NewzIntel.com

Category: Police

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Minister receives a detailed briefing on crime statistics in Nelson Mandela Bay

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    Police Minister Senzo Mchunu on Wednesday concluded a series of high-level engagements in the Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality aimed at assessing the state of policing and enhancing crime-fighting strategies in the region.

    During his visit, the Minister received a detailed briefing on crime statistics in the metro, with a particular focus on serious and violent crimes, including murder, kidnappings, extortion and gang-related activities. 

    The briefing also highlighted the strategic interventions currently in place to combat these crimes and improve public safety. 

    Owing to the investigations conducted by the SAPS, around seven cases have been enrolled on the court roll, in respect of insurance murders with six suspects being implicated. 

    The second meeting was with the Nelson Mandela Bay Business Chamber. During that meeting, the Chamber presented challenges they experience as a result of crime, but further expressed the fruitful working relationship with the SAPS. The Chamber proposed further initiatives to be explored in strengthening the fight against crime. 

    The final engagement of the day was a meeting with a broad range of community stakeholders, including representatives from the Chinese community and religious leaders. This follows recent incidents involving the kidnapping of among others, Chinese nationals, and robberies at places of worship. 

    The Minister commended the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, the Hawks and all partner units involved in the high-risk rescue operation conducted in Gqeberha on Tuesday. 

    “Through swift coordination, disciplined execution and unshakable bravery, our law enforcement officers successfully rescued a kidnapped American citizen,” the South African Police Service said in a statement. 

    “During the rescue, the suspects opened fire on the police, resulting in three of the five suspects being fatally shot and two others fleeing, a manhunt is currently underway for these suspects. 

    “The actions of the members reflect the highest standards of professionalism and an unwavering commitment to justice.”

    Minister Mchunu said the safety of every person in the municipality, regardless of nationality, faith or background, is a non-negotiable. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Law enforcement to monitor major routes this  Easter weekend

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    Law enforcement authorities will be out in their numbers this Easter Weekend to ensure that motorists drive safely and comply with traffic regulations.

    Major corridors are expected to reach peak levels as travellers embark on various religious and holiday destinations, from Friday, 18 April to Monday, 21 April 2025. 

    “We are ready for the high volumes of traffic that we will experience throughout the country over the Easter Weekend. We encourage drivers to behave more responsibly on the roads and to ensure that the human factor is removed in road accidents. 

    “Driver and pedestrian behaviour is responsible for 87% of road accidents and fatalities in our country. And so, reducing road fatalities and accidents is the responsibility of each one of us,” Minister of Transport Barbara Creecy said.

    The Department of Transport has identified the most critical routes across the country requiring additional resources and more focused monitoring over this period.

    These include, among others, the following:
    •    The N4 Nelspruit
    •    Mankweng (R71)
    •    Libode on the N2, Mthatha’s R61
    •    Parys (Free State), R54
    •    Harrismith and the N3
    •    KwaDukuza, N2 in KwaZulu-Natal
    •    N4 Middleburg in Mpumalanga
    •    Nongoma, R66 in KwaZulu-Natal

    The National Traffic Police, South African Police Services provincial traffic departments, Cross Border Road Traffic Agency, Border Management Agency, the Metros and local authorities will work together to patrol routes leading to Limpopo, KwaZulu Natal, Mpumalanga, Free State, Eastern Cape and the Western Cape. 

    High visibility will also be maintained in Gauteng.

    Last month, government launched the 2025 Easter Season Road Safety Arrive Alive campaign, which started on 20 March and runs until 2 May 2025, under the theme: “It begins with Me.”

    “The campaign is aimed at reducing road fatalities during the high-traffic holiday period through integrated law enforcement and public education,” Creecy said. –SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Appeal for information following sexual assault in Morden Hall Park

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    Police are appealing for witnesses after a woman was sexually assaulted in Morden Hall Park, SM4 on Monday, 14 April.

    A 16-year-old boy has been arrested on suspicion of serious sexual assault and remains in police custody.

    Officers are now looking to hear from anyone who was in the vicinity of the park – near to the exit on Morden Road (A24) opposite Morden Hall Medical Centre – at around 18:00hrs on Monday. 14 April.

    The force are urging anyone who saw anything suspicious or heard anything unusual to share information via 101, quoting 01/7379934/25.

    If people wish to remain anonymous, they can reach out through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

    The victim-survivor continues to be supported by specialist officers.

    The investigation continues.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICE removes twice deported criminal alien wanted for human trafficking in El Salvador

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    SEATTLE – U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement removed Wilver Cota-Ortiz, 43, a citizen of El Salvador, to his home country where he is wanted by law enforcement authorities for human trafficking.

    Cota entered the U.S. at an unknown date and location without inspection or admission by an immigration official. The Dallas Police Department arrested him Jan. 9, 2010 for assault with a deadly weapon and an immigration detainer was placed on Cota the next day. The 195th Judicial District Court in Dallas convicted Cota on two counts of assault April 1, 2010, sentencing him to 8 years probation. Custody was transferred to ICE in accordance with the immigration detainer, and Cota was removed to El Salvador as ordered by an immigration judge Dec. 17, 2010.

    Cota reentered the U.S. at an unknown date and location, arrested by U.S. Border Patrol Aug. 6, 2013, in Otay Mesa, California where it was determined he had an active warrant for a probation violation in Dallas. The 195th Judicial District Court convicted Cota of probation violation, sentencing him to two years incarceration. The Texas Department of Criminal Justice Correction Facility Huntsville transferred custody to the United States Marshal Service, who then transferred custody to ICE in accordance with an immigration detainer. Cota was again removed to El Salvador Dec. 18, 2015.

    Cota reentered the U.S. at an unknown date and location, and this time he was arrested by ICE for illegal reentry Feb. 15, 2023. The U.S. District Court for the District of Delaware convicted Cota Oct. 31, 2023, of illegal reentry, sentencing him to nine months incarceration. While in federal prison, it was discovered that Cota was wanted by authorities in El Salvador for human trafficking, and his removal was completed April 4 without incident.

    “ICE will make every effort to arrest those that have fled to the U.S. to evade justice in their home country,” said ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Seattle Interim Field Office Director Cammilla H. Wamsley. “The seriousness of these charges places a particular importance on that mission.”

    Members of the public who have information about foreign fugitives are urged to contact ICE by calling the ICE Tip Line at 1 (866) 347-2423 or internationally at 001-1802-872-6199. They can also file a tip online by completing ICE’s online tip form.

    Learn more about ICE’s mission to increase public safety in your community on X at @EROSeattle.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Bristol Virginia Man Sentenced to Over 31 Years for Carjacking and Firearm Offenses

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    GREENVILLE, Tenn. – On April 16, 2025, Charles Nile Mixon, 49, of Bristol, Virginia, was sentenced to 377 months imprisonment by the Honorable Clifton L. Corker, United States District Judge, in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Tennessee at Greeneville. Following his imprisonment, Mixon will be on supervised release for five years. 

    On October 30, 2024, following a three-day trial, a jury convicted Mixon of carjacking in violation of 21 U.S.C. § 2119; using and brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 924(c)(1)(A)(ii); possession of a firearm by a convicted felon in violation of 18. U.S.C. § 922(g)(1), and possession of a stolen firearm, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 922(j). The jury also made a special finding that Mixon had previously been convicted of at least three, qualifying violent crimes, which established Mixon as an armed career criminal in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 924(e).

    According to witnesses, court documents, and evidence presented at trial, in the early morning hours of May 24, 2023, Mixon carjacked a female victim at gunpoint in the parking lot of a Taco Bell restaurant in Bristol, Tennessee. Mixon briefly held the victim at gunpoint inside the vehicle. Following a police chase, Mixon escaped into Virginia and abandoned the carjacked vehicle. The following day, during a conversation with a relative, Mixon admitted to taking the relative’s firearm and using it to carjack the woman at the Taco Bell. The relative contacted law enforcement and Mixon was arrested after another chase from Bristol, Virginia into Bristol, Tennessee. The stolen firearm was located on Mixon after his arrest. 

    “The sentence imposed is a powerful reminder that violent offenses, such as this carjacking, will not be tolerated,” said U.S. Attorney Francis M. Hamilton III. “Individuals who repeatedly commit violent offenses are a threat to public safety and our office will continue to prosecute those individuals vigorously.”

    “This case involves an individual who has continuously shown total disregard for the law by committing armed carjackings, firearm related offenses, and terrifying acts of violence,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Jason Stankiewicz of the Nashville Division of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). “The ATF remains committed to working tirelessly with our local, state, and federal partners to combat violent crime, and protect the communities that we serve.”

    The criminal indictment was the result of an investigation by the Bristol Tennessee Police Department and ATF.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys B. Todd Martin and Emily Swecker represented the United States.

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

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    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Sixteen charged in East Texas federal methamphetamine conspiracy

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    BEAUMONT, Texas – A federal indictment in the Eastern District of Texas has resulted in the arrest of 16 individuals charged with various violations related to a wide-spread methamphetamine trafficking conspiracy, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Abe McGlothin, Jr.

    The indictment, returned by a federal grand jury on April 2, 2025, in the Eastern District of Texas, charges the defendants with federal drug and gun violations.  A multi-agency law enforcement action was held on April 16, 2025, resulting in those arrests.  Since the investigation began in November 2022, law enforcement has seized over 10 kilograms of methamphetamine and 14 firearms.  Those in custody began making initial appearances in federal court on April 16, 2025, in Beaumont.

    According to information provided in court, the following individuals are alleged to have been involved in the methamphetamine conspiracy in the Angelina, Nacogdoches, and Polk counties area:

    •    Albert Lopez, 39, charged with conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime;

    •    Adaryl Douglas, 45, charged with conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime;

    •    Hector Gomez, 40, charged with conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine;

    •    Oscar Padilla, 44, charged with conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine;

    •    Leanna Jean Busby, 45, charged with conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine;

    •    Amanda McBride, 43, charged with conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine;

    •    John Christopher Rios, 53, charged with conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine;

    •    Jose Pedro Guzman Jr., 34, charged with conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine;

    •    Lorene Michelle Baker, 44, charged with conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine;

    •    David Davis, Jr., 48, charged with conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine;

    •    Penny Ann King, 51, charged with conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine;

    •    Jodi Calvin Sparkman, 53, charged with conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine;

    •    Christopher Dewayne Harvey, 51, charged with conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine;

    •    Gary Mills, 65, charged with conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and felon in possession of a firearm;

    •    Clifton Collin-Dakota Smith, 32, charged with conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine; and

    •    Corey Mullan, 39, charged with conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine.

    If convicted, defendants face from 10 years to life in federal prison.

    As part of the operation, Eduardo Barajas-Macias, 32, a close associate of the criminal conspiracy, was also arrested and charged with unlawful reentry by a removed or deported alien.

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

    The case is being investigated by the Angelina County Sheriff’s Office; Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; FBI; U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration; Homeland Security Investigations; Lufkin Police Department; Nacogdoches County Sheriff’s Office; Texas Department of Public Safety; and U.S. Marshals Service.  This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Donald S. Carter.

    A federal indictment is not evidence of guilt.  All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

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    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Man from Dominican Republic sentenced for transporting illegal aliens

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Luis Davis German Soriano, 32, a citizen of the Dominican Republic, who was convicted of transporting illegal aliens, was sentenced to time served (approximately 15 months) by U.S. District Judge Lawrence J. Vilardo. Soriano was then turned over to Immigration and Customs Enforcement. 

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Maeve E. Huggins, who is handling the case, stated that on January 3, 2024, Soriano aided co-defendant Silvestre German Andujar, an alien, in transporting three other individuals, who were not citizens or nationals of the United States. Soriano drove from New Jersey to an agreed upon location in Youngstown, NY, to pick-up Andujar and the others, who had traveled on a motorized raft vessel on the Niagara River from Niagara on the Lake, Ontario, Canada. Andujar piloted the vessel across the United States-Canada border. U.S. Border Patrol Agents responded to the area as Andujar and the others got off the vessel, prompting them to flee. Simultaneously, law enforcement observed Soriano’s vehicle driving in the area near the vessel’s landing spot on the shoreline. Officers conducted a traffic stop. Soriano provided conflicting information as to the purpose of his travel but was released by officers. He then drove back to the pick-up location and picked up Andujar and the others inside the van.

    Subsequently, on January 4, 2024, U.S. Border Patrol Agents parked on the Niagara Scenic Parkway in Youngstown, NY, observed Soriano driving his vehicle with Andujar and the others inside. Agents stopped the vehicle in Ransomville, NY, at which time Soriano and the others were arrested and official immigration records checks were conducted.

    Silvestre German Andujar was previously convicted and is awaiting sentencing.

    The sentencing is the result of an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Erin Keegan, U.S. Border Patrol, under the direction of Patrol Agent in Charge Martin B. Coombs, and the Lewiston Police Department, under the direction of Chief Frank Previte.

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    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Afghan National Pleads Guilty to Obtaining Firearms in Connection with Plot to Conduct ISIS-Inspired Election Day Terrorist Attack

    Source: United States Attorneys General 8

    Abdullah Haji Zada, 18, a native and citizen of Afghanistan and U.S. lawful permanent resident, pleaded guilty today to a criminal information charging him with knowingly receiving, attempting to receive, and conspiring to receive a firearm and ammunition to be used to commit a federal crime of terrorism.

    According to court documents, Zada and a co-conspirator received two AK-47-style rifles and 500 rounds of ammunition, knowing that the firearms and ammunition would be used in connection with a terrorist attack on Election Day in November 2024 on behalf the Islamic State of Iraq and al-Sham (ISIS), a designated foreign terrorist organization. Zada was arrested with co-conspirator Nasir Ahmad Tawhedi, 27, also a citizen of Afghanistan, in October 2024.

    Zada, who was 17 at the time of his arrest, entered his guilty plea as an adult and will be sentenced as an adult. At sentencing, Zada faces a maximum penalty of 15 years in federal prison and a $250,000 fine.

    As part of the plea agreement, Zada stipulated to the entry of a judicial order of removal from the United States to Afghanistan following his term of incarceration. Zada acknowledged that the order of removal would terminate his lawful permanent resident status. Zada also waived his right to appeal the conviction except in limited circumstances or seek any form of appeal or relief from his removal and deportation, including but not limited to, seeking asylum.

    Tawhedi is currently awaiting trial for conspiring and attempting to provide material support to ISIS, which carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison, and receiving, attempting to receive, or conspiring to receive a firearm to be used to commit a felony or a federal crime of terrorism, which carries a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison, if convicted. An indictment is merely an allegation and Tawhedi is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    Sue J. Bai, head of the Justice Department’s National Security Division, U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester for the Western District of Oklahoma, and Assistant Director David J. Scott of the FBI’s Counterterrorism Division made the announcement.

    The FBI Oklahoma City Field Office’s Joint Terrorism Task Force, which includes Homeland Security Investigations, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, U.S. Marshals Service, Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation, the Edmond Police Department, the Moore Police Department, the Oklahoma City Police Department, the Oklahoma City Community College Police Department, and the Oklahoma City University Police Department, is investigating the case.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jessica L. Perry and Matt Dillon for the Western District of Oklahoma, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Everett McMillian and Trial Attorney Jennifer Levy of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section are prosecuting the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Clarenville — Guilty plea entered on charges laid by Clarenville RCMP in 2024 double fatal crash on TCH near Arnold’s Cove

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    At a court appearance held on April 17, 2025, in Clarenville, 72-year-old Austin Deir of Mt. Pearl entered a guilty plea to two counts of dangerous operation causing death. These charges were laid by Clarenville RCMP in relation to a fatal collision that occurred on the Trans-Canada Highway on January 21, 2024. Two women, both aged 22 years, died as a result of the collision.

    Sentencing for the convictions of dangerous operation causing death has been set for October 31, 2025.

    Background:

    Clarenville RCMP investigates fatal collision on TCH near Arnold’s Cove, impaired driving investigation underway | Royal Canadian Mounted Police (rcmp-grc.gc.ca)

    Clarenville RCMP reports second fatality as a result of collision on TCH near Arnold’s Cove; investigation continues | Royal Canadian Mounted Police (rcmp-grc.gc.ca)

    Update: Blood sample of driver involved in double fatal collision on TCH near Arnold’s Cove processed by RCMP Forensic Assessment Centre | Royal Canadian Mounted Police (rcmp-grc.gc.ca)

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Mineral Springs Man Sentenced to 15 Years in Prison for Distributing Methamphetamine and Possession of Firearm in Furtherance of Drug Trafficking Crime

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A resident of Mineral Springs, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 181 months in prison, to be followed by five years of supervised release, on his convictions of conspiracy to distribute and possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

    United States District Judge Marilyn J. Horan imposed the sentence on Brian Gidney, 51.

    According to information presented to the Court, from in and around July 2019 to in and around June 2020, in the Western District of Pennsylvania, Gidney conspired to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of a mixture of methamphetamine. Further, on or about June 9, 2020, Gidney possessed with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of a mixture of methamphetamine, and also possessed a firearm in furtherance of his drug trafficking crime. Gidney was intercepted on a federal wiretap obtaining quantities of methamphetamine that he distributed to others.

    Assistant United States Attorney Maureen Sheehan-Balchon prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

    Acting United States Attorney Rivetti commended the Drug Enforcement Administration and Pennsylvania State Police for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Gidney. Additional agencies participating in this investigation include the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, United States Postal Inspection Service, Homeland Security Investigations, Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General, Clearfield County District Attorney’s Office, Erie County District Attorney’s Office, Millcreek Police Department, Erie Bureau of Police, and other local law enforcement agencies.

    This prosecution is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. 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.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Afghan National Pleads Guilty to Obtaining Firearms in Connection with Plot to Conduct ISIS-Inspired Election Day Terrorist Attack

    Source: US State of California

    Abdullah Haji Zada, 18, a native and citizen of Afghanistan and U.S. lawful permanent resident, pleaded guilty today to a criminal information charging him with knowingly receiving, attempting to receive, and conspiring to receive a firearm and ammunition to be used to commit a federal crime of terrorism.

    According to court documents, Zada and a co-conspirator received two AK-47-style rifles and 500 rounds of ammunition, knowing that the firearms and ammunition would be used in connection with a terrorist attack on Election Day in November 2024 on behalf the Islamic State of Iraq and al-Sham (ISIS), a designated foreign terrorist organization. Zada was arrested with co-conspirator Nasir Ahmad Tawhedi, 27, also a citizen of Afghanistan, in October 2024.

    Zada, who was 17 at the time of his arrest, entered his guilty plea as an adult and will be sentenced as an adult. At sentencing, Zada faces a maximum penalty of 15 years in federal prison and a $250,000 fine.

    As part of the plea agreement, Zada stipulated to the entry of a judicial order of removal from the United States to Afghanistan following his term of incarceration. Zada acknowledged that the order of removal would terminate his lawful permanent resident status. Zada also waived his right to appeal the conviction except in limited circumstances or seek any form of appeal or relief from his removal and deportation, including but not limited to, seeking asylum.

    Tawhedi is currently awaiting trial for conspiring and attempting to provide material support to ISIS, which carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison, and receiving, attempting to receive, or conspiring to receive a firearm to be used to commit a felony or a federal crime of terrorism, which carries a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison, if convicted. An indictment is merely an allegation and Tawhedi is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    Sue J. Bai, head of the Justice Department’s National Security Division, U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester for the Western District of Oklahoma, and Assistant Director David J. Scott of the FBI’s Counterterrorism Division made the announcement.

    The FBI Oklahoma City Field Office’s Joint Terrorism Task Force, which includes Homeland Security Investigations, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, U.S. Marshals Service, Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation, the Edmond Police Department, the Moore Police Department, the Oklahoma City Police Department, the Oklahoma City Community College Police Department, and the Oklahoma City University Police Department, is investigating the case.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jessica L. Perry and Matt Dillon for the Western District of Oklahoma, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Everett McMillian and Trial Attorney Jennifer Levy of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section are prosecuting the case.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: South Bend Woman Sentenced to 210 Months in Prison

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    SOUTH BEND – Jennifer Krueger, 42 years old, of South Bend, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Cristal C. Brisco after pleading guilty to possessing with intent to distribute fentanyl and methamphetamine, announced Acting United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay.

    Krueger was sentenced to 210 months in prison followed by 5 years of supervised release.

    According to documents in the case, in July 2024, law enforcement found Krueger, who had an active state arrest warrant for dealing a narcotic drug, at a hotel in Mishawaka with over 50 grams of crystal methamphetamine, thousands of fentanyl pills weighing over 400 grams, and over $58,000 cash. Krueger’s criminal history includes two prior convictions for dealing narcotic drugs.

    This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration including the DEA North Central Laboratory with assistance from the Mishawaka Police Department, the Indiana State Police, and the St. Joseph County Prosecutor’s Office.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lydia T. Lucius.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Budget Commitments Include Targeted Investments for Safer Communities

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Released on April 17, 2025

    The Government of Saskatchewan is reinforcing its commitment to delivering safer communities and neighbourhoods through new and continued investments in the 2025-26 Budget. This includes $665 million for the Ministry of Corrections, Policing and Public Safety; $271 million for the Ministry of Justice and Attorney General; $118.9 million for the Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency (SPSA); and $9.1 million for the Saskatchewan Firearms Office (SFO). 

    “Public safety continues to be a top priority for our government, which is reflected through investments in Budget 2025-26,” Minister of Corrections, Policing and Public Safety and Justice and Attorney General Tim McLeod said. “Investments in policing, border security initiatives, reintegration supports for offenders and measures to address gangs, illegal drugs and weapons will help create safer communities for everyone in Saskatchewan.” 

    In 2024-25 and 2025-26, the Government of Saskatchewan invested $2 billion in public safety. This includes an increase of $28.4 million, totaling $699.4 million over two years, to support policing and community safety in the province and over $518 million over two years to enhance access to justice services.

    Investing in the protection of people and property 

    This year, the budget includes $261 million to fund RCMP operations in the province, including $23.7 million for the First Nations Policing Program. 

    The 2025-26 Budget also includes funding to continue public safety commitments that were announced last fall. These include $6 million as part of the $11.9 million commitment to hire approximately 100 new municipal police officers; $2.7 million to hire 14 new Safer Communities and Neighbourhoods personnel to reduce crime by targeting nuisance properties; and $1.6 million for the Saskatchewan Police College, as part of the government’s three-year commitment to train more officers in the province. 

    An additional $3.6 million will be invested to hire 50 new officers under the Saskatchewan Marshals Service (SMS), which is expected to become operational in the coming months – a full year ahead of schedule. The SMS will focus on provincial policing priorities, including gangs, illegal weapons and drugs, along with apprehending prolific, high-risk offenders and wanted individuals who pose a public safety risk.

    The 2025-26 Budget includes a targeted investment of $1.5 million to enhance roadway patrols, border security initiatives and other public safety priorities, including investments for six weigh-scale operators to conduct commercial vehicle inspections and seven prisoner transport deputy sheriffs to increase their capacity for prisoner transport, allowing more RCMP officers to focus on addressing frontline calls for service.

    This enhanced law enforcement presence extends to Saskatchewan’s border with the United States. To enhance security and safety at the border, the government introduced the Saskatchewan Border Security Plan in January 2025 to mobilize Provincial Protective Services officers to work in partnership with provincial policing services and federal agencies to boost law enforcement’s presence near the border.

    Investing in a more accessible court system

    The 2025-26 Budget provides funding to create a more accessible court system, support the enforcement of municipal bylaw offences and enhance prosecution services. This year’s budget also supports initiatives that reduce the amount of time police need to spend in court, which will allow them to spend more time delivering core policing duties in their communities. 

    Major investments in the 2025-26 Justice and Attorney General budget include $665,000 to support the expansion of traffic safety courts; a commitment of $447,000 for the development of municipal bylaw court hubs which will streamline and improve municipal bylaw enforcement; and investing $822,000 in Public Prosecutions to accommodate the introduction of body-worn cameras by the RCMP and the expansion of body-worn camera use by the Saskatoon Police Service.

    This year’s budget will continue to invest in the Court Modernization Project, providing $3.38 million for ongoing enhancements such as modernized courtroom technology and infrastructure and the continued implementation of the Judicial Scheduling, Tracking and Amalgamated Reporting system. 

    “Over the last two years we have improved police accountability, built community partnerships and invested in courtroom modernization,” McLeod said. “Our government is following through on our ongoing commitment to increase access to justice services across the province for the benefit of all Saskatchewan individuals, families and communities.” 

    Improving safety for correctional staff, offenders and the public

    To improve overall safety for correctional staff, offenders and the public, and to address capacity concerns at correctional facilities, this year’s budget provides $11.7 million to the Ministry of Corrections, Policing and Public Safety to support the opening of the new Saskatoon Correctional Centre expansion. 

    It includes investments to expand the capacity for women in the correctional system, as well as increasing funding to the Elizabeth Fry Society of Saskatchewan as it works to successfully reintegrate female offenders back into their communities. 

    This year’s budget also includes $1.1 million for the Electronic Monitoring Program to increase the real-time monitoring of offenders in the community.

    Investing in interpersonal violence programs and services 

    In 2025-26, government will invest $31.7 million for interpersonal violence programs and services through the justice system. This includes $328,000 for second-stage housing and an additional $720,000 for community-based organizations, including those that deliver supports and services to individuals and families impacted by interpersonal violence and abuse. 

    The 2025-26 Budget includes funding to allow the SPSA to continue its four-year plan to purchase four repurposed airtankers for use in fighting wildfires and other emergency services.

    The budget provides $9.1 million in funding for the SFO this year, including $569,000 to support the Saskatchewan Ballistics Laboratory, which is set to open this fall. The ballistics laboratory will play a vital role in supporting firearms-related criminal investigations and help reduce the impact of illegal firearms and gun violence in the province. 

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    For more information, contact:

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Peters Reintroduces Bipartisan Legislation to Incentivize Community Policing

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Michigan Gary Peters

    Bill Aims to Address Law Enforcement Recruitment Challenges and Lack of Trust Between Officers and Communities They Serve

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) reintroduced bipartisan legislation that aims to strengthen the relationships between law enforcement and the communities they serve by incentivizing recruits to work in the communities where they live. The Strong Communities Act – which Peters introduced with U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) – would provide federal grants for local law enforcement recruits who agree to attend school or academy and then serve in a law enforcement agency in their respective communities. The bill passed unanimously in the Senate in 2023. 

    “By incentivizing officers to work in the communities they call home, we can build trust between local law enforcement and the citizens they work to keep safe,” said Senator Peters. “This bipartisan bill would make progress to strengthen our communities while also helping to recruit officers in our most in-demand communities.” 

    Many communities across the country are facing both a law enforcement recruitment and a trust crisis. The Strong Communities Act aims to help facilitate improved relationships between law enforcement and the communities they serve. This legislation would make recruits eligible to receiving funding from the Department of Justice’s Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) program, which can be used to decrease the financial burden of education and training programs. In return, applicants would be required to serve as a full-time public safety officer for at least four years and complete their service in a local law enforcement agency located within seven miles of their residence, where they have resided for at least five years. Or, if the recruit resides in a county with less than 150,000 residents, the recruit could serve within 20 miles of their residence, where the applicant has resided for at least five years. 

    “The Police Officers Association of Michigan is proud to support Senator Peters’ bipartisan Strong Communities Act that would reinvigorate community policing,” said Kenneth E. Grabowski, Legislative Director of the Police Officers Association of Michigan (POAM). “This commonsense bill would strengthen law enforcement agencies’ efforts to recruit officers locally and help police officers build relationships and trust with the communities and people they work to serve and protect.” 

    “This legislation helps build on the community-policing model and, we hope, will help us address the recruiting crisis in law enforcement. The bill establishes a grant program for local law enforcement agencies to assist in recruiting officers from their own community.  The program created in this bill will allow recipient agencies to pay for recruits to attend a law enforcement training program provided that they serve in an agency in their community for at least four years. This will help local agencies recruit candidates from their own backyard and reduce the financial burden of their education and training to be law enforcement officers. We’re grateful to Senators Peters and Cornyn for their leadership and advocacy of this bill,” said Patrick Yoes, National President of the Fraternal Order of Police.   

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Urgent appeal to locate absconder who poses risk to the public

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    Officers are urgently appealing for the public’s help to locate a man who has absconded from a mental health facility and is believed to pose a risk to the public.

    Vasile Coceban, who is 36, was reported missing by staff at the Park Royal Centre for Mental Health in Acton Lane, Brent at 10:32hrs on Wednesday.

    He is described as white, 5 ft 4 inches tall, of average build with brown hair.

    Officers have released still images showing Vasile on the morning he went missing. He can be seen wearing a purple camouflage hooded top, grey tracksuit bottoms and light-coloured trainers.

    Enquiries suggest that he has since bought a large black rucksack and new clothing.

    Later on Wednesday, at around 16:20hrs, he was seen on CCTV in a shop in Kilburn High Road wearing a grey tracksuit top and a red t-shirt, carrying the black rucksack he had bought earlier.

    While officers believe it is likely he is still in north west London, in particular Brent, enquiries suggest that since he went missing he has travelled to Hyde Park in Westminster and back again, likely using the train network.

    Detective Superintendent Andrew Brien, from the North West Command Unit, said: “A high risk missing person investigation was quickly launched when we learned of the risk posed by Vasile. It is important we return him to the facility where he is being treated.

    “Extensive patrols have been conducted in the area where he is believed to be, but we are now appealing for the public’s help.

    “It is possible that Vasile is sleeping rough or camping in the Kilburn area or nearby. Please check any sheds or gardens and keep your eyes peeled if walking in parks and open spaces.

    “Your information could be key to helping us find Vasile and keeping the public safe.”

    Anyone who sees Vasile is urged not to approach him but to call 999 instead, providing the reference 01/7385436/25.

    Anyone with other information should call the police non-emergency number on 101.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Camden County Felon Admits to Illegally Possessing a Stolen Gun and Conspiring to Commit Bank Fraud

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    CAMDEN, N.J. – A Camden County man admitted to illegally possessing a firearm as a felon and to conspiring with others to negotiate checks that had been stolen from the mail, U.S. Attorney Alina Habba announced.

    Donovan Bunch, 23, of Sicklerville, New Jersey, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Edward S. Kiel to a two-count information charging him with one count of being a previously convicted felon in possession of a firearm and one count of conspiring to commit bank fraud.

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

    Donovan Bunch, Tracy Felder-Carter, Dante Ford, and Quamell Keyes-Griffin conspired to commit bank fraud by first obtaining checks that had been stolen from the U.S. mail. Bunch and other members of the conspiracy then would create counterfeit checks or alter the stolen checks by increasing the value of the check and changing the name of the payee to either a member of the conspiracy or somebody else recruited by the conspiracy. Bunch admitted that he and others would negotiate each counterfeit or altered check and then attempt to the withdraw the funds before the bank learned that the checks were illegitimate. The conspiracy involved the negotiation of checks at banks across southern New Jersey and elsewhere, with each check written for amounts upwards of several thousand dollars.

    As part of the investigation, in July 2023, law enforcement officers executed search warrants at Bunch’s residence and in his car.  Officers recovered from Bunch’s car a stolen Glock pistol with a 31-round magazine that was loaded with 14 rounds of ammunition.  At the time he possessed the stolen firearm and ammunition found in his car, Bunch was on probation as a result of a prior New Jersey felony conviction.

    The count of being a felon in possession of a firearm carries a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000.  The count of conspiracy to commit bank fraud carries a maximum penalty of 30 years in prison and a fine of up to $1,000,000.  Sentencing is scheduled for August 18, 2025.

    Felder-Carter, Ford, and Keyes-Griffin each previously pleaded guilty to their roles in the same bank fraud conspiracy to which Bunch pleaded guilty. Their sentencings are upcoming before Judge Kiel.   

    U.S. Attorney Habba credited postal inspectors of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service – Philadelphia Division, under the direction of Inspector in Charge Christopher A. Nielsen, with the investigation leading to this plea.  She also thanked the Pennsylvania State Police – Media Station, Pennsauken Police Department, and the Springfield Township (Pennsylvania) Police Department for their assistance in the investigation.

    The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey Bender of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Camden.

                                                               ###

    Defense counsel:

    Bunch: Martin Isenberg, Esq. (Gibbsboro, New Jersey)

    Felder-Carter: Michael Kahn, Esq. (Haddonfield, New Jersey)

    Ford: Margaret M. Grasso, Esq. (Philadelphia, Pennsylvania)

    Keyes-Griffin: John B. Brennan, Esq. (Marlton, New Jersey)

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Essex County Man Sentenced to 210 Months in Prison for Sex Trafficking Offenses

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    TRENTON, N.J. – An Essex County, New Jersey, man was sentenced to 210 months in prison on charges of sex trafficking and prostitution-related offenses, U.S. Attorney Alina Habba announced.

    Amin Sharif, 50, of Newark, was convicted by a jury in July 2024 of one count of attempted transportation of a victim with intent to engage in prostitution, one count of sex trafficking of a minor, one count of use of an interstate facility to promote unlawful activity, one count of transporting a victim with intent to engage in prostitution, and one count of persuading a victim to travel to engage in prostitution, following an eight-day trial before U.S. District Judge Michael A. Shipp in Trenton federal court.

    According to documents filed in this case and the evidence at trial:

    In January 2021, the Federal Bureau of Investigation began investigating Sharif for sex trafficking offenses. Sharif recruited four females, including one minor victim, from states across the country—New York, Pennsylvania, Idaho, and Utah.  Sharif used multiple social media accounts and assumed aliases and false identities to recruit and entice victims.  He made promises of housing stability, payment of bills and living expenses, and promises that the victims could make up to thousands of dollars per day by working for him.  Sharif advertised the minor victim online, offering her for 32 sexual services.

    Sharif was previously convicted of transporting a minor to engage in prostitution in federal court and was sentenced to 10 years in prison.

    In addition to the prison term, Judge Shipp sentenced Sharif to 20 years of supervised release.

    “Amin Sharif is a dangerous sex offender who has repeatedly preyed on vulnerable young women and minors in our society.  The Court’s sentence will prevent Sharif from harming additional victims and will send a strong signal to would-be traffickers that sex trafficking will not be tolerated in the District of New Jersey and will result in serious sentences.”

    –U.S. Attorney Alina Habba

    “Disguised with multiple names and social media profiles, and promising help financially, Sharif instead sexually exploited his victims for his own monetary gain. Sharif ignored the physical and psychological trauma he was causing these vulnerable women and minors.  FBI Newark Special Agents, Analysts, and Task Force Officers will stop at nothing to get heinous criminals off the streets, phones, and computers from where they lurk and put them behind bars where they belong,” stated FBI Acting Special Agent in Charge Terence G. Reilly. 

    U.S. Attorney Habba credited special agents of the FBI Newark Field Office, under the direction of Acting Special Agent in Charge Terence G. Reilly, with the investigation leading to this sentencing.  She also thanked the FBI’s Rochester, New York Office and the Dansville Police Department for their assistance.

    The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Farhana C. Melo and Chelsea D. Coleman of the Criminal Division in Newark.

                                                                           ###

    Defense counsel: Laurie M. Fierro Esq., Kinnelon, New Jersey; Mary F. Khellah, North Bergen, New Jersey

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: H Block Gang Member Pleads Guilty to Drug Distribution and Firearm Offense

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    BOSTON – A member of the violent Boston-based gang, H-Block, pleaded guilty today in federal court in Boston to drug distribution and firearms charges.

    Jerry Gray, 28 of Roxbury, pleaded guilty to distribution and possession with intent to distribute cocaine and being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition. U.S. District Court Judge Angel Kelley scheduled sentencing for July 31, 2025.

    Gray was one of 10 H-Block gang members and associates charged in August 2024 following a multi-year investigation of H-Block beginning in 2021 in response to an uptick in gang-related drug trafficking, shootings and violence. According to court documents, over 500 grams of cocaine, cocaine base (crack cocaine) and fentanyl, as well as over 20,000 doses of drug-laced paper were seized during the investigation.

    In February 2024, Gray, a long-time H Block gang member, sold crack cocaine to a cooperating witness, and then subsequently stole “buy” money from the cooperating witness during an additional controlled purchase in March of 2024. During Gray’s arrest in August of 2024, a Glock pistol, along with numerous rounds of various calibers of ammunition, were located in his residence. At the time of the charged offenses Gray was on probation in Suffolk Superior Court for two separate firearm-related convictions.

    According to the charging documents, the H Block Street Gang is one of the most feared and influential city-wide gangs in Boston. Originally formed in the 1980s as the Humboldt Raiders in the Roxbury section of Boston, the gang re-emerged in the 2000s as H Block. Current members of H Block have a history of violent confrontation with law enforcement, including an incident in 2015 when a member shot a Boston Police officer at point blank range without warning or provocation.

    The charge of distribution and possession with intent to distribute cocaine provides for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, at least three years and up to a lifetime of supervised release and a fine of up to $1 million. The charge of being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition provides for a sentence of up to 15 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. 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.

    Gray is the fifth defendant to plead guilty in the case.
        
    United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; Stephen Belleau, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration, New England Field Division; Special Agent in Charge Andrew Murphy of the U.S. Secret Service Boston Field Office; James Crowley, Acting  Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division; Jonathan Mellone, Special Agent in Charge of the Depart of Labor, Office of Inspector General; and Boston Police Commissioner Michael Cox made the announcement. The investigation was supported by the Massachusetts State Police; Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office; Massachusetts Department of Corrections; and the Braintree, Quincy, Randolph and Watertown Police Departments. Assistant United States Attorney John T. Dawley of the Organized Crime & Gang Unit and Jeremy Franker of the Justice Department’s Violent Crime & Racketeering Section are prosecuting the cases.

    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 Justice.gov/OCDETF.

    The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The remaining defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Illegal Immigrant Sentenced to Five Years in Federal Prison After Intercepting and Selling 1.8 Kilograms of Meth from Mexican Supplier

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    INDIANAPOLIS— Belarmino Sierra-Mata, 47, of Indianapolis, has been sentenced to five years in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release after pleading guilty to attempted possession with intent to distribute 500 grams of more of methamphetamine and reentry of a removed alien. 

    According to the indictment, on March 18, 2024, after receiving a text message from his girlfriend alerting him to a package’s arrival at her Indianapolis home, Sierra-Mata drove there to retrieve it. The package was shipped from California and contained approximately 1.8 kilograms of pure methamphetamine. After picking it up, Sierra-Mata sold the entire package to another individual in exchange for $300.

    During an interview with law enforcement agents following his arrest, Sierra-Mata stated that his source of supply was an individual in Mexico and that this was his second time accepting a package containing controlled substances for payment.

    Additionally, further investigation determined that Sierra-Mata is an illegal alien unlawfully present in the United States. Specifically, Sierra-Mata was formally removed from the United States on January 11, 2019, and knowingly reentered the country without obtaining proper documentation.

    Homeland Security Investigations and Indiana State Police investigated this case. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Judge Sarah Evans Barker.

    “Criminal aliens that habitually cross into our country illegally and endanger our communities must face consequences,” said John E. Childress, Acting United States Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “We will continue to work with our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners to ensure these drugs never make it to the streets and these criminals are prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”

    Acting U.S. Attorney Childress thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Cristina Caraballo-Colon and former AUSA Jordan Oliver, who prosecuted this case.

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

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    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Kehoe Announces Nine Appointments to Various Boards and Commissions

    Source: US State of Missouri

    APRIL 17, 2025

    Jefferson City — Today, Governor Mike Kehoe announced nine appointments to various boards and commissions.

    Scott Boswell Sr., of Kansas City, was appointed to the Kansas City Board of Police Commissioners.

    Dr. Boswell is a recently retired chairman of Commerce Trust and currently serves as a professor for the Executive Master of Business Administration program at the University of Missouri–Kansas City (UMKC). In addition to his professional career, he is an active member of several boards and organizations including the Heart of America Council for the Boy Scouts of America, the UMKC Board of Trustees, the Kansas City Symphony Board, and more. Dr. Boswell earned his Doctor of Business Administration from the University of Missouri–St. Louis, Master of Business Administration from the University of Chicago, and Bachelor of Arts from Westminster College.

    Alphonso Hogan II, of St. Louis, was appointed to the Peace Officer Standards and Training Commission.

    Mr. Hogan has served as a police officer with the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department since 2015. Prior to entering into law enforcement, he served in the United States Air Force, earning a rank of E-3 Airman 1st Class before his honorable discharge. Hogan is a legal board member and representative of the St. Louis Police Officers Association. He earned his Missouri Peace Officer license in 2008.

    Thomas Leasor, of Wentzville, was appointed to the Peace Officer Standards and Training Commission.

    Dr. Leasor is the executive director of the Eastern Missouri Police Academy, overseeing the training of police officer recruits and continued education courses for current police officers as well. He is also a Subject Matter Expert for the Missouri Peace Officers Standards and Training Commission. Dr. Leasor worked in law enforcement before 25 years before retiring and later assuming his current role. He currently sits on the Eastern Missouri Peer Support Council and Lindenwood University Criminal Justice Advisory Board. Dr. Leasor holds a Doctor of Education in Higher Education Administration and Leadership from Maryville University, a Master of Science in Criminal Justice Administration, and a Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice from Lindenwood University.

    Tracey Lewis, of Kansas City, was reappointed to the Missouri Housing Development Commission.

    Mr. Lewis is the president and chief executive officer of Economic Development Corporation. Previously, he served as the senior vice president at the Commerce Trust Company. Lewis was previously appointed to the Missouri Housing Development Commission in 2019. Lewis also sits on the boards of the Truman Medical Center and SchoolSmartKC. Mr. Lewis earned a Master of Business Administration from Cornell University’s Johnson Graduate School of Management and a Bachelor of Science in Marketing Communications from Boston College.

    Pat McCuthen, of Jefferson City, was appointed to the Missouri Sentencing Advisory Commission.

    Mr. McCuthen is a captain at the Jefferson City Police Department with over 20 years of experience in police instruction, leadership, and operational management. He is highly active in his community, serving on the Council for Drug-Free Youth, Community Resource Counseling Committee, Jefferson City Day Care Center board, Disproportionate Minority Committee, and the Jefferson City Youth Hockey Club board. Mr. McCuthen holds a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice administration from Columbia College and a graduate certificate from the University of Virginia School of Public Safety. He also earned his Missouri Peace Officer license in 1998.

    Paul Ogier, of St. Louis, was appointed to the Health and Educational Facilities Authority of the State of Missouri.

    Mr. Ogier currently serves as a board member of LeadingAge Missouri and as treasurer of Nursing Facility Agency Corporation (NFAC). Prior to retirement, Mr. Ogier spent over 40 years in the finance industry. He previously served as chief financial officer for Lutheran Senior Services in Brentwood. Mr. Ogier holds a Bachelor of Science in Finance from Missouri State University.

    Bryan Strider, of Richmond, was appointed to the Missouri Agricultural and Small Business Development Authority.

    Mr. Strider is a fifth-generation farmer and business development manager for Holganix. With deep roots in the farming community and a career built on  hands-on experience, Strider’s focuses on advancing sustainable farming practices and helping make farmers for profitable and resilient. He earned his bachelor’s degree in agricultural science from Northwest Missouri State University.

    William “Billy” Thiel, of Richmond, was appointed to the Missouri Agricultural and Small Business Development Authority.

    Mr. Thiel is a partner of more than 40 years in a family farm that produces corn and soybeans. Thiel was appointed to the Missouri Agricultural and Small Business Development Authority in 2016. He is a past president of the Missouri Corn Growers Association and has been active in the National Corn Growers Association. Thiel also served as chairman of the Missouri Corn Merchandising Council, is a director on the Board of the Rural Electric Association, and a member of the Mid-Missouri Energy Board.

    Tom Werdenhause, of Jefferson City, was appointed to the State Board of Registration for the Healing Arts.

    Mr. Werdenhause previously served as the general manager and chief executive officer for Three Rivers Electric Cooperative prior to his retirement in 2019. He is the current president of the State Technical College of Missouri Foundation, and past president of the Association of Missouri Electric Cooperatives, Central Electric Power Cooperative, and Missouri Institute of Cooperatives. Mr. Werdenhause earned his Bachelor of Science in Accounting from Central Missouri State University. 

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: New Haven Man Admits Distributing Methamphetamine Pills and Crack While on Supervised Release

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

    Marc H. Silverman, Acting United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that DONALD OGMAN, also known as “Mainey-O” and ”Manny O,” 43, of New Haven, pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Judge Vernon D. Oliver in Hartford to methamphetamine and cocaine distribution offenses.  A trial in this matter was scheduled to begin this morning.

    According to court documents and statements made in court, Ogman has been a leader of the Grape Street Crips (GSC), a violent New Haven gang.  In 2012, the FBI arrested Ogman for offenses related to his role in GSC, including drug trafficking.  He pleaded guilty to narcotics offenses and, on March 10, 2015, was sentenced to 188 months of imprisonment and five years of supervised release.  In August 2022, a federal judge granted Ogman’s motion for compassionate release, reduced Ogman’s sentence to time served, and he was released from prison. 

    Ogman resumed his drug trafficking activity while on federal supervised release, distributing multi-colored pills containing methamphetamine in and around New Haven.  The investigation included surveillance, trash pulls, and controlled purchases of methamphetamine pills from Ogman in March and April 2024.

    Ogman was arrested on May 9, 2024.  On that date, searches of his person and residence revealed additional quantities of methamphetamine, as well as crack cocaine.

    Ogman pleaded guilty to one count of possession with intent to distribute, and distribution of, methamphetamine; three counts of possession with intent to distribute, and distribution of, 50 grams or more of methamphetamine; and one count of possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine and a quantity of cocaine. 

    Judge Oliver scheduled sentencing for July 9.  Due to Ogman’s prior conviction for a serious drug felony, he faces a prison term of at least 10 years.  He also faces additional penalties for violating the conditions of his supervised release.

    Ogman has been detained since his arrest.

    This matter has been investigated by the DEA New Haven District Office (NHDO) Task Force, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), the New Haven Police Department and the Hamden Police Department.  The NHDO Task Force includes members from the DEA, U.S. Marshals Service, Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Division, Connecticut State Police and the New Haven, Waterbury, East Haven, Branford, West Haven, Ansonia, Meriden, Naugatuck, and Shelton Police Departments.

    The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Stephanie T. Levick and Nathan J. Guevremont through the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) Program.  OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations through a prosecutor-led and intelligence-driven approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Brockton Man Pleads Guilty to Drug Trafficking and Illegal Possession of Firearms and Ammunition

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (b)

    BOSTON – A self-admitted gang member from Brockton, who was previously convicted of killing a 17-year-old outside a Roxbury high school, pleaded guilty today to drug trafficking and illegal possession of firearms and ammunition.

    Andre McNeil, 35, pleaded guilty to one count of possession of cocaine with intent to distribute and two counts of being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition. U.S. District Court Judge Patti B. Saris scheduled sentencing for July 30, 2025. McNeil was indicted by a federal grand jury in June 2024.

    On Feb. 2, 2024, a series of searches were executed on McNeil’ vehicle and several associated residences. As a result, approximately 31 grams of cocaine, three handguns, two high-capacity magazines, five other magazines, approximately 101 rounds of 9mm ammunition and approximately $17,406 dollars, along with numerous cellular devices were seized. Numerous items used in drug trafficking, including scales, a money counter, baggies and a drug ledger were also observed at the search locations.

    McNeil is prohibited from possessing firearms due to a 2014 manslaughter conviction in Suffolk Superior Court for shooting and killing a 17-year-old boy outside a Roxbury high school, for which he was sentenced to more than 12 years in state prison.

    The charge of possession of cocaine with intent to distribute provides for sentence of up to 20 years in prison, at least three years and up to a lifetime of supervised release and a fine of up to $1 million. The charge of being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition provides for a sentence of up to 15 years in prison, up to three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000.

    United States Attorney Leah B. Foley and Jodi Cohen, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the Massachusetts State Police and the Brockton, Foxboro and Taunton Police Departments. Assistant U.S. Attorney John Dawley of the Organized Crime and Gang Unit is prosecuting the case.

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Sixteen Defendants Arrested for Alleged Involvement in Drug Trafficking within the Pine Ridge Reservation

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    RAPID CITY, SD – United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that a multi-agency law enforcement operation has resulted in 16 federal arrests in Rapid City, South Dakota, and within the Pine Ridge Reservation. Operation Snowy Ridge was organized by the FBI to clear outstanding warrants related to federally indicted drug trafficking cases. The operation began on Tuesday, April 15, 2025, and continued through the morning of Wednesday, April 16, 2025.

    “Operation Snowy Ridge brought together vast resources from federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement agencies for a two-day takedown of alleged drug traffickers living within the Pine Ridge Reservation and Rapid City, South Dakota,” said U.S. Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell. “Thanks to law enforcement’s sophisticated planning and extraordinary collaboration, the operation accomplished its intended goal—improve public safety in tribal communities by removing individuals who drive violence and facilitate drug addiction in Indian country.”

    “This operation disrupted the networks fueling violence and trafficking deadly drugs on Pine Ridge Indian Reservation,” said Special Agent in Charge Alvin M. Winston Sr. of FBI Minneapolis. “Through strong and sustained partnerships with our federal, state, tribal, and local counterparts, we are committed to holding violent offenders accountable and protecting our communities.”

    “The success of this operation reflects the strength of our partnerships and our shared dedication to protecting the people of Pine Ridge,” said Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety Chief of Police Danielle Means. “By targeting violent offenders and drug trafficking networks, this effort directly addressed the threats impacting our community. We are appreciative for the unified effort and remain committed to working together to ensure safety for our community.”

    As a result of the operation, the following individuals were arrested: Echo Winters (35, Pine Ridge, SD); Esther Winters (43, Pine Ridge, SD); Garren Wilson, Sr. (42, Pine Ridge, SD); Gabriel Gibbons (52, Pine Ridge, SD); Michaela Peoples (44, Pine Ridge, SD); Reed Brown (68, Wanblee, SD); Jackie Black Bear (60, Pine Ridge, SD); Skyler Red Cloud (31, Wounded Knee, SD); Theodore Coomes, Jr., a/k/a TC (38, Pine Ridge, SD); Abe Marshall (39, Batesland, SD); Laquetta Rouillard (34, Pine Ridge, SD); Anja Little Hawk (35, Pine Ridge, SD); Lisa Mills (33, Pine Ridge, SD); Demitre Ecoffey (30, Wounded Knee, SD); Tucker Fischbach (29, Rapid City, SD); Sesalie Red Owl (41, Rapid City, SD). Federal prosecutors at the U.S. Attorney’s Office have charged each of these individuals for their involvement in various drug conspiracies.

    “The combined effort of law enforcement agencies involved in this operation allowed for the removal of life-threatening substances including cocaine and methamphetamine,” Drug Enforcement Administration Omaha Division Acting Special Agent in Charge Rafael Mattei said. “For DEA, the goal at the end of the day is to keep our communities safe from the harm associated with these drugs.”

    “This operation reflects the very best of what sustained, strategic partnership between law enforcement can accomplish,” said Acting U.S. Marshal Stephen Houghtaling. “Together, we targeted those driving violence and drug trafficking on the Pine Ridge Reservation and we did so with one goal in mind—to protect the community. We are proud of the successful outcome of this operation and remain committed to the pursuit of justice.”

    “This operation exemplifies the power of collaboration and the effectiveness of agencies uniting their resources toward a shared goal,” said Bureau of Indian Affairs – Office of Justice Services Deputy Bureau Director Richard “Glen” Melville. “BIA-OJS remains steadfast in its commitment to Indian Country and its mission to combat the drug crisis gripping tribal communities.” Director Melville also praised the Oglala Sioux Tribe for their unwavering dedication and partnership in this large-scale operation. “The success of this initiative is a testament to the Oglala Sioux Tribe’s willingness to work in partnership with other law enforcement agencies including FBI, DEA, US Marshal’s Service, and BIA Division of Drug Enforcement to protect their communities. Their cooperation was instrumental in making this operation possible.”

    The operation was spearheaded by the Badlands Safe Trails Drug Task Force (Task Force), which is comprised of agents from the FBI, the Bureau of Indian Affairs’ Division of Drug Enforcement (BIA DDE), the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation (DCI), the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety, and the Martin Police Department. In executing this takedown, the Task Force received critical assistance from the DEA, U.S. Marshals Service, and the South Dakota Highway Patrol.

    Investigations are currently underway to determine if any of those arrested in this operation will be charged with additional crimes. Charges are merely accusations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. These cases are being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Edward Tarbay and Meghan Dilges.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Colorado Woman Sentenced to 11 years in Federal Prison for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance in the Rosebud Sioux Indian Reservation

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    PIERRE – United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Eric C. Schulte has sentenced a Denver, Colorado, woman convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance. The sentencing took place on April 14, 2025.

    Patricia Rae Pacheco a/k/a Patty Pacheco, age 35, was sentenced to 11 years in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, a $1,000 fine, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

    Pacheco was indicted for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance by a federal grand jury in August 2020. She pleaded guilty on January 15, 2025.

    Between January 1, 2015, and January 1, 2020, Pacheco conspired with several other persons to distribute methamphetamine obtained from Colorado to her family members and others in South Dakota, specifically in the Rosebud Sioux Indian Reservation. 

    This case was investigated by the FBI, the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services, the Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force, and the Valentine (NE) Police Department.

    Pacheco was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service. 

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Kansas City Woman Pleads Guilty to Embezzling Hundreds of Thousands of Dollars From Employer

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (b)

    KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Kansas City, Mo., woman plead guilty in federal court today to a fraud scheme in which she embezzled hundreds of thousands of dollars from her employer.

    Jennifer L. Cabral, 51, plead guilty before U.S. Magistrate Judge Lajuana Counts to one count of bank fraud and one count of money laundering.

    By pleading guilty today, Cabral admitted that she stole approximately $306,034.28 from her employer’s bank account and used those funds for her personal benefit and use. As part of the scheme, Cabral accessed her employer’s accounting software and directed payments to her own personal bank accounts through the employer’s online account at a local financial institution.  Cabral used those funds for various personal benefits including vehicle payments toward the purchase of her car, which was forfeited as part of the plea agreement.

    Under federal statutes, Cabral is subject to a sentence of up to 30 years in federal prison without parole on the bank fraud count and up to 20 years’ imprisonment on the money laundering count. 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 Rudolph R. Rhodes IV. It was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Grandview, Mo. Police Department.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Four Sentenced for Roles in Morgantown-Area Drug Trafficking Operation

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

    CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Four people were sentenced for their involvement in a drug trafficking organization that stretched from Philadelphia to Detroit to Morgantown, West Virginia.

    Those sentenced today were:

    • Charles Johnson, 33, of Detroit, Michigan, sentenced today to 96 months in federal prison;
    • Sandra Tennant, 55, of Morgantown, West Virginia, sentenced to 51 months;
    • Stephanie Miller, 48, of Charleston, West Virginia, sentenced to 84 months in federal prison; and
    • Jordan Spadafore, 34, of Morgantown, West Virginia, was sentenced to five years of probation.

    According to court documents, Johnson, Tennant, Miller, and Spadafore were distributors for the operation that was selling methamphetamine, cocaine, and fentanyl.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Zelda Wesley prosecuted the cases on behalf of the government.

    This case was investigated by the Mon Metro Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative. The task force consists of the Federal Bureau of Investigation; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; the Drug Enforcement Administration; the West Virginia State Police; the Monongalia County Sheriff’s Office; the Monongalia County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office; the Morgantown Police Department; the WVU Police Department; the Granville Police Department; and the Star City Police Department.

    This effort 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.

    Chief U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Rapid City Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Federal Prison for Illegally Possessing a Firearm

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    RAPID CITY – United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier has sentenced a Rapid City, South Dakota, man convicted of Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person. The sentencing took place on April 11, 2025.

    Dakota Jolley, age 28, was sentenced to 10 years in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

    Jolley was indicted on the possession charge in February 2024, and he pleaded guilty on January 8, 2025.

    In November 2023, the defendant got into an argument with his spouse, who was holding the couple’s small child. During the argument, the defendant initially threatened to hit his spouse and small child with a belt. The defendant then obtained a loaded Springfield Armory, model 1911, .45 caliber semi-automatic pistol, threatened to kill his spouse, and held the loaded firearm to her head on several occasions while she worked to protect their child. Jolley is prohibited from possessing firearms due to several prior felony conviction.   

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

    This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Rapid City Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Patterson prosecuted the case.

    Jolley was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Twenty Arrested in Waco on Federal Drug Trafficking Charges

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (c)

    WACO, Texas – A group of 20 federally indicted individuals were arrested Friday in Waco on criminal charges related to their alleged drug trafficking conspiracy that had been in operation since April 2024.

    The following defendants are indicted for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute at least 500 grams of methamphetamine and face 10 years to life in federal prison:

    • Osvaldo Vences
    • Brenda Lou Brasher
    • Juan Delgado
    • Anthony Mark Fimple
    • Brian Quinn Knox
    • Ronald Vincent Rodriguez, Jr.
    • James Holland Young
    • Tandy Jay Day
    • William Brett Lafferty
    • Michael Earl McDonald

    The following defendants are indicted for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute at least 1 kilogram of heroin and face 10 years to life in federal prison:

    • Arthur Lee Pimpton
    • Quincy Shun Cook
    • Osvaldo Vences
    • Reginald Dewayne Bible
    • Reginald Vernard Branch
    • Deordrick Derrion Brown
    • Direshia Marie McDaniel
    • Reginald Lionel Thornton
    • Kevin Eugene Hubby
    • Rockelle Lashan Parker
    • Marvin Lydell Starks

    The following defendants are indicted for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute at least 500 grams of cocaine and face five to 40 years in federal prison: 

    • Juan Delgado
    • Anthony Mark Fimple
    • Ronald Vincent Rodriguez, Jr.
    • Fabian Angel Fabela

    Acting U.S. Attorney Margaret Leachman for the Western District of Texas made the announcement.

    The FBI, Waco Police Department, Drug Enforcement Administration, and McLennan County Sheriff’s Office are investigating the case.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephanie Smith-Burris is prosecuting the case.

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

    ###

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  • MIL-OSI Australia: New podcast builds connection to Canberra’s queer history

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Queers Past presenter Zev Aviv says the podcast production process has been transformative.

    In brief:

    • A new podcast about Canberra’s queer history is now available.
    • The podcast was supported by funding through the Office of LGBTIQA+ Affairs’ Capital of Equality grants program.
    • The latest round of grants funding is open now.

    From Gorman Arts Centre to the Braddon car yards, a new podcast, Queers Past, explores iconic and overlooked LGBTQIA+ sites around the ACT.

    Sita Sargeant received an ACT Government Capital of Equality grant in 2023 to produce the podcast.

    Her company, She Shapes History runs popular walking tours around Canberra.

    One of these, a tour revealing the city’s queer secrets, fuelled her next project.

    About Queers Past

    Zev Aviv, also from She Shapes History, presents the podcast and brings a trans perspective to the conversation.

    Once they started researching and writing the podcast, Zev realised they couldn’t simply reproduce the tour.

    “Unlike a tour, where you can gauge your audience’s knowledge and adjust in real-time, a podcast doesn’t allow that interaction. You don’t know what your audience already knows or what gaps need to be filled in, which fundamentally changes the storytelling process,” Zev said.

    “So, turning the tour into a podcast wasn’t as straightforward as we’d imagined – it meant adapting and transforming it into something entirely new.”

    A goal of connection

    The latest round of Capital of Equality grants is now open through the Office of LGBTIQA+ Affairs.

    Sita and Zev’s hopes for Queers Past echoes the program’s aim of supporting and strengthening Canberra’s LGBTIQA+ communities.

    “I really hope it helps LGBTIQA+ Canberrans feel more grounded in this city – more connected to its history and the knowledge that people like them have always been here,” Zev said.

    “LGBTIQA+ people have always been part of this community, contributing, pulling their weight, and often going above and beyond to support one another.”

    How the grants work

    The Capital of Equality grants program offers funding across three streams:

    The goal is to create a sense of community and belonging for LGBTIQA+ people, through:

    • improved understanding of LGBTIQA+ experiences
    • improved wellbeing of LGBTIQA+ people
    • increased participation of LGBTIQA+ communities
    • increased capacity and leadership.

    Zev says the podcast would not have existed without the Capital of Equality grant.

    “It has allowed us to pay for all the recording equipment. As a small business I’m not sure we could have justified the spend otherwise,” Sita said.

    The application process

    Sita found the grant application process simple, with plenty of support available.

    “This grant was the second I’d applied for – I was unsuccessful the first time, and I took away some key learnings from that. I’d really encourage people to apply for a grant, but not to be discouraged if they don’t get it the first time,” Sita said.

    While the production process had its ups and downs, both Zev and Sita are extremely proud of the result.

    “I love Canberra and the ACT so much. We often get a bad rap, but this place is so special. I want those who feel connected to it to feel even prouder and more rooted in its past, while also inspired by the possibilities for its future. My hope is that the podcast helps people feel more at home here – more connected, more proud, and more at ease in their place in this story,” Zev said.

    Applications for the Connection Fund and Partnerships and Capacity Building are open until Monday 27 January 2025. Applications for the LGBTIQA+ Leadership Grant are open until 5 January 2025.

    Find out more or apply for a grant on the Office of LGBTIQA+ Affairs website.

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    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Violence should never be part of the shift

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    When CJ worked in a patient-facing role, it was common for staff to accept occupational violence as just part of the job.

    Everyone has a role to play in creating a safe public health care setting.

    Nurses make up half of the healthcare workforce, with roles in clinical care, leadership, education, and research. It is without question that nurses are pivotal to the healthcare system and wellbeing of communities.

    Of course, when you’re a nurse, there are plenty of not-so-pleasant things you may encounter during a shift. From blood and other bodily fluids to challenging conversations, and an entire range of germs – it all comes with the job of helping people and making a positive difference to the health of others and the broader community.

    But there’s something else nurses are likely to encounter in a shift that should not be a part of the job: violence and unacceptable behaviours. It was when working in different settings, such as on the ward, the emergency department, and outpatients that CJ* really witnessed and experienced it first-hand.

    “It happens every day. Some members of the public might think violence is typically perpetrated by people who are intoxicated, or it is related to mental health. But the truth is, what we see is that perpetrators of occupational violence and unacceptable behaviours can be anyone,” she said.

    The violence not only comes from the patients, but can come from relatives, carers, partners, visitors and other members of the public who engage with the health service. And it’s not always as clear cut and obvious as physical assault or verbal abuse.

    Occupational violence also includes unacceptable behaviours such as snide comments, undermining and gaslighting, sexism, racism, sexually inappropriate behaviours, intimidation, and discrimination. It can also take the form of defamatory comments on social media, or filming staff without their consent.

    “I have brown skin and I have an Asian background and I’ve had people ask for a white nurse. Another example – people try to pretend they can’t understand what I’m saying, when you know that they can understand,” says CJ.

    “Verbal aggression and inappropriate behaviours are more common than physical assault, and they’re just as hurtful and detrimental to our wellbeing.”

    Everyone has a role to play in creating a safe and positive health care setting. This includes nursing and clinical staff, and patients and members of the public being kind and respectful when communicating.

    “I always try to do my best to deliver quality care in an imperfect system, but sometimes, I just felt like it’s not enough,” says CJ.

    “Say you look after five people, and four people you had positive interactions with, and they were thankful. But then all it takes is that one person to make an awful comment. For some reason, it’s always the negative comment that would stick with me.”

    CJ says when she worked in a patient-facing role, it was common for staff to accept that occupational violence was just part of the job, and nurses didn’t always speak up. CJ’s passion for trying to shift this culture and make a positive change to violence against health workers led her to complete a PhD in the area, with a focus on preventing occupational violence in emergency departments.

    She is now Director of Occupational Violence Prevention and Management for Canberra Health Services and is working hard to effect change in the industry and be part of the solution.

    “In our research, we found that nurses want a comprehensive strategy to feel safer at work. For example, a good strategy should at least strive to identify and meet patients’ health needs, have education and training for nurses, include a team response to occupational violence, and ensure that nurses are supported to recover from incidents if they occur. This is what we are actively working on at Canberra Health Services, and I’m happy to be a part of it.”

    She closely consults and collaborates with health workers, managers and agencies in patient-facing roles to ensure everyone feels supported and safe to report incidents, and that appropriate action is taken to prevent incidents. She also works to influence policies and procedures to help prevent incidents happening in the future and to reduce the harmful impacts of occupational violence on nurses. This work contributes to the Towards a Safer Culture ‘The Next Steps’ Strategy – a government funded initiative supporting the fundamental rights of nurses and midwives working in ACT public health services to be safe and protected in their workplaces.

    “I really try to be the support that I wished for when I was facing violence and unacceptable behaviours as a nurse,” says CJ.

    “What I would also like to tell other nurses is that their safety is just as important as patient safety! Don’t be afraid to call out violence and unacceptable behaviours. And don’t be afraid to report incidents, as each report helps us to better manage these risks and make decisions on what is best and safest for both patients and health care workers”.

    * For personal privacy, surnames of interviewees have been removed.

    Find out more about how you can help make ACT Government workplaces safe for everyone.

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    MIL OSI News –