NewzIntel.com

Category: Security Intelligence

  • MIL-OSI Security: New Jersey Man Pleads Guilty to Conspiracy Charge Related to Videos Depicting Monkey Torture and Mutilation

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

    CINCINNATI – A New Jersey man pleaded guilty in federal court in Cincinnati today to conspiracy related to his involvement with online groups dedicated to creating and distributing “animal crush” videos depicting acts of extreme violence and sexual abuse against monkeys.

    According to court documents, Giancarlo Morelli, of Wharton, conspired with others to create and distribute videos depicting acts of sadistic violence against baby and adult monkeys. The conspirators used encrypted chat applications to direct money to individuals in Indonesia willing to commit the requested acts of torture on camera. 

    According to a statement of facts signed by Morelli, the videos in question included depictions of monkeys having their genitals burned and cut off.

    U.S. Attorney Kenneth L. Parker for the Southern District of Ohio made today’s announcement.

    The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and FBI investigated the case.

    Senior Trial Attorney Adam C. Cullman of the Justice Department’s Environmental Crimes Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Timothy Oakley for the Southern District of Ohio are prosecuting the case.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: PCP Trafficker Sentenced to 65 Months in Federal Prison

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

                WASHINGTON – Kelvin Sanker Jr., 42, of Washington D.C., was sentenced today in U.S. District Court to 65 months in federal prison for his participation in a major fentanyl and PCP trafficking ring that operated in Washington, D.C.

                The sentence was announced by U.S. Attorney Edward R. Martin, Jr., FBI Special Agent in Charge Sean Ryan of the Washington Field Office Criminal and Cyber Division.

               Sanker pleaded guilty October 22, 2024, before U.S. District Court Judge Dabney L. Friedrich, to one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute Phencyclidine (PCP). As part of the four-member conspiracy, between August 2023 and February 2024, Sanker assisted in the preparation, storage, and sale of approximately two kilograms of PCP to two undercover officers. In addition to the 65-month prison-term, Judge Friedrich ordered Sanker to serve five years of supervised release. 

              According to court documents, Sanker supplied the PCP for at least seven sales of the illegal drug to undercover officers. Sanker stored the PCP at the home he shared with his elderly mother in a residential area of Washington, D.C. He prepared it for sale by placing it in 8 or 16 oz. water bottles or juice bottles. He then distributed it to his co-conspirators for further sale.

                On March 6, 2024, FBI and DEA agents executed search warrants on five residences associated with the conspiracy including Sanker’s home where law enforcement found approximately 1 pound of marijuana, about $1,000 in cash, body armor, and a Glock gun box with two empty magazines and one 30-round extended magazine. In Sanker’s backyard, officers found trace amounts of PCP in a paint can, his patio littered with cans of starter fluid, a substance he used to cut pure PCP prior to distribution, plastic funnels used for pouring liquids, and empty water bottles — materials often used to prepare and store PCP for distribution. On Sanker’s phone, investigators found photographs of the paint can with the PCP residue, a Draco semi-automatic pistol similar to the one found in a co-defendant’s car, and other apparent firearms.

                Sanker was arrested on April 17, 2024, and has been held since.

              Co-conspirator Jamar Bennett, 45, was sentenced on January 15, 2025, to 121 months in prison for conspiracy to distribute one kilogram or more of PCP, and for being a felon in possession of a firearm.  Co-defendant Lamont M. Langston, 44, pleaded guilty December 19, 2024, to conspiracy to distribute one kilogram or more of PCP and for being a felon in possession of a firearm. Langston’s sentencing is pending. A third co-conspirator, Norman Morris, 44, is being held pending trial. 

               This investigation is part of Washington/Baltimore High Intensity Drug Trafficking (HIDTA) Washington Area Group Initiative, which seeks to identify, disrupt, and dismantle drug trafficking organizations and money laundering organizations; reduce drug-related crime and violence; and identify and respond to emerging drug trends.

               The case is being investigated by FBI. It is being prosecuted by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Adam Stempel and Assistant U.S. Attorney Peter V. Roman of the Violence Reduction and Trafficking Offenses Section (VRTO).

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  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Marshals Arrest 18-Year-Old Wanted for Richmond Heights Homicide

    Source: US Marshals Service

    Cleveland, OH – Today, members of the U.S. Marshals led, Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force (NOVFTF) arrested Keyon Stephens, 18. Stephens was wanted by the Richmond Heights Police Department for aggravated murder.

    According to the Richmond Heights Police Department, on September 7, 2024, officers were dispatched to an address on the 100 block of Ruth Ellen Drive for a shooting. When officers arrived, they found 29-year-old Dewon Que’Shawn Lee deceased in the parking lot of the apartments from gunshot wounds.

    18-year-old Keyon Stephens was identified as a suspect in this shooting incident and a warrant was issued for his arrest. This morning, members of the NOVFTF arrested Stephens at a residence located in the 800 block of Ruple Road, Cleveland, Ohio.

    U.S. Marshal Pete Elliott stated, “Our task force continues to have a strong partnership with the Richmond Heights Police Department. Today was another example of our partnership leading to the arrest of a wanted, violent fugitive.”

    Anyone with information concerning any wanted fugitive can contact the Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force at 1-866-4WANTED (1-866-492-6833), or you can submit a web tip. Reward money is available, and tipsters may remain anonymous.  Follow the U.S. Marshals on Twitter @USMSCleveland.

    The Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force – Cleveland Division is composed of the following federal, state and local agencies:  U.S. Marshals Service, Cleveland Police Department, Cuyahoga County Sheriff’s Office, Cuyahoga Metropolitan Housing Authority Police Department, Euclid Police Department, Ohio Adult Parole Authority, Ohio State Highway Patrol, Independence Police Department, Parma Police Department, Aurora Police Department, Solon Police Department, Cleveland RTA Police Department, Westlake Police Department, Bedford Police Department, Middleburg Heights Police Department, Newburgh Heights Police Department and the Metrohealth Police Department. 

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  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Attorney’s Office, FBI, and USMS Disrupt Contraband Operation at Cibola County Correctional Center with Arrest

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

    ALBUQUERQUE – Federal law enforcement arrested two Albuquerque men on Tuesday after executing search warrants that uncovered a significant cache of weapons, drugs, and evidence of an ongoing drug trafficking operation linked to the Cibola County Correctional Center.

    According to court records, Michael “Gomer” Ernest Garcia, 46, was arrested on outstanding federal and state warrants. A second man, Eric Edwards, 36, was taken into custody on a state warrant.

    Garcia was the final defendant sought in connection with an investigation into a conspiracy involving both incarcerated and non-incarcerated individuals who formed a drug trafficking network that was introducing contraband into the Cibola County Correctional Center in Milan, NM.

    During the operation, authorities seized weapons and illegal substances from Garcia’s residence, including:

    • Sixteen firearms, among them one pistol with a machine gun conversion device, five AR-15 rifles, two AR-15 pistols, and one AK-47 rifle
    • More than two dozen high-capacity magazines
    • Hundreds of rounds of ammunition in various calibers
    • Controlled substances including methamphetamine and heroin

    Garcia had been evading law enforcement for over two years and was featured on the “METRO 15” wanted poster.

    U.S. Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez, Raul Bujanda, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office, and David Barnett, U.S. Marshal for the District of New Mexico, made the announcement today.

    The FBI Albuquerque Division Violent Gang Task Force (VGTF) and United States Marshals Service jointly investigated this case with assistance from the CoreCivic Intelligence Unit and the New Mexico State Police. Assistant United States Attorneys Paul Mysliwiec and David Hirsch are prosecuting the case.

    The VGTF is an FBI led task force comprising of agents and officers from the New Mexico State Police, Rio Rancho Police Department, Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office, and the Albuquerque Police Department.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Monessen Resident Sentenced to Two Decades in Prison for Production of Material Depicting the Sexual Exploitation of a Minor

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

    PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A former resident of Monessen, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 20 years in prison, to be followed by 10 years of supervised release, on his conviction of production of material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

    United States District Judge Christy Criswell Wiegand imposed the sentence on Stefan Sweeney, 36.

    According to information presented to the Court, Sweeney produced a video depicting the sexual exploitation of a 13-year-old girl.

    In imposing the sentence, Judge Wiegand stated that a 20-year term of imprisonment reflected a balance between the defendant’s acceptance of responsibility and the serious nature of his crimes.

    Assistant United States Attorney DeMarr Moulton prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

    Acting United States Attorney Rivetti commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation; Kennedy Township Police Department; Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, and other local police departments for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Sweeney.

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

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Dartmouth — Nova Scotia RCMP Collision and Reconstruction Service interview on seatbelt use

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Cpl. Ford and Cpl. Durette of the RCMP’s Collision and Reconstruction Service recently sat down with CBC to discuss their role in investigating collisions and the impact of vehicle occupants failing to wear seatbelts.

    https://www.cbc.ca/player/play/video/9.6621874

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Multiple Defendants Indicted or Sentenced on Federal Immigration Charges

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – Recently, the federal grand jury in the Northern District of Alabama has indicted several people for illegal reentry after deportation and/or being an alien in possession of a firearm.  Others have been sentenced to federal prison or await further proceedings after pleading guilty to federal immigration-connected charges.

    “Keeping our communities safe is our top priority,” said U.S. Attorney Prim Escalona. “My office is focused on prosecuting individuals who are in our country illegally, especially those who engage in federal crimes. We will continue to work with our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners to ensure that individuals who commit these crimes are held accountable.”

    “The charges and sentences announced today highlight the importance of pursuing criminals who violate our nation’s immigration laws and threaten public safety,” said Steven N. Schrank, Special Agent in Charge of HSI Atlanta that covers Alabama and Georgia. “HSI and our partners remain steadfast in identifying, arresting, and prosecuting illegal aliens who engage in criminal activity, unlawfully possess firearms or commit violence across our communities.”

    Those indicted in November, December, and January include:

    • Elbio Byron Cuz-Chub, 22, of Guatemala, who was charged with being an alien in possession of a firearm;
    • Edgar Bayardo Madriz-Morales, 64, of Nicaragua, who was charged with illegal reentry after deportation;
    • Jorge Campos-Xochihua, 31, of Mexico, who was charged with being an alien in possession of a firearm; and
    • Abraham Lopez-Ramirez, 48, of Mexico, who was charged with illegal reentry after deportation.

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

    Several other defendants recently have been adjudicated on federal immigration-related charges.  Those include:

    • Juan Manuel Salas-Sanchez, 43, of Mexico, who was sentenced to 135 months in prison after pleading guilty to possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute and being an alien in possession of a firearm;
    • Marvin Ernesto Clemente, 38, of El Salvador, who was sentenced to 36 months in prison after pleading guilty to illegal re-entry after deportation;
    • Raul Edgardo Jimenez-Cruz, 38, of Honduras, who was sentenced to 24 months in prison after pleading guilty to possession of cocaine with intent to distribute and illegal reentry after deportation;
    • Jesus Daniel Bibiano-Ruiz, 28, of Mexico, who was sentenced to 12 months in prison after pleading guilty to being an alien in possession of a firearm;
    • Alvaro Amezcua-Gonzalez, 48, of Mexico, who was sentenced to 10 months in prison after pleading guilty to being an alien in possession of a firearm; and
    • Clemente Aguilera-Castaneda, 55, of Mexico, who pleaded guilty to illegal reentry after deportation. A sentencing hearing is scheduled for February 18, 2025.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys from the Northern District of Alabama will provide regular training to attorneys, federal agents, and state and local law enforcement partners to assist them in investigating and prosecuting immigration offenses in federal court.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Local man arrested for failing to pay employment taxes

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    HOUSTON – A federal grand jury has returned an indictment against a local company owner for failing to file employment tax returns and failing to pay over taxes his company withheld from employee paychecks, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei and Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General for Criminal Matters Karen Kelly of the Justice Department’s Tax Division.

    Joseth Limon is expected to make his initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Christina A. Bryan at 2 p.m.

    According to the indictment, Limon allegedly owned Platinum Employment Group Inc., a company that supplied laborers to businesses in the Houston area. The indictment alleges that between 2016 and 2018, Platinum paid its employees over $3.5 million and withheld over $450,000 from their paychecks. During that period, however, Limon allegedly failed to pay to the IRS the employment taxes that Platinum withheld from its employees’ paychecks and failed to file any employment tax returns on behalf of Platinum.

    If convicted, Limon faces a maximum penalty of five years in prison and up to a $250,000 possible fine.  

    IRS Criminal Investigation conducted the investigation.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Shirin Hakimzadeh and Trial Attorney Curtis Weidler of the Department of Justice’s Tax Division are prosecuting the case.

    An indictment is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence. A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Guilty Verdict in Cook County Armed Drug Trafficking Conspiracy Trial

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    VALDOSTA, Ga. – The head of an armed drug trafficking organization (DTO) based out of Cook County, Georgia, and two co-conspirators were found guilty this week of numerous federal charges following a two-and-a-half-week trial in Valdosta.

    Calvin James Smith, Sr., aka “Rollo,” 56, of Adel, Georgia, was found guilty of all 23 counts he was charged with in the 44-count indictment: one count of conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances; 14 counts of distribution of methamphetamine; one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine; two counts of distribution of cocaine base; one count of possession with intent to distribute cocaine; one count of attempt to possess with intent to distribute cocaine; one count of possession with intent to distribute marijuana; one count of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon; and one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. Smith is facing a maximum of life in prison.

    Bobby Leon Kaiser, 54, of Adel, was found guilty of nine of 12 counts he was charged with: one count of conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances; two counts of distribution of methamphetamine; five counts of distribution of cocaine base; and one count of distribution of cocaine. Kaiser is facing a maximum of life in prison.

    Vernardo Henley, 44, of Valdosta, was found guilty of one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances. Henley is facing a maximum of life in prison.

    The trial began on Monday, Jan. 13, and concluded on Wednesday evening, Jan. 29. Senior U.S. District Judge W. Louis Sands presided over the cases. Sentencing dates will be determined by the Court. There is no parole in the federal system.

    “Federal, state and local law enforcement marshaled significant resources to stop the distribution of a large amount of deadly illegal drugs from a small town in South Georgia. Our dedicated trial team worked tirelessly to hold the leader and his co-conspirators accountable for their crimes,” said Acting U.S. Attorney C. Shanelle Booker. “Armed drug trafficking organizations have no place in our communities, and we will continue working together to make Middle Georgia safer for everyone.”

    “The success of this large-scale investigation and the arrests of these drug dealers demonstrates the FBI’s commitment to fighting the drug trafficking organizations responsible for driving addiction and destroying communities,” said FBI Atlanta Supervisory Senior Resident Agent Rich Bilson.

    “Today’s verdict sends a clear message that criminal organizations operating in Georgia, especially those trafficking in dangerous drugs and using firearms to further their operations, will be held accountable,” said GBI Director Chris Hosey. “This conviction is a testament to the tireless work of our law enforcement partners, who have dedicated countless hours to ensuring that those who threaten our communities with violence and illegal substances will face justice.”

    “Investigations and prosecutions like this one are great examples of the ongoing effort between local agencies and our federal partners to disrupt the flow of illegal narcotics into our communities,” said Hahira Police Chief Stryde Jones. “We are thankful to see this effort come to a close successfully.”

    According to court documents and statements referenced in court, the FBI undertook a significant investigation beginning as early as December 2020 of an armed drug trafficking organization (DTO) led by Smith and centered in Adel, a small town in South Georgia. During the course of the investigation, agents determined that Smith and Kaiser were distributing large quantities of methamphetamine and crack cocaine, as well as marijuana, working with several associates. Kaiser and others were operating an open drug market at Kaiser’s gazebo and storage shed in Adel, where Smith was a major seller. Henley was released from federal prison on Jan. 20, 2022, and was heard over wiretap trying to locate Smith and purchase up to four kilograms of methamphetamine and sell the drugs. Beginning in Oct. 2021 and continuing through Nov. 10, 2022, agents developed confidential sources (CS) who provided information regarding drug activity at the gazebo and storage shed and conducted more than 25 controlled evidence purchases of methamphetamine and crack cocaine. As part of a wiretap, agents discovered 13 locations used by the DTO. Search warrants were executed at these locations on Nov. 10, 2022, and methamphetamine, cocaine, crack cocaine, fentanyl, marijuana and 15 handguns and rifles were seized. Agents recovered more than five kilograms of pure methamphetamine, more than ten pounds of marijuana and several hundred grams of crack cocaine and cocaine.

    Smith was recorded hundreds of times discussing purchases and sales of methamphetamine, cocaine and marijuana, and directing others to distribute the drugs. Smith has a lengthy criminal history including aggravated assault, illegal possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and controlled substance distribution. Henley has many prior convictions including a 2015 conviction in the Middle District of Georgia for possession with intent to distribute controlled substances and illegal possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. Kaiser has prior felony convictions, including false imprisonment and drug possession.

    This case was investigated by the FBI, the Georgia Bureau of Investigations (GBI), the Hahira Police Department, with assistance from the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Cook County Sheriff’s Office, the Lowndes County Sheriff’s Office, the Adel Police Department and the Moultrie Police Department.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Monica Daniels and Robert McCullers are prosecuting the case for the Government.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Grove Man Sentenced After Stealing Identity of Deceased Friend

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    TULSA, Okla. – Today, U.S. District Judge John F. Heil, III, sentenced Terry Ross Killion, 43, for committing Aggravated Identity Theft. Judge Heil ordered Killion to serve 24 months imprisonment, followed by one year of supervised release. Additionally, Judge Heil ordered Killion to pay $116,763 in restitution.

    In 2019, Killion obtained the identifiers of his deceased friend, Kelly Davis, and began impersonating him. Killion set up several accounts in Davis’s name and contacted the Social Security Administration, claiming to be Kelly Davis. Killion then fraudulently diverted the payments to himself.    

    Killion will remain in custody pending transfer to the U.S. Bureau of Prisons.

    The Social Security Administration Office of the Inspector General – Dallas Kansas City Field Division investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney George Jiang prosecuted the case.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News: Carl Vinson Carrier Strike Group Departs Thailand

    Source: United States Navy

    The U.S. relationship with Thailand is one of the oldest in the Indo-Pacific region. The countries have shared friendly and diplomatic relations for over 190 years. Thailand is one of five treaty allies of the U.S. in the Indo-Pacific Region and continues to be a longstanding security partner and leader in Southeast Asia.

    “We are incredibly grateful to Thailand for hosting the Carrier Strike Group ONE team,” said Rear Adm. Michael Wosje, commander, Carrier Strike Group ONE. “Port visits like this are a testament to the vital importance of the U.S.-Thailand Alliance and Partnership that contributes to peace, stability, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region. We have shared history, shared interests, and common values that will continue to unite us for the good of both of our countries.”

    The U.S. remains committed to the Kingdom of Thailand, promoting military-to-military relations, as well as advancing interoperability and coordination with the Royal Thai Armed Forces, to promote regional security and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

    “Thank you, Rear Admiral Michael Wosje and the captains and crew of the USS Carl Vinson and other ships of Carrier Strike Group ONE, for your visit to Thailand! Your time here reinforced the excellent relations between Thailand and the United States and our shared commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific. We look forward to future visits,” said U.S. Ambassador to Thailand, Robert F. Godec.

    During their stay in Thailand, the nearly 7,500 Sailors from Carrier Strike Group ONE participated in cultural exchanges, community relations events, and Morale, Welfare and Recreation sponsored tours to enhance cultural understanding and cooperation between the two countries.

    “I know I can speak for all of the Carl Vinson crew when I say how grateful we are to the people of Laem Chabang and Pattaya City for welcoming our Sailors with such kindness and hospitality,” said Capt. Matthew Thomas, commanding officer, USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70). “This port visit allowed our Sailors the opportunity to recharge and prepare to approach the next stretch of our time at sea maintaining a free and open Indo-Pacific. We are committed to the U.S.-Thai friendship and look forward to future opportunities that strengthen this bond.”

    The Carl Vinson Carrier Strike Group consists of USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70), embarked staffs of Carrier Strike Group ONE and Destroyer Squadron one, Carrier Air Wing Two, Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Princeton (CG 59) and Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyers USS Sterett (DDG 104) and USS William P. Lawrence (DDG 110). Carrier Air Wing Two is composed of nine squadrons flying the F-35C Lightning II, F/A-18E/F Super Hornets, EA-18G Growler, E-2D Advanced Hawkeye, CMV-22 Osprey and MH-60R/S Seahawks.

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

    For more news from Carrier Strike Group ONE and Carl Vinson visit: https://www.dvidshub.net/unit/CSG1, https://www.dvidshub.net/unit/CVN70

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News: Naval District Washington Prepares for Citadel Shield-Solid Curtain 2025

    Source: United States Navy

    Naval Support Activity (NSA) Washington, NSA Bethesda, NSA Annapolis, NSA South Potomac, and Naval Air Station Patuxent River, will participate in the yearly, two-part anti-terrorism and force protection exercise designed to test the effectiveness of the installations readiness and training programs.

    “Citadel Shield-Solid Curtain 2025 is an important exercise that ensures our security forces are at peak readiness to respond to evolving threats,” said Rob Shaffer, Security Director Naval District Washington. “We train the way we fight, and this exercise allows us to refine our procedures, strengthen our decision-making, and enhance coordination with partner agencies, ultimately protecting our most valuable asset – our people.”

    During the first week of February 3 – 7, emergency responders on Navy installations will engage in Citadel Shield. Throughout the week, the field training will focus on the installation level with various scenarios such as an active shooter, unauthorized base access, suspicious packages, and unmanned aerial surveillance.

    “The Navy is committed to being a good neighbor, and the safety of our personnel and the surrounding community is our top priority,” said Shaffer. “While Citadel Shield-Solid Curtain 2025 may lead to increased activity around our installations, we are working to minimize disruptions. This exercise reinforces the importance of a proactive force protection mindset for all Navy personnel, ensuring we are ready to respond to any potential threat while also allowing our Sailors to hone their skills and maintain the highest level of readiness.”

    The second week of February (the 10th through the 14th) is the Solid Curtain portion of the exercise, which will focus on various national-level scenarios. During this week, base force protection conditions or FPCON levels will change daily with training evolutions. Some scenarios may cause irregular traffic patterns or gate hours on the installations.

    Installation personnel can obtain essential notifications during CS/SC25 by registering for the Wide Area Alert Network (WAAN). Personnel should also familiarize themselves with their command or tenant command anti-terrorism plan to know what to expect during the exercise.

    Register for the WAAN at https://ndw.cnic.navy.mil/waan/

    To keep up with all things NDW, follow our socials at https://www.facebook.com/NavDistWash, https://www.instagram.com/navdistwash/

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Air Force Wargaming Institute hosts tabletop exercise for the Department Level Exercise series 2025

    Source: United States Air Force

    The Department Level Exercise series, part of the DAF’s Reoptimization for GPC, is the integration of several disparate major command exercises, intended to synchronize and evolve operations to deter competitor aggression where able, and to defeat threats to national security when necessary.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Colchester County — Colchester County District RCMP charge man wanted on province-wide arrest warrant after he flees police

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    At approximately 10 a.m. on January 30,Colchester County District RCMP observed a vehicle in Lower Truro associated to a man who was wanted in relation to intimate partner violence related offences, and who has pending charges for multiple firearms offences.

    Officers attempted a traffic stop on Hwy. 236 in Lower Truro. The vehicle didn’t stop and continued at a high rate of speed. Officers followed the vehicle. The RCMP Emergency Response Team (ERT) and Nova Scotia Department of Natural Resources and Renewables (DNRR) air services were called in to assist.

    Responding officers deployed spike belts on Hwy. 236 then on Hwy. 215 in East Hants to stop the vehicle. The suspect vehicle was damaged but was able to continue fleeing police.

    From Hwy. 215, the suspect vehicle accessed the shoulder of Hwy. 102 then traveled northbound in the southbound lanes. With the assistance of DNRR air services, the vehicle was observed attempting to turn around and head south in the southbound lane.

    At this time, the vehicle was intercepted on Hwy. 102 between Exit 11 and Exit 12 by the RCMP ERT and Police Dog Services. Officers safely arrested the driver, 38-year-old Stephen Joseph “Dakota” Maloney, and the passenger.

    Officers learned the passenger was a victim; they were released from custody. Maloney reported minor injuries and was transported to hospital by EHS.

    “We understand how unsettling it must’ve been for those travelling along Hwy. 102 and witnessed the suspect vehicle driving erratically in the wrong direction,” says Supt. Sean Auld, Officer in Charge of Support Services. “Our officers continually assessed the situation from a public safety perspective, and working in collaboration with DNRR, officers relied on their training to safely stop the vehicle and arrest the offender.”

    Maloney has been charged with:

    • Flight from Peace Officer
    • Dangerous Operation
    • Operation While Prohibited
    • Forcible Confinement
    • Failure to Comply with Order

    He appeared in Truro Provincial Court on January 30 and was remanded into custody pending future court appearances.

    The investigation, led by the Colchester County District RCMP with assistance of RCMP Police Dog Services, is ongoing.

    Anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact Colchester County District RCMP at 902-893-6820. To remain to remain anonymous, call Nova Scotia Crime Stoppers, toll-free, at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), submit a secure web tip at www.crimestoppers.ns.ca, or use the P3 Tips app.

    File # 2025-134744

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Four week firearms amnesty to take lethal convertible guns off the streets

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    A firearms amnesty will get underway on Monday after new evidence emerged about the potentially lethal risk posed by a particular type of blank firing gun.

    The guns, known as ‘top-venting blank firers’ (TVBFs), are manufactured in Turkey. In their original form they pose little risk, but in recent years an increasing number have been converted and have been used in serious violence.

    Since 2021, more than 800 have been recovered in criminal circumstances across the UK.

    A converted TVBF was used in the fatal shooting of 20-year-old Sebastiaan James-Kraan in Ealing in June 2024.

    Three people charged in connection with Sebastiaan’s murder will stand trial in April.

    While no gun was ever recovered, forensic analysis indicates that a TVBF was also used in the fatal shooting of 17-year-old Tyler McDermott in Tottenham in April 2023.

    In June, four people were found guilty of Tyler’s murder.

    TVBFs can be handed in at police stations across London from Monday, 3 February until Friday, 28 February.

    This is part of a national amnesty taking place across the country over the same period.

    Detective Superintendent Tim Mustoe, from the Met’s Specialist Crime Command, said: “We are increasingly concerned about the risk posed by these weapons if they fall into the hands of criminals and those intent on causing serious violence on the streets of London.

    “We’ve already seen their lethal potential in at least two cases here in London. We know they’ve also been used in many other non-fatal incidents too.

    “The majority of top venting blank firers in circulation were bought lawfully by people with no ill intent. However we now know what can happen if they’re converted to do harm which is why it’s important that we recover as many as we can.

    “I would urge anyone who has one of these weapons at home to do the responsible thing and hand it in at a police station. They will not face police action for possession of the gun at the point of surrender if they do so during the amnesty, but if they choose not to do so now and are found to have one of these guns at a later date, then the consequences will be quite different.”

    TVBFs are legal to buy in the UK without a licence, unless they are readily convertible.

    Tests by the National Crime Agency and police forces show models produced by four Turkish manufacturers – Retay, Ekol, Ceonic and Blow – are readily convertible and are therefore illegal.

    Anyone found to be in possession of one, after the amnesty period, could face up to 10 years’ imprisonment.

    During the Amnesty period, those handing in a Turkish manufactured TVBF will not face prosecution for the illegal possession and will not have to give their details.

    However, the weapons will be examined to determine if they’ve previously been used in serious violence or other criminality.

    Assistant Chief Constable Tim Metcalfe, the National Police Chiefs’ Council Lead for the Criminal Use of Firearms, said: “The top-venting blank firers are used by criminals and can be converted into lethal firearms.

    “During the last two years, policing and the NCA have identified and disrupted several workshops used to convert these pistols into lethal weapons.

    “In the same period, large numbers of converted weapons were recovered across multiple locations, alongside thousands of rounds of blank calibre and modified ammunition.

    “One investigation recovered more than 400 converted weapons from a single crime group. There is a strong demand for them evidenced by the numbers imported and subsequent recovery from criminals.

    “Stopping the sale of these top-venting blank firers from being converted will go a significant way to help protect the public.”

    While TVBFs can be handed in at any police station during the amnesty, the Met is asking people to aim to go to one of these stations:

    • Edmonton
    • Chingford
    • Colindale
    • Wembley
    • Islington
    • Stoke Newington
    • Bethnal Green
    • Ilford
    • Lewisham
    • Bexleyheath
    • Croydon
    • Bromley
    • Kingston
    • Brixton
    • Acton
    • Charing Cross
    • Hammersmith

    Anyone intending to hand in a TVBF as part of the amnesty is encouraged to check the opening times of the relevant station on the Met Police website. To receive advice on how best to transport the weapon responsibly from home to the police station, phone 101 before travelling.

    If you know of people involved in illegal firearms activity, you should call the police on 101 or report the information to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

    Every call to Crimestoppers is anonymous and potentially vital to preventing or solving serious crimes. Removing an illegally held firearm from circulation may just save someone’s life.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Houston Man Indicted for Employment Tax Crimes

    Source: United States Attorneys General 8

    A federal grand jury in Houston returned an indictment today charging a Texas man with not paying to the IRS taxes that his company withheld from employees’ paychecks.  

    According to the indictment, Joseth Limon, of Harris County, allegedly owned Platinum Employment Group Inc., a company that supplied laborers to businesses in the Houston area. The indictment alleges that between 2016 and 2018, Platinum paid its employees over $3.5 million in wages and withheld over $450,000 in taxes from their paychecks. During that period, however, Limon allegedly did not pay the IRS those withheld taxes and did not file any employment tax returns, as required by law.

    If convicted, Limon faces a maximum penalty of five years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Karen E. Kelly of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei for the Southern District of Texas made the announcement.

    IRS Criminal Investigation is investigating the case.

    Trial Attorney Curtis Weidler of the Tax Division and Assistant U.S. Attorney Shirin Hakimzadeh for the Southern District of Texas are prosecuting the case.

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

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  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Attorney’s Office Collects Over $39 Million in Civil and Criminal Actions in Fiscal Year 2024

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    SYRACUSE, NEW YORK – United States Attorney Carla B. Freedman announced today that the Northern District of New York’s Asset Recovery Unit collected $39,262,324 in civil, criminal and forfeiture actions in Fiscal Year 2024. Of this amount, $14,085,025 was collected in criminal actions, $15,874,944 was collected in civil actions, and $9,302,354 was collected in asset forfeiture actions. 

    The Northern District of New York also worked with other U.S. Attorney’s Offices and components of the Department of Justice to collect an additional $18,995,733 in cases pursued jointly by these offices. Of this amount, $39,092 was collected in criminal actions and $18,956,641 was collected in civil actions.    

    The U.S. Attorneys’ Offices, along with the Department’s litigating divisions, are responsible for enforcing and collecting civil and criminal debts owed to the United States and criminal debts owed to federal crime victims. The law requires defendants to pay restitution to victims of certain federal crimes who have suffered a physical injury or financial loss. While restitution is paid to the victim, criminal fines and felony assessments are paid to the Department’s Crime Victims Fund, which distributes the funds collected to federal and state victim compensation and victim assistance programs.

    Additionally, forfeited assets deposited into the Department of Justice Assets Forfeiture Fund can be used to restore funds to crime victims and for a variety of law enforcement purposes.  In Fiscal Year 2024, $8,330,553 of the funds forfeited in prior years through criminal and civil judicial forfeiture actions in the Northern District of New York were applied to victim compensation. 

    United States Attorney Carla Freedman stated: “These are great results – every recovery of funds strikes a blow for justice. I created the Asset Recovery Unit shortly after I took office in 2021, and I am incredibly proud of its efforts to make sure that crime does not pay, that crime victims are compensated as much as possible, and that companies pay appropriately steep penalties when they defraud the government.”

    In May, $11.3 million was recovered as part of a civil settlement in United States ex rel. Elevation 33, LLC v. Guidehouse, Inc. and Nan McKay and Associates, for violations of the False Claims Act, for failing to meet cybersecurity requirements in a federally funded contract intended to ensure a secure online environment for low-income New Yorkers to apply for federal rental assistance during the COVID-19 pandemic.  Guidehouse and its subcontractor, Nan McKay and Associates, admitted as part of a settlement agreement that neither satisfied their obligation to complete the required testing of the web site used to house applicants’ information, and the site was shut down within 12 hours after certain applicants’ personally identifiable information had been compromised.

    In February, the Northern District of New York restored $4,950,440 in funds forfeited from Richard J. Sherwood and Thomas K. Lagan, who were sentenced to both federal and state prison for stealing approximately $11.8 million from the estates of three sisters who died.  These funds were initially forfeited by the government through its criminal prosecutions of Sherwood and Lagan, and were restored in 2024 to the victims of the fraud by the Attorney General and the Money Laundering and Asset Recovery Section of the United States Department of Justice.  The victims include churches, Ukrainian-American civic organizations, a local hospital and a local university scholarship fund. 

    In September, the U.S. Attorney’s Office recovered $1 million from Derek R. Schwartz, who was sentenced this summer to 72 months in prison for conspiring with former ValueWise CEO Michael T. Mann to defraud companies that loaned millions of dollars to ValueWise subsidiaries.  These funds will be distributed to two financing companies that were victims of a sophisticated, years-long scheme.

    The Asset Recovery Unit is an initiative that works to deprive criminals of the proceeds of crimes, recovers property that may be used toward restitution, and enforces collection of criminal and civil debts owed to the United States or to victims of federal crimes.  The Asset Recovery Unit is comprised of Assistant United States Attorneys Lisa Fletcher, Elizabeth Conger and Melissa Rothbart, Paralegals Joshua Goodfriend, Marianne Meigs, Carly Clay, Erin Hyatt, Jiselle Cabezas, and Teilor Kaiser Clarey, and Investigative Analyst Jason Babiarz.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Guatemalan National Sentenced for Conspiracy and Illegal Reentry

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    PROVIDENCE –  A twice-deported Guatemalan national, described in court documents as being “the most consistent member” of an organized group of individuals that repeatedly stole high-end construction equipment, building supplies, and clothing from national retailer’s stores has been sentenced to 30 months in federal prison, after which he will be deported, having been convicted on charges of conspiracy to commit interstate transportation of stolen property and illegal re-entry into the United States, announced United States Attorney Zachary A. Cunha.

    As described in court proceedings, Marvin Estuardo Morales De Paz, 30, of Cranston, was one of as many as a dozen members of a Rhode Island-based conspiracy of individuals who traveled to home improvement and clothing stores in at least five states to commit thefts, then transported the stolen merchandise to Rhode Island to sell. Morales was present for nearly every theft and set prices for, and directed sales of, the stolen items.

    According to information presented to the court, the ring was involved in at least 35 documented thefts in Rhode Island, Massachusetts, Connecticut, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey. It is estimated that members of the conspiracy stole more than $280,000 worth of merchandise. Tens of thousands of dollars’ worth of stolen goods was recovered from Morales’s residence when he was arrested on April 11, 2024.

    Morales was sentenced today by U.S. District Court Senior Judge William E. Smith to 30 months of incarceration to be followed by one year of supervised release. Morales will be turned over to ICE and faces deportation upon completion of his term of incarceration.

    The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney John P. McAdams.

    The matter was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations agents in Providence, with the assistance of HSI agents in Boston, and Allentown, Pennsylvania, and the Providence, Coventry, Warwick, Smithfield, and Johnston, RI Police Departments; Boston, Norwood, Bellingham, Marlboro, Seekonk, Avon, Auburn, MA Police Departments; Montville and Fairfield, CT Police Departments; and the Parkesburg, Downingtown, Lebanon, Wyomissing, and Reading, PA, Police Departments; Nashua, NH Police Department; and Marlboro, NJ Police Department.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Pittsburgh Resident Sentenced to 25 Years in Prison for Sex Trafficking of Multiple Women

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, was sentenced in federal court on January 30, 2025, to 25 years in prison for his conviction of sex trafficking, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

    United States District Judge J. Nicholas Ranjan imposed the sentence on Eric Jefferson, 41.

    According to information presented to the Court, from in and around June 2019 to in and around April 2022, Jefferson coerced and forced at least four women to perform commercial sex work for his monetary gain. Jefferson provided the women with drugs for meeting clients and would withhold the drugs if the women—who were addicted to narcotics and could become ill with withdrawal symptoms—refused to meet with clients. Jefferson also used violence and threats of violence to coerce and force the women to engage in commercial sex work.

    “Eric Jefferson forced these women to earn money on his behalf, controlling the victims both through physical force and exploiting their dependence upon narcotics,” said Acting United States Attorney Rivetti. “Working with our law enforcement partners, we will aggressively prosecute human traffickers such as Jefferson in order to protect and rescue the most vulnerable victims in our district.”

    “Protecting the most vulnerable members of our community will always be among the highest priorities for the FBI,” said FBI Pittsburgh Special Agent in Charge Kevin Rojek. “The message this sentencing sends is clear: the FBI and our partners will aggressively pursue criminals who think they can prey on others.”

    Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Ranjan heard from the victims of the charged crimes and stressed the heinousness of Jefferson’s conduct and its devastating impacts upon the victims.

    Assistant United States Attorney DeMarr Moulton prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

    Acting United States Attorney Rivetti commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Pittsburgh Bureau of Police for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Jefferson.

    This prosecution is part of Operation T.E.N. (Trafficking Ends Now), an umbrella coalition for law enforcement, community, and non-profit partners in the 25 counties in the Western District of Pennsylvania. This coordinated effort aims to end human trafficking through education and improved cooperation across agencies and service providers, thereby enhancing the office’s ability to empower victims of human trafficking to become thriving survivors.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Attorney’s Office Secures 15-Year Sentence for Deadly 2022 DWI Crash that Killed Three People

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    ALBUQUERQUE – A Laguna man was sentenced to 15 years in federal prison for a fatal DWI crash on the Laguna Pueblo in 2022 that killed three members of the same family.

    There is no parole in the federal system.

    According to court documents, on August 7, 2022, Cody Allen Charlie, 38, an enrolled member of the Pueblo of Laguna, was driving intoxicated at 116 miles per hour while using his cell phone when he crashed into another vehicle on Interstate 40, near mile marker 130. The impact caused the other vehicle to veer off the interstate and onto the shoulder, where it rolled over. All three occupants of that vehicle were killed in the crash. Instead of providing help to his victims, Charlie left his wrecked vehicle and ran from the scene.

    Upon his release from prison, Charlie will be subject to five years of supervised release. He must also make full monetary restitution to the victims of his crimes. As part of his supervised release, Charlie will be subject to alcohol and substance-abuse monitoring, and he must also complete mental-health and substance-abuse programs. As a convicted felon, Charlie is no longer permitted to own or possess a firearm.

    U.S. Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez made the announcement today.

    The Bureau of Indian Affairs investigated this case with assistance from the Laguna Police Department and New Mexico State Police. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Brittany DuChaussee and Zachary C. Jones are prosecuting the case.

    # # #

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Edmonton, Kentucky Man Sentenced to Over Five Years in Federal Prison for Illegally Possessing a Handgun

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

    Bowling Green, KY – An Edmonton, Kentucky, man was sentenced this week to 5 years and 11 months in federal prison for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.

    U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge R. Shawn Morrow of the ATF Louisville Field Division, and Commissioner Phillip Burnett, Jr. of the Kentucky State Police made the announcement.

    According to court documents, Aaron Dale McKinney, 48, was sentenced to 5 years and 11 months in federal prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, for being a felon in possession of a firearm. On February 23, 2023, McKinney possessed a Springfield Armory (HS Produkt), model XD-45, 45 caliber semiautomatic pistol, and ammunition. He was prohibited from possessing a firearm because he had previously been convicted of the following felony offenses.

    On May 25, 2021, in Metcalfe Circuit Court, McKinney was convicted of possession of a controlled substance, first degree, third or more offense (methamphetamine).

    On September 26, 2017, in Metcalfe Circuit Court, McKinney was convicted of manufacturing methamphetamine, first offense.

    There is no parole in the federal system.

    This case was investigated by the ATF Bowling Green Field Office and the Kentucky State Police.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney R. Nicholas Rabold, of the U.S. Attorney’s Bowling Green Branch Office, prosecuted the case.

    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.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Two Members of Violent Gang Sentenced to Prison for Racketeering and Drug Trafficking

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

    BOSTON – Two members of the violent Boston-area gang, Cameron Street, were sentenced to prison yesterday for their roles as drug traffickers operating on behalf of the criminal enterprise. During the investigation, 21 firearms and hundreds of rounds of ammunition were allegedly seized from 11 of the defendants.

    James Rodrigues, a/k/a “Bummy,” 34, of Boston, was sentenced this morning by U.S. Senior District Court Judge William G. Young to 42 months in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release. On Jan. 16, 2025, Rodrigues pleaded guilty to conspiracy to participate in a racketeering enterprise (more commonly referred to as RICO or racketeering conspiracy) and conspiracy to distribute cocaine and cocaine base (crack cocaine).

    This afternoon, Judge Young sentenced Devante Lopes, a/k/a “D-Lopes,” 31, of Boston and Quincy, to 60 months in prison and three years of supervised release. In May 2024, Lopes pleaded guilty to RICO conspiracy; conspiracy to distribute marijuana; and possession with intent to distribute cocaine.

    Over the course of a two-year investigation, Rodrigues and Lopes were identified as Cameron Street members who were primarily involved in drug trafficking. Specifically, Rodrigues worked with other Cameron Street members to distribute hundreds of grams of cocaine and cocaine base (crack cocaine) from a stash house in Somerville. During the investigation, law enforcement made a series of controlled purchases from Rodrigues and other Cameron Street members. This included two separate occasions in which Rodrigues sold 48 grams of crack cocaine and 50 grams of crack cocaine, respectively, to a cooperating witness. During a search of the Somerville stash house in April 2022, 398 grams of cocaine along with packaging materials, two hydraulic presses, a digital scale, a cell phone and $14,986 in U.S. currency were seized.

    Lopes was a significant drug trafficker who, from 2019 through 2020, regularly used the mail to import large quantities of marijuana from California to Boston and neighboring cities. In exchange, Lopes shipped packages containing between $40,000 to $50,000 in cash. One of the packages intended for Lopes was intercepted by law enforcement and found to contain 2.6 kilograms (2,637 grams) of marijuana. Over the course of the investigation, a total of 24 packages of similar size were tracked as having been shipped from various address in California to Lopes. As a result, it is estimated that Lopes received 56.6 kilograms of marijuana.

    During a search of Lopes’ residence in April 2022, 800 grams of cocaine was seized from inside a bench by his bed along with digital scales, plastic bags commonly used for street-level sales, a bag of pink pills, a money counter, an empty Glock firearm box and a round of ammunition next to Lopes’ bed. During the search of Lopes’ apartment, remote cameras were discovered inside each room as well as two hidden compartments. One of the hidden compartments was concealed inside a shelf and contained approximately $5,000 in cash, a box of ammunition and foam cut-outs for a firearm. The second hidden compartment was found inside a mirror and contained a foam insert:

    A subsequent examination of Lopes’ cellphone revealed messages, images and videos connecting Lopes to members of Cameron Street, unlawful firearm possession and drug trafficking proceeds:

    According to court documents, the Cameron Street gang is a violent criminal enterprise whose members and associates are involved in a variety of criminal activities – including murders, attempted murders, armed robberies, carjackings, home invasions, human trafficking, as well as drug and firearms trafficking, among other offenses – in the Dorchester neighborhood of Boston and surrounding areas. It is alleged that Cameron Street members use violence against rival gangs and witnesses, typically with the use of firearms, to maintain and enhance their status and the overall reputation of the gang, as well as to protect the gang’s power, reputation and territory. Members engage in drug trafficking activity and distributed kilograms of cocaine, cocaine base (crack cocaine), oxycodone and marijuana throughout Massachusetts.

    United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; James M. Ferguson, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Boston Feld Division; Stephen Belleau, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration, New England Field Division; and Boston Police Commissioner Michael Cox made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the Massachusetts State Police; Suffolk County Sheriff’s Office; Suffolk, Plymouth, Norfolk and Bristol County District Attorney’s Offices; and the Canton, Quincy, Randolph, Somerville, Brockton, Malden, Stoughton, Rehoboth and Pawtucket (R.I.) Police Departments. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Christopher J. Pohl and Charles Dell’Anno of the Narcotics & Money Laundering Unit prosecuted the cases.

    This operation is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) Strike Force Initiative, which provides for the establishment of permanent multi-agency task force teams that work side-by-side in the same location. This co-located model enables agents from different agencies to collaborate on intelligence-driven, multi-jurisdictional operations to disrupt and dismantle the most significant drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.

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

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Harbour Grace — Update: Drug impaired driving charges laid against Harbour Grace man

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    After colliding with a police vehicle in Carbonear on September 13, 2024, lab results recently received for 20-year-old Mitchell Cox support an additional charge of drug impaired driving.

    Cox was originally arrested on September 13, 2024, for dangerous operation and flight from police after he fled from Harbour Grace RCMP at an attempted traffic stop on Lower Southside Road in Carbonear. Cox collided with a police vehicle during his attempt to evade police. Officers suspected he was impaired by drugs at the time of the collision.

    Following his arrest, he was transported to Carbonear General Hospital where samples of his blood were obtained and sent for a drug analysis. Late this month, the toxicology report was received, with results supporting an additional charge of drug impaired driving.

    In addition to charges of flight from police and dangerous operation, Cox is now charged with impaired operation by drug and failing to comply with conditions of a release order. His licence is now suspended.

    His next court appearance is scheduled to take place on March 26, 2025.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Officers appeal for help to trace missing 70-year-old Anthony from west London

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    Police are concerned about the welfare of a 70-year old man from west London who has been missing for more than 10 weeks.

    Detective Inspector Will Peel from Central West Missing Persons Unit says:

    “We are very worried about the whereabouts of Anthony Davis, who goes by the name “Reggie”.

    “He was last seen on Thursday, 21 November, although there was a possible sighting of him opposite Ladbroke Grove Tube Station on Thursday, 5 December.

    “Anthony has dementia and diabetes so it’s hugely important we find him as he may require medication that he won’t have with him.

    “We have been appealing on social media for help to trace Anthony since December, so, with his family’s support, who are extremely concerned, we are now extending the appeal in the hope of locating him.

    “It’s very out-of-character for Anthony to go missing.

    “He is usually seen using a cane to walk and is wearing a dark hoodie, tracksuit bottoms, a black coat, a black flat cap and sandals with no socks.

    “Please get in touch with police as soon as possible if you have any idea where he might be.”

    If anyone has seen Anthony, or has information on his whereabouts, please call 101 giving the reference 5679/06DEC or call Crimestoppers free of charge on 0800 555 111.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Met sets out policing plans ahead of weekend protests

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    There will be an increased police presence in central London on Saturday with two protests due to take place.

    A protest organised under the name ‘Stop the Isolation’ or ‘Unite the Kingdom’ in support of Stephen Yaxley-Lennon (Tommy Robinson), will form up in Sandell Street and Cornwall Road, off Waterloo Road outside Waterloo Station, from midday.

    It will march from there to Whitehall via Westminster Bridge. A static assembly will then take place in Parliament Street, at the Parliament Square end of Whitehall.

    A protest organised by Stand Up To Racism will form up in St James’s Street, south of Piccadilly Circus, from 11.30am.

    It will march from there to Whitehall, via Piccadilly Circus and Haymarket. A static assembly will take place at the Trafalgar Square end of Whitehall.

    Pedestrian access in the middle of Whitehall will be restricted with officers deployed to ensure both groups are kept apart. Anyone in the area, not involved in the protests, is encouraged to use other routes to go from Trafalgar Square to Parliament Square or vice versa.

    Commander Louise Puddefoot, who is in charge of the policing operation, said: “We are well prepared for these protests, having been in discussions with both sets of organisers in recent weeks.

    “We have officers deployed in significant numbers to provide reassurance to the wider community, and to give us the capability to intervene swiftly and decisively if incidents of crime or disorder occur.

    “Decisions on our policing style at protests, including the types of uniform worn by officers and the protective equipment available to them, are taken on a case by case basis. It allows us to be ready to respond quickly and decisively where we need to.

    “Our assessment for tomorrow’s protest, based on the information available to us, is that an additional level of preparedness is required.

    “What our officers are wearing or the protective kit they are carrying doesn’t change their role at these events. They are there to ensure all involved can exercise their right to protest peacefully, without causing serious disruption to the life of the wider community and without risking the disorder that could take place if groups with opposing views come together.”

    Details of conditions

    Stop the Isolation/Unite the Kingdom protest

    Participants must form up in the blue shaded area in the map below – Sandell Street, Cornwall Road and Wotton Street.

    They must not then deviate from the route shown on the map below:

    On arrival at the end of the march, they must only assemble in the area marked in blue on the map below:

    All those in attendance must disperse by 17:30hrs.

    Stand Up To Racism

    Anyone taking part must form up in the area shaded in red on the map below:

    They must not then deviate from the route shown on the map below:

    On arrival at the end of the march, they must only assemble in the area marked in red on the map below:

    All those in attendance must disperse by 17:30hrs.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Halting Wetland Loss through Nuclear Techniques

    Source: International Atomic Energy Agency – IAEA

    World Wetlands Day highlights the importance of the conservation and sustainability of one of the world’s most threatened ecosystems for the health of people and the planet. The IAEA is helping to protect them with isotopic techniques.

    This video was first published on 23 January 2024.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Man jailed for importing large quantities of cannabis

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    A man has been jailed for importing and supplying large quantities of cannabis following a court hearing.

    Rhys Herbert, 24 (29.06.00) of Lonsdale Road, Notting Hill had previously pleaded guilty to being concerned in the supply of a controlled Class B drug (cannabis) and the fraudulent evasion of a prohibition in relation to Class B drugs (cannabis).

    A Newton Hearing held at Lincoln Crown Court on Monday 23 and Tuesday 24 December 2024. On 31 January a Judge determined that Herbert played a significant role in the movement and supply of cannabis with estimated quantities of at least 45kg involved.

    He was sentenced to three years and 11 months imprisonment.

    An investigation into Herbert was launched after he was stopped for a driving offence in Westminster in November 2023. During the stop it was established a malicious communication offence may have been committed after Herbert posted personal information about one of the officers on social media. Herbert’s phone was seized and subsequently found to contain information that implicated his role in large scale drugs importation and supply.

    He was arrested for these offences at an address in Lincoln on 21 February 2024 and due to the weight of evidence officers had gathered against him, pleaded guilty when he appeared in court.

    Detective Constable Jacob Saville, who led the investigation, said: “Rhys Herbert has already admitted to his role in the importation and supply of large quantities of cannabis; now a Judge has reviewed all of the evidence and determined he played a significant role in this operation.

    “As soon as we became aware of the various messages and information held on Herbert’s phone, detectives began to compile a wealth of evidence that proved his involvement was irrefutable.

    “Drugs and the associated criminality they bring devastates communities and we will continue to identify and arrest those responsible who engage in this activity.”

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Man convicted of fatally stabbing Hackney resident following Met investigation

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    A man has been convicted of fatally stabbing Hackney resident Robert Weston, following an investigation by the Metropolitan Police Service.

    Jaden Sheriff, 20 (22.01.05), of Forston Street, Hackney, was found guilty of murder at the Old Bailey on Thursday, 30 January.

    A jury convicted him of killing 37-year-old Robert Weston, who was stabbed in Hamilton Crescent, Harrow, on Monday, 26 February, 2024.

    DI Devan Taylor, who led the investigation into the murder, said: “This is a tragic case. Robert Weston lost his life, and Jaden Sheriff has to live the rest of his life knowing that he killed a man.

    “He stabbed his victim over what was effectively a neighbourhood dispute. Despite the efforts of paramedics to save his life, Mr Weston was pronounced dead shortly after.

    “This senseless murder has had a devastating impact on the victim’s loved ones. They conducted themselves with great dignity throughout the trial, and my thoughts are with them at this time.”

    Police attended an address Hamilton Crescent around 14:10hrs on 26 February last year. Mr Weston had suffered two stab wounds – one of them to the heart – and, despite the efforts of emergency services, was pronounced dead at the scene.

    In his initial interviews with officers, Sheriff claimed he accidentally stabbed Mr Weston in self-defence, after the victim pulled a knife on him.

    However, police spoke to witnesses, who revealed that the killer set upon Mr Weston following a dispute.

    Forensic evidence revealed that the wounds on Mr Weston could only have been caused by deliberate stabbing to the chest.

    Investigators obtained phone records, which showed that Mr Weston had called 999 on February 23 to complain about Sheriff.

    After an argument with the defendant, Mr Weston told police: ‘I’ve just been threatened in my own house.’

    This was used at trial to illustrate the spiralling relationship between the two men, which culminated in murder days later.

    Sheriff will be sentenced on Friday, 14 February.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Shoplifter convicted after being caught in the act by Met officers

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    A man who was caught in the act during a Met Police operation to tackle shoplifting in south London has been jailed.

    Neighbourhood officers in Lambeth carried out a targeted sting at the Co-Op in Lower Marsh on Monday, 27 January after several reports of theft from the store.

    After reviewing recent crime reports, they arrived early and waited in the back office where they monitored CCTV cameras.

    At around 08:30hrs a man entered the store and began ransacking the meat chiller. He was immediately detained and arrested.

    Derick Bell, 36 (29.02.88) and of no fixed address, was charged the following day and appeared at Croydon Magistrates’ Court where he pleaded guilty to two counts of shoplifting. He was jailed for eight weeks.

    Inspector Darren Watson, from the Neighbourhood Policing Team in Lambeth, said:

    “This is an excellent example of how the Met is taking a targeted approach to tackle the type of offending that matters most to Londoners.

    “We know shoplifting has a significant impact on businesses and shop staff. It often also fuels other crime and anti-social behaviour.

    “In Lambeth alone, our enforcement activity means 11 of the 14 most prolific shoplifters in the area are currently in prison and we will continue to take action against those who cause misery in our communities.”

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Man charged with 2023 murder in Tottenham

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    Detectives investigating the murder of Talip Guzel in Tottenham have charged two people as part of their investigation.

    Jan Mercan – 23 (07.08.01) of Rushey Hill, EN2 was charged on Thursday, 30 January with murder and possession of a prohibited weapon.

    Stanislava Kukusheva – 35 (04.02.89) of Compton Crescent, N17 was charged on Thursday, 30 January with perverting the course of justice; assisting an offender and possession of a prohibited weapon.

    Both will appear in custody at Highbury Corner Magistrates’ Court on Friday, 31 January.

    The pair were arrested by detectives as part of an ongoing investigation into the murder of Talip Guzel, 33, who died after being shot at an address in White Hart Lane, N17 on 30 July 2023.

    His family have been informed of the update.

    MIL Security OSI –