NewzIntel.com

Category: Security Intelligence

  • MIL-OSI Security: Whitehorse — RCMP report the remains of a missing man have been located

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    On September 16, 2024, a pickup truck pulling a trailer loaded with other vehicles went off the road into the Yukon River near the Lewes River Bridge. One male was able to exit the vehicle while the other male remained missing after the collision.

    On October 7, 2024, the missing male was located deceased in the Yukon River. The Yukon Coroner’s office is investigating and an autopsy has been ordered.

    Whitehorse RCMP would like to thank Yukon Search and Rescue and Whitehorse Fire Department for their support during the sustained search efforts.

    RCMP continue to conduct their investigation of the motor vehicle collision. For respect of the families involved and the integrity of the investigation, no further details will be released at this time.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Afghan National Arrested for Plotting an Election Day Terrorist Attack in the Name of ISIS

    Source: United States Attorneys General 5

    Note: View the unsealed criminal complaint here. 

    The Justice Department today announced charges against a citizen of Afghanistan residing in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, for conspiring to conduct an Election Day terrorist attack in the United States on behalf of the Islamic State of Iraq and al-Sham (ISIS), a designated foreign terrorist organization (FTO).

    According to a criminal complaint filed today, Nasir Ahmad Tawhedi, 27, conspired and attempted to provide material support to ISIS and obtained firearms and ammunition to conduct a violent attack on U.S. soil in the name of ISIS. As part of the plot, the defendant allegedly took steps to liquidate his family’s assets, resettle members of his family overseas, acquire AK-47 assault rifles and ammunition, and commit a terrorist attack in the United States.

    “As charged, the Justice Department foiled the defendant’s plot to acquire semi-automatic weapons and commit a violent attack in the name of ISIS on U.S. soil on Election Day,” said Attorney General Merrick B. Garland. “We will continue to combat the ongoing threat that ISIS and its supporters pose to America’s national security, and we will identify, investigate, and prosecute the individuals who seek to terrorize the American people. I am deeply grateful to the public servants of the FBI, National Security Division, and U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Oklahoma for their work to disrupt this attack and for the work they do every day to protect our country.”

    “This defendant, motivated by ISIS, allegedly conspired to commit a violent attack, on Election Day, here on our homeland,” said FBI Director Christopher Wray. “I am proud of the men and women of the FBI who uncovered and stopped the plot before anyone was harmed. Terrorism is still the FBI’s number one priority, and we will use every resource to protect the American people.”

    “Thanks to the relentless efforts of the FBI, National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section, and federal prosecutors in my office, the alleged plan to commit an attack on Election Day was disrupted and Mr. Tawhedi was arrested,” said U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester for the Western District of Oklahoma. “Fighting terrorism remains the top priority of the Justice Department. We will continue to pursue, disrupt, and hold accountable those who plot to commit acts of terrorism against our country and our people.”

    According to the criminal complaint, as part of the investigation into Tawhedi, the FBI searched Tawhedi’s phone and obtained communications between Tawhedi and a person who facilitated recruitment, training, and indoctrination of persons who expressed interest in terrorist activity and who Tawhedi understood to be affiliated with ISIS. Tawhedi was also seen in a video recorded on July 20 reading to two children text that describes the rewards a martyr receives in the afterlife. Tawhedi also allegedly accessed, viewed, and saved ISIS propaganda on his iCloud and Google account, participated in pro-ISIS Telegram groups, and contributed to a charity which fronts for and funnels money to ISIS.

    The complaint alleges that while liquidating their family’s assets prior to the attack, Tawhedi and his co-conspirator, who is a juvenile, advertised the sale of the family’s personal property on Facebook. At the FBI’s direction, a confidential human source responded to inquire if a computer was still for sale. The FBI source noted that he needed the computer for a new gun business he was starting, which ultimately led Tawhedi and the juvenile to meet with the source and other FBI assets at a rural location to test firearms. Tawhedi expressed interest in purchasing two AK-47 assault rifles, magazines, and ammunition from the source.

    According to the criminal complaint, on Oct. 7, Tawhedi and the juvenile met with the FBI assets at a rural location in the Western District of Oklahoma and purchased, received, and took possession of two AK-47 assault rifles, ten magazines, and 500 rounds of ammunition. Upon receipt of the rifles and ammunition, Tawhedi and the juvenile were arrested.

    In his seized communications, Tawhedi allegedly indicated that his attack was planned for Election Day, and in a post-arrest interview, Tawhedi allegedly confirmed the attack was planned for Election Day targeting large gatherings of people, during which he and the juvenile were expected to die as martyrs.

    Tawhedi was charged with conspiring and attempting to provide material support to ISIS, which carries a maximum prison sentence of 20 years, and receiving a firearm to be used to commit a felony or a federal crime of terrorism, which carries a maximum prison sentence of 15 years, if convicted.

    The case is being investigated by the FBI Oklahoma City Field Office, with valuable assistance from the Oklahoma City Police Department and the Moore, Oklahoma Police Department.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jessica L. Perry, Matt Dillon, and Mark Stoneman for the Western District of Oklahoma and Trial Attorneys George C. Kraehe and Everett McMillian of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section are prosecuting the case.

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Naval Hospital Twentynine Palms chaplain departs for new role with MCAGCC

    Source: United States Navy (Medical)

    After serving for three years as the command chaplain at Naval Hospital Twentynine Palms, Lt. Cmdr. Larry J. Brant will be moving on to a new assignment with the Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center (MCAGCC) on Oct. 31, 2024.

    Brant, a Navy chaplain for 15 years, will be joining the religious ministry team at MCAGCC in Twentynine Palms, where he will continue serving the spiritual needs of Marines, Sailors, and their families.

    Originally from Cahokia, Illinois, Brant spent 25 years working as a civilian minister and eight years as a volunteer police and fire chaplain before feeling a call to serve.

    “I joined the Navy out of a sense of patriotism and a calling from God,” recalled Brant.

    His journey to Twentynine Palms started on Oct. 1, 2021, after completing the Naval Pastoral Care Residency Program. Despite a challenging start — Brant and his wife, Tammy Brant, were quarantined for two weeks after contracting COVID-19 just days after arriving — he quickly found his footing in the desert.

    “At first, my wife and I weren’t sure what to think about a place that looks like where I served in Afghanistan and still has triple digit temperatures in October,” Brant laughed. “But we have come to love it here.”

    Throughout his tenure at the hospital, Brant’s focus was on strengthening the spiritual health of the command. Capt. Daniel Clark, commander of Naval Hospital Twentynine Palms, praised Brant’s leadership and impact on the hospital through both good and difficult times.

    “It has been an absolute privilege to have Larry Brant as our chaplain. He and his wife Tammy have been nothing but engaged where the spiritual health of our staff was concerned,” said Clark. “He ministered to our staff during several staff deaths and patient traumas. He brought to bear the concept of Strategic Pause during high-stress moments and sustained our Wardroom through fun after-work activities and functions, including reviving a long-absent Dining Out!”

    Brant emphasized that his role as command chaplain of Naval Hospital Twentynine Palms has contributed to his growth in several ways.

    “Personally, I have grown in my capabilities as a chaplain through my experiences here and have made many lifelong friends,” he said. “My wife, who has several medical issues, has received outstanding care from her providers (at the hospital). Professionally, this has allowed me the opportunity to explore several avenues of ministry that are my passion such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and moral injury and pursue my Doctor of Ministry degree with an emphasis in chaplaincy.”

    Brant reflected on some of his fondest memories from his time serving at the command.

    “The most rewarding thing has been getting to know the people here and helping to make a difference in people’s lives,” said Brant. “Some memories that stand out are Wardroom activities — including Dining Out, command picnics, winning a national chaplaincy award, beginning the moral injury group with the mental health department, and earning my board certification in chaplaincy.”

    Religious Program Specialist Petty Officer 3rd Class Diego Escalante, who worked directly under Brant, praised his talent for mentorship.

    “I have had nothing but an amazing time here with my first chaplain and new duty station,” expressed Escalante. “Chaplain Brant has been the most well-rounded leader I’ve had the pleasure of working with. I’m also looking forward to meeting our new chaplain and learning from him too.”

    Looking ahead, Brant is excited for his next role at MCAGCC.

    “We are staying in Twentynine Palms!” he exclaimed. “The next billet for me is to join the MCAGCC religious ministry team. I will be preaching at the Protestant Chapel services, providing ministry for the Marines and Sailors of Headquarters Battalion and their families, and leading the Religious Ministry Team training at all the large-scale training exercises. I am very excited for this opportunity.”

    Clark believes Brant’s move to the green-side will further enhance the support available to Marines.

    “I can’t imagine a better Chaplain for MCAGCC. He is intimately familiar with the green-side challenges and has operationalized the concept of moral injury in a way that has shown demonstrable improvement for Marines dealing with post-traumatic stress,” Clark said. “I can see him taking this even further with the Marines here. We were so lucky to have him, and knowing that he will still be a resource is comforting. We wish him and Tammy all the best!”

    Brant hopes that his spiritual services have left a lasting impact on the personnel at Naval Hospital Twentynine Palms.

    “I hope that what we have provided here has helped people come closer to God, brought understanding and support for minority faith groups, and encouraged closeness in our remote location,” he said.

    As he prepares to depart Naval Hospital Twentynine Palms, Brant offered a piece of advice for his successor.

    “Bloom where you are planted,” Brant expressed. “Love these people, focusing on adding to their lives and faiths, and they will most definitely love you back. Explore the area and enjoy what the desert has to offer. This is a beautiful, if not a little toasty, place.”

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Ohio Sex Offender arrested by U.S. Marshals in Puerto Rico

    Source: US Marshals Service

    San Juan, PR – The U.S. Marshals Service (USMS) Puerto Rico Violent Offenders Task Force (PRFTF) and members of the Puerto Rico Police Department Extradition Unit apprehended in Ponce Oct. 7 a man wanted in Ohio on charges of attempted rape and gross sexual imposition.

    Isaias Colon, 34, was arrested without incident on a warrant issued June 7 by the Mahoning County, Ohio, Court of Common Pleas and after the USMS Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force requested assistance from PRVOTF to investigate Colon in attempts to locate and arrest him.

    Ata residence in Ponce, PRVOTF and PRPD Extradition Unit conducted surveillance for approximately two hours. During the surveillance a gray car arrived at the house and three people, including Colon, were observed exiting the vehicle. Colon was taken into custody and transported to Extradition Unit for extradition procedure.

    “We want to let our communities know that this significant arrest is another example of the results we can obtain from a coordinated collaboration with state agencies and demonstrates the commitment of the men and women of the U.S. Marshals Service to bring these fugitives to justice,” said U.S. Marshal for the District of Puerto Rico Wilmer Ocasio-Ibarra. “All our cases are important, but those against children are of the upmost priority for our personnel. We will continue to be vigilant against any criminal who evades justice and tries to hide so as not to assume his or her responsibility. Our commitment to our citizens comes first and we will allocate all necessary resources to make our communities safe, maintaining a quality of life that we all deserve in Puerto Rico.”

    The USMS encourages the community to continue to collaborate with our deputies on tips that help find the whereabouts of a fugitive by contacting our local office at (787) 766-6297, calling the U.S. Marshals Service Communication Center at 1 (800) 336-0102, or submitting tips using the U.S. Marshals Service Tips App.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Cambridge Narrows  — Missing 54-year-old woman

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    The Oromocto RCMP is asking for the public’s help to locate a missing 54-year-old woman from Cambridge Narrows, N.B.

    Shelly Jones was last seen on October 8, 2024, at approximately 7 p.m., in the area of Scenic Narrows Boulevard in Cambridge Narrows. She was reported missing to police the same day. Police have followed up on several leads to try and locate her, but have so far been unsuccessful. Police and her family are concerned for her wellbeing.

    Shelly Jones is described as being approximately five feet two (157 centimetres) tall, and weighing approximately 170 pounds (77 kilograms). She has blue eyes, and blond hair. She was last seen wearing a camouflage jacket and camouflage pants. Shelly may be driving a red 2024 Honda Pioneer 700 side-by-side.

    Anyone with information on her whereabouts is asked to contact the Oromocto RCMP at 506-357-4300.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: US and Multinational Partners Prepare for Largest Indo-Pacific Army Exercise

    Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

    SCHOFIELD BARRACKS, Hawaii  –  

    The 25th Infantry Division and The Joint Pacific Multinational Readiness Center (JPMRC) is set to execute its largest Combat Training Center (CTC) rotation to date, beginning Oct. 7, 2024. JPMRC 25-01 will span from Alaska to the Hawaiian Islands, and over to Palau and is the only CTC that can stress the system that hard.

    As the U.S. Army’s premier training center in the Indo-Pacific, JPMRC plays a pivotal role in ensuring military readiness by providing a realistic training environment that mimics the region’s challenging jungle to high-altitude volcanic desert and archipelagic environment.

    The 25-01 rotation will bring together U.S. military forces alongside regional Allies and partners to conduct multi-domain, live, virtual, and constructive training in preparation for future operations.

    As the primary training audience, the 2nd Light Brigade Combat Team (2LBCT) will work alongside units from the 11th Airborne Division, 5th Security Force Assistance Brigade, the 3rd Multi-Domain Task Force, selected units from United States Army Special Operations Command, and multinational partners. Together, these forces will tackle the simulated operational environments, ensuring that they are well-prepared to operate cohesively in real-world situations.

    In preparation for the largest JPMRC rotation, operations staffs at echelon are critical. With the essential duties of planning, coordinating, and supervising all operational and training activities within a battalion, the operations staff ensures that units are prepared, synchronized, and effective in both peacetime and combat scenarios.

    “In the JPMRC timeline, we execute the operations order brief to the brigade commander,” explains U.S. Army Capt. Christopher Onorato, a S-3 (Operations) officer assigned to 2LBCT, 25th Inf. Div. “It allows all the subordinate units of 2nd brigade to synchronize and work together effectively to ultimately achieve our goal of successful operations for JPMRC.”

    This year’s rotation features participation from Malaysia, New Zealand, Indonesia, Thailand, Japan, Singapore, Maldives, Australia, and the United Kingdom. These forces will engage in collaborative exercises that simulate complex, multi-domain challenges.

    JPMRC 25-01 will validate 2LBCT’s Transformation in Contact construct in a real-time, high-pressure environment. Aligned with the campaign of learning, 2LBCT will incorporate lessons learned from the 101st Airborne recent rotation at Joint Readiness Training Center. They will further test new technologies and systems designed to improve our warfighting readiness and ability to respond to crisis or conflict.

    JPMRC provides a key opportunity for the force to train in austere environments, develop leaders, systems, and processes that will enhance overall military capability in the Indo-Pacific region.

    “Coming out to the field allows us to do a proof of concept,” explains U.S. Army 1st Lt. Nathan Morgan, a maintenance platoon leader assigned to Delta Company, 2nd Battalion, 25th Aviation Regiment, 25th Combat Aviation Brigade, “With the proper planning and training we can execute major mission functions in any environment.”

    As the largest JPMRC rotation ever held in Hawaii, 25-01 demonstrates the U.S. Army’s relentless pursuit of excellence, and its commitment to ensuring that U.S. forces, alongside their Allies and Partners, remain prepared for whatever challenges the future may hold in the Indo-Pacific.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Readout of Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III’s Call With Japan’s Minister of Defense Nakatani Gen

    Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

    Pentagon Press Secretary Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder provided the following readout:

    Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III spoke by phone today with Japan’s Minister of Defense, Nakatani Gen.

    Secretary Austin congratulated Minister Nakatani on his recent appointment at a time when the United States and Japan continue making historic progress on Alliance priorities. The two officials reaffirmed their commitment to modernize Alliance command and control and expand bilateral presence in Japan’s Southwest Islands. The two officials also reiterated the importance of deepening defense cooperation with regional partners to advance a shared vision for a free and open Indo-Pacific region.

    Secretary Austin expressed his hope that they would have an opportunity to meet in person soon.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Dual U.S. and Iranian Citizen Arrested for Unlawful Scheme to Violate and Evade U.S. Sanctions Against Iran

    Source: United States Attorneys General

    Kambiz Eghbali, also known as Cameron Eghbali, 50, of Los Angeles, was arrested yesterday pursuant to a now-unsealed indictment charging him, along with Hamid Hajipour and Babak Bahizad, both Iranian nationals, with violations of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act, conspiracy to commit bank fraud, and conspiracy to commit money laundering. Bahizad and Hajipour remain at large.

    According to the indictment, from March 2014 through September 2019, Eghbali and others conspired to unlawfully send digital and physical gift cards loaded with U.S. dollars to Iran. Eghbali would list his company, a U.S.-based purported videogame wholesaler and distributor located in the Central District of California, as the seller of the gift cards, and would provide cards to Bahizad for the benefit of his Iran-based gaming company, and to Hajipour for the benefit of his mobile software application service company. Bahizad and Hajipour would then pay Eghbali for the cards by transferring money from Iran to Eghabli’s U.S.-based bank accounts using third parties in other countries to conceal the transfer from U.S. regulators.

    The International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) and the Iranian Transactions and Sanctions Regulations (ITSR) impose controls and restrictions on transactions involving Iran based on the threats posed by Iran to the national security of the United States including, among others, its pursuit of nuclear weapons and sponsorship of terrorism. The IEEPA and ITSR, among other things, prohibit the export, reexport, sale, or supply, directly or indirectly, from the United States or by a United States person, wherever located, of any goods, technology, or services, including financial services, to Iran or the Government of Iran without first obtaining authorization from the U.S. Treasury Department’s Office of Foreign Assets Control.

    If convicted, the defendants face the following maximum penalties: 20 years in prison for violations of IEEPA, 30 years in prison for bank fraud violations, and 20 years in prison for money laundering violations. The indictment also notifies defendants that the United States intends to forfeit all property alleged to be traceable to proceeds of the offense. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    Assistant Attorney General Matthew G. Olsen of the Justice Department’s National Security Division, U.S. Attorney Martin E. Estrada for the Central District of California, and Executive Assistant Director Robert Wells of the FBI’s National Security Branch made the announcement.

    The FBI is investigating the case, with support from Homeland Security Investigations.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Anna Boylan and Mark Takla for the Central District of California and Trial Attorneys David J. Ryan and Leslie Esbrook of the National Security Division’s Counterintelligence and Export Control Section 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.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: COMLOG WESTPAC Holds Award Ceremony, October 3, 2024 [Image 4 of 4]

    Source: United States Navy (Logistics Group Western Pacific)

    Issued by: on

    SINGAPORE (October 3, 2024) Rear Adm. Todd Cimicata, Commander, Logistics Group Western Pacific/Task Force 73 (COMLOG WESTPAC), left, presents a Flag Letter of Commendation (FLOC) to Yeoman 2nd Class Jasilynn Lopez, temporarily assigned to COMLOG WESTPAC, during an awards ceremony on Sembawang Naval Installation (SNI), Oct. 3, 2024. COMLOG WESTPAC supports deployed surface units and aircraft carriers, along with regional Allies and partners, to facilitate patrols in the South China Sea, participation in naval exercises and responses to natural disasters. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Moises Sandoval/Released)

    Date Taken: 10.02.2024
    Date Posted: 10.09.2024 02:07
    Photo ID: 8686908
    VIRIN: 241003-N-ED646-1181
    Resolution: 8256×5504
    Size: 8.4 MB
    Location: SG
    Web Views: 1
    Downloads: 0

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  • MIL-OSI Security: PP24-2 COM-FSM Visit [Image 11 of 15]

    Source: United States Navy (Logistics Group Western Pacific)

    Issued by: on

    240909-N-BB269-1271
    YAP, Federated States of Micronesia (Sept. 9, 2024) – U.S. Navy Rear Adm. Todd Cimicata, commander, Logistics Group Western Pacific/Task Force 73, center, receives a guided tour of the College of Micronesia-Fisheries and Maritime Institute during a campus visit with Pacific Partnership 2024-2 mission personnel in Yap, Federated States of Micronesia, Sept. 9, 2024. Now in its 20th iteration, the Pacific Partnership series is the U.S. Navy’s largest annual multinational humanitarian assistance and disaster relief preparedness mission conducted in the Indo-Pacific. Pacific Partnership works collaboratively with host and partner nations to enhance regional interoperability and disaster response capabilities, increase security and stability in the region, and foster new and enduring friendships in the Indo-Pacific. (U.S. Navy photo by Chief Mass Communication Specialist Raymond D. Diaz III/Released)

    Date Taken: 09.09.2024
    Date Posted: 10.01.2024 02:12
    Photo ID: 8670648
    VIRIN: 240909-N-BB269-1271
    Resolution: 5982×3992
    Size: 988.9 KB
    Location: FM
    Web Views: 2
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  • MIL-OSI Security: COMLOG WESTPAC Holds Award Ceremony, October 3, 2024 [Image 1 of 4]

    Source: United States Navy (Logistics Group Western Pacific)

    Issued by: on

    SINGAPORE (October 3, 2024) Rear Adm. Todd Cimicata, Commander, Logistics Group Western Pacific/Task Force 73 (COMLOG WESTPAC), left, presents the award of the Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal to Yeoman 1st Class Jamal Thompson, assigned to COMLOG WESTPAC, during an awards ceremony on Sembawang Naval Installation (SNI), Oct. 3, 2024. COMLOG WESTPAC supports deployed surface units and aircraft carriers, along with regional Allies and partners, to facilitate patrols in the South China Sea, participation in naval exercises and responses to natural disasters. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Moises Sandoval/Released)

    Date Taken: 10.02.2024
    Date Posted: 10.09.2024 02:07
    Photo ID: 8686905
    VIRIN: 241003-N-ED646-1126
    Resolution: 7622×5081
    Size: 6.63 MB
    Location: SG
    Web Views: 1
    Downloads: 0

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Four arrests and nine companies seized in anti-mafia operation in Italy and Brazil

    Source: Eurojust

    Eurojust supported this international operation, which hit a notorious mafia organisation. Investigations into the criminal organisation uncovered an elaborate scheme that was laundering money from Italy to Brazil, through several companies. The operation on 7 October led to the arrest of four suspects and the seizure of nine companies in Italy, Hong Kong and Brazil.

    The suspects arrested today were involved in the mafia organisation and used extortion, money laundering and the fraudulent transfer of valuables to facilitate important mafia organisations. The main suspect in the scheme set up multiple companies in Brazil using straw men and shell companies. The companies were used to hide the criminal gains of mafia organisations from Italy.

    The investigations revealed that other companies active in the property and hospitality sectors in Italy, Hong Kong and Brazil were part of this elaborate money-laundering scheme. During the operation, nine companies were seized, as well as money worth EUR 350 000.

    The operation on 7 October is the second action from a joint investigation team (JIT) set up at Eurojust between Italian and Brazilian authorities. The JIT has been investigating the mafia organisation since 2022. The first operation took place on 13 August and led to the arrest of a member of a mafia family and the freezing of assets worth EUR 50 million. 

    The Italian and Brazilian authorities have been investigating the activities of the mafia organisation since 2022 through a JIT, set up with the support of Eurojust. Their investigations uncovered the activities of the organisation in Switzerland and Hong Kong.

    The following authorities were involved in the actions:

    • Italy: Public Prosecutor’s Office of Palermo – District Antimafia Directorate; Guardia di Finanza – G.I.C.O. (Organized Crime Investigative Group) of Palermo
    • Brazil: Federal Prosecutor’s Office of Rio Grande do Norte

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Acting U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Alabama Alerts Public to Charity Scams Involving Hurricane Relief Efforts

    Source: United States Department of Justice (National Center for Disaster Fraud)

                Montgomery, Alabama – Acting United States Attorney Kevin Davidson issued a public safety alert today advising the public to be vigilant to hurricane relief fraud attempts in the wake of Hurricane Helene and future storms.

                “Criminals will use any situation, including natural disasters, to profit from the kindness and generosity of others,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Davidson. “I encourage all Alabamians to be mindful as they consider participating in donation requests for disaster relief. Using the suggestions listed below will help ensure that donations reach their intended recipient and do not get diverted to those who seek only to enrich themselves.”

                On Sept. 26, Hurricane Helene made landfall in Florida’s Big Bend Region and quickly caused major devastation there and across states including Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Tennessee, and others. Currently, Hurricane Milton is making its way across the Gulf of Mexico and will impact Florida’s west coast this week. As we have seen in the wake of previous national disasters, fraudsters will target victims of the storm along with citizens across the country who want to do what they can to assist individuals affected by the storm. Unfortunately, criminals exploit disasters for their own gain by sending fraudulent communications through email or social media and by creating deceiving websites designed to solicit contributions.

                The public should exercise diligence before giving contributions to anyone soliciting donations or individuals offering to assist those affected by Hurricane Helene or any other natural disaster. Solicitations can originate from phone calls, texts, social media, e-mail, door-to-door collections, flyers, mailings, and other similar methods. Before making a donation to benefit victims of a disaster, individuals should adhere to certain guidelines, including:

    • Make contributions directly to known organizations rather than relying on others to make the donation on your behalf.
    • Do not be pressured into making contributions as reputable charities do not use such tactics.
    • Do not respond to any unsolicited communications (e.g., e-mails and texts), and never click links contained within those messages because they may be targeting your personal information, to include bank and credit card account information, and other identifiers such as dates of birth and social security numbers.
    • Rather than clicking on a purported link to a charity, verify its legitimacy by utilizing various internet-based resources that may assist in confirming whether the organization is a valid charity.
    • Beware of organizations with copy-cat names similar to but not exactly the same as those of reputable charities.
    • Avoid cash donations if possible. Pay by credit card or write a check directly to the charity. Do not make checks payable to individuals.
    • Know that legitimate charities do not normally solicit donations via money transfer services, and their website will normally end in .org rather than .com.
    • Be cautious of e-mails that claim to show pictures of the disaster areas in attached files because the files may contain viruses. Only open attachments from known senders.

                The U.S. Department of Justice established the National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) in the wake of Hurricane Katrina to deter, investigate, and prosecute fraud in the wake of disasters. More than 50 federal, state, and local agencies participate in the NCDF, which reminds the public to be aware of and report any instances of alleged fraudulent activity related to relief operations and funding for victims. Complaints of fraud may be reported online at http://www.justice.gov/DisasterComplaintForm. Complaints may also be reported to the NCDF at (866) 720-5721, a hotline that is staffed 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: NATO Secretary General to visit the United Kingdom

    Source: NATO

    On Thursday, 10 October 2024, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte will travel to London, United Kingdom.

    Mr Rutte will meet with the UK Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer, the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, Mr David Lammy, and other senior officials.

    Media Advisory

    12:00 (CEST) Remarks by the NATO Secretary General and the UK Prime Minister

    13:05 (CEST) Doorstep by the NATO Secretary General

    Media coverage

    Both the remarks and the doorstep will be streamed live on the NATO website.

    Transcripts of the Secretary General’s remarks, as well as photographs, will be available on the NATO website after the events.
     

    For more information:

    For general queries: contact the NATO Press Office

    Follow us on X: @NATO, @SecGenNATO and @NATOPress

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Detectives appeal for help to find murder victim’s next-of-kin

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    Detectives are appealing for help from the public to identify family members or next-of-kin for a murder victim.

    The victim, 51-year-old Anthony Marks, was attacked in the early hours of Saturday, 10 August in Cromer Street, WC1.

    Anthony was a member of the homeless community and is understood to have been sheltering in a nearby bin shed prior to his assault.

    A 17-year-old boy from Dagenham was arrested on Friday, 4 October and was charged on Sunday, 6 October with Anthony’s murder.

    He appeared at Highbury Magistrates’ Court where he was remanded into custody to next appear on Wednesday, 9 October at the Old Bailey.

    Detective Chief Inspector Sarah Lee, from the Met’s Specialist Crime Command, said: “Despite someone having been charged, our investigation is ongoing with a number of active lines of enquiry.

    “Sadly, despite our best efforts, we have been unable to identify next-of-kin for Anthony and I urge anyone who can help to contact the investigation team.

    “I am also very keen to hear from anyone who witnessed this incident but has not yet spoken with police. There were a number of people in the area at the time of the murder and we know that some of those people tried to help Anthony. If you are one of those people please do get in touch with us.”

    Anyone with information should contact the incident room direct on 0208 358 0300, dial 101 or post on X @MetCC quoting CAD 1428/10AUG24.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Independent Review Assesses IAEA’s Internal Safety Regulatory System for First Time, Finds Well-Established Framework

    Source: International Atomic Energy Agency – IAEA

    IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi (center) at the opening of the Integrated Regulatory Review Service (IRRS) mission to the IAEA.  (Yiran Zhang/IAEA)

    The first-ever independent review of the International Atomic Energy Agency’s (IAEA) internal radiation safety regulatory framework has confirmed that the system is well-established, with the IAEA’s regulator showing a strong dedication to ongoing enhancement and improvement. The review provided recommendations for a further strengthening and enhancing of the Agency’s regulatory system for safety.

    The Integrated Regulatory Review Service (IRRS) mission, held from 30 September to 9 October, was requested by IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi last year. In line with his request, the mission covered all core regulatory areas of radiation safety, waste safety, emergency preparedness and response, transport, and the interface with nuclear security.

    The IAEA uses radiation technologies and implements international safety standards in its own operations, overseen by an independent regulator who is also part of IAEA staff.

     This regulator provides safety oversight of activities which involve radiation uses at the Agency’s laboratories in Vienna, Seibersdorf, and Monaco. Additionally, the regulator oversees the IAEA’s involvement in activities conducted, organized, or contracted within its Member States.

    “Radiation safety demands unwavering vigilance and preparedness,” said Director General Grossi. “By initiating this unique IRRS mission, the IAEA is leading by example, applying the best safety practices also to our own work and openly communicating on any gaps. This is especially important today, as the number of new nuclear projects continues to grow worldwide.”

    Using IAEA safety standards and international good practices, IRRS missions are designed to strengthen the effectiveness of the national legal and regulatory infrastructures while recognizing the responsibility of each country to ensure nuclear and radiation safety. It is the first time an IRRS was conducted in an organization that does not belong to one Member State, a fact that was recognized by the IRRS team as a good practice.  

    “The Agency has demonstrated a strong commitment to IAEA safety standards by proactively utilizing the peer review system, typically designed for Member States, to evaluate its own internal implementation of these standards,” said Carl-Magnus Larsson, IRRS Team Leader. “This approach goes beyond what is required, is unique, and serves as a replicable model for other organizations”.

    During the ten-day mission, the IRRS team – comprised of 10 senior regulatory experts from Canada, Czech Republic, Brazil, Norway, Qatar, Slovenia, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, United States of America and Zimbabwe, two IAEA staff members and one observer from Austria – held discussions with Agency staff and observed regulatory inspections at the Agency’s Insect Pest Control Laboratory in its nuclear applications laboratories in Seibersdorf, Austria.

    The IRRS team concluded that the IAEA’s regulatory programme for radiation, transport, and waste safety is well-established, demonstrating its strong commitment to upholding international safety standards. Additionally, the IRRS team welcomed the regulator’s dedication to continuously advancing and improving the IAEA regulatory system.

    The review also included recommendations to help the Agency further strengthen the effectiveness of its regulatory framework and functions. These recommendations will be detailed in the final report, which is expected to be completed within the next three months.

    The findings included the need for the IAEA to:

    • Develop a comprehensive policy and strategy for safety, tailored to the IAEA’s specific strategic and operational activities.
    • Initiate a review of resourcing to ensure that the Regulator has sufficient human and financial resources for sustainable discharge of its assigned responsibilities, including the resources needed to continuously improve the regulatory framework and to enhance the competence of the regulatory staff.
    • Consider formalising arrangements to ensure continued regulatory independence.
    • Consider assessing events occurring at the IAEA laboratories involving radiation technologies at the Agency Seat against the International Nuclear and Radiological Event Scale (INES) and report those events at Level 2 and above to Member States.

    The Team provided specific recommendations for the IAEA Regulator, including:

    • Completing the documentation for the regulatory management system.
    • Arranging for independent assessments of the regulator’s leadership for safety and safety culture at planned intervals to improve the overall safety performance.
    • Finalizing and formally adopting procedures for authorization taking into account a graded approach.  
    • Developing an inspection programme and plan in accordance with a graded approach.
    • Formally adopting a process for establishing regulations and regulatory guides, including the frequency for reviewing the regulatory guides and a system to ensure that the development and implementation of regulations and guides is based on a graded approach.

    IAEA Deputy Director General and Head of the Department of Nuclear Safety and Security Lydie Evrard said that at a time when several countries are setting up or strengthening their regulatory frameworks the IRRS mission to the IAEA is indicative of the Agency’s own commitment to the international safety standards. This mission also demonstrates that every regulatory body can benefit enormously from such a review regardless of their size and status.

    “The recommendations from this mission will help us to continuously improve and we are committed to further strengthening and enhancing the Agency’s regulatory framework for radiation safety,” said Deputy Director General Evrard.

    IAEA safety standards

    The IAEA safety standards provide a robust framework of fundamental principles, requirements and guidance to ensure safety. They reflect an international consensus and serve as a global reference for protecting people and the environment from the harmful effects of ionizing radiation.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News: SECNAV Del Toro As-Written Remarks at the USNS Lansing Keel-Laying Event

    Source: United States Navy

    Remarks

    Good afternoon, everyone! It’s wonderful to be with you here on the Gulf Coast of Alabama for today’s keel-laying.

    Governor Whitmer, I am truly grateful for you being here with us—not every ship sponsor chooses to attend keel-layings or buy in nearly as much you have already.

    Thank you, as well, for your partnership on the Michigan Maritime Manufacturing—or M-3—Initiative we announced in July and for your steadfast devotion to your state and indeed our Nation.

    President Kruger, thank you for hosting us today, and for your continued partnership and work for our Navy and our Nation.

    As I said back in July, the city of Lansing is a testament and monument to American ingenuity and our Nation’s democratic ideals.

    And our EPFs are force multipliers for our combat logistics fleet.

    They allow for quicker responses to crises, strengthen our ability to conduct humanitarian and disaster relief operations, and provide logistical support for special forces missions.

    It will be manned by dedicated crews, comprised of both civilian mariners from the Military Sealift Command and embarked military personnel.

    Their expertise and teamwork will ensure it operates at peak efficiency, delivering critical resources and services exactly when and where they’re needed.

    And this ship, specifically, highlights the success and importance of our Maritime Statecraft initiative.

    Maritime Statecraft—for those of you who haven’t heard me say this before—encompasses a national, whole-of-government effort to restore the comprehensive maritime power of our Nation.

    It is not a new concept. It is a call to action responding to national security vulnerabilities in the maritime sector.

    Part of that effort—integral to it, in fact—is revitalizing and rebuilding a strong, healthy workforce to support it.

    And this ship is named for the capital city of the state where, last month, Governor Whitmer and I announced the M3 initiative.

    Michigan has a world-class skilled workforce and is a leader in developing the techno-industrial workforce we need to build and assemble the ships, munitions, parts, and pieces our Navy, Marine Corps, and indeed our Nation need to promote peace around the world.

    And Austal, building this ship, represents another key line of effort under our new, national approach to Maritime Statecraft—a foreign shipbuilder establishing a U.S. subsidiary, investing in America, and partnering with us to build American ships.

    America has been a leading shipping and shipbuilding nation before—and with partners like Austal and Michigan, I know that we can and will be again.

    Again, thank you all for joining us here today and for your continued partnership on behalf of our Navy.

    I look forward to seeing USNS Lansing in the fleet in the future.

    May God grant our Sailors, Marines, civilians, and indeed all Americans fair winds and following seas.

    Thank you.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News: SECNAV Del Toro As-Written Remarks at the Forum at Newport

    Source: United States Navy

    Introduction

    Good afternoon, everyone!

    It is wonderful to be back here again in beautiful Newport, Rhode Island and a privilege to address this group of future-focused leaders from Salve Regina University and the Naval War College.

    I truly appreciate Salve Regina University’s partnership and commitment to providing educational opportunities for our Navy and Marine Corps Officers.

    And I am honored to be a part of this important conference centered on an issue which affects us all, and critically affects the national security of our great Nation.

    To the faculty and staff of Salve Regina University and the Naval War College, distinguished guests and visitors: welcome, and thank you for joining us today.

    World Today

    As I am certain you are all well aware, we face existential threats and challenges in every corner of the globe.

    Across the Atlantic, Russia is well into the third year of its full-scale and illegal invasion of Ukraine.

    The United States proudly stands by the Ukrainian people as they fight for their freedom and sovereignty, and defend democracy for all free nations.

    To the South of Ukraine, in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, we are working alongside our NATO allies and Middle East partners to protect innocent, civilian mariners and commercial shipping against Iranian-aligned Houthi attacks.

    Immediately following the October 7th attacks in Israel, our Navy and Marine Corps Team—represented by the Bataan Amphibious Ready Group and the Eisenhower Carrier Strike Group—was on station, the ready integrated force capable of responding to any threat.

    Today, our personnel onboard the Wasp ARG are on station in the Mediterranean Sea, while the Theodore Roosevelt Carrier Strike Group and Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group are operating in the Middle East.

    In addition to our surface presence, USS Georgia (SSGN 729) provides a powerful deterrence message from below the ocean’s waves.

    And for the first time since World War II, we face a comprehensive maritime power in the Indo-Pacific.

    The People’s Republic of China continues to exert its excessive maritime claims through their navy, coast guard, and maritime militia.

    From the Line of Actual Control high in the Himalayas, to disputed reefs barely peeking above the waves in the South China Sea, recent actions reveal the PRC’s willingness to execute “gray-zone tactics”—types of assault which are below the threshold of armed attack but beyond normal diplomatic actions.

    And the PRC is observing lessons from the ongoing conflicts in Europe and the Red Sea.

    And so, now, more than ever, it is imperative that we have a climate-ready force able to deter aggression and function decisively in every environment so that, if necessary, we will prevail in conflict.

    Three Enduring Priorities

    When I entered office as Secretary of the Navy, I laid out Three Enduring Priorities which are the foundation for all we do in the Department of the Navy.

    They are:

    Strengthening Maritime Dominance,

    Building a Culture of Warfighting Excellence, and

    Enhancing Strategic Partnerships.

    My priority of Strengthening Maritime Dominance centers on ensuring our Sailors and Marines have the best ships, aircraft, and technology available, so that if we are called, we may fight and decisively win our Nation’s wars.

    And to maintain our warfighting edge, we cannot rely simply on maintaining our seapower.

    External threats continue to mount and change.

    To remain the world’s dominant maritime force, the Department of the Navy must rapidly adapt and effectively counter existential threats such as climate change.

    Today, climate change is one of the most destabilizing forces of our time, exacerbating national security concerns and posing serious readiness challenges for our Fleet and Force.

    There exist numerous tangible examples of the impact of climate change on Navy and Marine Corps operations all over the world.

    And the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events has only increased as time has passed. 

    At sea and on shore, changing climate and rising sea levels crucially affect the day-to-day life of our Sailors and Marines.

    Rising temperatures, too, stress and impact the systems within our buildings and installations, greatly decreasing their overall durability.

    Along both our Pacific and Atlantic Coasts, sorties—or, deploying our ships due to threat of extreme weather in port—have become more commonplace.

    And extreme weather events caused by climate change have displaced millions of people, creating climate refugees.

    Our maritime forces have witnessed a substantial rise in the number and scope of humanitarian assistance and disaster relief missions.

    Simply put, weather impacts normal Navy and Marine Corps operations.

    Weather impacts where our ships can sail, where our amphibious craft can land, and when we can conduct flight operations.

    However, while our world today faces increasingly unpredictable and devasting weather phenomenon, the Department of the Navy is strengthening our climate resilience and reducing our climate impacts to remain the world’s most powerful maritime force.

    Building a Climate-Ready Force

    Computer scientist pioneer, mathematician, visionary, and United States Rear Admiral Grace Hopper once said, “The most dangerous phrase in the language is, ‘We’ve always done it this way.’”

    I implore all of you to assume Admiral Hopper’s mindset when approaching the challenge of climate change.

    The Department of the Navy is actively adapting and innovating for the changing landscape of the world and indeed of warfare.

    We refuse stagnation and have set out ambitious climate goals through the Department of the Navy Climate Action 2030 strategy, in line with Executive Order 14008, Tackling the Climate Crisis at Home and Abroad.

    To build a climate-ready force, we must meet two Performance Goals.

    The first goal is building climate resilience.

    We build climate resilience through installation resilience—by ensuring that our forces, systems, and facilities can continue to operate effectively and accomplish our mission in the face of changing climate conditions and worsening climate impacts.

    Many of our military bases, including our Navy’s largest, Naval Station Norfolk, are fighting a constant battle against rising sea levels, often flooding after even light rain.

    Less than two years ago, we broke ground on the first project to safeguard the Naval Academy from rising sea levels.

    And just last week, we held a ribbon-cutting to mark the end of our work on the Farragut Seawall project—the first of many projects to fortify and protect the institution from extreme weather events.

    Our goal, as outlined by our Naval Academy Installation Resiliency Plan, is for the institution to remain resilient through the 21st Century and beyond.

    We are also developing solutions to climate issues through the Center for Energy Security and Infrastructure Resilience, or “CESIR.”

    Established earlier this year, CESIR will equip our future Navy and Marine Corps Officers with the knowledge and skills to address complex climate challenges throughout their naval careers.

    What’s more, the Department of the Navy is investing in climate resiliency through our facilities, including the renovation of Bancroft Hall—the largest academic dormitory in the United States and home to the entire Brigade of forty-four hundred Midshipmen.

    Severe weather events have impacted the longevity of our buildings both inside and out, along with integral systems such as Bancroft Hall’s HVAC.

    Given the criticality of our facilities to the mission of the United States Navy and Marine Corps and in developing our future warfighters, we must continue to invest in maintenance and improvement of our infrastructure.

    And partnerships outside of the Department of the Navy are crucial to creating climate solutions.

    In 2022, the Naval Postgraduate School partnered with the Stanford Doerr School of Sustainability to address the urgent challenges of climate change, energy security, and sustainability.

    Together, NPS and the Doerr School established an Education Partnership Agreement, combining the expertise of two globally recognized hubs of research and innovation to create practical solutions that our Navy and Nation can implement both now and in the future.

    And the Department of the Navy is preparing for extreme weather events through integrated tabletop exercises and training events.

    Two years ago, the Department of the Navy held our first Climate Action tabletop exercise at Marine Barracks Washington and have since held annual exercises dedicated to drive and share climate best practices.

    In June of this year, we conducted Climate Action III with our Caribbean partners in San Juan, Puerto Rico.

    This two-day event marked the third iteration in a series of exercises designed to validate our Climate Action 2030 strategy and highlight the value of partnerships to build shared resilience in a critical region.

    Our Department, together with the DOD, other federal agencies, non-governmental organizations, and our Caribbean partners, shared expertise and solutions to the destabilizing threats which know no borders.

    The second goal of our Climate Action strategy is reducing climate threat.

    This includes reducing greenhouse gas emissions and drawing greenhouse gases out of the atmosphere, stabilizing ecosystems, and achieving the Nation’s commitment to net-zero emissions.

    And throughout the country, the Department of the Navy is leading Department of Defense efforts in reducing climate threats.

    In 2022, Marine Corps Logistics Base Albany became an electrically “Net Zero” base, crucially becoming the first Department of Defense installation to attain this significant milestone.

    Achieving this “Net Zero” breakthrough not only combats climate change by alleviating energy security concerns, but it also improves the base’s overall resilience and saves taxpayer dollars.

    We cannot tackle the climate threat alone. The Department of the Navy has facilitated strategic partnerships to tackle energy resilience issues.

    Marine Corps Air Station Miramar partnered with the city of San Diego to use biogas generated from an on-base landfill as a renewable energy source.

    This initiative provided over three megawatts of energy to the installation, reducing reliance on the city’s electric grid by a whopping 45% and reducing overall emissions.

    The Department is also leveraging public and private innovation in the climate and energy resilience sectors through NavalX Tech Bridges and business accelerators.

    Tech Bridges attract small and medium businesses using innovation challenges, and recent challenges are supporting maritime supply chain and “blue tech” opportunities.

    These partnerships between the Department of the Navy and outside business foster innovation and encourage the development of new technologies for climate adaptation.

    To remain competitive in today’s age of conflict, we must leverage every advantage available to us—and that especially includes our partners in business and industry.

    Closing

    The future of climate resilience is here.

    We know the future impacts of climate change and it is both within our capabilities and incumbent upon us to act—and we have.

    Climate resilience is force resilience. We must look beyond normal operations and approach solutions to climate change through the lens of innovation.

    As Admiral Hopper said, “Our young people are the future. We must provide for them.”

    To do so, we must continue innovating and modernizing for the threats of today and of tomorrow.

    I thank all of you for being here today, to gather, discuss, and create solutions for a more climate resilient future.

    Although climate change is already impacting our world in significant ways, I am heartened by the discussions today, the important work all of you have begun, and the innovation that will come from our collaboration.

    Thank you for tackling this challenge—we need our best and brightest involved in the search for climate solutions.

    May God bless our service men and women and all who support them. Thank you.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Cole Harbour — RCMP arrests two impaired drivers following a hit and run

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    RCMP Halifax Regional Detachment arrests two impaired drivers following a hit and run in Cole Harbour.

    On September 25, at approximately 11:48 p.m., RCMP Halifax Regional Detachment responded to a hit and run that occurred in a parking lot on Merrimac Dr. While at the scene RCMP officers observed the vehicle of interest return to the scene and collide with a dumpster.

    RCMP officers completed a traffic stop on the Hyundai Elantra. The driver, a 25-year-old Dartmouth woman, exhibited signs of impairment and provided roadside breath samples into an approved screening device (ASD), which resulted in a “fail”. The driver was arrested for impaired driving.

    From the information and evidence gathered at the scene, it was determined that the rear passenger of the vehicle, a 28-year-old Cole Harbour woman, was the driver at the time of the hit and run. She also showed signs of impairment, and provided a breath sample into an ASD resulting in a “fail”. The woman was arrested for impaired driving.

    Both individuals were transported to the Cole Harbour RCMP Detachment and provided breath samples. The 28-year-old woman provided breath samples of 300 mg% and 280 mg%. and the 25-year-old woman, who struck the dumpster, provided breath samples of 200 mg% and 220 mg%.

    They were both later released and will appear in court at a later date.

    File # 24-132068

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News: SECNAV Del Toro As-Written Remarks at the DOT Ship Christening

    Source: United States Navy

    Remarks

    Good afternoon, everyone! It’s wonderful to be here with you today.

    Secretary Buttigieg, thank you for your partnership in strengthening our maritime efforts, and most importantly, for your service to our Nation as a Naval Officer.

    Congresswoman Scanlon, thank you for your partnership and support of our maritime services.

    Administrator Phillips, I appreciate your partnership not only now, but also all those years ago when we were commissioning commanding officers of guided-missile destroyers. I’m proud to serve alongside you once again.

    President Nerbovik, Philly and its shipyard has had a centuries long relationship with the Navy, and is excelling at building the Nation’s first MARAD vessels in over 60 years.

    Admiral McDonald, you and your Cadets at Massachusetts Maritime are receiving a great ship to train the merchant mariners our Nation critically needs.

    To all of our distinguished guests and visitors, thank you for being here for the christening of the National Security Multi-Mission Vessel PATRIOT STATE.

    Securing America’s maritime prosperity is not a new mission—it is our founding mission.

    Last fall, I announced a call for a new National Maritime Statecraft to prevail in an era of intense strategic competition.

    Maritime Statecraft encompasses a whole-of-government effort to restore the maritime capabilities of the United States.

    Last year, Secretary Buttigieg, Administrator Phillips, and I met at DOT headquarters to begin laying key groundwork for interagency collaboration, and our collective efforts have catapulted the importance of restoring America’s comprehensive maritime power to the top of the national agenda.

    The innovative construction and management techniques that have driven the success of the N-S-M-V acquisition program provide valuable lessons for the Federal Government Shipbuilding Council that Administrator Phillips and I inaugurated last year. 

    These advances will benefit the at-sea training of the future leaders of our United States Merchant Marine including the Cadets at Massachusetts Maritime Academy.

    I thank all those who answered the Nation’s call to service to ensure we remain the most dominant maritime force in the world.

    Your contributions to our shipbuilding industry and maritime training are vital to our Maritime Statecraft.

    Thank you, Secretary Buttigieg, for having me today.

    May God bless our Sailors, Marines, civilian Mariners, our shipbuilders, and all those who support them.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News: SECNAV Del Toro As-Written Remarks at the Navy League Sea Service Award – Rep Calvert

    Source: United States Navy

    Remarks

    Good evening, everyone! It is an honor to be here with you today to celebrate the Congressional Sea Services Award and Representative Calvert’s tremendous contributions to our maritime services.

    Mr. Callender, thank you for that kind introduction and for your work with the National Capital Council of the Navy League of the United States.

    Representative Calvert, thank you for your service as Chairman of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense and for your unwavering support of our men and women who proudly wear our Nation’s uniform.

    And thank you for your service to California’s 41st District—which I must mention includes Naval Surface Warfare Center Corona Division and is part of the Inland Empire Tech Bridge!

    Thank you to our Congressional leadership here tonight for your partnership and support of our Navy and Marine Corps.

    Admiral Kilby, Admiral Lunday, and Lieutenant General Adams, thank you for your leadership of our sea services.

    I also thank the Navy League of the United States for all that they do, but especially for their advocacy on the issues we face as a maritime nation.

    From the very origins of our country’s founding, Americans from all walks of life answered the call to service and swore an oath to the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic.

    And service is, of course, a privilege—a chance to be a part of something much greater than ourselves and to uphold the values which define us as a nation.

    Service to our country and service in the armed forces are not merely jobs or careers—they are fundamental facets of our democracy.

    Our Sailors, Marines, Soldiers, Airmen, Guardians, and Coast Guardsmen are deployed and serving around the world every single day.

    In the Red Sea, since October 7th, our ships and aircraft have shot down hundreds of missiles and conducted multiple strikes into Houthi-controlled territory to protect innocent merchant shipping.

    Our service men and women are deterring Iran’s actions and preventing the Israel-Hamas conflict from escalating into a broader regional conflict.

    Our service members form the vanguard of our national defense.

    But our warfighters cannot accomplish their mission without the critical partnership between the Department of Navy and Congress.

    So I thank Representative Calvert for championing the members of our United States Armed Services and especially our Sailors, Marines, and Coast Guardsmen and women who are stationed around the world.

    The work you accomplish every day serves a crucial role in shaping our Nation’s military capabilities and priorities.

    And the investments we make in our uniformed services go beyond just platforms, technology, and weapons systems.

    Our investments also include those in our people—improving quality of service for our service members and their families.

    Our people provide the foundational strength of our armed services, and force resilience and readiness begin and end with them.

    We cannot be the most capable, lethal, and agile warfighting force in the world without recruiting, retaining, and investing in every American who volunteers to serve both in and out of uniform.

    Representative Calvert, thank you for your support of our service members and their families.

    I sincerely congratulate you on this very deserving Congressional Sea Services Award.

    Thank you, to all of you here tonight, for your support of the men and women of our armed forces.

    May God bless our service men and women stationed around the world and in harm’s way.

    Thank you.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: North Battleford  — Battlefords RCMP investigating serious assault

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    On October 6, 2024 at approximately 12:15 p.m., Battlefords RCMP were conducting proactive patrols and observed an adult male who was seriously injured, running on the 900th block of 106th street in North Battleford, SK. The man entered the hospital before officers could approach him. Due to the severity of the man’s injuries, officers followed and ultimately assisted medical staff with initial life-saving efforts. The man remains in hospital.

    As a result of continued investigation, 33-year-old Adam Wright is charged with:

    • one count, aggravated assault, Section 268(2), Criminal Code;
    • two counts, fail to comply with probation order, Section 733.1(1), Criminal Code; and
    • one count, possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose, Section 88(1), Criminal Code.

    A warrant has been issued for Adam Wright’s arrest. Battlefords RCMP continue work to locate and arrest Adam Wright and ask members of the public to report all sightings and information about his whereabouts.

    Adam Wright is described as 5’11” tall and 192 lbs. He has brown eyes and is believed to have long black and blonde hair. He has a scar on his left elbow. A photo of him is attached (his hair may not be as it appears in the photo).

    Battlefords RCMP continue to investigate.

    If you see Adam Wright, do not approach him. Report all sightings and information about his whereabouts to Battlefords RCMP at 310-RCMP (7267). Information can also be submitted anonymously by contacting Saskatchewan Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or http://www.saskcrimestoppers.com.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News: SECNAV Del Toro As-Written Remarks at the USS Richard McCool Commissioning

    Source: United States Navy

    Thank You/Introduction

    Good morning, everyone! It is an absolute honor to be here with you today in Pensacola, Florida—“The Cradle of Naval Aviation”—to commission our fleet’s newest warship, the USS Richard M. McCool, Jr. (LPD 29), the first ship named in honor of Medal of Honor recipient Captain Richard M. McCool, Jr, United States Navy.

    Congressman Gaetz, thank you for your partnership and collaboration in supporting the thousands of Sailors, Marines, civilians, and their families who are stationed and train here in Pensacola to defend our nation across all domains in which we operate.

    Mayor Reeves, thank you for joining us today and for your support of our service men and women in this great city.

    Admiral Franchetti and General Mahoney, thank you both for your presence here today, and for your leadership of our Navy-Marine Corps team.

    This warship before us represents the combined power of our two naval services, and so it is fitting to have leaders from both services here today to welcome it into our Fleet and our Force.

    To the crew of USS McCool, the rest of our Navy team, and our partners in industry: thank you for your unwavering support—this commissioning was made possible only by your tireless efforts.

    Multi-Ship Procurement Announcement

    As 78th Secretary of the Navy, my mission is to provide combat ready forces and capabilities to the President of the United States, Secretary of Defense, and our Combatant Commanders.

    And it is inherent within my duties as Secretary to identity and rectify delays within our shipbuilding efforts.

    Last fall, I announced my vision for a new National Maritime Statecraft to prevail in an era of intense strategic competition.

    Maritime Statecraft encompasses a national, whole-of-government effort to restore the maritime capabilities of the United States.

    I have forcefully advocated to revive our Nation’s shipbuilding capabilities and capacity.

    And so, today I am proud to publicly announce that the Department of the Navy is pursuing the award of the Amphibious Multi-Ship Procurement Contract for a total of three San Antonio Class amphibious ships—just like USS Richard M. McCool Jr.—along with an America Class amphibious assault ship.

    I meet often with industry leaders to discuss the challenges that prevent us from moving forward faster in shipbuilding.

    They respond that fluctuations in demand make it difficult to maintain a stable production schedule.

    This agreement sends still yet another steady demand signal to our shipbuilding industrial base.

    And this agreement also demonstrates the Navy’s commitment to maintaining 31 Amphibious warfare ships and our prudent measures taken with taxpayer funds.

    I am proud to make this announcement today, as we—just as CNO says—welcome another “player to the field,” manned by an all-volunteer force of Sailors and Marines, who have dedicated their careers and their lives in service to our nation, much like this ship’s namesake.

    Captain Richard M. McCool, Jr.

    Like myself and several in the audience today, Captain McCool began his naval service as a Midshipman at the United States Naval Academy, though he joined in 1941, right at the outset of World War II.

    While his dream was to be a naval aviator, shortly after his graduation from USNA in 1944, he found himself as the commanding officer of USS LCS 122, a landing craft support ship, leading 65 officers and sailors.

    And in the spring of 1945, McCool and his crew found themselves sailing throughout the Pacific Theater, supporting Marines ashore during the Battle of Okinawa.

    LCS 122 and her sister ships were charged with guarding the radar picket destroyers stationed off the coast of Okinawa against Japanese kamikaze attacks, armed with rocket launchers and 40mm guns to repel threats from the sky.

    But on June 10th, 1945, a kamikaze struck LCS 122 below the conning tower where then-Lieutenant McCool was manning his battle station, knocking him unconscious.

    When he came to, he took charge of the situation, coordinating damage control efforts and the evacuation of his crew.

    Despite his severe wounds from the blast, including a collapsed lung, he endeavored to rescue as many of his crew as he could who were trapped in blazing compartments.

    His actions saved LCS 122—which was returned to service after repairs—as well as a majority of his crew.

    For his actions, President Truman presented McCool with the Medal of Honor.

    After World War II, Captain McCool continued to serve in our Navy during the Korean and Vietnam Wars, retiring in 1974 after 30 years of honorable service as both a Surface Warfare Officer and Public Affairs Officer.

    Even after his retirement from the Navy, Captain McCool continued to serve the Seattle community through volunteer work, as well as serving two terms as a Kitsap County Party chairman.

    And while Captain McCool is no longer with us, we take solace in knowing that he is watching over our next generation of naval leaders from his final resting place at the Naval Academy cemetery, and that his strength, his courage—his spirit—lives on through his family present here today.

    Ship Sponsor

    Shana, on behalf of this crew and our Navy, thank you for serving as ship sponsor for the USS Richard M. McCool, Jr.

    In this role, you will forever be the connection between this warship, her crew, and your grandfather’s legacy of service.

    It is my hope that you will continue to share your stories and memories of your grandfather with the crew, giving them a deep appreciation for the man whose name adorns their uniforms.

    Closing

    Captain McCool’s leadership in the face of grave danger and his acts of heroism to save the crew and the ship our nation entrusted to him are indeed an example for all throughout our Navy and Marine Corps to follow.

    To the Sailors and Marines of the USS Richard M. McCool, Jr. and your families, you are about to embark on a great adventure as you bring this ship to life.

    On behalf of a grateful nation, thank you all for the work and sacrifices you have already made, and for everything you will do in the coming days to as you work towards your maiden deployment.

    May God continue to watch over this ship, her crew, and grant them with fair winds and following seas wherever they may sail.

    Thank you.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Springdale — Impaired driver arrested by Springdale RCMP

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    A 23-year-old man was arrested by Springdale RCMP for impaired driving on October 5th, 2024.

    At approximately 10:30 p.m. on Saturday, police observed a vehicle on Little Bay Road with a burnt-out headlight and conducted a traffic stop. The driver showed signs of alcohol impairment, failed a roadside breath test, and was arrested. Back at the detachment, the man provided breath samples that were above the legal limit.

    He was released from custody and is set to appear in court at a later date to answer to charges of impaired operation of a motor vehicle.

    The vehicle was seized and impounded and the man’s driver’s licence was suspended.

    RCMP NL continues to fulfill its mandate to protect public safety, enforce the law, and ensure the delivery of priority policing services in Newfoundland and Labrador.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News: Fleet Readiness Center Southeast inducts first F-35B aircraft and F135 power module for depot-level work

    Source: United States Navy

    Fleet Readiness Center Southeast (FRCSE) achieved two significant milestones in the same week by inducting its first F-35B Lightning II and F135 power module (PM), one of five major modules of the F-35 propulsion system. 

    The F-35B, which came from the Flying Leathernecks of Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 122 (VMFA-122), based out of Yuma, Arizona, arrived at FRCSE on Aug. 7 and the F135 PM on Aug. 9.   

    “This is a historic time for FRC Southeast,” said FRCSE’s Commanding Officer, Capt. Al Palmer. “Between welcoming the first F-35 airframe and receiving the first F135 power module, we remain steadfast in our commitment to the Naval Aviation Enterprise. Inducting these products propels FRCSE into a new era of depot-level maintenance and paves the way for current and next-generation products.” 

    The timing of the airframe and engine inductions was purely coincidental. However, the back-to-back arrivals were indicative of the progress and effort the command put into preparing to work on these fifth-generation assets.   

    While the first F135 PM will go through the planned maintenance process, — disassembly, inspection, repair and reassembly — with an expected completion date of May 2025, the F-35 line is a corrosion speed line designed to quickly and efficiently locate corrosion and address any discovered problem areas.  

    “Hitting that 60-day target will allow us to return one aircraft this fiscal year and up to 16 aircraft next fiscal year,” said Savanna Massey, FRCSE’s F-35 production line deputy director. “We’ll eventually get to a cycle where we induct one and return one back to the fleet at the same time. It’s a corrosion speed line, so speed will be the name of the game, but without sacrificing quality.”  

    The F-35 induction is part of a more significant effort to support corrosion mitigation efforts for the U.S. Marine Corps (USMC) through a process called Production Asset Inspection Requirement (PAIR). FRCSE artisans will conduct these inspections on targeted areas of the aircraft where corrosion may be taking place. 

    “A PAIR-II inspection consists of artisans removing a number of panels from the aircraft and inspecting the substructure,” said Tim Duncan, FRCSE’s F-35 general foreman. “If we find corrosion present, we will remove it, treat the aircraft’s surface and reinstall the panels.” 

    Preparation for the highly technical jet began years ago with the establishment of the F-35 product line in 2022 and the command’s activation as an F135 Department of Defense second depot source of repair (DSOR) in 2020. However, both teams had to undergo extensive training to accommodate the new products.  

    Since the F-35 line was established, the 60 artisans and support staff have not only received extensive education and training on the aircraft’s Autonomic Logistics Information System (ALIS), surface coatings and other areas, but have also had the opportunity to immerse themselves in the F-35 community by traveling to various USMC squadrons and Fleet Readiness Center East (FRCE), which has been the lead Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) site for F-35 organic depot-level maintenance since 2013. 

    “Being part of the team that established the F-35 line here at FRC Southeast gives the artisans a sense of ownership,” said Brandon Smith, an FRCSE F-35 work lead. “This being a new aircraft and corrosion line for the command, there weren’t any examples for us to utilize, so the team was empowered to collect data and implement best practices from other sites.”  

    While the command is excited to receive the fifth-generation aircraft, a shortened timeline meant overcoming hurdles – challenges that the F-35 production line team took in stride.    

    “The F-35, being a fifth-generation aircraft, comes with a whole new set of security requirements, which we typically haven’t had to engage here at FRC Southeast while working on some of the legacy platforms,” said Bruce Crooke, FRCSE’s F-35 Production Line Director. “So, there was a learning curve. There are requirements for controlled entry points at the aircraft and electronic security systems that monitor and measure the vibrations of the fencing. There will be visual barriers to prevent seeing the aircraft when it’s opened and panels removed since there are security concerns there as well.” 

    Simultaneously, the F135 team has had to conduct extensive training and overcame obstacles to get their team ready to work on this complex engine. 

    “Since being named a DSOR, FRCSE F135 artisans successfully executed over 2,600 qualification requirements shared across the Power Module and Mini Modules,” said Aaron Powers, FRCSE’s F135 product line deputy director. “This ensured that FRCSE had a proficient and qualified labor force to execute the newly established workload. The first qualification evolution trained and qualified 23 primary artisans and support group personnel, and this is the team who will execute the initial production workload.” 

    As a result of the hard work and preparation to perform maintenance on next-generation components, the F135 team expects huge milestones in the future. 

    “We expect F135 production to ramp up through 2034 to the max production requirement, or roughly 600 Mini Modules and 120 Power Modules per year, correlating to about 600,000 man-hours,” said Richard Eveson, FRCSE’s F135 product line director. 

    From the moment the Lightning II landed on the flight line at Naval Air Station Jacksonville and taxied toward the ground crew, to the uncrating of the first F135 PM in front of a skilled group of prepared artisans, a surge of tangible excitement has spread through the command. 

    “This milestone belongs to all of us,” said Palmer. “Thank you for your unwavering dedication and commitment to our mission, which has undoubtedly led us to this historic moment.” 

    As FRCSE looks to the future amid ever-changing fleet requirements, it’s clear that the command will continue to adapt to support military readiness with unwavering dedication and perseverance. 

    About Fleet Readiness Center Southeast   

    Fleet Readiness Center Southeast (FRCSE) is Northeast Florida and Southeast Georgia’s largest maintenance, repair, overhaul and technical services provider, employing approximately 5,000 civilian, military and contract workers. With annual revenue exceeding $1 billion, the organization serves as an integral part of the greater U.S. Navy, Naval Air Systems Command, and Commander, Fleet Readiness Centers by maintaining the combat airpower for America’s military forces. 

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News: Harvey Milk Completes First Replenishment-at-Sea with two Japanese Training Ships

    Source: United States Navy

    NORFOLK Va., (Sept. 24, 2024) — Recently, Civil Service Mariners (CIVMARS) aboard the Military Sealift Command (MSC) fleet replenishment oiler USNS Harvey Milk (T-AO 206) completed their first replenishment-at-sea (RAS) with two Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) vessels.

    Apart of a six-month around the world training cruise, that began in May 2024 and included 180 newly commissioned JMSDF officers, JMSDF training vessels JS Kashima (TV-3508) and guided missile destroyer JS Shimakaze (DDG 172, TV 3521), which has now been converted into a training vessel, completed its first RAS event with USNS Harvey Milk in the Virginia Capes’ (VACAPES) operating area in the Atlantic Ocean, Sept. 24. This bilateral exercise between the United States and Japan helps to improve JMSDF’s tactical capabilities and to build on the interoperability between the JMSDF and the U.S. Navy.

    According to USNS Harvey Milk’s Ship Master Capt. James “Jim” White, this refueling event was a rare opportunity for the Harvey Milk crew to work with the professionals of the JMSDF and a chance to demonstrate the capabilities of the T-AO 205 class oiler. This event marked only the second time that a T-AO 205 class oiler has replenished two ships simultaneously.

    USNS Harvey Milk is the second ship of the T-AO 205 class oiler, operated by MSC. The ship provides diesel fuel, lubricating oil and jet fuel; small quantities of fresh and frozen provisions and dry stores; and potable water to Navy ships at sea. T-AOs add underway replenishment capacity to the Navy’s Combat Logistics Force (CLF) and is expected to become the cornerstone of the fuel delivery system.

    USNS Harvey Milk is named after U.S. Navy veteran and LGBT activist Harvey Milk who was one of the first openly gay candidates elected to public office as a member of the San Francisco Board of Supervisors in 1978.

    Constructed in the 1990’s, JS Kashima is JMSDF’s flagship training vessel, which helps trainees build relations with other nations and develop seamanship skills and international experience.

    JS Shimakaze is the second of the Hatakaze-class guided missile destroyers built for JMSDF. The vessel was reclassified as a training ship in 2021.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Justice Department Secures Agreement with Durham, North Carolina, to End Discriminatory Hiring Practices in City’s Fire Department

    Source: United States Attorneys General

    The Justice Department announced today that it has secured a settlement agreement with the City of Durham (City), North Carolina, to resolve the department’s claim that the hiring process for firefighters in the Durham Fire Department (DFD) violates Title VII of the Civil Rights Act. Specifically, the department alleges that the City’s fire department screens applicants with a written test that discriminates against Black candidates.

    Title VII is a federal statute that prohibits employment discrimination based on race, sex, color, national origin and religion. Title VII prohibits not only intentional discrimination but also employment practices that result in a disparate impact on a protected group, unless such practices are job related and consistent with business necessity.

    The settlement agreement resolves a civil pattern or practice investigation the Civil Rights Division opened in February 2020. As part of the investigation, the division conducted an in-depth review of DFD’s hiring practices, applicant data and other information received from the DFD. The division concluded that the fire department was using a written test that does not meaningfully distinguish between applicants who can and cannot perform the job of a firefighter. The test also disqualified Black applicants from employment at significantly disproportionate rates. The department thus concluded that the test violates Title VII.

    “Discriminatory employment tests do more than cost applicants a fair chance to compete for public service jobs like firefighting; they also prevent communities from being served in these crucial positions by the most qualified candidates for the job,” said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “The under-representation of Black people in the fire department workforce in Durham, and across the country, undermines public safety efforts. This settlement agreement requires the Durham Fire Department to reform its unlawful hiring process and provide monetary and other relief to those already harmed. The Justice Department will continue to work to ensure that all qualified applicants have a fair and equal opportunity to serve their communities.”

    “Employers should identify and eliminate practices that have a disparate impact based on race,” said U.S. Attorney Sandra J. Hairston for the Middle District of North Carolina. “The Justice Department will continue to work to eliminate discriminatory policies that deprive qualified applicants of a fair chance to compete for employment opportunities.” 

    The complaint, filed yesterday in the Middle District of North Carolina, alleges that the City’s uses of the written test called the Comprehensive Examination Battery (CEB) disproportionately exclude Black candidates from employment as firefighters. The department further alleges that DFD’s uses of the CEB are not job-related and consistent with business necessity, and thus violate Title VII.

    Under the terms of the consent decree also filed yesterday, DFD will:

    • Adopt a written test that does not discriminate in violation of Title VII and provide data to the department on the administration of the new test to ensure compliance;
    • Pay $980,000 in back pay to applicants who were disqualified by DFD’s uses of the challenged test; and
    • Hire up to 16 applicants who were unfairly disqualified by the challenged test and who successfully complete the new firefighter selection process.

    The full and fair enforcement of Title VII is a top priority of the Civil Rights Division. The division has issued a fact sheet on combating hiring discrimination by police and fire departments to help applicants for public safety jobs understand their rights to be free from discriminatory hiring processes. More information about the Civil Rights Division can be found at http://www.justice.gov/crt.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News: Fleet Readiness Center Southeast engineer earns NAWCAD Fellow distinction

    Source: United States Navy

    Ian Hawkins, a Fleet Readiness Center Southeast (FRCSE) materials engineering supervisor, was recently accepted into the Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) Fellow Program coordinated by Naval Air Warfare Center Weapons Division’s (NAWCAD) during an award ceremony held at NAVAIR headquarters in Pawtuxet River, Md.

    “This award recognizes the technical accomplishments over my career to improve capability and readiness,” said Hawkins. “The results of my efforts are due to the teams and great teammates I’ve been lucky to work with. I was fortunate to be in positions where I could guide teams on engineering projects and programs to achieve safety and readiness goals for the Navy. Additionally, I’ve been fortunate to work on national efforts with my NAWCAD and FRC counterparts and on international efforts with our ally partners.”

    Introduced in the 1980s, the Fellows Program became a NAVAIR program in the 2000s, and NAWCAD re-established it in 2021 after a three-year pause in inductions. Inductees into the Fellow Program are nominated and selected by a team of peers based on their tenure and technical accomplishments in safety and readiness. The program is unique in that it does not have senior leadership.

    The Fellow Program has three levels of prestige: Associate Fellows, or the first tier, make up the top three percent of scientists and engineers at NAVAIR. Fellows, the second tier, represents the top three-quarters of a percent and is the level Hawkins has achieved. Finally, Esteemed Fellows make up the top one-quarter of a percent. Each level pulls new members from the tier below, and members are inducted by majority vote.

    Hawkins’ primary discipline is nondestructive inspection, or the examination of aircraft and components that does not require taking them apart.

    “It’s a privilege to work for the Navy, and I feel like I need to do more and more every day, and that’s the main reason I’m here,” said Hawkins.

    About Fleet Readiness Center Southeast 

    Fleet Readiness Center Southeast (FRCSE) is Northeast Florida and Southeast Georgia’s largest maintenance, repair, overhaul and technical services provider, employing approximately 5,000 civilian, military and contract workers. With annual revenue exceeding $1 billion, the organization serves as an integral part of the greater US Navy, Naval Air Systems Command, and Commander, Fleet Readiness Centers by maintaining the combat airpower for America’s military forces.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Middle Hainesville — Missing 60-year-old man

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    The Keswick RCMP is asking for the public’s help to locate a missing 60-year-old man from Middle Hainesville, N.B.

    Glendon Smith was last seen on October 4, 2024, at approximately 6 p.m., on Highway 104, near Middle Hainesville. He was reported missing to police on October 7. Police have followed up on several leads to try and locate him, but have so far been unsuccessful. Police and his family are concerned for his wellbeing.

    Glendon Smith is described as being approximately 5 feet 3 inches (160 centimetres) tall, and weighing approximately 152 pounds (69 kilograms). He has blue eyes, and brown hair. He was last seen wearing a dark hoodie, blue jeans, blue and white sneakers and a red hat with a brown trim.

    Anyone with information on his whereabouts is asked to contact the Keswick RCMP at 506-357-4300.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Former Indiana Police Lieutenant Convicted of Federal Civil Rights Violation and Obstruction of Justice

    Source: United States Attorneys General 1

    A federal jury convicted a former New Castle, Indiana, police lieutenant last Friday on multiple counts of using excessive force against people in custody and one count of obstruction of justice by witness tampering.

    According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, Aaron Jason Strong, 47, while a lieutenant at the New Castle Police Department, physically abused a suspect and two pretrial detainees and made false statements to an Indiana State Police detective who had been assigned to investigate an allegation against him.

    “Aaron Strong is a repeat offender who defied his oath and abused his law enforcement authority to violently and unlawfully assault multiple individuals,” said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “This defendant put his fellow officers in danger and grievously injured people in his custody, whose wellbeing and rights he had a legal and moral duty to protect. Strong betrayed the law enforcement profession when he told lie after lie in an effort to cover up his crimes and derail an independent investigation. This unanimous jury verdict makes clear a core principle in our country – law enforcement officers are not above the law and will be held accountable for their crimes.”

    “Law enforcement officers put their lives on the line every day to serve our communities. Their jobs are difficult, dangerous and noble,” said U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Myers for the Southern District of Indiana. “Aaron Strong is not noble. He repeatedly and unlawfully abused his position of authority to inflict violence, injury and pain — with no lawful justification. He then lied to cover it up. Our community deserves better. Together with our partners at the Justice Department, the FBI and Indiana State Police, our federal prosecutors will continue to seek accountability for police who illegally assault those they are sworn to protect.”

    Evidence showed that, in August 2019, then-Lieutenant Strong responded to another officer’s report of a foot chase. As Strong arrived, the suspect stopped running, put his hands up, said “I’m done” and lowered himself to the ground. As another officer approached to take the suspect into custody, Strong ran up and struck the suspect at least 12 times with a metal police baton, nearly striking a fellow officer. The incident was promptly reported by other involved officers, and the Indiana State Police were called in to conduct an independent criminal investigation. During a meeting with the State Police investigator, Strong gave a false account of the incident in which he minimized his own use of force and exaggerated the danger posed by the suspect.

    Evidence also showed that, in July 2017, Strong, while acting in his capacity as the commanding officer of the Henry County, Indiana, SWAT Team, had abused two men being held in pretrial detention at the Henry County Transition Center, a low-security annex of the Henry County Jail. The SWAT Team had been requested to assist jail officers with moving a small number of inmates who had become intoxicated on contraband alcohol from the Transition Center to the main jail. While inside the Transition Center, Strong stomped on the head of a detainee who was complying with commands to lie on the ground. A few moments later, Strong approached a second inmate, who was kneeling, not moving, with his back to Strong, and shot him point-blank in the back with a less-lethal “beanbag” round, which Strong knew could cause death or serious bodily injury when used at short ranges. The impact from the round fractured the detainee’s spine.

    Numerous current and former New Castle and Henry County law enforcement officers testified for the prosecution.

    Strong was convicted of three counts of deprivation of rights under color of law and one count of witness tampering. A co-defendant, Strong’s nephew, was found not guilty of one count of witness tampering.

    Strong is scheduled to be sentenced on Jan. 7, 2025, and faces a maximum penalty of 50 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    The FBI Indianapolis Field Office and Indiana State Police investigated the case, with assistance from the New Castle Police Department.

    Trial Attorney Alec Ward of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division and Assistant U.S. Attorney Peter Blackett for the Southern District of Indiana are prosecuting the case.

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