NewzIntel.com

Category: Security Intelligence

  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Soldiers at Shariki bond with Japanese neighbors at traditional festival

    Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

    TSUGARU, Japan  –  

    An annual festival held here that marks the end of the summer season in Japan included participation from U.S. Soldiers stationed at a nearby installation who took part in the festivities.

    Soldiers assigned to the 10th Missile Defense Battery at the Shariki Communications Site in Aomori participated in Tsugaru’s Umaichi Matsuri, or Horse Market Festival, held there in late August. As part of the celebration, they marched in a parade alongside a horse-shaped float, sharing in the tradition and community spirit with their Japanese neighbors.

    The festival originated in the early 1900s, when the area was crowded with farm horse auctions. As agriculture became more mechanized, the necessity for the auctions declined over time. Around the mid-1970s, the festival evolved into a celebration of the city’s traditions and gratitude toward the horses that were vital to the early days of farming.

    Approximately 1,800 participants, including the 10th MDB Soldiers, Japan Air Self-Defense Force members and Tsugaru residents participated in the festival. Some dressed in costumes as they pulled the ornate horse floats through the city streets. Many in the crowd gave enthusiastic cheers as the vibrant and celebratory parade passed by.

    Sgt. 1st Class Randy Bergman, assigned to the 10th MDB, was one of about a dozen Soldiers from his unit who participated in the festival and pushed their float along the parade with help from their JASDF partners.

    Bergman said he and the Soldiers enjoyed seeing the crowd waving and smiling at them, taking it as a sign that people were enjoying themselves.

    “I think it’s going really well,” Berkman said during the parade. “We love experiencing the culture [of Japan, and seeing] the differences between our two cultures. It’s just great fun and a great experience for everybody.”

    Bergman said he and the 10th MDB Soldiers try to participate in and support local events as often as they can. It is important not only to their mission to be good stewards of the U.S. military in Japan, he said, but also to enhance their partnership with the JASDF as well as their relationship with their local community.

    Tsugaru Mayor Hiroaki Kuramitsu said he welcomes the U.S. military’s participation in the city’s festivities throughout the year and that it is a great joy to be able to celebrate together.

    While Tsugaru citizens are aware of the U.S. military base in their community, Kuramitsu said, the Umaichi Festival provides a unique opportunity to interact directly with the Soldiers, which in turn promotes an understanding of each other’s cultures and helps everyone bond as a community.

    “It is important to remember that the Soldiers stationed here are human beings, just like us,” Kuramitsu said. “We all share this planet, and I believe that [through events like this], we can overcome any differences we may perceive and view the U.S. military as being part of the Tsugaru community.”

    Capt. Henry Etchberger, commander of the 10th MDB, said he and his Soldiers had a great time at the festival, and likewise said the Tsugaru residents seemed to be enjoying themselves.

    “We’re very lucky and very privileged to be here,” Etchberger said. “I want [the Soldiers] to be enthusiastic about embracing Japanese culture. We need to demonstrate that we have a very strong relationship with both our community and our bilateral counterparts.”

    As the sun set, the festival culminated with the Shinden Fire Festival, in which the horse floats were set ablaze as a symbolic ritual to send the horses’ spirits to heaven.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: FBI Houston Seeks Persistent “Plaid Pillager” for Fifth Bank Robbery

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

    HOUSTON, TX—FBI Houston’s Violent Crime Task Force is asking for the public’s help in identifying and locating a man dubbed the “Plaid Pillager” who committed his fifth bank robbery in Houston last week. Crime Stoppers of Houston is offering a reward of up to $5,000 for information leading to the identification and arrest of the robber.

    The most recent robbery occurred at approximately 2:10 p.m. on Friday, September 20, 2024, at the Bank of America located at 5348 Westheimer Road in west Houston. During the robbery, the suspect entered the bank, approached the counter, and handed the teller a threatening note demanding money. He fled the bank with an undisclosed amount of money southbound on foot across Westheimer Road. No one was physically hurt during the robbery.

    Previously, the “Plaid Pillager” robbed the following banks:

    • Wells Fargo Bank located at 11152 South Gessner in southwest Houston on Friday, July 22, 2022
    • Chase Bank located at 10411 Westheimer in west Houston on Friday, February 3, 2023
    • Bank of America located at 5348 Westheimer in west Houston on Friday, February 10, 2023
    • Cadence Bank located at 3754 Westheimer in west Houston on Monday March 6, 2023

    The robber is described as a balding white male in his late 50s, approximately 6’0” tall, with a heavy build and a white stubble beard. During the robbery he wore a blue fishing shirt, blue jeans, sneakers, a medical mask, and a ballcap with the Texans logo. He carried a camo-colored backpack, and upon fleeing the bank he took off his ballcap and mask before putting on sunglasses. A witness stated the suspect had an older black or green tattoo on the left side of his head.

    Photographs of the suspect from the most recent robbery can be found on FBI Houston’s Twitter account.

    Crime Stoppers of Houston, a non-governmental organization, is offering up to $5,000 for information leading to the identification and arrest of this robber. If you have any information, please call the Crime Stoppers tip line at 713-222-TIPS (8477) or the FBI Houston Field Office at (713) 693-5000. Tips may also be submitted to Crime Stoppers through their website, http://www.crime-stoppers.org, or the Houston Crime Stoppers mobile phone app which can be downloaded for both iPhone and Android devices. All tipsters remain anonymous.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Nashville Man Sentenced to 16 Years in Federal Prison for Multiple Armed Robbery and Firearms Convictions

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

    NASHVILLE – Terrell Stevenson, 35, of Nashville was sentenced to 16 years in federal prison today, announced United States Attorney for the Middle District of Tennessee Henry C. Leventis.

    Within 40 minutes on Halloween night 2018, Stevenson robbed a Dollar General Store and a Mapco gas station in Nashville, brandishing a semi-automatic pistol and pointing it at the head of the clerk working at the Dollar General Store. Stevenson and his accomplice were arrested by police officers after fleeing from a traffic stop. Stevenson was charged by a federal grand jury in January of 2020 with two counts of Hobbs Act Robbery, two counts of brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, and one count of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. He was convicted on all charges following a jury trial in September 2023.

    This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Metropolitan Nashville Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Rachel Stephens and Kathryn Risinger prosecuted the case.

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

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    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Air National Guardsman Pleads Guilty in Murder-for-Hire Scheme

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

    NASHVILLE – Josiah Ernesto Garcia, 23, of Toledo, Ohio, formerly of Hermitage, Tennessee, has pleaded guilty to federal charges after meeting with an undercover FBI agent to finalize a deal to murder an individual for payment, announced United States Attorney Henry C. Leventis for the Middle District of Tennessee.

    Garcia pleaded guilty to using interstate commerce facilities in the commission of murder-for-hire.

    According to court records, Garcia needed money to support his family and in mid-February 2023 began searching online for contract mercenary jobs and found the website http://www.rentahitman.com. Originally created in 2005 to advertise a cyber security startup company, the company failed and over the next decade it received many inquiries about murder-for-hire services. The website’s administrator then converted the website to a parody site that contains false testimonials from those who have purported to use hit man services, and an intake form where people can request services. The website also has an option for someone to apply to work as a hired killer.

    Garcia submitted an employment inquiry indicating that he was interested in obtaining employment as a hit man and that he had “military experience, and rifle expertise.” Garcia followed up on this initial request and submitted other identification documents and a resume indicating he was an expert marksman and had been employed in the Air National Guard since July 2021. The resume also provided that Garcia was nicknamed “Reaper” which was earned from military experience and marksmanship. Garcia continued to follow up with the website administrator indicating that he wanted to go to work as soon as possible. 

    An FBI undercover agent spoke with Garcia by phone then met him in person to discuss his application. Both conversations were recorded. The agent then met with Garcia at a park in Hendersonville, Tennessee, and provided him with a target packet of a fictional individual, which included photographs and other information about the individual to be killed, and a down payment of $2,500. After agreeing to the terms of the murder arrangement, Garcia asked the agent if he needed to provide a photograph of the dead body. Garcia was then arrested by FBI agents, who in a subsequent search of his home, recovered an AR style rifle.

    Garcia is scheduled to be sentenced on February 7, 2025. He faces up to 10 years in federal prison.

    This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Nashville Resident Agency, Memphis Field Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Brooke K. Schiferle prosecuted the case.

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    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Chamcook — RCMP seeking public’s assistance following two break, enter and thefts

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    The St. Stephen RCMP detachment is seeking the public’s assistance following two break, enter and thefts in Chamcook, N.B.

    The first break, enter and theft occurred during the early morning hours of September 19, 2024, at a camp on Access Road 2B, near Frye Road in Chamcook. An individual or individuals forcibly gained entry to the camp and an outbuilding, and stole a number of items including electronics. The interior of the camp was also vandalized.

    The second break, enter and theft is believed to have occurred between September 16 and September 19, 2024, near the 500 block of Frye Road, also in Chamcook. Police believe the same individual or individuals forcibly gained entry to two trailers and stole a kayak, a leaf blower and a chainsaw.

    Both residences were unoccupied at the time of the incidents.

    If you were in the area at the time and witnessed the incident, or if you have information that could help further the investigation, please contact the St. Stephen RCMP at 506-466-7030. Information can also be provided anonymously through Crime Stoppers by calling 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), by downloading the secure P3 Mobile App, or by Secure Web Tips at http://www.crimenb.ca.

    The investigation is ongoing.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Iqaluit — Nunavut man charged in 1986 Iqaluit cold case

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Iqaluit, Nunavut
    File: 2006-84716
    Date: 2024-09-26

    The Nunavut RCMP Major Crimes Unit arrested Jopey Atsiqtaq in the murder of 15-year-old Mary Ann Birmingham, who was found deceased in Frobisher Bay, Northwest Territories (Iqaluit, Nunavut), on May 28, 1986.

    The Nunavut RCMP Major Crimes Unit worked alongside the Public Prosecutions Services Canada’s, Nunavut Regional Office to secure a Second-Degree Murder Indictment. The Indictment was signed by the Director of Public Prosecutions and Deputy Attorney General of Canada on September 19, 2024.

    On September 24, 2024, RCMP members from Nunavut RCMP Major Crimes Unit arrested Mr. Atsiqtaq in Ottawa, Ontario on a Canada Wide Warrant, with the assistance of the Ottawa Police Service.

    On September 25, 2024, Mr. Atsiqtaq was transported to Iqaluit, Nunavut, and appeared before the Nunavut Court of Justice. He was remanded into custody and his next court appearance is scheduled for October 29, 2024.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: St. Croix Man Indicted After Threatening to Murder Federal Agents

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

    St. Croix, VI – United States Attorney Delia L. Smith announced today that a federal grand jury returned an indictment charging Jamoi Weekes, 30, of St. Croix, with making threats to assault and murder federal and local law enforcement officers.

    “Heinous threats of violence that target our partners in law enforcement will not be tolerated,” said U.S. Attorney Smith. “Law enforcement officials must be free to perform their duties without fear or intimidation, and as evidenced in the case against Weekes, we will steadfastly prosecute threats against public servants and aggressively seek penalties against those who engage in such abhorrent crimes.”

    According to court documents, on August 31, 2024, Weekes attempted to board a flight at the Henry E. Rohlsen Airport in St. Croix. Weekes was referred to Customs and Border Protection for a secondary inspection before boarding his flight. Weekes then became extremely irate and combative and began threatening to murder and retaliate against the officers if he ever saw them again. Weekes was then determined to be unsuitable to board his flight and was ordered to leave the airport. While exiting the airport, Weekes encountered two Virgin Islands Port Authority officers who he also threatened to murder. Rather than leave the airport, Weekes then followed two Customs and Border Protection officers from the airport terminal to the parking lot and again threatened to murder the officers.

    The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Evan Rikhye.

    United States Attorney Smith reminds the public that an indictment is merely a formal charging document, and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Attorney and FBI Charge Man for Drive-By Shooting in Zuni

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

    ALBUQUERQUE – A Zuni Pueblo man was charged by criminal complaint with federal firearms violations following a drive-by shooting that occurred on the Pueblo of Zuni Indian Reservation.

    Devin Wyaco, 33, an enrolled member of the Pueblo of Zuni, appeared before a federal judge today and will remain in custody pending trial, which has not been scheduled.

    According to the criminal complaint, on September 19, 2024, John Doe and his girlfriend were riding their bikes in Zuni, New Mexico when they noticed a white sedan with tinted windows drive past them, going in the same direction as them. The sedan then did a U-turn and stopped before driving back towards them. As the vehicle passed them, one shot was fired from the passenger side, striking John Doe in his abdomen.

    John Doe was transported via ambulance first to Zuni Hospital, then to University of New Mexico Hospital. When he was later interviewed by investigators, John Doe identified the vehicle as belonging to Wyaco’s girlfriend.

    Investigators executed a federal search warrant on Wyaco’s girlfriend’s residence. There, they spoke to Wyaco’s girlfriend, who stated she had been in the vehicle with Wyaco at the time of the shooting. Wyaco’s girlfriend told investigators that he had fled and was still in possession of the firearm.

    If convicted, Wyaco faces a minimum of 10 years in prison.

    U.S. Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez and Raul Bujanda, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.

    The Gallup Resident Agency of the FBI’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Zuni Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Zachary C. Jones is 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.

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    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: UPDATED: Man charged with murder of man in Haringey

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    Detectives investigating the murder of a man, whose body was found in a Haringey flat, have charged a man.

    Police were called at about 21:45hrs on Friday, 20 September, following concerns for the occupant of an address in Moselle Avenue, N22.

    Officers attended and forced entry into the flat, where they discovered the man deceased.

    He has been named as 40-year-old Marvin Dickson. His family have been informed and are being supported by specialist officers.

    On Sunday, 22 September a 36-year-old man, Dante Forrest (15.09.88), of Moselle Avenue, N22, was arrested in the Edmonton area on suspicion of murder.

    He was charged with murder on Wednesday, 25 September and will appear in custody at Highbury Corner Magistrates’ Court on Thursday, 26 September.

    Detectives from the Specialist Crime Command are leading the investigation. A special post-mortem examination held on Sunday, 22 September, found Martin’s cause of death to be blunt force trauma.

    Anyone with information that can assist the investigation is asked to call police on 101 and quote reference CAD 8320/20Sep. To remain anonymous, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or visit crimestoppers-uk.org.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Marystown — Burin Peninsula RCMP investigates break, enter and theft at residential property in Grand Bank, ATV stolen

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Burin Peninsula RCMP is investigating a recent break, enter and theft at a residential property in Grand Bank. An all-terrain vehicle (ATV) was stolen.

    The crime occurred sometime between 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, September 21, and 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, September 25, 2024, while the home owner was away. Suspect(s) gained entry into a detached garage on the Marine Drive property and stole a 2019 Honda Rubicon TRX 500 quad. Images of the ATV are attached.

    The investigation is continuing.

    Anyone having information about this crime, the person(s) responsible, or the current location of the ATV is asked to contact Burin Peninsula RCMP at 709-279-3001. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers: #SayItHere 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), visit http://www.nlcrimestoppers.com or use the P3Tips app.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Further arrests made as family of Daejaun Campbell pay tribute to him

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    Detectives investigating the murder of 15-year-old Daejaun Campbell in Woolwich have made two further arrests.

    An 18-year-old man was arrested last night (Wednesday, 25 September), on suspicion of murder. He remains in police custody.

    A 15-year-old boy was arrested on suspicion of perverting the course of justice and was released on bail.

    Police were called approximately 18:35hrs on Sunday, 22 September to reports of a disturbance on Eglinton Road, SE18.

    Officers attended and found Daejaun with a stab injury. Despite the efforts of officers and paramedics at the scene, he sadly died a short time later.

    Detective Chief Inspector Kate Blackburn who is leading the investigation said: “We are diligently progressing withthis investigation thanks to officers and detectives who have been working tirelessly throughout the week.

    “Daejaun was only 15 when he lost his life. His family are understandably devastated. Although officers have made a number of arrests and have charged a suspect we need to gather as much information as possible to fully understand what happened on Sunday evening.

    “If you know anything, no matter how insignificant you think this information is – please tell us. Even the slightest bit of information can help us build a picture of what happened to young Daejaun. You can contact Crimestoppers anonymously if you are afraid of speaking to us.

    “You can also submit footage or information anonymously via our website portal – Public Portal (mipp.police.uk)

    “If you want to speak to an officer you can contact the investigation team on 0208 721 4005 quoting Operation Baghaze.”

    Daejaun’s family have provided a statement:

    “Firstly, we the family would like to thank you all for the support. The support has been shown by friends, neighbours, communities and Project LifeLine who were working closely with Daejaun, to help him to develop a better future for himself. Daejaun was a great kid who had a bright future ahead of him, he was loved by his family and friends, as well as strangers who had interacted with him, and he has left a great impression with them. His calming nature and enthusiastic attitude would manifest a happy atmosphere amongst his family and friends wherever he went.

    “Daejaun was known for walking with the biggest smile and even bigger heart, he would always do his up most best to help anyone. Daejaun had a joyful spirit, full of wit and charm with the incredible ability to light up a room with his presence and impactful smile.

    “He is deeply loved by his family and though we should have many more years of memories with him, we will cherish the amazing memories he’s left behind.

    “His friends would say there wasn’t anything that he couldn’t do if he put his mind to it, he kept himself to himself and lived life to the fullest.

    “Our Daejaun was naturally gifted, intelligent, creative and a mathematician with his quick thinking as well as musically talented.

    “The brutal manner which Daejaun was taken away from us is sad, and he not the first young person nor will he be the last, this senseless killing needs to stop, how many mothers, fathers, grandparents and love ones must go through this excruciating pain of releasing these heart breaking statements, sharing our grief because we have lost our children and grandchildren.

    “Why are parents burying their children, when a child’s place is by their mother’s side? We must come together to bring change, solutions need to be put in place, we must do all we can together to ensure our young have the brightest of futures. #sayhisnameDaejaun

    “We as a family, again would like to thank you all for the support and kind messages.”

    A post mortem revealed that the cause of death was due to a sharp force trauma to the left thigh.

    Jacob Losiewicz 18 (26.07.06) of Church Manor Way, Abbey Wood appeared at Bromley Magistrates Court charged with murder this morning and was remanded in custody. He will next appear at the Old Bailey Court on Monday, 30 September.

    Anyone with information is asked to call police on 0208 721 4005 quoting Operation Baghaze. You can also remain anonymous by contacting Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Marystown — Arrest warrant issued for Bryan Adam Hillier (UPDATED)

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Update: Bryan Hillier has been arrested.

    Burin Peninsula RCMP is looking to arrest 37-year-old Bryan Adam Hillier, who is wanted for a number of offences.

    Hillier is currently wanted on a charge for failure to attend court with other charges pending. Please see the attached image of Hillier.

    Anyone having information on the current location of Bryan Hillier is asked to contact Burin Peninsula RCMP at 709-279-3001. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers: #SayItHere 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), visit http://www.nlcrimestoppers.com or use the P3Tips app.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Happy Valley-Goose Bay — Update: RCMP NL releases photos of Da Shed robbery suspect in Happy Valley-Goose Bay

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    RCMP NL’s Labrador District General Investigation Section (GIS) is releasing images of a suspect involved in a recent robbery at Da Shed Pub that occurred on September 2, 2024.

    Shortly before 1:00 a.m. on September 2, a masked man wearing goggles entered the bar with a firearm, pointed it at an employee and demanded money. The suspect departed prior to police arrival with a quantity of cash.

    RCMP Labrador District GIS is continuing to investigate this crime and is seeking assistance from the public in identifying the suspect.

    Anyone having information about this crime or the identity of the person pictured is asked to call Labrador District GIS at 709-896-1263. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers: #SayItHere 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), visit http://www.nlcrimestoppers.com or use the P3Tips app.

    Background:

    Happy Valley-Goose Bay RCMP investigates armed robbery at Da Shed Pub | Royal Canadian Mounted Police (rcmp-grc.gc.ca)

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Sussex — Police warn of counterfeit money circulating in community; One arrested

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Police have arrested an 18-year-old man from Sussex, N.B., in connection with an investigation into the use of counterfeit money in the Sussex area.

    The Sussex RCMP has recently received several reports from many local businesses that counterfeit Canadian $100 bills have been used to purchase goods and services. The bills all have the same serial number: LGQ03229158.

    On September 12, 2024, police arrested an 18-year-old man from Sussex in connection with this investigation. However, counterfeit bills are still circulating in the community. The 18-year-old man was released on conditions and is scheduled to appear in Saint John Provincial Court on December 11, 2024.

    Many of the bills have identifiable markings indicating they are fake:

    • Some are of poor quality
    • Different material is used
    • Different sizes and shapes
    • Several of the bills have five black, double bars on both sides of the bill.

    It is an offence to recirculate a counterfeit bill. If you come into contact with what you believe is counterfeit currency, report it to police. For more information on detecting counterfeit bills, visit the following links:

    Anyone with information that could help the investigation into counterfeit bills in the Sussex area is asked to contact the Sussex RCMP at 506-726-5222. Information can also be provided anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or http://www.crimenb.ca.

    Investigation is ongoing.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Havelock  — 28-year-old man dies following single-vehicle crash

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    A 28-year-old man from Sainte-Marie-de-Kent, N.B., has died following a single-vehicle crash in Havelock, N.B.

    On September 25, 2024, at approximately 7:51 p.m., members of the Caledonia RCMP responded to a report of a single-vehicle crash involving a tractor-trailer on Highway 2 in Havelock.

    The crash is believed to have occurred when the tractor-trailer, travelling Eastbound, left the roadway, crashed into trees, and caught fire. The 28-year-old man and sole occupant of the tractor-trailer died at the scene as a result of his injuries.

    Members of Ambulance New Brunswick and the Department of Transportation and Infrastructure also attended the scene. RCMP Collision Reconstructionist and a member of the New Brunswick Coroner’s Office are assisting with the ongoing investigation. An autopsy will be conducted to determine the man’s exact cause of death.

    The investigation is ongoing.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Okanese First Nation — Saskatchewan RCMP Major Crimes and File Hills Police Service investigating suspicious death on Okanese First Nation

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    On September 24, 2024 at approximately 4:40 a.m., File Hills Police Service received a report of an injured individual at a residence on Okanese First Nation.

    Officers immediately responded and located an injured adult female, who was declared deceased by EMS at the scene. She has been identified as 32-year-old Amanda Keewatin from Peepeekisis Cree Nation. Her family has been notified.

    Initial investigation by File Hills Police Service determined the female’s death was suspicious in nature. As such, Saskatchewan RCMP Major Crimes was engaged to continue the investigation.

    Officers arrested an adult male in relation to Amanda Keewatin’s death at the scene.

    As a result of continued investigation, 39-year-old James Stonechild from Okanese First Nation is charged with one count, second degree murder, Section 235(1), Criminal Code.

    He is scheduled to appear in Regina Provincial Court on September 25 at 2 p.m.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: USAF Warrant Officer Training School opens doors at Maxwell AFB

    Source: United States Air Force

    WOTS is a 40-day training program, in-residence accessions program designed to educate and train candidates with specialized knowledge and technical skills on how to serve as technical advisors to command leadership in their future roles as warrant officers.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Ahtahkakoop — UPDATE* Ahtahkakoop RCMP: Report of firearm discharged at motorist

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    September 25, 2024
    Ahtahkakoop, Saskatchewan

    News release

    Ahtahkakoop RCMP have arrested one adult male in relation to this incident.

    The investigation remains ongoing.

    Further updates and information will be provided when available.

    –30–

    Backgrounder

    Ahtahkakoop RCMP: Report of firearm discharged at motorist

    2024-09-25

    On Wednesday, September 25 at 6:28 p.m., Ahtahkakoop RCMP received a report of a firearm being discharged at a motorist. The incident occurred approximately 5-10 minutes before that just outside of Ahtahkakoop Cree Nation.

    It was reported that a driver was travelling on a grid road on the north boundary of Ahtahkakoop when they came across a black Chevrolet Equinox parked on the side of the road, looking in need of assistance. The individual pulled over and approached the Equinox. The driver of the Equinox pointed a firearm at the individual and reportedly discharged it in their direction multiple times. No injuries have been reported to police.

    It is believed there were three individuals inside the Chevrolet Equinox at the time of the incident: an adult male (the driver) and two adult females. The male driver may have had a tattoo above his right eye. At this time, we don’t have fulsome descriptions of these individuals. The license plate of the Equinox may be: 642 HPR. If we have more information as the investigation unfolds, an update will be provided.

    Police are asking anyone who sees the suspect vehicle to report it immediately by calling 310-RCMP. In an emergency, call 911. The vehicle should not be approached. The occupants are considered armed and dangerous. The public is asked to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to police.

    Should an imminent risk to public safety be identified, the Saskatchewan RCMP will notify the public.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Black Lake — Black Lake RCMP investigating ATV-related fatality

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    On September 23, 2024 at approximately 4:20 p.m., Black Lake RCMP received a report of an ATV-related injury on Highway #905 between Black Lake and Stony Rapids, SK.

    Officers responded along with local EMS and located an injured adult male, who had been a passenger on the ATV. He was transported to hospital and later declared deceased. He has been identified as a 31-year-old from Black Lake, SK. His family has been notified.

    No other injuries were reported to police. As a result of further investigation, the driver of the ATV was arrested.

    30-year-old Jacy Yooya from Black Lake, SK is charged with:

    • one count, dangerous operation of motor vehicle causing death, Section 320.13(3), Criminal Code;
    • one count, criminal negligence causing death without firearm, Section 220(b), Criminal Code;
    • one count, resist/obstruct peace officer, Section 129(a), Criminal Code; and
    • one count, failure to stop after accident resulting in death, Section 320.16(3), Criminal Code.

    Jacy Yooya is scheduled to appear in court on September 26, 2024.

    Black Lake RCMP continue to investigate with the assistance of a Saskatchewan RCMP collision reconstructionist.

    Saskatchewan RCMP’s General Investigation Section assisted in this investigation.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Seven Charged After Federal Investigation Disrupts Massive Counterfeit Pill Manufacturing Operation

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

    Synthetic opioid pills trafficked from Connecticut throughout U.S. through dark web

    Vanessa Roberts Avery, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut; Stephen Belleau, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration for New England; and Ketty Larco-Ward, Inspector in Charge of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Boston Division, today announced that a federal grand jury in Bridgeport has returned an indictment charging the following seven individuals with offenses related to the large-scale manufacture and trafficking of counterfeit pills containing synthetic opioids and other substances:

    KELLDON HINTON, 45, of New Haven
    HESHIMA HARRIS, 53 of New Haven
    EMANUEL PAYTON, 33, of New Haven
    MARVIN OGMAN, 47, of West Haven
    SHAWN STEPHENS, 34, of West Haven
    ARNALDO ECHEVARRIA, 42, of Waterbury
    CHERYLE TYSON, 64, of West Haven

    As alleged in court documents and statements made in court, this matter stems from an investigation led by the DEA New Haven’s Tactical Diversion Squad and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service targeting the manufacture and distribution of counterfeit oxycodone, Xanax, and Adderall tablets containing methamphetamine, protonitazene, dimethylpentylone, xylazine, and other substances.  Protonitazene is a Schedule I synthetic opioid that is three times more potent than fentanyl.  In June 2023, law enforcement received information that Kelldon Hinton was using a pill press to manufacture large quantities of counterfeit pills containing controlled substances.  Through the use of physical and electronic surveillance, the seizure and searches of parcels sent through the U.S. Mail and commercial delivery services, undercover purchases of counterfeit pills, trash pulls, and other investigative methods, investigators determined that Hinton, with the assistance of his co-conspirators, was purchasing protonitazene, dimethypentalone, xylazine, other substances, and pill press parts from China and elsewhere, using tableting machines (“pill presses”) to manufacture counterfeit pills in a garage he rented in East Haven, marketing and selling the pills on the dark web, and mailing pills to customers around the U.S.  In text messages, Hinton referred to the rented garage as his “lab.”  Between February 2023 and February 2024, Hinton shipped more than 1,300 packages through the U.S. Mail.  Hinton also distributed the counterfeit pills to associates in Connecticut, who sold them to their own customers.

    On September 5, 2024, Hinton, Harris, Payton, Stephens, and Echevarria were arrested on federal criminal complaints.  On that date, investigators conducted court-authorized searches of several locations, including the garage located on Tyler Street Extension in East Haven, which yielded several hundred thousand pills, two large pill presses, and pill manufacturing equipment.  One of the pill presses seized was capable of producing 100,000 pills per hour.

    It is further alleged that, as the investigation continued, Ogman communicated with Tyson and shared with her news reports of the search and court information of the arrests.  He also continued to distribute pills produced by Hinton, and law enforcement is currently investigating a drug overdose death that occurred recently in Connecticut.  Pills recovered from the scene appear to match those produced by the Hinton organization, and a preliminary search of the victim’s cellphone text messages revealed that Ogman supplied pills to the victim.

    The indictment added Ogman and Tyson as defendants, and was returned on September 18.  Ogman and Tyson were arrested on September 19.

    The indictment charges each of the seven defendants with conspiracy to manufacture, distribute and to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine and protonitazene.  On this charge, based on the quantities of controlled substances attributed to each defendant, Hinton faces a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 10 years and a maximum term of imprisonment of life, and the other six defendants each face a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years.  The indictment also charges Hinton with one count of possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine and a quantity of protonitazene, which carries a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 10 years and maximum term of imprisonment of life, and Echevarria with one count of possession with intent to distribute protonitazene, which carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years.

    Hinton, Payton, and Ogman are currently detained, and Harris, Stephens, Echevarria, and Tyson are released pending trial.

    “This multifaceted investigation is a testament to great law enforcement work by agencies here in Connecticut and across the country,” said U.S. Attorney Vanessa Roberts Avery.  “I commend the DEA New Haven, members of its Tactical Diversion Squad, and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, for leading this effort.  “This investigation reveals the constant challenges that we in law enforcement face in battling the proliferation of synthetic opioids in America.  In recent years, the Justice Department and our law enforcement partners have focused on disrupting the global supply chain of fentanyl, other synthetic drugs, precursor chemicals, and pill manufacturing equipment, from China and Mexico to the United States.  These enhanced efforts are clearly represented by this investigation and these charges.  But, clearly, our work is not yet done.  We know that prosecution alone is not enough to combat the deadly scourge caused in our communities by fentanyl, other synthetic drugs, and counterfeit pills.  We all need to keep working together, through criminal investigations and prosecutions, treatment programs, and public awareness campaigns, such as the school presentations undertaken by my office, to educate and warn children and adults about the dangers and harm that even one counterfeit pill can cause.”

    “This country is in the midst of a catastrophic overdose epidemic where the threat from synthetic opioids and methamphetamine disguised in fake prescription medication remains high,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Stephen Belleau, Drug Enforcement Administration, New England Field Division.  “This case showcases one of the largest seizures of fake pills the DEA has ever seen in New England.  Those responsible for distributing lethal drugs to the citizens of Connecticut need to be held accountable for their actions.  DEA will aggressively pursue Drug Trafficking Organizations and individuals who distribute this poison in order to profit and destroy people’s lives. This investigation demonstrates the strength and continued commitment of our local, state and federal law enforcement partners.”

    “These enforcement actions, which included the arrests of seven individuals and the execution of search warrants at six locations, resulted in the disruption of a significant trans-national operation and the dismantling of one of the largest illicit manufacturing sites ever located in Connecticut,” said Ketty Larco-Ward, Inspector in Charge of the Boston Division for the Postal Inspection Service. “This investigation highlights the effectiveness of the collaborative efforts among the involved agencies but also the real danger posed by individuals who engage in these crimes.  The Postal Inspection Service is proud to stand with our partners in identifying, disrupting, and dismantling these drug tracking organizations which endanger our communities.”

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

    This investigation is being conducted by the DEA New Haven’s Tactical Diversion Squad and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, with the assistance of the DEA Chicago Cyber Task Force, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), U.S. Customs and Border Protection, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the U.S. Marshals Service, and the East Haven Police Department.  The DEA Tactical Diversion Squad is composed of personnel from the DEA, the Connecticut State Police, and the West Haven, Hamden, Manchester, Bristol, Fairfield, and Seymour Police Departments.

    The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Lauren C. Clark and Konstantin Lantsman.

    More information on the Justice Department’s efforts to disrupt to global supply chain of fentanyl and other synthetic drugs is available here.

    In March 2024, the U.S. Attorney’s Office and the DEA’s New England Field Division released a public service announcement warning of the danger of fentanyl and the proliferation of counterfeit prescription pills.  Click here for more information.

    To learn more about the U.S. Attorney’s Office’s fentanyl awareness and drug prevention program for students, click here.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Quincy, Illinois, Man Sentenced to 25 Years for Distributing Methamphetamine

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

    SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – A Quincy, Illinois, man, Glenn Wooden, 39, was sentenced on September 19, 2024, to 300 months in prison for distributing methamphetamine.

    Wooden was indicted in February 2019 and convicted after a jury trial in February 2024. He has remained in custody since his arrest. At the sentencing hearing in front of U.S. District Judge Colleen R. Lawless, Wooden was held accountable for over 2,000 grams of actual methamphetamine. He has multiple prior convictions for drug distribution and other convictions for aggravated battery and unlawful use of a weapon. He was considered a career offender under the United States Sentencing Commission Sentencing Guidelines.

    The statutory penalties for distributing methamphetamine are up to life imprisonment, up to a $10,000,000 fine, and up to a life term of supervised release.

    “Drug dealers and the violence associated with their trade impacts not just vulnerable addicts in our communities but also others not directly involved,” said Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew Z. Weir. “Our office will continue to hold accountable those who would prey on our communities. My thanks to the West Central Illinois Task Force, Illinois State Police, Quincy Police Department and the other agencies for their work on this case.”

    This case was investigated by the West Central Illinois Task Force; Illinois State Police; Quincy Police Department; Adams County Sheriff’s Office; Drug Enforcement Administration; and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Springfield Field Office. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Weir and Sarah Seberger represented the government in the prosecution.

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Colorado Man Sentenced to Prison on Felony and Misdemeanor Charges for Actions During January 6 Capitol Breach

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

                WASHINGTON— A Colorado man was sentenced to prison today after he was convicted of multiple felony and misdemeanor charges related to his conduct during the Jan. 6, 2021, breach of the U.S. Capitol. His actions and the actions of others disrupted a joint session of the U.S. Congress convened to ascertain and count the electoral votes related to the 2020 presidential election.

                Tyler Earl Ethridge, 35, of Colorado Springs, Colorado, was sentenced to seven months in prison, 24 months of supervised release, and ordered to pay $2,000 in restitution by U.S. District Judge Rudolph Contreras.

                Judge Contreras convicted Ethridge of obstruction of an official proceeding and civil disorder, both felony offenses, on Sept. 8, 2023.  In addition to the felonies, Ethridge was convicted of several misdemeanor offenses, including entering and remaining in a restricted building or grounds, disorderly and disruptive conduct in a restricted building or grounds, disorderly conduct in a Capitol building, and parading, demonstrating, or picketing in a Capitol building.

                Judge Contreras sentenced Ethridge on a felony offense of civil disorder and misdemeanor offenses of entering and remaining in a restricted building or grounds, disorderly and disruptive conduct in a restricted building or grounds, disorderly conduct in a Capitol building, and parading, demonstrating, or picketing in a Capitol building.

                According to evidence presented during the trial, Ethridge traveled from his home in Colorado to Washington, D.C., and on Jan. 6, 2021, attend the former President’s “Stop the Steal” rally on the National Mall. Ethridge left during the rally and made his way toward the Capitol building. At approximately 12:55 p.m., while on restricted Capitol grounds near the Peace Circle, Ethridge and the crowd encountered a line of bike rack barricades, fencing, and police officers preventing their advance. Court documents say that the crowd—including Ethridge—surged forward, destroying the barricades, overwhelming police, and knocking an officer to the ground.  Ethridge also helped remove the bicycle rack fencing erected on the northwest approach to the Capitol, which bore a large sign declaring “Area Closed.”

                Ethridge proceeded with the crowd past the barricades to the West Plaza outside of the Capitol. There, while people in Ethridge’s earshot chanted “Stop the steal! Stop the steal!”, Ethridge was pepper-sprayed and shot with rubber bullets by police officers attempting to control and disperse the crowd. Ethridge was not deterred. He then climbed a media scaffolding and exhorted the crowd to continue fighting the police. 

                At approximately 2:35 p.m., Ethridge entered the Capitol building via the Upper West Terrace Door. From there, Ethridge proceeded to the Rotunda. As he walked to and then up the stairs leading to the Rotunda, Ethridge recorded video on his cell phone. In that video, loud alarms are blaring as Ethridge urges another protestor to “cover your face.” Ethridge stayed in the Rotunda for approximately three minutes. While in the Rotunda, police officers attempting to control and disperse the crowd deployed more pepper spray, and again Ethridge suffered its effects. Rather than exit the Capitol, however, Ethridge remained and filmed several videos that he posted to social media.

                In one such video, Ethridge stated:

                “We stormed the Capitol. [. . .] This is amazing. I hope this doesn’t get me thrown in jail. I’m officially a pastor. This is what pastors need to do. […] Christians, we need to infiltrate every area of society like this. Every area of society like this. Peacefully. But if it takes a little bit of aggression to barge through the walls that Satan separates us from the culture, it’s time for the body of Christ to infiltrate the culture.”

                Minutes after leaving the Rotunda, Ethridge joined a crowd of rioters in the hallway between the Rotunda and the Senate Chamber. There, Ethridge and the other rioters forcibly resisted police efforts to clear the area, by bracing his body and attempting to physically resist the officers’ efforts to move him out of the hallway. After this physical conflict with law enforcement officers, Ethridge returned to the Rotunda, where he stayed for approximately 10 minutes. Ethridge then exited the Capitol building, having spent approximately 30 minutes inside the building.

                In the aftermath of Jan. 6, Ethridge remained active on social media. In one post, dated Sept. 24, 2021, he wrote, “Don’t be afraid of what they sentence you with. I’m not. I’m ready for whatever I’ll be charged with. America is still primed and ready.”

                The FBI arrested Ethridge on July 8, 2022, in Colorado.

                This case was prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia and the Department of Justice National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section. Valuable assistance was provided by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Colorado and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Florida.

                This case was investigated by the FBI’s Denver Field Office and its Colorado Springs Resident Agency, and the FBI’s Dallas Field Office and its Abilene Resident Agency. Valuable assistance was provided by the FBI’s Washington Field Office, the U.S. Capitol Police and the Metropolitan Police Department.

                In the 44 months since Jan. 6, 2021, more than 1,504 individuals have been charged in nearly all 50 states for crimes related to the breach of the U.S. Capitol, including more than 560 individuals charged with assaulting or impeding law enforcement, a felony. The investigation remains ongoing.

                Anyone with tips can call 1-800-CALL-FBI (800-225-5324) or visit tips.fbi.gov.

    ###

    Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Eurojust supports major operation against Albanian drug-trafficking ring in Italy: 66 arrests

    Source: Eurojust

    26 September 2024|

    A large-scale cocaine-smuggling ring was dismantled by authorities in Italy, Albania, Poland and Switzerland, coordinated by Eurojust. During an action day, a total of 45 suspects were arrested, most of them in Italy. Prior to the action day, 21 suspects involved in the sale of cocaine in and around the city of Brescia were arrested. In total, 66 arrests were made. The Albanian-led organised crime group (OCG) had been selling cocaine from Latin America for at least four years, mainly in the north of Italy.

    Eurojust set up a coordination centre this week to support and coordinate the actions of all authorities involved. During the investigations and the action day, for an estimated amount of EUR 4 million in cash was seized, as well as 360 kilograms of cocaine, luxury vehicles and watches, telecommunications equipment, arms and ammunition.

    Investigations into the drug-smuggling network started in 2020 at the request of the Public Prosecutor’s Office (PPO) of Brescia. The OCG used five warehouses and storage centres in and around Brescia to distribute the cocaine.

    Credits: Guardia di Finanza di Brecia 

    The suspects laundered their illegal profits via an extensive network of enterprises run by an Italian-Chinese organisation set up for this purpose, which supplied fake invoices with a total value of around EUR 375 million. The OCG members will be charged with the trafficking of illicit drugs, money laundering and investment fraud.

    During this week’s action day, over 400 officers were deployed across Italy. To assist the authorities on the ground, Eurojust set up a coordination centre at its premises in The Hague and supported the execution of European Arrest Warrants and requests for Mutual Legal Assistance towards Albania and Switzerland. Europol facilitated the exchange of information between the involved countries and provided operational coordination as well as analytical support. On the action day, a Europol analyst with a mobile office was deployed to cross-check information on the spot in Italy.

    The operations were carried out at the request of the PPO of Brescia via the following authorities:

    • Italy: PPO Brescia; Anti-Mafia District Directorate of the Guardia di Finanza – Provincial Command of Brescia; Central Investigation Service for Organised Crime (SCICO), Rome; International Police Cooperation Service Liaison Bureau, Tirana
    • Poland: PPO Warsaw; Central Police Bureau of Investigations
    • Albania: Special Prosecution Office against Corruption and Organised Crime (SPAK); Albanian State Police
    • Switzerland: Office of Attorney-General; Federal Police (Fedpol)

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Pelican Narrows — ARRESTED – Saskatchewan RCMP CRT: male wanted after pointing firearm at officers

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    September 25, 2024
    Pelican Narrows, Saskatchewan

    News release

    As a result of continued investigation, Saskatchewan RCMP’s Warrant Enforcement and Suppression Team (WEST) and Pelican Narrows Detachment determined Solomon Custer was in a residence in Pelican Narrows on September 24.

    They contained the area, and with the assistance of Critical Incident Response Team officers, arrested Custer without incident.

    Details of his court appearance are pending.

    Investigators thank the media and members of the public for their assistance in this investigation.

    –30–

    Backgrounder

    Saskatchewan RCMP CRT: male wanted after pointing firearm at officers

    2024-09-18

    On September 14, 2024, Saskatchewan RCMP Crime Reduction Teams (CRT) from Meadow Lake and La Ronge were attempting to arrest an adult male at a residence in- Pelican Narrows. During the execution of the arrest warrant, the adult male exited the residence and stood on a covered deck, where officers saw him holding a firearm. The adult male then pointed the firearm at officers multiple times.

    The male jumped through an opening in the deck and ran into a nearby forested area. Officers searched the area with their Remotely Piloted Aircraft System (RPAS), but were unable to locate him.

    As a result, 26-year-old Solomon Custer from Pelican Narrows is charged with:

    • 1 count, pointing a firearm, section 87(1) of the Criminal Code
    • 1 count, possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose, section 88(1) of the Criminal Code
    • 1 count, resist arrest, section 129(a) of the Criminal Code
    • 1 count, assault on a police officer with a weapon, section 270.01(1)(a) of the Criminal Code

    A warrant has been issued for his arrest.

    RCMP asks the public to report all sightings and information about Solomon Custer’s whereabouts.

    Solomon Custer is described as approximately 5’9″ tall and 155 pounds. He has brown eyes and black hair. He may be in the Pelican Narrows area.

    If you see Solomon Custer, do not approach him. Report all sightings and information about the whereabouts of Solomon Custer to RCMP by calling 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.

    Saskatchewan RCMP Warrant Enforcement Suppression Team (WEST) is assisting in this investigation.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Successful operation against fraudsters targeting cities and municipalities

    Source: Eurojust

    German and Italian authorities worked together with Eurojust and Europol to stop a fraudulent scheme. The suspects targeted public institutions, cities, and municipalities, and were able to cause damages of several million euros. On 24 September, an operation took place where technology and assets were seized and search warrants against five suspects were executed.

    For over a year, suspects ran a fraudulent scheme in Germany that made them millions. Several public institutions, companies, cities, and municipalities were affected by the scheme. By using phishing techniques, the suspects gained access to real invoices that were addressed to public institutions and companies. The fraudsters manipulated them with their own financial information. The manipulated invoices were then sent to victims, who paid them to the fraudsters instead of their business partners.

    Investigations into the scheme identified five suspects with Italian and German citizenship. As authorities needed to search properties in Germany and Italy, a cross-border case was opened at Eurojust. Coordination through Eurojust defined the strategy of the investigation between the German and Italian authorities. Authorities decided to execute simultaneous searches in the two countries to gather evidence of the fraud and seize assets that were gained through the fraudulent scheme. Europol provided continuous intelligence development to map out the different targets and their criminal activity.

    On 24 September, search warrants against five suspects were executed in Germany and Italy and ten propereties were searched. During the operation, Europol activated a Virtual Command Post to provide support from its headquarters to the investigators on the field as they carried out their enforcement actions. Assets were provisionally secured, and cell phones, computers, and data storage devices were seized. Special Forces will now investigate the seized technology as the investigation continues.

    The following authorities were involved in the actions:

    • Germany: Public Prosecution Office Leipzig – Central Cybercrime Office, Leipzig Criminal Investigation Department – Commissariat 33 (Cybercrime)
    • Italy: Public Prosecutor’s Office Naples; Economic and Financial Police Units of the Guardia di Finanza Naples, Verona, Treviso and Bolzano

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Two Convicted Gang Members Sentenced to Life in Federal Prison for RICO, Hobbs Act Violations

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

    WACO, Texas – Two Temple men were sentenced today to life in federal prison for crimes committed in violation of the Racketeering Influenced Corrupt Organization (RICO) Act and the Hobbs Act. In February, a federal jury found the men guilty of all charges.

    According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, Atorius Marquis Williams aka Lil Man, 27, and Trashawn Lamar Alexander aka Mad Max, 30, were members and associates of a criminal organization referred to as Killas With Aggression (KWA), an organization engaged in and affecting interstate and foreign commerce by, among other things, conspiracy to distribute controlled substances and conspiracy to rob persons engaged in the distribution of controlled substances.

    Williams and Alexander, along with codefendant Demonta Daniels aka Tado aka Tato, conspired to commit four murders, multiple violent assaults, extortion, drug trafficking and armed robberies in furtherance of the criminal enterprise.  Specifically, the indictment alleges four overt acts to include murder—one committed by Williams on Sept. 30, 2017, in Belton; the second, committed by Williams and Alexander on Dec. 10, 2017, in Temple; the third, committed by Williams and Daniels on Jan. 16, 2018, in Temple; and the fourth, committed by Williams, Daniels and Alexander on Jan. 31, 2018, in Temple.

    Additionally, the defendants conspired to affect commerce by robbery, committing acts of physical violence and threatening to commit acts of physical violence to steal controlled substances and proceeds from persons engaged in illegal drug distribution. Williams, Daniels and Alexander were also convicted of brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence, namely robbery. Alexander was convicted of discharging a firearm during a crime of violence.

    On Monday, Alexander and Williams were each sentenced to life in prison for three counts and a concurrent 20 years in prison for three additional counts.

    “The result in this case is a testament to this office’s commitment to seek justice for our community members,” said U.S. Attorney Jaime Esparza for the Western District of Texas. “It reflects the hard work and interagency cooperation of our federal and state law enforcement partners, whose efforts brought this case to a successful conclusion. Violence in our communities will not be tolerated and justice will be served.”

    “Texas citizens have the right to feel safe from violent crime.  The drug and gang activity that fuels these acts in our communities is unacceptable,” said Special Agent in Charge Aaron Tapp of the FBI’s San Antonio field office. “Our agents have put in years of hard work to bring these defendants – Atorius Williams and Trashawn Alexander – to justice, and today’s sentence is evidence of their dedication. We want to thank our partners for their continued dedication to keeping our communities safe from violent crime.”

    Daniels will be sentenced at a later date. Seven other codefendants in the case had been sentenced prior to todays. Dominic Johnson was sentenced in January 2023 to 70 months in prison for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine; Desmond Wilkerson was sentenced in September 2023 to 71 months in prison for racketeering conspiracy; James Roy Whitfield Jr was sentenced on Feb. 13 to 102 months in prison for one count of interference with commerce by robbery and one count of aiding and abetting; Jason Mayse was sentenced on Feb. 13 to 40 months for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute 100 kilograms or more of marijuana; Jyaraciel Whitfield was sentenced in September 2023 to 144 months in prison for one count of interference with commerce by robbery and one count of aiding and abetting; Christopher Meyers was sentenced in August 2022 to 144 months in prison for racketeering conspiracy; and Reginald Williams was sentenced in September 2023 to 96 months in prison for one count of interference with commerce by robbery and one count of aiding and abetting.

    The FBI, Temple Police Department, Belton Police Department, Bell County Organized Crime Unit, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, U.S. Marshals Service, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), Cameron Police Department, and Hearne Police Department investigated the case with valuable assistance from the Killeen Police Department and Bell County Sheriff’s Department.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher Blanton prosecuted the case.

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

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Whites Mountain  — Missing 48-year-old man

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    The Sussex RCMP detachment is asking for the public’s help to locate a missing 48-year-old man from Whites Mountain, N.B.

    David Alexander Mitchell was last seen on September 9, 2024, at a residence on Whites Mountain Road, in Whites Mountain, N.B. He was reported missing to police on September 25, 2024. Police have followed up on several leads to try to locate him but have so far been unsuccessful. Police and his family are concerned for his wellbeing.

    David Alexander Mitchell is described as being approximately six feet two inches (188 centimetres) tall, and weighing approximately 200 pounds (91 kilograms). He has hazel eyes, grey hair and a grey goatee. A clothing description is not available at this time.

    Anyone who may have seen David Alexander Mitchell since September 9, 2024, or who has information on his whereabouts is asked to contact the Sussex RCMP Detachment at 506-433-7700.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: 20 rescued, 144 arrested in major child abuse operation across South America

    Source: Interpol (news and events)

    26 September 2024

     

    LYON, France – An international operation targeting child sex offenders has led to 144 arrests and enabled the safeguarding of 20 victims across South America.

    During Operation Orion International, 12 South American countries joined forces to combat the production, distribution and possession of online child sexual abuse and exploitation material, focusing particularly on victim identification and rescue.

    As a result of the operation, undertaken with the coordination and support of INTERPOL, 18 direct abusers were caught and 111 people were charged with possession and distribution of abuse material. Seven individuals wanted internationally for child sex offenses, who were the subjects of INTERPOL Red Notices, were also arrested as part of the crackdown.

    The arrested individuals, predominantly men, were aged between 14 and 86 and came from diverse backgrounds. Their occupations included: professor, graphic designer, security guard, mechanic, musician, journalist, psychologist and taxi driver.

    Case studies: child victims safeguarded after years of abuse

    In Argentina, local authorities had identified abuse material circulating on messaging applications.  With the support of INTERPOL and its additional data, authorities were able to identify and safeguard a nine-year-old victim who had suffered at least six years of abuse.

    In a separate case in Chile, police identified an offender sharing child sexual exploitation material in messaging groups. Following his arrest, investigators analysed the seized information and established that the same person had also produced child sexual abuse material at the arrest location. This made it possible to identify and safeguard a 14-year-old girl, the daughter of the perpetrator’s partner.

    As part of Operation Orion International, participating countries were also asked to assess existing Red Notices for child sexual offenders believed to be living within their borders.

    In one such case, Korean authorities had provided information about the manager of a website which shared child exploitation material. Thanks to the collaboration between Korea and Ecuador, with coordination from INTERPOL, the individual was apprehended.

     

    Chile: Targeting the production and distribution of online child sexual abuse material

    Hardware seized in Argentina has opened new avenues for investigation

    Paraguay: 144 arrests were made during the international operation

    Venezuela was one of 12 participating countries in the operation

    Arrests in Colombia as part of Operation Orion International

    International cooperation throughout South America

    The region-wide initiative, which ran from May to September 2024, was launched by INTERPOL following information provided by Chile’s cybercrime unit and the Buenos Aires’ prosecutor’s office, concerning investigations into the transnational distribution of child sexual abuse material on instant messaging applications.

    INTERPOL’s Crimes Against Children unit analysed and consolidated this information, along with its existing data, and then shared this intelligence with participating countries. A preoperational meeting with prosecutors and investigators, supported by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, laid out the roadmap for cross-border collaboration.

    INTERPOL Secretary General Jürgen Stock said:

    “This operation, and the harrowing cases it exposed, is yet another reminder that child abusers are from all walks of life. Thanks to this international effort, children who have known a lifetime of abuse have been protected from further exploitation.

    “INTERPOL will continue to work with all member countries in our continued, and vital, efforts to protect the most vulnerable members of society.”

    As well as joint international action, the operation required cooperation at a national level, across multiple states. It resulted in arrests and victim identification in Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Suriname, Uruguay and Venezuela.

    The hardware seizures and evidence gathered during Operation Orion International have opened new avenues for investigation, with further results to follow.

    Participating countries: Argentina, Brazil, Bolivia, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Guyana, Paraguay, Peru, Suriname, Uruguay and Venezuela.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: DHS Statement on Safety and Enforcement During Hurricane Helene

    Source: US Department of Homeland Security

    During emergency events, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) works with its federal, state, local, and non-governmental partners to support the needs of the people in the areas that may be impacted.

    In such circumstances, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) remind the public that sites that provide emergency response and relief are considered protected areas. To the fullest extent possible, ICE and CBP do not conduct immigration enforcement activities at protected areas such as along evacuation routes, sites used for sheltering or the distribution of emergency supplies, food or water, or registration sites for disaster-related assistance or the reunification of families and loved ones.

    At the request of FEMA or local and state authorities, ICE and CBP may help conduct search and rescue, air traffic de-confliction and public safety missions. ICE and CBP provide emergency assistance to individuals regardless of their immigration status. DHS officials do not and will not pose as individuals providing emergency-related information as part of any enforcement activities.

    DHS is committed to ensuring that every individual who seeks shelter, aid, or other assistance as a result of a natural disaster or emergency event is able to do so regardless of their immigration status.

    DHS carries out its mission without discrimination on the basis of race, religion, gender, sexual orientation or gender identity, ethnicity, disability or political associations, and in compliance with law and policy.

    For information about filing a complaint with the DHS Office for Civil Rights and Civil Liberties about these matters, please visit our Make a Civil Rights Complaint page.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Glenwilliam — PEI RCMP Police Dog helps arrest a St. Mary’s Road man for outstanding arrest warrant

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    September 26th 2024, Glenwilliam, Prince Edward Island – PEI RCMP used a police dog to help arrested a 31-year-old St. Mary’s Road man. He is facing 20 charges including driving, property and resist arrest offences.

    On September 24th, 2024, RCMP Provincial General Investigation Section executed a warrant at a residence in Glenwilliam, Prince Edward Island with the goal of arresting an accused who had an outstanding warrant of arrest, and was charged in multiple investigations. During the execution of the search warrant the accused fled on foot from the property. RCMP officers pursued the man and the RCMP police dog was instrumental in his safe apprehension. The man received minor injuries and was held in custody to appear before provincial court on September 26th, 2024.

    31-year-old Morgan Daniel Dixon will answer to 20 charges in relation to 6 separate investigations into driving, property, failing to appear in court and resist arrest offences.

    This investigation was completed by the PEI RCMP Provincial General Investigation Section with the assistance from the Kings District RCMP, and the PEI RCMP Police Dog Service.

    “Arrest warrants don’t go away, in cases where an individual has an outstanding arrest warrant, RCMP remain diligent in their efforts to investigate and bring that person to justice,” said Cpl Gavin Moore, Media Relations Officer for the Prince Edward Island RCMP.

    If you have information about crimes in your community please contact your local police detachment or call anonymously to Crime Stoppers 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).

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