NewzIntel.com

Category: Security Intelligence

  • MIL-OSI Security: Morrilton Man Sentenced to 30 Years in Federal Prison for Production of Child Sexual Abuse Material

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

          LITTLE ROCK—Timothy Lee Highfield will spend 30 years in federal prison for production of child sexual abuse material. Jonathan D. Ross, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, announced the sentence, which was handed down today by Chief United States District Judge Kristine G. Baker.

          On June 8, 2022, Highfield, 46, of Morrilton, Arkansas, was indicted by a federal grand jury on one count of production of child pornography. On January 9, 2024, Highfield pleaded guilty to the count in the Indictment. Chief Judge Baker sentenced Highfield to 360 months in federal prison a lifetime of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.

          On approximately December 17, 2021, a citizen brought a phone containing child sexual abuse material to the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). An investigation revealed the phone previously belonged to Highfield. During a search of the phone by FBI, a video made by Highfield was located on the phone. The video depicted a minor, believed to be less than seven years of age, performing oral sex on Highfield. The phone also contained multiple videos and images of child sexual abuse material and adults performing sexual acts with minors.

          The investigation was conducted by the FBI. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kristin Bryant.

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    Additional information about the office of the

    United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, is available online at

    https://www.justice.gov/edar

    X (formerly known as Twitter):

    @USAO_EDAR 

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Ft. Campbell Soldier Sentenced to 87 Months in Federal Prison on Child Sexual Abuse Charges

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    NASHVILLE – Donald Lee Collins, 41, of Clarksville, Tennessee, was sentenced yesterday to 87 months in federal prison after having pled guilty to two counts of sexual abuse of a minor and one count of attempted transfer of obscene material to an individual under the age of sixteen, announced Robert E. McGuire, Acting United States Attorney for the Middle District of Tennessee. In addition to his sentence of incarceration, Collins is required to register as a sex offender.

    According to court documents, in late December 2019, Collins and the minor victim, who was the daughter of a friend, connected over Facebook Messenger and began exchanging sexually explicit messages and images. On the night of December 31, 2019, the minor victim spent the night at Collins’ house with his teenage daughter. The next morning, Collins sexually abused the minor victim at his home. Then, as he drove the minor victim to her father’s house on Fort Campbell, Collins again sexually abused the minor victim both before driving through the gate at Fort Campbell and after they entered the Army base. Collins continued to engage in sexually explicit communication with the minor victim over Facebook Messenger after January 1, 2020.

    As a result of this conduct, Collins was other than honorably discharged by the Army.

    After serving his sentence, Collins will be on supervised release for 10 years.

    This case was investigated by the U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Division and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Nashville Field Office, Clarksville Resident Agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Monica R. Morrison prosecuted the case.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Kissimmee Man Sentenced To 25 Years For Producing Child Sexual Abuse Material

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Jacksonville, Florida – Chief United States District Judge Marcia Morales Howard has sentenced Stephen Michael Lippincott (70, Kissimmee) to 25 years in federal prison for production of child sexual abuse material. Lippincott was also ordered to serve a 15-year term of supervised release and register as a sex offender.   

    According to court records, on January 18, 2024, Lippincott was embarking on a four-day cruise to the Bahamas when his cellular phone was searched by Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers at the Jax Port Cruise Terminal. The search was precipitated by a tip CBP received about a possible warrant for indecent exposure Lippincott had out of New Jersey. The search led to the discovery that Lippincott was communicating with multiple female children ranging from ages 8 to 14 on a variety of social media platforms. Lippincott also had sent at least six female children money to watch him engage in sexual acts which he then recorded on his cell phone.   

    “Violating the innocence of a child is a detestable act and a betrayal of the trust that fortifies the safety of our communities,” said Tim Hemker, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Jacksonville assistant Special Agent in Charge. “Alongside our partners at the Northeast Florida INTERCEPT Task Force, and U.S. Customs and Border Protection Jacksonville, HSI will not rest until every predator who seeks to sexually exploit children is brought to justice.”  

    This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, the U.S. Customs and Border Protection Office, and the Northeast Florida INTERCEPT Task Force. This case was being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney John Cannizzaro.

    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, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Indian Nationals Convicted of Money Laundering Conspiracy That Took Life Savings from Victims in Ohio, Michigan, Illinois, and Indiana

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    TOLEDO, Ohio – After a six-day trial, a federal jury convicted two men of participating in a vast money laundering conspiracy that robbed victims from across four states of their life savings. Pranay Kumar Mamidi, 27, and Kishan Vinayak Patel, 26, both nationals of the Republic of India, were found guilty of participating in a money laundering conspiracy, concealing the source of the money, and using the illegally gained money to further promote a criminal enterprise. 

    According to court documents, from about May to November 2023, Mamidi and Patel, along with other co-conspirators, engaged in a multi-layered scheme to launder proceeds derived from a fraud known as a phantom hacker scam. In this type of scam, a scammer, acting as a customer service representative for a store or bank, contacts a target victim and falsely informs them that their bank account has been hacked or compromised. Next, the victim is directed to a fake federal law enforcement agent for supposed assistance. The fake federal agent then proceeds to obtain the victim’s savings by deception, typically threatening imminent seizure or arrest.

    In one common example, elderly victims are contacted by someone pretending to be an Amazon, Inc. employee, who informs the victim of suspicious activity on their accounts. Next, the victim is contacted by another person who claims to be from the U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and informs the victim that their identity was stolen. The victim is then contacted by another individual who claims to be a Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) special agent. The fake DEA special agent claims that the account in question is being investigated for facilitating fraud and has resulted in supposed arrest warrants for the victim. Fearing legal actions, the victim follows the scammer’s instructions to pull their savings from their bank account and convert funds into cash or gold bars. The victim is further instructed to give another supposed law enforcement official cash and/or gold bars at a designated drop-off point such as a gas station or fast food restaurant. After the drop, the victim is then sent a receipt which appears to be from the U.S. Department of the Treasury and completes the illusion of a legitimate transaction.

    According to court documents, the defendants in this case served as money launderers for other co-conspirators throughout the world who participated in phantom hacker schemes based out of India. The U.S. based money laundering infrastructure allowed funds illegally taken from victims to be distributed throughout the world. Investigators estimate that the total amount of money laundered is in the tens of millions of dollars.

    Sentencing has not yet been scheduled. Mamidi and Patel each face a maximum of 20 years in prison for each count of conviction.

    Six other defendants also named in the second superseding indictment filed in August 2024 were also charged. The following have pleaded guilty and are awaiting sentencing: Dileep Kumar Sakineni, age 26; Balaji Rakesh Mulpuri, age 26; Avi Jitendrakumar Patel, age 22; Sai Hruthik Thodeti, age 25; and Srinivas Ravi Valluru, age 31, all nationals of the Republic of India; and Hiren Jagdishbhai Patel, age 33, of Columbus, Ohio.

    The investigation was conducted by the FBI-Cleveland Field Office. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Robert Melching and Dexter Phillips for the Northern District of Ohio.

    The investigation and prosecution of this case is in response to the Elder Justice Initiative Program originating from the Elder Abuse Prevention and Prosecution Act of 2017 (EAPPA). The mission of the EAPPA and Elder Justice Initiative is to support and coordinate the Department of Justice’s enforcement efforts to combat elder abuse, neglect, financial fraud, and scams that target the nation’s elderly population.

    If you suspect fraudulent conduct involving an older adult, please contact the dedicated National Elder Fraud Hotline at 1-833-FRAUD-11 or 1-833-372-8311 and visit the FBI’s IC3 Elder Fraud Complaint Center at IC3.gov to report it.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Hartford Man Sentenced to 7 Years in Federal Prison for Possessing Handgun Fitted with Glock Switch

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Marc H. Silverman, Acting United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that KENDALL CAMBY, also known as “KB,” 35, of Hartford, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Kari A. Dooley in Bridgeport to 84 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for possessing a firearm as a felon.

    According to court documents and statements made in court, on February 22, 2023, Hartford Police received information that Camby was in possession of a firearm while distributing drugs in the area of 1631 Main Street.  After officers observed Camby engaging in suspected hand-to-hand drug transactions and then entering the passenger seat of a car, they stopped the car and found him in possession of a .45 caliber Glock 30 handgun with a magazine loaded with 12 rounds of ammunition, and fitted with a Glock switch auto sear device, which converted the gun to an automatic weapon.  Camby also possessed approximately 650 wax paper sleeves containing fentanyl and approximately 50 bags of crack cocaine.

    Camby’s criminal history includes state convictions for felony firearm, drug, robbery, and burglary offenses.  It is a violation of federal law for a person previously convicted of a felony offense to possess a firearm or ammunition that has moved in interstate or foreign commerce.

    On July 10, 2024, Camby pleaded guilty to unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon.

    This matter was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Hartford Task Force, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Hartford Police Department.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert S. Ruff.

    This prosecution is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce gun violence and other violent crime, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. In May 2021, the Justice 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.  For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit www.justice.gov/psn.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Former soldier sentenced to 7+years in prison for sexual abuse of a child on Joint Base Lewis-McChord

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Defendant previously investigated in the Army and prosecuted in State Court for sexual assault crimes

    Tacoma – A former U.S. Army soldier was sentenced today in U.S. District Court in Tacoma to 87 months in prison for abusive sexual contact with a child, announced U.S. Attorney Tessa M. Gorman. Cameron James Taylor, 49, of Seattle, pleaded guilty in May 2024 and has been in custody since his guilty plea.  At today’s sentencing hearing Chief U.S. District Judge David G. Estudillo noted the conduct in this case may cause the victim lifetime torment. The victim “is a strong individual” and “shows courage to move on” Chief Judge Estudillo said.

    “This horrific conduct cannot go unpunished. Our work to protect children on our military bases is a priority in the Western District of Washington,” said U.S. Attorney Gorman. “Mr. Taylor sexually assaulted a child who was just 5 years old. He then pressured the child to hide the conduct when questioned by other adults. I commend the strength of the victim in this case.”

    According to records filed in the case, Taylor left the Army in 2016 with an “Other than Honorable” discharge after he was investigated for sexual assault of an unconscious female in Germany, and for assaulting soldiers who went to arrest him. Taylor resigned in lieu of Court Martial.

    Once back in the U.S., Taylor was convicted of the 2019 sexual assault of a 5-year-old neighbor child. Taylor forced the child to massage him and reach into his pants. In 2022, Taylor was sentenced in King County Superior Court to 18 months in prison.

    During the investigation related to the neighbor child, other children who had been in Taylor’s care were interviewed. Taylor had coached a child, who was now a teen about hiding his sexual assaults. Ultimately, the child disclosed to a relative that in 2012, while stationed on JBLM, Taylor locked the then 5- or 6-year-old in a closet and sexually assaulted the child.

    On the eve of trial, Taylor pleaded guilty.

    In asking for the 8-year sentence prosecutors wrote to the court, “Taylor’s crimes reveal a man who lacks empathy and who prioritized his own pleasure over others’ pain. Taylor is also no stranger to the justice system; this is his third criminal sex offense. The government hopes that a 96-month sentence, coupled with lifetime supervised release, will prevent Taylor from reoffending again.”

    Taylor is required to register as a sex offender following his prison term. Chief Judge Estudillo ordered that he be on supervised release for ten years following prison.

    The case was investigated by U.S. Army Criminal Investigations (CID), the King County Sheriff’s Office, and the FBI.

    The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Hillary K. Stuart and Erika J. Evans.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Member Of Al Qaeda In The Arabian Peninsula Sentenced To 44 Years In Prison For Terrorism Offenses

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Minh Quang Pham Traveled to Yemen and Received Military Training from AQAP to Commit a Suicide Attack at Heathrow International Airport

    Danielle R. Sassoon, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, and Devin DeBacker, the Head of the National Security Division of the United States Department of Justice, announced today that MINH QUANG PHAM, a/k/a “Amin,” 41, was sentenced to 44 years in prison for terrorism charges based on Pham’s support of al Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula (“AQAP”), a designated foreign terrorist organization, including attempting to commit a suicide bombing at Heathrow International Airport (“Heathrow Airport”).  On May 11, 2023, PHAM pled guilty to providing and attempting to provide material support to AQAP and participating in a conspiracy to do the same; conspiring to receive military-type training from AQAP; and providing and attempting to provide material support for acts of terrorism.  Today’s sentence was imposed by U.S. District Judge Richard M. Berman.

    U.S. Attorney Danielle R. Sassoon said:  “Minh Quang Pham’s actions were not just an affront to the safety of this country, but to the principles of peace and security that we hold dear. Today’s sentencing underscores our collective resolve to stop terrorism before it occurs, and place would-be terrorists in prison.”

    Head of the Justice Department’s National Security Division Devin DeBacker said: “The defendant was sentenced for an attempt to commit an act of terrorism and plotting a suicide bombing on behalf of AQAP. The Justice Department will not rest in seeking justice for acts of terrorism and will continue to thwart any attempt to jeopardize global security.”

    According to the indictments, extradition materials, court filings and statements made at related court proceedings, including today’s sentencing:

    In December 2010, PHAM informed others that he planned to travel to Ireland while residing in London. From Ireland, he traveled to Yemen, the principal base of operations for AQAP. PHAM traveled to Yemen in order to join AQAP, to wage jihad on behalf of AQAP and to martyr himself for AQAP’s cause. After arriving in Yemen, he swore an oath of loyalty to AQAP in the presence of an AQAP commander.

    While in Yemen in 2010 and 2011, PHAM provided assistance to and received training from Anwar al-Aulaqi, a U.S.-born senior leader of AQAP.  Al-Aulaqi advised PHAM to return to the United Kingdom for the purpose of finding and making contact with individuals who, like PHAM, wanted to travel to Yemen to join AQAP.  Al-Aulaqi also provided PHAM with money, as well as a telephone number and e-mail address that PHAM was to use to contact al-Aulaqi upon his return to the U.K.  In addition, PHAM exchanged his laptop computer with al-Aulaqi, who provided him with a new “clean” laptop to take with him when he returned to the U.K. so that the authorities would not find anything if they searched his computer.

    In or about June 2011, prior to his departure from Yemen, PHAM approached al-Aulaqi about conducting a suicide attack whereby he would “sacrifice” himself on behalf of AQAP. Al-Aulaqi personally taught PHAM how to create a lethal explosive device using household chemicals and directed PHAM to detonate such an explosive device at the arrivals area of Heathrow following PHAM’s return to the U.K. in 2011.  Al-Aulaqi instructed PHAM to carry an explosive in a concealed backpack and target the area where flights arrived from the U.S. or Israel.  During this time, PHAM made videos depicting his preparation to carry out that attack.  In one video, PHAM is shown wiring an electrical device for the use of making an explosive device; in another, he sketches an explosive device to be contained in a backpack; and in a third, PHAM wears a backpack with wiring for explosives on it, which he turns on in the video.

    Also during this time, in or about June or July 2011—shortly before PHAM returned from Yemen to the U.K.—PHAM recorded a video in which he attempted to recruit and encourage individuals in the West to engage in violent jihad abroad or in their home countries; in this video, he also expresses a desire to martyr himself.  At the outset of this video, consisting of an approximately 13 minute-long monologue, PHAM states that, “America itself is not fighting a war with a group or an organization, they are fighting with the army of Allah, the believers.”  He continues, in part, “We have that opportunity, that ability to be in their midst, in their land . . . and I advise the brothers inshallah to, whatever you can, to gather and prepare and strike the enemy in their own land . . . The saying, a thousand cuts, you hit them with as much as you can until inshallah the enemy will bleed to death.”  During his time in Yemen, PHAM also assisted with the preparation and dissemination of AQAP’s propaganda magazine, Inspire. PHAM, who has college degrees in both graphic design and animation, worked directly with now-deceased U.S. citizen Samir Khan, who was a prominent member of AQAP responsible for editing and publishing Inspire.

    PHAM also received a six-page document entitled “Your Instructions” from al-Aulaqi in Yemen, which provided detailed instructions on how PHAM was to commit his suicide attack at Heathrow.  The document from al-Aulaqi instructed PHAM, “[d]o not do anything for the first three months” and “[y]ou should target Christmas/ New Year season[.]”  The instructions from al-Aulaqi provided explicit direction about the importance of using shrapnel to kill as many people as possible, including that “[t]he proper use of shrapnel is as important as the main charge itself.  The detonation wave from a main charge of AP by itself is most likely not going to cause the death of anyone except those who are in its immediate vicinity.  It is the shrapnel that would do the job.  You may imagine this IED as a shotgun that is firing in all directions.”  The document therefore instructed PHAM to take “special care” with the “proper arrangement and choice of shrapnel,” and to “poison” it to inflict maximum death.

    On July 27, 2011, PHAM returned to the U.K.  Upon his arrival at Heathrow, U.K. authorities detained PHAM, searched him, and recovered various materials from him, including a live round of 7.62mm caliber armor-piercing ammunition, which is consistent with ammunition that is used in a Kalashnikov assault rifle, a type of weapon for which PHAM received training from AQAP in Yemen.  U.K. authorities released PHAM and cautioned him for his possession of the live round of ammunition, before, in December 2011, arresting him pursuant to their authorities under U.K. immigration law.  In searches of PHAM’s residence, other locations, and vehicles, U.K. authorities recovered several pieces of electronic media.  Among other things, a forensic analysis of PHAM’s electronic media showed that he was accessing speeches and writings of al-Aulaqi as late as December 2011—months after PHAM’s return to the U.K.   

    On May 24, 2012, a grand jury returned an indictment charging Pham with terrorism offenses and U.S. authorities sought Pham’s extradition from the United Kingdom.  He was provisionally arrested with a view towards extradition on June 29, 2012, and he was extradited to the United States on February 26, 2015.  On January 8, 2016, Pham pled guilty to terrorism offenses related to certain of the same underlying conduct.  On May 27, 2016, Pham was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Alison J. Nathan principally to a term of 40 years in prison.  On September 12, 2017, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit affirmed Pham’s conviction and sentence.  Thereafter, Pham made a motion that, based on intervening Supreme Court decisions, resulted in the vacatur of one of the counts of his conviction. Ultimately, the Government, with Pham’s consent, moved to vacate Pham’s earlier convictions.  On April 8, 2021, a grand jury returned a superseding indictment, reinstating certain charges and filing other new charges against Pham, and which formed the basis for Pham’s May 11, 2023 guilty plea and conviction.

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    In addition to the prison term, PHAM, 41, was also sentenced to life term of supervised release and a $400 special assessment.

    Ms. Sassoon praised the extraordinary investigative work of the FBI’s Washington Field Office.  She also expressed her gratitude to the FBI’s New York Joint Terrorism Task Force for the critical role it played in the investigation and prosecution.  Ms. Sassoon also thanked the Department of Justice’s National Security Division and Office of International Affairs for their significant assistance, as well as the Metropolitan Police Service/SO 15 Counter Terrorism Command at New Scotland Yard, the Crown Prosecution Service, and the Home Office for their cooperation in the investigation, extradition and prosecution.

    This prosecution is being handled by the Office’s National Security and International Narcotics Unit.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Jacob H. Gutwillig is in charge of the prosecution, with assistance from Trial Attorney John Cella of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Beauval  — Beauval RCMP seek public assistance locating missing 27-year-old male

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    On February 1, 2024 RCMP received a report of a missing 27-year-old male, Isiah Hanson.

    Isaiah was last seen at on January 31, 2025 at approximately 4 a.m. traveling on foot on Highway 965 near Jans Bay.

    Since he was reported missing, Beauval RCMP have been checking places Isiah Hanson is known to visit and following up on information received. They are now asking members of the public to report information on Isiah’s whereabouts.

    Isiah is described as:

    • Height: 5’5″
    • Weight: 115 lbs
    • Eye colour: brown
    • Hair colour and style: short black
    • Last seen wearing: green winter coat, black Carhartt toque, “Hustle Game” sweatpants and greyish-brown Vans runners
    • Other descriptors: several forearm tattoos and large tattoo on left upper arm and shoulder

    Isiah may have been picked up in a white pickup truck headed toward the Dillon area, but his current whereabouts are unknown.

    If you have seen Isiah Hanson or know where he is, contact Beauval RCMP at 310-RCMP. Information can also be submitted anonymously by contacting Saskatchewan Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or www.saskcrimestoppers.com.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Caribou Man Faces Lengthy Prison Sentence for Possession of Child Sexual Abuse Material

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Tip to NCMEC leads to discovery of images/videos of young sexual abuse victims on Devin Madigan’s phone

    BANGOR, Maine: A Caribou man pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court in Bangor to possession of child pornography.

    According to court records, in April 2022, the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) received a tip from Kik, a messaging and chat app, that a user had uploaded videos containing child sexual abuse material. The videos captured the sexual abuse of victims as young as 1-3 years old. The account was later traced to Devin Madigan, 29. A forensic investigation of Madigan’s phone revealed images and videos of child sexual abuse material.

    Madigan faces up to 20 years in prison and a fine up to $250,000 to be followed by five years to life of supervised release. Madigan could also be ordered to pay restitution to the victims. A federal district judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) investigated the case with assistance from the Grafton County (NH) Sheriff’s Department and the Brewer Police Department.

    To report an incident involving the possession, distribution, receipt, or production of child sexual abuse material: Child sexual abuse material – referred to in legal terms as “child pornography” – captures the sexual abuse and exploitation of children. These images document victims’ exploitation and abuse, and they suffer revictimization every time the images are viewed. In 2023, the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children received 36 million reports of the possession, manufacture, or distribution of child sexual abuse materials. To file a report with NCMEC, go to https://report.cybertip.org or call 1-800-843-5678. If you are in Maine and you or someone you know has been sexually assaulted or abused, you can get help by calling the free, private 24-hour statewide sexual assault helpline at 1-800-871-7741.

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

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Armed Threat of Insurance Inspector Leads to Guilty Plea by Convicted Felon for Unlawful Possession of Firearm

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    James Elliott of Springfield was previously convicted in Kansas of aggravated assault, indecent conduct with a child

    BANGOR, Maine: A Springfield man pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court in Bangor today to unlawfully possessing a firearm.

    According to court records, in February 2024, a deputy from the Penobscot County Sheriff’s Office responded to a report that a home inspector from an insurance company had been threatened with a firearm by James Elliott, 66. During a search of Elliott’s home in March 2024, deputies found six firearms, including a loaded .44 magnum lever action rifle. Elliott is precluded from possessing firearms due to two prior felony convictions in the state of Kansas.

    Elliott faces up to 15 years in federal prison and a maximum fine of $250,000 to be followed by up to three years of supervised release. A federal district judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) investigated the case with assistance from the Penobscot County Sheriff’s Office, the Maine Warden Service, and the Maine Drug Enforcement Agency also assisted with the investigation.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News: USS St. Louis (LCS-19) Supports Operation Southern Guard at Naval Station Guantanamo Bay

    Source: United States Navy

    The Freedom-variant littoral combat ship USS St. Louis (LCS 19) is moored at U.S. Naval Station Guantanamo Bay (NSGB) and the crew is supporting the expansion of the base’s Migrant Operations Center as part of Operation Southern Guard.

    At the direction of the President of the United States to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Department of Defense (DOD), U.S. military service members are supporting removal operations led by DHS at NGSB. U.S. Southern Command has set up a Joint Task Force Migrant Operations (JTF-MIGOPS) at the Naval Station to execute the directive.

    The USS St. Louis is currently deployed to the Caribbean conducting counter-illicit drug trafficking operations in support of Joint Interagency Task Force South (JIATF-South), and participating in operations with partner nations in support of U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command/U.S. 4th Fleet. USS St. Louis arrived at NSGB on January 30, and the crew has been steadily assisting ever since.
     
    “As a forward-deployed asset, our crew is ready to respond to emerging tasks and missions at a moment’s notice,” said Cmdr. Timothy J. Orth, commanding officer of the USS St. Louis. “We’re honored to work alongside our joint task force partners and play a role in this important effort, which reflects U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command and U.S. Fourth Fleet’s commitment to security and cooperation.”

    While USS St. Louis is moored at NSGB, the Sailors are helping to set up tents and participating in other logistics activities in expanding the Migrant Operations Center. The first phase of expansion will increase the center’s capacity to approximately 2,000 migrants, with additional phases to follow at NSGB.

    U.S. Naval Station Guantanamo Bay is a critical forward-operating base that enables the United States to maintain persistent presence in the Caribbean, support regional security objectives, and defend the Homeland.
     
    “In support of DHS, we often practice our migrant contingency plan at U.S. Naval Station Guantanamo Bay” said Rear Adm. Carlos Sardiello, Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command/U.S. Fourth Fleet. “The naval station routinely provides support to joint and interagency operations like this.”

    U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command/U.S. 4th Fleet integrates and deploys all-domain combat power to expose, deter, degrade malign influences and activities, prevent and to respond to crises, and, if necessary, conduct decisive operations to prevail in conflict in the USSOUTHCOM AOR to protect the Homeland, ensure freedom of action in the maritime domain, protect U.S. interests throughout the region and enhance U.S. Alliances and partnerships.
     

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Armed felons sentenced for dual smoke shop robberies

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    McALLEN, Texas – Two Donna residents have been ordered to federal prison following their convictions of armed robbery, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.

    Robert Jae Franco, 23, and Alejandro Isaiah Gonzalez, 22, pleaded guilty to Hobbs Act robbery Oct. 18 and Nov. 8, 2024, respectively.  

    U.S. District Judge Drew B. Tipton has now ordered both men to serve 48 months in federal prison to be immediately followed by three years of supervised release. At the sentencing, the court heard evidence that Franco had previously been convicted of aggravated assault and alien smuggling while Gonzalez had convictions for three separate burglary events.

    “Innocent people should not be tormented for just doing their jobs,” said Ganjei.” These repeat offenders put lives in danger for nothing more than a few bucks in their pockets, but thankfully, they can no longer terrorize our citizens and will pay for their violent acts now in federal prison.”

    On Jan. 27, 2024, Franco and Gonzalez robbed two Smoke Shops in Pharr and Donna at gunpoint. Surveillance video from each location showed the masked and armed men enter the stores and rush the store employees while demanding money from the registers.

    The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) conducted the investigation with police departments in Pharr, Donna and McAllen as part of Operation: Knock Down. The initiative began in 2020 as a joint-ATF/U.S. Attorney’s Office program focusing on bringing federal resources to local prosecutions of armed and dangers felons.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert L. Guerra Jr. prosecuted the case.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Maryland Woman Pleads Guilty to Defrauding Covid-19 Tenant Assistance Program

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

               WASHINGTON – Syreeta Price, 51, of Maryland, pleaded guilty today in DC Superior Court to one count of first-degree fraud for obtaining more than $20,000 from a DC Covid-19 tenant assistance program despite having no tenancy in DC. The announcement was made by U.S. Attorney Edward R. Martin, Jr., and District of Columbia Inspector General Daniel W. Lucas.

               The Honorable Errol Arthur accepted Price’s plea and scheduled sentencing for April 8, 2025.

               According to court documents, in 2021, Price, through a third party, submitted an application to Stronger Together by Assisting You (STAY DC), a DC government program established in 2021 to help cover unpaid rent and utilities for DC renters suffering hardship from the Covid-19 pandemic. Despite actually living in Maryland at the time, Price used the address of an acquaintance in Southeast DC to make herself appear to be a DC resident. The DC government sent her a check for $22,750 intended to cover nearly a year’s worth of unpaid rent for that DC address. Despite knowing she was not eligible for the program, Price cashed the check, deposited it into her personal bank account, and kept the money for her personal use. 

               This case was investigated by the D.C. Office of the Inspector General. The case is being prosecuted by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Micah Bluming.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Two Individuals Charged With Running a Fencing Operation for South American Theft Groups in Manhattan’s Diamond District

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Defendants Allegedly Received Luxury Items Linked to Burglaries Across Multiple States

    Earlier today, at the federal court in Brooklyn, an indictment was unsealed charging Dimitriy Nezhinskiy and Juan Villar with conspiracy to receive stolen property related to their purchasing of stolen goods that traveled across state lines. The defendants were arrested today, Nezhinskiy in New Jersey and Villar in Manhattan. They will be arraigned tomorrow before United States Magistrate Judge Lara K. Eshkenazi.

    John J. Durham, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, James E. Dennehy, Assistant Director in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation, New York Field Office (FBI), Jessica S. Tisch, Commissioner, New York City Police Department (NYPD) and Patrick J. Ryder, Commissioner, Nassau County Police Department (NCPD) announced the charges.

    “As alleged, the defendants created an illicit market and fueled demand for burglaries by South American Theft Groups and other crews around the country by purchasing stolen watches, jewelry and other luxury items, and then re-selling them in their New York City store,” stated United States Attorney Durham.  “My Office will continue to pursue organized groups who engage, enable, or encourage the pillaging of residential homes and businesses that has a corrosive effect on the sense of security in our communities.”

    “For almost five years, Dimitriy Nezhinskiy and Juan Villar allegedly served as unlawful brokers to perpetuate the sale of stolen luxury items by purchasing them from burglary crews. The defendants’ alleged actions incentivized highly organized South American Theft Groups to continue their meticulous looting scheme against a myriad of affluent residences and businesses across the country. With our law enforcement partners, the FBI will continue to dismantle any criminal activity curated to capitalize on victims’ losses and establish an economic demand for ill-obtained merchandise within our city,” stated FBI Assistant Director in Charge Dennehy.

    “We will not tolerate crime of any kind in New York, whether it be street crime, retail theft, or these organized operations that target residential homes to steal and resell luxury goods,” said NYPD Commissioner Tisch.  “Today’s indictment is the result of our strong work with our law enforcement partners and our commitment to cracking down on these crime rings that threaten our communities.”

    “We want to thank our partners in federal law enforcement for this collaborative effort to bring this criminal to justice,” stated NCPD Commissioner Ryder. “The men and women of the Nassau County Police Department, particularly the dedicated Detectives of the Major Case Squad, work tirelessly to investigate crimes and arrest those who prey upon our citizens.”

    As alleged in the indictment, between approximately 2020 and 2025, the defendants conspired with each another and others to receive and purchase stolen property, including jewelry, watches, handbags and assorted luxury items that had been stolen outside of the state of New York and transported into New York.  As detailed in court filings, Nezhinskiy and Villar regularly served as “fences” for burglary crews based out of South America who traveled around the United States committing burglaries, typically targeting wealthier neighborhoods or jewelry vendors, and stealing luxury accessories. Nezhinskiy and Villar’s operation provided an essential market for the stolen goods, perpetuating the dangerous criminal activities of the burglary and theft crews composed largely of foreign nationals.

    For example, evidence links Nezhinskiy and Villar to thefts around the country, including crimes committed by Bryan Leandro Herrera Maldonado, a prolific burglar who committed at least 16 residential burglaries across the United States between 2019 and 2020.  Additionally, phone records and video surveillance links Nezhinskiy to at least two members of a four-man burglary crew believed to be involved in the December 9, 2024 burglary of a high-profile athlete in Ohio, and showed Nezhinskiy in contact with that crew less than one week before the burglary in Ohio.

    In addition, between October 2022 and January 2024, an undercover detective conducted seven controlled sales of purported stolen property, including high-end handbags and luxury accessories, to Nezhinskiy or Villar, or both, at their business location in Manhattan’s Diamond District.  During these controlled sales, the undercover detective provided the defendants with items that the undercover told the defendants had been stolen, and received cash in exchange for the stolen goods.

    Today, law enforcement executed a search warrant at the location on 47th Street in Manhattan where Nezhinskiy and Villar operate a pawn shop and seized large quantities of suspected stolen property, including dozens of high-end watches and jewelry. Law enforcement also recovered large quantities of cash and marijuana.  Simultaneously, law enforcement executed a search warrant at storage units belonging to Nezhinskiy in New Jersey where an additional cache of suspected stolen property was found.  From inside Nezhinskiy’s storage units, law enforcement recovered large quantities of luxury goods and clothing, including high-end handbags, wine, sports memorabilia, jewelry, artwork and power tools consistent with those commonly used in burglaries and opening safes.

    The charges in the indictment are allegations and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.  If convicted of receipt of stolen goods, the defendants face up to 10 years in prison.

    The government’s case is being handled by the Criminal Section of the Office’s Long Island Division and the Office’s General Crimes Section.  Assistant United States  Attorneys Michael R. Maffei, Katherine P. Onyshko and Sean M. Sherman are in charge of the prosecution.

    The Defendants:

    DIMITRIY NEZHINSKIY
    Age:  43
    North Bergen, New Jersey

    JUAN VILLAR
    Age:  48
    Queens, New York

    E.D.N.Y. Docket No. 25-CR-40 (WFK)

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Two Individuals Indicted on Federal Child Pornography Charges

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    COUNCIL BLUFFS, Iowa – A federal grand jury in Council Bluffs returned a two-count indictment on January 29, 2025 charging two individuals with offenses related to distribution and receipt of child pornography.

    The following individuals are charged in the Indictment:

    • Jason J. Traina, 52, Rockland County, New York is charged with distribution of child pornography. On January 31, 2025, Traina made his initial appearance in the Southern District of New York. The government argued Traina should remain detained pending trial. The United States Magistrate Judge released Traina on conditions of home detention and location monitoring.
    • Carrie Marie Campbell, 40, of Council Bluffs, is charged with receipt of child pornography. On February 3, 2025, Campbell made her initial appearance in the Southern District of Iowa. Campbell was temporarily ordered detained until a detention hearing.

    Traina and Campbell each face a mandatory minimum sentence of five years in prison and a maximum sentence of twenty years in prison.

    United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Council Bluffs Police Department are investigating this case, with assistance from the Rockland County District Attorney’s Office, FBI Safe Streets NY, and the Stony Point Police Department.

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

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Former Vice President and Controller of Publicly Traded Company Pleads Guilty to Insider Trading

    Source: United States Attorneys General 1

    A Florida man pleaded guilty today in the Southern District of Florida for his role in an insider trading scheme that netted him over $1.6 million in illicit profits.

    According to court documents, Stephen George, 54, of Parkland, was a member of the Finance Department at Company A from November 2017 until April 7, 2023, where he held roles including vice president and controller. Company A is a consumer-packaged goods company headquartered in Boca Raton, Florida, that is the maker of a fitness drink and whose securities are publicly traded on the NASDAQ Stock Market. In his role at Company A, George received material non-public information (MNPI) regarding Company A’s profit and revenue performance.

    George’s last day of employment at Company A was April 7, 2023. On that day, George used a Company A computer to generate out of Company A’s enterprise resource planning system a consolidated income statement showing Company A’s financial performance for the first quarter of 2023, which George knew contained MNPI. The income statement showed that Company A’s first quarter of 2023 had greatly exceeded expectations. Shortly after generating the income statement, George emailed it to himself using two personal email accounts.

    Beginning on April 10, 2023, the first trading day after his last day of employment with Company A, and continuing through May 8, 2023, George purchased Company A securities on the basis of MNPI — specifically, 20,000 shares of Company A common stock and 300 call option contracts. On May 9, 2023, after the market close, Company A publicly reported better-than-expected earnings and sales for the first quarter of 2023, including an all-time quarterly record in revenue. After the public announcement, Company A’s stock price increased significantly. During the next trading day, May 10, 2023, George sold all 20,000 shares of common stock and 300 call option contracts, resulting in over $1.6 million in personal profits.

    George pleaded guilty to one count of securities fraud. He is scheduled to be sentenced on April 28 and faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    Supervisory Official Antoinette T. Bacon of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division; U.S. Attorney Hayden P. O’Byrne for the Southern District of Florida; and Acting Special Agent in Charge Justin E. Fleck of the FBI Miami Field Office made the announcement.

    The FBI Miami Field Office investigated the case. The Justice Department appreciates the assistance of the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority’s Criminal Prosecution Assistance Group.

    Trial Attorneys Matthew F. Sullivan and Matt Kahn of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Eli S. Rubin and Elizabeth Young for the Southern District of Florida are prosecuting the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicole Grosnoff for the Southern District of Florida is handling asset forfeiture.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: From Milton to the Navy: Hospital Corpsman Xihang Cong’s Journey of Service and Success

    Source: United States Navy (Medical)

    U.S. Navy Story by Cmdr. Lauren McKinley

    Gulfport, Miss. – Hospital Corpsman Second Class Xihang Cong, a naturalized American citizen, continues to work every day in the Navy Reserve to achieve the phenomenal success she could only dream about as a teenager who settled in Milton, Florida with her mother and step-father.

    Cong is a 2021 graduate of Pace High School, who enlisted in the United States Navy under a Training and Administration of the Reserves (TAR) contract, providing full-time support to the Navy Reserve. She currently serves as the Assistant Leading Petty Officer of Navy Reserve Center (NRC) Gulfport’s medical department. She is responsible for the medical and dental readiness of the 300 Selected Reserve Sailors assigned to 15 reserve units who drill in Gulfport.

    Originally born and raised in Jilin, China by her grandparents, she credits her success to the value of a strong work ethic instilled at a young age by her native culture, which was uniquely blended with an American sense of independence, self-sufficiency, and persistence when she immigrated as a young woman.

    Reflecting on her adolescence, Cong discussed her challenges in assimilating, “My mom and my stepdad had no idea how to counsel me on how to fit into my new school or what steps to take to pursue a new career. I had to rely on myself, but I listened to and observed others and learned a lot from my peers and teachers at school.”

    Petty Officer Cong settled in Milton, Florida because her stepfather, a veteran of the British Royal Navy, works as a defense contractor servicing the maintenance requirements of the aviation squadrons in Naval Air Station Whiting Field. She was inspired to participate in the Pace High School Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (JROTC) and her JROTC unit competed in and won multiple drill competitions in the Gulf Coast. Discipline was instilled in her from a young age, later inspiring her to enlist as a hospital corpsman with aspirations to earn her Bachelor of Science in Nursing. She currently attends Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College where she is earning her associates degree.

    Her educational background serves her well in the fast-paced and chaotic environment of a typical drill weekend at NRC Gulfport. Gulfport is the homeport of the Atlantic Seabees, including the Seventh Naval Construction Regiment and Naval Construction Battalions Fourteen and Two Seven. Reserve Seabees comprise approximately one third of the Navy Reserve Center’s constituency, and Cong leads her department in ensuring all Sailors in these units maintain individual medical readiness as a prerequisite for mobilization readiness to remote locations world-wide.

    Since her accession in 2022, she has planned four Reserve Health Readiness Program events and Navy medical provider support for over 30 drill weekends to ensure her Sailors have access to medical care at all times. She and her team have successfully screened over 50 individual augmentees for mobilization and her department has earned phenomenal marks in two consecutive mass activation exercises.

    Vice Admiral Nancy Lacore, chief of the Navy Reserve and commander, Navy Reserve Force, highlights the importance of posturing the Reserve Force for warfighting, “Our Sailors, operational units, and readiness units of action are our weapons system. We are prepared for the mission, ready to fight and win decisively on Day One. Our Training and Administration of the Reserves (TAR) community will ensure our Navy Reserve Activities (NRA)…are able to mobilize the entire Force within 30 days. NRA leaders will maintain 80% warfighting readiness across the Force.”

    To that end, Cong’s diligent efforts and leadership have led Navy Reserve Center Gulfport to achieve an astounding 96% Total Force medical readiness for consecutive years. Cong learned very quickly in this fast-paced environment and discussed her proudest accomplishment as having achieved the rank of petty officer second class in less than three years of service. As a newly minted second class petty officer, Cong believes in the power of mentorship and has now embraced her role in training both active and reserve component junior Sailors.

    Cong still remembers her hometown after her meteoric rise, attributing her success to the welcoming atmosphere at her high school and JROTC unit. Specifically, she wants to recognize her English as a Second Language (ESL) teacher, Mrs. Colvin Kirti, for counseling her on how to achieve her goals by breaking them down into smaller and achievable action steps.

    Having served her career dedicated to the readiness of her reserve Sailors, Petty Officer Cong discussed her thoughts on the Navy Reserve’s Strategic Advantage, “The reserve Sailors are only here for two days of the month. We [the staff] have to track and be ready to administer exams and vaccinations. It is our responsibility to help them out because they have full time (civilian) jobs.”

    Cong’s story is the embodiment of the American dream. She is an excellent example of a citizen Sailor who has a passion for serving her new country while balancing the demands of off-duty education to further accelerate her career. Now seeing her new proteges excelling and emulating her work ethic, she is proud to give back to the country and the Navy who has given so much to her. She concluded, “It is an honor.”

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  • MIL-OSI Security: DPAA Conducts Honorable Carry Ceremony from Philipine Mission

    Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

    JOINT BASE PEARL HARBOR-HICKAM, Hawaii  –  

    On 28 January, the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency conducted an honorable carry ceremony to honor service members from World War II at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam.

    An honorable carry ceremony is a tradition that honors unknown service members as they return to American soil for the first time in over 80 years.

    The 18 U.S. flag-draped transfer cases contained the potential remains of 36 unknown World War II service members who were interred at the Manila American Cemetery and Memorial in the Philippines. The cases were repatriated to the DPAA’s laboratory in Hawaii for identification and analysis.

    “Thirty-five of these brave individuals perished in captivity at the Cabanatuan prison camp, while one gave their life in the Tokyo Prison Fire during World War II,” said John M. Figuerres, the DPAA’s acting deputy director for operations.

    These service members were among those who fought bravely at the battles of Bataan and Corregidor in 1942. With no supplies, reinforcements or hope of relief, they held their ground longer than any Allied force against the Imperial Japanese army’s initial attacks.

    “After being forced to surrender, many of these service members suffered through the brutal 65-mile Bataan Death March and lost their lives while being held as prisoners,” Figuerres explained.

    The DPAA launched the Cabanatuan Project in 2014 and has since accounted for more than 90 personnel. However, more than 900 individuals remain unaccounted for.
    “As part of its ongoing efforts, the agency’s annual goal is to conduct two Philippine disinterments and repatriate about 70 transfer cases”, said U.S. Marine Corps Capt. Jordan Underwood, DPAA team leader for the disinterment.

    Additionally, the DPAA continues working to identify service members who perished in the Tokyo Military Prison in May 1945, initiating the Tokyo Prison Fire Project in 2022. Dozens of American Airmen who were being held in the Tokyo Military Prison died during the Allied firebombing of the Japanese capitol in March 1945, trapped amidst the blaze engulfing the city.

    The agency identifies potential remains using a wide variety of methods, some examples include anthropological testing, dental analysis and DNA testing in partnership with the Armed Forces Medical Examiner System.

    “The DPAA’s mission is to account for missing personnel from past conflicts. We hope to identify these service members and return them home. One family member once told me that it’s not about providing closure, but about closing a chapter of their family history, and I think that’s a great way to describe it”, said Dr. Carrie LeGarde, a DPAA scientific recovery expert. “We cannot achieve this without bringing these remains back to the DPAA laboratory.”

    For the men and women of the DPAA, an honorable carry is both a solemn occasion, and a triumph.

    “Today, after more than 84 years away from their homeland, we honor their return to the United States,” Figuerres said. “Their sacrifice stands as a testament to the extraordinary courage and resilience of the Greatest Generation. Our mission to identify these heroes continues, ensuring their legacy is preserved and their sacrifice to our nation is never forgotten.”

    For more information about the DPAA’s efforts to recover POW/MIA remains, visit https://www.dpaa.mil.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Ashmore — Meteghan RCMP charges two people after search warrant execution

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Meteghan RCMP has charged two people in relation to a drug trafficking investigation.

    On January 29, Meteghan RCMP, with assistance from Digby RCMP, the Yarmouth General Investigative Section, and Police Dog Services, executed a search warrant on a residence in Ashmore.

    At the home, officers safely arrested a man and a woman and seized a quantity of cocaine, methamphetamine, unstamped cigarettes, and cash. Two handguns, one pellet rifle, three pellet guns, a digital scale, and cellular phones were also seized.

    Benjamin Julian Davis Carpenter, 36, and Kassidy Marie Carpenter, 27, both of Ashmore, have been charged with:

    • Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking (cocaine)
    • Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking (methamphetamine)
    • Possession of Weapon for Dangerous Purpose
    • Selling, etc., of Tobacco Products and Raw Leaf Tobacco
    • Possession of Tobacco Product not Stamped (Excise Act)

    Both Benjamin Carpenter and Kassidy Carpenter were released on conditions pending a first appearance in Digby Provincial Court on April 7.

    Nova Scotians are encouraged to contact their nearest RCMP detachment or local police to report crime, including the illegal sale of drugs, in their communities. Anonymous tips can be made by calling Nova Scotia Crime Stoppers, toll-free, at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), submitting a secure web tip at www.crimestoppers.ns.ca, or using the P3 Tips app.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Carry the Kettle Nakoda Nation — Saskatchewan RCMP: increased police presence on Carry the Kettle Nakoda Nation

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Saskatchewan RCMP and File Hills First Nation Police Service advise there is an increased police presence on Carry the Kettle Nakoda Nation in relation to an ongoing investigation. People are asked to avoid the areas where police officers are present and follow any police direction provided.

    We will provide an update on this investigation as soon as we are able.

    If an imminent risk to public safety is identified, we will notify the public.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: La Loche — La Loche RCMP asks public to report sightings of Darcy Herman

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    La Loche RCMP is actively working to locate and arrest 28-year-old Darcy Herman, who is wanted on multiple warrants.

    Herman is wanted for charges including assault, failing to comply with a release order and failing to attend court.

    The release order and court appearances are in relation to charges including resisting a peace officer, uttering threats and unauthorized possession of a firearm.

    Investigators believe Herman is in the La Loche and/or Turnor Lake area and is actively evading arrest.

    They ask that members of the public report all sightings of Herman and information on his whereabouts.

    Herman is described as approximately 5’11” and 160 lbs. He has black hair and brown eyes. He typically has some facial hair. There is a tattoo of cursive writing on the left side of his neck.

    If you see him, do not approach him. Contact La Loche RCMP by dialling 310-RCMP. Information can also be submitted anonymously by contacting Saskatchewan Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or www.saskcrimestoppers.com.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Tifton, Georgia, Man Pleads Guilty to Trafficking Methamphetamine

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    ALBANY, Ga. – A Tifton resident faces up to 40 years in federal prison for distributing kilograms of Mexico-sourced methamphetamine after he was caught with a pound of methamphetamine while wearing an ankle monitor for a prior drug trafficking charge and attempted to flee from deputies.

    Travarious Deshawn Mike, 29, of Tifton, pleaded guilty to two counts of distribution of methamphetamine before U.S. District Judge Leslie Abrams Gardner on Feb. 3. Mike faces a maximum of 20 years in prison per count, to be followed by at least three years of supervised release and a $1,000,000 fine. A sentencing date will be determined by the Court. There is no parole in the federal system.

    “The defendant was transporting large quantities of methamphetamine from an Atlanta source into the Tifton community. Even after his initial arrest, he willfully continued to violate the law and traffic dangerous drugs into Southwest Georgia,” stated Acting U.S. Attorney Shanelle Booker. “Our office collaborates closely with local, state and federal law enforcement to ensure that repeat offenders who are causing significant harm in the Middle District of Georgia are stopped and held accountable for their actions.”

    “This investigation resulting in the seizure of meth, heroin and firearms is a clear reminder of the dangerous networks we continue to dismantle,” said GBI Director Chris Hosey. “The GBI remains committed to disrupting drug trafficking and criminal activity, especially those tied to dangerous sources of supply. This is a significant step in protecting our communities.”

    According to court documents and statements referenced in court, GBI agents recorded Mike providing methamphetamine during a controlled buy utilizing a confidential informant (CI) on Aug. 15, 2022, at the Church’s Chicken in Tifton. A court-authorized tracking device monitored by the GBI captured Mike departing Tifton for Atlanta on Aug. 30, 2022. GBI agents observed Mike travel to two Mexican restaurants for brief periods, then immediately begin to travel back down I-75 towards Tifton. Crisp County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) deputies initiated a traffic stop on his vehicle after it observed a defective brake light and a window tint violation. A CCSO trained K9 made a positive alert on Mike’s car. During a search of the vehicle, agents seized 502 grams of heroin in Mike’s bookbag.

    At the same time, GBI requested the Tifton Police Department’s (TPD) assistance to conduct surveillance on Mike’s Tifton residence. TPD initiated a traffic stop on a vehicle leaving Mike’s residence, locating 8,068 grams of 67.9% pure methamphetamine. The occupant was a drug courier delivering the narcotics from a Mexican source of supply near Atlanta to Mike and had made the trip before. GBI executed a court-authorized search warrant at Mike’s residence that same day and found four semiautomatic pistols, a revolver, rounds of ammunition, methamphetamine and a set of digital scales. A vehicle parked outside Mike’s residence and belonging to a co-defendant contained 783 grams of 80% pure methamphetamine, 168 grams of a heroin and fentanyl mixture, 97 oxycodone/fentanyl pills, seven grams of crack cocaine, plastic baggies and a digital scale. Interviews, evidence and text messages on seized cell phones belonging to Mike and co-defendants revealed that Mike was purchasing methamphetamine from a Mexican source of supply based in the metro Atlanta area. Mike subsequently bonded out of jail.

    On June 5, 2024, the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) observed a white Dodge Charger driven by Mike commit a traffic violation in Monroe County, Georgia. MCSO deputies attempted to initiate a traffic stop, but Mike tried to escape and reached speeds over 125 mph. During the pursuit, Mike discarded a brick-shaped package out the window, which burst into a white crystal-like substance. Other MCSO officers secured the scene where the substance was discarded, finding approximately one pound of methamphetamine. Mike lost control of the vehicle and crashed onto the side of the highway. He attempted to flee on foot but was immediately apprehended. At the time of his arrest, Mike was wearing an ankle monitor and advised that he was out on bond for another drug trafficking incident.

    The case was investigated by the Georgia Bureau of Investigations (GBI) with assistance from the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the Georgia State Patrol (GSP), the Tifton Police Department, the Crisp County Sheriff’s Office and the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew Redavid is prosecuting the case for the Government.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Southbridge Man Convicted of Fentanyl and Cocaine Trafficking Conspiracy

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    BOSTON – A Southbridge man has been convicted by a federal jury for his role in a drug trafficking organization (DTO) that distributed cocaine and fentanyl throughout the North Shore and Central Massachusetts areas.

    Ismael Maysonet, 40, was convicted of conspiracy to distribute and to possess with the intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine and possession with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl. U.S. District Court Judge Margaret R. Guzman scheduled sentencing for June 4, 2025. In September 2022, Maysonet was charged along with 21 other co-conspirators.

    “Ismael Maysonet was a member of a large-scale drug trafficking organization that pumped fentanyl and cocaine into the communities of Massachusetts. We will continue to target and dismantle these groups to keep our communities safe and hold drug traffickers accountable,” said United States Attorney Leah B. Foley. “My office is committed to prosecuting all drug traffickers who prey on the vulnerable and addicted in our communities. We will continue to root out, arrest and prosecute those who violate our drug laws.”

    “Those who choose to distribute fentanyl and cocaine endanger their customers as well as the general public. Maintaining public safety requires that they be prosecuted aggressively,” said Stephen Belleau, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration, New England Field Division. “We work closely each day with our law enforcement partners to target those who seek to profit from the sale of these substances.”

    “Postal inspectors are committed to ensuring the U.S. Postal Service is not a mechanism to distribute deadly fentanyl and other illicit narcotics,” stated Ketty Larco-Ward, Inspector in Charge of the Boston Division of the United States Postal Inspection Service. “Let today’s verdict serve as a reminder that postal inspectors, along with our law enforcement partners, remain steadfast in our resolve to combat the flow of illicit drugs impacting our communities.”

    In and around August 2021 through August 2022, Maysonet was identified as a member of a Southbridge-based DTO who distributed cocaine and fentanyl to retail customers and other drug dealers at the request of the leaders of the DTO, Jonathan Pizarro Gonzalez and Isaac Gonzalez. The DTO regularly used the United States mail to conduct drug trafficking activities. Specifically, the DTO obtained large quantities of cocaine through packages mailed from Puerto Rico to addresses used by the DTO and mailed packages containing fentanyl to recipients in Florida and elsewhere. On multiple occasions Maysonet was observed retrieving packages that were delivered by the United States mail that were known to contain drugs. Throughout the investigation, Maysonet was heard over intercepted calls discussing drug trafficking, payments and pickups, as well as the packaging of fentanyl in an electronic device to be mailed to Florida. Approximately nine kilograms of cocaine from packages sent through the mail and 800 grams of fentanyl were seized from various DTO members over the course of the investigation.

    Both Jonathan Pizarro Gonzalez and Isaac Gonzalez pleaded guilty in January 2025 and are scheduled to be sentenced on April 29, 2025 and May 12, 2025, respectively.  

    The charge of conspiracy to distribute and to possess with the intent to distribute 500 grams of cocaine fentanyl provides for a mandatory minimum sentence offive5 years and up to life in prison, at least four years of supervised release and a fine of up to $10 million. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.

    U.S. Attorney Foley, DEA Acting SAC Belleau and USPIS INC Larco-Ward made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the United States Marshals Service, Massachusetts State Police, Southbridge Police Department, Lawrence Police Department, Essex County Sherriff’s Department and Worcester County Sheriff’s Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Stephen W. Hassink and Samuel R. Feldman of the Narcotics & Money Laundering Unit are prosecuting the case.

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

    The details contained in the charging document are allegations. The remaining defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
     

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Disbarred Queens Attorney Sentenced to 54 Months in Prison for Defrauding Clients

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Defendant Falsely Held Himself Out as a Trusted Attorney in the Korean-American Community

    Earlier today, in federal court in Brooklyn, disbarred attorney Hyun W. Lee, also known as “Michael Lee,” was sentenced by United States District Judge Pamela K. Chen to 54 months in prison for wire fraud in connection with a scheme to defraud his real estate clients and their counterparties of funds held in his attorney escrow account.  As part of the sentence, Lee was ordered to pay the government $3.27 million in forfeiture and restitution to the victims in the amount of $3.29 million.  Lee pleaded guilty to wire fraud in December 2023.

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

    “The defendant was disbarred from the practice of law for reprehensible misconduct, but that severe penalty did not deter him from continuing to abuse the trust of clients, so it is my hope that he will get the message after serving a term of imprisonment for his crimes,” stated United States Attorney Durham.  “It is particularly egregious that Lee committed these crimes by holding himself out as a trusted lawyer to clients within the Korean-American community in Queens, where many immigrants have little experience with the legal system and place an enormous amount of trust in the hands of individuals like the defendant who profess to represent their interests in legal proceedings.”

    Mr. Durham thanked the Queens County District Attorney’s Office for their assistance in this matter.

    Lee was an attorney licensed by the State of New York admitted to practice in 2003.  He maintained an office in Flushing, Queens, where he represented buyers and sellers in connection with the purchase and sale of real property.  On March 11, 2020, Lee was disbarred as a result of charges brought by the Grievance Committee that he had engaged in a pattern and practice of misappropriating client and third-party funds.  As a result, Lee was not permitted to accept funds from clients and third parties.

    Between February 2018 and May 2023, Lee induced clients and counterparties to entrust funds to him for the purchase of real estate based on misrepresentations that he would release the funds deposited into his escrow account.  Instead, Lee misappropriated these funds and used them for his own benefit, which included gambling at casinos and to pay expenses at a restaurant that he was a part-owner.  Lee misrepresented that he was an attorney authorized to represent clients in connection with the purchase and sale of real estate, and to receive and hold funds in his escrow account in connection with real estate transactions. 

    In furtherance of the scheme, Lee misled clients about the status of funds held in his escrow account by fabricating documents leading them to believe their funds were secure.  While documentation Lee showed to clients reflected a balance in Lee’s escrow account of nearly $3 million, in reality Lee had depleted the escrow account down to only approximately $25,000.  Lee failed to honor requests by clients and their counterparties to release funds from his escrow account, falsely claiming that he was in the process of working out an equitable distribution of funds that remained. In reality, Lee had already spent virtually all of the funds in the account.

    Victims who suffered losses as a result of the conduct of Lee, or other New York lawyers who engage in misconduct, may be eligible to receive compensation by filing a claim with the Lawyer’s Fund for Client Protection, which may be reached by calling (800) 442-3863 or e-mailing info@nylawfund.org

    The government’s case is being handled by the Office’s Business and Securities Fraud Section. Assistant U.S. Attorney Hiral D. Mehta is in charge of the prosecution with assistance from Special Agent Martin Sullivan.

    The Defendant:

    HYUN W. LEE (also known as “Michael Lee”)
    Age:  51  
    Closter, New Jersey

    E.D.N.Y. Docket No. 23-CR-465 (PKC)

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Convicted Felon Admits Drug Trafficking Offense And Possessing Firearm In Furtherance Of Drug Trafficking

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    NEWARK, N.J. – An East Orange, New Jersey man today admitted possessing quantities of fentanyl, heroin and cocaine he intended to distribute, and possessing a firearm in furtherance of the drug trafficking crime, Acting U.S. Attorney Vikas Khanna announced.

    Ibraheem Muhammad, 41, of East Orange, New Jersey pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Brian R. Martinotti to an Indictment charging him with one count of possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon, one count of possessing with intent to distribute controlled substances, and one count of possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.

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

    Law enforcement investigated Muhammad for his drug distribution from an apartment in East Orange (the “Residence”).  On May 9, 2022, Muhammad was arrested on a warrant after law enforcement saw him exit the Residence and engage in a suspected drug transaction.  He was caught in possession of numerous envelopes of suspected heroin and keys to the Residence.  A subsequent search of the Residence revealed Muhammad to be in possession of controlled substances that subsequently lab tested positive for heroin, cocaine, and fentanyl, and various glassine envelopes and other paraphernalia used for packaging drugs.  Law enforcement also recovered approximately $14,000 in cash; a Girsan 9mm semi-automatic handgun, loaded with fourteen (14) rounds of 9mm ammunition; and an additional fifteen (15) rounds of 9mm ammunition.  

    The drug charge carries a maximum potential penalty of 20 years in prison and a maximum fine of $1 million.  The felon in possession of a firearm charge carries a maximum potential penalty of 10 years in prison and a maximum fine of $250,000.  The possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime charge carries a minimum sentence of 5 years in prison, a maximum potential penalty of life in prison, and a maximum fine of $250,000.  Sentencing is scheduled for June 24, 2025.

    Acting U.S. Attorney Khanna credited special agents of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge L.C. Cheeks Jr., Newark Field Division; and the East Orange Police Department, under the direction of Public Safety Director Maurice Boyd.

    The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Farhana C. Melo of the Economic Crimes Unit in Newark.
     

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Wisconsin Man Indicted for Selling and Smuggling Firearms to Buyers in Saudi Arabia

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    CLEVELAND – A six-count indictment was unsealed today charging a Viroqua, Wisconsin, man for allegedly selling firearms and related parts without a license to buyers in Saudi Arabia, shipping the prohibited items, and then lying to federal inspectors about it.

    According to allegations in the indictment, Mark John Buschman, 60, conducted an illegal export conspiracy for more than five years, lasting from about February 2019 to about December 2024. Buschman obtained firearms and firearms parts in the U.S. and advertised the items for sale on eBay and other online marketplace-style websites. When buyers in Saudi Arabia expressed interest in the items for sale, he agreed to sell and ship the items out of the country to them. Throughout the course of the conspiracy, Saudi Arabian-based buyers paid the defendant approximately $398,000.

    Court documents indicate that serial numbers from some of the firearms and firearms parts were removed before he shipped the items. The defendant then prepared the items further before shipping them, by concealing the firearms and firearm parts inside of common household appliances and tools such as toasters, coffee makers, space heaters, fans, and landscaping edge trimmers. For example, the defendant concealed rifle barrels in items such as car axles, and smaller pistols inside of toasters. Using a fake return address, the defendant shipped the items through the U.S. Postal Service to freight forwarders, which are companies that specialize in the logistics of shipping items from one country to another. The defendant allegedly shipped the items to freight forwarding companies that operated out of Ohio, New Jersey, Oregon and elsewhere, without declaring that the shipments contained firearms and firearms parts.

    Buschman is charged by indictment with conspiracy to smuggle goods from the United States; attempted smuggling of goods from the United States; transporting and shipping firearms with removed, obliterated, or altered serial numbers; mailing firearms as non-mailable prohibited items; unlawful dealing in firearms without a license; and making false statements to law enforcement.

    If convicted on all counts, Buschman faces a penalty of 42 years in prison and fines of up to $1.5 million. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    The case is being investigated by the Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Cleveland Office, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Cleveland Office (of the Pittsburgh Division), and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives (ATF). Elements of the Office of Customs and Border Protection (CBP) also assisted HSI.

    The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Matthew Shepherd and Jerome J.  Teresinski for the Northern District of Ohio. Trial Attorney Christopher Cook of the Department’s National Security Division, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Corey Stephan of the Western District of Wisconsin U.S. Attorney’s Office, assisted during the investigation of this case.

    An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Four Defendants Indicted for Carjacking

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – A federal grand jury has indicted four Birmingham men with multiple crimes related to three separate carjacking events in Jefferson County, announced U.S. Attorney Prim F. Escalona and FBI Special Agent in Charge Carlton Peeples. 

    Those indicted in January include:

    • Dearrius Dontrell Pace, 30, who was charged with carjacking and kidnapping. This incident occurred on July 16, 2024;
    • Charles Avery Pruitt, 22, who was charged with carjacking and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence.  This incident occurred on July 10, 2024; and
    • Kyone D’Mias Harris and Brandon Taylor Ezell, both 24, who were charged with carjacking and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence.  This incident occurred in October 2024.

    FBI investigated each case.  Assistant U.S. Attorneys John G. Camp, Daniel S. McBrayer, and Darius C. Greene are prosecuting these cases.

    An indictment contains only charges.  A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Man Pleads Guilty to Conspiracy to Launder Money in Connection with $100 Million Health Care Fraud Scheme

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Greensboro, NC – Chaudhry Shabbir Ahmed pled guilty on Monday, February 3, 2025, to conspiring to launder over $3 million in connection with a $100 million dollar health care fraud scheme, announced Acting United States Attorney Randall S. Galyon.

    According to court documents, Ahmed conspired with another individual to represent himself as the owner of two durable medical equipment businesses—Dune Medical Supply, LLC located in High Point, North Carolina and Prospect Health Solutions, Inc. located in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Ahmed and a co-conspirator used a sham purchase agreement to make it appear as though Ahmed owned and operated these companies, even though the co-conspirator continued to control the companies. Once Ahmed was listed on relevant documents as the sole owner of Dune and Prospect, including documents submitted to Medicare, Dune and Prospect collectively submitted more than $100 million in fraudulent claims to Medicare. The claims were submitted between April 2024 and August 2024 for durable medical equipment that Medicare beneficiaries never received, requested, or needed, or that the provider never ordered.

    Before the scheme was discovered, Medicare electronically deposited more than $33 million in claim reimbursements into bank accounts held in the name of Dune and Prospect at various financial institutions. Ahmed had access to these accounts and would withdraw fraud proceeds in cash at bank branches. For example, on June 30, 2024, Ahmed withdrew $400,000 in cash from Prospect’s bank account and on August 9, 2024, Ahmed withdrew $500,000 in cash from Prospect’s bank account.

    As part of the plea agreement, Ahmed agreed to forfeit over $17.6 million dollars that was seized during the investigation, as well as a Rolex watch and cryptocurrency.

    Sentencing is scheduled to take place on June 24, 2025, at 9:30 a.m. in Greensboro, North Carolina, before Chief United States District Judge Catherine C. Eagles. At sentencing, Ahmed faces a maximum sentence of five years in prison, a period of supervised release of up to three years, and monetary penalties.

    The Department of Health and Human Services-Office of Inspector General and the Federal Bureau of Investigation are investigating the case, and it is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Rebecca Mayer, JoAnna McFadden, and Ashley Waid.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News: Navy Snow Team Departs to Sapporo for Snow Festival

    Source: United States Navy

    This year, Sailors from NAF Misawa and Commander, Task Force (CTF) 70 will sculpt the U.S. Navy F-35C Lighting II stealth fighter jet, which was recently forward deployed to Japan last year. Sailors selected for the team were chosen because of their superior work performance and dedication to the U.S. Navy both on and off-duty.

    This year’s snow team will be led by Lt. Cmdr. Seth Koenig and Chief Aviation Ordnanceman Enrico Dagsindal, comprised of an eight-person team including Mass Communication Specialist First Class Caroline Lui, Mass Communication Specialist Second Class Matthew Fischer, Aviation Support Equipment Technician First Class Hernan Hernandez, Culinary Specialist Second Class Adallis Bookman, Religious Program Specialist Second Class David Johnson, and Builder Second Class Sawson Doty.

    The team is scheduled to complete the snow sculpture by Feb. 3, spending the remainder of their time in Sapporo interacting with visitors at the Snow Festival until Feb. 7. Festival goers are encouraged to take pictures and engage in friendly conversation with Sailors at the site.

    This is the 40th year the U.S. Navy has participated in the Sapporo Snow Festival, which has provided a unique opportunity for Sailors to experience Japanese culture and tradition and strengthen the close friendship between the U.S. Navy and citizens of Japan.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Schenectady Man Pleads Guilty to Hate Crime for Threatening and Firing Shots Outside of Albany Synagogue

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    ALBANY, NEW YORK – Mufid Fawaz Alkhader, age 29, of Schenectady, New York, pled guilty today to civil rights and firearm charges related to his firing shots outside of an Albany synagogue. 

    Alkhader pled guilty to obstructing the free exercise of religious beliefs by threat of force, brandishing a firearm during the commission of this offense, and conspiring to purchase a firearm unlawfully.  Alkhader was arrested on December 7, 2023, and has been in federal custody since that date.

    On the afternoon of December 7, 2023, Alkhader took an Uber from his home in Schenectady to Temple Israel in Albany.  Upon arriving, he walked up the front steps of the synagogue, removed a shotgun from a duffel bag, and discharged two rounds into the air shouting, “Free Palestine!”  Still holding the shotgun, he then attempted to remove an Israeli flag from a flagpole outside of the synagogue before walking away.  He was arrested shortly after by Albany Police Officers.

    United States Attorney Carla Freedman stated: “The defendant’s violent, antisemitic and terrifying act targeted the Temple Israel congregation, the larger Jewish community, and the right of every person to practice their religion without fear of violence. I commend law enforcement for acting swiftly to arrest Mufid Fawaz Alkhader, to investigate his motives and his illegal acquisition of the shotgun, and to bring about today’s guilty plea to a crime carrying a minimum term of 7 years in prison.”

    FBI Special Agent in Charge Craig Tremaroli stated: “Mr. Alkhader’s plea confirms his deliberate and premeditated intentions to illegally acquire a gun and use it to bring terror to the Temple Israel community as they were preparing to celebrate the first night of Hanukkah. Thanks to the swift actions of the Temple Israel community and our law enforcement partners, justice has been served. The FBI remains steadfast in our mission to ensure all our communities can live without fear of hateful violence.”

    Alkhader’s threatening actions forced the daycare operating inside of Temple Israel at the time of his actions to go into lockdown.  Alkhader also significantly disrupted activities that the Temple Israel community had planned to celebrate the Jewish holiday of Hanukkah and made congregants afraid to return to their place of worship.

    Alkhader also admitted that in November 2023, he and Andrew Miller agreed that Miller would purchase a shotgun for Alkhader by lying to a firearms dealer and falsely representing that Miller was the purchaser of the shotgun. On November 5, 2023, Alkhader and Miller drove to a federal firearms dealer in Albany and Miller purchased the Kel-Tec KS7 12-gauge pump-action shotgun; Miller later gave the shotgun to Alkhader. Alkhader fired this shotgun outside of Temple Israel.

    ATF Special Agent in Charge Bryan Miller stated: “This guilty plea shows accountability for unlawfully obtaining a firearm and using it to instill fear. By stopping those who seek to use firearms to threaten and intimidate others, we are sending a message that gun violence will not be tolerated. This case demonstrates the dangerous consequences of unlawful gun possession. The cooperation between federal, state and local agencies remains critical in dismantling illegal gun trafficking. The successful resolution of this case was made possible due to collaboration between ATF NY Albany, FBI Albany, Albany PD, New York State Police and the U.S. Attorney’s Office.”

    Albany Police Chief Brendan Cox stated: “The Albany Police Department wants to reassure the community that these incidents are taken very seriously, and we are dedicated to maintaining peace and safety for everyone in our community. Alkhader directly targeted the Jewish community, and I am pleased with our department’s quick action in apprehending the defendant, as well as the collective partnerships with the FBI Albany Office and the ATF who helped bring justice to this case.”

    Sentencing is scheduled for June 6, 2025, before United States District Judge Anne M. Nardacci.  Alkhader faces at least 7 years and up to life in prison, and a term of post-imprisonment supervised release of up to 5 years. 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.

    Andrew Miller pled guilty and was sentenced to 14 months of imprisonment for his role in the straw purchase conspiracy.

    The FBI Albany Field Office, in conjunction with the ATF and the Albany Police Department, investigated the case.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Richard Belliss and Alexander Wentworth-Ping for the Northern District of New York, Trial Attorney Jennifer Levy of the Department of Justice’s National Security Division, and Trial Attorney Trevor Kempner of the Department of Justice’s Civil Rights Division’s Criminal Section prosecuted the case. 

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