NewzIntel.com

Category: Police

  • MIL-OSI Security: White Butte — Arrested: White Butte RCMP asks members of the public to report sightings of wanted male

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    February 7, 2025
    White Butte, Saskatchewan

    News release

    On February 6, 2025 at approximately 6:40 a.m., White Butte RCMP located Cynan Fink-Rostad in a parked truck in Emerald Park, SK. Officers approached the vehicle and Cynan Fink-Rostad was arrested on his outstanding warrant. An adult female passenger was also arrested at the scene.

    Investigation determined the truck was previously reported as stolen out of Regina on February 5, 2025. This was a separate incident from the truck that was stolen on January 24, 2025 and later recovered.

    As a result of investigation, Cynan Fink-Rostad was additionally charged with one count, possession of property obtained by crime over $5000, Section 354(1)(a), Criminal Code.

    21-year-old Trysten Bird from Regina, SK is charged with:

    • one count, possession of property obtained by crime over $5000, Section 354(1)(a), Criminal Code; and
    • one count, fail to comply with undertaking condition, Section 145(4)(a), Criminal Code.

    Cynan Fink-Rostad and Trysten Bird appeared in Regina Provincial Court on February 7, 2025.

    –30–

    Backgrounder

    White Butte RCMP asks members of the public to report sightings of wanted male

    2025-01-31

    White Butte RCMP determined two additional crimes were connected to the theft of the truck (see below for background). On January 21, a vehicle was broken into in the community of St. Joseph’s and bank and gift cards were stolen. Also on January 21, a vehicle was damaged in St. Joseph’s.

    As a result of continued investigation, 20-year-old Cynan Fink-Rostad from Regina is charged with:

    – one count, theft of truck, Section 333.1(1), Criminal Code;

    – one count, possession of property obtained by crime under $5,000, Section 354(1)(a), Criminal Code;

    – one count, dangerous operation of a motor vehicle, Section 320.13(1), Criminal Code;

    – three counts, trespass by night, Section 177, Criminal Code;

    – one count, mischief under $5,000 – damage to vehicle; and

    – three counts, theft under $5,000, Section 334(b), Criminal Code.

    A warrant has been issued for Cynan Fink-Rostad’s arrest and White Butte RCMP are working to locate him. They ask members of the public to report all sightings of him and information on his whereabouts.

    Cynan Fink-Rostad is described as approximately 6’3″ and 170 lbs. He has brown hair and brown eyes. He has a tattoo of a rose on his left wrist, numbers on his left hand and a small tattoo under his left eye.

    If you see him, call your local police of jurisdiction. Dial 310-RCMP to reach your local RCMP detachment. Information can also be submitted anonymously by contacting Saskatchewan Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or www.saskcrimestoppers.com.

    The investigation into these incidents continues.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Walnut Ridge Man Sentenced to More Than 21 Years in Federal Prison For Possession With Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine and Being A Felon in Possession of 26 Firearms

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

          JONESBORO—Terry Duane Qualls, a multi-convicted felon, will spend the next 262 months in federal prison for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and for being a felon in possession of a firearm. Jonathan D. Ross, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, announced the sentence, which was handed today by United States District Judge Lee P. Rudofsky.

          On September 20, 2024, Qualls, 37, of Walnut Ridge, Arkansas, pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and being a felon in possession of firearms. Qualls was indicted on April 5, 2024, in a superseding indictment, on one count of conspiracy to possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine (actual), two counts of possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine (actual), one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, one count of possession with intent to distribute marijuana, one count of being a felon in possession of 26 firearms, and one count of possession of firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking.

          In addition to the sentence, which equals 21 years and 10 months, Judge Rudofsky also sentenced Qualls to five years supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.

          In the spring of 2021, law enforcement received information that Qualls was a multi-pound distributor of methamphetamine, and also a distributor of marijuana, heroin, fentanyl, LSD, and ecstasy in the northeast Arkansas area. Law enforcement arrested Qualls twice in the following months, finding him in possession of drugs and drug proceeds. Law enforcement also conducted a controlled purchase of methamphetamine from Qualls. The investigation led to the execution of a search warrant on sprawling property off Greene 707 Road, which was occupied by Qualls. Law enforcement located several stolen vehicles and a marijuana grow on the property.

          Inside of a camper where Qualls resided, law enforcement located 26 firearms, body armor, 25 additional magazines, and five full cans of ammunition. Law enforcement also located approximately 340 grams of methamphetamine in multiple baggies, over 3,000 grams of marijuana, cocaine, ecstasy, suboxone, LSD, mushrooms, alprazolam, clonazepam, THC wax, 60 sudephedrine tablets, and steroids, along with a plastic bin full of syringes, five digital scales, 13 pipes, and a marijuana grinder.

          Qualls was sentenced as a career offender on the drug conviction due to his criminal history that includes three serious drug convictions. Qualls was sentenced as an armed career criminal on the gun conviction due to his criminal history as well.

          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 investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with assistance from the Second Judicial Drug Task Force, Greene County Sheriff’s Office, Craighead County Sheriff’s Office, and Jonesboro Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Erin O’Leary.

    # # #

    Additional information about the office of the

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

    https://www.justice.gov/edar

    X (formerly known as Twitter):

    @USAO_EDAR 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Previously Deported Felon in Possession of a Handgun Arrested by U.S. Marshals

    Source: US Marshals Service

    Cleveland, OH – Late this afternoon, members of the U.S. Marshals led Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force (NOVFTF) arrested Hector Linares, 46.  

    Linares was being investigated by the NOVFTF for violating his federal supervised release and a warrant for his arrest was issued on January 30 of this year. Linares’ underlying offense was a drug charge from 2009. 

    Additionally, Linares was wanted by the Cleveland Division of Police for aggravated assault, a warrant was issued for his arrest in May 2024. He was also wanted by the University Heights Police Department for a more recent felonious assault and a warrant was issued on January 21 of this year.  Linares is a suspected gang member and is listed as a previously deported felon by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).  

    This afternoon, members of the task force were able to locate and positively identify Linares in a vehicle he was operating.  Officers conducted a traffic stop in the area of 24000 block of Lakeland Blvd. in Euclid.  Linares complied with officers and was taken into custody without incident.  During the arrest, Linares was found to be in possession of both a loaded handgun and suspected methamphetamine.  Linares was transported to the U.S. Courthouse upon arrest.

    U.S. Marshal Pete Elliott stated, “We will continue to work with our partners to focus on violent criminals who are also in this country illegally.  Today, a violent fugitive in possession of a handgun was put in jail and our community is safer.”

    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.  

    The Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force – Cleveland Division is composed of the following federal, state and local agencies: U.S. Marshals Service, Cleveland Police Department, Cuyahoga County Sheriff’s Office, Cuyahoga Metropolitan Housing Authority Police Department, Euclid Police Department, Ohio Adult Parole Authority, Ohio State Highway Patrol, Independence Police Department, Parma Police Department, Aurora Police Department, Solon Police Department, Cleveland RTA Police Department, Westlake Police Department, Bedford Police Department, Middleburg Heights Police Department, Newburgh Heights Police Department and the Metrohealth Police Department.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Suspicious fires at Penfield

    Source: South Australia Police

    Police are investigating a series of fires in the Penfield area overnight.

    Just after midnight (8 February) police and fire crews responded to reports of a truck fire on Heaslip Road, Penfield, near the Northern Expressway.

    The truck fire was extinguished before it could spread to nearby grass.

    Emergency services were then called to two other grass fires in Robert Road, Penfield Gardens and Argent Road, Penfield.  Again, fire crews managed to quickly extinguish the flames.

    Witnesses reported seeing a vehicle leaving the scene of the fires.

    Following investigations, a short time later Police attended an Elizabeth East address and arrested a suspect.

    The 20-year-old Elizabeth East man was arrested and charged with arson and cause a bushfire.  He was refused police bail and is expected to appear in the Elizabeth Magistrates Court on Monday.

    Anyone who saw any suspicious activity in the area or has any CCTV or dashcam footage that may assist the investigation is asked to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or online at www.crimestopperssa.com.au

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Kalispell man sentenced to prison for possessing stolen firearm

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    MISSOULA — A Kalispell man who admitted to possessing a stolen gun was sentenced today to two years in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.

    The defendant, Joseph Christopher Steele, 24, pleaded guilty in October 2024 to possession of a stolen firearm.

    U.S. District Judge Donald W. Molloy presided.

    In court documents, the government alleged that in December 2022, a man, identified as John Doe, filed a report with the Kalispell Police Department that his firearm safe containing a .45-caliber pistol and two magazines, along with the title to his pickup truck, had been stolen from his vehicle. Five days later, while investigating an unrelated incident, police officers found Doe’s stolen pickup title in a Subaru that also had been reported stolen. While being interviewed about the Subaru, Steele admitted he had been driving the vehicle but denied knowing it was stolen. Doe’s pickup title was not discussed. In January 2024, Whitefish Police Department officers executed a search warrant on Steele’s residence to locate evidence related to a stolen cell phone. Steele was on state probation at the time. During the search, officers located a pistol in a gun case with two magazines. Based on the gun’s serial number, officers determined the pistol was the firearm Doe had reported stolen.

    The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case. The Kalispell and Whitefish police departments and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation.

    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 more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN.

    XXX

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Man arrested in Salisbury Park after pursuit

    Source: South Australia Police

    A man has been arrested following a pursuit through the northern suburbs.

    About 8pm on Friday 7 February, police attempted to stop a silver Holden sedan on Montague Road, Pooraka after officers noticed the number plates didn’t match the vehicle.

    The driver refused to stop and immediately sped off. The Holden was last seen heading north on Bridge Road.

    PolAir was up at the time and commenced tracking the vehicle as is drove through the backstreets of Salisbury East.

    Police were able to spike the car’s tyres on Main North Road, but it continued driving on to Saints Road.

    The tyres were successfully spiked a second time in Malinya Drive, Salisbury Park.  The driver then abandoned the vehicle in Riversdale Drive, Salisbury Park and fled the scene.

    He was quickly arrested after being found in a reserve adjacent to Smedley Place.

    A 40-year-old man from Richmond was charged with driving dangerously to escape police pursuit, driving while disqualified and unassigned plates. He was bailed to appear in the Elizabeth Magistrates Court on 27 March.

    The vehicle was impounded and towed from the scene.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Martinsville Man Sentenced to 18 Years for Distributing Double, Fatal Dose of Fentanyl

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    ROANOKE, Va. – A Martinsville, Virginia man, who distributed cocaine that was laced with fentanyl to a pair of individuals that later died from overdoses, was sentenced yesterday to 18 years in federal prison.

    Okoyte Devon Gaston, 31, pled guilty in September 2024 to one count of distributing fentanyl.

    According to court documents, in February 2023 Gaston, a known drug dealer in Southside Virginia, arranged to sell what was supposed to be one-fourth an ounce of cocaine powder to victim “C.U.”  Unbeknownst to C.U., the cocaine was laced with fentanyl.

    Gaston met C.U. and her boyfriend, victim “M.A.” and another individual, J.U. in the parking lot of a Sheetz gas station in Franklin County, Virginia. Gaston sold the group what they believed was cocaine for $350.

    Shortly after meeting with Gaston C.U., M.A., and J.U. all used some of the drugs they purchased from Gaston. The group then made a short drive back to C.U.’s Franklin County trailer home.

    Once there, J.U. said he did not feel well and went inside to go to sleep, leaving C.U. and M.A. alone in the car.

    The next morning, J.U. woke up disoriented, nauseous, and incoherent. He found C.U. and M.A. unresponsive. M.A. was still in the passenger seat of the vehicle and C.U. was on the ground outside of the driver’s door.

    J.U. called 911 and when police arrived, they pronounced C.U. and M.A. deceased. The medical examiner later determined that both C.U. and M.A. died of acute fentanyl and cocaine toxicity.

    Acting U.S. Attorney Zachary T. Lee and Ibrar A. Mian, Special Agent in Charge of the DEA’s Washington Division made the announcement.

    The Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office investigated the case with the assistance of the Virginia State Police, the Roanoke City Police, and the Roanoke County Police.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kelly McGann and Keith Parrella are prosecuting the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Bristol Man Who Made Interstate Threats is Sentenced

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Marc H. Silverman, Acting United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that DENNIS JOHN HERNANDEZ, also known as “DJ Hernandez” and “Jonathan Hernandez,” 38, of Bristol, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Sarala V. Nagala in Hartford to approximately 18 months of imprisonment, time already served, and three years of supervised release for making interstate threats.

    According to court documents and statements made in court, on July 6 and 7, 2023, Hernandez communicated with an individual via Facebook Messenger and made multiple statements threatening to carry out a shooting incident at UConn.  The statements included “I would recommend remaining away from there because when I go I’m taking down everything  And don’t give a f— who gets caught in the crossfire. I’ve died for years now and now it’s others people turn. I’m prepared to give my life. So if I don’t get to see you on the outside know I love you always  Not all shootings are bad I’m realizing. Some are necessary for change to happen.”

    Court documents allege that Hernandez’s vehicle was identified on UConn’s campus on July 7.

    On July 18 and 19, 2023, Hernandez made multiple Facebook posts threatening to harm or kill three individuals who reside out of state, including a state court judge.  In addition, on July 19, in a conversation via text message with one of the victims, Hernandez stated “We’re taking lives if s— isn’t paid up. It’s been years in planning just taking notes, names and locations. They talked their way into this and it’s almost point game. I know we don’t play in my family. If we have to take lives or buildings we will. So just letting you know so you can be prepared for a media circus one way or another.”

    Hernandez has been detained since his arrest on related state charges on July 19, 2023.  On December 18, 2024, he pleaded guilty to transmitting interstate communications containing a threat to injure.

    While on supervised release, Hernandez must continue mental health and substance abuse treatment and allow his electronic devices to be monitored by the U.S. Probation Office, and he is prohibited from visiting UConn and other locations that he targeted in his threats.

    This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Bristol Police Department.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Neeraj N. Patel.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICE Boston arrests illegal Dominican drug dealer charged with assault, battery with dangerous weapon

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    BOSTON — U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement apprehended an illegally present Dominican national convicted of heroin distribution crimes, who is currently charged with assault with a dangerous weapon and shoplifting crimes when ICE officers arrested Santor Aibar, 56, in East Boston Jan. 22. 

    “Santos Aibar is exactly the kind of alien offender who needs to be removed from the streets of Massachusetts,” said ICE Boston Enforcement and Removal Operations acting Field Office Director Patricia H. Hyde. “He has already been convicted of peddling poison to our neighborhoods, and he currently stands accused of assaulting a resident with a box cutter. ICE Boston will not tolerate such threats to the people of our New England communities. We stand committed to our mission of arresting and removing such egregious alien threats.”

    Aibar illegally entered the United States on an unknown date, at an unknown location, and without being admitted, inspected, or paroled by a U.S. immigration official.

    The West Roxbury District Court in Massachusetts convicted Aibar Sept. 29, 2008, for distribution of of heroin and sentenced him to one year in prison.

    ICE officers arrested Aibar at the Nashua Street Jail in Boston July 2, 2010, and served him with a notice to appear before a Department of Justice immigration judge.

    The immigration judge ordered Aibar removed from the U.S. on Sept. 30, 2010, and ICE removed Aibar to the Dominican Republic Nov. 17, 2010.

    Aibar illegally re-entered the U.S. on an unknown date, at an unknown location, and without being admitted, inspected, or paroled by a U.S. immigration official.

    ICE encountered Aibar Feb. 28, 2023, following his arrest by local authorities, and issued an immigration detainer against Aibar with the Boston Police Department.

    ICE determined that the state of Massachusetts released Aibar on Feb. 25, 2024, without honoring the immigration detainer.

    The South Boston District Court arraigned Aibar Sept. 03, 2024, for the offenses of assault with dangerous weapon and shoplifting. 

    Aibar remains in custody following his apprehension by ICE.

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

    Learn more about ICE’s mission to increase public safety in our New England communities on X at @EROBoston.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Amherst Man Pleads Guilty to Child Pornography Offenses

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Defendant sent undercover federal agent 345 CSAM files depicting children as young as one year old

    BOSTON – An Amherst man pleaded guilty on Feb. 5, 2025 in federal court in Boston to distribution and possession of child sexual abuse material (CSAM).

    Bradley Driscoll, 26, pleaded guilty to one count of distribution of child pornography and one count of possession of child pornography. U.S. District Court Judge Mark G. Mastroianni scheduled sentencing for May 13, 2025. Driscoll was indicted by a federal grand jury in October 2023.

    The investigation determined that on or about Aug. 29, 2022, Driscoll knowingly distributed and possessed CSAM. Specifically, Driscoll engaged in a Kik on-line chat conversation with an undercover agent, where he expressed an interest in obtaining CSAM materials. Driscoll also distributed a link to the undercover agent which contained approximately 345 CSAM files depicting minor children, some as young as one year old, being sexually penetrated by adult males.

    In September 2023, Driscoll told federal agents that he was the owner of the Kik username and that he located the link containing CSAM files through other Kik messenger chat groups. He acknowledged asking the undercover agent to send him sexual material related to child pornography and acknowledged that the Mega link he shared contained sexual materials involving young children.  

    The distribution charge provides for a mandatory minimum of five years and up to 20 years in prison, supervised release of no less than five years and a maximum of life and a $250,000 fine. The possession charge provides for up to 20 years in prison, a mandatory minimum of five years and up to life of supervised release and a $250,000 fine. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based on the United States Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; Jodi Cohen, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigations; and Gabriel Ting, Chief of the Amherst Police Department made the announcement today. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Suzanne Sullivan Jacobus of the Major Crimes Unit.

    The case is brought as part of Project Safe Childhood. In 2006, the Department of Justice created Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from exploitation and abuse.  Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identity and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov/.
     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: February 7th, 2025 Heinrich HALT All Lethal Trafficking of Fentanyl Act Passes U.S. House of Representatives

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Mexico Martin Heinrich

    Heinrich introduced the legislation last week to permanently place fentanyl-related substances into Schedule I of the Controlled Substances Act, help law enforcement combat fentanyl trafficking, and advance scientific and medical research

    WASHINGTON — U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) announced that his Halt All Lethal Trafficking of (HALT) Fentanyl Act to permanently classify fentanyl-related substances (FRS) as Schedule I drugs, under the Controlled Substances Act, passed the U.S. House of Representatives. This permanent scheduling will give law enforcement the tools they need to keep extremely lethal and dangerous drugs off our streets and ensure scientists can research and better understand these substances.

    Last week, Heinrich, with U.S. Senators Bill Cassidy (R-La.) and Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), introduced the HALT Fentanyl Act in the Senate. The bill now awaits Senate passage, before heading to the President’s desk.

    “I’m pleased that my HALT Fentanyl Act is one step closer to becoming law,” said Heinrich. “I urge my Senate colleagues to swiftly bring the legislation to the floor for passage. It is urgently needed to help our law enforcement personnel crack down on illegal trafficking, get deadly fentanyl out of our communities, and save lives.”

    The HALT Fentanyl Act is endorsed by the Drug Enforcement Association of Federal Narcotics Agents, the Association of State Criminal Investigative Agencies, the Major County Sheriffs of America, the National Alliance of State Drug Enforcement Agencies, the National High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Directors Association, the National Narcotic Officers’ Associations’ Coalition, and the National District Attorneys Association, as well as state and local law enforcement across New Mexico.

    “Fentanyl has negatively impacted the city of Las Cruces in significant ways. In the past five years, we have experienced a substantial increase in crime, homelessness, and quality of life issues. I firmly believe fentanyl has been the biggest driver of these issues. It is time to take meaningful action to reverse the harm caused by this illicit substance,” said Jeremy Story, Chief of the Las Cruces Police Department.

    “Like any illegal substance, whether it be opioids or fentanyl use, there are no easy or quick solutions and often combatting their abuse requires a multi-layered approach. The HALT Fentanyl Act is just that, which is why I fully support it. We may be inclined to not concern ourselves with research, for example, but those trafficking in this market do concern themselves with research. Let us endorse this bigger picture approach to help combat fentanyl use in our country,” said Kim Stewart, Doña Ana County Sheriff.

    “The HALT Fentanyl Act is another tool to go after transnational gangs and help make our community safer. Legislation is key for law enforcement to do their job,” said John Allen, Bernalillo County Sheriff.

    Background:

    The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that there were 107,543 overdose deaths in the United States in 2023. Fentanyl and fentanyl-related substances accounted for nearly 75,000 of those deaths. Since 1999, the overdose crisis has increasingly been characterized by deaths involving these illicitly manufactured synthetic opioids, such as fentanyl-related substances (FRS), which are commonly sold through illicit drug markets for their fentanyl-like effect, and are often mixed with heroin or other drugs, such as cocaine, or pressed in to counterfeit prescription pills. During this same period, overdose deaths involving synthetic opioids (excluding methadone) increased 103-fold. By comparison, overdose deaths involving heroin and prescription opioids increased 2.5-fold and 4.1-fold, respectively.

    Traffickers are continually altering the chemical structure of fentanyl to evade regulation and prosecution, sometimes with tragic results. Since 2013, China has been the principal source of fentanyl, fentanyl-related substances, and the precursor chemicals from which they are produced. Chinese product is commonly shipped to Mexico and smuggled into the U.S’s illicit drug market. Traffickers have favored fentanyl-related substances to skirt around committing the crime of trafficking fentanyl and fentanyl analogues. In 2023, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) seized nearly 12,000 pounds of illicit fentanyl, including fentanyl powder and more than 78 million pills laced with illicit fentanyl. The 2023 seizures were equivalent to more than 388.8 million lethal doses of fentanyl.

    In 2018, as an initial response to this unprecedented crisis, the DEA issued a temporary scheduling order that placed FRS in Schedule I, under the Controlled Substances Act (CSA), after classifying it as an imminent hazard to public safety. Previously, Congress has only closed this loophole temporarily by designating fentanyl-related substances as Schedule I drugs. Congress has extended the FRS temporary scheduling order several times, most recently on December 21, 2024, with a measure that expires on March 31, 2025.

    Heinrich’s HALT Fentanyl Act would finally make permanent the scheduling of illicitly produced fentanyl-related substances as Schedule I drugs and streamline the regulatory process for scientists seeking approval from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to research Schedule I substances.

    Clear and Enforceable Criminal Penalties for Fentanyl Trafficking:

    A permanent scheduling of FRS is necessary to make penalties for criminals clear and enforceable under the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), reducing the supply and availability of illicitly manufactured FRS. The HALT Fentanyl Act places the strongest controls and penalties on FRS, which have no accepted medical use and a high abuse potential.

    Specifically, the HALT Fentanyl Act will permanently impose the following quantity-based federal trafficking penalties on FRS:

    Mandatory minimum penalties: 5 years for 10 grams or more (10 years for second offense); and 10 years for 100 grams or more (20 years for second offense).

    Discretionary maximum penalties: 40 years for 10 grams or more (life for second offense); and life for 100 grams or more.

    Expanded Scientific and Medical Research

    More closely aligning the research and registration process for schedule I substances, including FRS, with Schedule II substances will facilitate increased FRS research. By accommodating more medical research into fentanyl-related substances, the bill would establish a new, streamlined registration process for research funded by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), or under an Investigative New Drug (IND) exemption from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

    Specifically, the HALT Fentanyl Act will enhance our understanding of these illicitly manufactured substances by:

    Allowing researchers in the same institution to participate in multiple scientific studies.

    Permitting researchers with ongoing studies to examine newly added schedule I substances.

    Allowing researchers to manufacture small quantities of FRS without a separate registration.

    Full text of the HALT Fentanyl Act can be found here.

    A section-by-section summary of the HALT Fentanyl Act can be found here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Nain — Overdue snowmobiler safely located by Nain Ground Search and Rescue

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    An overdue snowmobiler who had departed Nain yesterday morning was safely located today by Nain Ground Search and Rescue.

    At approximately 9:30 p.m. on Thursday, Nain RCMP received the report. The man, who was traveling alone on his snowmobile, departed Nain yesterday morning to go cut some wood. He was without a cell phone or any other communication device and had not returned.

    Nain Ground Search and Rescue were deployed and searched for the missing snowmobiler throughout the night. Ice conditions in the area and frigid temperatures posed a concern.

    The missing snowmobiler was safely located this morning by Nain Ground Search and Rescue. After experiencing mechanical issues with his snowmobile, the man sought shelter from the elements and was safely located in a cabin.

    RCMP NL thanks Nain Ground Search and Rescue for their continued dedication and congratulates them on a successful search.

    Those heading out on a snowmobile are encouraged to pack extra food and clothing, as well as items capable of starting a fire. Where possible, individuals should carry a means of communication, such as a cell phone, satellite phone or SPOT device. It is also important to communicate your intended travel location and expected return time.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Newton Man Arrested for Abusive Sexual Contact of Minor Aboard Flight to Boston

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    BOSTON – A Newton man has been arrested and charged for allegedly making repeated sexual contact with a 17-year-old female passenger (minor victim) seated directly in front of him onboard a flight from Puerto Rico to Boston in August 2024.

    Jonathan Alan Lefman, 46, is charged with one count of abusive sexual contact while in the special aircraft jurisdiction of the United States. Lefman was arrested today and will make an initial appearance in federal court in Boston at 2:30 p.m. today.

    According to the charging documents, on Aug. 30, 2024, Lefman was a passenger onboard a JetBlue flight flying from San Juan, Puerto Rico to Boston with his wife and four children. On multiple occasions during the flight and while on the ground waiting to deplane in Boston, Lefman allegedly engaged in abusive sexual contact with the minor victim. Specifically, it is alleged that Lefman intentionally worked his hand in between and through the area between the back and bottom of the seat directly in front of him, where the minor victim was seated, and touched the minor victim’s buttocks without her permission. On at least one occasion when he did so, the minor victim saw his reflection leaning between the seats in the seatback monitor in front of her. On the last occasion when he allegedly touched or attempted to touch her buttocks, the minor victim was able to use her cell phone camera to take a video of Lefman’s fingers protruding between the back and bottom of the minor victim’s seat. According to court documents, after she exited the aircraft, while still on the jet bridge, the minor victim took a video of Lefman as he got off the aircraft.

    It is alleged that, after deplaning, the minor victim’s adult female family member who had been traveling in a different row reported Lefman’s alleged conduct to a JetBlue supervisor and confronted Lefman, showing the video of his fingers to support her statement.

    The charge of abusive sexual contact while in the special aircraft jurisdiction of the United States provides for a sentence of up to two years in prison, one year of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.

    United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; Jodi Cohen, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division; and Colonel Geoffrey D. Noble, Superintendent of the Massachusetts State Police made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by Boston Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Elianna J. Nuzum of the Criminal Division is prosecuting the case.

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Former Stoneham Auxiliary Police Officer Sentenced to 27 Months in Prison for Bribery Charges

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Defendant defrauded a company to obtain tens of millions of dollars of Mass Save funds through paying bribes and kickbacks to company employees

    BOSTON – A former Stoneham Auxiliary Police Officer was sentenced in federal court in Boston for a bribery and kickback scheme that netted millions of dollars in Mass Save contracts.  

    Christopher Ponzo, 50, of North Reading, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Nathaniel M. Gorton to 27 months in prison, to be followed by two years of supervised release. Ponzo was also ordered to pay a $300,000 fine. In November 2024, Christopher Ponzo pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit honest services wire fraud, 24 counts of honest services wire fraud and one count of making false statements to government officials. Christopher Ponzo was indicted by a federal grand jury in January 2023 along with his brother Joseph Ponzo.

    Christopher Ponzo, along with his brother and co-conspirator, Joseph Ponzo, conspired to pay, and did pay, tens of thousands of dollars in cash bribes, kickbacks and other in-kind benefits, including a John Deere tractor, a computer, home bathroom fixtures and free electrical work, among other things, to Company A employees (Associates 1 and 2) in exchange for the Associates’ assistance in getting the defendants millions of dollars in Mass Save contracts.

    Massachusetts law requires utility companies to collect an energy efficiency surcharge on all Massachusetts energy consumers. These funds, which amount to hundreds of millions of dollars each year, are to be disbursed by the utility companies to fund energy efficiency programs and initiatives in Massachusetts. Under the Mass Save program, the utility companies select lead vendors, like Company A, to approve and select contractors to perform energy improvement work for residential customers. This contracting work – performed by contractors at no-cost or reduced cost to the customer – is then paid for by Company A with Mass Save funds.

    On a weekly basis, from 2013 to 2017, Christopher Ponzo paid Associate 1 $1,000 in cash. At times, Christopher Ponzo paid Associate 1 $5,000 to $10,000 in cash, telling Associate 1 that the extra money was from Joseph Ponzo for his part in the bribery scheme. In return for these payments, Associate 1, among other things, helped Joseph Ponzo set up a shell company, Air Tight, to do insulation work and get approved as a Company A contractor under the Mass Save program. Joseph Ponzo put his spouse’s name on Air Tight incorporation documents and contracting licenses in order to conceal his involvement in his corrupt side business. Despite having no professional experience in residential insulation work, Joseph Ponzo collected over $7 million under the Mass Save program.    

    After Associate 1 left Company A in 2017, Christopher Ponzo and Joseph Ponzo recruited Associate 2 to the bribery-kickback scheme from approximately 2018 to 2022, paying Associate 2 thousands of dollars in cash and hiring a relative of Associate 2 as part of the ongoing scheme. 
        
    In April 2022, both Joseph Ponzo and Christopher Ponzo falsely denied making bribe payments to any Company A employees when interviewed by federal agents.

    Joseph Ponzo pleaded guilty in November 2024 and is scheduled to be sentenced Feb. 28, 2025.

    United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; Jodi Cohen, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation in Boston; and Thomas Demeo, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Internal Revenue Service’s Criminal Investigations in Boston made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Lauren Maynard and Dustin Chao of the Criminal Division are prosecuting the case.
     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Man sentenced over stabbing captured on CCTV

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    A man has been sentenced for manslaughter by diminished responsibility – after investigators managed to recover footage of the killing itself.

    Caudel Haughton, 21 (12.11.2003), of Conisborough Crescent, SE6, was sentenced at the Old Bailey on Friday, 7 February. He was sentenced to an indefinite term in a secure hospital over the fatal stabbing 20-year-old Filipe Oliveira on his doorstep on 15 April, 2023.

    Detective Chief Inspector Kate Blackburn, from the Met’s Specialist Crime Command – who led the investigation – said:

    “My thoughts today are with Filipe’s family and friends, who have had to wait almost two years for justice. This was an unprovoked attack, which saw Filipe fatally stabbed outside his own home.

    “Our investigation utilised extensive CCTV evidence and witness testimonies. Haughton will be detained indefinitely in hospital – and may spend the rest of his life there, meaning he will no longer be a risk to the public.”

    On the day of the killing, Filipe Oliveira was standing outside his home in Norwood Road, SE27, when he was approached by Haughton. The defendant was caught on CCTV approaching Filipe, armed with a flick knife. He stabbed him five times, before fleeing the scene.

    Officers arrived in Norwood Road around 18:00hrs. They administered CPR, but Filipe tragically died later that evening. Eyewitnesses to the stabbing came forward, and detectives received vital anonymous tipoffs via Crimestoppers. Haughton had bragged about killing Oliveira after the incident.

    Comprehensive CCTV enquiries were able to map Haughton’s entire route from his home address in Catford across several train journeys to Filipe’s home. This journey saw him travel by foot, bus and two trains over an hour-and-a-half.

    Firearms officers from British Transport Police arrested Haughton at Waterloo Station five days later, on Tuesday, 21 April. This came off the back of a joint manhunt operation involving the Met Police, Dorset Police and British Transport Police.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICE Baltimore arrests Salvadoran MS-13 member with weapons conviction in Maryland

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    BALTIMORE — U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement apprehended a Salvadoran alien convicted of possession of a loaded handgun when officers with arrested German Ronal Del Cid Carranza, 33, Feb. 4, in Silver Spring, Maryland. Del Cid is a validated MS-13 gang member.

    “The swift and flawless apprehension of this violent MS-13 gang member is a testament to the dedication and expertise of our officers. MS-13 has been deemed a foreign terrorist organization, and individuals like Del-Cid, convicted of carrying a deadly handgun, pose a direct and ongoing threat to our Maryland residents,” said ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Baltimore acting Field Office Director Matthew Elliston. “It is our top priority to arrest and remove egregious criminals. I commend our officers for their unwavering dedication to upholding public safety, ensuring that dangerous criminals are removed from our communities and brough to justice.”

    Del Cid lawfully entered the United States in Washington, D.C., Dec. 11, 2010, and later violated the terms of his lawful admission.

    The Prince George’s County Police Department arrested Del Cid Sept.8, 2022, for possession of a loaded handgun. The Circuit Court of Maryland for Prince George’s County convicted Del Cid March 18, 2023, for possession of a loaded handgun and sentenced him to incarceration for two years.

    Del Cid remains in ICE custody.

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

    Learn more about ICE’s mission to increase public safety in our Maryland communities on X, formerly known as Twitter, at @EROBaltimore.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Fatal motorcycle crash to be investigated

    Source: Tasmania Police

    Fatal motorcycle crash to be investigated

    Saturday, 8 February 2025 – 4:59 am.

    Sadly, a male motorcyclist has died following a single vehicle crash near Warrane on Hobart’s eastern shore in the early hours of this morning.
    The crash occurred near the Warrane overpass on the Tasman Highway about 12.30am.
    Police had earlier attempted to intercept the motorcycle a short time earlier at the Shoreline Roundabout to Howrah.
    Upon police arrival, CPR was provided however sadly, the motorcyclist died at the scene. Our thoughts are with the man’s family and loved ones at this difficult time.
    As is normal practice in these circumstances, a Professional Standards investigation will be conducted into the incident to determine the circumstances surrounding the crash.
    While the investigation is in its early stages, evidence suggests that the police vehicle was not in the immediate vicinity of the motorcycle, or under lights and sirens, at the time of the crash.
    Police and emergency services remain on the scene, with the Tasman Highway between the Mornington Roundabout and the Rosny exit to remain closed for the next couple of hours to allow crash scene investigations to be conducted.
    Police are calling for witnesses to the crash to come forward.
    Anyone with dash cam footage or information should contact Police on 131444 or report anonymously to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or crimestopperstas.com.au
    A report will be prepared for the Coroner.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Boat In Danger – 2 Men Rescued in Smithton

    Source: Tasmania Police

    Boat In Danger – 2 Men Rescued in Smithton

    Saturday, 8 February 2025 – 4:18 am.

    On the 7th February 2025 at approximately 9:50PM, Smithton Police were tasked with a report of a vessel in danger.It was reported that there was an aluminium dinghy approximately 10 feet in length which had found itself in difficulty approximately 2-3 kilometres North of the Western Inlet near Stanley. The vessel had departed from Anthony Beach in the Circular Head area.The vessel and two males aboard found themselves in difficulty after escalating winds found the vessel and occupants unable to power its way back to shore.A local fishing vessel deployed from Stanley and went to the aid of the vessel and its two occupants. A swift recovery and rescue of the vessel was undertaken with both males returned safely to the Stanley Wharf. Neither of the males required any medical intervention.This comes as a timely reminder for any members of the public who undertake boating activities to check that the vessel and occupants have all the required safety equipment for safe boating.For further information regarding safe boating visit the Marine and Safety Tasmania website at mast.tas.gov.au for current minimum safety requirements for boaters.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Bucks County Man Sentenced To 30 Months In Prison For Possession Of Unregistered Firearm

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    SCRANTON – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that John Joseph Weikel, age 50, a resident of Quakertown, Pennsylvania was sentenced on February 6, 2025, to 30 months’ imprisonment by United States District Court Judge Julia K. Munley, for possession of an unregistered firearm.   

    According to Acting United States Attorney John C. Gurganus, on or about June 28, 2021, Weikel possessed two improvised explosive devices inside his former residence in Schuylkill County, Pennsylvania. After manufacturing the devices, Weikel concealed them behind the ceiling tiles in his apartment, abandoning them when he was evicted.  The devices were discovered on May 31, 2023, by maintenance workers.  Following their discovery, law enforcement agents disassembled the devices.  They were subsequently analyzed at the FBI Laboratory and identified improvised explosive devices.   Under federal law, it is illegal to manufacture or possess a destructive device without proper authority. 

    The investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)—Allentown Field Office and the Pennsylvania State Police.  Assistant United States Attorney Tatum R. Wilson prosecuted the case.

     

    # # #

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Oak Park Gang Members and Drug Suppliers Charged with Drug and Firearm Offenses

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    SACRAMENTO, Calif. — A federal grand jury returned a 15-count indictment Thursday against Sacramento residents Kevin Antonio Parker, 38; John Kevin Parker, 45; Veronica Brooks, 42; Xavier Surita, 36; Raymundo Escobar, 27; Marcelino Escobar, 23; and Devon Nelson, 33, charging them with various drug trafficking and firearms offenses, Acting U.S. Attorney Michele Beckwith announced.

    A second related indictment Thursday charged Sacramento resident Maurice Collins, 34, with being a felon in possession of a firearm.

    According to court documents, in November 2023, law enforcement began investigating two high-ranking Oak Park Bloods gang members. Over the course of the investigation, Kevin Parker and his associates sold fentanyl powder, fentanyl pills, more than 15 pounds of methamphetamine, and 12 firearms, including privately manufactured firearms and a firearm equipped with a machine gun conversion device. Kevin Parker was charged with multiple drug offenses involving methamphetamine, fentanyl, cocaine, and heroin, as well as being a felon in possession of a firearm, unlawful dealing in firearms, and the possession and transfer of a machine gun. John Parker, Brooks, Raymundo Escobar, Marcelino Escobar, and Nelson were charged with various drug conspiracy and distribution offenses, and Raymundo Escobar was additionally charged with being a felon in possession of a firearm.

    During the investigation, law enforcement officers made multiple purchases of methamphetamine and guns at Sacramento stash houses. On Jan. 28, 2025, law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at one such stash house and found Collins residing there and in possession of a firearm. Collins is prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition because of his prior felony convictions.

    These cases are the product of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, with assistance from the Sacramento Police Department and the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation’s Special Services Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Emily G. Sauvageau and Nicole Vanek are prosecuting the cases.

    If convicted, the defendants in the first indictment each face a mandatory minimum penalty of 10 years in prison, a maximum penalty of life in prison, and a fine of up to $10 million. Collins faces a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. Any sentence, however, would be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables. The charges are only allegations; the defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Johnstown Man Pleads Guilty to Trafficking Crack Cocaine and Violating Supervised Release

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A resident of Johnstown, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court on February 6, 2025, to charges of violating federal narcotics laws, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

    Daniel Culmer, 57, pleaded guilty before United States District Judge Marilyn J. Horan to Count One of the Superseding Indictment and to violating conditions of his supervised release from a prior federal conviction.

    In connection with the guilty plea, the Court was advised that, from in and around April 2021 to July 2021, in the Western District of Pennsylvania, Culmer conspired to distribute and possessed with intent to distribute a quantity of a mixture and substance containing cocaine base, in the form commonly known as crack. Culmer was intercepted on a federal wiretap obtaining quantities of the drug that he distributed to others. At the time of the offense, Culmer was on supervised release from a prior federal conviction in 2018 in the Western District of Pennsylvania for distributing heroin.

    Judge Horan scheduled sentencing for May 29, 2025. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to 30 years in prison, a fine of up to $2 million, or both. Under the federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history of the defendant.

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

    The Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Laurel Highlands Resident Agency and Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Culmer. Additional agencies participating in this investigation include the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, United States Postal Inspection Service, Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General, Pennsylvania State Police, Cambria County District Attorney’s Office, Indiana County District Attorney’s Office, Cambria County Sheriff’s Office, Cambria Township Police Department, Indiana Borough Police Department, Johnstown Police Department, Upper Yoder Township Police Department, Richland Police Department, Ferndale Police Department, and other local law enforcement agencies.

    This prosecution is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Attorney’s Office Returns $328,573 to Victim of Computer Support Scam

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Marc H. Silverman, Acting United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, and Michael J. Krol, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), New England, today announced that the U.S. Attorney’s Office has returned approximately $328,573 to the victim of a computer support scam.

    A computer support scam is a type of fraud scheme where an alert appears on the victim’s computer imitating a customer support alert, tricking the victim into contacting the bad actors.  When the victim contacts the scammers, the scammers then take remote control of the computer and either directly transfer money from the victim to the scammers or trick the victim into sending money to the scammers.

    According to the complaint (3:24cv840), in February 2024, an elderly woman who was tricked by a computer support scheme that mimicked Microsoft customer support transferred approximately $550,000 to the scammers in two wire transfers.  Within two days of the transfers, the victim and a family member reported the incident to the Simsbury Police Department, who then partnered with HSI to investigate the crime.  Fortunately, one of the wire transfers, in the amount of $221,000, was reversed by the bank and returned to the victim.  HSI traced the remaining money, totaling approximately $328,573, and seized it.  The U.S. Attorney’s Office then filed a civil asset forfeiture action to forfeit the money to the government, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office and HSI then worked with the Department of Justice’s Money Laundering and Asset Recovery Section (MLARS) to return the money to the victim.  MLARS initiated the return of the money on February 4, 2025.

    Generally, the U.S. Attorney’s Office first forfeits the money, then returns it to the crime victims, so that the crime victims have clear title to the property without risk of further litigation.

    “The U.S. Attorney’s Office is committed to helping victims of crime, and civil asset forfeiture is a powerful tool that allows the government to return money to victims of fraud schemes,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Silverman.  “As we continue to pursue criminal prosecution of the individuals responsible for this and other computer crimes, it is equally important to ensure that the government uses all of its tools to minimize, and in this case, undo, the financial impact these crimes have on victims.  This case represents the best case scenario, where nearly every dollar taken from the victim was returned to her.  While it can be difficult to come forward and admit that you have been victimized by online scammers, know that federal law enforcement and our state and local partners stand ready to help you to the fullest extent possible.”

    “Cyber scams run by foreign malign actors are becoming more common and more sophisticated every day,” said HSI New England Special Agent in Charge Krol.  “The victim in this case contacted authorities quickly resulting in the recovery of most of her money by the bank and by HSI – a best case scenario and rare result.  It is essential for victims of these kinds of cybercrimes to come forward as soon as possible.  We want the public to know that help is available and to reach out immediately if they’ve been victimized by international scammers.”

    If you think you have been a victim of a computer support scam, immediately contact your bank or financial institution to request a recall or reversal as well as a Hold Harmless Letter or Letter of Indemnity, and contact local law enforcement.  Additionally, file a detailed complaint with the Internet Crime Complaint Center at www.ic3.gov.  The Internet Crime Complaint Center is run by the FBI and serves as the country’s hub for reporting cybercrime.  Visit www.ic3.gov for updated information regarding cyber fraud schemes.

    This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney David C. Nelson.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News: Collaboration in Action: First Responders and Military Train for Crisis Situations

    Source: United States Navy

    NORFOLK, Va. — On February 5, 2025, a multi-agency exercise simulating an active shooter scenario and improvised explosive device (IED) threat took place in Naval Support Activity (NSA) Hampton Roads Iowa Estates. The drill was designed to test the readiness and coordination of various local and federal agencies, enhancing their ability to respond to complex, high-stress situations. The exercise was a collaborative effort involving Navy Police, Norfolk Police, Norfolk Fire, Navy Region Mid-Atlantic Fire, Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS), and Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD).

    “Exercises like this are critical in ensuring our personnel are prepared for real-world threats. The collaboration between multiple agencies strengthens our ability to respond effectively and keep our communities safe,” said Captain Mathew Olson, NSA Hampton Roads Commanding Officer.

    The exercise began with a simulated active shooter incident at Iowa Estates. The scenario unfolded when a suspect entered the area and began firing shots. Navy Police quickly responded, pursuing the suspect into the residential area. During the pursuit, officers encountered a suspected IED, adding an additional layer of urgency and complexity to the situation. The discovery prompted an immediate shift in tactics, requiring coordination with EOD specialists to assess and neutralize the threat while law enforcement continued their response.

    Following a brief chase, the suspect barricaded himself in his vehicle, prompting a tactical response from the involved agencies. In response to the evolving situation, NCIS took charge of negotiations with the suspect in an attempt to resolve the standoff peacefully. The standoff lasted just under two hours, allowing participants to refine and assess their protocols for crisis management, communication, and the coordination of multiple teams.

    The primary aim of the exercise was to provide participating agencies with an opportunity to experience “real-world” training, enabling them to sharpen their response times, improve tactical strategies, and ensure the safety of both law enforcement personnel and the public.

    “The more we train together, the better prepared we are. These scenarios push us to refine our strategies and ensure that when a real crisis occurs, we’re ready to respond with precision and professionalism,” said Lieutenant Shawn Watkins, NSA Hampton Roads Security Officer.

    The scenarios emphasized the importance of clear communication between the agencies involved, allowing for effective coordination. Fire departments were also instrumental, responding to potential hazards and ensuring the safety of all responders, while EOD teams worked swiftly to evaluate and neutralize the IED threat, preventing further escalation.

    This training allowed personnel to practice both offensive and defensive tactics, developing their ability to work together under high pressure. The simulation also tested the agencies’ capacity to maintain situational awareness, handle negotiations, and defuse a dangerous situation in a timely manner.

    The exercise underscored the importance of a unified approach when responding to critical incidents. With a combination of law enforcement, fire, medical, and military personnel, the agencies worked seamlessly to bring the exercise to a successful conclusion. The integration of different units—from police negotiators to fire response teams—demonstrated the value of multi-agency collaboration in safeguarding public safety during complex emergencies.

    “At the end of the day, everything we do is about protecting lives. This exercise allowed us to test and improve our skills so that if the worst happens, we can respond swiftly and effectively,” said Captain Olson.

    Moving forward, the lessons learned during this event will serve as a foundation for future training exercises and real-world responses, ensuring that all participants remain prepared to protect and serve with the highest level of professionalism and efficiency.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Teenager found guilty of stabbing former friend to death in Hackney park

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    A teenager has been found guilty of manslaughter after stabbing his school friend to death in an east London park.

    A 16-year-old boy, who cannot be named for legal reasons, was found guilty of the manslaughter of 15-year-old Pharell Garica following a trial at the Old Bailey that concluded on Friday, 7 February.

    He was found not guilty of murder.

    The jury reached the verdict after deliberating for 15 hours and 39 minutes.

    The court heard that the defendant, who was aged 15 at the time, stabbed Pharell in the heart, chased him until he collapsed then fled without helping him and disposed of the weapon.

    The defendant admitted stabbing Pharell, but claimed it was in self-defence. However, the jury disagreed with this account.

    Detective Chief Inspector Kelly Allen from the Met’s Specialist Crime Command, who led the investigation, said: “Our thoughts very much remain with Pharell’s family and friends, who had to re-live the last traumatic moments of his young life during the trial after the defendant failed to take responsibility for his actions.

    “Somehow the defendant came to be in possession of a multi-tool, which he claimed in court was carried to the scene by the victim. The evidence we gathered disputed the defendant’s account that he grabbed the multi-tool and delivered a fatal blow to save his life. When the defendant became in possession of that weapon he had a choice. He could have walked away, he could’ve thrown the multi-tool to the floor. Instead, he chose to stab Pharell in the heart and then chased him, still armed with the knife, until he saw the victim collapse from his fatal injuries. Instead of rushing over to help his former friend, he fled the scene and tried to dispose of the evidence.

    “Our investigation revealed that the defendant had a fascination with knives after we found 43 images and videos from 16 and 17 July alone of him playing with knives.”

    Detective Chief Superintendent James Conway, who leads policing in Hackney and Tower Hamlets, said: “Pharell’s death was first and foremost a devastating tragedy for his family and friends, but it also had considerable impact across our local communities.

    “While overall violence has been reducing in Hackney, tragic events such as this serve as a reminder that too many of our children and young people have to contend with the callous reality of knife crime. We continue to work night and day, with the council, local charities and wider partners to address both the root causes of knife crime and to deter people from carrying knives through police action.

    “If any young person feels they need to carry a knife please speak to a parent, carer, teacher, youth leader or adult you trust and we can get you the support to step back from that decision safely.”

    Police were called at around 16.05hrs on Tuesday, 23 July to Stellman Close, E5 to reports of a stabbing.

    Officers and the London Ambulance Service attended, but sadly Pharell was pronounced dead at the scene.

    The court heard that Pharell and the defendant, who used to be friends before a falling out, met in the park shortly before the attack. The defendant had told a mutual friend that he was going to fight Pharell as he was talking about him.

    Following Pharell’s death, the police received some information, which led them to make an arrest enquiry at the defendant’s address. He was not home.

    Detectives soon tracked him down to a family friend’s house, where he stayed following the manslaughter, and he was arrested at 05:07hrs on Wednesday, 24 July.

    Detectives then began their lengthy investigation of gathering evidence to prove the defendant was responsible for killing Pharell. They reviewed hours CCTV that captured the defendant entering the park, before putting his hood-up, walking to the area where the attacked happened with Pharell, chasing Pharell out of the park while still holding the knife and then finally disposing of the weapon.

    The weapon was recovered close to where the defendant was seen discarding it on CCTV. The multi-tool was forensically linked to both the defendant and Pharell.

    Officers also analysed the defendant’s mobile phone which showed communication of Snapchat between the pair in the days leading up to the manslaughter, as well as 43 videos and photos of the defendant playing with knives only a week before the killing on Tuesday, 16 and Wednesday, 17 July. The defendant also messaged his mother following the attack saying he could not come home, to remove certain items from their home and asking to go to Portugal.

    The defendant gave a prepared statement to officers admitting to stabbing Pharell but saying he did it in self-defence after getting the knife off him – something detectives and the jury disputed.

    He was charged on Thursday, 25 July and was convicted as above.

    He will be sentenced at the same court on Thursday, 17 April.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Baie Verte — Baie Verte RCMP investigates residential fire in Seal Cove

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Baie Verte RCMP is investigating a fire that occurred yesterday, February 6, 2025, in Seal Cove that damaged a number of residential structures.

    Shortly after 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, Baie Verte RCMP received a report of a residential fire on Newtown Road in Seal Cove. The fire, which is believed to have started in a residential shed, spread onto a number of other structures, including two other sheds and four houses. Two of these homes and three of the sheds were destroyed by fire. The remaining two homes were damaged. No one was injured.

    The cause of the fire remains under investigation at this time.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Stamford Man Sentenced to More Than Six Years in Federal Prison for Robbing Three Banks in 2020

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

    Marc H. Silverman, Acting United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that FRANCESCO PENSIERO, also known as Frank Pensiero, 52, of Stamford, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Victor A. Bolden in New Haven to 78 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for robbing three Connecticut banks in 2020.

    According to court documents and statements made in court, on October 13, 2020, Pensiero and an associate robbed the Chase Bank located at 2855 Main Street in Stratford.  During the robbery, Pensiero’s associate displayed a handgun on the teller counter and presented the teller with a note that read “this is a robbery give me all your money.”  The teller provided Pensiero’s associate with approximately $1,000 and Pensiero and his associate exited the bank.

    Later on October 13, 2020, Pensiero robbed the People’s United Bank located at 1160 Kings Highway Cutoff in Fairfield.  During the robbery, he pulled out a handgun and presented the teller a note that stated “This is a robbery.”  The teller provided Pensiero with $5,458 and Pensiero exited the bank.

    On October 28, 2020, Pensiero and his associate robbed the People’s United Bank located at 95 Main Street in New Canaan.  Pensiero displayed a handgun, provided the teller with a note demanding money, verbally threatened to kill the teller and other employees, and ordered the bank employees to lie on the floor.  Pensiero and his associate stole $9,130 during the robbery, and fled from the bank in a red Chevrolet Monte Carlo SS.  The following day, the car was set on fire on Green Avenue in New Canaan.

    Pensiero was arrested on a federal criminal complaint on January 27, 2023.  On June 3, 2024, he pleaded guilty to bank robbery.

    Pensiero’s criminal history includes convictions for bank robbery and other offenses.

    Pensiero’s associate was convicted of related state offenses stemming from these robberies.

    This investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Stratford, Fairfield, and New Canaan Police Departments.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel P. Gordon.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Baie Verte — Baie Verte RCMP investigates residential fire in Seal Cove, seeks public’s information

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Baie Verte RCMP is investigating a fire that occurred yesterday, February 6, 2025, in Seal Cove that damaged a number of residential structures.

    Shortly after 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, Baie Verte RCMP received a report of a residential fire on Newtown Road in Seal Cove. The fire, which is believed to have started in a residential shed, spread onto a number of other structures, including two other sheds and four houses. Two of these homes and three of the sheds were destroyed by fire. The remaining two homes were damaged. No one was injured.

    The cause of the fire remains under investigation at this time.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: ST. FRANCISVILLE MAN SENTENCED TO 240 MONTHS IN FEDERAL PRISON FOR ASSAULT OF A FEDERAL EMPLOYEE IN PERFORMANCE OF OFFICIAL DUTY

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    United States Attorney Ronald C. Gathe, Jr. announced that U.S. District Judge John W. deGravelles sentenced Lionel Haile, age 31, of St. Francisville, Louisiana, to 240 months in federal prison following his conviction for assaulting a U.S. Postal employee with a dangerous weapon and inflicting bodily injury. Haile must serve three years of supervised release upon completing his term of imprisonment.

    As the evidence at trial demonstrated, on December 31, 2021, Haile attacked a U.S. Postal employee with a sharp object as she was delivering mail to an apartment complex in Zachary, Louisiana, inflicting a stab wound on her right leg. The victim fought against Haile’s repeated attempts to stab her on her upper body and legs. She escaped Haile, ran towards a vehicle as it was exiting the apartment complex, jumped inside the vehicle, and rode off with her rescuer. Haile fled the scene. Authorities arrested Haile on January 6, 2022, following the publication of his photograph on CrimeStoppers.

    This case was investigated by the United States Postal Inspection Service, East Baton Rouge Parish Sheriff’s Office, and Zachary Police Department, and was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Jeremy S. Johnson and Robert W. Piedrahita.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: New York Man Sentenced to 34 Months In Prison for Wire Fraud Conspiracy

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    HARRISBURG – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Christopher Marquis Windsor, age 33, of Brooklyn, New York, was sentenced on February 5, 2025, to 34 months’ imprisonment by United States District Court Judge Jennifer P. Wilson for wire fraud conspiracy and interstate transportation of stolen goods.

    According to Acting U.S. Attorney John C. Gurganus, between November 14, 2017 and October 12, 2022, Windsor and multiple co-conspirators defrauded nearly 60 businesses across 23 states and the District of Columbia via a fraudulent scheme in which they used fictious names, sham email addresses, and fake credit cards to rent sound production (or audio) equipment from businesses. Instead of returning the rented audio equipment, Windsor and his co-conspirators sold the merchandise using online marketplaces, such as eBay, Facebook, OfferUp, and Reverb. Windsor’s conduct caused a loss of $1,077,651.84. 

    Judge Wilson further ordered Windsor to pay restitution in the amount of $984,919.66.

    The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Lancaster Police, Lower Paxton Police, Cincinnati Police, Rockville (MD) Police, Detroit Police, Atlanta Police, Madison (Wisconsin) Police, and Falls Township (PA) Police Departments. Assistant United States Attorney David C. Williams prosecuted the case.

    # # #

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Tampa Man Indicted For Possessing Firearms As A Convicted Felon

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Tampa, Florida –United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces the  return by a grand jury of an indictment charging Denzel Ingram (27, Tampa) with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. If convicted, Ingram faces a maximum penalty of 15 years in federal prison. The indictment also notifies Ingram that the United States intends to forfeit a Shadow Systems firearm and a Smith & Wesson firearm, which were used in the commission of the offense.

    According to the indictment, on or about June 23, 2024, Ingram knowingly possessed a Shadow Systems firearm and a Smith & Wesson firearm. Prior to his possession, Ingram knew that he had been convicted of multiple felony offenses, including aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, throwing a deadly missile, and fleeing and attempting to elude a police officer. Therefore, he is prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition under federal law. 

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

    This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Tampa Police Department.  It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jeff Chang.

    This case is part of the 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 for occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

    MIL Security OSI –