NewzIntel.com

Category: Police

  • MIL-OSI Security: Missouri Gang Member Indicted for Murder in Aid of Racketeering and Other Crimes Including Three Murders

    Source: United States Attorneys General 2

    A federal grand jury in the Eastern District of Missouri returned an indictment on Wednesday charging Travis Santel Jones, 21, of St. Louis, Missouri, with one count of murder in aid of racketeering, RICO conspiracy, using a firearm during a crime of violence, and causing death with a firearm, all related to Jones’s alleged part in the Cochran Crips, a violent street gang based in St. Louis. Two victims were gunned down in the street and one victim was killed at his own home.

    “There is no place in our communities for groups that terrorize their neighbors,” said Matthew R. Galeotti, Head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “This indictment alleges violent criminal acts and the tragic loss of three lives, all at the hands of a dangerous gang member. The Department of Justice’s Criminal Division will continue to pursue justice for these victims and for the people of St. Louis.”

    “The alleged activity here is exactly the type of case that the Violent Crime Initiative was designed to tackle — complex criminal conspiracies involving drugs and years of violence,” said U.S. Attorney Sayler A. Fleming for the Eastern District of Missouri. “There are severe federal consequences for anyone who is tempted to kill and maim to peddle poison.”

    “For years, FBI St. Louis has been investigating violent crimes and drug trafficking by Cochran Crips gang members. In 2020, our office surged resources to assist the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department after two innocent Saint Louis University students were gunned down simply because their vehicle was misidentified by the gang,” said Special Agent in Charge Ashley Johnson of the FBI St. Louis Field Office. “The FBI and our law enforcement partners will not stop until we bring all those involved in the murders to justice.”

    “Violence has no place in our community, and this indictment sends a clear message: we will always be a voice for victims, and we will not stop pursuing justice until there is accountability,” said St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department Chief Robert J. Tracy. “I am proud of the dedication by our investigators on this case, and we will continue to work with our federal law enforcement partners to keep our neighborhoods safe and take dangerous criminals off our streets.”

    According to court documents, Jones conspired with other Cochran Crips members to commit multiple acts of murder and multiple drug trafficking offenses. Specifically, it is alleged in July 2020, Jones and other members were driving the streets of St. Louis, armed with multiple firearms, looking for “get backs” (retaliation) against a rival gang. While searching for rival gang members, Jones and others allegedly killed two innocent people whom they mistakenly believed to be rivals. After allegedly shooting and killing the victims, Jones and other Cochran Crips allegedly sped away, fleeing the scene and endangering other motorists on the road. Just a day after the murders, it is alleged that Cochran Crips gang members glorified the murders in a rap song.

    In 2022, Jones allegedly murdered another Cochran Crips member when the gang believed that the victim had disrespected a fellow gang member. The gang members are alleged to have obtained a car, armed themselves with multiple firearms, drove to the victim’s home, and murdered him.

    If convicted of murder in aid of racketeering, Jones faces a mandatory minimum penalty of life in prison or the death penalty. All other charges carry a maximum penalty of life in prison.  

    The FBI and the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department are investigating the case.

    Trial Attorneys Jared A. Hernandez and Matthew Mattis of the Criminal Division’s Violent Crime and Racketeering Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Nino Przulj for the Eastern District of Missouri are prosecuting the case.

    This case is part of the Criminal Division’s Violent Crime Initiative in St. Louis conducted in partnership with the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the Eastern District of Missouri and local, state, and federal law enforcement. The joint effort addresses violent crime by employing, where appropriate, federal laws to prosecute gang members and their associates in St. Louis.

    This case is also 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 www.justice.gov/OCDETF.

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Escape and return of an inmate from Grierson Institution

    Source: Government of Canada News

    April 11, 2025 – Edmonton, Alberta – Correctional Service Canada

    On April 11, 2025 inmate Jason Draude failed to report to his work location while on an approved work release from Grierson Institution in Edmonton, Alberta.

    The Correctional Service of Canada (CSC) immediately contacted the Edmonton Police Service, and a warrant for the inmate’s arrest has been issued.

    At 12:56 p.m., inmate Jason Draude was back in custody. CSC will investigate the circumstances of this incident.

    Ensuring the safety and security of institutions, staff, and public remains the highest priority in the operations of the federal correctional system.

    -30-

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Mexican National And Florida Man Indicted For Drug Trafficking And Possessing Firearm In Furtherance Of Trafficking Methamphetamine

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Tampa, Florida – United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe announces the return of an indictment charging Carlos Antonio Leon (29, Plant City) and Luis Fernando Aguirre Marin (29, Mexico) with drug trafficking conspiracy, possession with intent to distribute more than 500 grams of a mixture and substance containing methamphetamine and possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense. If convicted on all counts, Leon and Aguirre Marin each face a minimum of 15 years, up to life, in federal prison. The indictment also notifies Leon and Aguirre Marin that the United States intends to forfeit the firearm and ammunition alleged to be involved in, or used to facilitate, the offense.

    According to the indictment, beginning not later than March 2025, Leon and Aguirre Marin conspired to possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing methamphetamine. The indictment specifically alleges that, on March 21, 2025, they possessed with intent to distribute more than 500 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing methamphetamine. Further, it is alleged that they possessed a firearm in furtherance of those offenses.

    An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty.

    This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, the Florida Highway Patrol, and the Plant City Police Department. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Adam W. McCall.

    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).

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Tanzania: Stop repression of opposition leaders and immediately release Tundu Liss

    Source: Amnesty International –

    Responding to news that treason charges were brought against Tundu Lissu, leader of Tanzania’s main opposition Party for Democracy and Progress (Chadema) on 10 April, following his arrest on 9 April, Amnesty International’s Regional Director for East and Southern Africa, Tigere Chagutah said:

    “The Tanzanian authorities must immediately and unconditionally release Tundu Lissu whose arbitrary arrest and detention comes amid a growing crackdown on opposition leaders ahead of the October 2025 general elections.

    “The authorities’ campaign of repression saw four government critics forcibly disappeared, and one unlawfully killed in 2024. The police have also prevented opposition members from holding meetings and other political gatherings, subjecting them to mass arrest, arbitrary detention and unlawful use of force.

    “Instead of using these heavy-handed tactics to silence critics, authorities in Tanzania should focus on upholding fundamental human rights in the country, including the right to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly.”

    Tundu Lissu

    Tundu Lissu was arrested on 9 April 2025 after holding a political rally in Mbinga town, southwest of Tanzania. He was then transferred to Dar es Salaam, more than 1,000 kilometres away by road during the night. Police used excessive force, including by firing teargas and shooting in the air to disperse his supporters who gathered around during the arrest.

    On 10 April, police charged him with the non-bailable offence of treason, in relation to social media posts he made on 3 April calling for Tanzanians to boycott the forthcoming elections, citing the possibility of rigging.

    The state also charged him with three offences in relation to the “publication of false information” using the country’s cybercrime laws. On 3 April 2025, Tundu Lissu, in a You Tube post also stated that Tanzanian police participated in alleged electoral malpractices that he claimed were ordered by the president following the November 2024 local elections. He further stated that judges in the country are not independent and subject to pressure of the ruling party.

    Dioniz Kipanya, a Chadema party official, disappeared on 26 July 2024 when he left home following a telephone conversation with an unidentified person. Deusdedith Soka and Jacob Godwin Mlay, both Chadema youth activists, and Frank Mbise, a motorcycle taxi driver, were abducted by a group of men suspected to be police officers on 18 August 2024.

    The body of Ali Mohamed Kibao, a senior Chadema member, was found on 8 September 2024. Suspected security agents had abducted him from a bus on 6 September 2024 while he was travelling home to Tanga from Dar es Salaam. According to a post-mortem his body had been soaked in acid and bore signs of a beating.

    Tundu Lissu will be arraigned in Kisitu Magistrates Court of Dar es Salaam on 24 April 2025.

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Tanzania: Stop repression of opposition leaders and immediately release Tundu Lissu

    Source: Amnesty International –

    Responding to news that treason charges were brought against Tundu Lissu, leader of Tanzania’s main opposition Party for Democracy and Progress (Chadema) on 10 April, following his arrest on 9 April, Amnesty International’s Regional Director for East and Southern Africa, Tigere Chagutah said:

    “The Tanzanian authorities must immediately and unconditionally release Tundu Lissu whose arbitrary arrest and detention comes amid a growing crackdown on opposition leaders ahead of the October 2025 general elections.

    “The authorities’ campaign of repression saw four government critics forcibly disappeared, and one unlawfully killed in 2024. The police have also prevented opposition members from holding meetings and other political gatherings, subjecting them to mass arrest, arbitrary detention and unlawful use of force.

    The Tanzanian authorities must immediately and unconditionally release Tundu Lissu whose arbitrary arrest and detention comes amid a growing crackdown on opposition leaders ahead of the October 2025 general elections.

    Tigere Chagutah, Amnesty International’s Regional Director for East and Southern Africa

    “Instead of using these heavy-handed tactics to silence critics, authorities in Tanzania should focus on upholding fundamental human rights in the country, including the right to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly.”

    Background

    Tundu Lissu was arrested on 9 April 2025 after holding a political rally in Mbinga town, southwest of Tanzania. He was then transferred to Dar es Salaam, more than 1,000 kilometres away by road during the night. Police used excessive force, including by firing teargas and shooting in the air to disperse his supporters who gathered around during the arrest.

    On 10 April 2025, police charged him with the non-bailable offence of treason, in relation to social media posts he made on 3 April 2025 calling for Tanzanians to boycott the forthcoming elections, citing the possibility of rigging.

    The state also charged him with three offences in relation to the “publication of false information” using the country’s cybercrime laws. On 3 April 2025, Tundu Lissu, in a You Tube post also stated that Tanzanian police participated in alleged electoral malpractices that he claimed were ordered by the president following the November 2024 local elections. He further stated that judges in the country are not independent and subject to pressure of the ruling party.

    Dioniz Kipanya, a Chadema party official, disappeared on 26 July 2024 when he left home following a telephone conversation with an unidentified person. Deusdedith Soka and Jacob Godwin Mlay, both Chadema youth activists, and Frank Mbise, a motorcycle taxi driver, were abducted by a group of men suspected to be police officers on 18 August 2024.

    The body of Ali Mohamed Kibao, a senior Chadema member, was found on 8 September 2024. Suspected security agents had abducted him from a bus on 6 September 2024 while he was travelling home to Tanga from Dar es Salaam. According to a post-mortem his body had been soaked in acid and bore signs of a beating.

    Tundu Lissu will be arraigned in Kisitu Magistrates Court of Dar es Salaam on 24 April 2025.

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICE Boston, federal partners arrests illegal Ecuadoran national charged with more than 20 sex crimes against Massachusetts minor

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    LAWRENCE, Mass. — U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, along with federal partners from the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives arrested an illegally present Ecuadoran national charged with more than twenty counts of sex crimes against a minor. Officers with ICE Boston and agents from DEA New England and ATF Boston arrested Gilberto Avila-Jara, 64, in Lawrence April 1.

    “There are no appropriate words to describe the amount of damage Gilberto Avila-Jara has allegedly done to our Massachusetts community,” said ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Boston acting Field Office Director Patricia H. Hyde. “Children are the most precious and most vulnerable members of our communities, and we will do everything in our power to protect them from illegal sex offenders. ICE Boston remains committed to prioritizing public safety by arresting and removing alien sexual predators from New England.”

    Avila illegally entered the United States near San Ysidro, California Feb. 10, 1996, without being inspected, admitted, or paroled by a U.S. immigration official.

    Officers with the Immigration and Naturalization Service apprehended Avila March 2, 1996, at Los Angeles International Airport.

    On March 11, 1996, a Justice Department immigration judge ordered Avila removed from the United States to Ecuador. INS removed Avila from the United States to Ecuador July 2, 1996. Avila illegally reentered the United States on an unknown date, at an unknown location and without being inspected, admitted or paroled by a U.S. immigration official. The Lawrence District Court arraigned Avila on Dec. 18, 2020, for more than 20 offenses including indecent assault and battery on a child under 14, rape of a child with force and aggravated statutory rape of a Child. Later that day, ICE Boston lodged an immigration detainer against Avila with the Lawrence Police Department.

    The Lawrence District Court refused to honor the ICE detainer and released Avila from custody on bail March 17, 2021.

    On April 22, 2021, the Essex County Superior Court arraigned Avila for six counts of indecent assault and battery on a child under 14, eight counts of rape of a child with force and eight counts of aggravated statutory rape of a child.

    Officers with ICE Boston and agents from DEA New England and ATF Boston arrested Gilberto Avila-Jara, 64, in Lawrence April 1.

    Members of the public can report crimes and suspicious activity by dialing 866-DHS-2-ICE (866-347-2423) or completing the online tip form.

    Learn more about ICE’s mission to increase public safety in our communities on X: @EROBoston

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: PDS Gang Member Sentenced for Drug Distribution

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

                WASHINGTON – Dartanyan Ricardo Hawkins, 30, of Washington D.C., was sentenced today to 60 months in federal prison in connection with his role in a drug trafficking conspiracy that distributed large quantities of marijuana in the District of Columbia.

                The sentencing was announced by U.S. Attorney Edward R. Martin, Jr., FBI Special Agent Sean Ryan of the Washington Field Office Criminal and Cyber Division, Special Agent in Charge Anthony Spotswood of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives Washington Field Division, and Chief Pamela Smith of the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD).

                Hawkins, aka “Shitty,” was a member of the Push Dat Shit (PDS) and Jugg Gang (JG) street crews. He pleaded guilty November 1, 2024, before U.S. District Judge Amy Berman Jackson to possession with intent to distribute more than 100 kilograms (220 pounds) of marijuana. As part of his plea, Hawkins admitted to possessing a firearm as part of the offense and further admitted to using Instagram to sell marijuana.

                In addition to the 60-month prison term, Judge Berman Jackson ordered Hawkins to serve four years of supervised release.

                According to court documents, PDS maintained gang territory in the 3300 – 3500 blocks of Wheeler Road, Southeast and operated an open-air drug market outside a market. In August 2018, PDS allied with a neighboring street gang known as Jugg Gang, or “JG,” that included Hawkins. The combined gang also conspired to carry firearms – including machine guns – to protect themselves, their drugs, their cash, and their territory from rival crews with whom they had “beefs.”

                This sentence is part of an ongoing joint investigation which has resulted in 27 convictions and the seizure of two vehicles, 35 firearms, four machine guns, more than 1,000 rounds of ammunition, approximately 60 pounds of marijuana, 41 grams of cocaine base, dozens of oxycodone pills, and approximately $500,000 in cash.

                The case was investigated by the FBI’s Washington Field Office, the ATF’s Washington Field Division, and the Metropolitan Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney James B. Nelson.

    23cr379

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Medina man charged with possession of child pornography

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Kyle Stack, 39, of Medina, NY, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with possession of child sexual abuse material involving prepubescent minors, which carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles M. Kruly, who is handling the case, stated that according to the complaint, in December 2019, Adobe Systems Inc. reported that four images containing child sexual abuse material were uploaded to Adobe’s servers from screen/username “Kyle Stack.” Subsequent investigation traced the uploads to the defendant. In July 2020, the New York State Police executed a search warrant at Stack’s Bates Road residence, seizing six electronic devices, two of which were later found to contain child sexual abuse material. A forensic review of Stack’s cell phone recovered a total of 4,822 images and 32 videos of child sexual abuse material, as well as 2,319 images and four videos of child erotica, and 25 animated child sexual abuse material. A review of his laptop recovered 3,476 images, eight animated images, 16 images of child bestiality and bondage, 5,930 videos, three animated videos, and 43 child bestiality and bondage videos.

    Stack made an initial appearance this afternoon before U.S. Magistrate Judge Jeremiah J. McCarthy and was detained.

    The complaint is the result of an investigation by the New York State Police, under the direction of Major Amie Feroleto, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia.

    The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.   

     

    # # # #

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Pine Bluff Woman Sentenced to Federal Prison for Perjury

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    LITTLE ROCK—Dezstiny Collins will spend the next 18 months in federal prison for lying to a grand jury. Jonathan D. Ross, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, announced the sentence, which was handed down on April 10, 2025, by United States District Judge Brian S. Miller.

    A federal grand jury indicted Collins, 29, of Pine Bluff, in an indictment on August 3, 2022. She was charged in a one count indictment of false declarations before a grand jury. On December 5, 2024, Collins pleaded guilty to the perjury charge in the indictment.

    Collins was subpoenaed to testify before a grand jury on March 2, 2022, as part of an ongoing federal investigation into ammunition possessed by convicted felons during a shooting and homicide in Pine Bluff. During her testimony before the grand jury, Collins repeatedly denied being with the suspects from the February 26, 2019, shooting despite being confronted with surveillance video footage from local businesses that placed her with the suspects immediately prior to the shooting. At the change of plea hearing, Collins acknowledged that the testimony she provided before the grand jury was not truthful.

    In addition to the 18-month sentence, Judge Miller sentenced Collins to three years’ supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.

    The investigation was conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration, with assistance from the FBI and Pine Bluff Police Department. The case was prosecuted in the Eastern District of Arkansas by Assistant United States Attorney Amanda Fields.

    # # #

    Additional information about the office of the

    United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, is available online at

    https://www.justice.gov/edar

    X (formerly known as Twitter):

    @USAO_EDAR 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Catering to kids in the Emergency Department

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Nurses Maddie, John and Alison in the new Canberra Hospital Emergency Department children’s area, which opens on 17 August.

    When Canberra Hospital’s new, larger Emergency Department (ED) opens this month, it will include a dedicated emergency area for children.

    This special unit’s design has children and families front of mind.

    There, children, families and carers can stay together in an area separate to the rest of the ED.

    This will help meet patients’ medical and psychosocial needs, as well as those of their families and carers.

    The children’s emergency area will have a separate triage and waiting area.

    In addition, an interactive display and access to an outdoor play courtyard will offer kids a welcoming, positive environment while they wait for treatment.

    Treatment rooms will be equipped with distraction therapies. There will also be a sensory room – a calming, reassuring space for neurodiverse patients and those with other special needs.

    “The emergency department can be an overwhelming place for paediatric patients,” Alison, an Emergency Department nurse, said.

    “Having such welcoming space and activities to do while waiting will make a big difference for them,” she said.

    The ED is planned to move to the new Critical Services Building – Building 5 at Canberra Hospital – on 17 August.

    Find out more at Built for CBR.

    Get ACT news and events delivered straight to your inbox, sign up to our email newsletter:


    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cassidy Announces $28.6 Million for Hurricane Relief

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Louisiana Bill Cassidy

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) announced Louisiana will receive $28,635,578.25 from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) in reimbursement for emergency protective measures, including the deployment of a temporary freshwater pipeline and generators, and recovery efforts following Hurricanes Laura and Ida.
    “This funding brings Louisiana communities closer to recovery and makes us stronger for the future,” said Dr. Cassidy. “We will always be there for our neighbors after a storm.”

    Grant Awarded
    Recipient
    Project Description

    $16,470,490.39
    Jefferson Parish
    This grant will provide federal funding for a temporary freshwater pipeline to address water safety issues.

    $1,007,859.93
    Calcasieu Parish Police Jury
    This grant will provide federal funding for permanent repairs as a direct result of Hurricane Laura.

    $1,170,251.69
    City of Kenner
    This grant will provide federal funding for permanent repairs as a direct result of Hurricane Ida.

    $1,751,665.66
    Terebonne Levee and Conservation District
    This grant will provide federal funding for permanent levee repairs as a direct result of Hurricane Ida.

    $2,560,879.53
    Lafourche Parish School Board
    This grant will provide federal funding for permanent repairs as a direct result of Hurricane Ida.

    $4,618,875.60
    Office of Risk Management
    This grant will provide federal funding for permanent work as a direct result of Hurricane Ida.

    $999,999.90
    Red River Parish
    This grant will provide federal funding for the purchase and installation of 21 industrial generators, switches, foundation pads, and security fencing.

    $55,555.55
    Red River Parish
    This grant will provide federal funding for management costs associated with Red River Parish Emergency Power Generator Systems.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Millbrook — RCMP continues to seek tips on 2024 disappearance of Zachery Kellock

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    The Northeast Nova RCMP Major Crime Unit (NEN MCU) continues to seek information from the public regarding the suspicious disappearance of Zachery Kellock.

    On January 14, 2024, at approximately 4 p.m., Kellock left his home in Truro in a vehicle with two other people. When he had not returned two days later, his family reported him missing to the Truro Police Service. And when officers learned that Kellock was last seen on Millbrook First Nation, the RCMP took over the investigation.

    “Zach’s disappearance was considered suspicious from day one,” says Cpl. Jennifer Tichonchuk, NEN MCU. “And we’ve been investigating his disappearance as a homicide.”

    Since Kellock’s disappearance, investigators have continued to follow up on leads, with assistance from Colchester County District RCMP, RCMP Forensic Identification Services, and the Truro Police Service.

    At the time of his disappearance, 23-year-old Kellock was described as 5-foot-10, 159 pounds, with blond hair and blue eyes. He was last seen wearing a dark grey leather jacket.

    “We know there are people out there who have information about Zach’s suspicious disappearance – information that will help us find answers for Zach’s loved ones,” says Cpl. Tichonchuk. “We’re asking them to come forward and share what they know; even the smallest detail could help our investigation.”

    Anyone with information about Zachery Kellock’s disappearance is asked to contact the Northeast Nova RCMP Major Crime Unit at 902-896-5060. To remain anonymous, call Nova Scotia Crime Stoppers toll-free at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), submit a secure web tip at www.crimestoppers.ns.ca or use the P3 Tips app.

    File #: 2024-67453

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: United States Department of Justice Equitable Sharing Funds

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico – United States Attorney W. Stephen Muldrow, Puerto Rico Governor Jenniffer González-Colón, and Puerto Rico Police Bureau Commissioner Jospeh González today announced updated/new information regarding the United States Department of Justice Equitable Sharing Funds for agencies in Puerto Rico.

    Asset forfeiture is the taking of property by the government without compensation because of the property’s connection to criminal activity. It is a legal tool that enables the federal government to recover property that can be used to compensate victims of the crime underlying the forfeiture, among other important law enforcement interests.

    There are two distinct asset forfeiture programs: (a) the Department of Justice’s Asset Forfeiture Program over which the Attorney General exercises statutory authority; and (b) the Department of the Treasury’s Treasury Asset Forfeiture Program managed by the Secretary of the Treasury).

    The Justice Asset Forfeiture Program has four primary goals:

    1. To punish and deter criminal activity by depriving criminals of property used in or acquired through illegal activities.

    2. To promote and enhance cooperation among federal, state, local, tribal, and foreign law enforcement agencies.

    3. To recover assets that may be used to compensate victims when authorized under federal law.

    4. To ensure the Program is administered professionally, lawfully, and in a manner consistent with sound public policy.

    The Justice Asset Forfeiture Fund receives the proceeds of forfeiture made pursuant to laws enforced or administered by members of Justice’s Asset Forfeiture Program. Thirteen agencies, including Justice agencies and components as well as non-Justice agencies, comprise the Asset Forfeiture Program’s membership.  That membership includes Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS), and Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).

    The Treasury Asset Forfeiture Program also has four priorities:

    1. To administer and manage the Treasury Forfeiture Fund (TFF) program in a fiscally responsible manner that seeks to minimize administrative costs and maximize the benefits for law enforcement and the compensation of eligible victims; 

    2. To ensure program policies protect due process rights of individuals;

    3. To focus resources on strategic cases and investigations that result in actions against high profile criminals and criminal enterprises to affect the greatest financial damage to criminal organizations; and

    4. To foster a strong working relationship between federal and state or local law enforcement agencies

    The Treasury Forfeiture Fund receives the proceeds of forfeitures made pursuant to laws enforced or administered by Treasury and Department of Homeland Security law enforcement agencies. Members include U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement – Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI), U.S. Secret Service (USSS), U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), and U.S. Coast Guard (USCG)

    Through equitable sharing, any state, local, or tribal law enforcement agency that directly participates in a law enforcement effort that results in a federal forfeiture may request an equitable share of the net proceeds of the forfeiture.  The Equitable Sharing Program is an important aspect of the Justice and Treasury Asset Forfeiture Programs. Federal law authorizes the Attorney General and the Secretary of the Treasury to share federally forfeited assets with participating law enforcement agencies.  The exercise of this authority is discretionary and limited by statute. The Attorney General and the Secretary of the Treasury are not required to share assets in any case. Participation in an investigation with a member of the Justice Asset Forfeiture Program may result in equitable sharing paid from Justice’s Asset Forfeiture Funds (AFF), while participation in an investigation with a Treasury Asset Forfeiture Program member agency may result in equitable sharing paid from Treasury’s Forfeiture Funds (TFF).

    In Puerto Rico, the following agencies are participating in the Equitable Sharing Program: Puerto Rico Police Bureau; Puerto Rico Special Investigations Bureau; Puerto Rico Ports Authority General Security Department; Puerto Rico National Guard Counterdrug Unit; Ponce Municipal Police Department; and the San Juan Police Department. Since the year 2020, these agencies have received Equitable Sharing Funds and are currently pending to receive Equitable Sharing Funds:

    • Puerto Rico Police Bureau $2,604,847.72 (received) and $27,360,386.06 (pending)
    • Puerto Rico Special Investigations Bureau $871,128.38 (received) and $110,791.90 (pending)
    • Puerto Rico Ports Authority General Security Department $587,357.42 (received) and $112,889.15 (pending)
    • Puerto Rico National Guard Counterdrug Unit $481,221.69 (received) and $5655 (pending)
    • Ponce Municipal Police Department $160,047.89 (received) and $9,709.20 (pending)
    • San Juan Police Department $1,439,682.39 (received) and $167,375.29 (pending)

    Equitable Shared Funds must be used to increase or supplement the resources of the receiving state, local, or tribal law enforcement agency. Shared funds shall not be used to replace or supplant the agency’s appropriated resources. The recipient agency must benefit directly from the sharing.

    “Forfeiting the proceeds and instrumentalities of crime puts the money to work for good – helping the victims of crime, funding community programs and providing resources to be used to promote public safety,” said W. Stephen Muldrow, United States Attorney for the District of Puerto Rico. “Equitable sharing redirects illegal proceeds toward the local law enforcement agencies who work with their federal counterparts to dismantle large scale criminal enterprises.  Such sharing can enable state and local agencies to commit the necessary resources to conduct a complex, long-term investigation that in the end enhances public safety.”

    More agencies can participate in the Equitable Sharing Program. To become a Program participant, agencies must submit an Equitable Sharing Agreement and Certification (ESAC) and affidavit to the Money Laundering and Asset Recovery Section (MLARS). Agencies must also be registered in the federal government’s System for Award Management (SAM.gov). Eligible agencies must comply with all rules and obligations, including bookkeeping procedures, internal controls, reporting and audit requirements.

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Federal Prosecutors Charge This Week 21 Defendants with Being Illegal Aliens Found in the United States Following Removal

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    LOS ANGELES – Federal prosecutors working alongside with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and other federal law enforcement partners have filed charges against 21 defendants in the last week who allegedly were found in the U.S. following removal, the Justice Department announced today.   

    Many of the defendants charged were previously convicted of felony offenses prior to their removal from the United States, including alien smuggling, burglary, grand theft, and assault with a deadly weapon.

    The crime of being found in the United States following removal carries a base sentence of up to two years in federal prison. Defendants who were removed after being convicted of a felony face a maximum 10-year sentence and defendants removed after being convicted of an aggravated felony face a maximum of 20 years in federal prison.

    Some of the recently filed cases are summarized below:

    • David Casas-Herrera, 45, of Mexico, was charged via a federal criminal complaint with being an illegal alien found in the United States after removal. Casas-Herrera was removed from the U.S. in 1997, 2001, twice in 2003, twice in 2004, 2007, 2009, 2011, and 2022. His criminal history includes convictions in U.S. District Court in the Southern District of California in 2006 and 2022 of alien smuggling, for which he was sentenced to 15 months and 21 months in federal prison, respectively. He also has two prior convictions for being an illegal alien found in the U.S. following removal: in Arizona federal court in 2003 and in San Diego federal court 2010 for which he was sentenced to terms of 60 days in prison each time. Assistant United States Attorney Gregory Scally of the Orange County Office is prosecuting this case.
    • Marta Stoican, 40, of Romania, was charged via a federal criminal complaint with being an illegal alien found in the United States after removal. Stoican, who was removed from the U.S. in 2022, was charged after being arrested by the Baldwin Park Police Department on suspicion of burglary on April 5. Stoican has a criminal history that includes convictions in 2017 for grand theft, possession of shoplifting gear, and theft. Special Assistant United States Attorney Elizabeth Bisland of the Domestic Security and Immigration Crimes Section is prosecuting this case.
    • Juan Solorzano Reyes, 40, of Mexico, who was charged via a federal criminal complaint with being an illegal alien found in the United States after removal.  Reyes, who was removed from the U.S. in 2003, 2006, 2008, 2009, 2013, and 2020, was charged after being convicted in Orange County Superior Court in 2011 of possession for sale of methamphetamine, for which he was sentenced to four years in California state prison, and in 2022 of assault with a deadly weapon, criminal threats, and vandalism, for which he was sentenced to 180 days in California state prison. Assistant United States Attorney Gregory Staples of the Orange County Office is prosecuting this case.

    Criminal complaints contain allegations. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Homeland Security Investigations are investigating these matters.

    These cases are part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (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 Neighborhood (PSN).      

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Sussex County Man Sentenced To 80 Months For Distribution Of Child Pornography

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    NEWARK, N.J. – A Sussex County, New Jersey, man was sentenced to 80 months for distributing videos and images of child sexual abuse, U.S. Attorney Alina Habba announced.

    Gaetano Lapegna, 67, of Franklin, New Jersey previously pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Claire C. Cecchi to an information charging one count of distribution of child pornography.  Judge Cecchi imposed the sentence today in Newark federal court.

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

    From December 2022 to March 2023, Lapegna distributed videos and images of child sexual abuse via a publicly available online peer-to-peer (P2P) file-sharing program.  During the course of the investigation, an undercover law enforcement officer conducted online sessions using the P2P program, during which a user shared hundreds of videos and images of child sexual abuse from an IP address traced to Lapegna’s address.

    Subsequent to a lawful search of his residence on March 30, 2023, law enforcement officers recovered over 100 items depicting child pornography on Lapegna’s thumb drive. Law enforcement also found that Lapegna’s computer was running the same version of the P2P program from which law enforcement downloaded child pornography from Lapegna.

    In addition to the prison term, Judge Cecchi sentenced Lapegna to five years of supervised release and ordered restitution of $50,000.

    U.S. Attorney Habba credited special agents of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations Newark, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Ricky J. Patel, with the investigation leading to today’s sentencing.  She also thanked the United States Postal Inspection Service, Sussex County Prosecutor’s Office, and Franklin Borough Police Department for their assistance.

    The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Farhana C. Melo of the Economic Crimes Unit in Newark.

    Defense counsel:  Claressa Lowe Esq., Assistant Federal Public Defender, Newark

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Mother Sentenced to Prison Term for Throwing Her Three-Month-Old Baby on Pavement

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

                WASHINGTON – Shanta Watson, 34, of Washington, D.C., was sentenced today, to 60 months in prison for throwing her three-month-old baby onto the pavement, in Washington DC, announced U.S. Attorney Edward R. Martin, Jr. and Chief Pamela Smith, of the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD).

                Watson pleaded guilty to one count of first-degree cruelty to children, in November 2024, in the Superior Court of the District of Columbia.

                According to the government’s evidence, Watson is the biological mother of a son, who was a three-month-old infant in September of 2024. On September 5, 2024, Watson had an argument with her former romantic partner, the father of her infant son. When he left her apartment, Watson walked after him holding her baby in her arms and stood outside of her apartment complex.  Watson proceeded to walk after her former romantic partner on the sidewalk, and when she got to the end of the sidewalk, to the parking lot, Watson yelled at him and intentionally threw her infant son onto the pavement. Watson then casually picked up the baby, like nothing happened, and attempted to walk back to her apartment building. Surveillance footage from the apartment complex captured Watson deliberately throwing her infant son.

               As a result of the defendant’s conduct, her infant son was transported to the hospital, in the NICU unit. The baby suffered multiple skull fractures, multiple points of bleeding in the brain, swelling to the back of his head, and elevated liver enzymes. The baby’s injuries were consistent with Non-Accidental Trauma.

                In announcing the sentence, U.S. Attorney Martin and Chief Smith commended the work of those who investigated the case from the Metropolitan Police Department. They also commended the work of Assistant U.S. Attorneys Molly K. Smith and Patricia-Joy Walker, who investigated and prosecuted the case. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Eco-friendly skateboard idea gets wheels with ICON grant

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Matt Tomkins and Tim Miller teamed up to turn plastic bottle lids into skateboards with the help of an ICON grant.

    Have you ever wondered what skateboard decks are made from?

    Well, now you need look no further than the humble milk bottle lid, thanks to a clever idea from a couple of passionate Canberrans.

    The Endless Project was set up by Matt Tomkins and Tim Miller. Its purpose is to recycle plastic bottle lids into skateboard decks and create sustainable products for the adrenaline sports industry.

    Imagining The Endless Project

    When Matt’s work as a photographer dried up during COVID, he got chatting to Tim, founder of local charity Lids4Kids.

    They discovered a mutual love of the outdoors, extreme sports and protecting the environment.

    That’s when the idea to team up and build skateboards from plastic lids was born.

    Their start-up has pioneered the creation of 100 per cent recyclable skateboards.

    Beyond the boards

    The Endless Project is also a social enterprise with a mission to provide opportunities for disadvantaged people, including those living with a disability.

    “Previously, Tim had mentioned to me that he wanted to use the plastic bottle lids collected by Lids4Kids to make skateboards so that young people could get excited about recycling. Because of my love for skateboarding, community and the environment, I was very keen to get on board,” said Matt.

    “Whilst having so much in common, our differences and skills complement each other perfectly.

    “We realised that together, our impact could reach far beyond just local and that our partnership could create a global movement behind a high-impact brand that represents quality, sustainability and innovation,” Matt said.

    “We each care deeply about protecting the environment and tackling issues faced by young people,” Tim said.

    “Through The Endless Project, we want to support our community and donate to local charities that focus on mental health, education and the environment to help make our corner of the world a better place.”

    Speeding things up with an ICON grant

    In 2023, Matt and Tim received $30,000 in matched funding from the ACT Government’s ICON grant program facilitated by the Canberra Innovation Network (CBRIN) to help take the business further.

    “The ICON grant has enabled us to engage a Canberra-based industrial designer to assist us with the development of 3D digital CAD models, moulds and construct the machines needed to be able to create our prototype skateboard decks. It will also allow our social enterprise to conduct essential research and development to validate our innovative solution for the skateboard industry,” Matt said.

    “If successful, we can confidently seek seed funding for the final moulds and start full-scale production of a sustainable alternative skateboarders have been waiting for.”

    ICON offers early-stage innovative start-ups and entrepreneurs like Tim and Matt with match-funded grants between $10,000 and $30,000 to kick start their business ideas.

    Applying for a grant

    ICON grants are currently open for expressions of interest until Thursday, 10 October 2024.

    To get started, book at intro meeting with CBRIN.

    Find out more at cbrin.com.au/icon

    Learn more about the Endless Project at endless.org.au

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  • MIL-OSI Australia: Rebates available for businesses to install EV chargers

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Charging an electric vehicle on premises is cheaper and more convenient for businesses than using public charging stations.

    In brief

    • The Business Electric Vehicle Charger Rebate Program assists businesses to buy and install EV chargers on their premises.
    • Eligible businesses can apply for rebates of up to 50 per cent of the cost (capped at $3,000 ex GST).
    • There are other ACT Government initiatives that can support businesses to become more sustainable.

    The Business Electric Vehicle Charger Rebate Program is available to help businesses buy and install EV charging infrastructure on their premises.

    Eligible businesses can apply for rebates of up to 50 per cent of the cost (capped at $3,000 excluding GST).

    These rebates can help businesses looking to make the switch to an EV. They will always have a place to recharge their vehicle.

    Charging an electric fleet vehicles on the businesses own premises is cheaper and more convenient than charging at public charging stations.

    Businesses looking to buy an EV either new or second hand can also benefit from:

    For every petrol or diesel vehicle you switch to electric, your business could save tens of thousands of dollars in running costs over 10 years.

    Through the Sustainable Business Program, businesses can:

    • receive free advice about electrifying their fleet and the rest of their business
    • access up to $10,000 in rebates to make energy efficient upgrades.

    The charger rebate is available for eligible businesses based in the ACT that operate or subcontract fleet vehicles.

    Read more like this

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  • MIL-OSI Australia: Susan Ryan AO sculpture unveiled

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Artist Lis Johnson with Justine Butler, daughter of Susan Ryan AO.

    In brief

    • There is a new sculpture of Susan Ryan AO in the Old Parliament House Senate Rose Gardens.
    • Susan Ryan AO was the first female Senator for the ACT and a women’s rights trailblazer.
    • The sculpture is by artist Lis Johnson.

    The late Honourable Susan Ryan AO has been honoured with a new sculpture. The sculpture is by artist Lis Johnson and is at the Old Parliament House Senate Rose Gardens.

    Susan Ryan AO (1942-2020) was a Senator from 1975 until 1988. She was also:

    • the first female Senator for the ACT
    • the first woman in a federal Labor Cabinet in 1983
    • the first woman in a federal Labor Cabinet in 1983.

    One of her many achievements was the introduction and passage of world leading legislation. This legislation was to:

    • prevent discrimination based on sex, marital status, or pregnancy
    • guard against harassment
    • dismantle barriers in the workplace.

    The sculpture was funded by the ACT Government as part of the Recognising Significant Women Through Public Art program. The ACT Government introduced this program to begin to address the imbalance in gender representation in the ACT Public Art Collection. The program also promotes female or gender-diverse artists through the commissioning process.

    The artist selected to create the sculpture, Lis Johnson, is a fine art figurative sculptor. Lis is based in rural Victoria and is highly regarded for her portraits and figurative memorials.

    “It was an honour to be chosen to portray Senator Susan Ryan – a truly worthy subject and a great role model,” Lis said.

    “An effective parliamentarian, she campaigned for and introduced important legislation, and from my research I got the impression she stayed true to her values, rising above partisan and factional squabbles.”

    The sculpture is titled ‘Senator Ryan Addresses the Rally’. It is inspired by a photo of Susan addressing a women’s work rally in 1977. The sculpture has been positioned in the gardens to allow for people to gather in front of the work. People can interact with it and sit on the garden bed beside it.

    “We visited different parts of Canberra looking at locations for the statue, and I realised the Rose Gardens was perfect,” Susan Ryan’s daughter, Justine Butler said.

    Susan Ryan’s office was on the senate side of Old Parliament House. Justine recalls spending a lot of time there with her brother as children.

    “I know children on excursions to Canberra regularly flock to the Rose Gardens. I hope that when they walk past the statue of our mother, it will evoke many questions about Susan Ryan – they will ask ‘Who was she? What did she achieve? What was her life like as a young woman in parliament?’ I also hope this statue will see people more broadly reflect on the place of women in Australian politics.”

    This week, the ACT Heritage Library is marking the 40th anniversary of the commencement of the Sex Discrimination Act and the occasion of the unveiling. The library is displaying some of its Susan Ryan AO archival material, including:

    • her autobiography
    • photographs
    • how-to-vote cards for the 1975 and 1980 Federal Elections.

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  • MIL-OSI Australia: Canberra’s top spots for sunrises and sunsets

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Canberra’s sunrises and sunsets are spectacular.

    In brief

    • Canberra has beautiful sunrises and sunsets.
    • We asked Canberrans on the @wearecbr Instagram page where their favourite spots are.
    • Here is a list of the best places in Canberra to watch the sun rise or set.

    There are few better ways to start or end the day than by watching the sun rise or set.

    One of the benefits of living in the bush capital is that there are plenty of spots to see breathtaking sunsets and sunrises.

    Dairy Farmers Hill lookout

    This lookout is home to the iconic eagle sculpture, Nest III, at the National Arboretum Canberra. It’s the perfect place to watch the sun rise or set, with 360-degree views of Canberra and the surrounds.

    Red Hill Lookout

    Whether you choose to hike or drive to the summit of Red Hill, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views. To the northeast you’ll see Parliament House and Lake Burley Griffin. Further up the hill toward the west, you can see the Woden Valley, Weston Creek and Mount Taylor.

    Davidson Hill

    A little further towards Woden, you’ll find Davidson Hill. This quiet spot is ideal for enjoying golden hour.

    Gossan  Hill

    This scenic spot is in Belconnen. This Bruce reserve is named for it’s ochre-coloured rocks, enhancing the golden tones of a sunrise. Bring your furry friend (on-leash and on a track or trail only) to enjoy the view too. .

    West Belconnen Pond

    You’ll find this peaceful lake on the edge of Dunlop. The sun reflects off the water, casting the bushland in golden lavender hues.

    Mulligans Flat

    Mulligans Flat Woodland Sanctuary is well known for its beautiful woodland and native wildlife. It’s also a tranquil spot to watch the sun rise or set.

    Mount Ainslie

    Mount Ainslie is one of Canberra’s most iconic lookouts. The views seem to stretch on forever, and twilight casts the entire city in a soft glow.

    Weston Park

    Canberrans of all ages flock to Weston Park for many different activities. While it’s an excellent area to get active, it’s also a peaceful spot to start or end the day with the sun.

    Lake Burley Griffin

    A stunning sunrise from Lake Burley Griffin is enough to lure many Canberrans out of bed in the morning. A walk around the lake of an evening is an especially lovely way to finish the day.

    Shepherds Lookout

    This is the northern-most viewing point of the Murrumbidgee River in the ACT. There are a number of walking tracks, all of which offer bush vistas. You might even be lucky enough to see a platypus or a Gang Gang cockatoo.

    Read more like this

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  • MIL-OSI Australia: Meals in Schools pilot program begins

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    From August, students at five ACT public schools will have access to free breakfast and lunch, three days a week during school weeks.

    Students at five ACT public schools can access free meals, through an ACT Government pilot program.

    From August, students can enjoy free healthy breakfasts and lunches three days a week during school weeks.

    The pilot program is part of 2024–25 ACT Budget funding.

    It will run until July 2025 at:

    • Gilmore Primary School
    • Richardson Primary School
    • Narrabundah Early Childhood School
    • Gold Creek School (senior campus – years 7 to 10)
    • Melba Copland Secondary School (College campus only – years 10 to 12).

    Healthy, varied meals

    Meals will include tasty grab-and-go food such as yoghurt, fruit and vegetables, frittata, wraps and salad.

    Participating schools will provide their full menu to families as the program begins.

    An independently appointed nutrition service, The ACT Nutrition Support Service, has assessed the meals.

    The service employs Accredited Practising Dietitians. They are all passionate about helping children develop a positive relationship with food.

    The ACT Nutrition Support Service has provided nutrition education and support to schools, canteens and teachers since 2011.

    Pilot timeline

    Meal deliveries began from the week commencing 29 July at Gilmore and Richardson primary schools.

    Narrabundah Early Childhood School and Gold Creek School will receive meals from the week beginning 5 August.

    Deliveries will begin at Melba Copland Secondary School college campus the week beginning 12 August.

    The Embrace Disability Group

    The Embrace Disability Group has been awarded the contract to provide the meals.

    Embrace has catering and canteen experience in the ACT and Jerrabomberra region.

    An established catering group, they provide real-life working opportunities and hospitality training for people living with disabilities.

    The importance of good nutrition

    Nutrition has a real impact on students’ learning and wellbeing.

    Access to meals at school can help children better understand nutrition and feel happier at school.

    There will be opportunities for families, students and staff to give feedback on how they feel the pilot is working.

    This will help the Education Directorate evaluate the pilot in the second half of 2025.

    Each school will keep its community informed of the pilot’s progress.

    Find out more about financial and resource assistance for families.

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  • MIL-OSI Australia: AMC makes a difference through native plants

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Leigh, Production Nursery and Horticulture Program supervisor at the Alexander Maconochie Centre

    Alexander Maconochie Centre (AMC) detainees are helping climate-proof the region through an innovative program.

    There are seven people employed in the AMC’s Production Nursery and Horticulture Program.

    Together, they are working to restore endangered grassy woodlands in the Yass region.

    Over the past year, they have propagated around 3,000 native plants to help the Murrumbateman Landcare Group (MLG).

    Plants include eucalypts, wattles, shrubs and groundcovers. The MLG chose these varieties for their ability to withstand future climate conditions.

    These were grown as seeds from both local and non-local sources to ensure genetic diversity.

    They will also improve soil health on both private and public lands in the region.

    The program has been running for three years at the AMC, which has commercial grow houses and stock gardens on site.

    It is one of several opportunities offered to help detainees build new skills and confidence and give back to the community.

    Those involved have learned various propagation techniques and have even raised species that have struggled to grow in Murrumbateman.

    “The experience has also given detainees a real sense of achievement while nurturing their own personal growth. For some, these programs are more than a way to pass the time of their sentences – it can open up pathways for life after prison,” AMC Production Nursery and Horticulture Program supervisor Leigh said.

    The AMC’s partnership with MLG demonstrates that rehabilitation and community engagement can go hand-in-hand, with positive results.

    “This partnership is a wonderful example of how we can work together to achieve positive outcomes for both the environment and individuals involved,” MLG Committee Member Gill Hall said.

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  • MIL-OSI Australia: Squeaky Clean puts community first

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    The gritty laneway location was the perfect spot for a bar that embraces the alternative.

    In brief

    • Local bar Squeaky Clean was a recipient of the ACT Government’s Tourism Product Development Fund.
    • Applications for the Fund are now open.
    • Squeaky Clean is one of many Canberra businesses benefitting from new nightlife reforms.

    Jon Murphy opened his bar Squeaky Clean just last year with support from the ACT Government’s Tourism Product Development Fund.

    And new government reforms are now providing an atmosphere in which the business can thrive.

    The idea for the bar came from a desire to fill what Jon saw as a gap in the market.

    “I was in my thirties when I got to Canberra. I don’t wear suits or RM Williams, I don’t fit into the mould of the APS person. I tried so many places but I just couldn’t find my people,” he said.

    Jon set out to create a place where he could be his genuine self. The first step was to find the right space. A gritty laneway location in Verity Lane ticked many of Jon’s boxes.

    “I saw potential. The timber floors, high ceilings, the location, and the fact that it had character already.”

    The Tourism Product Development Fund

    A grant from the Tourism Product Development Fund allowed Jon to engage local builders.

    “We used the money to stay local and keep the money in town. That was part of our agreement with the builder that we went with, that they weren’t going to subcontract out of town,” he said.

    The principle of supporting local has stuck with Jon. It extends to the Squeaky Clean menu, which showcases local suppliers and producers. The burgers have quickly become a favourite among regulars. They feature beef from Southland’s Quality Meats and buns from Three Mills.

    “They’re local and they look after us. It’s that relationship thing – building relationships with people where we both keep the money in town,” Jon said.

    How to apply

    The Tourism Product Development Fund supports local businesses to provide better visitor experiences. This helps:

    • boost the local economy
    • create jobs
    • enhance Canberra’s reputation as a tourism destination.

    Applications for the Tourism Product Development Fund are now open.

    Find out more.

    New nightlife reforms

    Squeaky Clean is one of many Canberra businesses that will benefit from a range of reforms designed to boost the city’s nighttime economy.

    This includes the passage of the Liquor (Night-Time Economy) Amendment Bill 2024, providing eligible businesses with:

    • more flexibility around their trading hours
    • a reduction in annual liquor licencing fees for supporting live music and the arts
    • new provisions around celebrations of special events such as the Olympics and Floriade.

    The ACT Government has also introduced new fit-for-purpose Noise Standards in the City Centre Entertainment Precinct. The standards aim to:

    • boost the city’s entertainment and cultural scene
    • support local businesses
    • boost artistic growth
    • elevate the visitor experience
    • consider community wellbeing.

    In a further boost to musicians and the nighttime economy, free parking permits will be available for musicians to access loading zones for 30 minutes to unload their musical equipment. Musicians will be able to apply for a permit via the Access Canberra website.

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  • MIL-OSI Australia: The Canberran’s guide to running

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    With beautiful running tracks and plenty of running groups, Canberra is ideal for running.

    Running is good for the mind, body and soul, but getting started can be a little daunting. Maybe you want to know about the best running locations, find a running group to get you motivated, or maybe you just want to get started.

    Here are a few ideas on how to get involved in running right here in Canberra.

    Find a location

    Canberra is the bush capital of Australia, so there are plenty of tracks and trails to explore. With over 90 parks you won’t be getting bored anytime soon.

    The Find a Park map shows all the parks in Canberra, plus what you can and can’t do in them, and the background of each one.

    Join or start a run club

    Run clubs are all the rage right now! Whether you are a beginner, looking for friends, or want to challenge yourself with likeminded runners, there will be a run club for you.

    Canberra Runners offers a few different groups you can join depending on your availability and schedule.

    Running for Resilience caters for everyone. Whether you are a runner, walker or pushing a stroller, they have you covered. They have two possible routes you can take on Lake Burley Griffin.

    SundaySeshCBR is here to scratch that end of the week running itch! You can even bring along your furry friend to join in. They take off from On Lake Café in Barton.

    Underground Run Club is all about running and being social. Run with some likeminded runners and grab a coffee afterwards to finish off your Sunday run. They meet at Mocan and Green Grout.

    Chafe Chasers are all about inclusion and fun! Meeting at the Anchor near Merchant Navy Memorial on Lake Burley Griffin, you can do a 5km run or walk.

    Canberra Frontrunners is for all your running, walking, riding and strutting desires. This group was formed to be an inclusive and supportive place for LGBTQIA+ people and allies. They change locations often so make sure to stay up to date on where they are headed.

    Sign up for a running event

    There are a range of marathons, triathlons and fun runs in Canberra catering to all skill and experience levels. These include:

    Sri Chinmoy provides different running events all over Australia including Canberra. Some of the events include the Sri Chinmoy Canberra Trail 100, fun runs, Sri Chinmoy Triple – Triathlon and more.

    Canberra Colour Frenzy is the most colourful event you can find! This non-competitive run allows you to run, walk, skip, hop or whatever you want through the colour-tastic course.

    The Canberra Times Fun Run is one of Canberra’s most iconic events. This course is great for all levels of experience, but specifically great for beginners or those that need an easier run as it is a pretty flat course. Plus all runners get a finisher medal!

    Ready to get serious? Join The Canberra Times Canberra Marathon instead. With five different courses to compete in all levels of runners are invited to celebrate running.

    The Stromlo Running Festival provides many different running events. From a 5km run to a marathon, you can experience the stretches of wide trail up a vertical gain. Offering scenic views, this is not an event you want to miss.

    Capital to Coast is a multi-stage 100km foot race between Canberra and the South Coast of NSW. Each stage ranges from 8km to 15km in length and will take you up and past various elevation and terrains. Run solo or join a relay team of up to four members.

    The Aussie Peace walk isn’t necessarily about running, but with tracks ranging from 7km to 42km it’s sure to get your body pumping. This two-day intercultural festival encourages people from all around the world to experience the bush capital.

    Do a parkrun

    These events are fun and carefree if you make it that way, as there is no time limit, and no one finishes last. However, if you want to challenge yourself you can always try and beat your own personal record.

    Here are the current parkruns happening in Canberra:

    • Wagi Bridge parkrun
    • Gungahlin parkrun
    • Umbagong District parkrun
    • Ginninderra parkrun
    • Mount Ainslie parkrun
    • Burley Griffin parkrun
    • Coombs parkrun
    • Tuggeranong parkrun
    • Point Hut Pond parkrun.

    Join a training program

    Whether you are starting off, took a break, need some help, or just want to follow a routine, a training program can help you reach your goals. From rookie running to triathlon training, you can find something to meet your needs.

    A few training programs here in Canberra include:

    Females in Training ACT offer many different supported and self-driven training programs. Not only can you do weekly training sessions, but you can also sign up for a training program that are targeted at specific Canberra events.

    Achilles Australia helps Australians with a disability to enjoy a fun sociable active lifestyle. They welcome those to attend a regular training session and ensure members feel safe and supported.

    Peak Performance Running will provide you some directions, answers and guidance for your running journey. They will give you weekly advice and help you achieve their club goals.

    Eager2Elite provides individual specific running programs to help you reach your goals. You’ll receive one on one coaching, regular feedback and face to face discussions.

    There are also hundreds of online training programs you can sign up to and follow along. Join in a community and get your running journey started.

    Remember that when it comes to running safety and precaution should come first. Always:

    • let someone know where you are off to
    • wear sunscreen and a hat
    • bring adequate water
    • check the weather conditions.

    Make sure you stretch and prepare and don’t push yourself well past your limits.

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  • MIL-OSI Australia: Gungahlin’s best public art

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Stopping to Smell the Flowers is located near the Joey Park Playground in Throsby.

    Gungahlin in a multicultural region that’s home to many families.

    Many of the artworks scattered through Gungahlin feature playful elements that both adults and children will love.

    Set out for a day of art and adventure with this handy guide:

    Hall toilet block mural

    Location: Gladstone Street, Hall

    Artist: Geoff Filmer and Raphael

    Wildlife street artist Geoff Filmer collaborated with the Hall community to make this vibrant mural. The mural painted on the Hall toilet block channels a wildlife theme. Hall community members told Geoff how an echidna often runs across the road and into the park. This inspired Geoff to include two echidnas in the mural.

    The mural is a collaboration with an emerging artist who goes by the name of Raphael. To see more of Geoff’s work visit his Instagram page or Facebook page.

    Harrison School mural

    Artist: Eddie Longford

    Eddie Longford is a local Aboriginal artist who painted a mural at Harrison School. He collaborated with members of Harrison School to capture the essence of the school community.

    The mural depicts the mountain range behind the school along with native flora and fauna.

    For more of Eddie’s work, check out his Instagram.

    Ernest Cavanagh Street mural

    Location: near Communities @ Work, Ernest Cavanagh Street, Gungahlin

    Artist: Eddie Mowat

    This mural celebrates our essential workers during COVID-19. The piece depicts an empowering portrait of a nurse. The vibrant and captivating piece displays artist Eddie Mowat’s gratitude to essential workers. The mural is an ongoing reminder to our community of the hard work essential workers in Canberra do.

    Ginninginderry Light

    Artist: Geoff Farquhar-Still

    Ginninginderry is an Aboriginal word that means “sparkling” or “throwing out rays of light”. This sculpture is made of stainless steel and is embedded with millions of tiny glass beads. These beads reflect the light of the sun, the moon and local traffic to light up the Crace Pedestrian Plaza.

    Lady With Flowers

    Artist: Dean Bowen

    Melbourne artist Dean Bowen makes bronze sculptures with child-like whimsy. Lady with Flowers is close to a bus stop. It’s easy to imagine her catching a bus to the city to visit Bowen’s other Canberra sculpture, The Big Little Man.

    Stopping to Smell the Flowers

    Artist: Jimmy Rix

    This sculpture is close to the Joey Park Playground in Throsby. It was commissioned to celebrate the 30th anniversary of Floriade in 2017. It depicts the exchange of flowers as a representation of expressing love.

    A is for Alexander B is for Bunyip C is for Canberra

    Artist: Anne Ross

    The Monster that Ate Canberra is a children’s book written by author and illustrator, Michael Salmon. This sculpture features the books main character, Alexander Bunyip. You can find it near the Gungahlin Library.

    The Goongarline

    Artist: Malcolm Utley

    The local Indigenous people called Gungahlin’s rocky hills ‘Goongarline’. This sculpture is inspired by that landscape. It’s located near the Gungahlin Place Playground.

    Read more like this:

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  • MIL-OSI Australia: The Seven named ACT Book of the Year 2024

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Local crime writer Chris Hammer has nailed it with this award win.

    The 2024 ACT Book of the Year has been awarded to Chris Hammer’s gripping crime thriller, The Seven.

    Chris will receive $10,000 as the author of the 2024 ACT Book of the Year.

    Chris is no stranger to the award – his non-fiction book The River was named ACT Book of the Year in 2011.

    2024 ACT Book of the Year finalists

    The ACT Book of the Year Award showcases the excellence of local authors.

    This year’s judges also awarded two highly commended and three shortlisted works.

    These include a diverse range of genres: crime fiction, poetry, short stories, non-fiction, and children’s historic fiction.

    Highly Commended

    • Untethered by Ayesha Inoon
    • The Measure of Sorrow: Stories by J. Ashley-Smith

    Shortlisted

    • Sleeplessness by Paul Hetherington
    • Tiwi Story: Turning history downside up by Mavis Kerinaiua and Laura Rademaker
    • The Great Gallipoli Escape by Jackie French.

    You can purchase all these in bookstores across the city.

    They are also available to loan from ACT Libraries.

    The Seven

    The judging panel included Helen Ennis, T.R. Napper and Barrina South. They had a tough time choosing the winning title, given the wealth of talent in Canberra’s writing community.

    Of The Seven, they said: “Chris Hammer demonstrates total mastery of the crime genre. From the first pages onwards Hammer creates a thrilling narrative filled with suspense that immerses the reader in gripping, page-turning intrigue.

    “Hammer conveys a beautiful sense of place in developing this quintessential Australian story, filled with compelling characters, who are poignantly reflective about their own lives. The narrative, exposing the power of the landed aristocracy in a fictional country town, is skilfully controlled so that the reader is never certain where they will be taken next, until the final resolution. The town itself functions as a powerful metaphor which, with its art deco façade, is an evocative setting for this world-class crime novel.”

    Visit the artsACT website for more information.

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Murray, Hirono, Norcross Introduce Legislation to Strengthen Rights of Public Sector Workers to Join Unions, Bargain Collectively

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington State Patty Murray

    Washington, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), senior member and former chair of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Committee, joined Senator Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI), and U.S. Representative Donald Norcross (D, NJ-01) to reintroduce the Public Service Freedom to Negotiate Act, bicameral legislation to guarantee the right of public sector employees to organize and bargain collectively in states that currently do not afford these basic protections.

    “Unions give workers a powerful voice to demand better pay, working conditions, and benefits,” said Senator Murray. “I have always fought to protect the right to unionize—and as Trump and Elon wage an unprecedented attack on workers’ ability to bargain collectively, and indiscriminately fire tens of thousands of hardworking public servants, it is critical that we do everything we can to fight back and protect workers’ rights across the country. I’m proud to cosponsor Public Service Freedom to Negotiate Act, to establish baseline protections for public sector workers to be able to join together and demand the fair treatment and pay they deserve.”

    “Public sector workers teach our children, protect our safety, and keep our communities moving forward—they deserve the right to organize,” said Senator Hirono. “The Public Service Freedom to Negotiate Act will help ensure that that millions of public sector workers across our country have the federal protections they deserve as they fight for fair wages, benefits, and improved working conditions. Private sector workers are already guaranteed the right to organize under federal law, it should be common sense that public sector workers are afforded those same rights. As President Trump works to gut our public sector workforce, this bill is crucial to protect workers’ freedom to organize and bargain collectively. I’m proud to lead this important legislation with Representative Norcross to help ensure that every public employee has their voice heard in the workplace.”

    “I know the power of collective bargaining because I’ve lived it,” said Congressman Norcross, a former union electrician, member of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW), and co-chair of the Congressional Labor Caucus. “I spent decades at the negotiating table standing up for working families—fighting for fair pay, safer jobs, and better benefits like health care and retirement. This bill ensures public-sector workers across the country have that same right to a voice on the job and a seat at the table.” 

    The Public Service Freedom to Negotiate Act would establish baseline federal protections to ensure all public service workers can join a union and negotiate workplace conditions—regardless of state law. Unlike private sector workers, there is currently no federal law protecting the freedom of public sector workers to join a union and collectively bargain for fair wages, benefits, and improved working conditions.

    Specifically, this bill would set a minimum nationwide standard of collective bargaining rights that states must provide, including allowing public service workers to join together and have a voice on the job to improve both working conditions and the communities in which they live and work. The legislation gives public service workers the freedom to:

    • Join together in a union selected by a majority of employees; 
    • Collectively bargain over wages, hours and terms and conditions of employment; 
    • Access dispute resolution mechanisms; 
    • Use voluntary payroll deduction for union dues; 
    • Engage in concerted activities related to collective bargaining and mutual aid; 
    • Have their union be free from requirements to hold rigged recertification elections; and 
    • File suit in court to enforce their labor rights. 

    “Passing this legislation has never been more urgent — especially now, as federal workers face unprecedented attacks on their collective bargaining rights,” said AFSCME President Lee Saunders. “We believe, as most Americans do, that every worker deserves a union — no matter who they work for.  This bill is about something fundamental: respect. Respect for the public service workers who’ve devoted their careers to serving their communities. And respect means the freedom to negotiate.”

    “When workers stand together in a union, their jobs and lives improve. But in half of the country, the people who keep our cities and towns running are banned from collectively bargaining for a good union contract. Every day, the attacks on the fundamental freedoms of workers who keep our streets and water clean, our public transportation moving, and our children learning are increasing from the highest level of government,” said AFL-CIO President, Liz Shuler. “We need federal law to protect their rights to form a union and negotiate fair contracts that allow them to continue to do the work that is so essential to our communities. We call on every member of Congress to stand with working people and support the Public Service Freedom to Negotiate Act.”

    “For years now, the rights of workers like nurses, librarians, educators, and all our essential public servants who dedicate themselves to our communities have been chipped away at, despite their dedication and selfless service to their communities,” said Claude Cummings Jr., president of the Communications Workers of America. “That’s why the Public Service Freedom to Negotiate Act is so vital. It protects public sector workers’ fundamental right to join together, bargain for fair pay, and stand up for decent working conditions. Congress needs to step up and pass this now and push back against efforts trying to undermine these essential rights.”

    “As education, healthcare and public service workers, our members make a difference in the lives of others every day. But too many states don’t allow the people who do the work to have a voice,” said Randi Weingarten, President of AFT. “The Public Service Freedom to Negotiate Act would change that, ensuring public servants, no matter where they reside, have a means to influence their own lives. Whether it’s higher wages, safer working conditions, or a secure retirement, the ability to organize a union and bargain collectively lifts working families, students, patients, and entire communities up. That’s why we enthusiastically support this legislation and are committed to moving it forward.”

    This legislation is cosponsored in the Senate by U.S. Senators Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Chris Coons (D-DE), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Dick Durbin (D-IL), John Fetterman (D-PA), Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Andy Kim (D-NJ), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), Ed Markey (D-MA), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Chris Murphy (D-CT), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Gary Peters (D-MI), Jack Reed (D-RI), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Tina Smith (D-MN), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Peter Welch (D-VT), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), and Ron Wyden (D-OR).

    The Public Service Freedom to Negotiate Act is endorsed by the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME); the Communications Workers of America (CWA); American Federation of Teachers (AFT); AFL-CIO; Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU); Department for Professional Employees, AFL-CIO (DPE); International Brotherhood of Teamsters; International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM); International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE); International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers (IFPTE); International Union of Police Associations (IUPA); International Union of Painters & Allied Trades (IUPAT); Laborer’s International Union of North America (LiUNA); National Education Association (NEA); National Nurses United; Service Employees International Union (SEIU); Transport Workers Union of America (TWU); UNITE HERE!; United Autoworkers; United Steelworkers (USW).

    The full text of the legislation is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Free and low-cost ways to support local

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Our CBR is the ACT Government’s key channel to connect with Canberrans and keep you up-to-date with what’s happening in the city. Our CBR includes a monthly print edition, email newsletter and website.

    You can easily opt in or out of the newsletter subscription at any time.

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  • MIL-OSI Australia: Keeping Canberra’s hospital wards safe

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Laura, a registered nurse at North Canberra Hospital says the Safewards model has allowed her team to develop stronger therapeutic relationships with their patients.

    Safewards is a program that supports staff and consumers to make hospital wards a more positive place to be.

    The Nurses and Midwives Towards a Safer Culture ‘The Next Steps’ Strategy has supported four wards to implement Safewards across Canberra Hospital and North Canberra Hospital, where a range of tools are used to reduce the occurrence of occupational violence and restrictive practice.  Another four wards at University of Canberra Hospital will be commence implementation of Safewards in September 2024.

    Safewards includes evidenced based activities like:

    • staff and consumers agreeing on their expectations of each other
    • finding more positive ways to support consumers when they are in distress
    • supporting consumers when they receive bad or surprising news to limit the distress the person or their families may experience.

    Laura is a registered nurse with Canberra Health Services, who works in a ward that has implemented Safewards at North Canberra Hospital. Her team have introduced a new ‘know each other’ initiative. People in the ward also call it the ‘sunflower tool’.

    Using the tool, staff, visitors and consumers in the ward can share details about themselves. This includes their hobbies, favourite TV shows or pets. Sharing information like this helps to build stronger relationships between people in the ward. This creates a better sense of understanding, safety and connection.

    “After introducing the tool, we had a patient’s family fill out some of their information,” Laura said.

    “Later, we were able to use the information provided as a prompt to help them during episodes of agitation and distress due to their advanced dementia and post traumatic stress disorder.”

    “Being able to use some familiar nicknames used by family, friends and colleagues in the military, we were able to help them calm down.”

    Laura says the tool has allowed her team to develop stronger therapeutic relationships with their consumers.

    “By displaying our own staff sunflower, it’s allowed us to learn more about each other and to connect both staff and patients in a really special way.”

    The initiative promotes care that is:

    • person-centred
    • trauma-informed
    • recovery orientated.

    Research shows that Safewards interventions ensure staff, consumers, and carers are supported. This helps to reduce potential conflict, rates of occupational violence and restrictive practices.

    By the end of June 2026, the program will be in place at 12 wards across Canberra Health Services.

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  • MIL-OSI Australia: More support to increase access to justice

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Projects funded support criminal justice activities, crime prevention and assistance to victims of crime.

    Several local initiatives aimed at increasing Canberrans’ access to justice have received funding through the Confiscated Assets Trust (CAT).

    CAT funding ensures proceeds of crime are used to address the effects of crime on the community.

    The funding supports a range of initiatives designed to:

    • empower victims
    • strengthen community connections
    • ensure a fairer legal process for the community.

    The projects funded support criminal justice activities, crime prevention and assistance to victims of crime.

    They each contribute to ensuring Canberrans have an equal opportunity to navigate the legal system.

    Legal Aid ACT is one organisation to receive funding.

    It will use its $369,000 to employ client liaison officers to support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and cultural and linguistically diverse Canberrans.

    “Legal Aid ACT is strongly committed to the delivery of services to the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and Culturally and Linguistically Diverse communities,” Legal Aid ACT Chief Executive Officer Dr John Boersig PSM said.

    “This will allow us to better provide legal assistance by engaging liaison officers from these communities.”

    Initiatives to receive CAT funding include:

    Women’s Legal Centre: $30,000

    Funds will support the centre to develop and distribute a Sexual Assault Legal Service handbook.

    This will provide essential information and resources to sexual assault survivors navigating the criminal justice system.

    Expansion of the Witness Assistance Scheme: $404,346

    Funds will be used to immediately expand the Witness Assistance Scheme within the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP).

    This will provide essential support and guidance to witnesses and complainants throughout the criminal justice process.

    Extension of Embedded Prosecutor Initiative: $107,000

    The funds will extend the placement of a senior prosecutor within the Sexual Assault and Child Abuse Team (SACAT) in  ACT Policing.

    This will help to provide high-quality, pre-charge advice and support for the implementation of the new Threshold to Charge policy.

    Family counselling pilot: $15,000

    A family counselling pilot will be established at the Alexander Maconochie Centre.

    A family counsellor at the Centre will provide personalised support to detainees. This will help enhance their communication skills, build resilience and provide strategies to build relationships and resolve conflict.

    Restorative Justice: $509,804

    CAT funding will be used to improve community access to restorative justice.

    This funding will allow for extra resources to reduce restorative justice waiting times.

    It will also assist continued progress to enhance the Restorative Justice Scheme and increase accessibility for victim-survivors of sexual violence.

    Legal Aid ACT: $369,000

    Legal Aid ACT will employ three Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and Culturally and Linguistically Diverse client liaison officers.

    These officers will give targeted support to vulnerable members of the community and strengthen Legal Aid’s capacity.

    If you need help, please contact Sexual Violence Legal Services on 6257 4377.

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