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Category: Police

  • MIL-Evening Report: Stalking rates in Australia are still shockingly high – one simple strategy might help

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Troy McEwan, Professor of Clinical and Forensic Psychology, Swinburne University of Technology

    UfaBizPhoto/Shutterstock

    New data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) reveals one in seven adult Australians have been stalked in their lifetime: one in five women and one in 15 men.

    While shocking to many, for those of us who work in the field, there is nothing surprising about these figures.

    The ABS has conducted similar surveys roughly every five years since 2005, which reveal basically the same results each time.

    About 3-4% of women and 1-2% of men are victims of stalking every year.

    These rates are consistent with those reported in research from the United Kingdom and United States, with small variations depending on definition.

    Stalking rates have remained stubbornly consistent despite the same ABS survey showing reductions in the rates of intimate partner violence and general violence over the past decade.

    The reasons for this are unclear, though there are obvious differences in the level of government and community investment in countering intimate partner violence versus awareness of and attention to stalking.

    What exactly is stalking?

    Stalking is a pattern of repeated and unwanted behaviour in which one person pushes their way into the life of another where they have no legitimate right to be, causing the target distress and fear.

    The most common methods are unwanted communication (by phone or digital media) and unwanted contacts (such as following someone or loitering nearby).

    Threats of violence and assault occur in at least a quarter of cases.

    Stalking that persists for more than two weeks is more likely to continue and cause significant harm.

    The impact of stalking

    Victims of persistent stalking have described it as “psychological rape”, with the stalker invading every part of their life.

    The cumulative impact of seemingly never-ending intrusions, and their social and financial toll, is probably why stalking victims report high rates of depression, anxiety and traumatic stress disorders.

    Researchers have estimated being stalked for 14 months costs victims approximately $A140,000, including direct costs from lost work and legal expenses and indirect costs of physical and mental harm.

    Who stalks?

    Most stalking is perpetrated by people who are known to the victim, either as an acquaintance or an ex-partner, with strangers responsible for about 20-25% of stalking.

    Stalking usually starts either because the person feels mistreated and stalks to take revenge or right the wrong, or they stalk to start or enact a relationship with the victim that does not exist. In a small number of cases, stalking has a sexual motivation and can sometimes be part of planning or preparation for a sexual assault.

    Regardless of motivation, most stalking is communicative – the stalker wants the victim to know they exist and to feel like they must respond.

    However, responding to a stalker is not advisable as it usually just adds fuel to the emotional fire that drives them.

    Ex-partners account for just under half of all stalking cases and many more women than men are stalked by an ex.

    Stalking in this context is a type of intimate partner violence and it receives by far the most attention and response.

    Research suggests that intimate partner stalking is more often identified as being perpetrated by former rather than current partners.

    Psychological abuse or coercive control during a relationship might be linked to increased potential for stalking after a break-up.

    Physical violence is much more common in cases of ex-partner stalking, with the ABS survey and earlier research finding half of intimate partner stalkers used physical violence.

    Thankfully, most stalking-related violence does not cause severe physical harm and homicide is extremely rare.

    Although prior stalking is common in ex-partner homicides, recent Victorian research showed that of 5,026 intimate partner violence reports to police involving stalking, only nine involved fatal or near fatal violence in the following 12 months.

    This means the presence of stalking is not a useful risk factor for trying to predict intimate partner homicide.

    Strategies against stalking

    Numerous strategies have been identified to prevent and reduce stalking-related harms. Among those tried largely outside Australia:

    The Victorian Law Reform Commission’s 2022 review of stalking laws recommended adoption of several of these strategies, though to date the state government has committed only to revising the stalking law.

    A simple but powerful strategy

    Stalking is a complicated problem and a comprehensive response needs multi-faceted systemic change that will be costly and take much effort and time.

    Currently, there doesn’t seem to be an appetite in Australia for the work required.

    However, there is one relatively straightforward thing the federal, state and territory governments could do right now to help: establish a national stalking helpline that can provide specialist information, advice and advocacy for all victims.

    Such a helpline was established in the UK in 2010 and has supported more than 65,000 people.

    The helpline provides online and telephone advice to potential stalking victims, including basic risk assessment, advocacy and links to local support services. It also provides advice to mental health professionals and others who are supporting stalking victims.

    The helpline serves all people, regardless of their gender or relationship with the stalker. Nearly half (45%) of its clients are stalked by a stranger or acquaintance, not an ex-partner. This highlights the importance of a specialised stalking response separate to existing services for family and intimate partner violence.

    An Australian equivalent would provide immediate support for victims and a focal point for necessary research and evaluation into what works to stop stalking.

    An Australian national stalking helpline would be a practical, relatively inexpensive and immediately helpful strategy that governments could implement to support the hundreds of thousands of Australians who are stalked every year.

    Troy McEwan has received funding from the Australian Research Council and Victoria Police for stalking-related research.

    – ref. Stalking rates in Australia are still shockingly high – one simple strategy might help – https://theconversation.com/stalking-rates-in-australia-are-still-shockingly-high-one-simple-strategy-might-help-241891

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Press Conference Apia, Samoa

    Source: Australian Government – Minister of Foreign Affairs

    Penny Wong, Foreign Minister: Look, can I say how wonderful it is to be here in Samoa as it hosts its first ever Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting, the first time this has been held in a Pacific Island country. And Australia has been really pleased to partner with Samoa, and we are really pleased – I’m really pleased to be here, and I know the Prime Minister is very pleased to be able to join us this evening.

    I want to thank a woman for whom I have such great regard, Prime Minister Fiamē, for her leadership, for her hospitality, for her thoughtful hosting of this meeting and, the way in which she has sought to elevate Pacific priorities and voices on the international stage.

    It’s certainly been a busy day today. It kicked off with a meeting about investment, finance and investment, hosted by David Lammy, the UK Foreign Secretary. And we recognise that economic integration and investment are central to development, are central to alleviating poverty and enabling opportunity. And we’re partnering with the United Kingdom to develop a new Commonwealth Investment Network to support Commonwealth members, particularly smaller states who often have challenges accessing finance, accessing investment, to do just that – to attract and access investment.

    I’ve also been at the first session of the Commonwealth Foreign Affairs Ministers Meeting. Obviously, that’s in preparation for the Leaders’ Meeting tomorrow. Top of the agenda is, as you would expect here in Pacific, climate. And as you would have heard me say from the first day I was – I stood in the Pacific as Foreign Minister, and I’ve consistently recognised this as I have travelled throughout the Pacific, climate change is an existential threat. It is the number one national security threat, it is the number one economic threat to the peoples of the Pacific and to many members of the Commonwealth.

    We heard today from a number of African countries, including Zambia, about the escalating impacts of climate change, the effects on food insecurity. And I’m really pleased that we are able to announce a new Africa-Australia partnership for climate responsive agriculture. This is to be developed by the Australian Centre for International Agriculture Research, and it will address food insecurity in the region.

    Can I talk about what this means? One of the things Australia is good at is agriculture in very dry climates – for obvious reason. It is one of the areas we have an expertise, and this – I’m very excited about this partnership because it leverages a particular Australian expertise into a continent for which food insecurity is an ongoing and rising challenge. It’s another example of our commitment as a government to helping partners around the world in the fight against climate change. It’s about shaping the world for the better.

    I’ve also spoken to Pacific leaders about the ways in which Australia is transitioning our entire economy. It’s a big task, started later than it should have, but we are committed to making the very large change.

    I’ve had productive meetings with counterparts from Malta and Solomon Islands, and I’ve just returned from an event hosted by Samoa attended by Her Majesty the Queen, advocating for women and girls in the Commonwealth where we talked about the challenges facing women and girls, including violence against women, and we spoke about Australia’s progress in tackling cervical cancer.

    I’m looking forward to the rest of the program, and happy to take your questions shortly.

    I just want to make one comment about another matter, which is the deeply troubling news about North Korea’s contribution to Russia’s illegal and immoral war in Ukraine. This is a deeply concerning development to see not only Russia continue its illegal and immoral war but to see a state such as North Korea be invited by President Putin, encouraged by President Putin, to join or to support this illegal war. And Australia stands with the remained of the international community not only against Russia’s war but against North Korea’s involvement in what is an illegal and immoral and disruptive war.

    Happy to take questions.

    Journalist: My name is Deidre from TV1, a local reporter. I just wanted to ask, first question is: what kind of support has Australia provided for Samoa for CHOGM, aside from providing assistance in terms of police officers who have come and helped?

    Foreign Minister: Sure, yes, well, obviously that’s the more – most visible recent assistance, which I have to be really clear about is not just Australia. This is a multi-country initiative. It’s obviously contributions from many Pacific Island countries. When we announced the Pacific Policing Initiative at the Pacific Islands Forum I think the Prime Minister and certainly I’ve made the comment, you know, this is Pacific led. And that’s the approach we’ve seen in Samoa. So, it’s good to see these police cooperating on the ground.

    But the behind-the-scenes assistance or contribution obviously was primarily towards the arrangement of CHOGM and supporting – providing support at a diplomatic level. I can – we can talk to you about that in more detail.

    I want to say, though, to you, your country has done an extraordinary job. For a country of this size to be able to host a conference like this, you really all should be very proud. And I’ve no doubt knowing the Pacific and Samoa, this is a whole-of-nation effort, isn’t it? Like everybody steps up. I was talking to Prime Minister Fiamē, and she spoke about everybody stepping forward. And that’s what you see. And your diplomatic influence, your diplomatic standing, is far bigger than your population in terms of the proportion of the world. I see that at the UN when your Prime Minister speaks and your diplomats speak, and I see that in this conference.

    So, my congratulations to my very good friend Prime Minister Fiamē, but also to the people of Samoa for what has been a fantastic CHOGM, and I hope tomorrow goes as well. I’m sure it will.

    Journalist: Foreign Minister, just on the Falepili Union, Feleti Teo has said this morning that he believes that Australia does have a commitment or at least an implied commitment under the text of the Falepili Union to take a hard look at fossil fuel exports, not just Australia’s own internal commitments. What’s your response? Is there any sort of implied commitment in the Falepili Union towards fossil fuel exports? Do you disagree with that analysis?

    Foreign Minister: I think whether it’s the PIF declarations or the public statements we have made, I think we all understand the existential threat that climate change poses to the peoples of the Pacific. I think we all understand the effects of climate change in Australia which we have seen. We’re not a government like Mr Abbott’s and Mr Morrison’s or that has the views Mr Dutton has demonstrated where the science of climate change isn’t accepted, and the experience of Pacific peoples is diminished. Do you remember him saying – talking about making jokes about water lapping at the door?

    So, we understand the extent of this. I’ve spoken at length to the Prime Minister of Tuvalu about the transition in the Australian economy, and it is a very big transition. And I wish we had – you know, when we came to government, we had seen not just 30 per cent renewables but much more because we have to get to in excess of 80 per cent by the end of the decade. But that’s the transition we’re in and we will engage in it.

    On the broader issue of fossil fuel usage, not just in Australia but globally, of course we all have to, we all have to peak our emissions and reduce them, and Australia’s emissions peaked in 2005. We know that there are countries which are still increasing their supply, their coal-fired power stations. Of course, we all know that the whole world has to respond.

    The point I’ve made previously is that there are two emerging economies in the world which, you know, account for 40 per cent of global emissions – India and China. And in order for us to have a chance at restraining global temperature rise, we all have to commit to reducing emissions and to transitioning to cleaner energy. So, we’re up for that. It will take longer than I would have liked because, you know, obviously nothing was done for 10 years.

    Journalist: But can Australia shrug its shoulders in terms of those exports and simply say there is no problem with Australia expanding fossil fuel projects if there’s an appetite for it? The point that I think that Prime Minister Teo is making is that on the one hand Australia points to its own record, on the other hand, you’ve got countries like India and China continuing to expand fossil fuels. He doesn’t perhaps care who takes responsibility; the cycle has to be brought to a close.

    Foreign Minister: Yeah, I think we all have to take responsibility, which is why you also see Australia partnering with other countries to try and work with others to transition the global energy supply to renewable energy. You would have seen I work with Singapore; you’d see that we’re working with Germany. You know, Chris Bowen has spoken at length about the work that he is doing internationally.

    I wish we were – you know, when I was Climate Minister between 2007 and 2010, including the famous Copenhagen conference, I wish that what we were trying to get agreed then had been agreed and you and I would be having a very different conversation. But that isn’t what happened globally. That isn’t what happened in Australia, and we went backwards as a country. We know we have a lot of work to do. And I’ve been upfront with every partner in the Pacific. Of course, I listen, I hear what they say. And I think they also see in us a partner who wants to make this transition. And we will. We will.

    Journalist: Foreign Minister, in terms of Pacific Engagement Visa, I know our government does not want to participate in the first wave. So, my question is: have you received or has the government of Australia received any update from our government? And if the government did not, is Australia – will Australia be pushing for the Samoan government to support the visa?

    Foreign Minister: Yeah, Mr Dziedzic asked me those “if” questions, and I usually tell him off for doing that. But look, as a matter of principle, the Pacific Engagement Visa responds to a longstanding call from Pacific Island nations about wanting a different relationship with Australia. And you would have seen the fact demonstrated by the number of people who have sought to come to Australia in those countries where we have those arrangements. It’s been massive low oversubscribed and, you know, I understand that.

    I’ve also been very clear from the beginning, just like PALM, this is a question for the sending country. If people want it, we will work with whichever country, whichever Pacific Island nation, to set up the arrangements in ways they feel comfortable with. If countries don’t wish to go down this path, it’s not a compulsory path for us.

    We responded. A number of countries have very enthusiastically taken it up. It’s entirely a matter for others whether they choose to or not and, if they do, how they want it to work.

    Journalist: Just to follow up on that, if our government does not want to support it, is Australia willing to reconsider if individuals want to participate?

    Foreign Minister: No, we want this to be something – it’s a government-to-government arrangement for the process of it and the arrangements associated with it, so we wouldn’t want to see that. But, you know, we’re also – we’re not – there’s no deadline for – in the sense that we’re not saying, ‘unless you – you have to do it by this year or never at all.’ It’s a policy that’s in place. I anticipate that countries may work through some of the issues and then may decide that they want to be part of this in time to come. But that’s entirely a matter for them.

    Journalist: Just finally, if I might, Foreign Minister, on the question of Australia’s broader Pacific policy, can you give us a sense, when the Falepili Union was signed the Prime Minister and others made it clear that Australia was looking at if not signing similar agreements, then perhaps integrating more closely with the Pacific. There have been murmurs, obviously, about similar agreements with countries like Nauru and others. Can you give us a sense of where that program is up to and how Australia envisions this?

    Foreign Minister: That’s a good question. And it’s one that the whole country and both parties of government need to be part of. And unfortunately, we’ve not had an opposition that’s been willing, for example, to understand the importance of the Pacific Engagement Visa.

    Your question goes to the – is the right one though – how do you envisage the relationship? And we envisage the relationship as family, as close as we are able to be, recognising the sovereignty of all nations. And we see the benefit in different types of integration with the countries of the Pacific. Now, they’ll not always be the same. So, we have obviously a particular set of arrangements with some countries which are simply PALM or the Pacific Engagement Visa. With Tuvalu, we have a much deeper integration where there is much more that we have put on the table and that Tuvalu has put on the table as well.

    So obviously it will not be the same approach for each country. Countries will make their own decisions. But we see real benefit in responding to Pacific countries’, I suppose, aspirations for the relationship.

    Journalist: What are your expectations for the conference tomorrow? Regarding the continued fighting of the Pacific Islands towards climate change? What are your expectations of the outcome?

    Foreign Minister: Well, I hope that the leader’s communique or statement will be forward leaning on climate. I hope it will be collective in the sense that we recognise – I’ve seen a lot of things over the years – and it really goes to the question Mr Dziedzic asked earlier where we point the finger at each other but actually all of us have to respond on climate, all major economies, in particular. And I hope also that some of the progress that the Pacific has made in relation to sovereignty in the face of sea level rise, which we have backed in, I hope there is progress on that as well in terms of Leaders’ discussion. I know it’s a big step, but I think the Pacific has done a lot of quite innovative international legal work in ensuring that countries can retain sovereignty and retain their, you know, sovereignty over their EEZ, even in the face of sea level rise and that whatever we can do with the Pacific to continue to broaden that out I think is a good thing. And you would have seen that we’ve done that at the PIF and we’ve done that in the Falepili treaty.

    Journalist: One more question please –

    Foreign Minister: Last one.

    Journalist: What are your thoughts on Samoa’s government’s concerns of brain drain for RSE program and also – last one – have you visited one of the villages that is representing Australia in the rural area?

    Foreign Minister: No, no, I haven’t done – I haven’t been out of Apia, I’m afraid, on this visit. Some of the concerns that countries who are considering whether how to handle labour mobility programs, there are a range of concerns. You named one of them. What I have said at the PIF and privately and in meetings is we want these programs to work for you. So, we don’t offer access to the labour market because we are demanding labour; we see this as a partnership and as an economic development opportunity. So, we want the programs to work for you. So, however countries wish to have those programs designed within the limits of the program, we’ve sought to facilitate that. So, that’s how we do it. Okay? Thanks, everybody.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Man who funded terrorist fighter in Syria sentenced following a Met counter terrorism investigation

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    A man who sent money to his nephew in Syria knowing it was to fund his terrorist activity has been sentenced for terrorism offences following an investigation by specialist officers from the Met’s Counter Terrorism Command.

    Through their investigation, detectives found that 46-year-old Farhad Mohammad arranged for $350.00 over two payments to be sent to his nephew, Idris Usman. However, the investigation uncovered that Usman was fighting in Syria at the time for the terrorist group Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham, which is a proscribed organisation in the UK.

    On 26 April, Mohammad was found guilty of two terrorism funding offences following a ten-day trial at the Old Bailey. He was sentenced on 23 October to a three year community order, 250 hours unpaid work, three month curfew between 9pm and 8am and a 30 day Rehabilitation Supervision Order.

    During the trial, counter terrorism investigators presented evidence showing Mohammad made two payments to his nephew in the space of three months between November 2017 and January 2018 with the knowledge that his nephew was fighting for an Islamist terrorist group in Syria at the time.

    One of the messages found by officers on Mohammad’s phone from his nephew in May 2017 read: “Uncle forgive me, God willing I am going to participate in a fighting, either I will stay alive or I become a martyr, it is up to God.”

    After initial enquiries were carried out by officers from the Eastern Region Special Operations Unit (ERSOU), the investigation was taken on by specialist investigators within the National Terrorist Financial Investigation Unit, which is based within the Met’s Counter Terrorism Command. Detectives identified that the money, which was sent between November 2017 and January 2018, was transferred via a third-party to Usman.

    As a result of meticulous investigative work, Counter Terrorism officers were able to prove that Mohammad was fully aware that the money he was sending was supporting his nephew’s terrorist activities.

    Another example of a message found by officers from Usman to Mohammad in June 2017, indicating he was aware of his terrorist activities read: “Uncle for the sake of God send me six and a half waraqa ($650), to buy a weapon, it is the one, which I like it, and may God reward you with good.” Also among the messages sent from Usman to his Uncle was an image sent in August 2017 showing Usman sat on a motorbike with a gun over his shoulder.

    Commander Dominic Murphy, who leads the Met’s Counter Terrorism Command, said: “Terrorist groups rely on financial support and funding to be able to operate. While Mohammad’s contributions may not have been vast sums, he was well aware his nephew wanted the money to purchase a firearm and to help fund his fighting in Syria.

    “Groups like Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham cause huge misery, terror and devastation. If you knowingly fund someone – family member or not – who is part of a group like that, then it is helping a terrorist organisation and it is something we take extremely seriously.”

    On 27 February 2018, Mohammad planned to travel to Turkey from London Stansted airport. However, before he boarded the flight, he was stopped by officers using powers under Schedule 7 of the Terrorism Act, 2000.

    Officers found he had over £4,000 of cash, and three mobile phones – all of which were seized and the contents downloaded by officers, with Mohammad subsequently arrested.

    Detectives recovered messaging app conversations and voice notes, which, after careful piecing together, officers were able to use to produce a timeline of detailing his conversations and fund transfers.

    Commander Murphy added: “The use of counter terrorism powers by officers at the airport was crucial in discovering how Mohammad was knowingly funding his nephew’s terrorist activities in Syria. And it was the specialist skills of officers within our National Terrorist Financial Investigation Unit which helped pinpoint the transactions that led to this prosecution.

    “Anyone who might be considering providing financial support to terrorists or terrorist organisations should think twice, as it is a serious offence and, as we’ve shown here, we will investigate those who are involved in this kind of activity.”

    Farhad Mohammad, 46, (21.10.1978) of Colchester, Essex was charged on 10 July 2023.

    He was found guilty on Friday 26 April 2024 of two counts of terrorist fundraising (contrary to section 17 of the Terrorism Act 2000), after a trial at the Old Bailey and was sentenced at the same court on 23 October. Mohammad was found not guilty on two other counts of terrorist fundraising – linked to alleged payments made in May and August 2017. The jury was unable to reach a verdict in respect of a fifth count of terrorist fundraising, relating to an alleged payment made in October 2017. This count will lie on file.

    The National Terrorist Financial Investigation Unit (NTFIU) is based within the Met’s Counter Terrorism Command and is comprised of specialist investigators, analysts and researchers who investigate suspicious financial activity where they believe it may have links to terrorism.

    Communities defeat terrorism, and information from the public is vital to counter terrorism investigations. If you see or hear something unusual or suspicious and think someone may be engaging in terrorist activity, trust your instincts and act by reporting it in confidence at www.gov.uk/ACT or call the anti-terrorist hotline on 0800 789 321.

    In an emergency, always dial 999.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Kingston — UPDATE: Southwest Nova RCMP Major Crime Unit now leading investigation into fatal shooting in Kingston

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    The Southwest Nova RCMP Major Crime Unit has taken over an investigation into a shooting in Kingston, where a man has since died.

    On March 6, 2023, at approximately 10:15 p.m., Kings District RCMP responded to multiple reports of shots fired in the Pleasant St. area in Kingston. RCMP officers located a 30-year-old man laying in a driveway on Pleasant St. He had suffered gunshot wounds and was transported to hospital by ambulance with life-threatening injuries. Four people were arrested later in the evening; however, all were later released without charge, pending further investigation.

    On September 30, 2024, the victim passed away in hospital and on October 1, the Nova Scotia Medical Examiners Office ruled the death a homicide. The investigation was subsequently taken over by the Southwest Nova Major Crime Unit.

    Over the last 20 months, the investigation was led by the Kings District RCMP General Investigation Section. Numerous search warrants were executed, evidence has been seized and witnesses have been interviewed. Persons of interest have been identified and investigators believe that the victim was targeted.

    The Southwest Nova RCMP Major Crime Unit is being supported by the Nova Scotia Medical Examiner’s Office, RCMP Forensic Identification Services, RCMP Digital Forensic Services and the Kings District RCMP General Investigation Section. Anyone with information is asked to call 902-365-3120. Should you wish to remain anonymous, contact Nova Scotia Crime Stoppers toll-free at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), submit a secure web tip at www.crimestoppers.ns.ca, or use the P3 Tips App.

    News release from March 7, 2023: Kings District RCMP arrest four people in shooting

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Wakaw — Update: Wakaw RCMP – Serious Motor Vehicle Collision Involving Pedestrian

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    On October 20, 2024 at approximately 5 p.m., Wakaw RCMP received a report of a motor vehicle collision involving a pedestrian on Highway #2, 10 kilometres south of Wakaw.

    Officers responded immediately, along with local EMS. The pedestrian, an adult male, was declared deceased by EMS at the scene. He has been identified as a 41-year-old male from Domremy, SK. His family has been notified.

    The driver of the involved vehicle remained at the scene. No other injuries were reported to police.

    Wakaw RCMP continue to investigate with the assistance of a Saskatchewan RCMP collision reconstructionist.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Red Deer — Red Deer RCMP and Calgary Police Service joint investigation leads to arrest

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Between the period of November 2022 and February 2023, Red Deer RCMP General Investigations Section (GIS) received multiple reports of indecent phone calls being made to real estate agents and others in similar occupations. These calls were made by an unknown male who made threatening and sexual comments. At the same time, the Calgary Police Service Cyber/Forensics Unit began investigating similar offences reported within the city of Calgary.

    As a result of a joint investigation with Calgary Police Service, Red Deer RCMP GIS have charged one individual in connection to these phone calls.

    A 29-year-old resident of Edmonton, has been charged with the following offences:

    • Harassing communications x 22
    • Indecent communications
    • Uttering threats x 12

    The individual was served a summons and is schedule to appear on Oct. 29, 2024, at the Alberta Court of Justice in Red Deer.

    “This arrest underscores our unwavering commitment to the safety and well-being of our communities. No one should have to endure threats, harassment or malicious phone calls while carrying out their work. This kind of behaviour is unacceptable, and we will continue to take action to ensure that everyone can perform their duties in a safe and secure environment.” said Cst. Amanda Burke of Red Deer RCMP GIS.

    “In cybercrime investigations, we commonly see individuals using technology to victimize individuals from multiple different jurisdictions. Working with other law enforcement agencies is key in addressing these crimes, and in this case, investigators were able to work together with the RCMP to collect important digital evidence, which ultimately led to these charges.” said Sgt. Ryan Nolan of the Calgary Police Service Cybercrime Team.

    If you have information regarding illegal activity within the city of Red Deer please contact Red Deer RCMP at 403-406-2200. If you wish to remain anonymous, you can contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), online at www.P3Tips.com or by using the “P3 Tips” app available through the Apple App or Google Play Store. To report crime online, or for access to RCMP news and information, download the Alberta RCMP app through Apple or Google Play.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Federal Grand Jury Indicts Louisville Man for Possession of a Machine Gun

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Louisville, KY – A federal grand jury in Louisville, Kentucky, returned an indictment on October 16, 2024, charging a local man with illegal possession of a machine gun.  

    U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge R. Shawn Morrow of the ATF Louisville Field Division, and Chief Paul Humphrey of the Louisville Metro Police Department made the announcement.

    According to the indictment, Dashawn Sublett, 18, was charged with possessing a Glock Switch Device (machine gun conversion device) on June 26, 2024.  A Glock Switch device allows a semi-automatic handgun to function as an automatic and is defined as a machine gun under federal law.

    Sublett made an initial court appearance before a U.S. Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Western District of Kentucky on October 21, 2024.  If convicted, he faces a maximum sentence of ten years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors.

    There is no parole in the federal system.

    This case is being investigated by the LMPD and the ATF.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Joshua R. Porter is prosecuting this case.

    This case is part of the Prohibited Firearm Possessor Initiative (PFP), a collaborative partnership between all levels of law enforcement and prosecutors to reduce violent crime and firearm offenses. On January 23, 2024, Louisville Metro initiated a gun crime reduction initiative focused on investigating and prosecuting illegal firearm possession. The PFP partners include the Louisville Metro Police Department, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the Jefferson County Attorney’s Office, the Jefferson County Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office, the Kentucky Attorney General’s Office, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Kentucky.

    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: Federal Jury Finds Princeton, Kentucky Man Guilty of Methamphetamine Distribution

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Paducah, KY – Last week, following a three-day trial, a federal jury convicted a Princeton, Kentucky man of three counts of distribution of methamphetamine and one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.

    U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Acting Special Agent in Charge Erek G. Davodowich of the DEA Louisville Field Division, Chief Chris King of the Princeton Police Department, and Director David Thompson of the Pennyrile Narcotics Task Force made the announcement.

    According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, on August 26 and 27, 2021, Micah Gray, 44, distributed quantities of methamphetamine on three occasions. On August 27, 2021, investigators searched Gray’s apartment and located approximately one and one-half pounds of methamphetamine and items related to methamphetamine distribution.  

    Gray is scheduled for sentencing on February 21, 2025, before a United States District Judge for the Western District of Kentucky. Gray remains in federal custody pending sentencing, and he faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years and a maximum sentence of life in prison. A federal district court judge will determine the sentence after considering the sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors.

    There is no parole in the federal system.

    The DEA, the Pennyrile Narcotics Task Force, and the Princeton Police Department investigated the case, with assistance from the Kentucky State Police and the Commonwealth Attorney’s Office for the 56th Judicial Circuit of Kentucky.

    Assistant United States Attorney Seth A. Hancock, Chief of the U.S. Attorney’s Paducah Branch Office, is prosecuting the case with assistance from paralegal Cristy Crockett.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: “Operation Bond Watch” Seeks to Prevent Those Charged with Violent Crimes from Illegally Possessing Firearms

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    NASHVILLE – Thomas J. Jaworski, Acting United States Attorney for the Middle District of Tennessee, today announced a new initiative aimed at prosecuting unlawful firearm possession by individuals previously charged with murder and attempted murder. “Operation Bond Watch” seeks to deter defendants who are out on bond for serious violent crimes from illegally possessing firearms and potentially putting the community at risk. The program seeks to deter those released on bond for First Degree Murder, Felony Murder, Second Degree Murder, Attempted First Degree Murder, and Attempted Second Degree murder from unlawfully possessing firearms.

    Under this new program, if an individual on bond for a serious violent crime is found to have unlawfully possessed a firearm, federal prosecutors will, where the evidence supports it, swiftly seek appropriate federal charges against those individuals. “The goal is to keep the community safe from gun violence,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Thomas J. Jaworski, “and to prevent those on bond while charged with murder and attempted murder from illegally carrying guns while awaiting their day in court.”

    “Breaking cycles of violent gun crime by repeat offenders is essential to the safety of the Nashville community,” said Metro Police Chief John Drake. “Operation Bond Watch is an important tool in a system of checks and balances between a defendant’s arrest and ultimate adjudication of the case.  I am grateful to Acting U.S. Attorney Jaworski and our strong partners in the ATF and FBI for their commitment in helping us hold violent criminals accountable.”

    “Protecting the public is at the core of our ATF mission,” said Special Agent in Charge Marcus Watson of the ATF Nashville Field Division. “We, along with our law enforcement partners, stand ready to work tirelessly to prevent those who choose to illegally possess firearms from wreaking havoc on law abiding citizens.”

    “The FBI is committed to working with our law enforcement and prosecutorial partners on Operation Bond Watch,” said Special Agent in Charge Joe Carrico of the FBI Nashville Field Office. “Here in Tennessee, the FBI will continue to use all the tools at our disposal to deter defendants who are out on bond for serious violent crimes from illegally possessing firearms. Everyone deserves to live in a community free of gun violence.”

    In April 2024, a Nashville man out on bond for a 2021 murder was arrested on suspicion of committing another murder; both cases are still pending. “We believe in the presumption of innocence and a right to a fair trial,” Jaworski said, “but we also believe that the community should be protected from individuals unlawfully possessing firearms when there is the potential to cause destructive violence.”

    Prosecutors in the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Nashville have previously charged individuals on bond for murder with unlawful weapons possession offenses. For example, Mark Ellis, 30, of Clarksville was on bond for First Degree Murder when he was arrested with a 9mm pistol and a pound of fentanyl during a drug deal. In March of 2024, Ellis was sentenced to 25 years in federal prison for his crimes.

    This new effort will bring more federal resources to bear against individuals who unlawfully possess firearms while on bond for serious violent crimes. “Our commitment to the safety of our community has been steadfast,” Jaworski said, “this new initiative will hopefully deter those awaiting a trial on serious charges from illegally carrying a gun, which is better for everyone.”

    This initiative 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.

    # # # # #

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Federal Grand Jury Indicts Cumberland County Man for Burning Burkesville, Kentucky City Hall

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Bowling Green, KY – A federal grand jury in Bowling Green returned an indictment on October 9, 2024, charging a Cumberland County, Kentucky man with setting fire to the Burkesville, Kentucky City Hall.  

    U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge R. Shawn Morrow of the ATF Louisville Field Division, and Commissioner Phillip Burnett, Jr. of the Kentucky State Police made the announcement.

    According to the indictment, Nathan Riddle, 47, was charged with arson of a building receiving federal funds, and arson of a building affecting interstate commerce. On October 25, 2020, Riddle, maliciously damaged by means of fire, the Burkesville City Hall, which was owned by the City of Burkesville, Kentucky. The City of Burkesville received federal funding and the building was involved in business which affected interstate commerce.

    Riddle made his initial court appearance before a U.S. Magistrate Judge of the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Kentucky on October 17, 2024. The Court ordered the defendant detained pending further proceedings. If convicted, Riddle faces a minimum sentence of 5 years in prison, and a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors.

    There is no parole in the federal system.    

    This case is being investigated by the ATF and the Kentucky State Police.  

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark J. Yurchisin II of the United States Attorney’s Bowling Green Branch Office is 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. 

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  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Attorney’s Office Announces Sentencing of Alamogordo Man Linked to Firearm Used in Fatal Shooting of Police Officer

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    ALBUQUERQUE – An Alamogordo man was sentenced to 72 months in federal prison for providing the modified shotgun used to shoot and kill an Alamogordo Police Officer.

    There is no parole in the federal system.

    According to court documents, Jonah Apodaca, 31, provided a “sawed-off” shotgun to Dominic Cruz De La O which he is accused of later using to shoot and kill Alamogordo Police Officer Anthony Ferguson on July 16, 2023. Apodaca’s DNA was located on the shotgun shell recovered from the chamber of the shotgun and ammunition from the magazine tube.

    Upon his release from prison, Apodaca will be subject to three years of supervised release.

    De La O was charged with possession of a firearm not registered with the National Firearm Registration and Transfer Record and possession of a firearm not identified by a serial number. De La O remains in custody pending trial which is currently scheduled to begin February 26, 2025.

    U.S. Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez and Brendan Iber, Special Agent in Charge of the Phoenix Field Division of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, made the announcement today.

    The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated this case with assistance from the Alamogordo Police Department, New Mexico State Police, and the Otero County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Maria Y. Armijo and Ry Ellison are prosecuting the case.

    # # #

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Columbia Man on Federal Supervised Release Pleads Guilty to Unlawful Firearm Possession

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

    COLUMBIA, S.C. —Daisean Montez Skeeters, 30, of Columbia, has pleaded guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm.

    Evidence obtained in the investigation revealed that on July 17, 2024, Columbia Police Department officers responded to a domestic violence call at Skeeters’ home.  After arriving, police learned there might be firearms in the home. Because Skeeters was already on federal supervised release for a previous federal firearms conviction, agents also spoke to his U.S. Probation Officer, who said he was also advised of firearms in the home. Agents obtained a search warrant for the residence and located two firearms, including one loaded with 16 rounds of ammunition. Agents obtained a second search warrant for Skeeters’ DNA to compare to swabs taken from those firearms. DNA testing confirmed an extremely high probability that Skeeters’ DNA was present on one of the firearms.  Skeeters entered a guilty plea to possessing that firearm as a convicted felon.

    Skeeters was already on federal supervised release following a previous conviction for being a felon in possession of a firearm and faces a separate penalty for violating the terms of that release.

    According to a sentencing memorandum filed by the Government in his prior case (3:19-CR-992), Skeeters has a history of leading a street gang that was responsible for a substantial disruption of local communities to include through gun violence, organized drug distribution, and fraud schemes.

    Skeeters faces a maximum penalty of 15 years in federal prison. He also faces a fine of up to $250,000, and three years of supervision to follow the term of imprisonment.  United States District Judge Mary Geiger Lewis accepted the guilty plea and will sentence Skeeters after receiving and reviewing a sentencing report prepared by the U.S. Probation Office.

    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.

    This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Columbia Police Department with forensic assistance from the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED). Assistant U.S. Attorney Elliott B. Daniels and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew R. Sanford are prosecuting the case.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Federal Grand Jury Indicts Louisville Man for Possession of a Machine Gun

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

    Louisville, KY – A federal grand jury in Louisville, Kentucky, returned an indictment on October 16, 2024, charging a local man with illegal possession of a machine gun.  

    U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge R. Shawn Morrow of the ATF Louisville Field Division, and Chief Paul Humphrey of the Louisville Metro Police Department made the announcement.

    According to the indictment, Dashawn Sublett, 18, was charged with possessing a Glock Switch Device (machine gun conversion device) on June 26, 2024.  A Glock Switch device allows a semi-automatic handgun to function as an automatic and is defined as a machine gun under federal law.

    Sublett made an initial court appearance before a U.S. Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Western District of Kentucky on October 21, 2024.  If convicted, he faces a maximum sentence of ten years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors.

    There is no parole in the federal system.

    This case is being investigated by the LMPD and the ATF.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Joshua R. Porter is prosecuting this case.

    This case is part of the Prohibited Firearm Possessor Initiative (PFP), a collaborative partnership between all levels of law enforcement and prosecutors to reduce violent crime and firearm offenses. On January 23, 2024, Louisville Metro initiated a gun crime reduction initiative focused on investigating and prosecuting illegal firearm possession. The PFP partners include the Louisville Metro Police Department, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the Jefferson County Attorney’s Office, the Jefferson County Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office, the Kentucky Attorney General’s Office, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Kentucky.

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

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Jury Finds Little Rock Man Guilty of Possession with Intent to Distribute Fentanyl, Methamphetamine, Cocaine, and Marijuana

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

          LITTLE ROCK—A Little Rock man has been convicted of possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, methamphetamine, cocaine, and marijuana at the conclusion of a three-day trial. On Thursday, a federal jury found Marquis Hunt, 42, guilty of four federal narcotics violations: and possession with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl, possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine, possession with intent to distribute cocaine, and possession with intent to distribute marijuana.

          The jury returned their verdict after deliberating for approximately 2.5 hours. United States District Judge James M. Moody, Jr. presided over the trial and will sentence Hunt at a later date. Hunt faces a minimum sentence of 10 years in federal prison, with a maximum of life imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system.

          Hunt was indicted by a federal grand jury on third superseding indictment on August 6, 2024. An investigation revealed that on July 8, 2022, a special agent with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) made contact with Hunt at a residence in southwest Little Rock. Hunt was detained while a search warrant was obtained and executed. During a search, agents located more than 1.5 pounds of methamphetamine and more than 16 pounds of fentanyl throughout the residence, as well as distributable amounts of cocaine and marijuana. Through further investigation, it was discovered that the fentanyl was distributed or sprayed on a shredded vegetable material with a mixture of tramadol, which made it appear to be a form of synthetic marijuana or “K2.” During the jury trial, Hunt acknowledged selling drugs, but then denied selling the drugs located at the residence.

          The methamphetamine and fentanyl convictions carry minimum statutory sentences of not less than 10 years and not more than life in prison, not less than five years supervised release, and a fine of not more than $10,000,000. The cocaine conviction carries a maximum sentence of 20 years, not less than four years supervised release, and a fine of not more than $1,000,000. The marijuana conviction carries a maximum sentence of five years imprisonment, not less than two years supervised release, and a fine of not more than $250,000.

          The investigation was conducted by the FBI with assistance from the Arkansas State Police and Arkansas State Crime Laboratory. The and the case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Amanda Fields and Reese Lancaster.

    # # #

    Additional information about the office of the

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

    https://www.justice.gov/edar

    X (formerly known as Twitter):

    @USAO_EDAR 

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Man Arrested for Exposing Himself on an Aircraft

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

    BOSTON – A man was arrested and charged yesterday for allegedly masturbating and exposing himself within the view of two other passengers seated near him on board a flight from Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates to Boston, Mass. yesterday.

    Krishna Kunapuli, 39, of India, was charged by criminal complaint with one count of lewd, indecent and obscene acts while in the special aircraft jurisdiction of the United States. Kunapuli was arrested yesterday and will appear in federal court in Boston later today.

    According to the charging documents, Kunapuli allegedly made unwanted sexual advances toward a female passenger on board an Etihad Airlines flight, including touching her hair and taking pictures of her without her permission. After a crew member intervened, Kunapuli returned to his seat.

    It is alleged that, later in the flight, two male passengers seated near Kunapuli noticed Kunapuli masturbating under a blanket and, at times, with his penis fully exposed. One of the passengers reported this conduct to a flight attendant who intervened and alerted law enforcement.

    The charge of lewd, indecent and obscene acts while in the special aircraft jurisdiction of the United States provides for a sentence of up to 90 days in prison, up to one year of supervised release and a fine of up to $5,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.

    Acting United States Attorney Joshua S. Levy; Jodi Cohen, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division; and Colonel Geoffrey D. Noble of the Massachusetts State Police made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Elianna J. Nuzum of the Major Crimes Unit is prosecuting the case.

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

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Texas Man Indicted for Coercion and Enticement of a Minor to Engage in Sexual Activity and Receipt of Child Sex Abuse Material

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

    Tampa, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces the return of an indictment charging James Anthony Davila (20, Cleburne, TX) with coercion and enticement of a minor to engage in sexual activity and receipt of child sex abuse material. If convicted, Davila faces a mandatory penalty of 10 years, up to life, in federal prison for the coercion and enticement count, and a mandatory 5 years, up to 20 years, in federal prison for receiving child sex abuse material. 

    According to court documents, Davila met a 12-year-old girl online while playing a video game. The two continued to communicate and exchanged sexually explicit photos. Davila later drove from Texas to Florida to pick up the child and engage in sexual acts with her. 

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

    This case was investigated by the Tampa Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, with assistance from the Midway (Florida) Police Department and the Johnson County (Texas) Sheriff’s Office. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Ross Roberts.

    This is another case 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.justice.gov/psc.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Belgian National Charged with Attempting to Breach Cockpit and Assaulting Flight Crew Members on March 2024 Flight

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

    NEWARK, N.J. – A Belgian national was arrested today for attempting to breach the cockpit and assaulting flight attendants aboard flight from Newark Liberty International Airport to Zurich, Switzerland, in March 2024, U.S. Attorney Philip Sellinger announced.

    Jan Daeninck, 43, of Belgium, is charged by complaint with one count of interference with flight crew members and attendants by assault and intimidation, one count of assault, and one count of abusive sexual contact on an airplane. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge U.S. Magistrate Judge Leda Dunn Wettre in Newark federal court and was released on $100,000 unsecured bond.

    According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:

    On March 31, 2024, Daeninck was a passenger aboard a Swiss International Airlines flight from Newark to Zurich. Shortly after takeoff, Daeninck walked up to a female flight attendant, grabbed both of her breasts with his hands, shook her, and began yelling at her. After the flight attendant was able to wrest herself away from Daeninck, he then approached and attempted to enter the cockpit, repeatedly striking, kicking and beating the cockpit door. While Daeninck was attempting to gain entrance to the cockpit, a male flight attendant approached Daeninck. After repeatedly striking, punching, and kicking the cockpit door and failing to gain entry to the cockpit, Daeninck assaulted the male flight attendant by repeatedly punching and kicking the flight attendant, striking him in head and upper body with a closed fist. Flight crew members were able to intervene and assist with restraining Daeninck on the floor in the vicinity of the cockpit door for the remainder of the flight. As a result of Daeninck’s actions, the flight turned around and landed back at Newark Liberty International Airport.

    The charge of interfering with flight crew members and attendants carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison and a maximum fine of $250,000. The charge of assault by beating or striking carries a maximum punishment of one year in prison and a maximum fine of $100,000. The charge of abusive sexual contact carries a maximum sentence of two years in prison and a maximum fine of $250,000.

    U.S. Attorney Sellinger credited special agents of the FBI, under the direction of Acting Special Agent in Charge Nelson I. Delgado in Newark, with the investigation leading to the charge. He also thanked the Port Authority Police Department, under the direction of Edward T. Cetnar, for its assistance.

    The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Michelle L. Goldman of the Office’s General Crimes Unit in Newark.

    The charges and allegations contained in the complaint are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Two Philadelphia Men Sentenced to Almost a Decade in Prison for Separate Gunpoint Carjackings in the City

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

    Marc Anthony Targeted a Woman in Fairmount in 2022; Asiem Brooking Carjacked a Man in Olney in 2023

    PHILADELPHIA – United States Attorney Jacqueline C. Romero announced that two Philadelphia men have each been sentenced to almost 10 years in prison for carrying out separate carjackings in the city.

    Asiem Brooking, 21, was sentenced on October 17, 2024, by United States District Court Judge R. Barclay Surrick to 117 months in prison and three years of supervised release for committing an armed carjacking in the city’s Olney section in January 2023.

    At around 8:15 p.m. on January 28, 2023, as a 54-year-old man was about to get out of his Nissan Altima on the 5400 block of North 6th Street, Brooking opened the passenger side front door, pointed a gun at the victim, and threatened to kill him. After the victim complied with Brooking’s demand to hand over his wallet and keys, the defendant fled the scene in the Altima.

    In May of 2023, Brooking was charged by indictment with one count of carjacking and one count of using and carrying a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence. He pleaded guilty to both counts in July of this year.

    Marc Anthony, also known as Nasir Johnson, 22, was sentenced on October 18, 2024, by United States District Court Judge Karen S. Marston to 115 months in prison and five years of supervised release for carjacking a woman at gunpoint in the city’s Fairmount section in January 2022.

    At about 1:15 p.m. on January 6, 2022, Anthony and an unknown accomplice, both masked and armed with handguns, approached a 40-year-old woman who had just parked her Hyundai Sonata on the 800 block of North 28th Street. As they ordered the victim out of the car at gunpoint, she asked to retrieve her dog from the back seat, struggling to do so as they yelled for her phone and passcode. Once the victim and her dog were clear, the carjackers fled the scene in the Sonata.

    Anthony was charged by indictment in May 2022 with one count of carjacking and one count of using and carrying a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence. He pleaded guilty to both charges in May of this year.

    “These criminals who think nothing of terrorizing our community at gunpoint are a true priority for my office, the FBI, and our partners on Philadelphia Carjacking Task Force,” said U.S. Attorney Romero. “By ensuring that people like Brookings and Anthony are prosecuted and held accountable for their violent and disturbing crimes, we’re making the city safer — one offender, one block, one neighborhood at a time.”

    These cases were investigated by the FBI Philadelphia Violent Crimes Task Force and the Philadelphia Police Department and are being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Thomas M. Zaleski.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: INTERPOL conference on the future of policing opens in South Korea

    Source: Interpol (news and events)

    23 October 2024

    From artificial intelligence to climate change, the event will study trends impacting the global security landscape.

    INCHEON, Korea – INTERPOL, in collaboration with the Korean National Police Agency (KNPA), is convening the first-ever Future of Policing Congress to address emerging challenges facing law enforcement. 

    The two-day (23-24 October) event will take place alongside the Korea Police World Expo (KPEX) in Incheon, aiming to address the rapidly changing global security landscape and help prepare law enforcement agencies worldwide for the future.

    Bringing together law enforcement leaders, industry experts, academics, and stakeholders from various sectors, the Congress will see delegates explore how global ‘megatrends’ will shape the future of policing. 

    The event will in turn serve as a platform for participants to identify potential future scenarios, understand their security implications and identify steps to prepare law enforcement to adapt. 

    INTERPOL Secretary General Jürgen Stock said:

    “The Future of Policing Congress is not just a moment of reflection. It is a call to action. Recent years have taught us that the world changes faster than we ever could have imagined. Our ways of working, learning, and operating must keep pace.”

    Commissioner General CHO Ji Ho, Korean National Police Agency said:

    “Today’s Congress goes beyond simply talking about challenges in policing. It presents countries with an invaluable opportunity to canvass new possibilities in responding to technology-driven and engage with one another for better cooperation.”

    Innovation-as-a-service

    In recent years, INTERPOL has expanded its strategic foresight capabilities to offer member countries ‘innovation-as-a-service, helping member countries anticipate emerging trends and threats.

    Engaging with global experts from the public and private sectors, INTERPOL has rolled out initiatives such as the Future Foresight Lab, Young Global Police Leaders Programme and the Responsible AI Lab. 

    In 2023, INTERPOL launched Vision 2030 – a major initiative to help steer the strategic direction for the future of global law enforcement.

    This was followed by the creation of the INTERPOL Future Council– a diverse group of experts that, from strategic futurists to legal practitioners, academics and young law enforcement voices, helps ensure INTERPOL remains at the forefront of global law enforcement innovation. 

    Changing models of policing

    The Future of Policing Congress is organized into three sessions: the first explores future scenarios, the second examines their impact on law enforcement, and the final session focuses on how law enforcement can prepare to face future challenges.

    The Congress, which was built as a hands-on workshop, is facilitated by academics and experts from private sector and international organizations. It utilizes innovative tools like discussions provoked by AI-generated videos and questions on specific topics.

    The Future of Policing Congress looks at the future from 5 dimensions including social, technological, economic, environmental, and geopolitical landscapes. The impact on law enforcement will be explored in terms of evolution of crime, policing duties, data and evidence, and changing models of policing, trust and citizen expectations.

    The path forward for law enforcement preparedness will encompass equipment and tools, skill sets, processes and procedures, organizational structures, and international cooperation.

    The outcomes of the Congress will be compiled and disseminated to INTERPOL’s 196 member countries.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Two Sampson County Men Indicted Following October 2023 Murder of Five

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    RALEIGH, N.C. – United States Attorney Michael F. Easley, Jr., is announcing federal charges against two men arising from the murders of five people in a Sampson County house in October 2023. The indictment alleges that the two are responsible for the murders.

    In a superseding indictment returned on August 27, 2024, a federal grand jury charged Robert Andrew Daquan Williams, aka “Double Tap, Drew and TTG,” age 31, and Derek George, aka “Pete,” age 35, with drug distribution and robbery charges. The superseding indictment also alleges possession of a firearm to further the drug and robbery charges and that the firearm was discharged resulting in the murder of five victims.

    Williams and George are each charged with one count of conspiracy and possession with intent to distribute cocaine and cocaine base (crack), one count of conspiracy to commit a Hobbs Act Robbery, one count of Hobbs Act robbery, and one count of discharging a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. Williams also faces one count of possession of a firearm by a felon. A third individual named in the indictment is charged with illegal gun possession but is not currently facing charges related to the murders.

    If convicted, Williams and George face punishment up to and including the death penalty. Williams has been in custody since November 9, 2023. George was arrested following the federal indictment and remains in custody.

    “The charges brought in this case demonstrate the partnership between local, state and federal law enforcement to investigate and prosecute individuals believed to be contributing to violence in our communities,” said U.S. Attorney Michael F. Easley, Jr. “In this case, a combination of old-fashioned police work and community tips led to the identification and ultimate arrest of those that are alleged to have caused this act of violence. We will continue to work together to ensure the safety of our communities and to ensure justice for those that perpetrate violent criminal activity.”

    “Five people were taken from their families by this crime which impacted the entire community. We hope these federal charges can bring some sense of peace and justice for everyone affected,” said Robert M. DeWitt, the Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) in North Carolina.

    “Too many lives were lost in another case of senseless violence,” said Bureau of Alcohol, Firearms Tobacco and Explosives (ATF) Special Agent in Charge Bennie Mims. “This incident has had a major impact on the community, and it is important that ATF and our partners apply every resource available to identify, apprehend and bring the individuals who are alleged to be responsible for this terrible crime to justice.”

    “As the sheriff of Sampson County, it is my responsibility to use every resource available to help keep the residents of Sampson County safe,” said Sampson County Sheriff Jimmy Thornton. “I greatly appreciate all the people and agencies that have assisted in this investigation.”

    The Sampson County Sheriff’s Office, the Clinton Police Department, the FBI, the ATF, the U.S. Marshal’s Service, and the N.C. State Bureau of Investigation are investigating the case and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Tyler Lemons  and Casey Peaden are prosecuting the case. This is an ongoing investigation. If any person has information related to these crimes, please contact the Sampson County Sheriff’s Office at 910-592-4141 or the FBI.

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

    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 7:24-CR-00013-D-BM.

    An indictment is merely an accusation. The defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Denver Man Convicted Of Being A Felon In Possession Of Ammunition By Federal Jury

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    DENVER – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Colorado announces that Tyrell Braxton, 25, of Denver, was found guilty by a federal grand jury of being a felon in possession of ammunition.

    According to the facts established at trial, in the early morning hours on August 19, 2023, a large group of people gathered on the southwest corner of 28th and Welton in Denver. Shortly before 4 am, multiple gunshots were heard, and Denver Police officers were dispatched to a shooting. Surveillance video from a nearby home showed Braxton repeatedly displaying a firearm for hours prior to the shooting. The video also showed Braxton getting into a man’s face before firing six shots at the man and the people standing near him. This man was shot and killed.  Two women were shot and injured. After Braxton started shooting, other individuals on scene also began to fire, and a second man was shot and killed. Ultimately, law enforcement recovered 71 spent shell casings that were identified as being fired from eight different firearms. Braxton fled the scene with his firearm and was a fugitive before being captured. Braxton was on federal supervised release at the time for a prior unlawful possession of a firearm and had been released from prison in April 2023.

    “Violent criminals have no place on our streets,” said Acting United States Attorney for the District of Colorado Matt Kirsch. “Our office works hard to hold repeat offenders accountable for their actions, and I am grateful for the dedicated support of our local law enforcement partners.”

    Sentencing will be held on January 29, 2025.

    United States District Court Judge R. Brooke Jackson presided over the trial. The Denver Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives handled the investigation.  Assistant United States Attorney Celeste Rangel and Special Assistant United States Attorney Leah Perczak handled the prosecution.

    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.

    Case Number: 24-cr-00029-RBJ-1

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Texas Couple Sentenced to Prison for Assaulting Law Enforcement and Other Charges During Jan. 6 Capitol Breach

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

                WASHINGTON— A Texas couple was sentenced to prison after they were previously convicted of assaulting law enforcement and other charges during the Jan. 6, 2021, breach of the U.S. Capitol. Their actions and the actions of others disrupted a joint session of the U.S. Congress convened to ascertain and count the electoral votes related to the 2020 presidential election.

                Mark Middleton, 55, and Jalise Middleton, 54, both of Forestburg, Texas, were sentenced to 30 and 20 months in prison, respectively, by U.S. District Judge Randolph D. Moss. Mark Middleton was additionally sentenced to 36 months’ supervised release, and a $2,000 fine. Jalise Middleton was additionally sentenced to 30 months’ supervised release, and a $2,000 fine.

                A federal jury previously convicted the Middletons of two counts of assaulting, resisting, or impeding certain officers, as well as civil disorder and obstruction of an official proceeding.  In addition to the felonies, the Middletons were convicted of misdemeanor offenses of entering and remaining in a restricted building or grounds, disorderly and disruptive conduct in a restricted building or grounds, engaging in physical violence in a restricted building or grounds, disorderly conduct in the Capitol grounds or building, and act of physical violence in the Capitol grounds or building.

                Following the Supreme Court’s decision in Fischer v. United States, the government voluntarily moved pre-sentencing to dismiss the Middleton’s conviction on obstruction of an official proceeding.

                According to evidence presented during the trial, on Jan. 6, 2021, Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) officers responded to the West Front of the U.S. Capitol building to assist U.S. Capitol Police officers with protecting the Capitol building and grounds from a group of amassed rioters. At about 2:09 p.m., MPD officers struggled against rioters who had refused repeated orders to step back from the police line and bike rack barricades.

                According to trial evidence and police body-worn camera footage, as the officers struggled with the group of rioters, a male individual, later identified as Mark Middleton, pushed against the barricades and the police line with his body. Officers are heard on body-worn camera footage repeatedly ordering Mark Middleton and others to “Get back!” In response, Mark Middleton is heard yelling “f— you!” as he continued to push against the police barricades. Evidence showed that Mark Middleton resisted MPD officers, grabbed onto an MPD officer’s left hand or wrist, and pulled the officer forward towards the crowd.

                At the same time, a woman, later identified as Jalise Middleton, is seen on body-worn camera footage repeatedly grabbing and striking the same officer over the barricade with her hand. Another officer then approached to assist, and Jalise Middleton struck that officer as well. Video footage shows that the couple continued to grapple with and strike at the officers and attempted to pull an officer into the crowd as various flags were jabbed toward the officers’ faces.

                MPD officers later deployed a chemical spray, forcing the Middletons to retreat from the barricaded line. Both defendants later posted social media messages touting their key role in helping to breach the barricades by fighting officers and that they had only stopped due to pepper spray.

                Mark and Jalise Middleton were arrested on April 21, 2021, in Forestburg, Texas.

                This case is being prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia and the Department of Justice National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section. Valuable assistance was provided by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Texas.

                This case is being investigated by the FBI’s Dallas and Washington Field Offices. Valuable assistance was provided by the United States Capitol Police and the Metropolitan Police Department.

                In the 45 months since Jan. 6, 2021, more than 1,532 individuals have been charged in nearly all 50 states for crimes related to the breach of the U.S. Capitol, including more than 571 individuals charged with assaulting or impeding law enforcement, a felony. The investigation remains ongoing.

                Anyone with tips can call 1-800-CALL-FBI (800-225-5324) or visit tips.fbi.gov.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: PC dismissed without notice for posting racist tweets

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    A serving police officer who posted a series of racist comments on social media has been dismissed without notice following a misconduct hearing.

    PC Ruby Begum, who was attached to the Met’s Taskforce, was found to have breached the standards of professional behaviour with regards to discreditable conduct and equality and diversity at the level of gross misconduct.

    She was dismissed without notice following the conclusion of the hearing on Wednesday, 23 October.

    Chief Superintendent Colin Wingrove, in charge of the Met’s Taskforce, said: “There is absolutely no place within the Met for anyone with racist or otherwise hateful attitudes.

    “Our diverse workforce, made up of people from a range of backgrounds, makes us better able to reflect and serve the public. We are working hard to build a culture where anyone can feel welcome and thrive.

    “Those who undermine these goals have no place in the organisation. They are not suitable to serve Londoners and will feel the consequences.

    “The overwhelming majority of officers in the Met make a fantastic contribution to policing London, but we can only rebuild trust and continue to deliver the change that is needed by taking action, as we have today, to remove those within our ranks who do not share our values.”

    PC Begum joined the Met as a Special Constable in May 2014 and became a PC in July 2016.

    The misconduct hearing panel, led by an independent legally qualified chair, examined allegations that between 2013 and 2019 PC Begum posted a number of discriminatory and offensive comments on her Twitter account.

    The posts remained visible on her account after she became a Special Constable and later a PC.

    On 6 August 2021, after receiving information from the Mail on Sunday, the Met’s Directorate of Professional Standards conducted a formal assessment and determined that a conduct matter should be recorded against PC Begum.

    She was notified of the investigation and was initially placed on restricted duties. On 9 August 2022, she was suspended from duty.

    The Met made a voluntary referral to the Independent Office for Police Conduct, which determined that the matter should be investigated locally.

    Following an investigation, which included officers reviewing 25,000 of PC Begum’s Tweets, it was determined that she had a case to answer for gross misconduct.

    Following the hearing, PC Begum will now be placed on the barred list held by the College of Policing. Those appearing on the list cannot be employed by police, local policing bodies (PCCs), the Independent Office for Police Conduct or His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire and Rescue Services.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Attorney Announces Murder-for-Hire Charges Against IRGC Brigadier General and Former Intelligence Officer and Members of an Iranian Intelligence Network

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

    Ruhollah Bazghandi and Members of His Iran-Based Network, Contracted Members of an Eastern European Organized Crime Group to Murder a U.S. Citizen of Iranian Origin in New York City Who Has Publicly Opposed the Iranian Government

    Damian Williams, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York; Merrick B. Garland, the Attorney General of the United States; Matthew G. Olsen, the Assistant Attorney General for National Security; Christopher A. Wray, the Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (“FBI”); and James E. Dennehy, Assistant Director in Charge of the New York Field Office of the FBI, announced the unsealing of murder-for-hire, money-laundering, and sanctions charges against RUHOLLAH BAZGHANDI, a/k/a “Roohollah Azimi,” FNU LNU, a/k/a “Haj Taher,” (“HAJ TAHER”), HOSSEIN SEDIGHI, and SEYED MOHAMMAD FOROUZAN.  The charges are contained in a Superseding Indictment unsealed today in Manhattan federal court.  As detailed in the Superseding Indictment, BAZGHANDI, HAJ TAHER, SEDIGHI, and FOROUZAN contracted members of an Eastern European criminal organization, including RAFAT AMIROV, a/k/a “Farkhaddin Mirzoev,” a/k/a “Pᴎᴍ,”  a/k/a “Rome,” POLAD OMAROV, a/k/a “Araz Aliyev,” a/k/a “Polad Qaqa,” a/k/a “Haci Qaqa,” and ZIALAT MAMEDOV, a/k/a “Ziko,” to murder a U.S. citizen of Iranian origin in New York City who has publicly opposed the Iranian Government and who has previously been the target of similar plots by the Iranian Government.  AMIROV, OMAROV, and MAMEDOV previously were arrested on charges contained in underlying indictments.  AMIROV and OMAROV are in custody in the U.S., pending trial; Mamedov was extradited from the Czech Republic to the Republic of Georgia (“Georgia”) to face charges there.  BAZGHANDI, HAJ TAHER, SEDIGHI, and FOROUZAN, all of whom are based in Iran, remain at large.  The case is pending before U.S. District Judge Colleen McMahon.

    U.S. Attorney Damian Williams said: “As alleged, for years, the Government of Iran has attempted to assassinate, on U.S. soil, a U.S. citizen of Iranian origin who is a prominent critic of the Iranian regime.  In January 2023, we unsealed charges alleging that members of an Eastern European crime group engaged in a plot to murder this victim.  As we allege, that group was not acting alone.  Today, we hold their Iranian masters to account, and allege that these Iran-based co-conspirators, including a Brigadier General in the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, directed the murder plot.  By charging these Iran-based defendants, we seek to strike another public blow at the heart of the Government of Iran’s efforts to execute the victim—as well as its lethal targeting, intimidation, and repression of other Iranian dissidents critical of the regime in the U.S. and abroad.”  

    Attorney General Merrick B. Garland said: “The Justice Department has now charged eight individuals, including an Iranian military official, for their efforts to silence and kill a U.S. citizen because of her criticism of the Iranian regime.  We will not tolerate efforts by an authoritarian regime like Iran to undermine the fundamental rights guaranteed to every American.  Three of the defendants charged in this horrific plot are now in U.S. custody, and we will never stop working to identify, find, and bring to justice all those who endanger the safety of the American people.”

    Assistant Attorney General Matthew G. Olsen said: “Today’s indictment makes plain that the Iranian regime for years has been behind a violent campaign to stalk, intimidate, and arrange the killing of an American dissident on U.S. soil for bravely speaking up for the rights of the Iranian people.  The Department is committed to exposing and holding accountable those in Tehran who believe they can hide their hand in carrying out such reprehensible activities.”

    FBI Director Christopher A. Wray said: “Today’s indictment exposes the full extent of Iran’s plot to silence an American journalist for criticizing the Iranian regime.  According to the charges, a brigadier general in the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and a former Iranian intelligence officer, working with a network of conspirators, planned to kill a dissident living in New York City.  The FBI’s investigation led to the disruption of this plot as one of the conspirators was allegedly on their way to murder the victim in New York.  As these charges show, the FBI will work with our partners here and abroad to hold accountable those who target Americans.”

    FBI Assistant Director in Charge James E. Dennehy said: “Today we charge four members of the Bazghandi Network – each connected to the Iranian government – as being responsible for hiring members of an Eastern European Organized Crime Group to murder an American citizen in New York City.   This crime was intended to stop an American from exercising their Constitutionally protected right to free speech; to end their life for speaking out publicly against the Iranian regime and its human rights violations.  The FBI will aggressively pursue, disrupt, and hold accountable any foreign government which attempts to murder our citizens on our soil.”

    According to the allegations contained in the Superseding Indictment, other court filings, and statements made during court proceedings:[1] 

    BAZGHANDI, who resides in Iran, is an Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (“IRGC”) Brigadier General and has previously served as chief of an IRGC Intelligence Organization (“IRGC-IO”) counterintelligence office.  In April 2023, the U.S. Secretary of State designated IRGC-IO as a Specially Designated Global Terrorist under Executive Order 14078, relating to hostage-taking and the wrongful detention of U.S. nationals abroad. On the same date, the U.S. Treasury Department sanctioned BAZGHANDI in connection with his involvement with the detention of foreign prisoners held in Iran.  BAZGHANDI was designated by the Treasury Department a second time in June 2023, this time under Executive Order 13224, for his participation in IRGC-IO’s lethal targeting operations.  HAJ TAHER, SEDIGHI, and FOROUZAN (collectively with BAZGHANDI, the “Bazghandi Network”), each of whom resides in Iran, also have connections to the Government of Iran.    

    The Bazghandi Network contracted AMIROV, OMAROV, MAMEDOV, and Khalid Mehdiyev to murder, on U.S. soil, a victim (the “Victim”) residing in New York City.  The Victim is a journalist, author, and human rights activist who has publicized the Government of Iran’s human rights abuses and suppression of political expression, including in connection with continuing protests against the regime across Iran.  As recently as 2020 and 2021, Iranian intelligence officials and assets plotted to kidnap the Victim from within the U.S. for rendition to Iran in an effort to silence the Victim’s criticism of the regime.  That plot was disrupted and exposed by the FBI and led to the filing of federal kidnapping conspiracy and other charges in the Southern District of New York against several participants in the plot in U.S. v. Farahani, et al., 21 Cr. 430 (RA) (S.D.N.Y.).

    Since at least July 2022, the Bazghandi Network tasked members of the Organization with assassinating the Victim.  The Organization’s participation in the murder-for-hire plot was directed by AMIROV, who resided in Iran and who was tasked with targeting the Victim by individuals in Iran.  On approximately July 13, 2022, AMIROV forwarded targeting information—which Amirov had received from individuals in Iran—about the Victim and the Victim’s residence to OMAROV.  OMAROV, in turn, together with MAMEDOV, directed and collaborated with Mehdiyev, who was residing in Yonkers, New York, to carry out the plot against the Victim. Mehdiyev’s participation in the plot was disrupted when he was arrested near the Victim’s home on or about July 28, 2022, while in possession of the assault rifle, along with 66 rounds of ammunition, approximately $1,100 in cash, and a black ski mask.

    In January 2023, AMIROV, OMAROV, and MAMEDOV were arrested overseas.  On January 27, 2023, they were charged publicly for their roles in the plot to assassinate the Victim.  Nevertheless, in the months that followed, members of the Bazghandi Network continued to target the Victim.  For example, in or about March 2023, HAJ TAHER searched for information about the Victim’s family members and SEDIGHI saved an image of the Victim’s residence. As recently as on or about May 1, 2023, BAZGHANDI conducted an Internet search, in Farsi, for, “a person in the house of [the Victim] movie,” and, on the same date, watched a video with the title, “A video of the arrested gunman in front of [the Victim]’s home in New York received by [the Victim’s employer].”

    *               *                *

    BAZGHANDI, HAJ TAHER, SEDIGHI, and FOROUZAN, all of Iran, have been charged with murder-for-hire, which carries a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison (Count One); conspiracy to commit murder-for-hire, which carries a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison (Count Two); conspiracy to commit money laundering, which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison (Count Three); and conspiring to violate the International Emergency Economic Powers Act and sanctions against the Government of Iran, which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison (Count Six).

    AMIROV, 45, of IRAN; OMAROV, 39, of the Czech Republic and Slovenia; Mamedov, 32, of Georgia; also have been charged in Counts One, Two, and Three, as well as with attempted murder in aid of racketeering, which carries a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison (Count Four); and possession and use of a firearm in connection with the attempted murder, which carries a maximum sentence of life imprisonment and a mandatory minimum sentence of 5 years in prison (Count Five).

    The potential maximum sentences in this case are prescribed by Congress and provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendants will be determined by Judge McMahon.

    Mr. Williams praised the outstanding investigative work of the FBI and its New York Field Office Counterintelligence-Cyber Division and the New York FBI Iran Threat Task Force.  Mr. Williams also thanked the New York City Police Department (“NYPD”) and the NYPD Intelligence Bureau, as well as the Department of Justice’s National Security Division and the Department of Justice’s Office of International Affairs, for their assistance.

    This case is being handled by the Office’s National Security and International Narcotics Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Michael D. Lockard, Jacob H. Gutwillig, and Matthew J.C. Hellman are in charge of the prosecution, with assistance from Trial Attorneys Christopher Rigali and Leslie Esbrook of the Counterintelligence and Export Control Section, and Dmitriy Slavin of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section.

    The charges in the Superseding Indictment are merely accusations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

    [1] As the introductory phrase signifies, the Superseding Indictment, and the description of the Superseding Indictment set forth herein, constitute only allegations, and every fact described should be treated as an allegation.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Illinois Murder Suspect on U.S. Marshals 15 Most Wanted Fugitive List Arrested in Mexico

    Source: US Marshals Service

    Washington, DC – The manhunt for an Illinois murder suspect placed on the U.S. Marshals 15 Most Wanted fugitives list in 2020 ended Oct. 21, 2024, when Mexican law enforcement officers arrested John Panaligan in Tepic, Mexico. The fugitive is not a national of the country and was turned over to Mexican immigration authorities who deported him to the United States Oct. 22.

    Panaligan, 57, was wanted for allegedly murdering attorney Victor Jigar Patel, who was found strangled to death in his Northbrook, Illinois, office Dec. 7, 2016. At the time of his death, Patel, 36, was representing plaintiffs suing Panaligan in civil court. 

    “I want to express my appreciation and gratitude to the men and women of the Marshals Service, as well as to the officials from the Government of Mexico,” said Director Ronald L. Davis. “I hope this arrest brings some measure of comfort to the Patel family and serves as a stark reminder to fugitives from justice that there is no place to hide.”

    “The collaborative work of the Great Lakes Regional Fugitive Task Force and the Northbrook Police Department in the apprehension of this international fugitive is a testament to our strong regional relationships and the value it brings to our community,” said U.S. Marshal LaDon Reynolds of the Northern District of Illinois. 

    “The United States Marshal’s Great Lakes Fugitive Task Force worked tirelessly in collaboration with the Northbrook Police and other agencies to apprehend the fugitive.  The relentless efforts by law enforcement for the past 8 years are a clear reminder that you cannot hide from justice. The Northbrook Police Department remains committed to providing closure for the family of the victim, Jigar Patel,” said Interim Chief John Ustich of the Northbrook Police Department.

    Panaligan allegedly lured Patel to his law office by scheduling an appointment using an alias. Authorities believe Panaligan showed up wearing a disguise, which was captured on nearby security cameras, and then killed the victim in his office. 

    Two days later, Panaligan was detained at the Canadian border for allegedly smuggling a firearm into Canada but was eventually allowed to return to the U.S. where he was interviewed by Northbrook Police in relation to Patel’s death. During the investigation, authorities executed multiple search warrants of Panaligan’s belongings and property. Evidence collected gave authorities reason to believe Panaligan was the prime suspect in Patel’s murder. 

    Panaligan is believed to have fled to Mexico before he could be arrested. An arrest warrant for first-degree murder was issued for Panaligan Feb. 8, 2017. The USMS placed him on its 15 Most Wanted list Nov. 23, 2020, and offered a reward of up to $25,000 for information leading to his capture. Due to Panaligan’s international ties and dual citizenship between the U.S. and the Republic of the Philippines, authorities believed he could have traveled anywhere with assistance from acquaintances to elude capture.

    Created in 1983, the USMS 15 Most Wanted (15MW) fugitive program draws attention to some of the country’s most dangerous and high-profile fugitives. These fugitives tend to be career criminals with histories of violence who pose a significant threat to public safety. 

    Generally, 15MW fugitives are considered the “worst of the worst” and can include murderers, sex offenders, major drug kingpins, organized crime figures and individuals wanted for high-profile financial crimes. Since the program began in 1983, more than 250 15MW fugitive cases have been closed. 

    The USMS has a long history of providing assistance and expertise to other federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies in support of their fugitive investigations. Working with authorities at the federal, state, tribal, and local levels, USMS-led fugitive task forces arrested more than 73,000 fugitives and cleared nearly 86,000 warrants in FY 2023.  

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Deer Lake — Human remains of missing man found at fire scene in Deer Lake, investigation continuing

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    RCMP West District General Investigation Section has confirmed the presence of human remains at the scene of a recent fire at the Driftwood Motel in Deer Lake. The fire occurred on October 19, 2024.

    On October 19, police received a report of a missing elderly man who was a guest of the Driftwood Motel. The man was unaccounted for and had not been seen since the time of the fire. This morning, October 23, 2024, during a search of the fire scene, human remains were located and have been identified as those of the missing man.

    The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner is engaged. The fire scene is being held and processed by the RCMP as part of an ongoing investigation.

    RCMP NL extends condolences to the family and friends of the missing man.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Southeastern New Brunswick — RCMP issue 236 tickets during traffic enforcement operation

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    A recent RCMP traffic enforcement operation in Southeastern New Brunswick has resulted in 75 vehicles being towed, and 236 tickets being issued.

    Between October 17 and 19, 2024, members of the New Brunswick RCMP’s Tactical Traffic Enforcement Unit (TTEU) and Motor Vehicle Inspectors from the Highway Safety Enforcement Branch of the Department of Justice and Public Safety, worked together to conduct a traffic enforcement operation in the Greater Moncton area, Sussex, Petitcodiac, and Salisbury.

    The operation focused on unsafe vehicles and modified vehicles, as well as distracted driving, speeding, and proper use of seatbelts. During the operation, 125 vehicles were escorted to a specific site to be assessed, 66 were towed at the owner’s expense, and 48 were deemed unsafe.

    Several inspection stations will be investigated for not following the motor vehicle inspection procedures as per the New Brunswick – Motor vehicle Act.

    A total of 236 traffic violations were issued under the New Brunswick Motor Vehicle Act, including 81 for speeding, 18 unsafe vehicles, 31 tickets for not wearing a seatbelt and 28 tickets for using a hand-held electronic device while driving.

    Additionally, three individuals were issued a court date for driving while suspended, two other individuals were issued short-term roadside suspensions, and five individuals were arrested for warrants of arrest and committal. Three vehicles were also intercepted for speeding in excess of 50 km/hr of the posted speed limit were towed and impounded for seven days. A number of warnings were also issued.

    The New Brunswick RCMP’s TTEU conducts regular, targeted traffic enforcement on roadways throughout the province with the goals of improving road safety, educating motorists about traffic laws and to reduce serious injury and fatal collisions.

    “It is important to recognize that each individual has a role to play in ensuring the safety of our roads and communities,” says Sgt. Ghislain David with the Tactical Traffic Enforcement Unit. “Our primary objective is to safeguard the public by reducing the number of unsafe vehicles on our roadways.”

    The public can assist in keeping dangerous drivers off the road by reporting them to police. If you see a dangerous or a suspected impaired driver, call 911. Your description of the driver, vehicle, licence plate number and direction of travel can assist police in making New Brunswick roads safer.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Clarenville — Clarenville RCMP investigates fatal moose vehicle collision on TCH near Goobies

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    A 64-year-old man is deceased following a moose-vehicle collision that occurred on the Trans-Canada Highway (TCH) near Goobies on the evening of October 22, 2024.

    Shortly after 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, Clarenville RCMP received the report of the collision involving a moose and two vehicles. A vehicle collided with a moose, crossed into the oncoming lane of travel and collided with another vehicle. The driver and lone occupant of the vehicle that collided with the moose died at the scene. The driver and lone occupant of the second vehicle was transported to Dr. G.B. Cross Memorial Hospital in Clarenville with non-life-threatening injuries.

    The TCH was impassable for a number of hours. A Collision Reconstructionist with RCMP Traffic Services attended the scene and the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner is engaged.

    The investigation is continuing.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Georgia Woman Sentenced for Possessing Methamphetamine in Trunk of Car when Traveling Through Acadiana Area

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    LAFAYETTE, La. – United States Attorney Brandon B. Brown announced that Sarah Rose Cea, 34, of Lawrenceville, Georgia, has been sentenced by United States District Judge David C. Joseph to 180 months (15 years) in prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, on drug trafficking charges. 

    On June 8, 2023, Cea was stopped while traveling on Interstate 10 near Lafayette, Louisiana by troopers with the Louisiana State Police. Cea was the sole occupant of the vehicle at the time of the traffic stop.  A Louisiana State Police K-9 conducted an open air sniff of the vehicle and alerted to the presence of narcotics in Cea’s vehicle. A search of the vehicle was conducted, and law enforcement agents located approximately 20 kilograms of methamphetamine in the trunk of her vehicle. The seized substance was sent to the criminalistics laboratory for testing, and it was confirmed to be approximately 19,943 grams of methamphetamine hydrochloride with a substance purity of 100%. 

    At the guilty plea hearing on July 31, 2024, Cea admitted to possessing the methamphetamine with the intent to distribute it to another individual. 

    The case was investigated by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration and Louisiana State Police and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney John W. Nickel.

    # # #

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Member of Large-Scale Drug Trafficking Organization Sentenced to 16 Years in Prison for Distributing Meth, PCP, Fentanyl, and Other Narcotics

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    PHILADELPHIA – United States Attorney Jacqueline C. Romero announced that Diane Gillard, 41, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge John M. Gallagher to 192 months in prison, 10 years of supervised release, and $2,100 in restitution for drug trafficking and gun offenses.

    On July 18, 2023, a grand jury in the Eastern District of Pennsylvania returned a 54-count superseding indictment charging Gillard, brother Phillip Gillard, and seven other codefendants with their participation in a large-scale drug trafficking organization operating in the Port Richmond section of Philadelphia, in the immediate vicinity of the Memphis Street Academy, a charter school located at 2950 Memphis Street.

    In November 2023, Diane Gillard pleaded guilty to all charges in the superseding indictment.

    Those charges arose from the FBI’s two-year investigation into the Gillard drug trafficking organization, which supplied other drug traffickers with wholesale quantities of methamphetamine, phencyclidine (“PCP”), fentanyl, and other narcotics.

    Throughout the course of the investigation, law enforcement agents conducted surveillance and undercover sting operations, during which drugs were purchased from the defendants. The group maintained three separate properties in connection with their drug trafficking organization, all of which were less than 1,000 feet away from the Memphis Street Academy.

    In total, the FBI confiscated over 20 pounds of pure methamphetamine, three gallons of PCP, one and a half kilograms of cocaine, 900 grams of crack cocaine, 400 grams of fentanyl, and 11 firearms.

    Codefendants Sharif Jackson, Amin Whitehead, Cesar Maldonado, Terrence Maxwell, Raphael Sanchez, Melvin Dreher, and Arron Preno previously pleaded guilty and received prison sentences in this case. Jackson was sentenced to 180 months in prison, Whitehead to 138 months, Maldonado to 96 months, Maxwell to 93 months, Sanchez to 90 months, Dreher to 60 months, and Preno to six months. Phillip Gillard, who was convicted at trial in February, is scheduled to be sentenced in December.

    “Diane Gillard was a central participant in the Gillard Street Gang’s trafficking, caught red-handed selling large amounts of drugs on multiple occasions,” said U.S. Attorney Romero. “This is a group that helped flood Philly’s streets with meth, PCP, fentanyl, and more. My office and our partners will continue to target those fueling our city’s drug epidemic and callously profiting from people’s pain and addiction.”

    “Drugs like fentanyl, methamphetamine, and cocaine devastate communities across our nation and have no place in our city,” said Wayne A. Jacobs, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Philadelphia. “Today’s sentence is a culmination of a years-long investigation, and the tireless dedication of the FBI and our law enforcement partners in pursuit of those who bring these harmful drugs into our communities.”

    “The interagency cooperation on this case has been truly outstanding,” said Edward V. Owens, Special Agent in Charge of HSI Philadelphia. “I commend the special agents and prosecutors who worked to ensure that these criminals and the dangerous drugs that they were trafficking will no longer threaten the American public.”

    The case was investigated by the FBI, Philadelphia Police Department, and Homeland Security Investigations, with extraordinary cooperation from the Memphis Street Academy, and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Everett Witherell and Robert W. Schopf.

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