NewzIntel.com

Category: Security Intelligence

  • MIL-OSI Security: CMF’s Combined Task Force 150 Carries Out First Drug Interdiction with New Zealand In Command

    Source: United States Naval Central Command

    MANAMA, Bahrain —

    A U.S. Coast Guard fast-response cutter, working in direct support of New Zealand-led Combined Task Force (CTF) 150 of Combined Maritime Forces, seized nearly 2,400 kilograms of illegal drugs from a vessel in the Arabian Sea, Feb. 7.

    The interdiction by the Sentinel-class fast-response cutter USCGC Emlen Tunnell (WPC-1145) represents CTF 150’s first drug seizure since New Zealand assumed command Jan. 15.

    The cutter’s boarding team discovered and seized 2,357kg of hashish from the vessel. After weighing and documenting the haul, the crew properly disposed of the narcotics.

    Commodore Rodger Ward, commander of CTF 150, said he’s proud of the team effort that went into making this interdiction a reality after only a few weeks in command.

    “Our command is a small cog in a system focused on interdicting illicit trafficking on the high seas,” Ward said. “This is a team effort and this bust would not have been possible without the support of the 46 nations who make up the Combined Maritime Forces.”

    Ward noted that every bust we make reduces the flow of finances to terrorist organizations. “This is why we’re here, to contribute to maritime security and protect the rules-based international order,” he said.

    Emlen Tunnell is forward deployed to Bahrain. The fast response cutter is part of a contingent of U.S. Coast Guard ships operating in the region under Patrol Forces Southwest Asia (PATFORSWA). PATFORSWA deploys Coast Guard personnel and ships alongside U.S. and regional naval forces throughout the Middle East.

    CTF 150 is one of five task forces under Combined Maritime Forces, the world’s largest international naval partnership. CTF 150’s mission is to deter and disrupt the ability of non-state actors to move weapons, drugs and other illicit substances in the Indian Ocean, the Arabian Sea and the Gulf of Oman.

    Combined Maritime Forces is a 46-nation naval partnership upholding the international rules-based order by promoting security and stability across 3.2 million square miles of water encompassing some of the world’s most important shipping lanes.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Felon Involved in Elizabeth City Shooting Sentenced to More than Nine Years

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    RALEIGH, N.C. – A felon involved in an Elizabeth City shooting was sentenced to 115 months in prison for possession of ammunition by a felon.  On November 22, 2024, Jermel Trevon Williams, age 30, pled guilty to the charge.

    According to court documents and other information presented in court, on August 7, 2023, officers from the Elizabeth City Police Department (ECPD) responded to a shooting outside a downtown bar in Elizabeth City. Review of surveillance footage in the area showed an individual, later identified as Williams, and a second person, discharging firearms. Officers recovered five 9mm shell casings from the area and two .45 caliber shell casings. On October 29, 2023, officers with the Raleigh Police Department (RPD) conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle for a window tint violation. Williams was a passenger in the car. After spotting two marijuana roaches in plain view, officers conducted a search of the vehicle. The search resulted in the recovery of a digital scale located in the center console, and a stolen 9mm handgun and two baggies of marijuana under the front passenger seat where Williams was previously seated. Williams subsequently admitted to ownership of the contents of the vehicle. Williams is a previously convicted felon and is prohibited from possessing ammunition.

    The conviction is a result of the ongoing Violent Crime Action Plan (VCAP) initiative which is a collaborative effort with local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies, working with the community, to identify and address the most significant drivers of violent crime. VCAP involves focused and strategic enforcement, and interagency coordination and intelligence-led policing.

    Daniel Bubar, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge James C. Dever III. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, ECPD and RPD investigated the case and Assistant U.S. Attorney John Newby  prosecuted the case.

    Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:24-cr-00012-D-BM.

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Armed Drug Dealer Sentenced to 20 Years in Prison

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    RALEIGH, N.C. – A Rocky Mount man was sentenced to 240 months in prison for possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense and bribery of a public official. On October 8, 2024, Quatavious Arnez Hunter, age 32, pled guilty to the charges.

    According to court documents and other information presented in court, on September 16, 2021, officers of the Rocky Mount Police Department (RMPD) conducted a traffic stop of a vehicle in which Hunter was a passenger. Hunter was wearing a ski mask covering his entire face. Searches of Hunter’s person revealed a loaded, 9mm handgun on his hip, over $1,500 in cash, 45 bindles of heroin, one plastic bag containing approximately 5.7 grams of crack cocaine and two bags weighing a total of approximately 7.6 grams of powder cocaine.

    In March 2023, while Hunter’s case was pending in federal court, he was held in the Bladen County Jail (BCJ). During this time, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) began investigating claims that Hunter and another inmate were orchestrating payments to a BCJ detention officer in exchange for drugs smuggled into the jail in resealed potato chip bags. Hunter’s cell was searched and was found to contain contraband, including synthetic marijuana and a lighter. The investigation further revealed that Hunter’s girlfriend made Cash App payments to a BCJ detention officer. Upon the officer’s arrest, he admitted to making multiple deliveries of contraband to Hunter in exchange for payments via Cash App.

    Daniel P. Bubar, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge James C. Dever III. The Rocky Mount Police Department and Nash County Sheriff’s Office investigated the drug and gun offenses and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and Bladen County Sheriff’s Office investigated the contraband smuggling case. Assistant United States Attorneys Sarah E. Nokes and Ashley H. Foxx prosecuted the cases.

    Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case Nos. 5:21-CR-407-1D and 7:23-CR-101-4D.

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Senior officer thanks community following Lewisham disturbance

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    A senior officer from the South East Area Command has thanked local residents for their patience while officers dealt with a disturbance on Lewisham High Street yesterday.

    Police were called to the location at around 10.45hrs on Monday, 10 February.

    A cordon was put in place to ensure the safety of the wider public and a man who was inside a property, while officers worked closely with the London Fire Brigade and London Ambulance Service.

    Officers gained entry to the property at 02:35hrs on Tuesday, 11 February and detained the man, who was alone in the address. He was taken to hospital following his arrest on suspicion of affray and threats to kill.

    Enquiries remain ongoing.

    Detective Chief Superintendent Trevor Lawry, who leads policing in the South East Area, said: “I appreciate the incident in Lewisham High Street yesterday caused a lot of concern for residents and I would like to thank them for their patience.

    “To clarify, this situation did not involve any hostages and our specially-trained officers engaged with a man who was believed to be suffering with a mental health crisis.”

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Georgia Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison for Role in Methamphetamine Trafficking Organization

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

    HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – Nehmiah Allen-Griggs, also known as “Newski,” 23, of Dallas, Georgia, was sentenced today to ten years in prison, to be followed by five years of supervised release, for distribution of 50 grams or more of methamphetamine. Allen-Griggs admitted to his role in a drug trafficking organization (DTO) responsible for distributing large quantities of methamphetamine and fentanyl in the Southern District of West Virginia.

    According to court documents and statements made in court, on March 1, 2023, Allen-Griggs distributed approximately 1 pound of methamphetamine to a confidential informant in a Huntington parking lot in exchange for $2,000.

    On November 15, 2023, law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at a Highlawn Avenue residence in Huntington and seized quantities of methamphetamine and fentanyl, a Landor Arms Canyon Arms 12-gauge shotgun, a Walther P22 .22-caliber pistol equipped with a silencer, a Kel-Teck .22-caliber pistol, and various rounds of ammunition. Allen-Griggs admitted that he and others used the residence to store and distribute methamphetamine and fentanyl.

    Allen-Griggs is among 27 individuals indicted in a 53-count indictment that charges the defendants with distributing methamphetamine and fentanyl transported from Detroit, Michigan, in Huntington and other locations within the Southern District of West Virginia.

    Allen-Griggs is also among 22 defendants who have pleaded guilty in the main case. One other of the 27 indicted individuals pleaded guilty to a related offense in a separate case. The indictment against the remaining defendants is pending. An indictment is merely an allegation and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    United States Attorney Will Thompson made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Cabell County Sheriff’s Department, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team (MDENT), the West Virginia State Police, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service. MDENT is composed of the Charleston Police Department, the Kanawha County Sheriff’s Office, the Putnam County Sheriff’s Office, the Nitro Police Department, the St. Albans Police Department and the South Charleston Police Department.

    United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorneys Joseph F. Adams and Stephanie Taylor prosecuted the case.

    The investigation was part of the Department of Justice’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF). The program was established in 1982 to conduct comprehensive, multilevel attacks on major drug trafficking and money laundering organizations and is the keystone of the Department of Justice’s drug reduction strategy. OCDETF combines the resources and expertise of its member federal agencies in cooperation with state and local law enforcement. The principal mission of the OCDETF program is to identify, disrupt and dismantle the most serious drug trafficking organizations, transnational criminal organizations and money laundering organizations that present a significant threat to the public safety, economic, or national security of the United States.

    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. 3:23-cr-180.

    ###

     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Oceana County Man Sentenced To 90 Years For Sexually Exploiting A Child

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

              GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN — Acting U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Michigan Andrew Birge announced that Brandon Lee Chase, 45, of Walkerville, previously pleaded guilty to three counts of sexual exploitation of a minor and was sentenced yesterday to 90 years in federal prison.

              According to court documents, Chase sexually abused the child of a woman he was dating. The sexual abuse happened repeatedly and continued for years. Chase also recorded explicit videos of the abuse. Chase is a repeat sex offender and has also pleaded no contest to criminal sexual conduct in a separate case that is pending sentencing in Shelby Village.

              “Today’s sentencing of Brandon Chase is a decisive victory in the FBI’s unyielding battle against sexual predators who prey on our most vulnerable population,” said Cheyvoryea Gibson, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI in Michigan. “I am grateful of the tireless investigative efforts of the FBI’s WEBCHEX Task Force, alongside our law enforcement partners at the Ottawa County Sheriff’s Office and the Muskegon Justice for Women Task Force. The priority of the FBI in Michigan is to protect our communities and disrupt criminal acts that could harm the residents and visitors of Michigan. Lastly, I would like to thank the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Michigan for their essential partnership in ensuring Mr. Chase is held accountable for his criminal acts and that those who were victimized are a step closer to healing.”

              This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Ottawa County Sheriff’s Office, Muskegon Township Police Department, and Muskegon Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Doaa Al-Howaishy prosecuted it.

              This case is part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from online exploitation and abuse. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, county prosecutor’s offices, the Internet Crimes Against Children task force (ICAC), federal, state, tribal, and local law enforcement are working closely together to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children. The partners in Project Safe Childhood work to educate local communities about the dangers of online child exploitation, and to teach children how to protect themselves. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov. Individuals with information or concerns about possible child exploitation should contact local law enforcement officials.

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News: U.S. 6th Fleet embarks flagship USS Mount Whitney

    Source: United States Navy

    During a simulated at-sea period, or fast cruise, the staff and Mount Whitney’s military-civilian combined crew exercised normal underway conditions and the battle rhythm required to sustain fleet-wide distributed maritime operations.

    “We demonstrated we could run our Maritime Operations Center effectively from our flagship,” said Vice Adm. J.T. Anderson, commander of U.S. 6th Fleet. “Our staff’s ability to deploy anytime while still commanding thousands of Sailors, ships, submarines and aircraft across two areas of operation is what makes our headquarters one of the most flexible, mobile, and active warfighting platforms in the U.S. military.”

    USS Mount Whitney is 6th Fleet’s primary warfighting platform and the only place where the commander can simultaneously command U.S. forces and NATO forces. Its command and control systems allow designated staff to enable an array of naval and joint operations while at sea, including rapid maritime response; planning, coordinating, and directing the employment of forces to maintain mission readiness; building working relationships with Allies and partners; protecting U.S. citizens and U.S. interests; and deterring hostile forces in European and African theaters.

    The three-day embark coincided with the U.S. 6th Fleet’s anniversary. Sixth Fleet was established Feb. 12, 1950 with the responsibility for the Mediterranean, marking 75 years of service.

    U.S. Sixth Fleet, headquartered in Naples, Italy, conducts a full spectrum of joint and naval operations, often in concert with Allies, in order to advance security and stability in Europe and Africa.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News: Exercise Cutlass Express 2025 launches across East Africa

    Source: United States Navy

    Exercise Cutlass Express 2025, sponsored by U.S. Africa Command and enabled by U.S. 6th Fleet, brings together more than 20 multinational partners for two weeks of training to support collaborative maritime security operations in the region.

    Throughout the exercise, U.S. forces will work alongside participating nations to enhance maritime domain awareness, improve international law enforcement capacity and increase interoperability between the U.S., African, and other multinational partner navies and coast guards.

    “Cutlass Express continues to provide an exceptional venue to collaborate with our African partners on maritime security,” said Vice Adm. J. T. Anderson, commander, U.S. 6th Fleet. “When we combine the strength of our partnerships with the high level of training provided by exercises like this, we improve the overall security and economic prosperity of a region that extends far beyond the territorial waters and exclusive economic zones of each individual nation.”

    This year’s exercise will focus training efforts in Mauritius, Seychelles and Tanzania, though information sharing and coordination will take place across nine maritime operation centers (MOCs) located throughout the region. Additionally, Exercise Cutlass Express 2025 is linked to U.S. Naval Forces Central Command’s International Maritime Exercise 2025 through information sharing between MOCs to improve theater-to-theater coordination, reduce regional seams, and strengthen U.S. and partner nation capabilities and interoperability.

    Exercise Cutlass Express 2025 will also run concurrently with the U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa led exercise Justified Accord 2025 in Kenya and Tanzania to improve defense capabilities of multi-domain forces and refine crisis and counterterrorism responses, ultimately reducing global maritime threats.

    Participants in this year’s iteration of Cutlass Express include Belgium, Comoros, Djibouti, France, Georgia, India, Kenya, Madagascar, Malawi, Mauritius, Morocco, Mozambique, Senegal, Seychelles, Somalia, Tanzania, Tunisia, and the United Kingdom.

    Cutlass Express is one of three regional maritime exercises led by U.S. 6th Fleet as part of a comprehensive strategy to provide collaborative opportunities to African forces and international partners to address maritime security concerns.

    Commander, U.S. 6th Fleet, headquartered in Naples, Italy, conducts the full spectrum of joint and naval operations, often in concert with allied and interagency partners to advance U.S. national interests, security and stability in Europe and Africa.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Key figures behind Phobos and 8Base ransomware arrested in international cybercrime crackdown

    Source: Europol

    This follows a series of high-impact arrests targeting Phobos ransomware:An administrator of Phobos was arrested in South Korea in June 2024 and extradited to the United States in November of the same year. He is now facing prosecution for orchestrating ransomware attacks that encrypted critical infrastructure, business systems, and personal data for ransom.A key Phobos affiliate was arrested in Italy…

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Saving Lives, Delivering the Future: Heroes in Uniform and Scrubs

    Source: United States Navy (Medical)

    Story by: Chiara M. Caputo

    U.S. Navy Medicine and Training Command (USNMRTC) Sigonella highlights the accomplishments of three remarkable physicians who have dedicated their lives to serving both their patients and their country. These leaders in military medicine embody the values of innovation, resilience, and selfless service.

    Through their tireless efforts, these physicians have not only advanced medical care within the Military Health System but have also paved the way for future generations of leaders in medicine and the armed forces. Each of their stories highlights a profound commitment to excellence and a passion for making a difference, whether on the battlefield, in clinics, or through groundbreaking research.

    We honor their contributions and celebrate their unwavering dedication to health care, military service, and the pursuit of a healthier, stronger future. Through their stories, we hope to inspire future generations and showcase the unwavering commitment of these women in uniform and in diverse roles in Navy Medicine.

    Brandi L Sakai, MD
    Commander, USN
    Board Certified Emergency Medicine Physician

    Born in Welsh, Louisiana, on June 6, 1981, Cmdr. Sakai grew up with a passion for science and the ocean. After graduating from the Louisiana School for Math, Science, and the Arts in 1998, she pursued marine biology, studying diverse ecosystems from the marshes of Louisiana to Scotland’s marine mammals and the vibrant reefs of the Virgin Islands. Her work at the Roy L. Schneider Hospital’s barometric pressure chamber sparked her drive to combine science with service, graduating cum laude with a B.S. in Biology.

    In 2005, she commissioned in the Navy through the Armed Forces Health Professions Scholarship Program (HPSP) and began medical school at Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center. Hurricane Katrina hit during her training, and Commander Sakai worked tirelessly in pop-up clinics, providing care and vaccinations to displaced communities. This experience shaped her dedication to serving others in times of crisis.
    Her Navy career has been marked by leadership and innovation. From integrating Marine medical services in Japan to creating advanced training programs for shock trauma care, she has consistently raised the bar for military medicine. As the Senior Medical Officer in Okinawa and later the Department Head of Emergency Medicine in Guantanamo Bay, she improved operations, ensured top-tier care, and earned recognition for her commitment to excellence.

    Beyond her professional achievements, Commander Sakai is a certified Emergency Medicine Diplomate and a devoted wife and mother of two. When she’s not scuba diving, sailing, or baking, she’s embracing projects that reflect her passion for problem-solving and innovation.

    Reflecting on her career, Cmdr. Sakai shared, “I had many jobs that many would consider a career. I was a PADI scuba instructor and manager of the storefront of a tour operation in St. Thomas US Virgin Islands (USVI). If you took a cruise to the island, you walked past our store on the docks. We may have said hello two decades ago! After doing the job for 5 years, I felt that I had learned all that I could, and there was no chance for advancement based on performance, so I knew that I needed something new and challenging. After getting my degree in Marine Biology and presenting environmental research to the Senate on USVI fisheries and the impact of hotel expansion, I realized that I enjoyed talking and educating people one-on-one, and speaking to rooms and presenting posters wasn’t going to make me happy. I volunteered at the local Emergency Department, and the variety and mental challenge of solving a puzzle on every patient kept me coming back. I decided to turn it into a career, but I also hated to stay in one place (there was a big wide world to explore), so I joined the Navy and never looked back. I did a General Surgery internship, and the Chaplain and I were the only Naval Officers in my first duty with the Marines in Iwakuni, Japan for 3 years. Being part of the Marines for 3 years to start my career really shaped me and set the tone for all my OCONUS tours since. My husband was an Ombudsman and found a great career as a financial educator that allows him to work virtually. If you need advice on mainland Japan, Korea, Okinawa, or Guantanamo Bay, or love medicine and want to explore your options give me a ring.”

    Meagan G. Chauvin, MD, FACOG
    Lieutenant Commander, USN
    Director of Medical Services/Staff Attending OBGYN

    A Houston, Texas native, Lt. Cmdr. Meagan Chauvin has built a remarkable career in military medicine. After earning her Bachelor of Science in Chemistry with Distinction from the U.S. Naval Academy in 2010, she completed her Medical Doctorate at the University of Texas Medical School at Houston in 2014. She completed her Obstetrics and Gynecology residency in 2018 at Naval Medical Center San Diego.

    Her first assignment as a staff OB/GYN took her to Naval Hospital Guam, where she led the OB/GYN Clinic as Department Head and earned Board Certification in Obstetrics and Gynecology. Later, at Fort Belvoir Community Hospital in Virginia, she became Department Chief of the Women’s Health Clinic, further demonstrating her leadership and dedication to women’s health.

    Now serving as the Director of Medical Services at Naval Hospital Sigonella in Italy, Lt. Cmdr. Chauvin continues to lead with excellence. Among her awards are the Defense Meritorious Service Medal and the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal.

    Lt. Cmdr. Chauvin is also a proud wife to Matthew Gerard Chauvin and mom to three children—EJ, Madeline, and Ellie—balancing her professional success with a fulfilling family life. Reflecting on her career, LCDR Chauvin shared, “I was inspired to become an OBGYN, because I loved taking care of women across their lifespan and developing long-term relationships with my patients. In addition, I love welcoming babies into the world and being part of helping patients grow their families. I joined the Navy after being inspired by classmates from high school who also went to service academies. The Naval Academy was an amazing experience that led me to the most important job I can imagine, supporting Navy women and families as an OBGYN. I am proud to follow in the Navy tradition of my great grandfather, who served on a troop transport ship in WWI, and my grandfather, who joined via the Navy V-12 program during WWII.”

    Kristen Shafer, MC
    Lieutenant, USN
    Emergency Medicine Attending

    Born in New York, New York, Lt. Shafer discovered her passion for science and outreach early in life. After earning her bachelor’s degree in chemistry pre-medicine at Indiana University of Pennsylvania in 2014, she brought the wonders of chemistry to life for local elementary students through her self-created Chemistry Magic Show.

    In 2015, she pursued her Master of Science in Space Physiology and Health at King’s College London, where her thesis explored visual function and impairment in dynamic environments. She collaborated with the United Kingdom space program’s Mission X initiative, blending her love of science with public engagement.

    Lt. Shafer joined the Navy through the HPSP program and earned her Doctor of Medicine from Stony Brook University in 2020, graduating early to assist with the initial surge of COVID-19 patients in New York. She went on to complete her Emergency Medicine Residency at USNMRTC Portsmouth in 2024, where she expanded Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) outreach programs, inspiring over 300 high school students annually.

    Now an Emergency Medicine Attending at USNMRTC Sigonella, Lt. Shafer continues her commitment to both medicine and mentorship. As Emergency Response Committee Chair, she oversees emergency preparedness, and as a liaison to local DoDEA schools, she is developing a mentorship program to introduce students to healthcare careers and military opportunities.

    With a passion for outreach and academic medicine, LT Shafer embodies the Navy’s mission to serve both on and off the field, inspiring the next generation of leaders. Reflecting on her career in emergency medicine, Lt. Shafer said, “In emergency medicine, we need to be ready for whatever comes in the door at any time. Military medicine lets me practice that medicine and be comfortable providing care not just at any time, but any place in the world and to a population that is dedicated to serving others and making a difference.”

    USNMRTC Sigonella is one of The Defense Health Agency’s Overseas Military Treatment Facilities (MTF). The staff are comprised of active duty service members, General Service (GS), contractors, and Local Nationals. It ensures maximum readiness by providing high-quality, safe patient and family-centered care to maximize force health protection for all beneficiaries, to included NATO and transient DoD forces in the U.S. Fifth Fleet and U.S. Sixth Fleet areas of operation.

    The U. S. Naval Academy (USNA) offers a variety of academic curriculums that prepare their graduates for a rewarding military career. Graduates of the USNA will accept a commission for 5 years of active duty service in the U.S. Navy or Marine Corps. For more information regarding the USNA visit: https://www.usna.edu/homepage.php.

    If you are already in or plan to attend school to be a physician, dentist, optometrist, physician assistant or clinical psychologist, the Armed Forces Health Professions Scholarship Program (HPSP) will pay your educationally based tuition and fees for up to four years of school and provide a monthly stipend paid directly to you. After graduation, you’ll join the Navy’s active duty team as a commissioned officer. In return, you agree to serve a minimum of 2 years on active duty or year for year of scholarship, whichever is longer.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Phobos Ransomware Affiliates Arrested in Coordinated International Disruption

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    WASHINGTON — The Justice Department today unsealed criminal charges against Roman Berezhnoy, 33, and Egor Nikolaevich Glebov, 39, both Russian nationals, who allegedly operated a cybercrime group using the Phobos ransomware that victimized more than 1,000 public and private entities in the United States and around the world and received over $16 million in ransom payments. Berezhnoy and Glebov were arrested yesterday as part of a coordinated international disruption of their organization, which includes additional arrests and the technical disruption of the group’s computer infrastructure.

    From May 2019, through at least October 2024, Berezhnoy, Glebov, and others allegedly caused victims to suffer losses resulting from the loss of access to their data in addition to the financial losses associated with the ransomware payments. The victims included a children’s hospital, health care providers, and educational institutions.

    According to court documents, Berezhnoy, Glebov, and others operated a ransomware affiliate organization, including under the names “8Base” and “Affiliate 2803,” among others, that victimized public and private entities through the deployment of Phobos ransomware.

    As part of the scheme, Berezhnoy, Glebov, and others allegedly hacked into victim computer networks, copied and stole files and programs on the victims’ network, and encrypted the original versions of the stolen data with Phobos ransomware. The conspirators then allegedly extorted the victims for ransom payments in exchange for the decryption keys to regain access to the encrypted data by, among other things, leaving a ransom note on compromised victim computers and separately reaching out to victims to initiate ransom payment negotiations.

    As alleged, the conspirators also threatened to expose victims’ stolen files to the public or to the victims’ clients, customers, or constituents if the ransoms were not paid. The conspirators are further alleged to have established and operated a darknet website where they repeated their extortionate threats and ultimately published the stolen data if a victim failed to pay the ransom.

    After a successful Phobos ransomware attack, criminal affiliates paid fees to Phobos administrators for a decryption key to regain access to the encrypted files. Each deployment of Phobos ransomware was assigned a unique alphanumeric string in order to match it to the corresponding decryption key, and each affiliate was directed to pay the decryption key fee to a cryptocurrency wallet unique to that affiliate.

    The charges unsealed today against Berezhnoy and Glebov follow the recent arrest and extradition of Evgenii Ptitsyn, a Russian national, on charges relating to his alleged administration of the Phobos ransomware variant.

    In parallel with today’s arrests, Europol and German authorities have announced an international operation involving the FBI and other international law enforcement partners to disrupt over 100 servers associated with this criminal network.

    Berezhnoy and Glebov are charged in an 11-count indictment with one count of wire fraud conspiracy, one count of wire fraud, one count of conspiracy to commit computer fraud and abuse, three counts of causing intentional damage to protected computers, three counts of extortion in relation to damage to a protected computer, one count of transmitting a threat to impair the confidentiality of stolen data, and one count of unauthorized access and obtaining information from a protected computer. If convicted, Berezhnoy and Glebov face a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison on each wire fraud-related count; 10 years in prison on each computer damage count; and five years in prison on each of the other counts. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    Erek L. Barron, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland; Supervisory Official Antoinette T. Bacon of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division; and Special Agent in Charge William J. DelBagno of the FBI Baltimore Field Office, made the announcement.

    The FBI Baltimore Field Office is investigating the case. The Justice Department extends its thanks to international judicial and law enforcement partners in the United Kingdom, Germany, Japan, Spain, Belgium, Poland, Czech Republic, France, Thailand, Finland, and Romania, as well as Europol and the U.S. Department of Defense Cyber Crime Center, for their cooperation and coordination with the Phobos ransomware investigation. The Justice Department’s National Security Division and Office of International Affairs also provided valuable assistance.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Thomas M. Sullivan for the District of Maryland and Senior Counsel Aarash A. Haghighat of the Criminal Division’s Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section (CCIPS) are prosecuting the case. Former CCIPS Trial Attorney Riane Harper and former Assistant U.S. Attorneys Aaron S.J. Zelinsky and Jeffrey J. Izant for the District of Maryland provided substantial assistance.

    Additional details on protecting networks against Phobos ransomware are available at StopRansomware.gov, including Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency Advisory AA24-060A.

    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: Murder investigation launched in Ealing

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    A murder investigation has been launched after a fatal stabbing in Ealing.

    Police were called at approximately 22:30hrs on Tuesday, 10 February, to reports of a man found with stab wounds outside an address in Oaklands Road, Hanwell.

    Officers and London Ambulance Service crews attended, but despite their best efforts, the man was pronounced dead at the scene.

    Although formal identification has yet to take place, officers believe the victim was in his 30s.

    A post-mortem examination will be carried out in due course.

    DCI Alison Foxwell, from Major Investigation Team 12, said:

    “Our thoughts today are with the victim’s family and friends in light of this truly tragic event.

    “Local residents will see an increased number of officers in and around Hanwell while our investigative work is carried out. I want to thank residents for their patience while this continues. I would ask anyone who was in the area of Oaklands Road, who may have seen or heard anything suspicious, to come forward to us.”

    Anyone with information is asked to call 101, quoting crime reference CAD7176/10FEB25.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Crestview native supporting U.S. Naval Medical Readiness Logistics Command promoted

    Source: United States Navy (Medical)

    Robert Goodson Jr., a U.S. Navy civilian employee from Crestview, Florida, was recently promoted to a leadership position at Naval Medical Readiness Logistics Command (NMRLC), Williamsburg, Virginia.

    Goodson was recently named deputy director for administration.

    Goodson is a 1998 graduate of Niceville High School. Additionally, Goodson earned a degree from Bellevue University in 2011.

    The skills and values needed to succeed as a Navy civilian are similar to those found in Crestview.

    “Growing up, my life was shaped by my father’s career in the U.S. Air Force, which afforded me the unique opportunity to experience multiple locations and cultures at a young age,” Goodson said. “As a military dependent, I had the chance to live in various parts of the country and even abroad, exposing me to different environments, customs, and ways of life. This nomadic upbringing not only broadened my perspective but also taught me valuable lessons about adaptability, resilience, and the importance of human connection.”

    Learning how to navigate different social dynamics, communicate effectively with people from all backgrounds and forge new relationships were all skills Goodson learned along the way.

    “Whether it was making friends in a new school, interacting with local communities, or observing my parents’ interactions with colleagues and neighbors, I was constantly learning and growing,” Goodson said. “This early exposure also helped me develop essential skills as both a follower and a leader. As a follower, I learned to be open-minded, flexible and receptive to new ideas and perspectives. I understood the importance of teamwork, cooperation and supporting others to achieve a common goal. As a leader, I discovered the value of empathy, active listening and effective communication in inspiring and motivating others.”

    Goodson served in the Air Force before retiring and starting a civilian career with NMRLC.

    “As I transitioned out of the U.S. Air Force and into retirement, I found myself at a crossroads, uncertain about the path I wanted to take next,” Goodson said. “After dedicating years to serving my country, I had earned some well-deserved time to relax, recharge and reflect on my future aspirations.”

    Goodson took the time to consider how to leverage the skills and passions gained from their experiences to determine the next step.

    “As I reflected on my time in the Air Force, I realized that my sense of purpose and fulfillment had always been deeply rooted in my ability to support and serve my fellow service members,” Goodson said. “I had a strong desire to continue making a positive difference in the lives of those who serve, and I began to explore ways to do so in a civilian capacity.”

    Goodson applied for positions within the Department of Defense (DoD) with the goal of returning to support the military community.

    “By pursuing opportunities within the DoD, I hoped to leverage my military experience, skills and knowledge to make a seamless transition into a new career while also staying connected to the community that had been such a big part of my life for so long,” Goodson said. “I was excited about the prospect of joining a team of dedicated professionals who shared my passion for supporting our nation’s service members, and I looked forward to the challenges and opportunities that lay ahead.”

    Today, Goodson serves as a civilian supporting the Navy at NMRLC in a leadership position.

    “I have the privilege of working alongside an exceptional group of individuals on a daily basis, and I can confidently say that they are truly the best,” Goodson said. “What makes our team so unique and effective is the sense of camaraderie and shared purpose that permeates every aspect of our work. Knowing that we are all striving towards a common goal and mission creates a strong bond among us, and this collective sense of direction fosters an environment of open and honest communication.”

    Goodson said the team’s trust and mutual respect of one another allows for more effective communication and enables the team to focus on its mission.

    “We are able to provide feedback, ask questions, and seek guidance from one another without fear of judgment or reprisal, which helps to prevent misunderstandings and miscommunications,” Goodson said. “This, in turn, creates a positive and productive work environment where everyone feels valued, heard, and empowered to contribute their best. Overall, I feel fortunate to be surrounded by such a talented, dedicated, and mission-driven group of individuals, and I believe that our shared sense of purpose is the key to our success. By working together towards a common goal, we are able to achieve far more than we could alone, and I am grateful to be a part of such a high-performing and supportive team.”

    Headed by Capt. Christopher Barnes, NMRLC develops, acquires, produces, fields, sustains, and provides enduring lifecycle support of medical materiel solutions to the Fleet, Fleet Marine Force, and Joint Forces in high-end competition, crisis, and combat. At the forefront of Navy Medicine’s strategic evolution, NMRLC is well positioned to be the Joint Force’s premier integrated medical logistics support activity.

    With 90% of global commerce traveling by sea and access to the internet relying on the security of undersea fiber optic cables, Navy officials continue to emphasize that the prosperity of the United States is directly linked to recruiting and retaining talented people from across the rich fabric of America.

    Goodson supports a Navy that operates far forward, around the world and around the clock, promoting the nation’s prosperity and security.

    Goodson has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military and civil service.

    “My proudest moment to date has been my recent promotion, which has not only been a significant milestone in my career but also a testament to the hard work and dedication I’ve invested in my role,” Goodson said. “What’s made this moment even more special, however, is the outpouring of excitement and congratulations from my colleagues and peers. Seeing the genuine enthusiasm and support from those around me has been truly humbling and has made the experience of receiving this promotion all the more sweet. It’s a reminder that my efforts have not gone unnoticed and that I’m valued and respected by my team.”

    Goodson can take pride in serving America through military service and now as a government employee.

    “Supporting military personnel, both active and reserve, brings me immense joy and a deep sense of fulfillment,” Goodson said. “There’s a profound sense of purpose and meaning that comes from being able to make a positive impact on the lives of those who serve our country, often putting themselves in harm’s way to protect our freedom and way of life. Whether it’s providing guidance, resources, or simply a listening ear, I find it incredibly rewarding to be able to support these brave men and women who selflessly dedicate themselves to serving our nation.

    “Being able to play a small part in helping them navigate the challenges they face, both on and off duty, is a privilege and an honor, and it fills me with a sense of pride and gratitude to be able to serve them in some small way.”

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Commissioner – law ruling leaves policing in a “hopeless position”

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    The Commissioner has responded to a High Court judgment published today on a judicial review that sought to challenge Operation Assure.

    Operation Assure is the Met’s process, based on national guidance, to consider dismissing officers who can no longer pass vetting. The Met lost the judicial review.

    Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley said:

    “For more than two decades police leaders have been asking Government for greater powers to sack officers who are not fit to wear the uniform. For two-and-a half-years I have repeated that call and successive Governments have promised change.

    “Tens of thousands of good officers joined the police because we care deeply about public safety. The majority of the Met is committed to this drive to clear out those who threaten our collective integrity. This makes us better placed to protect communities.

    “Being able to sack officers who fail vetting is critical. Under Op Assure, in the last 18 months

    • 96 officers have been sacked or resigned due to vetting removal
    • 29 more are on special vetting leave, having lost vetting
    • Over 100 more are in the early stages of vetting reviews

    “Those we have removed vetting from, had a pattern of behaviour that meant if they applied to work in policing today, we’d never let them in.

    “But today’s ruling on the law has left policing in a hopeless position.

    “We now have no mechanism to rid the Met of officers who are not fit to hold vetting – those who cannot be trusted to work with women, or enter the homes of vulnerable people.

    “It is absurd that we cannot lawfully sack them – this would not be the case in other sectors where staff have nothing comparable to the powers a police officer holds.

    “This judgement is focussed on the human rights of Sgt Di Maria. But there are wider human rights at play here, those of the public, and those of colleagues who have to work alongside officers like this.

    “We are seeking leave to appeal the judgment, not just for the Met but for law enforcement nationally due to these profoundly damaging implications.

    “The judge identified a clear gap in the law, one we have done our best to bridge. But as the judge said, the answer lies in strengthened Police Vetting Regulations.

    “So in repeating the same request for two-and-a half-years, echoed by the Casey and Angiolini reports, I am once again calling on the Government today, to introduce new regulations as a matter of extreme urgency.

    “It is crucial they are practical, nimble and empowering. They must allow police forces to deal with those who pose risks to colleagues and of course to the public, and must apply to those we have already removed.

    “Finally, regardless of the current legal framework, the public of London have my assurance and that of my colleagues that Di Maria and those like him will not be policing the streets or working alongside other officers. They will remain on ‘vetting special leave’, a ridiculous waste of public money but the least bad option until regulations are fixed. “

    +++

    A judgment has been published in relation to a judicial review heard at the High Court between 15 and 16 January 2025.

    Sgt Lino Di Maria is a Met officer who during his police service has received allegations of rape, and other allegations about his conduct towards women.

    Under the Met’s ‘Operation Assure’ – a key part of our drive to raise standards and root out corruption – Di Maria’s vetting clearance was reviewed and, in light of the significant pattern of adverse information against him, his vetting was removed.

    Sgt Di Maria applied to the court for judicial review, challenging the lawfulness of the Met’s decision to remove his vetting and refer him to gross incompetence proceedings.

    He challenged the wider Operation Assure process which is the Met’s process, based on national guidance, to consider dismissing officers who can no longer pass vetting.

    The officer would have been dismissed many months ago but for this legal action, which is funded in support of him by the Police Federation.

    The College of Policing and Home Secretary were interested parties to the proceedings.

    The judgment has found in favour of Sgt Di Maria. It is published here: Di Maria -v- Met Police and others – Courts and Tribunals Judiciary

    Background

    Operation Assure

    In March 2023 the Met became the first police service in the UK to adopt a new process, based on College of Policing guidance and called Operation Assure, to consider dismissing officers and staff who can no longer pass vetting.

    It is unacceptable there has never been an explicit legal provision to enable sacking of officers who fail vetting reviews. Policing has asked for this loophole to be closed for more than 20 years. We have been promised for two-and-a-half years that changes will happen but little progress has been made.

    The regulations make it too hard to remove those few who undermine the majority. Our own analysis and that of Casey and Angiolini pointed to the need to ‘join the dots’ – using intelligence to spot patterns of behaviour to remove those who should not be in the job. This followed in the wake of significant cases such as Wayne Couzens and David Carrick.

    Operation Assure is a programme of prioritised vetting reviews for serving officers and staff where we hold significant adverse information that means we need to review their vetting clearance. In most cases this information has not previously led to a criminal conviction, and, in all cases, not dismissal from the Met.    

    Operation Assure provides a pathway for the Met to follow if an officer’s basic vetting clearance cannot be maintained. It can lead to that person being dismissed from the Met at a gross incompetence hearing – as their inability to hold vetting clearance makes them ‘incompetent’ to hold a role.

    There are hundreds of pages of guidance, law and regulations telling us at length how important vetting is and how it should be done. But these are far less clear on what to do if things change and an officer can no longer can be trusted to hold that vetting, nor how such an officer should be dismissed.

    We carefully interpreted the existing guidance and laws as best we could and we filled that gap in the public interest. Operation Assure was the right thing to do in circumstances when the law did not provide a clear way of doing this, and it was supported by the College of Policing. It was a risk, but the issue was too important to ignore and too urgent to wait – the public deserve better.

    Police officers are vetted when they join the Met, with vetting renewal every seven-10 years. The framework exists in the Vetting Approved Professional Practice – as set by the College of Policing.  The framework also says that vetting clearance should be reviewed upon ‘adverse information’.

    The majority of those subject to Assure have worrying patterns of behaviour, mainly allegations of sexual offending. They would not pass vetting if joining the police for the first time today.

    The primary pipeline for Operation Assure is Operation Onyx. The Operation Onyx team have reviewed completed domestic or sexual abuse cases against officers and staff for offences from the last 10 years (until April 2022) to ensure those cases were dealt with properly, and revisit them if not via Operation Assure.

    Operation Assure to date

    • More 300 officers and staff referred into the Assure process overall so far.
    • 107 officers/staff have had vetting withdrawn. 
    • 96 officers/staff have exited the Met (dismissals, retirements and resignations) while in the Op Assure process (including 19 who resigned before their gross incompetence hearing). 
    • This includes 24 officers/staff dismissed at gross incompetence hearing (or staff equivalent) for failure to maintain vetting.
    • Today, 29 officers and staff are in the Met having had their vetting removed and are on vetting special leave. Until the judgment today, 12 of those were due to attend a hearing soon where they may have been dismissed – others had appeals ongoing.
    • Approximately 100 officers and staff are at an earlier stage of the Assure process – perhaps at an early review stage, or awaiting their vetting interview or vetting decision.

    And:

    • 82 have had their vetting retained – which is important to note as it shows the process is fair and proportionate.
    • 7 successful appeals. 

    Examples

    • Officer received multiple rape and sexual assault allegations from a number of separate female complainants in 2011-2023. Under Op Assure, officer had vetting reviewed, removed and he was dismissed at a gross incompetence hearing. Criminal charges followed a year later, as further information came to light following his dismissal. This was the first officer we dismissed under Assure, in October 2023.
    • Officer had numerous domestic abuse allegations, including rape of ex-partner, and also had received two reports of sexual assault/harassment of colleagues. He had been reduced in rank to a PC in 2022 for a separate matter for misuse of his warrant card while off-duty. Under Op Assure, officer had vetting reviewed, removed and he was dismissed at a gross incompetence hearing.     
    • Officer committed indecent act on a train and pleaded guilty to outraging public decency – later received a final written warning. Under Op Assure, officer had vetting reviewed, removed and he was dismissed at a gross incompetence hearing. 
    • Following intelligence checks it was identified that a serving officer was arrested in the USA on charge of endangering welfare of child, having travelled there to meet a 13-year-old girl he had met online.  No criminal charges were brought but the intelligence was reconsidered as part of Assure. Officer resigned in May 2023 when he was told he was to have a vetting review.

    Judicial Review

    A Judicial Review took place at the High Court on 15/16 January between Met officer Sgt Lino Di Maria, supported by the Met Police Federation, and the Met Police supported by the College of Policing and the Home Office as interested parties.

    The Judicial Review challenged the legality of Operation Assure, and how it applied to Sgt Di Maria’s case.

    The multiple historic and serious allegations against Sgt Lina Di Maria, attached to forensics at Kentish Town, were outlined in the hearing.

    His vetting clearance was removed in Sept 2023 and his appeal against this dismissed. In March 2024 he was referred to a gross incompetence hearing due to having no vetting clearance. His particular case was paused pending the outcome of the JR.   

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Navy, 30+ Partners Commence International Maritime Exercise (IMX) 2025

    Source: United States Naval Central Command

    MANAMA, Bahrain —

    The Middle East region’s largest maritime exercise, International Maritime Exercise (IMX) 2025, kicked off in two locations, Bahrain and Jordan, Feb. 10.

    The week began with academic discussions covering a series of topics including the naval planning process, maritime operations center procedures, and disaster response coordination.

    IMX25 is a 12-day naval training event hosted by U.S. Naval Forces Central Command (NAVCENT). This year’s iteration of IMX is linked with exercise Cutlass Express. Cutlass Express, led by U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa, is an annually scheduled exercise designed to enhance regional maritime awareness and the combined capabilities of partner nations to respond to maritime threats. The exercises are link through information sharing between maritime operations center to strengthen theater-to-theater coordination, reducing regional seams and strengthening U.S. and partner nation capabilities and interoperability.

    More than 5,000 personnel from more than 35 nations and international organizations will take part in both exercises.

    IMX is designed to demonstrate global resolve in preserving the rules-based international order, offering a unique opportunity for participants to collaborate and showcase regional maritime security cooperation.

    “Exercises like IMX show that we are at our best when we work together and that our resolve is unwavering,” said U.S. Navy Rear Adm. Jeff Jurgemeyer, NAVCENT vice commander, during his remarks at the opening ceremony. “The Middle East region is a critical crossroads for worldwide commerce and trade. IMX is our combined assurance that the potential for economic success is greatest when international waterways are safe and open for all.”

    The operational phase will include partner exchanges on mine and countermeasures; visit, board, search and seizure; unmanned systems and artificial intelligence integration; explosive ordnance disposal; vessel defense; search and rescue; and mass casualty response, among other focus areas.

    This is the ninth iteration of IMX since its establishment in 2012.

    The U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations encompasses nearly 2.5 million square miles of water area and includes the Arabian Gulf, Gulf of Oman, Red Sea, parts of the Indian Ocean and three critical choke points at the Strait of Hormuz, Suez Canal and Bab al-Mandeb.

    More information about IMX is available at: https://www.cusnc.navy.mil/IMX/.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: North Wind 25 Reaffirms U.S.-Japan Alliance

    Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

    CAMP MAKOMANAI, Japan  –  

    U.S. Army Japan and the Japan Ground Self Defense Force close out North Wind 25, a bilateral cold-weather field training exercise designed to enhance combat readiness and promote interoperability after 10 days of training at Camp Makomanai and the Hokudai-en Hokkaido Large Training Area in Hokkaido, in northern Japan on February 9, 2025.

    The exercise was comprised of approximately 190 U.S. Soldiers from the 1st Battalion, 5th Infantry Regiment and approximately 400 members of the 18th Infantry Regiment, 11th Brigade, Northern Army, Japan Ground Self Defense Force. 



    “Northwind Exercise continues to be a terrific opportunity to share individual and small unit tactics and skill craft,” said Lt. Col. Ryan Hanrahan, chief of exercises for USARJ. “The focus of this year’s exercise is squad-level integration containing numerous days and nights in the field environment, which has increased communication, cold weather techniques, bilateral teamwork, and interoperability. This unique opportunity gives the U.S. Army and its allies the ability to fight and win in any environment. This exercise showcases the United States’ commitment to the defense of Japan.”


    North Wind 25 featured a first of its kind: bilateral field housing. Soldiers from 1-5 IN stayed in tents with their counterparts in the JGSDF. The integration of the units provided more time to exchange techniques, tactics, and procedures.

    Not everything was friendly exchanges, participants were also challenged. The culminating event was a three-day field training exercise that was meticulously planned via a rehearsal of concept. This was the JGSDF’s first time participating in this style of planning and it proved invaluable to the success of the mission.


    “I got the opportunity to work with my counterparts in the JGSDF staff section,” said 2nd Lt. Richard Hall, a battalion staff officer, 1-5 IN. While the JGSDF may do some things different than their U.S. Army counterparts, there is always an exchange where they learn from each other.


    The 1-5 IN is stationed in Fort Wainwright, Alaska where they regularly endure temperatures as low as -30° Fahrenheit, so the relatively warm conditions of 10° to 40° F during North Wind 25 were business as usual. However, the Northern Army had much more experience than the 1-5 IN in certain tactics like skiing. Working with such an experienced ally, like the JGDSF, gives the Army the opportunity to learn and train together to further increase readiness in the Indo-Pacific and the Arctic.

    “If a perfect score is 100, then I would say 200! Japanese and U.S. forces training to this level as one body has exceeded my expectation, which was actually very high. Any short time spent together turns to fulfilling exchange experience,” said Col. Naoki Uehara, Commander of 18th Infantry Regiment, 11th Brigade, Northern Army, JGSDF. “I believe Japan-U.S. collaboration will be built upon foundation of relationship of trust and mutual understanding.”


    North Wind, which is a series of Operation PATHWAYS, is U.S. Army Pacific’s premier annual operation, demonstrating USARPAC and U.S. Indo-Pacific Command’s commitment to the region. Operation PATHWAYS employs thousands of U.S. Army forces from around the globe to conduct concurrent multilateral security cooperation and training events across the Indo-Pacific. Operation PATHWAYS helps us to see, sense and understand the region, which in turn, assists senior leaders making sound decisions.

    There is no more important anchoring frontline ally in this region than Japan, and our commit to the partnership and friendship with their JGSDF is ironclad.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Governor, Joint Region Marianas, Joint Task Force-Micronesia Convene Civil-Military Coordination Council

    Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

    ASAN, Guam  –  

    Guam Gov. Lourdes Leon Guerrero and Commander, Joint Task Force-Micronesia (JTF-M) Rear Adm. Greg Huffman convened the Civil-Military Coordination Council (CMCC) at the Governor’s Complex in Adelup, Feb. 5.

    Military officials from the Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force and Guam Army National Guard attended. Additionally, participating on behalf of various government of Guam agencies were representatives from the Guam Department of Agriculture, the Guam Department of Civil Defense and Homeland Security, the Guam Power Authority and the Guam International Airport Authority.

    “The CMCC is an opportunity to get together to synchronize and synthesize our efforts on all of the major priorities for our island,” Huffman said. “Our meeting not only signifies the culmination of hard work and planning by our collective teams, but it is a demonstration of the strong partnership and close collaboration that are the hallmarks of our discussions.”

    Military and civilian members offered informational briefs and updates on significant topics that require a One-Guam holistic approach including critical civilian infrastructure for the defense of Guam, utilities resiliency specifically for the island’s electrical grid, and the proposed Guam Defense System by the Missile Defense Agency (MDA).

    “The Civil-Military Coordination Council continues to be an essential platform for ensuring that Guam’s needs and interests remain at the forefront of the ongoing military buildup. At our latest meeting, we placed a strong emphasis on resiliency—particularly in strengthening our island’s power infrastructure through the Guam Power Authority and the One Guam Power Infrastructure Resiliency & Reliability Projects,” said Leon Guerrero. “The military buildup is an ongoing conversation that requires careful planning, preparation, and the right subject matter experts at the table. It is critical that we have the latest and most relevant information to support our justifications and ensure that progress aligns with the best interests of all who call Guam home. As we continue these discussions, I remain committed to advocating for our people and working with our federal partners to reinforce the importance of Guam in national security and regional stability.”

    The CMCC was established in 2010 to foster collaboration among the DoD, local government, and federal agencies to share information, discuss, and provide recommendations for construction activities for the U.S. Marine Corps relocation to Guam. These meetings have expanded to include all DoD items of interest and military construction on Guam. The next CMCC meeting is scheduled in June.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: USAF and USMC Work With Allies and Partners to Enhance Capabilities for CN25

    Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

    ANDERSEN AIR FORCE BASE, Guam   –  

    Aircraft from the United States Air Force along with our Allies and Partners line the runway at Andersen Air Force Base in Guam for Cope North 25. CN25 aims to enhance the capabilities of partner air forces through training, exercises, and knowledge sharing.

    With Allies and Partners taking to the skies of Guam this week for the start of CN25, the main focus of the exercise is the integration and flight operations with the F-35A Lightning and F-35B Lightning II from all three participating nations: Japanese Air Self Defense Force, Royal Australian Air Force, and the United States.

    “Exercise Cope North [25] will be the showcase for the true integration of 5th gen capability,” said RAAF GPCAPT Darryl Porter, Australian Task Force commander. “Most significantly with this being the first training exercise under the trilateral memorandum of intent signed by Japan, Australia, and the U.S., following the defense minister meeting last year.”

    Following the influx of participating fighters and refuelers, CN25 kicked off with a welcoming brief and academics where the commanders of the participating nations took the stage to address military members and civilian participants of the exercise.

    JASDF Col. Takeshi Okubo, flight group commander, 3rd Air Wing, addressed the attending participants by stressing the importance of a unified partnership to deter conflict.

    “We train together and fight together,” said Okubo. “And together we are an active deterrence to conflict.”

    With the idea of deterring conflict and achieving regional security, an emphasis on shared knowledge of 5th generation fighters has taken the spotlight in achieving these objectives. CN25 fosters the exchange of information and refining shared tactics, techniques, and procedures.

    “When you have many different nations flying the same aircraft, it’s important to train together so that we learn small differences between how each nation employs, maintains, and C2’s [command and control] those airplanes,” said Schuck. “We’ll never learn those differences without actually exercising together. And the reason that 5th generation is so important is that 5th generation fighters are the forward edge of our fighting force, especially in the Indo-Pacific, so it’s important to practice together with all the nations that fly them.”

    With two weeks left in the exercise, USAF and its representing commander are eager for the opportunity to learn with its Allies and Partners, with Schuck saying, “I’m happy to be here and represent the commander of PACAF to our foreign partners and Allies in order to strengthen our resolve, strengthen our alliance in the Pacific and hopefully lead to a stronger fighting force and a more open and freer Indo-Pacific.”

    For over 45 years, Cope North has conducted exercises in the Pacific between the U.S. and allied forces, focusing on several aspects of defense and interoperability throughout the Indopacific. As with past iterations, CN25 maintains a dedication to realistic combat training for the success of air and space operations.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: 80 Years Later: 1st Cavalry Division returns to the Philippines to Commemorate the Battle of Manila

    Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

    MANILA, Philippines  –  

    80 years ago, on Feb. 3, 1945, the battle for the capital of the Philippines began between Allied Forces and Imperial Japan. The 1st Cavalry Division was one of three divisions under the control of Gen. Douglas MacArthur. It was here that the 1st Cavalry Division earned its nickname, “America’s First Team,” by being the first U.S. Forces to re-enter Manila after its capture in 1942.

    The battle and subsequent liberation of Manila and the Philippines, in the spring of 1945, fulfilled a promise made by Gen. MacArthur in the spring of 1942: When President Theodore D. Roosevelt ordered him to Australia, he said, “I shall return.”

    On a hot Feb. morning at Adamson University in the heart of the capital, the city government of Manila held a ceremony and wreath-laying in honor of this historic event. The ceremony honored our shared history, ongoing commitment, and continued partnership with the Philippines and the Filipino people.

    The Mayor of Manila City, Honey Lacuna Pangan, presided over the ceremony. Commemorating this historical event, several other countries, including the United Kingdom, Australia, Japan, China, and Canada, were represented on-site.

    The U.S. Ambassador to the Philippines, MaryKay L. Carlson, participated in the ceremony and placed a wreath in honor of those Americans and Filipinos who laid down their lives for the freedom of the Filipino people and the two countries.

    Lt. Col. John Dolan, Commander of the 1st Cavalry Squadron, 7th Cavalry Regiment “Garryowen,” was on hand to represent the 1st Cavalry Division at the ceremony along with representatives from 5th Security Forces Assistance Brigade and I Corps, both based out of Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Wa.

    “We’re here to honor the courage and sacrifice of so many soldiers and civilians in the liberation of Manila,” said Lt Col. Dolan, “and recognize the bond between both Americans and Filipinos share in our history and the pursuit of freedom.”

    As the number of the Greatest Generation dwindles and will soon be gone, continuing to commemorate these events ensures their efforts and history is not lost. The Liberation of Manila’s 80th anniversary honors the past generations’ sacrifices to safeguard freedom while inspiring future generations to carry the torch.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: USS O’Kane returns home after seven-month deployment to 5th and 7th Fleet

    Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

    SAN DIEGO, Calif.  –  

    O’Kane departed San Diego with the ABECSG, July 17, 2024, and remained in U.S. 5th Fleet following the departure of ABECSG who returned to their homeport in December 2024.

    “I am incredibly proud of the exemplary work this team has invested in themselves and their equipment over the past few months,” said Cmdr. Rich Ray, commanding officer, O’Kane. “We are proud of the work we accomplished this deployment, and we are looking forward to continuing that success into the next challenge.”

    Following the departure of the USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) and the Arleigh Burke-class guided-class missile destroyers USS Frank E. Petersen, Jr. (DDG 121), USS Michael Murphy (DDG 112) and USS Spruance (DDG 111) from U.S. 5th Fleet, O’Kane and the USS Stockdale (DDG 106) remained in the U.S. Central Command (USCENTCOM) area of responsibility to support global maritime security operations.

    O’Kane and Stockdale successfully escorted U.S. flagged and crewed merchant vessels in the Gulf of Aden. During the escort, the destroyers worked alongside other U.S. Central Command forces in successfully repelling multiple Iranian-backed Houthi attacks during transits of the Bab el-Mandeb strait. During the transit, the destroyers were attacked by one-way attack un-crewed Aerial systems, anti-ship ballistic missiles and anti-ship cruise missiles which were successfully engaged and defeated. The vessels were not damaged, and no personnel were hurt. The ships were well prepared, supported, and the well-trained Sailors successfully defended the ship.

    Throughout deployment, O’Kane successfully completed 75 flight quarters, including 84 rotary-wing landings, 26 rotary-wing refueling evolutions, and nine vertical replenishments. In addition, O’Kane conducted 24 replenishments-at-sea, and 22 mooring evolutions.

    Additionally, O’Kane visited Karachi, Pakistan to promote the diplomatic relationship between the United States and Pakistan. Following the port visit, O’Kane conducted a maritime exercise to build interoperability with the Pakistan Navy.

    ABECSG initially deployed to the Indo-Pacific region to support regional security and stability, and to reassure our allies and partners of the U.S. Navy’s unwavering commitment, highlighted by the first-ever U.S.-Italy multi-large deck event with the Italian Navy’s ITS Cavour Carrier Strike Group held in the Indo-Pacific on Aug. 9, 2024.

    The strike group was ordered to the USCENTCOM area of responsibility to bolster U.S. military force posture in the Middle East, deter regional escalation, degrade Houthi capabilities, defend U.S. forces, and again sailed alongside our Italian allies and other partners to promote security, stability and prosperity. Assigned destroyers of the ABECSG, to include O’Kane, were essential to providing a layer of defense to U.S. forces and ensure the safe passage of commercial vessels and partner nations transiting in international waterways like the Red Sea, Bab el-Mandeb Strait and the Gulf of Aden.

    As an integral part of U.S. Pacific Fleet, Commander, U.S. 3rd Fleet operates naval forces in the Indo-Pacific and provides the realistic and relevant training to ensure the readiness necessary to execute the U.S. Navy’s timeless role across the full spectrum of military operations. U.S. 3rd Fleet works together with our allies and partners to advance freedom of navigation, the rule of law, and other principles that underpin security for the Indo-Pacific region.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Jury Finds Cousins Guilty of 2021 Mayfair Mansions Murder

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

              WASHINGTON – A Superior Court jury today found Deangelo Glover, 33, and Ronnie Wallace, 48, both of Washington, D.C., guilty of murder and other charges related to the January 19, 2021, murder of Tyrone Wright, announced U.S. Attorney Edward R. Martin, Jr. and Chief Pamela Smith of the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD).

               Wallace was found guilty of one count of first-degree murder while armed and possession of a firearm during a crime of violence for Wright’s murder, plus one count of assault with intent to kill while armed for shooting a second victim, one count of unlawful possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, and one count of carrying a pistol without a license.

               Glover was found guilty of one count of second-degree murder, possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, one count of unlawful possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, and one count of carrying a pistol without a license. Superior Court Judge Jason Park scheduled sentencing for May 2, 2025.

               According to the government’s evidence, on Tuesday January 19, 2021, in a parking lot in front of 3804 Hayes Street NE within the Mayfair Mansions Apartment complex, Ronnie Wallace shot the decedent, Tyrone Wright on belief that Mr. Wright was one of the persons responsible for his brother Marcus Wallace’s murder. In the process, a bystander was shot a single time in the leg. Within moments of Wallace’s initial shots, his cousin and co-defendant Deangelo Glover, ran out of an adjacent building and shot Mr. Wright repeatedly ending his life.

               This case was investigated by the Metropolitan Police Department. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Andrea Coronado and Matthew Covert.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Three People Charged in Commercial Bribery Scheme

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    DENVER – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Colorado announces that Edward Joseph Chmiel, 49, Henry Lozano, 43, and Sabino Loera, 51, have been charged with conspiracy to commit money laundering arising out of a scheme to submit fraudulent invoices to a contractor providing services for a Colorado electrical utility.

    Loera and Lozano made their initial appearances in federal court on February 10. Chmiel is expected to have his initial appearance later this month.  According to the criminal information, Chmiel and Loera worked for a company providing electrical contracting services to a utility company in Colorado. Lozano owned a company providing trucking and hauling services. In August 2018, the three agreed that Lozano’s company would provide those services in exchange for kickback payments to Chmiel and Loera.  To generate the money that would pay the kickbacks, the three schemed to submit false invoices from Lozano’s company to Chmiel and Loera’s. Once Lozano was paid for those invoices, Loera would direct Lozano to issue checks to a network of 15 other people. Those people cashed the checks and then gave the cash to Chmiel and Loera.  Between August 2018 and June 2020, the false invoices generated approximately $1,495,781.51 in kickback proceeds.

    The charges in the indictment are allegations and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    The investigation is being conducted by the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation and the FBI Denver Field Office. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Sonia Dave and Bryan Fields.

    Case Number: 25-cr-00024-RMR             

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Humboldt County Woman Charged With Embezzling Over $500,000 From Construction Company Employer

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    SAN FRANCISCO – A federal grand jury has indicted Christina Ann Mobley, also known as Kris Mobley, 58, on charges that she defrauded her former employer, a construction company located in Fortuna, Calif.  

    According to an indictment filed Feb. 5, 2025, Mobley was employed as the business manager for a Fortuna construction company.  When the company’s bookkeeper retired, Mobley took on the accounting and bookkeeping duties, including inputting entries into the company’s accounting software and assisting with bill payments, payroll taxes, employee health benefits, government contracts, and other tasks.

    The company maintained an account at a bank and had several business credit cards through the bank for its employees.  It also held a business credit card at another bank, where Mobley maintained at least two personal credit card accounts.  The indictment describes that Mobley’s scheme to defraud took on several forms.  Mobley allegedly directed checks mailed from the company’s bank account to be applied to the accounts for her personal credit cards; issued electronic payments of company funds to her personal credit cards; misused the company’s credit card for personal expenses such as cash advances at casinos and personal travel; wrote checks from the company to herself; inflated her vacation time, work hours, and bonuses in the company’s payroll system; and issued duplicate payroll checks and unearned bonus payments to herself.  Between January 2022 and November 2024, Mobley allegedly embezzled more than $500,000 from her employer.  

    The indictment charges Mobley with three counts of mail fraud under 18 U.S.C. § 1341 and seven counts of wire fraud under 18 U.S.C. § 1343.  Mobley made an initial appearance in federal district court in McKinleyville, Calif., this morning, and was released on bond with conditions set by the Court.  Mobley is next scheduled to appear on Feb. 26, 2025, at 1:30 p.m., before Senior U.S. District Judge Charles R. Breyer.

    United States Attorney Ismail J. Ramsey and FBI Acting Special Agent in Charge Dan Costin made the announcement.

    An indictment merely alleges that crimes have been committed and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.  If convicted, Mobley faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison for each count under 18 U.S.C. §§ 1341 and 1343, a fine of $250,000 or twice the value of the property involved in the transactions, and forfeiture and restitution.  Any sentence following conviction would be imposed by the court only after consideration of the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and the federal statute governing the imposition of a sentence, 18 U.S.C. § 3553.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Kevin Barry is prosecuting this case with the assistance of Marina Ponomarchuk.  This prosecution is the result of an investigation by the FBI.

    Christina Ann Mobley Indictment
     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Mexican National Sentenced to 2 Years in Prison for Possessing Heroin with Intent to Distribute

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    FRESNO, Calif. — Jose Angel Beltran-Chaidez, 69, a Mexican national residing in Bakersfield, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Jennifer L. Thurston to two years in prison for possessing with intent to distribute heroin, Acting U.S. Attorney Michele Beckwith announced.

    According to court documents, in January 2022, at the direction of his brother Antonio Beltran-Chaidez, 55, also a Mexican national, Beltran delivered more than 2 pounds of heroin to Jorge Calderon-Campos, 44, a Mexican national residing in Bakersfield, for distribution. However, when Calderon-Campos was unable to sell the drug, Beltran retrieved it from Calderon-Campos and was in possession of the heroin when stopped by a CHP officer for a traffic violation.

    Calderon-Campos and Antonio Beltran-Chaidez previously pleaded guilty and were sentenced to eight years and one month in prison and three years and 10 months in prison, respectively.

    This case was the product of an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations and the Drug Enforcement Administration, with assistance from the U.S. Department of Agriculture Office of Inspector General, the U.S. Marshals Service, the U.S. Customs and Border Protection, the U.S. Secret Service, the Bureau of Land Management, the Kern County High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Task Force, the California Highway Patrol, the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, the Kern County Sheriff’s Office, the Kern County Probation Department, and the Bakersfield Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Karen Escobar prosecuted the case.

    The case was investigated under the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF). OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. For more information, please visit Justice.gov/OCDETF. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Whitehorse — RCMP investigate Whistle Bend incidents

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Whitehorse RCMP are investigating a number of reported thefts from vehicles in the Whistle Bend subdivision area overnight.

    During the early morning hours of February 9, a thief (or thieves) committed a spree of criminal acts in the Whistle Bend area of Whitehorse. Police have received several reports of vehicles being rifled through and items being taken.

    If you are a witness to a crime or have been a victim of theft, or attempted theft over the weekend, please call 867-667-555 and report it to the police.

    Police are also asking residents in the area to review any security camera footage for suspicious activity between the hours of 1 am and 5 am and to contact police should they locate some evidence on their footage.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Passaic County Man Charged With Threatening Flight Attendants On An Airplane

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    NEWARK, N.J. – A Passaic County, New Jersey man was arrested for threatening flight attendants and crew members during an incident in which he refused to comply with flight attendant instructions, banged on the cockpit door, and called out and threatened the captain before being escorted off the flight by law enforcement to Newark Liberty International Airport, Acting United States Attorney Vikas Khanna announced.

    Luis A. Vaquero, 27, of Passaic County, New Jersey, was charged by complaint in Newark federal court with one count of interference with flight crew members and attendants by assault or intimidation. He appeared before Magistrate Judge Stacey D. Adams in Newark, New Jersey federal court, and was released.

    According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:

    On February 9, 2025, shortly after taking off on a flight from Miami, Florida, Vaquero began threatening and harassing various passengers, including making threats of physical violence toward a disabled minor and mocking a group of Jewish passengers. Vaquero also threatened a flight crew member who declined to serve Vaquero alcohol after the beverage service window closed, telling her, “You better watch out, shit’s gonna happen to you.”  Upon landing at Newark Liberty International Airport, flight attendants alerted law enforcement.  After hearing the announcement that the airplane was awaiting the arrival of law enforcement, Vaquero forced his way to the front of the plane and began banging on the flight deck door, demanding, “I need the pilot to come outside!”  When a flight attendant attempted to intervene, Vaquero yelled, “I will really break your fuckin’ jaw n***a!”  Vaquero also yelled, “I wanna see that fuckin’ captain!  Come outside you bitch ass n***a!”  When the captain emerged, Vaquero continued to make threats to the captain while six inches from his face until law enforcement intervened. 

    “The defendant is charged with threatening flight crew members and passengers while traveling to Newark. We are committed to keeping the skies safe for flying and will prosecute those who criminally interfere with the professionals responsible for ensuring passenger safety.”

    Acting United States Attorney Vikas Khanna

    “Over the course of a 3-hour flight, we allege Vaquero lost his temper and physically harassed not only the crew and captain, but passengers, making threats of physical violence toward a disabled minor and mocking a group of Jewish passenger.”  Acting Special Agent in Charge Terence G. Reilly said. “It all culminated in a terrifying attack and attempted breach of the flight deck when witnesses say he banged on the cockpit door and confronted the pilot.  The harrowing flight and other similar incidents onboard airplanes recently are creating tension and fear for fliers and crew members. FBI Newark has a warning for those who think it may not be a big deal—they’re breaking federal law, and they will be brought to justice.”

    The charge of interfering with flight crew members and attendants carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison and a maximum fine of $250,000.

    Acting United States Attorney Vikas Khanna credited special agents of the FBI, under the direction of Acting Special Agent in Charge Terence G. Reilly in Newark, with the investigation leading to the charge. He also thanked the Port Authority Police Department, under the direction of Superintendent of Police Edward T. Cetnar, for its assistance.

    The government is represented by Assistant United States Attorney Rachelle M. Navarro of the Bank Integrity, Money Laundering & Recovery Unit in Newark.

    The charges and allegations contained in the complaint are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

                                         ###

    Defense counsel: Adalgiza A. Nunez, Esq., Newark, New Jersey

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Homestead Felon Pleads Guilty to Possessing Machinegun, Trafficking Drugs, and Other Offenses While on Federal Supervised Release for Prior Conviction; Plea Agreement Calls for Sentence of 35 Years in Prison

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A former resident of Homestead, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of violating federal narcotics and firearms laws and agreed that later this year he will be sentenced to 35 years in prison, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

    Erik Addison, 28, pleaded guilty to four counts before United States District Judge J. Nicholas Ranjan, including possession with intent to distribute a quantity of fentanyl, possession of a machinegun, possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.

    In connection with the guilty plea, the Court was advised that, on May 8, 2023, law enforcement in Pittsburgh attempted to stop a vehicle driven by Addison when he fled police and then abandoned and ran from the vehicle. Addison was pursued, detained, and arrested, with a police video camera recording the defendant in possession of a firearm later determined to be a Glock 19 9mm pistol equipped with a machinegun conversion device, commonly referred to as a Glock switch, intended to convert a weapon into a fully automatic machinegun. Investigators also recovered from Addison two cell phones, more than $3,200 in cash, and car keys.

    A search of the vehicle registered to Addison revealed a black bag containing 28 bricks of fentanyl, a 31 round 9mm Glock magazine, and Addison’s state ID card. The suspected fentanyl was confirmed, by laboratory testing, to consist of fentanyl as well as a mixture of heroin and fentanyl. Addison’s cell phone contained extensive evidence of Addison’s drug trafficking and knowledge of Glock switches, including entries in which he described having such firearms. At the time of the offenses to which Addison pleaded guilty, he was serving a term of supervised release following his conviction for a prior federal firearms offense in 2021. Federal law prohibits possession of a firearm or ammunition by a convicted felon.

    In addition to the federal charges, Addison is also facing charges in the Allegheny County Court of Common Pleas stemming from his conduct on May 8, 2023. On October 2, 2023, while detained at the Allegheny County Jail awaiting trial on his state and federal charges, Addison was found in possession of ABD-Butanica, a synthetic cannabinoid and Schedule I controlled substance.

    “Erik Addison’s blatant disregard for the law by possessing a dangerous firearm in connection with illegal fentanyl trafficking while on federal supervised release for a prior conviction and then, possessing another controlled substance while incarcerated on those charges, demonstrates the need to have dangerous criminals like him off of our streets,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Rivetti. “Today’s plea is a testament to the good work of our law enforcement partners in helping to bring violent traffickers such as Addison to justice.”

    “Armed with fentanyl, heroin, and a pistol converted into a dangerous machinegun via an illegal ‘switch,’ this defendant was a deadly threat to his neighborhood,” said Eric DeGree, Special Agent in Charge of the ATF Philadelphia Field Division. “Stopping criminals from endangering our communities with illegal firearms is a top ATF priority. We thank our local partners for their diligence and courage in this apprehension, as well as the United States Attorney’s Office’s support as we work to make our communities safer.”

    “We are grateful to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for their efforts in moving this case to a resolution,” said Allegheny County Police Superintendent Christopher Kearns. “These violent incidents leave a lasting impact throughout our community, and only strengthen our commitment to work with our local and federal partners to keep dangerous, illegal weapons off our streets.”

    Judge Ranjan scheduled sentencing for May 29, 2025. As to the most serious offense, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, the law provides for a mandatory minimum sentence of five years of imprisonment with a maximum possible sentence of life, a fine of up to $250,000, or both. Under the federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history of the defendant.

    Assistant United States Attorneys Douglas C. Maloney and Brendan T. Conway are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

    The investigation and prosecution of Addison was the result of a collaborative effort between the Allegheny County District Attorney’s Office, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Allegheny County Police Department, and Edgewood Borough Police Department.

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: South Carolina Woman Sentenced for Money Laundering in Relation to COVID-19 Relief Fraud Scheme

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    BLUEFIELD, W.Va. – Anna Marie Omar, 51, of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, was sentenced today to five years of federal probation, including six months on home detention, and ordered to pay $23,410.60 in restitution for money laundering by engaging in monetary transactions in property derived from a fraudulent Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan. Omar admitted that she fraudulently obtained a $20,833 PPP loan guaranteed by the Small Business Administration (SBA) under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act).

    According to court documents and statements made in court, on April 30, 2021, Omar applied for a PPP forgivable loan while living in Bluefield, West Virginia. PPP loans were available to qualifying independent contractors and self-employed individuals adversely impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, to replace their normal income and for certain other expenses. Omar admitted that she falsely represented that she was an independent contractor, that she had earned $152,000 in gross income in that capacity during tax year 2020, that she earned that income while working for a water processing business, and that she had been in business since 2010. Omar further admitted that she obtained the COVID-19 relief money for her own personal use.

    A PPP lender approved Omar’s loan application and deposited $20,833 in loan proceeds into Omar’s personal checking account on May 17, 2021. Omar admitted that she transferred $12,216.70 of the loan proceeds from her personal checking account to her personal savings account the following day.

    United States Attorney Will Thompson made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the West Virginia State Police – Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI), the West Virginia State Auditor’s Office (WVSAO) Public Integrity and Fraud Unit (PIFU), Homeland Security Investigations, the Horry County South Carolina Sheriff’s Office and the Myrtle Beach Police Department.

    Senior United States District Judge David A. Faber imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan T. Storage prosecuted the case.

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

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

    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. 1:24-cr-36.

    ###

     

     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Attorney’s Office Obtains $162,500 Settlement Compensating Victim of Fair Housing Act Discrimination

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    HONOLULU – Kenneth M. Sorenson, Acting United States Attorney for the District of Hawaii, announced a settlement of $162,500 resolving the United States’ lawsuit under the Fair Housing Act (“FHA”) against Kailua Village Condominium Association (“Kailua Village”), its Managing Agent, Associa Hawaii, the sellers of a Kailua Village condominium unit, and the sellers’ realtor.

    The lawsuit alleged that the defendants discriminated against an individual with paraplegia (the “Complainant”) who attempted to purchase a condominium unit at Kailua Village, a 54-unit condominium complex in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, in or around October 2021. The Complainant was living at the condominium unit pursuant to an early occupancy agreement during the escrow period. According to the Complaint filed by the United States, the defendants unlawfully denied the Complainant’s requests for an accessible parking space, a temporary ramp to access his condominium unit, and installation of an accessible toilet at his own expense. This discrimination, as well as certain verbal harassment, allegedly caused the Complainant to withdraw from the purchase and move out of the condominium unit.

    The FHA makes it unlawful to discriminate in the terms and conditions of the sale or rental of, or to otherwise make unavailable or deny, a dwelling based on the prospective buyer or renter’s disability. The FHA also mandates that reasonable accommodations in rules, policies, practices, and services be provided when necessary to afford equal housing opportunities to persons with disabilities.

    The Complainant filed a discrimination complaint with the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (“HUD”). HUD’s investigation determined that reasonable cause existed to believe that illegal discriminatory housing practices had occurred. The Complainant subsequently exercised his right to proceed to federal court with the dispute, thereby triggering the statutory requirement that the Department of Justice file suit on the Complainant’s behalf.

    The case was resolved by two Consent Decrees approved by the federal district court in October 2024 and January 2025. Pursuant to the Consent Decrees, the defendants will pay the Complainant $162,500 in damages and are required to complete FHA training. Additionally, Kailua Village is required to adopt a Department of Justice-approved reasonable accommodation and modification policy, and for a period of two years, Kailua Village and Associa Hawaii must comply with certain recordkeeping and reporting requirements to ensure FHA compliance.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Sydney Spector and Dana Barbata, in partnership with the Housing and Civil Enforcement Section of the Civil Rights Division of the United States Department of Justice, litigated the matter.

    Individuals who believe they have been victims of housing discrimination may submit a report online at www.civilrights.justice.gov, or may contact the Department of Housing and Urban Development at 1-800-669-9777 or www.hud.gov.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Queens Man Pleads Guilty to Threatening to Kill Federal Judge

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Earlier today, in federal court in Brooklyn, Kenneth J. Ward, Jr. pleaded guilty to an indictment charging him with threatening to assault and murder a United States District Judge (the District Judge).  Today’s proceeding was held before United States District Judge John P. Cronan sitting by designation.  When sentenced, Ward faces up to 10 years in prison.

    John J. Durham, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, announced the guilty plea.

    “The judges and other court officials who work every day to keep our country safe and uphold the rule of law should not have to fear for their lives for doing their jobs,” stated United States Attorney Durham.  “Threatening judges strikes at the very heart of our system.  This Office has no tolerance for violence or threats of violence against public servants.  We will prosecute offenders like the defendant to the fullest extent of the law.”

    Mr. Durham praised the outstanding work of the United States Marshals Service on the case.

    The charge is based on Ward’s threat at a telephone status conference in his pro se civil action, which was filed in federal court in Brooklyn.  Ward’s civil case was assigned to the District Judge, who ultimately dismissed most of Ward’s claims.  On July 15, 2024, Ward participated in a telephonic conference in connection with his case.  During that conference, which was recorded, the defendant became angry and threatened to choke the District Judge “to death.”  “And that’s on the f—ing – on the record,” Ward stated. At the plea hearing, Ward admitted that he made the threat in retaliation for the judge’s ruling against him in his civil case.

    The government’s case is being handled by the Office’s General Crimes Section.  Trial Attorney Leonid Sandlar is in charge of the prosecution.

    The Defendant:

    KENNETH J. WARD JR.
    Age: 59
    Glendale, Queens

    E.D.N.Y. Docket No. 24-CR-401

    MIL Security OSI –