NewzIntel.com

Category: Security Intelligence

  • MIL-OSI Security: New York Man Admits Conspiring to Engage in Multimillion-Dollar Wire Fraud Scheme

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

    NEWARK, N.J. – A New York man today admitted conspiring to commit wire fraud that caused losses of more than $2 million, U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger announced.

    Terrell Fuller, 34, of Baldwin, New York, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Court Judge Stanley R. Chesler in Newark federal court to an information charging him with one count of wire fraud conspiracy.

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

    Fuller and his conspirators submitted a fraudulent application to the Small Business Administration (SBA), which caused the SBA to provide them with approximately $1.2 million. They also opened bank accounts in the names of various entities and individuals, deposited illegally obtained or fraudulent checks into those accounts, and then withdrew and attempted to withdraw money from the accounts. Fuller, using stolen personal identifying information, fraudulently rented locations to live in New York and failed to pay more than $400,000 in rent and fees for those locations. Fuller and his conspirators obtained more than $2 million in money and property through their fraudulent actions.

    The wire fraud conspiracy charge is punishable by a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and maximum fine of $250,000 or twice the value of the funds involved in the transfer, whichever is greater. Sentencing is scheduled for Feb. 5, 2025.

    U.S. Attorney Sellinger credited special agents of the FBI, Franklin Township Resident Agency, under the direction of Acting Special Agent in Charge Nelson I. Delgado in Newark, and special agents of IRS-Criminal Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Jenifer L. Piovesan in Newark, with the investigation leading to the guilty plea.  

    The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew Kogan of the Cybercrime Unit in Newark.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Honduran National Sentenced for Transporting Illegal Aliens from Texas to Georgia

    Source: United States Department of Justice (Human Trafficking)

    NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced the October 1, 2024 sentencing of WILFREDO GARCIA-HERNANDEZ (“GARCIA”), age 31, a Honduran national, who previously pled guilty to transporting aliens, in violation of Title 8, United States Code, Section 1324(a)(1)(A)(ii).

    According to court documents, GARCIA was encountered by a United States Border Patrol agent near Slidell, Louisiana.  A traffic stop was conducted and GARCIA was found to be driving two illegal aliens from Texas to Georgia for employment.   

    United States District Judge Brandon S. Long sentenced GARCIA to time served, followed by 3 years of supervised release and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.

    U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the United States Border Patrol, in investigating this matter.  Assistant United States Attorney Jon M. Maestri of the General Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Construction Company CEO and Foreperson Charged with Conspiracy to Commit Wire Fraud in Connection with Newark Lead Service Line Replacement Program

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

    Video Statement

    NEWARK, N.J. – The chief executive officer of a construction company and a foreperson for the company were arrested today for their roles in a conspiracy to commit wire fraud in connection with the Newark Lead Service Line Replacement (LSLR) Program, U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger announced.

    Michael Sawyer, 57, of Burlington, New Jersey, and Latronia Sanders, aka “Tee,” 55, of Roselle, New Jersey, are each charged by complaint with conspiracy to commit wire fraud. They are scheduled to appear today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael A. Hammer in Newark federal court.

    “As our complaint alleges, Michael Sawyer and Latronia Sanders worked for a company hired by the city of Newark to replace lead pipes, but instead, they intentionally left lead pipes in the ground. By causing misleading photographs and verification forms to be submitted, Sawyer and Sanders concealed that they intentionally did not replace lead pipes and defrauded Newark by collecting payment for work they did not properly perform. Today, we begin the process of holding them accountable.”

    U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger

    “For years, lead pipes that transport drinking water to homes in Newark remained buried in the ground after the city hired a company to replace them,” Newark FBI Acting Special Agent in Charge Nelson I. Delgado said. “The business, along with others, were paid to replace the water service lines because any amount of lead exposure is detrimental to people’s health, particularly for children. We allege the subjects in this investigation knew they were not replacing the lead pipes, and then passed off misleading photos to conceal the ones they left in the ground. We are asking anyone who sees something or knows something they want to report to please call FBI Newark at 973-792-3000. We will hold accountable anyone who sees a payday in ripping off governmental agencies entrusted to protect the communities they serve.”

    “These defendants allegedly undercut Newark’s lead service line replacement project that sought removal of all lead lines throughout the city,” Special Agent in Charge Tyler Amon with Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Criminal Investigation Division in New Jersey said. “Violators who employ deception to compromise the integrity of important public drinking water related projects will be criminally investigated and held to account.”

    “The EPA OIG is committed to doggedly pursuing criminal activity that targets critical water infrastructure funding,” said Special Agent in Charge Nicolas Evans of the EPA Office of Inspector General. “Taking government funds but failing to replace lead service lines defrauds the program and hurts Americans’ access to safe drinking water.”

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

    Beginning in 2016, high levels of lead were found in the drinking water in some of Newark’s schools. From 2017 to 2019, periodic testing of Newark’s drinking water by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) showed lead levels that were among the highest of any major city in the United States.

    In March 2019, Newark announced plans to replace approximately 18,000 lead service lines within city limits as part of its LSLR Program. Newark hired an engineering firm to oversee the implementation of the program and contractors to complete the replacement work. JAS Group Enterprise Inc. (JAS) was one of the contractors hired by Newark. Prior to being hired as a contractor, JAS also worked on the LSLR Program as a subcontractor for another construction company.

    Sawyer was the president and chief executive officer of JAS and responsible for overseeing and managing JAS’s operations. Sanders was employed by JAS as a foreperson of JAS crews assigned to replace lead pipes in Newark during the LSLR Program. Sawyer, Sanders, and others conspired to defraud Newark and others in connection with JAS’s performance as a contractor and as a subcontractor during the LSLR Program.

    As alleged in the complaint, Sawyer, Sanders, and others intentionally failed to replace all lead pipes at certain locations as required under the terms of the relevant contracts, yet caused the submission of payment applications to Newark falsely representing that JAS completed the work in accordance with the contracts. Sawyer, Sanders, and others submitted false or misleading documents to support payment applications with respect to certain work sites. These materials included photographs that visually represented that the lead replacement was done or was unnecessary, but in fact were taken in a way to conceal that lead pipes were left in place.

    At other sites where the water service lines already consisted entirely of copper pipes, Sawyer, Sanders, and others conspired to falsely represent that JAS had installed those copper pipes after removing lead pipes. Sawyer, Sanders, and others then caused the submission of fraudulent payment applications for work that JAS never completed, and induced Newark to pay JAS for work that JAS did not perform.

    The charge of conspiracy to commit wire fraud is punishable by a maximum potential penalty of 20 years in prison and a fine of $250,000, twice the gross profits, or twice the gross loss suffered by the victims of the offense, whichever is greatest.

    U.S. Attorney Sellinger credited special agents of the FBI, under the direction of Acting Special Agent in Charge Delgado in Newark; the EPA, Criminal Investigation Division Northeast Area Branch, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Amon; the EPA Office of Inspector General, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Evans, and the U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General, Northeast Region, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Jonathan Mellone, with the investigation.

    The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Edeli Rivera, Clara Kim, and Katherine Calle of the Special Prosecutions Division in Newark.

    The charge and allegations contained in the complaint are merely accusations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: CORRECTION: Coast Guard releases CERCLA investigation findings from former Buxton Beach Coast Guard facilities

    Source: United States Coast Guard

    10/04/2024 05:08 PM EDT

    The Coast Guard released the findings Friday of a Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act (CERCLA) investigation conducted at the Cape Hatteras National Seashore Park.  Coast Guard Civil Engineering Unit Cleveland initiated the site investigation in August 2023 to identify any contamination resulting from legacy operations that may have been conducted by the Coast Guard at Old Group Cape Hatteras between 1982 and 2013.

    For more information follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: New York Resident Sentenced to 12 Years in Prison for Sexual Exploitation of a Minor

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

    ERIE, Pa. – A resident of Harford, New York, has been sentenced in federal court to 12 years in prison, to be followed by 10 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a special assessment in the amount of $5,200 on his conviction of violating federal laws relating to the sexual exploitation of a minor, United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan announced today.

    United States District Judge Susan Paradise Baxter imposed the sentence on Noah Oliver Fisch-Lewis, 32.

    According to information presented to the Court, from September 23, 2022, until October 8, 2022, Fisch-Lewis communicated with an undercover agent posing as the mother of a 10-year-old girl. During this period, Fisch-Lewis repeatedly expressed, in very graphic terms, his desire to engage in sexual activity with the minor. On October 8, 2022, Fisch-Lewis drove from upstate New York to Erie, Pennsylvania, for the purpose of engaging in illicit sexual conduct with the purported 10-year-old and was taken into custody upon his arrival at the agreed meeting place.

    Assistant United States Attorney Christian A. Trabold prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

    United States Attorney Olshan commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Homeland Security Investigations, Pennsylvania State Police, Erie Police Department, Millcreek Police Department, and Erie County Detectives for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Fisch-Lewis.

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Department of Justice Awards University of Colorado Nearly $2 Million Grant to Combat Hate Crimes

    Source: United States Department of Justice (Hate Crime)

    DENVER – Acting United States Attorney for the District of Colorado Matt Kirsch is pleased to announce that the United States Department of Justice has awarded the University of Colorado the Matthew Shepard and James Byrd, Jr. Hate Crimes Program Grant.

    The grant, totaling $1,999,939, will go to support the work of The University of Colorado Boulder’s Police Department (CUPD), and the Center for the Study and Prevention of Violence (CSPV) to build and deliver a comprehensive approach to hate crimes prevention, intervention, and investigation for all CU locations including CU Boulder, CU Colorado Springs, and CU Denver. Funds will be used to educate audiences across the CU System and train campus officials on coordinated strategies for preventing, investigating, and addressing hate-based incidents and hate crimes in higher education. Grant funding will reach approximately 60,000 students, 23,000 faculty and staff, and 60 law enforcement officers while serving as a model for other colleges and universities around the country.

    “The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Colorado has a long-standing commitment both to investigating and prosecuting hate crimes and to engaging with the community on this topic,” said Acting United States Attorney for the District of Colorado Matt Kirsch.  “Public education on the tools available to prevent and address hate crimes is fundamental to these efforts, and we are proud to work with University of Colorado.”

    “The University of Colorado and the CU Boulder Police Department is honored to receive the Matthew Shepard and Edward Byrne Hate Crimes Grant, which will help us continue the important work of building a comprehensive approach to preventing hate crimes across the CU System,” said Doreen Jokerst, Assistant Vice Chancellor for Public Safety and Chief of Police of the CU Boulder Police Department at the University of Colorado Boulder. “CUPD will continue to work collaboratively with violence prevention researchers and other experts to create an effective, broad-reaching campaign to combat targeted violence.”

    This grant is part of the Office of Justice Program (OJP) and its wide-ranging efforts to improve community safety, serve victims of crime, support America’s youth, advance science, and promote equal justice. OJP is the largest grantmaking component of the Department of Justice and houses its criminal and juvenile justice related science and statistical units.

    The Department of Justice (DOJ) offers funding opportunities to support law enforcement and public safety activities in state, local, and tribal jurisdictions; to assist victims of crime; to provide training and technical assistance; to conduct research; and to implement programs that improve the criminal, civil, and juvenile justice systems. DOJ grant-making components regularly engage with United States Attorneys’ offices (USAOs) to promote outreach and communication about DOJ-funded grant programs, training, and technical assistance. Such communication helps the Department increase public awareness, access, and utilization of these resources. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Lac La Biche — Alberta RCMP respond to social media post depicting arrest in Lac La Biche

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    We, the Alberta RCMP are aware of a social media post depicting an officer of the Lac La Biche RCMP arresting a man in the early hours of Oct. 1, 2024. This video has garnered concerns from the public with regards to the officer’s actions. This video depicts one moment in a much larger incident and the RCMP would like to provide background as well as a more fulsome video of this interaction.

    On Oct. 1, 2024, at 2 a.m., Lac La Biche RCMP received a report from a family member of an intoxicated individual outside of a residence being verbally aggressive towards the occupants and refusing to leave. A lone Lac La Biche officer was the first to arrive and attempted to arrest the individual by placing him in handcuffs. The individual initially resisted arrest and then attacked the officer punching him in the head. The officer attempted two separate deployments of a conducted energy weapon (Taser) while the suspect continued to pursue the officer, however both deployments were unsuccessful. When the offender momentarily became compliant the officer quickly moved in to gain control and arrested the suspect.

    Police immediately took the suspect to the hospital to be treated for injuries he received during the altercation. Once the suspect received treatment, he was taken to the detachment and later released on charges for resisting arrest and assaulting a police officer.

    The RCMP have initiated our internal review process to gather a full account of what took place during this incident, including police training, policy, and response.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: USCGC Oliver Henry completes strategic patrol in Palauan waters, strengthening regional security and maritime partnerships

    Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

    SANTA RITA, Guam  –  

    The crew of USCGC Oliver Henry (WPC 1140) completed a two-week patrol from Sept. 16 – 30, 2024, as part of Operation Rematau, contributing to maritime security, domain awareness and the enhancement of strategic partnerships between the United States and the Republic of Palau.

    This patrol bolstered the United States’ commitment to supporting sovereign maritime nations in the Pacific and reinforcing good regional maritime governance.

    The crew of USCGC Oliver Henry (WPC 1140) conducted transits covering an area of over 15,000 square miles of Palau’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). Their vigilance played a pivotal role in deterring illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing and other illicit maritime activities, thereby enhancing maritime security.

    “Our patrol, coordinated with our Palauan partners, demonstrates the ongoing importance of our presence in these waters,” said Lt. Ray Cerrato, commanding officer of Oliver Henry. “Through dedicated enforcement, professional exchanges, and bilateral operations, we are helping to secure not just Palau’s maritime resources but also contributing to regional stability and cooperation.”

    Notably, the crew conducted three bilateral law enforcement boardings with Palau’s Division of Marine Law Enforcement and monitored foreign fishing vessels within Palau’s EEZ. These actions resulted in no violations, reflecting positive compliance by local and foreign vessels operating in the region, supporting Palau’s efforts to maintain sustainable fisheries.

    The patrol also assessed the feasibility of Malakal Pier in Palau as a potential berth for larger Coast Guard cutters in future operations. This assessment ensures continued U.S. support and regional collaboration to counter potential maritime threats.

    In conjunction with law enforcement activities, the crew engaged in professional knowledge exchanges with Palau’s Division of Marine Law Enforcement members and U.S. Coast Guard Forces Micronesia/Sector Guam’s Sector Boarding Team (SBT), furthering mutual capacity-building efforts. Enhancing readiness and strengthening partnerships, the crew pursued training and certifications for Oliver Henry’s crew and additional members from USCGC Myrtle Hazard, USCGC Hollyhock, and U.S. Coast Guard District 8, supplementing Oliver Henry’s team.

    “The success of this mission demonstrates the strategic importance of maritime domain awareness and cooperation in the Pacific,” said Capt. Robert Kistner, commander, U.S. Coast Guard Forces Micronesia/Sector Guam. The operational knowledge gained from this patrol and continued collaboration between the U.S. and Palau enables future regional security initiatives.”
    -USCG-

    About Operation Rematau
    Operation Rematau is how U.S. Coast Guard Forces Micronesia/Sector Guam supports the overarching Coast Guard endeavor Operation Blue Pacific to promote security, safety, sovereignty, and economic prosperity in Oceania. Rematau means people of the deep sea. It reinforces the U.S. commitment to working together to advance Pacific regionalism based on the Blue Pacific narrative. This action supports U.S. national security objectives, bolstering regional maritime good governance and security.

    About USCGC Oliver Henry
    USCGC Oliver Henry (WPC 1140) is the 40th 154-foot Sentinel-class Fast Response Cutter named for Oliver T. Henry, Jr., an enlisted African American Coast Guard member first to break the color barrier of a then-segregated Service. Designed for many missions, including search and rescue, national defense, and maritime law enforcement, the Oliver Henry plays a significant role in safeguarding national interests and preserving good maritime governance.

    For more information about U.S. Coast Guard actions, please get in touch with CWO Sara Muir, public affairs officer, at sara.g.muir@uscg.mil or uscgforcesmicronesia@gmail.com.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Digby — Missing person: Help the RCMP find Greggory Wagner

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Digby RCMP is asking for the public’s assistance in locating 30-year-old Greggory Wagner.

    Wagner is 6-foot-2, 200 lbs, and has short brown hair, a thin beard, and brown eyes. He was last seen leaving the Digby Sobeys parking lot on foot. He was wearing a blue and grey “Ecko Unlimited” shirt, blue jeans and grey sneakers, and he was carrying a yellow bag.

    When someone goes missing, it has deep and far-reaching impacts for the person and those who know them. We ask that people spread the word through social media respectfully.

    Anyone with information on the whereabouts of Greggory Wagner is asked to contact the Digby RCMP at 902-245-2579. To remain anonymous, call Nova Scotia Crime Stoppers, toll free, at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), submit a secure web tip at http://www.crimestoppers.ns.ca, or use the P3 Tips App.

    File #: 2024-1465106

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: 168th Security Forces FAST Team supports Pacific Angel 24-2 search and rescue exercise in Nepal

    Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

    NEPAL  –  

    The United States Air Force Security Forces watching over our aircraft as we depart on a mission may not always be at the forefront of our minds, but for the Defenders, security is their top priority. The 168th Wing Security Forces Defenders recently provided a Fly-Away Security Team (FAST) to support Pacific Angel 24-2 in Kathmandu, Nepal, Sept. 16-29, 2024.

    PA 24-2 is a bilateral search and rescue exercise sponsored by the U.S. and hosted by the Nepal Army. It facilitates field training and the exchange of information among subject matter experts on adverse terrain personnel recovery operations, swift water, and flood personnel recovery operations, patient movement in search and rescue operations, and medical response to hazardous materials. The exercise aims to enhance collaboration by building military and civilian trust in search and rescue capabilities.

    The FAST mission is to protect the aircraft in all areas throughout the mission to support humanitarian missions and Department of Defense anti-terrorism operations. These teams are responsible for safeguarding aircraft, crew members, and cargo from potential adversaries and play a key role in enhancing collaboration and trust for successful operations.

    “As part of this mission, in particular, we prepared by having each of our members become subject matter experts and brief the team,” said Tech Sgt. Zachory Dominique, 168th Wing Security Forces. “For example, regarding customs and courtesies, we do not want to go to Nepal and be disrespectful – knowing the customs and courtesies beforehand better prepares us – simple things like that. We prepared for weather, terrain, and conditions as well. We went through our load out, ensured we had proper protective equipment, and ensured everything was operational. Everything we have been doing follows a PACE plan, an acronym for primary, alternate, contingency, and emergency, so if our plan fails, we have plans b, c, and d.”

    The 168 SFS Defenders dedicated themselves to providing an impenetrable security perimeter around the military aircraft to protect aircrew and cargo. These highly trained and skilled defenders undergo rigorous selection and training processes to ensure they are prepared to handle any security threat. Their expertise lies in establishing and maintaining security measures to safeguard aircraft, personnel, and assets in challenging, high-risk environments.

    The role of FAST defenders is critical in enabling the safe and successful execution of operations. Their presence deters potential threats and reassures aircrew, passengers, and support personnel operating in these environments. In addition to their security duties, FAST defenders are trained to respond to medical emergencies, natural disasters, and other crises, highlighting their versatility and readiness to support a wide range of missions.

    The 168th FAST Defenders’ dedication and commitment to their mission make them an indispensable asset in ensuring the safety and security of air operations in austere environments. Their unwavering vigilance and expertise contribute to the overall success of humanitarian missions and DoD anti-terrorism efforts, earning them the reputation of being a formidable and reliable security force.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: IPhsa at ICMM: Strengthening Indo-Pacific Health Security

    Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

    BRISBANE, Australia  –  

    During the International Committee for Military Medicine (ICMM) 45th World Congress “Military Medicine Shaping Global Health” held in Brisbane from September 22-27, 2024, the Indo-Pacific health security alliance (IPhsa) hosted a session co-chaired by the Australian Defence Force (ADF) and U.S. Indo-Pacific Command (INDOPACOM). This gathering brought together regional and international stakeholders to discuss strategies for enhancing health security and future collaboration.

    Key session highlights included the announcement of the next IPhsa event in Papua New Guinea (PNG) in 2025, as well as the continued participation of the African Partnership Outbreak Response Alliance (APORA) in sharing lessons learned. These discussions focused on best practices and expanding partnerships to address health threats in the Indo-Pacific.

    CAPT Jeffrey Bitterman of INDOPACOM opened the session by emphasizing the critical importance of regional cooperation to address evolving health threats, including infectious diseases and natural disasters.

    “By building health security capacity, together, we foster global stability, will cultivate key partnerships and mitigate harmful influences and enhance readiness in our collective interoperability. Collaboration with public health authorities, media organizations and other stakeholders is also crucial for building public trust and health security efforts”. – CAPT Bitterman, U.S. INDOPACOM Command Surgeon.

    He underscored IPhsa’s milestones, such as the 2022 signing of the Memorandum of Cooperation and the 2024 Terms of Reference, which formalized military-civilian partnerships. He highlighted that strengthening preparedness and interoperability across sectors is key to protecting public health and maintaining regional stability.

    A pre-recorded message from Mr. Ludy Prapancha Suryantoro of the World Health Organization emphasized the need for enhanced civil-military collaboration in health emergencies. He introduced the Civil-Military Mapping tool, designed to improve coordination and identify gaps in health emergency preparedness, especially in biosecurity/laboratories, CBRN, one health and disaster response.

    ADF’s AIRCDRE Nicole dos Santos closed the session by reflecting on the significance of global health security as a cornerstone of national and regional safety. She drew upon themes of interconnectedness, referencing the term “Ubuntu” to highlight shared humanity and collective responsibility. AIRCDR dos Santos emphasized the growing convergence of geopolitical, geostrategic, and geoeconomic factors, noting the need for a multilateral, whole-of-government approach to health security. She celebrated IPhsa’s role in fostering collaboration between military and civilian sectors and called for sustained partnerships to face global challenges.

    “Leading to improved global health security, we are very privileged to be a founding member of the alliance, and we look forward to contributing to the development of the Indo Pacific health security alliance over the coming years. As we progress and mature, we would like to welcome more of you to join the alliance and work with us to improve the health security of our region and our world for those who follow.” – AIRCDRE dos Santos, Director General Operational Health – Joint Health Command

    As the session concluded, participants echoed the call for stronger cooperation and looked ahead to the upcoming IPhsa meeting in PNG in 2025, emphasizing the need for continued collaboration to bolster regional health resilience.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Attorney Simonton Alerts Public to Charity Scams in Wake of Hurricane Helene

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

    United States Attorney Leigha Simonton issued a public safety alert today advising the public to be vigilant to hurricane relief fraud in the wake of Hurricane Helene.

    “North Texans are some of the most generous people I know,” said U.S. Attorney Leigha Simonton, the Northern District of Texas’ chief federal law enforcement officer. “We’ve all been impacted by the devastating images of Helene’s aftermath and are looking for ways to help. The best way to ensure your donations make a difference is to route them through a legitimate charity. Please, be vigilant for scams. Unfortunately, some fraudsters will stop at nothing to make a quick buck – even if it means exploiting a natural disaster and preventing funds from reaching the actual victims who are in need.”  

    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. 

    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. 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 Hurricane Helene, 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: U.S. Marines Deliver Emergency Relief to Philippines

    Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

    CAMP COURTNEY, OKINAWA, Japan  –  

    CAMP COURTNEY, OKINAWA, Japan – At the request of the Government of the Republic of the Philippines, Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin directed U.S. Indo-Pacific Command to support the U.S. Agency for International Development’s efforts in foreign disaster relief operations in the Philippines following Typhoon Krathon (locally known as Julian), which made landfall on the Province of Cagayan, Philippines Sep. 30.

    III Marine Expeditionary Force, directed by USINDOPACOM, has sent personnel and equipment to transport foreign disaster relief (FDR) supplies via KC-130J Hercules aircraft to affected locations within the Republic of the Philippines. They will join personnel from I MEF’s 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit and Marine Rotational Force – Southeast Asia, who are already located in-country for training, to facilitate the efficient distribution of materials. Humanitarian assistance supplies include tarps, shelter kits, food packets, and other non-food items. Two Marine Corps KC-130Js departed Okinawa, Japan, and arrived in Manila on Oct. 5 in order to support the on-going relief efforts.

    The U.S. military is providing air transport and other assistance in coordination with the Armed Forces of the Philippines through the U.S. Department of Defense Overseas Humanitarian, Disaster, and Civic Aid Program.

    FDR training is incorporated into nearly every major exercise conducted by Ill MEF. Recurrent crisis response training enhances operational readiness and develops joint interoperability during times of crises. The U.S. military has partnered and trained with our Philippine Allies regularly on FDR operations – including during exercises such as Balikatan and KAMANDAG – which prepare our forces for the challenges associated with extreme circumstances.

    For more information or media coverage requests, please contact Capt. Mark McDonough, MRF-SEA Communication Strategy and Operations, at mark.mcdonough@usmc.mil

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Celebrating Unity: Yongsan-Casey and Dongducheon celebrate ROK-US friendship at Camp Casey

    Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

    DONGDUCHEON, South Korea  –  

    U.S. Army Garrison Yongsan-Casey and Dongducheon city host a joint ROK-U.S. Friendship Festival on Camp Casey and in Dongducheon, South Korea, Sept. 28.

    Over 4,000 South Korean citizens, ROK and U.S. Army Soldiers and government employees attended the festivities both on and off post in the fall afternoon, with endless entertainment, food and fun into the late evening.

    Many Dongducheon and ROK/U.S.military leaders were in attendance including Col. Edward Cho, U.S. Army Garrison Yongsan-Casey Commander; Mayor Park Hyung Deok, Dongducheon Mayor; Honorable Kim, Sung Won, National Assembly of Dongducheon, Yangchu, Yeongcheo; and Kim, Seong Ho, Dongducheon City council chairman.

    “The ROK-U.S. alliance has been in effect for over 74 years, and we’re more than just neighbors here in Dongducheon city,” said Cho. “The relationship is much deeper than that. It brings me great joy to see everyone together here as one community, celebrating life together.”

    This year marks the 17th Dongducheon ROK-U.S. Friendship Festival, an empowering resource between the two nations in the city that has been home to Camp Casey since 1951. The Eighth Army Rock Band performed Korean and American hits on both stages, while South Korean pop singer “Ailee” headlined the night along with many other very talented traditional performers and entertainers.

    “Today’s festival carries even greater significance as we celebrate Korean-American friendship with the opening of Camp Casey during this year’s U.S. Military Fall Festival,” said Park. “I hope you take the opportunity to move freely between the base and Bosan-dong Friendship Plaza, sharing and appreciating each other’s cultures as good neighbors.”

    Many Soldiers, kids and families played various games including cornhole and rock climbing, and took part in face painting and bounce houses at Stewart Field. The Downtown Casey food court was available for Korean visitors as well who enjoyed American restaurants, some for the first time ever.

    “It was great seeing the local community enjoying the festival,” said U.S. Army Pfc. Jackman Bartow, assigned to 503d Military Police Detachment, 19th Expeditionary Sustainment Command. “I especially enjoyed getting to talk to the community about what we do as K-9 handlers, and I know Dexter (military working dog) definitely enjoyed the attention and atmosphere.”

    Dongducheon city and Camp Casey will continue to organize and support events throughout the year that build upon the well-developed camaraderie shared among both communities.

    The highlight of the on base festival concluded with an awe inspiring 10-minute of fireworks show at Stewart Field, wowing attendees and creating a lasting memory of the celebration.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: IC3 PSA: Anniversary of October 7, 2023, Hamas Attacks May Motivate Individuals to Violence in the United States

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

    Summary

    The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and Department of Homeland Security (DHS) are issuing this Public Service Announcement to highlight potential threats in the United States from a variety of actors in response to the one-year anniversary of the HAMAS attacks on Israel on October 7, 2023, and consistent calls by foreign terrorist organizations (FTOs) to their supporters seeking to provoke violence in the West.

    Threat

    The FBI and DHS assess the one-year anniversary of the October 7, 2023, attacks that initiated the ongoing Israel-HAMAS conflict, as well as any further significant escalations in the conflict, may be a motivating factor for violent extremists and hate crime perpetrators to engage in violence or threaten public safety. Over the past year, we have observed violent extremist activity and hate crimes1 in the United States linked to the conflict. Jewish, Muslim, or Arab institutions — including synagogues, mosques/Islamic centers, and community centers — and large public gatherings, such as memorials, vigils, or other lawful demonstrations, present attractive targets for violent attacks or for hoax threats by a variety of threat actors, including violent extremists and hate crime perpetrators. Such actors may view the anniversary as an opportunity to conduct an attack or other high-profile, illegal activity.

    FTOs and other violent extremists likely will continue to exploit narratives related to the conflict to call for lone attackers to conduct violence in the United States. Online messaging associated with FTOs and other violent extremists highlighting the one-year anniversary of the October 7 attacks could motivate threat actors across ideologies, including those who espouse violent anti-Semitism and Islamophobia, to engage in violence. Individuals inspired by this online messaging could act alone to commit an attack with little to no warning.

    Resources

    • Call 911 to report emergencies, including imminent threats to life.
    • Be aware of your surroundings at all times and report suspicious activities to the authorities.
    • The FBI and DHS encourage the public to promptly report information concerning suspicious activity to tips.fbi.gov or call 1-800-CALL-FBI (225-5324).
    • For concerns involving US citizens abroad, to include reporting missing persons or individuals taken as hostages, please call the Department of State’s Overseas Citizens Services (OCS) toll-free hotline at (888) 407-4747 or complete Crisis Intake Form at https://cacms.state.gov/s/crisis-intake.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Team Osan participates in 21st ROK-US Cultural Festival

    Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

    OSAN AIR BASE, Republic of Korea  –  

    Members of Team Osan came together with local South Korean community members to take part in the 21st annual Republic of Korea-U.S. Cultural Festival, Sept. 28-29, 2024.

    Hosted by the Pyeongtaek international exchange foundation, the Songtan Chamber of Commerce, and located right outside Osan Air Base’s main gate, the festival is a visible example of the partnership between the two nations.

    “[This festival] is a local event that Osan Air Base Airmen and the community gather together to enhance friendship relations,” said Chang Son Chong, Pyeongtaek city mayor, “I believe this event is very valuable because of its [significance] to our ROK and U.S. friendship.”

    Throughout the weekend, the festival featured events like traditional South Korean wedding ceremony recreations, dance team performances and other displays of artistry and skill, as well as a variety of food and cultural exchange booths. Installation community members and those from the local community were able to strengthen a mutual understanding between the different cultures and reinforce strong partnerships.

    The 21st annual ROK-U.S. Cultural Festival also occurs in the same year as the 71st anniversary of the ROK-U.S. alliance, a key partnership in the Indo-Pacific Theater.

    “For decades, the men and women of the ROK have shown us kindness and tradition,” said Col. William McKibban, 51st Fighter Wing commander. “It is friendships just like these all across South Korea that form the cornerstone of the ROK-U.S. alliance.”

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Coast Guard takes part in San Francisco Fleet Week

    Source: United States Coast Guard

     

    10/05/2024 03:27 PM EDT

    The Coast Guard will participate in the annual San Francisco Fleet Week from October 6 to 14 in the San Francisco Bay Area. On-water security zones will be in place during Fleet Week activities October 10 through 13. To ensure the safety of participants and spectators on San Francisco Bay, the U.S. Coast Guard has enacted regulated areas, published in the Federal Register and advertised by Local and Broadcast Notice to Mariners. Coast Guard, Coast Guard Auxiliary and law enforcement vessels will be patrolling the regulated areas to ensure all Fleet Week events are conducted safely.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Wards Creek — Missing 61-year-old woman

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    The Sussex RCMP is seeking the publics help to locate a missing 61-year-old woman from Wards Creek, N.B.

    Cindy Jane Chiasson was last seen on October 5, 2024, at approximately 12:05 p.m., near a residence on Wards Creek Road in Wards Creek. She was reported missing to police later 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.

    Cindy Chiasson is described as being approximately five feet (152 centimetres) tall, and weighing approximately 100 pounds (45 kilograms). She has medium length grey hair, and blue eyes. She was last seen wearing jeans, sneakers, and a purple camouflage shirt with long sleeves. Cindy Chiasson suffers from medical conditions which may make her appear confused and disoriented. She may be in the company of a German Shepherd dog.

    Anyone with information on her whereabouts is asked to contact the Sussex RCMP at 506-433-7700.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Pond Inlet, NU — Search for 15-year-old continues, Pond Inlet, NU

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    The search for 15 year old male, Rico Akaleapik, last seen on October 02, 2024, continues in a joint effort between Nunavut Emergency Management, Ground Search and Rescue, along with Pond Inlet RCMP.

    Rico Akaleapik was last seen wearing a grey hoodie, black pants, blue headphones and black shoes in Pond Inlet, NU.

    Any one with information which may assist with the search, please contact Pond Inlet RCMP at 899-1111.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Reflecting on domestic response to on-going events in the Middle East

    Source: United Kingdom National Police Chiefs Council

    On the 9 October 2023 the National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC), in collaboration with the National Police Coordination Centre (NPoCC), launched a coordinated policing response to address potential impacts on British communities following the terrorist attacks in Israel.

    This initiative, known as Operation Tarlac, was designed to enhance support for local policing efforts, deliver consistencies in policing response and align with existing counter-terrorism frameworks to ensure public safety and community cohesion.

    Once the severity of the initial attacks became clear, it was evident that their impact would be deeply felt within communities across the United Kingdom. Previous incidents of escalated tension in the region, notably in 2014 and 2021, demonstrated how such conflicts directly affect the community fear and confidence.

    The response from communities at home has been well documented, and we saw protest activity take place almost immediately following the initial attacks. London saw the bulk of this activity, but at its peak, police forces across the country (and not even including London) responded to 67 protests across a four day period in early November, demonstrating how impactful these events were.

    To date over 2,600 protest events have required varying police involvement. This has often required the diversion of resources from other priority business and requiring tens of thousands of rest days cancelled. This has contributed to Operation Tarlac being one of the longest and most resource intensive policing operations in recent history.

    Over the past year, most of this protest activity has continued to take place peacefully and without issue, but where we have seen incidents of criminality occur, officers have been on hand to respond swiftly and gather evidence to support prosecutions. Since we nationally started tracking data, there have been over 550 arrests made by police at protests. This include arrests at assemblies, processions, direct action and post event protest arrest when someone has been identified through enquiries and investigations.

    Policing’s focus has been on supporting our communities by being highly visible, engaging and responding quickly to crime and disorder. Despite evidenced increased engagement specifically within Muslim and Jewish communities we have seen continued heightened incidents of hate crime reporting.

    We continue to work closely with community partners and government departments to ensure the most effective reassurance is taking place because we know we have work to do to create the confidence to report incidents and feel safe in their community.

    We have been clear throughout this conflict that as emotive as it can be, there is absolutely no excuse for anybody to use it to engage in criminality. Hate crime has not been tolerated. Committing offences during protests has not been tolerated. We have made arrests and are well prepared to continue to do so.

    Chief Constable Chris Noble is the NPCC Strategic Lead for Operation Tarlac, and the national lead fo rPolicing Protests. He said:

    “The tragic events of October 2023 and beyond continue to resonate with our communities, and our thoughts remain with those who were affected by that incident, in addition to events that have occurred in the region since.

    “Over the past 12 months, our officers have responded to an increase in protest activity seen in response to events overseas, often under significant scrutiny.

    “In February the Home Affairs Select Committee acknowledged the complexities involved in policing protests, particularly in balancing the rights of all parties. The recent protests have presented the most sustained period of pressure and coordination on policing since 2012. Our officers and staff have demonstrated exceptional commitment and professionalism in responding to these challenges, and their efforts deserve our gratitude and recognition.

    “We recognise that events in the Middle East continue to evolve, that a further escalation in conflict is possible, and that this will raise concerns further in our communities at home, particularly those who have friends and family in the region.

    “People wish to have their voices heard, and the right to lawful protest is a key part of any democracy, which UK police uphold and facilitate.

    “We continue to ask that those looking to organise any future events contact their local police force and engage with them ahead of the time, to ensure that any activity that takes place does so peacefully and lawfully, to the benefit of all in attendance.”

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Mexican National Pleads Guilty to Charge Stemming from Smuggling and Labor Trafficking Scheme

    Source: United States Department of Justice (Human Trafficking)

    Vanessa Roberts Avery, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that PORFIRIA MARIBEL RAMOS SANCHEZ, 47, a citizen of Mexico last residing in Vernon, pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Judge Kari A. Dooley in Bridgeport to a charge stemming from her involvement in a scheme to smuggle aliens into the U.S., harbor them at Hartford area residences, force them to work, and threaten to harm them in various ways if they failed to pay exorbitant fees, interest, and other living expenses.

    According to court documents and statements made in court, beginning in September 2022, the FBI and Hartford Police interviewed several Mexican nationals who disclosed that they were smuggled from Mexico into the U.S. and transported to Hartford.  The investigation revealed that victims typically arranged with Ramos, her co-conspirators in Connecticut, and associates in Mexico to cross the border into the U.S. in exchange for a fee of between $15,000 and $20,000 that each would need to pay once they were in the U.S.  In most cases, the victims were required to turn over a property deed as collateral before leaving Mexico.  They were then smuggled across the border and transported to Hartford area residences, often at a substantial risk of bodily injury or death.

    After the victims arrived in Connecticut, they were told that they would have to pay $30,000, with interest, and that they would have to pay Ramos and her co-coconspirators for rent, food, gas and utilities.  The co-conspirators created false documents for the victims, including Permanent Residence cards and Social Security cards, and helped the victims find employment in the Hartford area.  In addition to their own jobs, some victims were required to perform housework and yardwork without compensation and without having their debt reduced.

    Victims were rarely provided with an accounting of their debt.  If victims failed to make regular payments, or in amounts that the co-conspirators expected, they were sometimes threatened, including with threats to harm family members in Mexico, to take property in Mexico that had been secured as collateral, to reveal victims’ immigration status to U.S. authorities, and to raise their interest payments.

    To date, investigators have identified 18 victims of this scheme.

    Ramos pleaded guilty to conspiracy to encourage and induce, bring in, transport, and harbor aliens, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years.  Judge Dooley scheduled sentencing for January 6, 2025.

    As part of her plea agreement, Ramos has agreed to a restitution order of $494,608.  In partial satisfaction or her restitution obligation, Ramos and her husband have agreed to sell a property they own at 74 Burnside Avenue in East Hartford, which was used to facilitate this criminal offense.

    Ramos has been detained since her arrest on October 5, 2023.

    U.S. Attorney Avery stressed that a criminal complaint is not evidence of guilt.  Charges are only allegations, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

    This investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Hartford Police Department, U.S. Department of Labor – Office of Inspector General, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Angel Krull and Shan Patel.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Coast Guard Captain of the Port for Sector St. Petersburg sets Port Condition Whiskey

    Source: United States Coast Guard

    U.S. Coast Guard sent this bulletin at 10/06/2024 08:30 AM EDT

     

    10/06/2024 08:10 AM EDT

    Clearwater, Fla. — The Coast Guard Captain of the Port for St. Petersburg (COTP) set Port Condition Whiskey for the Ports of Tampa, St. Petersburg, Seaport Manatee, and Ft. Myers, Saturday, at 1:00 p.m., due to the expectation of sustained winds greater than 39 mph generated from Tropical Storm Milton that may arrive within 72 hours.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Coast Guard sets port conditions for northern Florida

    Source: United States Coast Guard

    News Release  

    U.S. Coast Guard 7th District PA Detachment Jacksonville
    Contact: Coast Guard PA Detachment Jacksonville
    Office: 904-714-7606/7607
    After Hours: 786-393-4138
    PA Detachment Jacksonville online newsroom

     

    10/06/2024 09:04 AM EDT

    JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — The Coast Guard captain of the ports for (COTP) Jacksonville and Fernandina set Port Condition Whiskey, Saturday, due to forecasted sustained tropical storm force winds generated by Tropical Storm Milton that may arrive within 24 to 48 hours.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Appeal to identify people for potential protest offences

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    Detectives are appealing for the public’s help to identify a number of people in relation to potential protest offences.

    Officers made 17 arrests at yesterday’s demonstration in central London.

    A number of further potential offences have come to light on social media and we’re now releasing images and appealing for the public’s help to identify those involved.

    The crowds at Saturday’s event were significant in size and density. In those circumstances, what is easy to spot when walking among the crowd with a mobile phone is not always easy for officers to see from their positions along the route.

    While we will always investigate event after an event, we would urge those who see these incidents and take photos of them to also alert officers – if they are nearby – so we can intervene immediately.

    Anyone who can identify those pictured is asked to call 101, message @MetCC on X or call Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.

    They should give the reference 3919/06OCT and the specific reference on the image.

    For that reason, media are requested to publish the image without cropping the reference.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Fourth arrest in Ilford murder investigation as victim named

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    Detectives investigating the murder of a man in Ilford have made a fourth arrest.

    Police were called at 01.06hrs on Friday, 4 October to reports of a stabbing in Chapel Road, Ilford.

    Officers and the London Ambulance Service attended and found a 50-year-old man, identified as Billy Keegan, suffering from a stab injury in the corridor of a block of flats.

    Despite the best efforts of the emergency services, Billy was pronounced dead at 01:30hrs.

    His next-of-kin have been informed and are being supported by specialist officers.

    The investigation is being led by detectives from the Met’s Specialist Crime Command.

    Officers carried out fast-paced enquiries and three men, aged 40, 36 and 28, were arrested shortly after on suspicion of murder. They were taken to an east London police station where they remain in custody.

    A fourth man, aged 30, was arrested on Saturday, 5 October on suspicion of murder. He has been taken into custody.

    Anyone with information about this incident is asked to call the police on 101 quoting CAD 298/04OCT. Alternatively, you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or visit crimestoppers-uk.org.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: 403rd Army Field Support Brigade Unit Spotlight: Logistics Readiness Center-Honshu

    Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

    CAMP ZAMA, Japan  –  

    Located near the cities of Zama and Sagamihara in Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan, Camp Zama is about 25 miles southwest of Tokyo on the main island of Honshu.

    Camp Zama is home to U.S. Army Japan, I Corps (Forward), U.S. Army Aviation Battalion Japan, 311th Military Intelligence Battalion, 78th Signal Battalion, 765th Terminal Transportation Battalion, Japan Engineer District (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers), and the Bilateral Coordination Department and 4th Engineer Group of the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force.

    USARJ facilitates multilateral cooperation with regional partners and allies through engagements, training, and exercises; partnering with the JGSDF to enhance interoperability, capability and capacity while coordinating through United States Forces Japan for forces, footprints and agreements between the U.S. Government and the Government of Japan to set conditions for successful deterrence and execution of contingency operations.

    USARJ is not structured as a conventional command, as it is resourced as an economy of force operation, forward positioned in Japan for contingency purposes should circumstances require a larger U.S. Army presence within the region.

    Under the Status of Forces Agreement, the Government of Japan contributes a portion of the resources necessary for the sustainment of U.S. Forces within Japan in the form of facilities, personnel, and utilities. U.S. Army Sustainment Command benefits from this agreement in the form of significantly reduced operating costs. LRC-Honshu’s workforce primarily consists of host nation Master Labor Contract employees fully funded by the Government of Japan.

    LRC-Honshu provides maintenance, supply, transportation, and logistical support to USARJ, I Corps (Forward), U.S. Army Garrison-Japan, installation partner units, and Department of Defense activities within its area of responsibility to ensure mission readiness and quality of life for Soldiers, civilians, and families within mainland Japan.

    LRC-Honshu reports to the 403d Army Field Support Brigade, headquartered at Camp Henry, South Korea, which is a subordinate unit of ASC whose higher headquarters is the U.S. Army Materiel Command.

    The LRC-Honshu, Transportation Division, Area Transportation Office in Kure, near Hiroshima, Japan, 485 miles away from Camp Zama, provides area specific installation transportation through the utilization of non-tactical vehicles in several different fleet configurations coordinated by the Fleet Management Operations Office, including traffic management, general freight, oversized freight, intra-depot ammunition movement, and retail fuel points for Kure Ammunition Depot, an AMC special installation. On average, ATO Kure supports more than 220 intra-depot ammunition movements and 140 general cargo shipments per year.

    Prior to August 2024, LRC-Honshu experienced challenges in executing its Installation Logistics Base Line Services in support of USAG-Japan at Kure Ammunition Depot. The Maintenance Division provides base operations maintenance support to Army-owned NTVs, tactical vehicles and non-standard equipment in support of installation services, as well as organic maintenance capability for units’ tactical equipment lacking organic authorizations.

    The 10th Support Group performed these duties in Kure by overseeing 14 authorized host nation employees assigned to the 10th SG AD Equipment Branch but authorized on the Host Nation Table of Distribution and Allowances, facilities, and maintenance management functions for its assigned vehicles and equipment, as well as equipment for USAG-Japan and LRC-Honshu at Kure’s Akizuki, Kawakami, and Hiro Ammunition Depots.

    Over the past two years, LRC-Honshu worked closely with 10th SG and USARJ G4, while keeping 403d AFSB staff informed, to initiate efforts to appropriately restructure maintenance support operations under LRC-Honshu in Kure in alignment with Army Regulation 750-1 and the ILBLS program guidance. LRC-Honshu coordinated with 10th SG to establish a series of working groups, developed and provided a final decision brief to the 403rd AFSB and 10th SG commanders, and conducted an on-site visit to Kure AD involving all stakeholders, culminating in in a briefing to the USARJ Steering Committee.

    “Taking full responsibility for maintenance in Kure will greatly enhance our oversight of maintenance operations, ensuring that we can effectively meet the needs of USAG-Japan while enabling our partners to focus on their primary mission,” said Michael J. Moore, Maintenance Division Chief.

    On Aug. 1, 2024, LRC-Honshu assumed overall responsibility of maintenance operations in Kure following the transfer of 14 authorized host nation positions from 10th SG to LRC-Honshu to and meet 403rd AFSB’s requirement of maintaining USAG-Japan and LRC-Honshu vehicles and equipment.

    In September 2024, LRC-Honshu leadership from Camp Zama visited Kure to speak to the new employees, conduct a joint inventory of all associated tools and equipment, and coordinated with the USAG-Japan Department of Public Works to assign three major facilities and several sub-facilities used by mechanics in Kure’s Akizuki, Kawakami, and Hiro Ammunition Depots. By October 2024, LRC-Honshu will successfully achieve full operational capability of maintenance operations in Kure.

    “By assuming full responsibility of maintenance operations in Kure, LRC-Honshu will improve oversight of maintenance procedures, increase overall equipment readiness rates, and streamline processes to better support USAG Japan,” said Sean B. Mager, director, LRC-Honshu. “This transition will allow the 10th Support Group to focus on their core mission, enhancing overall operational effectiveness in the region.”

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Echoes of the past: U.S. and Korea commemorate POW/MIA Recognition Day

    Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

    SEOUL, South Korea  –  

    The candle flickered briefly at the solemn table that, despite being set, remained empty. A red rose stood alone in a vase with a yellow ribbon tied firmly. Service members are all too familiar with the “missing man table,” in which each element carries meaning, but none so prevalent as the empty chair, the absence of someone not present, held as prisoner of war or missing in action.

    While the Eighth Army Band played, the crowd of nearly 300 Korean citizens, U.S. service members, and veterans stood vigil for the first Republic of Korea-U.S. POW/MIA Recognition Day Ceremony at the War Memorial of Korea on Sept. 21, 2024. Meanwhile, the lone table was next to the podium, serving as a reminder of those not in attendance.

    Each element of the table holds significance, as explained by the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency, which were echoed during the event.
    – The table is round, to show everlasting concern.
    – The tablecloth is white to symbolize the purity of the missing and their motives.
    – The glass is inverted to symbolize their inability to share in today’s toast.
    – The candle symbolizes everlasting hope.
    – The single red rose as a reminder of their families and loved ones.
    – The slice of lemon as a reminder of their bitter fate.
    – The salt symbolizes the tears of their families.
    – The chair is empty … they are missing.

    More than 81,000 service members remain missing. However, in the last decade, the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency has identified remains of more than 1,500 U.S. service members, including more than 300 from the Korean War.

    “Events like this and the support that you bring to the recovery mission in general will move the mission forward and help find the answer we all hope for,” wrote Richard Downes, president and executive director of the Coalition of Families of Korean and Cold War POW/MIAs, in a letter read aloud during the ceremony. “Thank you again for what each of you are doing to bring closure to many families who have waited so long.”

    Although there were many agencies involved, the U.S. Army Garrison Humphreys Religious Support Office helped put the event together.

    “All Americans should never forget the brave men and women who answered our nation’s call to serve the cause of freedom,” said Chaplain Chan Ham, deputy garrison chaplain, USAG Humphreys, who was the principal narrator during the event. “Our motto is no man left behind, which is core to our principles and values.”

    Many of the U.S. Soldiers who attended the event also serve as chaplains assistants across Camp Humphreys.

    “Not all of our brothers and sisters get to come home,” said U.S. Army Sgt. Mateo D. Boldt, chaplain assistant with the 8th Army Headquarters and Headquarters Battalion. “By participating in this event, we can ensure their legacy is not forgotten.”

    Boldt’s words are echoed on the POW/MIA flags that waved in the wind, “You are not forgotten.”

    The ceremony included a reading of each of the names of the missing, which echoed through the exterior of the memorial. Once complete, the bugle played Taps.

    Afterward, guests placed flowers at the foot of the exterior wall, which has the words inscribed, “Our nation honors her sons and daughters who answered the call to defend a country they never knew and a people they never met.” Those same words are at the Korean War Memorial in Washington, D.C.

    Service members saluted their missing comrades, while civilians bowed in recognition as if in silent promise to never forget.

    POW/MIA Recognition Day, established in 1979, serves as a solemn reminder of the thousands of service members who remain unaccounted for. It is observed annually on the third Friday in September.

    “During National POW/MIA Recognition Day, we recognize the absolute bravery of our nation’s service members who are missing and unaccounted for, and we recommit to bringing them home,” U.S. President Joe Biden said in a White House proclamation. “We offer our gratitude and steadfast support for their families, who have given so much to our Nation.”

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  • MIL-OSI Security: EMBARGOED UNTIL 00:01AM MONDAY 7 OCTOBER: Met improves interview process for victims of crime with new technology

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    EMBARGOED UNTIL 00:01AM MONDAY 7 OCTOBER

    Met improves interview process for victims of crime with new technology

    The Metropolitan Police Service is rolling out its new ‘Digital Interview Recording (DIR) kits’, in its commitment to put victims at the heart of investigations, as part of its New Met for London plan. The equipment eliminates the need to use DVDs and CDs and enables recordings to be made in police stations as well as in locations more convenient to victims of crime.

    It’s a significant advance in the Met’s drive to equip officers with innovative technology to improve the efficiency of evidence obtained during interviews with victims, particularly women and girls affected by violence.

    By facilitating swift access to professional-quality video and audio recordings, the portable DIR kits aim to enhance investigative outcomes, provide better support to victims, and deliver justice for Londoners.

    The lightweight kits, easily carried underarm, can be employed to record interviews with suspects, victims or witnesses.

    The footage is quickly and confidentially uploaded to a cloud-based system, ensuring immediate accessibility for stakeholders, including the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) and senior Met leaders.

    This streamlined process eliminates previous delays in accessing vital evidence, enabling faster investigations and helping the Met get offenders off the streets.

    The kits, which have recently been distributed to specialist teams in the Met, including the Rape and Serious Sexual Offences and the Child Abuse Investigation Teams, reduce the need for victim-survivors to travel to a Met building to recount what happened.

    Victims can provide their account in a more comfortable environment giving police the best chance of capturing better quality evidence to progress an investigation to catch a perpetrator.

    Additionally, the DIR portable kits facilitate remote identification parades, allowing victims and witnesses unable to attend in-person to identify suspects.

    Commander Stephen Clayman, lead for the roll-out of the Digital Interview Recording kits, said:

    “The wider rollout of the fixed Digital Interview Recording equipment has so far proved very successful, eliminating the use of DVDs, providing additional functionality and ultimately saving officers and staff valuable time, with their interviews being available instantly.

    “This represents one of the largest rollouts of this equipment nationally given the scale of the MPS. It has also provided additional opportunities, especially with the provision of portable Digital Interview Recording kits.

    “It has helped us to listen and respond to victims’ experiences and use of the equipment has allowed us to capture evidence in an environment which puts the victims first, giving us the relevant and vital evidence we need to catch a perpetrator.

    “This hopefully alleviates some pressure during what is already an incredibly hard process for them.”

    The kits were launched by the Met’s Digital Data and Technology team in July last year and has been successfully piloted, paving the way for the Met to safeguard victims in way they’ve not been able to before.

    Digital Interview Recording is used in the UK and further afield in Belgium, Poland, Luxembourg and America, and there are now approximately 160 deployments of portable kits across the world.

    The kit was tested last summer, with several successful outcomes, including a female victim-survivor who had returned home to Poland following an aggravated burglary and sexual assault. The woman conducted an ID parade with Met officers at the British Embassy in Poland, which resulted in the suspect being located back in the UK, charged and remanded.

    Detective Inspector Richard Lewsley, from the Met’s Rape and Serious Sexual unit in north west London, said:

    “Our team were fortunate enough to be involved in the piloting of this crucial piece of kit which allows front line officers to offer a service which puts victims first.

    “The device demonstrates we are committed to supporting victims’ needs and enabling them to provide evidence whilst giving our officers the right tools to do their jobs effectively.

    “DIR gives officers the ability to operate efficiently, receive a high-quality product and relay it back to an investigation team within minutes of an interview finishing.

    “It’s shown it can alleviate stress on my officers by giving them the capability to conduct interviews and better manage their time in ways they wouldn’t have been able to do before.

    “The time saved in capturing evidence, as well as the choice offered to victims to decide where and when they provide evidence, makes this device invaluable.

    “DIR is not limited to one crime type and I’m sure, in time, many will benefit.”

    James Higgins, Project Manager with the Met’s Digital Data and Technology team, said:

    “We have collaborated with front-line officers and the supplier to develop an advanced, secure and comprehensive Portable Interview Kit which represents a transformative approach to interviewing, offering substantial benefits to the Metropolitan Police and enhancing the conduct of victim and witness interviews.

    “The kits empower Met interviewing officers to confidently gather high-quality evidence and allows secure transmission from anywhere in the world back to the investigative team for prompt analysis and fast-time action.

    “DIR utilises the same interview software and input screens as the Met’s new Fixed Interview Room system, which is being implemented across the Met, adding to significant changes in business processes and saving the Met money.”

    The equipment has also been used in a variety of locations including prisons, mental health secure units, hospitals, hotels, schools, care homes and overseas in government or law enforcement buildings.

    As part of our A New Met for London plan, the Met is determined to fix its foundations to ensure officers and staff can succeed to better serve Londoners, equipped with the best tools to cut crime. These kits offer the best technology available so officers can use their powers precisely while maintaining trust and upholding high standards.

    Notes to Editors

    The Met is determined in its mission to ensure women and girls feel safe wherever they are. We committed as part of our Violence Against Women and Girls action plan to improve how we communicate with the public about what we are doing, which included sharing progress on our plans and being clear on what success means. Improved trust, safer places and taking a victim-centred approach to crime is at the heart of that plan: Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) action plan | Metropolitan Police

    If you’ve been a victim of rape or sexual assault, charities and support agencies can offer help and guidance:

    Rape Crisis: 08085002222  

    National Rape and Sexual Abuse Helpline: 0808 802 9999   

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: DOJ Charges Ten Pharmaceutical Distributors Affiliated with Unlawful Sales of Over 70M Opioid Pills

    Source: United States Department of Justice Criminal Division

    Today, the Department is announcing charges against 10 individuals affiliated with pharmaceutical distributors alleged to have funneled nearly 70 million opioid pills and 30 million doses of other commonly abused prescription drugs to “pill-mill” pharmacies, mostly in the Houston, Texas area. These drugs had an estimated street value of over $1.3 billion.

    Related Press Release:

    Ten Pharmaceutical Distributor Executives, Sales Representatives, and Brokers Charged in Connection with Unlawful Sales of Nearly 70M Opioid Pills

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Ohio Man Agrees to Plead Guilty to Interstate Transportation of Stolen Andy Warhol Art Print

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

    LOS ANGELES – An Ohio man has agreed to plead guilty to a federal criminal charge for trafficking a stolen Andy Warhol print worth at least $175,000. 

    Image Source: Federal Plea Agreement

    Brian Alec Light, 58, of Hudson, Ohio (formerly a resident of downtown Los Angeles), is expected to plead guilty in the coming weeks to one count of interstate transportation of stolen goods. His initial appearance in federal court is scheduled for October 28.

    According to his plea agreement, a thief stole the Warhol print – a trial proof depicting former Soviet Union leader Vladimir Lenin and was print number 44 of 46 total Warhol made – from the victim’s home in Los Angeles County in early 2021. The victim informed law enforcement of its theft soon after, as well as the original gallery in West Hollywood that sold him the artwork. Days after the theft, the thief brought the artwork to a pawnshop, which purchased it. The pawnshop’s owner contacted Light for help selling the artwork, which Light knew was stolen. Light contacted an auction house to sell the print within weeks of its theft. Light told the pawnshop owner to drop off the Warhol at the auction house in Beverly Hills so that it could be transported to Dallas for inspection and sale, which the pawnshop owner did.

    The auction house shipped the Warhol artwork to Dallas where it was to be inspected and included in an upcoming auction in the spring of 2021. An employee of the auction house in Dallas reached out to the gallery in West Hollywood for its opinion of the piece. The gallery immediately recognized the piece as the stolen piece of art. As a result, the gallery notified the auction house of its stolen nature and notified the FBI. When the FBI questioned Light about it, he lied and created a fake receipt purporting to show that he bought the print before it was stolen. 

    Upon pleading guilty, Light will face a statutory maximum sentence of 10 years in federal prison. 

    As part of his plea agreement, Light will forfeit the stolen artwork retrieved by law enforcement.

    The FBI’s Art Crime Team is investigating this matter.

    Assistant United States Attorney Erik Silber, Senior Counsel in the Criminal Division and Assistant United States Attorneys Dominique Caamano and Matthew O’Brien, of the Environmental Crimes and Consumer Protection Section, are prosecuting this case.

    MIL Security OSI –