NewzIntel.com

Category: Security Intelligence

  • MIL-OSI Security: Sioux City Woman Sentenced to Prison for Federal Firearms Convictions

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

     A woman who violated multiple federal firearms laws was sentenced July 9, 2025, in federal court in Sioux City.

    Maria Francisca Portalatin, age 53, from Sioux City, Iowa, pled guilty on February 7, 2025, to one count of being a prohibited person in possession of firearms, one count of making false statements during the purchase of firearms, one count of straw purchase of firearms, and one count of concealing a person from arrest.

     Evidence in the case showed that in April of 2023, Portalatin knowingly made false statements and representations on ATF forms to Dunham’s Sports Store in Sioux City in connection with her acquisition of multiple firearms.  Portalatin later admitted to law enforcement that she was an unlawful user of methamphetamine and purchased the firearms for Freddie Summerville who she knew was prohibited from possessing a firearm.  Evidence further showed, that in June of 2024, law enforcement executed a search warrant at Portalatin’s residence and located the four firearms she had purchased.  During an interview with law enforcement, Portalatin admitted she lied on the ATF forms and that she was aware that Freddie Summerville was wanted on a federal warrant.  In July of 2024, Portalatin and Summerville were stopped in a vehicle near Sioux Falls.  Subsequently, in an interview with law enforcement she admitted they were smoking methamphetamine and that she had helped harbor and conceal Summerville.  
     
    Sentencing was held before United States District Court Judge Leonard T. Strand.  Portalatin was sentenced to 51 months’ imprisonment and was ordered to pay $1,400 in fines and assessments.  She must also serve a 2 year term of supervised release following imprisonment.  There is no parole in the federal system.  
    This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

    The case was investigated by the Sioux City Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms (ATF) and was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Kraig R. Hamit and Kevin C. Fletcher.  

    Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.  
    The case file number is 24-CR-04053.   Follow us on X @USAO_NDIA.
     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Sioux City Woman Sentenced to Prison for Federal Firearms Convictions

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

     A woman who violated multiple federal firearms laws was sentenced July 9, 2025, in federal court in Sioux City.

    Maria Francisca Portalatin, age 53, from Sioux City, Iowa, pled guilty on February 7, 2025, to one count of being a prohibited person in possession of firearms, one count of making false statements during the purchase of firearms, one count of straw purchase of firearms, and one count of concealing a person from arrest.

     Evidence in the case showed that in April of 2023, Portalatin knowingly made false statements and representations on ATF forms to Dunham’s Sports Store in Sioux City in connection with her acquisition of multiple firearms.  Portalatin later admitted to law enforcement that she was an unlawful user of methamphetamine and purchased the firearms for Freddie Summerville who she knew was prohibited from possessing a firearm.  Evidence further showed, that in June of 2024, law enforcement executed a search warrant at Portalatin’s residence and located the four firearms she had purchased.  During an interview with law enforcement, Portalatin admitted she lied on the ATF forms and that she was aware that Freddie Summerville was wanted on a federal warrant.  In July of 2024, Portalatin and Summerville were stopped in a vehicle near Sioux Falls.  Subsequently, in an interview with law enforcement she admitted they were smoking methamphetamine and that she had helped harbor and conceal Summerville.  
     
    Sentencing was held before United States District Court Judge Leonard T. Strand.  Portalatin was sentenced to 51 months’ imprisonment and was ordered to pay $1,400 in fines and assessments.  She must also serve a 2 year term of supervised release following imprisonment.  There is no parole in the federal system.  
    This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

    The case was investigated by the Sioux City Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms (ATF) and was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Kraig R. Hamit and Kevin C. Fletcher.  

    Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.  
    The case file number is 24-CR-04053.   Follow us on X @USAO_NDIA.
     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Two Former West Virginia Correctional Officers Sentenced to Prison for Federal Civil Rights Crimes in Connection with Death of Inmate

    Source: US FBI

    CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Two former correctional officers from the Southern Regional Jail in Beaver, West Virginia, were sentenced today for their roles in an assault that resulted in the death of a pretrial detainee, identified by the initials Q.B., on March 1, 2022. Mark Holdren, 41, of Beckley, was sentenced to 20 years in prison and Johnathan Walters, 33, of Rainelle, was sentenced to 21 years in prison, with each prison sentence to be followed by three years of supervised release.

    Holdren and Walters each pleaded guilty to conspiring with other officers to violate inmate Q.B.’s civil rights, resulting in Q.B.’s death. According to court documents filed in connection with the guilty pleas, Holdren responded to a call for officer assistance after Q.B. tried to push past another correctional officer and leave his assigned pod. When Holdren arrived, officers were engaged in restraining Q.B. Holdren began using force against Q.B., including multiple knee-strikes that he knew were unreasonable.

    Holdren and other officers then conspired to violate Q.B.’s civil rights by unlawfully assaulting him as punishment for his attempt to leave the pod. As a part of the conspiracy, Holdren and other officers brought Q.B. to an interview room, where Walters joined them. In the interview room, Holdren and other officers used unreasonable force against Q.B., including striking Q.B. in the head multiple times, kicking, knee-striking him, pulling and twisting his fingers, and using pepper spray, all while Q.B. was restrained, handcuffed and posed no threat to anyone.

    After assaulting Q.B. in the interview room, officers transported him to another pod. During the transport, Q.B. became limp and was unable to walk on his own. Walters and other officers then carried Q.B. by his arms and legs to the pod’s entryway door, where Walters admitted he used unreasonable force to swing Q.B.’s head into the metal door to open the door. Walters and other officers then carried Q.B. into a cell, where they dropped the unresponsive and handcuffed Q.B. onto the concrete floor. Shortly thereafter, responding emergency medical personnel declared that Q.B. was deceased.

    With their guilty pleas, Holdren and Walters each further admitted knowing that the interview room to which officers brought Q.B. was a “blind spot” – meaning, there were no surveillance cameras to record what happened there. Holdren and Walters were aware that, prior to the assault of Q.B. on March 1, 2022, officers would bring inmates, including pretrial detainees, who had engaged in misconduct to “blind spots” in the jail, so that officers could use unreasonable force without being captured on video, thereby avoiding accountability for their actions. Holdren and Walters each further admitted knowing that officers could not use unreasonable force to punish inmates, including pretrial detainees such as Q.B.  

    United States District Judge Joseph R. Goodwin imposed today’s sentences.

    Holdren and Walters are two of six correctional officers who were indicted in this case. In November 2024, defendant Corey Snyder pleaded guilty in connection with the use of unreasonable force against Q.B., resulting in his death. Jacob Boothe pleaded guilty in August 2024 to failing to intervene to protect Q.B. from the officers’ assault. Snyder and Boothe are scheduled for sentencing before Judge Goodwin on July 10, 2025.

    Ashley Toney pleaded guilty on August 8, 2024, to failing to intervene to protect Q.B. from the officers’ assault. Judge Goodwin sentenced Toney, 25, of Fairdale, to six years and six months in prison on June 9, 2025.

    On January 27, 2025, a federal jury returned guilty verdict at trial for the sixth indicted defendant, Chad Lester, a former lieutenant at the Southern Regional Jail, finding him guilty on three obstruction of justice charges for his role in conspiring to cover up the death of Q.B. Judge Goodwin sentenced Lester, 35, of Odd, to 17 years and six months in prison on May 15, 2025.

    Prior to the indictment of the six defendants, former correctional officers Steven Nicholas Wimmer and Andrew Fleshman each pleaded guilty to conspiring to use unreasonable force against Burks. Chief United States District Judge Frank W. Volk sentenced Wimmer, 26, of Bluefield, to nine years in prison on May 7, 2025. Fleshman, 23, of Shady Spring, is scheduled for sentencing before Chief Judge Volk on July 14, 2025.

    Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division and Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston for the Southern District of West Virginia made today’s announcement.

    The FBI Pittsburgh Field Office investigated the case.

    Deputy Chief Christine M. Siscaretti and Trial Attorney Tenette Smith of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division prosecuted the case in partnership with the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia.

    A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 5:23-cr-188.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Jury Convicts Tallahassee Man of Attempting to Entice a Minor to Engage in Sexual Activity

    Source: US FBI

    TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA – Jelani Amari Petersen, 28, of Tallahassee, Florida, was found guilty by a federal jury yesterday of attempting to entice a minor to engage in unlawful sexual activity. The verdict was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.

    U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “I am proud of the great work by my office and our state and federal law enforcement partners to take this sex offender off our streets. This case exemplifies the mission set forth by President Donald J. Trump and Attorney General Pamela Bondi: protect America’s children against predators like this defendant. My office will continue to aggressively prosecute such offenses to keep our most vulnerable members of the community safe from the predations of these sick individuals.”

    Trial testimony demonstrated that in September 2024, federal, state, and local law enforcement executed Operation Lifeguard, an undercover operation designed to apprehend individuals who use the Internet to sexually exploit children online. During the operation, Petersen communicated with an undercover officer who he believed to be a minor female, and expressed interest in engaging in sexual activity with the child in exchange for money. When Petersen arrived at a pre-arranged meeting location, law enforcement arrested him and searched his car. A subsequent search of his cellular phone, confirmed his communication with the undercover officers.

    Petersen faces a minimum mandatory sentence of 10 years in federal prison and a maximum of life imprisonment, followed by a term of five years to life of supervised release. He will also be required to register as a sex offender.

    The case involved a joint investigation by the Leon County Sheriff’s Office, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Homeland Security Investigations. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Justin M. Keen and Meredith Steer.

    Sentencing is scheduled for October 3, 2025, at 11:00 am at the United States Courthouse in Tallahassee before Chief United States District Judge Allen C. Winsor.

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

    The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Former School Custodian Sentenced for Possessing Child Pornography

    Source: US FBI

    ST. LOUIS – U.S. District Judge John A. Ross on Wednesday sentenced a former high school custodian who bought child sexual abuse material to 63 months in prison followed by a lifetime of supervised release.

    Bernard Ray Mennemeier uploaded five videos containing child sexual abuse material to Dropbox, triggering an FBI investigation. The FBI conducted a court-approved search of Mennemeier’s Dropbox account, and then Mennemeier’s home. Mennemeier was in possession of both child pornography and child erotica. He admitted messaging someone on Twitter who sold him child sexual abuse material “numerous” times, his plea agreement says.

    “This case was especially concerning given that Bernard Mennemeier was working in a high school at the time he possessed child sexual abuse material,” said Special Agent in Charge Chris Crocker of the FBI St. Louis Division. “In addition to spending 63 months in federal prison, Mennemeier will never be allowed to work around children again because he will have to register as a sex offender.”

    Mennemeier, 58, of O’Fallon, Missouri, pleaded guilty in April to one count of possession of child pornography.

    The FBI investigated the case.

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Former School Custodian Sentenced for Possessing Child Pornography

    Source: US FBI

    ST. LOUIS – U.S. District Judge John A. Ross on Wednesday sentenced a former high school custodian who bought child sexual abuse material to 63 months in prison followed by a lifetime of supervised release.

    Bernard Ray Mennemeier uploaded five videos containing child sexual abuse material to Dropbox, triggering an FBI investigation. The FBI conducted a court-approved search of Mennemeier’s Dropbox account, and then Mennemeier’s home. Mennemeier was in possession of both child pornography and child erotica. He admitted messaging someone on Twitter who sold him child sexual abuse material “numerous” times, his plea agreement says.

    “This case was especially concerning given that Bernard Mennemeier was working in a high school at the time he possessed child sexual abuse material,” said Special Agent in Charge Chris Crocker of the FBI St. Louis Division. “In addition to spending 63 months in federal prison, Mennemeier will never be allowed to work around children again because he will have to register as a sex offender.”

    Mennemeier, 58, of O’Fallon, Missouri, pleaded guilty in April to one count of possession of child pornography.

    The FBI investigated the case.

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Houston Man Guilty of Defrauding Individuals with False Promises of Legal Status

    Source: US FBI

    HOUSTON – A 58-year-old Houston resident has entered a guilty plea to conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.

    From March 2022 through December 2024, Jesus Carlos Silva pretended to be an immigration attorney affiliated with a Houston-based law firm. He made false promises that he could help people obtain U.S. citizenship and/or other legal immigration status. Silva charged thousands of dollars per person for his “assistance,” collecting payments through checks and money orders. He never provided legitimate immigration help and instead offered excuses for delays before ultimately cutting off communication.

    Silva instructed several individuals to travel to Houston for fake appointments with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. When they arrived, there were no appointments. He admitted to stealing more than $1,450,555 from over 100 people, most of whom lived in Houston and Chicago. Others were from Texas, Illinois, Louisiana and Florida.

    U.S. District Judge George C. Hanks will impose sentencing Sept. 22. At that time, Silva faces up to five years in federal prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine or a fine of twice the gross gain or twice the gross loss that resulted from the offense.

    Silva was permitted to remain on bond pending sentencing.

    The FBI conducted the investigation with the assistance of the U.S. Marshals Service and Houston Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Brad Gray and Rodolfo Ramirez are prosecuting the case.  

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Port Arthur felon sentenced to federal prison for firearms violation

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

    BEAUMONT, Texas –A Port Arthur convicted felon has been sentenced for a firearms violation in the Eastern District of Texas, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs.

    Carl Sampson Solomon, 43, pleaded guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm and was sentenced to 46 months in federal prison by U.S. District Judge Marcia A. Crone on July 9, 2025.

    According to information presented in court, on March 27, 2024, Sampson was stopped for a traffic violation on Gulfway Drive in Port Arthur.  During the stop, Solomon advised officers he had a firearm holstered under the seat. A search of the vehicle revealed the firearm and a small baggie of marijuana.  Further investigation revealed Solomon had previously been convicted of five felonies and was on felony probation. Federal law prohibits convicted felons of possessing or owning firearms.

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

    This case was investigated by the Port Arthur Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosive.  This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Matt Quinn.

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    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Jefferson County felon sentenced to federal prison for live-stream shooting

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

    BEAUMONT, Texas –A Beaumont man has been sentenced for illegally possessing a firearm in the Eastern District of Texas, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs.

    Brian Keith Murphy, 33, pleaded guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm and was sentenced to 85 months in federal prison by U.S. District Judge Marcia A. Crone on July 9, 2025.

    According to information presented in court, on August 11, 2024, law enforcement officers received a call of shots fired near a gas station on Concord Avenue in Beaumont.  As officers were being dispatched to the scene, the Beaumont Police Department was able to view a live stream of the shooting through their “Real-Time-Crime Center.”  Officers monitoring the live stream were able to witness the shooter fire multiple shots near vehicles and individuals in the parking lot.  Through coordination with officers monitoring the live stream and officers on scene, law enforcement was able to identify the vehicle the shooter had fled in.  The vehicle was stopped, and Murphy was identified as the shooter.  Two firearms were recovered from the vehicle Murphy was fleeing in, one of which was the firearm Murphy used in the shooting.  Murphy was on federal supervised release at the time for a previous conviction for being a felon in possession of a firearm.  Federal law prohibits convicted felons from owning or possessing firearms.

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

    This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Beaumont Police Department.  This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Russell James.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Convicted Felon Sentenced To Prison For Illegal Possession Of A Firearm

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

    The Defendant Discharged a Stolen Gun Inside a Residence with Minor Children Present

    CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Michael Angelo Crank, 44, of Charlotte, was sentenced today to 51 months in prison followed by a term of supervised release for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, announced Russ Ferguson, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina.

    Alicia Jones, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), Charlotte Field Division, and Chief Johnny Jennings of the Charlotte Mecklenburg Police Department (CMPD), join U.S. Attorney Ferguson in making today’s announcement.

    According to court records and court proceedings, on August 15, 2024, an individual identified as T.T. called 911 to report that Crank had discharged a firearm. Officers responding to the service call arrived at the residence and spoke with Crank, T.T. and three minor children. T.T. told the officers that Crank had fired a gun during an argument while her young children were at home. Officers executed a search warrant on the residence where they located and seized five discharged 9mm shell cases; a 9mm Glock, model 17 semiautomatic pistol; one 30-round magazine for the Glock; one 17-round magazine for the Glock; a 9mm Hi-Point model C9 semiautomatic pistol; and several rounds of various ammunition. Officers also reviewed footage from the home security system. The footage captured Crank following T.T. and her minor children into the front yard with a gun in his hand. During the investigation, law enforcement determined that both seized firearms had been reported stolen. Crank has a criminal history that includes state felony convictions of Assault on a Female and Felony Possession of Cocaine, and a federal conviction in South Carolina for conspiracy and using, carrying, and possessing firearms during, in relation to, and in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.

    On October 29, 2024, Crank pleaded guilty to possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. Thomas is in federal custody and will be transferred to the custody of the Federal Bureau of Prisons upon designation of a federal facility.

    The ATF and CMPD led the investigation. The U.S. Attorney’s Office in Charlotte prosecuted the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Director General of the International Military Staff concludes three-year tenure

    Source: NATO

    After three years at the helm of the International Military Staff (IMS), Lieutenant General Janusz Adamczak (POL Army) concluded his tenure as Director General. Appointed in July 2022, General Adamczak led the IMS through a period of raising challenges, leading to strategic adaptation, increasing of NATO’s deterrence and defence posture, and enhanced coordination across the Alliance’s military structures.

    At a farewell ceremony held at NATO Headquarters, Admiral Giuseppe Cavo Dragone, Chair of the NATO Military Committee, praised Lieutenant General Adamczak’s tenure, stating: “Your leadership has not only shaped the IMS, but has strengthened the very core of our Alliance. The IMS has been able to support the Military Committee and me, every single day, ensuring that we could focus on our purpose: to build and maintain the greatest military Alliance the world has ever known.”

    In a farewell address to the IMS, Lieutenant General Adamczak praised his staff: “Trust between divisions, between military and civilian personnel, and between nations, has been the foundation of everything we’ve achieved. Our responsibility has been to provide honest, professional, and clear military advice, even when it is difficult. And that is precisely what this staff has done. You have delivered truth without hesitation, and you have done so with integrity. Thank you to every single one of you who contributed – often quietly, often without recognition – to the mission we serve. Your work has not gone unnoticed. Your dedication has not been taken for granted.”

    During his time as Director General, the IMS continued to play a pivotal role in shaping NATO’s military response to a dynamically changing security environment. From supporting the Alliance’s evolving defence posture to enhancing its ability to respond to crises, and from coordinating support to Ukraine to advancing military planning coherence, the IMS helped align strategic decisions with real-world implementation.

    Lieutenant General Adamczak is succeeded by Lieutenant General Remigijus Baltrėnas  (Lithuania Army). A senior officer with deep experience in national and international defence roles, Lieutenant General Baltrėnas was selected for this position by the Chiefs of Defence at the 2024 Military Committee Conference in Prague. He takes up the post as NATO continues to adapt to a new era of collective defence.

    The International Military Staff is the executive body of the Military Committee and NATO’s primary source of military expertise at Headquarters. Comprising both military and civilian personnel from across the Alliance, the IMS provides sound expertise across the whole spectrum of military activities to the Military Committee, thus contributing to the synergy between NATO’s political and military structures, and supporting the consensus-based decision-making process.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Police appeal over shooting in Tottenham

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    Police are appealing for witnesses to come forward after a man was shot in Tottenham.

    Officers were called at 04:29hrs on Thursday, 6 February, to reports of gunshots at a property in Tottenham Green East, N15.

    Police attended alongside the London Ambulance Service, and found a man in his 20s suffering from gunshot wounds. Immediate medical attention was provided. He was taken to hospital, where his injuries were assessed as non-life-threatening.

    CCTV captured a suspect walking away from the scene. Detectives are keen to identify him and asking for the public’s help.

    Detective Inspector Darren Jones, who is leading the investigation, said: “A man was brutally shot earlier this year in Tottenham. It’s vital that we determine exactly what happened and bring the person or people responsible for this crime to justice.

    “If you recognise the man caught on CCTV, we urge you to come forward and speak to us.

    “A 25-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder during the course of our investigation and has been released on bail but our enquiries continue.

    “I am especially keen to locate the gun used which has now been connected to four separate shootings in north London.

    “Any information to help identify the suspect or the location of the gun, could be essential in helping us piece together the circumstances of this incident.”

    Detectives are asking anyone who witnessed the incident – or who has relevant doorbell or CCTV footage if they were around Tottenham Green East at the time – to call 101, quoting CAD 741/06FEB. To remain anonymous, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Ponte Vedra Beach Man Pleads Guilty In Fraud Scheme Involving COVID-19 Personal Protective Equipment

    Source: United States Department of Justice (National Center for Disaster Fraud)

    Jacksonville, Florida – United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe announces that James Elliott Davis, II (36, Ponte Vedra Beach) has pleaded guilty to bank fraud, wire fraud, money laundering, and theft of mail. Davis faces up to 30 years in federal prison on the bank fraud count, up to 20 years in prison on the wire fraud count, up to 10 years in prison on the money laundering count, up to 5 years in prison on the theft of mail count and payment of restitution to the victims he defrauded. Davis has agreed to forfeit between $6.7 and $8.8 million, which are traceable to proceeds of the crimes he committed. No sentencing date has been set.   

    According to court documents, from March 2018 through 2022, Davis ran a purported medical supply company named Medisale Inc. Using false representations, Davis enticed individuals and business entities to invest large sums of money in Medisale. He falsely represented to victim-investors that Medisale was making significant profits on the sale of COVID-19 Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). He claimed to have contact with CEOs at various hospitals and that Medisale had contracts with hospitals to sell large volumes of N95 masks and other PPE. In convincing victim-investors to give him money, Davis showed fraudulent bank statements with large balances, claiming the money was from the sale of PPE.

    In reality, Medisale had no such contracts and had no true revenue from the sale of PPE. Instead, Davis kited checks and conducted fraudulent ACH/wire transfers between multiple financial institutions in order to artificially inflate the apparent balances on his bank accounts. Utilizing victim-investor funds, Davis paid off previous debts, paid other investors purported profits from the sale of PPE, and paid personal expenses. This included Davis using victim-investor money to purchase a membership at a luxury club in Ponte Vedra Beach and spending more than $27,000 on custom clothing. 

    This case was investigated by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation – Office of Inspector General, Florida Department of Law Enforcement, and the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kevin C. Frein. The asset forfeiture is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Jennifer M. Harrington.

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

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  • MIL-OSI Security: FEDERAL CHARGES FILED AGAINST TALLAHASSEE MAN FOR POSSESSION OF A FIREARM BY A CONVICTED FELON

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

    TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA – Justin Antre Grantsteadman, 36, of Tallahassee, Florida, has been indicted in federal court for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida announced the charges.

    Grantsteadman appeared before United States Magistrate Judge Martin A. Fitzpatrick yesterday for his arraignment at the United States Courthouse in Tallahassee, Florida.

    If convicted, he faces up to 15 years’ imprisonment.

    The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the United States Marshall Service, and the Tallahassee Police Department.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney James A. McCain.

    An indictment is merely an allegation by a grand jury that a defendant has committed a violation of federal criminal law and is not evidence of guilt. All defendants are presumed innocent and entitled to a fair trial, during which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt at trial.

    This case is part of Operation Take Back America (https://www.justice.gov/dag/media/1393746/dl?inline ) a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).

    The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General.  To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Charlotte Man Sentenced For Possession Of A Machinegun

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

    CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Joshua Michael Jenkins, 22, of Charlotte, was sentenced yesterday to 88 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release for possession of a machinegun, announced Russ Ferguson, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina.

    According to court records, on October 30, 2022, a trooper with the North Carolina State Highway Patrol attempted to stop Jenkins for speeding on the interstate. Jenkins refused to stop and instead proceeded to drive at a high rate of speed, reaching speeds of 130 miles per hour. Court documents show that Jenkins exited the highway and ran a red light, where his vehicle collided with four other vehicles at an intersection. Jenkins then fled on foot and ran toward a shopping center. The state trooper ran after Jenkins and observed Jenkins holding a firearm in his hand, which he pointed at the trooper. Jenkins was eventually apprehended.

    According to court documents, law enforcement searched a trashcan in a parking lot nearby after a witness saw Jenkins drop something in it. Law enforcement recovered from the trashcan a Glock model 23, .40 caliber pistol, with an affixed machinegun conversion device, commonly referred to as a “Glock Switch.” During the investigation, law enforcement located multiple social media posts of Jenkins posing with firearms that appeared to be equipped with Glock switches, and a video showing muzzle flash and the sound of repeated firing of an automatic weapon.

    In making today’s announcement, U.S. Attorney Ferguson thanked the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the North Carolina Highway Patrol, the Charlotte Mecklenburg Police Department, and the Huntersville Police Department for their investigation of the case.

    Special Assistant U.S. Attorney (SAUSA) William Wiseman prosecuted the case. Mr. Wiseman is a state prosecutor with the office of the 26th Prosecutorial District and was assigned by District Attorney Spencer Merriweather to serve as a SAUSA with the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Charlotte. Mr. Wiseman is sworn in both state and federal courts. The SAUSA position is a reflection of the partnership between the District Attorney’s Office and the U.S. Attorney’s Office.

     

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Federal Charges Brought After Man Fired at Nash County Deputy

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

    RALEIGH, N.C. – Federal charges were brought Tuesday against a Rocky Mount man, charging him with being a felon in possession of a firearm.  Montrel Devon Ingram, 36, appeared in federal court for his initial appearance.

    “We will act swiftly and relentlessly to investigate anyone who threatens our law enforcement officers and violates federal law,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Daniel P. Bubar. “This case reflects the strong, coordinated response from our federal and local partners, and I’m proud of the quick work that brought the defendant into custody.”

    “Keeping dangerous individuals and illegal firearms off our streets is critical to protecting our neighborhoods,” said Nash County Sheriff Keith Stone. “Thanks to the dedication of our deputies and the support of our federal partners, we were able to quickly apprehend the suspect and recover the weapon ensuring the safety of our community.”

    According to the information presented in the criminal complaint, Ingram was a passenger during a traffic stop in which the driver was suspected of driving under the influence. When backup arrived, Ingram fled on foot near the intersection of Ravenwood Drive and Canary Drive in Rocky Mount. A deputy from the Nash County Sheriff’s Office pursued Ingram after noticing him reaching into his waistband. The deputy shouted loud verbal commands for Ingram to show his hands. Shortly after, the deputy heard a gunshot and saw a muzzle flash coming from Ingram’s direction. Seeking cover while maintaining a clear line of sight on Ingram, the deputy observed him throw a firearm into the front yard of a nearby residence and then attempt to jump the fence into the backyard. The deputy quickly closed in on Ingram, ordering him to the ground. With the assistance of NC State Highway Patrol (NCSHP) troopers, the deputy was able to apprehend Ingram and take him into custody. They later located the thrown firearm, which had a spent shell casing stuck in the ejector port, causing it to jam. The magazine contained five additional rounds of ammunition.

    Ingram faces a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison if convicted.

    Daniel P. Bubar, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina made the announcement. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Nash County Sheriff’s Office, and the North Carolina State Highway Patrol assisted with the investigation and Assistant U.S. Attorney Phil Aubart is prosecuting the case.

    Related court documents and information are located on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No. 5:25-MJ-01851.

    A criminal complaint is merely an accusation. The defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Albuquerque Mother and Son Sentenced for Manufacturing and Selling Machinegun Conversion Devices

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

    ALBUQUERQUE – An Albuquerque mother and son who used Instagram and a 3D printer to traffic illegal machine gun conversion devices were sentenced in federal court following an undercover investigation by the ATF that uncovered a cache of firearms.

    There is no parole in the federal system.

    According to court documents, between February 3 and February 7, 2023, Joe Jasso, 21, used Instagram to advertise and sell illegal machine gun conversion devices (MCDs) which are used to convert firearms to fully automatic fire. Jasso communicated with an undercover detective from the ATF about selling AR-15 auto sears and MCDs. On February 7, 2023, Joe Jasso and his mother, Rachael Jasso, 43, met the undercover detective at Kiva Park, where Joe Jasso demonstrated how to install an MCD. Later that day, at a second meeting at Buffalo Wild Wings, Joe Jasso delivered an AR auto sear to the detective, and both Joe and Rachael Jasso confirmed they could make additional devices.

    On February 16, 2023, officers executed a search warrant at the Jasso residence in Northeast Albuquerque, where they found approximately ten firearms, five machine gun conversion devices, large quantities of ammunition, and a 3D printer used to manufacture the devices. Joe Jasso admitted to using Instagram to sell the switches and acknowledged modifying firearms, while neither Joe nor Rachael Jasso had the required federal licenses to possess or manufacture machine guns or conversion devices.

    Joe Jasso and Rachel Jasso both pleaded guilty to engaging in the business of dealing firearms without a license and possession of a machine gun conversion device. Joe Jasso was sentenced to 33 months in federal prison, and Rachael Jasso was sentenced to 30 months. Upon their release from prison, they will both be subject to two years of supervised release.

    U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Brendan Iber, Special Agent in Charge of the Phoenix Field Division of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, made the announcement today.

    The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated this case with assistance from the Albuquerque Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Samuel A. Hurtado is prosecuting the case.

    Machine gun conversion devices and auto sears are illegal devices that transform semi-automatic firearms into fully automatic weapons capable of continuous firing with a single trigger pull. The possession, manufacture, and sale of these devices without proper licensing is a federal offense carrying severe penalties, including up to 10 years in prison and fines up to $250,000.

    The proliferation of these devices poses an immediate and critical threat to public safety. Between 2018 and 2023, the ATF recovered thousands of machine gun conversion devices, indicating an alarming trend in their availability and use. Violent street gangs are increasingly employing these devices, devastating communities and neighborhoods with unprecedented firepower.

    This dramatic increase in illegal automatic weapons puts both civilians and law enforcement at extreme risk. Officers responding to incidents may find themselves severely outgunned, facing weapons capable of firing hundreds of rounds per minute. The potential for mass casualties in such encounters is staggering.

    Law enforcement agencies are racing against time to intercept these devices before they can be used in violent crimes. Public cooperation is crucial in combating this threat. If you have information about illegal firearms or conversion devices, please contact the ATF immediately:

    Call: 1-888-ATF-Tips (1-888-283-8477)

    Email: ATFTips@atf.gov

    Visit: www.atf.gov/atf-tips

    Your tip could save lives and prevent these dangerous weapons from falling into the wrong hands. The time to act is now, before our community fall victim to the devastating impact of these illegal automatic weapons. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News in Brief: NCIS Deploys Special Agents aboard Guided-Missile Destroyers Patrolling Southern Border

    Source: United States Navy

    SAN DIEGO –The Navy deployed two Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyers in mid-March to conduct border security objectives in support of the U.S. Northern Command southern border mission: the USS Gravely (DDG 107) to the Gulf of America and the Caribbean, and the USS Stockdale (DDG 106) to the Pacific Ocean. Earlier this summer, the USS Cole (DDG 67) relieved the USS Gravely after 83 days of service to the mission.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News in Brief: U.S. Navy, Marine Corps EOD technicians conduct live mine countermeasure operations with JMSDF during Iwo To Live Mine Exercise 2025

    Source: United States Navy

    IWO TO, Japan – U.S. Navy Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) technicians assigned to Explosive Ordnance Disposal Mobile Unit (EODMU) 5 participated in Iwo To Live Mine Exercise (MINEX) 2025, a bilateral mine countermeasures (MCM) exercise hosted annually by the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) in the vicinity of Iwo To, Japan, May 29 to June 24.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Readout of the Vice Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Adm. Christopher Grady’s Meeting with Papua New Guinea Prime Minister James Marape

    Source: US Defense Joint Chiefs of Staff

    Vice Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Adm. Christopher Grady welcomed Papua New Guinea Prime Minister James Marape to Washington, D.C., on Tuesday, July 9, 2025, as part of the United States’ continued focus on strengthening defense relationships across the Pacific Islands region.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Readout of the Vice Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Adm. Christopher Grady’s Meeting with Papua New Guinea Prime Minister James Marape

    Source: US Defense Joint Chiefs of Staff

    Vice Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Adm. Christopher Grady welcomed Papua New Guinea Prime Minister James Marape to Washington, D.C., on Tuesday, July 9, 2025, as part of the United States’ continued focus on strengthening defense relationships across the Pacific Islands region.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Murder investigation launched following fatal stabbing in Knightsbridge

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    A murder investigation has been launched following a fatal stabbing in Knightsbridge.

    At 21:24hrs on Wednesday, 9 July officers, the London Ambulance Service and London’s Air Ambulance responded to reports from members of the public of a stabbing in Seville Street, Knightsbridge.

    Officers attended the scene and found a 24-year-old man who had been stabbed.

    The officers gave first aid on arrival but despite the best efforts of all the emergency services, the man sadly died at the scene.

    The man’s next-of-kin are aware and are being supported by specialist officers.

    No arrests have been made at this early stage and a crime scene will be in place for some time while officers investigate.

    Superintendent Owen Renowden, who leads policing in Kensington and Chelsea, said: “Our thoughts are with the victim’s loved ones following the shocking events that took place last night.

    “Detectives from the Specialist Crime Command, supported by local officers, are working at pace to establish the circumstances of what happened.

    “We are aware of reports that this incident was a robbery. Although this is an active line of enquiry, we are keeping an open mind about all possible motives and the exact circumstances are still to be determined.

    “We understand the impact this incident will have on the local community and you will see extra officers in the area to help answer any questions or concerns. ”

    Please call police on 101 referencing CAD 8521/09JUL if you were a witness or have any information which might help.

    You can also call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or visit crimestoppers-uk.org.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Murder investigation launched following fatal stabbing in Knightsbridge

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    A murder investigation has been launched following a fatal stabbing in Knightsbridge.

    At 21:24hrs on Wednesday, 9 July officers, the London Ambulance Service and London’s Air Ambulance responded to reports from members of the public of a stabbing in Seville Street, Knightsbridge.

    Officers attended the scene and found a 24-year-old man who had been stabbed.

    The officers gave first aid on arrival but despite the best efforts of all the emergency services, the man sadly died at the scene.

    The man’s next-of-kin are aware and are being supported by specialist officers.

    No arrests have been made at this early stage and a crime scene will be in place for some time while officers investigate.

    Superintendent Owen Renowden, who leads policing in Kensington and Chelsea, said: “Our thoughts are with the victim’s loved ones following the shocking events that took place last night.

    “Detectives from the Specialist Crime Command, supported by local officers, are working at pace to establish the circumstances of what happened.

    “We are aware of reports that this incident was a robbery. Although this is an active line of enquiry, we are keeping an open mind about all possible motives and the exact circumstances are still to be determined.

    “We understand the impact this incident will have on the local community and you will see extra officers in the area to help answer any questions or concerns. ”

    Please call police on 101 referencing CAD 8521/09JUL if you were a witness or have any information which might help.

    You can also call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or visit crimestoppers-uk.org.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: NATO Secretary General commends Germany’s role in the Alliance

    Source: NATO

    NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte met Chancellor Friedrich Merz in Berlin on Wednesday (9 July 2025), thanking him for Germany’s leading role in the Alliance, and its support to Ukraine.

    Mr Rutte commended Germany’s resolve, commitment and contributions to our shared security, and its landmark decision to invest significantly more in defence. Highlighting the importance of Germany’s defence industrial base, he said, “your world-class industries and entrepreneurs are capable to ramp up production, innovate and deliver”.

    At a ceremony marking the 70th anniversary of Germany’s accession to NATO, the Secretary General thanked Germany for its contributions to the Alliance.  Speaking in German, and echoing the words of Germany’s first Chancellor, Konrad Adenauer, Mr Rutte recognised that Germany continues to be an “able and reliable” Ally, ready to take on more responsibility.  “When the world becomes more dangerous, and our security is at stake – Germany steps up,” Mr Rutte said.

    While in Berlin, Mr Rutte also met President of the Bundestag Julia Klöckner, Minister for Foreign Affairs Johann Wadephul, parliamentarians from the Defence Committee, and Minister of Defence Boris Pistorius, who hosted the 70th anniversary event at the Ministry of Defence. 

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Serving Met officer convicted of rape

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    A serving Met officer has been convicted of rape.

    PC Tony Watts, attached to the North Area Command Unit, was found guilty and remanded in custody on Tuesday, 8 July following a trial at Croydon Crown Court.

    The offence relates to an incident that happened between mid-January and early February in 2020 when PC Watts was off-duty.

    The victim-survivor has been supported throughout the course of the investigation and trial by dedicated specialist officers.

    Detective Chief Superintendent Caroline Haines, who leads the North Area policing team, said:

    “PC Watts has shown a complete disregard for this victim-survivor and for his duty to protect women and girls – in the vilest way.

    “We are going above and beyond at the Met to rid the force of those who corrupt our integrity, and it is quite right that PC Watts has been held accountable for his actions.

    “It would have taken a huge amount of courage and strength to speak to police, the way this victim-survivor did, and I hope this conviction provides some closure.

    “My message to any other victims who may have experienced a sexual encounter they felt wasn’t right is that they can and should come forward, and we will do everything we can to support you.”

    PC Watts was arrested following the incident being reported in May 2022.

    He was bailed while further enquiries took place, before being charged with rape on Wednesday, 25 September 2024 and suspended from duty.

    He will be sentenced on Monday, 11 August at the same court.

    The Met’s professional standards team is aware and a misconduct hearing will now follow as soon as possible.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Man charged in connection with Chingford murder

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    Detectives have charged a man in connection with the murder of Tyler Hayward who was stabbed to death in Chingford.

    Peshman Ahmedi, 22 (09.04.03), of no fixed address, was arrested at the Port of Dover on Tuesday, 8 July following a large police operation in Kent.

    He was subsequently charged with murder on Thursday, 10 July. He will appear in custody at Willesden Magistrates’ Court on Thursday, 10 July.

    A murder investigation was launched after officers were called to reports of a stabbing in Chingford Mount Road at 21:14hrs on Sunday, 6 July.

    Met officers responded with paramedics and Tyler, 26, was found with a stab wound. Despite the efforts of emergency services, he sadly died at the scene.

    His next-of-kin have been informed and are being supported by specialist officers.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Man charged in connection with Chingford murder

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    Detectives have charged a man in connection with the murder of Tyler Hayward who was stabbed to death in Chingford.

    Peshman Ahmedi, 22 (09.04.03), of no fixed address, was arrested at the Port of Dover on Tuesday, 8 July following a large police operation in Kent.

    He was subsequently charged with murder on Thursday, 10 July. He will appear in custody at Willesden Magistrates’ Court on Thursday, 10 July.

    A murder investigation was launched after officers were called to reports of a stabbing in Chingford Mount Road at 21:14hrs on Sunday, 6 July.

    Met officers responded with paramedics and Tyler, 26, was found with a stab wound. Despite the efforts of emergency services, he sadly died at the scene.

    His next-of-kin have been informed and are being supported by specialist officers.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Coast Guard Cutter Harriet Lane returns home following patrol in Oceania

    Source: United States Coast Guard

     

    07/10/2025 01:40 AM EDT

    HONOLULU – The crew of U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Harriet Lane (WMEC 903) returned to Honolulu Wednesday following a 73-day patrol in support of Coast Guard Oceania District’s Operation Blue Pacific. 

    For breaking news follow us on twitter @USCGHawaiiPac

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Gang jailed for 65 years for large drug dealing operation

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    An organised crime group who supplied cocaine across the UK have been jailed for more than 65 years following an extensive investigation from the Metropolitan Police and the National Crime Agency

    A joint Met and National Crime Agency (NCA) investigation has led to an organised crime group being jailed for their role in the supply of cocaine across the capital and the United Kingdom. Their efforts signify officers’ efforts to crack down on drug supply and associated anti-social behaviour and violence, which causes misery to Londoners and those beyond.

    The investigation unveiled that Redon Bushi, 32, (27.04.1993), of Cherry Crescent, Brentford, was operating in the leading role of this enterprise over a number of years, with multiple importers and couriers working with him.

    He pleaded guilty at Kingston-upon-Thames Crown Court on Monday, 10 July 2024 to –

    • two counts of conspiracy to supply Class A drugs,
    • conspiracy to transfer criminal property,
    • possessing criminal property.

    He was sentenced to a total of 24 years’ and 10 months imprisonment on Wednesday, 9 July at Kingston-upon-Thames Crown Court.

    Encrypted messaging services EncroChat and Signal revealed Bushi had conspired to supply a minimum of 832kg of cocaine, with a street value of up to £81,640,000, across London and the entirety of the UK. Once the Encrochat messages had been discovered, a targeted operation followed and Met detectives started work to dismantle the illegal drug-dealing operation.

    The investigation

    Met detectives discovered Bushi was using Encrochat under the username of ‘Sealvermouth’ after the platform was cracked by international law enforcement, supported by the NCA.

    Their investigation showed that Bushi took precautions to attempt to protect his wider criminal network. His couriers would only be provided post codes, times, and a loose description of the individual they would be providing to.

    However, his efforts were combatted by the tenacity of Met officers, who were able to uncover the group’s lines of communication. They thoroughly reviewed each and every device and chat pertaining to the group. They also trawled through hours’ worth of CCTV and were able to piece together the inner mechanics of the criminal operation.

    Using this material, officers stopped one of the vehicles belonging to Bushi’s couriers, Ahmad Jabarkhill in June 2020 and found nearly £700,000 on him.

    The Met and NCA officers also used covert tactics and intelligence to identify three more of Bushi’s couriers – Arline Sida, Luke Ferguson and Kelvin Hoxha, gathering evidence to show the scale of the enterprise.

    In addition to the chats, which were found between the group, fake identity cards were also found, as well as a van with a sophisticated concealment. There was also a camera set up at the location where drugs were being stored so it could be remotely monitored.

    Acting on this information, Sida and Hoxha were both arrested in Brentford in August 2023. Searches were carried out at the address and they were found in possession of six kilograms of cocaine.

    Luke Ferguson, another member of the criminal enterprise, was then arrested at a ‘safe house’ in Brentford and found in possession of 72kg of cocaine, worth an estimated street value of £6.24 million.

    Police and the NCA then launched a manhunt for Bushi after his team were arrested. He stayed in a series of hotels to evade officers, bought a new phone, clothing, and had more than £3,000 in cash. Whilst the manhunt was ongoing, Bushi directed others to check cameras at various addresses to identify any police attendance or surveillance.

    He was arrested in Reading in the following days.

    Detective Constable David Leitner, who led the investigation on behalf of the Met, said:

    “This case demonstrates our relentlessness in pursuing organised crime, while utilising the unprecedented opportunity that Encrochat represent to its fullest effect.

    “Bushi clearly believed that these messaging platforms protected him from law enforcement, but they only served to provide us the very evidence to convict him and his associates.

    “This shows the Met’s commitment to tackling offenders who are instrumental in supplying drugs to the streets of London.”

    The wider criminal enterprise

    Ahmad Jabarkhill, 32, (01.01.1993) pleaded guilty to the possession of criminal property at Isleworth Crown Court on Wednesday, 22 July 2020 and was sentenced on the same date to two years and three months’ imprisonment.

    Arline Sida, 23 (16.02.2002), of London Road West, Amersham, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to supply Class A drugs on Wednesday, 17 January 2024 at Kingston-upon-Thames Crown Court and was sentenced to 12 years’ 9 months imprisonment on Wednesday, 9 July at Kingston-upon-Thames Crown Court.

    Kelvin Hoxha, 23, (15.04.2002), of Field Lane, Brentford pleaded guilty to conspiracy to supply Class A drugs and driving while disqualified on Saturday, 26 October 2024 at Kingston-upon-Thames Crown Court and was sentenced to 11 years’ 8 Months imprisonment on Wednesday, 9 July at Kingston-upon-Thames Crown Court.

    Luke Ferguson, 32 (14.04.1993), of Becklow Road, Shepherd’s Bush, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to supply Class A drugs on Thursday, 21 November 2024 at Kingston-upon-Thames Crown Court and was sentenced to 14 years’ 5 months imprisonment on Wednesday, 9 July at Kingston-upon-Thames Crown Court.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: McCreery Aviation finance director admits to $1.2 million mail fraud scheme

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    McALLEN, Texas – A 57-year-old Mission resident has pleaded guilty to mail fraud and diverting company funds for her own benefit, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.

    Elizabeth Batten was the director of financing at McCreery Aviation in the Rio Grande Valley from 2019 to 2023. As part of her plea, she admitted that during her tenure, she diverted company funds to pay for her personal expenses. She used signed blank company checks, intended for legitimate business purposes, to settle her personal credit card accounts.

    She also used the U.S. Postal Service to conceal her behavior and actions by mailing her fraudulent payments to multiple credit card companies in different states.

    The investigation into Batten began after a McCreery Aviation employee noticed irregularities in the handling of company checks in late 2023.

    It revealed she had fraudulently diverted a total of $1.2 million as part of her scheme.

    U.S. District Judge Drew B. Tipton will impose sentencing Oct. 7. At that time, Batten faces up to 20 years in federal prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine.

    As a part of the plea, Batten agreed to pay $1.191 million in restitution to McCreery Aviation.

    She was permitted to remain on bond pending her sentencing hearing.

    The FBI conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jose A. Garcia prosecuted the case. 

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