NewzIntel.com

Category: Security Intelligence

  • MIL-OSI Security: Lansdowne Station — Missing children: Help the RCMP find Lily Sullivan and Jack Sullivan

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Pictou County District RCMP is asking for the public’s assistance in locating six-year-old Lily Sullivan and four-year-old Jack Sullivan. They were last seen this morning, May 2, on Gairloch Rd. in Lansdown Station, Pictou County.

    Lily Sullivan has shoulder-length light brown hair with bangs. She might be wearing a pink sweater, pink pants, and pink boots.

    Jack Sullivan has short blondish hair. He’s wearing blue dinosaur boots. No other clothing description is available.

    We ask that people spread the word through social media respectfully.

    Anyone with information on the whereabouts of Lily Sullivan and Jack Sullivan is asked to contact Pictou County District RCMP at 902-485-4333. To remain anonymous, call Nova Scotia Crime Stoppers, toll-free, at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), submit a secure web tip at www.crimestoppers.ns.ca, or use the P3 Tips app.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: USS Cape St. George Arrives in San Diego after Modernization

    Source: United States Navy Pacific Fleet 1

    SAN DIEGO – The Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Cape St. George (CG 71) arrived Apr. 22 in its new homeport of Naval Base San Diego, California from Naval Base Everett, Washington, after conducting phased modernization at Vigor Shipyard in Seattle. This move was a permanent change of station for the crew and family members.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Jefferson County Man Sentenced to Prison on Gun Charge

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

    BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – A Jefferson County man has been sentenced on a gun charge, announced U.S. Attorney Prim F. Escalona.

    U.S. District Court Judge Madeline H. Haikala sentenced Jaden O’Neal Cooper, a.k.a. “Tallapoosa Jay,” 21, of Midfield, Alabama to 27 months in prison. In January, Cooper pleaded guilty to possession of a machinegun.

    According to court documents, on February 1, 2024, detectives with the Leeds Police Department, Birmingham Police Department East Task Force, FBI, and Jefferson County Sheriff Department’s Star One Aviation Unit were conducting surveillance in the Inglenook area. Detectives had previously interacted with an individual they saw driving a red 2021 Hyundai Sonata. A detective ran the tag number on the vehicle, and the tag returned as belonging to a white 2014 Hyundai Sonata. Detectives confirmed that the tag had been switched, and a Birmingham Police officer initiated a traffic stop on the vehicle.

    As the Birmingham Police officer approached the vehicle, the officer noticed Cooper—a   known member of the Hard to Kill “H2K” street gang—was a passenger in the vehicle. The officer could also see an AM-15 pistol (assault style rifle) located at Cooper’s feet. Other officers provided backup at the traffic stop, and a Leeds Police Department detective removed the firearm from the vehicle. The firearm was determined to be loaded and was equipped with plastic piece—a 3-D printed “swift link” conversion device—in the trigger assembly. This device converted the firearm to a fully automatic machine gun.

    The Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated the cases along with the Leeds Police Department, Birmingham Police Department East Task Force, and the Jefferson County Sheriff Department’s Star One Aviation Unit.  Assistant United States Attorney Darius C. Greene prosecuted the case. 

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Rhode Island Man Sentenced to 20 Years in Prison in One of Rhode Island’s Largest Fentanyl Seizures

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

    PROVIDENCE – Jorge Pimentel, a/k/a “Big Head,” 36, of Cranston, has been sentenced to twenty years in federal prison, announced Acting United States Attorney Sara Miron Bloom.

    Pimentel previously admitted to a federal judge that he ran a highly productive drug lab and a stash house in Pawtucket from which 19,315 fentanyl-laced pills made to resemble pharmaceutical grade Percocet pills and nearly 9 kilograms of powder fentanyl were seized by law enforcement.  The seizure of a combined total of over sixteen kilograms of fentanyl-laced pills and fentanyl powder, an industrial grade high-speed pill press, and twenty-eight thousand grams of cutting agents used in the manufacturer of the fake pill seized in September 2023, is among the largest seizures of fentanyl in Rhode Island. 

    The fentanyl powder and already cut mixture seized in this case represented the potential production of more than 633,000 fentanyl-laced pills.

    Court documents detail that Pimentel was already a “well-established, large scale fentanyl trafficker” when, on multiple occasions between May 31, 2023, and September 29, 2023, he brokered sales of a total of approximately 34,000 fentanyl-laced pills for which he was paid $37,000.

    Pimentel was sentenced on Tuesday by U.S. District Court Chief Judge John J. McConnell, Jr., to 240 months of incarceration to be followed by five years of federal supervised release. He pleaded guilty in December 2024 as charged by indictment with conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute fentanyl, and possession with intent to distribute fentanyl. No plea agreement was filed in this case.

    The matter was investigated by the FBI’s Rhode Island Safe Streets Task Force. The Safe Streets Task Force consists of agents and law enforcement officers from the FBI, Rhode Island State Police, the Cranston, Woonsocket, Pawtucket, West Warwick, and Central Falls Police Departments, the U.S. Marshals Service, and the Rhode Island Department of Corrections.

    The United States Attorney’s Office thanks the Providence Police Department and the DEA for their partnership.

    This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. 

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Kentucky Man Sentenced to 10 Plus Years in Federal Prison for Attempted Sex Offenses Against a Child in Southern Illinois

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

    BENTON, Ill. – A district judge sentenced a Paducah, Kentucky, man to 121 months’ imprisonment for attempting to entice a minor in southern Illinois to engage in illegal sexual activity.

    In October, a federal jury returned guilty verdicts for Robert R. Rodriguez, 41, on one count of attempted enticement of a minor and one count of soliciting an obscene visual depiction of a minor.

    “Those who target children for sex crimes sicken us all. The federal justice system will relentlessly pursue and prosecute these offenders to ensure they face severe consequences for their actions,” said U.S. Attorney Steven D. Weinhoeft.

    According to court documents and evidence presented during the trial, Rodriguez initiated conversation with an undercover federal agent on an online social media platform in May 2023. In the messages, Rodriguez discussed meeting with a purported 9-year-old child to engage in sexual activity and requested child sexual abuse material.

    On May 10, 2023, law enforcement arrested Rodriguez in Marion, Illinois, when he tried to meet with the purported 9-year-old child. 

    “This sentencing makes one thing clear: the FBI Springfield Field Office is taking decisive action to protect the children of Illinois. We will use every tool at our disposal to stop those who seek to do them harm, and with our partners at the Department of Justice, we will pursue the highest penalties for these crimes.”

    Following imprisonment, Rodriguez will serve seven years of supervised release.

    FBI Springfield Field Office led the investigation, and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Tom Leggans and David Sanders prosecuted the case.

    This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and 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.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Raleigh Man Convicted of Possessing More Than 300 Images of Child Sexual Abuse Material on his Work Laptop

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    ELIZABETH CITY, N.C. – A federal jury convicted a Raleigh man Tuesday for possession of child sexual abuse material.  Joseph Matthew Dobbs, 45, now faces a mandatory minimum of 10 years in prison when sentenced in July.

    According to court records and evidence presented at trial, Dobbs was working from home as an IT support engineer for a multinational technology company when, in early November 2022, a supervisor remotely observed Dobbs watching content on his work-issued laptop that appeared to be child sexual abuse material. The company terminated Dobbs’s employment and forwarded screenshots taken by the supervisor to law enforcement for investigation.  The Raleigh Police Department executed a search at Dobbs’s apartment and seized the company laptop.  A review of the laptop and the company’s back-up servers revealed that Dobbs’s laptop contained over 300 image files of child sexual abuse material, including the sexual abuse of infants and toddlers and depictions of bondage.  On a special verdict form, the jury found Dobbs guilty as charged and found that the images included visual depictions of prepubescent minors.

    In 2006, Dobbs was also convicted of having carnal knowledge of a child, using a computer to solicit a minor (three counts), possession of child sexual abuse material (ten counts), and manufacturing sexually explicit material in Virginia.  He spent seven years in prison and was still on probation for those offenses at the time of this incident.

    Daniel P. Bubar, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina made the announcement after U.S. District Judge Terrence W. Boyle accepted the verdict. The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Raleigh Police Department investigated the case, and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Lori Warlick and Logan Liles prosecuted the case.

    Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No.5:24-CR-182.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Career offender sentenced to 14 years in prison for fentanyl trafficking

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    ALEXANDRIA, Va. – An Alexandria man was sentenced yesterday to 14 years in prison for distributing fentanyl.

    According to court documents, law enforcement identified Alphonso Page, aka Zoe and Fonzie, 35, as a narcotics distributor in Northern Virginia. On March 14, 2024, and April 2, 2024, law enforcement conducted controlled purchases from Page of approximately 2,300 counterfeit pills containing fentanyl for a total net weight of 247.92 grams.

    Page was convicted twice previously on drug charges in Arlington County. On March 14, 2008, Page was convicted of distribution of cocaine and the distribution of an imitation controlled substance. On July 16, 2018, Page was convicted of possession with intent to distribute cocaine. Page also has previous convictions for conducting an illegal gambling operation, trespassing, identity theft, petit larceny, maliciously shooting at a dwelling, and the possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.

    Erik S. Siebert, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, and Sean Ryan, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Washington Field Office’s Criminal and Cyber Division, made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge Patricia Tolliver Giles.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Catherine Rosenberg prosecuted the case.

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

    A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 1:24-cr-257.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Armed Drug Dealer Convicted on Weapons and Drug Charges After Three-Day Trial

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    NEW BERN, N.C. – A federal jury convicted Anthony Travis Slaughter on Wednesday on charges of possession with intent to distribute marijuana, possession of a firearm by a felon, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.  Slaughter, age 30, faces at least five years and up to life in prison when he is sentenced in August 2025.

    According to court records and evidence presented at trial, the Wilmington Police Department conducted a traffic stop of Slaughter on Princess Place Drive in Wilmington.  After a police K9 positively alerted on the vehicle, a police search uncovered approximately two pounds of marijuana, along with marijuana packaging and a digital scale in the car.  Police also located a loaded firearm under the driver’s seat.

    Slaughter was prohibited from possessing a firearm based on seven prior state felony convictions for drug and violent crimes.  These include a conviction for common law robbery as well as multiple convictions for selling heroin.

    Daniel P. Bubar, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina made the announcement after U.S. District Judge Louise W. Flanagan accepted the verdict. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives and the Wilmington Police Department investigated the case and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Charles E. Loeser and Jake D. Pugh prosecuted the case.

    Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No.7:23-CR-51.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Last Defendant in East Alabama Drug Trafficking Conspiracy Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – The last defendant charged in a drug trafficking conspiracy has been sentenced, announced U.S. Attorney Prim F. Escalona.

    U.S. District Court Judge Corey L. Maze sentenced Demarcus Sharon Brown, 39, of Anniston, Alabama, to 120 months in prison. Brown pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute methamphetamine and distribution of methamphetamine.

    According to court documents, throughout the fall of 2022 to the summer of 2023, the six defendants conspired to distribute over 1,000 grams of methamphetamine in east Alabama.

    The following defendants have previously been sentenced:

    Jamar Dariunte Clay, 36, of Anniston, was sentenced to 152 months in prison. Clay pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute or possess with the intent to distribute methamphetamine, multiple counts of distribution of methamphetamine, and multiple counts of use of a communication facility to commit a drug trafficking crime.

    Jonathan Tyree McRath, 39, of Anniston, was sentenced to 81 months in prison. McRath pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute or possess with the intent to distribute methamphetamine, multiple counts of distribution of methamphetamine, and multiple counts of use of a communication facility to commit a drug trafficking crime.

    Donarius Quinez Kincaid, 38, of Anniston, was sentenced to 120 months in prison. Kincaid pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute or possess with the intent to distribute methamphetamine, and multiple counts of use of a communication facility to commit a drug trafficking crime.

    Brandon Jamal Jernigan, 30, of Anniston, was sentenced to 58 months in prison. Jernigan pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute or possess with the intent to distribute methamphetamine, and multiple counts of use of a communication facility to commit a drug trafficking crime.

    Michael Gardner Boone, 33, of Montgomery, Alabama, was sentenced to 121 months in prison. Boone pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute or possess with the intent to distribute methamphetamine, and possession with the intent to distribute methamphetamine. 

    The investigation and prosecution are part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.

    The Drug Enforcement Administration and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives investigated the case, along with the Anniston Police Department, Oxford Police Department, 7th Judicial Major Crimes Unit, and West Alabama Narcotics Task Force. The USMS provided valuable assistance. Assistant U.S. Attorney Brittany Byrd prosecuted the case.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Nurse Practitioner from Opelousas Convicted of Medicare Fraud by Federal Jury

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    LAFAYETTE, La. – A federal jury in Lafayette has convicted Shanone Chatman-Ashley, 45, of Opelousas, a Nurse Practitioner, for her role in an over $2 million health care fraud scheme, announced Acting United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook. United States District Judge David C. Joseph presided over the four-day trial.  

    Chatman-Ashley was indicted in December 2023 and charged with five counts of health care fraud related to her involvement in the scheme to defraud the Medicare Program.  Testimony and court documents introduced at trial this week established that Chatman-Ashley was enrolled as a nurse practitioner provider with Medicare. She worked as an independent contractor for companies that purportedly provided telehealth services to Medicare beneficiaries. Chatman-Ashley routinely ordered knee braces, suspension sleeves, and other types of durable medical equipment for beneficiaries who she had not examined and who had not been examined by another medical provider. For example, evidence produced at trial showed that Chatman-Ashley ordered a left knee brace for a beneficiary whose left leg had been amputated. The defendant concealed the scheme by signing documentation falsely certifying that she had consulted with the beneficiaries and personally conducted assessments of them. 

    From 2017 to 2019, Chatman-Ashley signed more than 1,000 orders for unnecessary medical equipment, causing over $2 million in fraudulent Medicare claims and over $1 million in reimbursements. In exchange for the orders, Chatman-Ashley received kickbacks and bribes from the companies she contracted with. 

    “This defendant not only defrauded the Medicare Program but went against everything the medical profession stands for which is a promise to provide ethical and responsible patient care,” said U.S. Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook. “She took advantage of beneficiaries who were elderly and handicapped to order items for them that were not medically necessary. This office is committed to continuing to work with our federal partners to stop this type of fraud in the Western District of Louisiana.”

    “Illegal kickback payments undermine and corrupt the medical decision-making process,” said Jason E. Meadows, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). “Both the payer and recipient of kickbacks benefit from these schemes, but it’s ultimately the taxpayers who foot the bill.  HHS-OIG will continue collaborating with law enforcement and prosecutors to protect the Medicare trust fund that millions of Americans depend on.”

    Chatman-Ashley faces a maximum penalty of up to 10 years in prison on each health care fraud count.  Her sentencing hearing has been set for July 31, 2025, at 10 a.m.

    The case was investigated by the Department of Health and Human Services – Office of Inspector General and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Danny Siefker of the Western District of Louisiana and Trial Attorney Kelly Z. Walters of the Department of Justice’s Fraud Section of the Criminal Division.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Convicted Felon Sentenced To Five Years In Prison For Possessing A Firearm

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Orlando, FL – U.S. District Judge Wendy Berger has sentenced Malcolm Bellamy (25, Orlando) to five years in federal prison for possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. The court also ordered Bellamy to forfeit the firearm which was used during the commission of the offense. Bellamy pleaded guilty on June 6, 2024.

    According to court documents, on April 21, 2023, an individual called 911 to report that the driver of a vehicle, whom he later identified as Bellamy, had just pulled out a gun and fired it at him. Officers from the Orlando Police Department responded to the scene and observed an individual standing in the street having a verbal confrontation with the occupants of a blue sedan. The vehicle immediately drove away as officers were approaching in their marked cars. The individual in the street pointed at the vehicle and stated, “that’s them”.

    Officers pursued the vehicle which pulled into the driveway of Bellamy’s residence in a nearby neighborhood. The front passenger exited the car with a black object in his hand. Officers gave the passenger commands to get on the ground. The passenger, who had gone behind a tree approximately four feet from the car with the black object in his hand, returned to the vehicle without the object and laid on the ground. The driver, who was later identified as Bellamy, got out of the car and was also detained.

    Officers searched behind the tree and discovered an open black bag with a chrome 9mm Taurus handgun sticking out. The handgun’s magazine was loaded with 10 rounds of ammunition. Additionally, a shell casing was discovered at the scene in the vicinity of the reported shooting.

    DNA swabs collected from the firearm and a comparison sample taken from Bellamy were a match. A shell casing from the handgun was also matched to the shell casing recovered at the scene.

    At the time of the incident, Bellamy was a convicted felon, with prior convictions for robbery with a firearm and aggravated assault with a firearm. As such, he is prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition under federal law.

    This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Orlando Police Department. It was prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorneys Rachel Lyons and Matthew Del Mastro.

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

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Armed Drug Dealer Convicted on Weapons and Drug Charges After Three-Day Trial

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

    NEW BERN, N.C. – A federal jury convicted Anthony Travis Slaughter on Wednesday on charges of possession with intent to distribute marijuana, possession of a firearm by a felon, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.  Slaughter, age 30, faces at least five years and up to life in prison when he is sentenced in August 2025.

    According to court records and evidence presented at trial, the Wilmington Police Department conducted a traffic stop of Slaughter on Princess Place Drive in Wilmington.  After a police K9 positively alerted on the vehicle, a police search uncovered approximately two pounds of marijuana, along with marijuana packaging and a digital scale in the car.  Police also located a loaded firearm under the driver’s seat.

    Slaughter was prohibited from possessing a firearm based on seven prior state felony convictions for drug and violent crimes.  These include a conviction for common law robbery as well as multiple convictions for selling heroin.

    Daniel P. Bubar, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina made the announcement after U.S. District Judge Louise W. Flanagan accepted the verdict. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives and the Wilmington Police Department investigated the case and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Charles E. Loeser and Jake D. Pugh prosecuted the case.

    Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No.7:23-CR-51.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Stephenville — RCMP Traffic Services West partners up with Bay St. George RCMP, four vehicles seized and impounded

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    RCMP Traffic Services West and Bay St. George RCMP seized and impounded four vehicles in Stephenville on Thursday, May 1, 2025.

    At approximately 9:50 a.m., police conducted a traffic stop on West Street in Stephenville. The driver, a 67-year-old Stephenville woman, was operating without insurance. She was ticketed for the offence, and her vehicle was seized and impounded.

    Approximately 20 minutes later, police conducted another traffic stop on West Street. The driver, a 73-year-old Stephenville man, showed signs of alcohol impairment and provided a roadside breath sample that was above the Provincial limit. His driver’s licence was suspended and vehicle seized and impounded.

    That afternoon, at approximately 2:30 p.m., police conducted a traffic stop on Carolina Avenue in Stephenville. The driver, a 22-year-old Stephenville man, was operating a vehicle without registration or insurance. He was ticketed for those offences and his vehicle was seized and impounded.

    About an hour later, police conducted a traffic stop on Woodland Drive in Stephenville. The driver, a 65-year-old Stephenville man, was operating without registration or insurance. He was ticketed for those offences and his vehicle was seized and impounded.

    RCMP NL continues to fulfill its mandate to protect public safety, enforce the law, and ensure the delivery of priority policing services in Newfoundland and Labrador. We thank the public for continuing to report incidents of excessive speed, dangerous driving, impaired driving, and crimes within their communities.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Bread Springs Man Sentenced to Home Confinement with GPS Monitoring for Assault

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

    ALBUQUERQUE – A Bread Springs man was sentenced to four years of supervised probation with strict special conditions following his guilty plea to assault resulting in serious bodily injury following a confrontation on the Navajo Nation.

    According to court documents, on January 22, 2024, Arthur Pat, 69, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, responded to a commotion near his residence in Bread Springs, New Mexico. Upon observing his son involved in an altercation with three other men, Pat retrieved a loaded handgun and drove to the scene. After a verbal dispute escalated, Pat fired multiple shots, one of which struck John Doe in the knee. Doe was hospitalized with a “limb-threatening” injury and may face lifelong mobility issues.

    Pat was arrested following a criminal complaint filed January 23, 2024, and later pleaded guilty to assault resulting in serious bodily injury. For the first year of his sentence, Pat will be subject to home detention with GPS monitoring. He is also strictly forbidden from contacting his victim and must complete 250 hours of community service. If Pat violates the terms of his supervised probation, the sentencing judge could impose any term of imprisonment originally available; that is, up to 10 years.

    U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Phillip Russel, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.

    The Gallup Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Navajo Police Department and Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Zachary Jones is prosecuting the case. 

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Army Soldier Charged with Distribution of Cocaine Following DEA Operation at Illegal Nightclub

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

    DENVER – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Colorado announces that Juan Gabriel Orona-Rodriguez, age 28, was charged by complaint with one count each of distribution and possession with intent to distribute cocaine and conspiracy to distribute cocaine.

    According to the criminal complaint, Orona-Rodriguez, while serving as an active-duty U.S. Army solider, unlawfully distributed controlled substances.  During the week of April 21, 2025, Orona-Rodriguez sold cocaine to an undercover Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) agent.  Additionally, when investigators obtained a search warrant for Orona-Rodriguez’s phone, they found text messages between at least September 16, 2024, and April 9, 2025, which appear to show him repeatedly purchasing cocaine and selling it to others.   

    Orona-Rodriguez appears to hold a leadership role in a business called Immortal Security LLC, which provides armed security at “nightclubs” – including an afterhours, unlawful nightclub called Warike – within Colorado Springs, Colorado.  On numerous occasions, the Colorado Springs Police Department received 911 calls related to Warike citing a wide variety of alleged crimes, including weapons violations, assault, narcotics, and other violent crime.  Warike was the site of a federal search warrant that was executed and led by the DEA on April 27, 2025.  Orona-Rodriguez was one of approximately 17 active-duty U.S. Army service members present at Warike during the execution of that search warrant. 

    The investigation is being conducted by the Denver Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and DEA’s Colorado Springs Resident Office.  The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Michael Houlihan.

    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.

    The charges in the complaint are allegations and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

    Case Number:  25-mj-00092-TPO

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Two Florida Men Charged in Drug Trafficking Conspiracy Involving Shipping Methamphetamine and Fentanyl From California to Florida

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

    Fort Myers, Florida – United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe announces the  unsealing of an indictment charging Clarence Black, Jr. (49, Tampa) and Jarrek Fabrion Myrick (39, Fort Myers) with drug trafficking conspiracy and possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and fentanyl. If convicted, each faces a maximum penalty of life in federal prison. 

    According to court documents, between January 25 and February 4, 2025, Black and Myrick traveled to California and shipped methamphetamine and fentanyl to Tampa and areas in southwest Florida. The drug-laden parcels were intercepted and the total quantity of methamphetamine and fentanyl was approximately more than 90 pounds. Black has a prior federal conviction for possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine, and Myrick has a prior conviction for second-degree murder.

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

    This case was investigated by the Lee County Sheriff’s Office, the Tampa Police Department, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Mark Morgan.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: San Antonio Man Sentenced to Over 11 Years in Federal Prison for Smuggling Meth and Fentanyl from Mexico

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    SAN ANTONIO – A San Antonio man who had resided in Coahuila, Mexico was sentenced in a federal court Thursday to 135 months in prison for smuggling more than 10 kgs of fentanyl and nearly 35 kgs of methamphetamine into the United States.

    According to court documents, Ruben Martinez Martinez, 22, was stopped by a Guadalupe County Sheriff’s deputy on Sept. 15, 2023 for traffic violations on Interstate 10. A return on the vehicle’s license plate indicated that the vehicle had crossed into Mexico on Aug. 11, 2023 and returned into the U.S. the morning of Sept. 15. When questioned by the deputy, Martinez provided responses that were inconsistent and became visibly nervous.

    A K9 search of the vehicle revealed a container of methamphetamine hidden in the fold of a collapsed center seat in the front of the vehicle. A search of the vehicle’s camper shell led to the discovery of a compartment inside the roof. After the vehicle was relocated for further inspection, an X-ray revealed the outlines of bundles inside the roof that contained a white substance and other white and blue pills.

    Approximately 39 packages were removed from the roof, and subsequent laboratory testing confirmed the white substance to be 34.9 kgs of methamphetamine and that there were 95,417 pills containing fentanyl. Martinez stated that he had followed directions to pick up the camper shell near Piedras Negras, Mexico the day prior to the traffic stop. He said he was transporting the narcotics to a location in Houston, where arrangements would be made for him to transfer the camper shell to someone else.

    “Fentanyl and methamphetamine have been poisoning our communities and even causing the deaths of friends, neighbors, and loved ones throughout this district and across the nation,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Margaret Leachman for the Western District of Texas. “Working with our law enforcement partners to stop the illicit trafficking of these incredibly dangerous drugs is a top priority.”

    “DEA, along with its local partner, the Guadalupe County Sheriff’s Office, successfully halted Ruben Martinez Martinez from funneling over 95,000 fentanyl pills into our communities, which could have resulted in a tragic number of deaths,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge William Kimbell for the Drug Enforcement Administration Houston Division. “These deadly doses could have shattered the lives of many families in the San Antonio area, but fortunately lives were saved, and it’s all due to our collaborations with our state, local, and federal partners that have always shown to be a true force multiplier.” 

    The DEA investigated the case with valuable assistance from the Guadalupe County Sheriff’s Office and Guadalupe County Narcotics Task Force.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney John Fedock prosecuted the case.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Ohio County Reptile Dealer Admits to Wildlife Trafficking

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Michael Kandis, age 64, of Wheeling, West Virginia, has admitted to wildlife trafficking in violation of the Lacey Act.

    According to court documents and statements made in court, Kandis is reptile dealer and operates a reptile house in Wheeling. During a covert investigation of reptile shows in the Midwest, Kandis illegally purchased snakes, dozens of which were bullsnakes. Bullsnakes are native to Indiana, where their sale is illegal under state law. Kandis then transported the snakes to West Virginia and sold them.

    The Lacey Act prohibits the importation, exportation, transportation, sale, receipt, acquisition, or purchase of any fish or wildlife or plant taken, possessed, transported, or sold in violation of any law, treaty, or regulation of the United States.

    Kandis faces up to one year in prison and a fine of $100,000 or twice the gain or loss of the crime. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Maximillian Nogay and Trial Attorney Lauren D. Steele, Environmental Crimes Section, Environment and Natural Resources Division, U.S. Department of Justice, are prosecuting the case on behalf of the government.

    The U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service and the Indiana Department of Natural Resources investigated.

    U.S. Magistrate Judge James P. Mazzone presided.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: FBI Honors Dr. John Horgan Community Leader with National Award

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

    On Friday, April 25, 2025, Special Agent in Charge Paul Brown of the Atlanta Field Office presented Dr. John Horgan with the FBI Director’s Community Leadership Award (DCLA) for his dedicated work directing the Violent Extremism Research Group, which has not only impacted Atlanta, Georgia, but has had transformative impact worldwide. Dr. Horgan, who is a distinguished university professor at Georgia State University’s Department of Psychology, accepted the award. Dr. Horgan has shown a strong and enduring commitment to applying his extraordinary abilities and expertise to further the interests of U.S. National Security.

    The FBI established the DCLA in 1990 to publicly acknowledge the achievements of those working to make a difference in their communities through the promotion of education and the prevention of crime and violence. Each year, one person or organization from each of the FBI’s 55 field offices is chosen to receive this prestigious award.

    “Dr. Horgan has not only been a trusted collaborator with the FBI, but his research has also been instrumental in deepening our understanding of extremist psychology, thereby enhancing the safety of our communities,” said Paul Brown, special agent in charge of FBI Atlanta. “Congratulations, Dr. Horgan! Your dedication and pursuit of excellence have made a lasting impact, and we look forward to continuing our partnership with you.”

    Dr. Horgan’s research examines terrorist psychology. He has over 120 publications, and his books include The Psychology of Terrorism (now in its second edition and published in a dozen languages), Divided We Stand: The Strategy and Psychology of Ireland’s Dissident Terrorists; and Walking Away from Terrorism. Dr. Horgan has helped to shape the thinking of scientists, policymakers, and the public; helping them to better understand the pathways and processes by which people become attracted to, engaged with, and (importantly) disengaged from violent extremist ideologies and activities.

    The FBI recognizes the important role that community partnerships play in keeping our shared communities safe. These partnerships – as exemplified by the breadth of the work by the DCLA recipients – have led to a host of crime prevention programs that protect the most vulnerable in our communities, educate families and businesses about cyber threats, and work to reduce violent crime in our neighborhoods. Learn more about the Director’s Community Leadership Award program, the FBI’s general outreach efforts, and the Atlanta Field Office About — FBI on our website.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Former Velda City Police Chief, Who Also Served as City’s Administrator, Accused of Stealing $313,000 From City

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

    ST. LOUIS – The former police chief and city administrator of Velda City, Missouri was accused in an indictment Wednesday of fraudulently obtaining $313,420 in city funds through a series of fraudulent transactions.

    Daniel Paulino, 51, was indicted in U.S. District Court in St. Louis with three counts of wire fraud.

    The indictment says Paulino used the city’s credit card to make about 828 charges for his personal expenses totaling about $145,428. The indictment says Paulino used the city credit card on about 17 additional occasions to transfer Velda City funds totaling about $43,870 to a business he owned, R & B Towing, and one owned by his spouse, Renovations-STL. The city funds were ultimately transferred to either Paulino’s personal bank account or the account for another company he owned, D and H Towing, the indictment says.

    Paulino caused about eight city checks to be issued in a total amount of about $34,374 to pay third party vendors for his personal expenses, the indictment says. One $25,500 city check was used to pay for a 2007 International tow truck that was then registered in Paulino’s name and used by Paulino’s privately-owned towing company, the indictment says. Paulino caused Automated Clearing House (ACH) transactions to be made from a city account to pay third party vendors for $2,575 in personal expenses, the indictment says.

    Paulino also caused about 20 direct deposits totaling $30,667 in city funds, purportedly for additional payroll, into his personal account, the indictment says. He caused about 55 direct deposits of a total of about $54,693 in Velda City funds, purportedly for his spouse’s payroll, to be sent to his personal bank account, the indictment says. Paulino’s spouse was being paid for work that was not actually performed in the city’s public works division during the years 2021 through 2023 and Paulino used that money for his own personal expenses, the indictment says.

    The indictment also alleges that Paulino caused three city checks totaling $1,800 to be fraudulently issued to him.

    The money was transferred without the authority or knowledge of the city, its mayor, treasurer or Board of Aldermen, the indictment says. Paulino used the money for travel, automobiles, pool supplies, utilities at his personal residence and food and beverage charges, the indictment says.

    During the scheme, Paulino transferred about $58,171 from his personal or business bank accounts to Velda City’s bank account or the city’s credit card to conceal his crimes, the indictment says.

    Paulino was appointed to the city administrator position in 2021. He was police chief until the department was dissolved in 2024.

    Charges set forth in an indictment are merely accusations and do not constitute proof of guilt.  Every defendant is presumed to be innocent unless and until proven guilty.

    The FBI investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Hal Goldsmith is prosecuting the case.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Teenager sentenced for killing a 17-year-old in Hackney

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    A man has been jailed for killing 17-year-old Nathan Bawuah in Hackney following a Met Police investigation.

    Rio Lue, 18 (25.09.06) of Pembury Road, Hackney was sentenced to 12 years’ imprisonment on Friday, 2 May at Wood Green Crown Court.

    Through the forensic examination and analysis of CCTV, detectives identified Lue riding to the scene on his bike and getting into a confrontation with Nathan. They were then able to prove that he produced a large machete and stabbed him in the chest.

    He was found guilty of manslaughter at Snaresbrook Crown Court on Friday, 29 November.

    He had already pleaded guilty to possession of an offensive weapon.

    Detective Sergeant Dean Musgrove, who led the Met’s investigation, said: “Nathan Bawuah was killed in a brutal cold-blooded assault which lasted seconds, but was so severe he died at the scene.

    “Our thoughts remain as always with Nathan’s friends and family as they move forward with their life, safe in the knowledge that Lue is behind bars where he belongs.”

    Nathan was fatally stabbed just before 23:00hrs in Hackney Road, E2 on Saturday, 17 February 2024.

    Officers and London Ambulance Service rushed to his aid, but despite their efforts, he sadly died at the scene. His family has subsequently been supported by specialist officers.

    Lue answered ‘no comment’ to all police questions, but provided a prepared statement claiming self-defence. He was charged on Wednesday, 21 February 2024 with Nathan’s murder.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Call for Abstracts Deadline Extended: Conference on Radiation Protection in Medicine — X Ray Vision

    Source: International Atomic Energy Agency – IAEA

    (Graphic: P. Gregory/IAEA)

    The deadline to submit abstracts for scientific posters for the IAEA’s International Conference on Radiation Protection in Medicine — X Ray Vision to be hosted in Vienna, Austria from 8 t0 12 December 2025, has been extended to 30 May 2025.   

    The conference, co-sponsored by the World Health Organization and the Pan American Health Organization, will extend on the achievements of previous IAEA conferences on the topic held in 2012 and 2017 focusing on the radiation protection and safety of patients and health professionals undergoing or using radiation to diagnose and treat health conditions.

    The latest research shows that about 4.2 billion medical radiological examinations are performed each year, and this number continues to grow: for example, more computed tomography (CT) scanners are being installed in clinics around the world to replace conventional X ray procedures, while in nuclear medicine therapy, there is increasing use of radionuclides for treating metastatic cancer cells. In addition, an estimated 6.2 million courses of radiation therapy treatment are performed each year. New medical radiation technology and procedures continue to be developed. 

    “The conference will review significant global developments in the radiation protection of patients and health professionals taking into account current trends and advances in medical radiation technology and procedures,” said Hildegarde Vandenhove, Director of the IAEA Division of Radiation, Transport and Waste Safety.  

    “By bringing together experts in the field we aim to identify future challenges and opportunities so that we can all benefit from the latest technologies in the safest possible way,” added Vandenhove.  

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  • MIL-OSI Security: MARIANNA MAN FOUND GUILTY OF CONSPIRACY TO POSSESS WITH INTENT TO DISTRIBUTE METHAMPHETAMINE

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA – Lorenzo Heatrice, 70, was found guilty by a federal jury of conspiring to possess with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine and two counts of distribution and possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, one involving five grams of methamphetamine and the other involving 50 grams. The guilty verdict was announced by Michelle Spaven, Acting United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.

    In 2023, Heatrice was identified by the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office as a methamphetamine distributor. According to evidence presented at trial and court records, between June 2023 and April 2024, Heatrice conspired with other known drug traffickers in the Marianna, Florida area to distribute large amounts of methamphetamine into the community. On two separate occasions in September 2023, Heatrice also sold methamphetamine to a confidential informant.

    The conviction was the result of a joint investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Jessica Etherton and Eric Welch.

    Sentencing is scheduled for July 11, 2025, at the United States Courthouse in Tallahassee before Chief United States District Judge Mark E. Walker.

    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 for the Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Around the Air Force: Training Drone Skills, Cardiac Screening for Recruits, Historic Refueling Mission

    Source: United States Air Force

    In this week’s look Around the Air Force, the U.S. Air Force launches an initiative to equip every Airman with basic drone operational training, the ERASE program decreases service members’ risk of sudden cardiac arrest, and Air Mobility Command makes history with a commercial air refueling mission.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Man convicted of killing his 74-year-old neighbour

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    A man has been convicted of killing his 74-year-old neighbour in a row over shutting a gate, following an investigation by the Metropolitan Police Service.

    A jury at Southwark Crown Court found Trevor Gocan, 57 (07.09.1967), of Odhams Walk, Covent Garden, guilty of manslaughter over the killing of James O’Neill – known as ‘Jim.’

    The assault occurred in Odhams Walk, close to both men’s homes, on Sunday, 6 October, 2024. The victim died in hospital almost a fortnight later, on Monday, 21 October.

    Detective Chief Inspector Wayne Jolley, from Specialist Crime South – who led the investigation – said: “Our thoughts are with the family and friends of Mr O’Neill, who lost a loved one in shocking circumstances.

    “The killer acted disgracefully, punching and kicking his victim in full view of members of the public – among them children – on a busy Sunday morning.

    “The jury’s verdict shows that casual, thuggish violence will not be tolerated on London’s streets. There was absolutely no excuse for Gocan’s conduct.”

    Around 12:00hrs on Sunday, 6 October, 2024, officers responded with the London Ambulance Service following reports that a man had been assaulted in Odhams Walk. Mr O’Neill was treated at the scene for multiple injuries. He was taken to hospital, where doctors established he was suffering from a bleed on the brain.

    Police learned that the assailant had gone into a nearby house. There they found and arrested Gocan, who turned out to be a resident at the address.

    A post-mortem examination found that Mr O’Neill’s death was caused by complications from a traumatic brain injury and rib injuries resulting from the assault.

    At interview, the defendant gave no comment. In court, he claimed he acted in self-defence when he attacked Mr O’Neill, following a row over gate.

    Gocan has been remanded in custody ahead of sentencing at Southwark Crown Court on Thursday, 26 June.

    Notes to editors: The family would like James O’Neill to be referred to as Jim in any coverage.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: International operation uncovers large scale scheme laundering hundreds of millions of euros

    Source: Eurojust

    The suspect is the son of a prominent entrepreneur in Ukraine, who owned a defence company. Following the Russian invasion, profits began to decline, and the owners are suspected of having illegally sold their majority stake to representatives of a foreign state.

    To hide the illegal profits gained from the sale, the owner’s son bought properties, in several countries including France and Monaco. He is believed to have subsequently laundered hundreds of millions of euros in profits.

    In France alone, he is suspected of having laundered over EUR 57 million between 2010 and 2023. He also laundered profits from illegal arms sales by his father, the owner of the defence company. Soon after opening a money laundering investigation, the French authorities froze the suspects’ assets worth EUR 57 million with the intention of returning them to Ukraine.

    Investigations continued in the framework of a joint investigation team (JIT) set up at Eurojust, facilitating the judicial cooperation between the three countries. French, Ukrainian and Monegasque authorities worked together with support from Eurojust to establish a judicial strategy and exchange information on the illegal activities.

    Their collaboration resulted in the arrest of the son in Monaco on 28 April. The French, Ukrainian and Monegasque authorities are currently questioning him as part of the JIT. During the operation, several documents of value to the investigation were discovered in Monaco. The owner of the defence company is already on trial in Ukraine for crimes against national security and is now suspected of money laundering as well.

    The following authorities carried out the operations:

    • France: JUNALCO (National Jurisdiction against Organised Crime); Public Prosecution Office Paris; ONAF (National Office against Fraud)
    • Ukraine: Prosecutor General’s Office; Security Service of Ukraine
    • Monaco: Prosecutor General’s Office of Monaco; Directorate of Public Safety

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  • MIL-OSI Security: UPDATE: Two charged following a fatal stabbing in Walworth

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    UPDATE:

    A third man has been charged with murder following the fatal stabbing of Giovanny Rendon Bedoya in Walworth on Monday, 14 April.

    Brian Villada-Hernandes, 19, (26.02.2006) of St James’s Crescent, Lambeth, will appear at Bromley Magistrates’ Court on Friday, 2 May.

    Two men charged and another arrested following a fatal stabbing in Walworth on Monday, 14 April.

    Joseph Jimenez, 21 (14.08.2003) of no fixed address was charged on Tuesday, 23 April with the murder of 21-year-old Giovanny Rendon Bedoya.

    He was remanded into custody and appeared at Bromley Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday, 23 March. He appeared at the Old Bailey on Friday, 25 April.

    Angel Gonzales Angulo, 19 (24.08.06) of Camberwell Church Street, SE5 was arrested on Wednesday, 23 April and was charged on Thursday, 24 April of murder. He appeared at Bromley Magistrates’ Court on Friday, 25 March. He will next appear at the Old Bailey on Tuesday, 29 April.

    On Friday, 25 April a 17-year-old boy was arrested on suspicion of murder, he remains in police custody.

    On Monday, 14 April at 21:16hrs police were called to Hillingdon Street, SE17 following reports of a stabbing.

    Officers attended the scene alongside the London Ambulance Service who treated 21-year-old Giovanny Rendon Bedoya for stab injuries.

    Sadly, despite their best efforts, he was pronounced dead on scene.

    Giovanny’s next-of-kin continues to receive support and updates from specialist officers.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Transnational Narcotics Trafficker Sentenced to 25 Years in Federal Prison

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Saipan, MP – SHAWN N. ANDERSON, United States Attorney for the Districts of Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands, announced that Ye Fang, aka “BATU”, a citizen of the People’s Republic of China (PRC), was sentenced by Chief Judge Ramona V. Manglona in District Court for the Northern Mariana Islands to 25 years imprisonment, after being convicted of Conspiracy to Possess over 500 Grams of Methamphetamine with Intent to Distribute, in violation of 21 U.S.C. §§ 846 and 841(a)(1).  The court also ordered 5 years of supervised release and a $100 special assessment fee.  He was also ordered to report to immigration officials for deportation proceedings upon release from prison.

    Ye Fang arrived in the CNMI from China in 2016 under a tourist visa waiver program.  After his waiver term elapsed, he remained on Saipan where he ran a birth tourism business for three years.  Ye Fang hosted at least 200 women and their families from China so that pregnant women could give birth on island.  He later began trafficking methamphetamine.

    In November 2022, CNMI police executed a search warrant at Ye Fang’s home.  They seized more than one kilogram of methamphetamine.  A CNMI arrest warrant was issued, but Ye Fang remained a fugitive, escaping from Saipan by boat and traveling to Guam in the summer of 2023. From Guam, Ye Fang continued to organize methamphetamine trafficking in the CNMI.  In September 2023, he arranged the shipment of methamphetamine hidden inside lava lamps, which were sent to Saipan from California.  The packages were intercepted by CNMI Customs, who coordinated with the DEA to conduct a controlled delivery.  That resulted in the arrest of co-conspirator Liang Yang, another out of status PRC national.  A total of eight pounds of liquid methamphetamine was seized.

    Ye Fang eventually fled Guam in November 2023 via commercial airline using the identification of another person.  He then traveled to Palau, where he organized the murder of another PRC citizen.  In January 2024, Ye Fang and three others were arrested in Palau for that crime.  Ye Fang pled guilty to manslaughter in March 2024 and was sentenced to 18 months imprisonment.  In May 2024, he was extradited to the CNMI where he pled guilty to the lava lamp drug scheme.

    “Law enforcement has brought Ye Fang’s Indo-Pacific crime spree to an end,” stated United States Attorney Anderson.  “He will now serve many years in a United States prison with other high-risk offenders.  Every day of his sentence is day made safer for the people of the CNMI. We will continue to use our resources to combat transnational criminals and protect our communities from perpetrators of violent crime.”

    “Methamphetamine is potent and highly addictive. This synthetic stimulant has contributed to the overdose crisis facing America. DEA, along with federal and international partners, are in lockstep in our commitment to combat drug networks,” said Anthony Chrysanthis, Deputy Special Agent in Charge of the DEA Los Angeles Field Division, which oversees Saipan. “We will vehemently pursue all criminals who flood our communities with this poison.”

    “Today’s sentencing is the direct result of sustained commitment and collaboration between the FBI and our law enforcement partners,” said FBI Honolulu Special Agent in Charge David Porter. “Mr. Fang led a violent, transnational narcotics trafficking organization; his crimes significantly contributed to the ongoing drug epidemic facing America and plaguing our island communities. The FBI—standing in resolve with our local, state, and federal partners—is prepared to confront and disrupt these dangerous criminal organizations, wherever they may operate.”

    “The conviction of Mr. Fang is a testament to HSI’s enduring commitment to keep harmful substances out of Commonwealth of the Northern Marianas Island,” said Homeland Security Investigations Special Agent in Charge Lucy Cabral-DeArmas. “Understanding the damage that illegal narcotics do to our communities, we will stop at nothing to hold those accountable for their contributions to drug trafficking within our islands.”

    “As the law enforcement and security arm of the U.S. Postal Service, the safety of postal employees and the public is our top priority,” said Inspector in Charge Stephen Sherwood of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service.  “Anyone who misuses the U.S. Postal Service will be held accountable for their actions. I would like to thank our federal and local law enforcement partners, including our task force partners from the Guam Customs and Quarantine Agency, Guam Police Department, and Army National Guard Counterdrug Program.”

    This investigation was led by the Drug Enforcement Administration with the support from the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Homeland Security Investigations, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, U.S. Marshal Service for extradition, CNMI Customs, CNMI Department of Public Safety, Republic of Palau Bureau of Public Safety, and in collaboration with the CNMI Attorney General’s Office, the Department of Justice Office of International Affairs, and the Republic of Palau.

    Assistant United States Attorney Albert S. Flores, Jr., and former Assistant United States Attorney Ashley Kost prosecuted this case in the District of the Northern Mariana Islands.

    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 (OCDETF) and Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN).

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  • MIL-OSI Security: US Army Conducts HIMARS Mobility and Live-Fire Training in Palawan

    Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

    SAN ANTONIO, Zambales, Philippines – 1st Multi-Domain Task Force soldiers from the 5th Battalion, 3rd Field Artillery Regiment (Long Range Fires Battalion) conducted mobility and live-fire training of the M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) on April 28, 2025, as part of a Joint Integrated Counter Landing Live-Fire exercise on the island of Palawan.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Army conducts live-fire test of High-Powered Microwave for exercise Balikatan 2025

    Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

    SAN ANTONIO, Zambales, Philippines – The 1st Multi-Domain Task Force (1MDTF) conducted tests of their Integrated Fires Protection Capability High-Powered Microwave (IFPC-HPM) and Fixed Site-Low, Slow, Small Unmanned Aerial System Integrated Defeat System (FS-LIDS) in a combined joint integrated air and missile defense live-fire exercise at Naval Station Leovigildo Gantioqui, April 28, 2025.

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