency as much as anyone and I don’t support bureaucracy for bureaucracy’s sake. But what Trump and Musk are doing is not making government work better, and on top of that it is unconstitutional. While the Trump Administration is hell-bent on cutting critical programs for our veterans, Senator Padilla and I are committed to serving them.”

    “Veterans who have dedicated their lives to support our nation deserve our complete, enduring support, but they are facing serious threats as the Trump Administration proposes sweeping cuts to the VA workforce,” said Senator Padilla. “Our veterans earned their benefits through their service in uniform — and it’s offensive that they could now be on the chopping block. We should be doing more for our veterans, not less, and I’m going to keep speaking out against these indiscriminate, massive cuts and make sure our veterans can continue to access essential health care, housing, and education services.”

    ## 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Hong Kong Customs fully supports National Security Education Day (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Hong Kong Customs fully supports National Security Education Day  
    The Open Day featured meaningful activities, including an exhibition on national security education to enhance public understanding of national security and introduce Customs’ work in safeguarding this key area. Visitors enjoyed the performances by the Customs Detector Dog Team and the Dragon and Lion Dance Team as well as the display of firearms and weapons. Game booths and an inflatable jumping castle for children were also set up. The games were designed to introduce the department’s responsibility of performing its gatekeeping role in an interactive manner. In particular, the virtual reality games enabled the participants to experience Customs work in a simulated environment, while a number of fitness tests including an isometric strength test and standing long jump arranged at the recruitment booth to strengthen the participants’ understanding of Customs fitness requirements.
     
    The Deputy Chief Secretary for Administration, Mr Cheuk Wing-hing, also attended the event and took part in an eye-dotting ceremony to kick off a dragon-lion dance performance with the Commissioner of Customs and Excise, Mr Chan Tsz-tat.
     
    The public’s response to the open day was overwhelming, demonstrating that the event helped enhance their understanding of the significance of Customs in safeguarding national security. 
    Issued at HKT 20:00

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: INS SUNAYNA (IOS SAGAR) ARRIVES IN MOZAMBIQUE UNDER SAGAR MISSION TO STRENGTHEN MARITIME TIES

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 18 APR 2025 6:05PM by PIB Delhi

    INS Sunayna, currently on deployment to Africa as Indian Ocean Ship IOS SAGAR arrived at Nacala Port, Mozambique on 17 Apr 25. The ship had earlier participated in the inaugural session of the India-Africa maritime partnership exercise AIKEYME 25, at Dar-es-Salaam, Tanzania.

    IOS SAGAR is a unique mission based on the Government of India’s regional initiative of maritime collaboration titled SAGAR, which stands for Security and Growth for All in the Region. The mission is aimed at fostering international cooperation between India and several African countries.

    The ship was flagged off on her mission from Karwar on 05 Apr 25 by Hon’ble Raksha Mantri. She had embarked 44 naval personnel from nine friendly foreign nations, including Comoros, Kenya, Mozambique, Seychelles, Sri Lanka, and South Africa, on her departure from India.

    On her arrival at Nacala, the ship was welcomed by Commander Nelson H. Mabjaia, Chief of Commission, with the Mozambique Naval Band in attendance.

    A range of collaborative activities and outreach programs are planned to be held during the port stay, aimed at promoting capacity building, operational synergy, and community engagements with the Mozambique Navy. These include joint training on Visit, Board, Search and Seizure (VBSS) drills as well as firefighting and damage control procedures. The ship will also host a deck reception on board for local officials and dignitaries in a celebration of maritime friendship.

    Community interactions by the ship’s crew will feature a yoga session to promote wellness and health, ship visits for Indian diaspora and local school children, an interschool quiz competition focused on maritime awareness and regional history as well as a guided tour for military cadets of the Nampula Military Academy, to offer firsthand insights into naval operations.

    On completion of her port visit, the ship will embark personnel of Mozambique Navy as Sea Riders for a joint surveillance mission in the Mozambique Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), reaffirming the shared commitment to maritime security and countering non-traditional threats.

    The port call marks a significant milestone enhancing maritime cooperation and interoperability between the Indian and Mozambique Navies. It also underscores India’s enduring commitment to strengthening maritime partnerships in the Indian Ocean Region, enhancing mutual trust, and fostering collective regional security in consonance with the vision of the SAGAR initiative.

    _____________________________________________________________

    VM/SKS                                                                                                        90/25

    (Release ID: 2122722) Visitor Counter : 78

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Kansas City Resident Arrested and Charged in Connection with Tesla Arson

    Source: United States Attorneys General 7

    Note: View the criminal complaint here.

    A Kansas City resident, attending college in Boston, was arrested and made his initial court appearance today in U.S. District Court in Massachusetts, to face federal charges related to an arson at a Tesla business in Kansas City, Missouri.

    According to the criminal complaint, filed in the Western District of Missouri and unsealed today, Owen McIntire, 19, is charged with one count of unlawful possession of an unregistered destructive device and one count of malicious damage by fire of any property used in interstate commerce.

    “Let me be extremely clear to anyone who still wants to firebomb a Tesla property: you will not evade us,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “You will be arrested. You will be prosecuted. You will spend decades behind bars. It is not worth it.”

    “Crimes have consequences. The people behind these violent and dangerous attacks on private property will face decades in prison — we will not make deals and we will not negotiate,” said Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche. 

    “This is the second arrest this week of a suspect charged with targeting Tesla, more proof that the FBI will not stand for these destructive acts,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “These actions are dangerous, they are illegal, and we are going to arrest those responsible. We will work with our partners at the Department of Justice to hold accountable anyone who commits such crimes. I commend our FBI teams in Kansas City and Boston for their work.”

    “ATF’s Special Agents and forensic experts recovered and analyzed key evidence—including Molotov cocktails—used in this deliberate and dangerous arson attack,” said Acting Director Dan Driscoll of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF). “This wasn’t vandalism — it was a violent criminal act. Thanks to the relentless work of ATF special agents, and our close coordination with the FBI and local law enforcement, we now have a suspect in custody. I am committed to ensuring ATF continues to stand on the front lines of public safety. ATF will not tolerate those who incite political violence in our communities.”

    According to an affidavit filed in support of the federal criminal complaint, on Thursday, March 17, at approximately 11:16 p.m., an officer with the Kansas City, Missouri, Police Department (KCMOPD) in the vicinity of the Kansas City (KC) Tesla Center observed smoke coming from a grey Cybertruck parked in the KC Tesla Center parking lot. The officer also observed an unbroken suspected incendiary device near the burning Cybertruck. KCMOPD recovered the unbroken incendiary device, also known as a Molotov cocktail. The fire spread from the Cybertruck to a second Cybertruck in the lot. The Kansas City Fire Department responded to the scene to extinguish the fire.

    The Cybertrucks had sale prices of $105,485 and $107,485. Additionally, two charging stations were damaged by the fire, each of which is valued at approximately $550.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Sean Foley and Trey Alford for the Western District of Missouri and Trial Attorney Patrick Cashman of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section are prosecuting the case.

    The FBI Kansas City and Boston Field Offices, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Kansas City, Missouri, Police Department are investigating 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 USA: SBA Relief Still Available to California Small Businesses and Private Nonprofits Affected by the Marysville Hotel Fire and Road Closures

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is reminding eligible small businesses and private nonprofit (PNP) organizations in California of the May 19, deadline to apply for low interest federal disaster loans to offset economic losses caused by the Marysville Hotel fire and road closures which occurred June 15, 2024.

    The disaster declaration covers the California counties of Butte, Nevada, Placer, Plumas, Sierra, Sutter and Yuba.

    Under this declaration, SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is available to eligible small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries and PNPs impacted by financial losses directly related to this disaster. The SBA is unable to provide disaster loans to agricultural producers, farmers, or ranchers, except for aquaculture enterprises.

    EIDLs are for working capital needs caused by the disaster and are available even if the small business or PNP did not suffer any physical damage. They may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable, and other bills not paid due to the disaster.

    “SBA loans help eligible small businesses cover operating expenses after a disaster, which is crucial for their recovery,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the SBA. “These loans not only help business owners get back on their feet but also play a key role in sustaining local economies in the aftermath of a disaster.”

    The loan amount can be up to $2 million with interest rates as low as 4% for small businesses and 3.25% for PNPs, with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not accrue, and payments are not due, until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.

    To apply online, visit sba.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.

    Submit completed loan applications to SBA no later than May 19.

    ###

    About the U.S. Small Business Administration

    The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow, expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: MS-13 Member Sentenced to Over 12 Years for Kidnapping, Witness Retaliation, and a Firearms Offense

    Source: US State of North Dakota

    An MS-13 member and Honduran national, illegally in the United States, was sentenced today to 147 months in prison for kidnapping, retaliating against a federal witness, and unlawful possession of a firearm.

    According to court documents and statements made in court, on Nov. 5, 2023, Bayron Wuifredo Santos-Recarte, 27, of Honduras, together with other associates of La Mara Salvatrucha 13, better known as MS-13, kidnapped a former federal witness at gunpoint in the parking lot of a laundromat in Nashville, Tennessee. The witness was kidnapped because, eight months prior, he had testified during a federal racketeering trial against MS-13 members. Specifically, the witness testified that MS-13 members tried to shoot and murder him on two occasions over a drug dispute.

    During the kidnapping, the victim was held in a truck for hours while being assaulted with a firearm, hammer, and machete. While Santos-Recarte and others assaulted the witness, they also questioned him about why he testified against MS-13 and threatened him with death. After the victim was finally able to escape and call for help, he was treated at a local hospital for serious injuries, which included fractured bones, internal bleeding, and an injury to his kidney.

    “The defendant, an MS-13 member, kidnapped a former federal witness and tortured him with a machete, hammer, and gun. This violence and obstruction of the American legal system is core MS-13 conduct and exemplifies why MS-13 has been designated a foreign terrorist organization,” said Matthew R. Galeotti, Head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “The Department remains focused on eliminating this organization. There is more to come. Thank you to the prosecutors, ATF, and our local law enforcement partners for their relentless pursuit of justice.”

    “We will do whatever it takes to protect witnesses from harm,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Robert E. McGuire for the Middle District of Tennessee. “If a witness is retaliated against, our office will bring the full might of federal law enforcement to bear on holding those responsible accountable for their crimes.”

    “On numerous occasions, individuals are silenced from ‘speaking out’ due to threats, intimidation, or the risks of serious harm,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Jason Stankiewicz of the Nashville Field Division of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). “In this case, the victim/witness was kidnapped, terrorized, and physically assaulted by relentless, gang-affiliated criminals. Witness intimidation is a serious federal offense and anyone who retaliates against a government witness will be held fully accountable under the law. ATF remains committed to working alongside our state, local, and federal law enforcement partners to reduce violent crime and diminish the presence and influence of these dangerous and deadly criminal organizations in the communities that we serve.”

    When identified as one of the kidnappers and confronted by law enforcement, Santos-Recarte admitted driving the truck used in the kidnapping and knowing that the witness testified against MS-13 members during a trial. Santos-Recarte also admitted helping others force the witness into the truck at gunpoint and being present while others assaulted the victim. When federal agents arrested Santos-Recarte, he was in possession of an assault rifle.

    In December 2024, Santos-Recarte pleaded guilty to kidnapping, retaliation against a federal witness, unlawful possession of a firearm by an illegal alien, and conspiracy charges. After he serves his sentence, he will be deported from the United States.

    The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Explosives, and Firearms investigated the case with assistance from the Metro Nashville Police Department.

    Trial Attorneys Matthew Hoff and Christopher Matthews of the Criminal Division’s Violent Crime and Racketeering Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Ahmed Safeeullah of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Tennessee prosecuted the case.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Felon Indicted for Illegal Possession of a Firearm Following Traffic Stop Arrest on Constitution Ave

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    WASHINGTON – Timothy Clark, 30, of the District, has been indicted on a federal firearms charge as part of the “Make D.C. Safe Again” initiative. The indictment was announced by U.S. Attorney Edward R. Martin Jr., Special Agent in Charge Anthony Spotswood of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), and Chief Pamela Smith of the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD).

                Make D.C. Safe Again is a public safety initiative led by U.S. Attorney Martin that is surging resources to reduce violent crime in the District of Columbia. This initiative was created to address gun violence in the District, prioritize federal firearms violations, pursue tougher penalties for offenders, and seek detention for federal firearms violators.

                Clark is charged in an indictment unsealed in federal court with one count of unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon.

                According to court documents, on May 10, 2024, an individual, identified as Timothy Clark, was arrested following a traffic stop on Constitution Avenue.  A United States Capitol Police (USCP) officer on routine patrol observed a vehicle with a temporary registration that appeared to be expired. A subsequent check revealed no vehicle was found for the plate and no registration was on file. The officer conducted a traffic stop, and the driver was unable to provide a license or registration.   

                Court documents say that Clark was arrested for having no permit and counterfeit tags. During processing, a check revealed Clark had outstanding warrants from Queen Anne’s County Sheriff and a Failure to Appear warrant in D.C.

                An inventory search of the vehicle uncovered a black backpack in the rear cargo area containing an alleged handgun and ammunition.

                Clark is prohibited from possessing a firearm due to previous felony convictions in Superior Court and the Circuit Court for Queen Anne’s County, Maryland.

                This case is being investigated by the ATF Washington Field Office and the Metropolitan Police Department. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher Tortorice.

    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: Felon with Firearm Indicted After Arrest for Committing Lewd Act in Northeast

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    WASHINGTON – Lawrence A. Jordan, 44, of Washington, D.C., has been indicted on a federal firearm charge as part of the “Make D.C. Safe Again” initiative. The indictment was announced by U.S. Attorney Edward R. Martin Jr., Special Agent in Charge Anthony Spotswood of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), and Chief Pamela Smith of the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD).

                Make D.C. Safe Again is a public safety initiative led by U.S. Attorney Martin that is surging resources to reduce violent crime in the District of Columbia. This initiative was created to address gun violence in the District, prioritize federal firearms violations, pursue tougher penalties for offenders, and seek detention for federal firearms violators.

                Jordan was indicted on one count of unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition by a felon.

                According to court documents, on Nov. 16, 2023, MPD officers were dispatched to the 700 block of 2nd Street, NE, for reports of disorderly conduct. Police encountered the defendant and later removed him from an apartment complex for being a non-resident. Police later escorted the defendant out of a fitness center attached to the apartments. Approximately 40 minutes later, police were called to respond to the same fitness center for reports of a man, later identified as the defendant, committing a lewd act; however, the defendant had left the scene.

                Days later, on Nov. 23, 2023, police responded to a call of aggressive panhandling in the 1300 block of H Street, NE. There, police arrested a man, later identified as the defendant, for lewd, indecent, or obscene acts. Police then searched the defendant and allegedly discovered him concealing a loaded, semi-automatic pistol on his person.

                The defendant is prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition due to a previous felony conviction.

            This case is being investigated by the ATF Washington Field Office and the Metropolitan Police Department. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Joshua Gold.  

            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 USA: Cornyn Supports Bill to Prevent Taxpayer Dollars From Funding Anti-Second Amendment Groups

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Texas John Cornyn
    AUSTIN – U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) cosponsored the Firearm Industry Non-Discrimination (FIND) Act, which would prohibit the federal government from entering into contracts with groups that discriminate unfairly against firearm associations or businesses: 
    “Texans should not be forced to foot the bill for corporations’ woke agendas,” said Sen. Cornyn. “I am proud to support this commonsense bill to prevent the federal government from doing business with those who seek to undermine our Constitutional right to keep and bear arms.”
    This legislation is being led by Senator Steve Daines (R-MT) and is cosponsored by Senators Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS), Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), Rick Scott (R-FL), Tom Cotton (R-AR), Roger Marshall (R-KS), Jim Risch (R-ID), Roger Wicker (R-MS), Ted Budd (R-NC), Bill Cassidy (R-LA), Mike Crapo (R-ID), Tim Sheehy (R-MT), Pete Ricketts (R-NE), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Deb Fischer (R-NE), James Lankford (R-OK), Joni Ernst (R-IA), Eric Schmitt (R-MO), Lindsey Graham (R-SC), Katie Britt (R-AL), John Hoeven (R-ND), and Thom Tillis (R-NC).
    Background:
    The FIND Act would ensure corporations cannot benefit from taxpayer-funded contracts and subcontracts while discriminating against firearm trade associations or businesses that deal in firearms, ammunition, or related products.
    This legislation is endorsed by the National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF).

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: AMMO, Inc. Completes Sale of Ammunition Manufacturing Assets to Olin Winchester

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Sale Transitions AMMO to an E-commerce-Focused Company Accelerating Growth Through GunBroker.com, the Largest Online Marketplace for Firearms, Hunting and Related Products

    Sale Allows Company to Center its Attention on Innovation, Profitability, and Long-term Value Creation

    SCOTTSDALE, Ariz., April 18, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — AMMO, Inc. (Nasdaq: POWW, POWWP) (“AMMO,” “we,” “us,” “our” or the “Company”), the owner of GunBroker.com, the largest online marketplace for firearms, hunting, and related products, today announced it has completed the sale of its ammunition manufacturing assets to Olin Winchester, LLC (“Olin Winchester”), a subsidiary of Olin Corporation.

    This transaction represents a pivotal milestone in AMMO’s transformation into a high-margin, tech-enabled e-commerce company centered around GunBroker.com. The Company intends to focus resources on scaling its digital platform, improving user experience, and unlocking additional value for shareholders.

    “This transaction marks a defining moment in AMMO’s evolution,” said Christos Tsentas, Chair of the Board’s M&A Committee. “After a thorough strategic review and collaboration with our financial and legal advisors, we are confident this sale will unlock significant value and enable AMMO to accelerate growth as a pure-play e-commerce platform. GunBroker.com is already the leader in the online firearms marketplace, and we expect this streamlined focus will allow us to double down on innovation, user engagement, and long-term profitability.”

    GunBroker.com: Positioned for Scalable Growth

    GunBroker.com becomes AMMO’s remaining core business and a high-potential growth engine. Recent initiatives—including enhancements to the checkout experience and expanded offerings in outdoor gear and experiences—have led to improved customer engagement and conversion. The Company anticipates that a simplified business structure and a fortified balance sheet will further fuel targeted investments, operational efficiency, and disciplined capital allocation.

    Transaction Details

    As part of the transaction, Olin Winchester acquired AMMO’s 185,000-square-foot manufacturing and ballistic testing facility in Manitowoc, Wisconsin.

    Entering into the transaction, which was unanimously approved by AMMO’s Board and its M&A Committee, was the culmination of a comprehensive strategic review process beginning in February 2024, during which the Company worked with a team of independent advisors to engage with an array of prospective buyers. That comprehensive strategic review process included: establishing an M&A Committee comprised solely of independent directors; evaluating multiple investment banks to assist the Board and the M&A Committee, which ultimately led to the engagement of Baird; pursuing a thorough and competitive sale process that involved 15 potential buyers; selecting Lake Street Capital Markets (“Lake Street”), from among a group of firms evaluated by the M&A Committee, to conduct an independent analysis of the transaction in connection with the rendering of a fairness opinion to the Board, which opinion was sought from Lake Street regardless of whether its ultimate conclusions were favorable or unfavorable; Lake Street’s determination that the transaction was fair from a financial point of view, and that it fell within a range of possible values; and engaging in a thorough and deliberate evaluation process by the M&A Committee and the entire Board, which considered the merits and risks of the multiple bids and the proposed transaction with Olin Winchester, as well as strategic alternatives to the proposed transaction with Olin Winchester.

    As previously disclosed, we believe the Company has significant opportunities to grow and scale GunBroker.com, as the e-commerce space for the firearms and shooting sports industries continues expanding. Among other reasons, as a result of higher supply costs relative to our larger manufacturing competitors, challenges in securing larger government contracts due to our manufacturing capacity, industry headwinds, and historical operating losses in the ammunition segment diverting our resources from growth opportunities, we believe the sale of the ammunition manufacturing assets will enable us to capitalize on e-commerce growth opportunities, while allowing the Company to become a more focused, streamlined and profitable organization. Moving forward, the Company expects to focus on growing and prioritizing the profitable, high-margin GunBroker.com marketplace. The successful completion of this transaction is expected to further simplify the business, while reinforcing AMMO’s cash position to support expansion and thoughtful capital allocation. The Company expects to use the proceeds from the transaction for general corporate purposes, although the Board may evaluate other uses in the future when and as appropriate.

    AMMO was advised by Baird and represented by Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner LLP in connection with the transaction. Lake Street Capital Markets provided a fairness opinion to the Board.

    Rebranding and Next Phase

    In conjunction with the sale, AMMO is beginning a formal rebranding process, including a corporate name change to Outdoor Holding Company, to better reflect its e-commerce identity and broader vision in the outdoor lifestyle and sporting goods sectors.

    Additional Company Updates

    Nasdaq Listing Compliance

    As disclosed in the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) on February 25, 2025, the Company received an additional deficiency notification letter from The Nasdaq Stock Market LLC (“Nasdaq”), requiring the Company to submit an updated plan by no later than March 6, 2025 concerning its efforts to regain compliance with Nasdaq’s listing requirements. The Company timely submitted the updated compliance plan to Nasdaq and will provide additional details to investors as appropriate.

    About GunBroker

    GunBroker is the largest online marketplace dedicated to firearms, hunting, shooting and related products. Third-party sellers list items on the site and Federal and state laws govern the sale of firearms and other restricted items. Ownership policies and regulations are followed using licensed firearms dealers as transfer agents. Launched in 1999, the GunBroker.com website is an informative, secure and safe way to buy and sell firearms, ammunition, shooting accessories, and outdoor gear online. GunBroker promotes responsible ownership of guns and firearms. For more information, visit: www.gunbroker.com.

    Cautionary Statement Concerning Forward-Looking Statements

    Statements contained in this press release that are not statements of historical fact are considered “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the federal securities laws and are presented pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements can be identified by words such as “target,” “believe,” “expect,” “will,” “may,” “anticipate,” “estimate,” “would,” “positioned,” “future,” and other similar expressions that predict or indicate future events or trends or that are not statements of historical matters. These forward-looking statements include, among others, statements about the expected benefits of the transaction and statements about the Company’s plans, objectives, expectations and intentions for its business following consummation of the transaction. These statements are based only on Company management’s current beliefs, expectations and assumptions. Because forward-looking statements relate to the future, they are subject to inherent uncertainties, risks and changes in circumstances that are difficult to predict and many of which are outside of the Company’s control. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those described in forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, risks associated with pending or threatened litigation related to the transaction; unexpected costs, charges or expenses resulting from the transaction; risks related to disruption of management time from ongoing business operations due to the transaction; failure to realize the benefits expected from the transaction; and effects of the completion of the transaction on the ability of the parties to retain customers and retain and hire key personnel and maintain relationships with their counterparties, and on their operating results and businesses generally. Therefore, investors should not rely on any of these forward-looking statements and should review the risks and uncertainties described under the caption “Risk Factors” in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the SEC on June 13, 2024, and additional disclosures the Company makes in its other filings with the SEC, which are available on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. Forward-looking statements are made as of the date of this Current Report on Form 8-K, and except as provided by law, the Company expressly disclaims any obligation or undertaking to any update forward-looking statements.

    Contacts

    For media:
    Longacre Square Partners
    Rebecca Kral
    AMMO@longacresquare.com

    For investors:
    CoreIR
    Phone: (212) 655-0924
    IR@ammo-inc.com

    Source: AMMO, Inc.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SCHUMER: ON TAX DAY, MILLIONS OF AMERICANS ARE EVEN MORE WORRIED ABOUT THEIR SOCIAL SECURITY; CITING SIN-AFTER-SIN CUTS TO THE SAFETY NET OF SENIORS, SENATOR SAYS SOCIAL SECURITY ADMIN ACTING…

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New York Charles E Schumer

    Schumer Says Dudek, Hand-Picked By DOGE, Has Been Dismantling Social Security & Its Operations: Granting DOGE Access To Data Systems & Deeply Personal Info Without Adequate Vetting, Laying Off 7,000 Staff While Closing Critical Offices, Including Ones In NY & Other Sins Against Seniors’ Social Security

    Schumer Says These Decisions Have Caused Massive Service Disruptions Like A Crashed Website, Jammed Phone Lines, Hours Of Waiting & More; Dudek Is Unfit & Enough Is Enough  

     Schumer: The Man Chosen To Oversee The Senior Safety Net Of Social Security Is Instead Weaving A Web Of Worry For Americans Who EARNED Their Social Security Benefits  

    On Tax Day, U.S. Senator Charles Schumer said millions of Americans (And New Yorkers) are even more worried about the future of Social Security and the disgraceful undermining of the Social Security Administration led by Leland Dudek, the acting Commissioner. From chaos to long waits, Schumer said sin-after-sin cuts not only hurt seniors, but they risk dangerous outcomes to health and wellness for those who most depend on their earned payments for day-to-day life. 

    “You don’t need to scratch your head and wonder what’s going on when you see that the Trump administration is decimating Social Security offices and staff. And you don’t need to ponder what might happen next when Elon Musk, the richest man in the world, says that the earned benefits that tens-of-millions of seniors, families, and children depend on are some scam—because that’s a real threat and a real promise: they are coming for your Social Security,” said U.S. Senator Charles Schumer.

    “And now those two, Donald Trump and Elon Musk, have a hatchet man in Leland Dudek, an acting Commissioner with an emphasis on the ‘acting,’ because his real role is to dismantle the very office he is supposed to lead, make better, and protect. We have seen his audition and his work on the stage, and it is clear: Dudek is incapable of doing this job in the way it needs to be done. He won’t protect seniors. He will hurt them. Leland Dudek should resign,” Schumer added.

    Schumer announced that the Social Security Administration’s Acting Commissioner—Leland Dudek—must resign. Schumer said, Dudek, hand-picked by DOGE, has been dismantling Social Security (SS) from day one, and that he has brainlessly laid off 7,000 staff with plans to lay off even more. Schumer said Dudek is targeting field offices for closure, plans to close 6 out of 10 regional offices, and has granted Elon Musk and DOGE access to Americans’ deeply sensitive personal information. Schumer said these unfit actions have created massive service disruptions (crashed website, jammed phone lines, and multi-hour waits at field offices) and that Dudek has made it clear his priority is pleasing Trump, not ensuring Americans’ get their earned benefits. Schumer called on Dudek to resign as he warns what might happen next with Dudek unchecked at the helm of Social Security.  

    Schumer also explained, Dudek has no executive experience and had previously been put on administrative leave pending an investigation into his sharing sensitive information with DOGE. Schumer reiterated, DOGE’s ability to gain access to Social Security’s data, which contains reams of personal information on hundreds of millions of Americans, has caused real concern among experts and consumer advocates.

    Schumer explained that New Yorkers and Long Islanders, as well as tens-of-millions of Americans, who depend on Social Security are in serious trouble. Schumer vowed to fight the effort to decimate Social Security offices, including locations in New York, with everything he’s got.

    Social Security sends over $126 billion to more than 73 million retired and disabled beneficiaries every month, Schumer explained. At least 7,000 workers were fired with the administration’s chainsaw. Across New York City and Long Island, the Social Security field offices offer a full range of Social Security services, including applying for new or replacement Social Security cards, applying for Social Security and Supplemental Security Income benefits, making changes to your benefits information and more. Now some of those offices could permanently close, and it’s because Leland Dudek would allow it.  

    “Leland Dudek personifies the shoulder shrug,” said Schumer. “This is not a person who is in their job to make things better, or carry the weight. This is a person who just does not care about the people he is supposed to serve—seniors. Dudek cares about two things, and two things only: Donald Trump and Elon Musk. He has got to go.”

    Social Security has been a crucial piece of the social safety net since President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed the law creating it in 1935, and it was designed to be self-sufficient. It has a dedicated revenue source from payroll taxes, which workers split with their employers, the New York Times noted. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA Relief Still Available to Texas Businesses, Nonprofits and Residents Affected by the Welder Complex Fire

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is reminding eligible businesses, nonprofits, and residents in Texas of the May 19, deadline to apply for low interest federal disaster loans to offset physical damage caused by the Welder Complex Fire occurring March 4–9.

    The disaster declaration covers Aransas, Bee, Jim Wells, Live Oak, Nueces, Refugio and San Patricio counties.

    Businesses and nonprofits are eligible to apply for business physical disaster loans and may borrow up to $2 million to repair or replace disaster-damaged or destroyed real estate, machinery and equipment, inventory, and other business assets.

    Homeowners and renters are eligible to apply for home and personal property loans and may borrow up to $100,000 to replace or repair personal property, such as clothing, furniture, cars, and appliances. Homeowners may apply for up to $500,000 to replace or repair their primary residence.

    Applicants may also be eligible for a loan increase of up to 20% of their physical damages, as verified by the SBA, for mitigation purposes. Eligible mitigation improvements include retrofitting structures to protect against high winds, flood, wildfires, or other physical disasters.

    “One distinct advantage of SBA’s disaster loan program is the opportunity to fund upgrades reducing the risk of future damage,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the SBA. “I encourage businesses and homeowners to work with contractors and mitigation professionals to improve their disaster readiness while taking advantage of SBA’s physical damage loans.”

    SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is also available to eligible small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries and private nonprofit (PNP) organizations impacted by financial losses directly related to this disaster. The SBA is unable to provide disaster loans to agricultural producers, farmers, or ranchers, except for aquaculture enterprises.

    The loan amount can be up to $2 million with interest rates as low as 4% for businesses, 3.625% for nonprofits and 2.75% for homeowners and renters, with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not begin to accrue, and payments are not due until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.

    To apply online, visit sba.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.

    The deadline to return for physical damage applications is May 19. The deadline to return economic injury applications is Dec. 19.

    ###

    About the U.S. Small Business Administration

    The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow, expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA Relief Still Available to Texas Businesses, Nonprofits, and Residents Affected by March Storms

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is reminding eligible businesses, nonprofits, and residents in Texas of the May 19, deadline to apply for low interest federal disaster loans to offset physical damage caused by the thunderstorms, straight‑line winds and tornadoes occurring March 4.

    The disaster declaration covers the Texas counties of Collin, Dallas, Denton, Ellis, Kaufman, Rockwall and Tarrant.

    Businesses and nonprofits are eligible to apply for business physical disaster loans and may borrow up to $2 million to repair or replace disaster-damaged or destroyed real estate, machinery and equipment, inventory, and other business assets.

    Homeowners and renters are eligible to apply for home and personal property loans and may borrow up to $100,000 to replace or repair personal property, such as clothing, furniture, cars, and appliances. Homeowners may apply for up to $500,000 to replace or repair their primary residence.

    Applicants may also be eligible for a loan increase of up to 20% of their physical damages, as verified by the SBA, for mitigation purposes. Eligible mitigation improvements include strengthening structures to protect against high wind damage, upgrading to wind rated garage doors, and installing a safe room or storm shelter to help protect property and occupants from future damage.

    “One distinct advantage of SBA’s disaster loan program is the opportunity to fund upgrades reducing the risk of future storm damage,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the SBA. “I encourage businesses and homeowners to work with contractors and mitigation professionals to improve their storm readiness while taking advantage of SBA’s physical damage loans.”

    SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is also available to eligible small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries and private nonprofit (PNP) organizations impacted by financial losses directly related to this disaster. The SBA is unable to provide disaster loans to agricultural producers, farmers, or ranchers, except for aquaculture enterprises.

    Interest rates can be as low as 4% for businesses, 3.625% for nonprofits and 2.75% for homeowners and renters, with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not begin to accrue, and payments are not due until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.

    To apply online, visit sba.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.

    The deadline to return for physical damage applications is May 19. The deadline to return economic injury applications is Dec. 19.

    ###

    About the U.S. Small Business Administration

    The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow, expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –