NewzIntel.com

Category: Security Intelligence

  • MIL-OSI Security: Oklahoma Man Charged with Operating Large-Scale Dog Fighting and Trafficking Venture

    Source: United States Attorneys General 9

    The U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma unsealed a grand jury indictment recently charging an Oklahoma man with violations of the dog fighting prohibitions of the federal Animal Welfare Act.

    Leshon Eugene Johnson, of Broken Arrow, made his initial appearance in court last week. He is charged with possessing 190 pit bull-type dogs for use in an animal fighting venture and for selling, transporting, and delivering a dog for use in an animal fighting venture. Federal authorities seized the 190 dogs from Johnson in October 2024 as authorized under the Animal Welfare Act. This is believed to be the largest number of dogs ever seized from a single person in a federal dog fighting case.

    “Animal abuse is cruel, depraved, and deserves severe punishment,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “The Department of Justice will prosecute this case to the fullest extent of the law and will remain committed to protecting innocent animals from those who would do them harm.”

    “The FBI will not tolerate criminals that harm innocent animals for their twisted form of entertainment,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “The FBI views animal cruelty investigations as a precursor to larger, organized crime efforts, similar to trafficking and homicides. This is yet another push in the FBI’s crackdown of violent offenders harming our most innocent.”

    “Dog fighting is illegal, and courts have upheld its prosecution time and again,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Adam Gustafson of the Justice Department’s Environment and Natural Resources Division (ENRD). “This strategic prosecution of an alleged repeat offender led to the seizure of 190 dogs destined for a cruel end. It disrupts a major source of dogs used in other dog fighting ventures.”

    “Dog fighting is a cruel, blood-thirsty venture, not a legitimate business or sporting activity,” said U.S. Attorney Christopher J. Wilson for the Eastern District of Oklahoma. “I applaud the investigative work of the FBI and the Justice Department’s Environment and Natural Resources Division in detecting and dismantling breeding operations which only serve to propagate this deplorable conduct.”

    According to court documents, Johnson ran a dog fighting operation known as “Mal Kant Kennels” in both Broken Arrow and Haskell, Oklahoma. He previously ran “Krazyside Kennels” also out of Oklahoma, which led to his guilty plea on state animal fighting charges in 2004. Johnson selectively bred “champion” and “grand champion” fighting dogs — dogs that have respectively won three or five fights — to produce offspring with fighting traits and abilities desired by him and others for use in dog fights. Johnson marketed and sold stud rights and offspring from winning fighting dogs to other dog fighters looking to incorporate the Mal Kant Kennels “bloodline” into their own dog fighting operations. His trafficking of fighting dogs to other dog fighters across the country contributed to the growth of the dog fighting industry and allowed Johnson to profit financially.

    Under federal law, it is illegal to fight dogs in a venture that effects interstate commerce and to possess, train, transport, deliver, sell, purchase, or receive dogs for fighting purposes.

    If convicted, Johnson faces a maximum penalty on each count of five years in prison and a $250,000 fine.

    The FBI’s Shreveport Resident Agency office is investigating the case.

    Trial Attorney Sarah Brown and Senior Trial Attorney Ethan Eddy of ENRD’s Environmental Crimes Section are prosecuting the case, with assistance from Assistant U.S. Attorney Jordan Howanitz for the Eastern District of Oklahoma.

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Greenville Woman Sentenced to 25 Years in Federal Prison for Sex Trafficking 15-year-old Student

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    GREENVILLE, S.C. — True Heaven Heflin, 25, of Greenville, has been sentenced to 25 years in federal prison for trafficking a 15-year-old Greenville student.

    Evidence obtained in the investigation revealed that the minor victim went to a party over Christmas break in 2022 where she met Heflin. Heflin then took the minor victim to her residence and forced the victim to engage in sexual acts for money. Heflin held the minor victim for over a week before the teen was able to escape.

    “If you abuse and exploit children for money, we will find you, we will charge you, and we will ensure you go to prison. Human trafficking inflicts profound and lasting damage on its victims and our community,” declared Acting U.S. Attorney Brook B. Andrews for the District of South Carolina. “We, in collaboration with our law enforcement partners, will continue to tirelessly investigate and prosecute these despicable acts until our children and communities are safe.”

    “The successful prosecution and sentencing of True Heflin exemplifies what can be accomplished when law enforcement agencies collaborate to tackle the horrific crime of human trafficking. This case serves as a reminder of our unwavering commitment to seeking justice for victims and holding traffickers accountable,” said Greenville County Sheriff Hobart Lewis. “Human trafficking has been — and will continue to be — a top priority for the Greenville County Sheriff’s Office. We will persist in defending and advocating for those who cannot defend themselves, ensuring that those responsible for such heinous acts are brought to justice.”

    United States District Judge Bruce H. Hendricks sentenced Heflin to 300 months imprisonment, to be followed by a lifetime court-ordered supervision. There is no parole in the federal system. Heflin was also ordered to pay the victim $5,000 in restitution. Heflin pleaded guilty to human trafficking conspiracy in November 2024.

    If anyone you know may be a victim of human trafficking, please call the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888. For more information on reporting and to learn the signs of human trafficking, visit https://www.dhs.gov/blue-campaign/report-human-trafficking

    This case was investigated by the Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations and the Greenville County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Carrie Fisher Sherard is prosecuting the case.

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Convicted Felon Sentenced To Prison For Illegally Possessing A Pistol With A Machinegun Conversion Device

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Jacksonville, FL – Chief U.S. District Judge Marcia Morales Howard has sentenced De’Quan Franks (25, Jacksonville) to four years and six months in federal prison for possessing a firearm after being convicted of a felony. Franks pleaded guilty on December 18, 2024. 

    According to court records, in October 2023, detectives with the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office (JSO) observed Franks posting a picture of a Glock firearm on Instagram. JSO detectives located Franks shortly after the social media post and saw him with a pistol with a large magazine. Franks ran from the detectives but fell before he could get away. The detectives recovered a Glock 10mm pistol, loaded with 30 rounds of ammunition in an extended magazine, that Franks had in his waistband. The pistol was also equipped with a machinegun conversion device which would allow the semi-automatic pistol to fire in a fully automatic mode. At the time, Franks had a prior felony conviction that prohibits him from possessing a firearm or ammunition under federal law.   

    This case was investigated by the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Laura Taylor.

    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.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Pittsburgh Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Drug and Firearm Charges

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty on March 24, 2025, to federal drug and firearm charges, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

    Marques Coffey, 21, pleaded guilty before Senior United States District Judge David S. Cercone to two counts of violating federal law: knowingly possessing with intent to distribute a quantity of fentanyl, a Schedule II controlled substance, and knowingly possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense.

    In connection with the guilty plea, the Court was advised that, on March 4, 2023, Coffey was found to be in possession of fentanyl and a loaded firearm upon being detained after allegedly breaking the window on the back door of a Bellevue, Pennsylvania, area residence.

    Judge Cercone scheduled Coffey’s sentencing for August 5, 2025. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to 20 years in prison, a fine of up to $1 million, or both. Under the federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

    Coffey remains detained pending sentencing.

    Assistant United States Attorney Nicole A. Stockey is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

    The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and Bellevue Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Coffey.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Appeal to find missing boy not seen for four days

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    Police are appealing for help to find 12-year-old Joel who is missing from Hounslow.

    Joel was last seen leaving an address in Armytage Road, Hounslow, at around 13:00hrs on Friday, 21 March.

    He is believed to have travelled to Bromley via public transport. He is known to have links with the Bromley area.

    Joel is slim with black hair. He was last seen wearing a black Nike hat, a blue Adidas tracksuit with a black jacket and navy blue sliders.

    If you have seen Joel or have any information about his whereabouts, please call 101 and quote the reference 5762/23Mar.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Tennessee Man Pleads Guilty to Fraudulent Investment Scheme

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

    KANSAS CITY, KAN. – A Tennessee man was convicted for running a Ponzi scheme that victimized individuals across the country.

    According to court documents, Alcides Roman, 66, of Lebanon, Tennessee, pleaded guilty to one count of wire fraud. 

    While operating Remain in Control LLC, Roman defrauded a victim in Overland Park, Kansas, after offering investment opportunities and attractive returns.

    From June 2020 to October 2020, the victim made multiple wire transfers into Roman’s company bank account and subsequently received “returns” that were in reality partial amounts from the victim’s own investment funds. When the victim stopped receiving payments and inquired, Roman made excuses and sought to lull the victim into a false sense of security. 

    Other victims of Roman’s investment fraud scheme included individuals in New York, New York, Houston, Texas, and Richmond Hill, Ontario, Canada. 

    The total known loss, based on victims identified to date, is $1,977,857.88. 

    Roman used funds from his schemes to pay for his personal living expenses, buy vehicles and land, send money to numerous foreign and domestic companies, and to make purported “returns” to other victim investors. 

    Roman is scheduled to be sentenced on June 26, 2025, and faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison. 

    The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is investigating the case.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Huschka is prosecuting the case.

    If you believe you have been victimized by this defendant, please contact the Federal Bureau of Investigation by calling 816-512-8200 or visiting https://tips.fbi.gov/home.

    ###
     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Albuquerque Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Drug Trafficking and Firearms Charges

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

    ALBUQUERQUE – An Albuquerque man has pleaded guilty to federal drug trafficking and firearms charges, agreeing to forfeit multiple weapons, vehicles, and over $64,000 in cash seized during a raid on his residence.

    According to court records, on March 23, 2023, the FBI SWAT team executed a search warrant at Jerry Bezie‘s residence in the South Valley. During the operation, agents seized more than 16 pounds of methamphetamine and approximately 11,400 grams of fentanyl pills, multiple firearms, ammunition, and other items indicative of drug trafficking activities. In his plea agreement, Bezie admitted to possessing these substances with the intent to distribute and admitted that, as a convicted felon, he was legally prohibited from possessing firearms.

    As part of his plea agreement, Bezie has agreed to forfeit numerous items, including:

    • Firearms: A Glock 19 9mm pistol, a Glock 29 10mm pistol, an FN Five-seven 5.7×28 caliber pistol, a Sig Sauer P229 .357 sig caliber pistol, and a Steyr-Daimler Puch Aug/SA .223 caliber rifle.
    • Ammunition and Accessories: Three .223 caliber magazines, approximately 308 rounds of .223 caliber cartridges, two 5.7×28 magazines, approximately 46 rounds of 5.7×28 cartridges, approximately 106 rounds of 9mm cartridges, two 9mm magazines, two 9mm casings, three 10mm magazines, and approximately ten rounds of 10mm cartridges.
    • Vehicles and Trailers: A 2006 Hummer 4T vehicle, a 2018 Polaris Slingshot motorcycle, a 2018 Canam ATV, an Interstate Kingman Enclosed Trailer, and a 1984 Dump trailer.
    • Cash and Jewelry: Approximately $64,333.93 in U.S. currency and certain jewelry seized on or about March 23, 2023, excluding specific items belonging to others.

    2006 Hummer 4T vehicle

    2018 Polaris Slingshot motorcycle

    2018 Canam ATV

    Firearms, ammunition and jewelry

    The FBI’s investigation linked Bezie to Julian Leyba, with both men allegedly supplying fentanyl sold along Central Avenue in Albuquerque. On March 23, 2023, the FBI raided Leyba’s residence in Northeast Albuquerque as well. While no drugs were seized from Leyba’s home, investigators found six firearms, including a machine gun, which he was prohibited from possessing due to prior felony convictions.

    Leyba pleaded guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition and possession a machine gun on May 2, 2024, and was sentenced to 70 months in prison followed by three years of supervise release.

    At sentencing, Bezie faces a mandatory 60 months for drug trafficking and an additional 60 months for possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, for a total of 120 months, and up to life in prison. This sentence will be followed by not less than four years of supervised release. Additionally, Bezie faces a fine not to exceed $5 million or twice the pecuniary gain to the defendant.

    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’s Violent Gang Task Force (VGTF) investigated this case with assistance from the Albuquerque Police Department, Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office and New Mexico State Police. Assistant United States Attorney Paul Mysliwiec is prosecuting the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: FBI Media Alert: FBI Offers Reward for Pair of Black-Clad Bandits Who Robbed an ATM

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

    The FBI and Albuquerque Police Department are seeking the public’s assistance to identify a pair of Black-Clad Bandits who robbed a Bank of America ATM machine.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Mexican National Caught Dealing Drugs and Guns Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison

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

    Stash house in Vancouver, WA used by defendant contained seven pounds of fentanyl, 43 pounds of methamphetamine, an assault rifle & grenade launcher

    Tacoma – A 49-year-old Vancouver, Washington resident was sentenced today in U.S. District Court in Tacoma to 10 years in prison for drug and gun trafficking, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Teal Luthy Miller. Juan Onofre Flores Carrillo, 49, and his co-defendant Jesus Daniel Valenzuela Ayala, 24, were arrested in March 2024 when law enforcement raided their stash house and seized more than seven pounds of fentanyl, 43 pounds of methamphetamine and an assault rifle equipped with a grenade launcher. At the sentencing hearing Chief U.S. District Judge David G. Estudillo said, “These controlled substances create significant problems for the community. There are individuals who overdose and die from these substances and those who don’t become addicted and become a drain on everyone.”

    According to the criminal complaint, Flores Carrillo aka “El Cholo,” was identified in early 2023 as a significant fentanyl pill dealer in southwest Washington. For over a year, working with confidential informants, law enforcement made a series of significant drug buys from Flores Carrillo. In one instance Flores Carrillo sold an informant 3,000 fentanyl pills. On another occasion he sold the informant a kilogram of crystal methamphetamine. Twice Flores Carrillo sold the informant high-powered firearms: an AR-type rifle that was a “ghost gun” with no serial number, and a Norinco Mak-90 rifle.

    In January and February 2024, law enforcement worked to identify the stash house where Flores Carrillo kept his drugs. Flores Carrillo continued to make drug sales of heroin as well as fentanyl. On March 13, 2024, Flores Carrillo agreed to sell 10,000 fentanyl pills. Shortly after he turned over the drugs he was arrested.

    On November 13, 2024, Flores Carrillo pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute controlled substances and use of a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime.

    In asking for a ten-year sentence prosecutors wrote to the court, “Firearms are a tool of the drug trade, and the danger of drug trafficking comes not only from the effect of drugs on users but from the violence associated with drug trafficking. The firearms that Flores Carrillo possessed and sold to…a person he believed to be a drug trafficker, are highly dangerous and not intended to be in the hands of drug users or drug traffickers.” In imposing sentence, Judge Estudillo commented, “If there’s firearms involved [in drug trafficking], violence could occur among drug dealers and innocent people could get hurt.

    Codefendant Valenzuela Ayala was the only occupant of the stash house and was arrested. He was sentenced to seven years in prison. Both men are citizens of Mexico who will likely be deported following their prison terms.

    The case was investigated by the FBI with assistance from the Vancouver Police Department, the Clark County Sheriff’s Office Special Investigation Unit, and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Homeland Security Investigations (ICE HSI).

    The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Zachary Dillon and Max Shiner.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Pueblo Pintado Man Charged with Murder

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    ALBUQUERQUE – A Pueblo Pintado man is facing murder charges in federal court for the fatal shooting of John Doe during an altercation.

    According to court records, on March 17, 2025, Thurman Curley, 35, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, and John Doe were hanging out and drinking at a residence in Pueblo Pintado, New Mexico. Around 1:00 a.m., the men got into an argument which turned physical. Witnesses heard multiple threats, then heard a gunshot and saw Curley outside the residence with a gun.

    Officers from the Navajo Nation Police Department responded to a 911 call and began life-saving measures on John Doe. Despite their best efforts, officers and EMTs were unable to revive John Doe, and he died.

    FBI agents collected a handgun and one shell casing from the location.

    Curley is charged with murder and will be on conditions of release imposed by the Court pending trial, which has not been set. If convicted of the current charges, Curley faces up to life in prison.

    Acting U.S. Attorney Holland S. Kastrin and Raul Bujanda, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.

    The Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Navajo Police Department and Navajo Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mia Ulibarri-Rubin is prosecuting the case.

    A criminal complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Police update on investigation into fire at Hayes electricity sub-station

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    The Met’s Counter Terrorism Command has been working with partners to establish the cause of the fire at the electricity sub-station in Hayes last week (21 March).

    Following enquiries to date, officers have found no evidence to suggest that the incident was suspicious in nature. As such, we are no longer treating this as a potentially criminal matter, although we continue to support other partners, including colleagues from National Grid, London Fire Brigade and SSEN, with whom we remain in close contact.

    Should any relevant new information or evidence come to light it will be looked at and considered as appropriate.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Inmate Pleads Guilty to Assault with a Deadly Weapon in USP Atwater

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

    FRESNO, Calif. — Jarvell Kent, 30, of Fresno, pleaded guilty today to assault with a deadly weapon in the U.S. Penitentiary at Atwater, Acting U.S. Attorney Michele Beckwith announced.

    According to court documents, on April 28, 2024, Kent chased another inmate around a cell block at USP Atwater while holding a knife-like, jail-made weapon. Kent, along with another inmate, used his jail-made knife to stab the victim, wounding him and requiring medical attention.

    This case is the product of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Bureau of Prisons. Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert Veneman-Hughes is prosecuting the case.

    Kent is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Kirk E. Sherriff on June 23, 2025. Kent faces a maximum statutory penalty of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. The actual sentence, however, will be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Woodford County Man Sentenced for Production of Child Pornography

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Defendant orchestrated a sextortion scheme to produce sexually explicit images of a minor

    LEXINGTON, Ky. – A Versailles, Ky., man, Austin David Stafford, 31, was sentenced on Friday to a total of 540 months in prison, by U.S. District Judge Danny C. Reeves, for production of child pornography.

    The sentence is the result of two separate court cases against Stafford. According to his plea agreement from the first court case, Stafford and his co-defendant and girlfriend, Crystal Campbell, now deceased, used a minor victim to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of creating visual depictions of that conduct on two occasions, once at the couple’s trailer and once in an outdoor setting. Stafford’s Facebook records contained two instances of Stafford distributing the videos. 

    According to his plea agreement from the second court case, law enforcement was alerted to Stafford because of a minor victim’s father seeing a group message on Facebook Messenger that contained nude photos of the minor victim. An investigation revealed that Stafford was using a fake persona, “Craig Wright,” on social media to lure the minor victim into an online romance. Under this persona, he obtained intimate details and visual depictions of the minor victim. He then created additional fake personas and used the information that he had learned about the victim to extort and manipulate the minor victim. The “sextortion” scheme led the minor victim to send more sexually explicit visual depictions to Stafford and to engage in sexual acts with him. Eventually, Stafford communicated with James Campbell, 26, of Versailles, Ky., Stafford’s co-defendant, and on June 10, 2022, coerced a minor to engage in sexually explicit conduct with Campbell and film it, under the guise that one of his fake personas would hurt her family if she didn’t comply. Stafford admitted to orchestrating the sexual exchange with the victim and Campbell, and that Campbell knowingly and willingly aided and abetted the product of the June 10th series. 

    Campbell is scheduled to be sentenced on April 21, 2025. 

    Under federal law, Stafford must serve 85 percent of his prison sentence. Upon his release from prison, he will be under the supervision of the U.S. Probation Office for 30 years. 

    Paul McCaffrey, Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky; Michael Stansbury, Special Agent in Charge, FBI, Louisville Field Office; and Phillip J. Burnett, Jr., Commissioner of the Kentucky State Police, jointly announced the sentence.

    The investigation was conducted by FBI and KSP. Hart Megibben, Commonwealth Attorney for the 53rd Judicial Circuit, and Assistant Commonwealth Attorney, Jon Fee, also provided significant assistance to the investigation and prosecution of Stafford’s second case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mary Melton is prosecuting the case on behalf of the United States.

    The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted this case as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse.  Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.

    – END –

     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Former Nurse Sentenced for Tampering with Medication

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    FRANKFORT, Ky. – A Lexington, Ky., woman, Abigail Hall, 51, was sentenced on Monday to 60 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Gregory Van Tatenhove, for tampering with a consumer product. 

    According to her plea agreement, between January 2023 and August 2023, Hall worked as a contract registered nurse at several facilities in Kentucky, including a health care facility in Lawrenceburg, Ky., that focused on care for the elderly and infirm. Hall admitted that on August 27, 2023, she took morphine that had been prescribed for three patients that she was treating at the healthcare facility, all of whom had significant disease and pain concerns.  Hall replaced the stolen morphine with water and blue food coloring, to resemble the real medication.  Ultimately, Hall took at least seven syringes of stolen morphine and administered the tampered morphine to at least one of the patients. 

    Under federal law, Hall must serve 85 percent of her prison sentence. Upon her release from prison, she will be under the supervision of the U.S. Probation Office for three years. 

    Paul McCaffrey, Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky, and George A. Scavdis, Special Agent in Charge, FDA Office of Criminal Investigations, Metro Washington Field Office, jointly announced the sentence.

    The investigation was conducted by FDA-OCI. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kate Smith is prosecuting the case on behalf of the United States.

    – END –

     

     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Stephenville — Arrest warrant issued for Corey Killam

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Bay St. George RCMP is looking to arrest 33-year-old Corey Killam who is wanted for two counts of failing to comply with a release order in relation to the following charges:

    • Dangerous operation
    • Resisting or obstructing a peace officer
    • Possession of a controlled drug or substance for trafficking

    Killam, who is known to evade police, frequents the Bay St. George, Corner Brook and Grand Falls-Windsor areas.

    Anyone having information about the current location of Corey Killam is asked to contact Bay St. George RCMP 709-643-2118. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers: #SayItHere 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), visit www.nlcrimestoppers.com or use the P3Tips app.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Mexican National Sentenced to 8 Years in Federal Prison for Transporting Aliens

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    EL PASO, Texas – A Mexican national was sentenced in a federal court in El Paso to 97 months in prison for conspiracy to transport aliens.

    According to court documents, Victor Ubaldo Hernandez-Ortega, 33, of Durango, worked as a load driver for a known human smuggler. As such, he would pick up illegal aliens in El Paso and transport them to other locations in El Paso or to a predetermined location in Albuquerque, New Mexico in exchange for $100 to $500 per alien. Additionally, Hernandez-Ortega was recruited to oversee two stash houses, between which more than 200 illegal aliens were harbored.

    Hernandez-Ortega had previously been granted four voluntary departures, most recently on June 9, 2024, through Santa Teresa, New Mexico. He was arrested Aug. 21, 2024, and pleaded guilty Dec. 20, 2024.

    Acting U.S. Attorney Margaret Leachman for the Western District of Texas made the announcement.

    Homeland Security Investigations and the U.S. Border Patrol investigated the case.

    Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael Dearden prosecuted the case.

    These cases are 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).

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Driver of Second Human Smuggling Vehicle Involved in 2021 Del Rio Incident Sentenced to 10 Years in Federal Prison

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    DEL RIO, Texas – A Salvadoran national was sentenced in a federal court in Del Rio to 120 months in prison for his role in a deadly human smuggling operation that occurred in 2021.

    According to court documents, Juan Alonso Barrientos-Quintanilla, 23, was apprehended and identified as one of 12 illegal aliens who fled from one of two vehicles involved in a failed human smuggling operation on Highway 277, March 15, 2021. The other vehicle, driven by Sebastian Tovar, crashed, killing eight of its nine illegal alien passengers.

    Following the crash, U.S. Border Patrol agents encountered the second smuggling vehicle, leading to the attempted traffic stop and, subsequently, Barrientos-Quintanilla and the other illegal aliens fleeing on foot. All 12 illegal aliens were apprehended. Barrientos-Quintanilla initially claimed to be one of the aliens being smuggled, however, he later admitted to being the load driver of the vehicle. He pleaded guilty July 23, 2023 to one count of aiding and abetting illegal alien transportation resulting in death.

    Acting U.S. Attorney Margaret Leachman for the Western District of Texas made the announcement.

    Homeland Security Investigations, USBP and the Texas Department of Public Safety investigated the case.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Joshua Banister prosecuted the case.

    These cases are 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).

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Ames Nurse Practitioner and Business Owner Sentenced to Life in Prison for Sexually Abusing and Trafficking Dozens of Children and Adults

    Source: United States Department of Justice (Human Trafficking)

    DES MOINES, Iowa – An Ames man was sentenced today to life in federal prison on each of fifteen counts of sex trafficking by fraud and coercion.

    According to public court documents and evidence presented at sentencing, Carl Dale Markley, 45, from at least 2001 to April 2023, used fraud and coercion to cause dozens of teenage boys and young men, and a few young women, to engage in sex acts in exchange for money or some other benefit. Markley was a nurse practitioner in Ames and owned several businesses. Over a course of years, Markley used his professions and position in the community to befriend and gain the trust of victims, and then groom and repeatedly sexually abuse them. For a number of victims, Markley placed hidden cameras in locations to record this abuse.

    Markley exploited the trust his victims placed in him. He lied to victims that sex acts and sexual contact were needed because, among other things, he was conducting research for various research institutions or sexual-health companies, his insurance company required victims to undergo physicals which he could perform, or he was obtaining advanced degrees. None of Markley’s justifications were true.

    The criminal investigation into Markley’s activities began in December 2022, when the Ames Police Department received a complaint that Markley had been conducting physicals on minor male children without parental consent. Ultimately, the Ames Police Department, Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Iowa Department of Public Safety’s Division of Criminal Investigation interviewed hundreds of victims and witnesses, completed roughly thirty-five search warrants, and obtained documents and other materials from various research institutions and sexual-health-related entities. They also seized and searched dozens of electronic devices, including seven cellphones and ten computers determined to be Markley’s and on which they located the hidden-camera materials Markley had created, internet-based child pornography, including images depicting children under the age of twelve, and other evidence of Markley’s crimes.

    At sentencing, Markley continued to provide false justifications for his behavior. Chief District Judge Stephanie M. Rose described Markley’s claims as “delusional.”

    In November 2023, Markley was charged with 17 federal crimes, including 15 counts of sex trafficking by fraud and coercion, one count of sexual exploitation and attempted sexual exploitation of a child, and one count of possession of child pornography. In November 2024, Markley pleaded guilty to the 15 sex-trafficking counts.

    “This case is a stark reminder that those who abuse positions of trust for personal gain will be held accountable,” said Ames Police Department Police Chief Geoff Huff. “We commend the bravery of the victims who came forward and the relentlessness of our officers and partner agencies in bringing this perpetrator to justice.”

    FBI Omaha Special Agent in Charge Eugene Kowel said, “Carl Markley used trust and manipulation to exert control over his victims and fulfill his criminal sexual fantasies. His young victims suffered reprehensible abuse. The FBI and our local, state, and federal partners are committed to bringing sexual predators to justice, holding them accountable for their crimes and helping to provide a path towards healing for survivors.”

    DCI Assistant Director Don Schnitker said, “Today marks a significant victory in Iowa’s ongoing fight against human trafficking.  The survivors in this case showed immense bravery in coming forward, and today’s outcome ensures that Markley will never harm another person again.”

    “Markley’s life sentence was absolutely warranted and necessary to permanently prevent anyone from being victimized by him again,” said United States Attorney Richard Westphal. “His defiance and failure to accept responsibility only exemplifies what a monstrous sexual predator he is. Our gratitude to the courage of the victims in this investigation and the dedication of the law enforcement personnel who identified and proved Markley’s horrendous acts of sex trafficking and abuse.”

    United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. This criminal case was investigated jointly by the Ames Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, with assistance from the Iowa Department of Public Safety’s Division of Criminal Investigation. Assistant United States Attorneys Kyle J. Essley and Amy L. Jennings prosecuted the case with the assistance of Victim Witness Specialist Charlotte Kovacs.

    Human trafficking is a crime involving the exploitation of youth under the age of 18 for commercial sex; the exploitation of adults for commercial sex through the use of force, fraud, or coercion; and the exploitation of any individual for compelled labor. Human trafficking does not require the transportation of individuals across state lines, or that someone is physically restrained. Signs that a person is being trafficked can include working excessively long hours, unexplained gifts, physical injury, substance abuse issues, running away from home, isolation from others, or having a person in their life controlling them or monitoring them closely. Victims particularly susceptible to being trafficked include those with criminal histories, a history of physical or sexual abuse, uncertain legal status, and dependency on controlled substances.

    Anyone who suspects human trafficking is occurring, be it a minor engaging in paid sex acts, or anyone being coerced into prostitution or labor, is urged to call the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888. If anyone has information about this case, they are urged to call the Ames Police Department, FBI, or Iowa’s Division of Criminal Investigation, or call the National Human Trafficking Hotline.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Firearms Trafficker Sentenced to 8 Years in Prison

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

    PHOENIX, Ariz. – On March 19, 2025, Kevin Lewis, 38, of Houston, Texas, was sentenced by United States District Judge David G. Campbell to 96 months in prison, followed by 36 months of supervised release. Lewis previously pleaded guilty to aiding and abetting a Material False Statement During the Purchase of a Firearm.

    Beginning in February 2020, Lewis, a convicted felon prohibited from possessing firearms, encouraged his wife and brother-in-law to purchase firearms on his behalf over the course of a year and a half. Lewis then sold those firearms to other people, predominantly in California.  Lewis’ wife, Karra, and brother-in-law, Isaac Godfrey, both pleaded guilty to the same crime as Lewis. Karra Lewis was sentenced to 18 months in prison, and Godfrey was sentenced to 42 months in prison. All three defendants were arrested in Houston.

    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. The Department of Justice has 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.

    The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) in Phoenix, with the assistance of ATF Houston, Mesa Police Department Major Crimes Unit, and the Police Department of Houston, conducted the investigation in this case. The United States Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, Phoenix, handled the prosecution.

    CASE NUMBER:           CR-23-01809-PHX-DGC

    RELEASE NUMBER:    2025-041_ Lewis

    # # #

    For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
    Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, on Twitter @USAO_AZ for the latest news.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Officer dismissed following conviction of assault

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    A Met officer has been dismissed without notice after being convicted of assault.

    PC Jonathan Marsh, attached to the East Area Command Unit, appeared before a misconduct hearing on Monday, 24 March.

    The hearing considered all the evidence and found that PC Marsh breached the standards of professional behaviour for authority, respect and courtesy, equality and diversity and discreditable conduct at a level of gross misconduct.

    The chair heard that PC Marsh was convicted of assault at City of London Magistrates’ Court on Monday, 29 January 2024.

    On the evening of 13 November 2022, PC Marsh and colleagues were called to a report of criminal damage in Atlanta Boulevard in Romford.

    On arrival, PC Marsh mistook another man for the suspect, despite him telling the officers that he called police.

    PC Marsh attempted to place him in handcuffs before taking him to ground and punching him on the head.

    The man was subsequently identified as the complainant, and was de-arrested at the scene.

    Chief Superintendent Stuart Bell, in charge of policing in East Area, said: “All police officers know they will be held to account for any use of force, and any use of force must be reasonable.

    “On this occasion, PC Marsh went beyond the level of force necessary and it is right that he has to face the consequences of his actions.

    “I would like to apologise to the victim of the assault. This incident should not have happened and it is a matter of profound regret that an innocent member of the public was injured in this way.”

    PC Marsh was sentenced at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Monday, 29 April 2024, to 12 weeks in jail, suspended for 12 months. He must also complete 150 hours unpaid work, pay £1,500 compensation and a statutory charge of £154.

    PC Marsh will be placed on the barred list held by the College of Policing. Those appearing on the list cannot be employed by police, local policing bodies, the Independent Office for Police Conduct or His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire and Rescue Services.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Corner Brook — RCMP-RNC JFO West searches home in Gillams and seizes drugs and weapons, two individuals arrested

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    RCMP-RNC Joint Forces Operation (JFO) West searched a home in Gillams on March 21, 2025. Officers located a quantity of drugs and weapons. Two individuals, a man and a woman both 44 years of age, were arrested.

    On Friday evening, with a search warrant authorized under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act, JFO West, with assistance of RCMP NL’s General Investigation Section and the Royal Newfoundland Constabulary’s Patrol Services, entered a home on Pioneer Avenue in Gillams. The two individuals were arrested without incident inside the home.

    Police located and seized approximately 1.5 ounces of cocaine, a quantity of prescription pills, a prohibited weapon (brass knuckles), a handgun that is believed to be an airsoft pistol and other items consistent with possession for the purpose of drug trafficking.

    Both individuals are scheduled to attend court at a later date, each to face a charge of possession for the purpose of trafficking cocaine. The man is additionally facing a charge of possession of a prohibited weapon.

    The investigation is continuing with further charges possible.

    JFO West, which includes dedicated police officers from both the RCMP and RNC, targets drug trafficking and organized crime on the west coast of the province.

    If you are a resident on the province’s west coast and you suspect there is drug trafficking in your neighbourhood, JFO West wants to talk with you. You can remain anonymous while speaking directly with a police officer by contacting the JFO West designated drug line at (709) 637-4221.

    Residents in other areas of the province are encouraged to contact their local police detachment to report illegal drug activities.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Met officers identify prolific shoplifters who targeted Tesco in Hackney

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    Two prolific offenders have been identified following a Met Police investigation into shoplifting at a shop in Hackney.

    Officers worked with staff at the Tesco Express, Old Street, Hackney to identify Garvey Powell and Carmen Sinclair. Through analysing CCTV, they linked the pair to more than 30 thefts.

    One officer from the local policing team in Hackney worked a 33-hour shift after the pair were arrested to collate the evidence and secure charges against them.

    Sergeant Adam Hunter, from the Met’s Neighbourhood Policing Team in Haggerston, said:

    “We know shoplifting has a huge impact on businesses and also fuels other crime and anti-social behaviour. We recognise it’s something that Londoners are concerned about and we’re working hard to tackle it. This outcome demonstrates the commitment of officers.

    “This pair’s offending cost Tesco many thousands of pounds in stock and tens of thousands in additional security measures, and we’re pleased our investigation has brought them to justice.”

    Powell was repeatedly seen on CCTV entering the shop with a large bag or rucksack and filling them with bottles of wine. He was regularly assisted by Sinclair. On many occasions, they would steal wine worth hundreds of pounds in under a minute and sometimes targeted the retailer two or three times a day.

    The offences happened between July 2024 and March 2025. Officers viewed more than 40 hours of CCTV footage to identify the offenders. They were arrested at their house on Thursday, 13 March and charged the following day.

    A Tesco spokesperson said:

    “Our colleagues work hard to serve our customers every day, and every member of our team deserves to feel safe at work. We would like to thank all the Police Officers, store teams and our internal security team who have worked collaboratively on this case. We continue to work closely with partners such as the Metropolitan Police to share information and invest in new ways to keep our stores, like the Old St Hackney Express, safe places to work and shop.”

    Garvey Powell, 45 (24.07.79), of Aitken Close, Hackney, pleaded guilty to 19 counts of theft and breach of court bail. He was sentenced at Thames Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, 18 March to 9 months’ imprisonment and a five-year Criminal Behaviour Order. One of the conditions bans him from being in possession of a bag or rucksack in Hackney.

    Carmen Sinclair, 47 (21.09.77), of Whiston Road, Hackney, pleaded guilty to 12 counts of theft. She will be sentenced at Stratford Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, 22 April.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Man pleads guilty to stabbing in Croydon

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    A 31-year-old man has pleaded guilty to stabbing five people in a commercial warehouse in Marlowe Way, Beddington.

    Babah Sesay, 31 (01.03.1994) of Rodney Estate, Southwark, appeared at Croydon Crown Court on Thursday, 20 March. He admitted 10 charges related to the incident, including wounding with intent and actual bodily harm.

    Shortly before 10:15hrs on Thursday, 23 January, Sesay burst into the distribution centre, where he used to work, and attacked a handful of former colleagues as they tried to stop him.

    Five men were taken to hospital – one in his 50s, two in their 30s and two in their 20s – where thankfully their injuries were confirmed to be non-life-threatening or life-changing.

    Detective Superintendent Dan Rutland, who leads policing in south London, said: “The swift actions of our officers helped to ensure no one was seriously hurt in this incident.

    “I hope this, and the judicial result, brings closure and comfort to those involved and highlights to the community that we will not tolerate violence in any form.”

    Despite Sesay fleeing the scene, he was arrested an hour later at a nearby restaurant. He was taken to hospital with minor injuries following his arrest, before being transferred to custody.

    He was later charged with five counts of wounding with intent, two counts of aggravated burglary, one count of actual bodily harm, one count of assault by beating and one count of possession of an offensive weapon.

    He will be sentenced at Croydon Crown Court on Thursday, 5 June.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: 36th Annual International Military Chiefs of Chaplains Conference and First Chaplain Africa Forum held in Brussels

    Source: United States AFRICOM

    The U.S. European Command (EUCOM) and Belgian Ministry of Defence, in partnership with U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) and U.S. Indo Pacific Command (INDOPACOM) Chaplain Directorates, hosted the world’s largest annual meeting of senior military religious leaders at the 36th Annual NATO & Partner International Military Chiefs of Chaplains Conference (IMCCC) in Brussels, Belgium, January 27-31, 2025.

    Over 200 military chaplains, academic experts, and special guests participated, representing 43 nations and more than 30 religious denominations. This year’s gathering included a special Africa Summit hosted by AFRICOM, highlighting the role of chaplains in fostering regional stability through spiritual and ethical leadership. Delegates divided into working groups to share information, identify training needs and areas cooperation, and update their future engagement plans.

    “This conference has not only strengthened our bonds across nations but has also underscored the indispensable role of chaplains in modern military operations, particularly in fostering resilience and ethical leadership in Africa and beyond.” said Major General Kenneth Ekman, DOD West Africa Coordination Lead, AFRICOM.

     AFRICOM’s Command Chaplain, U.S. Army Chaplain Colonel Karen Meeker said, “Our engagement at the IMCCC and the Africa Forum is crucial for developing a comprehensive approach to chaplaincy that resonates with the unique cultural and spiritual landscapes of Africa, ensuring our chaplains are well-prepared to support our service members and their families.”

    Experts from the United Nations, European Union, NATO, Belgium Armed Forces and other organizations briefed attendees on topics such as conflict resolution, interoperability and the importance of interworld view dialogue for achieving peace. Delegates collaborated to identify areas of cooperation and update their future engagement plans.

    EUCOM Command Chaplain, Colonel Christopher LaPack, shared, “First, I want to sincerely thank EUCOM’s co-hosts for this year’s IMCCC. The Belgian Planning Team, led by Chief Chaplain Hans De Cuester, provided a world-class forum for what turned out to be the biggest-ever IMCCC. I have no doubt that the engagements that took place this week will improve future interoperability amongst our chaplaincies. The change in security environment and NATO’s military posture in response to Russian aggression in the region means that our nations’ warfighters are more integrated than ever before. Military chaplains must be properly trained and ready to respond to the religious and spiritual needs of military personnel serving in multinational formations.”

    The Africa Forum agenda also highlighted the role of chaplains in the DoD State Partnership Program (SPP), which partners National Guard forces from the United States with militaries around the world. Chaplain General Henry Matifeyo, Zambian Ministry of Defence said, “The discussions here, especially the tri-lateral meetings, have opened new avenues for cooperation. We are keen on building a network that not only strengthens our chaplaincy but also addresses critical issues like PTSD and moral injury through a multi-disciplinary lens.”

    The IMCCC began in 1990 when the USEUCOM chaplain’s office convened twelve senior NATO military chaplains in order to provide a forum for dialogue to enhance interoperability among NATO chaplaincies, facilitate mutual support, and ensure professional pastoral care is available to all Allied Forces during combat or crisis circumstances. Over time, its scope has expanded to enhance religious affairs interoperability, strengthen international relations, support warfighter and family resilience, improve spiritual advisement for commanders, and promote religious freedom. The IMCCC 2025 has grown into a forum that includes not just European military religious leaders but also leaders from Africa, Asia and North America to share ideas and practices that support the collective security mission on a global scale. This year’s focus on Africa was a step forward in recognizing and addressing the unique needs of this diverse continent.

    List of national chaplaincies that participated in the 2025 conference: Armenia, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Burkina Faso, Botswana, Canada, Cote d’Ivoire, Cyprus, Czechia, Estonia, Eswatini, Finland, France, Gabon, Georgia, Germany, Ghana, Greece, Italy, Kenya, Kosovo, Latvia, Lithuania, Malawi, , Netherlands, Nigeria, Norway, Poland, Serbia, , Slovenia, South Africa, South Korea, , Switzerland, United Kingdom, United States, and Zambia.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Officer dismissed for grooming a child

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    An officer who groomed an 11-year-old girl has been dismissed without notice.

    A misconduct hearing was held for PC Elvis Moreira, attached to West Area Command Unit, following allegations he engaged in inappropriate and sexual communications with a child between 2019 and 2020.

    The matter was reported to Thames Valley Police in September 2023 and an immediate investigation launched, with PC Moreira suspended from duty.

    The case did not meet the evidential threshold for criminal charges, but was subject to a misconduct investigation by the Met’s Directorate of Professional Standards.

    Chief Superintendent Jill Horsfall, who leads policing for west London, said: “PC Moreira’s behaviour was repugnant and fell very far below the high standards we expect of our officers.

    “The hearing carefully considered the evidence and dismissed PC Moreira without notice.”

    The hearing found the allegations proven at the level of gross misconduct and that PC Moreira had breached standards of professional behaviour in relation to discreditable conduct. He was immediately dismissed.

    PC Moreira will now be placed on the barred list held by the College of Policing. Those appearing on the list cannot be employed by police, local policing bodies, the Independent Office for Police Conduct or His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire and Rescue Services.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Marshals in WV Apprehend Ohio Waffle House Shooting Suspect

    Source: US Marshals Service

    Charleston, WV – Members of the Southern District of West Virginia U.S. Marshals CUFFED Task Force (Cops United Felony Fugitive Enforcement Division) today arrested a man wanted by authorities in Ohio for felonious assault in reference to a September 2024 shooting at an Akron Waffle House.

    Taerin Young, 22, of Akron, was taken into custody at approximately 9 a.m. at a residence in Clendenin. During the arrest, two firearms, 52 grams of fentanyl, and nearly $10,000 in currency were also seized. 

    Springfield, Ohio, Township Police responded around 2:30 a.m. Sept. 28, 2024, to a report of a shooting incident at the Waffle House at 3031 South Arlington Road. Police said individuals in two vehicles driving north on Arlington Road discharged multiple firearms toward a group of individuals gathered outside the open restaurant. Some of the group outside the restaurant then returned fire. No injuries were reported as a result of the shooting. Young is currently incarcerated in West Virginia and is awaiting extradition back to Ohio.  

    The U.S. Marshals CUFFED Task Force and U.S. Marshals Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force (NOVFTF). The Kanawha County Sheriff’s Office Warrant Division and the Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team (MDENT) aided in the apprehension. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Philippines and U.S Army Soldiers Conduct Joint Class For Military Decision-Making Process

    Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

    FORT MAGSAYSAY, Philippines – Soldiers from the Philippine Army Aviation Regiment and U.S. Army 25th Combat Aviation Brigade, 25th Infantry Division conducted a joint Subject Matter Expert Exchange (SMEE) on Air Mission Planning, highlighting the Military Decision-Making Process (MDMP) in support of Salaknib 2025 on Fort Magsaysay, Philippines, March 19, 2025.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: US and ROK Soldiers Forge Stronger Ties in Joint Wet Gap Training

    Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

    YEONCHEON-GUN, Republic of Korea — A river stands between them and mission success. U.S. and Republic of Korea Army Soldiers, side by side, race against time to construct a bridge under simulated combat conditions for the Command Forces Command’s Freedom Shield 25 exercise.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Syracuse Man Sentenced for Federal Robbery Offense

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    SYRACUSE, NEW YORK – Quashawn Pettiford, age 34, of Syracuse, was sentenced today to 71 months in federal prison for Interference With Commerce Through Robbery. 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.

    As part of his prior plea agreement, Pettiford admitted that on January 11, 2022, he and two others entered a gas station in Salina, New York, wearing masks. The other two individuals carried BB guns that appeared to be real firearms. Those individuals pointed the BB guns at the store clerk and one of them pressed a gun into the clerk’s neck while directing the clerk to open the cash register. Pettiford further admitted that he and the other robbers took approximately $1,200 in merchandise from the store shelves, approximately $1,495 from the cash register, and $513 from the clerk’s wallet.

    Chief United States District Judge Brenda K. Sannes also imposed a 3-year term of supervised release to begin after Pettiford is released from prison. Pettiford was also ordered to pay restitution to the victims of the offense and to forfeit the $3,208 proceeds of the offense.

    FBI investigated the case with assistance from the New York State Police, Syracuse Police Department, DeWitt Police Department, and Onondaga County District Attorney’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Matthew J. McCrobie and Thomas R. Sutcliffe prosecuted the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: St. Lawrence County Man Pleads Guilty to Receiving and Possessing Child Pornography

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    SYRACUSE, NEW YORK – Robert LaVair, age 19, of Louisville, New York, pled guilty today to receipt and possession of child pornography announced United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III and Erin Keegan, Special Agent in Charge of the Buffalo Field Office of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI).

    As part of his guilty plea, LaVair admitted that in January of 2024, he received numerous images and videos of child pornography by downloading them from the dark web.  In addition to child pornography obtained from the internet, LaVair also admitted that he possessed sexually explicit images and videos of a nine-year-old child that he produced while the child was sleeping. 

    A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the statute the defendant violated, the United States Sentencing Guidelines, and other factors.  However, if Chief United States District Judge Brenda K. Sannes accepts the parties’ agreed-upon disposition at sentencing, scheduled for July 18, 2025, LaVair will receive a federal prison term of between 14 and 15 years to be followed by 15 years of post-release supervision. LaVair will also be required to pay restitution to the children whose images he received and possessed, and will have to register as a sex offender upon his release from prison. 

    The case was investigated by HSI and the New York State Police and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Adrian S. LaRochelle and Benjamin Gillis as a part of Project Safe Childhood.

    Project Safe Childhood is a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.

    MIL Security OSI –