NewzIntel.com

Category: Security Intelligence

  • MIL-OSI Security: Coast Guard encourages safe fun on the water during National Safe Boating Week, Memorial Day weekend

    Source: United States Coast Guard

     

    05/16/2025 12:25 PM EDT

    NEW YORK — As National Safe Boating Week kicks off May 17–23 and Memorial Day weekend approaches, the Coast Guard and Coast Guard Auxiliary are encouraging New Yorkers to get out and enjoy the region’s waterways — safely and responsibly. Memorial Day weekend marks the unofficial start of the boating season across New York City and the Tri-State area. From the Hudson River to the East River, from Jamaica Bay to the open Atlantic, thousands of boaters, paddlers and beachgoers take to the water each year to soak in the season. While the Coast Guard remains ready to respond when things go wrong, the focus this week is on helping people have fun while staying safe. To view full news release, click the link above.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Federal Agencies Conduct Joint Operation in Southern Indiana

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

    More Than 20 Violent Illegal Immigrants Arrested

    INDIANAPOLIS, IN—A coordinated, multi-agency law enforcement operation conducted from April 29 to May 1, resulted in the arrest of 23 individuals in the Evansville and Bloomington areas, as part of an ongoing initiative to combat criminal activity and enhance public safety.

    The successful three-day operation was led by a coalition of federal partners, including U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the U.S. Marshals Service (USMS), and the U.S. Attorney’s Office (USAO).

    Of the 23 individuals taken into custody:

    • 18 had prior criminal arrests or convictions, including:
      • 10 individuals with one or more operating while intoxicated (OWI) offenses
      • 10 individuals involved in crimes that resulted in injury to others
      • 3 individuals connected to drug possession and trafficking

    Additionally, four individuals were arrested on federal warrants, including one subject previously convicted of cocaine trafficking.

    Those included:

    • Martin Cortez-Lopez, 36, who was arrested as he left court in Bloomington, Indiana.
      • Criminal History: 2007 – Disorderly intoxication and resisting law enforcement with violence / 2010 – Possession of cocaine and failure to appear for resisting officer with violence / 2024 – Possession of cocaine x2 and operating while intoxicated/endangerment.
      • Previously removed 2011
    • Amin Reynosa-Diaz, 29, arrested in Evansville, Indiana. Reynosa-Diaz was located at a construction site and taken into custody.
      • Criminal History: 2020 – Driving while intoxicated / 2024 – Domestic violence.
      • Previously removed 2019
    • Jaime Ortiz-Guzman, 46, arrested in Bloomington, Indiana.
      • Criminal History: 1999 – Federal Arrest, fraud, imposter, false documents / 2006 – Battery / 2008 – Operating while intoxicated and operating a motor vehicle without ever receiving a license / 2024 – Operating while intoxicated and driving without a license.
      • Previously removed felon
    • Jonathan Regules-Hernandez, 44, arrested in Bloomington, Indiana, after a short foot pursuit.
      • Criminal History: 2000 – Larceny and possession of stolen goods / 2004 – Maintaining a vehicle/dwelling/place with controlled substances and trafficking in cocaine / 2005 – Breaking and entering with the intent to commit felony and larceny after breaking and entering / 2007 – Alien removal under section 212 and 237 / 2025 – Operating a motor vehicle without ever receiving a license.
      • Previously removed felon

    This operation underscores the effectiveness of interagency collaboration in addressing public safety threats. By combining investigative resources, intelligence sharing, and enforcement capabilities, federal agencies are better equipped to identify, locate, and apprehend individuals who pose risks to the community or have violated federal laws, including immigration statutes.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: North East Point — Shelburne District RCMP charge man with multiple offences including Uttering Threats, Assault

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Shelburne District RCMP has charged a man with multiple offences, including Uttering Threats.

    On May 8, at approximately 12:30 a.m., Shelburne District RCMP responded to a report of uttering threats. Responding officers learned that a man had forcefully entered a residence on Seaview Crt. in North East Point and threatened the lone female occupant known to him before fleeing in a truck.

    Officers located the vehicle a short time later and attempted a traffic stop. The suspect drove away at a high rate of speed. Officers shut off their lights and sirens, and did not pursue the vehicle, in consideration of public safety. When the truck was located a second time, officers deployed a spike belt in an attempt to stop the vehicle. Again, the driver fled. Officers did not pursue the vehicle.

    Police then located the vehicle on Hwy. 103 near Oak Park Rd. and observed the driver run into a wooded area. RCMP Police Dog Services was dispatched to assist. Upon arrival, Police Dog Services tracked the suspect a short distance and safely arrested him. During the arrest, the man threatened the police dog and officers present.

    Grant Cottreau, 27, of Spryfield (formerly of Yarmouth), was transported to Yarmouth Rural RCMP Detachment where he received medical treatment for a non-life-threatening injury due to a police service dog bite.

    Cottreau has been charged with:

    • Break and Enter

    • Flight from Peace Officer (two counts)

    • Uttering Threats (three counts)

    • Being Unlawfully in a Dwelling-house

    • Mischief (two counts)

    • Dangerous Operation of a Motor Vehicle (two counts)

    • Failure to Comply with Order (two counts)

    He was remanded into custody and is scheduled to appear in Yarmouth Provincial Court on May 27.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Maskwacis — Alberta RCMP officer involved shooting in Maskwacis

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    On April 24, 2025, Maskwacis RCMP were asked to assist Edmonton Police Service with the investigation and subsequent arrest of occupants who fled from a stolen vehicle into a residence in Montana First Nation, Alta. Soon after, two suspects exited the house and were arrested. The third, who was believed to be in possession of a firearm, remained in the residence. The Alberta RCMP Emergency Response Team (ERT) was called in to assist.

    Soon after 10:50 p.m., a confrontation occurred between RCMP and the suspect, resulting in at least one officer discharging their service weapon. No officers were injured during this confrontation. Soon after, the residence caught fire and no one was observed exiting. The Maskwacis Fire Department was called as soon as the fire started and are still dealing with the property.

    In compliance with legislative requirements, the Director of Law Enforcement was immediately notified causing the deployment of ASIRT to conduct an independent investigation. The RCMP believes in accountability and transparency and in so doing will provide full support to the ASIRT investigators. Events like this are difficult for everyone involved.

    Independent of ASIRT’s investigation, the RCMP’s internal review process has been implemented to gather a full account of what took place during this incident. RCMP training, policy, police response, and the officer’s duty status will be subject to review. The RCMP is, of course, fully cooperating with ASIRT. All media inquiries about this incident should now be directed to ASIRT at 780-641-9099.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Fort McMurray — Alberta RCMP in custody death in Fort McMurray

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    On April 30, 2025, at 4:14 p.m., Wood Buffalo RCMP were dispatched to a call regarding a man standing on the deck of a daycare causing a disturbance. Another report had come in minutes before from a nearby liquor store, stating similar facts. Officers responded, spoke with the man and, when he refused to leave, proceeded to his arrest, to which he resisted. The officers then noted that the man was in medical distress and began life-saving procedures while contacting EMS.

    Unfortunately, the man was declared deceased at the hospital.

    In compliance with legislative requirements, the Director of Law Enforcement was immediately notified causing the deployment of ASIRT to conduct an independent investigation. The RCMP believes in accountability and transparency and in so doing will provide full support to the ASIRT investigators. Events like this are difficult for everyone involved.

    Independent of ASIRT’s investigation, the RCMP’s internal review process has been implemented to gather a full account of what took place during this incident. RCMP training, policy, police response, and the officer’s duty status will be subject to review. The RCMP is, of course, fully cooperating with ASIRT. All media inquiries about this incident should now be directed to ASIRT at 780-641-9099.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Edmonton — Alberta RCMP work with partner agencies and launch new Community Response Teams to target illegal drug crimes

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    On April 10, 2025, the Alberta RCMP met with partners in law enforcement, health, and government to discuss concerns around the use of illegal opioids, including fentanyl, across the province. Targeting drug and fentanyl related crimes is part of the Alberta RCMP’s Data 2 Action (D2A) current focus.

    D2A is an Alberta RCMP Crime Reduction Strategy that turns data and intelligence into actionable tasks focused on the four pillars of policing: targeted prevention, apprehension, suppression and offender management. The framework is designed to bring RCMP resources and supports alongside external partners across the province to tackle crime. D2A builds its intelligence by looking at where crime is being committed, what type of crime is impacting an area, and who is responsible for the most crime. By working together with local partners, and specialized agencies, the RCMP is able to develop strategies and coordinate resources to respond to the specific needs of communities.

    As part of this new focus, the Alberta RCMP will be working with agencies from across Alberta including ALERT, Edmonton Police Services, Calgary Police Services, Canada Border Services Agency, Alberta Crown Prosecution Services, Alberta Probation, Alberta Sheriffs, Alberta Association of Community, Peace Officers, Canada Post, Criminal Intelligence Service Alberta, Recovery Alberta, the Canadian Center of Recovery Excellence, and the Government of Alberta.

    “The Alberta RCMP is committed to doing all that we can to reduce the risk of opioids in our communities, but it isn’t just a police problem,” says Supt. Mike McCauley, Officer in Charge of the Alberta RCMP Crime Reduction Strategy. “Working with our partner agencies, we can develop a fulsome approach to address the underlying issues that lead to crime and the use of illegal fentanyl in our communities.”

    Some of the initial steps that the RCMP has taken to address the concerns of fentanyl in include establishing a new Community Response Team, which is a quick response crime reduction team designed to be able to swiftly tackle a variety of issues in support of detachments and districts. Community Response Teams combine focused outreach with targeted enforcement to improve safety, reduce victimization and address social determinants contributing to the root causes of crime. They work with frontline members and local partners in the community to address the driving causes of crime in a comprehensive, data driven, and targeted approach. Their support reduces drug related crime, enhances public safety, and engages support to create wrap around services and programs.

    Between Jan. 1 and Feb. 28, 2025, there were 87 occurrences in which fentanyl was seized in Alberta RMCP jurisdiction. Approximately 1.4 kilograms of solid fentanyl and over 600 tablets were seized. In 36 of the 87 occurrences where fentanyl was seized, weapons were also seized ranging from knives and brass knuckles to rifles, shotguns, and 3D printed gun parts. While the most instances of fentanyl seizures were in larger communities such as Grande Prairie and Red Deer, there were seizures made in 34 detachments areas across the province.

    “The misery that is caused to the people of Alberta due to illegal drugs and related crimes cannot be understated,” says S/Sgt. Luke Halvorson in Charge of Community Safety. “The Alberta RCMP is committed to using every resource available, whether it’s at the detachment level or involves specializes supports like our Community Response Teams, to target the root causes of crime and to meet the danger that Fentanyl and the illegal drug trade causes to the well-being of our community.”

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Calgary — Alberta RCMP Community Response Team and Cochrane Crime Reduction Unit seize fentanyl and firearm

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Your Alberta RCMP’s Community Response Team and the Cochrane Crime Reduction Unit (CRU), with assistance from the RCMP Federal Policing Northwest Region, Sherriff Investigative Support Unit Surveillance Team, Calgary Police Tactical Unit, Calgary Police Service, Airdrie RCMP, and Cochrane RCMP, concluded a two-month drug trafficking investigation.

    On May 1, 2025, the Alberta RCMP Community Response Team, Cochrane CRU, and Calgary Police Tactical Unit arrested a 50-year-old individual, a resident of Calgary, and a 38-year-old individual, also a resident of Calgary, at the Sunridge Mall in Calgary. Information is yet to be sworn for the 38-year-old individual; therefore, the name cannot be released at this time.

    Subsequent to their arrest, three search warrants were executed, including:

    • A 2020 Chevrolet Malibu;
    • One Residence in Livingston, Calgary; and
    • One Apartment in Livingston, Calgary.

    As a result of the investigation and subsequent search warrants, the following was seized:

    • 271 grams of Fentanyl;
    • 20 grams of Methamphetamine;
    • 22 Oxycodone Pills;
    • One Prohibited Firearm;
    • Ammunition;
    • Cell Phones;
    • Scales;
    • Scoresheets;
    • Money Counter;
    • $6,852 Counterfeit Canadian Currency;
    • 60 Fraudulent Documents;
    • Computers, Printers, Card Scanner, and Embosser to create Fraudulent Documents; and
    • A 2020 Chevrolet Malibu.

    The 50-year-old and 38-year-old individuals were jointly charged with:

    • Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking Fentanyl;
    • Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking Methamphetamine;
    • Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking Oxycodone;
    • Possession of Proceeds of Crime;
    • Possession of Property Obtained by Crime;
    • Possession of Identity Documents;
    • Unlawfully Make Counterfeit Money; and
    • Possession of Counterfeit Money.

    In addition, the 50-year-old individual was charged with:

    • Trafficking Fentanyl;
    • Possession of a Weapon for a Dangerous Purpose;
    • Possession of a Firearm while being Prohibited;
    • Possession of a Prohibited Weapon while being Prohibited;
    • Possession of Ammunition while being Prohibited;
    • Possession of a Firearm without a licence;
    • Possession of a Firearm knowing he was not the holder of a licence; and
    • Possession of a Prohibited Weapon.

    And the 38-year-old individual was charged with:

    • Five counts of Fail to Comply with a Release Order.

    The 50-year-old individual was remanded into custody and appeared in the Alberta Court of Justice in Cochrane, Alta., on May 6, 2025. The 38-year-old individual was released and is to appear in the Alberta Court of Justice in Stony Plain, Alta., on June 24, 2025.

    As a part of your Alberta RCMP’s current Data 2 Action (D2A) focus, Community Response Teams have been established to address the concerns of fentanyl. D2A is an Alberta RCMP Crime Reduction Strategy that turns data and intelligence into actionable tasks focused on the four pillars of policing: targeted prevention, apprehension, suppression, and offender management. Community Response Teams combine focused outreach with targeted enforcement to improve safety, reduce victimization, and address the social determinants contributing to the root causes of crime.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Boy jailed for 20 years for murder of teenager

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    A teenager has been jailed for murdering another boy.

    A judge at the Old Bailey sentenced the 17-year-old, who cannot be named for legal reasons, to 20 years in prison. He was found guilty of murder and possession of a bladed article at the same court on Tuesday, 21 January.

    The boy killed 16-year-old Kamari Johnson in Bourne Avenue, Hayes, on Friday, 24 May, 2024.

    Detective Chief Inspector Alex Gammampila, who led the investigation, said: “Our thoughts are with Kamari’s loved ones. Though nothing can bring him back, this sentence removes a cold-blooded killer from the streets.

    “The murder was committed in broad daylight, and members of the public tried in vain to save Kamari’s life as he lay dying.

    “Shockingly, the motive appears to have been a dispute over a £180 moped. This case illustrates how petty disagreements can spiral into murderous violence when knives are carried.”

    Police attended Bourne Avenue just after 13:30hrs on Friday, 24 May, 2024. Kamari had been stabbed moments before, and had crashed his moped in the street while attempting to flee the killer, who had pursued him on foot. The chase was captured on video.

    The killer handed himself into Hayes Police Station on Saturday, 25 May, 2024. At interview, he maintained that he had acted in self-defence – leading investigators on a hunt for CCTV evidence and witness testimony.

    With the assistance of phone records, police were able to establish that Kamari and the killer had been involved in a dispute over the sale of a moped for just £180.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: NATO Secretary General attends meeting of the European Political Community

    Source: NATO

    On Friday 16 May (2025), NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte joined European leaders at a meeting of the European Political Community in Tirana, Albania to discuss shared security concerns.

    Amongst other engagements, Mr Rutte met with the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen and took part in a bilateral meeting with Prime Minister of Albania Edi Rama, at which they discussed the situation in the Western Balkans. The Secretary General also participated in a roundtable on boosting European competitiveness and security through innovation and resilience.

    The war against Ukraine remained at the forefront of leaders’ minds, with the Secretary General renewing calls for Russia to engage meaningfully in peace talks. “He has to be serious about wanting peace. I think all the pressure is now on Putin” Mr Rutte said, commending the Ukrainians for attending the discussions with a delegation willing to negotiate a ceasefire.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: UPDATE: Man jailed for life after fatal stabbing of mother at Carnival

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    UPDATE: On Friday, 16 May at the Old Bailey, Shakeil Thibou was given a life sentence. He must serve a minimum of 29 years, less the 261 days he has spent on remand, before he will be eligible for release.

    The press release issued following his conviction is below.

    A man who was caught on camera stabbing a mother in front of her three-year old daughter at last year’s Notting Hill Carnival has been found guilty of murder.

    Cher Maximen, who was 32, was with friends and her daughter just off the Carnival parade route on Sunday, 25 August 2024 when she was caught up in a fight involving multiple men. She was stabbed and died in hospital six days later.

    On Wednesday, 9 April at the Old Bailey, Shakeil Thibou, 20 (29.05.04), of Masbro’ Road, Hammersmith and Fulham, was convicted of Cher’s murder, attempted GBH with intent and possession of an offensive weapon.

    Detective Chief Inspector Alex Gammampila, from the Met’s Specialist Crime Command, said: “My heart goes out to Cher’s family and friends. She was a loving mother who went to Notting Hill Carnival to enjoy what should have been a carefree day in the company of friends and her young daughter. Her life was ended in the most senseless way.

    “In stark contrast, Shakeil Thibou went to Carnival not to be part of the celebration, but to engage in violence. Why else would he have arrived armed with a large knife and seeking confrontation?

    “His dangerous actions took Cher’s life and narrowly avoided killing a second man too.

    “The investigation team has worked diligently and tirelessly to build a case against him. Their work has made sure Cher’s family and friends have been able to get justice.

    “They had to go through the pain of witnessing her final moments throughout the trial. I commend their bravery and the dignified way they have handled this tragedy. I hope that today’s result brings some small amount of closure for them.”

    Vyleen Maximen, Cher’s grandmother, said: “Cher, my first born grandchild, my friend. I held you in my arms when you were born. 32 years of loving, of laughing, playing, crying and holidaying with you. I will no longer have that pleasure ever again. Not seeing you get married or have more children.

    “Life will never be the same. Ever. We just have to live life, the best that we can and I will raise your daughter Cher, until my last breath. I will never hear your key opening my front door and shouting ‘Hello Nanny’.”

    TJ Jacobs, relative of Cher and Godmother to Cher’s daughter, said: “We would like to express our deepest gratitude to the jury for helping ensure justice is served for our beloved Cher Maximen – affectionately known to us as Princess Cher, Ri Ri, Churbs, Churburt, Cher Bear and Bear.

    “What happened to us has completely turned our lives upside down. Losing Cher has filled our hearts with immeasurable sadness.

    “Cher was pure magic – radiant, loving, passionate, and kind. She brought creativity, style and flawless flair to everything she did. She was a dedicated mother, a devoted granddaughter, niece, sister, and friend. This senseless act of violence has cut short a life that had so much more to offer the world and was only just beginning to blossom. Like many young adults, life hadn’t always been easy for Cher, but she was just discovering who she was and who she could become.

    “Even when life felt unfair, Cher remained kind, caring, and a fierce protector of those she loved – qualities that were evident even in her final moments. Her smile lit up every corner of every room, and her laugh echoed through hallways. Her journey was an example of resilience against the odds, showing that no matter the challenges, young people can emerge with strength, determination, and the will to strive for better.

    “We will never recover from this loss, but we are determined to ensure that Cher’s daughter – now being raised by her beloved great-grandmother (Cher’s much-loved grandmother), along with her village of aunties, uncles, and Godparents – receives the love, support, and care she needs as we navigate life without her. Cher’s four-year-old daughter was her everything – her reason, her drive, and now her legacy. Cher’s unwavering devotion to her role as a mother was evident to all who knew her.

    “Our family is devastated, but we would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to the emergency responders, medical professionals, and law enforcement officers involved in this case.

    “Knife crime continues to devastate communities across the UK. The government must urgently address the root causes – the systemic failures in education, children’s services, youth services, mental health services impacting the many disengaged and disenfranchised young people. Offering them the tools to overcome challenges rather than fall victim to them. This is not just about reducing crime; it’s about saving lives, restoring hope, and building safer, stronger communities.”

    The court heard that Cher had spent the afternoon with her daughter and her friends among a crowd in Golborne Road which was just off the parade route.

    Just before 18:00hrs, a fight broke out in the crowd. CCTV and police officers’ body worn video footage shown during the trial shows Shakeil attempting to stab a man in the abdomen. Cher was caught up in the melee and knocked to the floor, grabbing onto Shakeil’s coat as she tried to get back to her feet.

    In an effort to defend herself and her daughter, Cher kicked out and was stabbed in the groin as she did so, falling to the ground.

    Officers rushed to her aid and provided emergency medical treatment until the arrival of paramedics. She was transported to hospital in a critical condition but despite the efforts of medical teams she died on Saturday, 31 August.

    Video footage showed that moments before Cher was stabbed, Shakeil’s brothers – Sheldon Thibou and Shaeim Thibou, along with an unidentified male, fought with one man. Sheldon can be seen wielding an illegal stun gun. An officer who intervened to try to break up the fight was assaulted by both brothers.

    The three brothers and an associate fled the scene, but CCTV footage recovered during the investigation showed that Shakeil, when leaving carnival was captured on CCTV changing his outer clothing with an associate and calmly making his way out of the area.

    An investigation started immediately after the incident, with officers running images captured on bodyworn video cameras through facial recognition software, revealing a match for Sheldon and Shaeim Thibou. Further research identified Shakeil.

    A significant manhunt was launched which saw officers search a number of addresses across west London.

    Shakeil was found lying on the floor under a sleeping bag when officers found him in the early hours of Tuesday, 27 August. During a search of the address they found a distinctive bag he’d been seen wearing on footage captured at Carnival.

    His jacket had been discarded at the scene after it came off in the struggle. It was sent for forensic testing and DNA found on it was a 1 in a billion match for Shakeil – further proof that he had committed the stabbing.

    Detectives would also spend weeks trawling through hundreds of additional hours of CCTV and body worn video footage, as well as messages on mobile phones recovered at the time of the brothers’ arrest.

    This helped to further establish a watertight case that Shakeil and his brothers were at Carnival at the time of Cher’s murder.

    Sheldon Thibou, 25 (23.01.00), of Star Road, Hammersmith and Fulham and Shaeim Thibou, 22 (20.02.03), of Charleville Road, Hammersmith and Fulham stood trial alongside their brother.

    Sheldon was found guilty of violent disorder. He had also previously pleaded guilty to the possession of an illegal stun gun.

    Sheldon and Shaeim were both found guilty of assaulting an emergency worker. 

    Shakeil and Shaeim will be sentenced at the Old Bailey on Friday, 16 May.

    Sheldon will be sentenced in due course at a court that is yet to be confirmed.

    TJ Jacobs and Vyleen Maximen added:

    “We would also like to say a special thank you to:

    “Police officers Alex Gammampila, Charlotte Carter, Andy Miller, Kevin Newton, Dan Hobbs and Dave Davies.

    “Emma Currie and Peter Hutton from the Crown Prosecution Service.

    “Prosecuting Counsel Edward Brown KC and Phillip McGhee.

    “Sharon Macaulay, Ravandeep Khela and Wendy Rixon from Taylor Rose Solicitors.

    “Barrister Oliver Wooding from St John’s Chambers.

    “Gulizar Candemir from the Children’s Team at Freeman Solicitors.

    “Barrister Alison Brooks from Staple Inn Chambers.

    “These individuals have supported us tirelessly throughout this unimaginable experience. Their efforts and dedication have been a source of comfort during this dark and painful time.”

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News: Building Security Through Cooperation: Exercise Obangame Express 2025 concludes in Cabo Verde

    Source: United States Navy

    Thirty African nations have wrapped up two-weeks of intense training during Exercise Obangame Express 2025 (OE25), strengthening regional collaboration and reaffirming their commitment to maritime security in the Gulf of Guinea and the Atlantic Ocean off Africa’s western coast. This year’s exercise focused on enhancing regional coordination, expanding maritime awareness, and enhancing operational readiness.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Federal Detainee Admits Role in Conspiracy to Smuggle Contraband into the Wyatt Detention Center

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    PROVIDENCE – A detainee at the Donald W. Wyatt Detention Center admitted to a federal judge on Thursday that he participated in a conspiracy to smuggle contraband into the detention center, announced Acting United States Attorney Sara Miron Bloom.

    Shawn D. Hart, 46, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance and obtaining or attempting to obtain prohibited objects as an inmate. He admitted that, in late 2023, he and others, inside and outside of the Wyatt Detention Center, conspired to obtain and smuggle papers soaked with K2, a synthetic marijuana, into the facility.

    According to information presented to the court, on December 1, 2023, sheets of paper that an FBI testing lab later confirmed had been treated with Schedule I controlled substances were provided to an associate of Hart for her to smuggle into the facility and to deliver to Hart. That person, Theresa Marie DiJoseph, 51, with whom Hart had a personal relationship, used her status as an attorney to regularly arrange for “contact” visits with Hart, so they could meet without a plexiglass screen between them. Wyatt correctional officers seized the tainted papers from DiJoseph as she attempted to enter the facility.

    Hart is scheduled to be sentenced on November 18, 2025.

    DiJoseph, who pleaded guilty on March 12, 2025, to one count each of possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance analogue, conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance, and providing a prohibited object to an inmate, is scheduled to be sentenced on June 12, 2025.

    The sentences imposed will be determined by a federal district judge after consideration of the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    The cases are being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Julianne Klein and Peter I. Roklan.

    The matter was investigated by FBI and the Donald W. Wyatt Detention Center Professional Standards Unit.

    ###

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Two California Businesses and Their Owners Resolve Allegations They Misrepresented Businesses’ Size to Obtain Paycheck Protection Program Loans

    Source: United States Attorneys General

    JEV&B Services LLC and D4 Inc., two entities with their principal places of business in California, and their owners — William Nelson and Vicki Rollins — have agreed to pay $153,598.90 to resolve allegations that they violated the False Claims Act by submitting false statements and certifications to obtain Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans for which the entities were not eligible.

    The PPP, an emergency loan program established by Congress in March 2020 under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act and administered by the Small Business Administration (SBA), was intended to support small businesses struggling to pay employees and other businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic. Under the PPP, eligible businesses could receive forgivable loans guaranteed by the SBA. In addition to the SBA’s guarantee, the PPP protected and supported financial institutions by reimbursing the lender’s costs of processing PPP applications. Regulations and legislation passed by Congress set various eligibility requirements for the PPP, including limitations on the size of eligible businesses, so that the limited PPP funds would reach small businesses. In 2021, when Congress authorized a second round of PPP loans, it imposed even stricter size limits. The second-draw PPP loans were limited to businesses with 300 employees or less, including the employees of the applicant’s affiliated businesses.

    On their PPP loan applications, borrowers were required to disclose their affiliated companies and to state the combined number of employees. Borrowers also certified that they were eligible for the PPP loan and that the information provided was accurate.

    The United States alleged that JEV&B Services and D4 are companies that, through Nelson and Rollins, have common ownership and management with numerous other companies. Like several of Nelson’s and Rollins’ other businesses, JEV&B Services and D4 obtained first-draw PPP loans, which the SBA later forgave in full. JEV&B Services and D4 also obtained second-draw PPP loans. The United States alleged that JEV&B Services and D4 were not eligible for any second-draw PPP loans because they far exceeded the size limits that Congress placed on second-draw PPP loans. The United States further contended that JEV&B Services and D4 knowingly misled their lender to get the second-draw loans, including by under-reporting the total number of employees, not disclosing their affiliated companies to the lender, falsely certifying that they were eligible for the second-draw PPP funds, and certifying that the information on their applications was accurate when, in fact, it was not.

    JEV&B Services, D4, Nelson, and Rollins will pay $153,598.90 to redress these allegations, including paying the SBA for the processing fees that the lender incurred and that were reimbursed by the SBA. The companies have also agreed to repay the loans in full, relieving the SBA of liability to the lender for the federal guaranty of the improper loans.  

    The civil settlement includes the resolution of claims brought under the qui tam or whistleblower provisions of the False Claims Act by Ashwani Chawla. Under those provisions, private parties may initiate an action on behalf of the United States and receive a portion of any recovery. The lawsuit is captioned U.S. ex rel. Ashwani Chawla v. Agathos Support Service, Inc., et al., Civil No. LACV 22-2798 KK (JCx) (C.D. Cal.). Chawla will receive $11,519.92 in connection with this settlement.

    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 SBA Office of the Inspector General, with assistance from the SBA’s Office of Capital Access.

    Trial Attorney Christopher Belen of the Justice Department’s Civil Division handled the matter.

    The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only. There has been no determination of liability.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News: Navy, Pearl Harbor National Memorial take next step in USS Arizona preservation, removal of mooring platforms 

    Source: United States Navy

    After a year of focused planning and analysis, the installation of this mooring system is a necessary precaution to ensure environmental protection ahead of removing the platforms later this year.   Additionally, this action supports the platform removal emergency response plan.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Four Dominican Nationals Indicted for Drug Conspiracy Involving Fentanyl and Crack Cocaine

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    BOSTON – A federal grand jury in Boston has indicted four Dominican nationals residing in Lawrence, Mass., on drug charges.

    Juana Luduvina Aguasvivas, 66, Richard Arias-Aguasvivas, 38, Ariel Ruiz, 31, and Yonelin Baez Soto, 30, are charged with conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute controlled substances. Arias-Aguasvivas, Ruiz and Baez were also charged with distribution of and possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and/or crack cocaine. All four defendants are scheduled to appear in federal court in Boston on May 29, 2025.

    According to the charging documents, in April 2021, an investigation began into a drug trafficking organization operating in Lawrence that was supplying fentanyl, cocaine base and cutting agents to customers. Between April 2021 and February 2025, investigators conducted controlled purchases, during which Aguasvivas, Arias-Aguasvivas, Ruiz and Baez collectively sold more than 800 grams of fentanyl, more than 80 grams of crack cocaine and copious amounts of cutting agents.

    In May 2025, Baez pleaded guilty to one count of unlawful reentry and is scheduled to be sentenced on those charges on Aug. 6, 2025.

    Arias-Aguasvivas, Ruiz and Baez each face at least 10 years and up to life in prison, at least five years and up to a lifetime of supervised release and a $10 million fine. Aguasvivas faces at least five years and up to 40 years in prison, at least four years and up to a lifetime of supervised release and a $5 million fine. The defendants are subject to deportation upon completion of any sentence imposed. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon on the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.  

    United States Attorney Leah B. Foley and Kimberly Milka, Acting Special Agent in charge for the Federal Bureau of Investigations, Boston Division made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the Massachusetts State Police, Essex County District Attorney’s Office, North Andover Police Department, Billerica Police Department, Lowell Police Department, Haverhill Police Department, Methuen Police Department, Internal Revenue Service and Homeland Security Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Annapurna Balakrishna of the Criminal Division is prosecuting this case. 

    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 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 and Project Safe Neighborhood.

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

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Fifth Resident from Pierre, South Dakota, Sentenced to 18 Years in Federal Prison for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    PIERRE – United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Eric C. Schulte has sentenced a Pierre, South Dakota woman convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance. The sentencing took place on May 14, 2025.

    Heather Stahlhoefer, age 38, was sentenced to 18 years in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release and ordered to pay a $1000 fine, as well as a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

    Stahlhoefer was indicted by a federal grand jury in September 2024. She pleaded guilty on March 10, 2025.

    This conviction stemmed from a drug distribution conspiracy beginning in June 2023 and continuing until September 2024. Heather Stahlhoefer and co-defendant Misty Stahlhoefer were the source of supply to several other individuals in the Pierre area. The Stahlhoefers would acquire up to 1 pound of methamphetamine per trip to be further distributed by themselves and others including Whitney Marrowbone, Wendy Mealer, Brent Larvie, and David Rinehart. The conspiracy involved between 10,000 and 30,000 kilograms of converted drug weight, including 550 grams of pure methamphetamine that was recovered during a traffic stop of Heather Stahlhoefer.

    Misty Stahlhoefer is scheduled to be sentenced July 14, 2025. Marrowbone, Mealer, Larvie and Reinhart were previously sentenced on May 5, 2025. Marrowbone was sentenced to 11 years in federal prison; Mealer was sentenced to six years in federal prison; Larvie was sentenced to four years and six months in federal prison; and Rinehart was sentenced to two years in federal prison.

    This case was investigated by the FBI Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force, the Pierre Police Department, the Chamberlain Police Department, and the Lyman County Sheriff’s Office. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Meghan Dilges.

    Stahlhoefer was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service. 

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Two Gang Members from Lowell Sentenced for Trafficking Methamphetamine Pills

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Defendants sold thousands of counterfeit “Adderall” pills supplied by the Asian Boyz gang

    BOSTON – Two members of the Asian Boyz gang have been sentenced in federal court in Boston for trafficking homemade imitations of the pharmaceutical drug, Adderall, containing methamphetamine.

    Erickson Dao, a/k/a “Silent,” 32, of Lowell, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Nathaniel M. Gorton to 85 months in prison, to be followed by four years of supervised release. . In January 2025, Dao pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute 50 grams and more of methamphetamine and one count of possession with intent to distribute 500 grams and more of cocaine. Bill Phim, a/k/a “Bonez,” 37, also of Lowell, was sentenced by Judge Gorton to 10 years in prison, to be followed by five years of supervised release. In February 2025, Phim pleaded guilty to two counts of conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute 500 grams and more of methamphetamine and two counts of distribution of and possession with intent to distribute 50 grams and more of methamphetamine.  

    A long-term investigation proved that Asian Boyz gang members and associates allegedly had access to a plentiful supply of counterfeit methamphetamine pills marketed as “Adderall.” These pills were similar in shape, size and appearance to genuine Adderall. On 12 different dates in 2022, Phim sold these counterfeit “Adderall” pills to an undercover agent. In total, Phim sold the undercover agent over 10,000 pills for more than $36,000.

    Dao was identified as one of Phim’s suppliers of the methamphetamine pills. Between February 2022 and April 2022, Dao delivered the counterfeit pills to Phim on at least five occasions. Phim then sold the pills to an undercover federal agent for more than $11,000. Chemical testing confirmed that the pills were a dangerous compound of methamphetamine and caffeine. When investigators searched Dao’s residence, they discovered thousands more counterfeit “Adderall” pills and large quantities of cocaine.

    In other drug transactions with the undercover officer, Phim admitted that he coordinated the supply of methamphetamine pills with other Asian Boyz gang members and associates, including Brian Gingras, a/k/a “Cheech.” Between May 2022 and September 2022, Gingras met Phim prior to the planned deals to personally deliver the pills. Gringas pleaded guilty in January 2025 and is scheduled to be sentenced on June 4, 2025. 
     
    U.S. Attorney Leah B. Foley; Kimberly Milka, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division; and Superintendent Gregory C. Hudon of the Lowell Police Department made the announcement. Valuable assistance was provided by the Massachusetts State Police and the Billerica, Haverhill, North Andover and Salem Police Departments. Assistant U.S. Attorney Fred M. Wyshak, III of the Organized Crime & Gang Unit is prosecuting the case.

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

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

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

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Florida Pharmacy Pleads Guilty to Health Care Fraud and Agrees to Pay More Than $1 Million Settlement

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    BOSTON – On May 13, 2025, a Florida-based pharmacy, OHM Pharmacy Services, aka “Benzer,” aka “Auburndale,” pleaded guilty to one count of health care fraud and was sentenced to one year of probation and ordered to pay restitution of $82,000. As part of the global resolution, Benzer also agreed to pay $1,018,000 to resolve False Claims Act violations.

    According to OHM’s admissions in the global resolution of criminal charges and civil claims, the pharmacy dispensed Evzio, one of several naloxone products on the market indicated for use on an emergent basis in the case of opioid overdose. Due to Evzio’s high price, insurers (including Medicare Part D plans) frequently required that health care providers submit prior authorization requests before they approved coverage. OHM completed prior authorization forms in place of prescribing physicians, and in some instances OHM personnel signed the prior authorization forms without the physician’s authorization and submitted information to insurers that made it appear as though a physician, and not OHM, was submitting the information. Moreover, OHM also submitted prior authorization requests to insurers, including Medicare Part D plans, that contained false information. For example, OHM staff filled out and submitted dozens of Evzio prior authorization request forms that falsely asserted that patients had previously tried and failed to successfully use Narcan or naloxone.  

    In connection with the resolution, Benzer entered into an integrity agreement (IA) with the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). The IA requires, among other things, that Benzer implement measures to ensure that its submission of claims for pharmaceutical products complies with applicable law relating to prior authorizations.  

    The civil settlement concludes the government’s resolution of claims brought under the qui tam or whistleblower provisions of the False Claims Act by a former employee of kaleo Inc., Evzio’s manufacturer. The qui tam case is captioned United States ex rel. Socol v. Benzer Pharmacy Holding, LLC, et al., No. 18-cv-10050-RGS (D. Mass.). As part of the civil resolution, the whistleblower will receive $285,040 of the civil settlement amount.  

    In 2021, the U.S. Attorney’s Office announced settlements with kaléo Inc. for $12.7 million and with other pharmacies for $1 million relating to their submission of false claims for Evzio. In 2022, the U.S. Attorney’s Office announced a $1.31 million deferred prosecution agreement and civil settlement with another pharmacy.

    United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; Kim Milka, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division; Roberto Coviello, Special Agent in Charge, Health and Human Services-Office of Inspector General; the Department of Defense Criminal Investigative Service; Office of Personnel Management, Office of Inspector General; and the U.S. Postal Service Office of the Inspector General made the announcement.

    The matter was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Abraham R. George, Chief of the Civil Division, Assistant U.S. Attorney Mackenzie A. Queenin, Chief of the Health Care Fraud Unit and Assistant U.S. Attorney Lauren A. Graber, Deputy Chief of the Narcotics and Money Laundering Unit.
     

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Everett Man Pleads Guilty to Sex Trafficking Four Victims

    Source: United States Department of Justice (Human Trafficking)

    BOSTON – An Everett man pleaded guilty today in federal court in Boston to four counts of an indictment charging him with sex trafficking four separate female victims.   

    Trevor Jones, 47, pleaded guilty to four counts of sex trafficking by force, fraud, or coercion. U.S. District Court Judge Allison D. Burroughs scheduled sentencing for Aug. 12, 2025. In May 2023, Jones was indicted by a federal grand jury. Jones was arrested on related state charges on March 23, 2023 and has remained in state custody since.

    According to the charging documents, from at least 2016 until 2023, Jones ran a sex trafficking operation targeting victims who were suffering from substance use disorder. As part of his sex trafficking operation, Jones provided his victims with controlled substances, including heroin, fentanyl and cocaine to intensify their drug dependance and gain their compliance, while prohibiting the victims from obtaining controlled substances from other sources. Jones demanded “loyalty” and “dedication” from his victims. He allegedly enforced his requirements by punishing victims with acts of violence, threats of violence and withholding controlled substance from drug-dependent victims. As outlined in court, Jones beat one victim with a belt causing bruising throughout her body. When confronted with the injuries he caused, Jones told the victim that she deserved the abuse. Jones was verbally abusive toward another victim, locking her out of the house, demanding to know where her “loyalty” was and berating her for not “contributing everything” she was making. Another victim experienced degradation from Jones, with him telling her that she needed to “make daddy proud” and scolding her for being “disobedient.”

    The charge of sex trafficking by force, fraud, or coercion provides for a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years and up to life in prison, at least five years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.

    United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; Kimberly Milka, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division; Colonel Geoffrey D. Noble, Superintendent of the Massachusetts State Police; and Essex County District Attorney Paul F. Tucker made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the Revere, Arlington and Boston Police Departments. Assistant U.S. Attorney Elizabeth Riley, Chief of the Human Trafficking & Civil Rights Unit and Assistant United States Attorney Torey B. Cummings of the Human Trafficking and Civil Rights Unit are prosecuting the case along with Essex County Assistant District Attorneys Jessica Strasnick and Marina Moriarty, who were sworn in as Special Assistant United States Attorneys.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Around the Air Force: SECAF Confirmation, Collaborative Combat Aircraft, Aerial Wildfire Suppression

    Source: United States Air Force

    In this week’s look Around the Air Force, Dr. Troy Meink is confirmed as Secretary of the Air Force, a milestone for integrating automated aircraft systems, and Air Guard units and civilian flight crews join forces for aerial wildfire suppression training.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Migrant smugglers arrested during cross-border operation

    Source: Eurojust

    16 May 2025|

    Belgian, German and Polish authorities, supported by Eurojust and Europol, have dismantled a criminal group suspected of smuggling up to 300 migrants into the European Union. During a joint operation in Belgium and Germany on 13 May, seven suspected members of the smuggling network were arrested. An operation earlier this month in Poland led to the arrest of 10 suspected members.

    German investigations into the network began during a routine immigration check in September 2024. Irregularities in the driver’s documentation raised suspicions of attempted illegal entry. Evidence soon emerged that the driver had possibly already smuggled and dropped off illegal migrants that same day. Ongoing investigations revealed that the driver was part of a network responsible for smuggling up to 300 illegal migrants. Most of the members of the criminal group were based in Belgium and acted as a link between the suspects in Germany and a related criminal group in Poland, which was also smuggling migrants from Middle Eastern countries into the EU.

    The network organised the illegal transport of up to 12 people at a time along the Balkan route. A legitimate Polish transport company was used to conceal their activities.

    During three action days spread out over several months, 10 suspects were arrested in Belgium, Germany and Poland, and several criminal assets were seized.

    Eurojust and Europol supported the cross-border investigation from the outset. Eurojust ensured that judicial authorities were able to exchange information and develop a joint judicial strategy. On the action days, Europol facilitated the deployment of investigators between the countries. In addition, Europol sent experts into the field to help national authorities cross-check operational information in real time against Europol’s databases.

    The following authorities carried out the operations:

    • Germany: Traunstein Public Prosecutor’s Office; Freilassing Federal Police Inspectorate Bundespolizeiinspektion Freilassing
    • Belgium: Investigating judge of the Court of First Instance of West Flanders – PPO West Flanders- Federal Judicial Police West Flanders
    • Poland: Silesian Subdivision of the Department for Organized Crime and Corruption of National Prosecutor’s Office in Katowice; Karpacki Border Guard Unit in Nowy Sącz; Voivodeship Police Headquarter in Katowice

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Global partnerships drive justice results, says Eurojust’s Annual Report 2024

    Source: Eurojust

    Over the past five years, Eurojust’s case workload has increased by more than 60%. In 2024 alone, the Agency handled nearly 13 000 cross-border crime cases. This reflects the unprecedented pace at which organised crime in Europe is evolving, as well as national authorities’ reliance on Eurojust to support complex international investigations.

    Eurojust President, Michael Schmid, commented: With a consistently high number of cases in recent years, our need for close cooperation with prosecutors and judges – both within Europe and beyond – is greater than ever. Thanks to our expanded global partnerships in 2024, we can ensure that criminals are held accountable and citizens are kept safe.

    To further strengthen the fight against organised crime, Eurojust launched the European Judicial Organised Crime Network (EJOCN) in September 2024. This expert hub goes beyond investigation-based collaboration and combats organised crime strategically. Even closer cooperation and direct dialogue between judicial authorities will help to resolve legal challenges and align judicial strategies when investigating and prosecuting organised crime.

    The EJOCN’s first priority is combating drug-related organised crime connected to European ports – key transit points for cocaine and other narcotics destined for the EU. Drug trafficking has been identified as the leading criminal activity in Europe, involving 50% of all criminal networks. The supply of illicit drugs continues to rise, as does the associated violence, making drug trafficking one of the most dangerous and lucrative crimes in the EU.

    Successfully tackling the rise in drug trafficking requires close cooperation with judicial authorities in Latin America, where most narcotics smuggled into Europe originate. In 2024, Eurojust took a significant step in enhancing ties with Latin American partners by signing six Working Arrangements with the Prosecution Services of Bolivia, Chile, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Panama and Peru. These agreements will strengthen cooperation in key areas such as drug and arms trafficking, human trafficking, money laundering and cybercrime.

    Over the past three years, the number of Eurojust supported joint investigation teams involving Latin American countries has steadily increased, with Brazil participating in the highest number. In 2024, Latin American countries participated in three times as many coordination meetings on organised crime and drug trafficking cases as in 2023.

    In addition to its Latin American partnerships, Eurojust works with a broad range of third countries to ensure that national borders do not hinder the prosecution of crime or the delivery of justice. The Agency’s recently adopted Strategy on Cooperation with International Partners reinforces Eurojust’s role as a gateway for cross-border judicial cooperation within and beyond the EU.

    In 2024, 1 022 newly opened cases handled by the Agency involved one or more third countries. Eurojust’s international cooperation continues to increase the number of registered cases at the Agency, with 378 new cases owned by third countries opened in 2024 alone. The United Kingdom, followed by Switzerland and Albania, were the non-EU countries involved in the most cases at Eurojust in 2024.

    Third countries with the highest participation in Eurojust cases in 2024

    During the year, international agreements on cooperation with Eurojust were signed with Armenia and Bosnia and Herzegovina, while the United Arab Emirates joined as a new member of the Agency’s network of Contact Points. In March 2024, Eurojust welcomed its first Liaison Prosecutor for Iceland, strengthening cooperation with Icelandic judicial authorities. Enhanced collaboration with South Partner and Western Balkan countries was also achieved through the EuroMed Justice and Western Balkans Criminal Justice projects, both supported by Eurojust.

    Eurojust’s expanded global network enabled the Agency to deliver impressive operational outcomes in 2024. It contributed to the arrest of more than 1 200 suspects and the seizure and freezing of criminal assets worth over EUR 1 billion. The Agency also contributed to the seizure of drugs worth almost EUR 20 billion.

    Reflecting the growing scale of the challenge, the criminal investigations handled by Eurojust in 2024 involved more than three times as many victims and almost double the financial damages compared to 2023. Moreover, the Agency supported 25% more joint investigation teams than in the previous year.

    The top three crime types handled by the Agency in 2024 continued to be swindling and fraud, drug trafficking and money laundering. Notably, the number of core international crime cases rose by 40%, while cybercrime cases increased by one-third and intellectual property crime cases by 20%.

    Overview of Eurojust-referred cases by crime type in 2024

    Eurojust continued to support national authorities through the organisation of 640 international coordination meetings and 32 coordination centres, as well as operational support for 361 joint investigation teams – over half of which were funded by the Agency. Eurojust also assisted with executing judicial cooperation tools such as European Arrest Warrants and European Investigation Orders, helping national authorities bring offenders to justice and deliver real results for victims and communities.

    More information:

    Eurojust Annual Report 2024:

    Key visuals:

    Key cases in 2024:

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Shelton Man Admits Producing Child Sex Abuse Images

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that ROSS DeLIBRO, 54, of Shelton, pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Judge Stefan R. Underhill in Bridgeport to child exploitation offenses.

    According to court documents and statements made in court, in March 2024, a detective assigned to the Connecticut State Police Computer Crimes Unit began an investigation into the sharing of child sex abuse images and videos over a peer-to-peer file sharing network.  The investigation revealed that an internet protocol (IP) address assigned to DeLibro’s residence in Shelton had been used to download child sex abuse videos.  On May 1, 2024, investigators conducted a court-authorized search of DeLibro’s residence and seized his Apple MacBook Air, his iPhone, an external hard drive, and other items.  Analysis of the seized items revealed image and video files depicting male children being sexually abused, including two images in which DeLibro appears engaging in sexually explicit conduct with a toddler.

    DeLibro pleaded guilty to production of child pornography, which carries a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 15 years and a maximum term of imprisonment of 30 years, and possession of child pornography, which carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years.  Judge Underhill scheduled sentencing for August 14.

    DeLibro has been detained since his arrest on related state charges on June 11, 2024.

    This matter has been investigated by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and the Connecticut State Police, with the assistance of the Shelton Police Department and the Connecticut Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection’s Division of Scientific Services.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Daniel George and Nancy Gifford.

    U.S. Attorney Sullivan thanked the State’s Attorney for the Judicial District of Ansonia/Milford for its cooperation in investigating and prosecuting this matter.

    This prosecution is part of the U.S. Department of Justice’s Project Safe Childhood Initiative, which is aimed at protecting children from sexual abuse and exploitation.  For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.

    To report cases of child exploitation, please visit www.cybertipline.com.

    The U.S. Attorney’s Office Victim Advocate can be reached at usact.vns@usdoj.gov or 203-696-3039.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Pittsburg County Resident Sentenced For Second Degree Murder

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Timothy Kenneth Barber, age 45, of Hartshorne, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 293 months in prison for one count of Murder in Indian Country—Second Degree.

    The charges arose from an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Choctaw Nation Lighthorse Police.

    On November 5, 2024, Barber pleaded guilty to the charge.  According to investigators, on December 20, 2023, Barber killed the victim with a single intentional shot to the head fired at close range from a .22 caliber rifle.  The crime occurred in Pittsburg County, within the boundaries of the Choctaw Nation Reservation, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma.

    The Honorable John F. Heil, III, U.S. District Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, presided over the hearing.  Barber will remain in the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending transportation to a designated United States Bureau of Prisons facility to serve a non-paroleable sentence of incarceration.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael E. Robinson represented the United States.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Drug Trafficker Presented On Federal Charges After Turning Hotel Room Into Clandestine Drug Lab

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Jay Clayton, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, and Frank A. Tarentino, the Special Agent in Charge of the New York Division of the Drug Enforcement Administration (“DEA”), announced today the presentment of PEDRO MARTE in White Plains federal court on a Complaint charging MARTE with two counts of possession with intent to distribute controlled substances. 

    U.S. Attorney Jay Clayton said: “As alleged, Pedro Marte turned a New Rochelle hotel room into a dangerous drug lab.  A law enforcement investigation revealed that Marte possessed large quantities of cocaine, and deadly fentanyl.  We should all be able to stay in a hotel without worrying about exposure to dangerous and potentially lethal drug trafficking.  The Women and Men of the Southern District, together with our law enforcement partners, will do everything in our power to protect our community from those who put innocent lives at risk.”

    DEA Special Agent in Charge Frank A. Tarentino said: “Pedro Marte’s use of his hotel room as a clandestine drug lab not only placed the lives of innocent guests in danger but was reckless and unconscionable.  We are thankful to our law enforcement partners and our first responders for their quick actions.  Without their immediate response, the results could have been catastrophic.” 

    As alleged in the Complaint:[1] 

    On or about the evening of April 6, 2025, law enforcement and fire department personnel responded to reports of an incident in a hotel in New Rochelle. Upon entering the hotel, they observed damage to 27 rooms.  Law enforcement then entered the room where the hotel’s sprinkler systems had first been activated and observed evidence of a significant fire, as well as equipment and materials consistent with a clandestine drug lab for converting powder cocaine into crack cocaine.  After determining that MARTE had rented the room in question, law enforcement officers searched the storage locker that MARTE had visited immediately prior to arriving at the Residence Inn, where they found approximately three kilograms of a substance that tested positive for cocaine, 12.2 grams of a substance that tested positive for fentanyl, and drug distribution paraphernalia.

    *                *                *

    MARTE, 47, of New York, New York, is charged with one count of possession with intent to distribute cocaine, which carries a mandatory minimum sentence of five years in prison and a maximum sentence of 40 years in prison, and one count of possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison.

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

    Mr. Clayton praised the outstanding work of the DEA, the New Rochelle Police Department, and the New Rochelle Fire Department. 

    This case is being handled by the Office’s White Plains Division.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Carmi Schickler is in charge of the prosecution.

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

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

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Federal grand jury indicts Buffalo man for his role in Jamestown drug conspiracy

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    BUFFALO, N.Y. –U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today a federal grand jury returned an indictment charging Jason Talley, 46, of Buffalo, NY, with narcotics conspiracy, which carries a mandatory minimum penalty of 10 years in prison and a maximum of life.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Joshua A. Violanti and Louis A. Testani, who are handling the case, stated that according to the indictment, between 2018, and May 26, 2022, Thayer conspired with Joseph S. Zaso and others, to sell heroin and fentanyl in the Jamestown area. Co-defendants include Andres Pizzaro Campos, Joseph Thayer, Max Pizzaro Campos, Cindy Frank, Edward Leeper, and Jaquez L. Thomas. Joseph Zaso was previously charged and convicted and is awaiting sentencing.

    Talley was arraigned before U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael J. Roemer and detained.

    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).

    The indictment is the result of an investigation by the Jamestown Police Department, under the direction of Chief Timothy Jackson, the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Frank A. Tarentino III, New York Field Division, and the Chautauqua County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff James Quattrone.

    The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.

    # # # #

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Georgia man indicted by federal grand jury on gun trafficking charges

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    ROCHESTER, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that a federal grand jury has returned a four-count indictment charging Devontae Jones, 27, of Atlanta, Georgia with dealing firearms without a license and transferring a machinegun, which carry a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew T. McGrath, who is handling the case, stated that in February 2024, the ATF began investigating Jones, who was believed to be trafficking illegal firearms, including machine guns, from Atlanta, Georgia to the Rochester, NY, area. The ATF conducted a series of controlled firearms purchases from Jones, who shipped the firearms from Atlanta to Rochester. A total 20 firearms, including four machine guns, were purchased from Jones between February and May 2024.

    Jones was arraigned before U.S. Magistrate Judge Colleen D. Holland and detained.

    The indictment is the result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Bryan Miller, and the United States Postal Inspection Service, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Ketty Larco Ward, Boston Division.   

    The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.   

    # # # # 

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Lackawanna man going to prison for his role in kidnapping conspiracy attempting to force sister to marry in Yemen

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    BUFFALO, N.Y. – U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Waleed Abughanem, 33, of Lackawanna, NY, who was convicted of misprision of felony, was sentenced to serve 36 months in prison by U.S. District Judge John L. Sinatra, Jr.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Charles M. Kruly and Maeve E. Huggins, who handled the case, stated that Abughanem is the son of Khaled Abughanem and the brother of Adham Abughanem. On September 8, 2021, Khaled and Adham Abughanem flew from Buffalo, NY, to Guadalajara, Mexico to kidnap Victim 1, who is the daughter of Khaled and the sister of Adham and Waleed. Between September 10, 2021, and April 6, 2023, Waleed, Khaled and Adham Abughanem conspired to transport Victim 1 from the Western District of New York to Cairo, Egypt, and then to Sanaa, Yemen, where they confined Victim 1 for approximately 16 months with the purpose of marrying her to a man not of her choosing.

    Waleed Abughanem knew Victim 1 was being held involuntarily, and during some of this period, he was present in Yemen. When he was not present in Yemen, Waleed Abughanem instructed his wife to monitor and supervise Victim 1. In December 2022, Waleed Abughanem traveled from Yemen to the United States. When questioned by U.S. Customs and Border Protection as to the whereabouts of his siblings, Waleed Abughanem told the CBP Officer that the Victim was in the United States. By making a false statement, Waleed Abughanem concealed that Victim 1 had been kidnapped and was being involuntarily held in Yemen.

    Khaled and Adham Abughanem were previously convicted by a federal jury at trial and are awaiting sentencing.

    Waleed Abughanem’s sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia, and the U.S. Department of State’s Diplomatic Security Service, under the direction of Diplomatic Security Director Carlos Matus and Deputy Assistant Secretary Paul Houston. Additional assistance was provided by the Lackawanna Police Department, under the direction of Chief Mark Packard, Customs and Border Protection, under the direction of Director of Field Operations Rose Brophy, and CPB in Boston, Massachusetts.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Two men arrested, charged with operating large-scale marijuana grow operation in Wayne County, NY

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Ferrydoon M. Ardehali, 55, of Staten Island, NY, and Colby Riggle, 37, of California, were arrested and charged by criminal complaint with manufacturing and possessing with intent to distribute 1,000 or more marijuana plants. The charge carries a mandatory minimum penalty of 10 years in prison and a maximum of life.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Donna Duncan, who is handling the case, stated that according to the complaint, in January 2025, the DEA began investigating a large-scale illegal marijuana cultivation operation, under the direction of Ardehali and Riggle, on Daansen Road in Walworth, NY. The investigation revealed that the defendants were selling and distributing marijuana to multiple businesses that are New York State-authorized cannabis grow facilities, including in North Tonawanda and Clarence, NY, under the business name Integrity Farms & Greenhouses, Inc. a records check with the New York State Office of Cannabis Management discovered that neither Integrity Farms & Greenhouses, Inc., nor any other business associated with the operation has been issued a New York State license to grow cannabis or hemp.

    On May 14, 2025, investigators executed a search warrant at the Daansen Road property. The complaint states that it was immediately apparent that marijuana was being grown on a large scale, processed, and packaged within the facility. Investigators seized approximately 29,406 growing marijuana plants, and approximately 3,700 lbs. of processed marijuana.

    The complaint is the result of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Frank Tarentino, New York Field Division, the Wayne County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff Robert Milby, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Enforcement and Removal Operations, under the direction of Acting Field Office Director Steven Kurzdorfer, U.S. Border Patrol, under the direction of Buffalo Station Patrol Agent-in- Charge Martin Coombs, Customs and Border Protection, under the direction of Director of Field Operations Rose Brophy, Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation New York, under the direction of Harry Chavis, the Cattaraugus County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff Eric Butler, the Cuba Police Department, under the direction of Chief Dustin Burch, the Olean Police Department, under the direction of Chief Ron Richardson, and the Salamanca Police Department, under the direction of Chief Jamie Deck.

    The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.   

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  • MIL-OSI Security: California Woman Sentenced to Federal Prison for Stealing Nearly $2 Million in Two Separate Fraud Schemes

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    PORTLAND, Ore.—A California woman was sentenced to federal prison today for stealing nearly $1.3 million in Covid-relief program funds and failing to pay the IRS more than $700,000 in payroll taxes she collected from the employees of a small business in Salem, Oregon.

    Jamie McGowen, 43, was sentenced to 37 months in federal prison and five years’ supervised release. She was also ordered to pay $2,072,860 in restitution to the IRS and U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA).

    According to court documents, McGowen was the owner or partial owner of nine separate companies including Salem Outsourcing, Inc., a payroll processing company based in Salem. Between August 2016 and December 2019, McGowen provided payroll processing services to a small business also located in Salem. During this time, she failed to pay the IRS $705,613 in payroll taxes she withheld from the paychecks of the company’s employees. Instead, McGowen kept the money for herself and used a portion of the funds to, among other things, purchase a 100% ownership stake in the same company whose payroll taxes she had stolen.

    In a separate scheme, between April 2020 and December 2021, McGowen stole more than $1.2 million from federal relief programs intended to help small businesses during the Covid-19 pandemic, including the Paycheck Protection Program, Economic Injury Disaster Loan program, and Restaurant Revitalization Fund. McGowen made numerous false statements in 15 separate loan applications, including by stating she did not own any other company, inflating the number of employees and revenues, and providing false tax documents. McGowen also falsely claimed on loan forgiveness applications that her companies had used the funds received for payroll. In reality, McGowen transferred the money around her businesses, to her father, and to her personal checking account, and paid off personal credit cards.

    On October 12, 2022, a federal grand jury in Portland returned a seven-count indictment charging McGowen with wire fraud, bank fraud, and money laundering. On December 11, 2024, she pleaded guilty to one count each of wire fraud and bank fraud, and two counts of money laundering.

    This case was investigated by the SBA Office of Inspector General (SBA-OIG) and IRS Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI). It was prosecuted by Meredith Bateman, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.
     

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