NewzIntel.com

Category: Security Intelligence

  • MIL-OSI Security: Alexandria fentanyl dealer sentenced to 10 years in prison

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    ALEXANDRIA, Va. – An Alexandria man was sentenced yesterday to 10 years in prison for selling counterfeit oxycodone pills containing fentanyl.

    According to court documents, from at least February to April 2024, Alhagi Gassim Conteh, 30, obtained nearly 4,000 counterfeit oxycodone pills imprinted with “M30,” but which contained fentanyl, and distributed them.

    Throughout the conspiracy, Conteh, a convicted felon, used a source in Fredericksburg to obtain fentanyl pills to sell to the confidential source (CS) and others.  Conteh told the CS that his “man” in Fredericksburg was receiving packages of up to 30,000 fentanyl pills at a time, and Conteh sold these fentanyl pills to the CS.

    On April 12, law enforcement executed a search warrant at Conteh’s residence in Alexandria and recovered approximately 500 fentanyl pills, cocaine, two magazines with a total of 36 rounds of ammunition, a digital scale, and a handheld pill press.

    Jessica D. Aber, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, and Jarod Forget, Special Agent in Charge for the Drug Enforcement Administration’s (DEA) Washington Division, made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge Leonie M. Brinkema.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Kristin S. Starr prosecuted the case.

    Assistance was provided by the Washington/Baltimore High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) task force.

    A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 1:24-cr-140.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Former Eastern Kentucky Pharamacist Sentenced for Healthcare Fraud

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    LONDON, Ky. – A Corbin, Ky., woman and former pharmacist, Stephanie Collins, 57, has been sentenced to 20 months, by U.S. District Judge Claria Horn Boom, for her role in a scheme to defraud Medicare and Medicaid, by billing for medications that she never dispensed to her customers.  

    According to her plea agreement, Collins operated as a registered pharmacist and operated Stephanie’s Down Home Pharmacy, a retail pharmacy located in Corbin.  The pharmacy sought reimbursement from Medicare and Kentucky Medicaid for the drugs and other medical products it dispensed to its customers.  As part of the scheme to defraud these taxpayer-funded health care benefit programs, Collins used the pharmacy’s computer system to submit claims for payment for prescription drugs that patients never picked up or otherwise received.  Collins also submitted fraudulent claims for diabetic test strips, billing Kentucky Medicaid for more expensive test strips when she was actually giving her customers lower-cost test strips.  In total, her false and fraudulent claims caused Kentucky Medicaid and Medicare to reimburse Collins’ pharmacy $730,055.78.

    Under federal law, Collins must serve 85 percent of her prison sentence.  Upon her release from prison, she will be under the supervision of the U.S. Probation Office for two years. The Court also ordered Collins to pay $730,055.78 in restitution.

    Carlton S. Shier, IV, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky; Erek Davodowich, Acting Special Agent in Charge, DEA, Louisville Field Division; Karen Wingerd, Special Agent in Charge, Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation; and Tamala E. Miles, Special Agent in Charge, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG), jointly announced the sentence.

    The case was investigated by the DEA, IRS, HHS-OIG; the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services, Office of Inspector General, Drug Enforcement and Professional Practices Branch; and the Kentucky Board of Pharmacy.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Andy Smith prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States. 

    — END —

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Washington State Defense Attorney Facing Federal Charges for Smuggling Drugs into Correctional Facility

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    SEATTLE—A Washington State defense attorney was arraigned in federal court Monday after he was indicted for joining a criminal conspiracy to smuggle drugs into the King County Correctional Facility (KCCF), a jail located in Seattle, during client visits.

    John M. Sheeran, 60, of Pierce County, Washington has been charged with conspiring to distribute controlled substances, possessing and distributing methamphetamine, distributing buprenorphine, and illegally using a communication facility.

    According to the indictment, Sheeran used his status as an attorney to smuggle controlled substances, including methamphetamine, ketamine, buprenorphine, and THC, to two of his then- clients and inmates at KCCF during legal visits. During the conspiracy, Sheeran distributed, or possessed with an intent to distribute, sheets of paper that had been soaked in drugs, chewing tobacco cans that swapped out the tobacco with drugs, and trial clothes that had drugs concealed in the soles of the shoes. After Sheeran successfully smuggled the drugs into KCCF, Sheeran’s co-conspirators sold the drugs to other inmates for significant sums.

    On October 16, 2024, a federal grand jury in Seattle returned an indictment charging Sheeran and four co-conspirators. Sheeran was arrested Monday without incident in Washington Place, Washington.

    Sheeran made his initial appearance in federal court Monday before a U.S. Magistrate Judge in Seattle. He was arraigned, pleaded not guilty, and ordered released pending a jury trial scheduled to begin on December 20, 2024.

    If convicted, Sheeran faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in federal prison, a minimum of three years’ supervised release, and a fine up to $1 million.

    The case was investigated by the FBI and King County Sheriff’s Office. It is being prosecuted by Robert S. Trisotto, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon, acting as Special Attorney for the Western District of Washington.

    An indictment is only an accusation of a crime, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Attorney’s Office Announces Sentencing of Alamogordo Man Linked to Firearm Used in Fatal Shooting of Police Officer

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    ALBUQUERQUE – An Alamogordo man was sentenced to 72 months in federal prison for providing the modified shotgun used to shoot and kill an Alamogordo Police Officer.

    There is no parole in the federal system.

    According to court documents, Jonah Apodaca, 31, provided a “sawed-off” shotgun to Dominic Cruz De La O which he is accused of later using to shoot and kill Alamogordo Police Officer Anthony Ferguson on July 16, 2023. Apodaca’s DNA was located on the shotgun shell recovered from the chamber of the shotgun and ammunition from the magazine tube.

    Upon his release from prison, Apodaca will be subject to three years of supervised release.

    De La O was charged with possession of a firearm not registered with the National Firearm Registration and Transfer Record and possession of a firearm not identified by a serial number. De La O remains in custody pending trial which is currently scheduled to begin February 26, 2025.

    U.S. Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez and Brendan Iber, Special Agent in Charge of the Phoenix Field Division of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, made the announcement today.

    The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated this case with assistance from the Alamogordo Police Department, New Mexico State Police, and the Otero County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Maria Y. Armijo and Ry Ellison are prosecuting the case.

    # # #

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Attorney Announces Office’s District Election Officers for November 2024 General Election

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    PITTSBURGH, Pa. – United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan announced that Assistant United States Attorneys (AUSAs) Jeffrey R. Bengel and Nicole A. Stockey will lead the efforts of his Office in connection with the Justice Department’s nationwide Election Day Program for the upcoming November 5, 2024, general election. AUSAs Bengel and Stockey have been appointed to serve as the District Election Officers (DEOs) for the Western District of Pennsylvania, and, in that capacity, are responsible for overseeing the District’s handling of election day complaints of voting rights concerns, threats of violence to election officials or staff, and election fraud, in consultation with Justice Department Headquarters in Washington.

    United States Attorney Olshan said: “Every citizen must be able to vote without interference or discrimination and to have that vote counted in a fair and free election. Similarly, election officials and staff must be able to serve without being subject to unlawful threats of violence. The Department of Justice will always work tirelessly to protect the integrity of the election process.”

    The Department of Justice has an important role in deterring and combatting discrimination and intimidation at the polls, threats of violence directed at election officials and poll workers, and election fraud. The Department will address these violations wherever they occur. The Department’s longstanding Election Day Program furthers these goals and also seeks to ensure public confidence in the electoral process by providing local points of contact within the Department for the public to report possible federal election law violations.

    Federal law protects against such crimes as threatening violence against election officials or staff, intimidating or bribing voters, buying and selling votes, impersonating voters, altering vote tallies, stuffing ballot boxes, and marking ballots for voters against their wishes or without their input. It also contains special protections for the rights of voters, and provides that they can vote free from interference, including intimidation, and other acts designed to prevent or discourage people from voting or voting for the candidate of their choice. The Voting Rights Act protects the right of voters to mark their own ballot or to be assisted by a person of their choice (where voters need assistance because of disability or inability to read or write in English).

    United States Attorney Olshan stated: “The franchise is the cornerstone of American democracy. We all must ensure that those who are entitled to the franchise can exercise it if they choose, and that those who seek to corrupt it are brought to justice. In order to respond to complaints of voting rights concerns and election fraud during the upcoming election, and to ensure that such complaints are directed to the appropriate authorities, AUSAs Bengel and Stockey will be on duty in this District while the polls are open and can be reached by the public by calling (412) 644-3500.”

    In addition, the FBI will have special agents available in each field office and resident agency throughout the country to receive allegations of election fraud and other election abuses on election day. The local FBI field office can be reached by the public at (412) 432-4000.

    Complaints about possible violations of the federal voting rights laws can be made directly to the Civil Rights Division in Washington, D.C., by complaint form at https://civilrights.justice.gov/ or by phone at 800-253-3931.

    United States Attorney Olshan said: “Ensuring free and fair elections depends in large part on the assistance of the American electorate. It is important that those who have specific information about voting rights concerns or election fraud make that information available to the Department of Justice.”

    In the case of a crime of violence or intimidation, please call 911 immediately and before contacting federal authorities. State and local police have primary jurisdiction over polling places, and almost always have faster reaction capacity in an emergency.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: IAEA Initiative to Streamline SMR Deployment Moving to Implementation Phase

    Source: International Atomic Energy Agency – IAEA

    Dozens of countries also gave their thoughts on NHSI’s progress so far and plans for the future. There was widespread agreement on the value of the work done in the first phase, and the direction planned for the second phase, with many topics raised for ongoing consideration. 

    Christer Viktorsson, Director General, Federal Authority For Nuclear Regulation (FANR), United Arab Emirates said: “It is clear this initiative is having an effect, it is already creating momentum for working towards harmonization and standardization. It’s clear that Phase II should focus on the implementation of projects from Phase I.” 

    Paul Fyfe from the United Kingdom’s Office For Nuclear Regulation (ONR) agreed: “Cooperation and collaboration between industry and regulators is key. The UK strongly supports Phase II. There’s a real need for this work to be done.” 

    Marcus Nichol Executive Director for New Nuclear from the United States’ Nuclear Energy Institute agreed: “We share your visions that you articulated for both the industry track and to facilitate the regulatory frameworks and reduce unnecessary design changes, so we appreciate that. All of the proposals for Phase II are on the right track, all of those areas will be valuable.” 

    Representatives from regulators and industry spoke on a range of other questions relating to safeguards; safety and security issues; information sharing with newcomer countries; confidentiality; avoiding duplication of work; collaboration between regulators, designers and operators; choosing the best priorities; and ensuring technical experts are consulted. 

    NHSI is now moving to the next phase, which will be to implement many of the recommendations the working groups have come up with.  

    Phase II will also focus on providing tools to help understand regulatory commonalities and differences better, it will examine technology-specific user requirements and explore what is needed to facilitate the approval of what is known as long-lead items. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Attorney’s Office Announces Sentencing of Mescalero Man for Strangulation

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    ALBUQUERQUE – A Mescalero man was sentenced to 64 months in federal prison for strangling his wife.

    There is no parole in the federal system.

    According to court documents, Fulton C. Potter, 30, an enrolled member of the Mescalero Apache Tribe, strangled his wife on November 24, 2023.

    Upon his release from prison, Potter will be subject to three years of supervised release.

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

    The Bureau of Indian Affairs investigated this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Matilda McCarthy Villalobos is prosecuting the case.

    # # #

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Columbia Man on Federal Supervised Release Pleads Guilty to Unlawful Firearm Possession

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

    COLUMBIA, S.C. —Daisean Montez Skeeters, 30, of Columbia, has pleaded guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm.

    Evidence obtained in the investigation revealed that on July 17, 2024, Columbia Police Department officers responded to a domestic violence call at Skeeters’ home.  After arriving, police learned there might be firearms in the home. Because Skeeters was already on federal supervised release for a previous federal firearms conviction, agents also spoke to his U.S. Probation Officer, who said he was also advised of firearms in the home. Agents obtained a search warrant for the residence and located two firearms, including one loaded with 16 rounds of ammunition. Agents obtained a second search warrant for Skeeters’ DNA to compare to swabs taken from those firearms. DNA testing confirmed an extremely high probability that Skeeters’ DNA was present on one of the firearms.  Skeeters entered a guilty plea to possessing that firearm as a convicted felon.

    Skeeters was already on federal supervised release following a previous conviction for being a felon in possession of a firearm and faces a separate penalty for violating the terms of that release.

    According to a sentencing memorandum filed by the Government in his prior case (3:19-CR-992), Skeeters has a history of leading a street gang that was responsible for a substantial disruption of local communities to include through gun violence, organized drug distribution, and fraud schemes.

    Skeeters faces a maximum penalty of 15 years in federal prison. He also faces a fine of up to $250,000, and three years of supervision to follow the term of imprisonment.  United States District Judge Mary Geiger Lewis accepted the guilty plea and will sentence Skeeters after receiving and reviewing a sentencing report prepared by the U.S. Probation Office.

    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.

    This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Columbia Police Department with forensic assistance from the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED). Assistant U.S. Attorney Elliott B. Daniels and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew R. Sanford are prosecuting the case.

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    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Federal Grand Jury Indicts Louisville Man for Possession of a Machine Gun

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

    Louisville, KY – A federal grand jury in Louisville, Kentucky, returned an indictment on October 16, 2024, charging a local man with illegal possession of a machine gun.  

    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 Chief Paul Humphrey of the Louisville Metro Police Department made the announcement.

    According to the indictment, Dashawn Sublett, 18, was charged with possessing a Glock Switch Device (machine gun conversion device) on June 26, 2024.  A Glock Switch device allows a semi-automatic handgun to function as an automatic and is defined as a machine gun under federal law.

    Sublett made an initial court appearance before a U.S. Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Western District of Kentucky on October 21, 2024.  If convicted, he faces a maximum sentence of ten years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors.

    There is no parole in the federal system.

    This case is being investigated by the LMPD and the ATF.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Joshua R. Porter is prosecuting this case.

    This case is part of the Prohibited Firearm Possessor Initiative (PFP), a collaborative partnership between all levels of law enforcement and prosecutors to reduce violent crime and firearm offenses. On January 23, 2024, Louisville Metro initiated a gun crime reduction initiative focused on investigating and prosecuting illegal firearm possession. The PFP partners include the Louisville Metro Police Department, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the Jefferson County Attorney’s Office, the Jefferson County Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office, the Kentucky Attorney General’s Office, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Kentucky.

    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 Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Jury Finds Little Rock Man Guilty of Possession with Intent to Distribute Fentanyl, Methamphetamine, Cocaine, and Marijuana

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

          LITTLE ROCK—A Little Rock man has been convicted of possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, methamphetamine, cocaine, and marijuana at the conclusion of a three-day trial. On Thursday, a federal jury found Marquis Hunt, 42, guilty of four federal narcotics violations: and possession with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl, possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine, possession with intent to distribute cocaine, and possession with intent to distribute marijuana.

          The jury returned their verdict after deliberating for approximately 2.5 hours. United States District Judge James M. Moody, Jr. presided over the trial and will sentence Hunt at a later date. Hunt faces a minimum sentence of 10 years in federal prison, with a maximum of life imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system.

          Hunt was indicted by a federal grand jury on third superseding indictment on August 6, 2024. An investigation revealed that on July 8, 2022, a special agent with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) made contact with Hunt at a residence in southwest Little Rock. Hunt was detained while a search warrant was obtained and executed. During a search, agents located more than 1.5 pounds of methamphetamine and more than 16 pounds of fentanyl throughout the residence, as well as distributable amounts of cocaine and marijuana. Through further investigation, it was discovered that the fentanyl was distributed or sprayed on a shredded vegetable material with a mixture of tramadol, which made it appear to be a form of synthetic marijuana or “K2.” During the jury trial, Hunt acknowledged selling drugs, but then denied selling the drugs located at the residence.

          The methamphetamine and fentanyl convictions carry minimum statutory sentences of not less than 10 years and not more than life in prison, not less than five years supervised release, and a fine of not more than $10,000,000. The cocaine conviction carries a maximum sentence of 20 years, not less than four years supervised release, and a fine of not more than $1,000,000. The marijuana conviction carries a maximum sentence of five years imprisonment, not less than two years supervised release, and a fine of not more than $250,000.

          The investigation was conducted by the FBI with assistance from the Arkansas State Police and Arkansas State Crime Laboratory. The and the case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Amanda Fields and Reese Lancaster.

    # # #

    Additional information about the office of the

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

    https://www.justice.gov/edar

    X (formerly known as Twitter):

    @USAO_EDAR 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: St. Cloud Man Sentenced to Ten Years in Prison for Attempting to Entice a Child to Engage in Sexual Activity

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

    Ahead of the Threat Podcast: Episode Zero

    Welcome to Ahead of the Threat, the FBI’s new podcast miniseries that brings together an FBI cyber executive and a private sector chief information security officer. Join Bryan Vorndran, assistant director of the FBI’s Cyber Division, and Jamil Farshchi, a strategic engagement advisor for the FBI who also works as an executive vice president and CISO of Equifax, as they discuss emerging cyber threats and the enduring importance of cybersecurity fundamentals. Featuring distinguished guests from the business world and government, Ahead of the Threat will confront some of the biggest questions in cyber: How will emerging technology impact corporate America? How can corporate boards be structured for cyber resilience? What does the FBI think about generative artificial intelligence? Listen to new episodes biweekly and stay Ahead of the Threat.

    Charity and Disaster Fraud

    Charity fraud scams can come in many forms: emails, social media posts, crowdfunding platforms, cold calls, etc. They are especially common after high-profile disasters. Always use caution and do your research when you’re looking to donate to charitable causes.

    RYAN JAMES WEDDING

    Conspiracy to Distribute and Possess with Intent to Distribute Controlled Substances; Conspiracy to Export Cocaine; Continuing Criminal Enterprise; Murder in Connection with a Continuing Criminal Enterprise and Drug Crime; Attempt to Commit…

    Capitol Violence

    The FBI is seeking to identify individuals involved in the violent activities that occurred at the U.S. Capitol and surrounding areas on January 6, 2021. View photos and related information here. If you have any information to provide, visit tips.fbi.gov or call 1-800-CALL-FBI.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Man Arrested for Exposing Himself on an Aircraft

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

    BOSTON – A man was arrested and charged yesterday for allegedly masturbating and exposing himself within the view of two other passengers seated near him on board a flight from Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates to Boston, Mass. yesterday.

    Krishna Kunapuli, 39, of India, was charged by criminal complaint with one count of lewd, indecent and obscene acts while in the special aircraft jurisdiction of the United States. Kunapuli was arrested yesterday and will appear in federal court in Boston later today.

    According to the charging documents, Kunapuli allegedly made unwanted sexual advances toward a female passenger on board an Etihad Airlines flight, including touching her hair and taking pictures of her without her permission. After a crew member intervened, Kunapuli returned to his seat.

    It is alleged that, later in the flight, two male passengers seated near Kunapuli noticed Kunapuli masturbating under a blanket and, at times, with his penis fully exposed. One of the passengers reported this conduct to a flight attendant who intervened and alerted law enforcement.

    The charge of lewd, indecent and obscene acts while in the special aircraft jurisdiction of the United States provides for a sentence of up to 90 days in prison, up to one year of supervised release and a fine of up to $5,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.

    Acting United States Attorney Joshua S. Levy; Jodi Cohen, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division; and Colonel Geoffrey D. Noble of the Massachusetts State Police made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Elianna J. Nuzum of the Major Crimes Unit is prosecuting the case.

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: ‘Operation Not Forgotten’ Shines New Light on Indian Country Cases

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

    Ahead of the Threat Podcast: Episode Zero

    Welcome to Ahead of the Threat, the FBI’s new podcast miniseries that brings together an FBI cyber executive and a private sector chief information security officer. Join Bryan Vorndran, assistant director of the FBI’s Cyber Division, and Jamil Farshchi, a strategic engagement advisor for the FBI who also works as an executive vice president and CISO of Equifax, as they discuss emerging cyber threats and the enduring importance of cybersecurity fundamentals. Featuring distinguished guests from the business world and government, Ahead of the Threat will confront some of the biggest questions in cyber: How will emerging technology impact corporate America? How can corporate boards be structured for cyber resilience? What does the FBI think about generative artificial intelligence? Listen to new episodes biweekly and stay Ahead of the Threat.

    Charity and Disaster Fraud

    Charity fraud scams can come in many forms: emails, social media posts, crowdfunding platforms, cold calls, etc. They are especially common after high-profile disasters. Always use caution and do your research when you’re looking to donate to charitable causes.

    RYAN JAMES WEDDING

    Conspiracy to Distribute and Possess with Intent to Distribute Controlled Substances; Conspiracy to Export Cocaine; Continuing Criminal Enterprise; Murder in Connection with a Continuing Criminal Enterprise and Drug Crime; Attempt to Commit…

    Capitol Violence

    The FBI is seeking to identify individuals involved in the violent activities that occurred at the U.S. Capitol and surrounding areas on January 6, 2021. View photos and related information here. If you have any information to provide, visit tips.fbi.gov or call 1-800-CALL-FBI.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Kyle Man Sentenced to 50 Years in Federal Prison

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

    RAPID CITY – United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Camela C. Theeler has sentenced a Kyle, South Dakota, man convicted of four counts of Aggravated Sexual Abuse of a Minor, one count of Abusive Sexual Contact, and one count of Witness Tampering. The sentencing took place on October 17, 2024.

    Lloyd Emerson Elk, 48, was sentenced to a total of 50 years in federal prison on each count of Aggravated Sexual Abuse, followed by 10 years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a $600 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. He was also sentenced to five years in prison for Abusive Sexual Contact and 25 years in prison on the Witness Tampering conviction.  The sentences were ordered to run concurrently. 

    Elk was indicted by a federal grand jury in March of 2024. He was found guilty following a two-day jury trial in July of 2024.  At the sentencing hearing, Judge Theeler reflected Elk’s long pattern of violence was very concerning to her. She noted, “Crimes against children are some of the most heinous crimes . . .  Adults in positions of power can abuse that position, take away the innocence of a child and hurt them.”   

    Elk, a former tribal law enforcement officer, sexually abused his stepdaughter multiple times when she was between the ages of five and seven years old.  Elk employed years of domestic violence to control the victim and her family, including physical and emotional abuse.  Elk told the victim if she ever told anyone about the sexual abuse, that he would kill her, her mother, and her brother.  When the victim finally disclosed the abuse in late 2023, the investigation revealed Elk had sexually abused another seven-year-old girl in 1998—while employed as a police officer in Idaho—and made similar threats to her to keep her quiet.

    “Every instance of child sexual abuse is simultaneously shocking and heartbreaking,” said U.S. Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell. “But it is unthinkable that such victimization would happen at the hands of a law enforcement officer. It took great courage for the victims in this case to come forward with the truth, and we are grateful to our partners at the FBI who expertly investigated the matter so that our prosecutors could bring this violent defendant to justice, once and for all. The U.S. Attorney’s Office will never yield in our steadfast commitment to protecting women and children from violence.”

    This case was investigated by the FBI. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Anna Lindrooth and Megan Poppen prosecuted the case. Elk was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Member of Multi-State Gas Pump Skimming Device and Fuel Theft Ring Pleads Guilty to Aggravated Identity Theft and Fraud Charges

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

    Jacksonville, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that Deonelky Tabares Cid (36, Tampa) has pleaded guilty to conspiracy, four counts of wire fraud, six counts of access device fraud, and one count of aggravated identity theft. Cid faces a minimum penalty of 2 years in federal prison on the count of aggravated identity theft, up to 20 years in federal prison on each count of wire fraud, up to 10 years in federal prison on each count of access device fraud, up to 5 years in federal prison on the conspiracy count, and payment of restitution to the victims he and his co-defendants defrauded. No sentencing date has been set.

    According to court documents, Cid and his co-conspirators worked together to install skimmers on gas pumps to include gas stations in Alabama, Louisiana, and Northern Florida, including the Florida Panhandle. The conspirators used the skimmers to illegally obtain credit and debit card account numbers involved with the purchase of fuel by customers at the gas pump. Using the account numbers stolen by the skimmers, they subsequently made counterfeit credit and debit cards and then, used them to purchase large amount of diesel fuel.

    During the conspiracy, Cid and others drove vehicles that contained a fuel bladder system. This system allowed the conspirators to fake pumping gas into the vehicle’s gas tank when in fact the diesel fuel was being pumped into the fuel bladder system. Analysis by law enforcement of fuel purchases, vehicle tracker data, gas station video surveillance, and real time surveillance of the conspirators determined that Cid and other conspirators drove to multiple case stations throughout Northern Florida. After obtaining the gas, the conspirators offloaded the stolen fuel into 9,500-gallon tanker trucks at a fuel yard. The stolen fuel was then sold to a gas station associated with one of the co-conspirators.

    The co-defendants, Luis Edel Trujillo Pena (29, Miami), Deyvis Hernandez (37, Miami), Luis Ernesto Vigil Ochoa (32, Miami), and Isvaldo Guerra Perdomo (38, Jacksonville) are set for trial in January 2025.   

    This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, the Florida Highway Patrol, the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office, the U.S. General Services Administration – Office of Inspector General, and the U.S. Secret Service – Jacksonville Field Office. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kevin C. Frein.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Texas Man Indicted for Coercion and Enticement of a Minor to Engage in Sexual Activity and Receipt of Child Sex Abuse Material

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

    Tampa, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces the return of an indictment charging James Anthony Davila (20, Cleburne, TX) with coercion and enticement of a minor to engage in sexual activity and receipt of child sex abuse material. If convicted, Davila faces a mandatory penalty of 10 years, up to life, in federal prison for the coercion and enticement count, and a mandatory 5 years, up to 20 years, in federal prison for receiving child sex abuse material. 

    According to court documents, Davila met a 12-year-old girl online while playing a video game. The two continued to communicate and exchanged sexually explicit photos. Davila later drove from Texas to Florida to pick up the child and engage in sexual acts with her. 

    An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty.          

    This case was investigated by the Tampa Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, with assistance from the Midway (Florida) Police Department and the Johnson County (Texas) Sheriff’s Office. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Ross Roberts.

    This is another case 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.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Attorney Tessa M. Gorman Names District Election Officer

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

    Ahead of the Threat Podcast: Episode Zero

    Welcome to Ahead of the Threat, the FBI’s new podcast miniseries that brings together an FBI cyber executive and a private sector chief information security officer. Join Bryan Vorndran, assistant director of the FBI’s Cyber Division, and Jamil Farshchi, a strategic engagement advisor for the FBI who also works as an executive vice president and CISO of Equifax, as they discuss emerging cyber threats and the enduring importance of cybersecurity fundamentals. Featuring distinguished guests from the business world and government, Ahead of the Threat will confront some of the biggest questions in cyber: How will emerging technology impact corporate America? How can corporate boards be structured for cyber resilience? What does the FBI think about generative artificial intelligence? Listen to new episodes biweekly and stay Ahead of the Threat.

    Charity and Disaster Fraud

    Charity fraud scams can come in many forms: emails, social media posts, crowdfunding platforms, cold calls, etc. They are especially common after high-profile disasters. Always use caution and do your research when you’re looking to donate to charitable causes.

    RYAN JAMES WEDDING

    Conspiracy to Distribute and Possess with Intent to Distribute Controlled Substances; Conspiracy to Export Cocaine; Continuing Criminal Enterprise; Murder in Connection with a Continuing Criminal Enterprise and Drug Crime; Attempt to Commit…

    Capitol Violence

    The FBI is seeking to identify individuals involved in the violent activities that occurred at the U.S. Capitol and surrounding areas on January 6, 2021. View photos and related information here. If you have any information to provide, visit tips.fbi.gov or call 1-800-CALL-FBI.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Belgian National Charged with Attempting to Breach Cockpit and Assaulting Flight Crew Members on March 2024 Flight

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

    NEWARK, N.J. – A Belgian national was arrested today for attempting to breach the cockpit and assaulting flight attendants aboard flight from Newark Liberty International Airport to Zurich, Switzerland, in March 2024, U.S. Attorney Philip Sellinger announced.

    Jan Daeninck, 43, of Belgium, is charged by complaint with one count of interference with flight crew members and attendants by assault and intimidation, one count of assault, and one count of abusive sexual contact on an airplane. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge U.S. Magistrate Judge Leda Dunn Wettre in Newark federal court and was released on $100,000 unsecured bond.

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

    On March 31, 2024, Daeninck was a passenger aboard a Swiss International Airlines flight from Newark to Zurich. Shortly after takeoff, Daeninck walked up to a female flight attendant, grabbed both of her breasts with his hands, shook her, and began yelling at her. After the flight attendant was able to wrest herself away from Daeninck, he then approached and attempted to enter the cockpit, repeatedly striking, kicking and beating the cockpit door. While Daeninck was attempting to gain entrance to the cockpit, a male flight attendant approached Daeninck. After repeatedly striking, punching, and kicking the cockpit door and failing to gain entry to the cockpit, Daeninck assaulted the male flight attendant by repeatedly punching and kicking the flight attendant, striking him in head and upper body with a closed fist. Flight crew members were able to intervene and assist with restraining Daeninck on the floor in the vicinity of the cockpit door for the remainder of the flight. As a result of Daeninck’s actions, the flight turned around and landed back at Newark Liberty International Airport.

    The charge of interfering with flight crew members and attendants carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison and a maximum fine of $250,000. The charge of assault by beating or striking carries a maximum punishment of one year in prison and a maximum fine of $100,000. The charge of abusive sexual contact carries a maximum sentence of two years in prison and a maximum fine of $250,000.

    U.S. Attorney Sellinger credited special agents of the FBI, under the direction of Acting Special Agent in Charge Nelson I. Delgado in Newark, with the investigation leading to the charge. He also thanked the Port Authority Police Department, under the direction of Edward T. Cetnar, for its assistance.

    The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Michelle L. Goldman of the Office’s General Crimes Unit in Newark.

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Orange County Supervisor Agrees to Plead Guilty to Bribery Conspiracy Involving $10 Million in COVID Relief Funds

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

    OC Supervisor Andrew Do Admits Receiving More Than $550,000 in Bribe Payments from Funds Meant to Be Used to Provide Meals to Elderly

    SANTA ANA, California – The District One Supervisor on the Orange County Board of Supervisors has agreed to plead guilty to a felony federal charge for accepting more than $550,000 in bribes for directing and voting in favor of more than $10 million in COVID funds to a charity affiliated with one of his daughters, Rhiannon Do, the Justice Department announced today. 

    Andrew Hoang Do, 62, agreed to plead guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit bribery concerning programs receiving federal funds. His plea agreement and information were filed today. He is expected to make his initial appearance in United States District Court in Santa Ana later this month.

    Do is one of five supervisors on the Orange County Board of Supervisors, which is responsible for the county’s $9 billion annual budget. As a county supervisor, Do represents the cities of Cypress, Fountain Valley, Garden Grove, Huntington Beach, La Palma, Los Alamitos, Midway City, Rossmoor, Seal Beach, and Westminster. He has served as a county supervisor since February 2015.

    As part of his plea agreement, Do admitted that in exchange for more than $550,000 in bribes, beginning in 2020, he voted in favor of and directed millions of dollars in COVID-related funds to Viet America Society (VAS), a charity affiliated with his daughter. Do directed and worked together with other county employees to approve contracts with – and payments to – VAS. Do further admitted he acted corruptly and abused his position of trust as a county supervisor.

    “By putting his own interests over those of his constituents, the defendant sold his high office and betrayed the public’s trust,” said United States Attorney Martin Estrada.  “Even worse, the money he misappropriated and accepted as bribe payments was taken from those most in need – older adults and disabled residents. Our community deserved much better. Corruption has no place in our politics and my office will continue to hold accountable officials who cheat the public.”

    “While millions of Americans were dying from COVID-19, Orange County Supervisor Andrew Do was the fox in the hen house personified, raiding millions in federal pandemic relief funds and orchestrating the money intended to feed elderly and ailing residents to instead fill the pockets of insiders, himself and his loved ones all while portraying a public persona of a hometown hero guiding his constituents through the uncertainty and fear of a global pandemic,” said Orange County District Attorney Todd Spitzer. “No one is above the law in Orange County and these charges should serve as a powerful warning to elected officials everywhere that actions have consequences and justice will be swift and it will be decisive.”  

    “Elected officials have a responsibility to implement programs and policy that will benefit all the people they serve.  Their role is not to squander money, solicit bribes, or to steer funds to organizations or persons, wherein a coordinated effort allows those funds to make their way to family members or friends,” said Akil Davis, the Assistant Director in Charge of the FBI’s Los Angeles Field Office. “Today’s plea is another exclamation point to the FBI’s commitment to ensuring that all local, state, or federal elected and appointed public officials perform their duties with honesty, integrity, and commitment to all the constituents they serve.”

    Shortly after receiving the COVID-related public funds from the county government – funds that were intended to provide meals to the elderly – VAS from April 2021 to February 2024 paid a business identified in court documents as “Company #1” $100,000 or more per month, which totaled approximately $3,804,000. In September 2021, VAS increased its payments to Company #1 from $100,000 to $108,000 per month. Company #1 then began paying Rhiannon Do – Do’s daughter – $8,000 per month, totaling by February 2024 approximately $224,000.

    In his plea agreement, Do admitted that in addition to the $8,000 monthly payments that Company #1 had made to Do’s daughter, in July 2023, Company #1 also transferred a total of $381,500 from the funds it had received from VAS to an escrow company. In July 2023, Do’s daughter used the escrow account funds to purchase a home, in her name, in Tustin for $1,035,000. As part of that transaction, a mortgage for more than $600,000 was obtained by a loan application that contained false information and with fabricated documents. In her related diversion agreement attached as an exhibit to Do’s plea agreement, Do’s daughter admitted her conduct was criminal and violated federal and state law.

    Do also admitted that the $381,500 from Company #1 that his daughter had used to purchase the Tustin house in 2023 was a disguised bribe to him. He also admitted that an additional $100,000 in payments sent to his other daughter, including three $25,000 checks from Company #2 – an air conditioning company that had been paid by VAS – also were bribes to him.

    Some of the bribe funds that had been funneled to his daughters were spent for his direct benefit. For example, during 2022, a total of $14,849 of funds that had been funneled to Do’s daughters was used to make property tax payments for properties in Orange County owned by Do and his wife. Approximately $15,000 was used to pay for one of Do’s credit card bills.

    Do knew that VAS was not providing all the meals for which the county had paid VAS. Instead, much of the funds were used for the benefit of insiders, including to buy real estate in the name of both Do’s daughter and Company #1, bribe payments to both of Do’s daughters, payments to other conspirators, payments to other companies affiliated with VAS’s listed officers, and through hundreds of thousands of dollars in cash withdrawals.

    “Mr. Do had a duty to act in the best interest of the citizens of Orange County. He neglected that duty and misused the financial system to enrich himself,” said Special Agent in Charge Ryan Korner with the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. Office of Inspector General. “Public corruption degrades the public’s confidence in our political system, and FDIC OIG is proud to work alongside our law enforcement partners to identify and hold accountable individuals who abuse public service for private gain.”

    “Andrew Do was entrusted to ensure taxpayer dollars were used responsibly and for the purposes intended,” said Special Agent in Charge Tyler Hatcher, IRS Criminal Investigation, Los Angeles Field Office. “Instead, when his constituents depended on COVID relief programs, Mr. Do exploited his position on the Orange County Board of Supervisors not only to influence channeling of funds to the Viet America Society, but also to accept bribes that were used to purchase a home, pay property taxes, and even to pay fictitious incomes to family members. Combating public corruption is one of the most important roles federal law enforcement agencies play in our local communities, and we are proud to be a partner during this investigation.” 

    “Today’s actions shows that this elected official used his position of trust for personal gain. He didn’t think he would get caught. He was wrong,” said Adam Shanedling, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Department of Education Office of Inspector General’s Western Regional Office. “The OIG is proud to have been a part of the task force that investigated this matter and we’ll continue to work with our law enforcement partners to help safeguard the integrity of federal funds.” 

    The plea agreement requires Do to forfeit any assets connected to the bribery scheme, including the Tustin property his daughter purchased in 2023. As part of his daughter’s related diversion agreement, she also agreed to forfeit the Tustin property. The plea agreement requires Do to pay full restitution by paying back the bribe money he and his daughters received, which he has agreed to pay in full before he is sentenced. In August 2022, the government seized more than $2.4 million from VAS’s and Company #1’s bank accounts.

    In a related agreement with the Orange County District Attorney’s Office (OCDA), attached as an exhibit to Do’s plea agreement, Do has agreed to immediately resign from the Orange County Board of Supervisors and to forfeit any pension credit for the time where he participated in the bribery conspiracy.

    Once Do enters his guilty plea, he will face a statutory maximum sentence of five years in federal prison.

    The FBI; the Orange County District Attorney’s Office Bureau of Investigation; the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. Office of the Inspector General; IRS Criminal Investigation; and the United States Department of Education Office of the Inspector General investigated this matter.

    This matter is being jointly prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office and OCDA. The prosecution is being led by Assistant United States Attorneys Charles E. Pell, Bradley E. Marrett, and Tara Vavere of the United States Attorney’s Office and Senior Deputy District Attorney Avery T. Harrison and Deputy District Attorneys Anthony J. Schlehner and L.J. Berger of the OCDA.  

    Any member of the public who has information related to this or any other public corruption matter in Orange County is encouraged to send information to the FBI’s email tip line at https://tips.fbi.gov and/or to contact the FBI’s Los Angeles Field Office at (310) 477-6565.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Attorney Adair F. Boroughs Appoints District Election Officer

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

    COLUMBIA, S.C. — United States Attorney Adair Ford Boroughs announced today that Assistant United States Attorney (AUSA) John Potterfield will lead the efforts of her office in connection with the Justice Department’s nationwide Election Day Program for the upcoming Nov. 5 general election. AUSA Potterfield has been appointed to serve as the District Election Officer (DEO) for the District of South Carolina, and in that capacity is responsible for overseeing the district’s handling of election day complaints of voting rights concerns, threats of violence to election officials or staff, and election fraud, in consultation with Justice Department Headquarters in Washington.

    United States Attorney Boroughs said, “Every citizen must be able to vote without interference or discrimination and to have that vote counted in a fair and free election. Similarly, election officials and staff must be able to serve without being subject to unlawful threats of violence. The Department of Justice will always work tirelessly to protect the integrity of the election process.”

    The Department of Justice has an important role in deterring and combatting discrimination and intimidation at the polls, threats of violence directed at election officials and poll workers, and election fraud. The Department will address these violations wherever they occur. The Department’s longstanding Election Day Program furthers these goals and also seeks to ensure public confidence in the electoral process by providing local points of contact within the Department for the public to report possible federal election law violations.

    Federal law protects against such crimes as threatening violence against election officials or staff, intimidating or bribing voters, buying and selling votes, impersonating voters, altering vote tallies, stuffing ballot boxes, and marking ballots for voters against their wishes or without their input.  It also contains special protections for the rights of voters, and provides that they can vote free from interference, including intimidation, and other acts designed to prevent or discourage people from voting or voting for the candidate of their choice.  The Voting Rights Act protects the right of voters to mark their own ballot or to be assisted by a person of their choice (where voters need assistance because of disability or inability to read or write in English).   

    United States Attorney Boroughs stated that: “The franchise is the cornerstone of American democracy.  We all must ensure that those who are entitled to the franchise can exercise it if they choose, and that those who seek to corrupt it are brought to justice. In order to respond to complaints of voting rights concerns and election fraud during the upcoming election, and to ensure that such complaints are directed to the appropriate authorities, AUSA/DEO Potterfield will be on duty in this district while the polls are open.  He can be reached by the public at the following telephone numbers: 803-919-3092.”

    In addition, the FBI will have special agents available in each field office and resident agency throughout the country to receive allegations of election fraud and other election abuses on election day. The FBI Columbia field office can be reached by the public at 803-551-4200.

    Complaints about possible violations of the federal voting rights laws can be made directly to the Civil Rights Division in Washington, D.C. by complaint form at https://civilrights.justice.gov/ or by phone at 800-253-3931.

    United States Attorney Boroughs said, “Ensuring free and fair elections depends in large part on the assistance of the American electorate.  It is important that those who have specific information about voting rights concerns or election fraud make that information available to the Department of Justice.”

    Please note, however, in the case of a crime of violence or intimidation, please call 911 immediately and before contacting federal authorities. State and 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: ALDI Executive and Southern Illinois Contractor Sentenced for Rigging Construction Project Bids, Ordered to Pay More Than $2.8 Million

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

    Ahead of the Threat Podcast: Episode Zero

    Welcome to Ahead of the Threat, the FBI’s new podcast miniseries that brings together an FBI cyber executive and a private sector chief information security officer. Join Bryan Vorndran, assistant director of the FBI’s Cyber Division, and Jamil Farshchi, a strategic engagement advisor for the FBI who also works as an executive vice president and CISO of Equifax, as they discuss emerging cyber threats and the enduring importance of cybersecurity fundamentals. Featuring distinguished guests from the business world and government, Ahead of the Threat will confront some of the biggest questions in cyber: How will emerging technology impact corporate America? How can corporate boards be structured for cyber resilience? What does the FBI think about generative artificial intelligence? Listen to new episodes biweekly and stay Ahead of the Threat.

    Charity and Disaster Fraud

    Charity fraud scams can come in many forms: emails, social media posts, crowdfunding platforms, cold calls, etc. They are especially common after high-profile disasters. Always use caution and do your research when you’re looking to donate to charitable causes.

    RYAN JAMES WEDDING

    Conspiracy to Distribute and Possess with Intent to Distribute Controlled Substances; Conspiracy to Export Cocaine; Continuing Criminal Enterprise; Murder in Connection with a Continuing Criminal Enterprise and Drug Crime; Attempt to Commit…

    Capitol Violence

    The FBI is seeking to identify individuals involved in the violent activities that occurred at the U.S. Capitol and surrounding areas on January 6, 2021. View photos and related information here. If you have any information to provide, visit tips.fbi.gov or call 1-800-CALL-FBI.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: United States Attorney Sayler Fleming Announces District Election Officers Responsible for Handling Election Day Complaints

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

    ST. LOUIS – United States Attorney Sayler A. Fleming announced today that Assistant United States Attorneys (AUSA) Hal Goldsmith and Jennifer Roy will lead the efforts of her office in connection with the Justice Department’s nationwide Election Day Program for the Nov. 5, 2024, general election.  AUSAs Goldsmith and Roy have been appointed to serve as the District Election Officers (DEO) for the Eastern District of Missouri, and are responsible for overseeing the district’s handling of election day complaints of voting rights concerns, threats of violence to election officials or staff, and election fraud, in consultation with Justice Department Headquarters in Washington.

    United States Attorney Fleming said, “Every citizen must be able to vote without interference or discrimination and to have that vote counted in a fair and free election.  Similarly, election officials and staff must be able to serve without being subject to unlawful threats of violence.  The Department of Justice will always work tirelessly to protect the integrity of the election process.”

    The Department of Justice has an important role in deterring and combatting discrimination and intimidation at the polls, threats of violence directed at election officials and poll workers, and election fraud.  The Department will address these violations wherever they occur.  The Department’s longstanding Election Day Program furthers these goals and also seeks to ensure public confidence in the electoral process by providing local points of contact within the Department for the public to report possible federal election law violations.

    Federal law protects against such crimes as threatening violence against election officials or staff, intimidating or bribing voters, buying and selling votes, impersonating voters, altering vote tallies, stuffing ballot boxes, and marking ballots for voters against their wishes or without their input.  It also contains special protections for the rights of voters, and provides that they can vote free from interference, including intimidation, and other acts designed to prevent or discourage people from voting or voting for the candidate of their choice.  The Voting Rights Act protects the right of voters to mark their own ballot or to be assisted by a person of their choice (where voters need assistance because of disability or inability to read or write in English).  

    United States Attorney Fleming said, “The franchise is the cornerstone of American democracy.  We all must ensure that those who are entitled to the franchise can exercise it if they choose, and that those who seek to corrupt it are brought to justice.  In order to respond to complaints of voting rights concerns and election fraud during the upcoming election, and to ensure that such complaints are directed to the appropriate authorities, DEOs Goldsmith and Roy will be on duty in this District while the polls are open.  They can be reached by the public at 314-539-7733.”

    In addition, the FBI will have special agents available in each field office and resident agency throughout the country to receive allegations of election fraud and other election abuses on election day.  You can reach the FBI online at tips.fbi.gov or by dialing 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324).

    Complaints about possible violations of the federal voting rights laws can be made directly to the Civil Rights Division in Washington, DC by complaint form at https://civilrights.justice.gov/ or by phone at 800-253-3931.

    United States Attorney Fleming said, “Ensuring free and fair elections depends in large part on the assistance of the American electorate.  It is important that those who have specific information about voting rights concerns or election fraud make that information available to the Department of Justice.”

    Please note, however, in the case of a crime of violence or intimidation, please call 911 immediately and before contacting federal authorities.  State and local police have primary jurisdiction over polling places, and almost always have faster reaction capacity in an emergency.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Attorney’s Office Announces Election Day Program for 2024 General Election

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

    ALBUQUERQUE – United States Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez announced today that Assistant United States Attorneys (AUSAs) Jeremy Peña and Sean Sullivan will lead the efforts of his Office in connection with the Justice Department’s nationwide Election Day Program for the upcoming November 5, 2024, general election. AUSAs Peña and Sullivan have been appointed to serve as the District Election Officers for the District of New Mexico, and in that capacity are responsible for overseeing the District’s handling of election day complaints of voting rights concerns, threats of violence to election officials or staff, and election fraud, in consultation with Justice Department Headquarters in Washington.

    “Our vote is our voice. That is why the Department of Justice will ensure every citizen can vote without interference or discrimination and have that vote counted in a fair and free election,” said U.S. Attorney Uballez. “Similarly, elections do not run themselves. We will protect our election officials and staff from interference and unlawful threats of violence. The Department will ensure that those who are entitled to the franchise can exercise it, and that those who seek to corrupt it are brought to justice.”

    The Department of Justice has an important role in deterring and combatting discrimination and intimidation at the polls, threats of violence directed at election officials and poll workers, and election fraud. The Department will address these violations wherever they occur. The Department’s longstanding Election Day Program furthers these goals and also seeks to ensure public confidence in the electoral process by providing local points of contact within the Department for the public to report possible federal election law violations.

    Federal law protects against such crimes as threatening violence against election officials or staff, intimidating or bribing voters, buying and selling votes, impersonating voters, altering vote tallies, stuffing ballot boxes, and marking ballots for voters against their wishes or without their input. It also contains special protections for the rights of voters, and provides that they can vote free from interference, including intimidation, and other acts designed to prevent or discourage people from voting or voting for the candidate of their choice. The Voting Rights Act protects the right of voters to mark their own ballot or to be assisted by a person of their choice (where voters need assistance because of disability or inability to read or write in English). 

    “The vote is the cornerstone of American democracy,” continued U.S. Attorney Uballez. “And ensuring free and fair elections depends on you. If you have specific information about voting rights concerns or election fraud, call us.”

    Members of the public can reach AUSA Peña at (505) 269-2038 and AUSA Sullivan at (505) 350-3153 any time the polls are open in New Mexico.

    In addition, the FBI will have special agents available in each field office and resident agency throughout the country to receive allegations of election fraud and other election abuses on election day. The FBI can be reached by the public at 1-800-CALL-FBI or tips.fbi.gov.

    Finally, complaints about possible violations of the federal voting rights laws can be made directly to the Civil Rights Division in Washington, DC by complaint form at https://civilrights.justice.gov/ or by phone at 800-253-3931.

    Please note, however, in the case of a crime of violence or intimidation, please call 911 immediately and before contacting federal authorities. State and local police have primary jurisdiction over polling places, and almost always have faster reaction capacity in an emergency.

    # # #

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: FBI Philadelphia Seeking Information in Arson and Sabotage

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

    FBI Philadelphia is seeking the public’s assistance in identifying an unknown individual in the arson and sabotage of the side of a United States Department of Defense contractor building in State College, Pennsylvania.

    On June 4, 2024, an unknown individual spray painted pro-Palestinian graffiti on the side of a United States Department of Defense contractor building located on Science Park Road in State College, Pennsylvania. The graffiti stated, “FOR THE MARTYRS”, “ESCALATE 4 RAFAH”, and “FREE PALESTINE”. The suspect then tried to enter the secure facility but fled on foot after being confronted by security.

    In the early morning hours of June 9, 2024, the same individual returned to the location and spray-painted the building with “INTIFADA IS HERE” as well as an inverted red triangle indicting the “rising” is here. The individual also doused the area in a flammable liquid. The area included a compressed natural gas pipeline, a natural gas generator, and a nearby transformer, all of which are in close proximity to the building. The suspect set fire to the liquid and fled on foot in the same direction as the previous incident.

    The suspect is described as being White, between 5’9” and 6’0” tall, with longer blond or light brown hair, and with a shoe size between a men’s 10 and 11 or a women’s 12 and 13.

    The FBI is offering a reward of up to $10,000 for the arrest and conviction of the individual responsible.

    If you have any information concerning this person, please contact your local FBI field office or the nearest American Embassy or Consulate.

    FBI Philadelphia can be reached at (215) 418-4000.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Two Philadelphia Men Sentenced to Almost a Decade in Prison for Separate Gunpoint Carjackings in the City

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

    Marc Anthony Targeted a Woman in Fairmount in 2022; Asiem Brooking Carjacked a Man in Olney in 2023

    PHILADELPHIA – United States Attorney Jacqueline C. Romero announced that two Philadelphia men have each been sentenced to almost 10 years in prison for carrying out separate carjackings in the city.

    Asiem Brooking, 21, was sentenced on October 17, 2024, by United States District Court Judge R. Barclay Surrick to 117 months in prison and three years of supervised release for committing an armed carjacking in the city’s Olney section in January 2023.

    At around 8:15 p.m. on January 28, 2023, as a 54-year-old man was about to get out of his Nissan Altima on the 5400 block of North 6th Street, Brooking opened the passenger side front door, pointed a gun at the victim, and threatened to kill him. After the victim complied with Brooking’s demand to hand over his wallet and keys, the defendant fled the scene in the Altima.

    In May of 2023, Brooking was charged by indictment with one count of carjacking and one count of using and carrying a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence. He pleaded guilty to both counts in July of this year.

    Marc Anthony, also known as Nasir Johnson, 22, was sentenced on October 18, 2024, by United States District Court Judge Karen S. Marston to 115 months in prison and five years of supervised release for carjacking a woman at gunpoint in the city’s Fairmount section in January 2022.

    At about 1:15 p.m. on January 6, 2022, Anthony and an unknown accomplice, both masked and armed with handguns, approached a 40-year-old woman who had just parked her Hyundai Sonata on the 800 block of North 28th Street. As they ordered the victim out of the car at gunpoint, she asked to retrieve her dog from the back seat, struggling to do so as they yelled for her phone and passcode. Once the victim and her dog were clear, the carjackers fled the scene in the Sonata.

    Anthony was charged by indictment in May 2022 with one count of carjacking and one count of using and carrying a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence. He pleaded guilty to both charges in May of this year.

    “These criminals who think nothing of terrorizing our community at gunpoint are a true priority for my office, the FBI, and our partners on Philadelphia Carjacking Task Force,” said U.S. Attorney Romero. “By ensuring that people like Brookings and Anthony are prosecuted and held accountable for their violent and disturbing crimes, we’re making the city safer — one offender, one block, one neighborhood at a time.”

    These cases were investigated by the FBI Philadelphia Violent Crimes Task Force and the Philadelphia Police Department and are being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Thomas M. Zaleski.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Press Release by the United States Attorney Relating to the November 2024 General Election

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

    United States Attorney Jacqueline C. Romero announced today that two District Election Officers will lead the efforts of her Office in connection with the Justice Department’s nationwide Election Day Program for the upcoming November 5, 2024, general election. The District Election Officers (DEOs) for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania are responsible for overseeing the District’s handling of election day complaints of voting rights concerns, threats of violence to election officials or staff, and election fraud, in consultation with Justice Department Headquarters in Washington.

    “Every citizen must be able to vote without interference or discrimination and to have that vote counted in a fair and free election,” U.S. Attorney Romero said. “Similarly, election officials and staff must be able to serve without being subject to unlawful threats of violence. The Department of Justice will always work tirelessly to protect the integrity of the election process.”

    The Department of Justice has an important role in deterring and combatting discrimination and intimidation at the polls, threats of violence directed at election officials and poll workers, and election fraud. The Department will address these violations wherever they occur. The Department’s longstanding Election Day Program furthers these goals and also seeks to ensure public confidence in the electoral process by providing local points of contact within the Department for the public to report possible federal election law violations.

    Federal law protects against such crimes as threatening violence against election officials or staff, intimidating or bribing voters, buying and selling votes, impersonating voters, altering vote tallies, stuffing ballot boxes, and marking ballots for voters against their wishes or without their input. It also contains special protections for the rights of voters, and provides that they can vote free from interference, including intimidation, and other acts designed to prevent or discourage people from voting or voting for the candidate of their choice. The Voting Rights Act protects the right of voters to mark their own ballot or to be assisted by a person of their choice (where voters need assistance because of disability or inability to read or write in English). 

    “The franchise is the cornerstone of American democracy,” U.S. Attorney Romero said. “We all must ensure that those who are entitled to the franchise can exercise it if they choose, and that those who seek to corrupt it are brought to justice. In order to respond to complaints of voting rights concerns and election fraud during the upcoming election, and to ensure that such complaints are directed to the appropriate authorities, the DEOs will be on duty in this District while the polls are open. The public can reach them by calling 215-861-8200 and asking for the District Election Officers.”

    In addition, the FBI will have special agents available in each field office and resident agency throughout the country to receive allegations of election fraud and other election abuses on Election Day. The local FBI field office can be reached by the public by calling 215-418-4000.

    Complaints about possible violations of the federal voting rights laws can also be made directly to the Civil Rights Division in Washington, D.C., by complaint form at https://civilrights.justice.gov/ or by phone at 1-800-253-3931.

    “Ensuring free and fair elections depends in large part on the assistance of the American electorate,” U.S. Attorney Romero said. “It is important that those who have specific information about voting rights concerns or election fraud make that information available to the Department of Justice.”

    Please note, however, in the case of a crime of violence or intimidation, call 911 immediately before then contacting federal authorities. State and local police have primary jurisdiction over polling places, and almost always have faster reaction capacity in an emergency.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: United States Attorney’s Office Activates Election Day Program to Stop Fraud and Protect Voting Rights

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

    CHARLESTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Will Thompson announced today that Assistant United States Attorney (AUSA) Erik S. Goes will lead the efforts of his Office in connection with the Justice Department’s nationwide Election Day Program for the upcoming November 5, 2024, general election.

    AUSA Goes has been appointed to serve as the District Election Officer (DEO) for the Southern District of West Virginia, and in that capacity is responsible for overseeing the District’s handling of election day complaints of voting rights concerns, threats of violence to election officials or staff, and election fraud, in consultation with Justice Department Headquarters in Washington.

    “Every citizen must be able to vote without interference or discrimination and to have that vote counted in a fair and free election,” said Thompson “Similarly, election officials and staff must be able to serve without being subject to unlawful threats of violence. The Department of Justice will always work tirelessly to protect the integrity of the election process.”

    The Department of Justice has an important role in deterring and combatting discrimination and intimidation at the polls, threats of violence directed at election officials and poll workers, and election fraud. The Department will address these violations wherever they occur. The Department’s longstanding Election Day Program furthers these goals and also seeks to ensure public confidence in the electoral process by providing local points of contact within the Department for the public to report possible federal election law violations.

    Federal law protects against such crimes as threatening violence against election officials or staff, intimidating or bribing voters, buying and selling votes, impersonating voters, altering vote tallies, stuffing ballot boxes, and marking ballots for voters against their wishes or without their input. It also contains special protections for the rights of voters, and provides that they can vote free from interference, including intimidation, and other acts designed to prevent or discourage people from voting or voting for the candidate of their choice. The Voting Rights Act protects the right of voters to mark their own ballot or to be assisted by a person of their choice (where voters need assistance because of disability or inability to read or write in English).

    “The franchise is the cornerstone of American democracy,” Thompson said. “We all must ensure that those who are entitled to the franchise can exercise it if they choose, and that those who seek to corrupt it are brought to justice. In order to respond to complaints of voting rights concerns and election fraud during the upcoming election, and to ensure that such complaints are directed to the appropriate authorities, AUSA/DEO Goes will be on duty in this District while the polls are open. He can be reached by the public at the following telephone numbers: (304) 340-2395 or (304) 345-2200.”

    In addition, the FBI will have special agents available in each field office and resident agency throughout the country to receive allegations of election fraud and other election abuses on election day.  The local FBI field office can be reached by the public at (304) 346-2300.

    Complaints about possible violations of the federal voting rights laws can be made directly to the Civil Rights Division in Washington, DC by complaint form at https://civilrights.justice.gov/ or by phone at (800) 253-3931.

    “Ensuring free and fair elections depends in large part on the assistance of the American electorate,” Thompson said. “It is important that those who have specific information about voting rights concerns or election fraud make that information available to the Department of Justice.”

    Please note, however, in the case of a crime of violence or intimidation, please call 911 immediately and before contacting federal authorities.  State and local police have primary jurisdiction over polling places, and almost always have faster reaction capacity in an emergency.

    A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: INTERPOL conference on the future of policing opens in South Korea

    Source: Interpol (news and events)

    23 October 2024

    From artificial intelligence to climate change, the event will study trends impacting the global security landscape.

    INCHEON, Korea – INTERPOL, in collaboration with the Korean National Police Agency (KNPA), is convening the first-ever Future of Policing Congress to address emerging challenges facing law enforcement. 

    The two-day (23-24 October) event will take place alongside the Korea Police World Expo (KPEX) in Incheon, aiming to address the rapidly changing global security landscape and help prepare law enforcement agencies worldwide for the future.

    Bringing together law enforcement leaders, industry experts, academics, and stakeholders from various sectors, the Congress will see delegates explore how global ‘megatrends’ will shape the future of policing. 

    The event will in turn serve as a platform for participants to identify potential future scenarios, understand their security implications and identify steps to prepare law enforcement to adapt. 

    INTERPOL Secretary General Jürgen Stock said:

    “The Future of Policing Congress is not just a moment of reflection. It is a call to action. Recent years have taught us that the world changes faster than we ever could have imagined. Our ways of working, learning, and operating must keep pace.”

    Commissioner General CHO Ji Ho, Korean National Police Agency said:

    “Today’s Congress goes beyond simply talking about challenges in policing. It presents countries with an invaluable opportunity to canvass new possibilities in responding to technology-driven and engage with one another for better cooperation.”

    Innovation-as-a-service

    In recent years, INTERPOL has expanded its strategic foresight capabilities to offer member countries ‘innovation-as-a-service, helping member countries anticipate emerging trends and threats.

    Engaging with global experts from the public and private sectors, INTERPOL has rolled out initiatives such as the Future Foresight Lab, Young Global Police Leaders Programme and the Responsible AI Lab. 

    In 2023, INTERPOL launched Vision 2030 – a major initiative to help steer the strategic direction for the future of global law enforcement.

    This was followed by the creation of the INTERPOL Future Council– a diverse group of experts that, from strategic futurists to legal practitioners, academics and young law enforcement voices, helps ensure INTERPOL remains at the forefront of global law enforcement innovation. 

    Changing models of policing

    The Future of Policing Congress is organized into three sessions: the first explores future scenarios, the second examines their impact on law enforcement, and the final session focuses on how law enforcement can prepare to face future challenges.

    The Congress, which was built as a hands-on workshop, is facilitated by academics and experts from private sector and international organizations. It utilizes innovative tools like discussions provoked by AI-generated videos and questions on specific topics.

    The Future of Policing Congress looks at the future from 5 dimensions including social, technological, economic, environmental, and geopolitical landscapes. The impact on law enforcement will be explored in terms of evolution of crime, policing duties, data and evidence, and changing models of policing, trust and citizen expectations.

    The path forward for law enforcement preparedness will encompass equipment and tools, skill sets, processes and procedures, organizational structures, and international cooperation.

    The outcomes of the Congress will be compiled and disseminated to INTERPOL’s 196 member countries.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: 72 Year Old Tahlequah Resident Sentenced To 17 Years For Child Sex Abuse Crimes

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Phillip Dale Wilson, age 72, of Tahlequah, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 204 months each on two counts of Abusive Sexual Contact in Indian Country.  The terms are to be served concurrently for a total prison term of 17 years.

    The charges arose from an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office.

    On December 18, 2023, Phillip Dale Wilson pleaded guilty to the charges.  According to investigators, beginning in December of 1999 and continuing until November of 2005, Wilson sexually abused a child he knew to be under the age of 12.  Investigators also established that between April 2004 and March 2011, Wilson sexually abused a second child he knew to be under the age of 12.  The investigation further revealed that between September 2001 and December 2015 Wilson sexually abused three other children under the age of 12 and another child under the age of 16.

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

    “This case demonstrates the commitment of the FBI to investigate anyone who would harm the most vulnerable members of the community, our children,” said FBI Oklahoma City Special Agent in Charge Doug Goodwater.  “The FBI will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to relentlessly pursue child sex offenders and send them to federal prison where they belong.”

    “Due in large part to the bravery of the victims and the exceptional investigative work of the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office and the FBI, the defendant will likely spend the rest of his life behind bars,” said United States Attorney Christopher J. Wilson.  “No prison sentence can undo the physical and emotional damage the defendant inflicted on his victims, but I hope they can have some measure of peace in knowing the defendant no longer poses a threat to them or other children.”

    The Honorable Raúl M. Arias-Marxuach, Chief District Judge in the United States District Court for Puerto Rico, sitting by assignment, presided over the hearing in Muskogee, Oklahoma.  Wilson will remain in the custody of the U.S. Marshal pending transportation to a designated United States Bureau of Prisons facility to serve a non-paroleable sentence of incarceration.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicole Paladino represented the United States.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Stoughton Man Sentenced to Three Years in Prison for Armed Robberies of Postal Workers

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Since July 2022, there have been at least 23 assaults on USPS letter carriers in Boston and surrounding communities

    BOSTON – A Stoughton man was sentenced yesterday in federal court in Boston for the armed robberies of United States Postal Service (USPS) letter carriers that took place on Nov. 29, 2022 in Mattapan and Dec. 16, 2022 in Hyde Park. In one instance, the defendant robbed the letter carrier at knifepoint.

    Kenneth Demosthene, 24, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Chief Judge F. Dennis Saylor IV to three years in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release. In July 2024, Demosthene pleaded guilty to two counts of robbery of any person having lawful charge, control, or custody of any mail matter or of any money or other property of the United States, aiding and abetting and two counts of assaulting, resisting, or impeding certain officers or employees, aiding and abetting. In May 2023, Demosthene was indicted by a federal grand jury along with his alleged co-conspirator Myesha Lewis.

    USPS has seen a rise in the use of arrow keys to facilitate the theft of U.S. Mail. An arrow key is a specific key designed to open designated blue USPS collection boxes in a specific area. These arrow keys are the property of USPS and it is a federal offense for an unauthorized person to possess one. Since July 2022, there have been at least 23 assaults on USPS letter carriers while in the performance of their official duties in Boston and its surrounding communities. These incidents included the attempted or successful robbery of USPS arrow keys from letter carriers. Additionally, of these 23, 15 of the robberies were instances where the perpetrators were reportedly armed with a knife, firearm, or both.

    On Nov. 29, 2022, in Mattapan, Demosthene and, allegedly, Lewis followed and forcibly robbed a USPS letter carrier of an arrow key. Demosthene approached the letter carrier and said, “I’m going to need your master key,” before reaching into the letter carrier’s mail satchel and grabbing the arrow key. The arrow key was secured around the letter carrier’s belt with a brass chain. It is alleged that the force used to physically break the brass chain caused the letter carrier to be pulled off the front steps. Demosthene and, allegedly, Lewis fled the scene in a rental vehicle.

    On Dec. 16, 2022, in Hyde Park, Demosthene and, allegedly, Lewis robbed another USPS letter carrier of an arrow key at knife point. Demosthene approached the USPS letter carrier and said, “Give me your f****** arrow key.” The letter carrier put their hands in the air as the defendants attempted to remove the arrow key, at first by force pulling at the chain. Demosthene and, allegedly, Lewis then attempted to cut it with the knife – eventually breaking the arrow key loose, and fleeing the scene on foot.  

    Lewis is expected to plead guilty on Oct. 30, 2024.

    Acting United States Attorney Joshua S. Levy and Ketty Larco-Ward, Inspector in Charge of the United States Postal Inspection Service, Boston Division made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the U.S. Postal Service, Office of the Inspector General. Assistant U.S. Attorney Luke A. Goldworm of the Major Crimes Unit is prosecuting the case.

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

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