Source: United States Coast Guard
07/31/2025 06:02 PM EDT
For breaking news follow us on twitter @USCGHawaiiPac
Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND
U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Malachi Mustango, 36th Airlift Squadron resource advisor, and Staff Sgt. Danaie Lloyd, 374th Logistics Readiness Squadron inventory inspection supervisor NCOIC, received certificates of appreciation from the Okutama Fire Station, Tokyo Fire Department, July 30, in recognition of their lifesaving actions in rescuing a local national.
Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND
At the request of the government of the Philippines, U.S. Marines with the Marine Rotational Force – Darwin (MRF-D) 25.3 Marine Air-Ground Task Force (MAGTF) are working alongside the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to provide urgent lifesaving support to communities affected by typhoons, tropical storms, and the Southwest Monsoon. The forward presence and ready posture of United States Indo-Pacific Command (USINDOPACOM) in the region facilitates rapid and effective response to crisis, demonstrating the U.S.’s commitment to allies and partners during times of need.
Source: US Department of Homeland Security
This serial criminal entered the U.S. illegally and was released into the country under the Biden Administration
WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) released additional information on Nicol Alexandra Contreras-Suarez, a transgender criminal illegal alien from Colombia who is charged with the rape of a minor and stalking in New York. Contreras-Suarez had a preliminary criminal hearing in New York City this week. His next court hearing before the New York Supreme Court is scheduled for September 10, 2025.
Contreras-Suarez, a biological male that presents as a woman, is scheduled to appear before a criminal court judge for charges of first-degree rape of a child less than 17 and stalking.
This horrific and preventable crime illustrates the consequences of the Biden administration’s catch and release and sanctuary policies.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) arrested Contreras-Suarez for illegally entering the United States in San Ysidro, California in March of 2023 and released him into the country. This criminal illegal alien then went on to commit heinous crimes in American communities.
Contreras-Suarez was arrested by Medford Police Department in Massachusetts for armed robbery, prostitution, and assault with a dangerous weapon. Due to local sanctuary policies, this criminal illegal alien was then released to terrorize more Americans.
“This creep should’ve never been released into our country,” said DHS Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin. “Thanks to the failed sanctuary policies and Biden’s open-border agenda, this serial criminal was freed to prey on innocent American children – but that ends now. ICE will not allow predators like Contreras-Suarez to terrorize American citizens.”
ICE lodged an immigration detainer with Manhattan Central Booking on February 13, 2025. Contreras-Suarez remains in custody at Rikers Island in New York until his next court hearing.
# # #
Source: US Department of Homeland Security
Anti-malware tool Thorium makes it easier for users to combat evolving threats, another breakthrough tool from CISA
WASHINGTON – Today, the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) announced the release of Thorium, an automated platform that allows cyber defenders at lightning speed to assess and combat malware threats in a way that has not been possible before. Created in partnership with Sandia National Laboratories, this tool is available through CISA at no cost.
When malware threats arise, users in the public and private sector have to react quickly to protect their systems. Thorium allows users to set up a customized and automated platform that is able to quickly analyze the threats and then add or remove tools based on the evolving needs presented by each new threat. Thorium is capable of scheduling over 1,700 jobs per second, and then processing 10 million files per hour for each user.
“President Trump and Secretary Noem are getting CISA back on-mission, and the release of CISA’s new anti-malware tool Thorium is the next step towards that goal. Just like individual tools in a toolbox, certain anti-malware systems are meant to be combat specific,” said Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin. “Thorium creates a customizable and automated system that streamlines the analysis and combatting of malware with the proper tools. This new CISA tool optimizes the collaboration between the public sector and the private sector.”
Under the Trump Administration, CISA is returning to its core mission of protecting the American homeland in cyberspace. Tools like Thorium, and the processes that develop them, are examples of what the nation’s premiere cybersecurity agency is capable of.
For more information and installation instructions, visit Thorium on CISA.gov.
# # #
Source: United States Navy (Logistics Group Western Pacific)
Issued by: on
LAE, Papua New Guinea (July 30, 2025) Republic of Korea navy (ROKN) Seabees assigned to Naval Mobile Construction Battalion 2 make measurements for a pergola at the Lae Dental Clinic during Pacific Partnership 2025 in Lae, Papua New Guinea, July 30, 2025. Now in its 21st iteration, the Pacific Partnership series is the largest annual multinational humanitarian assistance and disaster management preparedness mission conducted in the Indo-Pacific. Pacific Partnership works collaboratively with host and partner nations to enhance regional interoperability and disaster response capabilities, increase security and stability in the region, and foster new and enduring friendships in the Indo-Pacific. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Kyle Carlstrom)
| Date Taken: | 07.29.2025 |
| Date Posted: | 07.31.2025 21:51 |
| Photo ID: | 9231238 |
| VIRIN: | 250730-N-NB544-1017 |
| Resolution: | 5071×3381 |
| Size: | 2.09 MB |
| Location: | LAE, PG |
| Web Views: | 0 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
This work, Pacific Partnership 2025 multinational servicemembers build a pergola and refurbish a dental clinic in Lae, Papua New Guinea [Image 21 of 21], by PO1 Kyle Carlstrom, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright.
Source: United States Navy (Logistics Group Western Pacific)
Issued by: on
LAE, Papua New Guinea (July 30, 2025) U.S. Navy Builder 2nd Class Bryce Garcia, left, assigned to Amphibious Construction Battalion 1, attaches a wood beam for a pergola as a Republic of Korea navy Seabee assigned to Navy Mobile Construction Battalion 2, watches at the Lae Dental Clinic during Pacific Partnership 2025 in Lae, Papua New Guinea, July 30, 2025. Now in its 21st iteration, the Pacific Partnership series is the largest annual multinational humanitarian assistance and disaster management preparedness mission conducted in the Indo-Pacific. Pacific Partnership works collaboratively with host and partner nations to enhance regional interoperability and disaster response capabilities, increase security and stability in the region, and foster new and enduring friendships in the Indo-Pacific. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Kyle Carlstrom)
| Date Taken: | 07.29.2025 |
| Date Posted: | 07.31.2025 21:51 |
| Photo ID: | 9231245 |
| VIRIN: | 250730-N-NB544-1047 |
| Resolution: | 6720×4480 |
| Size: | 1.84 MB |
| Location: | LAE, PG |
| Web Views: | 0 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
This work, Pacific Partnership 2025 multinational servicemembers build a pergola and refurbish a dental clinic in Lae, Papua New Guinea [Image 21 of 21], by PO1 Kyle Carlstrom, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright.
Source: US Department of Homeland Security
Other worst of the worst criminals arrested yesterday include child pedophiles, rapists, and drug traffickers
WASHINGTON — U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) arrested Yehia Elham Badawi, a 48-year-old criminal illegal alien from Egypt with an extensive rap sheet including robbery, aggravated assault, and multiple violent felonies stemming from a 1994 shootout that left a Philadelphia police officer seriously wounded. This criminal illegal alien was featured on America’s Most Wanted in 1996.
According to reports, Badawi was wanted in connection with a violent armed robbery at a Philadelphia supermarket where he and an accomplice, both armed with rifles and wearing masks, fled the scene on bicycles, triggering a chase. During the pursuit, a police officer was shot and seriously injured. One assailant was shot and captured at the scene. Badawi fled the state and was later arrested in Salt Lake City, Utah.
On July 30, 2025, Badawi was taken into custody by ICE Philadelphia. Badawi’s extensive list of convictions includes:
“Thanks to the brave men and women of ICE, under the leadership of President Trump and Secretary Noem, one of America’s Most Wanted is finally off American streets,” said Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin. “DHS is unapologetically cracking down on criminal illegal aliens who think they can hide. They can’t. We WILL find them. America is no longer a safe haven for the world’s criminals.”
Other Notable Arrests:
Join ICE law enforcement today to help DHS remove murderers, pedophiles, gang members, and other violent criminal illegal aliens. For more information or to apply, visit: www.ice.gov/careers
Source: US Marshals Service
Lake County, TN – In the search for fugitive Austin Drummond, the U.S. Marshals Service (USMS) is offering a reward of up to $7,500 for information that leads to Drummond’s arrest.
Drummond is charged with First-Degree Murder of four people; ages 21, 20, 38, and 15, in Lake County on July 29, 2025. Additional charges include Aggravated Kidnapping, Possession of a Firearm During Commission of a Dangerous Felony, and Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon. He is considered armed and dangerous.
The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI) is the lead agency, and the USMS Two Rivers Violent Fugitive Task Force is assisting TBI and has adopted the case for a fugitive investigation.
“Getting Austin Drummond in custody is a priority. Anyone with information about where we can find him should call us immediately. You will remain anonymous,” said U.S. Marshal Tyreece Miller.
Tipsters can call the U.S. Deputy Marshals assigned to the case at (901) 406-2044, (901) 661-2955, or submit a USMS Web Tip.
Source: US Marshals Service
NOTICE TO LAW ENFORCEMENT: Before arrest, verify warrant through the National Crime Information Center (NCIC). If subject is arrested or whereabouts known, contact the nearest U.S. Marshals Service office, American Embassy/Consulate, call the U.S. Marshals Service Communications Center at 1-800-336-0102, or submit a tip using U.S. Marshals Service Tips.
For More Information Scan Code Above.
Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police
A man has been charged with over 40 offences as part of an ongoing investigation into reports of shoplifting in Waltham Forest.
Mark Stavrou, 32 (15.10.1992) of Sherwood Close, Walthamstow has been charged with 41 counts of theft, two counts of burglary and one count of criminal damage.
The charges follow his arrest on Thursday, 21 July, in connection with multiple shoplifting offences at supermarkets and petrol stations across Chingford. The offences date between Saturday, 10 May, and Thursday, 31 July.
He will appear at Thames Magistrates’ Court on Friday, 1 August.
Stavrou has previously been charged with 67 burglary offences. He will enter a plea for these on Thursday, 7 August, at the same court.
Source: United Kingdom National Police Chiefs Council
Key improvements following stalking super-complaint
In September 2024, 15 recommendations were made to police chiefs in response to a super-complaint that raised concerns around the police response to stalking in England and Wales.
In November 2024, each police force published a bespoke action plan in response to the super-complaint, detailing its current practice and future plans to meet the recommendations.
Collectively, forces have made several key improvements:
Reports of stalking and harassment have risen sharply in recent years, largely due to changes in recording, but also because officers are better able to identify and record offences.
Stalking and harassment accounts for 40% of all offences related to violence against women and girls, a priority area for all police forces.
Deputy Chief Constable Sarah Poolman, national policing lead for stalking and harassment, said: “Stalking is a highly complex crime where offenders repeatedly target victims and their behaviour can escalate quickly. That is why it’s important that the police response is thorough and robust from the outset.
“Officers need to have the right knowledge and skills to spot wider patterns of behaviour and intervene as early as possible, which is why effective training is key.
“Because stalking is nuanced and complex, understanding what drives offending and addressing those root causes is the only way to prevent harm to victims. Forces that have multi-agency teams which include police, probation and specialist psychologists working together, have had the greatest impact on reducing re-offending rates and better protecting victims.
“Forces have made progress to broaden their understanding of stalking, better assess risk and improve investigations, but it’s important that we continue to work with victims and advocates to develop our approach further. There is more work to be done to ensure consistency of risk assessment, the retrieval of evidence from digital devices, and ensuring there are dedicated services for all victims of stalking.
“It is still the case that victims receive a different level of support depending on what part of the country they live in. Our focus is on driving a consistent approach across forces and using every tool available to us to better protect victims.”
Source: United States Air Force
In this week’s look around the Air Force, AFSOC hosts Emerald Warrior 25.2 as part of the DLE series, the TOC-Light capability gets an upgrade with the Major Release 2 prototype, and the DAF creates a new AF/A6 DCS office dedicated to warfighter comms. and cyber systems.
Source: United States Spaceforce
In this week’s look around the Air Force, AFSOC hosts Emerald Warrior 25.2 as part of the DLE series, the TOC-Light capability gets an upgrade with the Major Release 2 prototype, and the DAF creates a new AF/A6 DCS office dedicated to warfighter comms. and cyber systems.
Source: United States Attorneys General
WASHINGTON – Today, the Department of Justice transmitted the declassified Appendix of the Durham Report to the Senate Judiciary Committee following collaboration with the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA). This transmission advances President Donald J. Trump’s directive for maximum transparency and underscores the Attorney General’s commitment to that objective. It also fulfills a request for disclosure by Senate Judiciary Chairman Senator Chuck Grassley (R-IA), whose leadership on this issue has been instrumental.
This latest transmission to Senate Republicans follows the Department’s recent disclosure of information related to the FBI’s handling of the investigation into Hillary Clinton’s use of a private email server and mishandling of classified information.
Following the transmission of new Durham documents, Attorney General Pamela Bondi, CIA Director John Ratcliffe, and FBI Director Kash Patel released the following statements:
“Today, the Department of Justice provided Chairman Grassley with previously classified information relating to Special Counsel Durham’s investigation into possible coordination between the Clinton campaign and the Obama administration to interfere with the 2016 presidential election. This Department of Justice, alongside the CIA, is committed to truth and transparency and will continue to support good-faith efforts by Congress to hold our government accountable.” – Attorney General Pamela Bondi
“Today, CIA and the Department of Justice under Attorney General Pam Bondi are taking a bold step forward in declassifying the underlying intelligence in the Durham appendix showing the false Trump-Russia collusion narrative for what it was – a coordinated plan to prevent and destroy Donald Trump’s presidency. CIA stands with the Department and is committed to transparency and rebuilding trust in the IC. The American people deserve the opportunity to see the evidence for themselves.” – CIA Director John Ratcliffe
“The American people deserve the full, unfiltered truth about the Russia collusion hoax and the political abuse of our justice system it exposed. Today’s declassification and release of documents tied to the Durham report is another step toward that accountability. The FBI will continue working tirelessly with our federal partners at DOJ, CIA, and more to uncover the facts that should have been brought to light years ago. I’m grateful to Chairman Grassley for his steadfast leadership on this issue, and I look forward to our continued partnership in exposing one of the most shameful frauds ever perpetrated on the American public.” – FBI Director Kash Patel
Source: NATO
NATO’s Airborne Warning and Control System (AWACS) E-3A fleet, and its Multinational Multi-Role Tanker Transport A330 (MRTT) aircraft have demonstrated their ability to perform air-to-air refuelling. In July 2025, after successful test flights, the necessary airworthiness certification for mid-air fuel transfer procedures was obtained. As NATO strengthens its capabilities, this increases the Alliance’s strategic flexibility, interoperability and operational reach.
Validating the technical compatibility and operational readiness of Boeing’s and Airbus’ aircraft systems enables future rapid deployments and sustained aerial surveillance missions. The linkage of AWACS and MRTT represents another example of cooperation among Allies, and European Allies stepping up, demonstrating transatlantic unity and resolve. NATO’s AWACS fleet is managed by the NATO Airborne Early Warning and Control Force (NAEW&CF), based in Geilenkirchen, Germany. The MRTT Fleet, primarily based out of Eindhoven, the Netherlands, is owned by NATO and managed by the NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA). The Royal Netherlands Air Force (RNLAF) Flight Test Centre, the Multinational MRTT Unit (MMU), European Air Transport Command (EATC) and the Air Refueling Certification Agency (ARCA) provided support during the certification process.
Following the historic decisions made by leaders at the NATO Summit in The Hague, Allies will continue to future-proof NATO’s ability to guard our skies and maintain vigilance wherever it is needed, meet the new ambitious capability targets and keep our one billion people safe.
Source: United States Coast Guard
07/31/2025 09:37 AM EDT
The Coast Guard’s Office of Investigations and Casualty Analysis published a report of investigation (ROI) to Marine Casualty Reports regarding the demasting of the Schooner Grace Bailey in Penobscot Bay, Rockland, Maine resulting in the loss of life of one passenger and injuries to five other passengers on October 9, 2023.
Source: United States Attorneys General 7
Today, the Department of Justice announced the launch of the Backpage remission process to compensate victims whose trafficking was facilitated through the Backpage.com website. This marks the largest remission process to date to compensate victims of human trafficking.
“Backpage.com facilitated the exploitation of women and children as one of the largest online advertisers for commercial sex and sex trafficking over its 14-year existence,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Matthew R. Galeotti of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “Backpage and its executives made millions off the trafficking of victims. Today’s announcement underscores the Department’s unwavering commitment to use forfeiture to take the profit out of crime and to compensate victims.”
“Backpage used its position as the leading commercial sex advertisement website to make millions of dollars through their corrupt and heinous peddling of people,” said U.S. Attorney Timothy Courchaine for the District of Arizona. “The District of Arizona was proud to hold its executives accountable though criminal convictions and is proud to continue our efforts by forfeiting those ill-gotten gains to compensate real victims.”
“Today’s announcement shows the FBI’s commitment to ensuring that those who profit from human trafficking face the consequences of their actions,” said Assistant Director Jose A. Perez of the FBI Criminal Investigative Division. “We will continue to work alongside partners to thwart this industry by decimating its capacity for monetary gain while seeking safeguards for its victims.”
“Sex trafficking is one of the most horrific crimes we confront as a society,” said Chief Guy Ficco of IRS Criminal Investigation. “While traffickers try to operate in the shadows, the money always leaves a trail—and that’s where we come in. IRS-CI is committed to following that financial trail to expose criminal networks and help bring justice to survivors. We’re proud to work with our federal partners to dismantle those who profit from exploitation. Victims in this case should file their petitions by Feb. 2, 2026, to access the compensation they rightfully deserve.”
From 2004 to April 2018, criminals used Backpage.com as an online platform to facilitate commercial sex and sex trafficking, including trafficking of minors. In April 2018, the government seized Backpage.com. To date, Backpage.com, its owners, and key executives and businesses related to the platform have been found guilty of criminal offenses, including conspiring to facilitate unlawful commercial sex using a facility in interstate or foreign commerce and money laundering, and have been sentenced to federal terms of imprisonment.
In December 2024, the Department of Justice forfeited over $200 million in assets traceable to Backpage’s profits. These funds are now available to compensate victims for eligible losses. The Department of Justice has retained Epiq Global Inc. (Epiq) to serve as the Remission Administrator for this matter.
Victims whose sex trafficking was facilitated through advertisements posted on Backpage.com between Jan. 1, 2004, and April 6, 2018, and who incurred financial losses related to their trafficking may be eligible for remission. Individuals, their representatives, or estates of deceased victims may file a petition online or may obtain a Petition Form online at https://www.backpageremission.com/. Victims may also call, email, or write to the Remission Administrator to request that a Petition Form be sent to them.
The deadline to file a petition for remission is Feb, 2, 2026. For more information about the remission process – including eligibility requirements, updates, and frequently asked questions – please visit the official website at https://www.backpageremission.com/ or contact Epiq at 1-888-859-9206 toll-free, or 1-971-316-5053 for international calls, charges may apply. The Remission Administrator and the Justice Department will not ask for any payment to participate in this remission process.
The United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS), the FBI, and IRS Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI) investigated this matter.
Senior Trial Attorney Austin Berry of the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS) and Assistant U.S. Attorney Kevin Rapp with assistance on forfeiture from Joseph Bozdech of the District of Arizona are prosecuting the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonathan S. Galatzan, Chief of the Central District of California’s Asset Forfeiture and Recovery Section, handled the asset forfeiture aspects of the related civil cases. Special Agent Richard Robinson of IRS-CI, Special Agent Desirae Tolhurst of the FBI, USPIS Inspectors Lyndon Versoza and Quoc Thai, and Analyst Jane Chung with the Joint Regional Intelligence Center, spearheaded the investigation.
The Department of Justice, through the Asset Forfeiture Program, works diligently to compensate victims of crime. Since 2000, the Criminal Division’s Money Laundering and Asset Recovery Section (MLARS), which oversees the Asset Forfeiture Program’s victim compensation program, has successfully used its specialized expertise to return more than $12 billion in forfeited assets to victims of crime. MLARS Senior Attorney Advisor Jane K. Lee and Attorney Advisor Brittany R. Van Camp with the section’s Program Management and Training Unit are leading the remission process.
Source: United States Attorneys General
Illumina Inc. has agreed to pay $9.8 million to resolve allegations that it violated the False Claims Act when it sold to federal agencies certain genomic sequencing systems with cybersecurity vulnerabilities. Illumina is a Delaware corporation, headquartered in California, that manufactured and sold genomic sequencing systems throughout the United States.
The settlement resolves allegations that, between February 2016 and September 2023, Illumina sold government agencies genomic sequencing systems with software that had cybersecurity vulnerabilities, without having an adequate security program and sufficient quality systems to identify and address those vulnerabilities. Specifically, the United States contended that Illumina knowingly failed to incorporate product cybersecurity in its software design, development, installation, and on-market monitoring; failed to properly support and resource personnel, systems, and processes tasked with product security; failed to adequately correct design features that introduced cybersecurity vulnerabilities in the genomic sequencing systems; and falsely represented that the software on the genomic sequencing systems adhered to cybersecurity standards, including standards of the International Organization for Standardization and National Institute of Standards and Technology.
“Companies that sell products to the federal government will be held accountable for failing to adhere to cybersecurity standards and protecting against cybersecurity risks,” said Assistant Attorney General Brett A. Shumate of the Justice Department’s Civil Division. “This settlement underscores the importance of cybersecurity in handling genetic information and the Department’s commitment to ensuring that federal contractors adhere to requirements to protect sensitive information from cyber threats.”
“This settlement demonstrates our continuing commitment to combat cybersecurity risks by ensuring that federal contractors protect private and sensitive government information.” said Acting U.S. Attorney Sara Bloom for the District of Rhode Island.
“This settlement demonstrates our continued commitment to work with our law enforcement partners and the Department of Justice to ensure companies fulfill their contractual obligations,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Christopher M. Silvestro of the Defense Criminal Investigative Service (DCIS) Northeast Field Office, the law enforcement arm of the Department of Defense’s Office of Inspector General. “Safeguarding the validity of Department of Defense research and data is vital to supporting the warfighter.”
“Significant damage can result from a failure to adhere to required cybersecurity standards, especially when the systems involved include sensitive genomic data,” said Special Agent in Charge Roberto Coviello of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). “HHS-OIG and our law enforcement partners remain dedicated to ensuring that entities who do business with the government uphold their cybersecurity obligations.”
The settlement resolves a lawsuit filed under the whistleblower provisions of the False Claims Act, which permit private parties to sue on behalf of the government when a defendant has submitted false claims for government funds and receive a share of any recovery. The settlement in this case provides for the whistleblower, Erica Lenore, a former Director for Platform Management, On-Market Portfolio at Illumina, to receive $1,900,000 as her share of the settlement. The qui tam case is captioned United States ex. rel. Lenore v. Illumina Inc., No. 1:23-cv-00372 (D.R.I.).
The resolution obtained in this matter was the result of a coordinated effort between the Justice Department’s Civil Division, Commercial Litigation Branch, Fraud Section, and the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Rhode Island, with assistance from DCIS, the Army Criminal Investigation Division, the HHS Office of the Inspector General, and the Department of Commerce Office of the Inspector General.
The matter was investigated by Trial Attorney Erin Colleran of the Justice Department’s Civil Division and Acting U.S. Attorney Sara Bloom of the District of Rhode Island.
The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only and there has been no determination of liability.
Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)
TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA – Matthew Pellerito, 49, of Wewahitchka, Florida, pleaded guilty to possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon and the carrying of a firearm without written notice. The plea was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
U.S. Attorney Heekin said, “I applaud the excellent coordination of our state, local, and federal law enforcement agencies in their detection and investigation of these crimes. My office is committed to aggressively investigating and prosecuting those who unlawfully possess weapons or ammunition.”
Court documents reflect that on September 5, 2024, Pellerito prepared to board a commercial flight in Panama City, Florida. Pellerito’s checked luggage was flagged by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). Inside of Pellerito’s luggage, TSA found an undeclared firearm and a 50-round box of ammunition. Pellerito stated that he was traveling to Oregon for a camping trip and had forgotten to declare the firearm with the airline. Further investigation confirmed that Pellerito is a convicted felon and is prohibited from possessing firearms and ammunition by law.
Pellerito is scheduled for sentencing before United States District Judge Mark Walker on September 18, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. in Tallahassee, Florida. Pellerito faces up to fifteen years’ imprisonment on the firearm and ammunition charge, and up to five years’ imprisonment on the carrying of firearm without written notice charge.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Transportation Security Administration, the Panama City Airport Police Department, and the Bay County Sheriff’s Office investigated the case. Assistant United States Attorney Joseph A. Ravelo is prosecuting the case.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America (https://www.justice.gov/dag/media/1393746/dl?inline ) a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access available public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.
Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)
Garrett Williams Admitted to Helping Plan Robbery that led to the Murder of Drug Supplier
ROANOKE, Va. – A Roanoke, Virginia man involved in distributing large quantities of marijuana and helping plan a robbery that ultimately led to the murder of his drug supplier, was sentenced yesterday to 150 months in federal prison.
Garrett Isaac Williams, 22, pled guilty in February 2025 to one count of conspiracy to commit Hobbs Act Robbery. In April, Williams’ co-defendant, Joseph Walker, was sentenced to 35 years in prison after pleading guilty to one count of Hobbs Act Robbery and one count of discharging a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
According to court documents, beginning no later than January 2023, Walker and Williams conspired to distribute marijuana and marijuana wax they sourced from E.B., who periodically traveled from Pennsylvania to supply the pair at Mr. Walker’s residence in Roanoke.
Eventually, the men fell into debt to E.B. Then, in an effort to collect money he was owed, E.B. attempted to phone Walker but instead inadvertently called Walker’s mother. This phone call caused Walker and Williams to set in motion a plan to end their relationship with E.B. However, instead of paying down their debt, they conspired to order more marijuana from E.B., rob E.B. of that marijuana upon delivery and, in so doing, scare him from returning to Virginia.
On April 17, 2023, E.B. traveled from Pennsylvania to Walker’s residence, bringing with him approximately 10 pounds of marijuana and two pounds of marijuana wax in a deal facilitated by Williams. During E.B.’s trip, Williams maintained communication with him and provided updates to Walker so that he was prepared for E.B.’s arrival. For his part, Walker concealed a Sig Sauer, .45 caliber pistol on his person, intending to use it as part of the robbery. Upon E.B.’s arrival, Walker confronted E.B. about the phone call E.B. made to his mother, before shooting him twice, killing him. Afterwards, Walker, as planned, took the marijuana that E.B. had brought with him and, to conceal his crime, moved E.B.’s body out of his residence, placed it in the trunk of E.B.’s car and drove to Bedford County, Virginia where he set the car on fire.
While not physically present at the time of the robbery, Williams admitted to planning to rob E.B by force.
C. Todd Gilbert, United States Attorney for the Western District of Virginia, Stephen Farina, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Richmond Division, and Colonel Matthew D. Hanley, Superintendent of Virginia State Police made the announcement.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and Virginia State Police, with assistance from the United States Marshals Service, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Brevard County Sheriff’s Office, the Roanoke City Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office, the Roanoke City Police Department, the Roanoke County Police Department, the City of Lynchburg Police Department, and the Bedford County Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office are investigating the case.
The Star City Drug and Violent Crime Task Force also aided in the investigation and is comprised of officers from the Roanoke City Police Department, Roanoke County Police Department, City of Salem Virginia Police Department, the Vinton Police Department, and Virginia State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigation’s Salem Field Office.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys M. Coleman Adams and Kelly McGann are prosecuting the case, with assistance from Assistant U.S. Attorney Drew O. Inman.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
Source: Office of United States Attorneys
David Pastorello was Pending Sentencing on State Charges for Disseminating Indecent Material to a Minor
SYRACUSE, NEW YORK – David Pastorello, age 44, of Ithaca, New York, was arrested Tuesday evening and had his initial appearance on Wednesday on charges of enticement of a minor and distribution of child pornography. Acting United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III and Craig L. Tremaroli, Special Agent in Charge of the Albany Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), made the announcement.
The complaint alleges that Pastorello sent text messages to a girl under the age of 12, repeatedly requesting that the child have sex with him. Pastorello also sent the victim indecent images of himself, in addition to two images constituting child pornography under federal law. Later, Pastorello entered the victim’s apartment without permission before fleeing. The charges in the complaint are merely accusations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Prior to this offense, in May 2025, Pastorello was arraigned in Tompkins County Court for the New York State offense of possessing a sexual performance by a child less than 16 years old. In July 2025, just a few days prior to the incident that gave rise to the federal charges, Pastorello pled guilty in Cortland County Court to the New York State offense of disseminating indecent material to a minor. The Cortland County case was reset for sentencing. Pastorello was out on bond in both pending state cases.
Acting United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III stated: “Thanks to the quick work of federal, state, and local law enforcement, children have been protected and a dangerous predator has been apprehended. Despite having committed other crimes relating to child sexual abuse, Pastorello was allowed by state authorities to be out of custody. His new crimes demonstrate how dangerously unwise that decision was. Pastorello will be held fully accountable for the federal offenses he has committed.”
FBI Special Agent in Charge Craig L. Tremaroli stated: “Mr. Pastorello, a repeat offender with an alarming criminal history, is a dangerous predator who is now facing serious federal charges. These charges would not have been possible without the incredible assistance and coordination provided by our partners from the Tompkins County Sheriff’s Office, Ithaca Police Department, and New York State Police. Our communities should know the FBI is committed to leveraging these strong partnerships to bring the full weight of the federal government down on these disturbing predators looking to harm our children.”
Following the initial appearance, Pastorello was remanded to the custody of the United States Marshals Service pending further proceedings.
If convicted of enticement of a minor, Pastorello faces a maximum term of life in prison and a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 10 years, and for distribution of child pornography, a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years and a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 5 years. A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the particular statute(s) the defendant is convicted of violating, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other factors. Pastorello would also be required to register as a sex offender if convicted.
The FBI and New York State Police are conducting this investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ben Gillis is prosecuting the case as part of Project Safe Childhood.
Project Safe Childhood is a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
Source: Office of United States Attorneys
ALBUQUERQUE – A Hogback man is facing federal charges after an argument escalated into violence in front of multiple witnesses
According to court documents, on June 19, 2025, Renaldo Descheny, 43, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, assaulted Jane Doe by strangling her and striking her in the face with a firearm. The assault resulted in a laceration requiring hospital treatment. During the altercation, Descheny also pointed the firearm at multiple individuals and discharged the weapon several times, including firing towards the vehicle as the victims attempted to flee.
Descheny is charged with assault with a dangerous weapon and using and carrying a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence and will remain in custody pending trial, which has not yet been scheduled. If convicted of the current charges, Descheny faces up to 10 years in prison.
U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Philip Russell, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.
The Farmington Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Navajo Nation Police Department and Navajo Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Amy Mondragon is prosecuting the case.
A criminal complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)
GAINESVILLE, FLORIDA – James C. Mobley, 43, of Gainesville, Florida, was sentenced to a total of 15 years in federal prison following his conviction for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida announced the sentence.
U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “This sentence ensures that our community will be safer and sends a strong message that there are real and severe consequences for federal firearm offenses. Thanks to the outstanding work of our law enforcement partners, this armed felon has been called to account for his continued criminal conduct.”
On July 11, 2024, Gainesville Police Department officers conducted a traffic stop of Mobley. During a search of Mobley’s vehicle, officers located a loaded revolver and various narcotics. Mobley pleaded guilty the day his trial was set to commence on April 28, 2025. Mobley was sentenced as an armed career criminal due to his numerous felony convictions for serious drug offenses.
“We have zero tolerance for gun crimes in our community. My message to those who choose to bring guns and drugs to our streets – we will find you, and we will work with all our criminal justice partners to hold you accountable. Our community deserves safety,” said Chief Nelson Moya, Gainesville Police Department.
Mobley’s imprisonment will be followed by five years of supervised release. This conviction was the result of an investigation conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Gainesville Police Department. Assistant United States Attorneys Harley W. Ferguson and Adam Hapner prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America (https://www.justice.gov/dag/media/1393746/dl?inline) a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.
Source: US Department of Homeland Security
WASHINGTON –Today, the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), in partnership with Sandia National Laboratories, released Thorium, an automated, scalable malware and forensic analysis platform that can integrate commercial, custom and open-source analysis tools and enable cyber defenders to quickly assess malware threats and index forensic analysis results into a unified platform.
Advanced persistent threats using malware continue to increase in volume and complexity. The analysis of malware and forensics must be done accurately and quickly to enable organizations to defend their networks. However, malware analysts across government, public and private sectors are challenged with vast amounts of malware and managing a long list of malware analysis tools with specific capabilities and not enough time & resources to effectively analyze the threat.
Thorium allows cyber defenders to integrate their preferred tools into a single platform that orchestrates customized & automated analysis workflows at scale, analyze large amounts of malware quickly, and to add & remove tools quickly as malware threats evolve. Thorium is configured to ingest over 10 million files per hour per permission group and schedule over 1,700 jobs per second, while maintaining a fast results query.
“The Thorium framework underscores CISA’s focus and commitment to provide valuable services and resources at scale that help government and critical infrastructure protect against cyber threats and strengthen their cybersecurity. By publicly sharing this platform, we empower the broader cybersecurity community to orchestrate the use of advanced tools for malware and forensic analysis,” said CISA Associate Director for Threat Hunting Jermaine Roebuck. “With our partners at Sandia National Laboratories, we are enabling analysts nationwide to contribute insights and benefit from shared knowledge. Scalable analysis of binaries as well as other digital artifacts further enables cybersecurity analysts to understand and address vulnerabilities in benign software.”
Cybersecurity teams with frequent file analysis workflows can use Thorium to:
For more information and installation instructions, visit Thorium on CISA.gov. For more cybersecurity services offered by CISA, visit Free Cybersecurity Services & Tools.
###
About CISA
As the nation’s cyber defense agency and national coordinator for critical infrastructure security, the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency leads the national effort to understand, manage, and reduce risk to the digital and physical infrastructure Americans rely on every hour of every day.
Visit CISA.gov for more information and follow us on X, Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram.
Source: Interpol (news and events)
Welcomed by the INTERPOL President and Secretary General, the visit focused on bolstering international police cooperation to combat emerging crime threats.
LYON, France: The Saudi Arabian Minister of Interior, Prince Abdulaziz Bin Saud Bin Naif Bin Abdulaziz, met with INTERPOL President Ahmed Naser Al-Raisi and INTERPOL Secretary General Valdecy Urquiza at the organization’s Lyon headquarters.
The visit underscored INTERPOL’s strong cooperation with Saudi Arabia, which is set to host the organization’s Regional Bureau for the Middle East and North Africa.
President Al-Raisi said:
“INTERPOL greatly values the strong partnership with Saudi Arabia in tackling global security threats. The visit of the Minister of Interior to INTERPOL’s headquarters underlines the Kingdom’s commitment to international police cooperation and our shared determination to confront transnational crime through collaboration, innovation, and trust.”
Prince Abdulaziz Bin Saud said:
“Today’s visit reflects Saudi Arabia’s continued commitment to supporting INTERPOL and strengthening international cooperation in combating cross-border crime. The Kingdom values INTERPOL’s vital role in enhancing collaboration between security agencies worldwide, a partnership which is crucial to global security and stability.”
Prince Abdulaziz Bin Saud and his delegation were briefed by INTERPOL officials on police capabilities targeting cybercrime, financial fraud and other emerging crime threats.
The Minister was also updated on the progress of INTERPOL’s I-CORE programme to modernize international police cooperation, which has benefited from the financial support of Saudi Arabia.
Secretary General Urquiza said:
“Saudi Arabia has shown important leadership in driving the digital transformation of international police cooperation. The Kingdom’s generous support for INTERPOL’s I-CORE programme is accelerating our efforts to build a more connected and effective global policing architecture.”
Prince Abdulaziz Bin Saud was accompanied by Hesham Al-Faleh, Assistant Minister of Interior and Fahd bin Mayouf Al-Ruwaili, Ambassador of The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to France, alongside other senior national security leaders.
Source: US Department of Homeland Security
America and Chile deepen mutual commitment to security
SANTIAGO, CHILE – Today, U.S. Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem met with Chilean Minister of Public Security Luis Cordero Vega, Attorney General Ángel Valencia, and Minister of Justice Jaime Gajardo Falcón for the first time to discuss how the two countries can work together to deter illegal immigration, how Chile can maintain compliance with the U.S. Visa Waiver Program, and how the two countries can increase law enforcement cooperation to facilitate lawful travel and crackdown on criminals entering America.
“Today, America and Chile deepened our mutual commitment to security by discussing how we can work together on several key information sharing initiatives in the near future,” Secretary Noem said in a statement. “I am proud to announce that we signed a letter of intent for continued partnership on Biometric Identification Transnational Migration Alert (BITMAP) that will expand this vital data sharing program into new area. Chile also deserves applause for its efforts to stay compliant with our Visa Waiver Program and for its law enforcement’s efforts to stop criminals heading towards America from traveling through its country.”
U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, Chilean Minister of Public Security Luis Cordero Vega, and Minister of Justice Jaime Gajardo Falcón
Secretary Noem and Chilean officials moved one step closer to a BITMAP memo of understanding by signing a letter of intent that represents Chile and the U.S.’s desire to continue these efforts.
U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem signs BITMAP letter of intent
Chile also committed to accepting all ICE charter flights and enrolling in Electronic Nationality Verification (ENV) and our Security Alliance for Fugitive Enforcement (SAFE) programs. Chile will continue to be key a member of the U.S. Visa Waiver Program and has been a valued partner for law enforcement efforts in the region.
U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem and Chilean Minister of Public Security Luis Cordero Vega hold a bilateral meeting
The U.S. looks forward to continuing information sharing, engaging in joint law enforcement training exercises, and looking for new ways to build upon its relationship with Chile.
###
Source: US Department of Homeland Security
WASHINGTON –Today, the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) released an Eviction Strategies Tool, a no-cost resource designed to support cyber defenders in their efforts to respond to cyber incidents. CISA contracted with MITRE to develop this tool that enables cyber defenders to create tailored response plans and adversary eviction strategies within minutes. They will also be able to develop customized playbooks aimed at containing and evicting adversaries from compromised systems and networks.
The tool includes COUN7ER, a database of atomic post-compromise countermeasures mapped to adversary tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPs), and Cyber Eviction Strategies Playbook NextGen, a web-based application that matches incident findings with countermeasures obtained from COUN7ER. Together, these resources help defenders build systematic eviction plans with distinct countermeasures to thwart and evict unique intrusions.
“How an organization approaches remediation and eviction of an incident is critically important to a successful response effort. Over the years, we have seen organizations struggle with identifying the right steps to take and the correct sequencing of actions to properly evict advanced adversaries from their enterprises,” said Jermaine Roebuck, Associate Director for Threat Hunting, CISA. “This tool will level the playing field by making it easier for IT staff and cyber defenders to coordinate efforts and achieve a successful eviction. I encourage public and private sector organizations to incorporate this capability into their incident response plans.”
Key features of the Eviction Strategies Tool include:
To encourage collaboration and development, CISA offers Cyber Eviction Strategies Playbook NextGen and COUN7ER to the public under the MIT Open Source License. Cyber defenders are encouraged to review the new tool and provide feedback using CISA’s anonymous product survey.
For more information on best practices to implement preventative measures and manage cyber risks, visit Cybersecurity Best Practices.
###
About CISA
As the nation’s cyber defense agency and national coordinator for critical infrastructure security, the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency leads the national effort to understand, manage, and reduce risk to the digital and physical infrastructure Americans rely on every hour of every day.
Visit CISA.gov for more information and follow us on X, Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram.
Source: US FBI
On Friday, July 18, FBI Seattle took felony fugitive Salman Haji into custody following his arrest and deportation from Nairobi, Kenya, as part of an operation targeting violent crime. Haji was wanted for the January 2024 homicide of Mingyuan Huang in the parking lot of a business in Tukwila in what the investigation has determined to have been an attempted robbery. Haji is also charged in a federal armed carjacking case.
“International fugitive investigations like this one require significant coordination with domestic and international law enforcement partners as well as our Legal Attaché offices, which advance the FBI’s mission worldwide,” said W. Mike Herrington, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Seattle field office. “The FBI is committed to pursuing those who attempt to flee the criminal justice system and bringing them to justice, even when they seek to evade accountability by hiding overseas. This international operation was a joint effort by the Tukwila Police Department, FBI Seattle, FBI Legal Attachés Nairobi and The Hague, the DEA Nairobi Country Office, the Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs, and Kenya’s Directorate of Criminal Investigations and Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions.”
“The Tukwila Police Department would like to thank the FBI and all the involved federal and international law enforcement partner agencies for their assistance in locating and taking Haji into custody and stand trial for the homicide of Mingyuan Huang,” said Eric Drever, Chief of Police, Tukwila Police Department.
The operation that ultimately led to Haji’s arrest is part of Summer Heat, the FBI’s nationwide initiative targeting violent crime during the summer months. As part of this effort, the FBI has launched a multi-pronged offensive to crush violent crime. By surging resources alongside state and local partners, executing federal warrants on violent criminals and fugitives, and dismantling violent gangs nationwide, we are aggressively restoring safety in our communities across the country.
For information on the federal case, view a press release from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Washington: King County, Washington, murder suspect now indicted in armed carjacking in Seattle.
Source: United States Coast Guard
07/31/2025 12:55 PM EDT
For more breaking news follow us on Twitter and Facebook.