Category: Security

MIL-OSI USA: Kamlager-Dove Joins Democratic Efforts to Put a Spotlight on Project 2025 with New Documentary Style Video Series
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Sydney Kamlager California (37th District)

New Documentary Video Series Details Project 2025’s Threat to Reproductive Freedom, Workers’ Rights, Environmental Protections, Public Education, and American Democracy
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congresswoman Kamlager-Dove (CA-37) joined Congressman Dan Goldman (NY-10) for a five-part video documentary series detailing Project 2025’s threat to democracy, reproductive freedom, workers’ rights, environmental regulation, and public education. The series will feature interviews with Representatives Kamlager-Dove, Goldman, and 11 of their House Democratic colleagues from across the country, as well as American Federation of Teachers President Randi Weingarten, Planned Parenthood Vice President Karen Stone, NY League of Conservation Voters President Julie Tighe, and Accountable.US President Caroline Ciccone. As Vice Ranking Member of the House Natural Resources Committee, Congresswoman Kamlager-Dove will highlight the devastating impacts Project 2025 would have on the environment.

Watch the Trailer for the Series Here

“Project 2025 poses a grave threat, not just to our democracy but to our planet, too,” said Congresswoman Kamlager-Dove. “This hostile takeover of the federal government would depose dedicated public servants and install Trump loyalists and climate denialists at the EPA, enabling Republicans to slash environmental protections at the behest of Big Oil. But Project 2025 doesn’t stop at encouraging the world’s worst polluters—this agenda also seeks to discontinue air quality, clean energy, and decarbonization programs by overturning the Inflation Reduction Act, harming the health of our communities and the environment, eliminating clean energy jobs, and exacerbating the climate crisis. With Project 2025, Republicans have shown that they will continue to put polluters over people—this plan must be stopped.”

As an increasing share of Americans consume their news from non-traditional sources on Instagram, YouTube, and other social media sites, Congressman Goldman’s series marks an effort by Democrats to reach audiences where they are in a diversified media landscape. Across various social media platforms, the first two videos of the series have received over 400,000 views, signaling the potential of this new format to reach large numbers of Americans.

“Project 2025’s shocking plan to gut checks and balances, restrict abortion access, decimate public education, pollute our air and water, and endanger American workers for the sole benefit of Republican authoritarian extremists is utterly reprehensible and incredibly dangerous,” Congressman Dan Goldman said. “This document is a detailed guide for how a second Trump administration will dismantle our democracy, and it is critical that the American people understand exactly how Trump intends to do it. I am proud to be joined by so many of my colleagues and policy leaders to expose this radical plan to reshape American society as we know it.”

Congressional Equality Caucus Co-Chair Becca Balint said, “Project 2025 is a far-right plan by Trump allies to impose Christian nationalist values onto every American. It goes completely against our American values to promote a strong, resilient democracy; in fact this plan aims to erode our democratic institutions by gutting checks and balances and seizing power for the presidency. Project 2025 is nothing short of an anti-freedom and anti-equality agenda: it further attacks reproductive rights and disproportionately harms communities of color and our LGBTQI+ community. Project 2025 would increase gun violence rather than protect our communities. And its plan to abolish the Department of Education would hurt millions of families whose kids go to public schools, teachers who are already underpaid, and students. It’s dangerous and we must take it extremely seriously. I’m proud to be a part of this series to help Americans understand the threat it poses to our values and democratic norms.”

Pre-K and Child Care Caucus Co-Chair Suzanne Bonamici said, “Project 2025 is a blueprint for MAGA extremists to undermine government and destroy programs and policies that support working families. It’s the product of people who held top positions in the previous administration and special interest groups that hold significant influence over the GOP’s agenda. I’m working with my colleagues to counter this extremist plan and to educate Americans about its potentially devastating effects.”

Pro-Choice Caucus Task Force Chair Judy Chu said, “Trump and his allies’ Project 2025 is a 900 page comprehensive plan for MAGA Republicans to grab power for themselves, enrich their allies, and shatter our already fragile democracy. Project 2025 touches on every agency in the federal government and is January 6th extremism crafted into a governing ideology: fire tens of thousands of civil servants to replace them with partisan loyalists, abolish checks and balances, chip away at church-state separation, and impose a far-right agenda that rips away our freedoms and takes money out of pockets. It’s so critical for House Democrats to work together to shine a light on as many details of this plan as possible so we can equip ourselves and the American people with the information we need to fight back and make certain we put systems into place to protect us from these extreme policies.”

Freshman Leadership Representative Jasmine Crockett said, “Let me make it plain: Project 2025 is the GOP’s attack plan against the American constitution. It doesn’t just undermine the progress made in this country for women, people of color, and LGBTQIA folks over the past century; it undermines the very principles of self-government that our country was founded on. If our Founding Fathers were to read Project 2025, they would have thought it was sent over by King George himself. It’s a blueprint for authoritarianism, a blueprint for monarchy, and a blueprint for a right-wing dictatorship in America that will end our democratic experiment for good. If the majority of Americans were to read and understand this plan – a plan authored by hundreds of members of former President Trump’s administration – they would reject it as un-American and dangerous. Thank you to Congressman Goldman for bringing us together to break down Project 2025 from every angle – no matter how engaged you are, you can still learn something from this series.”

Homeland Security Subcommittee on Counterterrorism, Intelligence and Law Enforcement Ranking Member Seth Magaziner said, “Donald Trump’s Project 2025 will hand a future Trump administration nearly unlimited power to ban abortion, take away healthcare for people with preexisting conditions, and rip away the freedoms that Americans have fought hard for. Trump’s Project 2025 is dangerous, cruel, and out-of-touch with the needs of the American people. We will not let Trump and Congressional Republicans take us back.”

House Bipartisan Task Force for Combating Antisemitism Co-Chair Kathy Manning said, “Project 2025 is simply a more detailed blueprint of Donald Trump’s extreme MAGA agenda that promises to roll back Americans’ basic rights and freedoms. Because of Donald Trump and the three extreme MAGA Justices he appointed to the Supreme Court to overturn Roe. v. Wade, one in three women of reproductive age lives in a state with a Trump abortion ban. Now, his extreme Project 2025 plans will attack reproductive freedoms even further by targeting abortion pills and contraception coverage, and threatening IVF treatments. Project 2025 would also ban the mailing of abortion medications, equipment, or materials, effectively creating a nationwide, backdoor abortion ban — without the approval of Congress.”

Labor Caucus Co-Founder Donald Norcross said, “Project 2025 is a 920-page manifesto designed to tell every American how to live their life. If enacted into law, Project 2025 would destroy the 250-year-old system of checks and balances that make up our democracy and completely dismantle almost every labor standard that protects workers. As a union electrician and co-chair of the Labor Caucus, it pains me to see a document that would strip away worker protections and fair labor practices that working families have been fighting for decades. I’m proud to join Rep. Goldman in this video series to help explain the threat Project 2025 poses to American values, ideals, and freedoms.”

Subcommittee on the Weaponization of the Federal Government Ranking Member Stacey Plaskett said, “Project 2025 is the playbook for Donald Trump’s second term, which will ensure that the few have power over the many and that the rule of law as we know it, is gone. It is a plan to ensure that the federal government no longer acts as a check on the greed and desire for absolute power that Trump and his cohort of friends share. In every way, Project 2025 will make Americans less safe and less free. Republicans know that these ideas are not popular with the people of America and that’s why they hide from the facts, obfuscate the truth and distract the public’s attention with wild claims to vilify minorities and keep us divided. It is imperative that we all do our part to ensure that Donald Trump is not allowed to enforce the clear and present danger that the Project 2025 master plan represents to American democracy.”

American Federation of Teachers President Randi Weingarten said, Project 2025 is about institutionalizing Trumpism. It’s about going after educational opportunity, economic opportunity and equal opportunity. It’s about going after the legitimacy of elections. This is the stuff of demagogues and dictators, not democracies. This is not the promise of America. We can and must do better than this—for the sake of our families and the future of our republic.”

Accountable.US President Caroline Ciccone said, “Project 2025 isn’t about serving the people; it’s about ensuring that political loyalty becomes the guiding rule. They want to replace our government’s independent watchdogs with partisan loyalists, dismantling checks and balances to consolidate power in the executive branch. With a captured Supreme Court and a weaponized Department of Justice, the next conservative administration would have all the tools they needed to drive America closer and closer to their idealized far-right dystopia, at the cost of our personal freedoms.”

A third of all U.S adults say they regularly get their news from Facebook or YouTube, and nearly 20% report preferring to receive their news from social media. As more Americans turn to non-traditional platforms such as social media, YouTube, and online searches to stay informed Congressman Goldman is focused on ensuring that important information reaches all Americans in this rapidly transforming media landscape.

In addition to Representatives Kamlager-Dove and Goldman, the following members of Congress are featured in the series: Congressional Equality Caucus Co-Chair Becca Balint (VT-AL), Pre-K and Child Care Caucus Co-Chair Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01), Pro-Choice Caucus Task Force Chair Judy Chu (CA-28), Freshman Leadership Representative Jasmine Crockett (TX-30), Democratic Women’s Caucus Chair Lois Frankel (FL-22), Dads Caucus Founder and Chair Jimmy Gomez (CA-34), Homeland Security Subcommittee on Counterterrorism, Intelligence and Law Enforcement Ranking Member Seth Magaziner (RI-02), House Bipartisan Task Force for Combating Antisemitism Co-Chair Kathy Manning (NC-06), Labor Caucus Co-Founder Donald Norcross (NJ-01), Subcommittee on the Weaponization of the Federal Government Ranking Member Stacey Plaskett (VI-AL), and Sustainable Energy and Environment Coalition Co-Chair Paul Tonko (NY-20).

Project 2025 is a comprehensive plan for the next conservative president to swiftly enact the most anti-democratic and archconservative agenda in the history of this country. It lays the groundwork for Donald Trump to seize power, gut checks and balances, and enact a radical agenda. It touches on every department and agency within the federal government.

The Heritage Foundation, a right-wing think tank funded by shady dark money interests, has been plotting Project 2025, an unprecedented scheme to help the next conservative president quickly enact the most radical agenda in the history of the country. The plan is laying the groundwork for a new president to seize power and enact broad changes that are deeply unpopular with the American people. This includes vastly expanding the ability of the president to purge civil servants who are not sufficiently loyal to this extreme right-wing agenda.
- Within the first 180 days of taking office, the plan calls for attacks on reproductive rights, the rule of law, and the expansion of the cruel and inhumane immigration policies from the Trump administration. Project 2025 is a comprehensive plan that would touch every department of the federal government and fundamentally reshape the lives of the American people. The Project’s four-pronged strategy that includes:
  
  A laundry list of extreme policies to be enacted across the federal government;
  
  A blueprint for how to use existing authority—or expand the power of the presidency—to implement right-wing policy proposals;
  
  A database of right-wing ideologues who wholeheartedly endorse this power grab and far-right policies;
  
  Training for staff so they can more efficiently enact this extreme agenda.
While Project 2025 is being run out of the Heritage Foundation, its advisors include former Trump White House aides like Stephen Miller, and more than half the groups supporting the effort have received $21.5 million in funding from Leonard Leo’s dark money network.

Congresswoman Kamlager-Dove is a member of the Stop Project 2025 Task Force.

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MIL OSI USA News –
January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Federal Complaint Charges Chicago Man With Illegally Possessing Machine Gun Conversion Device

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

CHICAGO — A man has been charged in federal court with illegally possessing a machine gun conversion device in his Chicago residence last week.

Federal law enforcement on Thursday executed a court-authorized search of LATAVION JOHNSON’s residence on the South Side of Chicago and discovered the conversion device in a tool bag in Johnson’s bedroom, according to a criminal complaint filed in U.S. District Court in Chicago. When equipped to a firearm, the conversion device, also known as a “Glock switch” or “auto sear,” allows the gun to fire multiple rounds with a single pull of the trigger.

The complaint alleges that Johnson posted videos on social media showing himself possessing a firearm equipped with a conversion device. Johnson also allegedly posted a photograph of a conversion device next to a stack of $20 bills.

The complaint charges Johnson, 22, with one count of possession of a machine gun, which is punishable by a maximum sentence of ten years in federal prison. Johnson was arrested on Friday and remains in federal custody. A detention hearing is set for Wednesday at 11:00 a.m. before U.S. Magistrate Judge Sheila M. Finnegan. The U.S. Attorney’s Office will seek Johnson’s continued pre-trial detention.

The complaint and arrest were announced by Morris Pasqual, Acting United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois, Christopher Amon, Special Agent-in-Charge of the Chicago Field Division of the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and Larry Snelling, Superintendent of the Chicago Police Department. The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Saqib M. Hussain.

The ongoing investigation is being conducted in coordination with ATF’s Crime Gun Intelligence Center of Chicago. The CGIC is a centralized law enforcement hub that focuses exclusively on investigating and preventing gun violence in Chicago and throughout northern Illinois. The CGIC is an interagency collaboration that brings together – under one roof – federal, state, and local law enforcement officers, prosecutors, and intelligence analysts to move quickly to investigate and prosecute violent crimes.

Holding illegal firearm possessors accountable through federal prosecution is also a centerpiece of Project Safe Neighborhoods, the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction strategy. In the Northern District of Illinois, the U.S. Attorney’s Office and law enforcement partners have deployed the PSN program to attack a broad range of violent crime issues facing the district, particularly firearm offenses.

The public is reminded that a complaint is not evidence of guilt. The defendant is presumed innocent and entitled to a fair trial at which the government has the burden of proving guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

MIL Security OSI –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Former CEO of Abercrombie & Fitch and Two Other Individuals Charged with Sex Trafficking and Interstate Prostitution
Source: United States Department of Justice (Human Trafficking)

Defendants Allegedly Arranged for Dozens of Men to Travel to New York and Hotels Around the World for Sex Events
A 16-count indictment was unsealed today in federal court in Central Islip charging former Abercrombie & Fitch Co. (Abercrombie) Chief Executive Officer Michael Jeffries, along with Matthew Smith and James Jacobson, with sex trafficking and engaging in interstate prostitution. The indictment alleges that between December 2008 and March 2015, Jeffries, Smith and Jacobson used a combination of force, fraud and coercion to traffic men while operating a prostitution enterprise. All three defendants were arrested this morning. Jeffries and Smith are scheduled to make their initial appearances this afternoon in federal court in the Southern District of Florida, and Jacobson is scheduled to make his initial appearance this afternoon in federal court in St. Paul, Minnesota. They will be arraigned in the Eastern District of New York at a later date.

Breon Peace, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, James E. Dennehy, Assistant Director in Charge, New York Field Office (FBI) and Thomas G. Donlon, Interim Commissioner, New York City Police Department (NYPD), announced the arrests and charges.

“As alleged in the indictment, former CEO of Abercrombie Michael Jeffries, his partner Matthew Smith and their recruiter James Jacobson used their money and influence to prey on vulnerable men for their own sexual gratification,” stated United States Attorney Peace. “Today’s arrests show that my Office and our law enforcement partners will not rest until anyone who engages in sex trafficking or interstate prostitution, regardless of their wealth or power, is brought to justice.”

Mr. Peace expressed his thanks to the FBI Miami Field Office, West Palm Beach Resident Agency; the FBI Milwaukee Field Office, Eau Clair Resident Agency; the Barron County, Wisconsin, Sheriff’s Office; and the United States Attorney’s Offices for the Southern District of Florida and the District of Minnesota, for their assistance with the case.

“Today’s indictment highlights the alleged abhorrent behavior of Michael Jeffries, Matthew Smith, and James Jacobson. The defendants allegedly preyed on the hopes and dreams of their victims by exploiting, abusing, and silencing them to fulfill their own desires, with insidious secret intentions. This case is yet another example of individuals using their wealth, power, or reputation to manipulate and control others for their personal gratification. The FBI and our partners won’t allow these criminal acts to go unchecked, we remain committed to investigating and bringing these cases forward to prosecution,” stated FBI Assistant Director in Charge Dennehy.

“Sex trafficking remains a pressing issue nationwide and New York City is no exception,” stated NYPD Interim Commissioner Donlon. “Through our continued partnership with the FBI and the U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, the NYPD is able to enhance our investigations and secure convictions. Importantly, our close collaboration also allows us to connect survivors of this abhorrent crime with the necessary support and services they deserve.”

From approximately 1992 to 2014, Jeffries was the CEO of Abercrombie, a fashion clothing retailer that owned and operated retail stores around the world. Smith was Jeffries’ life partner. The indictment alleges that Jacobson was employed by Jeffries and Smith to recruit, interview and hire men to perform commercial sex acts for Jeffries and Smith.

As set forth in the indictment, from approximately 2008 to 2015, Jeffries, Smith and Jacobson, together with others, operated an international sex trafficking and prostitution enterprise. Jeffries and Smith not only relied on their financial resources and Jeffries’ power as the CEO of Abercrombie, but also on numerous others, including Jacobson and a network of employees, contractors and security professionals, to operate this venture, which was dedicated to fulfilling their sexual desires.

As further alleged in the indictment, Jeffries and Smith paid for dozens of men to travel within the United States and internationally to various locations, including the Hamptons on Long Island, New York City and hotels in England, France, Italy, Morocco and Saint Barthélémy, for the purpose of engaging in commercial sex acts with Jeffries, Smith and others (the “Sex Events”). Jacobson allegedly traveled throughout the United States and internationally to recruit and interview men for the Sex Events. During “tryouts” of potential candidates, Jacobson typically required that the candidates first engage in commercial sex acts with him.

The indictment alleges that Jeffries, Smith and Jacobson used coercive, fraudulent and deceptive tactics in connection with their sex trafficking and prostitution venture. For example, among other things, Jeffries, Smith, Jacobson and others acting at their direction:
- Employed a referral system and interview process that did not inform men of the details of the Sex Events before they attended, including the full extent and nature of the sexual activity that would be required of the men at the Sex Events;
- Caused men to believe that attending the Sex Events could yield modeling opportunities with Abercrombie or otherwise benefit their careers;
- Caused men to believe that not complying with requests for certain acts during the Sex Events could harm their careers;
- Required men to relinquish their personal items, including clothing, wallets and cellular phones, and store them in an inaccessible location during the Sex Events;
- Required men to sign non-disclosure agreements;
- On more than one occasion when men did not or could not consent, Jeffries and Smith violated the bodily integrity of the men by subjecting them, or continuing to subject them, to invasive sexual and violent contact by body parts and other objects;
- On more than one occasion, Jeffries and Smith directed others to inject, or personally injected, men with an erection-inducing substance for the purpose of causing the men to engage in sex acts the men were incapable or unwilling to engage in.
Many of the victims, at least one of whom was as young as 19 years old, were financially vulnerable and aspired to become models in the fashion industry. Some victims recruited by the defendants had previously worked at Abercrombie stores or had modeled for Abercrombie.

If convicted of the sex trafficking charge, the defendants each face a maximum sentence of life imprisonment and a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years’ imprisonment. If convicted of the interstate prostitution charges, the defendants face a maximum sentence of 20 years’ imprisonment.

The charges in the indictment are allegations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

If you believe you are victim of a crime perpetrated by Michael Jeffries, Matthew Smith or James Jacobson, please contact the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI.

The government’s case is being handled by the Office’s Civil Rights Section and the Criminal Section of the Office’s Long Island Division. Assistant United States Attorneys Megan Farrell, Erin Reid and Philip Pilmar are in charge of the prosecution with the assistance of Bilingual Victim Witness Specialist Stephanie Marroquin and Fact Witness Services Unit Supervisor/Victim Witness Coordinator Huda Abouchaer.

The Defendants:

MICHAEL JEFFRIES
Age: 80
West Palm Beach, FL

MATTHEW SMITH
Age: 61
West Palm Beach, FL

JAMES JACOBSON
Age: 71
Rice Lake, WI

E.D.N.Y. Docket No. 24-CR-423 (NJC)
MIL Security OSI –
January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Brooklyn Man Admits Conspiracy to Commit Child Sex Trafficking

Source: United States Department of Justice (Human Trafficking)

NEWARK, N.J. – A Brooklyn, New York, man today admitted his role in a conspiracy to commit child sex trafficking, U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger announced.

Soauib Butcher, 30, of Brooklyn, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Michael E. Farbiarz in Newark federal court to one count of conspiracy to commit sex trafficking of a minor.

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

In August 2019, Butcher brought the victim by train to New York City, where he instructed the victim to perform oral sex for money on a rooftop in Brooklyn. Several days later, Butcher brought the victim to Elizabeth, New Jersey, where, from August 2019 to January 2020, the victim stayed with Butcher and a conspirator in a series of motel rooms. The conspirator posted advertisements depicting the victim on escort websites and, together with Butcher, arranged for customers to come to the motels to have sex with the victim in exchange for money.

Conspiracy to commit sex trafficking of a minor carries a maximum term of life in prison and a fine of up to $250,000. Sentencing is scheduled for Feb. 19, 2025.

U.S. Attorney Sellinger credited special agents of the FBI, under the direction of Acting Special Agent in Charge Nelson I. Delgado in Newark, with the investigation.

The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Katherine M. Romano of the Health Care Fraud Unit and Aaron L. Webman of the Economic Crimes Unit in Newark.

MIL Security OSI –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Victim named in Farringdon murder investigation

Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

Met officers have named a man who died following a stabbing in Farringdon.

Abdul-Latif Pouget, aged 20 from Camden, sadly died in hospital on the morning of 21 October after being stabbed.

An investigation was launched after police were called to Back Hill, EC1 at 21:36hrs on Friday, 18 October, following reports of a moped colliding with a wall.

While paramedics from the London Ambulance Service were treating Abdul-Latif, they found he also had stab injuries. He was taken to hospital but sadly died. His family are aware and being supported by specialist officers.

Oguzcan Dereli, 26 (08.04.98) of Islington, was arrested on Sunday, 20 October and charged with murder the following day – he appeared at Highbury Corner Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, 22 October and was remanded in custody to next appear at the Old Bailey on Thursday, 24 October.

Anyone with information on this incident is asked to call 101 or ‘X’ @MetCC and quote reference CAD 8294/18Oct.

Alternatively, you can also provide information anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or visit crimestoppers-uk.org.

MIL Security OSI –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Remarks by Vice President Harris in Press Gaggle | Royal Oak, MI

US Senate News:

Source: The White House
Royal Oak Music TheatreRoyal Oak, Michigan
3:59 P.M. EDT
THE VICE PRESIDENT: Good afternoon, everyone. Well, we are here in Michigan, just left Pennsylvania. And then after Michigan, we’ll be on our way to Wisconsin.
And I will mention a couple of things that have just recently come up — for example, that my opponent, Donald Trump, does not believe we should raise minimum wage. And I think everyone knows that the current federal minimum wage is $7.25 an hour, which means that the person who is working a full day and working full weeks will make $15,000 a year, which is essentially poverty wages.
So, there is a big difference between Donald Trump and me on a number of issues, including this, where I absolutely believe we must raise minimum wage and that hardworking Americans, whether they’re working at McDonald’s or anywhere else, should have at least the ability to be able to take care of their family and take care of themselves in a way that allows them to actually be able to sustain their needs.
The other issue that has come up recently has been the issue of what we are seeing, again, about Donald Trump just being, frankly, hostile to the whole notion and importance of Social Security. There are many seniors in our country that Social Security is their only form of income. And now an independent agency has reviewed Donald Trump’s theory about Social Security and his policies and has indicated that his policy would actually render the Social Security fund empty, essentially, in six years.
Again, if you look at it from minim- — minimum wage to Social Security, Donald Trump clearly does not understand the needs of working people. With Social Security be- — being rendered insolvent in six years, what that would mean for the seniors of America is catastrophic.
And then, lastly, on the issue of contraception, I’m very pleased that our administration today announced a rule that would essentially allow folks to get contraception over the counter. And as we know, my policy is about making sure that Americans have what they need in terms of their reproductive health. And Donald Trump, you just look at his plan 20- — his Project 2025 would actually restrict access to contraception, which would just contribute to the public health crisis he’s already created.
I’ll take any questions.
AIDE: We’re going to start with Erica Green at the New York Times.
     Q    Madam President — Vice President, sorry. Keeps happening. Could you please speak to your — your messaging today —
THE VICE PRESIDENT: Sure.
     Q    — particularly as you go through the suburbs?
THE VICE PRESIDENT: Yeah.
     Q    You’re trying to reach swing voters. Among them are women —
THE VICE PRESIDENT: Yep.
     Q    — white women who voted for Donald Trump in the last two elections. Can you talk about your messaging to them and what you’re hoping will break through to them?
THE VICE PRESIDENT: So, today, I am spending the day with former Congresswoman Liz Cheney. We are traveling to three states to talk with all Americans about what is at stake in this election, but doing it through the lens of a very important point, that what is at stake in this election is so fundamental that it really does cross partisan lines.
We are talking about whether you will have a president of the United States who takes seriously their duty and their oath to uphold the Constitution of the United States. And there is a clear distinction here, which is that I will and he will not, as evidenced by many statements he has made, including his intention to be a dictator on day one, his intention to weaponize the Department of Justice against his political enemies.
And then you just look at what the people who know him best and worked with him in the Oval Office and the White House have said about him, which is he is unfit to serve and would be dangerous if he were president again. And he, even by the former chairman of the Joints Chiefs of Staff, has been called a “fascist to his core.” I am quoting.
So, what we are talking with folks about today is what I’ve been talking with folks about since I’ve been on the campaign trail these last 70-odd days, which is this is a choice for the American people, and it is a choice between whether we’re going to chart a new way forward that turns the page on the division, the hate, the chaos of Donald Trump.
But also, and maybe even more fundamentally, do we have a president of the United States who stands behind the seal of the president of the United States taking seriously their oath and their duty to uphold the Constitution of the United States and abide by the rule of law?
And so, I’m out here talking with folks to remind them of what’s at stake. And I’m very pleased and honored that so many people are showing up to these events to have this conversation, because I think they know, regardless of who they voted for in the last election and the party with which they’re registered to vote, on some issues, we just have to all be Americans and put party aside.
AIDE: We’re going to go to Colleen at the AP.
THE VICE PRESIDENT: Hi.
Q    Hi, Madam Vice President. Do you think that Republican voters — in specific, women voters — will be more likely to vote for you because of the fall of Roe? And are the Republican votes key to winning the (inaudible) states?
THE VICE PRESIDENT: So, I look at what happened in the midterms and in special elections to guide my thinking about this issue. And what we saw is, in so-called “red” states and so-called “blue” states, when the issue of the freedom of a woman to make decisions about her own body is on the ballot, the American people vote for freedom regardless of the party with which they’re registered to vote.
And I do believe it is such a fundamental issue, which is understanding you don’t have to abandon your faith or deeply held beliefs to agree the government should not be telling women what to do with their body. So, I do believe it is a compelling issue, especially when we consider the fact that, for so many of us, our daughter is going to have fewer rights than their grandmother.
And America’s strength — one of the attributes of our progress has been the expansion of rights, not the restriction of rights. And that’s what we’re seeing happen, and it has happened because Donald Trump created this situation when he hand-selected three members of the United States Supreme Court with the intention they would undo the protections of Roe v. Wade, and they did as he intended.
AIDE: We have time for one more. Andrea at Reuters, are you here?
     Q    Yeah. Hi. So, Elon Musk is giving away a million dollars a day to voters who sign a petition. Do you have concerns about that in ter- — in the context of law, you know, the sort of legal framework around elections?
And secondly, a Reuters investigation has shown something like 300 cases of political violence already in the run-up to the election. Can you just address what can be done and what the federal government can do to push back against that?
THE VICE PRESIDENT: Well, on the first point, I think people are looking into that.
On the second point —
     Q    When you say “people,” do you mean the U.S. government?
THE VICE PRESIDENT: I mean I hear that folks are looking into it, just based on the stuff you all are reporting. (Laughs.)
On the second point, there should be no place in America where we are seeing political violence. And, sadly, we have seen, if we just look back to January 6th, when that occurred in a way that was most shocking and brought on because, of course, of Donald Trump, who incited a mob — a violent mob that attacked the United States Capitol, wherein over 140 uniformed law enforcement officers were injured and some were killed and where Donald Trump has still yet to acknowledge the travesty of that day and the political violence that occurred that day.
So, I will say and repeat what I think most people understand: In America, in a democracy, we should have no room for nor should we ever condone any form of political violence. In a democracy, people will debate, people will disagree, but not resort to violence. And everyone should speak out about that, including and especially anybody who’s running for president of the United States.
AIDE: Thank you, Madam Vice President.
     Q    Thank you.
THE VICE PRESIDENT: All right. Thank you all.
                        END                     4:07 P.M. EDT

MIL OSI USA News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Defense News: 2025 Young Investigators

Source: United States Navy

Today, the Office of Naval Research (ONR) celebrates the 40th year of its Young Investigator Program (YIP) by honoring the Class of 2025 YIP awardees.

Approximately $18 million in funding will be shared by 24 university professors to conduct innovative scientific research that will benefit science and technology development for the Department of the Navy.

“In order for ONR to bring innovative science and technology to the Sailors and Marines we have the privilege of serving, we must identify and attract the brightest scientists and engineers from around the nation,” said Chief of Naval Research Rear Adm. Kurt Rothenhaus. “The Young Investigator Program is crucial to that mission, and I am honored to announce the recipients for 2025.”

The ONR YIP is a highly competitive program that attracts outstanding early-career academics in science, technology, engineering and mathematics to propose innovative solutions to Navy and Marine Corps warfighter challenges. Prior academic accomplishments and potential for significant scientific breakthroughs are key elements of the evaluation criteria. The 2025 YIP awardees were chosen from more than 230 applicants — all of whom are college and university tenure-track or equivalent faculty and who obtained a Ph.D. on or after Jan. 1, 2017.

Awardees represent 19 academic institutions in 14 states, supporting a broad range of naval-relevant research topics, including quantum information, mathematical optimization, atmospheric predictions, quantum materials, artificial intelligence, autonomous operations, advanced sensors, soft robotics, cognitive performance, unsteady boundary layers and high-temperature thermal management.

The YIP awards support postdoctoral and graduate student stipends and scholarships, the acquisition of laboratory equipment, and other expenses critical to the planned research. Typical grants are $750,000 over a three-year period.

“Congratulations to the ONR Young Investigator Program on 40 years of fostering and advancing scientific discovery and cultivating creative, forward-thinking scientists and engineers,” said ONR Executive Director Dr. Thomas Fu. “This esteemed program is vital to ensuring the Department of the Navy has an abundant pipeline of talent to address naval S&T challenges.”

Established in 1985, the ONR YIP is one of the nation’s oldest and most selective basic-research, early-career awards in science and technology. Its purpose is to fund tenure-track academic researchers, or equivalent, whose scientific pursuits show outstanding promise for supporting the Department of Defense, while also promoting their professional development.

View the list of 2025 Office of Naval Research Young Investigator awardees at https://www.onr.navy.mil/2025-young-investigators.

MIL Security OSI –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Brown Announces New Investment at John Glenn Columbus International Airport

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Ohio Sherrod Brown

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown (D-OH) announced a new $8.5 million investment for the John Glenn Columbus International Airport. The investment will be used to acquire five passenger boarding bridges and associated ground power units.

“Ohio airports are vital infrastructure supporting travel and commerce in our state,” Brown said. “These investments will enhance operations at John Glenn Columbus International Airport and improve travel for Ohioans.”

The Department of Transportation’s Federal Aviation Administration awarded these investments as a part of its FY 2025 Airport Terminal Program. The Airport Terminal Program is made possible through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which Brown helped write and pass.

MIL OSI USA News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Brown Announces New Investment at Port Bucyrus-Crawford County Airport

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Ohio Sherrod Brown

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown (D-OH) announced a new $1.9 million investment for the Port Bucyrus-Crawford County Airport. The investment will be used to design and construct a new 2,400 square foot general aviation terminal for area and regional fliers.

“Ohio airports are vital infrastructure supporting travel and commerce in our state,” Brown said. “These investments will enhance operations at Port Bucyrus-Crawford County Airport and improve travel for Ohioans.”

The Department of Transportation’s Federal Aviation Administration awarded these investments as a part of its FY 2025 Airport Terminal Program. The Airport Terminal Program is made possible through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which Brown helped write and pass.

MIL OSI USA News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Hickenlooper, Bennet, Polis Call on Reclamation to Ensure Colorado Tribes Have Access to Drought, Water Management Funding

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Colorado John Hickenlooper
Leaders push for opportunities for Tribal Nations to apply for drought mitigation dollars following recent Bureau of Reclamation determination on Inflation Reduction Act funds
WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senators John Hickenlooper and Michael Bennet and Governor Jared Polis called on the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation (USBR) to explore new opportunities for the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe and Southern Ute Indian Tribe to access federal funding for drought and water supply management. USBR recently announced that forbearance proposals – paying water users to forgo water use, like the projects the Tribal Nations had planned to submit – will not be considered in the upcoming Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) funding round aimed to increase water conservation and efficiency in the Upper Colorado River Basin.
“We write to urge you to ensure that the Southern Ute Indian Tribe and Ute Mountain Ute Tribe (“the Colorado Tribal Nations”) have the opportunity to apply for funding programs that address drought and water supply management in the Colorado River Basin, including through upcoming drought mitigation funding under the Inflation Reduction Act,” wrote the lawmakers.
“We strongly encourage you to explore other avenues for Colorado’s Tribal Nations to pursue funding related to drought response, recognizing that they are currently forgoing their water use not by choice, but resulting from a history of inequity reflected in their long-term lack of infrastructure.”
The Ute Mountain Ute Tribe and Southern Ute Indian Tribe hold combined water rights to over 33,000 acre-feet of water in Lake Nighthorse southwest of Durango but lack adequate infrastructure to deliver that water to their reservations. As a result, the Tribal Nations currently cannot use or benefit from their water, and it flows downstream to other users.
The Tribal Nations planned to apply for IRA funding to receive compensation for forgoing development of their water rights, but recently learned that their planned project would not qualify under the upcoming IRA drought funding announcement. In the letter, the lawmakers urge USBR to explore alternative funding opportunities that could better suit the needs of the Colorado Tribal Nations.
Hickenlooper and Bennet fought for $8 billion for western water infrastructure, $10 billion for forests, $19 billion for agricultural conservation, and $4 billion for drought in the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) and Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.
The text of the letter is available HERE or below.
Dear Commissioner Touton:
We write to urge you to ensure that the Southern Ute Indian Tribe and Ute Mountain Ute Tribe (“the Colorado Tribal Nations”) have the opportunity to apply for funding programs that address drought and water supply management in the Colorado River Basin, including through upcoming drought mitigation funding under the Inflation Reduction Act.
As you know, Colorado’s two federally-recognized Tribal Nations had intended to apply for the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation’s (USBR) Upper Colorado River Basin Inflation Reduction Act funding for water supply purposes, known as “Bucket 2 Water Supply,” or “B2W” funding. The Colorado Tribal Nations had planned to apply in a bid to receive compensation for forgoing use of certain water rights as recognized under the Colorado Ute Indian Water Rights Settlement Act of 1988 (as amended in 2000). For decades since that Act’s passage, the Colorado Tribal Nations have lacked the infrastructure needed to fully develop their allocated water supply. The Colorado Tribal Nations’ intent to develop uses for their legally recognized settlement water reflects their demand for full utilization of their water rights, despite challenges relating to infrastructure and other issues.
The Colorado Tribal Nations were disheartened to learn that USBR’s forthcoming B2W funding announcement would not be open to projects such as those they originally planned, which would seek compensation for a forbearance of future development of their settlement water. We understand that USBR believes this activity will not qualify as a verifiable reduction in water use that can be compensated under B2W. Still, we must stress that a Tribe’s lack of opportunity to develop those supplies does not equate to a lack of demand – nor should it foreclose other opportunities for that Tribe, including those under the Inflation Reduction Act.
We strongly encourage you to explore other avenues for Colorado’s Tribal Nations to pursue funding related to drought response, recognizing that they are currently forgoing their water use not by choice, but resulting from a history of inequity reflected in their long-term lack of infrastructure. We ask that you work with the Colorado Tribal Nations and provide them sufficient time to apply if your agency determines another funding opportunity or source may be better suited to their needs – whether this be USBR’s environmentally-focused funding for the Upper Basin known as “Bucket 2 Environmental” or “B2E”, or another source yet to be identified.
We value your leadership and continued willingness to work with us on efforts to promote the health of the Colorado River Basin. We also appreciate your attention to addressing the longstanding inequities that Colorado’s Tribal Nations have faced, and we look forward to working with you to ensure that paths toward a more equitable future remain open for them.
Sincerely,

MIL OSI USA News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Hickenlooper, Bennet, Neguse Welcome $47 Million from Bipartisan Infrastructure Law for U.S. 287 Safety Improvements in Larimer, Boulder Counties

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Colorado John Hickenlooper
WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senators John Hickenlooper and Michael Bennet and U.S. Representative Joe Neguse welcomed over $47 million in Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funding from the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) for wildlife safety improvements around U.S. Highway 287 in Larimer County. The funding comes from DOT’s Wildlife Crossing Pilot Program, which was created and supported by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law
“Wildlife crossings save lives by dramatically reducing traffic collisions with animals,” said Hickenlooper. “Infrastructure updates like these are exactly why we passed the infrastructure bill.”
“U.S. 287 helps connect communities across Northern Colorado, and historic funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law will improve roadway safety while meeting the needs of Colorado’s growing population. I’m pleased to see Colorado continue to benefit from the most significant investment in America’s roads, bridges, and essential infrastructure since President Eisenhower built the interstate highway system,” said Bennet.
“The US 287 corridor is one of Colorado’s main north-south routes, serving as a gateway to Boulder, Longmont, Loveland, and Fort Collins. I’m proud to have helped secure $47 million in federal funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law for the improvement and redevelopment of this major roadway, which will help connect countless communities and improve roadway safety,” said Neguse.
Every year, more than a million collisions between American drivers and wildlife cost over $8 billion and result in approximately tens of thousands of serious injuries and hundreds of fatalities across the country. This infrastructure project is expected to reduce wildlife-vehicle collisions in the area by at least 80 percent.
Specifically, this funding will help Larimer County and Colorado’s Department of Transportation:
Construct wildlife crossings and intersection improvements
Add passing lanes and centerline rumble strips
Widen shoulders where needed
Install a median barrier from the Colorado-Wyoming state border to the Boulder County line
“In Colorado, we are committed to ensuring the safety and protection of Coloradans on the road and avoiding costly wildlife-vehicle collisions. Thanks to the Colorado Department of Transportation for their efforts to secure this funding, Senator Bennet, Senator Hickenlooper, House Assistant Democratic Leader Neguse for their leadership, and the Biden-Harris administration for providing our state with $47 million in funding to continue reducing wildlife-vehicle collisions and help create a safer Colorado for travelers and wildlife in Larimer County and on our roads,” said Colorado Governor Jared Polis.
“US-287 connects bustling communities in Northern Colorado and is an important connector between Colorado and our neighbors in Wyoming. This grant will make it possible to address long-needed safety improvements across this growing corridor and to continue our nation-leading efforts to protect against wildlife collisions. We appreciate the strong support of our Congressional delegation and our strong partnership with Larimer county as well as Wyoming to pursue and advocate for this grant. We are grateful to the U.S. Department of Transportation for funding the grant with dollars from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law,” said Shoshana Lew, Executive Director, CDOT.
“We are grateful for this critical funding for CDOT and the support received from Senator Bennet, Senator Hickenlooper, and Congressman Neguse. Improving road safety and protecting our residents is a top priority for Larimer County. This investment in Highway 287 will help ensure safer travel through our region,” said Kristin Stephens, Larimer County Commissioner.
In September, the lawmakers sent a letter to DOT Secretary Pete Buttigieg supporting funding for the wildlife crossing and roadway safety improvements along U.S. 287. In 2023, Hickenlooper welcomed $22 million for other wildlife crossing projects in Colorado after urging leadership to prioritize natural infrastructure restoration, resilience, and reclamation in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.

MIL OSI USA News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Cramer, Merkley Request Update from Army Corps on Initiating the Western Water Cooperative Committee

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND)
BISMARCK, N.D. – The Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) of 2022 included bipartisan language from U.S. Senators Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Ranking Member of the Senate Environment and Public Works (EPW) Committee Transportation and Infrastructure Subcommittee, and Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Chairman of the Senate EPW Subcommittee on Chemical Safety, Waste Management, Environmental Justice, and Regulatory Oversight, directing the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) to establish the Western Water Cooperative Committee (WWCC). The purpose of the WWCC is to ensure the USACE flood control projects in western states are operated consistent with congressional directives and adhere to state water rights and water laws. The legislation was signed into law December 2022, and in March 2024, Congress fully funded the committee.
During an EPW Committee hearing in February, Cramer asked Assistant Secretary of the Army for Civil Works Mike Connor for a status update on the WWCC. In his response, Connor stated, “We’re teed up ready to go, but we do need the resources to implement.” Less than two weeks later, Congress fully funded the WWCC, but more than half a year later, it has not been established.
Cramer and Merkley sent a letter today to the USACE requesting an update on the WWCC.
“The Committee was created to ensure Army Corps water projects in Western states adhere to applicable state water rights and water laws,” the senators wrote. “It also provides a critical platform of dialogue for western states to better coordinate with the Army Corps. We firmly believe the increased communication and transparency will facilitate improved collaboration. Western states across the political spectrum were advocates of this committee and are anxiously awaiting its commencement.”
“Within 30 days, we request an update on the implementation of the directive outlined in WRDA 2022 as well as a specific timeline for when the Committee will be formally established and conduct its first meeting,” the senators concluded.
Click here for the letter.

MIL OSI USA News –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General Bonta, Together with Local, State, and Federal Law Enforcement Partners, Announces Eradication of 774,829 Cannabis Plants and 106,141 Pounds of Illegally-Grown Cannabis Worth over $353 Million
Source: US State of California

LOS ANGELES – California Attorney General Rob Bonta, together with local and federal law enforcement partners, today announced the eradication of 774,829 illegally cultivated cannabis plants and 106,141 pounds of processed cannabis, as well as 282 arrests in 36 different counties across California as part of Eradication and Prevention of Illicit Cannabis (EPIC) program. The total underground market price for these seizures is valued at approximately $353 million. EPIC is an interagency task force focused on combating the illegal cannabis market, cannabis enforcement work, and investigating and prosecuting civil and criminal cases with a focus on environmental, economic, and labor impacts from illegal cultivation.

“California has the largest safe, legal, and regulated cannabis market in the world, but unfortunately illegal and unlicensed grows continue to proliferate,” said Attorney General Rob Bonta. “The EPIC program was forged out of our recognition of the need for a more comprehensive approach that addresses the broader implications of the underground cannabis market. This includes tackling the environmental damage caused by these illicit activities, as well as the economic ramifications that arise from unregulated cultivation. Furthermore, there is a growing concern about labor exploitation within this underground market, where workers may face unsafe conditions and unfair treatment. I want to express my gratitude to the various partners involved in this effort, including local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies. Together, we are working toward a solution that not only curtails illegal activities but also promotes a sustainable and equitable cannabis industry in the state.”

“California has the largest state park system in the country with 1.59 million acres of park land to protect,” said California State Parks Law Enforcement Assistant Chief Jeremy Stinson. “Unfortunately, illegal cannabis cultivation is a serious threat to that land with more than 400 sites documented. California State Parks appreciates being a partner agency within EPIC to help address this issue. Protecting our state’s natural resources for all Californians and future generations is an important part of our mission. We look forward to continuing this valuable partnership to preserve and protect California’s state parks system.”

“California cannabis enforcement has a long way to go to ensure that the illicit cannabis doesn’t make it into the legal market,” said San Bernardino County Sheriff Shannon Dicus. “Partnerships like EPIC are a major step forward in tackling this problem.”

Over the course of the 2024 season, EPIC teams operating in Northern, Central, and Southern California, conducted 665 operations, recovered 201 weapons, and removed infrastructure, including dams, water lines, and containers of toxic chemicals, such as carbofuran, methyl parathion, aluminum phosphate, zinc phosphide, and illegal fertilizers. Carbofuran, in particular, poses untold risks to public health. A lethal insecticide that is effectively banned in the United States, carbofuran remains on plants after application and seeps into soil and nearby water sources.

In 2024, EPIC operations were conducted in the following 36 counties:
- Alameda: 1 site, 751 plants eradicated
- Butte: 5 sites, 4,397 plants eradicated
- Colusa: 3 sites, 10 plants eradicated
- Contra Costa: 2 sites, 5,010 plants eradicated
- El Dorado: 8 sites, 2,174 plants eradicated
- Fresno: 31 sites, 52,796 plants eradicated
- Glenn: 1 site, 747 plants eradicated
- Kern: 60 sites, 89,819 plants eradicated
- Kings: 1 site, 539 plants eradicated
- Lake: 48 sites, 42,776 plants eradicated
- Lassen: 1 site, 7,359 plants eradicated
- Los Angeles: 3 sites, 3,684 plants eradicated
- Madera: 3 sites, 1,230 plants eradicated
- Mariposa: 2 sites, 1,368 plants eradicated
- Mendocino: 116 sites, 133,702 plants eradicated
- Nevada: 33 sites, 28,428 plants eradicated
- Riverside: 79 sites, 136,601 plants eradicated
- Sacramento: 13 sites, 46,042 plants eradicated
- San Bernardino: 23 sites, 27,845 plants eradicated
- San Diego: 7 sites, 9,301 plants eradicated
- Santa Barbara: 1 site, 362 plants eradicated
- Santa Clara: 2 sites, 1,012 plants eradicated
- Shasta: 67 sites, 51,289 plants eradicated
- Siskiyou: 98 sites, 67,943 plants eradicated
- Stanislaus: 6 sites, 5,103 plants eradicated
- Trinity: 38 sites, 32,381 plants eradicated
- Tulare: 7 sites, 5,468 plants eradicated
- Tuolumne: 2 sites, 7,637 plants eradicated
- Ventura: 3 sites, 7,891 plants eradicated
- Yuba: 2 sites, 1,164 plants eradicated
- Monterey: reconnaissance only
- Napa: reconnaissance only
- San Benito: reconnaissance only
- San Luis Obispo: reconnaissance only
- Santa Cruz: reconnaissance only
- Solano: reconnaissance only
The EPIC program focuses on the investigation and prosecution of civil and criminal cases relating to illicit cannabis cultivation with a focus on environmental and economic harms and labor exploitation. EPIC is a multi-agency collaboration led by DOJ in partnership with the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s U.S. Forest Service; the U.S. Department of the Interior’s Bureau of Land Management and National Park Service; the California Department of Fish and Wildlife; the U.S. Department of Justice’s Drug Enforcement Administration; the California National Guard, Counter Drug Task Force; the Central Valley High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas program; California State Parks; California Environmental Protection Agency; and other local law enforcement departments.

EPIC marks an evolution in DOJ’s cannabis enforcement work, reflecting the issues and concerns arising from operations each summer. EPIC works in close coordination with DOJ’s Cannabis Control Section, Special Prosecutions Section, and Tax Recovery and Underground Economy (TRUE) Task Force to build investigations and prosecute civil and criminal cases.

B-roll of the operations produced by DOJ are available for use by producers and members of the media. Please contact agpressoffice@doj.ca.gov.

Graphics of 2024 EPIC season statistics are available here.

MIL OSI USA News –
January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Collision of two passenger trains at Talerddig, Powys, Wales
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

The following press statement is issued by the RAIB about its investigation into the collision of two passenger trains at Talerddig, Powys, Wales
At around 19:26 on the evening of 21 October 2024, the 18:31 Transport for Wales passenger service from Shrewsbury to Aberystwyth collided with another train on Network Rail’s Cambrian line, approximately 800 metres west of the passing loop located at Talerddig, Powys. Initial evidence suggests that collision occurred at a speed of approximately 24 km/h (15 mph). The second train involved was the 19:09 Machynlleth to Shrewsbury passenger service, also operated by Transport for Wales.

One passenger tragically died and four other people were seriously injured. Eleven more people sustained injuries which required hospital treatment.

RAIB was notified of the accident at 19:45 on the night of the accident and immediately dispatched a team of inspectors to examine the site and collect evidence.

Additional RAIB staff and specialist equipment have arrived at the site of the accident throughout today and we continue to work in conjunction with the British Transport Police, the Office of Rail and Road and the railway companies involved to secure the necessary evidence to support our independent safety investigation. This will include examining the condition of the train and downloading its ‘black box’ data recorder, inspecting the track, analysing data from railway signalling and radio systems, and interviewing witnesses.

The railway approaching Talerddig from each direction consists of a single track. To allow trains to pass each other a track loop is provided. These loops have points at each end and allow trains to enter a short length of track which lies alongside the single line.

RAIB’s initial inspection of the track on approach to the point of collision found evidence that wheel/rail adhesion was relatively low, suggesting that the train may have entered into wheel slide when braking. This will be an area of ongoing investigation.

Our investigation is in its very early stages and an additional update will be available in the coming days once RAIB has gathered and analysed further evidence.

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Published 22 October 2024
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Enfield — Update: RCMP/HRP Integrated Criminal Investigation Division continues investigation into suspicious deaths

Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

The RCMP/HRP Integrated Criminal Investigation Division is continuing its investigation into the deaths of two adults who were found deceased at a residence on Rockcliffe Dr. in Enfield on October 18.

Working with the Nova Scotia Medical Examiner Service, it has been determined that a 60-year-old woman died as a result of homicide and the death of a 61-year-old man was due to self-inflicted injuries.

The two people were known to one another. Our thoughts are with their loved ones and the community at this difficult time.

In consideration of the Privacy Act and out of respect for the families, the RCMP/HRP Integrated Criminal Investigation Division will not be releasing any further details.

The ongoing investigation is being led by the RCMP/HRP Integrated Criminal Investigation Division with assistance from RCMP Halifax Regional Detachment, Nova Scotia RCMP Forensic Identification Services, and the Nova Scotia Medical Examiner Service.

MIL Security OSI –

January 24, 2025
MIL-Evening Report: The best government money can buy? How New Zealanders feel about political party funding

Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Mona Krewel, Senior Lecturer in Comparative Politics, Te Herenga Waka — Victoria University of Wellington

Getty Images

Companies and shareholders associated with the government’s fast-track projects gave more than $500,000 in donations to National, ACT and New Zealand First, according to a recent analysis by RNZ.

While it is impossible to say whether these companies were listed for consideration because of their donations, allegations of possible “undue influence” are inevitably made.

New Zealand’s reputation as a country with little to no corruption owes nothing to our lack of rigour in the regulation of party donations. As Philippa Yasbek, the author of a report by the Helen Clark Foundation calling for tougher rules to combat the risk of political corruption, said:

Our political integrity and honesty have largely evolved from social norms over many decades. Politicians by and large knew the conduct that was expected of them by New Zealand society. Sadly, today, we’re naive to think that’s enough.

Some political parties seem to take little heed of the existing rules. The Electoral Commission has issued warnings to several parties about large donations being declared too late.

The Independent Electoral Review released early this year recommended parties give up access to corporate donations in exchange for greater public funding. Other recommendations included a cap on political donations set at NZ$30,000, and a much lower threshold for disclosing donors’ names.

As one might expect, the political parties disagree about how funding should be regulated, as their main income sources vary. Labour approves of the proposals, although analysis indicates its revenue streams would suffer most if such policies were in place.

ACT is strongly opposed to the principle of public funding, although there are already significant public funds supporting parliament and party advertising during election campaigns.

What New Zealanders think

But what about public opinion? Do people believe large donors have “undue influence”?

The latest New Zealand Election Study, conducted after the 2023 election, included a module of questions that give insights into New Zealanders’ attitudes to potential party funding reforms. The study is a representative sample of nearly 2,000 eligible voters.

What stands out? Many people answered “don’t know” to the questions – which is quite reasonable. The laws that regulate political party activity in New Zealand are complex and of little relevance to most.

Nonetheless, some clear messages emerge. In general, a near majority of people were concerned about the influence of “big interests”. When asked if they agreed with the statement “The New Zealand government is largely run by a few big interests”, 45% agreed and 27% disagreed.

Drilling deeper into the data, about 35% of business owners agreed, compared to just under half of people who don’t own a business.

Asked whether they believed donors exert “undue influence” on politicians, 43% agreed. Only 18% disagreed. Almost 40% had no opinion on this topic and either didn’t know or took a neutral position.

While Labour, Green and NZ First voters leaned heavily to “undue influence”, National and ACT voters were evenly divided between “undue” and “not undue”.

National voters also strongly opted for “don’t know”. About a third of business owners perceived undue influence, compared with about 45% of non-owners.

The 2023 Election Study also included a question on the recommendation made by the Electoral Review that corporate groups and trade unions should be prohibited from making direct donations to political parties: 53% supported this change, while only 17% opposed it.

The Independent Electoral Review also recommended a limit of $30,000 for any individual donation: 57% agreed, compared to 14% who disagreed. While support was strongest on the left and among New Zealand First voters, significant numbers of National and ACT voters also agreed (47% and 44%).

Finally, we asked for people’s views on anonymity of “promoter donations”. Promoters are people or groups registered to advertise during an election campaign for an issue, or for or against a political party. They can collect anonymous donations that are not subject to the same disclosure requirements as parties.

Only 14% of respondents believed in continued promoter donation anonymity on the basis of privacy, and 47% preferred greater transparency. Breaking this down by party vote, some National and ACT voters prefer transparency over privacy, although more were either neutral or answered “don’t know”.

Support for reform

These results show public perceptions of undue influence by donors are widespread. While these perceptions are strongest on the left, they also penetrate deeply into groups who vote for the parties on the right, and into the business community.

And while the political parties have conflicts of interest, there is significant support for the recommendations of the Independent Electoral review across party lines among the New Zealand public, and inside the business community.

Assuming political parties in a democracy should be responsive to voters’ concerns and demands, this should give them food for thought when it comes to potential party funding reform.

This article is based on our submission to the Justice Select Committee inquiry into the 2023 general election.

The New Zealand Election Study (NZES) has been funded by Te Herenga Waka-Victoria University of Wellington, the New Zealand Electoral Commission, the Gama Foundation, and the University of Auckland.

– ref. The best government money can buy? How New Zealanders feel about political party funding – https://theconversation.com/the-best-government-money-can-buy-how-new-zealanders-feel-about-political-party-funding-241881

MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Federal Grand Jury Indicts Man in Connection with Robberies of Suburban Chicago Banks

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

Ahead of the Threat Podcast: Episode Zero

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

Charity and Disaster Fraud

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

RYAN JAMES WEDDING

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

Capitol Violence

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

MIL Security OSI –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: INDOPACOM and 7th Air Force Commander visits 35th Air Defense Artillery Brigade

Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

OSAN AIR BASE, Korea –

On October 9th, Adm. Samuel Paparo, commander of the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, and Lt. Gen. David Iverson, commanding general of the 7th Air Force, visited the 35th Air Defense Artillery Brigade for an important mission and intelligence briefing. The session was led by Maj. Ryan Workman, Military Intelligence Officer, and Capt. April Dybal, commander of the Space Force detachment.

During the meeting, the leaders discussed current events on the Korean Peninsula and took the opportunity to recognize the outstanding contributions of 1st Lt. Quinn O’Rourke. Serving in the brigade operations shop, Lt. O’Rourke was commended for his exceptional performance in the S3 section, demonstrating a commitment to excellence that impacts the entire brigade

“Serving in this brigade has been such an incredible experience. I’ve really been able to develop my skills as an air defense officer here. The guidance from my fellow officers senior NCOs, and warrant officers has been invaluable, and they continue to inspire me to grow. Being recognized by ADM Paparo has truly motivated me to keep reaching for greatness within our brigade” said 1LT Quinn O’Rourke, brigade assistance operations officer.

In conclusion, the meeting served as a critical platform for discussing the evolving security landscape on the Korean Peninsula. Led by Maj. Ryan Workman and Capt. April Dybal, the briefing allowed leaders to align on key intelligence and operational strategies vital to maintaining readiness in the Indo-Pacific region. This engagement not only reinforced the importance of collaboration among military leaders but also highlighted the brigade’s ongoing commitment to addressing contemporary challenges with agility and expertise. As the region continues to evolve, the insights shared during this meeting will play a pivotal role in shaping future missions and ensuring the safety and security of the area.

MIL Security OSI –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: California Man Sentenced to Seven Years in Federal Prison for Orchestrating $23 Million Fraud Scheme

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

CHICAGO — A California man has been sentenced to seven years in federal prison for orchestrating a fraudulent investment scheme that swindled investors out of $23.1 million.

SEAN GRUSD formed three funds that he claimed would invest in private financial technology companies. Beginning in 2021, Grusd provided potential investors with marketing materials containing numerous falsehoods about the funds’ purported investment history and successes. Among other things, the promotional materials falsely claimed that one of Grusd’s funds had been an early investor in successful startup companies, such as Instacart, Coinbase, and Shippo. Grusd also falsely claimed that he had graduated from a prestigious law school and that he managed the personal portfolio of the CEO of a large investment management firm. Based on these and other false representations, more than a dozen victims invested $23.1 million in Grusd’s funds.

Instead of investing the victims’ money, Grusd transferred the funds to his personal bank accounts and spent the money on a lavish lifestyle, including high-end automobiles, luxurious condos in Chicago and Montreal, and lavish travel and entertainment expenses. Many of the victims had invested a significant portion of their life savings with Grusd.

Grusd, 32, of Los Angeles, Calif., pleaded guilty last year in federal court in Chicago to a wire fraud charge. In addition to the seven-year prison term, U.S. District Judge Sara L. Ellis on Wednesday ordered Grusd to pay more than $21 million in restitution to his victims.

The sentence was announced by Morris Pasqual, Acting United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois, and Douglas S. DePodesta, Special Agent-in-Charge of the Chicago Field Office of the FBI.

“Defendant’s fraud was brazen and unmitigated,” Assistant U.S. Attorney Corey B. Rubenstein argued in the government’s sentencing memorandum. “It was an appalling stream of deliberate choices over almost two years targeting numerous victims and resulting in huge losses.”

MIL Security OSI –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Leader of Anchorage Drug Trafficking Conspiracy Gets 20 Years for Trafficking Fentanyl, Methamphetamine
Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (b)

ANCHORAGE, Alaska – The leader of an Anchorage drug trafficking conspiracy was sentenced today to 20 years in prison and five years’ supervised release for dealing fentanyl and methamphetamine in Anchorage.

According to court documents, in 2022, Nigel Ivory, 29, of Anchorage, was released from prison after serving a federal sentence and began selling drugs in and around the Anchorage area.

During the investigation, officials conducted three controlled purchases of drugs from Ivory between October 2022 and March 2023. During the first controlled purchase in October 2022, Ivory sold over 111 grams of methamphetamine and 98 fentanyl pills for $3,800. In January 2023, Ivory sold 282 fentanyl pills for $1,950. In March 2023, Ivory sold over 276 grams of methamphetamine and 487 fentanyl pills for $5,000.

In February 2023, officials seized over $55,000 in cash that Ivory attempted to transport from Anchorage to Fort Wayne, Indiana, on a commercial flight. Ivory attempted to smuggle the cash by hiding it inside three tennis shoes in a checked bag. The cash had trace amounts of methamphetamine, cocaine and fentanyl on it. Later that month, officials also seized over 180 fentanyl pills from a co-conspirator during a traffic stop. Investigators uncovered text messages from Ivory directing the co-conspirator to hide the fentanyl pills from police.

On June 22, 2023, officials simultaneously executed search warrants for two residences associated with Ivory, one of which was Ivory’s primary address. At 6:30 a.m., agents announced their presence outside Ivory’s residence. Ivory and a co-defendant did not come outside and surrender until 7:00 a.m. Upon searching the residence, agents recovered over $18,000 in U.S. currency, a money counter, drug packaging material, over 160 fentanyl pills, some of which were partially dissolved and scattered in a toilet bowl, two firearms and ammunition.

In April and May 2023, law enforcement seized three additional packages, each containing more than a kilogram of fentanyl pills, from co-conspirators in the case, in which Ivory was involved in trafficking. The following co-conspirators were also charged in this case:
- Brandon Beltz, 33, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute fentanyl on Aug. 13, 2024, and is awaiting sentencing.
- Jack Breitenstein died of an apparent fentanyl overdose after spending nine months on pretrial release and the charges against him were dismissed on April 11, 2024.
- Wilanda Jackson, 23, is charged with one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute fentanyl and one count of possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute and is awaiting trial.
- Don’Tia Nikolai, 21, is charged with one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute fentanyl and one count of possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute and is awaiting trial.
As a result of the investigation, the defendant is accountable for 5.3 kilograms of fentanyl and over 380 grams of methamphetamine. Ivory pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute controlled substances and one count of distribution of methamphetamine and fentanyl in April 2024.

“Fatal drug overdoses rose over 44% this past year, with the majority involving fentanyl, posing a grave threat to Alaskans,” said U.S. Attorney S. Lane Tucker for the District of Alaska. “Keeping fentanyl out of our communities is a top priority, and we urge the public to report any drug trafficking activities to law enforcement. We will continue to work closely with law enforcement to investigate and prosecute those who conspire to traffic dangerous drugs in our state.”

“Mr. Ivory callously trafficked massive quantities of deadly fentanyl pills into and throughout Alaska, poisoning our communities and destroying lives in the process,” said Assistant Special Agent in Charge Zachary Pomerantz of the FBI Anchorage Field Office. “This investigation, worked alongside our local, state, and federal law enforcement partners, represents one of highest fentanyl seizures known in Alaska, underscoring the FBI’s commitment to disrupting and dismantling drug trafficking organizations that threaten the safety of our communities.”

“Your Alaska State Troopers will continue to work with our local, state, and federal law enforcement partners to hold anyone that traffics dangerous drugs such as fentanyl accountable for their actions,” stated Alaska State Troopers Colonel Maurice Hughes. “I hope that this significant prison sentence serves as a deterrent to those that are peddling drugs in our state. To those trafficking dangerous drugs in Alaska, know that law enforcement will catch up to you, arrest you, and prosecute you to the fullest extent of the law.”

The FBI Anchorage Field Office, Alaska State Troopers, Anchorage Police Department, IRS Criminal Investigation and U.S. Coast Guard Investigative Service investigated the case.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Chris Schroeder prosecuted the case.

UPDATE: This release has been updated to include the U.S. Coast Guard Investigative Service.

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MIL Security OSI –
January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: California Drug Supplier Receives Life for Role in Fentanyl Overdose Death of Fairbanks Man

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

FAIRBANKS, Alaska – A California drug supplier was sentenced today to life in prison for his connection to the fatal fentanyl overdose of a Fairbanks man in October 2020.

Junior Gafatasi Tulali, 48, was convicted by a federal jury of distributing fentanyl resulting in death with an enhanced statutory penalty on April 19, 2024. According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, around Oct. 13, 2020, Tulali agreed to sell 500 Oxycodone M30 pills to a Florida resident who agreed to distribute the pills in Fairbanks, where they could be sold for a higher price than Outside. The pills were shipped in a parcel from California and arrived in Fairbanks on Oct. 17. Inside the parcel were at least 480 counterfeit Oxycodone M30 pills containing a mixture of acetaminophen and an unknown amount of fentanyl.

The individual who retrieved the shipment distributed the counterfeit pills to several other dealers in the area. On Oct. 26, the victim purchased two pills from the shipment. Sometime between the evening of Oct. 26 and Oct. 28, the victim used the pills he obtained and was found dead in his home on Oct. 28. Medical examiners determined cause of death was acute toxic effects of fentanyl, which was contained in the pills that originated from Tulali.

Evidence presented at trial connected two additional non-fatal fentanyl overdoses to Tulali’s shipment of counterfeit pills. Both of the dealers in Fairbanks who were involved in selling the fentanyl pills to the victim were convicted for their role in the offence in 2022.

“In 2023, Alaska had the highest overdose death rate in the nation. Fentanyl poisoning is devastating our state, largely due to drug suppliers like Mr. Tulali, who gamble with human lives every time they sell a counterfeit pill,” said U.S. Attorney S. Lane Tucker for the District of Alaska. “Thanks to the outstanding investigative and prosecutorial work done in this case, we traced the pills that tragically killed the victim back to the source and held three people accountable for the irreparable damage they caused. My office is committed to collaborating with law enforcement at all levels to keep fentanyl out of our communities and prosecute those who jeopardize that mission.”

“Fentanyl traffickers like Mr. Tulali are willing to risk the lives of their customers in order to make money peddling drugs,” said David F. Reames, Special Agent in Charge, DEA Seattle Field Division. “The sentence today shows that these actions have grave consequences, a lesson Mr. Tulali will spend many years learning.”

“This case is a great example of how far our officers are ready to go to make sure we provide justice for victims in our community. We take our job of protecting Fairbanks seriously and will continue to hold criminals responsible when they threaten the safety of our residents,” said Fairbanks Police Chief Ron Dupee.

The Drug Enforcement Administration, Fairbanks Police Department, North Pole Police Department and Alaska State Troopers, with assistance from the FBI Anchorage Field Office, investigated the case as part of the Fairbanks Area Narcotics Team (FANT) High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) Task Force.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys and Carly Vosacek and Alana Weber prosecuted the case.

###

MIL Security OSI –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Attorney Prim F. Escalona Appoints Election Officer for the Northern District of Alabama

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

Birmingham, Ala. – United States Attorney Prim F. Escalona announced today that an Assistant U.S. Attorney will serve as the District Election Officer (DEO) and lead the efforts of her Office in connection with the Department of Justice’s nationwide Election Day Program for the upcoming November 5, 2024, general election. The DEO is responsible for overseeing the District’s handling of election day complaints of voting rights concerns, threats of violence to election officials or staff, and election fraud, in consultation with the Department of Justice’s Headquarters in Washington.

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

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

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

U.S. Attorney Escalona added, “The franchise is the cornerstone of American democracy. We all must ensure that those who are entitled to the franchise can exercise it if they choose, and that those who seek to corrupt it are brought to justice.”

To respond to complaints of voting rights concerns and election fraud during the upcoming election, and to ensure that such complaints are directed to the appropriate authorities, the District’s AUSA/DEO will be on duty in this District while the polls are open. The DEO can be reached by the public at 205.244.2001.

In addition, the FBI will have special agents available in each field office and resident agency throughout the country to receive allegations of election fraud and other election abuses on election day. The local FBI field office can be reached by the public at 205-326-6166.

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

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

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

MIL Security OSI –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Attorney Trina A. Higgin Appoints Election Officer for the District of Utah

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

Ahead of the Threat Podcast: Episode Zero

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

Charity and Disaster Fraud

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

RYAN JAMES WEDDING

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

Capitol Violence

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

MIL Security OSI –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Ketchum Man Sentenced to 20 Years in Federal Prison for Producing and Possessing Child Sexual Abuse Material

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

Ahead of the Threat Podcast: Episode Zero

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

Charity and Disaster Fraud

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

RYAN JAMES WEDDING

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

Capitol Violence

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

MIL Security OSI –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Warren Celebrates 5 New Zero-Emission School Buses for Worcester Public Schools
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts – Elizabeth Warren
October 22, 2024

Warren Celebrates 5 New Zero-Emission School Buses for Worcester Public Schools

Boston, MA – U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) celebrated the announcement that the Worcester Public Schools will replace 5 school buses with zero-emission, clean school buses through the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency 2023 Clean School Bus Rebate program.

The Clean School Bus Program has awarded funding to replace nearly 9,000 natural gas and diesel buses across the country. Funding for the Clean School Bus Program comes from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which provided $5 billion to transform the country’s fleet of school buses.

“Our children shouldn’t have to breathe in dangerous exhaust while getting to and from school,” said Senator Warren. “I’ve fought hard for clean energy investments for our Commonwealth. Now, Central Massachusetts’ families will have cleaner air, even more buses that are cheaper to repair and don’t guzzle up gas, and savings for the Worcester Public Schools.”

Senator Warren has advocated for federal funding to jumpstart the transition to all-electric public vehicles and rail and to help tackle the climate crisis:

In July 2024, Senators Warren and Markey and Representatives Lynch, Pressley, and Keating announced nearly $60 million in funding for Massachusetts communities to transition to low- or zero-emission buses. This upgrade is improving bus fleets, reducing transit systems’ reliance on fossil fuels, and curbing diesel-related air pollution along major transit corridors for Black, Brown, and low-income communities who are disproportionately harmed by the impacts of the climate crisis.

In May 2024, Senator Elizabeth Warren and Congressman Robert Garcia (D-Calif.) reintroduced the BUILD GREEN Infrastructure and Jobs Act, which would authorize the U.S. Department of Transportation to distribute $500 billion over ten years to electrify and modernize public vehicles and build new electric transportation infrastructure across the country.

In January 2024, Senators Elizabeth Warren and Ed Markey (D-Mass.) announced that the Environmental Protection Agency awarded Massachusetts funding for 85 electric school buses under the Clean Bus Grant Program to help school districts replace polluting diesel school buses with electric or low-emission school buses.

In July 2023, Senator Elizabeth Warren sent a letter to the Massachusetts Municipal Association, Massachusetts Association of School Superintendents and 33 Commonwealth municipalities, highlighting the benefits of electrifying the Commonwealth’s school bus fleets and encouraging the Associations and their members to take full advantage of the newly-announced EPA Clean School Bus Grants Program Notice of Funding Opportunity.

In August 2022, Congress passed the Inflation Reduction Act, which included $1 billion for states, municipalities, tribes, and nonprofit school transportation associations to use for clean heavy duty vehicles, like school and transit buses and garbage trucks, all in part funded by Senator Elizabeth Warren’s Corporate Profits Minimum Tax to ensure America’s largest corporations pay at least 15% of their massive profits in federal taxes.

In May 2021, Senator Warren and Congressman Levin (D-Mich.) introduced the Buy Green Act of 2021. First announced in March 2021, the bill would establish $1.5 trillion in federal procurement commitments over the next ten years to purchase American-made clean, renewable, and emission-free energy products for federal, state, and local use. The bill also establishes a grant program for U.S. companies to invest in clean energy manufacturing.

In May 2021, in a Senate Finance Committee hearing, Senator Warren made the case for large-scale federal investments in green infrastructure, as well as her Wealth Tax and other tax proposals as a way to pay for these investments.

In April 2021, in a Senate Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs Committee hearing, Senator Warren made the case for the need to tackle climate change by investing in our nation’s clean energy infrastructure, including the replacement of buses powered by diesel with electric buses.
MIL OSI USA News –
January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: CISA and USPIS Release Two Election Mail Security Resources
Source: US Department of Homeland Security

WASHINGTON – Today, the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) and the United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) joined together to release an Election Mail Security Public Service Announcement (PSA) and a training video for election officials on securely and safely handling potential toxic hazards in election mail. The PSA affirms the incredible efforts local and state officials have invested, through the federal government, in ensuring security and integrity of the elections process, and specifically how seriously CISA and USPIS take the security of election related mail. As CISA leads federal efforts to ensure election officials have the resources they need to defend against the range of cyber and physical threats to election infrastructure, USPIS ensures the safe and secure delivery of election mail, and the protection of election officials from potentially dangerous mail.

“CISA, alongside our federal partners like the US Postal Inspection Service, are committed to helping those on the frontline of our democratic process have the tools and resources necessary to accomplish their incredible mission while staying safe from the range of hazards they may face,” said CISA Director Jen Easterly. “Together we can protect America’s election infrastructure against new and evolving threats and that is our continued goal for Protect 2024 here at CISA.”

“We have a shared commitment, with our close partner CISA, to ensure the safety of election workers and the security of election mail, in part through the education and empowerment of voters and election officials,” said Chief Postal Inspector Gary Barksdale. “Today’s releases are another way we are delivering on that commitment.”

Everyone has a part to play when it comes to helping to ensure the safe and secure delivery of election mail. Americans can do the following:
- Don’t let incoming or outgoing mail sit in your mailbox. Pick up election mail from your mailbox as soon as its delivered.
- Don’t leave your mail unattended for extended periods.
- Return outgoing election mail in your local post office or hand directly to a postal employee
- Many states have online tracking tools to help track the status of your ballot. If you believe there’s an issue with the receipt or delivery of your ballot, contact your local election office to verify the status of your ballot prior to contacting USPS.
To report suspicious mail and election mail-related security or criminal incidents contact USPIS at (877) 876-2455 or you can report election mail crimes at uspis.gov/report. To view the CISA and USPIS PSA and training video, please visit CISA and USPIS Election Mail Security Resources on CISA.gov. and check out #Protect2024 for the latest information regarding election security at CISA.

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About CISA

As the nation’s cyber defense agency and national coordinator for critical infrastructure security, the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency leads the national effort to understand, manage, and reduce risk to the digital and physical infrastructure Americans rely on every hour of every day.

Visit CISA.gov for more information and follow us on X, Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram.

MIL Security OSI –
January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Marshals Seeking Assistance in Locating Wanted Fugitive

Source: US Marshals Service

Toledo, OH – The Northern Ohio Violent Fugitive Task Force (NOVFTF) is seeking the public’s assistance in the locating and arresting Tyrone Hoskins Jr (34). Hoskins Jr. is wanted by the United States Marshals Service (USMS) in Toledo for being in violation of his supervised release after being convicted in United States District Court for being a felon in possession of a firearm. He is also wanted by the Ohio Adult Parole Authority for a parole violation, stemming from an involuntary manslaughter conviction.

Hoskins Jr. has absconded from authorities and his current location is unknown. Hoskins Jr. is known to frequent Toledo and Youngstown, Ohio and the Metro Detroit, Michigan area. He is described as a black male, 5’8”, 250lbs with a gold tooth. Hoskins Jr. should be considered armed and dangerous.

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

MIL Security OSI –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Convicted Felon Sentenced to 100 Months in Federal Prison in Connection with Trafficking a Kilogram of Fentanyl, a Kilogram of Methamphetamine, and a Firearm

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

Ahead of the Threat Podcast: Episode Zero

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

Charity and Disaster Fraud

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

RYAN JAMES WEDDING

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

Capitol Violence

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

MIL Security OSI –

January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: NREL Coauthors U.S. Department of Energy Blueprint to Decarbonize the Buildings Sector
Source: US National Renewable Energy Laboratory

A Science-Backed Strategy To Aggressively Reduce Greenhouse Gas Emission by 2050

NREL buildings research supports Decarbonizing the U.S. Economy by 2050: A National Blueprint for the Buildings Sector, which outlines how the sector can reduce greenhouse gas emissions from buildings by 65% by 2035 and 90% by 2050. Photo from Getty Images

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has released a Blueprint to aggressively reduce buildings sector greenhouse gas emissions while delivering equity, affordability, and resilience benefits to communities.

Decarbonizing the U.S. Economy by 2050: A National Blueprint for the Buildings Sector reflects the central role that buildings will play in achieving economy-wide climate goals while delivering cost savings, healthier environments, and high-quality jobs. Buildings account for more than one-third of domestic carbon emissions and 75% of all electricity used in the United States. The Blueprint outlines how the sector can achieve ambitious goals to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from buildings by 65% by 2035 and 90% by 2050.

Eric Wilson, senior research engineer at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), is on a detail assignment supporting DOE’s deputy assistant secretary for buildings and industry and served as a lead author for the blueprint.

“Buildings are where we live, work, learn, and gather as communities,” Wilson said. “We are facing an enormous opportunity to impact people across the country with a concerted effort. Working together toward common goals will accelerate building upgrades and create healthier and more secure communities.”

To achieve the crosscutting goals, the Blueprint outlines four strategic objectives with specific performance targets that enable overall emission reductions:
- Increase building energy efficiency
- Accelerate on-site emissions reductions
- Transform the grid edge
- Minimize embodied life-cycle emissions.
Increase building energy efficiency

Reduce on-site energy use intensity in buildings 35% by 2035 and 50% by 2050 vs. 2005.

Accelerate on-site emissions reductions

Reduce on-site greenhouse gas emissions in buildings 25% by 2035 and 75% by 2050 vs. 2005.

Transform the grid edge

Reduce electrical infrastructure costs by tripling demand flexibility potential by 2050 vs 2020.

Minimize embodied life cycle emissions

Reduce embodied emissions from building materials and construction 90% by 2050 vs 2005.

Each objective has specific performance targets and market, policy, and technology milestones to reach by 2035 and 2050.

“Building upgrades have the potential to increase high-quality jobs, economic security, equity, health, and community resilience,” said Carolyn Snyder, deputy assistant secretary for buildings and industry at DOE. “Our national labs are vital partners in helping define strategic focus and in carrying out complex R&D.”

NREL Is Supporting Blueprint Objectives

NREL is focused on transforming the buildings in communities across the country and around the world into more efficient, affordable, healthy, and resilient places. More than 150 cutting-edge building science and technologies projects at NREL are collectively supporting the overall goal of equitably enabling net-zero emissions objectives.

Increasing Building Energy Efficiency

The blueprint highlights the critical role of state, local, and Tribal governments in achieving our national objectives and how federal support can bolster these efforts. Communities across the United States are adopting policies to increase energy efficiency and reduce emissions from the built environment. These climate action plans and emission reduction goals need to be rooted in the historical context of the building stock, including energy data, building asset data, and socio-environmental contexts to ensure buildings meet energy and emission targets, while benefiting the people who live in them. And, to achieve measurable sustainability goals, robust and cohesive building data management is imperative.

For example, when a city passes a building performance standard or disclosure ordinance to track energy or greenhouse gas emissions, a covered buildings list is created for a city manager to track buildings over the performance standard’s compliance period―typically five years. NREL and Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory developed the covered building list workflow and Standard Energy Efficiency Data Platform™ (SEED) to help:
- Identify buildings in a jurisdiction and identify which buildings are on which tax parcels
- Explore which buildings would be covered based on property type or gross floor area
- Identify trends across and within building data characteristics and meters and automatically merge identical buildings defined by a unique identifier
- Track building performance over multiple years
- Visualize progress to climate action plan goals for individual buildings and the entire portfolio.
Developed hand in hand with cities to ensure it would meet the needs of its users, the SEED Platform allows disparate datasets to be imported, merged, matched, and linked across multiple years of data imports. This makes for easier tracking of buildings over time and enables integrated timeline views of property changes. Reporting abilities within the platform also help visualize progress on policies and help property owners with compliance or reporting requirements.

“We’ve been able to partner with organizations to deploy this technology and help drive strategic investments in energy efficiency and beneficial electrification on the local level,” said Nicholas Long, senior building researcher and software engineer in NREL’s Building Technologies and Science Center. “It’s really encouraging to see DOE investments leveraged to make this technology available at scale and help a variety of jurisdictions achieve ambitious energy goals in ways that make sense for them.”

SEED allows cities to launch carbon reduction programs quickly and with a limited budget. Not only is the SEED Platform free, but it can also be easily integrated with the other software tools cities use to run their governments. Cities, for example, have linked SEED to Salesforce, a popular customer-relations management tool, so automated emails can be sent to building owners regarding compliance status.

Today, SEED and SEED-based spinoffs are used in 28 jurisdictions across the United States to reduce the energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions of their building stock, a major step toward a zero-emissions economy that earned NREL an R&D 100 Award in 2022.

Accelerating On-Site Emission Reductions

Space heating accounts for approximately 70% of energy-related on-site emissions in commercial buildings across the United States, and 50% of commercial floor space is conditioned with packaged rooftop units (RTUs).

Heat pump RTUs can lower greenhouse gas emissions and energy costs, but there is room to increase deployment as only 15% of commercial buildings in the United States currently have heat pumps. In cold climates, adoption has been even lower due to the current technology available on the market.

NREL recently co-led the launch of DOE’s Commercial Building Heat Pump Accelerator. The initiative will work with stakeholders—from commercial building owners and operators to manufacturers—to accelerate the development and adoption of heat pump RTUs for integrated energy efficiency and electrification of buildings.

“In order to achieve energy-related goals, we know new technologies are needed, specific to commercial buildings in cold climates,” said Kelsea Dombrovski, community energy researcher in NREL’s Building Technologies and Science Center. “The Commercial Building Heat Pump Accelerator will look at the whole market to understand challenges from building owners, installers, utilities, manufacturers, and more to make a bigger impact.”

The accelerator consists of two parts: a campaign and a challenge. The campaign provides building owners and operators with resources and guidance to deploy heat pump technology, supporting both site-level and portfolio-level installations. The challenge asks manufacturers to develop new emissions-reducing heat pump RTUs that meet an advanced technology specification developed by DOE to help organizations meet their energy efficiency needs and decarbonization objectives. Through the challenge, manufacturers will partner with DOE and the national laboratories to create prototypes, test the performance and durability of the products, and lead field validations with partners.

NREL will leverage its industry-leading modeling tools, such as ComStock™, to provide technical support on heat pump performance and impacts. The NREL team will also provide input on additional resources, connections to manufacturers and commercial building owners, and technical insight on the cutting-edge specifications for manufacturers.

“Manufacturers are looking for clear direction as to what the market wants but also what will get us to climate goals in a way that is affordable and meets other constraints, such as size, weight, materials, and compatibility,” Dombrovski added. “It’s a complex issue that the combined efforts of this accelerator will help solve.”

Transforming the Grid Edge

Transitioning to a clean energy future will require the modernization of the electrical grid to accommodate rapidly changing load patterns and new sources of renewable energy. DOE is aiming to transform the grid edge where energy efficiency, clean-energy-ready buildings, electric vehicle charging, and on-site renewable energy generation and storage connect to the power grid. The goal is to shrink the scale of electrical infrastructure required for a 100% clean electricity system by tripling demand flexibility potential by 2050.

A vital step in the transformation is planning future scenarios. Integrated analysis tools are key for stakeholders to better understand what will happen in certain situations and be able to best optimize investments in the grid edge. NREL is improving forecasting analysis that incorporates increased building electrification, electric vehicle (EV) adoption, and deployment of distributed energy resources (DERs) with distribution grid infrastructure improvements.

“It’s an exciting time for clean energy. We’re installing more clean energy technologies in our buildings and getting more EVs on the road,” said Craig Simmons, senior research engineer in NREL’s Building Technologies and Science Center. “But the transition also brings complexities such as increased electric demand, varying energy production versus use, and fluctuating customer costs. This energy transition will require a better coordination of devices and systems that interact at the grid edge.”

Transformation of the grid edge requires highly granular analytical capabilities that can assess scenarios across a wide range of applications and technologies on both sides of the grid edge, including demand-side equipment and distribution infrastructure. This high level of detail is critical because every distribution feeder is unique and contains specific blends of buildings, EV potential, DERs, and distribution infrastructure.

NREL has a variety of modeling tools that support commercial and residential buildings, EV charging equipment and patterns, renewable energy generation, battery energy storage systems, thermal and district energy networks, and electric grid distribution infrastructure. Many of the NREL tools can be used in coordinated simulations that allow for highly complex bottom-up scenario forecasting analysis.

This strategy supports detailed cost-benefit analysis across assets on either side of the grid edge to support informed decisions for innovative value-add scenarios. Because NREL’s tools are open-source, all enhancements directly benefit the forecasting capabilities of any group who will need similar grid edge solutions to the increasing use of renewable generation. The tools also enable neighborhood-level scenario analysis that is essential to improve load management at the grid edge.

“Along with accuracy of analysis, this level of granularity is also an essential component when considering how to invest equitably in grid edge solutions and infrastructure,” Simmons added. “Disparities in infrastructure investment happen at the neighborhood and home level. Aggregating or averaging metrics around homeowner characteristics tend to smooth over the sharp correlations that are seen in more granular analysis.”

Minimizing Embodied Life-Cycle Emissions

Carbon emissions accounted for outside of the operation phase of a building’s life cycles are “embodied” in building materials and equipment, including from resource extraction, manufacturing, transportation, construction, replacement/renovation, reuse, demolition, and material recycling or disposal. New building construction is responsible for an estimated 3% to 7% of total annual emissions in the United States.

Among numerous projects aiming to reduce embodied emissions from building materials and construction, NREL is developing end-of-life embodied-carbon data for high-impact building materials. Researchers working on the Building Re-X project through REMADE are developing a set of open-access databases for construction materials to create open-access Building Re-X models that enable end-of-life considerations to be incorporated into building design and materials selection. Re-X encompasses the reuse, repair, refurbishment, remanufacturing, and/or repurposing of materials.

“Currently, construction sector professionals and researchers cannot objectively evaluate the benefits of various Re-X strategies (reuse/recycle) of construction materials, and most construction and demolition debris goes to landfills,” stated Michael Deru, manager of the Advanced Buildings Equipment Research Group at NREL. “There is a need for documented end-of-life reuse scenarios and data for building materials.”

NREL is not stopping at creating a database. The project will continue to develop end-of-life methodologies and communicate this information with industry leaders, then integrate this data with top design tools. This project anticipates achieving up to a 7% increase in the annual quantity of Re-X material, 120% increase in annual embodied energy efficiency, and 12% reduction in associated greenhouse gas emissions per year.

Learn more about building technologies research at NREL.

MIL OSI USA News –
January 24, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Cell & Gene Therapy Innovation Hub Coming to Long Island

Source: US State of New York

Governor Kathy Hochul today unveiled plans for New York BioGenesis Park, a groundbreaking $430 million Cell and Gene Therapy Innovation Hub in Nassau County, Long Island. To be developed by The Albanese Organization, Inc., this state-of-the-art facility would catalyze CGT research, development, clinical manufacturing, and commercialization across New York State. With a historic $150 million state investment—the largest nationwide for a cell and gene therapy hub—NYBGP would accelerate the delivery of new therapies from lab to patient in New York’s diverse communities. This transformative hub aims to establish New York as the leading global destination for CGT innovation, driving economic growth, attracting top talent, and revolutionizing patient care statewide and beyond.

“With this groundbreaking hub, New York has the opportunity to stake its claim as the epicenter of cell and gene therapy innovation,” Governor Hochul said. “We’re not just advancing medical science; we’re creating a powerhouse that will drive our economy, generate thousands of high-skilled jobs, and bring hope to millions facing life-threatening diseases. This investment reaffirms our commitment to leading the future of healthcare and ensuring that the next medical breakthrough happens right here in New York.”

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Empire State Development President, CEO, and Commissioner Hope Knight said, “The selection of a developer with proven expertise ensures the Long Island CGT Center would be a beacon of excellence from inception to operation. ESD’s landmark investment not only underscores New York’s commitment to leadership in life sciences but also catalyzes a transformative shift in our biotechnology landscape. By creating high-quality jobs, attracting world-class talent, and fostering groundbreaking innovation, New York BioGenesis Park would cement New York’s position at the forefront of cell and gene therapy globally, driving economic growth and scientific advancement in equal measure.”

New York State Department of Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald said, “This groundbreaking and transformative investment puts New York State at the forefront of emerging gene and cell therapy sciences, creating a centralized hub of innovation and advancement in patient care. I thank Governor Hochul for her commitment to investing in the future of medical research and therapeutic technologies that will give hope to patients fighting cancer and other devastating diseases.”

The Cell and Gene Therapy Innovation Hub is a critical component of the statewide Cell and Gene Therapy initiative announced in Governor Hochul’s 2023 State of the State address. With the $430 million New York BioGenesis Park on Long Island and the $98 million expansion at Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center in Buffalo, these projects represent a combined total investment of over half a billion dollars in Cell and Gene Therapy innovation across New York.

The Albanese Organization, Inc., a Long Island-based developer with more than 70 years of experience in managing successful public-private partnerships, was selected following a Request for Proposals issued in December 2023. Albanese is conditionally selected to lead the comprehensive process to design, finance, build, market, tenant, and operate the Long Island Cell and Gene Therapy Center. This selection ensures that the project will be executed from conception to operation with an experienced development team, leveraging Albanese’s extensive expertise in developing large life science innovation campuses.

Albanese Organization Chairman Russell Albanese, said, “The Albanese Organization and our development team are honored and excited to be designated by Empire State Development to enter into this public private partnership that will realize the Governor’s vision to create a ‘Hub of the Future’ for Cell and Gene Therapy in Lake Success, Long Island. This transformative development will serve as a significant catalyst for advancing cell therapy research, development, clinical manufacturing, and commercialization across the State that will lead to increased access to transformative, life-saving treatments. The Hub will also further amplify and expand the economic engine that is the life sciences industry within New York State, and specifically Long Island.”

With this groundbreaking hub, New York has the opportunity to stake its claim as the epicenter of cell and gene therapy innovation.”

Governor Hochul

Cell and gene therapies are revolutionary treatments that modify a patient’s cells or genes to combat diseases at their source. Offering hope for previously incurable conditions—including cancers, genetic disorders, and autoimmune diseases—these approaches target illnesses at the cellular and genetic levels. They have the potential to provide more effective, longer-lasting treatments with fewer side effects than traditional methods. Advancements in these therapies could revolutionize healthcare, paving the way for personalized medicine and new possibilities for patients who have exhausted other treatment options.

New York BioGenesis Park is envisioned as a cutting-edge, full-service campus dedicated to advancing cell and gene therapies and accelerating their commercialization. At full build-out, the 700,000-square-foot park would create an end-to-end Cell and Gene Therapy innovation and supply center, featuring interconnected areas for public engagement, research, manufacturing, and collaboration. The project would be developed in multiple phases, with Phase One comprising a 331,000-square-foot facility on Northwell Health’s campus in Lake Success, including the first Cell and Gene Therapy Tower and Contract Development and Manufacturing Organizations (CDMO) Tower. Phase One is already poised to advance, with conditional commitments from two anchor tenants; one would operate the CDMO, the other would operate the incubator.

A cornerstone of New York BioGenesis Park is its incubator, supported by a $50 million investment from ESD’s Long Island Investment Fund. This facility will empower early-stage therapeutic developers by offering state-of-the-art wet lab space, shared equipment, office space, and other essential resources. This nurturing environment would provide Cell and Gene Therapy companies with access to specialized equipment, mentoring, and stage-appropriate financial guidance. As a critical component of New York BioGenesis Park, the incubator is poised to catalyze the growth of promising Cell and Gene Therapy companies by providing them with resources and support, unlocking their potential for innovation and success.

This initial phase is expected to create approximately 830 full time union construction jobs and a combined estimate of 700 jobs related to Cell and Gene Therapy development and provision of services and technologies required by Cell and Gene Therapy developers, such as Contract Development and Manufacturing Organizations, vector developers, and advanced diagnostic providers, as well as staff required for operation of the Center. Phase Two would further expand lab and office space, enhancing the park’s capabilities for Cell and Gene Therapy companies and service providers.

Empire State Development Board Chairman Kevin Law said, “New York BioGenesis Park represents a transformative investment in Long Island’s future and New York State’s position as a global leader in biotechnology advancements. This project not only promises to create hundreds of high-skilled jobs but also establishes a world-class ecosystem for cell and gene therapy innovation. By leveraging Long Island’s exceptional talent pool and research institutions, we’re laying the foundation for breakthroughs that will save lives and drive economic growth for decades to come.”

LIREDC Co-Chairs Linda Armyn and Dr. Kimberly R. Cline said, “The New York BioGenesis Park represents a transformative investment in Long Island’s future and solidifies our region’s position at the forefront of biotechnology innovation. This visionary project not only promises to create high-quality jobs and drive economic growth, but it also establishes Long Island as a global hub for cell and gene therapy research and development. By leveraging our region’s world-class academic institutions, skilled workforce, and entrepreneurial spirit, New York BioGenesis Park will catalyze breakthroughs that will save lives and shape the future of healthcare.”

Assemblywoman Gina Sillitti said, “New York State’s $150 million investment in a gene therapy research hub at Lake Success is a transformative step in developing Long Island’s biotechnology sector. I thank Governor Hochul for championing this initiative, which will create hundreds of jobs and further solidify Long Island’s place as a national leader in cutting-edge medical research and treatments.”

Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center President and CEO Candace S. Johnson, PhD said, “New York is already a leader in the science of making ‘living cures’ from our own cells. With these historic investments in the Roswell Park GMP Engineering & Cell Manufacturing Facility and New York BioGenesis Park, Governor Kathy Hochul and Empire State Development are making sure our teams are supported by an innovation infrastructure powerful enough to transform their curiosity into cures”

New York Blood Center Enterprises President and CEO Christopher D. Hillyer, MD said, “The creation of the Long Island Center for Cell and Gene Therapy represents a critical investment in the future of medicine. New York Blood Center Enterprises and Comprehensive Cell Solutions are extremely proud to be part of the team that will position New York as a global leader in life sciences, particularly in cell and gene therapy, offering new hope to patients facing diseases once thought untreatable.”

Northwell Health President and CEO Michael J. Dowling said, “We are committed to supporting New York State in establishing this innovative cell and gene therapy hub on Long Island. The facility will be a game changer for physician-scientists, researchers and innovative companies, some of which are already working together in the region to advance novel biomedical treatments in the fight against cancer and other devastating diseases, offering new hope for our diverse communities across the state.”

Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory President and CEO Bruce Stillman, PhD said, “The New York State cell and gene therapy initiative on Long Island will be a most welcome addition to the region’s biomedical research enterprise, and Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory looks forward to partnering with the CGT initiative. We thank Governor Hochul and Empire State Development for pioneering this exciting research expansion.”

New York BioGenesis Park would foster strong ties with academic and medical institutions throughout New York, creating a robust ecosystem for Cell and Gene Therapy innovation. Collaborating with the Empire State Cellular Therapy Consortium and world-class institutions like Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, the Feinstein Institutes, Northwell Health, Roswell Park, Stony Brook University, Weill Cornell, Columbia University and others around the state. New York BioGenesis Park would enhance research synergies and accelerate medical breakthroughs. This ecosystem would bring together experts in advanced Cell and Gene Therapy therapies, offering specialized facilities, services, and resources to both tenants and collaborating institutions. By facilitating cutting-edge science, innovative technology development and novel approaches to clinical trials, New York BioGenesis Park would ensure New York’s institutions remain globally competitive in groundbreaking Cell and Gene Therapy research and commercialization.

The New York BioGenesis Park and the Cell and Gene Therapy manufacturing expansion at Roswell Park would create a powerful, interconnected network that leverages complementary resources and capabilities at both ends of the state. By fostering a comprehensive ecosystem that spans from basic research to clinical application and commercialization, New York is positioning itself as the nation’s leading destination for Cell and Gene Therapy research, development, and manufacturing.

The Long Island Cell and Gene Therapy Innovation Hub stands to serve as a cornerstone of New York’s $620 million Life Science Initiative. Aimed at establishing the state as a national leader in the broader life sciences industry—including biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, and medical technology—the initiative allocates $320 million for strategic programs to attract new technologies, promote investment in emerging fields, and stimulate life science business growth and employment statewide. This multifaceted approach seeks to spur the development of a world-class research cluster, enhance the state’s ability to commercialize groundbreaking research, and drive economic growth. By solidifying New York’s position in life sciences innovation, the initiative advances Cell and Gene Therapy development and strengthens the state’s global competitiveness. Read New York State’s Life Science Initiative Strategic Plan here.

MIL OSI USA News –

January 24, 2025