NewzIntel.com

Category: Police

  • MIL-OSI Security: Davenport Man Sentenced to 8 Years in Federal Prison for Firearms Charges

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    DAVENPORT, Iowa – A Davenport man was sentenced yesterday to eight years in federal prison for possessing a firearm as a felon and in furtherance of his drug trafficking.

    According to public court documents, in November 2023, Marcell Alexander Kirk, 23, ran from police. During the foot chase, Kirk discarded a loaded handgun. When apprehended, Kirk was found in possession of approximately 140 grams of marijuana.

    As a felon, Kirk is prohibited from possessing firearms and ammunition. In 2020, Kirk was convicted of criminal gang participation, in the Iowa District Court for Scott County.

    After completing his term of imprisonment, Kirk will be required to serve a three-year term of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.

    United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. This case was investigated by the Davenport Police Department.

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

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Smithfield Man Sentenced to 25 Years for Sex Trafficking a Minor

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    WILMINGTON, N.C. – A Smithfield man was sentenced to 300 months in prison, followed by 25 years of supervised release, for sex trafficking by force, fraud or coercion. On July 23, 2024, Jarel Antonio Rayford, age 29, pled guilty to the charge.

    According to court documents and other information presented in court, Rayford prostituted a 17-year-old minor over the course of several months in 2021. He also took multiple sexually explicit images of her and posted them in online advertisements to sell her in prostitution. Rayford knew the victim was just seventeen and was also in a very vulnerable position, which he took advantage of to continue trafficking her. Additionally, Rayford used physical and emotional abuse to control the minor victim.

    “We have launched two Human Trafficking Task Forces to expose and prosecute anyone who exploits North Carolina’s kids for sex or forced labor,” said U.S. Attorney Michael F. Easley, Jr.  “Our victim-centric approach focuses on stabilizing victims, getting them resources, and helping them through the court process. If you have a tip about trafficking, text 233733 today.”

    Michael F. Easley, Jr., U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina made the announcement after sentencing by Chief U.S. District Judge Richard E. Myers II. The Raleigh Police Department and the Department of Homeland Security – Homeland Security Investigations investigated the cases, and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Erin Blondel and Casey L. Peaden prosecuted the case.

    Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No. 5:24-CR-00021-M.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Stratford — PEI RCMP charge Vernon Bridge man with attempted murder of seniors, assault and uttering threats

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    October 28, 2024, Stratford, PE – PEI RCMP have charged a 60-year-old Vernon Bridge man in connection with four separate incidents including two serious assaults on seniors.

    RCMP began their investigation on Thursday, October 24, 2024, when they responded to a serious assault of a senior man at his residence in Stratford. On Friday, October 25, 2024 PEI RCMP responded to another serious assault and robbery with a weapon on a Stratford senior woman at her home. Island EMS attended in both cases and transported the victims to the Queen Elizabeth Hospital.

    On October 24, 2024 RCMP also responded to an incident at a business in Mount Albion where an unprovoked man attempted to engage in a fist fight with an employee who was unknown to him. Police attended but the man was gone on arrival.

    RCMP identified a suspect and on October 26, 2024 RCMP made an arrest of 60-year-old Alan Wood. Wood was held at a provincial correctional center over the weekend and while in custody Wood uttered threats to a corrections officer. Wood remains in custody and will appear in court today at 3:00 p.m. in Charlottetown Provincial Court to answer to charges of:

    1. Attempted murder in connection with the Stratford man
    2. Attempted murder in connection with the Stratford woman.
    3. Robbery with a weapon on the Stratford woman
    4. Assault on the employee of the Mount Albion business
    5. Uttering threats on a correction officer.

    Both seniors in this case were known to the accused.

    This investigation is being led by the RCMP Major Crime Unit with the assistance of:

    • RCMP Forensic Identification Services
    • RCMP Digital Forensic Services
    • RCMP Police Dog Services
    • RCMP Provincial General Investigations Section

    “PEI RCMP recognize that events like this can be disturbing to us all. In this case, a suspect was identified quickly preventing further risk to the public,” said Cpl Gavin Moore, Media Relations Officer for the Prince Edward Island RCMP.

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  • MIL-OSI Canada: Remembrance Day Sentry Program selection announced

    Source: Government of Canada News (2)

    Today, the Chief of the Defence Staff (CDS), General Jennie Carignan, announced the members selected for this year’s Remembrance Day Sentry Program.

    October 28, 2024 – Ottawa – National Defence / Canadian Armed Forces

    Today, the Chief of the Defence Staff (CDS), General Jennie Carignan, announced the members selected for this year’s Remembrance Day Sentry Program.

    Eleven Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) members and one officer from the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) have received the distinction of being chosen from all those nominated across the country to play an important ceremonial role during this year’s national Remembrance Day ceremony in Ottawa.

    Representative of the duty, commitment and diversity of our military and security personnel, these exceptional program participants have been honoured with this distinction based on criteria such as deployment experience, community involvement, physical fitness, and their record of conduct.

    The following personnel will participate in the Remembrance Day ceremony at the National War Memorial on Monday, November 11, 2024:

    • Sentry Program Commander/Royal Canadian Air Force Sentry: Sergeant Kevin James, RCAF Band, Canadian Forces Base Winnipeg, Man.
    • Royal Canadian Navy Sentry: Master Sailor Jed Garcia, Canadian Forces Base Esquimalt Base Information Services, Canadian Forces Base Esquimalt, B.C.
    • Canadian Special Operations Forces Command Sentry: Master Corporal Jeffrey Steel, Canadian Forces Base Petawawa, Ont.
    • Canadian Army Sentry: Master Bombardier Mikael Nicol-Charette, 4th Canadian Division Training Centre, Meaford, Ont.
    • RCMP Sentry: Sergeant Cara Streeter, Happy Valley Goose Bay Detachment, N.L.
    • Military Personnel Command Nursing Officer: Captain Kathleen Nguyen, 1 Canadian Field Hospital, Montreal.
    • Special Guest of the CDS and CAF Chief Warrant Officer: Corporal Lucas Mullens, Canadian Forces Base Edmonton, Alta.
    • Canadian Ranger Sentry: Master Corporal Linda Kamenawatamin, 3rd Canadian Ranger Patrol Group, Bear Lake, Ont.
    • Eagle Staff Bearer: Master Corporal Phoenix George, Canadian Forces Base Edmonton, Alta.
    • Eagle Staff Carrier: Master Corporal Sheri-Lea Gee, 4th Canadian Ranger Patrol Group, Valemount, B.C.
    • Directorate of History and Heritage Musician – Bugler: Corporal Malcolm Horava, Central Band of the CAF, Ottawa.
    • Directorate of History and Heritage Musician – Piper: Master Corporal Timothy Reid, Central Band of the CAF, Ottawa.

    The Remembrance Day Sentry Program was created in 1998 to publicly recognize outstanding CAF members from both the Regular and the Reserve Force, and members of the RCMP, for their dedication, professionalism and performance in service to Canada.

    Note to editor: Remembrance Day Sentry Program participants are available for interviews upon request.

    “Each of you exemplifies our values daily through your dedication, professionalism and leadership. As we solemnly remember generations of brave Canadians who fought to preserve our peace and freedom, we also acknowledge your unwavering commitment, exceptional performance and selfless service to Canadians today. We thank you for embodying the very best of who we are and for your continued service.”

    General Jennie Carignan, Chief of the Defence Staff

    Media Relations
    Department of National Defence
    Phone: 613-904-3333
    Email: mlo-blm@forces.gc.ca

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Cole Harbour — Update: One person arrested in Cole Harbour attempted robbery investigation

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    A youth has been arrested after an attempted robbery in Cole Harbour.

    On October 11, at approximately 6:46 p.m., RCMP Halifax Regional Detachment responded to a report of an attempted robbery at a recreational centre on Forest Hills Parkway. RCMP officers learned that a person approached four youths who were near the pedway, displayed a knife, and demanded jewelry from one of the youths.

    The person fled on foot when the youths said they were advising security. No physical injuries were reported.

    As a result of the investigation and information provided by the public, on October 18, a 15-year-old youth was identified and arrested for attempted Armed Robbery and Possession of Weapon for Dangerous Purpose. They were released on conditions pending a first court appearance on November 7.

    RCMP Halifax Regional Detachment thanks members of the community who have been engaged in promoting public safety and supporting police investigations such as this one by providing tips to police and Crime Stoppers. Information can be provided anonymously by calling Nova Scotia Crime Stoppers, toll-free, at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), submitting a secure web tip at www.crimestoppers.ns.ca, or using the P3 Tips app.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Rockford Man Sentenced to 35 Years in Federal Prison for Sex Trafficking

    Source: United States Department of Justice (Human Trafficking)

    ROCKFORD — A Rockford man has been sentenced to 35 years in federal prison for sex trafficking.

    TRAVIS THOMAS, 34, was convicted in June of sex trafficking, including multiple counts of coercing and transporting the victim across state lines to engage in prostitution.  U.S. District Judge John J. Tharp, Jr. imposed the sentence Friday during a hearing in federal court in Rockford.

    The sentence was announced by Morris Pasqual, Acting United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois, and Douglas S. DePodesta, Special Agent-in-Charge of the Chicago Field Office of the FBI.  The Rockford Police Department, Hoffman Estates, Ill. Police Department, and Winnebago County, Ill. Sheriff’s Office assisted in the investigation.  The government was represented by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Vincenza L. Tomlinson and Jessica S. Maveus, and former Assistant U.S. Attorney Monica V. Mallory.

    In 2017 and 2018, Thomas targeted the victim, supplied her with crack cocaine that kept her dependent on him, and manipulated her drug addiction to force and coerce her to engage in commercial sex acts for Thomas’s financial benefit. Thomas transported the victim to hotels in Rockford, Wisconsin, and Texas for the purpose of engaging in commercial sex acts.  Thomas also used and threatened physical violence against the victim to force and coerce her to continue to engage in commercial sex.  Thomas then kept all of the proceeds and spent it on himself and others, including a new vehicle, gambling, clothing, and food.

    In addition to the commercial sex, Thomas also used fraud and financial coercion to take the victim’s credit cards, file fraudulent tax returns and insurance claims in her name, empty her bank accounts, and sell her belongings.  The victim was finally able to escape in April 2018, with the help of an individual who took the victim to a hospital after she was severely beaten by Thomas.  While at the hospital, a trained nurse identified her as a victim of sex trafficking and called law enforcement.

    If you believe you are a victim of sexual exploitation, you are encouraged to contact the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children by logging on to www.missingkids.com or by calling 1 800-843-5678.  The service is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Owner of Boston Pizzeria Chain Sentenced to More than Eight Years in Prison for Forced Labor

    Source: United States Department of Justice (Human Trafficking)

    BOSTON – The owner of Stash’s Pizza, a pizzeria chain in Massachusetts, was sentenced on Oct. 25, 2024 for forced labor charges. The defendant forced or attempted to force six victims to work for him and comply with excessive workplace demands through violent physical abuse; threats of violence and serious harm; and repeated threats to report the victims to immigration authorities for deportation.

    Stavros Papantoniadis, a/k/a “Steve Papantoniadis,” 49, of Westwood, Mass., was sentenced by Chief U.S. District Judge F. Dennis Saylor IV to 102 months in prison, one year of supervised release and ordered to pay a $35,000 fine. At a jury trial in June 2024, Papantoniadis was convicted of three counts of forced labor and three counts of attempted forced labor. Papantoniadis has remained in custody since his arrest on March 16, 2023.

    “Labor trafficking exploits the vulnerable through fear and intimidation, all in pursuit of the almighty buck. That is what Stavros Papantoniadis did when he violated the rights of the people working in his restaurants. He deliberately hired foreign nationals who lacked authorization to work in the United States and then turned their lack of immigration status against them, threatening them with deportation and violence to keep them under his control,” said Acting United States Attorney Joshua S. Levy. “I commend the bravery of the victims here for speaking out and taking a stand against their trafficker. I hope that their strength to speak out sends a message to others whose rights are being abused that the federal government will not tolerate labor trafficking. The stiff sentence imposed on Mr. Papantoniadis demonstrates that there are grave consequences for employers who engage in this type of conduct.”

    “Stavros Papantoniadis exploited and abused his employees, denying them the basic dignity every person deserves. Today’s significant sentence sends a message to employers — employees deserve to work in safety, free from harassment and abuse and exploitative employers will be held to account,” said Special Agent in Charge Michael J. Krol for Homeland Security Investigations, New England. “Labor exploitation targets the disenfranchised in our society but we want employees to know that they have a voice and HSI is working with our partners to uphold and enforce labor laws.”

    “Stavros Papantoniadis used threats of arrest, deportation, reprisals, and physical violence to ensure his employees worked for wages lower than required by the Fair Labor Standards Act. Today’s sentencing affirms the Office of Inspector General’s commitment to work with our law enforcement and Wage and Hour Division partners to aggressively investigate labor trafficking by individuals who enrich themselves through coercion or force,” said Jonathan Mellone, Special Agent-in-Charge, Northeast Region, U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General.

    Papantoniadis forced or attempted to force five men and one woman to work for him through violent physical abuse, threats of abuse, and repeated threats to report victims to immigration authorities to have them deported. Papantoniadis thinly staffed his pizza shops, and purposely employed workers without immigration status to work behind the scenes, for 14 or more hours per day and as many as seven days per week. To maintain control of those undocumented workers, he made them believe that he would physically harm them or have them deported. He monitored the workers with surveillance cameras, which he accessed from his cell phone, and constantly demeaned, insulted and harassed them. When Papantoniadis learned that one victim planned to quit, he violently choked him, causing that victim to flee the pizza shop and run to safety in the parking lot. When other victims separately expressed their intentions to quit, Papantoniadis told one victim that he would kill him and call immigration authorities; and he threatened another worker by telling him he knew where the victim lived. When another worker tried to leave and drive away from one of Papantoniadis’ pizza shops, Papantoniadis chased the victim down Route 1 in Norwood, Mass., and falsely reported the victim to the local police in an effort to pressure the victim to return to work at the pizza shop.

    Papantoniadis is the owner and operator of Stash’s Pizza, a chain of pizzerias with locations in Dorchester and Roslindale, and previously had pizzerias in Norwood, Norwell, Randolph (d/b/a Boston Pizza Company), Weymouth (d/b/a Pacini’s Italian Eatery), and Wareham, Mass.

    Members of the public who believe they are a victim of labor trafficking or have information about labor trafficking, please call 888-221-6023, Option 5 or send an email with contact information to USAMA.VictimAssistance@usdoj.gov.

    Acting U.S. Attorney Levy, HSI SAC Krol and DOL-OIG SAC Mellone made the announcement today. Assistance was provided by the Department of Labor, Wage and Hour Division, the Boston Police Department, and the Norwood Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Timothy E. Moran, Chief of the Organized Crime & Gang Unit, and Brian A. Fogerty of the Civil Rights & Human Trafficking Unit prosecuted the case.
     

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  • MIL-OSI Security: New Orleans Man Sentenced for Heroin Trafficking

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

    NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – KEVIN JOHNSON (“JOHNSON”), age 34, a New Orleans resident, was sentenced on October 23, 2024, by U.S. District Judge Mary Ann Vial Lemmon, after previously pleading guilty to conspiracy to distribute, and possess with intent to distribute, heroin, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(C), and 846.  JOHNSON was sentenced to 30 months imprisonment, 3 years of supervised release, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.

    According to court documents, the Federal Bureau Investigation New Orleans Gang Task Force and the New Orleans Police Department investigated JOHNSON for his involvement in a drug distribution operation in April 2021.  The investigation revealed that JOHNSON conspired with AL VERNON BROWN, CHRISTOPHER JOHNSON, DONALD MYLES, and others to distribute heroin.  On June 22, 2021, agents seized a package containing 485 grams of heroin that was mailed by AL VERNON BROWN from California to New Orleans and intended for JOHNSON.

    The U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation – New Orleans Gang Task Force, with the assistance of the New Orleans Police Department, the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, and the Gretna Major Crimes Task Force, led the investigation. The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Rachal Cassagne of the Narcotics Unit.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Violet, Louisiana, Man Sentenced for Possessing Firearm to Further Drug Trafficking

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

    NEW ORLEANS, LA – United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that MALI WILLIAMS (“WILLIAMS”), age 26, of Violet, Louisiana, was sentenced on October 15, 2024 by United States District Judge Jay C. Zainey to 60 months of imprisonment, three (3) years of supervised release, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee after previously pleading guilty to possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c)(1)(A)(i).

    According to court documents, on October 12, 2023, New Orleans Police Officers saw WILLIAMS selling marijuana in the Central Business District of New Orleans.  While attempting to flee from police, WILLIAMS dropped his backpack that contained marijuana and tapentadol tablets.  When apprehended, WILLIAMS possessed a Taurus Model G3C, nine-millimeter semi-automatic pistol.   

    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.

    U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the New Orleans Police Department in investigating this matter.  The case is being prosecuted by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney James Ollinger of the Violent Crime Unit.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: New Orleans Man Sentenced for Firearm and Drug Offense

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

    NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – JEREL CLAVO (“CLAVO”), age 36, of New Orleans, was sentenced on October 15, 2024 by U.S. District Judge Brandon S. Long to 62 months incarceration, five (5) years of supervised release, and a $200 mandatory special assessment fee, after previously pleading guilty to possession with the intent to distribute marijuana, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(D) (Count 1); and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 924(c)(1)(A)(i) (Count 2).

    According to court documents, on November 27, 2021, the New Orleans Police Department (NOPD) received a call regarding shots being fired near North Claiborne Avenue and Columbus Street.  NOPD Officers arrived at the scene and discovered a deceased black female.  Officers learned that the victim had been riding in a gray Dodge Charger driven by CLAVO when she was shot.  An NOPD officer present at University Medical Center (UMC) saw CLAVO pull up outside the emergency room driving a gray Dodge Charger with several bullet holes in the front windshield.  CLAVO sustained multiple gunshot wounds, including to his neck and right arm.  NOPD Detectives executed a state search warrant for the Dodge Charger and located two firearms and marijuana inside the vehicle.  CLAVO admitted possessing the marijuana for later sale.  Additionally, CLAVO possessed the firearms to further his marijuana sales activities.

    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 and the New Orleans Police Department and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Mike Trummel of the Violent Crime Unit.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Lewiston Man Arrested, Charged with Possessing Cocaine with Intent to Distribute and Illegally Possessing Firearm

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

    PORTLAND, Maine:  A Lewiston man was arrested on Wednesday and charged by criminal complaint today with possessing controlled substances with the intent to distribute and unlawfully possessing a firearm.

    According to the criminal complaint filed in the case and other court documents, Nasir Kenya-Malik White (aka Biggie), 24, was arrested at his residence in Lewiston on Wednesday evening on probable cause following a search of his apartment. Investigators recovered more than 300 grams of suspected cocaine during the search. Ten firearms, including several assault-style rifles, were also recovered. The complaint alleges that White is precluded from possessing firearms as a result of a 2023 conviction in Androscoggin County Superior Court for reckless conduct with a firearm or dangerous weapon. White was scheduled to make his first appearance in U.S. District Court in Portland today.

    The FBI’s Safe Streets Task Force is investigating the case with assistance from the Lewiston Police Department and the Maine Drug Enforcement Agency.

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

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Edmonton — Alberta Operational Communications Centres reduce response times across the province

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    This month, the Alberta RCMP marks OCCtober, a campaign in which we recognize the hard work of our Operational Communications Centres (OCC) and the impact that OCC operators have on the province of Alberta every day. Through their hard work and the development of new programs for crime reporting, the OCC’s response time is faster than ever. Currently, 97% of all calls are answered in under 2 minutes, with 87% of calls being answered in under 1 minute.

    OCC employees are a vital part of the RCMP. Day and night, 365 days a year, they are there to reassure the public when they call 911, direct officers during crisis situations, and help ensure the safety of Alberta’s police by monitoring their movements while they are out in the field.

    Ensuring officers respond to emergency calls rapidly is one of the Alberta RCMP’s top priorities, and a quick response by the OCC is the first step in the process. After receiving and evaluating each call, officers are dispatched based on the seriousness of the report. Reports of crime where there is an immediate threat to life and safety will be prioritized over crime that is discovered after it’s been committed and does not pose an immediate threat to public safety.

    The Alberta RCMP is responsible for policing 99% of Alberta’s landscape, covering over 660,000 square kilometers across the province. Despite the large jurisdiction, frequently in remote, rural regions, the average response time of the Alberta RCMP is only 21.20 minutes; 56.6% of calls are responded to within 20 minutes, with 15.4% of high priority calls being responded to in approximately five minutes. By triaging calls, and coordinating the deployment of officers across the province, the Alberta RCMP ensures that the officers closest to an emergency are responding, regardless of the detachment they belong to or the unit they are assigned to.

    There are several ways that the public can help their Alberta RCMP continue to reduce response times and keep their communities safe. Whether it is an emergency or not, report all crime in your community. Having a clear picture of crime across the province helps ensure the RCMP is allocating resources appropriately. If you are reporting a non-emergency, please contact your local detachment in person or over the phone. You can also report non-emergency crimes online on the RCMP webpage. For emergencies, always call 911 and our OCC operators will be there to help.

    Alberta RCMP Response Time Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E_pk1rR4AVQ

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Edmonton — Alberta RCMP offer safety tips for all ghouls and ghosts this Halloween

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    It’s October and we all know what that brings: changing leaves, everything pumpkin spice, and, of course, Halloween. On Halloween we can expect to see goblins, ghouls, monsters, and superheroes in the streets trick or treating. Whether you’re going from house to house, driving to a fellow ghoul’s for a ghastly get together, or staying inside to avoid things that go bump in the night, we can all do our part to ensure the safety of each other.

    This Halloween, the Alberta RCMP offers the following safety tips to ensure everyone has a safe and happy Halloween.

    Tips for trick-or-treaters:

    • Wear bright coloured costumes and use reflective tape or glow sticks to be more visible to drivers.
    • Use a flashlight and stay in well-lit areas.
    • Wear make-up instead of a mask. Masks can impair your vision and hearing. If you wear a mask, remove while walking from house to house and crossing streets.
    • Always walk on sidewalks.
    • Stay on one side of the street and only cross the street where safe to do so. Do not crisscross back-and-forth across roads or traffic.
    • Stay on the doorstep or sidewalk. Never go inside the home or car of someone you don’t know.
    • Travel in groups if you are unsupervised.

    Tips for adults:

    • Keep porch lights, or external security lights, on.
    • Keep doors clear and accessible. Avoid decorations that pose a tripping hazard.
    • Do not invite children inside your home.
    • Make sure to inspect your children’s candy for any signs of tampering or unwrapped items.
    • Only pass out commercially wrapped candy and snacks.
    • Keep pets indoors as they may be easily scared by children in costumes.
    • If you are going to be attending a party this Halloween, do not drink and drive or take substances from people you don’t know and trust.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Windsor Mill Woman Sentenced to More Than Five Years’ Imprisonment in Connection with Conspiracy Involving Fraudulently Obtaining and Attempting to Obtain More Than $3 Million in COVID-19 Cares Act Loans

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

    Glenn Used COVID-19 CARES Act Funds to Pay for a Vacation to Jamaica, a Mercedes-Benz, Luxury Jewelry, including a 31 Carat Diamond Necklace and items from Luis Vuitton, Neiman Marcus, Dior, Cartier, Gucci, Chanel and Hermes.

    Baltimore, Maryland – On October 23, 2024, Tomeka Glenn, a/k/a “Tomeka Harris” and “Tomeka Davis,” age 47, of Windsor Mill, Maryland, was sentenced by United States District Judge Richard D. Bennett to 65 months’ imprisonment and 3 years of supervised release in connection with her conviction on conspiracy to commit wire fraud relating to the submission of millions of dollars in fraudulent COVID-19 CARES Act Paycheck Protection Program and Economic Injury Disaster Loan applications.  Judge Bennett also directed Glenn to pay restitution in the amount of $3,016,275.62.

    Glenn’s co-defendant Kevin Davis, age 43, also of Windsor Mill, Maryland, pleaded guilty on January 25, 2024 to being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition.  Judge Bennett on May 22, 2024 sentenced him to 24 months’ imprisonment.

    The sentence was announced by Erek L. Barron, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland; Special Agent in Charge William J. Delbagno of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (“FBI”) Baltimore Field Office; and Chief Robert McCullough of the Baltimore County Police Department.

    Financial assistance offered through the CARES Act included forgivable loans to small businesses for job retention and certain other expenses through the Paycheck Protection Program, administered through the Small Business Administration (“SBA”).  The SBA also offered an Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) and/or an EIDL advance to help businesses meet their financial obligations.  An EIDL advance did not have to be repaid, and small businesses could receive an advance, even if they were not approved for an EIDL loan. The maximum advance amount was $10,000.

    According to Glenn’s plea agreement, beginning in June 2020 and continuing through March 2021,  Glenn and various co-conspirators prepared numerous false and fraudulent EIDL and PPP loan applications for various businesses (including some that did not exist in any legitimate capacity)  that included false information concerning, among other things, number of employees, monthly payroll costs, and revenue.  The PPP applications also routinely included false and fraudulent Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”) tax forms and bank statements, which were submitted by Glenn to substantiate the false representations made in the applications. 

    Glenn admitted that she received kickback payments from the loan borrowers in exchange for her assistance in connection with the submission of fraudulent PPP and EIDL applications, ultimately receiving more than $400,000 in kickbacks in connection with the scheme.  These kickbacks typically amounted to 10% to 20% of the loan amount.  In total, the kickback scheme resulted in the disbursement of at least $2,715,649.12 in fraudulently obtained PPP and EIDL funds in connection with 23 fraudulent PPP and EIDL loans.

    According to Glenn’s plea agreement, Glenn and Davis, received $300,726.50 in PPP/EIDL funds for various entities that they controlled, and Glenn attempted to obtain $601,511.20 in additional fraudulent PPP and EIDL funds too. 

    Glenn used the fraudulently obtained funds to pay for a luxury vacation at a resort in Jamaica, to purchase a 2021 Mercedes-Benz S580 sedan valued at $148,171.60, to buy thousands of dollars in luxury jewelry, as well as numerous other luxury goods, including items from Luis Vuitton, Neiman Marcus, Dior, Cartier, Gucci, Chanel, and Hermes.

    At the time of her scheme, neither Glenn nor Davis had any legitimate source of income, and in May 2020, each applied for unemployment insurance benefits in the State of Maryland.  In addition, as detailed in Davis and Glenn’s plea agreements, on January 6, 2023, law enforcement executed a federal search warrant at their residence.  Davis and Glenn were present at the residence at the time of the search and were arrested in connection with the fraudulent COVID-19 CARES Act loans.  According to Davis’s plea agreement, during the execution of the search warrant, law enforcement found and seized four firearms loaded with ammunition—a 9mm firearm, and three .40 caliber firearms.  Later investigation revealed that  one of the .40 caliber firearms had earlier been reported stolen by its owner.  As further detailed in Davis’s plea, the firearms were hidden by Davis in the air ducts of the residence: two firearms were hidden in the main bedroom air duct where Davis slept and kept his personal effects; the other two firearms were in the air duct of the bathroom closets to the main bedroom.  Moreover, two of the firearms were further stuffed in socks in an attempt to hide them.  Davis admitted that he possessed and secreted the firearms in the air ducts of his home (and in the socks) in an attempt to conceal them from law enforcement after learning that federal agents had a warrant to search his home.  As admitted to at his plea, Davis’s concealment of the firearms constitutes attempted obstruction of the administration of justice with respect to the investigation.  Each of the four firearms recovered from Davis’s home on January 6, 2023 were later found to have his DNA on them.  A later review of Davis’s iCloud account revealed the existence of, among other things, a series of videos depicting Davis handling firearms, including a shotgun and an assault rifle.  Davis knew that his previous felony conviction prohibited him from possessing firearms or ammunition.

    As part of their plea agreements, Glenn and Davis will be required to forfeit their interest in any assets derived from or obtained by them as a result of, or used to facilitate the commission of, their illegal activities. Specifically, Glenn is required to forfeit a money judgment in the amount of at least $700,726.50; the 2021 Mercedes-Benz; cash in bank accounts she controlled that were held in the names of business entities; and jewelry, including her 3.03 carat yellow diamond engagement ring, Rolex, Cartier and Breitling watches, and a Diamond Miami Cuban Link Chain with 31.5 carats of VS1 diamonds.  Davis must forfeit the firearms and ammunition.

    The District of Maryland Strike Force is one of five strike forces established throughout the United States by the U.S. Department of Justice to investigate and prosecute COVID-19 fraud, including fraud relating to the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (“CARES”) Act.  The CARES Act was designed to provide emergency financial assistance to Americans suffering the economic effects caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.  The strike forces focus on large-scale, multi-state pandemic relief fraud perpetrated by criminal organizations and transnational actors.  The strike forces are interagency law enforcement efforts, using prosecutor-led and data analyst-driven teams designed to identify and bring to justice those who stole pandemic relief funds.

    For more information on the Department’s response to the pandemic, please visit https://www.justice.gov/coronavirus.  Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at: https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.

    U.S. Attorney Barron commended the FBI, the SBA-OIG, and the Baltimore County Police Department for their work in the investigation.  Mr. Barron thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul A. Riley, who is prosecuting the case.  He also recognized the assistance of the Maryland COVID-19 Strike Force Paralegal Specialist Joanna B.N. Huber and Paralegal Specialist Juliette Jarman. 

    For more information on the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to help the community, please visit www.justice.gov/usao/md.

    # # #

     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Jury Convicts Mexican National of $4.7 Million Methamphetamine Heroin Conspiracy

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

    KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Mexican national who worked with a drug-trafficking organization tied to the Cárteles Unidos cartel in Michoacán, Mexico, was convicted by a federal trial jury today of his role in a $4.7 million conspiracy to distribute more than 335 kilograms of methamphetamine and 22 kilograms of heroin in the Kansas City, Mo., metropolitan area and throughout the United States.

    Luis Eduardo Pineda-Zarao, 29, a citizen of Mexico residing in Lebanon, Tennessee, was found guilty of participating in a conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and heroin from Feb. 28, 2020, to June 1, 2022.

    The indictment alleges the conspiracy involved the distribution of more than 335.5 kilograms of methamphetamine, with an average street price of $300 per ounce, and more than 22.1 kilograms of heroin, with an average street price of $1,500 per ounce.

    During the investigation, federal agents with Homeland Security Investigations conducted two undercover bulk cash pickups totaling $308,775 and seized $610,400 in bulk cash, over 56 kilograms of methamphetamine, 5.5 kilograms of heroin, 2.6 kilograms of marijuana, and at least eight firearms, two of which were stolen. Law enforcement officers also seized $277,863 during a vehicle stop and $114,863 while executing search warrants at four Kansas City, Mo., residences.

    Pineda-Zarao is among 44 defendants charged in this case. Nine co-defendants have been sentenced and 34 co-defendants have pleaded guilty and await sentencing.

    Following the presentation of evidence, the jury in the U.S. District Court in Kansas City, Mo., deliberated for less than an hour before returning guilty verdicts to U.S. District Judge Greg Kays, ending a trial that began Monday, Oct. 21.

    Under federal statutes, Pineda-Zarao is subject to a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in federal prison without parole, up to a sentence of life in federal prison without parole. The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes, as the sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled after the completion of a presentence investigation by the United States Probation Office.

    This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Patrick C. Edwards and Megan Baker. It was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Jackson County Drug Task Force, IRS-Criminal Investigation, the Kansas Bureau of Investigation, the Kansas City, Mo., Police Department, the Kansas City, Kan., Police Department, the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the Kansas Highway Patrol, the Independence, Mo., Police Department, the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, the Minnesota State Patrol, the Olmsted County, Minn., Sheriff’s Office, the Texas Department of Public Safety, the FBI, the Clay County, Mo., Sheriff’s Department, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the U.S. Marshals Service.

    Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force

    This case is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.

    KC Metro Strike Force

    This prosecution was brought as a part of the Department of Justice’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) Co-located Strike Forces Initiative, which provides for the establishment of permanent multi-agency task force teams that work side-by-side in the same location. This co-located model enables agents from different agencies to collaborate on intelligence-driven, multi-jurisdictional operations against a continuum of priority targets and their affiliate illicit financial networks. These prosecutor-led co-located Strike Forces capitalize on the synergy created through the long-term relationships that can be forged by agents, analysts, and prosecutors who remain together over time, and they epitomize the model that has proven most effective in combating organized crime. The principal mission of the OCDETF program is to identify, disrupt, and dismantle the most serious drug trafficking organizations, transnational criminal organizations, and money laundering organizations that present a significant threat to the public safety, economic, or national security of the United States.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Gang related funeral, Hutt Valley and Porirua

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Police will be monitoring a gang related funeral in the Hutt Valley and Porirua today, Tuesday 29 October.

    The funeral is due to take place in Lower Hutt this morning, with a procession to Whenua Tapu Cemetery in Porirua.

    Hutt Valley Prevention Manager Inspector Shaun Lingard says: “Police have had a visible presence in Lower Hutt overnight and will monitor the funeral procession out to Whenua Tapu today.”

    Unlawful activity will not be tolerated and any unlawful behaviour will be investigated and followed up with enforcement action.”

    There is likely to be some traffic disruption in the late morning in Lower Hutt, particularly around Moera, and in the early afternoon in Porirua including SH 58. Motorists should expect some temporary disruption and should plan accordingly.”

    If you are concerned about your safety, or witness illegal behaviour happening now, please call 111 immediately.

    To report, or send in any footage of the unlawful behaviour, we encourage you to file a report online at https://www.police.govt.nz/use-105, call Police on 105, or report anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111 or www.crimestoppers-nz.org 

    ENDS
     

    Issued by Police Media Centre. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Marshals, ATF, Jackson Police Arrest Fugitive and Find Cache of Weapons

    Source: US Marshals Service

    Jackson, TN – The U.S. Marshals Service (USMS), Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), and Jackson Police Department (JPD) captured a violent fugitive, Quoterrius Osler, and recovered a cache of weapons.

    JPD responded to a shooting on October 11, 2024, in Chapel Ridge Apartments and found two people suffering from gunshot wounds. JPD investigators determined that Quoterrius Osler, 24, of Jackson, was responsible for this crime. A warrant was issued for Osler’s arrest for attempted first degree murder. The USMS Two Rivers Violent Fugitive Task Force in Jackson was requested to assist in finding and apprehending Osler.

    On October 24, Deputy marshals, ATF agents, and JPD officers took Osler into custody at a residence in the 50 block of Point O’ Woods Drive in Jackson. During a search of the residence, JPD investigators recovered seven firearms. One of the recovered firearms had an attached device known as a “Glock switch” or auto sear that converts the firearm from a semi-automatic to fully automatic weapon.

    The U.S. Marshals Two Rivers Violent Fugitive Task Force (TRVFTF) is a multi-agency task force within Western Tennessee. The TRVFTF has offices in Memphis and Jackson, and its membership is primarily composed of Deputy U.S. Marshals, Shelby, Fayette, and Tipton County Sheriff’s Deputies, Memphis and Jackson Police Officers, the Tennessee Department of Correction Special Agents and the Tennessee Highway Patrol. Since 2021, the TRVFTF has captured 3,000 violent offenders and sexual predators.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Twillingate — Twillingate RCMP investigates break, enter and theft at Gary’s Irving in Summerford, man arrested

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Following a break, enter and theft that occurred on October 26, 2024, at Gary’s Irving in Summerford, 41-year-old Adam Boyde was arrested by Twillingate RCMP.

    The crime occurred at approximately 2:45 a.m. on October 26. The front door glass was smashed and a quantity of alcohol and cigarettes were stolen from inside. Evidence obtained during the investigation identified the suspect as Adam Boyde, who was arrested later that day.

    Boyde is charged with break, enter and theft and is set to appear in court at a later date.

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Happy Valley-Goose Bay — Happy Valley-Goose Bay RCMP investigates robbery at Skipper Joe’s, seeks public’s assistance

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Happy Valley-Goose Bay RCMP is investigating a robbery that occurred on the evening of October 27, 2024, at Skipper Joe’s store on Hamilton River Road in Happy Valley-Goose Bay.

    The crime occurred at approximately 9:00 p.m. on Sunday. A lone man, who was wearing all black clothing and gloves, entered the store wearing a black ski mask. He approached the cashier and demanded that the employee open the register. The man departed the store with the register in hand and was last seen running east along Hamilton River Road towards Juniper Street.

    The investigation is continuing. Police ask the public to check for any available surveillance footage, including dash cam footage, and to report suspicious activity.

    Anyone having information about this crime, the identity of the suspect or the current location of the cash register is asked to contact Happy Valley-Goose Bay RCMP at 709-896-3383. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers: #SayItHere 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), visit www.nlcrimestoppers.com or use the P3Tips app.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Twillingate — Twillingate RCMP investigates break, enter and theft at Friday’s Bay lookout trail in Fairbank

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Twillingate RCMP is investigating a break, enter and theft that occurred sometime overnight on October 24, 2024, at Friday’s Bay lookout trail in Fairbank.

    Shortly after 12:00 p.m. on October 25, 2024, police received a report that a shed, located in the parking lot near the entrance to the trail, had been broken into. The following is a list of tools that were stolen:

    • DeWalt DCS391B 165mm circular saw
    • DeWalt DCD771C2 cordless drill x 2
    • Square measuring tape
    • Hammers x 3
    • Box of #8 x 3″ screws

    The investigation is continuing.

    Anyone having information about this crime, the person(s) responsible, or the location of the stolen property is asked to call Twillingate RCMP at 709-884-2811. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers: #SayItHere 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), visit www.nlcrimestoppers.com or use the P3Tips app.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Gander — Gander RCMP investigates theft from Dominion in Gander, seeks public’s assistance (UPDATED)

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Update #2: Thanks to the assistance of the public, the woman was identified.

    Update: Gander RCMP thanks the public for the information received on the identity of the woman. Efforts are underway to confirm the information received.

    On August 29, Gander RCMP received a report of a theft from Dominion in Gander. Surveillance video showed a woman stealing a cart full of grocery items with a suspected value of more than $900.00.

    Local efforts by Gander RCMP to identify the suspect have been exhausted. A picture of the woman is attached and the investigation is continuing.

    Anyone with any information about the identity of the woman pictured is asked to call Gander RCMP at 709-256-6841. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), visit www.nlcrimestoppers.com or use the P3Tips app. #SayItHere

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Whitehorse — Police respond to a fatal motor vehicle collision

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    On October 26 at approximately 2:00 a.m., Whitehorse RCMP responded to a motor vehicle collision involving a pickup truck and tractor trailer on the Alaska Highway near the Porter Creek subdivision.

    Yukon Emergency Medical Services and the Whitehorse Fire Department assisted at the scene and a 37-year-old male from Whitehorse was found deceased.

    The section of the Alaska Highway from Birch Street to Wann Road was closed to traffic and a detour was established to allow traffic to bypass the area while an M Division RCMP Collision Analyst attended to collect evidence. The closed section of highway was re-opened to the public on October 26 at approximately 5:00 pm.

    Whitehorse RCMP and the Yukon Coroner’s Service continue to investigate.

    Our condolences go out to the friends and family of the deceased and all affected persons.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Mann Hosts Fourth Annual Military Academy Nomination Day

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Tracey Mann (Kansas, 1)

    ABILENE, KS – Today, U.S. Representative Tracey Mann (KS-01) hosted his fourth annual Congressional Military Academy Nomination Day. As the Representative for the Big First District in Congress, Rep. Mann has the privilege of offering military academy nominations to the five U.S. service academies for students in the district. The interviews took place at the Dwight D. Eisenhower Presidential Library and Museum in Abilene, Kansas. 

    “One of my greatest honors in Congress is nominating students from the Big First to attend our nation’s service academies,” said Rep. Mann. “The students we met represent the best of Kansas, and I am grateful for their desire to serve our country and grow into the next generation of military leaders. It is always a pleasure to host the military academy selection committee in the childhood hometown of five-star U.S. Army General and son of Kansas, President Dwight D. Eisenhower. I also owe a debt of gratitude to the panel for lending their expertise and unique perspectives to the selection process. We look forward to these students’ success.”

    Rep. Mann appointed a panel of Kansans from the Big First District with extensive experience in U.S. military service or working closely with the military. The five-person panel included: 

    •  Mary Eisenhower, granddaughter of President Eisenhower and Chairman Emeritus of People to People International 

    • AJ Kuhle, U.S. Air Force Academy alumnus, U.S. Air Force Veteran, and President of ACE Scholarships

    • Mark Claussen, Director of Business Development of Icon Structures and former Executive Director of USO Kansas 

    • Michael Utz, retired Garden City Police Chief and U.S. Air Force Veteran, Law Enforcement Coordinator for the Bureau of Justice Assistance 

    • MSG (Ret.) Joshua Sandlin, Army Veteran and Executive Director of the Society of the 1st Infantry Division

    Eight high school students in the district applied for a military academy nomination through Rep. Mann’s office. In the coming weeks, the panel will notify the students whom they have chosen to receive these competitive nominations. 

    Rep. Mann is a former member of the House Committee on Veterans Affairs and a strong supporter of America’s U.S. military service members. 

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General Alan Wilson announces Nicholas Gracely convicted after jury trial in the South Carolina State Grand Jury “Las Señoritas” investigationRead More

    Source: US State of South Carolina

    (COLUMBIA, S.C.) – South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson announced today that a Greenville County jury convicted Nicholas Gracely in the “Las Señoritas” investigation on Tuesday, October 22, 2024. 

    Gracely was convicted of Trafficking Methamphetamine, 400 Grams or More; Trafficking Methamphetamine, 200 Grams or More, But Less Than 400 Grams; Manufacturing Methamphetamine; Possession of a Weapon During a Violent Crime (x2); and Unlawful Conduct Towards a Child.  

    Gracely was a co-conspirator who was receiving methamphetamine directly from Nicole Burns, a “Señorita” who had fled to Mexico and was still coordinating methamphetamine being delivered and distributed in Greenville County. Burns pleaded guilty on June 24, 2024, before the start of her jury trial in the connected investigation “Prison Empire.”  She was sentenced to a 55-year sentence.

    The facts of the case showed that law enforcement executed a search warrant on May 3, 2022, at Gracely’s apartment where his wife and three-month-old daughter were also living. Approximately 2,603 grams of methamphetamine was located with a disassembled meth lab in the garage. Approximately 291 grams of methamphetamine was located in a box in the kitchen of the apartment. Gracely confessed to being involved in the conspiracy.

    Judge R.S. Sprouse sentenced Gracely to a total sentence of 28 years in prison.  

    The case was investigated by the South Carolina State Grand Jury and prosecuted by Assistant Attorney General Savanna Goude. The State Grand Jury was assisted in this case by a partnership of the Attorney General’s State Grand Jury Division, the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division, the Thirteenth Circuit Solicitor’s office, the South Carolina Department of Corrections’ Office of the Inspector General, the Greenville County Multi-Jurisdictional Drug Enforcement Unit, Abbeville County Sheriff’s Office, Anderson County Sheriff’s Office, Greenville County Sheriff’s Office, Laurens County Sheriff’s Department, Oconee County Sheriff’s Office, Pickens County Sheriff’s  Office, Spartanburg County Sheriff’s Office, Clemson Police Department, Easley Police Department, and Traveler’s Rest Police Department. State Grand Jury Division Chief Attorney S. Creighton Waters thanked all the agencies for their hard work in the case.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Media advisory: Arthur Easton homicide investigation

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Police are issuing an appeal in relation to the murder of Arthur Easton in Papakura 39 years ago.

    Media are advised an announcement will be held today at 11am at Counties Manukau Police Station.

    Detective Inspector Warrick Adkin will speak with media.

    Media are required to RSVP to this advisory by emailing media@police.govt.nz  

    WHO: Detective Inspector Warrick Adkin

    WHEN: Please assemble outside the station at 10.45am to be escorted inside for an 11am start.

    WHERE: Counties Manukau Police Station, 42 Manukau Station Road, Manukau City Centre

    ENDS.

    Holly McKay/NZ Police

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Port Arthur felon sentenced to federal prison for gun and drug violations

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

    BEAUMONT, Texas – A Port Arthur convicted felon has been sentenced to federal prison for firearms and drug trafficking violations in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney Damien M. Diggs.

    Jacob Jermaine Alpough, 42, pleaded guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm and possession with intent to distribute cocaine and was sentenced to 78 months in federal prison by U.S. District Judge Michael Truncale on October 28, 2024.

    According to information presented in court, on October 10, 202, law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at Alpough’s residence located on West 5th Street in Port Arthur.  At the time of the search, Alpough was the only individual at the residence. During the search, officers found two tightly wrapped packages containing approximately one kilogram of cocaine under the dining room table.  They also located a food storage container in the kitchen with approximately one kilogram of cocaine.  Additionally, there was a semi-automatic pistol laying on the floor of the living room in plain view near where Alpough had been sleeping.  The firearm had an extended magazine with 17 rounds of ammunition in it.  Alpough is a convicted felon, having three prior felony convictions in Jefferson County for possession of a controlled substance and another conviction for intoxicated assault. As a convicted felon, Alpough is prohibited by federal law from owning or possessing firearms or ammunition.

    This case was prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts.  PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime.  Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them.  As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.

    This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Port Arthur Police Department and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew Quinn.

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Jackson Man Pleads Guilty to Illegal Possession of a Machinegun after High Speed Chase and Collision with a Train Car

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

    Jackson, Miss. – A Jackson man pled guilty to illegal possession of a machinegun.

    Johnny Ragsdale, 20, pled guilty on October 24, 2024 in U.S. District Court in Jackson.

    According to court documents, Ragsdale was found in possession of an illegal machinegun after an attempted traffic stop on a vehicle in Jackson. Ragsdale, the driver, failed to yield to law enforcement and led Capitol Police on a high-speed chase. The chase ended after Ragsdale collided with a train car on Mill Street. A Glock pistol was recovered from the vehicle, and a machinegun conversion device, also known as a switch, was attached to the pistol.

    The U.S. Attorney’s Office has seen an increase in cases involving illegal firearm conversion devices, commonly known as “switches” or “auto sears,” which convert semi-automatic handguns into fully automatic weapons (i.e., machineguns) in a matter of seconds. The rapid fire of firearms converted to machineguns presents a significant danger in our community to both the public and law enforcement.  According to a 2023 report by the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), there was a 570% increase in the number of machinegun conversion devices taken into ATF custody between 2017 and 2021.

    Ragsdale is scheduled to be sentenced on February 25, 2025, and a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison. A federal district judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    U.S. Attorney Todd W. Gee and Special Agent in Charge Joshua Jackson of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) made the announcement.

    The ATF and the Capitol Police Department are investigating the case.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Amber S. Jones is 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 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: October Federal Grand Jury 2024-B Indictments Announced

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

    United States Attorney Clint Johnson today announced the results of the October Federal Grand Jury 2024-B Indictments.

    The following individuals have been charged with violations of United States law in indictments returned by the Grand Jury. The return of an indictment is a method of informing a defendant of alleged violations of federal law, which must be proven in a court of law beyond a reasonable doubt to overcome a defendant’s presumption of innocence.

    Lawrence Francis Michael Bady. Felon in Possession of a Firearm and Ammunition. Bady, 33, transient, is charged with possessing a firearm and ammunition, knowing he was previously convicted of felonies. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Tulsa Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Niko Boulieris is prosecuting the case. 24-CR-340

    Paul Jimenez Diaz; Saul Peña Becerra. Drug Conspiracy; Possession of Fentanyl with Intent to Distribute; Possession of Heroin with Intent to Distribute; Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Distribute; Possession of Cocaine with Intent to Distribute; Maintaining a Drug-Involved Premises (superseding). Diaz, 37, and Becerra, 20, Mexican Nationals, are charged with conspiring to distribute fentanyl, heroin, methamphetamine, and cocaine. Diaz knowingly possessed more than 500 grams of fentanyl, 100 grams of heroin, and more than 50 grams of methamphetamine. They also are charged with maintaining a residence for the distribution of drugs. Becerra is charged with knowingly possessing cocaine to distribute it and possessing more than 500 grams of methamphetamine. The Drug Enforcement Administration, Homeland Security Investigation, and the Tulsa Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mandy M. Mackenzie is prosecuting the case. 24-CR-323

    Kourtney Dawn Haley. Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Distribute; Maintaining a Drug-Involved Premises. Haley, 44, of Tulsa and a member of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation, is charged with knowingly possessing methamphetamine with intent to distribute and maintaining a residence to distribute methamphetamine. The Drug Enforcement Administration and the Tulsa Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney David A. Nasar is prosecuting the case. 24-CR-330

    Joseph Matthew Hough.  Domestic Assault in Indian Country by a Habitual Offender. Hough, 48, of Tulsa and a member of the Cherokee Nation, is charged with domestic assault after receiving felony convictions for domestic assault in Tulsa County District Court. The FBI and the Tulsa Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Melissa Weems and Stacey P. Todd are prosecuting the case. 24-CR-331

    Hilario Lucas Mendoza. Unlawful Reentry of a Removed Alien. Mendoza, 42, a Mexican national, is charged with unlawfully reentering the United States after having been removed in Dec. 2009. U.S. Immigration and Custom’s Enforcement and Removal Operations is the investigative agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Niko Boulieris is prosecuting the case. 24-CR-332

    James Dernest Mims, Jr. Felon in Possession of a Firearm and Ammunition; Possession of a Stolen Firearm. Mims, 26, of Virginia, is charged with possessing a firearm and ammunition, knowing he was previously convicted of felonies. Additionally, Mims possessed a stolen firearm. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Tulsa Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Scott Dunn is prosecuting the case. 24-CR-334

    Jesse Lane Mitchell; Jacklyn Paige Roberts. Aggravated Sexual Abuse of a Minor Under 12 Years of Age in Indian Country; Coercion and Enticement of a Minor; Child Neglect in Indian Country. Mitchell, 35, and Roberts, 32, a member of the Cherokee Nation of Oklahoma, both of Collinsville, are charged with knowingly engaging in a sexual act with a minor child under 12 years old between Jan. 2023 and Apr. 2024. Mitchell is further charged with coercing and enticing a minor child under 18 years old to engage in sexual activity. From Jan. 2023 through Aug. 2024, Roberts willfully failed to protect and adequately supervise a child. Homeland Security Investigations and the Collinsville Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Stephanie Ihler and Stephen Scaife are prosecuting the case. 24-CR-342

    Brian Scott Perry. Felon in Possession of a Firearm and Ammunition. Perry, 46, of Tulsa, is charged with possessing a firearm and ammunition, knowing he was previously convicted of felonies. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Tulsa Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Valeria Luster and Matthew Cyran are prosecuting the case. 24-CR-339

    Arlando Maurice Williams. Felon in Possession of a Firearm and Ammunition. Williams, 25, of Sapulpa, is charged with possessing a firearm and ammunition, knowing he was previously convicted of felonies. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Oklahoma Highway Patrol are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Niko Boulieris is prosecuting the case. 24-CR-333

    Michael Brandon Williams. Felon in Possession of a Firearm and Ammunition; False Impersonation of an Officer or Employee of the United States. Williams, 43, of Bixby, is charged with possessing a firearm and ammunition, knowing he was previously convicted of felonies. Additionally, Williams was charged with pretending to be an FBI agent. The FBI and Bixby Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Adam C. Bailey is prosecuting the case. 24-CR-336

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Indian Cybercrime Coordination Center (I4C), MHA issues alert against illegal payment gateways created using mule bank accounts by Transnational Organized Cybercriminals facilitating money laundering as a service

    Source: Government of India

    Indian Cybercrime Coordination Center (I4C), MHA issues alert against illegal payment gateways created using mule bank accounts by Transnational Organized Cybercriminals facilitating money laundering as a service

    Under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and guidance of Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah, Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) is taking all steps to create a Cyber Secure Bharat

    Nation-wide raids by Gujarat Police and Andhra Pradesh Police reveal that trans-national criminals have created illegal digital payment gateways using mule / rented accounts

    These illegal infrastructure facilitating money laundering as a service are used for laundering proceeds of multiple nature of cybercrimes

    I4C advices all citizens not to sell/rent their bank accounts/company registration certificate/Udhyam Aadhaar Registration certificate to anyone

    Illicit funds deposited in such bank accounts can lead to legal consequences, including arrest

    Banks may deploy necessary checks to identify misuse of bank accounts that are used for setting up Illegal Payment Gateways

    People must immediately report any cybercrime on helpline number 1930 or www.cybercrime.gov.in and follow “CyberDost” channels / account on social media, to remain informed

    Posted On: 28 OCT 2024 7:49PM by PIB Delhi

    Indian Cybercrime Coordination Center (I4C), MHA has issued an against illegal payment gateways created using mule bank accounts by Transnational Organized Cybercriminals facilitating money laundering as a service. Recent nation-wide raids by Gujarat Police (FIR 0113/2024) and Andhra Pradesh Police (FIR 310/2024) have revealed that trans-national criminals have created illegal digital payment gateways using mule/rented accounts. These illegal infrastructure facilitating money laundering as a service are used for laundering proceeds of multiple nature of cybercrimes.

    Under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and guidance of Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah, Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), in collaboration with all Law Enforcement Agencies (LWAs), is taking all steps to create a Cyber Secure Bharat.

    As per the information received from State Police Agencies and analysis by Indian Cybercrime Coordination Center, following details were identified:

    1. Current accounts and saving accounts are scouted through social media; majorly from Telegram and Facebook. These accounts belong to shell companies / enterprise or individuals.
    2. These mule accounts are controlled remotely from overseas.
    • III. An illegal payment gateway is then created using these mule accounts are given to criminal syndicates for accepting deposits on illegal platforms like fake investment scam sites, offshore betting and gambling websites, fake stock trading platforms etc.
    • IV. Funds are immediately layered to another account as soon as the crime proceeds are received. Bulk Payout facility provided by banks are misused for the same.

    Some of the payment gateways identified during operation are PeacePay, RTX Pay, PoccoPay, RPPay etc. These gateways are learnt to be providing Money Laundering as a Service and are operated by foreign nationals.

    I4C has advised citizens not to sell/rent their bank accounts/company registration certificate/Udhyam Aadhaar Registration certificate to anyone. Illicit funds deposited in such bank accounts can lead to legal consequences, including arrest. Banks may deploy checks to identify misuse of bank accounts that are used for setting up Illegal Payment Gateways. The citizens must immediately report any cybercrime on helpline number 1930 or www.cybercrime.gov.in and follow “CyberDost” channels / account on social media.

    *****

    RK / VV / RR / PS

    (Release ID: 2069000) Visitor Counter : 23

    Read this release in: Hindi

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya Announces Nationwide Volunteering Initiative ‘This Diwali with MY BHARAT’ to Mark MY Bharat Portal’s First Anniversary

    Source: Government of India (2)

    Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya Announces Nationwide Volunteering Initiative ‘This Diwali with MY BHARAT’ to Mark MY Bharat Portal’s First Anniversary

    Over 2 Lakh Volunteers across 500 Locations in India to Participate in this Initiative

    Posted On: 28 OCT 2024 6:51PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Minister of Youth Affairs & Sports and Labour & Employment, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, has unveiled a nationwide volunteering initiative titled ‘This Diwali with MY Bharat – Ye Diwali MY Bharat Ke Saath’, set to take place from 27th to 30th October 2024. This special event, aimed at celebrating the first anniversary of the MY Bharat Portal, will see the participation of over 2 lakh volunteers across 500 locations in India, fostering a spirit of social service and volunteerism during the festive season.

    Through this initiative, volunteers will work together to enhance urban amenities such as roadways, markets, and basic healthcare facilities, ensuring that citizens enjoy a more vibrant and seamless festival experience. The effort aims to strengthen the bond between local communities and volunteers, showcasing the power of community-oriented action. Activities planned under this mega event include:

    • Market Cleaning: In collaboration with the All India Traders Association, volunteers will clean identified marketplaces.
    • Hospital Volunteering: Volunteers will assist in enhancing access to health services for patients.
    • Traffic Volunteering: Assisting Traffic Police in managing traffic congestion at critical chokepoints.

    The event will see collaboration from various stakeholders, including the Department of Youth Affairs, the Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT), registered MY Bharat volunteers, Youth Clubs, NSS units, Market Associations, Traffic Police departments, and selected hospitals.

    Department of Youth Affairs invites the youth across the country to actively participate by registering on the MY Bharat Portal at www.mybharat.gov.in and engaging in activities planned during the festive season. Participants are encouraged to share their photos and videos of the activities on the Mega Event Page, using the hashtag #DiwaliWithMYBharat.

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    Himanshu Pathak

    (Release ID: 2068973) Visitor Counter : 83

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –