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Category: Police

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Amid Evolving Threat Landscape, UN Peacekeepers Must Have Adequate Resources to Protect Vulnerable Populations in Conflict Zones, Speakers Tell Special Committee

    Source: United Nations General Assembly and Security Council

    In an ever-shifting security landscape, ensuring sufficient funding, technology and training, and promoting gender equality in peacekeeping operations while also recognizing the importance of safeguarding vulnerable populations in conflict zones is more critical than ever, speakers told the opening of the Special Committee on Peacekeeping Operations, which also marked 60 years since its establishment.

    Vice-President of the General Assembly Cherdchai Chaivaivid (Thailand), speaking on behalf of Assembly President Philémon Yang (Cameroon), said that, for nearly 80 years, UN peacekeepers have protected civilians from violence and supported vital political dialogue between parties to conflict.

    “The safety and security of United Nations peacekeepers remains of utmost importance,” he stressed, adding that since 1948 over 3,500 blue helmets have lost their lives serving in UN peacekeeping operations.  “Going forward, we will need mandates suited for an evolving threat landscape,” he said, also emphasizing the need for improved capacity to assess conflict situations, as well as effective planning and management throughout the peacekeeping cycle.

    “It is also vital to improve cooperation of poor countries with other critical partners, increase trust among stakeholders and manage local and international expectations in the Pact for the Future,” he went on to say.  Further, Member States must enhance collaboration between the UN and regional and subregional organizations, particularly the African Union.

    Adoption of Pact for the Future Created ‘Transformative Moment’ for Peacekeeping

    Martha Ama Akyaa Pobee, Assistant Secretary-General for Africa in the Departments of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs and Peace Operations, speaking on behalf of Jean-Pierre Lacroix, UN Under-Secretary-General for Peace Operations, said that this annual engagement by Member States is a key source of the “enduring strength as a preeminent symbol of multilateral resolve”.  Peacekeepers can be a “lifeline” for hundreds of thousands of civilians caught in conflict.

    The Committee’s sixtieth anniversary comes at a transformative moment for peacekeeping following the adoption of the Pact for the Future, where Member States equivocally reaffirmed peacekeeping as a critical tool to maintain international peace and security, she said.  “You have a unique opportunity to build on those efforts by providing a platform for dialogue, presenting innovative ideas and ensuring the effectiveness and accountability of UN peacekeeping operations,” she added.

    More Peacekeeper Resources Key amid Complex Terrain Marked by Geopolitical Challenges and Volatility

    As delegates took the floor, many stressed the need for more resources so that peacekeepers can carry out their work in an ever-shifting security landscape, with Morocco’s delegate, speaking for Non-Aligned Movement, noting that UN peacekeeping operations are currently navigating a complex terrain marked by geopolitical challenges.  “Funding and limited resources remain a significant issue,” she stressed.  “As a result, peacekeeping operations find themselves in a delicate position, needing to adapt to the realities on the ground while responding to international expectations.”

    Troop- and Police-Contributing Countries Stress Consultation with Them Key for Drafting Clear, Achievable Mandates

    Speakers from troop- and police-contributing countries stressed the Security Council must further consult with them to draft clear and achievable mandates that preserve the primacy of political solutions and help peacekeeping operations better address the evolving nature of global conflicts.

    “Our peacekeepers continue to serve in nations where security situations are volatile, but despite such challenges, our peacekeepers are striving to fulfil their mandates, and therefore we must ensure their safety and security,” said Indonesia’s delegate, speaking for the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).  Noting that its member States contribute over 5,000 peacekeepers across various UN missions, he called for better quality training and equipment for the troops.

    Canada’s representative, also speaking for Australia and New Zealand, and echoing other speakers, emphasized the importance of including women in all areas of peacekeeping missions, and commitment to the women, peace and security agenda as a cornerstone of the UN’s efforts to promote gender equality and lasting peace, reduce training obstacles in order to guarantee women’s full, equal participation.  “We urge missions to step up efforts to support the role of women in conflict prevention, resolution and peacebuilding,” he said.  He further underscored the importance of planning and the deliberate implementation of transitions and drawdowns in peacekeeping operations, stressing:  “Several agencies need to be involved from the very beginning of these processes to identify the capacity of the host Government, the UN and civil society actors to support those transitions.”

    Countries Hosting Peacekeeping Missions Urge Focus on Linguistic Capacity-Building, Improved Cooperation

    Speakers from countries hosting peacekeeping missions laid out their priorities and concerns, as well, with the representative of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, speaking for the French-Speaking Ambassadors Group, emphasizing that French-speaking areas host several operations that face growing and complex challenges.  “The fragility of ceasefire agreements, the high cost of conflict for the civilian population and the complexity of peace processes are making the work of the blue helmets more essential than ever,” he stressed. Recalibrating peacekeeping capacities is vital to improve cooperation with host States and “strengthen the links of trust” with the local population.

    “This is a priority that must also be looked at from the point of view of linguistic and intellectual capacity-building,” he said, calling for a focus on language abilities from the strategic planning to the operational phases.  Many countries in the Francophone space want to contribute more to peacekeeping operations, but they are being held back by language barriers at every stage of their engagement.

    Donor Countries Pledge Continued Support

    Donor countries, meanwhile, pledged to continue to support UN peacekeeping missions, and echoed many other Member States in calling attention to the unique opportunity created by the adoption of the Pact for the Future.  The European Union’s speaker, noting that the bloc provided almost one quarter of the UN’s peacekeeping budget last year, said it will continue to contribute constructively to the upcoming negotiations with the intent to improve UN peacekeeping in accordance with the Pact.  “We currently deploy almost 4,000 military police and civilian personnel to UN peace operations,” he said, adding:  “We cannot continue to demand more from our peacekeeping missions by expanding their mandates without providing the necessary resources for their implementation.”

    UN peacekeeping operations are confronted with increasingly complex challenges, he observed, citing regional threats, the effects of climate change, mis- and disinformation, increased presence of non-State actors, such as private military companies, transnational criminal activities and the weaponization of new and emerging technology, as demonstrated by the first attack ever last September on UN peacekeepers with an improvised armed unmanned aerial system.

    Election of Officers

    At the opening of the meeting, the Committee by acclamation elected Francisco Tropepi (Argentina), Michael Gort (Canada), Takayuki Iriya (Japan) and Michal Miarka (Poland) as Vice-Chairs; and Mohamed Soliman (Egypt) as Rapporteur.  Michael Gort (Canada) was elected to serve as Chair of the Working Group of the Whole.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Serious crash in Pukekohe

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Police are attending a serious crash in Pukekohe this morning.

    The crash occurred at around 9.15am, involving a vehicle and pedestrian at the intersection of Ward and Wellington streets.

    The pedestrian is currently in a serious condition.

    Police are aware that traffic has built up in the area, and we are advising the community that there will be diversions put in place.

    Please avoid the area if at all possible.

    ENDS.

    Jarred Williamson/NZ Police

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General Bonta Joins Multistate Coalition to Continue Supporting Pennsylvania’s Commonsense Age-Based Firearm Restrictions

    Source: US State of California

    Tuesday, February 18, 2025

    Contact: (916) 210-6000, agpressoffice@doj.ca.gov

    OAKLAND — California Attorney General Rob Bonta, as part of a coalition of 19 attorneys general, filed a brief in support of the State of Pennsylvania’s petition for rehearing en banc in Lara v. Commissioner of Pennsylvania State Police. Pennsylvania law sets the minimum age at 21 for securing a permit to carry a concealed handgun in public and during states of emergency. The case is currently pending in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit after remand from the U.S. Supreme Court for further consideration in light of the Supreme Court’s decision in United States v. Rahimi. The coalition’s brief argues that the Third Circuit’s three-judge panel erred in its decision to strike down the laws as unconstitutional under the Second Amendment and that the panel’s reasoning could undermine efforts by states to protect their citizens through the application of similar age-limitation laws. In fact, most states across the nation impose some age-based restrictions on the possession, purchase, or use of firearms reflecting their collective judgment that such laws promote public safety and curb gun violence within their borders.

    “States must have the ability to protect citizens and communities from the harmful effects of gun violence and promote the safe use of firearms,” said Attorney General Bonta. “The Third Circuit’s decision to overturn Pennsylvania’s law is inconsistent with our nation’s historical tradition as well as longstanding state and federal laws imposing age-based restrictions on the purchase and possession of firearms. We stand with Pennsylvania and other states in their efforts to curb gun violence through these kinds of commonsense laws that improve public safety.” 

    In the brief, the coalition asserts that Pennsylvania’s law is constitutional under the Second Amendment and is consistent with states’ authority and a historical tradition of state regulations promoting gun safety and protecting communities from gun violence. The coalition argues that the Third Circuit’s decision to strike down Pennsylvania’s law misreads the U.S. Supreme Court’s Bruen decision, which preserves states’ authority to regulate firearms through laws that are “consistent with the Second Amendment’s text and historical understanding.” States still retain meaningful authority to regulate access to firearms even after Bruen and Rahimi.

    Attorney General Bonta urges the Court of Appeals sitting en banc to overturn the panel’s decision because: 

    • The Second Amendment allows states to enact varied measures to promote gun safety and protect against gun violence consistent with historical tradition, and states have long exercised this power by enacting laws to promote safety, prevent crime, and minimize gun violence within their borders.
    • Pennsylvania’s age-based restrictions are consistent with measures taken by other states and fall comfortably within states’ authority to regulate firearms. Most states and the District of Columbia impose age-based restrictions regarding the use, purchase, or possession of firearms, and a majority of states have determined that those under the age of 21 should be more restricted in their ability to carry firearms in public. Courts have previously upheld these restrictions relying on the historical record as is now required by Bruen.
    • The panel’s categorical rejection of relevant historical evidence from the time period when the Fourteenth Amendment incorporated the Second Amendment against the states is inconsistent with Supreme Court precedent and fundamental principles of constitutional adjudication.

    Attorney General Bonta joins the attorneys general of Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Hawaii, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont and Washington in filing the brief.

    A copy of the brief can be found here.

    # # #

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Marshals Arrest Cleveland Homicide Suspect and Barberton Shooting Suspect

    Source: US Marshals Service

    Garfield Heights, OH – This afternoon, members of the U.S. Marshals led Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force (NOVFTF) arrested Oturi Germany, 46 and Oturiana Germany, 28.  Oturi Germany was wanted by the Cleveland Division of Police for aggravated murder. Oturiana Germany was wanted by the Barberton Police Department for felonious assault.

    On January 10, 2025, officers from the Cleveland Division Police, 3rd District, located a deceased male inside a storage room in the basement of an apartment building located in the 2100 block of E. 78th Street, Cleveland, Ohio. The male victim had suffered a gunshot wound to his back. Oturi Germany was later identified as a suspect in this fatal incident and a warrant for aggravated murder was issued for his arrest.

    On February 17, 2025, a male was shot three times at the Washington Square Apartments in Barberton, Ohio. The male victim suffered three non-life-threatening gun shot wounds. The Barberton Police Department identified Oturiana Germany as a suspect in the shooting and a warrant was issued for her arrest.

    This afternoon, members of the NOVFTF arrested both Oturi and Oturiana Germany inside a vehicle near the 5100 block of E. 117th Street, Garfield Heights, Ohio. Two firearms were located during the arrest and seized by officers on scene.

    U.S. Marshal Pete Elliott stated, “Thankfully, no one was hurt during the arrest and our task force was able to take two violent fugitives and firearms off the street today. Our task force is comprised of outstanding officers who are highly trained, which results in safe arrests like the ones today in Garfield Heights.”

    Anyone with information concerning a wanted fugitive can contact the Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force at 1-866-4WANTED (1-866-492-6833), or you can submit a web tip. Reward money is available, and tipsters may remain anonymous.  Follow the U.S. Marshals on Twitter @USMSCleveland.  

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Preparing to Deploy NY National Guard to Correctional Facilities

    Source: US State of New York

    Governor Kathy Hochul today announced preparations to utilize the New York National Guard to protect correction officers who are currently on the job, individuals in DOCCS care and the communities surrounding these correctional facilities. The Governor also directed Department of Corrections and Community Supervision Commissioner Daniel Martuscello and senior Administration officials to meet with leaders from the New York State Correctional Officers & Police Benevolent Association to call for an end to the unlawful work stoppage that is causing significant public safety concerns across New York.

    “The illegal and unlawful actions being taken by a number of correction officers must end immediately,” Governor Hochul said. “We will not allow these individuals to jeopardize the safety of their colleagues, incarcerated people, and the residents of communities surrounding our correctional facilities. I have directed my Administration to meet with union leadership to resolve this situation and have also ordered the National Guard be mobilized to secure our correctional facilities in the event it is not resolved by tomorrow. Correction officers do difficult work under challenging circumstances, and I have consistently fought for them to have better pay and working conditions and will continue to do so.”

    Governor Hochul is preparing to deploy members of the New York National Guard to DOCCS facilities tomorrow if the unlawful work stoppage does not end, and will begin to take appropriate disciplinary action as necessary. The Governor has also directed her Counsel to work with the Office of the Attorney General on legal mechanisms such as the Taylor Law which will compel employees to return to work.

    DOCCS Commissioner Daniel F. Martuscello III said, “Earlier today we met with NYSCOPBA President Summers and his Executive Board to discuss a path forward to returning all facilities to normal operations and ending this illegal strike. The safety and security of the staff and incarcerated population is paramount to me. I value the hard work and commitment of the men and women at DOCCS who have had to sacrifice time with their families due to the current staffing shortage. However, this illegal job action involving NYSCOPBA members is causing irreparable harm to the operations of the department and jeopardizing the safety and security of their co-workers within these facilities. We will continue to develop strategies to reduce assaults and to bring more staff on board with NYSCOPBA, the recognized bargaining agency for correction officers and sergeants. There is always room for progress and for disagreements and we welcome continued dialogue with the union at the table. At this time, I am urging all those on strike to end this job action.”

    Governor Hochul has worked with NYSCOPBA to improve salaries, benefits and working conditions for corrections officers. In March 2024, the union agreed to a collective bargaining agreement with the State of New York to improve working conditions for corrections officers:

    • Increased salaries and starting pay for new employees by $6,500.
    • Increased Correction Officer location-based pay by $500 to $1,000 per Officer for downstate assignments.
    • Increased Correction Officer hazardous duty pay from $200 to $1,075.
    • Provides 12 weeks of fully-paid parental leave.

    Governor Hochul has also fought successfully to pass new laws and implement administrative changes to protect corrections officers. This includes advancing legislation to authorize the use of body scanners in correctional facilities and securing funding to procure the deployment of this technology. The Governor also supported DOCCS implementation of the vendor package program leading to large reductions in contraband entering our correctional facilities.

    Governor Hochul has also expanded efforts to increase recruitment and hiring of new correction officers. This includes:

    • Introducing Article 7 language in this year’s Executive Budget to amend the public officers law, in relation to residency requirements for certain positions as a correction officer, allowing recruiting from other states which would greatly expand the number of potential applicants.
    • DOCCS has contracted with OGS Media Services on a large-scale social media recruitment campaign that includes a multi-channel approach including social media, multicultural digital, streaming audio, video and static ads to better familiarize the public on DOCCS mission.
    • DOCCS Statewide Recruitment Unit has been running Recruitment Centers in various locations and currently is operating Recruitment Centers in the Destiny USA mall (Syracuse) and Champlain Centre mall (Plattsburgh).
    • In 2024, DOCCS recruiters attended 1,169 career fairs along with 54 multi day events.
    • DOCCS launched an advanced placement initiative to attract applicants with Correction Officer experience into our Correction Officer ranks at a pay rate commensurate to their experience.
    • In July 2024, the Department launched “CNY200”, a regional hiring incentive promoting direct placement of Correction officer recruits to vacancies at Auburn, Cayuga, Marcy, Mid-State and Mohawk Correctional Facilities, upon completion of the training academy.
      • In August 2024, DOCCS expanded the regional recruitment initiative to Chemung, Dutchess and Franklin Counties which include Bare Hill, Elmira, Fishkill, Franklin, Green Haven and Upstate Correctional Facility.
        • Due to the success of this initiative it was expanded in November 2024 to Clinton and Ulster Counties which include Altona, Clinton, Eastern, Shawangunk, Ulster and Wallkill Correctional Facility.
    • In addition to continued efforts by the DOCCS recruitment team to pursue candidates for civilian positions at career fairs and community events, DOCCS has been very successful with recruitment via the HELPs program launched by the Department of Civil Service in April 2023.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Rapid City Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Federal Prison for Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    RAPID CITY – United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier has sentenced a Rapid City, South Dakota, man convicted of Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance.

    Cruz Mario Lara Larios, age 38, was sentenced on February 14, 2025, to 10 years in federal prison, five years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.

    Lara Larios was indicted by a federal grand jury in March 2024. He pleaded guilty on November 22, 2024.

    On March 17, 2024, Lara Larios was the driver and sole occupant of a vehicle on Interstate 90 near Spearfish, South Dakota. Law enforcement conducted a traffic stop on Lara Larios’ vehicle for speeding. During the traffic stop officers located nearly 24 pounds of methamphetamine hidden in the vehicle, which Lara Larios had been transporting from Washington to South Dakota with the intention of distributing some or all of the methamphetamine.

    This case was investigated by the South Dakota Highway Patrol and the Unified Narcotics Enforcement Team (UNET).  UNET is comprised of law enforcement from the Pennington County Sheriff’s Office, the Rapid City Police Department, South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, the South Dakota Highway Patrol and the South Dakota National Guard. Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Patterson prosecuted the case.

    Lara Larios was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service following the sentencing. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Lebanon County Man Indicted For Sex Offense Involving Minor

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    HARRISBURG – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Chase Lawrence, age 23, of Lebanon County, Pennsylvania, was indicted on February 5, 2025, for travelling with intent to engage in illicit sexual conduct. The case was unsealed following Lawrence’s initial appearance.

    According to Acting United States Attorney John C. Gurganus, between on or about December 18, 2022 and October 6, 2023, Lawrence travelled from Lebanon County, Pennsylvania to the State of Ohio, with intent to engage in illicit sexual conduct with a female who was under 16 years old.

    The case was investigated by the Camden Ohio Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.  Assistant U.S. Attorney K. Wesley (Wes) Mishoe is prosecuting the case.

    This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc.

    The maximum penalties under federal law for the indicted offense are 30 years imprisonment, a term of supervised release after imprisonment, a fine, and a special assessment. A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and Federal Sentencing Guidelines.

    Indictments are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court.

    # # #

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Maine Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison after Methamphetamine Recovered from Safe in Biddeford Apartment

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    PORTLAND, Maine:  A Biddeford man was sentenced today in U.S. District Court in Portland for possessing methamphetamine with intent to distribute.

    Chief U.S. District Judge Lance E. Walker sentenced Tyrone Fleurimont, 36, to 120 months in prison to be followed by five years of supervised release.

    According to court records, in April 2024, U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) investigators executed a search warrant at a Biddeford apartment used by Fleurimont. Agents seized approximately 180 grams of methamphetamine pills, 90 grams of crystal methamphetamine, 293 grams of cocaine, and 66 grams of cocaine base, along with cash, a 9mm handgun and a loaded 18-round magazine. Individually wrapped baggies containing approximately 14 grams of cocaine were also later recovered from Fleurimont’s person.

    Fleurimont has prior criminal convictions in both Massachusetts and Maine, including a 2013 conviction for possessing a Class A drug with intent to distribute, a 2016 conviction for possessing a firearm without a permit, and a 2019 conviction for unlawful trafficking in scheduled drugs. 

    DEA investigated the case with the assistance of the Biddeford Police Department.

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Federal Jury Finds Dauphin County Man Guilty of Attempted Coercion and Enticement of a Minor

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    HARRISBURG – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Melad Fahmy, age 44, of Dauphin County, Pennsylvania, was convicted on February 13, 2025, for attempted coercion and enticement of a minor following a four-day jury trial before United States District Court Judge Jennifer P. Wilson.  The jury deliberated approximately 45 minutes before returning its verdict. 

    According to Acting United States Attorney John C. Gurganus, this case was the result of a multi-agency undercover operation designed to combat human trafficking and child exploitation.  Fahmy responded to an advertisement FBI had placed on a website known to advertise prostitution and escort service.  Fahmy then communicated with an undercover agent posing as an aunt and acting as the pimp for her minor niece to entice the child to engage in illegal sexual acts for $100.  Fahmy was arrested after arriving at a Harrisburg hotel with $100 in cash.

    “Cases like this are brought together through the diligent work of law enforcement and their dedication to protecting all children from exploitation,” said Wayne A. Jacobs, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Philadelphia. “The FBI will continue to work with our local, state, and federal law enforcement partners to locate, apprehend, and bring to justice those who prey on our most vulnerable.”

    The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General, Pennsylvania State Police, Dauphin County Drug Task Force, and Lower Paxton Township Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Christian Haugsby and Stephen Dukes prosecuted the case.  

    This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc.

    The maximum penalty under federal law for this offense is a life of imprisonment, with a mandatory minimum of 10 years, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Delta Man Sentenced to Prison for His Role in Firearms Trafficking Conspiracy

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Aberdeen, MS – Jarvis Hood, 23 of Belzoni, was sentenced on Tuesday to five years in prison for conspiring to transfer firearms to Chicago, Illinois residents and making false statements to federal firearms licensees during the purchase of multiple firearms.

    According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, the investigation began after agents with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives noticed that a high volume of firearms recovered in crimes in the City of Chicago had been purchased in the Northern District of Mississippi. Some of the firearms involved in new crimes had been purchased as recent as one day prior to use in a new offense.

    Several of the firearms were recovered in violent crimes and had machinegun devices attached that converted the firearms to be able to fire automatically. In total, investigators identified over 60 firearms that were purchased illegally and transported to Chicago for resale. Five defendants pled guilty for their roles in the offense. After a five-day trial in October 2024, a federal jury returned a verdict finding Hood guilty of the offense.

    On February 18, 2025, U.S. District Court Judge Sharion Aycock sentenced Hood to 60 months in federal prison to be followed by three years of supervised release. The sentence imposed will run consecutive to a sentence that Hood is currently serving in an unrelated state court case. There is no parole in the federal system.

    “Hood absolutely deserves this time in prison after he participated in a scheme to illegally traffic firearms to Chicago for personal profit without any concern that these guns would be used by violent criminals to create more victims,” said U.S. Attorney Clay Joyner. “We will continue to hold accountable those who place innocent citizens at risk by putting guns in the hands of people who do not have any respect for human life.”

    “Machineguns cannot be tolerated on the streets of any community, and this defendant, alongside his codefendants, are guilty of trafficking these dangerous weapons between Mississippi and Chicago,” remarked ATF Special Agent in Charge Christopher Amon of the Chicago Field Division. “I commend the agents, officers and the United States Attorney’s Office for their commitment in investigating and prosecuting this case, holding the defendants accountable for trafficking over 60 firearms which ended up in the hands of dangerous individuals.”

    The case was investigated by the Chicago Field Division of ATF, with assistance from the ATF Oxford, Mississippi Field Office. Valuable contributions were made by the Chicago Police Department, Wilmette Police Department, and Amtrak Police Department.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Julie Addison and Samuel Stringfellow prosecuted the case.

    This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce 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.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: House fire Croydon

    Source: South Australia Police

    Police and emergency services were called to reports of a house fire at Scotia Street earlier this morning.

    Just after 12.10am today Wednesday 19 February police and emergency services were called to reports of a house fire.

    When MFS entered the property they located cannabis plants and hydroponic equipment.

    The fire was contained to the roof space causing minor damage to the structure.

    The property was vacant and no reports of injuries.

    Police will return to the scene to dismantle the grow house and investigations are ongoing.

    Anyone with information is asked to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or online at www.crimestopperssa.com.au – you can remain anonymous.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Lexington County man arrested on Criminal Sexual Conduct with a Minor and related chargesRead More

    Source: US State of South Carolina

    (COLUMBIA, S.C.) – South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson announced the arrest of Daniel Phillip Bush, 60, of Cayce, S.C., on three charges connected to the sexual exploitation of minors. Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force investigators with the Lexington Police Department made the arrest. Investigators from the Attorney General’s Office, also a member of the state’s ICAC Task Force, assisted with the investigation.  

     

    Investigators state Bush solicited and traveled to meet a person he believed to be a minor for sex.

     

    Bush was arrested on February 12, 2025. He is charged with two counts of criminal solicitation of a minor (§16-15-342), a felony offense punishable by up to 10 years imprisonment on each count; and one count of attempted criminal sexual conduct with a minor (§16-3-655(B)(1)).

     

     

    This case will be prosecuted by the Attorney General’s Office.

     

    Attorney General Wilson stressed all defendants are presumed innocent unless and until they are proven guilty in a court of law.

     

     

     

    * Child sexual abuse material, or CSAM, is a more accurate reflection of the material involved in these heinous and abusive crimes. “Pornography” can imply the child was a consenting participant.  Globally, the term child pornography is being replaced by CSAM for this reason.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah holds meeting with Lieutenant Governor and Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir in New Delhi today to review implementation of three new criminal laws

    Source: Government of India

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah holds meeting with Lieutenant Governor and Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir in New Delhi today to review implementation of three new criminal laws

    Union Home Minister says, full implementation of the three new criminal laws, made under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, to be ensured in Jammu and Kashmir by April 2025

    With decline in terror activities and improvement in security scenario in Jammu and Kashmir, protecting the rights of the citizens should be the top priority of J&K Police

    There is an urgent need to implement the provisions of Trial in Absentia in Jammu and Kashmir

    Home Minister emphasized the need to fix the responsibility of police officers to expedite the process of filing chargesheets

    Every police station in Jammu and Kashmir should maximise use of NAFIS

    Training of all Investigating Officers on the provisions of the new laws should be completed at the earliest

    Posted On: 18 FEB 2025 6:20PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah, chaired a review meeting on the implementation of three new criminal laws in Jammu and Kashmir, in the presence of Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha and Chief Minister Shri Omar Abdullah, in New Delhi today. The meeting reviewed the implementation and present status of various new provisions related to police, prisons, courts, prosecution, and forensics in Jammu and Kashmir. The meeting was attended by the Union Home Secretary, Chief Secretary and Director General of Police of Jammu and Kashmir, the Director General of the Bureau of Police Research and Development (BPRD), the Director General of the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB), and other senior officials from the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) and the UT administration.

     

    During the discussion in the meeting, Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation asked the UT administration to ensure full implementation of the three new criminal laws, made under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, in Jammu and Kashmir by April 2025. He said that optimum use of technology should be made to ensure speedy justice under the three new criminal laws.

    Union Home Minister said that for the full implementation of the new laws, it is imperative to change the attitude of the police personnel and the administration and create awareness about the new laws among the citizens. He stated that with decline in terror activities and improvement in security scenario in Jammu and Kashmir, the Police should now prioritize safeguarding the rights of its citizens. Shri Shah added that there is an urgent need to use the provision of Trial in Absentia in the union territory.

    Union Home Minister stressed on the need to fix responsibility of police officers to expedite the process of filing chargesheets. He said that every police station in Jammu and Kashmir should put the maximum use of the National Automated Fingerprint Identification System (NAFIS) into practice. He said that 100% training of investigating officers regarding the provisions of the new laws should be ensured, at the earliest. Shri Shah said that decisions on provisions related to terrorism and organised crime should be taken only after thorough scrutiny at the level of Superintendent of Police. He added that strict monitoring is required to ensure that these provisions under the new laws are not misused.

    Shri Amit Shah said that the Jammu and Kashmir administration and government have done satisfactory work towards the implementation of the new criminal laws despite difficult circumstances. He said that the progress of implementation of the three new laws in Jammu and Kashmir should be reviewed on a monthly, fortnightly and weekly basis at the level of the Chief Minister, Chief Secretary and Director General of Police, respectively.   

    *****

    VV/ASH/PR/PS

    (Release ID: 2104424) Visitor Counter : 116

    Read this release in: Hindi

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Three Aryan Brotherhood Prison Gang Members Convicted of Rico Conspiracy and Murder In Aid Of Racketeering

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

    FRESNO, Calif. — Following a four-week trial before U.S. District Judge Jennifer L. Thurston, three members of the Aryan Brotherhood prison gang were found guilty of racketeering activity that included murder, drug trafficking, fraud, and robbery, Acting U.S. Attorney Michele Beckwith announced. 

    A federal jury found California State Prison inmate John Stinson, 70, guilty of one count of conspiracy to conduct the affairs of an enterprise through a pattern of racketeering activity.

    The jury found California State Prison inmate Francis Clement, 58, guilty of conspiracy to conduct the affairs of an enterprise through a pattern of racketeering activity and five counts of murder in aid of racketeering for the murders of Allan Roshanski, Ruslan Megomedgadzhiev, Michael Brizendine, James Yagle, and Ronnie Ennis.

    The jury found California State Prison inmate Kenneth Johnson, 63, guilty of conspiracy to conduct the affairs of an enterprise through a pattern of racketeering activity and two counts of murder in aid of racketeering for the murders of Allan Roshanski and Ruslan Megomedgadzhiev.

    According to court documents and evidence produced at trial, between 2015 and 2023, AB members and associates engaged in racketeering activity, committing multiple acts involving murder, conspiracies to murder, fraud, robbery, and drug trafficking crimes. Using smuggled-in cellphones, Stinson, Johnson, and Clement directed various criminal acts while controlling the membership of the AB. Stinson was a leader of the AB and had significant authority over the enterprise, including resolving disputes among members and approving the murder of current or former members. Johnson and Clement ordered murders of individuals in the Los Angeles area of California.

    Additional individuals charged in the case and still pending trial include the following:

    • Jayson Weaver, 47, scheduled for trial in April 2026.
    • Waylon Pitchford, 47, scheduled for trial in April 2026.
    • Andrew Collins, 42, scheduled for trial in April 2026.
    • Evan Perkins, 38, scheduled for trial at a pending date.
    • Justin Gray, 39, scheduled for trial in September 2025.

    The charges against the remaining defendants are only allegations, and those individuals are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

    This case was the product of an extensive long-term investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, with assistance from the Office of Correctional Safety (CDCR), United States Marshals Service, Los Angeles County Sheriff Department, Pomona Police Department, Torrance Police Department, San Diego Police Department, San Diego Sheriff Department, Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office, and Kern County District Attorney’s Office. Assistant United States Attorneys Stephanie Stokman and James Conolly and Department of Justice attorney Jared Engelking are prosecuting the case.

    Stinson, Clement, and Johnson are scheduled to be sentenced by Judge Thurston on May 19, 2025. Defendants Johnson and Clement face mandatory life sentences based upon their convictions for murder in aid of racketeering. Defendant Stinson faces a maximum sentence of life in prison based upon his RICO conspiracy conviction.

    The case was investigated under the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF). OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. For more information about Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces, please visit Justice.gov/OCDETF.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Police Officer Pleads Guilty To Gun Trafficking Offense

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

    Orlando, FL – Acting United States Attorney Sara C. Sweeney announces that Michael Adrian Nieto (31, St. Cloud) has pleaded guilty to dealing in firearms without a license. Nieto faces a maximum penalty of five years in federal prison. A sentencing date has not yet been set.

    According to the plea agreement, Nieto, a sworn law enforcement officer, repeatedly purchased and resold firearms to individuals. Among others, Nieto supplied firearms to Ernesto Vazquez, a key member of a criminal conspiracy that smuggled hundreds of firearms to the Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico, and Haiti. In addition, to benefit the conspiracy, Nieto corruptly used police databases to provide sensitive and confidential information to Vazquez.

    Between June 6, 2022, and September 4, 2024, Nieto purchased at least 58 firearms. Many of the firearms were identical and were purchased together or close in time to one another. On October 17, 2024, FBI and ATF agents executed a federal search warrant at Nieto’s residence. At the time of the search warrant, 12 firearms were still in his possession.

    On October 17, 2024, Nieto was interviewed by FBI and ATF agents. He admitted to repeatedly buying and reselling guns to individuals, including Vazquez, despite knowing that Vazquez was transferring these guns to third parties, in violation of federal law. Nieto also admitted that Vazquez had provided him with illegal items, including a machinegun conversion device.

    Vazquez previously pleaded guilty to conspiracy to traffic firearms. His sentencing hearing is scheduled for March 25, 2025.

    “The St. Cloud Police Department has worked closely with the Department of Justice to assist them in their investigation regarding former officer Michael Nieto. In the wake of the recent DOJ findings, we are conducting our own in-depth investigation into the matter.” said St. Cloud Police Chief Douglas Goerke. “SCPD pledges to take immediate action should an officer act in a manner that could break a community’s trust, no matter their rank or tenure with the department.”         

    This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Noah P. Dorman.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Illegal Alien Charged with Firearm Offenses

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

    Paducah, KY –A federal criminal complaint and arrest warrant was issued last week charging an illegal alien with aggravated identity theft, making a false statement during a firearm transaction, and being an illegal alien in possession of a firearm.

    U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Acting Special Agent in Charge A.J. Gibes of the ATF Louisville Field Division, Special Agent in Charge Rana Saoud of Homeland Security Investigations Nashville, and Commissioner Phillip Burnett, Jr. of the Kentucky State Police made the announcement.

    According to court records, on or about November 11, 2024, Manuel Antonio Xante-Ajanel, 25, a citizen of Guatemala, attempted to purchase a firearm from Academy Sports in Paducah using fraudulent identification belonging to another person. The transaction was terminated when the identification provided was flagged as being fraudulent. A search warrant was executed on January 31, 2025, at the defendant’s residence in Mayfield, Kentucky. Law enforcement located numerous fraudulent identification documents. Later that day, a search warrant was executed on the defendant’s vehicle, yielding a loaded 9-millimeter handgun. The defendant admitted to possessing the firearm and to being in the United States unlawfully.    

    Homeland Security Investigations verified that Xante-Ajanel is Guatemalan and entered the United States illegally.

    Xante-Ajanel is in state custody and will make an initial appearance before a U.S. Magistrate Judge in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Kentucky at a later date. If convicted on the charges in the complaint, Xante-Ajanel faces a minimum sentence of 2 years and a maximum sentence of 12 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors.

    There is no parole in the federal system.

    This case is being investigated by the ATF – Paducah Post of Duty, HSI – Paducah Post of Duty, and the Kentucky State Police.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Leigh Ann Dycus, of the U.S. Attorney’s Paducah Branch Office, is prosecuting the case.

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

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Unexplained death, Puketaha, Waikato

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    An investigation is under way into the death of a person, who was found following a car fire at Puketaha overnight.

    Emergency services were called to a vehicle fire at the intersection of Marshmeadow and Holland roads about 3.50am. The person was found deceased in the vehicle by firefighters, who notified Police.

    The death is being treated as unexplained and cordons are in place while a scene examination is carried out.

    Diversions are expected to be in place for several hours and trains are delayed while Police work at the scene.

    Information will be released proactively when it becomes available.

    ENDS

    Issued by the Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Adult Support and Protection Day 2025

    Source: Scotland – Highland Council

    Issued by NHS Highland on behalf of the Highland Adult Protection Committee.

    Residents across Highland are being asked to be alert to vulnerable adults in their communities who are susceptible to financial harm.

    Adult Support and Protection Day takes place on Thursday 20 February 2025 and NHS Highland is urging everyone to report any concerns to ensure those in need are able to access support.

    Financial harm can cover theft, fraud and pressure to sign over property or money. It also relates to rogue traders, online scammers and misuse of benefits.

    People can be at increased risk to be harmed financially through factors such as ill health, trauma and physical or mental health conditions.

    It can happen anywhere – in someone’s home, where they work, or in a public place – and is often caused by the people closest to them. It can even happen in places responsible for keeping someone safe, such as a care home, hospital or day centre.

    The Highland Adult Committee is hosting an Adult Protection Day on Thursday, 20th February 2025 in Culloden-Balloch Baptist Church, Wellside Road, Balloch.

    The event will focus on combating financial harm and protecting vulnerable adults in our communities. Tickets for the event are free, and you can book your space by visiting https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/highlandadultprotection . The event will run from 10am-3pm.

    Mark McGinty, Chair of the Adult Support and Protection Community Awareness Group for the Highland area said: “Financial harm has an impact upon us all, whether its being caught out by a scammer, a mistrust by a family member or friend, or an organisation or public body helping prevent financial harm or helping a victim recover.

    “This event provides an opportunity for professionals and the wider public alike, to learn more about what financial harm is, how to spot it, who to speak to and how to prevent it from happening. I’d urge professionals and those associated with adult care, as well as the general public, to come along if possible, it could save you or someone you know from the stress and heartache of losing money to financial harm.”

    Councillor David Fraser, Highland Council Chair of Housing and Social Work Committee said: “Highland Council welcomes this event being organised by the Adult Support and Protection Committee which ultimately aims to protect vulnerable adults in our communities who are susceptible to financial harm. If anyone has concerns about a vulnerable adult in their community who they suspect is being financially harmed they should contact either Advice Direct Scotland on 0808 164 600, who partner Trading Standards in tackling consumer scams, or Police Scotland on 101 where the financial harm is more family, friend, guardian related.”

    It’s important to speak up about any concerns you have, as the person may not be able to do so themselves. 

    Please see NHS Highland website for more details on raising a concern  Adult support and protection | NHS Highland

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Convicted Robber Sentenced to Additional Prison Term After Firing Machine Gun at Law Enforcement Officer

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

    ATLANTA – Montrez Ballard has been sentenced to ten years in prison after firing a machine gun at a Georgia State Patrol officer. 

    “Ballard’s brazen actions endangered the life of a law enforcement officer,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Richard Moultrie, Jr.  “This lengthy prison sentence reflects Ballard’s dangerous, and potentially lethal, attack on a Georgia State Patrol trooper whose very mission is to help keep our community safe.”

    “The swift and coordinated response of law enforcement ensured that a dangerous individual was taken off the streets before he could inflict further harm. ATF will not stand by while criminals use illegally modified weapons to terrorize our communities. We will continue to be relentless in our pursuit of those who believe they can act without consequence,” said Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives Assistant Special Agent in Charge Alicia D. Jones.

    According to Acting U.S. Attorney Moultrie, the charges, and other information presented in court:  On July 21, 2023, Ballard, driving a Nissan Maxima, abruptly cut off a Georgia State Patrol (GSP) trooper in Atlanta.  Ballard fled from the trooper after the officer activated his emergency equipment to stop Ballard.  In his attempt to evade the trooper, Ballard drove more than 20 miles per hour above the speed limit in a residential neighborhood, ran stop signs, and nearly struck another motorist. 

    Minutes into the chase, Ballard’s vehicle crashed into a stop sign.  Ballard then exited his vehicle and fled on foot.  When the trooper chased him, Ballard confronted the officer and fired at least three shots at the trooper.  The trooper returned fire but Ballard escaped.

    Other law enforcement agencies, including the Atlanta Police Department and Fulton County Sheriff’s Office, responded to help locate Ballard.  Officers eventually arrested Ballard – who was on probation for a state robbery offense at the time – and recovered his firearm.  Ballard’s gun, a Glock 19 9mm handgun, was examined and determined to be equipped with a device that converted the weapon into a machine gun, allowing the gun to fire continuously without multiple trigger pulls. 

     Montrez Ballard, 21, of Hampton, Ga., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge J.P. Boulee to ten years in prison, followed by three years of supervised release.

    This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Georgia Bureau of Investigation, with valuable assistance from the Atlanta Police Department and Fulton County Sheriff’s Office.

    Assistant United States Attorney Dwayne A. Brown, Jr. prosecuted the case.

    This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce 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 further information please contact the U.S. Attorney’s Public Affairs Office at USAGAN.PressEmails@usdoj.gov or (404) 581-6280. The Internet address for the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Georgia is http://www.justice.gov/usao-ndga.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Pointing Laser at Aircraft Sends Kalispell Man to Prison

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

    MISSOULA — A Kalispell man who admitted to aiming a laser pointer at an aircraft was sentenced today to two and one-half years in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.

    The defendant, Nolan Wayne Hamman, 32, pleaded guilty in October 2024 to aiming a laser pointer at an aircraft.

    U.S. District Judge Dana L. Christensen presided.

    In court documents, the government alleged that on Nov. 25, 2023, a flight instructor operating a plane over Kalispell called 911 to report a person shining a laser pointer at her plane while she was flying with a minor student. Flathead County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded and located Hamman on the ground with the laser pointer. Hamman admitted to shining the laser at the plane while it was in flight. Further, Hamman engaged in this behavior over several months, and evidence demonstrated he pursued these planes because he believed they were tracking him. Hamman’s actions continually endangered multiple pilots, including two juveniles, and the safety of those on the ground in the Kalispell area.

    The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case. The FBI’s Montana Regional Violent Crime Task Force, Federal Aviation Administration, Flathead County Sheriff’s Office and Kalispell Police Department conducted the investigation.

    XXX

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Happy Valley-Goose Bay — Break and enter suspect apprehended by RCMP Police Service Dog Phox in Happy Valley-Goose Bay

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Following a confirmed break and enter at a business on Hamilton River Road in Happy Valley-Goose Bay on February 18, 2025, 36-year-old Kieran Pardy was apprehended by RCMP Police Service Dog (PSD) Phox.

    Shortly after 3:00 a.m. today, Happy Valley-Goose Bay RCMP received a report of an alarm sounding at a business. Police attended the property and confirmed that a break and enter had occurred. Officers observed fresh foot tracks in the snow. RCMP PSD Phox and his handler, Corporal Rouleau, attended the area and conducted a track of the suspect. Pardy was located a short time later, hiding in a bush nearby. He was arrested without further incident. Police determined that two neighbouring properties had been broken into.

    Pardy attends court today and is charged with two counts of break and enter and breach of a probation order.

    Police Service Dogs are an invaluable asset to the RCMP. RCMP NL thanks PSD Phox and his handler for their dedicated service, solving local crimes in Happy Valley-Goose Bay and the surrounding area.

    RCMP NL continues to fulfill its mandate to protect public safety, enforce the law, and ensure the delivery of priority policing services in Newfoundland and Labrador.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General Bonta Files Felony Charges Against a Gun Show Trader for Running an Illegal Assault Weapon Manufacturing Operation out of His Garage

    Source: US State of California

    Tuesday, February 18, 2025

    Contact: (916) 210-6000, agpressoffice@doj.ca.gov

      
    SACRAMENTO – California Attorney General Rob Bonta today announced the arrest and charges filed against a suspect who was running an illegal assault weapon manufacturing and assembly operation out of his garage in Roseville. In addition, a significant cache of rifles, large capacity magazines, and ammunition were seized from his residence. An investigation began after the suspect was found to be attempting to sell assault weapons as a gun show trader at the Placerville Gun Show. Felony charges were filed by the DOJ Criminal Division for manufacturing assault weapons for sale, possession of assault weapons, and possession of a silencer.      
     
    “As California’s chief law enforcement officer, protecting public safety and our communities from the threat of gun violence is my top priority,” said Attorney General Bonta. “The regulations and protocols surrounding firearm purchases have been put in place to ensure the safety of California. When bad actors try to skirt the rules and bypass these integral processes, it creates situations with deadly consequences. I’m proud of the work our Field Representatives and Special Agents do on behalf of the people of California. These brave agents and field representatives are rarely in the spotlight, but they are working every day to prevent gun violence from ever happening by removing dangerous weapons from communities.”
     
    On November 3, 2024, Field Representatives from the Bureau of Firearms Regulatory Compliance Unit carried out a regulatory inspection at the Placerville Gun Show. During this inspection, they overheard a gun show trader attempting to sell a silencer to potential buyers. Consequently, the trader’s firearms were examined, revealing two illegal assault weapons available for sale. This led Special Agents to conduct a thorough investigation. On November 12, 2024, with the assistance of the Roseville Police Department SWAT team, Special Agents executed a search warrant at the suspect’s residence. They seized 8 illegal assault rifles and a silencer, as well as numerous other handguns, rifles, disassembled rifles, firearm parts, large capacity magazines, and rounds of ammunition. 
     
    It is important to note that criminal charges must be proven in a court of law. Every defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.

    # # #

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Ten Defendants Plead Guilty in Multimillion-Dollar Sports-Betting and Money Laundering Scheme

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

    BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – Ten men pleaded guilty this week to managing a multi-million-dollar sports-betting operation, announced United States Attorney Prim F. Escalona and Special Agent in Charge Demetrius Hardeman of the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation, Atlanta Field Office.

    Timothy J. Pughsley, 53, and Nathan Burdette, 39, of Birmingham, Alabama; Christopher Burdette, 32, of Chelsea, Alabama; Thomas Zito, 59, of Vestavia, Alabama; Gary Rapp, 46, of Lakeland, Tennessee; Mark Giaquinto, 52, of Upton, Massachusetts; Matthew Voorhees, 49, of Englewood, Colorado; David Richards, 39, of Las Vegas, Nevada; and Joshua Gentrup, 38, of Athens, Georgia, entered their guilty pleas before United States District Judge Madeline Haikala to conspiring to operate an illegal gambling business and to their participation in a money laundering conspiracy. Jonathan Lind, 46, of Birmingham, Alabama, also pleaded guilty to conspiring to operate an illegal gambling business. Sentencing hearings for the defendants are set in May 2025.

    According to the plea agreements, Pughsley began operating a bookmaking organization at least 17 years ago. The organization eventually became known as “Red44,” and bookmaking and betting activities occurred online via an offshore server located in Costa Rica. It is estimated that the organization accepted over $2 billion in wagers during its existence. Within the plea agreements, the defendants—all senior agents within Red44—agreed to pay excise tax restitution totaling $19,777,382.61 to the IRS arising from their acceptance of wagers from sports betters across the U.S. and to satisfy any income tax obligations that remain outstanding.

    “These guilty pleas are the end result of years of hard work by members of federal and state law enforcement agencies to enforce our nation’s gambling and tax laws,” Escalona said. “The defendants illegally accepted millions of dollars in wagers and lived lavishly while avoiding their excise tax obligations. This office will diligently pursue those who enrich themselves in violation of the law.”

    “Excise tax evasion and illegal sports betting are not victimless crimes,” said Special Agent in Charge Hardeman. “Money obtained from illegal gambling operations is often used to finance other criminal activities. IRS-CI special agents are skilled at following the money to investigate and expose these illegal organizations, who will be held accountable. Thank you to our local, state, and federal partners who assisted in this investigation.”

    IRS-Criminal Investigation and Homeland Security Investigations investigated the case, with assistance from the Vestavia Hills Police Department, Shelby County Sheriff’s Office, Alabama Department of Revenue, and Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant United States Attorneys Catherine Crosby, Kristen Osborne, and Ryan Rummage are prosecuting the case. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICE Buffalo investigation nets 30-year sentence for New York man on child exploitation charges

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    BUFFALO, N.Y. – A New York man was sentenced for child exploitation charges following an investigation by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement with support from New York State Police.

    William Seneca, Sr., age 65, was sentenced to 30 years in federal prison to be followed by 15 years of supervised release for sexual exploitation of a child and distribution of child sexual abuse material, the U.S. District Court for the District of Northern New York announced Feb. 12.

    “No child should have to live with the horrific trauma Seneca inflicted on his victim for years,” said ICE Homeland Security Investigations Buffalo Special Agent in Charge Erin Keegan. “ICE HSI Buffalo uses a victim-centered approach in their investigations of online child sexual exploitation and abuse to ensure justice is served for the innocent youth preyed upon by depraved predators.”

    According to court records, Seneca admitted that, from approximately 2000 through 2008, he engaged in sexual conduct with a minor male child, starting when the child was about seven years old. On several different occasions during that period, Seneca created sexually explicit images depicting that child. Seneca also admitted that, on at least one occasion, he distributed the material he created to someone in Canada.

    In addition to the terms of imprisonment and supervised release, Seneca was also ordered to pay $1,141.14 in restitution to the victim and he will have to register as a sex offender upon release from prison.

    Know2Protect (K2P) is a national public awareness campaign from the Department of Homeland Security. K2P’s aim is to educate and empower children, teens, parents, trusted adults, and policymakers to prevent, combat, and report online child sexual exploitation and abuse. For more information, please visit our YouTube playlists at Know2Protect Campaign PSA Playlist and Know2Protect Digital Safety Series Playlist on the DHS main channel. Additional resources are available at know2protect.gov, Instagram, Facebook and X.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Bridgeport Man Sentenced to 40 Months in Federal Prison for Firearm Offense

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

    Marc H. Silverman, Acting United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that QUINTEN McKOY, also known as “Quack,” 33, of Bridgeport, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Victor A. Bolden in New Haven to 40 months of imprisonment for unlawfully possessing firearms.  Judge Bolden ordered McKoy’s sentence to be served consecutive to a state sentence McKoy is currently service for unrelated offenses.  Once released from federal custody, McKoy will serve a three-year term of supervised release.

    According to court documents and statements made in court, after a series of shootings and murders in Bridgeport and Stratford, the FBI Bridgeport Safe Streets Task Force began an investigation into McKoy and others who were associated with gangs in the South End of Bridgeport.  On October 7, 2022, Task Force members conducted a court-authorized search of McKoy’s residence on Logan Street in Bridgeport and seized a stolen Glock .45 semi-automatic handgun; four gun magazines, including a high-capacity magazine loaded with 25 rounds of ammunition; a laser attachment; additional ammunition; and packages of suspected crack cocaine, heroin, and marijuana.  McKoy was arrested at that time.

    McKoy’s criminal history includes multiple felony convictions in state court for firearm and other offenses.  It is a violation of federal law for a person previously convicted of a felony offense to possess a firearm or ammunition that has moved in interstate or foreign commerce.

    McKoy has been detained since his arrest.  On September 12, 2024, he pleaded guilty to unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon.

    This matter was investigated by the FBI’s Bridgeport Safe Streets Task Force and the Bridgeport Police Department.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Karen L. Peck and Ross Weingarten through Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN)a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce gun violence and other violent crime, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone.  In May 2021, the Justice 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 www.justice.gov/psn.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Man convicted of murdering partner in Kilburn

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    A man has been convicted of murdering his partner at her flat in west London, following an investigation by the Metropolitan Police Service.

    A jury at Southwark Crown Court found Steven Clark, 50 (02.03.1974), of Bravington Road, Kilburn, guilty of the murder of 80-year-old Ursula Uhlemann at her home in Queens Park in March 2024.

    DCI Wayne Jolley, from the Met’s Specialist Crime South unit – who led the investigation – said:“Ms Uhlemann’s life was taken in appalling circumstances. In light of Clark’s conviction, our thoughts are with those that knew her.

    “Clark had consistently lied about his role in Ms Uhlemann’s murder, denying any involvement whatsoever. I would like to thank the numerous witnesses who assisted investigators in building a picture of the events leading up to the killing.”

    The court heard that, just after 03:00hrs on Wednesday, 20 March, 2024, a London Ambulance Service crew attended Ms Uhlemann’s flat – inside a retirement housing complex – following a 999 call by Clark. They found Ms Uhlemann unresponsive on the floor of her living room. Despite the efforts of paramedics to resuscitate her, she was pronounced dead at 04:11hrs.

    Investigators were alerted of the death by paramedics and attended the flat. They noted that Ms Uhlemann had suffered numerous injuries.

    Clark was present at the scene when the police arrived. He told them he had been staying at Ms Uhlemann’s flat that night, and had found her unconscious. Investigators noted inconsistencies in Clark’s account, and, as a result, he was arrested and charged with murder on Friday, 22 March, 2024.

    Clark claimed that, after arriving at his partner’s flat on Monday, 18 March, 2024, he had left and returned on several occasions. However, after making CCTV enquiries, investigators established that he had never left the flat at any point in the two days preceding her death.

    Officers were able to establish that Clark had been abusive towards the victim on previous occasions. A postmortem later determined that Ms Uhlemann had died from neck compression.

    Clark will be sentenced at Southwark Crown Court on Friday, 21 February.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Man charged as part of investigation into serious assault in Archway

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    A man has been charged as part of an investigation into a serious assault close to Archway Station.

    Police were called at 22:28hrs on Saturday, 15 February after a man was admitted to hospital with stab wounds. Enquiries indicated that the assault had occurred in Navigator Square, N19.

    The victim, a man in his 20s remains in hospital. His condition is not believed to be life-threatening.

    Richard Sivanda, 22 (20.06.2002) of Highgate Hill, N19 has since been charged with grievous bodily harm with intent and possession of an offensive weapon.

    He has been remanded into custody and will appear at Highbury Corner Magistrates Court on Wednesday, 19 February.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Pennsylvania man sentenced for role in burglary of 55 UPS warehouses following ICE investigation

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    CAMDEN, N.J. – The last of four Pennsylvania men who admitted their roles in a conspiracy to burglarize approximately 55 United Parcel Service warehouses was sentenced, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of New Jersey, announced Feb. 13.

    Aboudramane Karamoko, 21, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, was sentenced to 39 months’ imprisonment followed by three years’ supervised release in Camden federal court Feb. 13. Three other defendants, all from Philadelphia, were previously sentenced. His accomplices Sekou Fofanah, 20, was sentenced to 24 months’ imprisonment followed by three years’ supervised release; Shamaire Brown, 19, was sentenced to 24 months’ imprisonment followed by three years’ supervised release; and Quamaire Brown, 19, was sentenced to 33 months’ imprisonment followed by three years’ supervised release.

    “Our incredible partnership with multiple agencies nationwide garnered sentencings that hold these thieves accountable for the over $1.6 million worth of merchandise they robbed from consumers,” said ICE’s Homeland Security Investigations Newark Special Agent in Charge Ricky J. Patel. “We use every investigative tool available to safeguard the interstate and international commerce of the United States as well as our nation’s overall supply chain.”

    As part of their sentences, all four defendants were ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $1,600,157.

    According to the investigation, at least as early as January 2021 through at least as recently as April 2023, Fofanah, Brown, Brown, Karamoko, and others conspired to commit burglaries of UPS facilities throughout the United States, including warehouses in New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Indiana, and Rhode Island, among other States. The defendants gained access to the UPS facilities by breaking the windows of the loading bay doors or prying open loading bay doors. Once inside, they sought parcels marked with “lithium-ion battery” warnings, which indicated that the packages contained high-value electronic devices, such as a cell phones.

    Agencies nationwide supported ICE HSI Newark in the investigation leading to the sentencings including HSI offices in Philadelphia, State College, Rhode Island. Supporting New Jersey law enforcement agencies include the New Jersey State Police and the South Brunswick Police Department. Pennsylvania law enforcement agencies who assisted include the Pennsylvania State Police, the Centre County District Attorney’s Office, the State College Police Department, the Philadelphia Police Department and the Taylor Borough Police Department. New York agencies include the New York State Police, the Clarkstown Police Department and the Fulton County Sheriff’s Office. Rhode Island’s Warwick Police Department, Michigan’s Livonia Police Department, the Ohio State Highway Patrol, Ohio’s Summit County Prosecutor’s Office and Connecticut’s Brookfield Police Department also assisted in the investigation.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Orlando Man Arrested for Using the Internet to Entice a Minor to Engage in Illicit Sexual Activity

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

    Orlando, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces the arrest and charging by criminal complaint of Italo Rafael Brett Bonini (25, Orlando) for coercion or enticement of a minor using a facility of interstate commerce. If convicted, Brett Bonini faces a mandatory minimum penalty of 10 years, up to life, in federal prison. 

    According to the criminal complaint, on January 12, 2025, Brett Bonini had a video chat with two prepubescent child victims in Maryland through Discord, an online communication platform. During that video chat, both child victims were enticed into pulling down their pants, and one of the child victims complied with Brett Bonini’s request to display their genitals on screen. Law enforcement also reviewed messages from Brett Bonini to the victims in which Brett Bonini offered currency in an online video game in exchange for the victims to show their genitalia on screen. 

    The FBI obtained a search warrant for Brett Bonini’s residence and electronic devices. During the execution of that warrant, Brett Bonini admitted that he utilized his desktop computer to communicate with children, stating that children were easier to talk to.  He further admitted to communicating with one of the victims on the date in question.

    A criminal complaint 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 Federal Bureau of Investigation, Maryland State Police, and the Harford County Child Advocacy Center. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Brandon Cruz.

    This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Federal Trial Jury Convicts New Orleans Woman of Two 2022 Robberies of Igor’s Lounge

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA- Acting U.S. Attorney Michael Simpson announced that on Wednesday, February 12, 2025, DEBORAH COOPER (“COOPER”), 54, of New Orleans, was found guilty of all charges following a jury trial presided over by U.S. District Judge Jane Triche Milazzo.

    The jury found COOPER guilty of all seven counts against her.  Count 1 charged COOPER with conspiracy to interfere with commerce by robbery, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1951(a).  Counts 2 and 4 charged COOPER with interference with commerce by robbery (Hobbs Act robbery), in violation of 18 U.S.C. §§ 1951(a) and 2.  Counts 3 and 5 charged COOPER with using, carrying, and brandishing a firearm during the commission of a crime of violence, in violation of 18 U.S.C. §§924(c)(1)(A)(ii) and 2.  Count 6 charged COOPER with being a felon in possession of a firearm, in violation of 18 U.S.C. §§922(g)(1) and 924(a)(8).  Count 7 charged COOPER with tampering with proceedings, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1512(c)(1).

    According to court documents, COOPER, and an unknown person, robbed Igor’s Lounge, located on St. Charles Avenue, in New Orleans in February and March of 2022.  During the February robbery, COOPER, and the unknown person, held an Igor’s bartender at gunpoint and demanded she open the register and poker drawer.  The robbers then forced the bartender to the rear of the bar, and ordered her, at gunpoint, to lie on the floor while they fled. The robbers stole over twelve hundred dollars ($1,200.00) in U.S. currency.  Similarly, during the March robbery, COOPER and the unknown person, retuned to Igor’s and robbed another bartender at gunpoint.  This time , they stole over seven thousand dollars ($7,000.00) in U.S. currency. The New Orleans Police Department investigated the robberies and obtained surveillance footage showing the robbers parking COOPER’s Ram pickup truck near Igor’s on the day of the February robbery. NOPD then obtained a search warrant for COOPER’s residence and located various items of clothing worn by COOPER during the robberies, twelve hundred dollars ($1,200.00) in U.S. currency, and a Smith and Wesson firearm, that COOPER attempted to hide, during this search.  The NOPD also located blue latex gloves in COOPER’s Ram truck, similar to the blue latex gloves worn by the robbers during the March robbery.

    U.S. District Judge Jane Triche Milazzo will sentence COOPER on May 7, 2025.  COOPER faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 14 years imprisonment up to a maximum term of life imprisonment as a result of being convicted of two counts of using, carrying, and brandishing of a firearm during the commission of a drug trafficking crime.  This sentence will run consecutive to the sentences imposed by the Court for the remaining counts for which COOPER was convicted. As it relates to her convictions for conspiracy to commit Hobbs Act Robbery, Hobbs Act Robbery, and Tampering with Proceedings, COOPER faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years.  For the felon in possession of a firearm conviction, COOPER faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years.  COOPER also faces a term of supervised release of up to 5 years after completing her term of imprisonment.  At sentencing, the Court will also impose a mandatory special assessment fee of $700.00.  Additionally, the Court may impose fines and restitution.

    The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and the New Orleans Police Department.  It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Brittany Reed and Sarah Dawkins of the Violent Crime/Strike Force Unit.

    MIL Security OSI –