Source: New Zealand Police
Emergency services are at the scene of a serious crash that has blocked Evans Street, State Highway 1, in Timaru this morning.
Police were notified of the single-vehicle crash, between Pringle and Belfield streets, about 9.50am.
The Serious Crash Unit is attending, and the road is expected to be closed for several hours while a scene examination is carried out.
Diversions are in place and motorists should expect delays.
ENDS
Issued by the Police Media Centre
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
A 65-year-old female has now died in hospital following a pedestrian strike in Palmerston on Thursday last week.
The 43-year-old male allegedly driving the vehicle is assisting police with enquiries and charges are expected to follow.
The lives lost on Territory roads now stands at 16.
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
Northern Territory Police have seized over $48,000 in cash, along with quantities of kava, cannabis, tobacco, and alcohol during targeted traffic stops in the Central Arnhem Region.
On 19 May 2025, Ramingining Police intercepted a green Toyota Hilux on the Ramingining Access Road, approximately 20km from the community. During the traffic stop a passenger fled on foot into bushland nearby. Police conducted a lawful search of the vehicle and subsequently seized quantities of alcohol, cannabis, and kava. A 30-year-old man located in the vehicle tray was arrested and charged with Possess Property in relation to the Commission of an Offence after officers located over $48,000 in his possession. He was bailed to appear in Darwin Local Court on 8 July 2025.
Shortly after, police stopped a second vehicle on the same track. A search uncovered tobacco, kava, alcohol, and items indicative of drug supply. Three men and one woman, aged between 41 and 65, were arrested and charged with multiple offences including:
They were remanded to appear in Darwin Local Court yesterday.
Ramingining Police continue to target the unlawful supply of alcohol and drugs into remote communities.
Anyone with information is urged to contact police on 131 444 or anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
Source: Office of United States Attorneys
BUFFALO, N.Y. – U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Nicholas Mangione, 44, of Buffalo, NY, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Lawrence J. Vilardo to possession of child pornography following a prior conviction, which carries a mandatory minimum penalty of 10 years in prison, a maximum of 20 years, and a fine of $250,000.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron J. Mango, who handled the case, stated that in April 2013, Mangione was convicted of possession of child pornography and sentenced to serve 48 months in prison. On August 15, 2024, a federal search warrant was executed at Mangione’s residence after it was discovered he uploaded a file containing child pornography to the Snapchat server. During the search, Mangione’s cellular telephone was seized. An examination of the device uncovered approximately 20 images and 52 videos of child pornography. It was also determined that Mangione distributed child pornography to other individuals using the Telegram application in exchange for other child pornographic files.
On August 16, 2024, the defendant was arrested on New York State charges and was found to be in possession of an additional cell phone, which also contained images and videos of child pornography. Some of the child pornography possessed by Mangione depicted the sexual exploitation of an infant or toddler and depictions of violence against children.
The plea is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia, and the New York State Police, under the direction of Major Amie Feroleto.
Sentencing is scheduled for September 30, 2025, at 9:30 a.m. before Judge Vilardo.
# # # #
Source: Office of United States Attorneys
Defendant staged armed robberies so that “victims” could apply for immigration benefits in exchange for thousands of dollars
BOSTON – An Indian national, residing in New York, pleaded guilty today in federal court in Boston to staging armed robberies in furtherance of a visa fraud conspiracy.
Rambhai Patel, 37, pleaded guilty to on one count of conspiracy to commit visa fraud. U.S. District Court Judge Myong J. Joun scheduled sentencing for Aug. 20, 2025. In December 2023, Patel was charged along with a co-conspirator.
Beginning in March 2023, Patel and his alleged co-conspirator set up and carried out staged armed robberies of at least nine convenience/liquor stores and fast-food restaurants across the United States – including at least five in Massachusetts. The purpose of the staged robberies was to allow the store clerks to claim that they were victims of a violent crime on an application for U nonimmigrant status (U Visa). A U Visa is available to victims of certain crimes who have suffered mental or physical abuse and who have been helpful to law enforcement in the investigation or prosecution of criminal activity.
During the staged robberies, the “robber” would threaten store clerks and/or owners with an apparent firearm before taking cash from the register and fleeing, while the interaction was captured on store surveillance video. The clerks and/or owners would then wait five or more minutes until the “robber” had escaped before calling police to report the “crime.” The “victims” paid Patel to participate in the scheme. One purported victim paid $20,000 to participate as a victim in one of the staged armed robberies. In turn, Patel paid the store owners for the use of their stores for the staged robbery.
At least two purported victim co-conspirators submitted U Visa applications based on being victims of the staged armed robberies.
Singh is scheduled to plead guilty on May 22, 2025.
The charge of conspiracy to commit visa fraud provides for a sentence of up to five years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of $250,000. The defendant is subject to deportation upon completion of any sentence imposed. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.
United States Attorney Leah B. Foley and Kimberly Milka, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division made the announcement. Valuable assistance in the investigation was provided by the U.S. Attorney’s Offices for the Eastern District of New York and the Western District of Washington; FBI’s New York and Seattle Field Offices; U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services; Massachusetts State Police; Worcester County District Attorney’s Office; and the Hingham, Marshfield, Randolph, Weymouth, Worcester, Upper Darby, (Pa.), West Pittston (Pa.), Louisville, (Ky.) and Bean Station (Tenn.) Police Departments. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Elianna J. Nuzum and Jessica L. Soto of the Criminal Division are prosecuting the case.
The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The remaining defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Source: Office of United States Attorneys
SALT LAKE CITY, Utah – Wicliff Yves Fleurizard, 27, of Leander, Texas, was sentenced today on a felony conviction to time-served (approximately six months’ imprisonment), after he unlawfully boarded a Delta Airlines flight in 2024 and hid in a lavatory for a flight to Austin, Texas, from Salt Lake City International Airport.
The sentence, imposed by U.S. District Court Judge David Barlow, comes after Fleurizard pleaded guilty on March 11, 2025, to being a stowaway on an aircraft. Fleurizard was also sentenced to three years’ supervised release and ordered to pay a $5,000 fine.
According to court documents and statements made at Fleurizard’s change of plea and sentencing hearings, on March 17, 2024, he intentionally boarded Delta Airlines flight #1683 at Gate 2 of the Salt Lake City International Airport, which was destined for Austin, Texas. Fleurizard intended to board the aircraft without purchasing a ticket and he hid in the lavatory to avoid getting caught, but was confronted by flight crew. Prior to boarding, Fleurizard was captured on surveillance footage in the boarding area taking photos of multiple passengers’ personal information on his cell phone. He then used that information to obtain electronic boarding passes in their names and successfully boarded airplanes in both Austin and Salt Lake City. See prior release: Texas Man Admits to Stowaway Charge Onboard a Delta Airlines Flight.
“Today’s sentence sends a clear message to would-be offenders that the District of Utah will not tolerate crimes committed in and around our vital airports,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Felice John Viti of the District of Utah. “Airport crimes will be prosecuted.”
“Mr. Fleurizard’s actions were not only disruptive to passengers, it also compromised the safety and security for all on board,” said Special Agent in Charge Mehtab Syed of the Salt Lake City FBI. “The sentence holds him accountable for trespassing, theft, and fraud.”
“This was a deliberate breach of security that put passengers and crew, at risk,” said Salt Lake City Police Chief Brian Redd. “The security measures we have in place are to keep everyone safe and this reminds us that we must regularly work to strengthen those aviation security measures. I want to thank our officers and FBI task force detectives who responded to investigate this incident alongside our federal partners, and the flight crew whose attentiveness on board helped protect the safety of our traveling community.”
The case was investigated jointly by an FBI Task Force Officer with the Salt Lake City Police Department.
Assistant United States Attorneys Bryan N. Reeves and Michael Kennedy of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Utah prosecuted the case.
Source: Office of United States Attorneys
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – Two men from Springfield, Mo., were sentenced in federal court for their roles in a conspiracy to distribute large quantities of methamphetamine in the Springfield area.
Erik C. Foster, 43, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Brian C. Wimes, to 215 months in federal prison without parole, to be followed by 5 years of supervised release. Foster pleaded guilty on Dec. 16, 2024.
Tilton Chase Tate, 41, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Brian C. Wimes, to 146 months in federal prison without parole, to be followed by 5 years of supervised release. Tate pleaded guilty on October 15, 2024.
Foster and Tate were charged, along with other individuals, in a 24-count superseding indictment on July 25, 2023, for their roles in a drug conspiracy that lasted from Dec. 2020 to Oct. 2022.
Foster admitted to purchasing and delivering methamphetamine for other conspirators to distribute in Southwest Missouri. During the course of the conspiracy, law enforcement seized well over 50 grams of methamphetamine from members of the conspiracy.
According to court records, on Sep. 10, 2022, officers with the Republic, Mo. Police Department located two plastic bags containing at least 844 grams of methamphetamine from inside a speaker during a traffic stop where Foster was the passenger. Foster told officers that he had picked up the methamphetamine in Joplin and was taking it to Springfield to deliver it to a co-conspirator for distribution.
On Oct. 12, 2022, deputies with the Greene County, Mo., Sheriff’s Office seized a small plastic bag of what appeared to be black tar heroin, a backpack containing 70 grams of methamphetamine, and over $11,960 in cash from Foster during a traffic stop. During a post-Miranda interview, Foster told officers that he was taking the backpack to a co-conspirator for distribution and that he had made six or seven similar trips to deliver methamphetamine.
Tate admitted to possessing and distributing methamphetamine to others as part of the conspiracy.
On Oct. 19, 2021, during a traffic stop, a Springfield, Mo. Police Department (SPD) detective seized over 440 grams of methamphetamine from Tate.
On April 14, 2022, while executing a search warrant for Tate’s residence, SPD officers located a Ruger LCP 380 handgun and a Stoeger Arms, STR 9C 9mm handgun, as well as miscellaneous pills and suspected methamphetamine.
Later in April, during a post-Miranda interview, Tate admitted to purchasing the methamphetamine seized during the Oct. traffic stop from a co-conspirator. He estimated that he was selling a pound of methamphetamine each week.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephanie L. Wan. It was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Greene County, Mo., Sheriff’s Office, the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the Republic, Mo., Police Department, and the Springfield, Mo., Police Department.
Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force
This case is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
Source: Office of United States Attorneys
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Kansas City, Mo., man was sentenced in federal court today for his role in a conspiracy to distribute fentanyl, methamphetamine, and heroin and for possession of firearms in furtherance of that conspiracy.
Codi J. Monteer, 38, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge D. Greg Kays to 30 years in federal prison without parole.
On Oct. 8, 2024, Monteer pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute fentanyl, methamphetamine, heroin, and marijuana; one count of maintaining a drug involved premises; one count of possession of firearms in furtherance of the drug conspiracy; and one count of being a felon in possession of firearms.
Monteer’s participation in the drug trafficking conspiracy lasted approximately one year and he was responsible for conspiring with others to distribute at least 124 kilograms of methamphetamine; 700 grams of fentanyl (powder and pills); and 1.58 kilograms of heroin. He was also in possession of several firearms used in furtherance of his drug trafficking.
On one occasion, in March 2021, Monteer led members of the Kansas Highway Patrol on a high-speed pursuit that reached speeds of approximately 145 miles per hour. The pursuit did not conclude until two of the tires came off Monteer’s vehicle. During the pursuit, drugs were thrown from the vehicle.
Monteer was an associate of Autumn Dicks, Ian Hazel, They Kelley, Marc Downs, and Jamison Hopson-Stephens. Those individuals have already been sentenced for their roles within the conspiracy. Monteer was also an associate of Davion Williams, Curtis Lewis, Daniel Anderson, and Aaron Dorsey in this conspiracy. Those individuals have all pleaded guilty and are awaiting sentencing.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Ashleigh A. Ragner. It was investigated by the Kansas City, Mo. Police Department, FBI, United States Postal Inspection Service, and the Kansas State Highway Patrol.
Source: United States Department of Justice
WASHINGTON — On May 19, a federal judge sentenced three members of the Aryan Brotherhood prison gang who were convicted at trial of a racketeering (RICO) conspiracy that included multiple murders, drug trafficking, fraud, and robbery.
Francis Clement, 58, was found guilty by a jury in February of RICO conspiracy and five separate counts of murder in aid of racketeering. Each of these murders was committed while Clement was in state prison. Clement was sentenced to life in prison. There is no parole in the federal system.
The jury also found Kenneth Johnson, 63, guilty of RICO conspiracy and two counts of murder in aid of racketeering. Johnson was also sentenced to life in prison.
A third defendant, John Stinson, 70, was found guilty of one count of RICO conspiracy. Stinson, who was already serving a lengthy prison sentence in the California state prison system, was sentenced to 20 years in federal prison.
According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, between 2016 and 2023, Aryan Brotherhood members and associates engaged in racketeering activity, including murder, conspiracy to murder, fraud, robbery, and drug trafficking crimes. Johnson and Clement, who both held leadership roles in the gang, directed crimes committed by Aryan Brotherhood members both inside and outside of prison using cellphones that had been smuggled into prison. Because of his rank in the gang, Clement received a cut from the illegal drug sales and fraud schemes the Aryan Brotherhood committed. According to trial testimony, the Aryan Brotherhood regularly smuggled drugs, including methamphetamine, into prisons throughout the California prison system, which defendants and other gang members then sold to inmates.
In October 2020, Johnson and Clement together ordered one murder during the execution of which another individual was also killed. Johnson and Clement also ordered another murder of an individual who was subsequently killed. It was further proven at trial that in February 2022, Clement ordered the murder of an individual and the following month, in March 2022, Clement ordered the murder of two more individuals. For each murder, the killings were ordered because defendants believed the victims either violated gang rules or owed the gang money.
According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, Stinson was a high-ranking leader of the Aryan Brotherhood and had substantial authority over the enterprise, including sponsoring multiple individuals for membership, resolving disputes among members, and approving the murder of current and former members. During the investigation, Stinson used a contraband cellphone within his prison cell to conduct business on behalf of the Aryan Brotherhood. The jury heard some of these communications from Stinson through court-authorized wiretapped conversations. Evidence was presented that Stinson also engaged in drug trafficking, and that, given his position within the gang, he received a cut of illegal drug sales that took place in prison and out on the street.
“The convicted defendants led a notorious prison gang that committed ruthless murders, widespread methamphetamine trafficking, and perpetuated a culture of mayhem, fear, and disorder within the prison system that bled into the outside world,” said Matthew Galeotti, Head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “Organized crime within the prison system, enabled by the use of contraband cellphones, endangers American neighborhoods by flooding streets with dangerous drugs. The Criminal Division will continue to pursue crime syndicates, like the Aryan Brotherhood and their facilitators, to ensure they go to prison and the harm they inflict on society ends once incarcerated.”
“Today’s sentences are yet another blow to the leadership of a violent criminal enterprise run from inside California prisons and spanning multiple counties and states,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Michele Beckwith for the Eastern District of California. “The Aryan Brotherhood has maintained its deadly influence over members, associates and others both inside and outside prison. We are committed to doing everything we can to stop these violent inmates from orchestrating their criminal activities from inside prison walls.”
“These sentences send a clear message: the walls of a prison do not shield violent gang leaders from justice,” said Acting Director Daniel Driscoll of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). “The Aryan Brotherhood’s leadership operated a brutal criminal enterprise from behind bars — ordering murders, trafficking drugs, and fueling violence in our communities. ATF remains committed to working with our law enforcement partners to dismantle violent gangs wherever they operate and hold their leaders accountable, no matter where they try to hide.”
The indictment in this case charged 11 defendants with RICO conspiracy and other crimes. There are five defendants awaiting trial and the three defendants have pleaded guilty.
This case was the product of an extensive investigation by the ATF, with assistance from the Office of Correctional Safety (CDCR), U.S. Marshals Service, Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, Pomona Police Department, Torrance Police Department, San Diego Police Department, San Diego Sheriff’s Department, Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office, and Kern County District Attorney’s Office.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Stephanie Stokman and James Conolly for the Eastern District of California are prosecuting the case with the assistance of Trial Attorney Jared Engelking of the Criminal Division’s Violent Crime and Racketeering Section.
The case was investigated under the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF). OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. For more information about Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces, please visit https://www.justice.gov/ocdetf.
Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement
NEWARK, N.J. — U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement arrested a Colombian national who has a criminal warrant in his home country for aggravated theft and attempted theft with injury.
Ludwin Quintero-Rojas, 31, who is in the United States illegally, was arrested by ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Newark May 9, and detained without bond at the Delaney Hall Detention Facility in Newark.
“This criminal alien — who is wanted for theft offenses in his home country — tried to hide in United States, specifically in our region, where he was arrested multiple times for similar crimes,” said ERO Newark Field Office Director John Tsoukaris. “Quintero’s immigration and criminal history shows a repetitive pattern of disregard for U.S. laws.”
On Sept. 18, 2023, the U.S. Border Patrol arrested Quintero-Rojas in El Paso, Texas, served him with a notice to appear, and subsequently released him on an order of release on recognizance.
The New York City Police Department arrested him for petit larceny Jan. 13, 2024.
The Queens County Criminal Court in Queens, New York, convicted him of disorderly conduct July 5, 2024, and sentenced him to a conditional discharge.
New Jersey’s Lacey Township Police Department arrested Quintero for shoplifting April 16. The Howell Township Police Department arrested him for shoplifting April 17. These charges are currently pending.
The Marlboro Township Police Department arrested him for shoplifting April 18. The Marlboro Township Municipal Court convicted him of shoplifting May 1, and sentenced him to 10 days of community service.
The Brick Township Police Department arrested Quintero for shoplifting May 2. This charge is currently pending.
Quintero is scheduled for a hearing before the Executive Office for Immigration Review in Elizabeth May 22.
Source: New South Wales Community and Justice
Police investigate serious pedestrian crash near Bridgewater
Wednesday, 21 May 2025 – 7:33 am.
Police are investigating a serious pedestrian crash near Bridgwater last night.
About 6:15pm on Tuesday 20 May 2025, a 12-year-old girl was struck by a motor vehicle on the East Derwent Highway, Bridgewater.
Initial reports suggest that the young girl, while crossing the road, ran into the path of the vehicle, travelling east on the highway. The vehicle, a grey Toyota Kluger, only contained the driver.
Police and Paramedics attended the scene immediately and the victim was quickly transported to the Royal Hobart Hospital in a critical condition, where she remains receiving treatment.
The driver of the vehicle was subjected to mandatory drug and alcohol testing.
Crash investigators and Forensic Services attended the scene and conducted a thorough examination.
Any witnesses who saw the incident or drove past the area and have dash-cam footage are asked to call Crimestoppers.
Information can be provided anonymously by calling Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or online at crimestopperstas.com.au
Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police
Met Police officers have secured significant banning orders against two prolific shoplifters as part of their continued crackdown on retail crime.
Local officers worked with retailers in Greenwich to identify and arrest Winston Wright who stole more than £2,500 worth of goods from stores in the area over four months, banning him from every Sainsbury’s, Boots and Co-op in England and Wales.
In a separate investigation, officers in Haringey secured an order to ban Patrick Verry from every Greggs store in England and Wales after he targeted a store seven times.
Across London the Met is prioritising neighbourhood policing by putting more officers into local teams to tackle issues such as shoplifting.
Officers are working with business owners to target the most prolific offenders who cause fear to retail workers and have a negative impact on communities.
Chief Inspector Rav Pathania, the Met’s lead for tackling retail crime, said:
“The Met is focused on tackling the most prolific shoplifters like Wright and Verry. They cause fear to retail workers and their offending has a negative impact on communities.
“We continue to work with local business owners to investigate reports of shoplifting, understand concerns and use different tactics to crackdown, including targeted operations and regular patrols.”
Winston Wright, 44 (08.04.81), of Lewisham, pleaded guilty to eight counts of shoplifting and one count of commercial burglary at Croydon Magistrates Court on Tuesday, 6 May 2025.
As well as being given a Criminal Behaviour Order which bans him from entering any Sainsbury’s, Boots and Co-op in England and Wales for three years, he’s also been banned from entering the Royal Borough of Greenwich for three years, jailed for three months and fined £200.
During the course of the investigation officers gathered CCTV from various stores which helped identify Wright as the offender. As a result he was stopped in Deptford High Street on Thursday, 20 March by a PCSO who recognised him.
Patrick Verry, 33 (02.04.92), of no fixed address, was caught in the act by officers at the store in Wood Green High Road on Thursday, 15 May. He pleaded guilty to six counts of theft from the same store at Highbury Corner Magistrates’ Court on Friday, 16 May.
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Leonora Risse, Associate Professor in Economics, University of Canberra
After two years of publishing the gender pay gaps of Australia’s private-sector companies, the Workplace Gender Equality Agency has released public-sector employer data for the first time.
The report shows a stark contrast between the private and public sectors. The Commonwealth public sector has a gender pay gap of 6.4%, far less than the equivalent gap of 21.1% in the private sector.
The agency attributes a big part of the “substantially better” outcome in the public sector to the achievement of gender balance at managerial and board levels.
Women’s representation in senior and governance roles doesn’t just narrow the pay gap at the top. It can also change workplace cultures and embed more gender-equitable practices that ripple through to all occupational levels.
The agency says public-sector employers have achieved this outcome by “long-term and deliberate actions that address gender equality”. These include conducting a gender pay gap analysis and formulating a gender-equality strategy.
The public sector’s results also illustrate the power of setting targets. The Australian government has set – and now achieved – targets for women to hold 50% of all Australian government board positions.
Of the 120 public-sector employers in the Workplace Gender Equality Agency’s dataset, 55 have a gender pay gap that falls into the target range of between –5% and +5%.
Several have a gender pay gap in total remuneration at or very close to zero. These include the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet, Department of Treasury, Department of Social Services and the Office of the Fair Work Ombudsman.
A handful have a slight positive gender pay gap in favour of women, including the Productivity Commission.
To support greater transparency, the Workplace Gender Equality Agency has published a searchable database of Commonwealth public sector employers. This is broken down by each department and agency.
The largest gender gaps in median total remuneration are reported by the National Offshore Petroleum Safety and Environmental Management Authority (50.4%) and Coal Mining Industry Corporation (31.7%).
Closer to the middle of the pack, the Australian Federal Police reports a gender pay gap of 12.2%. The Reserve Bank of Australia has a gap of 11.5%, and Australia Post 8.6%.
The data does not include elected officials such as members of parliament.
All up, half of Commonwealth public-sector employers have a gender pay gap larger than 5%, which the agency deems the acceptable maximum.
But this is still a better performance than in the private sector, where 60% of companies exceeded the 5% threshold.
Women working in Australia’s public sector earn on average A$8,200 less per year than their male colleagues.
The data cover both the Australian Public Service (APS) (which is directly responsible for the delivery of government services) and non-APS organisations (which deliver services on behalf of the government).
Within the APS workforce, men’s average total remuneration of $128,503 compares to women’s $121,146. This equates to a 5.7% gap.
In public-sector agencies outside the APS, this gender pay gap widens to 8.8%. Men’s average salary of $127,354 compares to women’s $116,157.
In agencies outside the APS, more of this gender gap – 5.6 percentage points – is due to men being paid more in bonuses, overtime and superannuation. Within the APS, these above-base payments contribute only 1.1 percentage points to the overall gap.
The role of discretionary above-base payments in widening the gap in total remuneration is similar to the dynamics of the private sector, where there is also greater scope for individual negotiation.
Research shows negotiation practices are laced with gender biases.
More standardised recruitment, promotion and wage-setting practices in the public sector, compared with private companies, mean there’s less scope for personal subjectivity and implicit biases in hiring, promotion and salary decisions.
This is the first year the Commonwealth public sector’s performance on gender equality has been published at employer level. It follows changes to legislation in 2022 requiring public sector employers to report their gender equality indicators to WGEA from 2023, similar to the obligations of large private companies.
The point of publishing gender pay gaps is to spark awareness and motivate employer action.
Three in four public sector employers report they have taken action after conducting a gender pay gap analysis. Of these actions, one in four employers have corrected instances of unequal pay.
With a heightened awareness of the benefits of flexible work, almost all public-sector employers (96%) reported “flexible working is promoted throughout the organisation”.
But there is scope to improve the practical implementation of flexible work policies.
Only 56% of public-sector employers offer an online option for all team meetings. Only 43% provide support to managers to ensure performance evaluations are not unfairly biased against staff who work remotely or hybrid. And only 5% report that management positions can be designed as part-time.
With this greater transparency, there will be opportunity to monitor changes in future to look for ongoing improvements in gender-equality practices and outcomes.
It’s in the interests of fostering a more equitable, productive and effective public sector for all.
Read more:
Working from home is producing economic benefits return-to-office rules would quash
Leonora Risse receives research funding from the Trawalla Foundation and the Women’s Leadership Institute Australia. She has previously undertaken commissioned research for the Workplace Gender Equality Agency. She is a member of the Economic Society of Australia and the Women in Economics Network. She serves as an Expert Panel Member on gender pay equity for the Fair Work Commission.
– ref. The public service has a much smaller gender pay gap than the private sector. It’s a big achievement – https://theconversation.com/the-public-service-has-a-much-smaller-gender-pay-gap-than-the-private-sector-its-a-big-achievement-256810
Source: US State of Connecticut
(HARTFORD, CT) – Governor Ned Lamont is applauding the Connecticut House of Representatives for voting today to approve the agreement he negotiated with the Connecticut State Police Union that will enact pay increases for the Connecticut State Police.
The governor and the union reached the agreement in April. It must be approved by both chambers of the Connecticut General Assembly for it to take effect.
“I submitted a plan to the state legislature to give pay raises to the Connecticut State Police because I believe that our state troopers deserve salaries that reflect the essential work they provide to our state and can help recruit more officers to serve in these positions,” Governor Lamont said. “Ensuring the safety of our residents requires us to invest in state troopers and their families. I am glad that the majority of lawmakers in the House supported it, and I urge the Senate to join them in approving the plan.”
The legislation that was approved today is House Resolution 17. It passed by a vote of 134 to 12, with the votes in opposition cast by Republican legislators. The agreement must next be approved by the State Senate.
Source: Eurojust
20 May 2025|
French authorities took action in 66 prisons across the country against a new type of device that prisoners are using to communicate with the outside world and continue their criminal activities. Following findings by the prosecutor of the Judicial Court of Paris JUNALCO that these devices are being sold worldwide, Eurojust ensured that critical information on the devices was transmitted to the Agency’s National Desks and Liaison Prosecutors. Authorities can now use this information to investigate whether the devices are being used in their own countries.
Investigators uncovered a device that was being sold worldwide through online marketplaces and could bypass security gates undetected. The device is small, has few metal parts and has specific settings that make it easy to hide from security checks. French investigators estimate that around 5 000 devices were being used in French prisons for criminal activities such as drug trafficking, homicide and money laundering.
During operation Prison Break in France in the early hours of 20 May, nearly 500 cells were searched across the country. Authorities were able to target all 5 000 devices active and take down the market website selling the phones. After concluding the actions in France, the prosecutor ensured that crucial information and technical specifications of the devices were shared with authorities across Europe and beyond. The information was transmitted to all the National Desks and Liaison Prosecutors at Eurojust. They can now share it with their national authorities, who can determine whether the devices are being used in their prisons.
If you are a national authority from a country without a Liaison Prosecutor and would like to receive the information transmitted today, please contact the French Desk at Eurojust.
The following authorities carried out the operation in France:
Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement
PANAMA CITY, Fla. — U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement joined the Bay County Sheriff’s Office and other agencies held a joint press conference May 16 to announce the results of a two-day joint-agency operation that resulted in the arrest of 21 illegal aliens.
The operation with BCSO, ICE Homeland Security Investigations Panama City, ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Miami-Tallahassee field office, the U.S. Department of Justice, the FBI, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, the Panama City Beach Police Department, the Florida Highway Patrol, the Panama City Police Department, and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, mainly targeted those who overstayed a visa. During the operation, 18 were arrested in Bay County, and three in Leon County, Florida. Those arrested were from India, Venezuela, Nicaragua, Mexico, Guatemala, and Jamaica. Most illegal aliens arrested overstayed temporary visas for tourism and recreation.
“These people came on legit visas and abused that, which takes away from other people trying to obtain these visas. It’s also a federal crime to enter illegally, and a federal crime to overstay and set up residence when these visas expire,” said ICE Homeland Security Investigations Tallahassee Assistant Special Agent in Charge Nicholas Ingegno. “You can see a group of great people here that have gotten together to meet Sheriff Ford’s priorities, to meet the (Florida) governor’s priorities, and to meet the White House priorities.”
“Our partnership with ICE strengthens our efforts to keep Bay County safe,” said Sheriff Tommy Ford. “By working alongside federal, state, and local agencies, we’re better equipped to address illegal immigration tied to criminal activity. We look forward to expanding this cooperation through the 287(g) Task Force and Warrant Service Officer programs, giving us more tools to protect our community”
Four of the illegal aliens arrested entered the United States without inspection by a U.S. immigration official and one has been charged with felony illegal reentry after being previously removed. Sixteen of the illegal aliens arrested entered the county legally under a work, travel, or other visa program with a date assigned to leave the country, but they remained after the expiration date, violating the terms of their visa. Overstaying a visa is an abuse of the immigration system and a violation of federal law.
Ingegno pointed out the importance of removing people who abused the visa system by reminding everyone, “if you remember, a majority of the hijackers on 9/11 were visa overstays. This means the United States let them into the country and they did not leave when they were supposed to. Then they murdered 3,000 Americans.”
According to Ford, since Jan. 1, 2025, 178 illegal aliens have been arrested by Bay County law enforcement and had ICE detainers placed on them.
ICE officials have continually emphasized the agency’s continued focus to identifying public safety and national security threats. Individuals unlawfully present in the United States who are encountered during enforcement operations may be taken into custody and processed for removal in accordance with federal law.
Members of the public with information about suspected immigration violations or related criminal activity are encouraged to contact the ICE Tip Line at 866-DHS-2-ICE (866-347-2423) or submit information online via the ICE Tip Form.
For more information about ICE HSI Tampa and ICE ERO Miami and their efforts to enhance public safety in Florida, follow them on X at @HSITampa and ERO Miami.
Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police
Clarenville RCMP is looking to arrest wanted man, 40-year-old Danny Cooper, of Princeton, NL, who is believed to be in St. John’s.
Cooper is wanted in relation to a large number of criminal offences, including:
A photo of Cooper is attached.
Anyone having information about the current location of Danny Cooper is asked to contact Clarenville RCMP at 709-466-3211. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers: #SayItHere 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), visit www.nlcrimestoppers.com or use the P3Tips app.
Source: New Zealand Police
Motorists using the Rakaia River should expect delays after a truck broke down on the bridge.
Police were notified about 5.55am.
The truck is currently blocking the southbound land.
Drivers are asked to take care while arrangements are made to move the truck.
Traffic management is being arranged.
ENDS
Iissued by the Police Media Centre
Source: Office of United States Attorneys
SYRACUSE, NEW YORK – James Yerdon, age 54, of Adams Center, New York, appeared in federal court last week charged with possession of child pornography. United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III, Erin Keegan, Special Agent in Charge of the Buffalo Field Office of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), and New York State Police (NYSP) Superintendent Steven G. James made the announcement.
The charge filed against Yerdon carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in prison, a maximum sentence of 20 years, a fine of up to $250,000, and a term of supervised release between 5 years and life. A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the particular statute the defendant is charged with violating, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other factors.
Yerdon appeared for an arraignment in Syracuse, New York, before United States Magistrate Judge Thérèse Wiley Dancks and was detained pending further proceedings.
The complaint filed against Yerdon alleges that on May 13, 2025, during an ongoing investigation by NYSP and HSI regarding allegations Yerdon had engaged in the hands-on sexual abuse of a child, a search was conducted of Yerdon’s home. During the search, Yerdon was found in possession of a cellphone on which Yerdon possessed multiple images and videos of child pornography including material depicting the sexual abuse of children as young as five months old. The charges in the complaint are merely accusations. Yerdon is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III stated, “We thank HSI and the NYSP for their dedication and tireless work on this investigation. The defendant’s actions, as alleged, targeted infants and children, the most vulnerable amongst us. I will not stand for it.”
“James Yerdon is accused of preying upon defenseless victims–babies and children–for his own despicable sexual gratification,” said Erin Keegan, Special Agent in Charge, HSI Buffalo. “Members of the public deserve to feel safe in their neighborhoods and in their own homes. HSI Syracuse and our law enforcement partners are relentlessly committed to our shared pursuit of a safer New York.”
NYSP Superintendent Steven G. James said, “The State Police have zero tolerance for anyone involved in child pornography, promoting the acts of child predators, or who perform predatory acts against children. The charge in this case reflects the severity of the crime and our commitment to finding justice for the victims. We thank our partner agencies involved for their determination in holding Mr. Yerdon accountable for his reprehensible actions.”
The case was investigated by HSI and NYSP and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Adrian LaRochelle as part of Project Safe Childhood.
Project Safe Childhood is a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
Source: Office of United States Attorneys
PHILADELPHIA – United States Attorney David Metcalf announced that two men convicted of illegally reentering the United States after having been deported in the Eastern District of Pennsylvania were sentenced today.
Yovany Basurto, aka Yovany Basurt Leal, 33, a Mexican national, was sentenced this morning by United States District Court Judge Joseph F. Leeson Jr. to time served, exactly three months for illegally reentering the U.S. after having been deported.
In February of this year, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) received electronic notification that Basurto had been arrested and processed by the Bridgeport Borough (Pa.) Police Department on a charge of driving under the influence (DUI).
He was arrested by ICE on a federal complaint and warrant, indicted in March, and pleaded guilty to illegal reentry last month.
The defendant had previously been arrested by ICE in October of 2018 for being in the U.S. without authorization and was removed from the country in February 2019. In June of the same year, the U.S. Border Patrol arrested Basurto in Laredo, Texas, after he illegally reentered the United States once again. That July, Basurto was removed from the U.S. for the second time. After serving the sentence imposed today, he will again be removed from the country.
Cristhian Vega-Guerra, 34, an Ecuadorian national, was sentenced this afternoon by United States District Court Judge Mitchell S. Goldberg to time served, approximately three months and for illegally reentering the U.S. after having been deported.
After receiving and investigating information that the defendant may be illegally residing in Lehigh County, ICE arrested Vega-Guerra on a federal complaint and warrant in January 2025. He pleaded guilty last month to a superseding information charging him with illegal reentry.
In March 2023, the U.S. Border Patrol had encountered Vega-Guerra near Eagle Pass, Texas, and arrested him for entering the U.S. without authorization. He was ordered removed and deported from the country that August. After serving the sentence imposed today, he will again be removed from the country.
“Illegal immigration strains our public services, endangers our citizens, and insults the rule of law,” said U.S. Attorney Metcalf. “If you keep coming into this country illegally, know that we will keep prosecuting you, and the penalties will keep getting steeper.”
“Yovany Basurto and Cristhian Vega-Guerra showed complete disregard for our nation’s immigration laws by repeatedly violating them and are therefore subject to removal,” said ICE ERO Philadelphia Field Office Director Brian McShane. “These sentences send a clear message that aliens who dismiss an immigration judge’s order of removal by illegally reentering the United States after being deported are committing a criminal offense.”
These cases were investigated by ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations and are being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Robert Schopf and Rebecca Kulik.
Source: Office of United States Attorneys
BOSTON – A Georgia woman was sentenced on May 14, 2025 in federal court in Boston for her role in a drug trafficking organization (DTO) that trafficked narcotics from Mexico into the United States.
Brooke Logan Paniagua, 28, of Dalton, Ga., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Richard G. Stearns to 10 years in prison, to be followed by 48 months of supervised release. In January 2025, Paniagua pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine, possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense.
On Sept. 25, 2022, the DTO informed a confidential source that a female courier would be transporting 12 pounds of methamphetamine from Georgia to Massachusetts. On Sept. 27, 2022, Paniagua called the confidential source to coordinate the time and location to meet to complete the sale of the methamphetamine. Paniagua informed the confidential source that the methamphetamine was hidden inside a 50-pound bag of dog food.
On Sept. 27, 2022, Paniagua arrived at the agreed-upon location and notified the confidential source that she had arrived at the location. During a search of her person, a .22 caliber Ruger handgun loaded with eight rounds of ammunition was located in Paniagua’s back pocket. A search of Paniagua’s vehicle resulted in the recovery of a large, partially opened bag of dog food that contained five plastic containers filled with 12.3 pounds of 97% pure methamphetamine.
United States Attorney Leah B. Foley and Stephen Belleau, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration, New England Field Division made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the Massachusetts State Police, and the Natick, Newton and Waltham Police Departments. Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian J. Sullivan the Narcotics & Money Laundering Unit prosecuted the case.
Source: Office of United States Attorneys
Seattle – A 64-year-old Portland, Oregon, man was sentenced today to four years in prison for traveling with the intent to engage in a sexual act with a minor, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Teal Luthy Miller. Marc David McCool was arrested May 16, 2024, when he arrived at a Seattle area hotel, allegedly intending to sexually abuse fictitious 7 and 11-year-old children. U.S. District Judge John C. Coughenour imposed 15 years of supervised release to follow the prison term.
According to records filed in the case, McCool responded to an ad posted on social media by an undercover law enforcement agent. Over more than six weeks of “chats” via the Kik Messenger App, McCool described his sexual interest in children. Ultimately, McCool arranged to travel to Seattle believing he would sexually abuse two young children. He was arrested after he traveled by train and a rideshare to the meet location. At the time of arrest, he had various items reflective of his sexual interest in abusing children: condoms, baby oil, rope, and stuffed animals.
Speaking at sentencing McCool said his life has been forever changed. He said he has lost everything and damaged his relationships with everyone he loves. He hopes to get treatment while incarcerated.
Judge Coughenour commended the resolution of the case.
The case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigation as part of the Seattle Police Department Internet Crimes against Children Task Force (ICAC).
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Cecelia Gregson.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Source: Office of United States Attorneys
David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that a federal jury in Hartford has found MARIO PASCUAL-AQUINO, 44, of Torrington, guilty of fentanyl trafficking offenses.
According to the evidence presented during the trial, this matter stems from a DEA Hartford Task Force investigation of a Hartford-based drug trafficking organization involved in the distribution of a large amount of fentanyl and other narcotics, and the transportation and laundering of cash proceeds from their drug trafficking activity. In January 2022, law enforcement coordinated a motor vehicle stop of a minivan and seized $92,000 from a hidden compartment. The investigation revealed that Harold Luis Del Orbe, also known as “Jaro,” was directing the operators of the minivan to conduct narcotics-related transactions on his behalf. On November 16, 2022, investigators executed a court-authorized search warrant at an apartment on Putnam Heights in Hartford and seized approximately 1.5 kilograms of fentanyl, items used to process and package narcotics, and a loaded .40 caliber semi-automatic handgun. Pascual-Aquino, Del Orbe, and others were present in the apartment at the time of the search.
The trial before U.S. District Judge Vernon D. Oliver began on May 14, 2025. On May 19, Pascual-Aquino was found guilty of conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl, and possession with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl. At sentencing, which is scheduled for August 13, Pascual-Aquino faces a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 10 years and a maximum term of imprisonment of life.
Pascual-Aquino, who had been released on bond, was remanded to custody at the conclusion of his trial.
Del Orbe pleaded guilty to related charges and, on May 6, 2025, was sentenced to 120 months of imprisonment.
In April 2017, Pascual-Aquino was sentenced in Hartford federal court to 30 months of imprisonment for his role in a stolen identity tax refund scheme.
This investigation is being conducted by the DEA’s Hartford Task Force, which includes personnel from the DEA Hartford Resident Office, the Connecticut State Police, and the Bristol, Hartford, East Hartford, Enfield, Manchester, Middletown, New Britain, Rocky Hill, Wethersfield, and Windsor Locks Police Departments.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Geoffrey M. Stone and Robert S. Dearington through the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) Program. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police
A middle-aged woman was arrested by RCMP NL on May 19, 2025, after police responded to a disturbance and residential fire at a home in Davidsville.
Shortly after 5:00 p.m. on Monday, police received a report of a residential disturbance. A woman inside the home threatened another occupant and was damaging the property. As officers were responding, they received further information that the home was now on fire.
Upon arrival at the residence in Davidsville, police determined that the home, which was fully engulfed in flames, had been safely vacated and that no one was injured. The woman was arrested for uttering threats and was transported to the James Paton Memorial Regional Health Centre in Gander for an assessment under the Mental Health Care and Treatment Act. She was committed into care at the hospital.
Fire and Emergency Services were engaged. The investigation is continuing with further charges possible.
Source: US Marshals Service
Painesville, OH – United States Marshal Pete Elliott and Lake County Sheriff Frank Leonbruno announce the successful completion of Operation Washout in Lake County.
Operation Washout was a six weeklong operation focused in Lake County in an attempt to bring down drug related violence and overdose incidences throughout the county.
Investigative and enforcement resources from the United States Marshals Service (USMS) were used to reduce crime by working in collaboration with federal, state, and local law enforcement partners. The operation targeted violent felony warrants, to include offenses that have an illegal narcotic distribution or possession nexus. The operation also targeted individuals wanted for crimes related to narcotic trafficking such as homicide, robbery, sex offenses, felonious assault and firearm violations.
Sheriff Frank Leonbruno stated, “Operation Washout was a tremendous success and made a significant impact in finding some our most wanted persons throughout Lake County. The cooperation we have working with the United States Marshal Service helps to ensure we are able to meet the safety and security needs of our citizens to help ensure that Lake County is the best place to build a home, create a business, and raise your family.”
During the course of the six weeklong operation, 61 warrants were closed after arrests by the Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force (NOVFTF), its partner agencies or other law enforcement agencies in the area. Six known gang members were arrested during the operation and one firearm was recovered.
Notable arrests during the operation include Tyrese Johnson and Brianna Johnson, both wanted by the Lake County Sheriff’s Office for manslaughter, engaging in a pattern of corrupt activity, tampering with evidence, corrupting another with drugs, and drug trafficking. This investigation began with the Mentor Police Department after two overdose deaths that occurred in April of 2024. Tyrese Johnson was arrested on April 9th, at his residence in the 600 block of River Street, Grand River. Brianna Johnson was arrested on that same date at her residence in the 1400 block of East 175th Street, Cleveland.
Additionally, Cortez Hopper who was wanted by the Lake County Sheriff’s Office for illegal manufacture of drugs was also arrested during the operation. Fugitive investigation led the NOVFTF to believe that Hopper was in Steubenville, OH. In addition to the charges in Lake County, Hopper was a suspect in an investigation where he was distributing cocaine in Steubenville. Members of the local police department were unable to identify Hopper until information was sent to their area in connection with the fugitive investigation. Hopper was arrested on April 4 with assistance of the Northern District of West Virginia, Wheeling.
U.S. Marshal Pete Elliott stated, “Outstanding and longstanding partnerships are what make operations such as this so successful. When agencies work towards the same goals, success like this is inevitable. The Lake County Sheriff’s Office, local police departments, and the Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force are all committed to the safety of the communities we serve.”
Anyone with information concerning a wanted fugitive can contact the Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force at 1-866-4WANTED (1-866-492-6833), or you can submit a web tip. Reward money is available, and tipsters may remain anonymous. Follow the U.S. Marshals on X @USMSCleveland.
The Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force – Painesville Division is composed of the following federal, state and local agencies: U.S. Marshals Service, Eastlake Police Department, Willowick Police Department, Willoughby Police Department, Willoughby Hills Police Department, Wickliffe Police Department, Mentor Police Department, Mentor-on-the-lake Police Department, Painesville Police Department, Lake County Sheriff’s Department, Geauga County Sheriff’s Department, Ashtabula Police Department, Ashtabula County Sheriff’s Department, Ohio Adult Parole Authority, Middlefield Police Department, Lake County Narcotics, Chester Township Police Department, Kirtland Police Department, and Madison Village Police Department.
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator for Illinois Dick Durbin
May 19, 2025
WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, today released the following statement after meeting with Stanley Woodward, President Trump’s nominee to be the Associate Attorney General of the U.S. Department of Justice:
“The Department of Justice is reeling from turmoil, as extremist loyalists dismantle longstanding programs and protections to appease the President. DOJ is causing a mass exodus of key staff, canceling hundreds of millions of dollars in grants, and reassigning what little staff is left to bolster the President’s illegal mass deportation scheme—and none of it makes our country safer.
“The Associate Attorney General oversees many crucial offices and programs under threat. I shared as much with Mr. Woodward, and I look forward to hearing more from him under oath.”
The Associate Attorney General oversees the Civil Division, Civil Rights Division, Antitrust Division, Tax Division, Environment and Natural Resources Division, Office of Justice Programs, Office on Violence Against Women, Office of Community Oriented Policing Services, Office for Access to Justice, Office of Information Policy, Community Relations Service, United States Trustees Program, and Foreign Claims Settlement Commission.
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Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police
Two occupants of a vehicle were arrested by Harbour Grace RCMP after police responded to a call for service in Carbonear on May 16, 2025.
Shortly before 9:00 a.m. on Friday, Harbour Grace RCMP received a request to assist paramedics who were responding to reports of an unresponsive man and woman, both found in a vehicle on Lemarchant Street in Carbonear. Police attended the scene and observed the unresponsive occupants inside the vehicle. A man was in the driver seat with the engine running and the vehicle still in gear. An officer put the vehicle in park and turned off the engine.
The driver, a 36-year-old Carbonear man, became responsive and displayed signs of drug impairment. He was arrested and was transported to Carbonear General Hospital where blood samples were obtained as part of a drug impaired driving investigation. Officers await the results of the testing to determine if charges of drug impaired driving are appropriate.
The passenger, a 33-year-old Bell Island woman, was found in breach of conditions of a release order and she was arrested.
Various illicit and prescription drugs, drug paraphernalia and other items consistent with drug trafficking were seized from the vehicle, along with a number of weapons. The vehicle was seized and impounded.
Both individuals were held in police custody and later released.
The investigation is continuing. A number of charges under the Criminal Code and Controlled Drugs and Substances Act are expected.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Frank J. Mrvan (IN)
Washington, DC – Rep. Frank J. Mrvan (D-IN-01) and Rep. Jen Kiggans (R-VA-02) recently reintroduced H.R.3359, the Veterans’ Security and Pay Transparency Act.
The purpose of this legislation is to improve recruitment and retention of U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Police Officers. Specifically, the Veterans’ Security and Pay Transparency Act would require the VA Secretary to submit an annual report to Congress on salaries, recruitment bonuses, and other compensation of all VA Police Officers. This information will be utilized to conduct Congressional oversight and determine how VA can improve recruitment and retention of police officers to protect veterans and VA personnel.
Congressman Mrvan stated, “I am proud to reintroduce this bipartisan legislation with Chairwoman Kiggans to support law enforcement personnel at the VA. I look forward to working with all of my colleagues to hold the VA accountable and improve recruitment and retention of VA Police Officers as it works to keep our nation’s veterans and VA facilities across the country safe and secure.”
Congresswoman Kiggans stated, “VA Police Officers play a vital role in protecting the veterans who rely on VA facilities for care and the staff who serve them. This bipartisan bill provides much-needed transparency into VA recruitment and compensation for these officers to ensure they have the support needed to do their jobs safely and effectively. Strengthening recruitment and retention of qualified VA Police is essential to keeping our veterans safe.”
American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE) National Veterans Affairs Council President Alma Lee stated, “AFGE applauds Representative Mrvan and Chairwoman Kiggans for introducing the Veterans’ Security and Pay Transparency Act. AFGE is proud to represent VA Police Officers, 90 percent of whom are veterans themselves, in VA facilities throughout the nation. The passage of this legislation will provide valuable oversight of the compensation of the VA police force, and help the VA and Congress improve the recruitment and retention of dedicated VA Police Officers who protect our nation’s veterans and VA employees every day.”
The full bill text of the Veterans’ Security and Pay Transparency Act is available here.
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Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) (video statements)
FBI Seattle Special Agent in Charge W. Mike Herrington delivers a message in honor of Police Week 2025.
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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Adam Smith (9th District of Washington)
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Adam Smith (WA-09) issued the following statement regarding the criminal charge of Congresswoman LaMonica McIver (NJ-10) related to the incident at the Newark, NJ ICE detention facility:
The charges filed against Congresswoman McIver are completely without justification and a gross abuse of prosecutorial power. She upheld her oath of office by conducting congressional oversight and lawfully visiting a Trump immigration detention facility in Newark. This charge against Congresswoman McIver is a weaponization of our justice system and it must not stand.
It is a disturbing overreach for the Executive Branch to criminalize a Member of Congress conducting congressional oversight. If Trump administration officials are interested in examples of real assaults on officers of the law, they should refer back to the January 6th insurrection and the attacks on Capitol Police officers. I join my colleagues in standing behind Congresswoman McIver against this baseless charge.