NewzIntel.com

Category: Security Intelligence

  • MIL-OSI Security: Three Metro East Men Sentenced to Federal Prison for Wire Fraud in Gas Pump Scheme

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    EAST ST. LOUIS, Ill. – A federal judge in southern Illinois sentenced three men to prison for their involvement in a scheme to use counterfeit credit and debit cards to fill up tanks for gas station patrons in exchange for cash.

    Dee E. Day, 31, of Belleville, was sentenced Monday to 30 months’ imprisonment and ordered to pay $14,295 in restitution. Marquise Q. Golliday, 29, of Collinsville, and Montuelle F. Wright, 33, of East St. Louis, were each previously sentenced to 28 months’ imprisonment.

    Day, Golliday and Wright each pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, access device fraud and aggravated identity theft.

    “Financial exploitation and identity theft crimes are serious offenses with lasting effects on victims, but thankfully, our law enforcement partners worked swiftly to disband this criminal ring,” said U.S. Attorney Rachelle Aud Crowe.

    According to court documents, the conspirators had counterfeit credit and debit cards with one set of information on the front, but the routing information was electronically modified and reencoded on the cards’ magnetic strip. The encoded data included the victims’ names and card numbers.

    “Financial crimes perpetrated on law-abiding citizens often have lasting effects on unknowing victims. The U.S. Secret Service is dedicated to stopping and deterring such crimes to safeguard our nation’s financial security as well as innocent people,” Special Agent in Charge Dai Tran, of the Chicago Field Office, said. “I’m proud of our agency’s work on this case and I’m thankful to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for pursuing it.”

    The trio used the modified cards to charge more than 130 fraudulent transactions on accounts belonging to 34 victims totaling more than $14,000.

    Most of the fraud was committed at a Sauget gas station from Nov. 1-5, 2019. Similar conduct was reported at gas stations in Columbia and Fairview Heights in Illinois and Valley Park, Missouri.

    The U.S. Secret Service led the investigation, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Peter Reed prosecuted the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Former Labor Union Financial Secretary Pleads Guilty to Embezzling Union Assets

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A resident of Freedom, Pennsylvania, has pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of embezzlement of labor union assets, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

    Vincent Wolf, 57, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Marilyn J. Horan.

    In connection with the guilty plea, the Court was advised that, from approximately April 2013 through April 2021, Wolf served as the financial secretary for the United Steelworkers Local Union 623 in Freedom. As financial secretary, Wolf was responsible for maintaining all financial records, preparing annual reports, and issuing payments on behalf of Local 623 related to union officers’ salaries and expenses. An audit of the union’s finances following Wolf’s re-election loss revealed that Wolf omitted from those records disbursements that he made to himself in the form of writing union checks to himself, ATM withdrawals, and using the union debit card to buy lunch and alcohol. The audit determined that Wolf embezzled a total of $14,695.

    Judge Horan scheduled sentencing for June 4, 2025. The law provides for a total sentence of up to five years in prison, a fine of up to $10,000 or twice the gross pecuniary gain to Wolf, or both. Under the federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

    Assistant United States Attorney Brendan J. McKenna is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

    The U.S. Department of Labor’s Office of Labor-Management Standards conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Wolf.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Houston Man Indicted for Coercing, Enticing Minors and Sexually Exploiting a Minor to Produce Child Sexual Abuse Material

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Baltimore, Maryland – A federal grand jury returned an indictment charging Dazhon Darien, 32, of Houston, Texas, with five counts of sexual exploitation of a child, two counts of coercion and enticement of a child, one count of receipt of child sexual abuse material, and four counts of possession of child sexual abuse material.

    Erek L. Barron, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the charges with Special Agent in Charge William J. DelBagno of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Baltimore Field Office, and Chief Robert McCullough, Baltimore County Police Department.

    According to the indictment, between July 2023 and July 2024, the defendant persuaded, induced, enticed, and coerced a minor male to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing and transmitting child sexual abuse material.  Additionally, the indictment alleges that the defendant enticed two minor males to engage in prohibited sexual conduct and Darien possessed child sexual abuse material in internet-based accounts and on one digital device.

    If convicted, Darien faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years and up to a maximum sentence of 30 years in federal prison for each of the five counts of sexual exploitation of a minor; a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years and up to a maximum sentence of life imprisonment for each of the two counts of coercion and enticement of a child; a mandatory minimum of five years and up to a maximum of 20 years in federal prison for the single count of receipt of child sexual abuse material, and a maximum of 20 years in federal prison for each of the four counts of possession of child sexual abuse material.

    Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge determines sentencing after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    An indictment is not a finding of guilt.  Individuals charged by indictment are presumed innocent until proven guilty at a later criminal proceeding.

    This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse.  Led by the United States Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims.  For more information about Project Safe Childhood, visit www.justice.gov/psc. For more information about Internet safety education, click on the “Resources” tab on the left of the page.

    U.S. Attorney Barron commended the Baltimore FBI Field Office and the Baltimore County Police Department, for their work in the investigation.  Mr. Barron also thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys Christine O. Goo and Paul E. Budlow who are prosecuting the federal case.

    For more information about the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to help the community, visit www.justice.gov/usao-md and https://www.justice.gov/usao-md/community-outreach.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News: Truman Strike Group Units Arrive in Greece for Port Visit

    Source: United States Navy

    While the strike group’s material readiness is the top priority of the visit, ensuring maintenance and upkeep across the ships and aircraft, Sailors will have the opportunity to enjoy liberty and experience Crete’s rich history and culture. 

    “I’m incredibly proud of the dedication and service of this team and their tireless work around the clock,” said Capt. Dave Snowden, commanding officer of USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75). “Their efforts keep our ship operating at peak performance and aircraft ready to support combat operations.” 

    After entering the U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) area of responsibility on Dec. 14, the Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group (HSTCSG) supported multiple self-defense strikes against targets across Iran-backed Houthi-controlled areas of Yemen. The strikes directly contributed to CENTCOM’s campaign to degrade the Houthis attempts to threaten regional partners and the free flow of commerce in the region. On Feb. 1, HSTCSG conducted airstrikes against ISIS-Somalia in support of U.S. Africa Command and in coordination with the Federal Government of Somalia. 

    “The Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group remains the most adaptable and lethal presence in theater,” said Rear Adm. Sean Bailey, commander, HSTCSG. “This port visit provides the opportunity to reset and focus on maintenance for maximum readiness ahead of future operations.” 

    The visit is HSTCSG’s third port visit of deployment, following stops in Oslo, Norway, and Marseille, France. NSA Souda Bay is a remote forward operating installation that enables power projection and warfighting capabilities from the Eastern Mediterranean.

    “Team Souda is happy to welcome HSTCSG to Crete,” from Capt. Stephen Steacy, commanding officer, NSA Souda Bay. “As the crossroads of the 6th Fleet, we are strategically located in the Eastern Mediterranean to support our forward-deployed forces. The hospitality of the local community is unmatched, giving Sailors the opportunity for a much-needed break.”

    The Dwight D. Eisenhower Carrier Strike Group (IKECSG) visited NSA Souda Bay for a similar port visit in April 2024. The IKECSG and HSTCSG have operated in the most intense period of sustained combat activity for the U.S. Navy since World War II.

    The carrier strike group includes the flagship USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75); Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 1, with eight embarked aviation squadrons; staffs from CSG-8, CVW-1, and Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 28; the Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Gettysburg (CG 64); and two Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyers, USS Stout (DDG 55) and USS Jason Dunham (DDG 109). 

    HSTCSG’s mission is to conduct prompt and sustained combat operations at sea and maintain a forward presence through sea control and power projection capabilities. For more information, visit DVIDS at https://www.dvidshub.net/unit/CVN75. 
     

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Lower Sackville — Update: Woman charged with fraud offences faces additional charges

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    RCMP Halifax Regional Detachment has charged Alissa Kathryn MacGillivary with additional fraud offences.

    Officers reviewed hundreds of documents seized during the execution of a search warrant in August 2024. This led investigators to identify a further eight organizations and individuals who had been defrauded by MacGillivary.

    To date, RCMP officers have found more than 15 aliases and real identities used by MacGillivary, and the investigation indicates that she used forged documents to obtain financial benefits dating back to 1995.

    1. currently estimated that MacGillivary has fraudulently obtained more than $100,000 since 2014.

    On January 17, at the request of investigators, MacGillivary attended the Cole Harbour RCMP detachment where she was safely arrested. She has been charged with more than 100 other offences:

    • Failure to Comply with a Release Order
    • Extortion
    • Possession of Property Obtained by Crime (4 counts)
    • Forgery (21 counts)
    • Use of Forged Documents (28 counts)
    • Possession of Forged Documents (32 counts)
    • Using Mails to Defraud (4 counts)
    • Fraud (2 counts)
    • Identity Theft (10 counts)
    • Identity Fraud (4 counts)

    MacGillivary appeared in court and was remanded into custody. She will return to Dartmouth Provincial Court on February 7, at 9:30 a.m.

    The investigation, led by RCMP Halifax Regional Detachment with assistance from the RCMP/HRP Integrated Criminal Investigation Division and the RCMP Halifax Regional Detachment Street Crime Enforcement Unit, is ongoing.

    Anyone who thinks they could be a victim, knows someone who could be a victim, is encouraged to contact police at 902-490-5020. Should you wish to remain anonymous, call Nova Scotia Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-tips (8477) or submit a secure web tip at www.crimestoppers.ns.ca.

    File#: 24-111120

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Malaysian Armed Forces delegation visits U.S. Indo-Pacific Command

    Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

    AIEA, Hawaii  –  

    U.S. Indo-Pacific Command hosts a delegation from the Malaysian Armed Forces for the 40th iteration of the Bilateral Training and Consultative Group (BITACG), Feb. 5-6, 2025. The U.S. and Malaysia have a long-standing relationship built on cooperation in the defense domain and a partnership underscored by mutual respect. USINDOPACOM is committed to enhancing stability in the Indo-Pacific region by promoting security cooperation, encouraging peaceful development, responding to contingencies, deterring aggression and, when necessary, fighting to win. (U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Angel Heraldez)

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: First Flight of Illegal Aliens Arrives at Guantanamo

    Source: United States SOUTHERN COMMAND

    The first flight of high-threat illegal aliens out of the United States arrived at Naval Station Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, today.

    According to the Department of Homeland Security, all 10 of those illegal aliens are part of the transnational criminal organization “Tren de Aragua.” Last month, the White House designated that group as a foreign terrorist organization. 

    “Their campaigns of violence and terror in the United States and internationally are extraordinarily violent, vicious and similarly threaten the stability of the international order in the Western Hemisphere,” the White House executive order reads. 

    At Naval Station Guantanamo Bay, the 10 high-threat illegal aliens who arrived today are being housed in vacant detention facilities. They are not being held alongside war on terror detainees who also reside at the installation. 

    Late last month, the White House announced in a memorandum for the defense secretary and the secretary of Homeland Security that facilities at Naval Station Guantanamo Bay should be used to house high-threat illegal aliens as they are moved from the United States back to their countries of origin. 

    “I hereby direct [DOD] and [DHS] to take all appropriate actions to expand the migrant operations center at Naval Station Guantanamo Bay to full capacity to provide additional detention space for high-priority criminal aliens unlawfully present in the United States,” the memorandum said. 

    Many of the criminal illegal aliens being deported from the U.S. are traveling directly to their countries of origin via U.S. military aircraft. The use of military aircraft, or “gray tails” for that purpose, is new, said Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. 

    In some cases, Hegseth said, where it may take longer to reach agreements or process those individuals’ return to their nations of origin, DOD needs a place to house them before they return home. 

    “We want somewhere else to hold them safely in the interim — criminal illegals — Guantanamo Bay … is a perfect place,” Hegseth said last week during an interview. He also noted that he served at that installation from 2004 to 2005. 

    “It’s folks who may be in transit to their home country or a safe, third harbor country, and it’s taking a little time to move with that processing and with the paperwork,” he said. “Better they be held at a safe location like Guantanamo Bay.” 

    Hegseth said the use of Naval Station Guantanamo Bay as a waypoint for moving high-threat illegal aliens is a “plan in movement.” 

    “We’re ramping up for the possibility to expand mass deportations because President [Donald J.] Trump is dead serious about getting illegal criminals out of our country,” he said. “And the DOD is not only willing to [but] is proud to partner with DHS to defend the sovereignty of our southern border and advance that mission.”

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Louisiana Doctor Sentenced for Illegally Distributing Over 1.8M Doses of Opioids in $5.4M Health Care Fraud Scheme

    Source: United States Attorneys General

    A Louisiana physician was sentenced yesterday to 87 months in prison for conspiring to illegally distribute over 1.8 million doses of Schedule II controlled substances, including oxycodone, hydrocodone, and morphine, and for defrauding health care benefit programs of more than $5.4 million.

    According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, Adrian Dexter Talbot M.D., 59, of Slidell, owned and operated Medex Clinical Consultants (Medex), located in Slidell. Medex was a medical clinic that accepted cash payments from individuals seeking prescriptions for Schedule II controlled substances. Talbot routinely ignored signs that individuals frequenting Medex were drug-seeking or abusing the drugs prescribed. In 2015, Talbot took a full-time job in Pineville, Louisiana, and although he was no longer physically present at the Slidell clinic, he pre-signed prescriptions, including for opioids and other controlled substances, to be distributed to individuals there whom he did not see or examine. In 2016, Talbot hired another practitioner who, at Talbot’s direction, also pre-signed prescriptions to be distributed to individuals in exchange for cash deposited into a Medex bank account. The evidence also demonstrated that Talbot falsified patient records to cover up the scheme and to make it appear as though he was routinely examining the patients. With Talbot’s knowledge, these individuals filled their prescriptions using their insurance benefits, thereby causing health care benefit programs, including Medicare, Medicaid, and Blue Cross Blue Shield of Louisiana, to be fraudulently billed for controlled substances that were prescribed without an appropriate patient examination or determination of medical necessity.

    On July 22, 2024, Talbot was convicted by a jury in the Eastern District of Louisiana of one count of conspiracy to unlawfully distribute and dispense controlled substances, four counts of unlawfully distributing and dispensing controlled substances, one count of maintaining a drug-involved premises, and one count of conspiracy to commit health care fraud.

    Supervisory Official Antoinette T. Bacon of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Louisiana, Special Agent in Charge Jason E. Meadows of the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG), Special Agent in Charge Kris Raper of the Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Inspector General (VA-OIG)’s South Central Field Office, Assistant Director Chad Yarbrough of the FBI’s Criminal Investigative Division, Acting Special Agent in Charge Stephen A. Cyrus of the FBI New Orleans Field Office, and Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill made the announcement.

    HHS-OIG, VA-OIG, FBI, and the Louisiana Medicaid Fraud Control Unit investigated the case.

    Trial Attorneys Sara E. Porter and Gary A. Crosby II, Assistant Chief Justin Woodard, and Deputy Chief Kate Payerle of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section prosecuted the case.

    The Fraud Section leads the Criminal Division’s efforts to combat health care fraud through the Health Care Fraud Strike Force Program. Since March 2007, this program, currently comprised of nine strike forces operating in 27 federal districts, has charged more than 5,400 defendants who collectively have billed federal health care programs and private insurers more than $27 billion. In addition, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, working in conjunction with HHS-OIG, are taking steps to hold providers accountable for their involvement in health care fraud schemes. More information can be found at www.justice.gov/criminal-fraud/health-care-fraud-unit. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Fort Dodge Man Pleads Guilty to Illegal Possession of a Firearm

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Michael Turner, 35, from Fort Dodge, Iowa pled guilty February 5, 2025, in federal court in Sioux City, to felony possession of a firearm by a prohibited person.

    At the plea hearing, Turner admitted that between March 1, 2024 and March 29, 2024, he possessed a Glock .45 caliber semi-automatic pistol, knowing that he was then previously convicted of robbery/no firearm in Cook County, Illinois in March of 2011, and introduction of drugs into a detention facility in Webster County, Iowa, in 2017, each a felony crime punishable of a term of imprisonment for more than one year.  On March 8, 2024, a shooting occurred in Fort Dodge, Iowa.  On March 29, 2024, law enforcement stopped a vehicle in which Turner was a passenger and located a .45 caliber Glock pistol under Turner’s seat.  Officers found that Turner was wearing a holster that fit the pistol, and upon inquiry admitted that he had possessed the firearm at various times in March 2024.

    Sentencing before United States District Court Judge Leonard T. Strand will be set after a presentence report is prepared.  Turner remains in custody of the United States Marshal pending sentencing.  Turner faces a possible maximum sentence of 15 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, and three years of supervised release following any imprisonment.

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

    The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Shawn S. Wehde and was investigated by the Fort Dodge Police Department, Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation, Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement, Iowa State Patrol, Webster County Sheriff’s Office, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.  

    Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.

    The case file number is 24-3023.  Follow us on X @USAO_NDIA.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Pair Sentenced for Roanoke Fentanyl Distribution

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    ROANOKE, Va. – A pair of Roanoke fentanyl traffickers were sentenced recently to substantial federal prison sentences.

    Dejuan Lemons, 35, pled guilty to possession of fentanyl with the intent to distribute and possessing firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. He was sentenced to 195 months.

    Kelvin Robertson, 47, pled guilty to distribution of fentanyl. He was sentenced to 60 months.

    According to court documents, between May and August of 2023, agents with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), conducted multiple confidential purchases of fentanyl from Robertson. Before and after these sales, Robertson met with Lemons.

    Authorities ultimately executed a search warrant at a residence on Rorer Avenue in Roanoke, a single-family home occupied by Lemons and his grandfather. In the back room of the residence, authorities located more than 700 grams of powder fentanyl, a loaded 12-gauge shotgun, and a loaded .22 caliber pistol. Agents also located approximately $1,000 in cash that had been used to purchase drugs from Robertson.

    Acting U.S. Attorney Zachary T. Lee and Anthony Spotswood, Special Agent in Charge of the Washington Field Division of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives made the announcement.

    The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives investigated the case. Valuable assistance to the investigation was provided by the Lynchburg Police Department, the City of Roanoke Police Department, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Roanoke County Police Department, the Virginia State Police, and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Lee Brett prosecuted the case.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Federal Inmate Sentenced to 33 Months in Prison for Breaking Fellow Inmate’s Jaw

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

    PEORIA, Ill. – Travis Jay Nyhoff, 42, who is currently incarcerated at the Federal Correctional Institution in Pekin, Illinois (FCI-Pekin), was sentenced on January 10, 2025 to 33 months’ imprisonment for aggravated battery. The sentence will run consecutive to the term of imprisonment Nyhoff is presently serving for possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine.

    At the sentencing hearing before U.S. District Judge Joe B. McDade, the court considered the following uncontested information regarding the assault. On December 8, 2023, Nyhoff had approached another inmate from behind as the inmate was watching television in the common area, yanked his chair out from beneath him, and proceeded to strike the inmate across the face with the chair and then hurl the chair at the wall. The unprovoked attack was documented by security footage. The inmate sustained a broken lower jawbone, a laceration to his face that penetrated his oral cavity, and several dislodged teeth. He later underwent surgery to repair his jawbone.

    A federal grand jury returned an indictment charging Nyhoff with assault in April 2024, and he entered a guilty plea in August 2024.

    The statutory penalties for aggravated battery are two to five years’ imprisonment, to be followed by up to three years of supervised release.

    The Federal Bureau of Investigation, Springfield Field Office, and the Federal Bureau of Prisons Special Investigative Services investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Melissa P. Ortiz represented the government in the prosecution.
     

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Saskatchewan — Saskatchewan RCMP SERT Year in Review: 230 firearms and more than 17,000 grams of illicit drugs seized in 2024

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    In 2024, Saskatchewan RCMP’s Saskatchewan Enforcement Response Teams (SERT) continued to work diligently with frontline RCMP officers from detachments across the province to remove harms from communities and help keep Saskatchewan residents safe.

    Saskatchewan RCMP’s SERT – which includes Crime Reduction Teams (CRT), the Human Trafficking and Counter Exploitation Unit (HTCEU), Offender Management Unit (OMU), Saskatchewan Trafficking Response Teams (STRT) and Warrant Enforcement and Suppression Teams (WEST) – helps protect community well-being by tackling serious and gang-related crimes, and take dangerous drugs and weapons off the streets.

    Removing harms from Saskatchewan communities

    Illicit drugs continue to harm people across the province. In 2024, Saskatchewan RCMP’s SERT teams seized:
    – 6,572 grams of cocaine;
    – 4,732 grams of methamphetamine;
    – 130 grams fentanyl;
    – 6,349 grams of other illicit drugs; and
    – 86 tablets.

    From 2014 to 2023, violent firearms offences in Saskatchewan RCMP jurisdiction increased 271 per cent – rising from 126 in 2014 to 467 in 2023.

    Saskatchewan RCMP’s SERT removed 230 firearms from the hands of criminals across the province in 2024.

    Investigational highlights

    In July 2024, Yorkton STRT seized approximately 161 grams of methamphetamine and 14 firearms, along with other items, from a business, a rural property and a vehicle in the Yorkton area. During a subsequent search of the rural property, RCMP officers located a severely injured, forcibly confined adult male inside a barn. Investigation determined the man had been kidnapped. Two adult males faced kidnapping, drug and firearms charges, among others.

    • Swift Current STRT laid charges against two individuals after seizing 31 firearms from a residence in Lafleche, SK and a rural yard site south of the town in November 2024.
    • In October 2024, North Battleford Crime Reduction Team – Gang Task Force (CRT-GTF) executed search warrants at two residences in North Battleford. At the residences, officers located and seized a loaded handgun, a rifle, approximately 81 grams of methamphetamine, approximately 58 grams of crack cocaine, ammunition, a sum of cash and drug trafficking paraphernalia. As a result of investigation, two adult males and an adult female were arrested.
    • While executing a search warrant at an apartment building in La Ronge in February 2024, La Ronge CRT seized a loaded handgun, 60 grams of cocaine, 31 grams of methamphetamine, a sum of cash and other drug paraphernalia. Two adults were arrested and charged.
    • In August 2024, Swift Current STRT executed two search warrants in Swift Current as part of an ongoing investigation. Officers located and seized 503 grams of methamphetamine, 52 grams of fentanyl and 105 grams of cocaine, among other evidence. An adult male was arrested at the business and charged.

    What is SERT?

    Saskatchewan RCMP SERT is made up of 108 RCMP officers and 31 civilian support staff. With different teams located in 10 Saskatchewan communities, SERT is readily mobile and able to quickly deploy to surrounding areas. Teams are also assisted every single day by over 1,500 RCMP employees, including more than 1,000 sworn officers at 80 plus detachments across the province.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Beloit Man Sentenced to 22½ Years for Producing Child Pornography

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

    MADISON, WIS. – Timothy M. O’Shea, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Misael Dominguez Adorno, 25, Beloit, Wisconsin, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge William M. Conley to 22 ½ years in federal prison for producing child pornography. The prison term will be followed by 25 years of supervised release.  Dominquez Adorno pleaded guilty to this charge on October 9, 2024.

    In November 2022, Beloit Police received a CyberTip indicating that someone at Dominguez Adorno’s residence uploaded sexually explicit images onto the internet.  Based on the tip, officers obtained and executed a search warrant for the home, where they seized numerous cell phones, iPads, computers, and flash drives.

    Officers analyzed the devices and found videos of Dominguez Adorno engaged in sexually explicit conduct with five minors, whom officers were able to identify.  Officers also found that Dominguez Adorno had received sexually explicit images from a 6th minor victim.

    Judge Conley expressed concern that Dominguez Adorno only cared about getting what he wanted from each of his young victims, manipulating them to his advantage. Judge Conley also noted that Dominguez Adorno did not seem to realize that he had stolen part of each victim’s youth with his actions.

    The charge against Dominquez Adorno was the result of an investigation conducted by the Beloit Police Department, the Wisconsin Department of Justice, Division of Criminal Investigation, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Elizabeth Altman prosecuted this case.

    This investigation was a part of Project Safe Childhood (PSC), a nationwide initiative to combat child sexual exploitation and abuse. Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Former University Employee Charged with Attempted Coercion and Enticement of a Minor

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

    COLUMBIA, S.C. — Mohammad Ebrahim Torki Harchegani, 38, has been charged with attempted enticement of a minor for sexual activity.

    During a contested bond hearing, an FBI special agent testified that on Dec. 3-4, 2024, multiple agencies participated in an online chat operation targeting child sex offenders where an officer posed as a 14-year-old female. Torki, a legal permanent resident of the United States and Iranian citizen, engaged in sexually explicit conversations with the alleged 14-year-old girl. Torki ultimately traveled to the residence where he believed the girl was home alone to engage in sexual activities with her. He was arrested thereafter.

    Testimony was also presented that Torki was a researcher at the University of South Carolina at the time of the chat. Upon his arrest, his employment was suspended and his contract with the university was not renewed.

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

    Torki was ordered detained at the hearing. He faces a maximum penalty of life in prison.

    The FBI Columbia Field Office, the South Carolina Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, and the Richland County Sheriff’s Department participated in the online chat operation and investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Elle E. Klein and Winston Holliday are prosecuting the case.

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

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    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Henryetta Resident Pleads Guilty to Burglary and Assault

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

    MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Cody Lynn Lusk, age 34, of Henryetta, Oklahoma, entered a guilty plea to one count of Burglary in the First Degree in Indian Country, and one count of Assault of a Spouse, Intimate Partner, or Dating Partner by Strangling, Suffocating, and Attempting to Strangle and Suffocate in Indian Country.

    The Indictment alleged that on March 22, 2024, Lusk broke into the dwelling house of an individual and entered, intending to commit a crime within.  The Indictment further alleged that Lusk then strangled and suffocated a dating partner.

    The crimes occurred in Muskogee County, within the boundaries of the Cherokee Nation Reservation, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma.

    The charges arose from an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Cherokee Nation Marshal Service, and the Muskogee Police Department.

    The Honorable D. Edward Snow, U.S. Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report.  Lusk will remain in the custody of the United States Marshals Service pending sentencing.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Caila M. Cleary and Morgan Muzljakovich represented the United States.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Dominican National Sentenced To 60 Months In Prison For Role In Operating Fentanyl Drug Mill

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    NEWARK, N.J. – A Dominican national was sentenced to 60 months in prison for his role in a conspiracy to distribute and transport bulk quantities of fentanyl into northern New Jersey communities from a drug mill located in the Philadelphia, Pennsylvania area, Acting U.S. Attorney Vikas Khanna announced.

    Hector Luiz De La Cruz Nunez, 32, previously pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Katharine S. Hayden to a two-count information charging him with one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute fentanyl, and one count of possession with intent to distribute fentanyl.

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

    In February 2022, Nunez and his co-conspirators operated a private residence, commonly referred to as a drug mill, in which he and his co-conspirators produced large quantities of bulk fentanyl for redistribution. In early March 2022 following a car stop, law enforcement recovered nearly six kilograms of fentanyl packaged in approximately 400 individual bricks concealed within a hidden compartment inside of the vehicle that Nunez was driving.

    In addition to the prison term, Judge Hayden sentenced Nunez to three years of supervised release.

    Nunez’s co-conspirators, Emmanuel F. Almonte Mejia, 40, and Loanny F. Duran Hiciano, 37, have both pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute fentanyl. Mejia and Hiciano await sentencing.

    Acting U.S. Attorney Khanna credited special agents of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Newark, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Richard Patel, HSI Philadelphia, and the New Jersey State Police, under the direction of Col. Patrick J. Callahan, with the investigation that led to the sentencing.

    The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Vincent D. Romano of the Criminal Division in Newark.

                                                                 ###

    Defense counsel: Justin Capek 

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Colombian Smuggler Extradited in Connection with Pregnant Woman’s Border-Crossing Death

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    PLATTSBURGH, NEW YORK – A Colombian man was extradited from Canada to the United States and arraigned today for charges arising from the drowning of a pregnant woman. The woman, a citizen of Mexico, died in December 2023 while trying to illegally enter the United States by wading across the Great Chazy River in Champlain, New York.

    United States Attorney Carla B. Freedman; Special Agent in Charge Erin Keegan of Homeland Security Investigations, Buffalo, New York Field Office; and Chief Patrol Agent Robert N. Garcia of United States Border Patrol, Swanton Sector, made the announcement.

    Jhader Augusto Uribe-Tobar, age 36, is a citizen of Colombia who resides in Quebec, Canada.

    According to the indictment and an earlier-filed criminal complaint, Uribe-Tobar smuggled a pregnant woman, A.V.-F., from Canada into the Northern District of New York for $2,500, by instructing her to wade through the frigid Great Chazy River in darkness. The smuggling attempt ended in A.V-F.’s death.

    United States Attorney Carla Freedman stated: “This tragedy highlights the dangers of illegal migration and how, as alleged, smugglers deliberately put people in harm’s way for profit. By vigorously prosecuting human smuggling networks, we are deterring and reducing the number of dangerous crossings like the one that took the lives of this young woman and her unborn child.”

    HSI Buffalo Special Agent in Charge Erin Keegan stated: “We will not stand by as lives are tragically lost by the deception of human smugglers profiting off the vulnerability of migrants. HSI Buffalo and our partners vigorously pursue justice for the victims who are exploited and endangered by the people whom they are trusting to move them across borders.”

    Border Patrol Chief Patrol Agent Robert Garcia stated: “Effective border security enforcement hinges on tangible penalties for criminal actions. The U.S. Border Patrol continues to enforce the laws of the United States, and this prosecution by the U.S. Attorney’s Office demonstrates that those who violate the law will be held accountable.”

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

    On December 7, 2023, A.V-F.’s relative contacted Uribe-Tobar on TikTok where Uribe-Tobar advertised himself as a smuggler.  Uribe-Tobar advised A.V-F.’s relative, “It costs $2500 American, it is worked through Montreal and they are left in the City of Plattsburgh, NY.”  A few days later, on December 11, 2023, A.V-F.’s relative sent Uribe-Tobar proof that he had wired $2,500 to Uribe-Tobar.  Shortly after receiving that message, Uribe-Tobar traveled with A.V-F.  to the immediate area of the United States-Canada border.

    At approximately 6:21 that evening, Uribe-Tobar told A.V-F.’s relative, “Friend we are at the river crossing.”  At 6:22 p.m., Uribe-Tobar told A.V-F.’s relative, “She is crossing friend” to which her relative replied, “I’m very nervous.”  At 7:06 p.m., Uribe-Tobar messaged A.V-F’s relative, “Bro hello, I think she got wet or turned off her cell phone.  Bro, I told her to hold it while she was crossing.”  Uribe-Tobar followed that message with a screenshot of messages he exchanged with A.V-F., which showed that he had sent her three messages at 6:17 p.m. The screenshot indicates that the last message was never read. 

    Uribe-Tobar and A.V-F’s relative continued to exchange messages throughout the night of December 11, 2023.  Uribe-Tobar claimed that he had people searching for A.V-F. and that “I already sent them a pin to see if they see her, I told them what happened and that she is pregnant.”

    On December 12, 2023, A.V-F.’s relative told a Border Patrol Agent in Champlain that she was supposed to illegally enter the United States on December 11, but that he had not heard from her.  He reported her last known location as the edge of the Great Chazy River in Champlain, and that the smuggler had told A.V-F. the river was wadable.  Multiple law enforcement agencies immediately began to search for A.V-F.  On December 14, 2023, they found A.V-F.’s body in the Great Chazy River.

    The charges against Uribe-Tobar carry a minimum term of 3 years and a maximum term of life in prison.  A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the particular statutes the defendant is charged with violating, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other factors.

    At his initial appearance today in Plattsburgh, Uribe-Tobar was ordered detained pending a trial scheduled before Senior United States District Judge David N. Hurd in Utica, New York.

    The Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations and United States Border Patrol are investigating the case.  Assistant U.S. Attorneys Katherine Kopita and Carling Dunham are prosecuting the case. The Department of Justice’s Office of International Affairs assisted in securing the arrest and extradition of Uribe-Tobar.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Appeal to find missing man Paul Merrett

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    Police are appealing for the public’s help to find Paul Merrett, 28 who is missing from Woolwich.

    Paul was last seen leaving Greenwood House Memorial Hospital on Wednesday, 22 January. It’s possible that he then got onto a bus towards Shooters Hill.

    He is described as a white man, of a slim build with brown hair. He was last seen wearing a black jacket, a black jumper, blue jeans and light blue crocs.

    He has connections to Croydon.

    Officers are carrying out multiple enquiries to locate Paul and appealing to anyone who may have seen him to get in contact.

    Paul is vulnerable and members of the public are asked to contact the police directly rather than attempt to engage with him.

    Anyone with information is asked to call police on 101 or post @MetCC ref CAD 2704/22JAN25.

    To remain 100% anonymous contact the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News: Australia, Japan, Philippines, and United States Conducted Multilateral Maritime Cooperative Activity

    Source: United States Navy

    U.S. 7TH FLEET AREA OF RESPONSIBILITY — The combined defense and armed forces of Australia, Japan, the Philippines, and the United States, demonstrating a collective commitment to strengthen regional and international cooperation in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific, conducted a multilateral Maritime Cooperative Activity (MCA) within the Philippines’ Exclusive Economic Zone, Feb. 5.

    This builds upon previous MCAs and our continuing operations together, which strengthen the interoperability of our defense/armed forces doctrines, tactics, techniques, and procedures. MCAs are conducted in a manner that is consistent with international law and with due regard to the safety and navigational rights and freedoms of all nations. Participating units included the U.S. Navy Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Benfold (DDG 65) and a P-8A Poseidon maritime patrol and reconnaissance aircraft from Patrol Squadron (VP) 47; Royal Australian Navy Hobart-class air warfare destroyer HMAS Hobart (DDG 39) and an MH-60R Sea Hawk helicopter; the Philippine Navy Jose Rizal-class guided-missile frigate BRP Jose Rizal (FF 150); and the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force Akizuki-class destroyer JS Akizuki (DD 115) and an SH-60K helicopter. The U.S., along with our allies and partners, upholds the right to freedom of navigation and overflight and other internationally lawful uses of the sea related to those freedoms.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Scranton Man Charged With Production Of And Possession Of Child Pornography

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    SCRANTON – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Anthony Clyde Hoffman, age 29, of Scranton, Pennsylvania, was indicted on February 4, 2025, by a federal grand jury, for both production of child pornography and possession of child pornography. 

    According to Acting United States Attorney John C. Gurganus, in November of 2024, Hoffman was in possession of over 800 unique images and videos of child exploitation material when agents executed a search warrant at his home. Additionally, a review of those images and videos revealed that in May of 2024, Hoffman had produced child exploitation images of a toddler using his cell phone.  

    The investigation was conducted by the Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Wyoming Valley Human Trafficking and Child Exploitation Task Force, which was formed in late 2023, and is comprised of federal, state and local investigators and District Attorney’s Offices from counties throughout Northeastern Pennsylvania. Assistant U.S. Attorney Luisa Honora Berti is prosecuting the case.

    “This indictment underscores the dedication and cooperation between HSI and our federal, state, and local partners within the Wyoming Valley Human Trafficking and Child Exploitation Task Force,” said Special Agent in Charge of HSI Philadelphia Edward V. Owens. “One of our primary missions is to protect the most vulnerable among us, and we will continue to leverage all available resources to combat child exploitation and ensure that the perpetrators are brought to justice.”

    “Successful cooperation between the partners of the Wyoming Valley Human Trafficking and Child Exploitation Task Force allows for collaborative prosecutions such as this one and is why we formed this task force,” said Task Force Chair and Wyoming County District Attorney Joe Peters. “We thank the investigators and prosecutors involved and send the message that we will only increase our combined efforts to keep the children of Northeastern Pennsylvania safe.”

    “Children are our most precious resource in every community,” said District Attorney Raymond J. Tonkin. “The Pike County District Attorney’s Office joined the Wyoming Valley Human Trafficking and Child Exploitation Task Force to further the mission of law enforcement and prosecutors working together to protect children from predators.”

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

    The maximum penalty under federal law for this offense is 50 years of imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines. 

    Indictments and Criminal Informations are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court. 

    # # #

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Truck Driver Who Dumped 25-Year-Old’s Body Convicted Of Kidnapping Resulting in Death

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    A truck driver who kidnapped a 25-year-old woman and dumped her dead body in the woods has been convicted at trial, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Chad Meacham. 

    Naasson Hazzard, 28, of Austin, was charged via criminal complaint in August and indicted in October. After nine days of trial and approximately an hour of deliberation, a jury on Tuesday convicted him of kidnapping resulting in death.

    “A young woman’s life was cut tragically short, her last moments likely spent in terror,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Chad Meacham. “But those final moments do not define her life. She mattered, her life had worth, and we are proud to put her kidnapper behind bars.”

    “Just a few months ago, this violent criminal not only kidnapped an unsuspecting victim, but also took her life. From that time, our commitment has been to seek justice,” said Travis Pickard, Special Agent in Charge of HSI Dallas. “With this guilty verdict, we are one step closer to achieving justice. HSI remains steadfast in using every method at our disposal to apprehend those who commit heinous acts in our communities.”

    According to evidence presented at trial, surveillance video caught Hazzard’s victim, a young sex worker, entering his semi-truck in Dallas at 9:27 p.m. on Aug. 15.

    Eight days later, her decomposing body was found in a wooded area off Texas Highway 11 in Pittsburg, Texas with a black plastic bag tied around her head. 

    Cell phone records showed that on the evening of Aug. 15, Mr. Hazzard traveled from the pickup location to a nearby parking lot, where he remained for approximately 17 minutes. He then drove over three hours to a wooded area off Highway 11 in Pittsburg, Texas, where he texted his boss that he would be out sick the following day and remained for almost an hour before completing a load for work.

    The next day, he and his wife returned to the scene before going to dinner in Tyler, Texas.

    In the days that followed, Mr. Hazzard switched cell phones and deleted his Google and Life360 location sharing accounts. He also cleaned the truck with bleach and searched “how many years for first second and third degree murders.” Meanwhile, his wife searched for “Pittsburg Texas news.”

    On Aug. 23, the same day the victim’s body was recovered, agents found her cell phone shattered on the side of the road along Mr. Hazzard’s route the night she was killed.  

    Mr. Hazzard now faces an automatic life sentence. 

    The North Texas Trafficking Task Force conducted the investigation with the assistance of the following agencies: the Dallas County District Attorney’s Office, the Dallas Police Department, the Midlothian Police Department, the Texas Rangers, the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Dallas Field Office, the Titus County Sheriff’s Office, the Buda Police Department, the Austin Police Department, the Hayes County Sheriff’s Office, and the Texas Department of Public Safety. Homeland Security Investigation’s Dallas Field Office leads the Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Brandie Wade and Renee Hunter prosecuted the case with the help of appellate liaison Jonathan Bradshaw.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Armed Leader of a Drug Trafficking Organization Shipping Kilogram Quantities of Cocaine from Puerto Rico Sentenced to Ten Years in Prison

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    NEW BERN, N.C. – Cesar De Sena Arias, aka “Junior,” was sentenced to 120 months in prison and five years of supervised release for his role as an armed leader of a trafficking organization bringing kilogram quantities of cocaine into Raleigh from Puerto Rico.

    On March 4, 2024, Arias, age 32, pled guilty to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine and to possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine, and aiding and abetting.

    According to court documents and other information presented in court, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and Raleigh Police Department (RPD) conducted a federal wiretap investigation into the Arias drug trafficking organization in April 2022.

    The investigation revealed that Arias was utilizing the U.S. Postal Service to send shipments of kilogram-quantities of cocaine from Puerto Rico to various addresses in Raleigh.

    The United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) was able to identify Internet Protocol (IP) addresses used to track multiple shipments, and at least one phone number associated with those IP addresses was traced to a known residence of Arias.

    Further surveillance of Arias confirmed that he travelled to the residences where packages were being shipped. Searches of multiple locations identified in the investigation resulted in the seizure of kilogram quantities of cocaine, a firearm, and more than $20,000 in cash.  

    Two co-defendants in this investigation have also been convicted and sentenced.

    This investigation was an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launders, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.

    Daniel P. Bubar, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge Louise W. Flanagan. The DEA, Raleigh Police Department, and U.S. Postal Inspection Service investigated the case and Assistant U.S. Attorney Kelly Sandling  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. 5:23-CR-00119-FL.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News: France, Japan, U.S. Partner in Multi-Large Deck Event in Philippine Sea

    Source: United States Navy

    This MLDE is designed to advance coordination and cooperation between French, Japanese and U.S. maritime forces while simultaneously demonstrating capabilities in multi-domain operations, promoting a shared dedication to regional stability, and highlighting the U.S. Navy’s enduring power projection capability.

    “Pacific Steller 2025 allows us to practice seamless integration with our French and Japanese allies in a multi-domain environment,” said Rear Adm. Michael Wosje, commander, Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 1. “Coordinated operations between USS Carl Vinson, FS Charles De Gaulle, and JS Kaga strengthen our alliances and deter our adversaries. Together, we seek to maintain an open and inclusive Indo-Pacific, free of all forms of coercion, and we’re excited to work alongside our allies and partners who share that vision.”

    The U.S.-France alliance is built on a legacy of shared interests, values, and a commitment to freedom and human rights.

    “It is a great opportunity for the French Carrier Strike Group to cooperate with our partners in the Indo-Pacific during the whole deployment. While France is a resident nation of the Indo-Pacific, it has not deployed its CSG to this part of the world for a long time,” said Rear Adm. Jacques Mallard, commander, French CSG. “Since January 14, the aircraft carrier Charles De Gaulle, based in Toulon more than 6000 miles from here, is sailing in a different area. There is no doubt that PACIFIC STELLER will ramp up to a new level of interoperability for our three navies and represents a challenge that we are more than eager to take up alongside Japanese and US partners.”

    The most recent MLDE in the Indo-Pacific occurred in August 2024 between the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) and the Italian Navy aircraft carrier ITS Cavour (CVH 550). The event marked the first MLDE conducted between the U.S. and Italian navies in the Indo-Pacific region.

    “Our routine integration aims to showcase our partnership and demonstrate our ability to work together with our French and Japanese allies,” said Capt. Matthew Thomas, commanding officer of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70). “Pacific Steller 2025 is one of many exercises with the goal to enhance the maritime security of the Indo-Pacific region. As the flagship of CSG-1, Carl Vinson stands ready and looks forward to participating alongside Charles De Gaulle and Kaga.”

    MLDEs are conducted in a manner that is consistent with international law and with due regard to the safety of navigation and the rights and interests of other states.

    Participating large-deck ships include the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70), the French carrier FS Charles De Gaulle, and Japan’s Izumo-class multi-functional destroyer JS Kaga (DDH-184).

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

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

    French Carrier Strike Group consists of Charles De Gaulle, its embarked French Strike Force staff and carrier air wing, an air-defense destroyer, multi-mission frigates, a supply ship, an attack submarine, and a detachment of Atlantique 2 maritime patrol aircraft.

    The French carrier air wing flies the Rafale Marine (F4) fighter aircraft, E-2C Hawkeye, and Dauphin, Caiman Marine, and Panther helicopters.

    The French Carrier Strike Group is currently engaged in Mission CLEMENCEAU 25, sailing alongside its allies and strategic partners to promote a free, open and stable Indo-Pacific space for the benefit of French populations, interests, and those of their regional partners, within the framework of international law.

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

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Caledonia Man Pleads Guilty To Three Counts Of Sexually Exploiting A Minor

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

              GRAND RAPIDS – Acting U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Michigan Andrew Birge today announced that Scott Michael Elam, 41, of Caledonia, pleaded guilty to three counts of sexual exploitation of a minor. Elam faces a mandatory minimum of 15 years in prison and a maximum of 90 years in prison. He is scheduled to be sentenced on May 29.

              Elam was arrested and indicted in November 2024 on seven counts of sexually exploiting four different minors. According to court documents, Elam recorded himself having sex with one of the minors on two different occasions and directed the other victims to take explicit photos and videos of themselves and then send them to him. He supplied alcohol, marijuana, vapes, and other contraband to the minors. Elam charged money for each and offered to reduce the price for minors who created and provided sexually explicit videos of themselves or had sex with him.

              “Today’s plea by Scott Elam highlights the FBI’s unwavering commitment to holding sexual predators accountable and safeguarding our most vulnerable citizens,” said Cheyvoryea Gibson, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI in Michigan. “Mr. Elam’s abhorrent criminal acts against minors are utterly indefensible, and such behavior is not acceptable. I am deeply grateful for the relentless dedication and tireless efforts of the men and women of the FBI in Michigan, including the West Michigan-based Child Exploitation Task Force (WEBCHEX), our partners at the Kent County Sheriff’s Office, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the successful prosecution in the Western District of Michigan. The FBI in Michigan remains committed to working alongside our law enforcement partners to investigate, disrupt, and bring to justice any individuals who prey on our children.”

              “The Kent County Sheriff’s Office is committed to pursuing justice for victims of child exploitation and ensuring that offenders are held accountable. This case highlights the critical importance of parents and guardians having open conversations with their children about the dangers of social media. Our dedicated staff and partnerships with federal agencies allow us to continue protecting our community from those who seek to harm children,” the department said in a statement.

              The Kent County Sheriff’s Office and FBI are investigating this case, and Assistant United States Attorney Olivia Ghiselli is prosecuting 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: Update 273 – IAEA Director General Statement on Situation in Ukraine

    Source: International Atomic Energy Agency – IAEA

    Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi met with President Volodymyr Zelensky and assessed damage to energy infrastructure vital for nuclear safety during his 11th visit to Ukraine since the military conflict began almost three years ago, as part of the ongoing efforts of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to help prevent a nuclear accident.

    Before his meetings with President Zelensky and senior government officials in Kyiv on Tuesday, the Director General travelled to one of the substations on which Ukraine’s nuclear power plants (NPPs) depend to receive the off-site power needed to cool their reactors and for other essential nuclear safety and security functions and also to transmit the electricity they generate.

    In recent months, Ukraine’s operating NPPs – Khmelnytskyy, Rivne and South Ukraine – have several times been forced to reduce power output because of widespread military activities affecting the electricity grid, in which the substations form a key part. Most recently, Ukraine informed the IAEA that the NPPs temporarily lowered their production on 1 February before returning to nominal power again.

    “The reason that this is so important, from the perspective of the IAEA, is because of the influence of this situation on the safety of the nuclear power plants’ operation,” Director General Grossi told journalists at the substation, which is among several such facilities that were further damaged and degraded in recent months.

    “This compromises the nuclear safety of a power plant, and it could eventually lead to an accident,” he said, noting the importance of a stable electricity grid for the nuclear safety and security of NPPs. “Having an external power supply is essential”.

    IAEA expert teams have travelled to nine different electrical substations across the country seen as critical for nuclear safety and security, including the one visited by Director General Grossi on 4 February. Five of these substations have been visited twice during IAEA missions in September, October and December 2024, with the teams observing a continued degradation at several facilities.

    During their visits to the substations, the IAEA teams collect information, assess the situation and provide technical advice.

    “The situation is quite dire. We should not, I think, hide the fact. And as you can see behind us, this infrastructure has been degraded,” Director General Grossi said, standing next to a visibly damaged autotransformer.

    Director General Grossi also noted the work conducted at this and other Ukrainian substations to help “preserve the stability of the grid”, for example by replacing damaged transformers.

    In his meetings with President Zelensky, Minister of Foreign Affairs Andrii Sybiha and Minister of Energy German Galushchenko, Director General Grossi also discussed progress in Ukraine’s plans to purchase equipment from the interrupted Bulgarian NPP project in Belene for new reactor units being constructed at the Khmelnytskyy NPP. The IAEA is providing technical support and nuclear safety advice for this plan, Director General Grossi said.

    At Ukraine’s NPPs over the past week, the IAEA teams based there have continued to report on indications of military activities near the sites, constant reminders of the potential risks to nuclear safety and security.

    At Ukraine’s Zaporizhzhya NPP, the team heard multiple instances of explosions on most days, some very close to the plant. There were no reports of damage to the site.

    Following the disconnection of the ZNPP’s only available 750 kilovolt (kV) power line on 29 January, it was reconnected on 1 February. As a result, the site once again has two external power lines available – including one 330 kV – compared with a total of ten before the conflict.

    The IAEA teams at the Khmelnytskyy, Rivne and South Ukraine NPPs and the Chornobyl site continued to report daily air raid alarms. The teams at Khmelnytskyy, South Ukraine and Chornobyl were also informed of drones being detected in locations near the sites.

    At the South Ukraine NPP, a 750 kV power line that was disconnected on 29 January due to military activities remains unavailable.  

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Met officers make 14 arrests in crackdown on car crime in Bexley

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    Met officers have made 14 arrests and recovered 14 stolen cars as part of a crackdown on car crime in Bexley.

    Officers have carried out increased patrols following concerns from residents about keyless car theft.

    It’s a growing crime type where offenders are able to access keyless vehicles using various techniques and devices depending on the make or model of the vehicle.

    Fast reporting led to officers making 14 arrests during the week of 20 January, including three men who were tracked down within minutes of unsuccessfully attempting to break into a car.

    Another four men were arrested following a pursuit by officers, which involved a car which had driven the wrong way down the A2.

    Sergeant Dave Catlow, one of the Met’s neighbourhood officers in south-east London, said:

    “We heard from people in Bexley that car crime was a significant concern and we’ve acted on that. We know it’s an issue and recognise the impact on the community.

    “We will continue to focus our resources on tackling the offences that matter most to Londoners by investing time in proactive operations. We’ve seen how this targeted approach is making a real difference.

    “We hold regular engagement with residents to prevent theft of vehicles, including reactive pop-ups in emerging target areas, hosting public meetings to display physical prevention measures and knocking on doors.”

    Of the 14 arrests, eight were linked to motor vehicle crime, two for driving under the influence of alcohol, and two for possession of Class A drugs with intent to supply.

    Alongside recovering 14 lost or stolen vehicles, officers were also able to seize another six vehicles which had been reported as stolen.

    “Across London, we’ve put an extra 500 officers and staff into neighbourhood policing and our relentless focus on tackling crime will continue.”

    When reporting car thefts, victims should report the crime as soon as possible to give officers the best chance of locating the vehicle. We urge the public to call 999 to report a crime in progress, or 101 to make a non-urgent report.

    Bexley Police’s X channel shares regular messaging which can help to keep people informed of emerging crime trends and stay safe from crime.

    The Metropolitan Police website has guidance on how to protect your vehicle, including keyless cars.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Officers look to speak to two women sexually assaulted in Highbury

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    Detectives are looking to speak to two women following a sexual assault in Highbury.

    The incident took place between 17:55hrs and 18:15hrs on Sunday, 2 February at the CW bus stop, which is opposite the City of London Academy, Highbury Grove.

    Officers were called after a man was witnessed approaching two women at the bus stop where he sexually assaulted them. The two women left the area before police arrived.

    The witnesses described the women as white, in their early to mid-20s. One woman had blonde hair; the other was brunette.

    Detective Sergeant Thomas Barnes, leading the investigation in Islington, said: “While we understand the impact of incidents like this – and how difficult it can be to talk about – our officers are on hand to provide specialist support so we urge these two women to come forward with any information.”

    The man was described as in his 50s. He was wearing a beige long sleeved jacket with a dark scarf. He was arrested at the scene and released with no further action, pending further enquiries. Officers hope tracing the victims will assist with their investigation.

    If you have any information contact police on 101 and quote 0543/02FEB.

    + If you have been a victim of sexual assault or rape or you have information about an offender, contact police on 101 or 999 in an emergency – there are specially trained officers who will listen and investigate where needed. Advice and support can be found on our website.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: First meeting of the GCC-European Directors General of Criminal Investigations

    Source: Europol

    The meeting provided an opportunity for representatives from both regions to exchange expertise and knowledge on cross-border security challenges. Participants also shared insights on emerging crime trends, working towards a more effective response to transnational crime. GCCPOL and Europol have been working together since signing a Letter of Intent on 14 July 2017 to enhance collaboration against organised crime and…

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Nigerian agencies unite to combat organized crime with support from INTERPOL and AFRIPOL

    Source: Interpol (news and events)

    6 February 2025

    LYON, France – In a major blow to organized crime, 12 different Nigerian law enforcement agencies, supported by INTERPOL and AFRIPOL, have launched a sweeping operation that has resulted in the arrests of 36 individuals and seizures worth USD 3 million.

    The operation (23-27 September 2024) brought together Nigerian authorities for a Nigerian law enforcement agencies and criminal justice stakeholders working on a broad range of crime areas were involved in the operation, including financial crime and cybercrime as well as drug and human trafficking.

    Following two months of preparation, national authorities carried out increased border checks, targeted raids at identified hotspots and followed up on actionable leads over five operational days.  Most arrests were made for cyber-enabled fraud and the vast majority of the detained suspects were under the age of 35, reflecting a trend of greater youth involvement in organized crime.

    Among the crimes uncovered, common tactics included ‘romance baiting’, in which criminals cultivate online relationships to manipulate victims into investing or transferring their money; investment and cryptocurrency scams, where perpetrators lure victims in fictitious financial schemes; and celebrity scams, which involve the impersonation of well-known figures to solicit money from fans. Three of the arrests were for sextortion, where the suspects were extorting money from victims to prevent the release of compromising or explicit material.

    Notable seizures from the operation included 19kg of cocaine, valued at 2.8 million USD; 51kg of cannabis; five cars; two weapons; and 215 rounds of ammunition. The action days also exposed cases of human trafficking, with the identification of 12 victims who had been lured abroad with promises of work but were instead forced into sexual exploitation or forced labour. The investigation led to the arrest of a female recruiter, who had posed as a victim to evade detection, and the seizure of USD 16,000 from her account.

    Cyril Gout, INTERPOL’s Acting Executive Director of Police Services, said:

    “West African Organized Crime Groups are considered to be among the most aggressive and expansionist criminal groups for their involvement in a broad range of illegal activities, from people smuggling, human trafficking, extortion and kidnapping to oil theft, cybercrime and money laundering. The success of this operation underscores the critical importance of sustained, multi-agency collaboration in disrupting these networks. By working together, at a national and international level we can effectively combat this global threat and bring justice to those affected by these crimes.”

    Ambassador Jalel Chelba, Acting Executive Director of AFRIPOL, said:

    “The success of this operation demonstrates the profound impact of coordinated efforts between national and international law enforcement bodies. AFRIPOL is dedicated to fostering partnerships that bridge the gaps in intelligence sharing and operational coordination, ensuring a united front against the complexities of transnational organized crime. This landmark initiative in Nigeria not only strengthens national capacities but also exemplifies the collective resolve of African member states to combat evolving criminal threats. Our close cooperation with INTERPOL was pivotal to the achievements of this operation and we will continue to work closely with our partners to promote security and stability across the continent.”

    The operation was supported by officers from INTERPOL and AFRIPOL

    Reinforcing national capacity to strengthen global security

    During the operation, coordinated by INTERPOL’s National Central Bureau and AFRIPOL’s National Liaison Office in Abuja, officers from both INTERPOL and AFRIPOL were deployed to support criminal intelligence analysis, assist operation coordination and to facilitate crosschecks against databases.

    The success of this operation was driven by the collaborative efforts among Nigerian law enforcement agencies, justice stakeholders and the partnership between AFRIPOL and INTERPOL. This joint effort demonstrates the results that can be achieved by effective intelligence sharing and coordinated action from all relevant agencies, paving the way for a new era of cooperation.

    The operation was delivered under the framework of the ISPA programme, funded by the German Federal Foreign Office, to support AFRIPOL in strengthening its position as the lead institution in Africa for preventing and combating transnational organized crime, terrorism and cybercrime.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Guam Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Federal Prison for Enticement of a Minor

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Hagatña, Guam – SHAWN N. ANDERSON, United States Attorney for the Districts of Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands, announced that defendant Ricky Junior O. Quichocho, age 37, from Dededo, Guam, was sentenced by the U.S. District Court of Guam on February 4, 2025 to 10 years imprisonment for Attempted Enticement of a Minor, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 2422(b).  The Court also ordered five years of supervised release following imprisonment and a mandatory $100.00 special assessment fee.  Quichocho was ordered to register with the Sex Offender Registry anywhere he resides, is employed, or is in school.

    In May of 2024, Air Force Office of Special Investigation and Homeland Security Investigations conducted a joint undercover operation to identify and target individuals who were seeking to contact and engage in sexual activity with minor children. Agents created multiple personas on several social networking applications and posted in online forums.

    On May 7, 2024, Ricky Junior O. Quichocho, a civilian employee of a military contractor, initiated contact with the undercover persona. Even though the undercover persona said she was 13 years old, Quichocho continued communication and stated he was interested in “sexual fun.” Throughout the month, Quichocho continued text messages of a sexual nature, indicating various sex acts he wanted to do with the undercover persona. On June 10, 2024, after an agreement to meet with the minor at the Anderson Air Force Base Visitor Control Center parking lot, Quichocho instead was met by Air Force Office of Special Investigations Special Agents. In a subsequent interview, Quichocho admitted to his conduct. A forensic analysis of Quichocho’s cellphone confirmed text messages and photographs sent to the undercover persona.

    “Interagency partnerships are the key to fighting child exploitation,” stated United States Attorney Anderson.  “This case is another reminder of the dangers faced by children during online activity.  We will continue to target offenders who prey on this vulnerable segment of our communities. I applaud HSI and AFOSI in bringing Quichocho to justice.”

    “HSI utilizes partnerships with agencies including AFOSI to protect our communities from child predators.  By working together, HSI ensures resources are utilized most effectively to seek out and apprehend those who intend to harm our most vulnerable community members,” said Special Agent in Charge Lucy Cabral-DeArmas.

    “AFOSI will continue to work alongside our law enforcement partners to root out criminal behavior that threatens the mission, equipment and people of the Department of the Air Force,” said Special Agent Eric Beebe, Commander of AFOSI Detachment 602. “We are dedicated to protecting our Airmen, their families, and the broader Guam community, as Operation Island Fever showcased.”

    The case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and Air Force Office of Special Investigations Detachment 602.

    Assistant United States Attorney Devarup Rastogi prosecuted the case in the District of Guam.

    This was a Project Safe Childhood (PSC) case, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice.  Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, PSC marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about PSC, please visit Justice.gov/PSC.

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