NewzIntel.com

Category: Security Intelligence

  • MIL-OSI Security: NMRTC Twentynine Palms Sailors sharpen skills and build camaraderie at shooting event

    Source: United States Navy (Medical)

    Sailors from Navy Medicine Readiness and Training Command (NMRTC) Twentynine Palms gathered for a team building, morale, and marksmanship event on Feb. 26, 2025, reinforcing weapons proficiency and strengthening unit cohesion. The event provided Sailors across various rates with the opportunity to practice shooting, many of whom do not regularly handle firearms in their daily military duties.

    “The shooting event was great for team building and served as an opportunity to exercise our lethal warfighting capabilities,” said Religious Program Specialist 3rd Class Diego Escalante from San Diego, Calif.

    Participants used the event to emphasize the importance of basic firearms knowledge and safety for all service members, regardless of their occupational specialties.

    “Being in the military, I feel all rates should have at least some familiarity with basic firearms and firearms safety, which this event allowed us to cover,” said Master-at-Arms 2nd Class Samuel Schoep, from Hudson, New York. “Shooting is a requirement for my rate, so being able to get out onto the range helps keep my required skills fresh.”

    The event was especially beneficial for Sailors in roles where firearms proficiency can make up a component of their rate’s responsibilities.

    “As an RP (Religious Program Specialist), we are expected to be skilled with firearms due to chaplains not being able to fire or carry. We serve as their protection and point man.” Escalante said. “In this unit, my mission changes within the dynamic of a hospital environment, so I don’t use firearms regularly. However, that won’t always be the case at future duty stations.”

    “For my rate I must qualify for Marksman annually on the Navy Handgun Qualification Course, so having the opportunity helped me brush up on my shooting,” added Master-at-Arms Seaman Apprentice Thuan Nguyen from Bradenton, Florida.

    For a hospital corpsman, shooting proficiency can be critical in operational environments where they may be required to provide medical aid in combat situations. Hospital Corpsman 1st Class (SW) Logan Wilkerson, from Columbus, Georgia, highlighted why corpsmen need to be capable of being armed in the line of duty.

    “For the general population, the thought of medical personnel using a weapon is generally unheard of,” Wilkerson said. “However, in the military, a Hospital Corpsman providing life-saving measures in a combative environment is very likely. When caring for an injured service member, we (corpsmen) can turn to the Hospital Corpsman Pledge — specifically, ‘I will not knowingly permit harm to come to any patient.’ To me, this means defending my patient.”

    Wilkerson explained the historic importance of firearms use for corpsmen by referencing the heroic actions of Hospital Apprentice 1st Class Robert E. Bush, the namesake of the hospital where he serves, who received the Medal of Honor for his valor in the Battle of Okinawa.

    “With the (plasma) bottle held high in one hand, Bush drew his pistol with the other and fired into the enemy ranks until his ammunition was expended,” Wilkerson recounted. “History has proven that familiarity and practice with putting rounds down range can mean the difference between life and death for a corpsman’s patient. After all, a common saying from corpsmen is that one of the best forms of medicine is rounds down range.”

    The event also served as a platform for fostering camaraderie among service members beyond their typical work environments. Lt. Jason Wang, Operations Management Department Head and Healthcare Administrator from Sylmar, Calif., shared that one of the reasons he set up the event was to offer a unique way for colleagues to bond.

    “There are a lot of private gun owners or individuals — both civilian and active duty — who know how to shoot and safely handle a gun,” Wang said. “Bringing together individuals who enjoy and share this hobby allows co-workers to relate to each other in ways beyond just their job functions.”

    Twentynine Palms provides unique opportunities for shooting practice due to its desert environment and access to range facilities on base. While some service members expressed that shooting ranges are available at most duty stations, the terrain in Twentynine Palms offers a distinctive experience and more access to opportunities.

    “The major difference from other duty stations is the terrain,” Wilkerson said. “Out here in the desert, with the mountains and rocks as backdrops, it doesn’t take much imagination to put yourself in a different time and place.”

    “The environment allows more opportunities to shoot in the desert and on base than other larger metropolitan bases. Additionally, the base here is more relationship and network-based which creates opportunities in comparison to larger bases where it is easy to get lost on who is who in the zoo,” added Wang.

    Sailors expressed a desire for more frequent opportunities to refine their weapons-handling skills, recognizing the value in staying proficient even if their current assignments do not require regular firearms use.

    “The concept of firearms can be foreign to many and basic bootcamp isn’t remotely enough to gain comfortability and skill. Different rates and units come with different priorities,” Escalante explained. “In a place like a naval hospital, even though our corpsmen often serve a different mission here, at least one to two refresher courses per year would only benefit us as service members.”

    The event underscored NMRTC Twentynine Palms’ commitment to bolstering operational readiness, morale, and unit cohesion.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Sailors and Marines Ready Their Casualty Response Skills aboard USS America (LHA 6)

    Source: United States Navy (Medical)

    Sailors and Marines aboard the forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS America (LHA 6) train to respond to casualties of all grades, in war and peace. USS America’s medical department integrates and serves Sailors and Marines alike. As part of a joint effort, the Sailors of the ship and those assigned to the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (31st MEU) participate in medical drills to ready their proficiency in trauma care.

    “The integration of green and blue side corpsmen is very different, but I like it because you see how everybody’s roles come together,” said Hospital Corpsman 2nd Class Jalen King, assigned to the 31st MEU. “We’re going through our fundamentals with one end goal. To get our patient to the next higher echelon of care.”

    One aspect of medical readiness is training for mass casualty treatment. Integrated drills serve as a vital training for both blue and green side corpsman. Mass casualty drills are a simulated scenarios that test the capabilities of the integrated Navy and Marine Corps medical team aboard USS America, preparing the providers to treat a strenuous number of inbound casualties. A large influx of patients all at once tests, refines and enhances their current medical capabilities while improving the corpsmen’s abilities to triage a variety of wounded warriors from the battlefield.

    “The purpose of the mass casualty drill is always to test your skills. You have to do this to refresh your muscle memory and skills because medicine is always changing,” said Chief Hospital Corpsman Benjamin Guinto, assigned to the 31st MEU. “You need to up to date on the latest instructions, the best way of treating a patient, and all possible medical interventions.”

    It is very important that the blue and green side corpsman go through practice drills to create cohesion and efficiency amongst all those involved. Joint training allows for the sharpening of the basic and advanced skills of new members supporting the medical mission, as there is a constant flow of personnel arriving to the ship with each patrol—each with knowledge to be gained and given.

    “It is a growing and a learning process, but it is definitely getting better,” said Hospital Corpsman 3rd Class Dyanna Keiji, assigned to USS America. “I get more confident in our ability to work together as a team if we ever had to actually deal with an actual emergency or influx of mass casualties.”

    Each side has a different set of skills, such as field medicine with green side corpsmen and bedside medicine for the blue side corpsmen. It takes time to understand each respective branch’s equipment and techniques. There come some learning curves for the green side corpsman as most are not used to practicing critical care aboard a ship.

    “Working with the blue side corpsman during the mass casualty drills has been going pretty well. Having not been on a ship before, I am learning where things are and the process on how they do these drills,” said Hospital Corpsman 2nd Class Jomari Cruz, assigned to the 31st MEU. “I am learning a lot from them and it is uplifting.”

    Despite being more familiar with the ship and the equipment aboard there are difficulties as well for blue side corpsman—such as fluid communications with the green side or understanding field medical equipment. Sailors who may have only been a blue side corpsman may come across a certain experience or situation that is more familiar to their green side counterpart, so gaining more insight on how to approach and handle a new situation gives greater awareness and overall familiarity with the unknowns that come with the overall job of being a corpsman.

    “It is pretty empowering working with the green side corpsmen because they bring a different skill set and we have different backgrounds when we are working together,” said Hospital Corpsman Guadalupe Beech, assigned to Fleet Surgical Team Seven (FST 7). “It always feels like a safe environment to ask questions. If there is something that I do not know, there’s a good chance the green side might know.”

    The mass casualty drills help the corpsman train and expect what could come, but it is also informative to the surrounding Sailors who are not directly involved with the drill. The drills display a possible reality at any moment to those who could have a chance to be a helping hand at any given moment.

    “From the people that just watch us do the drills, I think it opens their eyes that this is not just practice, this might happen and makes them think what they will you do when this happens,” said Chief Hospital Corpsman Alexander Naval, assigned to FST 7. “As a bystander, what part can you play if the medical team is busy? From stretcher bearers to directing the traffic or controlling the crowd, we need everyone to not just watch, but help the medical team.”

    No matter the situation, green and blue side corpsmen continue to work together to grow and evolve their skill set prior to coming together for the drills. The medical world is ever growing and corpsmen continue learning new things every day to help those in their time of need, even if they do not know when that may be.

    “The greatest takeaway is that we are learning every day,” said Chief Naval. “For the junior Sailors, this is the biggest learning experience they can get because we are looking at real world scenarios that could happen in the near future, so we are making them ready for any situation. We are here to guide them on what to do and what to expect in case a mass casualty actually happens.”

    On this winter patrol, the corpsmen of the USS America and the 31st MEU have worked together tirelessly to improve, grow together, and above all else, be prepared and ready for any situation. The combined forces of the blue and green medical team have seen the self-improvement amongst each other and within themselves, feeling more ready than ever as they continue to treat the integrated Navy and Marine Corps teams.

    “The integration between the green and blue side has been the best that I have ever seen. I have been in FST 7 since 2022 and I have never seen it this good,” Beech stated, “We communicate daily, we see each other’s patients, and I feel that our morale is good as well.”

    America, lead ship of the America Amphibious Ready Group, is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations. U.S. 7th Fleet is the U.S. Navy’s largest forward-deployed numbered fleet, and routinely interacts and operates with allies and partners in preserving a free and open Indo-Pacific region.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: NAVCENT Hosts Mental Health Campaign at NSA Bahrain

    Source: United States Navy (Medical)

    MANAMA, Bahrain— Mental health providers, chaplains, counselors, and support service groups aboard Naval Support Activity (NSA) Bahrain gathered to kick off the 2025 Mental Health Campaign, March 4.

    The five-session campaign, hosted by the U.S. Naval Forces Central Command (NAVCENT) Religious Ministries Team, features topics including learning the resources, best practices for navigating mental health, building the human connection, creating positive environments, and effective leadership.

    The first session covered learning the resources, allowing participants to connect with counselors from Fleet and Family Support Center (FFSC) Bahrain, Navy Medicine Readiness and Training Unit (NMRTU) Bahrain mental health professionals, Military and Family Life Counselors (MFLC), and other embedded mental health officers and licensed social workers supporting the installation.

    “The overall goal of the event is to help leadership continue to develop a deliberate mental health strengthening strategy through the information promulgated in alignment with CNO’s [Chief of Naval Operations] Quality of Service initiative, while building collaboration between the Bahrain mental health entities,” said Cmdr. Devon Foster, NAVCENT/ U.S. 5th Fleet deputy chaplain. “There are more than 20 designated caregivers on island consisting of chaplains, MFLCs, LSWs [licensed social workers], psychologists, as well as the professional doctors and nurses at Serene Hospital. This was all about learning the resources from the Navy’s Mental Health Playbook and Roadmap. While our services as providers can overlap, our session shows how each caregiver cares and provides unique amenities within their portfolio.”

    NSA Bahrain’s mental health roadmap outlines key resources available on the installation for personnel seeking support, ranging from connecting with friends, family, and chains of command, to seeking support from providers through outpatient care off-base.

    During the event, Capt. Jorge Brito, NAVCENT/U.S. 5th Fleet force surgeon, discussed the importance of brain health, emphasizing risk factors, and ways to promote healthy brain function. The presentation included an interactive activity which allowed participants the opportunity to brainstorm ways they thought individuals could improve brain health through implementing or abstaining from certain factors. The exercise validated some beliefs, and challenged common misconceptions about brain health.

    The Mental Health Campaign will continue with Session 2, covering best practices for navigating mental health.

    “By understanding these services each person can seek assistance from one or more of these professional to meet their needs,” said Foster. “If the help can best be served through another provider, the person will be referred to whomever can give them the care they need.”

    NSA Bahrain’s mission is to support U.S. and coalition maritime operations throughout the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations by providing security for ships, aircraft and tenants on board NSA Bahrain and assigned detachments. NSA Bahrain provides efficient and effective shore services to sustain the fleet, enable the fighter and support the family with honor, courage and commitment.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: CENTCOM Conducts Bomber Task Force Mission

    Source: United States Central Command (CENTCOM)

    Mar. 6, 2025
    Release Number 20250306-01
    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

    TAMPA, Fla. – On March 4, U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) conducted a Bomber Task Force Mission in the Middle East, strengthening partner interoperability and demonstrating force projection capabilities in the region. It was the third BTF mission in two weeks. A B-52H Stratofortress from RAF Fairford, UK, flew across Europe and into the CENTCOM area of responsibility during their mission, which included aerial refueling and training opportunities with partner nations.

    -30-

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Morocco Purchases AH-64 Apache Helicopters

    Source: United States AFRICOM

    Morocco marked its initial purchase of AH-64E Apache helicopters in a ceremony at Sale Air Base near Rabat, March 5, 2025.

    The sale marks a significant step in improving the capabilities of the Royal Moroccan Air Force (RMAF) as well as supporting the foreign policy and national security of the United States.

    “By purchasing these Apache helicopters, Morocco has made a significant step in investing in their security and in regional security. This investment now puts them in a new level of warfighting capability,” said Gen. Michael Langley, U.S. Africa Command Commander, who was present at the ceremony.  

    The aircraft arrived in Morocco late last month from the U.S. as part of a Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) initiative announced in 2020. 

    “The United States and Morocco have a long history of partnership reaching back nearly 250 years when Morocco was the first to recognize U.S. independence,” explained U.S. Charge d’Affaires Aimee Cutrona.   “Today, we are witnessing the steady and consistent growth of the longstanding U.S.-Morocco security cooperation that continues to advance our interests in the region and the world.”

    The AH-64E, first developed in 2012, is enhanced from previous models and brings increased capabilities that feature improved digital connectivity, more powerful engines, capability to control unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), full IFR capability, and improved landing gear. It can reach speeds of 150 knots (278 km/hr) with a range of over 450 km. 

    “The Apache helicopter, especially this model, brings advanced weaponry in reconnaissance and attack, enabling the Royal Moroccan Air Force (RMAF) to better secure their borders to deter and defeat terrorism in the region,” said U.S. Army Lt. Col. James Anderson, Chief of the Office of Security Cooperation, Rabat.

    The Utah Army National Guard (UTNG) also maintains a unique partnership with Morocco’s Royal Armed Forces through the Department of Defense’ State Partnership Program (SPP). This involves extensive training and relationship building that has led to deeper ties between the FAR and the Utah National Guard (UNG) at all levels, and it has encouraged even greater overall security cooperation between our two countries.

    “The UTNG flies Apache helicopters and we’re looking forward to taking advantage of more training opportunities together,” said Maj. Jared Sorensen, Bilateral Affairs Officer and the UTNG representative in the Office of Security Cooperation, Rabat, “being able to fly and train together here will sharpen our skills and make us a more lethal force.”

     So far 24 RMAF pilots have received training in the U.S. and are qualified helicopter pilots together with five instructor pilots with three more expected soon. The pilots will undergo specific aircraft type training with the expectation that the entire squadron will be fully operational within the next six months.

    “These aircraft give the Royal Moroccan Air Force a lethal tool that will enable them to further our mutual security goals in the region,” said Langley. “Morocco is a critical partner for us and major non-NATO ally. Their leadership and dedication to furthering security and stability in the region shows daily how valuable this partnership is to both the people of Morocco and the U.S.”

    U.S. Africa Command is one of seven U.S. Department of Defense geographic combatant commands. The command is responsible for all U.S. military operations, exercises, security cooperation, and conducts crisis response on the African continent in order to advance U.S. interests and promote regional security, stability, and prosperity.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Two men charged with murder in connection with fatal shooting in 2016

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    Two men have been charged with murder following the death of a man, who was shot in Haringey in 2016.

    On Tuesday, 30 August 2016, Joel Bempah-Cumberbatch, 25 was shot on Turnpike Lane, Wood Green at around 15:22hrs.

    He was taken to hospital with a gunshot wound to his head.

    His injuries left him with significant brain damage and on 20, September 2022, he sadly died.

    In 2017 two men were convicted of attempting to murder Joel and sentenced to life in prison with a minimum of 13 years.

    Detectives within Specialist Crime North submitted a further file to the Crown Prosecution Service and on Monday, 3 March, the two men appeared at Highbury Magistrates Court in relation to murder charges. They appeared at the Central Criminal Court on the 5 March and a trial date was set for 16 February 2026.

    Jason Diur Kota, 29 (29.12.1995) and Denzican Karadag, 28 (26.03.1996) will next appear at the Old Bailey on 21 May 2025.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: EU and Brazil sign international agreement to fight organised crime and terrorism

    Source: Europol

    The agreement was signed today by Commissioner for Home Affairs and Migration, Magnus Brunner, and the Minister of Justice and Public Security of Brazil, Ricardo Lewandowski, in the presence of Europol’s Executive Director, Catherine De Bolle.Brazil has been a key partner for Europol since 2017, with a strong record of operational cooperation across various crime areas, including drug trafficking, cybercrime…

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Indo-Pacific Motorized Forum 25

    Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

    The purpose of Indo-Pacific Motorized Forum 25, is for senior leaders and multinational partners to discuss, plan, and prepare to enhance modernized war fighting functions among the Indo-Pacific region.

    The Forum began with a conference held at the Le Méridien, with 91 participants, including 42 U.S. personnel and 49 allied and partnered nation representatives from Australia, Canada, United Kingdom, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, and the Kingdom Thailand.

    I Corps subordinate units, 7th Infantry Division, 5th Security Forces Assistance Brigade, and many others, joined the discussion in regards to the Indo-Pacific Motorized Forum becoming a key platform for force modernization, operational integration, and strategic discussions.

    Participants shared their thoughts on modernization and future motorized operations, and discussed strategic methods to enhance security cooperation through training. The Indo-Pacific Motorized Forum 25 has become a cornerstone for multinational collaboration, allowing partners to refine doctrines, tactics, and operational strategies for motorized formations.

    U.S. Army Lt. Gen. Matthew W. McFarlane, commanding general of America’s First Corps, expressed the importance and his appreciation for U.S. Army service members, and multinational partners working together to maintain effectiveness and cohesion within the military.

    “The Indo-Pacific Motorized Forum 25 represents the continued commitment of the U.S. and its allies to enhancing regional security and interoperability,” said McFarlane. “Through collaboration, modernization, and shared operational experiences, we strengthen our collective ability to meet evolving security challenges in the Indo-Pacific.”

    On Feb. 27, The Royal Thai Army held a visit at the 112th Stryker RegimentCombat Team Headquarters in Chon Buri, Thailand. Discussions were made on behalf of maintaining sufficient military tactical vehicles for operations, and displayed a scenario based training utilizing a terrain model in a tactical environment.

    Leaders from all participating nations spoke on behalf of their military history. They emphasized their common goal of defense and security being an essential aspect between nations when working together and enhancing interoperability. Future Indo-Pacific Motorized Forums will continue to push these goals forward.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Schenectady Man Pleads Guilty to Possessing with Intent to Distribute Fentanyl

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    ALBANY, NEW YORK – Terrell Bell, age 27, of Schenectady, New York, pled guilty today to possessing with intent to distribute fentanyl. Acting United States Attorney Daniel Hanlon and Craig L. Tremaroli, Special Agent in Charge of the Albany Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), made the announcement.

    Bell was on parole in January 2024 when law enforcement searched his home in Schenectady and discovered nearly 1,800 fentanyl pills in his bedroom and over $90,000 throughout the home.

    At sentencing scheduled for July 9, 2025, Bell faces a minimum term of 5 years and a maximum term of 40 years in prison, a maximum fine of $5 million, and a term of supervised release after imprisonment of between 4 years and 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. Bell has also consented to the forfeiture of the currency seized from his home.

    FBI investigated this case with the assistance of the Schenectady Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mikayla Espinosa is prosecuting this case.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Binghamton Woman Sentenced to 8 Years in Prison for Escaping Federal Custody and Possessing with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    ALBANY, NEW YORK – Jade A. Pittsley, age 34, of Binghamton, New York, was sentenced today to 8 years in prison following her guilty plea to escaping from federal custody and possessing and intending to distribute methamphetamine. Acting United States Attorney Daniel Hanlon; Erin Keegan, Special Agent in Charge of the Buffalo Field Office of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI); and United States Marshal David L. McNulty made the announcement.

    As part of her prior guilty plea, Pittsley admitted that in November 2023, while she was serving a federal term of imprisonment for a drug offense involving methamphetamine, she was under the supervision of a halfway house.  Pittsley was directed to return to the halfway house but never did.  Days later, law enforcement found Pittsley carrying methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia in her purse.

    United States District Judge Mae A. D’Agostino also imposed a 4-year term of supervised release to begin after Pittsley is released from prison.

    HSI and the U.S. Marshals Service investigated this case with assistance from the Broome County Sheriff’s Office.  Assistant U.S. Attorneys Mikayla Espinosa and Kristen Grabowski prosecuted this case. 

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Nigerian Citizen Admits Guilt in Bank Fraud and Money Laundering Conspiracies Causing More Than $1.7 Million in Losses

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    David Daniyan Admits Supervising Conspiracies Led by Nigerian Citizen Oluwaseun Adekoya

    ALBANY, NEW YORK – David Daniyan, a/k/a “Bamikole Laniyan,” a/k/a “David Enfield,” a/k/a “Africa,” age 60, of Brooklyn, New York, pled guilty today in connection with his role in bank fraud and money laundering conspiracies led by Oluwaseun Adekoya, age 39, also a Nigerian citizen, of Cliffside Park, New Jersey.  Acting United States Attorney Daniel Hanlon and Craig L. Tremaroli, Special Agent in Charge of the Albany Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), made the announcement.

    Daniyan pled guilty today to conspiracy to commit bank fraud, money laundering conspiracy, and aggravated identity theft. Daniyan admitted that, working with Adekoya, he obtained the personal identifying information of people residing all over the United States and recruited lower-level conspirators to impersonate those people using fake driver’s licenses to fraudulently obtain cash, checks, and loans at their financial institutions and obtain merchandise using credit at retailers including Saks Fifth Avenue.  Daniyan also admitted to conspiring with Adekoya and others to launder the proceeds of their bank fraud by, among other things, using fraudulently obtained funds to purchase additional fake driver’s licenses and depositing fraudulently obtained checks into accounts in the names of identity-theft victims that were controlled by coconspirators.  Daniyan admitted that the bank fraud conspiracy netted over $1.7 million in fraud proceeds, and was perpetrated in the Northern District of New York and all over the country. 

    According to documents previously filed in the case, Daniyan, a citizen of Nigeria, has been living in the United States without authorization under numerous aliases since at least the 1990s when he was first investigated, charged, and convicted in another federal district under the stolen identity of a U.S. citizen. 

    The following defendants are charged as follows in the superseding indictment: 

    • Adekoya is charged with one count of conspiracy to commit bank fraud, one count of money laundering conspiracy, and nine counts of aggravated identity theft;
    • Kani Bassie, age 36, of Brooklyn, is charged with one count of conspiracy to commit bank fraud and two counts of aggravated identity theft;
    • Davon Hunter, age 27, of Richmond, Virginia, is charged with conspiracy to commit bank fraud and one count of aggravated identity theft;
    • Jermon Brooks, age 20, of Richmond, is charged with conspiracy to commit bank fraud and one count of aggravated identity theft;
    • Christian Quivers, age 20, of Richmond, is charged with conspiracy to commit bank fraud and one count of aggravated identity theft; and
    • Crystal Kurschner, age 44, of Brooklyn, is charged with conspiracy to commit bank fraud and one count of aggravated identity theft.

    As to these defendants, the charges in the superseding indictment are merely accusations. These remaining defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

    The prosecution is the result of an ongoing investigation led by the U.S. Attorney’s Office and FBI-Albany, which began after the May 2022 arrest of Daniyan, Gaysha Kennedy, age 46, of Brooklyn, and Victor Barriera, age 64, of the Bronx, New York, by the Cohoes Police Department after the trio traveled to the Capital Region to commit bank fraud. 

    Adekoya, Daniyan, Kennedy, and Barriera were originally indicted, along with coconspirators Jerjuan Joyner, age 50, of Brooklyn, Akeem Balogun, age 56, of Brooklyn, Danielle Cappetti, age 46, of the Bronx, and Lesley Lucchese, age 53, of Brooklyn, in connection with the conspiracy in an indictment returned in December 2023. 

    Sherry Ozmore, Kennedy, Barriera, Joyner, Balogun, Cappetti, and Lucchese have pled guilty to bank fraud conspiracy.

    At sentencing on July 10, 2025, Daniyan faces a maximum term of 30 years in prison for the bank fraud conspiracy, 20 years in prison for the money laundering conspiracy, and a mandatory consecutive term of 2 years in prison for his conviction of aggravated identity theft; as well as an order of restitution of at least $1,776,705.43 and a term of supervised release of up to 5 years.  Daniyan also agreed to forfeit nearly $100,000 in proceeds of the bank fraud conspiracy seized by federal authorities. A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the particular statutes the defendant is charged with violating, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other factors.

    Following his term of imprisonment, Daniyan will be placed into immigration removal proceedings.

    FBI Albany is investigating the case, with assistance from the FBI Field Offices in New York, Newark, Richmond and Resident Agencies in Westchester, New York; Brooklyn/Queens, New York; Garrett Mountain, New Jersey; and Fort Walton Beach, Florida.  Additional assistance was provided by other law enforcement agencies, including Immigration and Customs Enforcement – Enforcement & Removal Operations (New York Field Office & Albany sub-office); U.S. Department of State Diplomatic Security Service (Buffalo Field Office & St. Albans Resident Office); U.S. Social Security Administration – Office of the Inspector General; New York law enforcement agencies including the New York State Police; Cohoes PD; Colonie PD; Elmira PD; Corning PD; Plattsburgh PD; Florida law enforcement agencies including the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office and Escambia County Sheriff’s Office; the Pennsylvania State Police; Alabama law enforcement agencies including the Calhoun County Sheriff’s Office, Gasden PD, and Rainbow City PD; Georgia law enforcement agencies including the Georgia State Patrol, Bartow County Sheriff’s Office, and Morrow PD; Kansas law enforcement agencies including Lawrence PD and Overland Park PD; New Hampshire law enforcement agencies including Rochester PD, Manchester PD, and Amherst PD; the Delaware State Police; Maryland law enforcement agencies including the Maryland State Police, Harford County Sheriff’s Office and Baltimore County Sheriff’s Office; Wisconsin law enforcement agencies including Onalaska PD and Eau Claire PD; and Indiana law enforcement agencies including the Allen County Sheriff’s Office.

    Assistant United States Attorneys Benjamin S. Clark and Joshua R. Rosenthal are prosecuting this case.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: USINDOPACOM commander addresses Comprehensive Security Cooperation 25-1 Course participants

    Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

    Following an overview of USINDOPACOM strategy, Paparo answered questions from the CSC participants regarding regional security, highlighting allies and partners. 

    CSC is a five-week course attended by more than 80 mid-level military, government and non-government professionals from 33 nations in the Indo-Pacific to enhance security collaboration and strategic dialogue. After providing an overview, participants seek to develop resilient solutions to real organizational and regional security issues.

    DKI APCSS is a DoD institute that addresses regional and global security issues, inviting military and civilian representatives of the U.S. and Asia-Pacific nations to its comprehensive program of executive education and workshops, both in Hawaii and throughout the Indo-Pacific region.

    USINDOPACOM is committed to enhancing stability in the Indo-Pacific region by promoting security cooperation, encouraging peaceful development, responding to contingencies, deterring aggression and, when necessary, prevailing in conflict.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Anchorage man sentenced to over 13 years for robbing a bank on supervised release

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    ANCHORAGE, Alaska – An Anchorage man was sentenced yesterday to over 13 years in prison and will serve three years on supervised release for robbing a bank while on supervised release for a previous federal bank robbery conviction.

    According to court documents, on July 13, 2024, James Surrells, 54, entered a local credit union and told the teller to give him money. Surrells stated he had a gun, and when the teller paused, Surrells threated to produce the firearm. The teller gave Surrells $450, and he left the credit union.

    Later that day, law enforcement located Surrells in the back yard of a residence and he was arrested with the assistance of a crisis negotiator.

    Court documents explain that Surrells robbed the bank less than one year after being released from prison after serving a sentence for robbing a bank in 2014. During that bank robbery, Surrells indicated to a teller that he had a gun and demanded money. The teller gave him $1,210. Surrells was convicted of the prior bank robbery in 2015 and sentenced to nine years in prison and five years’ supervised release.

    Court documents further explain that Surrells was released from prison and started probation in July 2023. Four months into his supervised release, Surrells absconded and his whereabouts remained unknown until he was arrested for the 2024 robbery.

    On Oct. 21, 2024, Surrells pleaded guilty to one count of credit union robbery. Surrells received a 144-month sentence for his 2024 bank robbery and a consecutive 16-month sentence for violating his supervised release from the previous conviction, making his total sentence 160 months.

    “Mr. Surrells is a career criminal who chose to rob a bank while on supervised release for a previous bank robbery conviction and will now spend over a decade behind bars,” said U.S. Attorney Michael J. Heyman for the District of Alaska. “Perpetrators with extensive criminal histories who continue to commit crimes show a clear disregard for the law and will be held accountable. Our office will continue collaborating with law enforcement across the state to investigate and swiftly prosecute career criminals.”

    “James Surrells brazenly robbed a bank within a year of being released from prison for a previous bank robbery conviction,” said Special Agent in Charge Rebecca Day of the FBI Anchorage Field Office. “Surrells has repeatedly demonstrated his disregard for the law, and the safety and well-being of the public. FBI Anchorage’s Safe Streets Task Force will continue to collaborate with the United States Attorney’s Office to hold criminals like Surrells accountable for their actions.”

    The FBI Anchorage Field Office, with assistance from the Anchorage Police Department, investigated the case.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Alana Weber and former Assistant U.S. Attorney Christina Sherman prosecuted the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: 3rd MLG Conducts Instream Offload with USN, ROKMC During Freedom Banner 25

    Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

    The instream offload is part of the overarching Maritime Prepositioning Force strategy, which sees these supplies transported by ship and offloaded and distributed to III Marine Expeditionary Forces in-country prior to the Korean Marine Exchange Program. The instream variation of an MPF offload is designed to be conducted without routine logistical support systems.

    “This operation simulates an offload of equipment from a United States Naval Ship vessel directly to the shore and providing that equipment quickly to the (Marine Air-Ground Task Force) commander on the ground in locations where docking pierside for offload is untenable,” said 1st Lt. Rafael Almodovar Sanabria, assistant current operations officer with 3rd MLG. “This sealift capability allows equipment to flow in a non-permissive environment, where the ship anchors in a safe haven to provide that gear to shore in a rapid manner without use of a pier to dock at.”

    Off the coast of Dogu Beach outside ROKMC Base Pohang sat the USNS Dahl (T-AKR 312), one of four MPF ships as part of the USN’s Military Sealift Command, designed to sustain a MAGTF for up to 30 days. The USNS Dahl transferred the vehicles and equipment by crane onto an Improved Navy Lighterage System, a mobile platform used as the transportation asset between ship and shore. The INLS sails as close to the beach as possible before the equipment is taken off and staged for follow-on actions.

    However, the beach must be prepared beforehand, or as much as the conditions of operations can allow. ROK Marines with the ROKMC MLG laid expeditious roadway mats from the nearest road down to the edge of the surf, providing a cleared path for the equipment to exfiltrate the beach as quickly as possible.

    In addition to the instream offload refining the MLG’s ability to transport equipment in a contested environment, nearly 900 additional Marines and Sailors and additional vehicles and equipment was concurrently offloaded at Pohang Port via a High-Speed Transport vessel. The dual operations, both in support of upcoming III MEF bilateral training evolutions alongside the ROKMC forces, flexed the MLG’s ability to logistically support such a large force.

    “It’s been a significant exercise for us so far, conducting offload both pierside and instream of one of our MPF vessels, then transporting the equipment to multiple sites throughout the country,” said Brig. Gen. Kevin Collins, commanding general of 3rd MLG. “It’s important to demonstrate we can get our equipment to the peninsula, create a composite combat-credible force, and employ those forces and assets in a field training exercise.”

    The ability to conduct an instream offload is critical to logistical operations during a contingency or disaster relief event. Rather than being forced to rely on preexisting infrastructure to support the movement of warfighting or lifesaving equipment and supplies, the capability to execute sealift operations provides the ability to offload at virtually any feasible coastal location, rallying ashore, and moving inland where required. Coupled with the HST offload, MLG logisticians facilitated the doubling of III MEF forces and equipment in South Korea in a single day.

    “Most MEF level deployments require you to marshal hundreds of troops and cargo at some point, but never have I ever expected to marshal and stage almost 1,000 personnel plus cargo in a single rotation,” said Cpl. Matthew Mulherin, Jr., embarkation chief with G3, 3rd MLG. “We have reached a milestone with these offloads, raising the bar for future iterations of the exercise.”

    Freedom Banner is the validation and improvement of the MLG’s expeditious sealift capability and integrated logistics operations. This training strengthens the MLG’s ability to embark, offload and distribute gear and equipment across a contested environment in support of combat or humanitarian events alongside the command and support structure of the ROKMC MLG.

    “This is not just a relationship of warriors, but one of friends,” said Collins. “The ROK Marine Corps and U.S. Marine Corps are very close, but our MLGs are even closer.”

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: National Guard Space Operators Train with Allies at Cobra Gold

    Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

    The Guard units are here to train alongside partner nations, showcasing the crucial role of space in modern military operations and highlighting the DoD’s commitment to peace through strength.

    “The whole point of this is to show them what the Space Force can do for commanders,” said Lt. Gabrielle Zamojski, 216 EWS, space operator. “When we come out to exercises and show them different space systems, they can see what the electromagnetic warfare spectrum is and what the space link can look like.”

    The Guard units brought two systems to Cobra Gold: Honey Badger and Kraken. These systems passively observe and characterize signals in the space domain.
    “This is the first time my unit has supported this exercise and we’re slowly getting more Space Force integrated into it this and other exercises as well,” said Zamojski. “We’re a new branch, and we’re plugging into more exercises to highlight our strategic value to our allies and partners.”

    This training enhances interoperability with ally and partner nations and demonstrates the Space Force’s dedication to working as part of the Joint force.

    The countries involved in the space joint multinational component command for the exercise are the U.S., Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Australia, South Korea, Thailand, and Japan.

    “I am learning a lot about the space environment out here and this exercise is a great learning opportunity for space operators to go out and integrate with different nations while working on different types of missions from what we normally do at our home units,” said Senior Airman Michael Caravalho, 150 EWS, space operator. “Once they see what we can do, I can explain in detail the type of work I am doing and how the systems work together to accomplish the overall mission.”

    Joint Exercise Cobra Gold demonstrates the U.S. commitment to the region by building interoperability, multilateral cooperative arrangements, advancing common interests, and a commitment to our allies and partners in ensuring a free and open Indo-Pacific region.

    The U.S. DoD’s participation in Cobra Gold showcases the critical role of Joint Force space professionals in supporting global security objectives, demonstrating the value of their unique skills and experience in the space domain.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Carl Vinson Carrier Strike Group Arrives in Busan, Republic of Korea

    Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

    The visit to Busan exemplifies the U.S. commitment to the region, further enhancing relationships with ROK leaders and the local population.

    “An aircraft carrier port visit demonstrates our commitment to the alliance between the U.S. and the Republic of Korea,” said Rear Adm. Michael Wosje, commander, CSG-1. “Our alliance remains the linchpin of peace and security in Northeast Asia and the Korean Peninsula, and we are dedicated to working with our ROK Navy counterparts to ensure stability in the region.”

    For 250 years, the U.S. Navy has forged enduring alliances that are essential to its maritime warfighting capabilities. These partnerships have allowed us to project power, protect sea lanes, and safeguard global security.

    Additionally, the visit provides the opportunity for strike group Sailors and civilians to rest and recharge while being able to experience the city of Busan. During the port visit, Vinson is scheduled to host ship tours for several U.S. and ROK leaders, conduct multiple key leader engagements ashore, and participate in community relations and sporting events.

    “We are excited to pay another visit to the Republic of Korea, and we are grateful to the people of Busan for such a warm welcome,” said Capt. Matthew Thomas, commanding officer of Vinson. “Our Sailors look forward to participating in professional engagements and community service projects while meeting and engaging with the local community of South Korea.”

    Prior to their Busan port call, CSG-1 participated in Pacific Steller 2025, a multi-large deck event in the Philippine Sea. The exercise provided the strike group the opportunity to work and train alongside allies and partners to include the French Carrier Strike Group and Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force, fostering the alliance and maritime security in support of a secure and prosperous Indo-Pacific.

    CSG-1 consists of Vinson, embarked staffs of CSG-1 and Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) One, Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 2, the Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Princeton (CG 59), and Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyers USS Sterett (DDG 104) and USS William P. Lawrence (DDG 110).

    CVW-2 is composed of nine squadrons flying the F-35C Lightning II, F/A-18E/F Super Hornets, EA-18G Growler, E-2D Advanced Hawkeye, CMV-22 Osprey and MH-60R/S Seahawks.

    The Carl Vinson Carrier Strike Group is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations. U.S. 7th Fleet is the U.S. Navy’s largest forward-deployed numbered fleet, and routinely interacts and operates with allies and partners in preserving a free and open Indo-Pacific region.

    For more news from CSG-1 and Carl Vinson visit: https://www.dvidshub.net/unit/CSG1, https://www.dvidshub.net/unit/CVN70

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Jamestown man pleads guilty to drug and gun charges

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    BUFFALO, N.Y. – U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Richard Pearson, 47, of Jamestown, NY, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Lawrence J. Vilardo to possession with intent to distribute cocaine, and being a felon in possession of a firearm, which carry a maximum penalty of 30 years in prison.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Joshua A. Violanti, who is handling the case, stated that on June 25, 2024, investigators executed a search warrant at a Newland Avenue residence in Jamestown, seizing cocaine, methamphetamine, fentanyl, p-fluorofentanyl, suboxone strips, $200 in cash, a digital scale, and a firearm. Pearson was present during the search. He was previously convicted of felony charges in 2018 and 2009 in Chautauqua County Court, and in 2006 in Federal Court. As a result, Pearson is legally prohibited from possessing a firearm.

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

    The plea is the result of an investigation by the Jamestown Police Department, under the direction of Chief Timothy Jackson and the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Frank Tarentino, New York Field Division.

    Sentencing is scheduled for July 11, 2025, at 9:30 a.m. before Judge Vilardo. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Buffalo business owner sentenced for Medicaid fraud

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Arkan Fadhel, 30, of Buffalo, NY, who was convicted of conspiracy to commit health care fraud,  was sentenced to serve three years supervised release to include 12 months home incarceration by U.S. District Judge Lawrence J. Vilardo. In addition, Fadhel was also ordered to perform 400 hours of community service. Fadhel will also forfeit $781,186.80 and pay restitution totaling $250,000.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Franz M. Wright and Mary Clare Kane, who handled the case, stated that Fadhel is the owner of Queen City Transportation, Inc., which has been providing non-emergency Medicaid transportation rides since August 2018. Fadhel and several dozen other individuals drove Queen City beneficiaries to appointments, primarily at methadone clinics. Prior to operating Queen City, Fadhel was a driver for Great Lakes Transportation, another non-emergency Medicaid transportation company. Between August 6, 2018, and December 31, 2020, Fadhel submitted false and fraudulent attestation records to Medical Answering Service, a non-emergency Medicaid transportation management company. The attestation records included claims that rides were provided but never actually took place as well as billing group rides as if the rides had been separate, individual rides. The total loss amount to Medicaid was greater than $250,000.

    The sentencing is the result of an investigation by Western New York Health Care Fraud Task Force, which includes Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia, the New York State Department of Financial Services, under the direction of Superintendent Adrienne A. Harris, the New York State Police, under the direction of Major Amie Feroleto, and Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Naomi Gruchacz.     

    # # # #

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Former Nassau County Police Detective Convicted of Lying to the FBI to Cover Up His Work for the Bonanno Crime Family

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    The Bonanno Crime Family Paid Hector Rosario to Protect Their Illegal Gambling Parlors and Shut Down Rival Locations on Long Island Operated by Other Crime Families

    Hector Rosario, a former detective with the Nassau County Police Department (NCPD), was found guilty today by a federal jury in Brooklyn of making false statements to Federal Bureau of Investigation agents about his work for the Bonanno crime family.  The verdict followed a seven-day trial before United States District Judge Eric N. Vitaliano.  Rosario was fired by the NCPD after he was indicted in August 2022.  When sentenced, Rosario faces up to five years in prison.

    John J. Durham, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, Leslie R. Backschies, Acting Assistant Director in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation, New York Field Office (FBI) and Anne T. Donnelly, District Attorney, Nassau County District Attorney’s Office, announced the verdict.

    “This corrupt detective chose to prove his loyalty to an organized crime family over the public he was sworn to protect,” stated United States Attorney Durham. “When police officers exploit their positions for personal gain, it erodes public trust in law enforcement. My Office has zero tolerance for corruption by any public officials, and will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to ensure that it is punished to the fullest extent of the law.”

    “Hector Rosario, a former Nassau County detective, allowed himself to be bought by the mob to blatantly lie during a federal investigation into the Bonanno family’s illegal gambling operations,” stated FBI Acting Assistant Director in Charge Backschies. “Rosario’s lies not only protected an organized criminal enterprise, but also eroded the public’s trust in law enforcement and is a disservice to all who wear the badge honoring their oath to protect and serve. The FBI remains committed to disrupting any corrupt officer who prioritizes personal wealth over integrity to the shield.”

    “Hector Rosario cared more about lining his pockets with Bonanno family money and protecting his own interests than his fidelity to the law,” stated Nassau County District Attorney Donnelly.  “He disgracefully compromised the investigative work of his fellow detectives by tipping off a target and lied to federal agents as the walls were closing in on him. Together with our law enforcement partners, we will uncover and vigorously prosecute corruption in our law enforcement ranks in Nassau County, because no one is above the law.”

    As proven at trial, Rosario was paid by the Bonanno crime family to protect its illegal gambling operations. For over a decade, the Bonanno crime family operated illegal gambling businesses inside various coffee shops and sports clubs throughout Queens and on Long Island.  During the same period, the Genovese organized crime family operated illegal gambling businesses out of their own locations in Queens and Long Island, including Sal’s Shoe Repair in Merrick, New York, and the Centro Calcio Italiano Club in West Babylon, New York.

    The Bonanno organized crime family paid Rosario to attempt to shut down rival gambling parlors, including by conducting a fake police “raid” on the Genovese-run gambling spot located inside Sal’s Shoe Repair.  Rosario also provided a tip about a rival gambling spot to another detective in an attempt to get the location shut down.  He warned a Bonanno crime family associate that he was under investigation and not to speak on the phone because law enforcement might be listening, and Rosario also looked up the home address of a possible witness Rosario believed was cooperating against the Bonanno crime family.

    In January 2020, during the course of a federal grand jury investigation into the racketeering activities of the Bonanno and Genovese organized crime families, Rosario was interviewed by FBI agents. Rosario falsely stated that he had no information about the Mafia or illegal gambling spots.  He denied knowing the identity of the crime family associate he had warned, and he further falsely stated that he was not familiar with the gambling business inside Sal’s Shoe Repair.

    Rosario was acquitted by the jury of obstruction of justice.

    The government’s case is being handled by the Office’s Organized Crime and Gangs Section.  Assistant United States Attorneys Anna L. Karamigios, Sophia M. Suarez and Sean M. Sherman are in charge of the prosecution, with the assistance of Paralegal Specialist Eleanor Jaffe-Pachuilo.

    The Defendant:

    HECTOR ROSARIO
    Age:  51
    Mineola, Long Island

    E.D.N.Y. Docket No. 22-CR-355 (ENV) 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Alleged International Leader of MS-13 Extradited to Face Racketeering Charge Connected to at Least One Murder

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

               WASHINGTON – Moises Humberto Rivera-Luna, also known as Viejo Santos, 55, an alleged international leader of the violent MS-13 drug gang, made an initial appearance today in U.S. District Court following his extradition from Guatemala to the United States to face a racketeering charge connected to at least one murder. U.S. District Court Judge Royce Lamberth ordered Rivera-Luna held without bond.

               The extradition was announced today by U.S. Attorney Edward R. Martin, Jr., Supervisory Official Antoinette T. Bacon of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations Acting Special Agent in Charge Christopher Heck of the Washington Field Office, and Chief Pamela Smith of the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD).

    Rivera-Luna is one of seven defendants charged in a fourth superseding, nine-count indictment, which was returned on May 3, 2013 alleging a racketeering conspiracy, murder in aid of racketeering, kidnapping in aid of racketeering, assault with a deadly weapon in aid of racketeering and other offenses. Rivera-Luna is charged only with committing racketeering conspiracy. The government alleges that Rivera-Luna, while incarcerated in El Salvador, supervised operations of MS-13 cliques in the Washington, D.C. area. Upon release, he traveled to Guatemala where he was subject to extradition.

               “The decade-long pursuit of this alleged violent gang member illustrates our office’s resolve to remain focused and bring to justice those who violate the law no matter where they are, no matter how long it takes,” said U.S. Attorney Edward R. Martin, Jr.

               “Keeping Americans safe from transnational criminal gangs is one of the Department’s top priorities,” said Supervisory Official Bacon. “This defendant’s appearance in federal court in Washington today demonstrates our relentless commitment to seeking justice for victims, no matter how long it takes. Thanks to the incredible work by our federal prosecutors and law enforcement partners, we are one step closer to bringing closure for the many victims of this defendant’s alleged brutal violence.”

               “Moise Humberto Rivera-Luna will have his day in court, but he stands accused of very serious crimes. His alleged criminal activity combined with his leadership of the MS-13 transnational criminal organization, makes Rivera-Luna a significant threat to the safety of the American people,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Christopher Heck. “We are grateful for the strong relationships we enjoy with our local, state, federal and international law enforcement partners. Without their cooperation, none of this would be possible. ICE HSI Washington, D.C. will continue to work relentlessly and exhaust all resources to investigate and apprehend anyone who presents a threat to national security or the residents of our communities.”

               The indictment alleges that MS-13 engages in racketeering activity to include murder, narcotics distribution, extortion, robberies, obstruction of justice and other crimes. The indictment specifically states that some of the defendants allegedly participated in assaults against persons they believed to be rival gang members, made threats against persons they believed to be cooperating with law enforcement, and carried out extortions.

               The range of criminal activity alleged in the indictment includes acts committed in the District of Columbia, Maryland, Virginia and other states. The indictment alleges that there was frequent contact between MS-13 members in the Washington, D.C.-metropolitan area and El Salvador, and that persons incarcerated in El Salvador encouraged or ordered assaults and murders.

               Rivera-Luna is alleged to be an international leader of MS-13 who was sending orders and advice to an MS-13 clique operating in the Washington area, via cellular telephone calls from his prison cell in El Salvador. The indictment alleges that he and another MS-13 leader, Marvin Geovanny Monterrosa-Larios, also incarcerated in El Salvador, directed that a coalition of MS-13 cliques be formed in the Washington area. They advised local clique members that the coalition’s aim was to seek and kill MS-13 members who were found to be cooperating with law enforcement officials.                                                                                     

               Among other allegations, the indictment charges Rivera-Luna with ordering the murder of Louis Alberto Membreno-Zelaya, 27. Membreno-Zelaya was found stabbed to death on Nov. 6, 2008, near 11th Street and Otis Place, in Northwest Washington, D.C.

               The indictment also alleges that Rivera-Luna authorized the murder of Felipe Enriquez, 25, whose body was found on March 31, 2010, in Montgomery County, MD.

               This case is being prosecuted by Trial Attorney Lakeita F. Rox-Love of the Criminal Division’s Violent Crime and Racketeering Section (VCRS) and Assistant U.S. Attorney Nihar Mohanty of the Violence Reduction and Trafficking Offenses (VRTO) Section of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia. The case is being investigated by the Immigration and Customs Enforcement Homeland Security Investigations Washington Field Office and the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD).

               The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs provided significant assistance in securing the extradition of Rivera-Luna from Guatemala.

               Assistance was provided by the Montgomery County and the Prince George’s County, MD. Police Departments, the State’s Attorney’s Office for Montgomery County, MD., the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Maryland, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia.

               The prosecution grew out of the efforts of the federal Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force, a multi-agency team that conducts comprehensive, multi-level attacks on major drug trafficking and money laundering organizations. The principal mission of the nationwide program is to identify, disrupt, and dismantle the most serious drug trafficking and money laundering organizations and those primarily responsible for the nation’s drug supply.

               An indictment is merely an allegation and is not evidence of guilt. Every defendant is presumed innocent until, and unless, proven guilty in a court of law.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Mexican National in Custody Charged with Federal Drug Crimes

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    SALT LAKE CITY, Utah –A federal grand jury in Salt Lake City returned an indictment today charging a Mexican national with multiple drug crimes after law enforcement seized illicit drugs, including fentanyl in the District of Utah.

    Juana Gabriela Sancion Castaneda, 41, of Salt Lake County, Utah, was charged by complaint on February 19, 2025.

    According to court documents, in January 2025, the FBI Wasatch Metro Drug Task Force (WMDTF) began conducting a criminal investigation into Castaneda and other members of a drug trafficking organization believed to be distributing large quantities of narcotics in the District of Utah. On February 18, 2025, agents executed a search warrant at Castaneda’s residence in Salt Lake County and seized approximately 867 grams (almost two pounds) of field-tested positive fentanyl, and 794 grams (about 1 and ¾ pounds) of field-tested positive heroin. The fentanyl seized was approximately 8,000 fentanyl pills. Castaneda was subsequently detained.

    Castaneda is charged with possession of fentanyl with intent to distribute, and possession of heroin with intent to distribute. Her initial appearance on the indictment is scheduled for March 10, 2025 at 2:00 p.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 Wasatch Metro Drug Task Force (WMDTF), consisting of the FBI Salt Lake City Field Office, and the Davis Metro Narcotic Strike Force (DMNSF).

    The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Utah is prosecuting the case.

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Former Wellsville man charged with multiple counts of production of child pornography

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    ROCHESTER, N.Y. – U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced that a federal grand jury has returned an indictment charging Jason Goodsell, 39, formerly of Wellsville, NY, with seven counts of production of child pornography and one count of distribution of child pornography. the charges carry a mandatory minimum penalty of 15 years in prison and a possible maximum penalty of 225 years in prison. 

    Assistant U.S. Attorney David J. Rudroff, who is handling the case, stated that according to the indictment, between June 1, 2020, and December 2, 2021, Goodsell coerced a minor victim to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing a visual depiction of the conduct. In addition, between June 1 and June 30, 2022, Goodsell distributed the images of child pornography that he produced.

    Goodsell was arraigned this afternoon before U.S. Magistrate Judge H. Kenneth Schroeder, Jr. and detained.

    The indictment is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia, and the Wellsville Police Department, under the direction of Chief Timothy O’Grady. Additional Assistance was provided by the Pittsburgh Office of the FBI.

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Marshals Apprehend MS-13 Fugitive in North Carolina

    Source: US Marshals Service

    Winston-Salem, NC – The U.S. Marshals Service (USMS) Carolinas Regional Fugitive Task Force (CRFTF), working with the USMS NY/NJ Regional Fugitive Task Force and assisted by the Winston-Salem Police Department and U.S. Immigration Enforcement and Removal Operations, arrested at approximately 11:45 a.m. today a high-ranking MS-13 member in the 3000 block of Gilmer Avenue in Winston-Salem.

    Josue Zepeda-Padilla, an illegal immigrant who has eluded law enforcement officials for over a year, is one of seven alleged members of the MS-13 street gang indicted for a violent gang assault and kidnapping of a 15-year-old in New York, in which the defendants allegedly robbed, kidnapped, assaulted and left the victim unconscious in an abandoned building.   On Jan. 24, 2024, the Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office charged Zepeda-Padilla with assault, kidnapping, and gang assault.   

    “The United States Marshals Service is committed to locating and apprehending violent fugitives across our nation,” said Catrina Thompson, U.S. Marshal for the Middle District of North Carolina. “In this case, the USMS Carolinas Regional Fugitive Task Force, with our law enforcement partners from the Winston-Salem Police Department, North Carolina and Immigrations, Customs and Enforcement apprehend Josue Zepeda Padilla. Padilla had been traveling between various cities in North Carolina and was in Winston-Salem at the time of his apprehension.”

    “This arrest is a critical victory in our ongoing effort to bring violent fugitives to justice,” said Vincent F. DeMarco, U.S. Marshal for the Eastern District of New York. “The United States Marshals Service is committed to relentlessly pursuing violent criminals who pose a threat to our communities, especially those who enter the United States illegally  and ensuring they face the consequences of their actions.”

    The USMS CRFTF began operations in January 2018. The CRFTF has partnership agreements with four federal and 68 state and local agencies; and operates in South Carolina and North Carolina. The CRFTF has apprehended more than 8,900 fugitives since its inception and is always striving to make communities safer.

    U.S. Marshals task forces combine the efforts of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies to locate and arrest the most dangerous fugitives. Dedicated to reducing violent crime by locating and apprehending wanted criminals, they also serve as the central point for agencies to share information on fugitive matters. Task force officers are state and local police officers who receive special deputations with the Marshals. While on a task force, these officers can exercise U.S. Marshals authorities, such as crossing jurisdictional lines.

    The U.S. Marshals Service (USMS) encourages the community to continue to collaborate with our deputies on tips that help find the whereabouts of a fugitive by contacting our local office at (787) 766-6297, calling the U.S. Marshals Service Communication Center at 1 (800) 336-0102, or submitting tips using the USMS Tips App.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Alleged International Leader of MS-13 Extradited on RICO Charge

    Source: United States Attorneys General 1

    Moises Humberto Rivera-Luna, also known as Santos and Viejo Santos, 55, an alleged international leader of the violent MS-13 drug gang, made an initial appearance today in the District of Columbia following his extradition from Guatemala to the United States to face racketeering conspiracy charges.

    “Keeping Americans safe from transnational criminal gangs is one of the Department’s top priorities,” said Supervisory Official Antoinette T. Bacon of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “This defendant’s appearance in federal court in Washington today demonstrates our relentless commitment to seeking justice for victims, no matter how long it takes. Thanks to the incredible work by our federal prosecutors and law enforcement partners, we are one step closer to bringing closure for the many victims of this defendant’s alleged brutal violence.”

    “The decade-long pursuit of this alleged violent gang member illustrates our office’s resolve to remain focused and bring to justice those who violate the law no matter where they are, no matter how long it takes,” said U.S. Attorney Edward R. Martin Jr. for the District of Columbia.

    “Moise Humberto Rivera-Luna will have his day in court, but he stands accused of very serious crimes,” said U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Homeland Security Investigations (ICE HSI) Washington, D.C., Acting Special Agent in Charge Christopher Heck. “His alleged criminal activity, combined with his leadership of the MS-13 transnational criminal organization, makes Rivera-Luna a significant threat to the safety of the American people. We are grateful for the strong relationships we enjoy with our local, state, federal and international law enforcement partners. Without their cooperation, none of this would be possible. ICE HSI Washington, D.C., will continue to work relentlessly and exhaust all resources to investigate and apprehend anyone who presents a threat to national security or the residents of our communities.”

    Rivera-Luna is one of seven defendants in a nine-count fourth superseding indictment, which was returned on May 3, 2013, charging the defendants with committing racketeering conspiracy, murder in aid of racketeering, kidnapping in aid of racketeering, assault with a deadly weapon in aid of racketeering, and other offenses. Rivera-Luna is charged only with committing racketeering conspiracy. The government alleges that Rivera-Luna, while incarcerated in El Salvador, supervised operations of MS-13 cliques in the Washington area. Upon release, he traveled to Guatemala where he was subject to extradition.

    The indictment alleges that MS-13 engages in racketeering activity to include murder, narcotics distribution, extortion, robberies, obstruction of justice, and other crimes. The indictment specifically states that some of the defendants allegedly participated in assaults against perceived rival gang members, made threats against people they believed to be cooperating with law enforcement, and carried out extortions.

    The range of criminal activity alleged in the indictment includes acts committed in the District of Columbia, Maryland, Virginia, and other states. The indictment alleges there was frequent contact between MS-13 members in the Washington metropolitan area and El Salvador, and that members incarcerated in El Salvador encouraged or ordered assaults and murders.

    Rivera-Luna is alleged to be an international leader of MS-13 who was sending orders and advice to an MS-13 clique operating in the Washington area via cellular telephone calls from his prison cell in El Salvador. The indictment alleges that he and another alleged MS-13 leader, Marvin Geovanny Monterrosa-Larios, also incarcerated in El Salvador, directed a coalition of MS-13 cliques to be formed in the Washington area. They advised local clique members that the coalition’s aim was to seek and kill MS-13 members who were found to be cooperating with law enforcement officials.

    Among other allegations, the indictment charges Rivera-Luna with ordering the murder of Louis Alberto Membreno-Zelaya, 27. Membreno-Zelaya was found stabbed to death on Nov. 6, 2008, in Northwest Washington.

    The indictment also alleges that Rivera-Luna authorized the murder of Felipe Enriquez, 25, whose body was found on March 31, 2010, in Montgomery County, Maryland.

    ICE HSI Washington, D.C., and the Metropolitan Police Department are investigating the case. The Montgomery County and Prince George’s County, Maryland, Police Departments; State Attorney’s Office for Montgomery County; and U.S. Attorneys’ Offices for the District of Maryland and the Eastern District of Virginia provided assistance.

    The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs provided significant assistance in securing the extradition of Rivera-Luna from Guatemala.

    Trial Attorney Lakeita F. Rox-Love of the Criminal Division’s Violent Crime and Racketeering Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Nihar Mohanty for the District of Columbia are prosecuting the case.

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

    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: Security News: Alleged International Leader of MS-13 Extradited on RICO Charge

    Source: United States Department of Justice 2

    Moises Humberto Rivera-Luna, also known as Santos and Viejo Santos, 55, an alleged international leader of the violent MS-13 drug gang, made an initial appearance today in the District of Columbia following his extradition from Guatemala to the United States to face racketeering conspiracy charges.

    “Keeping Americans safe from transnational criminal gangs is one of the Department’s top priorities,” said Supervisory Official Antoinette T. Bacon of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “This defendant’s appearance in federal court in Washington today demonstrates our relentless commitment to seeking justice for victims, no matter how long it takes. Thanks to the incredible work by our federal prosecutors and law enforcement partners, we are one step closer to bringing closure for the many victims of this defendant’s alleged brutal violence.”

    “The decade-long pursuit of this alleged violent gang member illustrates our office’s resolve to remain focused and bring to justice those who violate the law no matter where they are, no matter how long it takes,” said U.S. Attorney Edward R. Martin Jr. for the District of Columbia.

    “Moise Humberto Rivera-Luna will have his day in court, but he stands accused of very serious crimes,” said U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Homeland Security Investigations (ICE HSI) Washington, D.C., Acting Special Agent in Charge Christopher Heck. “His alleged criminal activity, combined with his leadership of the MS-13 transnational criminal organization, makes Rivera-Luna a significant threat to the safety of the American people. We are grateful for the strong relationships we enjoy with our local, state, federal and international law enforcement partners. Without their cooperation, none of this would be possible. ICE HSI Washington, D.C., will continue to work relentlessly and exhaust all resources to investigate and apprehend anyone who presents a threat to national security or the residents of our communities.”

    Rivera-Luna is one of seven defendants in a nine-count fourth superseding indictment, which was returned on May 3, 2013, charging the defendants with committing racketeering conspiracy, murder in aid of racketeering, kidnapping in aid of racketeering, assault with a deadly weapon in aid of racketeering, and other offenses. Rivera-Luna is charged only with committing racketeering conspiracy. The government alleges that Rivera-Luna, while incarcerated in El Salvador, supervised operations of MS-13 cliques in the Washington area. Upon release, he traveled to Guatemala where he was subject to extradition.

    The indictment alleges that MS-13 engages in racketeering activity to include murder, narcotics distribution, extortion, robberies, obstruction of justice, and other crimes. The indictment specifically states that some of the defendants allegedly participated in assaults against perceived rival gang members, made threats against people they believed to be cooperating with law enforcement, and carried out extortions.

    The range of criminal activity alleged in the indictment includes acts committed in the District of Columbia, Maryland, Virginia, and other states. The indictment alleges there was frequent contact between MS-13 members in the Washington metropolitan area and El Salvador, and that members incarcerated in El Salvador encouraged or ordered assaults and murders.

    Rivera-Luna is alleged to be an international leader of MS-13 who was sending orders and advice to an MS-13 clique operating in the Washington area via cellular telephone calls from his prison cell in El Salvador. The indictment alleges that he and another alleged MS-13 leader, Marvin Geovanny Monterrosa-Larios, also incarcerated in El Salvador, directed a coalition of MS-13 cliques to be formed in the Washington area. They advised local clique members that the coalition’s aim was to seek and kill MS-13 members who were found to be cooperating with law enforcement officials.

    Among other allegations, the indictment charges Rivera-Luna with ordering the murder of Louis Alberto Membreno-Zelaya, 27. Membreno-Zelaya was found stabbed to death on Nov. 6, 2008, in Northwest Washington.

    The indictment also alleges that Rivera-Luna authorized the murder of Felipe Enriquez, 25, whose body was found on March 31, 2010, in Montgomery County, Maryland.

    ICE HSI Washington, D.C., and the Metropolitan Police Department are investigating the case. The Montgomery County and Prince George’s County, Maryland, Police Departments; State Attorney’s Office for Montgomery County; and U.S. Attorneys’ Offices for the District of Maryland and the Eastern District of Virginia provided assistance.

    The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs provided significant assistance in securing the extradition of Rivera-Luna from Guatemala.

    Trial Attorney Lakeita F. Rox-Love of the Criminal Division’s Violent Crime and Racketeering Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Nihar Mohanty for the District of Columbia are prosecuting the case.

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

    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: New Jersey Man Admits to Concealing Material Support and Resources to ISIS

    Source: United States Attorneys General 7

    Kyse S. Abushanab, 27, of Budd Lake, New Jersey, pleaded guilty today to a one-count information charging him with concealing material support and resources to a designated foreign terrorist organization.

    According to court documents, between in or around March 2021 and in or around January 2022, Abushanab compiled resources, including information pertaining to the manufacture and use of weapons of mass destruction, with the aim of providing members of the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS or the Islamic State), a designated foreign terrorist organization, and its supporters with a repository of information and resources to help carry out ISIS’s mission. This material included, among other things, videos and documents showing step-by-step instructions on how to make suicide belts or vests, detonators and timers, improvised bombs, and other explosives and incendiary devices. In an effort to evade detection by law enforcement, Abushanab took steps to conceal his efforts to assist ISIS by, among other things, using encrypted applications, untraceable email accounts, and a secured cloud storage space to gather and store information on how to make a variety of weapons of mass destruction.

    The charge of concealment of provision of material support carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000. Sentencing is scheduled for Sept. 24.

    Sue Bai, head of the Justice Department’s National Security Division; Acting U.S. Attorney Vikas Khanna for the District of New Jersey; Assistant Director David J. Scott of the FBI’s Counterterrorism Division; and Acting Special Agent in Charge Terence G. Reilly of the FBI Newark Field Office made the announcement.

    The FBI is investigating the case, with valuable assistance provided by the Morris County Sheriff’s Office.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Sammi Malek for the District of New Jersey and Trial Attorney Ryan White of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section are prosecuting the case.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Mexican National with Vehicular Homicide Conviction in Federal Custody for Illegal Re-Entry

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    WACO, Texas – A Mexican national was transferred into federal custody in Waco on criminal charges related to his alleged illegal re-entry.

    According to court documents, Arturo Olalde-Velazquez, 40, was booked in the Falls County jail in December 2024 for driving while intoxicated, unlawful carrying a weapon, and possession of a controlled substance. Olalde-Velazquez had been previously removed in December 2019 after being convicted in Louisiana for a 2016 vehicular homicide.

    Olalde-Velazquez is charged with one count of illegal re-entry. If convicted, he faces up to 10 years in federal prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

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

    Immigration and Customs Enforcement is investigating the case.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Gregory Gloff is prosecuting the case.

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

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: McAllen resident sentenced to 25 years for using communication app to entice minor

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    McALLEN, Texas – A 28-year-old man has been sent to prison for coercion and enticement of a minor, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.

    James Christopher Ruiz pleaded guilty Sept. 10, 2024. 

    U.S. District Judge Drew B. Tipton has now ordered Ruiz to serve 300 months in prison. At the hearing, the court heard additional information including testimony from the victim’s mother detailing significant trauma the victim is dealing with and how this crime has negatively impacted not just the her, but everyone in her family. After handing down the sentence, the court addressed the victim and informed her there was nothing wrong with or bad about her and she did not bring this upon herself. The court explained that all the blame lies with the Ruiz who will also serve the rest of his life on supervised release following completion of his prison term. During that time, he will have to comply with numerous requirements designed to restrict his access to children and the internet. He will also be ordered to register as a sex offender. 

    In August 2023, law enforcement learned Ruiz had been communicating with a 12-year-old minor online. The investigation revealed he had been chatting with the victim from June to July 2022 via Discord.

    “People like the defendant can make the internet a dangerous place for children,” said Ganjei. “Fortunately, law enforcement was able to discover and arrest Mr. Ruiz, bringing an end to his predatory online behavior.”

    Ruiz knew the minor victim was only 12 years of age. During their conversations, Ruiz sent sexually explicit photos and videos to the minor and enticed the victim to send nude images of her breasts and genitals on multiple occasions. He also explained what masturbating was and persuaded her to send videos of her doing so. 

    Ruiz admitted to communicating with other minors via Discord and virtual reality. He said he would tell the minor females to send him sexually explicit images and videos of themselves and instructed them on what to do.

    Ruiz has been and will remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.

    Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation with the assistance of the New Castle County Police Department. 

    Assistant U.S. Attorney M. Alexis Garcia prosecuted the case, which was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood (PSC), a nationwide initiative the Department of Justice (DOJ) launched in May 2006 to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section leads PSC, which marshals federal, state and local resources to locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children and identifies and rescues victims. For more information about PSC, please visit DOJ’s PSC page. For more information about internet safety education, please visit the resources tab on that page. 

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Leader of organization who smuggled aliens through Corpus Christi sent to prison and ordered to forfeit $1 million

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas – A 39-year-old Honduran national who illegally resided in Houston has been ordered to prison following his conviction for transporting illegal aliens, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.

    Marvin Reyes pleaded guilty May 30, 2024.

    U.S. District Judge David Morales has now ordered him to serve 108 months in federal prison to be immediately followed by three years of supervised release. At the hearing, the court heard additional information including how the conspiracy had stretched over three years with over 200 aliens transported. In handing down the prison term, the court commented that over 200 people could have been hurt or killed because of the Reyes’ actions, and that he was responsible as the leader. The court also took note of the funds received as a result of the criminal activity and imposed a $1 million money judgement.

    “Thanks to the teamwork of our office’s Corpus Christi prosecutors and their law enforcement partners, the leader of an alien smuggling ring has been put out of action,” said Ganjei. “Successful interdiction of illegal alien smuggling at the border or at interior checkpoints benefits the nation as a whole. The Southern District of Texas is proud to do its part to support a secure border.”

    In July 2021, law enforcement discovered a human smuggling organization based out of Houston that Reyes led. Numerous individuals had been attempting to smuggle illegal aliens further into the United States. 

    The investigation revealed Reyes and others were coordinating the movement of illegal aliens through the Border Patrol checkpoints located near Sarita and Falfurrias as well as by airplane. Reyes also arranged private flights for illegal aliens from Weslaco to Houston. 

    Bank records showed Reyes received at least $1 million in proceeds from the human smuggling activities.

    Reyes will remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.

    Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation with the assistance of Border Patrol. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Patrick Overman and Tyler Foster prosecuted the case.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Montgomery Man Sentenced to Eight Years in Prison Following Federal Drug and Gun Convictions

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

                Montgomery, Ala. – Today, Acting United States Attorney Kevin Davidson announced the sentencing of a Montgomery, Alabama man following his convictions on federal drug and gun charges. On March 4, 2025, 23-year-old Arthur Varcea Colvin, received a sentence of 96 months in prison. Following his prison sentence, Colvin will serve three years of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system. 

              According to his indictment and other court records, on February 1, 2023, officers with the Montgomery Police Department observed the driver of a vehicle commit a traffic violation and conducted a traffic stop. Occupants of the vehicle included Colvin in the front passenger’s seat, 28-year-old Le’Anthony Washington in the driver’s seat, and another passenger in the rear seat. Officers developed a suspicion that the vehicle contained illegal narcotics and requested the three occupants exit the vehicle. During a search, law enforcement found three firearms, including a .40 caliber handgun under the driver’s seat, an AR-15 pistol under the front passenger’s seat, and a 9mm handgun on the back floorboard. Investigators also found over 400 grams of marijuana in the trunk. In addition, officers found a handgun and a small amount of marijuana on Colvin’s person.

               On October 28, 2024, Colvin pleaded guilty to possession of marijuana with the intent to distribute and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. Washington has a previous felony conviction and is prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition. In October of last year, Washington pleaded guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm. Washington received a sentence of 35 months in federal prison on January 31, 2025. 

              The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and Montgomery Police Department investigated this case, which Assistant United States Attorney Michelle R. Turner prosecuted.

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