Source: South Australia Police
The number of lives lost on South Australia roads for 2024 have been revised.
The death of an 84-year-old local man involved in a crash on Laught Street, Whyalla Stuart on 17 June will not be counted in the number of lives lost. The final number of lives lost for 2024 is 90.
Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)
Tampa, Florida – Acting United States Attorney Sara C. Sweeney announces that a federal jury has found Jhakheem Smith (25, Pinellas County) guilty of one count of brandishing a firearm during a violent crime. Smith was also charged and previously pleaded guilty to the other offenses he committed, including the robbery of the convenience store, and conspiracy to commit that robbery. Smith faces up to 20 years in federal prison for each of the robbery offenses. He faces a minimum of 7 years, up to life, in federal prison for the firearm offense. A sentencing date has not yet been set.
According to testimony and evidence presented at trial, on November 8, 2023, Smith and his co-defendant, Alex Jones, robbed a convenience store in Clearwater. Jones was armed with a firearm and Smith carried a baseball bat. Jones and Smith forced the victim to give them cash from the register, pushed the victim in the head with the firearm, and forced the victim into a back room. Jones and Smith took more than $800 from the cash register, as well as the victim’s wallet and cellphone. The victim sustained a visible injury to their head.
Store surveillance video showed Smith and Jones jumping over the counter to confront the victim, and also showed Smith searching throughout the store for a safe which allegedly contained additional money. The safe was never found. The surveillance video also showed Smith attempting to damage the surveillance cameras. Text messages obtained pursuant to a search warrant for Jones’s phone revealed texts planning the robbery between Jones and Smith.
Jones previously pleaded guilty. He was sentenced on February 6, 2025, to 12 years and 11 months in federal prison.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Clearwater Police Department, the Largo Police Department, and the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Samantha Newman.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make out 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 first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – A Reeds, Mo., woman was sentenced in federal court today for her role in a conspiracy to distribute large quantities of methamphetamine in southwest Missouri.
Kimberly C. Elliott, 45, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge M. Douglas Harpool to 12 years in federal prison without parole.
On June 8, 2023, Elliott pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and one count of money laundering.
Elliott admitted that she participated in a conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine in Barry, Stone, Polk, Lawrence, Greene, Jasper, and Newton Counties from Nov. 1, 2020, to April 28, 2022. According to court documents, Elliott personally distributed more than 16 pounds of methamphetamine, an extremely conservative estimate for her involvement. During this conspiracy, law enforcement seized more than 30 pounds of methamphetamine from various co-conspirators.
Elliott sold 62 grams of methamphetamine to an undercover law enforcement officer on May 3, 2021. At the time of that transaction, Elliott was in possession of at least an additional pound of methamphetamine.
On May 12, 2021, Elliott traded her red Chevrolet Colorado for a black 2017 Ford Explorer. Elliott purchased this vehicle with approximately $15,000 from the proceeds of unlawful methamphetamine distribution. Elliott was arrested while driving the Explorer without a driver’s license on June 16, 2021. Elliott had approximately 60 grams of methamphetamine, approximately nine grams of marijuana, and six hydrocodone tablets in her purse. A user quantity of suspected heroin and methamphetamine was located in the driver’s side door pocket of the vehicle, and approximately $7,165 in cash was found in a zipper bag between the driver’s seat and center console.
Elliott told investigators she had obtained one pound of methamphetamine approximately two days prior to the traffic stop from a co-conspirator, and what was located in her vehicle was what was left from that transaction. Elliott stated she had been purchasing methamphetamine for the past two months and estimated she had purchased between five and 10 pounds of methamphetamine. She also investigators that conspirators were receiving shipments of 250 pounds of methamphetamine every two weeks from California.
Elliott is among 20 defendants who have been convicted in this case, and the fourth defendant to be sentenced.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jessica R. Eatmon. It was investigated by the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the FBI, the Bureau of Indian Affairs, the Ozarks Drug Enforcement Team, the Barry County, Mo., Sheriff’s Office, the Stone County, Mo., Sheriff’s Office, COMET (the Combined Ozark Multi-Jurisdictional Enforcement Team), the Oklahoma Highway Patrol, the Greene County, Mo., Sheriff’s Office, the Polk County, Mo., Sheriff’s Office, the Ottawa County, Ok., Sheriff’s Department, the Bolivar, Mo., Police Department, the Cassville, Mo., Police Department, the Kimberling City, Mo., Police Department, the Springfield, Mo., Police Department, and the U.S. Marshals Service.
Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force
This case is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
Source: Office of United States Attorneys
ROCHESTER, N.Y. – U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Rolando Antonio Rosado, 59, of the Dominican Republic, pleaded guilty before Chief U.S. District Judge Elizabeth A. Wolford to illegal re-entry after deportation. Rosado was then sentenced to time served and transferred to the custody of Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan K. McGuire, who handled the case, stated that in June 2000, an immigration judge ordered Rosado removed in absentia. However, Rosado did not surrender himself for removal. On October 22, 2003, Rosado was arrested by the Rochester Police Department and charged with Criminal Possession of a Weapon. As a result, in April 2004, Rosado was physically removed from the United States. In 2014, he illegally re-entered the United States near Laredo, Texas. On September 26, 2024, Rosado was found in the Western District of New York.
The plea and sentencing are the result of an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Erin Keegan.
# # # #
Source: Office of United States Attorneys
PORTLAND, Ore.—A Mexican national residing in Salem, Oregon, was sentenced to federal prison Monday for his role in trafficking fentanyl and other narcotics in Oregon.
Leonel Covarrubias Hernandez, 48, was sentenced to 144 months in federal prison and five years’ supervised release.
According to court documents, as part of a drug trafficking investigation, investigators identified Covarrubias as a narcotics distributer operating in Oregon. Between August and December 2022, investigators conducted several controlled buys in which Covarrubias sold counterfeit oxycodone pills containing fentanyl.
On December 27, 2022, investigators conducted a traffic stop on Covarrubias and his co-conspirator near their residence. Investigators searched the vehicle and seized counterfeit pills containing fentanyl, more than $11,000 in cash, and a firearm. On the same day, investigators located and seized more than 29 pounds of methamphetamine, 11 pounds of fentanyl, 12 pounds of cocaine and two pounds of heroin, 24 firearms, a 3D printer, and more than $43,000 in cash from the residence.
On November 18, 2024, Covarrubias pleaded guilty to possessing fentanyl with the intent to distribute.
This case was investigated by the FBI and Salem Police Department. It was prosecuted by Bryan Chinwuba, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.
Source: Office of United States Attorneys
Used victims’ personal information to open business bank accounts, linked them to established personal accounts, and drained victim funds
Seattle – A leader in a nationwide $1.4 million bank fraud scheme pleaded guilty this week in U.S. District Court in Seattle to conspiracy to commit bank fraud, aggravated identity theft, and money laundering, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Teal Luthy Miller. Amber Towndrow, 36, was indicted along with coconspirator Darby Canfield, 35, in April 2024. Prosecutors have agreed to recommend no more than eight years in prison for Towndrow when she is sentenced by U.S. District Judge Jamal N. Whitehead on June 12, 2025.
According to records filed in the case, Towndrow and her coconspirators acquired personal identifying information for at least 19 victims nationwide. In Western Washington, the co-schemers used that personal information to register businesses with the Washington Secretary of State. Armed with the business documents and false identification documents such as drivers’ licenses and passports, Towndrow would open business bank accounts at financial institutions where the victim already had a personal savings account. The bank system would link the new business bank account to the real customer’s bank account. The conspirators would then transfer money from the personal bank account to the business account. Towndrow would then use a business account debit card to purchase money orders and high value goods such as designer merchandise or electronics. Towndrow and other conspirators would use various fake IDs to cash the money orders at locations such as Money Tree outlets.
With this scheme Towndrow committed bank fraud and identity theft in Washington, Colorado, Pennsylvania, California, New Jersey, Indiana, and Washington D.C.
The plea agreement details how Towndrow defrauded a victim living in Illinois by creating a company registered in Colorado. Towndrow listed the Illinois victim as the registered owner of the company. Towndrow traveled to a Chase branch in Seattle where she opened a business banking account for the fake company. Towndrow and her coconspirators used online banking to transfer $131,709 from the Illinois victim account to the business account. Towndrow used the business debit card to purchase 128 U.S. Postal Service money orders totaling $126,653. The money orders were made payable to various people the co-schemers could impersonate with their fake IDs. The conspirators then cashed several of the money orders at various locations in the Seattle area.
The plea agreement admits similar conduct regarding a victim residing in Texas, who was defrauded of $75,000, of which $50,000 was used to purchase MoneyGram money orders across the Seattle area.
Towndrow admits she opened at least 50 business bank accounts and attempted to obtain $1.4 million. She admits she successfully obtained $664,000.
Conspiracy to commit bank fraud, and bank fraud are punishable by up to 30 years in prison. Money laundering is punishable by up to 20 years in prison and aggravated identity theft is punishable by a mandatory minimum two years in prison consecutive to any other sentence imposed in the case.
The case is being investigated by The U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the Diplomatic Security Service, and the Seattle Police Department.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Sean Waite.
Source: Office of United States Attorneys
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Edward Rollie, 49, of Niagara Falls, NY, pleaded guilty before U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael J. Roemer to possession with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl, and being a felon in possession of a firearm, which carry a mandatory minimum penalty of 10 years in prison and a maximum of life.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Timothy C. Lynch, who is handling the case, stated that on August 28, 2024, investigators executed search warrants associated with Rollie at a Spruce Avenue residence in Niagara Falls, where Rollie’s son resides. They recovered approximately 594 grams of fentanyl, approximately 683 grams of cocaine, and a 9mm semi-automatic handgun. In July 2002, Rollie was convicted of a federal felony drug charge in the Western District of Pennsylvania, and is legally prohibited from possessing a firearm. The investigation also included controlled purchases of fentanyl from Rollie.
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.
The plea is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia, the Niagara Falls Police Department, under the direction of Commissioner Nick Ligammari, the Niagara County Sheriff’s Department, under the direction of Sheriff Michael Filicetti, the North Tonawanda Police Department, under the direction of Chief Keith Glass, the New York State Police, under the direction of Major Amie Feroleto, and the Erie County Sheriff’s Department, under the direction of Sheriff John Garcia.
Sentencing will be scheduled at a later date.
# # # #
Source: Office of United States Attorneys
ROCHESTER, N.Y. – U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced that Taraja Green, 28, of Rochester, NY, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Meredith A. Vacca to being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition, which carries a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison, and a fine of $250,000 or both.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles Moynihan, who is handling the case, stated that on March 17, 2024, Rochester Police officers found Green asleep in the driver seat of a running vehicle in the roadway on Seward Street. When the officers approached the vehicle, they could see a 9mm pistol on Green’s lap. Officers later discovered that the firearm was loaded. Green was previously convicted of a felony in August 2019, in Monroe County Court, and is legally prohibited from possessing a firearm.
The matter was brought by the United States Attorney’s Office as part of its Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) initiative. PSN is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
The plea is the result of an investigation by the Rochester Police Department, under the direction of Chief David Smith, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Bryan Miller, New York Field Division.
Sentencing is scheduled for July 8, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. before Judge Vacca.
# # # #
Source: New Zealand Police (District News)
State Highway 2 is closed at the intersection with Somerset Road in Clareville following a crash.
The two-vehicle crash was reported at 1:30pm.
Two people have been seriously injured, and a third person has sustained moderate injuries.
Detours are in place via Hughes Line and Park Road.
Motorists are advised to avoid the area and expect delays.
ENDS
Issued by Police Media Centre
Source: New Zealand Police (National News)
Police have arrested two young offenders following an early morning burglary in Clevedon.
Just before 3am, a burglary in progress was reported at a petrol station on Papakura-Clevedon Road.
Detective Inspector Karen Bright says the front door had been smashed in the burglary.
“The petrol station was closed at the time,” she says.
“On arrival a short time later, units confirmed the cash register had been stolen and the offenders had left the area.
“Meanwhile a Crime Squad unit was heading to the scene and came across a stolen Mazda Demio driving at speed along Clevedon Road.”
This hatchback fled from the unit after being signalled to stop.
It carried on at speed towards Papakura.
Detective Inspector Bright says the vehicle was eventually abandoned on Artillery Drive.
“A dog handler was deployed in the area and located the two teenagers hiding up a tree, after they had run into a park.
“The pair, aged 14 and 15, were arrested without further incident.”
Police have since recovered a cash register and other stolen items from inside the stolen Demio.
Detective Inspector Bright says the pair will be referred to Youth Aid over the burglaries.
ENDS.
Jarred Williamson/NZ Police
Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police
Pictou County District RCMP is asking for the public’s assistance in locating 15-year-old Sadie Willow MacIntosh who was last seen March 3 on MacBeth Rd. in Plymouth.
MacIntosh is described as 5-foot-0 and 127 lbs. She has red and black shoulder-length hair and blue eyes. She was last seen wearing a hooded sweatshirt, red and white pyjama pants and a blue backpack.
When someone goes missing, it has deep and far-reaching impacts for the person and those who know them. We ask that people spread the word through social media respectfully.
Anyone with information on the whereabouts of Sidney (Sadie) Willow MacIntosh is asked to contact the Pictou County District RCMP at 902-485-4333. 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 #2025-283746
Source: US State of California
Tuesday, March 4, 2025
Contact: (916) 210-6000, agpressoffice@doj.ca.gov
**The information provided below is based on preliminary details regarding an ongoing investigation, which may continue to evolve**
OAKLAND – California Attorney General Rob Bonta today announced that the California Department of Justice (DOJ), pursuant to Assembly Bill 1506 (AB 1506), is investigating and will independently review an officer-involved shooting (OIS) that occurred in Mammoth Lakes, California on Tuesday, March 4, 2025 at approximately 12:00 p.m. The OIS incident resulted in the death of one individual and involved personnel from the Mammoth Lakes Police Department.
Following notification by local authorities, DOJ’s California Police Shooting Investigation Team initiated an investigation in accordance with AB 1506 mandates. Upon completion of the investigation, it will be turned over to DOJ’s Special Prosecutions Section within the Criminal Law Division for independent review.
More information on the California Department of Justice’s role and responsibilities under AB 1506 is available here: https://oag.ca.gov/ois-incidents.
# # #
Source: New Zealand Police (District News)
Police have taken another firearm out of the community after a traffic stop early this morning.
Just before 2.30am, a frontline Police unit stopped a vehicle on Carbine Road in Mt Wellington.
“The vehicle was sought by Police and as staff were speaking with the driver, they noticed a baseball bat in footwell of the car,” Inspector Rachel Dolheguy, of Auckland City East’s Area Prevention Manager says.
“A further search of the vehicle was invoked and uncovered a sawn-off shot gun in the vehicle’s backseat.”
Attending staff also located ammunition for the firearm.
Police have since towed the vehicle and the driver was arrested.
A 27-year-old man will appear in the Auckland District Court next week on a raft of charges.
Inspector Dolheguy says: “It’s a great result from the nightshift Public Safety Team in taking another firearm out of the community and its potential use for future offending.”
The man will appear on 11 March.
ENDS.
Jarred Williamson/NZ Police
Source: Office of United States Attorneys
HONOLULU, Hawaii – Former Honolulu City Attorney Donna Leong and former Honolulu Police Commission Chair Max Sword pleaded guilty in federal court today, admitting that they conspired to illegally pay then-Honolulu Police Chief Louis Kealoha $250,000 from city coffers without the approval of the Honolulu City Council while he was under federal investigation for corruption.
Additionally, former Honolulu City Manager Roy Amemiya entered a deferred prosecution agreement for his role in the same conspiracy.
The defendants were immediately sentenced to time served and were ordered to pay $250,000 in restitution to the city.
The resolution of these cases marks the end of a decade-long series of public corruption prosecutions in Honolulu, which began with the investigation and conviction of Chief Kealoha and former Honolulu prosecutor Katherine Kealoha.
According to court documents, Leong, Sword, and Amemiya admitted that they conspired in their official capacities as Honolulu city officials to reach a settlement agreement for the retirement of then-Police Chief Kealoha while he was under federal investigation for corruption. The defendants also paid Kealoha $250,000 from the city’s purse without first seeking and obtaining the approval of the Honolulu City Council, which was required by city laws. Leong, Sword, and Amemiya admitted that their decision not to seek and obtain City Council approval violated the law and deprived the citizens of Honolulu of their due process rights under the Fifth and Fourteenth Amendments of a hearing before, and approval by, their elected City Council for the use of city funds.
Following their guilty pleas, Leong and Sword were sentenced by U.S. District Judge Leslie E. Kobayashi to time served and one year of supervised release. During today’s hearing, Judge Kobayashi characterized Leong and Sword’s actions as “truly misguided” and reprimanded them for exercising a “complete disregard for the separation of powers” by not presenting the settlement agreement to City Council. She further stated that their actions caused “serious harm” to the community of Honolulu.
As part of a deferred prosecution agreement, in addition to admitting his involvement in the criminal conspiracy, Amemiya’s agreement requires him to comply with certain conditions for a period of two years, including completion of 200 hours of community service and restriction from holding public office. Per the terms of his deferred prosecution agreement, if he complies in full for two years, the charges against Amemiya will be dismissed.
Importantly, all three defendants agreed to pay restitution in the amount of $250,000 to the City and County of Honolulu—the exact amount of taxpayer money paid to then-Chief Kealoha as part of the unlawful settlement agreement.
The conclusion of the criminal case against Leong, Sword, and Amemiya is the last in a decade-long series of public corruption prosecutions in Hawaii conducted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of California, which prosecuted these cases after the District of Hawaii was recused. These prosecutions have charged and convicted over a dozen individuals, most of whom were public officials or persons of prominence in Honolulu, including the Kealohas, Honolulu police officers, and anesthesiologist Rudy Puana, Katherine Kealoha’s brother. The resolution of the charges against Leong, Sword, and Amemiya marks a historic end to this journey of seeking justice for the citizens of Honolulu.
“After a decade-long battle against public corruption in Hawaii, we have successfully brought numerous cases to a close. This achievement is a testament to the unwavering dedication of our law enforcement partners, the prosecutors, our legal support staff, and the community,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Andrew R. Haden. “Together, we have demonstrated that no one is above the law. Hopefully, our efforts have also restored some faith in law enforcement and local government for the Hawaiian community. But let these cases also be a reminder, the fight against corruption must never end. The Department of Justice has a proud history and stands ready to fight for the principles of justice and fairness for all.”
“The cases against these three defendants are the last among a decade-long series of public corruption prosecutions in Hawaii,” said FBI Honolulu Special Agent in Charge David Porter. “I am proud of the agents and prosecutors who devoted years to these investigations—their tireless efforts reflect our continued commitment to root out corruption in our communities.”
This case and the series of public corruption cases brought over the last decade were led by Special Attorneys Michael G. Wheat, Joseph J.M. Orabona, Janaki G. Chopra, Colin M. McDonald and Andrew Y. Chiang.
DEFENDANTS Case Number 21cr00142-LEK
Donna Yuk Lan Leong Age: 69 Honolulu, HI
Max John Sword Age: 73 Honolulu, HI
Roy Keiji Amemiya, Jr. Age: 69 Honolulu, HI
SUMMARY OF CHARGES
Conspiracy to Deprive Rights under Color of Law – Title 18, U.S.C., Sections 371 and 242
Maximum penalty: One year in prison and $100,000 fine
INVESTIGATING AGENCY
Federal Bureau of Investigation
Honolulu Division
Source: Office of United States Attorneys
BUFFALO, N.Y.–U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today a federal grand jury returned an indictment charging Ernest Brown, a/k/a Wayne Perry, a/k/a Wayne Brown, 42, Buffalo, NY, and James Jackson, a/k/a Bookah 38, of Jamestown, NY, with narcotics conspiracy. Brown faces a mandatory minimum penalty of 15 years in prison and a maximum of life, while Jackson faces a mandatory minimum of 10 years in prison and a maximum of life.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Joshua A. Violanti and Louis A. Testani, who are handling the case, stated that according to the indictment, between 2018, and May 26, 2022, Brown and Jackson conspired with Joseph S. Zaso and others, to sell fentanyl in the Buffalo and Jamestown areas. Joseph Zaso was previously charged and convicted and is awaiting sentencing.
Brown and Jackson were arraigned before U.S. District Judge Michael J. Roemer and detained.
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.
The indictment is the result of an investigation by the Jamestown Police Department, under the direction of Chief Timothy Jackson, the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Frank A. Tarentino III, New York Field Division, and the Chautauqua County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff James Quattrone.
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.
# # # #
Source: Office of United States Attorneys
BUFFALO, N.Y.–U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today a federal grand jury returned an indictment charging Quentin L. Yancey a/k/ a Q, 38, of Rochester, NY, with narcotics conspiracy, which carries a mandatory minimum penalty of 10 years in prison and a maximum of life.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Joshua A. Violanti and Louis A. Testani, who are handling the case, stated that according to the indictment, between 2018, and May 26, 2022, Yancey conspired with Joseph S. Zaso and others, to sell heroin and fentanyl in the Rochester area. Joseph Zaso was previously charged and convicted and is awaiting sentencing.
Yancey was arraigned before U.S. District Judge Michael J. Roemer and detained.
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.
The indictment is the result of an investigation by the Jamestown Police Department, under the direction of Chief Timothy Jackson, the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Frank A. Tarentino III, New York Field Division, and the Chautauqua County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff James Quattrone.
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.
# # # #
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Andrew Hemming, Associate Professor of Law, School of Law and Justice, University of the Sunshine Coast
After Martin Bryant killed 35 people and wounded 23 others at Port Arthur in 1996, Australia made fundamental changes to its gun laws. The use of automatic and semi-automatic weapons became restricted and a national gun registry was established.
As a result, unlike the situation in the United States where automatic weapons can be readily obtained, mass shootings are a rarity in Australia.
However, a new and pressing danger in the form of 3D guns, or “ghost guns”, threatens to undermine Australia’s strict gun control laws.
The reason is simple: 3D guns can be manufactured in a suburban garage. In a process like making a dress from a pattern, a digital blueprint for the manufacture of a firearm can be downloaded from the internet. Then, instead of a sewing machine, you need a 3D printer or an electronic milling machine.
The emergence of these types of firearms reveal big loopholes in many of our gun laws. These need urgent attention.
A 3D gun is manufactured in stages, with each part of the gun printed separately and assembled manually.
Think of yourself as making a toy LEGO gun, but instead of taking the parts from the LEGO box, you make the parts on your 3D printer based on your digital blueprint and you then assemble your gun. Your raw materials are thermoplastic polymers and metal for the barrel and firing pin.
High-end, industrial-grade 3D printers are priced between $2,000 and $10,000, and are readily available.
This technology has been around for more than a decade.
The first 3D printed handgun was designed by Cody Wilson in 2013, which he christened The Liberator. It was made of 15 parts of plastic and a nail for the ring pin.
Also in 2013, reporters from the Daily Mail newspaper in London 3D-printed a Liberator pistol and smuggled the disassembled gun onto a Eurostar train. They reassembled the gun in the toilet.
As the gun was made of plastic, metal detectors were not activated, demonstrating the danger these weapons pose even in high-security locations such as airports and public transport.
In the recent high-profile murder in New York of Brian Thompson, chief executive of the US health insurance company United Healthcare, the suspect, Luigi Mangione, when arrested was found to be in possession of a similar 3D-printed gun and 3D-printed suppressor to those allegedly used in the shooting.
In the 12 years since the designs for The Liberator were posted on the internet, the quality and range of 3D guns have greatly improved and expanded.
According to Detective Inspector Brad Phelps from Queensland’s Crime and Intelligence Command Drug Squad, the technology has advanced sufficiently that:
now you wouldn’t be able to tell the difference between a privately manufactured firearm and a traditional firearm in many instances […] every jurisdiction in Australia has reported an increase, particularly in the last 18 months to two years.
As 3D guns are untraceable, the actual prevalence of 3D guns is unknown, other than the growing number of 3D guns seized in police raids. According to gun safety groups, 3D guns can now fire up to 40 rounds and use standard gauge ammunition.
Police predict homemade guns will soon overtake illicit weapon imports.
In October 2024, Western Australian police seized 21 privately made 3D-printed firearms from a home in Perth.
So, with all these alarm bells ringing in the ears of law enforcement agencies, what steps have authorities taken to meet the threat 3D guns pose to community safety?
Indeed, what effective steps are being taken to prevent further advances in the technology and thwart any efforts to produce these guns en masse?
The answer would appear to be that little attention has been directed towards the dangers 3D guns represent. Legislation across Australian jurisdictions is inconsistent.
At present, only New South Wales and Tasmania have legislated to make it an offence to possess a digital blueprint for the manufacture of a firearm on a 3D printer or electronic milling machine. The maximum penalties are imprisonment for 14 years and 21 years, respectively.
In 2022, WA took a step in the right direction by making unauthorised possession of firearms technology an offence. This included possession of a 3D printer or milling device.
The slow progress on this issue is well illustrated by South Australia. There have been 23 incidents in which police have seized 3D-printed firearms and firearm parts between 2020 and 2023.
But the drafting of proposed legal amendments to address these incidents started in 2024 and are still to be introduced into the SA parliament.
There needs to be a national sense of urgency similar to the federal government’s response to the Port Arthur massacre in 1996. Existing laws are inadequate as there is no uniformity in the legislation covering 3D-printed firearms and their digital blueprints.
There was a senate inquiry into gun violence in 2014, which found 3D printers “were by no means integral to the illegal manufacture of firearms”. This is no longer accurate.
Ironically, the senate committee recommended “Australian governments investigate the requirement for uniform regulations in all jurisdictions covering the manufacture of 3D-printed firearms and firearm parts”. A decade on, little progress has been made.
New laws could distinguish between possessing of a digital blueprint for a 3D gun and actually manufacturing a firearm. This could look like a scale of penalties, such as those imposed for the possession and manufacture of illegal drugs, which are based on the category of drug and the quantity seized.
Andrew Hemming does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
– ref. Police are seizing 3D-printed guns across Australia, but our laws aren’t keeping up – https://theconversation.com/police-are-seizing-3d-printed-guns-across-australia-but-our-laws-arent-keeping-up-250255
Source: New Zealand Police (National News)
A man allegedly wandering through Bucklands Beach driveways under the cover of darkness is now facing charges in court.
Police responded to calls before 4.30am on 4 March, where residents had been disturbed around the Marendellas Drive area.
Inspector Rakana Cook, Counties Manukau East Area Prevention Manager, says three vehicles had been broken into.
“On arrival in the area, our staff located a man on Sheralee Place and he was stopped,” he says.
“The staff located a raft of stolen property in his possession, taken from all of the vehicles.
“We have since established he was allegedly scoping out vehicles parked in driveways and on the side of the road.”
Items recovered included wallets, bags, sunglasses and other belongings that had allegedly been stolen.
The 35-year-old man has been charged with burglary and two counts of unlawfully interfering with a motor vehicle.
He has appeared in the Manukau District Court and remanded in custody to reappear today.
“I’d like to acknowledge our frontline staff who responded so quickly to the initial call for service,” Inspector Cook says.
“Thanks also to the vigilant residents in that area whose quick-thinking enabled a timely response.
“It’s also a reminder of the value of a home CCTV system in these sorts of events.”
Police continue to encourage the community to report suspicious activity by calling 111 so that appropriate action can be taken.
ENDS.
Jarred Williamson/NZ Police
Source: Tasmania Police
Police continuing to investigate disturbance at Huonville
Wednesday, 5 March 2025 – 10:49 am.
Police are continuing to investigate a disturbance at Huonville this morning, and one person remains in custody assisting with enquiries.
Inspector Colin Riley said, “Around 1.10am police received a report of a disturbance at Huonville, in the vicinity of the Esplanade and Main Road, allegedly involving a group of approximately six people.”
“Multiple police units attended, including specialist resources.”
“Early reports indicated a firearm was discharged during the incident. This is being investigated.”
No injuries were sustained in the incident, and the people involved were known to each other.
“Understandably this incident will be concerning to people who were in the area around the time, and I’d like to assure the community that the incident is contained, and an investigation is ongoing.”
Anyone with information in relation to the incident is asked to contact police on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers Tasmania at crimestopprestas.com.au or on 1800 333 000 – quote ESCAD 16-05032025.
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
The Northern Territory Police Force has arrested three female youths in relation to an aggravated robbery on Mitchell Street last night.
About 9:30pm, a 101-year-old man was assaulted on his mobility scooter by the three females aged, 14, 15 and 19-years-old. The elderly man was held by the females and they removed his wallet and keys before decamping the area.
The victim suffered lacerations to his arms and was conveyed to Royal Darwin Hospital for treatment.
A short time later, police CCTV operators located offenders matching the description provided at a location nearby and members apprehended them.
They are expected to be charged later today.
Detective Senior Sergeant Trent Abbott said “This was a disgraceful attack on a vulnerable member of our society and the actions of these offenders was abhorrent.
“Thankfully the victim is expected to make a full recovery.
“I would also like to commend our vigilant CCTV operators and attending officers for their swift action to respond and apprehend the offenders nearby.”
Detectives from Serious Crime have carriage of the investigation.
If you have any information in relation to the incident, police are urging you to make contact on 131 444 and reference NTP2500023360.
Source: South Australia Police
Detectives from Far North CIB arrested a woman and man yesterday following a lengthy drug investigation based in Port Augusta.
About 7pm on Monday 3 March, police stopped a car on the Augusta Highway at Lochiel. Officers had cause to search the vehicle and located approximately 1.2kg of methamphetamine.
As a result of this seizure, police then conducted searches at two addresses in Port Augusta West where a further 50g of methamphetamine was located along with evidence of a significant drug trafficking operation.
A 45-year-old woman from Port Augusta was charged with five counts of trafficking in a large commercial quantity of drugs. She was refused bail and will appear in the Port Pirie Magistrates Court today. CO2500009025
A 40-year-old man from Port Augusta was also arrested at one of the addresses for trafficking in a commercial quantity of drugs. He was bailed to appear in the Port Augusta Magistrates Court on 2 June.
A vehicle linked to the woman was seized at Adelaide Airport and is subject to a confiscation of profits investigation.
The investigation is ongoing and further charges are expected.
Anyone with information on the sale, supply, distribution or manufacture of illicit drugs is asked to contact Crime Stoppers at www.crimestopperssa.com.au or on 1800 333 000. You can remain anonymous.
Source: New Zealand Police (District News)
The Christchurch Southern Motorway is closed near Curletts Road following a crash.
The crash involved a truck and was reported around 11:30am.
The driver of the truck has sustained serious injuries.
Traffic is being diverted off the motorway at Curletts Road off-ramp.
Motorists are advised to avoid the area if possible, and expect delays.
ENDS
Issued by Police Media Centre
Source: New Zealand Police (National News)
Police can now name the person who died in a single-vehicle crash on Nuhaka Opoutama Road on Friday 28 February.
He was 43-year-old Nolan Maru, of Wairoa, and was the sole occupant of the vehicle.
Police extends our condolences to Nolan’s family and friends.
The circumstances of the crash remain under investigation.
ENDS
Issued by Police Media Centre
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
Territorians interested in a career in firefighting will have the chance to try before they apply, ahead of the next recruitment drive in June 2025.
The NT Fire and Rescue Service (NTFRS) is hosting Come and Try days in Darwin at 9am on 22 March at Foskey Pavilion Darwin Show Grounds and in Alice Springs at 9am on the 29 March at St Phillips College.
The events offer those considering a career with NTFRS an opportunity to experience components of the recruitment Physical Aptitude Test (PAT) and receive expert tips on preparing to become a firefighter from those who live the role every day.
The PAT combines both fitness assessments and on the job tasks, making it a reliable indicator of an applicant’s ability to carry out the physically demanding tasks required of operational firefighters during an emergency and at incidents.
While challenging, the PAT is achievable with proper training and preparation. The Come and Try day is designed to give participants valuable insight into what’s involved and allow time to start their training ahead of the upcoming recruitment.
A career as a Firefighter in the Northern Territory is both rewarding and challenging, with no two days being the same. As a firefighter, you’ll be on the frontline, working as a close-knit team helping to serve and protect the community by:
Future firefighters have two weeks to register their interest in the come and try day. Register now for Darwin https://tinyurl.com/v4atu66s and Alice Springs https://tinyurl.com/33m8sfzc
Registrations are essential.
Fore more information about a career in firefighting visit Careers in Firefighting | NT Police, Fire & Emergency Services
Quotes attributable to Chief Fire Officer, Stephen Sewell AFSM:
“Becoming a Firefighter can be a challenging process, so our Come and Try days are designed to give prospective applicants an insight into the fitness components. It also provides them with enough time to ramp up their training and set new goals ahead of the next recruitment round in June.”
“Firefighters must work in confrontational and high-pressure situations, especially when responding to incidents involving injury or loss of life. This role is physically and psychologically demanding, requiring critical thinking and teamwork in every incident response – which is why we need to ensure we get the right people in the roles.”
Being a Firefighter is more than just a job – it’s a calling, dedicated to service and community. We’re seeking individuals passionate about making a difference in the Northern Territory, particularly in remote and regional areas.
The recent formation of NT Fire and Emergency Services, combining the NT Fire and Rescue Service, NT Emergency Service, and Bushfires NT, enhances our ability to respond to emergencies while prioritising community resilience.
Media Contact:
Rickie Abraham
Phone: 8923 980
Source: Office of United States Attorneys
JACKSON, MS – Torrence Donell Mayfield, of Raymond, a former Jackson Police Department officer was sentenced today to 24 months in prison for making a false statement to a firearms dealer in the acquisition of a firearm. Mayfield was also ordered to pay a $5,000 fine.
According to court documents and statements in open court, Mayfield, 53, purchased a firearm for another person on October 26, 2021. That purchase was made at a pawn shop which is a Federal Firearms Licensee. Mayfield was required to complete a certain written form to purchase the firearm. On that written form, Mayfield indicated that he was purchasing the firearm for himself, not someone else. That statement was false. It is against federal law to make a false statement to a firearm dealer to acquire a firearm.
Acting U.S. Attorney Patrick A. Lemon of the Southern District of Mississippi; and Federal Bureau of Investigation Special Agent in Charge Robert A. Eikhoff made the announcement.
The FBI investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Herbert S. Carraway and Charles W. Kirkham prosecuted the case.
Source: New Zealand Police (National News)
Police is seeking witnesses to a series of scrub fires across Port Waikato and Tuakau this year.
Counties Manukau South CIB are investigating seven fires that have been deemed suspicious.
Detective Senior Sergeant Simon Taylor says this series fires first began in January this year.
“Police are working with Fire and Emergency New Zealand to understand the scope of the series of fires,” he says.
“We will consider all investigative opportunities to hold those responsible to account.
“At this stage we are keeping an open mind as to whether these fires are linked or not.”
There were five suspicious fires that occurred in February alone.
Detective Senior Sergeant Taylor says it is fortunate there have been no injuries or loss of life as a result.
No arrests have been made at this stage of the investigation.
“The dry weather, and at times proximity to the Port Waikato township, causes significant concern and risk for the township,” Detective Senior Sergeant Taylor says.
Police urge anyone with information about those involved, or who have witnessed suspicious activity surround the time fires occurred, to report this.
You can update Police online now or call 105 using the reference number 250227/2905.
“If you see any suspicious activity occurring, please call Police on 111,” Detective Senior Sergeant Taylor says.
Fires under investigation:
– 11 January
– 9 February
– 17 February
– 26 February
– 27 February
– 27 February
– 4 March
Keeping yourself safe:
Fire and Emergency’s Counties Manukau Community Risk Manager Thomas Harre says there are some simple steps people can take to keep themselves, and their homes, safe from wildfire.
“Things like keeping your grass short, keeping gutters clear and removing highly flammable plants from around your property can help.
“Longer term, planting low flammability plans before next summer reduces your risk.”
For more information on low flammability plants and advice on when wildfire threatens, people can visit this link.
Thomas Harre encourages anyone with information to come forward to help the Police investigation.
“These fires are causing a lot of anxiety in the community, so we want them to stop.
“Our fire brigades have had to spend a lot of time responding to these fires, and that has put pressure on them if there are other incidents to attend to in the area.
“Most of the crews have been volunteers, so this means time away from family or from their place of work to fight these fires.”
ENDS.
Jarred Williamson/NZ Police
Source: US State of New York
EW YORK – New York Attorney General Letitia James today announced the conviction and sentencing of Frank Whittaker, 56, of Kingston, NY, and his daughter Christine Ellsworth, 39, of Accord, NY, for stealing more than $230,000 from a vulnerable elderly victim in Ulster County. Whittaker and Ellsworth gained the trust of the elderly victim by providing lawn maintenance and assisting with household tasks, and eventually gained access to the then 92-year-old’s checkbook and finances. Whittaker had himself appointed as a Power of Attorney (POA) over the elderly victim’s finances and from July 2021 through August 2022, Whittaker and Ellsworth stole over $230,000 by writing themselves checks and illegally transferring funds from the victim’s bank and investment accounts into an account in Whittaker’s name. Whittaker was sentenced today to five years of probation and must pay restitution to the elderly victim. Ellsworth was sentenced today to three years of probation during which she is prohibited from working with the elderly.
“Scamming vulnerable seniors out of their savings that took a lifetime of hard work to earn is heartless,” said Attorney General James. “Frank Whittaker and Christine Ellsworth maliciously gained the trust of an innocent, elderly woman and stole her life savings in order to treat themselves to a new car and visits to restaurants and casinos. I thank the New York State Police and our partners in law enforcement for their continued assistance in this investigation. Anyone who attempts to defraud New Yorkers to line their own pockets will be brought to justice.”
“I want to thank the Attorney General’s Office for their strong partnership that has led to the sentencing of these two individuals and their dishonest act,” said New York State Police Superintendent Steven G. James. “This joint investigation found that Mr. Whittaker and Ms. Ellsworth preyed on a vulnerable victim who entrusted them to provide care for her, but instead chose to financially profit off her situation. The New York State Police will continue to put an end to these crimes and ensure innocent victims will not be taken advantage of.”
Beginning in 2021, Whittaker and Ellsworth gained the trust of the victim, who needed assistance caring for herself and her home. Whittaker convinced the victim to grant him POA over her affairs and added himself as the POA on multiple bank and annuity accounts belonging to the victim, with Ellsworth named as the successor POA. Though he had POA, Whittaker was not legally allowed to spend the victim’s money for his and his daughter’s personal benefit.
Over the next year, Whittaker and Ellsworth stole over $230,000 from the victim and used the stolen funds to purchase a new 2021 GMC Sierra pickup truck costing $57,500, and also spent thousands of dollars at local restaurants and stores, including Walmart, a jeweler, and florists, among other personal expenses. They also made numerous cash withdrawals, including at ATMs located in Turning Stone Casino and Resort in Verona, and the Saratoga Casino Hotel in Saratoga Springs.
In August 2024, Whittaker and Ellsworth were charged by an Ulster County Grand Jury with Grand Larceny in the Second Degree (a Class C felony). Simultaneous with their arrests, the Office of the Attorney General executed a search warrant to seize the remaining funds in Whittaker’s bank account, recovering over $92,000 of the victim’s stolen money.
On November 12, 2024, before Judge Bryan Rounds in Ulster County Court, Whittaker pleaded guilty to Grand Larceny in the Third Degree (a Class D felony) and Ellsworth pleaded guilty to Petit Larceny (a Class A misdemeanor). Whittaker was sentenced today to five years’ probation, and must pay $192,000 in restitution to the elderly victim, including forfeiture of the $92,000 that OAG seized from his bank account. Ellsworth was sentenced to three years’ probation and as a condition of her probation, she is prohibited from working with the elderly for three years.
Attorney General James thanks the New York State Police Department’s Financial Crimes Unit, the Ulster County Department of Social Services, the Ulster County Sheriff’s Office, and the Ulster County District Attorney’s Office for their valuable assistance in this matter.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant Attorney General Cheryl J. Lee of the Criminal Enforcement and Financial Crimes Bureau (CEFC). Analytical work was provided by Legal Analyst Kai Tsurumaki, under the supervision of Supervising Analyst Paul Strocko and Deputy Supervising Analyst Jayleen Garcia. Forensic accounting was performed by Forensic Auditor Kirven Bashiri, under the supervision of Chief Auditor Kristen Fabbri and Deputy Chief Auditor Sandy Bizzarro of the Forensic Audit Section. CEFC is led by Bureau Chief Stephanie Swenton and Deputy Bureau Chief Joseph G. D’Arrigo.
The criminal investigation was conducted by Detectives Eamon H. Murphy and Jason Johnston, under the supervision of Assistant Chief Samuel Scotellaro and Deputy Chief Juanita Bright of the Major Investigations Unit. The Investigations Bureau is led by Chief Investigator Oliver Pu-Folkes. Both CEFC and the Investigations Bureau are part of the Division for Criminal Justice, which is led by Chief Deputy Attorney General Jose Maldonado and overseen by First Deputy Attorney General Jennifer Levy.
Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (c)
Matthew Podolsky, the Acting United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, announced today that MICHAEL HABIB, an associate of the Canadian criminal organization known as the Wolfpack Alliance, was sentenced to 17 and a half years in prison for trafficking narcotics. HABIB pled guilty on December 20, 2023, before U.S. District Judge John P. Cronan, who imposed today’s sentence. HABIB’s sentencing follows the imposition of sentences of 18 years, 17 and a half years, and four and half years on his co-defendants, SURINDER SINGH CHEEMA, BHUPINDER SINGH VIRK, and CHRISTOPHER BURGOS, on December 19, 2024, July 17, 2024, and December 16, 2024, respectively.
Acting U.S. Attorney Matthew Podolsky said: “Wolfpack and its associates have spread drugs and violence in the United States and in Canada. Michael Habib and his co-conspirators are responsible for transporting thousands of kilograms of cocaine and methamphetamine across our northern border, ordering drug-related shootings and kidnappings, and attempting to smuggle wanted international hitmen into the United States from Canada. Today’s prison sentence will help protect the public from wanton violence and dangerous narcotics, and demonstrates our resolve to root out transnational criminal organizations like Wolfpack.”
FBI Assistant Director in Charge James E. Dennehy said: “The associates of the Wolfpack Alliance have all been rightly sentenced for establishing an international drug trafficking route to assist the flow of thousands of kilograms of methamphetamine and cocaine through our country into Canada. This conspiracy caused significant amounts of dangerous drugs to enter the United States, endangering the public’s safety. The FBI will continue to dismantle and hold accountable any criminal enterprise member, regardless of their origin, which utilizes our nation as an economic foothold and throughfare for their illegal operations.”
According to the Indictment, public filings, and statements made in court proceedings:
From at least in or about February 2022 through at least in or about November 2022, HABIB, CHEEMA, VIRK, BURGOS and others conspired to distribute narcotics by shipping thousands of kilograms of methamphetamine and cocaine across the U.S. and into Canada. In or about March 2022, law enforcement seized approximately 400 kilograms of cocaine shipped by the conspirators from a warehouse in New Jersey, and approximately 96 kilograms of cocaine and 86 kilograms of methamphetamine in the vicinity of Kansas City, Kansas. In connection with their guilty pleas, HABIB admitted to conspiring to distribute at least approximately 400 kilograms of cocaine; CHEEMA admitted to conspiring to distribute at least approximately 1.3 metric tons of methamphetamine and 764 kilograms of cocaine; VIRK admitted to conspiring to distribute at least approximately 1.1 metric tons of methamphetamine and 480 kilograms of cocaine; and BURGOS admitted to conspiring to distribute at least approximately 400 kilograms of cocaine.
The defendants engaged in additional criminal activities. HABIB and BURGOS, on behalf of the Wolfpack Alliance, assisted two Wolfpack-aligned hitmen, Gene Lahrkamp and Duncan Bailey, in their attempt to escape Canada and evade Canadian law enforcement, until Lahrkamp and Bailey were killed in an accidental plane crash in Canada on or about April 30, 2022. CHEEMA, in or about the spring of 2024, subsequent to his guilty plea and while awaiting sentencing at the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn, New York, directed his confederates in the greater Toronto, Canada area to conduct shootings and issue threats of violence in connection with drug debts. VIRK was arrested in or about November 2022 in California with three unregistered “ghost” guns and approximately $487,900 in cash.
* * *
In addition to their prison terms, HABIB, 38, of Toronto, Canada; CHEEMA, 31, of Brampton, Canada; VIRK, 31, of Fresno, California; and BURGOS, 36, of Brooklyn, New York, were sentenced to five, four, four, and three years of supervised release, respectively, and were ordered to forfeit $487,900 and a 2020 Mercedes Benz AMG GT63.
Mr. Podolsky praised the outstanding investigative work of the FBI and U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Mr. Podolsky further thanked the Royal Canadian Mounted Police and Peel Ontario Regional Police for their assistance and cooperation in the investigation.
This prosecution is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (“OCDETF”) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles criminal organizations using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
This case is being handled by the Office’s Narcotics Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Thomas S. Burnett, Jane Y. Chong, and Matthew R. Shahabian are in charge of the prosecution.
Source: Tasmania Police
Two men charged with firearms trafficking
Wednesday, 5 March 2025 – 9:14 am.
Two men have been charged with firearms trafficking and other offences following an investigation by Bridgewater Criminal Investigation Branch.
Police were called to an alleged aggravated robbery in Bagdad on Tuesday, 18 February after two men reportedly assaulted a resident and rammed their car when attempting to leave the scene.
On Tuesday, 4 March police attended an address in Brighton and arrested two men, a 22-year-old and a 31-year-old.
A search warrant was then executed, with police locating a stolen firearm, illicit drugs and other stolen property.
Both men were charged with firearms trafficking, possession of stolen firearms, motor vehicle stealing, and other offences.
The 31-year-old was also charged with aggravated robbery and will appear in the Hobart Magistrates Court this morning.
Source: Office of United States Attorneys
McALLEN, Texas – A 19-year-old Alamo resident has been sentenced for utilizing a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking activity, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J Ganjei.
Emiliano Cabriales pleaded guilty Dec. 5, 2024.
U.S. District Judge Drew B. Tipton has now handed Cabriales a 60-month term of imprisonment immediately followed by three years of supervised release.
On May 29, 2024, law enforcement conducted a traffic stop of a vehicle in which Cabriales was a passenger. During a routine search, they discovered a firearm concealed beneath the seat where Cabriales had been sitting.
Further investigation revealed 14 grams of cocaine, packaged in individual baggies, hidden inside his pants. Cabriales admitted to possessing the cocaine and that he had the firearm in case he had to protect himself and the drugs.
Cabriales has been and will remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and Alamo Police Department conducted the investigation.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Cahal P. McColgan prosecuted the case as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN.