NewzIntel.com

Category: Security Intelligence

  • MIL-OSI Security: Former Law Student Sentenced for Possessing Child Sexual Abuse Material

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    MACON, Ga. – A former law school student who possessed more than 10,000 images of child sexual abuse material (CSAM) on his cell phone and uploaded on cloud-based storage was sentenced to serve more than six years in prison for his crime.

    Gregory Gallagher, 37, of Marietta, Georgia, was sentenced to serve 78 months in prison to be followed by 15 years of supervised release and ordered to pay $169,649.12 in restitution to the victims by U.S. District Judge C. Ashley Royal on March 26. Gallagher will also be required to register as a sex offender upon release from prison. The defendant previously pleaded guilty to one count of possession of child pornography on April 22, 2024. There is no parole in the federal system.

    “Children who experience the horror of being sexually abused are continually traumatized each and every time the image or video of the heinous act is viewed. These images are permanent and cause harm well beyond the moment they were originally captured,” said Acting U.S. Attorney C. Shanelle Booker. “Our office, working alongside our law enforcement and community partners, will pursue federal prosecution against child predators caught viewing, uploading or sharing child sexual abuse material on the internet.”

    “This conviction is a victory for justice and a warning to those who prey on children—we will find you and you will face the full force of the law,” said Steven N. Schrank, Special Agent in Charge of HSI Atlanta, which covers Georgia and Alabama. “Together, HSI and our law enforcement partners will remain steadfast in our mission to safeguard communities and ensure that those who exploit children are held accountable.”

    “Today’s conviction reflects the relentless efforts of law enforcement to protect children from exploitation and hold offenders accountable,” said GBI Director Chris Hosey. “The GBI remains steadfast in its commitment to using all available resources to prevent child abuse and bring justice to the victims of these horrific crimes.”

    According to court documents and statements referenced in Court, the Georgia Bureau of Investigations (GBI) Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force received five Cybertip reports from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) between May and August 2021 from a cloud infrastructure company of suspected child sexual exploitation associated with a cell phone number. The subsequent investigation led to Gallagher, who was a Mercer Law School student at the time; agents executed a search warrant of the account in January 2022 and found subfolders belonging to Gallagher that contained 38 videos and 1,970 images of child sexual abuse material (CSAM), also known as child pornography. Another folder containing files uploaded from Gallagher’s cell phone had two videos and 3,389 images of more CSAM. Agents executed search warrants at Gallagher’s residences in Macon and Marietta on March 29, 2022. Agents discovered that Gallagher’s cell phone had 97 videos and 5,749 images of children being sexually assaulted and abused, including very young children and toddlers.

    These cases were 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 the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.

    The case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and the Georgia Bureau of Investigation’s (GBI) Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force with assistance from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC)

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Joy Odom is prosecuting the case for the Government.
     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: FEATURE: A lifetime of service: A volunteer’s journey to honorary Coast Guard chief

    Source: United States Coast Guard

    03/27/2025 10:41 AM EDT

    A cloudless sky and crisp late-January air surrounded the crew of Coast Guard Station Emerald Isle during a ceremony celebrating Petty Officer First Class Kyle Vaders, the station’s executive petty officer, who advanced to the rank of chief. While the crew and the audience harbored a secret, there was one person attending who had no idea what was about to occur.

    For more information follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Former Bank Teller Pleads Guilty to Stealing More Than $180,000

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    BOSTON – A Saugus man pleaded guilty yesterday in federal court in Boston to embezzling bank funds while working as a teller at a Boston branch of a national bank.

    Derek Aut, 28, pleaded guilty to embezzlement by a bank employee and aggravated identity theft. U.S. Senior District Court Judge William G. Young scheduled sentencing for June 16, 2025. Aut was previously charged by criminal complaint on Dec. 18, 2024.  

    According to the charging documents, while working as a teller at a bank branch in Boston, Aut stole from the bank accounts of two customers by forging the victims’ names on withdrawal slips, among other things. When one of the victims noticed money missing from her account, Aut attempted to cover his theft by taking money from the other victim’s account and depositing it into the first victim’s account. In total, Aut took more than $180,000 from the victims’ accounts.  

    The charge of embezzlement by a bank employee provides for a sentence of up to 30 years in prison, five years of supervised release and a $1 million fine. The charge of aggravated identity theft provides for a mandatory sentence of two years in prison to be served consecutive to any other sentence imposed. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.  

    United States Attorney Leah B. Foley and Michael J. Krol, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in New England made the announcement. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kristen A. Kearney of the Securities, Financial & Cyber Fraud Unit is prosecuting the case.
     

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Security News: Operator of Fraudulent Investment Vehicle Sentenced to Over 15 Years in Prison for Securities Fraud, Tax Fraud and Other Charges

    Source: United States Department of Justice 2

    A Pennsylvania man was sentenced to 15 and a half years in prison yesterday for defrauding investors, conspiring to defraud the IRS, filing false tax returns, employment tax fraud, wire fraud, obstruction, and other charges.

    According to court documents and statements made in court, Joseph LaForte, of Philadelphia, engaged in a scheme to defraud investors using a fraudulent investment vehicle known as Par Funding. In total, LaForte and his co-conspirators caused an actual loss to investors exceeding $288 million.

    LaForte also engaged in a series of federal tax crimes. LaForte and co-conspirators diverted approximately $20 million in taxable income from Par Funding to another entity controlled by LaForte and nominally owned by another, then filed false tax returns that did not report this income. He also received more than $9 million in cash kickbacks from a customer of Par Funding and did not report this income to the IRS on his individual tax returns. As a result, LaForte’s individual tax returns for the years 2016 through 2018 were false. He also paid off-the-books, cash wages to some employees of Par Funding. He did not report these wages to the IRS and did not pay employment taxes on wages paid to employees in cash. The total federal tax loss stemming from LaForte’s crimes exceeds $8 million. He also caused $1.6 million in state tax loss to the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue by falsely reporting that he and his wife were residents of Florida from 2013 through 2019, when in fact they resided in Pennsylvania.

    Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Karen E. Kelly of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and U.S. Attorney David Metcalf for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania made the announcement.

    The FBI, IRS Criminal Investigation, and the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation Office of Inspector General investigated the case.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Matthew Newcomer, Sam Dalke, Eric Gill, and Patrick J. Murray for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania prosecuted the case. Trial Attorney Ezra Spiro of the Tax Division and Assistant U.S. Attorney John J. Boscia for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania assisted with the prosecution.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: FBI Media Alert: FBI Offers Reward for Information on Whereabouts of Daniel Guereca in Connection to a Las Cruces Bank Robbery

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

    ALBUQUERQUE – An Albuquerque man pleaded guilty in federal court to multiple robbery and firearms charges for a crime spree in the summer of 2023.

    According to court records, between July 11, 2023, to September 16, 2023, Demetrius Antonnie Bailey, 41, engaged in a series of armed robberies targeting retail stores in Albuquerque. Bailey and his accomplice conspired to commit robberies at Harbor Freight Tools, multiple Metro by T-Mobile locations, a T-Mobile store, a Verizon store, and a JC Penney. During these robberies, they threatened and overpowered store employees and security to steal merchandise and cash. In each robbery, a replica firearm or a real handgun was brandished to intimidate store employees and security personnel. The stolen items included electronics, cellular phones, cash, and clothing valued at tens of thousands of dollars.

    Bailey pleaded guilty to 10 counts, including interference with commerce by robbery, brandishing a firearm in furtherance of a violent crime, and possession of a firearm as a convicted felon. His offenses also included knowingly participating in violent retail thefts. At sentencing, if the district court accepts the plea agreement, Bailey faces not less than ten years and up to twenty-two years in prison followed by five years of supervised release.

    Acting U.S. Attorney Holland S. Kastrinand Raul Bujanda, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.

    The FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Albuquerque Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Maria Elena Stiteler and Natasha Moghadam are prosecuting the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Coventry Township Man Sentenced to more than 10 Years in Prison for Transportation and Possession of Child Pornography

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    AKRON, Ohio – Matthew Lamp, 29, of Coventry Township, Ohio, was sentenced March 11, 2025, by U.S. District Judge David Ruiz to 130 months in prison after he admitted to transporting and possessing child sexual abuse material (CSAM), also known as child pornography. He pleaded guilty to transportation of visual depictions of minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct and possession of child pornography.  Lamp was also ordered to pay $20,000 in restitution to the victims of the child pornography images he possessed.

    According to court documents, in February 2024 during a search warrant execution at the defendant’s residence, federal investigators seized a cellphone and other electronic devices that contained CSAM. During the investigation, it was determined that Lamp possessed more than 2,000 images of CSAM, including prepubescent minors, toddlers, and images involving sadistic or masochistic conduct.  

    The investigation was conducted by the FBI-Akron Field Office. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Joseph Dangelo for the Northern District of Ohio.

    To report child exploitation, please visit cybertipline.org, or call 1-800-843-5678, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Vegreville — RCMP Central Alberta Crime Reduction Unit arrest three individuals after a pursuit and carjack attempt

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    On Jan. 30, 2025, at approximately 1:30 a.m., a Peterbilt semi-truck was stolen from Edmonton. When it was discovered stolen at roughly 8 a.m., it was immediately reported to Edmonton Police Service, and the truck was subsequently tracked with an installed GPS device by the company. Members of the Vegreville RCMP were dispatched to the area, where they located the semi-truck and attempted to stop it, but it fled from police. No pursuit was initiated.

    With the help of the RCMP helicopter, RCMP were able to observe the semi as it drove through the towns of Lamont, Alta., Chipman, Alta., and Bruderheim Alta., before officers were able to successfully deploy a tire deflation device, and after traveling a short distance, the semi stopped. The driver of the semi exited the truck and immediately attempted to carjack another vehicle before being subdued by responding officers. Two other occupants attempted to flee on foot but were also apprehended.

    A search of the semi incidental to the arrest as well as a bag tossed by the occupants revealed:

    • Government ID cards and cheques belonging to at least 6 individuals;
    • tools commonly used for property crime;
    • Approximately 13 grams of Crystal Meth.

    The driver, a 46-years-old male resident of Edmonton, was taken to hospital where he received medical treatment, he is facing the following charges:

    · Possession of Property obtained by Crime over $5000;

    · Possession of Break & Enter instruments;

    · Possession of Identity Documents (x6);

    · Fail to Comply with Release Order;

    · Criminal Flight;

    · Dangerous Operation of a Motor Vehicle;

    · Possession a Weapon for a Dangerous Purpose;

    · Theft of Motor Vehicle;

    · Mischief over $5000; and

    · Possession of a Controlled Substance (Methamphetamine).

    The 46-year-old individual was taken before a justice of the peace and remanded with their next court date set for Feb. 10, 2025, at the Alberta Court of Justice in Vegreville.

    A 49-years-old individual, a resident of Sturgeon County, Alta., is facing the following charges:

    · Possession of Property obtained by Crime over $5000;

    · Possession of Break & Enter instruments; and

    · Six counts of Possession of Identity Documents.

    The 49-year-old individual was taken before a justice of the peace and remanded in custody with their next court date set for Feb. 10, 2025, at the Alberta Court of Justice in Vegreville.

    A 37-years-old individual, a resident of Sturgeon County, is facing the following charges:

    · Possession of Property obtained by Crime over $5000;

    · Possession of Break & Enter instruments; and

    · Six counts of Possession of Identity Documents.

    The 37-year-old individual was released on a $2,000.00 Promise to Pay Release Order with a next appearance date set for Feb. 24, 2025, to appear at the Alberta Court of Justice in Vegreville.

    “Offenders such as these commit crime almost continuously until they are caught.,” says Cpl. Troy Savinkoff,” arrests like this is protects the public from being their next victim.”

    The RCMP continue to investigate and anyone with information regarding this crime is asked to contact the Vegreville RCMP at (780) 631-2750. If you wish to remain anonymous, you can contact Crime Stoppers at 1‐800‐222‐8477 (TIPS), online at www.P3Tips.com or by using the “P3 Tips” app available through the Apple App or Google Play Store.

    RCMP encourage the public to report any criminal or suspicious activity to police. Reports tell us where to look, who to look for, and where to patrol in the future. If you see a crime in progress, dial 911.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Drayton Valley — Drayton Valley RCMP lay charges after stolen vehicle found

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    On Jan. 22, 2025, Drayton Valley RCMP responded to a report that a truck had been stolen in the area of 50 Street, in Drayton Valley.

    Surveillance was obtained from a local business, which relayed to the Central Alberta District Crime Reduction Unit (CAD CRU). Later that same day, CAD CRU members who were assisting the Rimbey RCMP, observed what they believed to be this same stolen truck, along with a second stolen truck, in the area of Highway 22 in Clearwater County, Alta. near Alder Flats, Alta.

    Air Services was requested to assist, and the two vehicles were located shortly after, and the two trucks fled the area upon RCMP arrival. A tire deflation device was deployed, and was successful in stopping the vehicles momentarily until the drivers eventually abandoned the truck stolen from Drayton Valley, fleeing in the second vehicle to a residence, dropping off one occupant near Alder Flats to a residence, and then tried to hide the stolen vehicle in a forested area, fleeing on foot to another residence.

    A 30-year-old individual, a resident of Brazeau County, Alta., was charged with: possession of property obtained by crime over $5000 x2, possession of break in instruments, flight from police officer, possession of weapons for dangerous purpose, dangerous operation of motor vehicle, operation of motor vehicle while prohibited, failure to comply with alcohol/drug recognition demand, and traffic safety act related warrants.

    The 30-year-old individual was brought before a justice of the peace, where he was remanded with a court date of Feb. 12, 2025, in the Alberta Court of Justice in Breton, Alta.

    A 35-year-old individual, a resident of Brazeau County, who was out on a conditional sentencing order, was charged with: possession of property obtained by crime over $5000 x2, possession of break in instruments and flight from police officer.

    The 35 year od individual was brought before a justice of the peace, where he was remanded with a court date of Feb. 12, 2025, in the Alberta Court of Justice in Breton.

    A 38-year-old individual, a resident of Brazeau County, was charged with: possession of property obtained by crime over $5000 x2, possession of break in instruments and failure to comply with release order conditions x 2, as well as her 5 warrants for possession of stolen property x2, flight from police officer and failure to attend court x2.

    The 38-year-old individual was brought before a justice of the peace, where he was remanded with a court date of Feb. 12, 2025, in the Alberta Court of Justice in Breton.

    The Drayton Valley RCMP is seeking the public’s assistance in identifying the location of, or sightings of crimes in the area. Anyone with information in relation to this incident or any other crimes is asked to please contact the Drayton Valley RCMP at 780-542-4456 or your local police. If you wish to remain anonymous, you can contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8377 (TIPS), online at www.P3Tips.com or by using the “P3 Tips” app available through the Apple App or Google Play Store.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Evansburg — Evansburg RCMP lay charges on male after reported kidnapping

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    On Feb. 2, 2025, Evansburg RCMP responded to a third-party report where it was believed an adult victim had been kidnapped at gunpoint in the area of Highway 16A and Range Road 81 in Evansburg.

    Acting on this reported information, RCMP deployed significant resources, including dozens of members from Evansburg RCMP, Edson RCMP Traffic Unit, Edson RCMP, Whitecourt RCMP, Mayerthorpe RCMP, Parkland RCMP, Drayton Valley RCMP, Hinton RCMP, Barrhead RCMP, Saddle Lake RCMP, Real Time Operation Centre, RCMP Air Services, Alberta’s Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS), Major Crimes Unit, Emergency Response Team, and the Federal Serious & Organized Crime Unit.

    RCMP located the vehicle and attempted a traffic stop, but the driver fled at an extremely high rate of speed, especially considering the road conditions; due to the perceived danger of the to the victim, a pursuit was initiated. RCMP were able to make contact with the vehicle, resulting in the driver fleeing on foot; the victim was secured safely with RCMP members.

    RPAS and members began attempts at locating the suspect in a rural residential area, north of Range Road 150. The suspect was located running behind a shed, and the suspect attempted to break into a residence but was confronted by the homeowner, containment was initiated and shortly after, the suspect came out of the forest in surrender.

    A 50-year-old individual, a resident of Onoway, Alta., was charged with flight from police, dangerous operation of a motor vehicle, resist/obstruct a police officer, mischief under $5000, break and enter to a residence and forcible confinement.

    The 50-year-old individual was brought before a justice of the peace, where he was remanded with a court date of Feb. 5, 2025, at the Alberta Court of Justice in Stony Plain, Alta.

    This investigation is still ongoing, and the RCMP would like to extend gratitude to community members for their assistance thus far.

    The Evansburg RCMP is seeking the public’s assistance with any information regarding the incident and any dashcam footage if available. Anyone with information in relation this incident is asked to please contact the Evansburg RCMP at 780-727-4446 or your local police. If you wish to remain anonymous, you can contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8377 (TIPS), online at www.P3Tips.com or by using the “P3 Tips” app available through the Apple App or Google Play Store.

    Background:

    Feb. 2, 2025

    Evansburg RCMP issuing shelter in place for rural area east of Edson – Update

    Evansburg RCMP have lifted the shelter place for the area east of Edson on Range Road 150.

    A suspect has been taken into custody and police are not searching for any others.

    A release with additional details is anticipated. RCMP thank the public for their cooperation.

    Background:

    Feb. 2, 2025

    Evansburg RCMP issuing shelter in place for rural area east of Edson

    Evansburg RCMP is advising residents in the area east of Edson to shelter in place and not to open their doors to unknown persons.

    RCMP are responding to an unfolding event north of the Yellowhead Highway, on Range Road 150 and south of Township Road 532D.

    Residents of the area are asked to remain indoors, lock their residences and stay away from windows while officers respond.

    There are a significant number of resources focused on responding to this unfolding event. Please refrain from posting photos of responding officers on social media or those stationary in this vicinity.

    An update will be provided when further information is available.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Woking — Spirit River RCMP find stolen vehicles, firearms and drugs in successful search warrant

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    On Feb. 27, 2025, Spirit River RCMP began an investigation into a property in the area of 45 Ave in Woking, where stolen property was suspected to be stored.

    A search warrant was approved, and on March 1, 2025, Spirit River RCMP, assisted by Remotely Piloted Aircraft System (RPAS) from Grande Prairie Crime Reduction Unit, and members from the Containment Unit, who entered the property to collect the stolen property.

    RCMP located stolen property including 6 vehicles -and 3 additional with tampered VIN’s still under investigation-, a mower, trailers, skidoo’s, license plates, gas cards, various tools, several firearms, ammunition, suspected cocaine and methamphetamine, and approximately four pounds of cannabis.

    Spirit River RCMP are requesting public assistance with locating one suspect in relation to this incident, Kyle Dale Hudson (41), a resident of Woking, who is wanted for 15 offenses related to this file including: possession of property obtained by crime, altering a VIN, and firearms offenses; additionally, Hudson has three warrants out of Grande Prairie, Alta., for driving offenses and failure to appear to court.

    Hudson is described as:

    • 41-years-old
    • Approximately 5 foot 8 inches
    • Approximately 240 pounds
    • Brown short cut hair
    • Brown eyes
    • Fair to medium skin tone
    • Tattoo on left hand saying “Kyle”
    • Has been known to travel to BC and the Northwest Territories

    If you see Hudson, do not approach. Call 911.

    Spirit River RCMP appreciates any public assistance thus far and encourages any community members to contact them, should they have any information they believe may be helpful.

    This investigation is still ongoing and RCMP would like to extend gratitude to community members for their assistance thus far.

    The Spirit River RCMP is seeking the public’s assistance in identifying the location of, or sightings of Hudson. Anyone with information in relation to Hudson is asked to please contact the Spirit River RCMP at 780-864-3533 or your local police. If you wish to remain anonymous, you can contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8377 (TIPS), online at www.P3Tips.com or by using the “P3 Tips” app available through the Apple App or Google Play Store.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Operator of Fraudulent Investment Vehicle Sentenced to Over 15 Years in Prison for Securities Fraud, Tax Fraud and Other Charges

    Source: United States Attorneys General 8

    A Pennsylvania man was sentenced to 15 and a half years in prison yesterday for defrauding investors, conspiring to defraud the IRS, filing false tax returns, employment tax fraud, wire fraud, obstruction, and other charges.

    According to court documents and statements made in court, Joseph LaForte, of Philadelphia, engaged in a scheme to defraud investors using a fraudulent investment vehicle known as Par Funding. In total, LaForte and his co-conspirators caused an actual loss to investors exceeding $288 million.

    LaForte also engaged in a series of federal tax crimes. LaForte and co-conspirators diverted approximately $20 million in taxable income from Par Funding to another entity controlled by LaForte and nominally owned by another, then filed false tax returns that did not report this income. He also received more than $9 million in cash kickbacks from a customer of Par Funding and did not report this income to the IRS on his individual tax returns. As a result, LaForte’s individual tax returns for the years 2016 through 2018 were false. He also paid off-the-books, cash wages to some employees of Par Funding. He did not report these wages to the IRS and did not pay employment taxes on wages paid to employees in cash. The total federal tax loss stemming from LaForte’s crimes exceeds $8 million. He also caused $1.6 million in state tax loss to the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue by falsely reporting that he and his wife were residents of Florida from 2013 through 2019, when in fact they resided in Pennsylvania.

    Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Karen E. Kelly of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and U.S. Attorney David Metcalf for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania made the announcement.

    The FBI, IRS Criminal Investigation, and the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation Office of Inspector General investigated the case.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Matthew Newcomer, Sam Dalke, Eric Gill, and Patrick J. Murray for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania prosecuted the case. Trial Attorney Ezra Spiro of the Tax Division and Assistant U.S. Attorney John J. Boscia for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania assisted with the prosecution.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Orlando Man Indicted For Unlawful Possession Of A Machine Gun Conversion Device

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Orlando, Florida – Acting United States Attorney Sara C. Sweeney announces the  unsealing of an indictment charging Jaquarius McDonald (24, Orlando) with unlawful possession of a machinegun conversion device. If convicted, McDonald faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison. 

    According to the indictment, on January 1, 2025, McDonald knowingly possessed a machinegun which was not registered to him in the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record.

    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 Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Orlando Police Department. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kaley Austin-Aronson.

    This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN).

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Cadotte Lake — Peace Regional RCMP lay charges after firearm complaint

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    On Jan. 31, 2025, at approximately 10 a.m., Peace Regional RCMP responded to a report that a male may be in the area of the first entrance of Cadotte Lake, and was said to have a firearm.

    The RCMP’s Crime Reduction Team was near the area with Police Dog Services, assisting Peace Regional RCMP members, and quickly secured the area, ensuring the safety of community members in this area.

    RCMP learned of a new location of the suspect and attended a residence in the area of Simon Lake, Alta. Here, RCMP contained the residence, where they located a 26-year-old individual, a resident of Simon Lake.

    The individual was charged with: aggravated assault, unauthorized possession of a firearm, possession of weapon for dangerous purpose, possession of firearm when unauthorized and four counts of resisting/obstructing a police officer, as well as two warrants, for assault causing bodily harm and uttering threats.

    The individual was brought before a justice of the peace, where they were remanded with a court date of Feb. 3, 2025, at the Alberta Court of Justice in Peace River, Alta.

    RCMP were able to seize a sawed-off shotgun and ammunition.

    This investigation is still ongoing, and the RCMP would like to extend gratitude to community members for their assistance thus far.

    The Peace Regional RCMP is seeking the public’s assistance in identifying the location of, or sightings of crimes in the area. Anyone with information in relation to any firearms related crimes is asked to please contact the Peace Regional RCMP at 780-624-6611 or your local police. If you wish to remain anonymous, you can contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8377 (TIPS), online at www.P3Tips.com or by using the “P3 Tips” app available through the Apple App or Google Play Store.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Didsbury — Didsbury RCMP and Airdrie Crime Reduction Unit charge male with numerous drug offences

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    On Oct. 16, 2024, Didsbury RCMP initiated an investigation after information was received that suspects were using a butane extractor as well as in possession of multiple controlled substances. Didsbury RCMP requested assistance from Airdrie RCMP Crime Reduction Unit (CRU).

    The investigation resulted in two search warrants being executed. With the assistance of the RCMP’s Clandestine Lab Enforcement and Response (CLEAR) Team, Didsbury RCMP and Old’s CRU, a search warrant was executed at a residence in Carstairs, Alta. while Airdrie CRU executed a search warrant at an Airdrie business.

    During the search of the Carstairs residence, a butane extractor (called a BHO lab by CLEAR) was located. This extractor is volatile in nature if not monitored/operated correctly, and possessed an explosion/fire risk to the public of Carstairs. Also seized at this residence was the following:

    • Approximately 250 illicit cannabis plants
    • Approximately 10 pounds of psilocybin (magic mushrooms)
    • Three firearms
    • A taser
    • Multiple ounces of cannabis extracts

    During the search of the Airdrie business, a male suspect was arrested. At the time the suspect was in possession of the following:

    • 55.9 grams suspected cocaine, pre-packaged for 3 individual sales;
    • 6.4 grams of suspected MDMA, pre-packaged for 13 individual sales;
    • Approx. 48 grams of suspected psilocybin mushrooms
    • Assorted regulated CBD/THC products (balms and tinctures);
    • 26 packages of illicit cannabis edibles;
    • Approx. 1.3 kgs of cannabis believed to be possessed for illicit sales;
    • 567 g of suspected hash believed to be possessed for illicit sales;
    • Approx. 160 grams of suspected cannabis extracts believed to be possessed for illicit sales;
    • A taser

    A 59-year-old individual, a resident of Carstairs, has been charged with the following:

    • Assault
    • Uttering threats (x2)
    • Trafficking Controlled Substance (MDMA)
    • Possession of a prohibited weapon knowing its possession is unauthorized (Taser)
    • Possession of property obtained by crime
    • Possession of a prohibited weapon contrary to Order (x3)
    • Careless use (storage) of a firearm (x2)
    • Possession of a firearm knowing its possession is unauthorized (x2)
    • Possession for the purpose of trafficking (PPT) controlled substance (x4) Cocaine, Psilocybin and MDMA
    • Making shatter with the use of butane (production of cannabis by the use of an organic solvent) – S.12(1)(B) Cannabis Act (CA)
    • Possessing shatter made personally (not made by governing body) – Sec. 8(1)(b) Cannabis Act.
    • Trafficking (sell) illicit Cannabis – Sec. 10(1)(a) CA.
    • Possession for the purpose of trafficking (selling) illicit Cannabis – Sec. 10(2) CA.
    • An organization is prohibited from possessing cannabis – Sec. 8(1)(f) CA

    After a judicial interim release hearing, the individual was released on $500 bail to appear in Alberta Court of Justice in Airdrie on April 10, 2025.

    The investigation continues.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Milton — RCMP dismantles Cannabis network that had approximately 17,000 illegal plants

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Ontario RCMP have seized and destroyed cannabis grown at three large-scale illegal grow sites. The RCMP’s Greater Toronto Area Trans-National Serious & Organized Crime Section (GTA-TSOC) has charged six individuals for operating a complex illicit cannabis production and distribution network in Ontario.

    This investigation began in the Summer of 2022, after the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) referred the matter for investigation to the RCMP. During the investigation, approximately 17,000 cannabis plants were seized and destroyed. The RCMP estimate that these operations could have an annual production value of over $16 million dollars. Each of the sites were staffed with full-time live-in workers, none of whom have legal status to work and grow cannabis in Canada. The criminal network was also linked to the operation of two other illicit cannabis production sites in Ontario which were dismantled by the OPP and the Toronto Police Service. The criminal network exported the illicit cannabis to the United States and Hong Kong, with further plans to expand distribution into Europe.

    The RCMP allege millions of dollars in profits from this operation were laundered through the Canadian banking system by a sophisticated identity fraud scheme. They applied for Health Canada authorizations to produce medicinal cannabis using the identity of individuals who were not aware of the applications. These authorizations were then used to obtain commercial leases and expand the group’s cannabis production.

    As a result of the investigation, the following individuals were charged:

    Shao Bo “Barry” Xie (age 45) of Toronto, Ontario

    • Unlawful cultivation of cannabis, contrary to Section 12 of the Cannabis Act (x3);
    • Unlawful possession of cannabis for the purpose of selling, contrary to Section 10 of the Cannabis Act;
    • Conspiracy to cultivate cannabis, contrary to Section 12 of the Cannabis Act and Section 465 of the Criminal Code;
    • Conspiracy to sell cannabis, contrary to Section 10 of the Cannabis Act and Section 465 of the Criminal Code;
    • Conspiracy to export cannabis, contrary to Section 11 of the Cannabis Act and Section 465 of the Criminal Code;
    • Possession of property/proceeds of crime, contrary to Section 354 of the Criminal Code;
    • Conceal/convert proceeds of crime, contrary to Sec 462.31 of the Criminal Code;
    • Identity Theft, contrary to Section 402.1 of the Criminal Code;
    • Use forged document, contrary to Section 368 of the Criminal Code;
    • Make false document, contrary to Section 366 of the Criminal Code;
    • Conspiracy to impersonate for advantage, contrary to Section 403 and Section 465 of the Criminal Code; and
    • Conspiracy to use forged document, contrary to Section 368 and Section 465 of theCriminal Code.

    Feng Gao (age 42) of Toronto, Ontario

    • Unlawful cultivation of cannabis, contrary to Section 12 of the Cannabis Act;
    • Conspiracy to cultivate cannabis, contrary to Section 12 of the Cannabis Act and Section 465 of the Criminal Code;
    • Conspiracy to sell cannabis, contrary to Section 10 of the Cannabis Act and Section 465 of the Criminal Code;
    • Conspiracy to export cannabis, contrary to Section 11 of the Cannabis Act and Section 465 of the Criminal Code;
    • Possession of property/proceeds of crime, contrary to Section 354 of the Criminal Code;
    • Conceal/convert proceeds of crime, contrary to Sec 462.31 of the Criminal Code;
    • Identity Theft, contrary to Section 402.1 of the Criminal Code;
    • Conspiracy to impersonate for advantage, contrary to Section 403 and Section 465 of the Criminal Code; and
    • Conspiracy to use forged document, contrary to Section 368 and Section 465 of the Criminal Code.

    Shan “Sam” Gao (age 34) of Toronto, Ontario

    • Unlawful cultivation of cannabis, contrary to Section 12 of the Cannabis Act;
    • Conspiracy to cultivate cannabis, contrary to Section 12 of the Cannabis Act and Section 465 of the Criminal Code;
    • Conspiracy to sell cannabis, contrary to Section 10 of the Cannabis Act and Section 465 of the Criminal Code;
    • Conspiracy to export cannabis, contrary to Section 11 of the Cannabis Act and Section 465 of the Criminal Code;
    • Possession of property/proceeds of crime, contrary to Section 354 of the Criminal Code;
    • Use forged document, contrary to Section 368 of the Criminal Code;
    • Make false document, contrary to Section 366 of the Criminal Code;
    • Conspiracy to impersonate for advantage, contrary to Section 403 and Section 465 of the Criminal Code; and
    • Conspiracy to use forged document, contrary to Section 368 and Section 465 of the Criminal Code.

    Xu Han (age 26) of Toronto, Ontario

    • Unlawful cultivation of cannabis, contrary to Section 12 of the Cannabis Act;
    • Conspiracy to cultivate cannabis, contrary to Section 12 of the Cannabis Act and Section 465 of the Criminal Code;
    • Conspiracy to sell cannabis, contrary to Section 10 of the Cannabis Act and Section 465 of the Criminal Code;
    • Conspiracy to export cannabis, contrary to Section 11 of the Cannabis Act and Section 465 of the Criminal Code;
    • Possession of property/proceeds of crime, contrary to Section 354 of the Criminal Code;
    • Conspiracy to impersonate for advantage, contrary to Section 403 and Section 465 of the Criminal Code; and
    • Conspiracy to use forged document, contrary to Section 368 and Section 465 of the Criminal Code.

    Fang Han (age 30) of Toronto, Ontario

    • Unlawful cultivation of cannabis, contrary to Section 12 of the Cannabis Act;
    • Conspiracy to cultivate cannabis, contrary to Section 12 of the Cannabis Act and Section 465 of the Criminal Code;
    • Conspiracy to sell cannabis, contrary to Section 10 of the Cannabis Act and Section 465 of the Criminal Code;
    • Conspiracy to export cannabis, contrary to Section 11 of the Cannabis Act and Section 465 of the Criminal Code;
    • Possession of property/proceeds of crime, contrary to Section 354 of the Criminal Code; and
    • Conceal/convert proceeds of crime, contrary to Sec 462.31 of the Criminal Code.

    Zdena “Denise” Mesko (age 61) of Sarnia, Ontario

    • Identity Theft, contrary to Section 402.1 of the Criminal Code;
    • Use forged document, contrary to Section 368 of the Criminal Code;
    • Possession of property/proceeds of crime, contrary to Section 354 of the Criminal Code;
    • Conspiracy to impersonate for advantage, contrary to Section 403 and Section 465 of the Criminal Code; and
    • Conspiracy to use forged document, contrary to Section 368 and Section 465 of the Criminal Code

    All of the accused were arrested at the RCMP Toronto West Detachment and released on an undertaking. Their first court appearance is scheduled to be held on May 7th, 2025, at the Ontario Court of Justice located at 10 Armoury Street in Toronto, Courtroom 1001 at 09:00 a.m.

    The RCMP would like to thank a number of law enforcement and partner agencies including the Ontario Provincial Police-led Provincial Joint Forces Cannabis Enforcement Team (OPP-PJFCET), Peel Regional Police Service (PRPS), Toronto Police Service (TPS), Financial Transactions and Reports Analysis Centre of Canada (FINTRAC), Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA), Health Canada, and the United States Homeland Security Investigations (HSI).

    “The collaboration and teamwork between the RCMP Federal Police and our provincial and municipal law enforcement partners underscores our collective commitment to battling transnational organized crime at all levels in Ontario, Canada and abroad.”
    Inspector Nicole Noonan, Officer in charge of Federal Policing – Transnational, Serious & Organized Crime, Toronto West Detachment, Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Law enforcement agencies work diligently to make our communities a safer place to live but your assistance in remaining vigilant and informing us of any suspicious activities will help us be even more effective. If you have any information in relation to illicit cannabis production, you can contact your local police, the Ontario RCMP at 1-800-387-0020 or anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), at any time.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News: Anchorage to Host Inaugural Navy Week, June 16-22

    Source: United States Navy

    The U.S. Navy proudly announces the inaugural Anchorage Navy Week, taking place June 16-22, 2025. As part of a nationwide outreach effort, Anchorage Navy Week will bring 70-85 Sailors to engage directly with the community through a week-long series of performances, educational events and service projects.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Justice Department Launches Anticompetitive Regulations Task Force

    Source: United States Attorneys General 1

    Task Force Invites Public Input Targeting Red Tape that Hinders Free Market Competition

    Today, the Justice Department launches an Anticompetitive Regulations Task Force to advocate for the elimination of anticompetitive state and federal laws and regulations that undermine free market competition and harm consumers, workers, and businesses. The Antitrust Division has a long history of advocacy against laws and regulations that create unnecessary barriers to competition.  The Task Force will surge resources to these efforts and invite public comments to support the Administration’s mission to unwind laws and regulations that hinder business dynamism and make markets less competitive.    

    “Realizing President Trump’s economic Golden Age will require unwinding burdensome regulations that stifle free market competition. This Antitrust Division will stand against harmful barriers to competition whether imposed by public regulators or private monopolists,” said Assistant Attorney General Abigail Slater of the Justice Department’s Antitrust Division. “We look forward to working with the public and with other federal agencies to identify and eliminate anticompetitive laws and regulations.”

    On Jan. 31, President Trump signed Executive Order 14192 declaring “the policy of the executive branch” to be that federal agencies should “alleviate unnecessary regulatory burdens placed on the American people.” Consistent with this policy, on Feb. 19, President Trump signed Executive Order 14219 directing agencies to “initiate a process to review all regulations” and identify regulations that, among other things, “impose undue burdens on small businesses and impede private enterprise and entrepreneurship.” Consistent with longstanding practice, the Antitrust Division will support federal agencies’ deregulatory initiatives by sharing its market expertise on regulations that pose the greatest barriers to economic growth.

    Regulatory capture is a well-studied phenomenon in which agencies become “captured” by special interests and big businesses, rather than serving the interests of the American people. But when regulations serve the few and impose undue burdens on small businesses, private enterprise, and entrepreneurs, they also harm competition and ultimately hurt American consumers, workers, and businesses. For example, regulations can increase compliance costs, preventing businesses from competing on a level playing field with powerful corporations. Regulations can also discourage or even intentionally prohibit small businesses and new products from entering markets and lowering prices for American families. In contrast, eliminating unnecessary anticompetitive regulations makes it easier for businesses to compete. More competition empowers the American people — not government regulators — to drive economic progress and innovation. When every American has a fair opportunity to enjoy the benefits of competitive free markets, every American has an opportunity to realize the American dream.

    By identifying and working with state and federal agencies to revise or eliminate these laws and regulations, the Anticompetitive Regulations Task Force will contribute to making the American dream a reality. As a first step, the Antitrust Division will initiate a public inquiry to identify unnecessary laws and regulations that raise the highest barriers to competition. In particular, the Division will seek information from the public about laws and regulations that make it more difficult for businesses to compete effectively, especially in markets that have the greatest impact on American households, including:

    • Housing: Americans spend more than one-third of their monthly income on housing, and the cost of owning or renting a home continues to rise. Laws and regulations in housing markets can contribute to these problems by making it more difficult for companies to build and ordinary Americans to rent or buy.
    • Transportation: Laws and regulations in areas like airlines, rail, and ocean shipping can grant antitrust immunities, outright monopolies, or safe harbors for conduct that undermines competition. As a result, Americans pay more for travel, fuel, and a variety of other products.
    • Food and Agriculture: By the end of the Biden-Harris Administration, grocery prices were 27% higher than at the end of the first Trump Administration. Eliminating unnecessary anticompetitive regulations will help farmers, growers, and ranchers increase the amount of food they produce and unlock lower prices for American consumers.
    • Healthcare: Laws and regulations in healthcare markets too often discourage doctors and hospitals from providing low-cost, high-quality healthcare and instead encourage overbilling and consolidation. These kinds of unnecessary anticompetitive regulations put affordable healthcare out of reach for millions of American families.
    • Energy: Reliable and affordable energy is essential to modern American life — whether in homes, businesses, manufacturing plants, schools, hospitals, sporting events, or data centers. Laws and regulations can undermine reliability and affordability by protecting incumbent electricity providers from competition or disruptive innovation.

    The public will have 60 days to submit comments at Regulations.gov, no later than May 26. Once submitted, comments will be posted to Regulations.gov. All market participants are invited to provide comments in response to this inquiry, including consumers, consumer advocates, small businesses, employers, trade groups, industry analysts, and other entities that are impacted by anticompetitive state or federal laws and regulations.

    In addition to reviewing responses from the public, the Task Force will bring together attorneys, economists, and other staff from across the Division, together with interagency partners, to identify state and federal laws and regulations that unnecessarily harm competition. The Antitrust Division will then take appropriate action, including helping agencies revise or eliminate these regulations.

    The Task Force will also consider other ways to advocate for the removal of anticompetitive laws and regulations. The Division routinely files amicus briefs and statements of interests in private litigation, and it will continue to do so to promote competition and oppose anticompetitive laws and regulations. The Division also provides comments on proposed legislation in the states on the request of state legislators. These efforts will continue with an eye toward protecting competition and interstate commerce in light of dormant Commerce Clause principles.

    The Justice Department has a long history of serving as the Executive Branch’s chief competition advocate by working with agencies to identify and eliminate unnecessary regulations. In 2018, the Justice Department released a report on how regulations can harm competition. Following this report, the Justice Department submitted dozens of comments to federal agencies supporting efforts to eliminate unnecessary regulations and increase competition. For example, the Justice Department, in consultation with the Federal Trade Commission, submitted a comment opposing  regulations that would have protected incumbent electricity transmission companies from much-needed competition in energy markets across the country. The Justice Department filed comments aimed at making it easier for individuals and small businesses to navigate the federal government bureaucracy. The Justice Department also provided technical assistance and trainings to federal agencies to help them analyze how new and existing regulations might affect competition, or whether competition may be a better alternative to regulation altogether.

    The Anticompetitive Regulations Task Force will continue these efforts, supporting ongoing efforts across the Trump Administration to unleash competition by eliminating unnecessary, burdensome, and wasteful government regulations. For more information on the Task Force, including contact information, see the Anticompetitive Regulations Task Force page on the Division’s website.

    FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: AnticompetitiveRegulations@usdoj.gov.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Man charged with series of violent robberies in north London

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    Met detectives have charged a man following an investigation into a series of robberies in north London.

    There have been 11 reports of people, 10 women and one man, being assaulted during robberies in the Lower Edmonton area between December 2024 and March 2025.

    Following enquiries by the North Area’s Robbery Focus Unit, Daniel Shengezi, 24 (30.11.00), of Wyldfield Gardens, Enfield, was charged on Thursday, 27 March with nine counts of robbery, two counts of attempted robbery, handling stolen goods and possession of a Class B drug (cannabis).

    He will appear in custody at Highbury Magistrates’ Court later today (Thursday, 27 March.)

    Detective Sergeant Gareth Starr, from the robbery investigation team in north London, said: “We know these reports have caused concern in the area. Today’s charge is a significant development and I hope it provides some reassurance.”

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Latest study on Europe’s ecstasy market reveals new trends in production and trafficking

    Source: Europol

    MDMA production raises safety and environmental concernsMDMA is primarily produced via the so-called ‘high-pressure’ method, using large industrial reactors. However, criminal networks are constantly adapting their production methods in response to shortages of equipment or chemicals. For example, changes in the availability of ‘high-pressure’ reactors have led producers to switch to the ‘cold method’. This alternative MDMA production method has…

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Detectives charge two more people with the murder of 16-year-old Lathaniel Burrell

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    Detectives investigating the murder of a teenager shot in Stockwell have charged two more people in connection with his murder.

    Lathaniel Burrell, aged 16, died at the scene after sustaining gunshot wounds in Paradise Road, SW4 on Tuesday, 4 March.

    His family continue to be supported by specialist officers.

    A 17-year-old boy [C] from Peckham and a 30-year-old man [D] from Lambeth were arrested on Tuesday, 26 March on suspicion of murder.

    The 17-year-old, who cannot be named for legal reasons, was charged with murder and possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life.

    The 30-year-old man, Jeffery Frimpong, (09.05.1994) of Smedley Street, Lambeth, was charged with murder.

    Both will appear at Croydon Magistrates’ Court later today (Thursday, 27 March.)

    Detective Chief Inspector Sarah Lee from the Specialist Crime Command, who is leading the investigation, said: “These charges mark a significant milestone in the investigation. We continue to appeal for witnesses and for those with knowledge of this incident to come forward. Please be reassured that we will continue to investigate this matter and ensure that all offenders are brought to justice.”

    Previously, another 17-year-old boy [A] and Omar Prempeh, 32 (22.12.92), of Sunderland Road, Forest Hill, have been charged with murder. They will next both appear at the Old Bailey on Thursday, 29 May.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Wyoming Fugitive Captured in Morgan County After Multi-Agency Manhunt

    Source: US Marshals Service

    Morgan County, CO – A month-long, multi-state manhunt for a wanted fugitive out of Wyoming culminated today with a joint law enforcement arrest operation in rural Morgan County. 

    Tyger Rodriguez, 25, was arrested during a multi-agency effort comprised of nearly a dozen different law enforcement agencies. Rodriguez is wanted by the Goshen County Sheriff’s Office for two counts of felony aggravated assault and battery stemming from incidents which occurred mid-February. Arrest warrants were issued February 19 and 20, and the U.S. Marshals Service’s Wyoming Fugitive Task Force was asked to assist on February 27. After developing information that Rodriguez had fled Wyoming and was possibly hiding in rural northeast Colorado, the U.S. Marshals Service’s Colorado Violent Offender Task Force (COVOTF) was contacted and joined the investigation. COVOTF investigators tracked Rodriguez to a rural property about four miles west of Fort Morgan. The Morgan County Sheriff’s Office was then contacted and provided significant support in continuing the investigation into Rodriguez’s whereabouts.

    On Wednesday, a joint law enforcement arrest operation between the U.S. Marshals COVOTF, the Northeast Regional SWAT Team, and the Colorado State Patrol SOAR team contained Rodriguez within the large rural property and eventually took him into custody safely.

    “We are incredibly grateful to all of our law enforcement partners whose dedication and cooperation made this arrest possible,” said Morgan County Sheriff Dave Martin. “We also extend our sincere thanks to the local businesses and citizens who offered their assistance throughout the investigation and today’s operation.”

    The arrest of this fugitive represents a culmination of extensive cooperative efforts between almost a dozen law enforcement agencies to include:

    • U.S. Marshals Colorado Violent Offender Task Force (Deputy U.S. Marshals and Task Force Officers (TFOs) from the Colorado Bureau of Investigation (CBI), Colorado Department of Corrections, Douglas County Sheriff’s Office, & Boulder County Sheriff’s Office)
    • NE Regional SWAT Team (Morgan County Sheriff’s Office, Fort Morgan Police Department, Brush Police Department, Sterling Police Department, Logan County Sheriff’s Office)
    • Colorado State Patrol SOAR Team
    • U.S. Marshals Wyoming Fugitive Task Force

    The charges pending against Rodriguez are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. Please direct any follow up regarding pending criminal charges to the Goshen County Sheriff’s Office.

    The Colorado Violent Offender Task Force is a multi-jurisdictional fugitive task force that targets the most violent offenders to include those wanted for murder, assault, sex offenses, and other serious offenses throughout the state and country. 

    Nationally, the U.S. Marshals Service fugitive programs are carried out with local law enforcement in 94 district offices, 85 local fugitive task forces, eight regional task forces, as well as a growing network of offices in foreign countries. Follow us on Twitter @USMSDenver.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Albany Felon Pleads Guilty to Conspiring to Distribute Fentanyl and Possessing a Firearm

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    ALBANY, NEW YORK – Henassy McConico, age 27, of Albany, pled guilty yesterday to conspiring to possess with intent to distribute and distribute a controlled substance and possession of a firearm by a prohibited person. 

    United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III and Frank A. Tarentino III, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA), New York Division, made the announcement.

    McConico admitted to personally distributing fentanyl pills numerous times in 2024, including on October 15, 2024, when he distributed approximately 485 fentanyl pills to another individual. McConico further admitted that he possessed a loaded handgun and assorted ammunition in his home. As a result of his prior conviction for attempted robbery, McConico could not lawfully possess the handgun.

    At sentencing scheduled for July 23, 2025, McConico faces a minimum term of 10 years and a maximum term of life in prison, a maximum fine of $8 million, and a term of supervised release after imprisonment of at least 8 years and up to life. A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the statute the defendant violated, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, and other factors.

    DEA investigated this case with the assistance of the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office and Hudson Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mikayla Espinosa is prosecuting this case. 

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Former Avon, NY, police trainee pleads guilty to possession of child pornography and cyberstalking

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    ROCHESTER, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Casey Medina, 33, of Rochester, NY, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Meredith A. Vacca to possession of child pornography and cyberstalking, which carry a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Katelyn M. Hartford, who is handling the case, stated that on August 22, 2024, investigators executed a search warrant on Medina’s cellular telephone. During a forensic extraction and a manual review of the phone, approximately 360 images of child pornography the defendant had received over a social media platform were recovered. At least one image involved a prepubescent child being subjected to violence.

    In addition, between May and August 2024, Medina disseminated and posted sexually explicit photographs that had been edited to falsely depict an individual (victim) engaged in sexually explicit activity to various social media platforms and public websites via the internet. The photographs depicted the victim’s face superimposed on pornographic images made to appear as if she was engaged in sexual intercourse. Beginning in May 2024, over the course of approximately 26 days, and again between June 2024 and July 2024, Medina sent, and recruited others via the internet to send, threatening and harassing text messages to the victim. The messages included threats to kidnap, rape, sexually abuse, and kill her, as well as including the sexually explicit images with her face superimposed on them. In many instances, Medina included identifying information while disseminating the victim’s images, including her hometown and place of work.

    The plea is the culmination of an investigation by the Onondaga County, NY, Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff Tobias Shelley, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia.         

    Sentencing is scheduled for August 4, 2025, at 2:00 p.m., before Judge Vacca.

    # # # #

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Former North Dakota State Senator Sentenced to 10 Years’ Imprisonment for Traveling to Prague to Engage in Commercial Sex with Children

    Source: United States Attorneys General 2

    A former North Dakota state legislator for 45 years was sentenced today to 10 years in prison for traveling to Prague in the Czech Republic, where he paid to sexually exploit children.

    According to court documents, Raymon (Ray) Everett Holmberg, 81, of Grand Forks, traveled to Prague approximately 14 times between 2011 and 2021. During these trips, while staying at a brothel that catered to men looking to engage in commercial sex with adolescent boys, Holmberg paid for sex acts with boys. During some of the trips, Holmberg used the alias “Sean Evans.” Witnesses told law enforcement that Holmberg did not want his name on the brothel’s registry because he was a North Dakota state legislator. Witnesses also told law enforcement that Holmberg would also visit a public park in front of the main train station in Prague to procure sex from underage boys. 

    Holmberg also used the “Evans” alias to tell friends about his trips and encourage them to travel to Prague. In these communications, Holmberg shared an image of an adolescent boy that he called “his twink,” and said that “no one is ever to [sic] young . . . remember Prague.” He emailed a different friend a link to a brothel in Prague and suggested that they go that summer, writing: “The boys rent at around $60 . . .  (sex is extra).”  Holmberg also wrote: “It will be decadent but oh so much fun bro.  What happens in Prague—Stays in Prague.” Back in the United States, Holmberg boasted about having engaged in sexual activity with boys as young as 12- and 15-years old during his travels.

    According to the government’s sentencing memorandum, Holmberg’s sexual exploitation of minors was not limited to his trips to Prague. Holmberg established an online relationship with a 16-year-old Canadian boy, posing as a boy of a similar age in order to manipulate the Canadian teen into taking images of himself engaging in sexually explicit conduct and sending them to Holmberg.  

    On Aug. 8, 2024, Holmberg pleaded guilty to traveling in foreign commerce for the purpose of engaging in illicit sexual conduct.

    Matthew R. Galeotti, Head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division and Acting U.S. Attorney Jennifer Puhl for the District of North Dakota made the announcement.

    Homeland Security Investigations, Grand Forks, and the North Dakota Bureau of Criminal Investigations investigated the case.

    Trial Attorney Charles Schmitz of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, and Acting U.S. Attorney Jennifer Puhl for the District of North Dakota are prosecuting the case.

    This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the 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. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, visit www.justice.gov/psc.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Father-and-Son Duo from Westside Arrested on Federal Criminal Complaints Alleging Fentanyl Trafficking and Gun Sales

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    LOS ANGELES – A Westside father and son were arrested today on federal criminal complaints charging them with possessing narcotics – specifically, the powerful synthetic opioid fentanyl – with the intent to distribute it to others.

    Antonio Espinoza Zarate, 55, a.k.a. “El Gato,” of the Mar Vista area of Los Angeles, and his son, Francisco Javier Espinoza Galindo, 31, of Santa Monica, were arrested this morning and are scheduled to make their initial appearances this afternoon in United States District Court in downtown Los Angeles.

    Both defendants are charged with possession with the intent to distribute fentanyl. Antonio Espinoza also is charged with illegal reentry of a removed alien.

    According to affidavits filed with the complaints, Antonio Espinoza in July 2023 sold a pistol, a rifle, 131 rounds of ammunition, and more than 500 grams of fentanyl pills to a buyer. He is not licensed to engage in the business of dealing in firearms.

    In August 2023, Antonio Espinoza allegedly sold an AR-style rifle and approximately 1 kilogram of fentanyl pills to a buyer, supplied by Francisco Espinoza. In January 2025, he allegedly sold a rifle, a pistol, a revolver, and ammunition to a buyer. In February 2025, with his son present, Antonio Espinoza sold more than 500 grams of fentanyl pills to the confidential informant.

    Antonio Espinoza is a citizen of Mexico, who has been previously deported in 2010, 2013, 2014, and 2017 and illegally reentered the United States following his removals, according to court documents. His criminal history includes felony convictions in 2008 in Los Angeles Superior Court for possession of narcotics for sale and in 2015 in U.S. District Court for the District of Arizona for illegal reentry of a removed alien.

    A complaint contains allegations that a defendant has committed a crime. Every defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

    If convicted of all charges, the defendants would face a statutory maximum sentence of life in federal prison and a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in federal prison.

    The investigation was conducted by the Homeland Security Investigations (HSI)-led El Camino Real Financial Crimes Task Force, a multi-agency task force that includes federal and state investigators who are focused on financial crimes in Southern California, with support from special agents with the United States Attorney’s Office for the Central District of California – Criminal Investigative Division; and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, with assistance from the Los Angeles Police Department regarding dangers to the community from the sales of narcotics and firearms.

    As U.S. DOJ special agents, the U.S. Attorney’s Office (USAO) Criminal Investigators conduct independent and joint-agency investigations to achieve successful prosecutions and adjudications of federal crimes charged in the district.  USAO investigators are positioned to address the prosecution priorities of the U.S. Attorney, as well as unique or project-based matters that may arise in the district and serve to generate or support a variety of federal cases with coordination and continuity among law enforcement partners throughout an investigation and trial.

    Assistant United States Attorney Diane B. Roldán of the Violent and Organized Crime Section is prosecuting these cases.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Utah Man Facing Federal Charges After Allegedly Attempting to Rob a Bank

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    SALT LAKE CITY, Utah – A Utah man was indicted by a federal grand jury in Salt Lake City today for a violent crime after he allegedly attempted to rob First Utah Bank.

    Christopher Thomas Kirby, 37, of West Valley City, Utah, was initially charged by complaint on March 19, 2025.  

    According to court documents, on March 19, 2025, at approximately 1:32 p.m., a man, later identified at Kirby, passed a note to a teller at First Utah Bank in West Valley City demanding money. According to responding officers, the note read “this is a robbery I have a bomb on my [sic] that will explode I need 20,000 in bag.” While the teller went into the vault under the guise of getting the money, she hit the silent alarm button and called 911. Officers arrived and took Kirby into custody.

    Kirby is charged with one count of attempted bank robbery. His initial appearance on the indictment was March 26, 2025, before a U.S. Magistrate Judge at the Orrin G. Hatch United States District Courthouse in downtown Salt Lake City.

    Acting United States Attorney Felice John Viti for the District of Utah made the announcement.

    The case is being investigated jointly by an FBI Task Force Officer assigned to the Salt Lake City Violent Crimes squad and the West Valley City Police Department.

    Assistant United States Attorney Carlos A. Esqueda of the District of Utah is prosecuting the case.

    This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (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).

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

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Mexican National Charged Federally with Drug & Gun Crimes

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    SALT LAKE CITY, Utah – A Mexican national living in Salt Lake County, Utah, was indicted by a federal grand jury in Salt Lake City today for drug and firearm crimes after law enforcement allegedly seized heroin, and a firearm.

    Luis Alberto Ramirez-Gonzalez, aka Leonardo Gomez-Ahumada, 28, living in Herriman, Utah, was charged by complaint on March 17, 2025.  

    According to court documents, beginning in December 2024, detectives with the Utah County Major Crimes Task Force began investigating a drug trafficking organization. On March 13, 2025, law enforcement obtained a search warrant on a residence in Magna, Utah. During the execution of the search warrant, Ramirez-Gonzalez was inside the residence Law enforcement seized approximately 300 grams of suspected heroin, which field-tested positive for heroin. On that same day, Ramirez-Gonzalez allegedly possessed a Sig Sauer P320 handgun and ammunition, knowing he was in the United States illegally and therefore restricted from possessing a firearm. Ramirez-Gonzalez was taken into custody.

    Luis Alberto Ramirez-Gonzalez is charged with possession of heroin with intent to distribute, and alien in possession of a firearm. His initial appearance on the indictment is scheduled for March 28, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. in courtroom 8.4 before a U.S. Magistrate Judge at the Orrin G. Hatch United States District Courthouse in downtown Salt Lake City.

    Acting United States Attorney Felice John Viti for the District of Utah made the announcement.

    The case is being investigated by the Utah County Major Crimes Task Force (UCMC).

    Special Assistant United States Attorney Peter Reichman of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Utah is prosecuting the case.

    This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (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).

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

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  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Coast Guard cutter promotes regional security in the Pacific with Papua New Guinea

    Source: United States Coast Guard

     

    03/26/2025 06:44 PM EDT

    The U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Midgett (WMSL 757) recently concluded its second port call in Papua New Guinea (PNG), following nine days of shiprider operations with representatives from the PNG Defence Force, PNG Customs Service, and PNG National Fisheries Authority. Midgett was invited by the Papua New Guinea government to participate in the operation. The PNG shipriders led the mission by selecting vessels of interests and conducting boardings while the U.S. Coast Guard provided ship based and shoreside support. The successful shiprider operations reinforced the importance of deepening and expanding strong bilateral relationships.

    For breaking news follow us on twitter @USCGHawaiiPac

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Beverly Hills Man Sentenced to 25 Years in Prison for Cannabis and Bottling Company Cons That Caused Nearly $18 Million in Losses

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    LOS ANGELES – A Beverly Hills man was sentenced today to 300 months in federal prison for obtaining nearly $18 million from investors for sham businesses supposedly operating in hemp related industries – all while he was completing a sentence in a prior criminal case.

    Mark Roy Anderson, 70, was sentenced by United States District Judge Fernando L. Aenlle-Rocha, who scheduled a restitution hearing for June 4.

    At today’s hearing, Judge Aenlle-Rocha said, “The magnitude of the fraud is breathtaking…the [victims’ statements reflect] the depth of the harm. Many have lost their life savings reflecting decades of hard work.” Judge Aenlle-Rocha also described Anderson as “an accomplished and incorrigible con man” and stated that “the public must be protected from him for as long as possible.”

    Anderson pleaded guilty in April 2024 to two counts of wire fraud. He has been in federal custody since May 2023.

    Anderson engaged in two separate but related schemes that swindled victims, which he committed shortly after his release from federal prison but while serving out the rest of his prison term on home confinement and, later, while on supervised release for a previous fraud conviction.

    “The defendant stole more than $18 million from dozens of investors by promising quick returns on their investments into hemp farms and other exotic investments,” said Acting United States Attorney Joseph McNally. “Today’s 25-year sentence takes him off the street so that he cannot harm other victims.”

               Harvest Farm Group

    In the first scheme, from June 2020 to April 2021, Anderson tricked investors into providing funding for his company, called Harvest Farm Group, to harvest hemp supposedly being grown on his farm and then process that hemp into medical-grade cannabidiol (CBD) isolate – a chemical found in marijuana – to be sold for a substantial profit.

    Anderson convinced investors to invest in Harvest Farm Group by falsely representing that, through the company, he owned and operated a hemp farm in Kern County. He also lied that had already completed successful and profitable harvests of hemp from the farm. He also falsely said he was using his own machinery and equipment to convert the hemp into CBD isolate and Delta 8, a psychoactive substance that, like CBD isolate, could be used in consumer products ranging from olive oil to body cream.

    Anderson attempted to maintain a veneer of trustworthiness by taking steps to assure investors Harvest Farm Group was legitimate and he was not the “Mark Roy Anderson” with multiple prior fraud convictions. Anderson concealed that he had been convicted of multiple federal and state felony crimes, including mail fraud, wire fraud, grand theft, forgery, preparing false evidence, and money laundering. He also concealed that he was still serving a criminal sentence and was on supervised release at the time he was soliciting investments.

    To stall victim investors from making collection efforts and reporting him to law enforcement, Anderson falsely promised victims he would pay them money from purported sales of products made to Canadian companies, that sales of products had been delayed because of the COVID-19 pandemic, and that he would otherwise return their money.

               Bio Pharma and Verta Bottling

    In the second scheme, which ran from April 2021 to May 2023, Anderson deceived investors by soliciting money for Bio Pharma and Verta Bottling, two of his sham companies, by claiming that these businesses successfully manufactured, bottled, and packaged commercial products.

    Specifically, Anderson falsely told investors Bio Pharma purportedly manufactured and sold products infused with CBD, including products such as CBD-infused avocado oil, olive oil, pain cream, gummies, tequila, and chili oil. Anderson also claimed that Verta Bottling manufactured and sold beverages and a variety of food products.

    Anderson falsely stated that his bottling companies owned and possessed millions of dollars’ worth of assets, including – in Bio Pharma’s case – hemp biomass, CBD isolate, CBD oil, and – in Verta Bottling’s case – manufacturing equipment and an assignable lease for a warehouse to manufacture and sell its products.

    Anderson’s other lies to investors included false claims that his bottling companies had at least $10 million in purchase-order contracts from suppliers. He drafted fake legal and business documents, which included fabricated purchase order contracts purporting to show agreements with third party companies to purchase tens of millions of dollars’ worth of products manufactured by the Anderson bottling companies. Anderson also provided victims samples of products purportedly manufactured by his purported bottling companies.

    Instead of investing victim funds as he promised, Anderson instead used their money on personal expenses. He has agreed to forfeit his ill-gotten gains from these schemes, including 15 cars – one of them a Ferrari – and real estate in Ojai.

    In total, Anderson solicited more than $18.8 million from 45 victims for both schemes, causing victims to lose approximately $17,745,150.

    The FBI investigated this matter.

    Assistant United States Attorney Kerry L. Quinn of the Major Frauds Section prosecuted this case.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Justice Department Secures Forfeiture of Over $5M of Funds Traceable to Business Email Compromise Scheme Targeting Massachusetts Workers Union

    Source: United States Attorneys General 7

    The Department of Justice announced today that, pursuant to a court-ordered default judgment and final order of forfeiture entered today, it has secured the forfeiture of approximately $5,315,746.29 of proceeds of a business email compromise (BEC) scheme and property involved in the subsequent laundering of the proceeds. The judgment is the result of a civil forfeiture complaint filed by the United States in June 2024 seeking the forfeiture of the funds.

    As alleged in the complaint, in January 2023, a workers union based in Dorchester, Massachusetts, was defrauded out of $6.4 million after it received a spoofed email that appeared to be from its investment manager. The email misled the workers union into transferring the funds to the wrong bank account, which was controlled by a third party.

    After the workers union sent the payment, the fraudulently obtained funds were transferred through several intermediary bank accounts, with some funds transferred, or attempted to be transferred, to a cryptocurrency exchange and to various foreign bank accounts located in Hong Kong, China, Singapore, and Nigeria. Investigators also traced proceeds of the scheme to seven domestically held bank accounts, the contents of which were subsequently seized.

    Matthew R. Galeotti, Head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division; U.S. Attorney Leah B. Foley for the District of Massachusetts; and Special Agent in Charge William Mancino of the U.S. Secret Service made the announcement.

    The United States Secret Service investigated the case.

    Trial Attorneys Jasmin Salehi Fashami and Adrienne Rosen of the Criminal Division’s Money Laundering and Asset Recovery Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew Lyons for the District of Massachusetts prosecuted the case.

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