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Category: Police

  • MIL-OSI Security: Kedgwick — RCMP seeking public’s help locating a stolen snowmobile

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    The Saint-Quentin RCMP is seeking the public’s help to locate a stolen snowmobile from Kedgwick, N.B.

    The theft is believed to have occurred between September 14 and 29, 2024, at a residence on Route 17 in Kedgwick.

    The snowmobile is described as a sable 2024 Ski-Doo Summit X850 with vehicle identification number 2BPSTDRL5RV000008.

    If you have seen the snowmobile since September 14, or if you have information that could help further the investigation, please contact the Saint-Quentin RCMP at 506-235-2149. Information can also be provided anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), by downloading the secure P3 Mobile App, or by Secure Web Tips at www.crimenb.ca.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Felon in Possession Sentenced to 12 Years in Prison Following Shooting at the Palm Beach Gardens Mall

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

    MIAMI – A felon in possession of a firearm was sentenced to 144 months in prison, following a shooting at the Palm Beach Gardens Mall (The Gardens Mall) on Valentine’s Day.

    Yesterday, U.S. District Judge Aileen M. Cannon imposed an upward variance in sentencing Devon Jamal Graham, 29, to 144 months in prison. Graham previously pled guilty to possession of ammunition by a convicted felon, possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon, possession with the intent to distribute a controlled substance containing fentanyl and cocaine, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.

    Kamarcio Mitchell, 29, a second man who was arrested following the shooting at The Gardens Mall, is scheduled to be sentenced on Nov. 21 at 9:30 a.m. before Judge Cannon in Fort Pierce, Fla. Mitchell previously pled guilty to possession of a firearm and ammunition as a convicted felon, and possession with intent to distribute fentanyl.

    On Feb. 14, both Mitchell and Graham were at The Gardens Mall, both separately in possession of a firearm. Mitchell was on the second level of The Gardens Mall near a retail store. Mitchell followed Graham onto the escalator and was manipulating an object under his shirt. Mitchell was then fired upon by Graham and shot. Mitchell fled the mall to the parking lot, leaving a trail of blood. A loaded firearm that had been disassembled was found in the parking lot by police, near the blood trail. Mitchell was later treated for his injury at a local hospital. Upon his later arrest on a federal warrant, authorities discovered Mitchell in possession of a distribution quantity of fentanyl after he unsuccessfully tried to toss the drugs.

    Two firearms were recovered from the vehicle Graham used to travel to the mall, along with a bag containing 35 capsules with a mixture containing fentanyl and a pill bottle with approximately 16 grams of cocaine.

    The recovered firearms had previously travelled in interstate commerce.

    U.S. Attorney Markenzy Lapointe for the Southern District of Florida, Special Agent in Charge Jeffrey B. Veltri of the FBI, Miami Field Office, Special Agent in Charge Christopher A. Robinson of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), Miami Field Division, U.S. Marshal Gadyaces S. Serralta of the U.S. Marshals Service, Chief Dominick Pape of the Palm Beach Gardens Police Department, and Sheriff Ric Bradshaw of the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office announced the sentencing.

    The Office of State Attorney Dave Aronberg for the 15th Judicial Circuit – Palm Beach County provided invaluable assistance. Assistant U.S. Attorneys John McMillan and Shannon O’Shea Darsch are prosecuting the case.

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

    Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Southern District of Florida at www.flsd.uscourts.gov or at http://pacer.flsd.uscourts.gov under case number 24-cr-80022.

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Pennsylvania State Showcase Progress of Academy Construction Project

    Source: US State of Pennsylvania

    October 30, 2024 – Hershey, PA

    Pennsylvania State Showcase Progress of Academy Construction Project

    The Pennsylvania State Police (PSP) provided a progress report on the construction of a new Pennsylvania State Police Academy, a project to completely modernize the 64-year-old campus and ensure troopers are trained in the best possible environment for decades to come.

    “Following months of site preparation, construction has begun on the most visible aspect of the project, the five-story Marquee Building overlooking East Hersheypark Drive,” said Lieutenant Colonel George Bivens, Deputy Commissioner of Operations. “This world-class facility will serve as a reminder to all who see it that the Pennsylvania State Police is committed to providing the best and most professional police service possible to the residents of our Commonwealth.”

    “This modernized facility is designed to meet the evolving needs of law enforcement training, ensuring PSP cadets are equipped with state-of-the-art resources for their critical roles in serving and protecting our communities,” said Greg Kirk, Deputy Secretary of Capital Programs for the Department of General Services (DGS), which is in charge of the project. “Through diligent planning and collaboration, we are transforming this site into a premier training environment that will benefit troopers and our Commonwealth for generations to come.”

    Speakers:
    Lt. Col. George Bivens – Deputy Commissioner of Operations, Pennsylvania State Police

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Indictment Charges Waterbury Women with Fraud Offenses

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Vanessa Roberts Avery, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that a federal grand jury in New Haven has returned a 17-count indictment charging MARLENIN VITO, 45, of Waterbury, with fraud offenses.

    The indictment was returned on October 22, 2024.  Vito appeared yesterday before U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert M. Spector in New Haven, pleaded not guilty, and was released on a $25,000 bond.

    As alleged in the indictment, from approximately 2018 to May 2021, Vito was employed as Medicaid Coordinator at an assisted living facility located in Stamford, referred to in the indictment as “Company A.”  Vito’s responsibilities included assisting the residents in applying for nursing home level Medicaid reimbursements, monitoring the residents’ patient trust accounts, and ensuring compliance with Medicaid regulations.  She was also responsible for keeping journal entries for the residents’ trust accounts and to credit their accounts when funds were received, and for debiting patient accounts when payments were made on behalf of the residents or when cash was given to residents for incidental expenses.

    It is alleged that, between approximately December 2019 and May 2021, Vito defrauded Company A and its residents by generating checks from Company A’s system, forging a fellow employee’s signature on the checks, negotiating the fraudulent checks purportedly to give the cash proceeds to certain residents, and keeping the cash for her own use.  Vito then made false entries into Company A’s accounting ledger by debiting the fraudulently obtained cash from the residents’ respective trust accounts.  Many of the residents were not healthy enough or mentally capable of tracking their own expenses or monitoring the balances of their own trust accounts.

    It is further alleged, in certain instances, Vito cancelled residents’ supplemental health insurance coverage, but continued to deduct funds from the trust accounts and took the funds for herself.  Also, when certain residents’ trust accounts were credited with Economic Impact Payments (“COVID-19 stimulus payments”), Vito took the funds for herself and then debited the residents’ accounts at a rate of approximately $60 a day until the stimulus funds were depleted.

    It is alleged that during the scheme, Vito fraudulently negotiated approximately 500 checks.  When she was confronted by family members of certain residents, Vito created and provided to those family members false account statements that misrepresented the balances in the residents’ trust accounts.

    The indictment also alleges that, between approximately May and July 2023, Vito was employed as a bookkeeper at a law firm in Hartford, referred to in the indictment as “Company B.”  Vito took fraudulently generated checks drawn on Company B’s bank account and issued as “Pay to the Order of ‘Petty Cash, ’” forged the signature of an authorized employee on the checks, cashed the checks, and kept the funds for herself.  She then recorded the fraudulently negotiated checks in Company B’s books and records as “Petty Cash.”

    It is alleged that Vito stole a total of more than $200,000 through these schemes.

    The indictment charges Vito with five counts of wire fraud, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years on each count, and 12 counts of bank fraud, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 30 years on each count.

    U.S. Attorney Avery stressed that an indictment is not evidence of guilt. Charges are only allegations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

    This investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, with the assistance of the Stamford Police Department and Hartford Police Department.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael S. McGarry.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Big River  — Have you seen this stolen flat deck trailer?

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    The Chaleur Region RCMP is seeking the public’s help locating a stolen flat deck trailer in Big River, N.B.

    The theft is believed to have occurred sometime in the overnight hours of October 28, 2024, at an open field near Route 430 and Highway 11 in Big River.

    The flat deck trailer is described as a beige 1984 Travel Taurus, with New Brunswick licence plate TAS 688, and vehicle identification number 27129.

    If you have seen the trailer since October 28, or if you have information that could help further the investigation, please contact the Chaleur Region RCMP at 506-548-7771. Information can also be provided anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), by downloading the secure P3 Mobile App, or by Secure Web Tips at www.crimenb.ca.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Sault Ste. Marie — Piloting a drone? Fly it safely and within the law

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    RCMP in Sault Ste. Marie would like to remind the public of the following regulations when operating a drone or remotely piloted aircraft system (RPAS).

    Drone pilots must follow the rules in the Canadian Aviation Regulations (CARs). You should read these regulations in full before you fly your drone for the first time.

    RPA pilots must carry a valid drone pilot certificate and only fly drones that are marked and registered. If you are flying a drone that is less than 250 grams, you do not need to register the drone or get a drone pilot certificate.

    RESPECT ALL LAWS AND THE PRIVACY AND RIGHTS OF OTHERS WHEN YOU FLY AN RPA.

    While flying

    To keep yourself and others safe, fly your drone:

    • where you can always see it
    • at night only if you have lights on your drone
    • below 122 metres (400 feet) in the air
    • away from bystanders, at a minimum horizontal distance of 30 metres for basic operations
    • away from emergency operations and forest fires
    • away from outdoor concerts, parades and advertised events
    • away from airports 5.6 kilometres (3 nautical miles)
    • away from heliports 1.9 kilometres (1 nautical mile)
    • outside controlled airspace (for basic operations only)
    • away from other aircraft, including other drones

    You could face serious penalties, including fines and/or jail time, if you break the rules.

    Fines for individuals

    • up to $1,000 for flying without a drone pilot certificate
    • up to $1,000 for flying unregistered or unmarked drones
    • up to $1,000 for flying where you are not allowed
    • up to $3,000 for putting aircraft and people at risk

    Fines for corporations

    • up to $5,000 for flying without a drone pilot certificate
    • up to $5,000 for flying unregistered or unmarked drones
    • up to $5,000 for flying where you are not allowed
    • up to $15,000 for putting aircraft and people at risk

    Please refer to the following website for a full list of safety regulations and legislation: Flying your drone safely and legally (canada.ca)

    To report a drone incident or suspicious drone activity: https://tc.canada.ca/en/aviation/drone-safety/report-drone-incident

    Should you have any further questions, the RCMP’s Sault Ste. Marie Detachment can be contacted at 705-941-7267 or email at ODiv_SSM_BI@rcmp-grc.gc.ca

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Yukon — Yukon RCMP hope for a safe and enjoyable Halloween for all!

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Here are some safety tips to consider:

    Traffic Awareness: Drive slowly in residential areas and watch carefully for children crossing the street. Remind your children to stay alert for traffic, use sidewalks and cross the street at crosswalks.

    Home Safety: Clear walkways of obstacles to prevent falls and use flameless candles instead of real ones to avoid fire hazards. Keep pets indoors to prevent them from getting scared or escaping during the festivities.

    Costumes: Have something reflective on your child’s costume or carry flashlights or glow sticks to increase visibility in the dark.

    Treat Inspection: Check all treats before you eat! Discard anything that is not sealed or looks suspicious.

    Not everyone celebrates Halloween for various reasons, including cultural, religious, or personal beliefs. It is always good to respect different perspectives. A common practice in some areas is to leave outside lights off to indicate your house is not participating in Halloween trick or treating.

    Be safe and have an awesome Halloween!

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Thunder Bay — Beware of calls spoofing RCMP Thunder Bay telephone number

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    RCMP Central Region Thunder Bay detachment is advising that their phone number, 807-623-2791, has been spoofed and is being used unlawfully to intimidate and defraud victims.

    Spoofing is when a scammer uses a device to mask their real phone number and display a different number that does not actually belong to the caller.

    Be aware that government agencies, including police:

    • Will never ask you to make payments using bitcoin or gift cards,
    • Will not show up to your residence to collect money for a child in jail
    • Will not ask for your personal information such as your Social Insurance Number (SIN), your date of birth (DOB) or phone number over the phone.

    Please also be aware that the RCMP in Ontario is not the police of jurisdiction. In Ontario, the RCMP enforces federal laws, including national security, border integrity, transnational, serious and organized crime and financial crimes such as cybercrime, money laundering and counterfeiting.

    If you suspect that you are being scammed, hang up. If you have been a victim of a scam, please report it to your local police. You can also report any scams to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.

    Stay informed about the latest scams.

    Protect yourself from spoofing

    • Never assume that phone numbers appearing on your call display are accurate
    • Hang up and make the outgoing call when someone claims to be contacting you from your financial institution, service provider, law enforcement or government agency
    • Call the company or agency in question directly, if you receive a text message or email. Make sure you research their contact information and don’t use the information provided in the first message
    • Never click on links received via text message or email
    • When visiting a website, always verify the URL and domain to make sure you are on the official website.

    With questions or concerns about whether an RCMP police officer from Thunder Bay has or is trying to contact you, call the RCMP Thunder Bay detachment directly, Monday-Friday, 8 am-4 pm, 807-623-2791.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Financial news: List of changes made to the Main directions of the unified state monetary policy for 2025 and the period 2026 and 2027

    Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

    Source: Central Bank of Russia (2) –

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    Category24-7, Central Bank of Russia, MIL-AXIS, Russian Banks, Russians Savings, Russian Finance, Russians Language, Russian economy, Russian banks

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Railway Protection Force Enhances Security Measures for Diwali 2024 Travel Rush – Shares Essential Safety Tips for Rail Passengers

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Railway Protection Force Enhances Security Measures for Diwali 2024 Travel Rush – Shares Essential Safety Tips for Rail Passengers

    With the festive rush of Diwali and Chhath Puja adding to the daily passenger traffic, RPF is dedicated to ensuring safe and enjoyable journeys for rail travelers across India’s extensive railway network.

    Posted On: 30 OCT 2024 8:51PM by PIB Delhi

    If you come across any suspicious substances on railway premises, please inform the Railway Protection Force (RPF) using the designated helpline. As Diwali approaches, bringing light, joy, and a surge in travel across the country, the RPF has implemented strengthened safety measures to ensure secure and seamless train journeys for millions of passengers.

    To ensure safe travel during this festive season, RPF has launched an all-encompassing safety drive to curb fire hazards and prevent accidents on the railway network. In collaboration with various stakeholders in Railways, RPF’s awareness campaign includes distributing leaflets, displaying eye-catching posters, performing engaging street plays (Nukkad Nataks), and broadcasting public announcements. Social, print, and electronic media are being mobilized to reach all travellers. Enhanced luggage inspections and parcel checks, alongside monitoring of vendors and hawkers using portable stoves (sigris), have been underway since October 15, 2024, to prevent any fire risks.

    So far, this proactive drive has led to 56 individuals being booked under the Railway Act for carrying hazardous, inflammable items. Additionally, 550 people have been penalized for smoking on trains and 2,414 individuals were booked under various provisions of Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA).

    “Diwali and Chhath are festivals of joy and togetherness, and the safety of our passengers remains our top priority,” said Shri Manoj Yadava, Director General, RPF. “We urge passengers to be vigilant and cooperate with our personnel to ensure a secure journey,” he added

    With the aim of preventing accidents and crimes, RPF has issued a comprehensive safety advisory to safeguard passengers travelling in railways

    · Report any firecrackers, inflammable items, or suspicious objects or individuals on trains or at stations immediately to RPF/GRP personnel or Railway Authorities.

    · Keep your valuables close and in sight.

    · Travel light and choose digital payments for added safety.

    · Ensure children are always accompanied by adults.

    · Pay attention to announcements and follow railway staff instructions.

    Security Measures In Full Force:

    · Increased surveillance through CCTV cameras at major stations

    · Intensified patrolling by RPF personnel in trains and stations

    · Collaboration with Government Railway Police (GRP) for effective crime prevention

    · Regular checks on luggage and passengers

    · Passengers shall report any security concerns Rail Madad web portal (https://railmadad.indianrailways.gov.in) or through mobile application or can even dial the 139 helpline number.

    ***

    Dharmendra Tiwari/Shatrunjay Kumar

    (Release ID: 2069721) Visitor Counter : 49

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Moncton — Missing 31-year-old woman

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    The Codiac Regional RCMP is seeking the public’s help to locate a missing 31-year-old woman from Moncton, N.B.

    Brooke Both was last spoken to on October 27, 2024, at approximately 9:40 a.m., and was reported missing to police on October 29, 2024. Police have followed up on several leads to try and locate her, but have so far been unsuccessful. Police and her family are concerned for her wellbeing.

    Brooke Both is described as being approximately five feet four inches (162 centimetres) tall, and weighing approximately 139 pounds (63 kilograms). She has brown eyes and reddish-blond hair. She has a tattoo of a mother holding hands with two girls, trees and a moon on her right forearm, and another tattoo of a blue flower on her upper left arm.

    A clothing description of Brooke Both is not available at this time. She may be using the surname Beers when she identifies herself.

    Anyone with information on her whereabouts is asked to contact the Codiac Regional RCMP at 506-857-2400.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Teenager convicted of murdering woman in Hackney

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    A teenager has been convicted of the murder of Lianne Gordon in Hackney.

    Lianne Gordon was sheltering behind her front door at home when she was shot and killed on 5 December 2023. While she might not have been the intended target, we know that her needless death was a consequence of a gang dispute.

    A 17-year-old boy [A] appeared at the Old Bailey where, following trial, he was convicted on Wednesday, 30 October, of the murder of Lianne Gordon.

    He was also found guilty of affray, possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life, possession of a bladed article and two counts of attempted murder, He had earlier pleaded guilty to possession with intent to supply class A drugs.

    He will be sentenced at the same court on Monday, 2 December.

    The court heard that police were called at 18:28hrs on Tuesday, 5 December 2023, to reports of a shooting outside an address in Vine Close, E5. Officers and paramedics from the London Ambulance Service attended and found three people with gunshot wounds.

    Despite the efforts of the emergency services to save her, Lianne Gordon, 42, sadly died at the scene.

    Two other people, a 20-year-old man and a 16-year-old boy, were taken to hospital for treatment to injuries that were not life threatening.

    The defendant was arrested at his home address on 8 December 2023.

    Officers searched his home address and recovered Class A drugs, a machete, a ‘burner phone’ and drug paraphernalia.

    A search of his IT equipment showed that, after he returned home from the shooting, he conducted 65 searches on news sites and social media relating to a ‘fatal shooting in Hackney’ and ‘Lianne Gordon’. He was charged with murder on 9 December 2023 and remanded in custody.

    Footage seized by officers also showed the defendant approaching the two male victims as they stood outside Lianne Gordon’s home on Vine Close. He fired shots at them both as they attempted to hide behind parked cars.

    It was at this point that Lianne, realising she was in danger, attempted to close the door, but the teenager was able to shoot her before she could do so. That single shot ended her life and a post-mortem examination confirmed that Lianne had died from a gunshot wound to the head.

    Forensic officers recovered shell casings from the scene and ballistic scientific testing confirmed that the gun that was used in Lianne’s murder was also used in an incident on 2 December 2023 where shots were fired close to the entrance to Vine Close. On that occasion there were no reported injuries.

    A glove was found in a search of the 17-year-old’s home address. This had his DNA and firearm residue on it, linking him to the fatal shooting.

    Officers would later seize song lyrics, composed by the defendant in his cell, that were a self-congratulating outline of the murder and the shootings.

    Detective Chief Inspector Joanna Yorke who led the investigation said: “The defendant was a known gang member with previous involvement in drugs and violence. Lianne Gordon was a mother of two who was shot dead for reasons we may never know or fathom.

    “I am pleased that the murderer will face the consequences of his actions, but also that he will spend years of his life in a place where he can no longer pose a threat to the community.

    “While nothing can bring Lianne back, I sincerely hope that today’s verdict brings some comfort to her loved ones.”

    A/Ch Supt Brigid Beehag-Fisher, responsible for policing in Hackney and Tower Hamlets said: “I welcome today’s result which has brought justice to the family of Lianne Gordon. Whilst this verdict will not bring back a mother to her family, it does bring some closure to her family, friends and the local community who have been impacted by this tragic event.

    “We are committed to tackling gun crime and serious violence across London and today’s verdict is testament to the hard work of the team taking violent and dangerous individuals off the streets and protecting our local communities.

    “If you know someone who is carrying a weapon or involved with serious violence, I ask you to come forward to the police or via the independent charity Crimestoppers to prevent another tragedy like this from happening again.”

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: 10.29.2024 Sen. Cruz, Rep. Roy Demand Answers from Biden-Harris Administration on Growing Presence of Tren de Aragua Gang in Texas, U.S.

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Texas Ted Cruz
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas), member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, and Rep. Chip Roy (R-Texas-21) sent a letter to Department of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas demanding answers about the growing presence of the violent Venezuelan gang Tren de Argua (TdA) in Texas and across America.
    In the letter, the Texas lawmakers wrote, “Alleged TdA affiliates have committed heinous crimes against Americans. The two Venezuelan illegal aliens charged with raping and murdering 12-year-old Jocelyn Nungaray before tossing her dismembered body into a Houston bayou, both of whom were released under your tenure after they unlawfully crossed into Texas earlier this year, are believed to have ties to TdA. Further, on October 4, 2024, authorities announced the arrest of three additional Venezuelan illegal aliens in Northwest Dallas in September for their alleged involvement in a robbery of a woman who was tied-up and told that her fingers would be cut off if she did not comply during the crime.
    “Additionally, TdA has subjected illegal aliens smuggled into the U.S. to sex trafficking. The South American ring is forcing illegal alien women into prostitution in eight states, including Texas, to pay off their smuggling debts, rendering them vulnerable to all forms of abuse.
    …
    “Our law enforcement community and the Texans they serve deserve answers on the scope of infiltration of TCOs under this administration”
    Read the full letter here or below:
    Dear Secretary Mayorkas:
    The Biden-Harris administration has imported Venezuelan illegal aliens at an alarming rate, allowing criminals – including the gang Tren de Aragua (TdA) – to gain a foothold in Texas and communities throughout the United States. Texans and the American people deserve better.
    The massive increase in crime committed by Venezuelan illegal aliens is a direct result of this administration’s purposeful policies. Since October 2022, 117,000 Venezuelans have been paroled into the U.S. via the fraud-ridden Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua, and Venezuela (CHNV) program. Further, since January 2021, nearly 750,000 Venezuelans have been encountered at the southern border– many of whom have been released into the U.S. interior.
    As you know, on October 5, 2024, law enforcement executed “Operation Aurora,” a sting targeted at TdA members occupying a San Antonio apartment complex that had been forcefully taken over by the violent gang, similar to the situation recently seen in Aurora, Colorado. Authorities arrested 19 Venezuelan illegal aliens , four of whom are confirmed TdA members, after receiving numerous complaints of TdA seizing vacant apartment units for drug-related crimes and human trafficking, and threats to apartment employees. One of the arrested suspects was reportedly a TdA gang leader. Moreover, 15 of the 19 detained individuals had immigration detainers placed on them by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) for likely for removal from the U.S.
    Thankfully, the raid concluded without incident. The task force, comprised of law enforcement officials from the San Antonio Police Department (SAPD), the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Border Patrol, and HSI, should be commended for their efforts. While the apprehension of TdA members and other foreign criminals is a welcome development, this dangerous incident, and similar incidents, may have been avoided if DHS took appropriate action to secure the border and stop the mass release of illegal aliens into our communities.
    Indeed, this is not the first incident involving TdA in Texas. On September 26, 2024, reports revealed DPS arrested over 20 suspected TdA members at an El Paso hotel for human smuggling, prostitution, and narcotics possession, among other crimes. On September 19, 2024, HSI and SAPD reportedly arrested two individuals linked to TdA for their involvement in a firearms smuggling operation. In March 2024, more than 100 suspected TdA members were arrested for their involvement in charging at National Guardsmen and DPS troopers at the El Paso border in March 2024.
    Alleged TdA affiliates have committed heinous crimes against Americans. The two Venezuelan illegal aliens charged with raping and murdering 12-year-old Jocelyn Nungaray before tossing her dismembered body into a Houston bayou, both of whom were released under your tenure after they unlawfully crossed into Texas earlier this year, are believed to have ties to TdA. Further, on October 4, 2024, authorities announced the arrest of three additional Venezuelan illegal aliens in Northwest Dallas in September for their alleged involvement in a robbery of a woman who was tied-up and told that her fingers would be cut off if she did not comply during the crime.
    Additionally, TdA has subjected illegal aliens smuggled into the U.S. to sex trafficking. The South American ring is forcing illegal alien women into prostitution in eight states, including Texas, to pay off their smuggling debts, rendering them vulnerable to all forms of abuse.
    TdA members have also demonstrated brazen indifference to public safety officials. On July 30, 2024, Border Patrol issued a bulletin warning that TdA gave the “green light” to its over 1,000 members to fire on and attack law enforcement. In response to the gang’s proliferation and threat to the public, the state of Texas has heightened its security measures amid the federal government’s failure to secure the border from foreign crime syndicates.
    Our law enforcement community and the Texans they serve deserve answers on the scope of infiltration of TCOs under this administration. As such, we request you respond to the following questions by October 31, 2024:
    Please provide a full accounting of the number of Venezuelans released into the country via CHNV, other forms of parole, release after apprehension at the border, or otherwise, including:
    The last known whereabouts of each Venezuelan, broken down by state.
    The number of Venezuelans released into the United States without identification documents and their last known whereabouts, broken down by state.
    The number of released Venezuelans that have committed a crime in the United States, and their last known whereabouts, broken down by state.
    The number of released Venezuelans with known or suspected gang affiliations and their last known whereabouts, broken down by state.
    The number of released Venezuelans that are known or suspected members of TdA.
    The number of Venezuelans paroled into the United States that have since been removed, and the reason for their removal.
    The number of Venezuelans released from the southern border that received a Notice to Appear.
    The number of Venezuelans released from the southern border that received a Notice to Report.
    How many criminal aliens has DHS arrested in the United States as of January 2021? Please include the following information:
    Date of arrest, location of arrest, date of the alien crossing the border, date of release from the border, gang affiliation (if applicable), criminal charges received, previous criminal history, country of origin, and current status (is the alien detained at an ICE facility, on the non-detained docket, or was removed from the U.S.).
    How many of these criminal aliens have charges and/or convictions for human trafficking, child exploitation, or forced labor at the federal or local level?
    Of all criminal aliens arrested in Texas, how many have a detainer placed by ICE?
    What future operations does DHS and/or ICE plan to conduct to mitigate TdA’s presence in Texas?
    What other transnational criminal organizations are present in Texas that DHS has detected?
    What policies or action has DHS implemented to recruit the cooperation of sanctuary jurisdictions in Texas that limit or refuse to cooperate with federal immigration detainers and/or authorities?
    Sincerely,
    /X/

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Fatal crash, Dairy Flat

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    One person has died following a motorcycle crash in Dairy Flat last night.

    A Police unit noticed a motorbike travelling at excess speed along Wilks Road at around 9.30pm.

    The Police unit turned around to conduct a traffic stop but was unable to locate the motorcyclist.

    A short time later Police were notified of a motorbike crash on Wilks Road.

    Emergency services quickly responded but the rider died at the scene.

    Enquiries into the circumstances of the crash are ongoing.

    ENDS

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Serious crash: Taradale Road, Napier

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Motorists on Taradale Road in Napier should expect delays following a crash this morning.

    One person has critical injuries following a collision between two vehicles at the intersection with Riverbend Road at Onekawa. The crash was reported about 8.10am.

    A lamp post has fallen in the crash and the northbound lane of the highway is blocked.

    The road will be closed for some time while the Serious Crash Unit conducts a scene examination.

    Diversions are in place and motorists are advised to avoid the area.

    ENDS

    Issued by the Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Marion Man Sentenced to 262 Months in Prison

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

    FORT WAYNE–James Darquan McCreary, 45 years old, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge Holly A. Brady after pleading guilty to possessing with intent to distribute cocaine and possessing a firearm as a convicted felon, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.

    McCreary was sentenced to 262 months in prison followed by 8 years of supervised release. 

    According to documents in the case, in March 2020, McCreary possessed more than 500 grams of cocaine that was intended for distribution and illegally possessed firearms as a convicted felon.  McCreary was determined to be a career offender based on his prior felony battery and robbery convictions from Grant County, Indiana.  

    This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the J.E.A.N. (Joint Effort Against Narcotics) Team Drug Task Force, the Indiana State Police, the Marion Police Department, the Grant County Sheriff’s Department, the Grant County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, the Cass County Sheriff’s Department, and the Wabash County Sheriff’s Department.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Anthony W. Geller.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: South Florida Man Sentenced to 30 Years in Prison for Distribution of Fentanyl Resulting in Death of Baby and Possession of Firearms as a Convicted Felon

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

    MIAMI – Yesterday afternoon, Darnell Mendez, 36, was sentenced to 30 years in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, by U. S. District Judge Robin L. Rosenberg. Mendez and his girlfriend, Samantha Yi, previously pled guilty to federal offenses resulting from a long-term joint investigation by the Boynton Beach Police Department (BBPD), the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office (PBSO), and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) following the death of a 10-month-old infant in Boynton Beach, Fla. who had ingested fentanyl. Yi is scheduled to be sentenced on Jan. 9, 2025, and faces a minimum mandatory sentence of at least twenty years in prison.

    On March 31, 2022, PBSO responded to a 911 call of an infant in distress. The infant was transported to Bethesda Hospital East in Boynton Beach with her mother. On April 1, 2022, the baby was transferred to Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital in Hollywood, Fla. On April 5, 2022, the baby died. An autopsy conducted by the Palm Beach County Medical Examiner determined that the baby’s death was caused by fentanyl intoxication and that her manner of death was a homicide.

    The BBPD conducted a homicide investigation during which law enforcement recovered fentanyl at the baby’s home. The investigation determined that the baby’s mother and father were addicts and had been abusing fentanyl regularly in the kitchen of their apartment. The investigation also determined that the baby was teething and ingested fentanyl on March 31, 2022, while in the care of her mother, and while her father was at work. The mother was arrested by the BBPD and charged with aggravated manslaughter of a child by culpable negligence.

    DEA joined the investigation to identify the drug dealers that were responsible for the distribution of the fentanyl that killed the baby. Through data and information retrieved from the mother’s cellphone, law enforcement was able to identify Yi as the drug dealer. The investigation uncovered months of electronic communications exchanged between Yi and the mother involving drug transactions in which the mother was the customer. The investigation further determined that Yi’s boyfriend, Mendez was also involved in the distribution of fentanyl. Investigators were able to determine that on March 30, 2022, the mother met with Yi in Boynton Beach to purchase fentanyl, and that fentanyl was ingested by the baby resulting in her death.

    As part of the joint investigation, DEA, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), BBPD, and PBSO conducted an operation involving two undercover officers who purchased fentanyl from Yi and Mendez. The undercover operation culminated in the arrests of Yi and Mendez on March 6, at their residence in Lake Worth, where law enforcement discovered 14 firearms. As part of their pleas, Yi and Mendez admitted being felons unlawfully in possession of firearms.

    U.S. Attorney Markenzy Lapointe for the Southern District of Florida, Special Agent in Charge Deanne L. Reuter of the DEA, Miami Field Division, Special Agent in Charge Christopher A. Robinson of the ATF, Miami Field Division, Chief Joe DeGiulio of BBPD, and Sheriff Ric Bradshaw of PBSO announced the sentencing.

    The Office of State Attorney Dave Aronberg for the 15th Judicial Circuit – Palm Beach County provided invaluable assistance. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Adam McMichael and Shannon O’Shea Darsch are prosecuting the case.

    Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Southern District of Florida at www.flsd.uscourts.gov or at http://pacer.flsd.uscourts.gov under case number 24-cr-80041.

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    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Convicted Murderer Found Guilty of Illegally Possessing Multiple Firearms Following Federal Jury Trial

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

    INDIANAPOLIS— A federal jury has convicted Salam Abdul Ali, 57, of Indianapolis, of illegally possessing firearms as a previously convicted felon, following a one-day trial.

    According to court documents and evidence introduced at trial, on January 28, 2024, Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD) officers were dispatched to a home for a domestic disturbance call. Upon arrival, a woman who lived at the home with her children reported that her ex-boyfriend, Salam Abdul Ali, owned guns and made threats to kill her, her children, and her brother following an argument the previous night.

    On February 14, 2024, IMPD investigators conducted a court-authorized search at Ali’s residence. During the search, investigators located five firearms in his bedroom, along with ammunition and firearm accessories. Ali was present and admitted to law enforcement officers, “I got guns, I sure do,” which was captured on body worn camera.

    During the investigation, officers learned that Ali’s former name was Christopher Butler. Ali changed his name from Butler after he was convicted of murder in Marion County and sentenced to sentenced to 60 years in prison. He was released from state prison in approximately 2013. In 2019, Ali was convicted in federal court for his involvement in a drug trafficking conspiracy and sentenced to time served in federal prison. Ali was still on federal supervised release at the time of his most recent arrest. Ali is permanently prohibited from ever again legally possessing a firearm as a result of his felony convictions.

    The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and IMPD investigated this case. U.S. District Judge Matthew P. Brookman presided over the trial and will sentence the defendant at a future hearing. Ali faces up to 15 years in federal prison.

    U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Myers thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys Pam Domash and Zachary Szilagyi, who prosecuted this 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 New Zealand: Understanding Policing Delivery phase two research published

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Today Police and the Understanding Policing Delivery (UPD) Independent Panel have released a report, Kia Tika Ai, Kia Tōkeke Ai: Make Fair and Just Decisions, which summarises the phase two research of UPD.

    Police Commissioner Andrew Coster says he is pleased to have been able to see this important work through from the beginning to the end.

    “A number of recommendations have come out of this report and the earlier one (released in August).

    “Police has already accepted a number from the first report.

    “Whilst this new report will be for the incoming Commissioner and Executive to consider, the recommendations are broadly in line with work already underway in Police across a range of different work programmes.

    “I want to thank our staff and communities for taking part and sharing their honest and vulnerable experiences.

    “We know our staff are dealing with individuals every day who may have their own struggles, issues, addictions, or complex needs.

    “I know our people work very hard to provide the best response in every circumstance.

    “This research has shown the value in pursuing a deeper understanding of ourselves and all the communities we serve.” 

    The Panel identified the following themes across the phase two UPD research:

    • Authentic and collaborative community and policing innovations are making a difference

    • Systems, processes and cumulative experiences are getting in the way of fair and equitable policing for all communities

    • Some incidents of unprofessional conduct were reported

    • Being under-served, seen as undeserving, or being treated unfairly by police, is harmful.

    “This is not a barometer of policing in New Zealand but an in-depth look at what works, and what is not working.

    “We wanted to see policing from some of the perspectives and experiences of people in marginalised communities.”

    Tā Kim Workman, Pou Ārahi and the first chair of the UPD Independent Panel says if there is one thing that stands out for him, it is the way the Police engaged in this research.

    “The remarkable foresight and courage of Commissioner Coster in initiating this work will mark him out historically.

    “What was even more remarkable was the preparedness of frontline staff to engage in the fairness and equity conversation.

    “No other police jurisdiction has managed to get that level of Police staff cooperation.

    “This was not research about the Police – it was research with the Police.

    “That preparedness to have ‘difficult conversations’ explains why we arguably have the most progressive Police service in the world.”

    The phase one research gave an indication of what the inequities were and who experienced them through an analysis of existing Police data.

    In phase two, the qualitative approach provided insights into how these inequities are experienced by different communities and Police, including their impacts and what would make the difference.

    This includes tangible ways forward towards fairer and more equitable policing and examples of where this is already happening.

    The phase two research included engagement with tāngata whaikaha, D/deaf and disabled people, wāhine Māori who experience family harm, people who have experienced significant mental distress, Takatāpui and members of the rainbow community, gang whānau and some Police sites of innovation.

    A deliberate focus was on gathering voices not typically heard.

    UPD Independent Panel Chairperson Professor Khylee Quince says our researchers deliberately sought to hear the good and the bad of policing.

    “Some of the experiences shared by community members in encounters with Police will be confronting to hear, and we thank them for their courage in coming forward.

    “The researchers also heard of good Police practice across various sites of innovation around Aotearoa.

    “Together these insights support our recommendations – that Police do more of what leads to fair and equitable policing, and less of what does not align with Police values, the upholding of human rights and their obligations under Te Tiriti o Waitangi.

    “The Panel looks forward to the acceptance of this research by Police and the implementation and oversight of its recommendations under the incoming Police leadership team.”

    Notes to media

    This report makes eleven recommendations that build on the forty recommendations from the first phase research. The phase two recommendations are summarised below:

    1. Value relational ways of working with communities and police-experienced whānau to provide more effective solutions

    2. Amplify Māori and community-led local collaborations, where the Police play a supporting, enabling and resourcing role

    3. Introduce a practising certificate for all police officers, supported by ongoing professional development

    4. Further enhance Police training on de-escalation, history, Māori and other cultural responses and disability rights and disability justice to empower Police Officers

    5. Embed an organisational learning approach across the Police and lead out from the top

    6. Commit to regular analysis and public reporting on levels of service delivery and equity for Māori and marginalised communities

    7. Build on the Police Disability Roadmap to embed disability and mental health responsive policing model as standard

    8. Introduce independent governance and monitoring for all uses of TASER on people with existing health and disability conditions, children under 18, older people, and those in secure units, to ensure safe practice

    9. Work with disabled people and whānau to record relevant individual information as a flag in NIA to support positive and effective engagement

    10. Monitor and evaluate local and national innovative programmes and collaborations with iwi, communities and other agencies to scale what works

    11. Build on the existing Āwhi programme to ensure Police Officers can, and do, act as a conduit to community and specialist supports and services.

    The report can be viewed here.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Bank Robber Sentenced to Three-and-a-Half Years in Prison

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    PHOENIX, Ariz. – Justin Eric Lindsay, 29, of Phoenix, was sentenced last week by United States District Judge David G. Campbell to 42 months in prison, followed by 36 months of supervised release. On June 27, 2024, Lindsay pleaded guilty to two counts of Bank Robbery.

    Between August 2023 and January 2024, Lindsay robbed six banks before he was arrested by agents from the Federal Bureau of Investigation. During two of the robberies, Lindsay falsely claimed he had a firearm.

    This case was 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 make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorneys’ Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.

    The Federal Bureau of Investigation, with the assistance of Tempe Police Department, Mesa Police Department, and Task Force Officers from the Peoria Police Department and the Phoenix Police Department conducted the investigation in this case. The United States Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, Phoenix, handled the prosecution.
     

    CASE NUMBER:                   CR-24-00147-PHX-DGC
    RELEASE NUMBER:           2024-148_Lindsay

    # # #

    For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
    Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, on X @USAO_AZ for the latest news.

     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Manchester, NH Man Sentenced to 3 Years for Wire Fraud, Identity Theft

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Dominic Barbosa stole mail from across New England and used identities to open accounts

    PORTLAND, Maine:  A Manchester, New Hampshire man was sentenced today in U.S. District Court in Portland for committing wire fraud and aggravated identity theft.

    U.S. District Judge Nancy Torresen sentenced Dominic Barbosa (aka Christopher Barnhart), 29, to 12 months imprisonment on the wire fraud charge and 24 months on the aggravated identity theft charge, to be served consecutively, followed by two years of supervised release. He was also ordered to pay $51,804.40 in restitution. Barbosa pleaded guilty on May 13, 2024.

    According to court records, from at least March 2019 through March 2022, Barbosa obtained the identifications of individuals without their knowledge or consent. Barbosa stole mail in Massachusetts, New Hampshire and Maine, including bank account statements, tax returns, and other documents containing others’ means of identification. He kept records of that information to use in the scheme. As part of the scheme, Barbosa would apply for duplicate licenses for others, often changing the address, and then use the stolen identification information and duplicate driver’s licenses to open bank accounts, credit card accounts and lines of credit in others’ names. He also used the stolen identifications to make purchases or enter into contracts. When questioned by a U.S. Postal Inspector, Barbosa stated he had a cloud database with stolen identities, and investigators in Massachusetts found bins of mail and photocopies of identifying information in a storage unit Barbosa rented. 

    The Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles, South Berwick Police Department, Litchfield Police Department (NH), North Reading Police Department (MA), Salem Police Department (NH), and U.S. Postal Inspection Service investigated the case.

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Independence Man Sentenced for Child Pornography

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    KANSAS CITY, Mo. – An Independence, Mo., man was sentenced in federal court today after being identified in two separate federal investigations sharing videos and images of child pornography online.

    Joseph L. Schutz, 39, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Howard F. Sachs to 13 years and four months in federal prison without parole. The court also sentenced Schutz to 10 years of supervised release following incarceration. Schutz will be required to register as a sex offender upon his release from prison and will be subject to federal and state sex offender registration requirements, which may apply throughout his life.

    On Oct. 24, 2023, Schutz pleaded guilty to one count of distributing child pornography over the internet and one count of possessing child pornography.

    An FBI task force officer in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, posing undercover as an adult female, was conducting an investigation utilizing the Kik Messenger application in May 2020. The undercover officer joined multiple private groups dedicated to individuals interested in child pornography and whose members openly shared such material within the group. Schutz admitted that he received multiple videos and images of child pornography within one of these Kik groups, and also shared multiple videos and images of child pornography within the group.

    On May 14, 2020, law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at Schutz’s residence. Investigators found 18 images of child erotica and eight images of child pornography on Schutz’s cell phone.

    In July and August 2022, an FBI investigator in Texas communicated online with Schutz while conducting an undercover investigation. The undercover investigator posed as a 13-year-old female. Between July 28 and Aug. 1, 2022, Schutz invited the undercover investigator into a Kik group dedicated to the exchange of child pornography. During that time, Schutz admitted, he shared multiple videos of child pornography within the group.

    This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney David Luna. It was investigated by the FBI, the Kansas City, Mo., Police Department, and the Independence, Mo., Police Department.

    Project Safe Childhood

    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 . For more information about Internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab “resources.”

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: New Orleans Man Guilty of Being Felon in Possession of Ammunition

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that on October 19, 2024,  AVERY JULIEN (“JULIEN”), age 28, a resident of New Orleans, pled guilty to being a felon in possession of ammunition, in violation of 18 U.S.C. §§ 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(2).  JULIEN faces up to 15 years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000.00, up to 3 years of supervised release, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00.

    According to court records, on September 14, 2022, Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office deputies and New Orleans Police Department officers executed a search warrant at JULIEN’s New Orleans residence after learning that JULIEN may have committed a carjacking in Jefferson Parish.  During the search of his residence, two firearms, a Sig Sauer Model P229, .40 caliber semi-automatic pistol, and a Sig Sauer Model P250, .40 caliber semi-automatic pistol, were located in JULIEN’s bedroom.

    Federal law prohibits convicted felons, such as JULIEN, from possessing firearms.  In 2018, JULIEN was convicted of felonies in two separate cases in Orleans Parish Criminal District Court.  JULIEN knew he had been convicted of these felonies at the time that he possessed the ammunition.  United States District Judge, Brandon S. Long, will sentence JULIENon February 4, 2025. 

    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.

    The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, and the New Orleans Police Department.  It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Brittany Reed of the Public Integrity Unit.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Defendant pleads guilty to throwing incendiary device, causing fire in local grocery store

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    CINCINNATI – A local man pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court here today to damaging a Spring Grove Village grocery store with an incendiary device in the style of a Molotov cocktail.

    Donald Donatelli, 28, currently of Batavia, admitted to causing malicious damage and destruction of a building in interstate commerce. The plea agreement includes a recommended sentence of 66 months in prison.

    According to court documents, at approximately 10pm on Nov. 26, 2023, Donatelli threw the incendiary device into the store while the store’s owner and his wife were inside. The store was open at the time of the fire.

    Donatelli had traveled to the grocery store on Gwinnet Drive with a co-defendant. Donatelli approached the front glass doors of the grocery store and had a bottle of gasoline with a rag inside. He lit the rag and threw the bottle inside the front doors while the co-defendant filmed a Snapchat video of the crime.

    A federal grand jury indicted Donatelli and the co-defendant in April 2024. Charges remain pending against Angela Schweitzer, 35.

    Kenneth L. Parker, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Ohio, and Daryl S. McCormick, Special Agent in Charge, U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives (ATF), announced the guilty plea entered today before U.S. District Judge Matthew W. McFarland. U.S. Attorney Parker and Special Agent in Charge McCormick acknowledged the assistance of the Cincinnati Fire Department, Cincinnati Police Department, Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office and Union Township Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Megan Gaffney Painter is representing the United States in this case.

    # # #

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Four members of Tidewater drug trafficking conspiracy and two who supplied firearms sentenced to prison

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    NORFOLK, Va. – Four people have been sentenced to prison for their roles in a drug trafficking conspiracy that distributed methamphetamine and other drugs in the Tidewater area.  Two others have been sentenced to prison for providing firearms to one of the members of the drug trafficking conspiracy.

    By the fall of 2021, Leonard Tromell Brooks, 41, of Virginia Beach, a previously convicted drug trafficker, was conspiring with Kyle Derek Dean, 33, and Katie Loren Harbor, 29, both of Norfolk, to traffic significant quantities of methamphetamine in the Tidewater area. By January 2022, Colin Thomas Costello, 35, of Virginia Beach, had joined the conspiracy.

    On March 15, 2022, Dean transported Harbor so she could sell 3.41 grams of meth to an individual in Virginia Beach. On April 20, 2022, Dean sold 2.78 grams of meth to another individual in Norfolk.

    On April 6, 2022, Costello sold 26.05 grams of meth, and on April 12, 2022, Costello sold 67.50 grams of meth. On April 22, 2022, law enforcement conducted a traffic stop on Costello in Virginia Beach. Prior to coming to a stop, Costello tossed 58.83 grams of meth from the vehicle’s window.

    On April 20, 2022, and again on April 21, 2022, Brooks sold cocaine from a residence in Virginia Beach. Law enforcement learned that Brooks was expecting a shipment of meth from his Florida-based supplier to arrive in Virginia via train on April 22, 2022. They intercepted the courier and recovered five kilograms of 100% pure meth, commonly known as “ice” or “crystal” meth. On at least two previous occasions, Brooks ordered similar quantities of crystal meth for further distribution by Dean, Harbor, and Costello.

    On April 22, 2022, law enforcement executed search warrants at residences affiliated with all four conspirators. From Brooks’ residence, investigators recovered 219 grams of cocaine, 7.9 ounces of marijuana, $26,388 in drug-trafficking proceeds, a .45 caliber handgun, and ammunition. From Dean and Harbor’s residence investigators recovered 3.07 grams of meth, a ledger showing amounts of money owed to Dean and Harbor, digital scales, and packaging materials, as well as another 4.12 grams of meth found on Dean’s person. From Costello’s residence investigators recovered 405 grams of meth, quantities of fentanyl and cocaine, packaging materials, scales, and 14 firearms.

    As a previously convicted felon, Costello could not legally possess firearms. Jonathan Morrell Scott, 37, of Virginia Beach, straw purchased four firearms for Costello prior to April 22, 2022. On July 26, 2023, Scott pled guilty to making a false statement during the purchase of a firearm. On Dec. 12, 2023, Scott was sentenced to four months in prison.

    Costello’s girlfriend, Amber Dawn Hendricks, 40, of Virginia Beach, purchased four firearms in the two months preceding the search, including two purchased just two days before the search, despite being a user of and addicted to meth. She kept those firearms in the residence she shared with Costello. Despite being prohibited from possessing firearms, she and Costello kept a total of 11 firearms in their bedroom at the residence. On May 7, 2024, Hendricks was charged with possession of a firearm by a prohibited person. On Oct. 2, 2024, Hendricks was sentenced to two years and six months in prison.

    On Jan. 26, 2023, Costello pled guilty to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine; manufacture, distribution, and possession with intent to distribute a Schedule II controlled substance; and possessing, using, and carrying firearms in furtherance of and during and in relation to a drug-trafficking crime. Costello was sentenced today to 20 years in prison.

    On Jan. 24, 2023, Dean pled guilty to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine and distribution of methamphetamine. On June 15, 2023, Dean was sentenced to 18 years in prison.

    On Jan. 12, 2023, Harbor pled guilty to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine and distribution of methamphetamine. On June 1, 2023, Harbor was sentenced to nine years in prison.

    On Jan. 10, 2023, Brooks pled guilty to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine; manufacture, distribution, and possession with intent to distribute a Schedule II controlled substance; and possessing, using, and carrying firearms in furtherance of and during and in relation to a drug-trafficking crime. On May 12, 2023, Brooks was sentenced to 20 years in prison.

    Jessica D. Aber, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia; Jarod Forget, Special Agent in Charge for the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Washington Division; James VanVliet, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives Washington Field Division; Derek W. Gordon, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations Washington, D.C.; Damon E. Wood, Inspector in Charge of the Washington Division of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service; Mark Talbot, Chief of Norfolk Police; Paul Neudigate, Chief of Virginia Beach Police; and Ramin Fatehi, Norfolk Commonwealth’s Attorney, made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge Arenda Wright Allen.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Kristin G. Bird and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Graham M. Stolle, an Assistant Commonwealth’s Attorney with the Norfolk Commonwealth’s Attorney Office, 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.

    A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case Nos. 2:22-cr-126 (Brooks, Dean, Harbor, and Costello), 2:23-cr-48 (Hendricks), and 2:23-cr-51 (Scott).

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Northern Territory Police Arrest Absconded Prisoners

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Northern Territory Police have successfully apprehended two 17-year-old males who absconded from the Alice Springs Youth Detention Centre on 29 October 2024.

    The escapees handed themselves in at the Alice Springs Police Station last night, bringing an end to the search.

    Both individuals have been charged with Escape from lawful custody and Damage to property and will attend court today.

    Police thank the community for their assistance during the search.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Eleven Minneapolis Gang Members Charged with RICO Conspiracy, Murder in Aid of Racketeering, and Drug Trafficking Offenses

    Source: United States Attorneys General 4

    A federal grand jury in Minneapolis returned an 18-count indictment yesterday against 11 alleged members of the Lows — a violent Minneapolis street gang — for crimes including Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) conspiracy involving murder, attempted murder, gun trafficking, and drug trafficking.

    “According to the indictment, these defendants are leaders, organizers, and members of the Lows street gang, a violent gang that allegedly committed multiple murders and attempted murders and trafficked in guns and drugs, including fentanyl,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Nicole M. Argentieri, head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “Violent gangs that engage in bloody street wars and peddle deadly drugs endanger our communities. The Criminal Division, along with our local, state, and federal partners, is committed to holding violent criminals accountable, including by bringing racketeering charges.”

    “The Lows are an exceptionally violent criminal street gang that has terrorized north Minneapolis for nearly 20 years. Through threats and violence — shootings and murders — the Lows have long sought to establish dominion over large swaths of our city,” said U.S. Attorney Andrew Luger for the District of Minnesota. “My office will continue to respond to gang violence by treating it as the organized criminal activity it is. This indictment is an important step in dismantling a violent street gang that has devastated families and communities in north Minneapolis.”

    “More than 100 people lose their lives to gun violence every day in the United States,” said Special Agent in Charge Travis Riddle of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) St. Paul Field Division. “There will never be a time where this will be considered acceptable. Our ATF agents put forth solid investigative work in this case utilizing crime gun intelligence that without a doubt aided the case announced today. ATF is happy to work alongside each of our partners in this investigation, and we are grateful to the Criminal Division, U.S. Attorney Luger, and the entire team for taking up this challenging RICO case.”

    “The charges in this indictment reflect our unwavering commitment to bringing violent criminals to justice,” said Special Agent in Charge Alvin M. Winston Sr. of the FBI Minneapolis Field Office. “For too long, the Lows have inflicted pain and spread fear in north Minneapolis. Together with our law enforcement partners, we are determined to remove this threat from our communities and help restore a sense of security to all who call this city home.”

    “Today’s indictment provides a stark reminder that violence and drug trafficking go hand-in-hand,” said Special Agent in Charge Steven T. Bell of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Omaha Division. “These were not victimless crimes. Communities were hurt. The DEA will continue its unwavering focus to remove threats of violence and hold accountable the individuals responsible for inflicting fear on the streets of Minneapolis.”

    “The individuals named in this indictment allegedly engaged in homicide, and illegal drug and firearms trafficking, which created an atmosphere of terror and disrupted countless lives in this community,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Ramsey E. Covington of the IRS Criminal Investigation (CI) Chicago Field Office. “These charges represent a pivotal milestone in our commitment to restore safety and uphold justice in the communities we serve. Working with their federal, state, and local law enforcement partners, IRS-CI special agents will continue to follow every financial trail to dismantle the networks fueling these criminal enterprises. We stand united against the violence and fear that street gangs have inflicted upon our communities in Minneapolis and elsewhere.”

    “The Lows, and criminal organizations like them, wreak havoc on our communities, threatening the safety of our communities on a daily basis through their many acts of violence, murder, and narcotics and firearms trafficking,” said Special Agent in Charge Jamie Holt of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) St. Paul. “HSI St. Paul will continue to foster a strong collaboration with our law enforcement partners to bring an end to the chaos these criminal organizations inflict on our local communities.”

    “This multi-count indictment against ranking members of the Lows gang is an excellent example of multiple law enforcement agencies combining their expertise and resources to conduct investigations with the common goal of taking down violent leaders perpetuating street violence involving guns and narcotics,” said Inspector in Charge Bryan Musgrove of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) Denver Division. “These RICO charges aim to remove these allegedly violent offenders from our community. U.S. Postal Inspectors are committed to continuing our work to dismantle drug trafficking operations to keep USPS customers and employees safe from greedy drug traffickers who favor profit over human lives.”

    As alleged in this indictment, the defendants were members of the Lows criminal street gang, which has been in existence in Minneapolis since approximately 2004. The Lows are primarily active in the northside of Minneapolis. They allegedly traffic in firearms and narcotics, including fentanyl, and use threats, intimidation, and violence to protect their territory, reputation, illicit proceeds, and power.

    The indictment charges that the defendants engaged in a pattern of racketeering — that is, unlawful acts of violence, gun trafficking, and narcotics trafficking — for the benefit of the Lows enterprise. These acts include seven alleged murders or attempted murders involving a total of ten victims.

    The 11 defendants, all from Minneapolis, have been indicted for the following crimes:

    Ashimiyu Alowonle II, 38, also known as Cash, is charged with RICO conspiracy and conspiracy to distribute controlled substances.

    Timothy Callender III, 26, also known as Lil’ Tim, is charged with RICO conspiracy and conspiracy to distribute controlled substances.

    Glenn Carter III, 23, also known as G5 and Bossman Carter, is charged with RICO conspiracy; using, carrying, or possessing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence resulting in death; and conspiracy to distribute controlled substances. Carter is charged with committing a murder on May 14, 2022, as a racketeering act in furtherance of the RICO conspiracy.

    Victor Collins, 22, also known as Vic, is charged with RICO conspiracy; using, carrying, or possessing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence resulting in death; conspiracy to distribute controlled substances; possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance; and possessing a firearm a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking. Collins is charged with committing a murder and an attempted murder on Feb. 27 as a racketeering act in furtherance of the RICO conspiracy.

    Damari Douglas, 20, also known as Mari, is charged with RICO conspiracy, being a felon in possession of a firearm, and possession of a machine gun. Douglas is charged with committing a murder on Dec. 3, 2023, as a racketeering act in furtherance of the RICO conspiracy.

    Deontae Jackson, 35, also known as Leef, is charged with RICO conspiracy and conspiracy to distribute controlled substances.

    Shannon Jackson, 32, also known as Shakedown, is charged with RICO conspiracy; using, carrying, or possessing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence resulting in death; conspiracy to distribute controlled substances; possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance; possessing a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking; and being a felon in possession of a firearm. Jackson is charged with committing a murder on April 27, 2023, as a racketeering act in furtherance of the RICO conspiracy.

    Robert Knights Jr., 19, also known as CMB Rob and Lil’ Rob, is charged with RICO conspiracy, conspiracy to distribute controlled substances, possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance, and possessing a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking.

    Albert Lucas V, 20, also known as Abk Sav, is charged with RICO conspiracy; using, carrying, or possessing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence resulting in death; and conspiracy to distribute controlled substances. Lucas is charged with committing multiple murders and an attempted murder on Feb. 27 and May 6, 2021, as a racketeering act in furtherance of the RICO conspiracy.

    Kaprice Richards, 23, also known as Kap, is charged with RICO conspiracy and using, carrying, or possessing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence resulting in death. Richards is charged with committing an attempted murder on May 29, 2022, and a murder on April 27, 2023, as racketeering acts in furtherance of the RICO conspiracy.

    Cartrelle Smith, 27, also known as Poo Moe, is charged with RICO conspiracy, conspiracy to distribute controlled substances, possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance, and possessing a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking.

    If convicted, the defendants face a range of penalties, including up to life in prison for racketeering conspiracy involving acts of murder, using a firearm to commit murder, and conspiracy to distribute controlled substances. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after the consideration of the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    ATF, FBI, DEA, IRS-CI, HSI, USPIS, Minneapolis Police Department, Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office, Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, and Minnesota Department of Corrections are investigating the case, with assistance from the U.S. Marshals Service.

    Trial Attorney Jared Engelking of the Criminal Division’s Violent Crime and Racketeering Section and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Garrett S. Fields and David M. Classen for the District of Minnesota are prosecuting the case.

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Felon Who Arranged Gun Sales from Jail Sentenced to 63 Months in Prison

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

    ST. LOUIS – U.S. District Judge Henry E. Autrey on Wednesday sentenced a St. Louis County man who was caught arranging for his illegally-possessed guns to be sold to 63 months in prison.

    The sentence for James C. Street, 47, will run consecutive to pending probation violation cases in St. Louis and Jefferson counties.

    Street pleaded guilty in July to one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm. He admitted that while a convicted felon and barred from possessing firearms, he possessed three pistols and an AR-style rifle.

    The investigation began after the St. Louis County Police Department learned that Street, who was in jail at the time, was discussing the sale of his firearms. Police then contacted the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Street sold a .357 magnum revolver through an intermediary, which was later recovered by law enforcement. Investigators learned Street was planning more sales. A court-approved search of the intermediary’s home recovered the remaining guns, as well as ammunition and large capacity magazines.

    At the time, Street was on probation for multiple felony domestic offenses.

    The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the St. Louis County Police Department investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Chris Goeke 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 Security: West Lafayette Man Sentenced to 27 Months in Prison

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

    HAMMOND- Markith Williams, age 39, of West Lafayette, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Philip P. Simon after a jury found him guilty of being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm following a two-day jury trial, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.

    Williams was sentenced to 27 months in prison followed by 2 years of supervised release.

     According to documents in the case, on January 13, 2022, a traffic stop of Williams’ vehicle in Jasper County, Indiana, led to the recovery of a loaded semi-automatic pistol. Williams’ criminal history revealed that he had 3 prior Illinois felony convictions which included being a felon in possession of a firearm, aggravated unlawful use of a weapon, and delivery of cocaine, any one of which prohibited him from possessing the firearm in this case. 

    This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Hammond Police Department, and the Jasper County Sheriff’s Department.  The case was prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Patrick D. Grindlay and Assistant United States Attorney Kristian R. Mukoski.

    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 USA: Eleven Minneapolis Gang Members Charged with RICO Conspiracy, Murder in Aid of Racketeering, and Drug Trafficking Offenses

    Source: US State Government of Utah

    A federal grand jury in Minneapolis returned an 18-count indictment yesterday against 11 alleged members of the Lows — a violent Minneapolis street gang — for crimes including Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) conspiracy involving murder, attempted murder, gun trafficking, and drug trafficking.

    “According to the indictment, these defendants are leaders, organizers, and members of the Lows street gang, a violent gang that allegedly committed multiple murders and attempted murders and trafficked in guns and drugs, including fentanyl,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Nicole M. Argentieri, head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “Violent gangs that engage in bloody street wars and peddle deadly drugs endanger our communities. The Criminal Division, along with our local, state, and federal partners, is committed to holding violent criminals accountable, including by bringing racketeering charges.”

    “The Lows are an exceptionally violent criminal street gang that has terrorized north Minneapolis for nearly 20 years. Through threats and violence — shootings and murders — the Lows have long sought to establish dominion over large swaths of our city,” said U.S. Attorney Andrew Luger for the District of Minnesota. “My office will continue to respond to gang violence by treating it as the organized criminal activity it is. This indictment is an important step in dismantling a violent street gang that has devastated families and communities in north Minneapolis.”

    “More than 100 people lose their lives to gun violence every day in the United States,” said Special Agent in Charge Travis Riddle of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) St. Paul Field Division. “There will never be a time where this will be considered acceptable. Our ATF agents put forth solid investigative work in this case utilizing crime gun intelligence that without a doubt aided the case announced today. ATF is happy to work alongside each of our partners in this investigation, and we are grateful to the Criminal Division, U.S. Attorney Luger, and the entire team for taking up this challenging RICO case.”

    “The charges in this indictment reflect our unwavering commitment to bringing violent criminals to justice,” said Special Agent in Charge Alvin M. Winston Sr. of the FBI Minneapolis Field Office. “For too long, the Lows have inflicted pain and spread fear in north Minneapolis. Together with our law enforcement partners, we are determined to remove this threat from our communities and help restore a sense of security to all who call this city home.”

    “Today’s indictment provides a stark reminder that violence and drug trafficking go hand-in-hand,” said Special Agent in Charge Steven T. Bell of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Omaha Division. “These were not victimless crimes. Communities were hurt. The DEA will continue its unwavering focus to remove threats of violence and hold accountable the individuals responsible for inflicting fear on the streets of Minneapolis.”

    “The individuals named in this indictment allegedly engaged in homicide, and illegal drug and firearms trafficking, which created an atmosphere of terror and disrupted countless lives in this community,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Ramsey E. Covington of the IRS Criminal Investigation (CI) Chicago Field Office. “These charges represent a pivotal milestone in our commitment to restore safety and uphold justice in the communities we serve. Working with their federal, state, and local law enforcement partners, IRS-CI special agents will continue to follow every financial trail to dismantle the networks fueling these criminal enterprises. We stand united against the violence and fear that street gangs have inflicted upon our communities in Minneapolis and elsewhere.”

    “The Lows, and criminal organizations like them, wreak havoc on our communities, threatening the safety of our communities on a daily basis through their many acts of violence, murder, and narcotics and firearms trafficking,” said Special Agent in Charge Jamie Holt of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) St. Paul. “HSI St. Paul will continue to foster a strong collaboration with our law enforcement partners to bring an end to the chaos these criminal organizations inflict on our local communities.”

    “This multi-count indictment against ranking members of the Lows gang is an excellent example of multiple law enforcement agencies combining their expertise and resources to conduct investigations with the common goal of taking down violent leaders perpetuating street violence involving guns and narcotics,” said Inspector in Charge Bryan Musgrove of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) Denver Division. “These RICO charges aim to remove these allegedly violent offenders from our community. U.S. Postal Inspectors are committed to continuing our work to dismantle drug trafficking operations to keep USPS customers and employees safe from greedy drug traffickers who favor profit over human lives.”

    As alleged in this indictment, the defendants were members of the Lows criminal street gang, which has been in existence in Minneapolis since approximately 2004. The Lows are primarily active in the northside of Minneapolis. They allegedly traffic in firearms and narcotics, including fentanyl, and use threats, intimidation, and violence to protect their territory, reputation, illicit proceeds, and power.

    The indictment charges that the defendants engaged in a pattern of racketeering — that is, unlawful acts of violence, gun trafficking, and narcotics trafficking — for the benefit of the Lows enterprise. These acts include seven alleged murders or attempted murders involving a total of ten victims.

    The 11 defendants, all from Minneapolis, have been indicted for the following crimes:

    Ashimiyu Alowonle II, 38, also known as Cash, is charged with RICO conspiracy and conspiracy to distribute controlled substances.

    Timothy Callender III, 26, also known as Lil’ Tim, is charged with RICO conspiracy and conspiracy to distribute controlled substances.

    Glenn Carter III, 23, also known as G5 and Bossman Carter, is charged with RICO conspiracy; using, carrying, or possessing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence resulting in death; and conspiracy to distribute controlled substances. Carter is charged with committing a murder on May 14, 2022, as a racketeering act in furtherance of the RICO conspiracy.

    Victor Collins, 22, also known as Vic, is charged with RICO conspiracy; using, carrying, or possessing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence resulting in death; conspiracy to distribute controlled substances; possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance; and possessing a firearm a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking. Collins is charged with committing a murder and an attempted murder on Feb. 27 as a racketeering act in furtherance of the RICO conspiracy.

    Damari Douglas, 20, also known as Mari, is charged with RICO conspiracy, being a felon in possession of a firearm, and possession of a machine gun. Douglas is charged with committing a murder on Dec. 3, 2023, as a racketeering act in furtherance of the RICO conspiracy.

    Deontae Jackson, 35, also known as Leef, is charged with RICO conspiracy and conspiracy to distribute controlled substances.

    Shannon Jackson, 32, also known as Shakedown, is charged with RICO conspiracy; using, carrying, or possessing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence resulting in death; conspiracy to distribute controlled substances; possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance; possessing a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking; and being a felon in possession of a firearm. Jackson is charged with committing a murder on April 27, 2023, as a racketeering act in furtherance of the RICO conspiracy.

    Robert Knights Jr., 19, also known as CMB Rob and Lil’ Rob, is charged with RICO conspiracy, conspiracy to distribute controlled substances, possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance, and possessing a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking.

    Albert Lucas V, 20, also known as Abk Sav, is charged with RICO conspiracy; using, carrying, or possessing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence resulting in death; and conspiracy to distribute controlled substances. Lucas is charged with committing multiple murders and an attempted murder on Feb. 27 and May 6, 2021, as a racketeering act in furtherance of the RICO conspiracy.

    Kaprice Richards, 23, also known as Kap, is charged with RICO conspiracy and using, carrying, or possessing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence resulting in death. Richards is charged with committing an attempted murder on May 29, 2022, and a murder on April 27, 2023, as racketeering acts in furtherance of the RICO conspiracy.

    Cartrelle Smith, 27, also known as Poo Moe, is charged with RICO conspiracy, conspiracy to distribute controlled substances, possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance, and possessing a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking.

    If convicted, the defendants face a range of penalties, including up to life in prison for racketeering conspiracy involving acts of murder, using a firearm to commit murder, and conspiracy to distribute controlled substances. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after the consideration of the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    ATF, FBI, DEA, IRS-CI, HSI, USPIS, Minneapolis Police Department, Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office, Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, and Minnesota Department of Corrections are investigating the case, with assistance from the U.S. Marshals Service.

    Trial Attorney Jared Engelking of the Criminal Division’s Violent Crime and Racketeering Section and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Garrett S. Fields and David M. Classen for the District of Minnesota are prosecuting the case.

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

    MIL OSI USA News –