NewzIntel.com

Category: Security Intelligence

  • MIL-OSI Security: Manvel resident admits to series of frauds totaling $2 million

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    HOUSTON – A 39-year-old man has entered a guilty plea to wire fraud for a Payroll Protection Plan (PPP) scheme involving the submission of a series of false applications under the name of a business that did not exist, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.

    Antonio Jackson submitted false documents on four separate applications for PPP funds during the COVID-19 epidemic. Jackson claimed to have multiple employees at a business that was later found to have been entirely fictitious.   

    To further the fraud, Jackson submitted false tax documents, bank statements and employee forms to the Small Business Administration (SBA), ultimately resulting in a loss of $491,711 to the SBA.  

    As part of his plea, Jackson also admitted to several other frauds he had committed during this timeframe. One included a scheme to defraud a Washington D.C.-based federal credit union through a series of false home improvement loan applications. He also acknowledged a mortgage fraud by claiming honorable discharge for a Veteran’s Affairs Department backed loan, a scheme to avoid paying taxes on a residence in Brazoria County by claiming to be an fully disabled veteran and to committing credit card abuse in December 2024.

    In total, losses associated with Jackson’s various frauds have exceeded $2 million.

    “Going after fraudsters who take money meant for hard-working Americans is a priority for this office. Doing so both upholds the public trust and protects the taxpayer,” said Ganjei.

    As part of his plea, Jackson has agreed to pay full restitution for his crimes.

    U.S. District Judge Lee H. Rosenthal will impose sentencing April 16. At that time, Jackson faces up to 20 years in federal prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine.

    He will remain in custody pending that hearing.

    The SBA-Office of Inspector General conducted the investigation with the assistance of the Department of Veteran’s Affairs. Assistant U.S. Attorney Thomas Carter prosecuted the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Honduras Resident Charged with Illegal Re-entry into U.S.

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A citizen of Honduras has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of illegal re-entry of a removed alien, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

    The one-count Indictment named Luis Fernando Diaz-Garcia, 27, as the sole defendant.

    According to the Indictment, in August 2024, Diaz-Garcia was found in western Pennsylvania after having been removed from the United States on or about November 13, 2019. Public records show that Diaz-Garcia was charged by criminal complaint in Allegheny County by the Pennsylvania State Police for conduct allegedly occurring on or about August 19, 2024.

    The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to two years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000 or both. Under the federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history of the defendant.

    Assistant United States Attorney Rebecca L. Silinski is prosecuting this case on behalf of the United States.

    U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment.

    An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Consent Judgment Entered Against Philadelphia Drone Flyer For Violations of FAA Regulations

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania, Jacqueline C. Romero, announced today that the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania has entered a consent judgment against Michael DiCiurcio of Philadelphia, PA. In its complaint against DiCiurcio, the United States alleges that DiCiurcio operated small unmanned aircraft systems (“sUAS”) – commonly known as drones – unlawfully and unsafely in the Philadelphia area between at least December 2019 to the present, in violation of Federal Aviation Administration (“FAA”) requirements.

    The United States alleges that DiCiurcio operated flights at night, in close proximity to the William Penn Statue, PSFS Building, and Liberty One Building, resulting in the sUAS almost striking a church steeple during one flight. The United States alleges that during certain flights DiCiurcio improperly operated the sUAS inside of controlled airspace near the Philadelphia airport, over people and cars, and, in at least one instance, lost control of the sUAS, causing it to fly uncontrolled over Philadelphia.

    The FAA warned DiCiurcio in writing and provided him with counseling and education regarding requirements for safe operations of a sUAS under the Federal Aviation Regulations. The United States alleges that DiCiurcio nonetheless has continued to operate sUASs illegally and in a careless or reckless manner that endangers others.

    Terms of the Consent Judgment

    On January 23, 2025, before Magistrate Judge Jose Arteaga, DiCiurcio agreed to the terms of the consent judgment, including that: DiCiurcio (1) admits that all allegations of his conduct set forth in the Verified Complaint are true and accurate; (2) admits that the conduct as alleged in the Verified Complaint violated FAA regulations and safety guidance as alleged; and (3) accepts the administrative findings of violations and further acknowledges that the FAA will deem those matters as findings of violations that may be considered aggravating factors in any future enforcement proceedings against him.

    In addition, DiCiurcio agrees that he will: (1) never operate in any manner any sUAS of any type, size, model, of any kind within the United States, nor will he ever seek any type of certification or license to operate any type or form of sUAS; (2) take down the YouTube channel known as “Philly Drone Life” and no longer operate or resurrect its content or any part in any form; (3) abandon those sUAS and other items he surrendered to the FAA on May 23, 2024, pursuant to the Court’s Order sanctioning DiCiurcio for contempt of the preliminary injunction entered by the Court on February 29, 2024.     

    On January 29, 2025, Chief Judge Mitchell S. Goldberg signed the consent judgment.

    “We work hard to educate people about safely flying their drones, and we don’t hesitate to take strong enforcement action when pilots deliberately flout the rules,” said Deputy FAA Administrator Katie Thomson.

    “Failing to adhere to the safety requirements for flying small unmanned aircraft systems endangers people and property,” said U.S. Attorney Romero. “All drone flyers have a responsibility to ensure that they observe all applicable regulations and guidance. Our Office is committed to ensuring total compliance with the FAA regulations and we will vigorously enforce violations wherever we find them.”

    The allegations regarding unsafe sUAS flights in violation of FAA regulations are described in detail in the complaint. The case is captioned United States of America v. Michael DiCiurcio, Case No. 24-0612 (E.D. Pa.).

    The case has been investigated by the FAA’s Flight Standards Division, and the U.S. Department of Transportation Office of the Inspector General. The case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Viveca D. Parker.

    All civil claims are allegations only.  There has been no determination of civil liability.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Mexican Man with Seven Previous Removals from U.S. Indicted for Illegal Re-entry

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A resident of Mexico has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of illegal re-entry of a removed alien, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

    The one-count Indictment named Dario Fortunato-Torres, 37, as the sole defendant.

    According to the Indictment, in October 2024, Fortunato-Torres was found in this District after having been removed from the United States on seven prior occasions between September 2013 and October 2017. Public records show that Fortunato-Torres was charged by the Moon Township Police Department on October 8, 2024, for conduct allegedly occurring on October 1, 2024. He was arrested on November 19, 2024, by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement related to this charge.

    The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to two years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000 or both. Under the federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history of the defendant.

    Assistant United States Attorney Rebecca L. Silinski is prosecuting this case on behalf of the United States.

    U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment.

    An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Marshals Arrest Sexually Violent Predator in Western Washington

    Source: US Marshals Service

    Poulsbo, WA – Deputy U.S. Marshals and members of the agency’s Pacific Northwest Violent Offender Task Force apprehended at the Poulsbo Marina a man wanted for nearly a year on an outstanding federal warrant for failure to comply with sex offender registration requirements.

    Rick Monroe was arrested on an outstanding federal warrant issued in the Eastern District of Washington for failure to register as a sex offender and failure to comply with international travel reporting requirements under the International Megan’s Law.

    Monroe, who has multiple prior convictions, including rape of a child in the first degree, was previously civilly committed at McNeil Island Corrections Center after being classified as a “Sexually Violent Predator” by the courts. In 2024, he traveled to multiple states and is alleged to have attempted to leave the country numerous times without following mandatory sex offender registration and international travel notification requirements. Investigators discovered he had lived unregistered on a sailboat in Poulsbo Bay for the past year, allegedly to evade law enforcement.

    Through extensive investigative efforts, Deputy U.S. Marshals in Eastern Washington secured a federal arrest warrant, leading to Monroe’s ultimate apprehension. This arrest was the result of a coordinated effort between multiple agencies, including the Spokane County Sheriff’s Office, Kitsap County Sheriff’s Office, U.S. Marshals Service Western District of Washington, Washington State Department of Corrections, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, the USMS National Sex Offender Targeting Center, USMS Sex Offender Investigations Branch, and the Eastern District of Washington U.S. Attorney’s Office.

    Monroe is scheduled to make his initial court appearance Feb. 4 at the Western District of Washington- Seattle Courthouse.

    The Pacific Northwest Violent Offender Task Force is a U.S. Marshals-led partnership comprising federal, state, and local law enforcement officers from Washington, Oregon, and Alaska. The task force’s primary mission is to locate, arrest and return to the justice system the most violent and egregious federal and state fugitives.

    Anyone with information is urged to contact the nearest U.S. Marshals office, the U.S. Marshals Service Communications Center at 1-800-336-0102, or USMS Tips.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: New York Man Pleads Guilty to Hate Crime for Threatening Jewish Synagogue in Albany

    Source: United States Attorneys General 7

    A New York man pleaded guilty today in federal court in Albany, New York, to civil rights and firearm charges related to his threatening conduct targeted at a Jewish synagogue.

    According to court documents, Mufid Fawaz Alkhader, 29, of Schenectady, pleaded guilty to an information charging one count of obstructing the free exercise of religious beliefs by threat of force, one count of brandishing a firearm during the commission of this offense, and one count of conspiring to purchase a firearm unlawfully. Alkhader was arrested on Dec. 7, 2023, and has been in federal custody since that date.

    “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,” said U.S. Attorney Carla Freedman for the Northern District of New York. “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 seven years in prison.”

    “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,” said Special Agent in Charge Craig Tremaroli of the FBI Albany Field Office. “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.”

    “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,” said Special Agent in Charge Bryan Miller of the New York Field Division for the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). “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, NYSP, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office.”

    On the afternoon of Dec. 7, 2023, Alkhader took an Uber from his home in Schenectady to Temple Israel Synagogue in Albany. Upon arriving, he walked up the front steps of the synagogue, removed a shotgun from a duffel bag he had been carrying, 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 apprehended shortly after by Albany Police Department officers.

    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.

    For obstruction of free exercise of religious beliefs by threat of force, Alkhader faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a mandatory minimum penalty of seven years for brandishing a firearm during the commission of his crime. Alkhader faces a maximum of five years in prison for participating in a conspiracy to unlawfully purchase a firearm. He also faces a fine of up to $250,000 for each count. Alkhader is scheduled to be sentenced on June 6. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    The FBI Albany Field Office investigated the case with assistance from ATF and the Albany Police Department.

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Camrose, Wetaskiwin, and Leduc County — Wetaskiwin RCMP Crime Reduction Unit and Camrose Police Service conduct a two-day project focusing on repeat offenders

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    The Wetaskiwin RCMP Crime Reduction Unit has concluded a two-day project focusing on active property crime offenders in the surrounding rural areas. During the project, Wetaskiwin RCMP officers worked in collaboration with RCMP officers from the Leduc Crime Reduction Unit, RCMP Air Services, and Camrose Police Service.

    On Nov. 27, 2024, Wetaskiwin RCMP Crime Reduction Unit officers located a stolen truck in Camrose. A tire deflation device was utilized to disable the vehicle, and the lone occupant was arrested.

    The vehicle had been stolen in Devon, Alta. on Oct. 26, 2024.

    RCMP charged a 39-year-old individual, a resident of Camrose County, with:

    • Fraudulent concealment;
    • Possession of property obtained by crime under $5000;
    • Offences under the Traffic Safety Act (x2).

    The 39-year-old individual was taken before a justice of the peace and remanded into custody with his next court date set for Dec. 11, 2024, at the Albert Court of Justice in Camrose.

    On Nov. 27, 2024 Camrose Police officers arrested repeat offender, a 57-year-old individual, a resident of Bawlf, Alta., for breaching a conditional sentence order. The 39-year-old individual was found to be in possession of methamphetamine and unstamped cigarettes.

    She has been additionally charged with:

    • Possession of a controlled substance;
    • Charge under the Tobacco Ta Act.

    The 39-year-old individual was taken before justice of the peace and remanded into custody with her next court date set for Dec. 11, 2024.

    On Nov. 28, 2024 officers from the Camrose Police Service located a stolen vehicle. Officers were able to safely stop the vehicle and arrest the driver.

    A 26-year-old individual, a resident of Camrose, has been charged with:

    • Possession of property obtained by crime over $5000;
    • Possession of property obtained by crime under $5000;
    • Mischief over $5000;
    • Possession of a controlled substance;
    • Charges under the Traffic Safety Act (x5).

    The 26-year-old individual was taken before a justice of the peace and released with her next court date set for Jan. 8, 2025, at the Albert Court of Justice in Camrose.

    On Nov. 28, 2024, officers from the Wetaskiwin Crime Reduction Unit were monitoring a property in Leduc County, Alta., known for prolific offenders and stolen property. Officers attempted a traffic stop on a vehicle, and the driver fled. The vehicle was disabled from a tire deflation device. The vehicle fled onto the property and the driver was arrested.

    A 28-year-old individual, a resident of Leduc County resident, has been charged with:

    • Flight from Peace Officer
    • Fraudulent concealment

    Additionally, the 28-year-old individual was arrested for outstanding warrants out of Edmonton which including breaking and entering.

    While on the property, police observed a stolen truck from Calmar, Alta. on Nov. 12, 2024. Officers obtained a search warrant for the property and seized the stolen truck.

    RCMP charged two individuals from the home a 58-year-old individual and a 32-year-old individual, they were charged with:

    • Possession of property obtained by crime over $5000;
    • Possession of property obtained by crime under $5000 (x2).

    Additionally, the 32-year-old individual had warrants for breaching a probation order.

    The 58-year-old individual was released from custody with her net court date set for Jan. 23, 2025, at the Alberta Court of Justice in Leduc.

    The 32-year-old individual was taken before a justice of the peace and remanded into custody with his next court date set in the future.

    “Coordinated enforcement efforts focusing on repeat offenders can be very effective,” says Cpl. John Learn, “having these kinds of successes working closely with our Camrose Police Services partners will no doubt foster more similar projects in the future.”

    Sgt. Scott Sveinbjornson of the Camrose Police Services emphasizes the importance of targeting prolific offenders and breaking down judicial boundaries to achieve successful outcomes. He notes that integrated efforts and close collaboration with the R.C.M.P. will remain key strategies for producing positive results in future projects.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Prince Albert — Prince Albert RCMP: woman charged in relation to fatal rollover

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    On August 4, 2024, Prince Albert RCMP received a report of a single vehicle rollover on Whitfield Road, in the RM of Buckland.

    Officers immediately responded. One adult female passenger was declared deceased by EMS at the scene. The adult female driver and an adult male passenger were taken to hospital with injuries described as non-life-threatening in nature.

    Prince Albert RCMP continued to investigate with the assistance of a Saskatchewan RCMP collision reconstructionist.

    As a result of continued investigation, an adult female was arrested in Prince Albert on January 22.

    33-year-old Destiny Michel from Prince Albert is charged with:

    – one count, operate a conveyance causing death, Section 320.13(3), Criminal Code;

    – one count, operate a conveyance with a blood alcohol concentration equal or greater than 80 mg/100 ml of blood, Section 320.14(3), Criminal Code; and

    – one count, operate a conveyance in a manner that was dangerous to the public, Section 320.13(3), Criminal Code.

    She is scheduled to appear in Prince Albert Provincial Court on February 13, 2025.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: LaPorte Brothers Sentenced to Prison

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

    SOUTH BEND – Raymond Calvin Smith, 27 years old, and Bruce Milik Smith, 25 years old, brothers from LaPorte, Indiana, were sentenced by United States District Court Judge Cristal C. Brisco after pleading guilty to federal felony charges, announced Acting United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay. 

    Raymond Smith was sentenced to 70 months in prison and 2 years of supervised release. Bruce Smith was sentenced to 39 months in prison and 2 years of supervised release. The two brothers were ordered to pay $723,832.64 in restitution to the victims of their offense. Raymond Smith was also ordered to pay $162,928.62 in restitution to the IRS.

    According to documents in the case, from about January 2021 to December 2021, the Smith brothers operated an elaborate fraud scheme using Indiana mobile sports wagering applications. Using personal information of victims, such as bank account numbers and passwords, they set up dozens of accounts in victims’ names on at least 8 different sports wagering applications. Using sports wagering applications, they funneled money from victims’ bank accounts to themselves. With the personal information of approximately 60 victims, the Smith brothers stole a total of $723,832.64, and unsuccessfully attempted to steal an additional $930,782.00. Both Smith brothers pled guilty to the mail fraud scheme while Raymond Smith also pled guilty to evading taxes on the proceeds he received in 2021.

    This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation Division, the United States Postal Inspection Service, and the Indiana Gaming Commission.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Luke N. Reilander.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Pharmacy LLC Agrees To Resolve False Claims Act Allegations Of Billing For Drugs Not Dispensed

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    NEWARK, N.J. – A Plus Pharmacy LLC, the former owner of A Plus Pharmacy, a pharmacy located in Manalapan, New Jersey, has agreed to pay $350,000 to resolve allegations that it violated the False Claims Act by knowingly billing a federal health care program for certain medications that it never dispensed, Acting U.S. Attorney Vikas Khanna announced today.

    According to the contentions of the United States in the settlement agreement:

    The United States alleged that, from January 1, 2015, through February 27, 2023, A Plus Pharmacy LLC caused the submission of claims for reimbursement to the Medicare Part D Program for certain drugs that were never dispensed to beneficiaries. The government contends that inventory records showed that A Plus Pharmacy LLC did not purchase enough of these medications from wholesalers to fill the prescriptions billed to the federal health care program.

    The resolution obtained in this matter was the result of a coordinated effort between the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Jersey and the Justice Department’s Civil Division, Commercial Litigation Branch, Fraud Section, with assistance from the U.S. Marshals Service.

    The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Robert Toll and Kruti Dharia of the Opioid Abuse Prevention and Enforcement Unit and Senior Trial Counsel Jennifer Cihon in the Civil Division’s Commercial Litigation Branch (Fraud Section).

    The government’s pursuit of these matters illustrates the government’s emphasis on combating healthcare fraud. One of the most powerful tools in this effort is the False Claims Act. Tips and complaints from all sources about potential fraud, waste, abuse, and mismanagement can be reported to the Department of Health and Human Services, at 1-800-HHS-TIPS (800-447-8477).

    The claims settled by the agreement are allegations only, and there has been no admission of liability.

                                                     ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: 29 Individuals Sentenced to 378 Combined Years in Federal Prison for Running Armed Fentanyl and Meth Trafficking Ring

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

    EVANSVILE- 29 defendants have been sentenced to a combined 378 years in federal prison for their roles in a large methamphetamine and fentanyl drug trafficking organization that operated in Southern Indiana.

    According to court documents, between January 2020 and November 2021, the following 29 individuals conspired together to distribute a total of nearly 500 pounds of methamphetamine and over three kilograms of fentanyl. This investigation led to the seizure of over 80 pounds of methamphetamine, over 560 grams of fentanyl, and $240,000 in United States currency.

    Jeramey Smith served as the leader of the drug trafficking operation. Smith began obtaining multiple pound quantities of crystal methamphetamine from Julian Green in early 2020 until April of 2021 when he changed his source of supply to a cartel linked individual based in Houston, Texas. In June of 2021, Smith was robbed of a large amount of cash and was unable to pay his supplier for the lost product. Smith resorted back to Green to obtain the crystal methamphetamine.

    DeJarnett was one of Smith’s top methamphetamine customers, often purchasing up to 20 pounds at a time. After Smith obtained the methamphetamine from either Green or his Mexican source of supply, he then distributed the methamphetamine to mid -level distributors in Indianapolis and Evansville.   

    In September 2021, Smith branched out to also begin selling large quantities of fentanyl-laced pills. Smith would obtain fentanyl powder from Markey and/or Moore, who would then press the powder into pills. Smith then used his same distributors to distribute the fentanyl throughout Southern Indiana. Law enforcement seized an automated pill press during the course of the investigation. Smith also used violence and intimidation to further his drug business by having his distributors robbed of their drug proceeds at gun point.

    Additionally, several members of the drug trafficking used firearms to protect themselves and their profits. In total, law enforcement officers seized over 30 firearms from the defendants during court-authorized searches at multiple locations in Indianapolis and Evansville.

    The charges and sentences are described below:

    Defendant Charge(s) Prison Sentence
    Jeramey Smith, 35
    Indianapolis, IN

    Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine

    Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Fentanyl

    Felon in Possession of a Firearm

    Obstruction of Commerce by Robbery

    240 months (20 years)

    5 years supervised release

    Julian Green, 36

    Indianapolis, IN

    Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine

    Felon in Possession of a Firearm

    210 months (17.5 years)

    Indianapolis, IN

    Hannah Kissel, 28

    Indianapolis, IN

    Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine

    Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Fentanyl

    97 months (8 years)

    3 years supervised release

    Jordan Wilson, 41

    Evansville, IN

    Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine

    Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Fentanyl

    Felon in Possession of a Firearm

    216 months (15.7 years)

    5 years supervised release

    Timothy Rice, 35

    Evansville, IN

    		 Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine

    204 months (17 years)

    5 years supervised release

    Archilles Johnson, 40

    Evansville, IN

    		 Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine

    180 months (15 years)

    5 years supervised release

    Deonte Howard, 36

    Evansville, IN

    		 Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine

    180 months (15 years)

    5 years supervised release

    Julie Hunt, 37

    Petersburg, IN

    Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine

    Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Fentanyl

    60 months (5 years)

    3 years supervised release

    Torrance Mimms, 34

    Evansville, IN

    		 Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine

    180 months (15 years)

    5 years supervised release

    Keisha Jewell, 40

    Princeton, IN

    Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine

    Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Fentanyl

    108 years (9 years)

    3 years supervised release

    Davion Hays, 38

    Evansville, IN

    		 Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine

    144 months (12 years)

    5 years supervised release

    Jason Mitchell, 43

    Henderson, KY

    		 Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine

    204 months (17 years)

    5 years supervised release

    Denny Taylor, 49

    Princeton, IN

    		 Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine

    180 months (15 years)

    5 years supervised release

    Aaron Hardiman, 42

    Princeton, IN

    		 Conspiracy to Distribute Fentanyl

    120 months (10 years)

    5 years supervised release

    Roman Wills, 43

    Evansville, IN

    		 Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine

    180 months (15 years)

    5 years supervised release

    Michael Sanders, 48

    Owensboro, KY

    		 Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine

    168 months (14 years)

    5 years supervised release

    Gregory Snyder, 62

    Evansville, IN

    		 Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine

    36 months (3 years)

    4 years supervised release

    Joshua Gahagan, 41

    Evansville, IN

    		 Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine

    180 months (15 years)

    5 years supervised release

    Gregory Markey, 35

    Indianapolis, IN

    		 Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Fentanyl

    168 months (14 years)

    5 years supervised release

    L.C. Moore, II, 31

    Indianapolis, IN

    		 Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Fentanyl

    120 months (5 years)

    5 years supervised release

    Dominique Baquet, 31

    Indianapolis, IN

    		 Obstruction of Commerce by Robbery

    57 months (4.7 years)

    3 years supervised release

    Antonio DeJarnett, 36

    Evansville, IN

    		 Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine

    264 months (22 years)

    5 years supervised release

    Ryan Pinkston, 42

    Evansville, IN

    Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine

    Felon in Possession of Ammunition

    240 months (20 years)

    5 years supervised release

    Robert Embry, 46

    Evansville, IN

    		 Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine

    60 months (5 years)

    5 years supervised release

    Becky Edwards, 39

    Evansville, IN

    		 Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine

    120 months (10 years)

    5 years supervised release

    Edward Meredith, 59

    Evansville, IN

    		 Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine

    120 months (10 years)

    5 years supervised release

    Joshua Wilson, 33

    Evansville, IN

    		 Use of a Communication Facility with the Intent to Commit or Facilitate the Distribution of Methamphetamine

    30 months (2.5 years)

    No supervised release

    Tabitha Seabeck, 32

    Henderson, KY

    		 Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine

    180 months (15 years)

    5 years supervised release

    Zachary Addison, 42

    Evansville, IN

    Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine

    Felon in Possession of a Firearm

    300 months (25 years)

    5 years supervised release

    “The members of this conspiracy will spend decades in federal prison for pumping pounds of methamphetamine and fentanyl onto our streets,” said John E. Childress, Acting United States Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “Drug use devastates so many families and kills hundreds of Hoosiers every year. That’s why we will work with our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners to dismantle armed organizations trafficking in deadly drugs. The sentences imposed in this case demonstrate our continued commitment to protecting the public from these dangerous criminals.”

    “Dismantling a major drug trafficking organization that was responsible for distributing multi-hundred-pound quantities of methamphetamine and kilogram quantities of fentanyl onto the streets of Indiana was a big win for law enforcement. Because of the exceptional collaborative efforts by law enforcement, we were able to achieve this remarkable outcome,” said DEA Assistant Special Agent in Charge, Michael Gannon. “This investigation was a wonderful victory for all Hoosiers and sends a crystal-clear message to major drug dealers we will continue working together with our partners to dismantle their illicit operations.”   

    “This sentencing is a significant victory in the relentless fight against the trafficking of deadly drugs and underscores the FBI’s commitment to pursue those who wreak havoc on our communities through their illegal drug trade,” said FBI Indianapolis Special Agent in Charge Herbert J. Stapleton. “The FBI will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to ensure those who endanger public safety and contribute to this crisis are held accountable.”

    “I would like to thank the dedicated Evansville Police Officers and Vanderburgh County Sheriff’s Office Deputies as well as our federal partners in the DEA and US Attorney’s Office for their roles in getting these individuals off our streets. The manufacturing and distribution of methamphetamine and fentanyl have brought death and destruction to our communities and have done irreversible damage to families in the worst way possible. This community will not tolerate that kind of behavior and illegal activity, and we will use every resource available to us to stop it and put dealers behind bars.”

    This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Evansville Resident Office, with the FBI, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Evansville Vanderburgh County Joint Task Force, DEA Indianapolis and Indianapolis Metro Drug Task Force providing valuable assistance. The sentenced were imposed by U.S. District Court Judge Matthew P. Brookman.

    Acting U.S. Attorney John E. Childress thanked Assistant United States Attorneys Lauren Wheatley and Jeremy Kemper, who prosecuted this case. 

    According to the Drug Enforcement Administration, as little as two milligrams of fentanyl can be fatal, depending on a person’s body size, tolerance, and past usage—a tiny amount that can fit on the tip of a pencil. Seven out of ten illegal fentanyl tablets seized from U.S. streets and analyzed by the DEA have been found to contain a potentially lethal dose of the drug.

    One Pill Can Kill: Avoid pills bought on the street because One Pill Can Kill. Fentanyl has now become the leading cause of death for adults in the United States. Fentanyl is a highly potent opioid that drug dealers dilute with cutting agents to make counterfeit prescription pills that appear to be Oxycodone, Percocet, Xanax, and other drugs. Fake prescription pills laced with fentanyl are usually shaped and colored to look like pills sold at pharmacies. For example, fake prescription pills known as “M30s” imitate Oxycodone obtained from a pharmacy, but when sold on the street the pills routinely contain fentanyl. These pills are usually round tablets and often light blue in color, though they may be in different shapes and a rainbow of colors. They often have “M” and “30” imprinted on opposite sides of the pill. Do not take these or any other pills bought on the street – they are routinely fake and poisonous, and you won’t know until it’s too late.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Fausto Isidro Meza-Flores Added to FBI’s Ten Most Wanted Fugitives List

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

    The FBI on February 4 added Fausto Isidro Meza-Flores to the Ten Most Wanted Fugitives list. He is the 533rd addition to the list.

    Meza-Flores, also known as “Chapo Isidro,” is the alleged leader of the Meza-Flores transnational criminal organization, which is based in Sinaloa, Mexico. The organization is allegedly responsible for the possession, distribution, and importation of large quantities of cocaine, fentanyl, heroin, methamphetamine, and marijuana into the U.S.

    “For decades, the public has shared information with the FBI that has helped us capture dangerous criminals,” Special Agent in Charge Sean Ryan said. “Today, we ask you to help us find Fausto Isidro Meza-Flores so we can bring him to justice and curb the flow of illegal drugs into our country.”

    Meza-Flores was originally indicted on May 2, 2012, in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia. On November 26, 2019, a federal grand jury returned a superseding indictment charging Meza-Flores with drug trafficking violations and possession of a firearm. According to the indictment, Meza-Flores allegedly conspired to manufacture and distribute cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, and marijuana in the U.S. from 2005 to 2019.

    As the alleged leader of the Meza-Flores transnational criminal organization, Meza-Flores leads a group of heavily armed gunmen who use violence to maintain control of areas in Mexico used for the production and transportation of narcotics destined for the U.S.

    Meza-Flores is 42 years old. He has brown eyes and dark brown hair. He is 5 feet, 6 inches tall and weighs approximately 160 pounds. He likely resides in Mexico.

    The U.S. State Department’s Narcotics Rewards Program is offering a reward of up to $5 million for information that leads to Meza-Flores’ arrest and/or conviction.

    If you have information about Meza-Flores, please call 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324), your local FBI office or the nearest American Embassy or Consulate or submit a tip via tips.fbi.gov. You can also contact the FBI via WhatsApp at 571-379-3951. WhatsApp is neither a government-operated nor a government-controlled platform.

    FAUSTO ISIDRO MEZA-FLORES

    Conspiracy to Manufacture and Distribute Five Hundred Grams or More of Methamphetamine, Distribute Five Kilograms or More of Cocaine, Distribute One Kilogram or More of Heroin, and Distribute One Thousand Kilograms or More of Marijuana for Importation into the United States; Use and Possession of a Firearm

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Former Owner of ‘Timepiece Gentleman’ Luxury Watch Consignment Store in Beverly Hills Sentenced to Nearly Six Years in Federal Prison

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

    LOS ANGELES – A Los Angeles man who ran a Beverly Hills luxury watch consignment business and was known as “The Timepiece Gentleman” was sentenced today to 70 months in federal prison for swindling dozens of his customers of out a total of at least $5.6 million. 

    Anthony Farrer, 36, formerly of downtown Los Angeles, was sentenced by United States District Judge Josephine L. Staton.

    Farrer pleaded guilty in October 2024 to one count of wire fraud and one count of mail fraud. He has been in federal custody since November 2023.

    “This defendant stole millions of dollars from customers who trusted him and then used his ill-gotten gains to fund his exorbitant lifestyle,” said Acting United States Attorney Joseph T. McNally. “The sentence imposed today sends a message that those who defraud the public will be held accountable.”

    “The so-called ‘Timepiece Gentleman” was actually a con-man whose time living lavishly ran out when the high-end watch owners he victimized brought his crimes to the attention of law enforcement,” said Akil Davis, the Assistant Director in Charge of the FBI’s Los Angeles Field. “This successful prosecution is the result of a joint collaboration among local and federal partners working together in order to bring Mr. Farrer to justice.” 

    “Mr. Farrer exploited his clients’ trust for personal gain,” said Special Agent in Charge Tyler Hatcher, IRS Criminal Investigation, Los Angeles Field Office. “Instead of making good on his business promises, Mr. Farrer swindled his clients out of money and property to fund his own extravagant expenditures, and now he’ll suffer the consequences. IRS-CI is committed to protecting clients and consumers from this sort of dubious behavior, and we are proud to have been a partner in this investigation.”

    From November 2022 to November 2023, Farrer used his business – also called “The Timepiece Gentlemen” – to connect purchasers and sellers of high-end watches. In a typical consignment sale, a client would ship a watch to The Timepiece Gentleman and Farrer would take possession of the watch, agreeing to display it at his Beverly Hills store and through online and social media marketing. The items involved in this case included luxury watches by Rolex, Richard Mille, and Patek Phillipe, among others.

    Once the watch was sold, Farrer was supposed to remit the sales proceeds back to the client, minus a consignment fee, which typically was approximately 5% of the sales price. If the watch did not sell within a specific time or for a specified price, Farrer was to return the watch to the client.

    But instead of remitting watch sales proceeds – or the unsold watches themselves – back to the clients, Farrer sold the client watches and kept the proceeds for himself. He also used client watches – without the client’s knowledge or permission – as collateral for loans that he took out from lenders.

    When a client asked about the status of a watch on consignment sale, Farrer lied and said that the watch had not yet been sold. In fact, Farrer already had sold the watch or otherwise disposed of it, keeping the funds for his own personal benefit.

    In addition to his consignment sale business, Farrer also purported to purchase watches on behalf of his clients. Typically, a client sent funds to Farrer, often by wire transfers to his bank accounts or through payment processors such as Zelle, for the purpose of Farrer locating and buying a specified watch on the client’s behalf.

    But Farrer took the clients’ money and used it for other purposes, including to fund his lavish lifestyle such as buying or leasing luxury automobiles, apartments, and other luxury goods.

    When a client who had sent him money asked Farrer about the status of a watch purchase, Farrer often sent another watch to the client to tide the client over or lull them into a false sense of security regarding the status of the purchase. Like a Ponzi scheme, the other watch Farrer sent to the client often belonged to other clients who had themselves sent him that watch for a consignment sale. These clients were unaware Farrer was using their watches for that purpose, rather than attempting to sell the watches on behalf of the clients.

    In total, Farrer fraudulently obtained money and property belonging to more than 40 victims and caused total losses of at least $5,691,005. Farrer also will be subject to a restitution order for payment owed to victims in amounts to be determined later.

    The FBI, IRS Criminal Investigation, and the Beverly Hills Police Department investigated this matter.

    Assistant United States Attorney Joshua O. Mausner of the Violent and Organized Crime Section prosecuted this case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Three Dozen Defendants Indicted in Major South Georgia Drug Trafficking Conspiracy

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

    WAYCROSS, GA: A newly unsealed federal indictment alleges dozens of defendants, many of them in prison, participated in an extensive drug trafficking operation spanning several south Georgia communities.

    The indictment in USA v. Brinson, et al., names 37 individuals in the Coffee, Atkinson, and Bacon County area as conspirators, charging them with Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute and to Distribute Cocaine, Methamphetamine, Oxycodone, and Marijuana, said Tara M. Lyons, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Georgia. Conviction on the charge carries a maximum penalty of up to life in prison for most defendants, along with substantial financial penalties and a period of supervised release upon completion of any prison term. 

    There is no parole in the federal system.

    “This operation makes it clear that rural communities aren’t immune from the scourge of drug trafficking,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Lyons. “We applaud the diligent work of our law enforcement partners in this investigation.”

    As described in the indictment, the defendants are alleged to have participated in a conspiracy to import and distribute large amounts of illegal drugs in the Douglas, Georgia, community and surrounding counties. Much of the conspiracy was directed from inside Georgia state prisons using contraband cell phones. The 60-count indictment includes the seizure of 21 illegally possessed firearms and more than $17,000.

    Those named in the indictment include:

    • Litarus Brinson, a/k/a “Ben Brokebefore,” 26, an inmate at the Jenkins Correctional Center;
    • Christopher Brockington, a/k/a “Chris Brock,” 44, of Douglas;
    • Keevon Bussey, a/k/a “Guado Gettinguap Gomez,” 26, of Douglas;
    • Stacey Daniels, 32, of Douglas;
    • Kenneth Davis, 62, being held in the Coffee County Jail;
    • T’Kiya Eady, 24, of Lagrange, Georgia;
    • Patrick Ellis, 42, of Atlanta;
    • Anthony Gaskin Jr., 35, of Pearson, Georgia;
    • Dacia Gaskins, a/k/a “Sheree Gaskins,” 31, of Douglas, a former Georgia state corrections officer;
    • Ernest Goodman, 42, an inmate of the Ware County Jail;
    • Christopher Hawkins, a/k/a “Rayshon Hawkins,” 30, of Douglas;
    • Qudarious Hawkins, a/k/a “Don Esclobar,” 25, of Douglas;
    • Breanna Henderson, 34, of Douglas;
    • Corey Hill, 34, of Ambrose, Georgia;
    • Demarcus Holland, 32, of Douglas;
    • Wanda Hollinger, 57, of Douglas;
    • Zarionna Holloway, a/k/a “Channel Parker,” 23, of Douglas;
    • Roger Jenkins, 27, a/k/a “Glee Jenkins,” a/k/a “WMG Glee,” of Alma, Georgia;
    • Marquan Jenkins, a/k/a “Anna Brooke,” a/k/a “Mary Thompson,” 30, an inmate at Macon State Prison;
    • Richard Jewell, 51, of Douglas;
    • Aaron Kahn, 49, of Douglas;
    • James Lander, 35, Douglas;
    • Jeffrey Maxwell, a/k/a “EBK Kokaine,” 28, an inmate of Wilcox State Prison;
    • Darien McDaniel, 35, of Waycross, Georgia;
    • Antarious McTear, 30, of Douglas;
    • Adrian Munford, a/k/a “Jugg King,” 41, of Waycross
    • Ferlonzo Newton, a/k/a “Lonzie Newton,” a/k/a “Kell Newton,” 28, of Douglas;
    • Reginald Powell, a/k/a “Yetti Glock,” 36, of Douglas;
    • Patricia Raven, a/k/a “Ms. Pat,” 65, of Valdosta, Georgia;
    • Marcus Reynolds, a/k/a “Marc Marc,” 44, an inmate at Georgia Diagnostic and Classification Prison;
    • James Robinson, 33, an inmate at Telfair State Prison;
    • Sedarrien Smith, a/k/a “Slug Da Menace,” 24, of Douglas;
    • Billy Toombs Jr., 32, of Douglas;
    • Dequatte Tucker, a/k/a “Deshawn Tucker,” a/k/a “Esco,” a/k/a “Freeband Esco,” 33, an inmate at Wheeler Correctional Facility;
    • Travis Tucker, 33, of Douglas;
    • Assyria Watts, a/k/a “Jefe Cain,” 29, of Douglas; and,
    • Brian Wright, 48, of Alma, Georgia.

    Criminal indictments contain only charges; defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

    “The FBI and our law enforcement partners were able to achieve today’s arrests and seizures because all of us never stopped working together, combining our resources, and advocating for a safer place to live for everyone in this community,” said FBI Atlanta Assistant Special Agent in Charge Brian Ozden. “And we will not rest until we bring back to our community a sense of security and law and order that is so greatly needed.”

    “This operation was only successful because of the collaborative effort of the various agencies,” said Coffee County Sheriff Fred T. Cole. “As the sheriff, it is my mission to eliminate the spread of illegal drugs in our community. This operation highlights the importance of community safety and the lasting effects it has on our community.”

    This investigation took place under the umbrella of the U.S. Department of Justice’s Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program that has been successful in bringing together all levels of law enforcement to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer.

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

    Agencies conducting the investigation include the FBI, the Coffee County Sheriff’s Office Drug Unit, the Georgia Bureau of Investigation Southeast Regional Drug Enforcement Office, the Georgia State Patrol, the Georgia Department of Community Supervision, the Douglas Police Department, the Bacon County Sheriff’s Office, the Atkinson County Sheriff’s Office, the Waycross Police Department, the Marion County (Florida) Sheriff’s Office, and the Jacksonville (Florida) County Sheriff’s Office. The case is being prosecuted for the United States by Southern District of Georgia Assistant U.S. Attorneys Bradley R. Thompson and Joshua K. Davis. 

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Fausto Isidro Meza-Flores Agregado a La Lista de Los Diez Fugitivos Más Buscados del FBI

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

    El FBI agregó hoy a Fausto Isidro Meza-Flores a la lista de los Diez Fugitivos Más Buscados. Es la adición número 533 a la lista.

    Meza-Flores, también conocido como “Chapo Isidro”, es el presunto líder de la organización criminal transnacional Meza-Flores, con sede en Sinaloa, México. La organización es presuntamente responsable de la posesión, distribución e importación de grandes cantidades de cocaína, fentanilo, heroína, metanfetamina y marihuana a los Estados Unidos.

    “Durante décadas, el público ha compartido información con el FBI que nos ha ayudado a capturar criminales peligrosos”, dijo el Agente Especial a Cargo Sean Ryan. “Hoy, les pedimos que nos ayuden a encontrar a Fausto Isidro Meza-Flores, para que podamos llevarlo ante la justicia y frenar el flujo de drogas ilegales a nuestro país”.

    Meza-Flores fue acusado originalmente el 2 de mayo de 2012 en el Tribunal de Distrito de los Estados Unidos para el Distrito de Columbia. El 26 de noviembre de 2019, un gran jurado federal emitió una acusación formal sustitutiva acusando a Meza-Flores de violaciones de tráfico de drogas y posesión de un arma de fuego. Según la acusación, Meza-Flores supuestamente conspiró para fabricar y distribuir cocaína, heroína, metanfetamina y marihuana en los Estados Unidos entre 2005 y 2019.

    FAUSTO ISIDRO MEZA-FLORES

    Conspiracy to Manufacture and Distribute Five Hundred Grams or More of Methamphetamine, Distribute Five Kilograms or More of Cocaine, Distribute One Kilogram or More of Heroin, and Distribute One Thousand Kilograms or More of Marijuana for Importation into the United States; Use and Possession of a Firearm

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Final Defendant Pleads Guilty in Roanoke Bank Robbery

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    ROANOKE, Va. – The third man involved in robbing the Carter Bank and Trust on Hershberger Road in Roanoke in June 2023, pled guilty recently in U.S. District Court in Roanoke for his role in the robbery.

    Tishawn Simpson, 25, of Roanoke, pled guilty last week to one count of bank robbery.

    According to court documents, on June 22, 2023, two masked men, Simpson and Demonte Belcher, entered the Carter Bank and Trust, one carrying a blue bank bag and the other carrying a green plastic bag and presented the teller with a note that stated “[l]ets make everything right you have least (sic) than 30 seconds to give me $50K or die got nothing to lose.” As a result of this threat, the men left the bank with $8,659 in cash, but left the demand note behind. Simpson was identified as a suspect when a DNA analysis revealed that he had contributed to a DNA profile that the FBI Laboratory had developed from one of the robber’s masks that law enforcement recovered.

    A third man, Ramel Abrams, did not physically enter the bank, however his fingerprints were found on the demand note and the clothing worn by both robbers was found inside of his apartment. Furthermore, location information obtained from Abrams’ phone records indicates that he was near Carter Bank & Trust just prior to the robbery.

    All three men have pled guilty for their roles in the robbery. In August, Belcher was sentenced to 37 months in federal prison and in December Abrams was sentenced to 30 months for his role in the robbery Simpson will be sentenced in May.

    Acting United States Attorney Zachary T. Lee Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’ s Richmond Division Stanley M. Meador, and Chief of the Roanoke City Police Department Scott Booth made the announcement.

    The Roanoke City Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation are investigating the case and received assistance from the Star City Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Salem Police Department, and the Roanoke City Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Keith Parrella and M. Coleman Adams are prosecuting the case.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Temple Hills Man Found Guilty Of Arson Conspiracy Targeting Convenience Stores

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Defendant Conspired with Other to Set the Stores on Fire, Robbed a Store, and Went Back Later to Steal Money from an ATM

    Greenbelt, Maryland – After a 5-day trial, a federal jury found Stephen Kennedy, 33, of Temple Hills, Maryland, guilty of conspiracy to commit arson, arson affecting interstate commerce, commercial robbery, using or carrying a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, carrying and explosive device during the commission of a felony, and being a felon in possession of a firearm.  The Defendant was found not guilty as to one count of arson affecting interstate commerce.

    The verdict was announced by Erek L. Barron, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland; Special Agent in Charge Toni M. Crosby of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) Baltimore Field Division; Acting Maryland State Fire Marshal Jason M. Mowbray; St. Mary’s County Sheriff Steven A. Hall; Chief Malik Aziz of the Prince George’s County Police Department; and Chief Tiffany D. Green of the Prince George’s County Fire/EMS Department.

    According to the 8-count superseding indictment, from at least January 2021 to January 2022, Kennedy and other conspirators, including co-defendant Donnell Kelly, conspired to commit arsons at 7-Eleven convenience stores so that they could later steal cash contained in ATMs in the stores. Specifically, the indictment alleges that Kennedy and Kelly traveled to 7-Eleven locations while they were open for business and deployed explosive devices to set fire to the buildings, and on at least one occasion, demanded the contents of the cash register.  The defendants burned the stores to force their closure and shut off power to the security cameras, which enabled them to return to the unguarded locations to burglarize the ATMs.  This resulted in losses to the ATM company of at least $90,000. To conceal the evidence of their crimes, one of Kennedy’s co-conspirators made false police reports regarding stolen license plates.

    Kennedy faces a mandatory minimum sentence of five years and a maximum sentence of 20 years in federal prison for the arson conspiracy and for arson affecting interstate commerce; a maximum of 20 years in prison for commercial robbery; a mandatory minimum sentence of 30 years and up to life in federal prison for using a destructive device in furtherance of a crime of violence; a ten year sentence for carrying an explosive during the commission of another federal felony; and a maximum of 10 years in federal prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm.  Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties.  A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after taking into account the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Co-defendant Donnell Kelly pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit arson and was sentenced to 10 years with supervised release for a term of 3 years, on October 2, 2024 before Judge Peter J. Messitte. U.S. District Judge Theodore D. Chuang has scheduled sentencing for Kennedy on May 30, 2025 at 2:30 p.m.

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

    U.S. Attorney Barron commended the ATF’s Baltimore Field Division’s Arson & Explosive Investigations Group, the Office of the Maryland State Fire Marshal, the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office, the Prince George’s County Fire/EMS Department, and the Prince George’s County Police Department for their work in the investigation and thanked the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia, the ATF Washington Field Division, the U.S. Marshals Service, and the Alexandria, Virginia Fire and Police Departments for their assistance.  Mr. Barron thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys Joshua Rosenthal and Christopher Sarma, who are prosecuting the case.  

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

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Operation against international drug trafficking network

    Source: Eurojust

    French and Spanish authorities, with the support of Eurojust and Europol, have stopped an illegal drug delivery into France arriving from Spain. The drug seizure is part of an operation against an international trafficking network active in the two countries. Authorities arrested 24 members of the network, including the two leaders, and seized over 150 kg of drugs with a market value of EUR 2.5 million.

    The French criminal group set up import routes to transport drugs into France from their headquarters in Spain. Using vehicles with hidden compartments, the group was able to avoid detection and transport multiple types of synthetic drugs and cannabis into France. By frequently changing the routes used, the group further ensured that they remained undetected. 

    French authorities started investigating the network together with their partners in Spain in June 2024. They soon located the head of the network in Southern Spain and investigated the criminal activities such as drug trafficking and money laundering. A takedown of the network was planned, with the preparation of European Investigation Orders and European Arrest Warrants taking place at Eurojust. 

    Europol supported the investigation by providing analytical expertise to map out the syndicate’s structure, identify key players and track smuggling routes. Europol also coordinated intelligence sharing and funded the deployment of French officers to Spain to facilitate cross-border cooperation. On the action day, Europol deployed experts to France and Spain to ensure real-time information exchange between the involved law enforcement authorities.

    On 28 January, actions to take down the group took place simultaneously in Spain and France. Authorities caught a drug convoy arriving in France in the early morning. Over 120 kg of drugs were intercepted from the delivery. The three drivers and the head of the network in France were arrested on the spot. During searches in France, money, drugs and weapons were seized, and 13 suspects were put in police custody and 9 in preventive custody. In Spain, the two leaders of the criminal group were arrested, and cash and drugs were seized during house searches. The leaders are now awaiting extradition to France. The members of the criminal group who were involved in drug trafficking and money laundering could face up to 30 years in prison. 

    The following authorities carried out the operations:

    • France: JIRS Rennes (interregional specialised jurisdiction); Gendarmerie Nationale (SR Rennes)
    • Spain: Public Prosecution Office Antidrug; Central Investigative Court num 2 at Audiencia Nacional; National Police (Policía Nacional – UDYCO Málaga)

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Acting Director Brian Driscoll’s Statement on Recent FBI Achievements

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation FBI Crime News

    I’m Brian Driscoll, and it’s my honor to be representing the men and women of the FBI as acting director.

    I want to take a few minutes to share with you some of the important work those men and women have been doing across the country and around the world—every day—to keep the American people safe.

    I’ll start with our Top Ten list.

    The Ten Most Wanted Fugitives list has been helping the FBI apprehend dangerous criminals for 75 years. In that time, we’ve located or arrested nearly 500 fugitives on the list, including two in just the past week:

    Donald Eugene Fields II, who was arrested in Florida on charges of child sex trafficking and child rape; and Arnoldo Jiminez, who was taken into custody in Mexico on murder charges.

    I’m grateful to both of these case teams for their work and to our partners for their support in bringing these violent criminals to justice.

    You’ve heard the FBI always gets its man, but our work is never done.

    Today, we’re announcing the addition of Fausto Isidro Meza-Flores to the FBI’s Ten Most Wanted Fugitives list.

    Known as El Chapo Isidro, he’s accused of spending the last 20 years flooding the U.S. with fentanyl, cocaine, heroin, and other deadly drugs, first as an independent drug trafficker and later as the head of the Meza-Flores cartel.

    In addition to the scourge of illicit drugs Meza-Flores and his organization have unleashed into the United States from across our southern border, they’re also accused of heinous crimes ranging from kidnapping and extortion to torture and murder.

    The U.S. government is offering a reward of up to $5 million for information leading to his arrest and conviction, and we encourage anyone with information about his whereabouts to contact the FBI and help us add Meza-Flores to the list of dangerous fugitives we’ve brought to justice together.

    But that’s just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the exceptional work the FBI’s been doing lately.

    Every day, our men and women are working hard to be there for our partners and keep our communities safe.

    That includes all the work we’ve been doing to support the Department of Homeland Security in its immigration enforcement efforts. We’ve got special agents, intelligence analysts, and more supporting DHS teams across the country, from New York and Chicago to El Paso, Newark, and Denver. So far, this work has led to the arrest of dangerous criminals and terrorists all across the country, and we’ve taken illegal firearms off the streets and out of our communities.

    At the same time, our people are hard at work with our local, state, and federal partners in the run-up to this Sunday’s Super Bowl. In addition to our team in New Orleans, we’ve deployed scores of FBI employees to surge in support of this effort—from bomb techs to SWAT operators to intelligence analysts—and each one of them is focused on keeping the event safe for everyone.

    Our teams have also been working around the clock to respond to the tragic plane crashes in Philadelphia and Washington, D.C., in support of recovery efforts.

    All of that work is critically important to our partners and to the American people, but it doesn’t even scratch the surface of the work the men and women of the FBI are doing every single day, across the country and around the world, to keep people safe. 

    We will never take our eyes off of our mission: protecting the American people and upholding the Constitution.

    Because at the Bureau, we’re focused on the work, the people we do the work with—our partners—and the people we do the work for—the American people.

    Thank you.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Arizona Mechanic Admits Defrauding Missouri Customer, Others Out of $1.4 Million

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    ST. LOUIS – A purported auto mechanic from Arizona on Tuesday admitted defrauding at least nine victims in Missouri and elsewhere out of more than $1.4 million, including one victim after he was charged.

    Andres “Manny” Lopez, 36, pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court in St. Louis to one count of wire fraud.

    Lopez admitted that from November 2019 through July 2023, while running All Performance Tuning and Diesel Repair LLC in Arizona, he committed fraud by accepting money for vehicle upgrades and parts with no intention of performing the work. Lopez used the advance payments for personal expenses. He also damaged some customer vehicles and loaned vehicles to others without the owners’ consent. Several customers paid Lopez to find and purchase vehicles on their behalf. After receiving up-front payments, Lopez falsely told customers that he purchased their requested vehicles. But he actually used the money for personal expenses and provided customers with myriad false excuses as to why the vehicles could not be delivered.

    A Missouri victim wired Lopez $45,000 for a Toyota RAV4 that he wanted to buy for his mother. Lopez falsely claimed that he’d bought the vehicle. He then provided a series of excuses about why it was not being delivered. Lopez claimed delivery delays were due to product recalls, even impersonating the general manager of a Florida Toyota dealership in text messages to the client’s mother.

    In the guilty plea, Lopez admitted defrauding one victim out of approximately $567,892 after he was indicted in October of 2023 for the other frauds.

    Lopez is scheduled to be sentenced May 9.

    The FBI investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Derek Wiseman is prosecuting case.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News: NAVWAR at WEST 2025: The Future of Multi-Domain Warfare Demands Agility and Audacious Innovation

    Source: United States Navy

    As the premier naval conference and exposition on the West Coast, WEST offered industry and academia experts the valuable opportunity to engage with U.S. Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard leaders. Co-sponsored by Armed Forces Communications & Electronics Association (AFCEA) International and the U.S. Naval Institute (USNI), thousands of people attended at the San Diego Convention Center Jan. 28-30 to discuss the landscape of increasingly complex challenges in alignment with the theme: the future is now, are we advancing operational capabilities that pace the threat?

    NAVWAR Commander Rear Adm. Seiko Okano, representing the command for the first time at WEST, highlighted her organization’s commitment to supporting the Fleet with next-generation capability. On a panel with other military and industry experts, they discussed how the Department of Defense (DOD) is accelerating software development in support of the Replicator initiative, a DOD-wide effort to fast-track the acquisition of thousands of all-domain attritable autonomous systems.

    She highlighted the need for a shift in both culture and the development ecosystem, emphasizing that transformative change is essential for driving progress. “This isn’t a technology problem; this is a culture problem. The faster we figure out how to shift this together, I think we win,” she said. “The Navy has always prided itself on having brilliant technologists at our research labs, but we should also embrace the really fantastic solutions from industry that we can leverage to help us innovate at speed.”

    On another panel with systems commanders from the Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard on acquisitions, Okano continued to speak about the unique role NAVWAR has in delivering innovative capability to the Fleet. “NAVWAR is at the center of a significant shift in warfare—where traditional domains are blurring, and the fight is increasingly multi-domain and multi-spectral. Our role is to deliver a decisive information advantage, requiring speed, agility and adaptability,” she said. “The challenge is breaking down silos, fostering collaboration and instilling a culture that embraces rapid change to meet the demands of modern conflict.”

    During an informational brief about NAVWAR and its needs, John Pope, executive director of NAVWAR, reiterated the importance of rapid and easy adoption of new technologies. “In our world of information warfare, we need to be the ones who are the quickest to respond to what the Fleet needs,” he said. “To achieve that, we’re asking our workforce and our industry and academic partners to embrace our core values of audacious innovation and radical ownership to get after what we need to fix any outdated equipment until we can find modern solutions.”

    At the Navy’s Information Warfare pavilion, experts from across the NAVWAR enterprise had a significant presence, interfacing with industry at engagement zones and presenting cutting-edge technology. From Naval Information Warfare Center (NIWC) Pacific; Program Executive Office (PEO) Digital and Enterprise Services (Digital); PEO Manpower, Logistics and Business Solutions (MLB); and PEO Command, Control, Communications, Computers and Intelligence (C4I), NAVWAR’s wide-ranging program offices were represented on the exhibit floor.

    The tech demonstrations from NIWC Pacific showcased the latest and greatest from their labs, ranging from cloud development to cryogenic probes to a robot dog designed to assist in ship maintenance. One of the demos featured a Rapid Recreation into Modeling and Simulations (R2MS) tool, spearheaded by the Integrated Fires Team. This platform uses real-world data to create live virtual simulations at rapid speed, an invaluable tool for training and mission planning. “We’re exploring how AI and ML can take R2MS’ capabilities even further,” said Nadil Lopez, project manager for the Integrated Fires team. “There is a lot of untapped potential with this tool in creating complex and realistic environments for the Fleet.”

    All of NAVWAR’s PEOs also had significant industry engagement throughout the course of WEST. Through PEO C4I’s annual Engagement Event and the joint PEO Digital/MLB Industry Open house, around 250 individual companies met government representatives and leaders for insightful and collaborative conversations across all three PEOs. NIWC Pacific program managers and technical leads also met with industry through the engagement zones to discuss their needs in an informal one-on-one discussion.

    “As underscored by several of the leadership keynotes this year, the rapid pace of both technological and global change demand stronger partnerships across government, industry and academia,” said Michael McMillan, executive director of NIWC Pacific. “WEST 2025 provides NIWC Pacific the opportunity to showcase our latest innovations while forging connections that accelerate the transition of critical technologies from research and prototyping to operational capability. By strengthening collaborations today, we ensure our Navy remains ahead of tomorrow’s threats.”

    Efforts from PEO Digital were also acknowledged at the Department of Navy (DON) Information Technology Excellence Awards, held Monday, Jan. 27 prior to WEST. In honor of leading Flank Speed Zero Trust, the DOD’s first zero trust compliance pilot, Darren Turner received the Person of the Year award for his exceptional leadership and dual roles for both DON Chief Information Officer (CIO) and PEO Digital’s technical director office. Zero trust is a network security philosophy that states no one inside or outside the network should be trusted unless their identification has been thoroughly checked. The Navy’s Flank Speed service currently delivers enhanced collaboration, productivity and robust zero trust security to more than half a million users worldwide, completed three years before the DON CIO’s 2027 deadline.

    Rodrick Adams, the Marine Corps Logistics Integrated Information Systems (LI2S-MC) security manager at PEO MLB, was also recognized with a Fiscal Year 2024 Copernicus Award from AFCEA International and USNI. This award honors individual contributions to C4I, information systems, cyber operations and information warfare. Adams’ efforts in leading the planning, development and implementation of the Naval Identity Services effort for Global Combat Support System-Marine Corps led to greatly enhanced financial transaction security for its users.

    In continuing its commitment to helping the Navy reach new heights in cybersecurity and information warfare capabilities, NAVWAR leverages next-generation tools like AI/ML and industry partnerships to further drive innovation. As the battlefield becomes more complex, their role in the future fight demands a culture shift driven by collaboration, adaptability and agility.

    About NAVWAR:

    NAVWAR identifies, develops, delivers and sustains information warfighting capabilities and services that enable naval, joint, coalition and other national missions operating in warfighting domains from seabed to space and through cyberspace. NAVWAR consists of more than 11,000 civilian, active duty and reserve professionals located around the world.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Bay Roberts — Bay Roberts RCMP seeks public’s assistance in locating vehicle stolen in Bay Roberts

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Bay Roberts RCMP is seeking the public’s assistance in relation to a vehicle stolen from Bay Roberts in the overnight hours of Monday, February 3, 2025.

    The grey, four door 2017 Honda Civic Touring, NL license plate JGZ 878, was stolen from a residential property in the Water Street area. A stock photo of the same vehicle is attached.

    Anyone with any information about this crime, the identity of the person(s) responsible or the current location of the vehicle is asked to contact Bay Roberts RCMP at 709-786-2118. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), visit www.nlcrimestoppers.com or use the P3Tips app. #SayItHere

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Burlington Man Sentenced to 20 Years in Federal Prison for Methamphetamine Conspiracy Charge

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

    DAVENPORT, Iowa – A Burlington man was sentenced today to 20 years in federal prison for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine.

    According to public court documents, Giovani Denario Timmons, 24, participated in a conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine in Burlington between December 2019 and November 2021. Timmons served as a source of supply along with Kendric Centrall Childs, 25. Timmons facilitated the transportation of methamphetamine to Iowa, including approximately 362 pounds of methamphetamine seized during a January 2020 traffic stop in Arizona. This traffic stop was the Arizona Department of Public Safety’s largest single seizure of ice methamphetamine at the time.[1] Timmons’s eight co-defendants, including Childs, were sentenced in 2022.

    After completing his term of imprisonment, Timmons will be required to serve a five-year term of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.

    United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. This case was investigated by the Burlington Police Department, Southeast Iowa Narcotics Taskforce, West Burlington Police Department, Des Moines County Sheriff’s Office, Henry County Sheriff’s Office, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Iowa Department of Public Safety-Division of Narcotics Enforcement, Drug Enforcement Administration, Muscatine County Sheriff’s Office, Johnson County Drug Taskforce, Washington County Sheriff’s Office, Lee County Drug Taskforce, Muscatine County Drug Taskforce, Iowa State Patrol, and Arizona Department of Public Safety.

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

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Wetaskiwin — Wetaskiwin RCMP Crime Reduction Unit arrest male with gun offences after ramming police car

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    On Jan. 27, 2025, members of the Wetaskiwin Crime Reduction Unit observed a Dodge Durango with a known offender who was a recent suspect in a firearms investigation driving around in Wetaskiwin. Officers attempted to stop the vehicle; however, it fled. Police later observed the vehicle again pulling into a rural driveway off North Boundary Road. RCMP attempted to stop the vehicle however the vehicle rammed the police car and attempted to flee the area. RCMP observed the vehicle become disabled from the earlier contact with the police car and stop. All occupants in the vehicle were arrested. A search of the vehicle revealed a loaded sawed off shot gun as well as stolen mail.

    RCMP have charged a 25-year-old individual, a resident of Maskwacis, with:

    • Drive a motor vehicle while prohibited;
    • Possession of identity documents;
    • Assaulting a peace officer with a weapon;
    • Weapons offences (x4);
    • Possession of property obtained by crime.

    The 25-year-old individual was taken before a justice of the peace and remanded into custody with his next court date set for Jan. 28, 2025, at the Alberta Court of Justice in Wetaskiwin.

    RCMP have charged a 31-year-old individual, a resident of Maskwacis, with fail to comply with a release order.

    The 31-year-old individual was taken before a justice of the peace and remanded into custody with her next court date set for Jan. 28, 2025, at the Alberta Court of Justice in Wetaskiwin.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News: FRCE supports Marine F-35 recovery training

    Source: United States Navy

    How does a Marine Corps unit train to recover a downed fighter, when no downed fighter is available to recover? At Fleet Readiness Center East (FRCE), a unique depot training asset helped Marines gain real-world experience in recovering a damaged F-35B Lightning II without risking harm to an operational aircraft.

    FRCE recently partnered with Marine Wing Support Squadron 271 (MWSS-271) to assist with the squadron’s F-35 familiarization and aircraft salvage and recovery training. The collaboration with FRCE allowed MWSS-271 access to a stripped-down F-35 airframe used for training and testing at the depot, along with the knowledge and expertise provided by FRCE artisans and engineers who support the F-35 modification program.

    According to Chief Warrant Officer 2 Joseph Durand, the MWSS-271 Heavy Equipment Platoon leader who also serves as the squadron’s salvage and recovery officer, the three-day training simulated the recovery of an F-35 with collapsed front landing gear. The event consisted of three phases: learning proper F-35 lifting procedures through an introductory crane lift; stowing the front landing gear and using the crane to rest the aircraft’s nose on a temporary structure to simulate landing gear failure; and finally, establishing a controlled recovery site and recovering the aircraft.

    While the training event simulated one specific set of circumstances, Durand said it included techniques that can be implemented in a wide variety of recovery scenarios, both in garrison environments and at forward locations. 

    “Recovery has so many different scenarios, and the F-35 is a fairly new aircraft; recovery on this platform hasn’t really been conducted in a broad manner across the Marine Corps,” Durand explained. “We’re training to educate on how pertinent it is to be able to recover an F-35, the practices that go into that recovery and the hazards that come along with it. We’re really stressing the need for that aircraft to be able to get back into the air and do its job.

    “What we’re looking forward to is being able to conduct this same recovery scenario, whether it be a front landing gear that went down or something more catastrophic, no matter where it happens,” he continued. “We need to be able to get that bird back into the fight, and do it in a safe manner that doesn’t harm the aircraft or the individuals working to recover it.”

    FRCE’s ability to provide a nonoperational airframe for use in the Marines’ training offered the squadron unique advantages, said F-35 Branch Head Ike Rettenmair.

    “Having an asset like this airframe on hand is really beneficial in terms of allowing for training without the concern of potentially damaging an operational aircraft,” he said. “While you plan for everything to go perfectly during a training event, there’s always the chance that mistakes could be made; that’s why there’s training in the first place, to provide that learning experience.

    “Using an airframe that isn’t an operational aircraft helps provide a real-world, hands-on experience – everything looks, feels and moves the same – without the added pressure that comes from working with an aircraft that needs to be back on the flight line the later that day,” Rettenmair added.

    Working with MWSS-271 to support the squadron’s activities also benefitted the FRCE team, Rettenmair explained. 

    “Supporting MWSS-271’s training not only allowed their Marines to advance their F-35 aircraft recovery skills, it also gave our team the opportunity to sharpen their expertise while serving as subject-matter experts,” he said. “Developing a way to simulate a landing gear failure, for example, presented a challenge that the team proved ready to tackle. Teaching the Marines the proper way to crane lift the aircraft provided our artisans and engineers the opportunity to refresh their skills, as well. This really was a win-win situation for everyone involved.”

    Durand agreed that the partnership between the squadron and FRCE yielded positive outcomes.

    “It’s extremely effective for us to drive just 15 minutes down the road to FRC East and be able to execute training with all of our partners in the warfighting effort,” he said. “It makes it extremely reliable for us to be able to conduct additional training as scenarios start to develop across the nation and around the world.”

    The F-35 airframe used in this exercise, which arrived to FRCE in early 2021, has also seen use as a training aid in the depot. Its status as a readiness enhancer is not limited to supporting recovery training.

    “We have also used the airframe for artisan and engineer training at FRC East, although the depot maintenance environment is definitely different than an operational unit,” Rettenmair said. “For us, the airframe serves as a training aid that helps us improve processes and procedures, which can in turn drive down the modification turnaround times and enable us to return completed aircraft to the fleet sooner than planned.”

    FRCE is the lead site for depot-level maintenance on the F-35B Lightning II and has conducted modifications and repair on the Marine Corps’ short takeoff-vertical landing variant of the aircraft since 2013. The depot also performs work on the Navy’s F-35C carrier variant and the Air Force’s conventional takeoff and landing F-35A variant.

    FRCE is North Carolina’s largest maintenance, repair, overhaul and technical services provider, with more than 4,000 civilian, military and contract workers. Its annual revenue exceeds $1 billion. The depot provides service to the fleet while functioning as an integral part of the greater U.S. Navy; Naval Air Systems Command; and Commander, Fleet Readiness Centers.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Athabasca — Athabasca RCMP dismantle large scale chop shop make major recovery of stolen property – Update 2

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Athabasca RCMP respectfully requests that members of the public refrain from contacting Athabasca Detachment to inquire about potential found property. We understand the interest in recovering stolen items, and we are committed to ensuring property is returned to its rightful owners. RCMP investigators are currently in the process of identifying and cataloging recovered property, including vehicles and equipment. Owners will be contacted directly by police.

    Thank you for your cooperation as we continue this complex investigation. We remain committed to addressing property crime and protecting our communities.

    Background:

    Jan. 2, 2025

    Athabasca RCMP dismantle large scale chop shop make major recovery of stolen property – Update

    Athabasca RCMP has successfully recovered a substantial quantity of stolen property valued in the multi-million-dollar range as part of an ongoing investigation into rural property crime.

    On Dec. 29, 2024, Athabasca RCMP received a report from a member of the public that their vehicle had been stolen. The vehicle’s GPS tracking system indicated that it was located at a rural property, located on Township Road 670.5. Officers from Athabasca RCMP, K Division Auto Theft Unit, Eastern Alberta District (EAD) Crime Reduction Unit, and EAD General Investigations Section attended the property, and during their investigation and subsequent search warrant discovered a large number of stolen items including:

    • Multiple stolen vehicles, including semi-trucks and trailers
    • Off-road vehicles such as quads
    • Heavy equipment and parts

    Further investigation revealed evidence that the property was being used as a “chop shop”, where stolen vehicles and equipment were dismantled and repurposed for illegal resale.

    A 36-year-old individual, a resident of Athabasca, has been charged with the following offences:

    • Possession of property obtained by crime over $5000
    • Alter/destroy/remove a Vehicle Identification Number

    The 36-year-old individual was taken before a justice of the peace and was released with conditions. He is scheduled to appear in court on Jan. 27, 2025, at the Alberta Court of Justice in Athabasca.

    This recovery reflects the ongoing dedication of the RCMP to address property crime, particularly in rural areas where these thefts have significant impacts on residents and businesses. “The successful recovery of millions of dollars’ worth of stolen property, including semi-trucks, trailers, RV’s, and construction and oilfield equipment, highlights the critical role of community collaboration in combating property crime.” said S/Sgt. Mark Hall, Athabasca RCMP Detachment Commander. “Thanks to the diligence of a vigilant property owner who tracked their missing equipment and the meticulous investigation by the Athabasca RCMP members, we were able to uncover and recover this significant cache of stolen assets. This operation serves as a powerful example of how community members and law enforcement working together can achieve remarkable results in protecting property and holding offenders accountable.”

    As part of our commitment to addressing property crime, the RCMP would like to share the following tips that can aid in decreasing the risk of becoming a victim of property crime.

    • Store valuables out of sight and in secure locations
    • Secure vehicles and equipment with high-quality locks and immobilizers
    • Use GPS tracking devices on vehicles and heavy equipment
    • Install proper lighting and surveillance cameras on properties
    • Regularly document and photograph property, including serial numbers and other unique identifiers.

    If you have any information regarding property crime within the area of Athabasca please contact Athabasca RCMP at 780-675-4252. If you wish to remain anonymous, you can contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), online at www.P3Tips.com or by using the “P3 Tips” app available through the Apple App or Google Play Store. To report crime online, or for access to RCMP news and information, download the Alberta RCMP app through Apple or Google Play.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: High Prairie — High Prairie RCMP locate wanted male

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    On Jan. 9, 2025, High Prairie RCMP began a project to target offenders on warrant in the area of High Prairie and utilized resources including Faust RCMP, Western Alberta Crime Reduction Unit (WAD CRU), the Provincial Crime Reduction Team (CRT), Alberta’s Emergency Response Team (ERT), High Level and Grande Prairie Police Dog Services (PDS), and RCMP Air Services.

    A 28-year-old individual, a resident of Atikameg, Alta., was located with a stolen vehicle in a forested area; all RCMP units were engaged, and the individual fled on foot.

    Police Dog Peyak, tracked the individual to a residence. All occupants exited the home safely before the individual was located and then arrested, inside the home, with no further incident.

    The individual was charged with 19 offenses, including:

    • Operating a motor vehicle while prohibited x3
    • Flight from police officer
    • Resist/obstruct police officer
    • Possession of property obtained by crime
    • Dangerous operation of motor vehicle
    • Failure to comply with probation order x2
    • Take motor vehicle without consent
    • Firearms offences x 12
    • Additionally, Grey was arrested for his 29 warrants

    The individual was brought before a justice of the peace, where he was remanded with a court date of Jan. 20, 2025, at the Alberta Court of Justice in High Prairie.

    Additionally, RCMP seized several weapons, a firearm and an assortment of ammunition.

    The High Prairie RCMP is seeking the public’s assistance in identifying the location of, or sightings of wanted persons or suspicious criminal behaviour in the area. Anyone with information in relation to this incident is asked to please contact the High Prairie RCMP at 780-523-3378 or your local police. If you wish to remain anonymous, you can contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8377 (TIPS), online at www.P3Tips.com or by using the “P3 Tips” app available through the Apple App or Google Play Store.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: New Bedford Man Sentenced to Three Years in Prison for Fentanyl Conspiracy

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    BOSTON – A New Bedford man was sentenced yesterday in federal court in Boston for conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute fentanyl.

    Vinicio DeJesus Marrero Arias, 40, was sentenced by Chief U.S. District Court Chief Judge F. Dennis Saylor IV to three years in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release. Arias will also be subject to deportation upon completion of his sentence. In October 2024, Arias pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute fentanyl.

    Following an investigation into fentanyl trafficking in and around the Lord Phillips Apartments in New Bedford, Arias was identified as fentanyl distributors in the area. A search of Arias’ residence, as well as an apartment that was being used as a stash location and two storage units rented on behalf of Arias’s co-conspirator, Yohenry Contreras-Lara, resulted in the recovery of more than several hundred grams of fentanyl and $1.2 million in cash in suspected drug proceeds.

    Contreras-Lara pleaded guilty in November 2024 and is scheduled to be sentenced on March 3, 2025.

    United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; Stephen Belleau, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration, New England Field Division; and Bradley Parker, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Social Security Administration, Office of Inspector General, Office of Investigations, Boston Field Division made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the Bristol County District Attorney’s Office and the New Bedford Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Evan Panich of the Narcotics & Money Laundering Unit is prosecuting the case.
     

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Jury finds local man guilty of crimes involving 2 local drug-related murders

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    CINCINNATI – A jury found a local man guilty on all counts for crimes related to two murders in Cincinnati during the summer of 2021. 

    Jamal Binford, 33, of Dallas and Cincinnati, was convicted of five counts as charged in a second superseding indictment. The verdict was announced yesterday afternoon following a trial that began on Jan. 15 before Senior U.S. District Judge Michael R. Barrett.

    According to court documents and trial testimony, Binford purported to manage two co-defendants as boxers, presenting himself as a boxing manager helping young men he wanted to help off the streets. Instead, he directed them to sell fentanyl and marijuana and, after assisting the coconspirators following one murder, he directed a second murder.

    Co-defendants Antwan Coach, Jr., 22, of Cincinnati, and Markel Hardy, 23, of Cincinnati, robbed and murdered Kamar Williams on July 5, 2021, in North College Hill. It is alleged Coach and Hardy robbed Mr. Williams of marijuana and a firearm and shot him to death.

    In August 2021, all three defendants conspired to murder a second victim, Deonte Nuckols, in St. Bernard in connection with a narcotics conspiracy involving 400 grams or more of fentanyl and five kilograms or more of cocaine.

    As the government outlined at trial, Binford paid the two other men to kill Mr. Nuckols, who had had been texting Binford that day about Binford paying a drug debt.

    Binford was arrested in February 2023 at the Dallas Fort Worth International Airport.

    The narcotics conspiracy in this case includes 400 grams or more of fentanyl, five kilograms or more of cocaine, and 100 kilograms or more of marijuana.

    Binford faces a mandatory minimum prison sentence of 20 years and up to life in prison for participating in the narcotics conspiracy, being an accessory after the fact, murder in connection with the drug trafficking conspiracy, use of a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, and use of a firearm to commit murder.

    Kenneth L. Parker, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Ohio; Daryl S. McCormick, Special Agent in Charge, U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives (ATF); Cincinnati Police Chief Teresa A. Theetge; North College Hill Police Chief Ryan Schrand; and St. Bernard Police Chief Michael Simos announced the verdicts. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs of the Department’s Criminal Division also aided during the investigation.

    Assistant United States Attorneys Ashley N. Brucato and OCDETF Deputy Criminal Chief Frederic C. Shadley represented the United States in this case.

    # # #

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Mexican National Sentenced for Illegal Re-Entry by a Removed Alien

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    NEW ORLEANS – MAURILIO JASTINTO-JUAREZ (“JASTINTO-JUAREZ”), age 50, a citizen  of Mexico, was sentenced on  January 27, 2025 for illegal reentry by a removed alien, in violation of Title 8, United States Code, Section 1326(a), announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.  He was sentenced to (6) six months imprisonment, (1) one year of supervised release and a $100.00 mandatory special assessment fee. 

    According to court documents, JASTINTO-JUAREZ, illegally reentered the United States after being previously removed on December 16, 2022.  JASTINTO-JUAREZ was discovered in the United States when the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) systems became alerted to his presence via the collection of his  fingerprints by the Louisiana State Police (“LSP”).  The LSP obtained his fingerprints subsequent to their arrest of him for driving while intoxicated in Houma, La. on March 17, 2024.

    U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement, the Louisiana State Police, and the Terrebonne Sherriff’s Office in investigating this matter. Assistant U.S. Attorney Carter K.D. Guice, Jr. of the General Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.

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