NewzIntel.com

Category: Security Intelligence

  • MIL-OSI Security: Mobile Diving and Salvage Unit 1 conducts dive training with the Republic of Korea Navy’s Sea Salvage and Rescue Unit during SALVEX Korea 2025 [Image 15 of 17]

    Source: United States Navy (Logistics Group Western Pacific)

    Issued by: on

    JINHAE NAVAL BASE, Republic of Korea (April 10, 2025) Navy Diver 3rd Class Anthony Briggs, center, assigned to Mobile Diving and Salvage Unit 1, receives a gear check from Navy Diver 1st Class Ernest Smith before conducting a simulated salvage mission alongside a Republic of Korea navy diver, left, during a joint dive and salvage exercise in the harbor of Jinhae Naval Base, Republic of Korea, April 10, 2025. Commander, Logistics Group Western Pacific/Task Force 73 sustains the U.S. Navy’s maritime forces and is responsible for all diving and salvage operations in the Western Pacific in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Jordan Jennings)

    Date Taken: 04.10.2025
    Date Posted: 04.13.2025 22:26
    Photo ID: 8971783
    VIRIN: 250410-N-YV347-1299
    Resolution: 7998×5332
    Size: 14.13 MB
    Location: JINHAE, KR
    Web Views: 55
    Downloads: 2

    PUBLIC DOMAIN  

    This work, Mobile Diving and Salvage Unit 1 conducts dive training with the Republic of Korea Navy’s Sea Salvage and Rescue Unit during SALVEX Korea 2025 [Image 17 of 17], by PO2 Jordan Jennings, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Military Sealift Command Changes Commanders in Far East [Image 1 of 3]

    Source: United States Navy (Logistics Group Western Pacific)

    Issued by: on

    SINGAPORE—Capt. Robert R. Williams, outgoing commander, Military Sealift Command Far East, gets piped aboard during a change of command ceremony at the Singapore Naval Installation in Sembawang, April 30, 2025. (Photo by MC2 Jordan Jennings)

    Date Taken: 04.30.2025
    Date Posted: 04.30.2025 02:09
    Photo ID: 9003795
    VIRIN: 250430-N-YV347-1002
    Resolution: 4778×7167
    Size: 22.47 MB
    Location: SG
    Web Views: 3
    Downloads: 1

    PUBLIC DOMAIN  

    This work, Military Sealift Command Changes Commanders in Far East [Image 3 of 3], by PO2 Jordan Jennings, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: 322nd CA Soldiers Strengthen Ties at Tontouta Air Base

    Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

    NOUMEA, New Caledonia — Soldiers from the 322nd Civil Affairs Brigade’s functional specialty team, part of the crisis response team for Exercise Croix du Sud 2025, toured Tontouta Air Base on April 24, 2025, alongside Australian and Fijian military and civilian partners. The visit, about 50 kilometers northwest of Noumea, focused on sharing capabilities, strengthening interoperability and building partnerships.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Balikatan 25 | 3d MLR Participates in Integrated Air and Missile Defense

    Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

    NAVAL STATION LEOVIGILDO GANTIOQUI, Philippines — U.S. Marines with 3d Littoral Anti-Air Battalion, 3d Marine Littoral Regiment, alongside Philippine Airmen with 960th Air and Missile Defense Group, concluded one of six Combined Joint All-Domain Operations (CJADO) events during Exercise Balikatan 25, April 27, 2025.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Canastota Woman Sentenced to 5 Years for Drug Conspiracy and Firearm Offense

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    SYRACUSE, NEW YORK – Jessica Snyder, age 46, of Canastota, New York, was sentenced yesterday to 5 years in federal prison for conspiring to distribute methamphetamine and a heroin/fentanyl mixture, and for possessing firearms as an unlawful user of controlled substances.

    United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III, Bryan Miller, Special Agent in Charge of the New York Field Division of the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), and Madison County Sheriff Todd Hood made the announcement.

    As part of her prior guilty plea, Snyder admitted that from approximately October 2020 through May 17, 2022, she conspired with her husband, Andrew Snyder, to distribute both methamphetamine and a heroin/fentanyl mixture to others out of the garage of their home in Madison County. Snyder further admitted that on May 17, 2022, while she was an unlawful user of controlled substances, including methamphetamine, she possessed two 9mm handguns and ammunition.

    Chief United States District Judge Brenda K. Sannes also ordered Snyder to serve a 4-year term of supervised release following her release from prison and to forfeit the two 9mm handguns and ammunition she possessed.

    Andrew Snyder was sentenced earlier this month to 60 months’ imprisonment.

    This case was investigated by ATF and the Madison County Sheriff’s Office, with assistance from the Drug Enforcement Administration and New York State Police. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Thomas R. Sutcliffe and Matthew J. McCrobie prosecuted the case.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: New Paltz Man Charged with Online Sexual Exploitation of a Minor

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    ALBANY, NEW YORK – Max Fishkind, age 24, of New Paltz, New York, was charged today with sexual exploitation of a child.  United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III and Craig L. Tremaroli, Special Agent in Charge of the Albany Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), made the announcement.

    According to a complaint filed today, on September 23, 2024, Fishkind used, persuaded, induced, enticed and coerced a child into creating and sending him self-produced child sexual abuse material over Snapchat.  The child, who was 15 years old at the time of the crime, reported that Fishkind initially told the child he was 17 years old, but the child later learned that Fishkind was not a minor and stopped communicating with him. 

    The investigation into Fishkind began after the parents of a minor child residing in the state of Maryland reported to the FBI that their child had engaged in inappropriate sexual messaging with Fishkind, which included self-produced nude images of the minor that had been sent to Fishkind over Snapchat.  When the FBI learned that Fishkind had since moved from Houston, Texas, to New Paltz, FBI Albany took over the investigation, which resulted in the charge filed today. The charges against Fishkind are merely accusations.  The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

    Fishkind made his initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daniel J. Stewart today.  He was detained pending a detention hearing scheduled for May 5.

    If convicted of the offense, Fishkind faces at least 15 years and up to 30 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, and a supervised release term of at least 5 years and up to life. Fishkind may also be ordered to pay restitution to the victim of his offense and forfeit any devices used in the offense. A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the particular statute the defendant is charged with violating, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, and other factors. Fishkind would also have to register as a sex offender upon his release from prison.

    The FBI is investigating this case.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin S. Clark is prosecuting the case as part of Project Safe Childhood.

    Launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice, Project Safe Childhood is led by United States Attorney’s offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc. Lead with the action and the most basic information – who, what, when and where. 

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Fact Check- DHS is NOT Deporting American Children

    Source: US Department of Homeland Security

    WASHINGTON – Once again, the media is shamefully peddling a false narrative in an attempt to demonize our ICE enforcement agents, who are already facing a 300% surge in assaults again them. The media and Democrat politicians are force-feeding the public false information that US citizen children are being deported.  

    This is false and irresponsible. In both of these cases the mothers had a final order of deportation. Rather than separate their families, ICE asked the mothers if they wanted to be removed with their children or if they wanted ICE to place the children with someone safe the parent designates. Both mothers choose to deport with their children.  

    Jenny Carolina Lopez-Villela illegally entered this country three times in September 2019, March of 2021, and August 2021. She and her older daughter were deemed inadmissible to the United States the first time she entered the country and both her and her daughter were given final orders of removal in March 2020. When she was taken into ICE custody in April 2025, she chose to bring her younger daughter, who is an American Citizen, with her to Honduras and presented a valid United States passport.  

    Reachel Alexas Morales-Valle entered this country illegally and was released into the interior in 2013. She was given a final order of deportation in 2015. In February of 2025, she was arrested by Kenner Police Department in Louisiana for speeding, driving without insurance, and driving without a license. When she was taken into ICE custody in April 2025, she chose to bring both children, who are American citizens, with her to Honduras and presented a valid United States passport for each child.  

    DHS takes its responsibility to protect children seriously and will continue to work with federal law enforcement to ensure that children are safe and protected. Parents, who are here illegally, can take control of their departure. Through the CBP Home App— the Trump Administration is giving parents illegally in the country a chance to take full control of their departure and self-deport, with the potential ability to return the legal, right way and come back to live the American dream. It is free and available for all mobile devices. 

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Statement Of U.S. Attorney Jay Clayton On The Verdict In U.S. V. Omnicare And CVS Health Corporation

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    False claims in the healthcare industry cost every American.  Today, a unanimous jury found Omnicare, the country’s largest long-term care pharmacy, liable for fraudulently dispensing drugs without valid prescriptions to elderly and disabled people in assisted living facilities and other residential long-term care facilities.  After a four-week trial, the jury found that Omnicare billed Medicare, Medicaid, and TRICARE for over three million false claims resulting in $135,592,814 in damages.  Under the federal False Claims Act, the Government is entitled to three times the amount of these assessed damages, or $406,778,442, plus statutory penalties to be determined by the Court.  This is one of the largest damages verdicts rendered by a jury in a False Claims Act case.  The jury also found CVS Health Corporation, Omnicare’s parent, liable for causing Omnicare to submit false claims.  I thank the women and men of our Civil Division for continuing to pursue those who seek to exploit the healthcare system.  I also thank the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the Department of Defense for their support and assistance throughout this case.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Buffalo man going to prison for 20 years for sex trafficking minors

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    BUFFALO, N.Y. – U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Steven Gonzalez a/k/a Steven Hernandez, a/k/a Steve, a/k/a Stevie, a/k/a Unc, 48, of Buffalo, NY, who was convicted of sex trafficking by coercion, was sentenced to serve 240 months in prison by U.S. District Judge John L. Sinatra, Jr.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Joel L. Violanti, Caitlin M. Higgins, Joseph Tripi and Joshua Violanti, who handled the case, stated that between 2012 and March 2015, Gonzalez coerced a minor, identified as A.N., to engage in commercial sex acts. Gonzalez provided A.N. with cocaine in exchange for sex knowing that A.N. was physically addicted to cocaine. Gonzalez used A.N.’s addiction to cocaine and other drugs to keep A.N. dependent on himself and to coerce A.N. to engage in commercial sex acts with him directly.

    In addition, between 2012 and 2013, Gonzalez coerced another individual, identified as B.E., to engage in commercial sex acts. Gonzalez provided B.E. with heroin in exchange for sex, knowing that B.E. was physically addicted to heroin. Gonzalez used B.E.’s addiction to keep B.E. dependent on himself and to coerce B.E. to engage in commercial sex acts with him directly.

    The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Miami Man Sentenced to 15 Years in Prison for Leading Payment Protection Program Fraud Scheme

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    MIAMI – Lazaro Verdecia Hernandez, 37, of Miami, was sentenced today to 15 years in federal prison for leading a scheme that involved obtaining fraudulent loans under the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) and laundering the proceeds. 

    Verdecia and co-conspirator Heidi Cid submitted over 63 fraudulent PPP loan applications. In the loan paperwork, they made the applicants appear eligible for pandemic relief by falsifying the number of company employees and forging documents. As a result of the fake submissions, lenders disbursed over $14.5 million to bank accounts controlled by individuals who then withdraw the money and gave Verdecia, Cid, and another co-coconspirator, Yadier Rodriguez Arteaga, their cut.

    During earlier proceedings, Arteaga and Cid were adjudicated guilty and sentenced to federal prison terms: Arteaga to almost six years and Cid to 26 months.

    U.S. Attorney Hayden P. O’Byrne for the Southern District of Florida; Special Agent in Charge Rafael Barros for the U. S. Secret Service (USSS); Special Agent in Charge Edwin S. Bonano for the Federal Housing Finance Agency, Office of Inspector General (FHFA OIG); and Special Agent in Charge Amaleka McCall-Brathwaite, U.S. Small Business Administration Office of Inspector General (SBA OIG), Eastern Region, made the announcement.

    USSS Miami and FHFA OIG investigated the case with the assistance of the U.S. Small Business Administration Office of Inspector General (SBA OIG), Eastern Region. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Thomas Haggerty and Eli Rubin prosecuted the case.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah Klco is handling asset forfeiture.

    The following cases were previously charged in relation to the fraud scheme:

    • U.S. v. Roberto Lopez, Kenia Carrillo, Lester Hedman Safont, Oreste Ruiz Linares, Honolio Navarro Caballero, Barbara Alvarez, Javier Pico, Alfredo Contrera, and Erisbel Gonzalez Gomez, Case No. 22-cr-20368; 

    • U.S. v. Nancy Bahos Serna, Case No. 23-cr-20310;

    • U.S. v. Jorge Trueba Lopez, Case No. 21-cr-20382;

    • U.S. v. Nancy Saavedra Torres, Case No. 21-cr-20225;

    • U.S. v. Giraldo Caraballo, Case No. 21-cr-20264;

    • U.S. v. Felix Martinez and Yailin Perez, Case No. 21-cr-20276;

    • U.S. v. Yoliesse Sarmiento Carrion, Case No. 22-cr-20530;

    • U.S. v. Osiel Rodriguez Furgel, Case No. 21-cr-20251; and

    • U.S. v. Leonardo Gonzalez Lopez, Case No. 23-cr-20113.

    Each of these defendants pled guilty, except for Javier Pico and Erisbel Gonzalez Gomez who are fugitives.

    Approximately 22 people were charged and convicted in the conspiracy.

    In March 2020, the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act was enacted. It was designed to provide emergency financial assistance to the millions of Americans suffering the economic effects caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Among other sources of relief, the CARES Act authorized and provided funding to the SBA to provide Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDLs) to eligible small businesses, including sole proprietorships and independent contractors, experiencing substantial financial disruptions due to the COVID-19 pandemic to allow them to meet financial obligations and operating expenses that could otherwise have been met had the disaster not occurred.  EIDL applications were submitted directly to the SBA via the SBA’s on-line application website, and the applications were processed and the loans funded for qualifying applicants directly by the SBA.

    On May 17, 2021, the Attorney General established the COVID-19 Fraud Enforcement Task Force to marshal the resources of the Department of Justice in partnership with agencies across government to enhance efforts to combat and prevent pandemic-related fraud. The Task Force bolsters efforts to investigate and prosecute the most culpable domestic and international criminal actors and assists agencies tasked with administering relief programs to prevent fraud by, among other methods, augmenting and incorporating existing coordination mechanisms, identifying resources and techniques to uncover fraudulent actors and their schemes, and sharing and harnessing information and insights gained from prior enforcement efforts. For more information on the Department’s response to the pandemic, please visit https://www.justice.gov/coronavirus.

    On Sep. 15, 2022, the Attorney General selected the Southern District of Florida’s U.S. Attorney’s Office to head one of three national COVID-19 Fraud Strike Force Teams. The Department of Justice established the Strike Force to enhance existing efforts to combat and prevent COVID-19 related financial fraud. For more information on the department’s response to the pandemic, please click here.

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

    You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Florida at https://www.justice.gov/usao-sdfl.

    Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Southern District of Florida at www.flsd.uscourts.gov or at http://pacer.flsd.uscourts.gov under case number 23-cr-20421.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: McAlester Resident Sentenced To Eleven Years For Maiming In Indian Country

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced Cody Ray McFadden, age 36, of McAlester, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 132 months in prison for one count of Maiming in Indian Country.

    The charge arose from an investigation by the Pittsburg County Sheriff’s Office, the Oklahoma Highway Patrol, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

    On December 16, 2024, McFadden pleaded guilty to the charge.  According to investigators, on July 16, 2022, McFadden invited a visitor to his residence. Once inside, McFadden beat the victim, forced the victim into a cage, and padlocked the door.  During the next 36 hours, McFadden proceeded to assault and torture the victim, threatening to kill the victim with a cross bow and intentionally striking at the victim with an axe.  The victim, who sustained a head laceration, burns, bruises, and a broken arm, managed to break free, escape through a window, and run to a neighbor’s home.  Law enforcement responding to the neighbor’s emergency call took McFadden into custody after a brief standoff.  The crime occurred in Pittsburg County, within the boundaries of the Choctaw Nation Reservation, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma.

    “This defendant demonstrated a complete lack of humanity, subjecting the victim to an extended period of violence resulting in unimaginable physical and mental trauma,” said FBI Oklahoma City Special Agent in Charge Doug Goodwater.  “The FBI and our law enforcement partners are committed to rooting out violent offenders through aggressive investigations and prosecutions.”

    “This is the stuff of nightmares, but unfortunately, it was sickeningly real,” said United States Attorney Christopher J. Wilson.  “I commend the bravery of this survivor, the quick work of law enforcement in securing an end to this horrifying ordeal, and the steadfastness of investigators and prosecutors who ensured that McFadden spends the next decade in prison answering for his ruthless crimes.”

    The Honorable Ronald A. White, Chief U.S. District Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, presided over the hearing.  McFadden 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 Joshua Satter represented the United States.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Porcupine Man Sentenced to 12 Years in Federal Prison for the Shooting Death of Pregnant Girlfriend

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    RAPID CITY – United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier has sentenced a Porcupine, South Dakota, man convicted of Involuntary Manslaughter, the Unborn Victims of Violence Act, and Possession of an Unregistered Firearm. The sentencing took place on April 25, 2025.

    McKenzie Big Crow, age 20, was sentenced to a total of 12 years in federal prison for Involuntary Manslaughter, the Unborn Victims of Violence Act, and Possession of an Unregistered Firearm, to be followed by three years of supervised release. Big Crow was also ordered to pay $300 in special assessments to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

    A federal grand jury indicted Big Crow in June 2024. In January 2025, he was found guilty following a federal jury trial.

    On August 20, 2023, near Porcupine, Big Crow was illegally in possession of a Savage Arms Model 62, semiautomatic rifle. The barrel had been sawed off, and the defendant had taped components of an Airsoft rifle to the gun to make it appear like an AK-47. Big Crow claimed he put the rifle in a backpack and that the gun discharged when he bumped the bag against a door. The gunshot struck 19-year-old Ashton Provost in the chest, killing her and her unborn child within minutes. The gun was later found hidden under Big Crow’s bed. On the day of the shooting, Big Crow had drugs in his system including marijuana, cocaine, MDMA (commonly known as ecstasy) and methamphetamine.

    “We commend the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the District of South Dakota for its decision to pursue charges under the Unborn Victims of Violence Act — recognizing the value of every life lost as a result of this crime,” said Special Agent in Charge Alvin M. Winston Sr. of the FBI Minneapolis. “This case highlights our shared commitment to justice for the most vulnerable and to holding violent offenders accountable to the fullest extent of the law.”

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

    This matter was prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office because the Major Crimes Act, a federal statute, mandates that certain violent crimes alleged to have occurred in Indian country be prosecuted in Federal court as opposed to State court.

    This case was investigated by the FBI, the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Heather Knox prosecuted the case.

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

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Houston Man Guilty of Federal Controlled Substances Act Violations

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – FULGENCIO CARDENAS-RIVERA (“CARDENAS-RIVERA”), age 35, a resident of Houston, Texas, pled guilty on April 15, 2025, before United States District Judge Brandon S. Long to possession, with intent to distribute, five hundred (500) grams or more of cocaine, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson.

    According to court documents, CARDENAS-RIVERA traveled into the Eastern District of Louisiana with approximately three kilograms of cocaine secreted in the trunk of the car he was driving, with the intent to distribute same.

    CARDENAS-RIVERA faces a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 5 years up to a maximum term of 40 years, a fine of up to $5,000,000.00, at least four years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100. 

    This prosecution is 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.

    This investigation was led by the Drug Enforcement Administration – New Orleans Field Division Office and assisted by the United States Border Patrol, the Louisiana State Police, the Kenner Police Department, and the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office.  The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Lynn E. Schiffman of the Narcotics Unit.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Tonawanda man going to prison for 25 years for production of child pornography

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    BUFFALO, N.Y. – U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Michael E. Swain, 37, of Tonawanda, NY, who was convicted of production of child pornography, was sentenced to serve 25 years in prison and lifetime supervised release by U.S. District Judge Lawrence J. Vilardo.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron J. Mango, who handled the case, stated that between October 20 and November 1, 2021, Swain coerced five minor victims to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing visual depictions. Specifically, Swain communicated with a 15-year-old minor female who resided in Colorado using Discord, a social media platform. The communications included sexually graphic conversations, during which Swain requested that the minor female take sexually explicit videos and images and send them to him. In addition, Swain engaged in numerous sexual communications with the minor female from approximately 2019 to 2022, during which other sexually explicit images and videos were sent from to Swain. On February 28, 2023, the FBI executed a search warrant at Swain’s residence and seized a desktop computer tower, a laptop computer, and an external hard drive, all of which were found to contain child pornography.

    The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Tonawanda Police Department, under the direction of Chief James Stauffiger, the Federal Bureau of Investigation Buffalo Office Child Exploitation Human Trafficking Task Force, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia, and the New York State Police, under the direction of Amie Feroleto.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Las Vegas Man Sentenced To Prison For COVID-19 Unemployment Insurance Benefits Fraud

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    LAS VEGAS – A Las Vegas resident was sentenced today by Chief United States District Judge Andrew P. Gordon to 33 months in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release for a scheme to steal nearly $240,000 in unemployment insurance benefits.

    According to court documents, on July 15, 2020, Lavell Deshon Roberts was stopped when law enforcement conducted a traffic stop of the vehicle he was driving. During a search of the vehicle, officers located a pistol, $50,000 in money orders, and 10 debit cards issued by the Nevada Department of Employment, Training, and Rehabilitation (DETR).

    Between June and July 2020, Roberts used the debit cards to fraudulently withdraw unemployment insurance benefits from ATMs in Texas, resulting in a total loss of $238,940.

    Roberts and co-defendant Corey Marcus Valrey were indicted by a grand jury in October 2022. Roberts pleaded guilty to one count of wire fraud. Valrey pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud and will be sentenced on July 11, 2025.

    In addition to imprisonment, Roberts was ordered to pay restitution.

    United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada and Special Agent in Charge Karon Ransom for the United States Secret Service made the announcement.

    The United States Secret Service investigated the case. Assistant United States Attorneys Mina Chang and Kimberly Frayn prosecuted the case.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Ukrainian Citizens Charged in South Florida with Illegally Voting in 2024 United States Presidential Election

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    MIAMI – Two Ukrainian women with no United States citizenship have been charged with unlawfully voting in the General Election for United States President during early voting in Palm Beach, Fla., on Oct. 31, 2024.

    Svitlana Demydenko (Svitlana), 53, and her daughter, Yelyzaveta Demydenko (Yelyzaveta), 22, made their initial appearances in West Palm Beach federal court today.

    According to the criminal complaint affidavit, Svitlana and Yelyzaveta entered the United States in April 2021 on nonimmigrant visas. In August 2024, while living in Florida, Svitlana and Yelyzaveta registered to vote in federal elections using a system that requires certification of United States citizenship, which neither of them had.

    On Oct. 31, 2024, and still without United States citizenship, Svitlana and Yelyzaveta voted from Palm Beach in the federal 2024 General Election, which included election of a United States President.

    U.S. Attorney Hayden P. O’Byrne for the Southern District of Florida; Acting Special Agent in Charge Jose R. Figueroa of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Miami Field Division; and Commissioner Mark Glass of the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) made the announcement.

    HSI Miami Field Division and FDLE Office of Executive Investigations, Election Crime Unit investigated this case, with assistance from the Florida Department of State, Office of Election Crimes and Security; the Palm Beach County Supervisor of Elections; the U.S. Diplomatic Security Service; and the U.S. Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). Assistant U.S. Attorney John McMillan is prosecuting the case.

    A criminal complaint is merely an accusation, and defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

    You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Florida at www.justice.gov/usao-sdfl.

    Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Southern District of Florida at www.flsd.uscourts.gov or at http://pacer.flsd.uscourts.gov under case number 25-mj-8216.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Houston furniture flipper sentenced for smuggling three dozen illegal aliens

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas – A 29-year-old Houston man has been ordered to prison after unlawfully transporting illegal aliens, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.

    Louis Dante Anthony pleaded guilty Jan. 30.

    U.S. District Judge David Morales has now ordered Anthony to serve 30 months in federal prison to be immediately followed by three years of supervised release. At the hearing, the court heard additional evidence that described the dangerous way the 36 aliens were locked into a false compartment with no air and no means of escape. In handing down the sentence, the court noted the seriousness of the way the aliens were transported.

    On Dec. 8, 2024, Anthony drove to the Falfurrias Border Patrol checkpoint where he claimed he was hauling furniture from Edington and was heading to Victoria. He denied having any passengers in his vehicle and said he was simply a furniture flipper.

    An x-ray scan revealed 36 individuals trapped in an 8 by 4.25-foot false compartment at the front of the box truck. The illegal aliens had no access to air, could not be heard from the outside and were unable to get themselves out of the compartment. The illegal aliens were from Ecuador, Colombia, Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras and Mexico.

    Anthony will remain in custody pending transfer to a Federal Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.

    Customs and Border Protection conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ashley A. Pruitt prosecuted the case. 

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Denver Man Sentenced to 194 months in Federal Prison for Being a Felon in Possession of Ammunition

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    DENVER – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Colorado announces that Tyrell Braxton, 25, of Denver, was sentenced to 194 months in federal prison after being found guilty by a federal jury of being a felon in possession of ammunition.

    According to the facts established at trial, Braxton was charged in connection with a shooting that took place in the early morning hours on August 19, 2023, when a large group of people were gathered on the southwest corner of 28th and Welton Street in Denver.  Shortly before 4am, multiple gunshots were heard, and Denver Police officers were dispatched to a shooting.  Crime scene evidence collected on scene showed that eight different firearms were fired, resulting in 71 spent shell casings.  Video evidence captured Braxton shooting six times into a group of people, killing one man and injuring two women.  Braxton ran across Welton Street, but continued to fire his firearm eight more times.  Braxton fled the scene and was a fugitive before being captured. Braxton was on federal supervised release at the time for a prior unlawful possession of a firearm and had been released from prison in April 2023.

    “Tyrone Braxton’s wanton violence took another’s life,” said Acting United States Attorney for the District of Colorado J. Bishop Grewell.  “Our community is safer with him in prison.”

    “Fighting violent crime is our top priority, and we are unwavering in our commitment to eradicating violent criminals from our communities,” said ATF Special Agent in Charge Brent Beavers.  “The ATF Denver Field Division will continue to deploy all resources at our disposal and leverage every law enforcement partnership in pursuit of those who terrorize our communities with violence.”

    “The Denver Police Department appreciates our great partnership with the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Colorado and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives,” said Denver Police Chief Ron Thomas.  “Through the Project Safe Neighborhoods program, DPD and our partners worked to prove the dangers Mr. Braxton possessed to our community and this sentence demonstrates our collective commitment to safety.”

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

    Case Number: 24-cr-00029-RBJ

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Olean woman arrested, charged with multiple drug and gun charges for her role in Olean drug ring

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    BUFFALO, N.Y. – U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Janine McKenney, 42, of Olean, NY, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and cocaine, which carry a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, which carries a mandatory minimum penalty of five years in prison, and a maximum of life, and being a felon in possession of a firearm, which carries a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey E. Intravatola, who is handling the case, stated that on February 17, 2025, Erie County Sheriff’s Deputies responded to a report of a female slumped over in a vehicle at a gas station in Springville, NY. When deputies arrived, the female had departed the gas station. A short time later, they located the vehicle and conducted a traffic stop. During the traffic stop, the driver, later identified as McKenney, provided a false name to deputies. She was detained after a deputy observed a glass pipe designed for smoking crack cocaine in the. While exiting the vehicle, McKenney appeared to be attempting to conceal a suspected crack cocaine rock, which came to rest on the driver’s seat of the vehicle. During a search of the vehicle, deputies discovered a quantity of narcotics, including methamphetamine. The following day, on February 18, 2025, deputies conducted an intake search of McKenney at the Erie County Sheriff’s Office Holding Center and discovered three bags of suspected narcotics on McKenney’s person.  A subsequent search of McKenney’s cell phone various photographs of ledgers, firearms, and suspected narcotics that appear to be packaged for sale.

    Later in the evening on February 18, 2025, investigators executed a search warrant at McKenney’s Olean residence. McKenney utilized her residence while engaging in drug trafficking activities. During the search, quantities of suspected cocaine, morphine pills, and drug paraphernalia were recovered. In addition, three loaded pistols, ammunition and $2519.00 in cash was also recovered. Two of the three pistols were previously reported stolen. In November 2014, McKenney was convicted of a drug felony in New York State Court and is legally prohibited from possessing a firearm.

    The complaint is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation Safe Streets Task Force, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia, the Erie County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff John Garcia, the Cattaraugus County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff Eric Butler, the Olean Police Department, under the direction of Chief Ron Richardson, and the New York State Police, under the direction of Amie Feroleto.

    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: UPDATE 2: Unified Command continues response to release near Garden Island Bay, LA

    Source: United States Coast Guard

    News Release  

    U.S. Coast Guard 8th District Heartland
    Contact: 8th District Public Affairs
    Office: 504-671-2020
    After Hours: 618-225-9008
    Eighth District online newsroom

     

    Port conditions change based on weather forecasts, and current port conditions can be viewed on the following Coast Guard homeport webpages:

    For more information follow us on Facebook and Twitter.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: European Judicial Cybercrime Network holds 18th plenary meeting to combat growing cyber threats

    Source: Eurojust

    Technological advancements create new opportunities for criminals to exploit the internet’s speed, convenience, and anonymity. The resulting cyber threats know no borders, causing harm and posing real threats to victims worldwide. National authorities are taking measures to combat this growing threat, but often face challenges in keeping pace with the rapidly changing technical environment.

    Prosecutors and judges across the EU are grappling with new legal problems and grey areas, such as cooperating with service providers that hold crucial electronic evidence, seizing cryptocurrencies under the control of crypto assets service providers or addressing the complex phenomena of cyber-enabled terrorism. The EJCN’s 18th Plenary Meeting addressed these challenges head-on, featuring discussions on key topics such as artificial intelligence, crypto assets, the E-evidence Package and terrorist networks operating online. The meeting included presentations on case studies, including the criminal use of malicious Large Language Models (LLMs) and the abuse of stablecoins, highlighting the evolving nature of cyber threats.

    A restricted session on the second day allowed participants to share updates on national legislations, judgments, and cases. Breakout sessions covered topics such as artificial intelligence, crypto assets, e-evidence and training for the judiciary on cyber-related topics, providing a platform for participants to share experiences and anticipate future challenges. The meeting was an important gathering of experts and stakeholders, offering valuable insights and discussions on the key challenges facing the cybercrime industry, and demonstrating the EJCN’s commitment to supporting its members in their efforts to combat cybercrime.

    Established in 2016, the EJCN plays a vital role in fostering cooperation and knowledge-sharing among practitioners specialising in countering cybercrime, with the goal of increasing the efficiency of investigations and prosecutions. With the support of key partner Eurojust, the EJCN works to enhance cooperation between national authorities, addressing the borderless nature of cybercrime and the challenges it poses.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Key evidence leads to guilty plea

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    NORFOLK, Va. – A Virginia Beach man pled guilty today to theft of postal keys.

    According to court documents, on June 9, 2024, Lee Vann Tyner, 48, broke into the Jolliff Station post office in Chesapeake by shattering the glass door to an entrance. Tyner entered the post office and stole several keys used to unlock mail receptacles.

    On June 11, 2024, a Chesapeake Police officer conducted a traffic stop on an SUV that matched the description of a vehicle that the officer had received information was being used to sell narcotics. Tyner told the officer that he had no driver’s license or identification with him, and, initially, gave the officer a false name, date of birth, and Social Security number. Tyner falsely claimed that he had rented the SUV using Turo.

    Inside the vehicle were postal keys that were confirmed to have been stolen from the Jolliff Station post office. Several Georgia driver’s licenses, mail, credit cards, debit cards, and Social Security cards that did not belong to Tyner were also found inside the SUV.

    Tyner is scheduled to be sentenced on Sept. 9 and faces up to 10 years in prison. Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    Erik S. Siebert, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia; Damon E. Wood, Inspector in Charge of the Washington Division of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, made the announcement after U.S. District Judge Elizabeth W. Hanes accepted the plea.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Anthony C. Marek is prosecuting the case.

    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. 2:25-cr-4.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Former USDA Program Director Pleads Guilty in $400,000 Kickback Scheme

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    WASHINGTON – Kirk Perry, 60, a former United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) program director, pleaded guilty today in connection with a kickback scheme in which he and his nephew, Jamarea Grant, 31, of Cleveland, Ohio, conspired to bill the government nearly $400,000 for work that Grant did not actually perform.  

    The plea was announced by U.S. Attorney Edward R. Martin Jr. and Acting Inspector General Janet M. Sorensen of the U.S. Department of Agriculture Office of Inspector General.

    Perry, of Lorain, Ohio, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Court Judge Colleen Kollar-Kotelly to conspiracy to commit money, property, and honest services wire fraud. Grant previously pleaded guilty on Nov. 27, 2024, to the same charge. Judge Kollar-Kotelly will determine any sentences for Perry and Grant after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Perry is scheduled to be sentenced on Dec. 4, 2025. Grant’s sentencing is pending.

    In pleading guilty, Perry and Grant admitted that, from August 2015 through November 2022, Perry, who at the time was serving as a USDA Program Director, arranged for Grant to be hired by two companies under contract with the USDA Office for Civil Rights. Grant reported directly to Perry, who also approved the invoices billing for Grant’s time, and the two of them conspired to bill the government for work that Grant did not perform.

    Grant received nearly $400,000 for work he did not do. Perry also had access to Grant’s bank account. As part of the criminal scheme Perry transferred approximately $125,000 of the USDA payments from Grant’s account to his own account.

    This case was investigated by the USDA Office of Inspector General Sensitive Investigations Office. The matter is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Brian P. Kelly and Maeghan Mikorski.

    24cr223

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Hammond Man Sentenced for Receipt of Materials Involving Sexual Exploitation of Minors

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    NEW ORLEANS, LA – Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that JOSEPH AUTHEMENT (“AUTHEMENT”), age 25, of Hammond, LA, was sentenced on April 16, 2025, for Receipt of Materials Involving the Sexual Exploitation of Minors, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 2252(a)(2) and (b)(1). 

    According to court documents, on March 11, 2024, Homeland Security Investigations (“HSI”)  obtained a federal search warrant to seize AUTHEMENT’s Apple iPhone.  On March 12, 2024, HSI special agents (“SA”) located AUTHEMENT at his residence in Hammond, LA.  The agents seized AUTHEMENT’s iPhone and located images and videos depicting the sexual exploitation of minors on that phone.  SAs later determined AUTHEMENT used a messaging application to download and purchase child sex abuse materials.

    United States District Judge Jane Triche Milazzo sentenced AUTHEMENT to sixty (60) months imprisonment, supervised release for (10) ten years upon release from imprisonment and payment of a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.

    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 United States Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims.  For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov. 

    The U.S. Attorney’s Office would like to acknowledge the assistance of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations, and the Rio Grande Valley Child Exploitation Investigations Task Force.  The prosecution of this case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian M. Klebba, Chief of the Financial Crimes Unit.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Jury Convicts Florida Man For Stealing $10.9 Million From Medicare

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Tampa, FL – United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe announces that a federal jury has found Lino Mallari Gutierrez, a/k/a “Joe Gutierrez,” (age, Palm City) guilty of conspiracy to commit health care and wire fraud, conspiracy to violate the federal anti-kickback statute, five substantive counts of health care fraud, and four substantive counts of payment of kickbacks in connection with a heath care program. After the jury verdict, the Court remanded Gutierrez into custody. Gutierrez faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison. His sentencing hearing is scheduled for July 24, 2025.  Gutierrez was indicted on August 22, 2023.

    According to testimony and evidence presented at trial, Gutierrez and his co-conspirators, including Jonathan Rouffe, owned and operated two durable medical equipment (DME) companies that collectively billed Medicare more than $10.9 million for medically unnecessary DME, of which more than $5 million was paid to Gutierrez and his co-conspirators. Gutierrez and his co-conspirators paid kickbacks to marketing companies in exchange for signed doctors’ orders for unnecessary braces, which Gutierrez and the co-conspirators then used to bill Medicare. The marketing companies used call centers to solicit Medicare patients and telemedicine companies to procure prescriptions for unnecessary braces for these patients. Gutierrez and Rouffe concealed their role in the scheme by putting the DME companies in the names of straw owners.

    As part of the conspiracy to commit health care and wire fraud, Gutierrez also filed false records with his employer and a private regulatory organization to conceal his involvement in the DME companies. Gutierrez and Rouffe were in the process of establishing four more DME companies with additional straw owners—including Gutierrez’s mother and two of Gutierrez’s friends—when the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services – Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) identified the DME fraud through a national operation, which began in the Middle District of Florida, and through which dozens of co-conspirators were identified, charged, and convicted. Prior to law enforcement action, Gutierrez and Rouffe had already taken multiple steps to use these additional DME companies to bill Medicare for additional fraudulent claims. After learning of law enforcement action, Gutierrez moved Medicare proceeds from his account into other bank accounts under his control.

    Rouffe previously pled guilty to conspiracy to commit health care fraud. He was sentenced to four years in prison for his role in the fraud scheme.

    This case was investigated by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services – Office of Inspector General and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jennifer Peresie and Trial Attorney Margaret Mortimer of the Department of Justice Criminal Division’s Fraud Section.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: New Britain Man Sentenced to 43 Months in Federal Prison for Trafficking Narcotic Pills

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Marc H. Silverman, Acting United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that ERIK PETERSEN, 44, of New Britain, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Kari A. Dooley in Bridgeport to 43 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for trafficking narcotic pills.

    According to court documents and statements made in court, in May 2023, members of the DEA New Haven Tactical Diversion Squad began investigating suspicious packages that were being delivered to the Newington residence of Petersen’s brother, Kyle Petersen.  At the time, Kyle Petersen was on federal supervised release following a federal conviction in 2017 involving the trafficking of fentanyl and prescription pills.  During the investigation, a court-authorized search of a package mailed to Kyle Petersen contained more than 400 grams of pills containing Protonitazene, a synthetic opioid typically more potent than fentanyl.  The investigation revealed that Kyle Petersen had received approximately 34 similar packages mailed from the same source in Michigan, and also received approximately 46 packages from California and Oregon suspected to contain multiple pounds of marijuana.  Investigators also made controlled purchases of counterfeit Percocet pills containing fentanyl from Erik Petersen.

    Kyle and Erik Petersen were arrested on federal criminal complaints on April 3, 2024.  On that date, a search of Kyle Petersen’s residence revealed more than a kilogram of counterfeit Adderall pills containing methamphetamine, counterfeit oxycodone pills containing fentanyl, counterfeit Xanax pills, a large quantity of Protonitazene, approximately 40 grams of cocaine, and $76,650 in cash.

    Erik Petersen has been detained since his arrest.  On December 19, 2024, he pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine, cocaine, fentanyl, Bromazolam, and Protonitazene.

    Kyle Petersen has pleaded guilty and is detained while awaiting sentencing.

    This matter is being investigated by the DEA New Haven Tactical Diversion Squad, with the assistance of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service and the New Britain and Newington Police Departments.  The Tactical Diversion Squad is composed of personnel from the DEA, the Connecticut State Police, and the Bristol, Hamden, West Haven, Fairfield, Seymour, and Glastonbury Police Departments.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Brendan Keefe.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Court Enjoins Arizona Animal Drug Manufacturer from Distributing Unapproved Drugs

    Source: United States Attorneys General 4

    A federal court ordered an Arizona company to stop distributing unapproved animal drugs that violate the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FDCA), the Department of Justice announced.

    In a civil complaint filed on August 29, 2023, in the U.S. District Court for the District of Arizona, the United States alleged that AniCell Biotech LLC and its founder and chief executive officer, Brandon T. Ames, violated the FDCA at the company’s facility in Gilbert, Arizona, by manufacturing and distributing unapproved animal drugs. According to the complaint, AniCell Biotech makes and distributes animal cell- and tissue-based products (ACTPs) derived from the amniotic tissue of horses for use in animals.

    According to the complaint, AniCell and Ames claimed on their website and in promotional pamphlets that their products were intended for use in animals to treat various diseases and to promote tissue regeneration and healing. The complaint further alleged that AniCell and Ames made and sold new animal drugs that were considered adulterated and unsafe because they had not been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). According to the complaint, FDA provided defendants with multiple warnings, including a written warning letter regarding its need to submit its new animal drugs to the FDA for approval.

    “Animal drug manufacturers have a duty to ensure that their products are safe and manufactured and sold in accordance with the law,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Yaakov Roth of the Justice Department’s Civil Division. “The Department will continue to work closely with FDA to pursue appropriate actions against drug manufacturers that violate the law.”

    “Marketing unapproved new animal drugs that claim to cure, mitigate, treat or prevent diseases in animals can pose serious safety risks to consumers’ pets,” said Acting Director Dr. Timothy Schell of the FDA’s Center for Veterinary Medicine. “The FDA will continue to pursue actions against those who may put animal patients in harm’s way by manufacturing and distributing unapproved new animal drugs.”

    The defendants agreed to settle the suit and be bound by a consent decree permanently enjoining them from violating the FDCA. Under the court’s order, entered on April 17, the defendants must comply with specific requirements set forth in the injunction and the FDCA prior to manufacturing or distributing any new animal drugs.

    Trial Attorney Coleen Schoch of the Civil Division’s Consumer Protection Branch handled the case, with assistance from Associate Chief Counsel of Enforcement Jaclyn E. Martinez Resly of the FDA’s Office of the Chief Counsel.

    Additional information about the Consumer Protection Branch and its enforcement efforts may be found at http://www.justice.gov/civil/consumer-protection-branch.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Summary of Fiscal Year 2024 Annual FOIA Reports Published

    Source: United States Attorneys General 7

    The Office of Information Policy (OIP) has released its Summary of Annual FOIA Reports for Fiscal Year (FY) 2024. This summary provides an overview of FOIA activities across the government during the previous fiscal year, looks at key statistics in FOIA administration, and identifies trends in FOIA processing.  Each summary serves as a resource for both agencies and the public to gain an understanding of overall FOIA administration.

    As highlighted in this year’s summary, the government received yet another record-setting 1,501,432 requests during FY 2024 – a 25.15% increase in requests received over last fiscal year.  Agencies largely kept pace with this demand by processing1,499,265 requests.  Agencies received 20,115 administrative appeals and processed 18,575 appeals, with more than two-thirds of federal agencies ending FY 2024 with no pending appeals.  In addition to responding to requests and administrative appeals, agencies continued to make vast amounts of information available proactively.  Agencies’ FOIA offices and program offices continued to proactively disclose millions of records, with FOIA Offices in particular posting significantly more records in FY 2024 as compared to FY 2023.

    OIP’s latest summary is available on its Reports page, where it can be compared with previous summaries dating back to FY 2006.  All agencies subject to the FOIA finalized their FY 2024 Annual FOIA Report data.  This information can be easily viewed, compared, and analyzed on FOIA.gov’s Data page. 

    Subscribe to FOIA Post email updates to receive additional FOIA updates from OIP.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Former President of Ypsilanti Steelworkers Union Sentenced for Stealing $58,000 in Union Funds

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    DETROIT – Dilanjan Miller was sentenced today to six months in federal prison after pleading guilty to bank fraud, Acting United States Attorney Julie A. Beck announced.

    Joining Beck in the announcement is Thomas Murray, District Director of the Detroit-Milwaukee District Office of the Department of Labor-Office of Labor-Management Standards.

    Miller, age 38, was sentenced after pleading guilty before the Honorable Laurie Michelson to bank fraud. In addition to his term of imprisonment, Judge Michelson ordered Miller to pay restitution to the union.

    According to the facts alleged in the information and further developed at the plea hearing, USW Local 2513 represented machine operators, inspectors, stock chasers, and rackers at Marsh Plating in Ypsilanti. Miller was elected President of Local 2513 in April 2018.  Miller also assumed all financial duties of Local 2513 as acting Financial Secretary and Treasurer. While President, Acting Financial Secretary, and Acting Treasurer of the union, Miller embezzled approximately $47,347 of union funds in the custody and control of the Bank of Ann Arbor by issuing approximately 38 unauthorized checks to himself and forging the signature of the second signatory on 20 of those checks; issuing approximately 4 unauthorized checks made payable to a family member; and making approximately 2 unauthorized cash withdrawals from the union’s bank account.

    Miller also used the union’s Bank of Ann Arbor debit card as his own personal debit card. He made at least 184 unauthorized personal purchases, totaling approximately $11,259. His purchases with the union’s debit card included flights, hotel rooms, rental cars, and retail purchases. For example, Miller used the debit card to pay for five flights to Florida, Las Vegas, and Atlanta and for rental cars in Florida and Atlanta. Miller also used the debit card at a jewelry store and several footwear shops.

    Acting U.S. Attorney Beck commended the work of the Department of Labor in conducting this criminal investigation of a corrupt union officer and said, “Union officials are expected to serve with integrity.  This prosecution demonstrates that we will not tolerate union officers who abuse their authority and line their own pockets at the expense of the union’s membership. We will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to root out corruption and fraud involving unions.”

    “Dilanjan Miller betrayed the trust of his fellow union members and failed in his fiduciary duties when he stole over $58,000 from Steelworkers Local 2513 for his personal benefit through multiple embezzlement schemes,” said U.S. Department of Labor’s Office of Labor-Management Standards District Director Thomas Murray. “Today’s sentencing leaves no question as to the department’s commitment to seek justice when anyone puts personal financial gain ahead of the best interests of their fellow union members.”

    The investigation of this case was conducted by the Department of Labor Office of Labor-Management Standards. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah Resnick Cohen. 

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Ecuadorian Man Sentenced for Being in the United States Illegally After Having Been Previously Removed by Immigration Officials

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Rutland, Vermont – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont stated that on April 29, 2025, Alex Patin-Patin, 28, of South Burlington, Vermont, was sentenced by United States District Judge Mary Kay Lanthier to time served. The defendant, who had been detained since his arrest on February 5, 2025, previously pleaded guilty to illegally reentering the United States after having been removed.

    According to court records, Patin-Patin is an Ecuadorian national who unlawfully entered the United States near Santa Teresa, New Mexico in February 2022. He was ordered removed by a United States Immigration Judge in June 2022, and federal authorities removed him from the United States on or about July 7, 2022. It is unknown where or when Patin-Patin re-entered the United States, but in April 2024 Patin-Patin was arrested in South Burlington, Vermont for unrelated charges. Because Patin-Patin had not obtained permission to re-enter the United States, his presence in the country was in violation of U.S. law.

    Acting United States Attorney Michael P. Drescher thanked the agents from Enforcement and Removal Operations, a component of Immigration and Customs Enforcement, for their efforts in locating Patin-Patin and assisting in this prosecution.

    The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Michelle Arra and Matthew Lasher. Patin-Patin was represented by Assistant Federal Public Defender Steven Barth.

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