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Category: Security

  • MIL-OSI USA: Pressley Slams DHS Stealing Immigrants’ DNA and Giving it to FBI Criminal Database

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07)

    Pressley Also Condemns GOP Inhumane Treatment of Immigrant Children

    “This administration is turning childhood trauma into a permanent record. Republicans on this committee claim to be focused on protecting children, yet ignore actual threats to their safety.”

    Video (YouTube)

    WASHINGTON – In a House Oversight Federal Law Enforcement Subcommittee hearing, Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07) condemned Trump’s DHS policy to steal the DNA of immigrants – including children as young as four years old – and handing it over to an FBI criminal database to surveil them like suspects in waiting.

    In her remarks, Rep. Pressley made clear that the stealing of children’s genetic information is a direct violation of their civil rights and civil liberties and slammed Trump and Republicans for traumatizing children while claiming to protect them.

    A full transcript of her remarks as delivered is available below, and the full video is available here.

    Transcript: Pressley Slams DHS Stealing Immigrants’ DNA and Giving it to FBI Criminal Database

    House of Representatives

    July 23, 2025

    REP. PRESSLEY: Thank you. First, let me begin by saying this: Republicans, you sound absolutely absurd. Stop calling children “aliens.” This intentional – I mean, the cruelty is the point – this intentional, dehumanizing, and persistent persecution through your rhetoric is shameful. 

    You are literally attacking children. I cannot take seriously anyone who’s using othering language to bully babies and toddlers. 

    Republicans don’t want us to see the humanity of immigrants. That’s why they like saying “aliens” and even put it in the title of the hearing. And that inhumane approach is consistent with the actions of the Department of Homeland Security. 

    Dr. Cuffari, have you heard about the DHS policy of collecting the DNA of children and storing it into the FBI criminal database? Yes or no?

    DR. CUFFARI: I believe there is not a policy to do children.

    REP. PRESSLEY: There absolutely is. Mr. Chair, I ask unanimous consent to enter into the record this report from July 2025, titled ‘Rating the Genome: How the United States Government is Abusing its Immigration Powers to Amass DNA for Future Policing.’

    CHAIR HIGGINS: Without objection.

    REP. PRESSLEY: This policy began under Donald Trump. In his first term, he authorized DHS to begin mass DNA data collection from immigrants – including children – and hand that data over to an FBI database designed to track violent offenders. 

    Now that he’s back, Trump is taking this policy to new extremes, adding more than a quarter million people to the database in just four months. A quarter million people, okay, in four months. 

    This committee recently held a hearing on genetic data, and there was bipartisan agreement that DNA is highly sensitive and its misuse is a violation of people’s rights, because children as young as four years old could not possibly consent to DNA collection.

    So I want to know what your office is doing about it, Dr. Cuffari- 

    DR. CUFFARI: We actually wrote a report –

    REP. PRESSLEY: One moment, let me ask the question.

    DR. CUFFARI: Certainly.

    REP. PRESSLEY: Is it the responsibility of your office to investigate abuses of civil rights and civil liberties? Yes or no?

    DR. CUFFARI: Yes.

    REP. PRESSLEY: Has your office ever investigated concerns about DHS agents stealing genetic information from children and uploading it to the FBI criminal database?

    DR. CUFFARI: Not to my knowledge, during my tenure.

    REP. PRESSLEY: Well, for an Inspector General worthy of the title, it should be a priority investigation. Do you agree?

    DR. CUFFARI: I agree that we did a report –

    REP. PRESSLEY: Thank you.

    DR. CUFFARI: Thank you.

    REP. PRESSLEY: You agree? 

    DR. CUFFARI: I agree –

    REP. PRESSLEY: There should be a priority investigation?

    DR. CUFFARI: – On the matter you’re discussing.

    REP. PRESSLEY: For the record, I want to be clear. Do you agree this should be a priority investigation by your office to look into agents stealing genetic information from children and uploading it to the FBI criminal database – yes or no? Yes or no?

    DR. CUFFARI: We have done the report –

    REP. PRESSLEY: Let me just this –

    DR. CUFFARI: We have done the report you’re mentioning –

    REP. PRESSLEY: Let me just say this – your office, according to Title Five of the US Code, Chapter Four, Section 417 – this is the responsibility you are charged with, to investigate abuses of civil rights and civil liberties. 

    Children as young as four years old have not consented to the collection of their DNA. That is a violation of their civil rights and civil liberties. 

    So this is not a trick question. Do you believe, given the charge and jurisdiction of your office, that this should be a priority investigation, as their rights have been violated?

    DR. CUFFARI: Unless the adult consented on the child –

    REP. PRESSLEY: Yes or no? Yes or no, Dr. Cuffari?

    DR. CUFFARI: We just got done writing a report.

    REP. PRESSLEY: On what?

    DR. CUFFARI: On the DNA collection within the Department of Homeland Security.

    REP. PRESSLEY: I thought you said you weren’t even aware that it was a policy. I’m very confused.

    DR. CUFFARI: There’s not a policy.

    REP. PRESSLEY: Dr. Cuffari, I’m not going to, you know, play these games here – because we’re talking about children, so I don’t want to circle the drain. 

    But this should be a priority investigation, because we have children whose civil rights have been violated with the collection of their DNA. 

    This administration is turning childhood trauma into a permanent record. 

    Republicans on this committee, you claim to be focused on protecting children, yet you’re ignoring actual threats to their safety. 

    You traumatize children with the threat of disappearing their parents. You traumatize children by disappearing their parents. You traumatize children by conducting their DNA without their consent and criminalizing them. You traumatize children by denying them food when they’re hungry. You traumatize children by denying them essential health care, which is their human right. 

    You traumatize them so much that they’re afraid to show up to school, afraid to show up to church, afraid to go to doctor’s appointments. 

    Mr. Chair, I ask unanimous consent to enter into the record this July 2025 article from the Boston Globe, titled, ‘I Want Daddy: As ICE Detains Parents and Children –

    CHAIR HIGGINS: Without objection and the gentlelady’s time has expired. 

    REP. PRESSLEY: Stop using children as pawns. This is the real child abuse.

    Thank you, I yield.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Clamping down on overdue court fines

    Source: New Zealand Government

    The Government is trialling new technology which will help clamp and seize cars of people evading paying court fines, Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith says. 

    “If you haven’t paid your court fines, you may soon find yourself walking home or needing a lift.

    “Bailiffs are now trialling handheld devices which scan the number plates of parked cars, and determine whether the owners have overdue court fines or reparations. 

    “If they do, the car may be clamped or towed away. It’s that simple. 

    “This is first being trialled throughout streets nationwide, and will be present at some breath testing stations this weekend alongside police.  

    “We promised to find new effective ways to force people to pay their court fines. That’s exactly what we’re delivering. We know wheel clamping is already a successful enforcement tool and we want to build on that.

    “Those who have suffered emotional harm or have had their property lost or damaged by an offender’s actions should not be left out of pocket.  

    “Victims are our priority, and their needs underpin all our work to restore law and order, which we know is working.   

    “There’s been a long-standing slackness when it comes to bringing in fines and I’ve given very strong instructions to the Ministry of Justice to find ways to collect them.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Fatal crash at Merseylea

    Source: New South Wales Community and Justice

    Fatal crash at Merseylea

    Friday, 25 July 2025 – 8:25 am.

    Sadly, a man has died following a crash at Merseylea overnight.
    Police and emergency services were called to the scene about 3am, after a cement truck crashed while travelling along Railton Road.
    Initial inquiries indicate the prime mover was travelling in a north westerly direction, approaching a slight bend, when it has veered off the road and crashed into a bank.
    Members of the public stopped and contacted emergency services.
    Medical attention was provided to the truck driver and his passenger, but sadly the passenger died at the scene.
    The driver was taken to the Launceston General Hospital. His injuries are not believed to be life threatening.
    The crash is under investigation and anyone with information or relevant dash cam footage, is asked to contact police on 131 444 and quote ESCAD 21-25072025.
    Our thoughts are with the family and loved ones of both men. A report will be prepared for the coroner.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Durbin Reintroduced Bill To Combat Alarming Rise In Domestic Terrorism Threats

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Dick Durbin
    July 24, 2025
    As the Trump Administration reallocates resources away from domestic terrorism prevention efforts to fund an illegal mass deportation campaign, the Domestic Terrorism Prevention Act would codify and bolster key tools and resources to combat domestic terrorist threats
    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, reintroduced legislation to address the growing domestic terrorism threat. The Domestic Terrorism Prevention Act of 2025 would enhance the federal government’s efforts to prevent domestic terrorism by establishing offices dedicated to combating this threat; requiring federal law enforcement agencies to regularly assess this threat; and providing training and resources to assist state, local, and tribal law enforcement in addressing it, among other things.
    “There is zero justification for discrimination and hate in our country—regardless of ideology. Tragically, we’re witnessing the Trump Administration reallocate resources away from domestic terrorism and hate crimes prevention efforts across the government, which are meant to protect Americans of all backgrounds against discrimination.
    “With the alarming rise in domestic terrorism threats in America, we need to bolster our government’s capabilities to detect, curb, and prevent potential attacks. I believe—and the American people believe—that’s a central responsibility of our government: to keep us safe, secure, and free. This should be a bipartisan solution, and I will again push for it to become law,” said Durbin.
    The Domestic Terrorism Prevention Act of 2025 authorizes the Department of Justice (DOJ), Department of Homeland Security (DHS), and Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) offices that are responsible for monitoring, analyzing, investigating, and prosecuting domestic terrorism. The bill also requires these offices to issue joint biannual reports to the House and Senate Judiciary, Homeland Security, and Intelligence Committees that assess the domestic terrorism threat posed by white supremacists; analyze domestic terrorism incidents that occurred in the previous six months; and provide transparency through a public quantitative analysis of domestic terrorism-related assessments, investigations, incidents, arrests, indictments, prosecutions, convictions, and weapons recoveries. DHS, DOJ, and FBI offices would be required to focus their limited resources on the most significant domestic terrorism threats, as determined by the number of domestic terrorism-related incidents outlined in the joint report.
    The legislation also:
    Codifies the Domestic Terrorism Executive Committee (DTEC), an interagency task force, which was originally created by the Department of Justice in the wake of the Oklahoma City bombing;
    Provides additional clarity regarding which federal law enforcement officials shall serve on the DTEC authorized by the bill; and
    Requires that the Executive Committee meet with local community groups to foster greater collaboration and dialogue to help combat domestic terrorism.
    Additionally, the bill requires DOJ, DHS, and the FBI to provide training and resources to assist state, local, and tribal law enforcement in understanding, detecting, deterring, and investigating acts of domestic terrorism. Finally, the legislation would establish an interagency task force to combat white supremacist and neo-Nazi infiltration of the uniformed services.
    In May 2022, Senate Republicans filibustered the House-passed Domestic Terrorism Prevention Act.
    Bill text is available here.
    During his tenure as Chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee, Durbin held a hearing entitled “A Threat to Justice Everywhere: Stemming the Tide of Hate Crimes in America.” The hearing examined the threats facing marginalized communities and how the federal government can better protect the civil rights and safety of all Americans, including Jewish, Arab, and Muslim Americans. Durbin also raised the issue in a March 2025 hearing on combatting antisemitism.
    Additionally, under Durbin’s leadership as Chair, the Committee held several other hearings to examine the issue of hate crimes and domestic terrorism, including a hearing on “Combating the Rise in Hate Crimes” shortly after the January 15, 2022, synagogue attack in Colleyville, Texas, and a hearing examining the “Metastasizing’ Domestic Terrorism Threat After the Buffalo Attack,” which explored the continued threat posed by violent white supremacists and other extremists, including those who have embraced the so-called “Great Replacement” conspiracy theory, after a mass shooting by a white supremacist in Buffalo on May 14, 2022. The white supremacist who murdered 11 people at the Tree of Life Synagogue in Pittsburgh in 2018 also embraced this conspiracy theory.
    Durbin first held a hearing on domestic terrorism threats in 2012, after a white supremacist murdered seven Sikh worshipers in Oak Creek, Wisconsin.
     
    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Durbin On Trump’s Extreme Judicial Nominees: The Only Qualification That President Trump Looks For In His Nominees Is Loyalty To Him And His MAGA Agenda

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Dick Durbin
    July 24, 2025
    Durbin took to the Senate floor to denounce President Trump’s extreme and unqualified judicial nominees
    WASHINGTON – In a speech on the Senate floor, U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, criticized the Trump Administration’s unqualified and extreme judicial nominees. In his remarks, Durbin spoke out against the nomination of Emil Bove to be a U.S. Circuit Judge for the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit, pointing toward Bove’s unwavering loyalty to President Trump. During his remarks, Durbin also denounced the confirmation of Joshua Divine to serve as a judge on the Eastern and Western Districts of Missouri.
    “The first Trump Administration put forward some of the most extreme and unqualified judicial nominees ever considered by the Senate. Several Trump nominees had little or no experience in a courtroom, no litigation experience,” Durbin said. “Three district court nominees—Kathryn Mizelle, Justin Walker, and Sarah Pitlik—won unanimous support from Committee Republicans, despite having never tried a case.”
    “Many Trump nominees took some unusual, if not controversial, if not just plain wrong [positions]. [Take] Lawrence Van Dyke, [a] Ninth Circuit nominee. We asked him to affirm that he would be fair to LGBTQ individuals. He wouldn’t say it, just couldn’t get the words [out] of his mouth,” Durbin continued. “Michael Truncale, an Eastern District of Texas nominee, said of President Obama, he was ‘an un-American imposter.’ Those are the words of this man seeking the federal bench, about the former president. He said he [Obama] would ‘bow to Arab sheikhs and other world leaders.’ Where did you find that nominee?”
    During his first term, President Trump put forward ten judicial nominees who were found to be “Not Qualified” by the American Bar Association. Despite strong objections from Senate Democrats, eight of the ten unqualified nominees were confirmed by Senate Republicans.
    “Historically, the American Bar Association did its own background check on nominees for the federal bench. Where would they go? Well, they would go into the community. They would go to the judges that this person has appeared before. They would go to the fellow attorneys. They would try to find character references. And they would dig deep. They had some basic rules. You had to have [12] years of experience as an attorney to even be considered for the federal bench. Then they rated people ‘Qualified,’ ‘Not Qualified,’ ‘Well Qualified,’ and such… Even when the American Bar Association says you’re unqualified to serve on the bench, it didn’t discourage the [Trump Administration],” Durbin said.
    “President Trump seems intent on outdoing himself by putting forth nominees who are even more extreme, partisan, and fundamentally unqualified [than his first Administration]. Instead of finding more qualified judicial nominees, Attorney General Bondi ordered the Justice Department to stop cooperating with the American Bar Association in rating nominees,” Durbin continued.
    “She didn’t want to run into the embarrassment that they did in the first Trump term, with ten of them being found unqualified. She said the way to solve that is to not find a better nominee, but to get rid of the American Bar Association. If they’re not going to give a grade to these nominees, we don’t have to worry about their being unqualified. She overturned a practice in place nearly 70 years, going back to Dwight Eisenhower. Both Republican and Democratic presidents had followed the rule. Now the only qualification that President Trump looks for in his judicial nominees, he says as much, is loyalty,” Durbin said.
    Durbin then spoke out against Emil Bove’s nomination, laying out his troubling record as an insurrection apologist and his belief that he does not need to abide by federal court rulings, both of which disqualify him from serving on the federal bench.
    “As a senior official in the Justice Department, Mr. Bove has done nothing but cater to President Trump’s every whim… Mr. Bove personally ordered the termination of federal prosecutors who put violent January 6 rioters in prison… When asked to justify his actions in firing the attorneys who prosecuted these insurrectionists, Mr. Bove claimed ‘heavy-handed tactics’ by prosecutors were ‘equally unacceptable’ as physical violence against law enforcement. That is an outrageous and offensive statement by a man who wants to be a federal judge for life,” Durbin said.
    “Mr. Bove also led the Justice Department’s efforts to strike a corrupt bargain with New York City Mayor Eric Adams. This is an outrage, what he did. Mr. Bove stated that charges would be dropped without prejudice so that Adams could ‘devote full attention and resources to…illegal immigration and violent crime.’ In other words, President Trump needed Mayor Adams to do his bidding on his deportation policy,” Durbin continued. 
    “If that was not enough, Mr. Bove has shown utter disdain for our courts. A whistleblower stepped forward, gave his name, risked his future to tell us what Mr. Bove had told to the attorneys working on cases [at the Justice Department]… According to this credible whistleblower who provided ample documentation to back up his claims, Mr. Bove told Department of Justice attorneys that they might need to say, ‘f— you’ to federal courts that issue orders this Administration doesn’t agree with,” Durbin said. “That is the most dangerous comment that a person in the position of authority can make in the executive branch, that they will ignore the court orders that are issued against them.”
    Durbin also decried Joshua Divine’s confirmation to serve as a judge on the Eastern and Western Districts of Missouri. Divine, who has litigated for only five years, has repeatedly peddled extreme positions on women’s right to health care and voting rights, hearkening back to deeply racist Jim Crow laws.
    “Yesterday, the Senate confirmed Joshua Divine to the federal bench. [He’s] 34 years old, received his law degree nine years ago, litigated for five years. Beyond his troubling lack of experience, Mr. Divine has taken extreme positions,” Durbin said. “He calls himself a ‘zealot’ when it comes to [being] anti-choice.”
    “He has challenged women’s ability, in his state, to access the abortion drug mifepristone and has undermined the decision of Missouri voters to codify abortion access in their state constitution,” Durbin said.
    “Also deeply troubling, Mr. Divine argued in favor of literacy tests at the ballot box, stating that people who ‘aren’t informed about issues or platforms…have no business voting.’ Now where does that come from in America? Literacy tests, where does that come from? It comes from the era of Jim Crow,” Durbin continued. “It turns out, Mr. Divine believes that literacy tests should be restored. It shouldn’t be controversial for anyone to say that the nominee has disqualified himself. The fact that the Senate confirmed Mr. Divine is outrageous.”
    Durbin concluded his floor speech by calling on his Republican colleagues to put aside their unbridled loyalty to President Trump and prevent extreme, unqualified nominees from sitting on the federal bench.
    “These nominees are just the tip of the iceberg. President Trump will continue to nominate extreme and unqualified individuals unless the Senate takes a stand,” Durbin said.
    “I urge my colleagues to vote against Mr. Bove and all future nominees whose only loyalty is to the President, and not to the Constitution,” Durbin concluded.
    Video of Durbin’s remarks on the Senate floor is available here.
    Audio of Durbin’s remarks on the Senate floor is available here.
    Footage of Durbin’s remarks on the Senate floor is available here for TV Stations.
     
    -30-
     

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: July 24th, 2025 N.M. Delegation Demands Trump Release Illegally Withheld Funds for New Mexico Students and Teachers

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Mexico Martin Heinrich

    Lawmakers cite direct consequences to New Mexico as a result of Trump illegally withholding education funding

    Delegation to Trump: “New Mexico’s educators and students have always done more with less. Diverting funds meant for our children is unconscionable and schools deserve better”

    WASHINGTON — U.S. Senators Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) and Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) and U.S. Representatives Teresa Leger Fernández (D-N.M.), Melanie Stansbury (D-N.M.), and Gabe Vasquez (D-N.M.) sent a letter to President Donald Trump demanding the immediate release of nearly $5.6 billion in federal education funding withheld from New Mexico’s students, educators, and schools.

    After the N.M. Delegation sent the letter last Thursday, the Administration announced it would release $1.3 billion in funding for the Nita M. Lowey 21st Century Community Learning Centers program. This key investment supports afterschool programs that strengthen literacy, STEM skills, mental health, and violence prevention. In 2021, almost 90 percent of students who participated in a 21st Century Community Learning program saw better homework completion rates, increased classroom participation, and improved in-class behavior. While releasing this funding is critical to ensuring parents and students have access to after school and summer learning programs, the Administration must follow suit with the rest of the funding.

    “We write to demand the immediate release of the nearly $7 billion in federal education funding your Administration is unlawfully withholding. Your actions jeopardize New Mexico’s students, educators, and schools, and directly violate the U.S. Constitution’s Appropriations Clause, which grants Congress the power to control public funds,” the lawmakers begin.

    “You personally signed these funds into law as part of the FY 2025 Full-Year Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act on March 15, 2025. Then, on June 30th, you informed state and local education agencies that you are withholding these critical funds indefinitely. Withholding these funds beyond the end of the fiscal year would violate the Impoundment Control Act of 1974. Further, the law mandates that the president submit a formal message to Congress justifying any deferral of funds,” the lawmakers continue.

    For New Mexico, the funding freeze is devastating. It impacts programs that provide after-school care, English language instruction, and adult literacy classes, to name a few. Without these funds, schools cannot pay for teacher training, afterschool programs, adult literacy classes, or support multilingual learners. These dollars are not luxuries; they are essential investments in our children’s futures.

    New Mexico will lose $5.8 million in funding for English Language Acquisition programs that support multilingual learners. These programs help English learners attain English proficiency, achieve high levels of academic success, and strengthen family engagement. The funding also improves educator training and provides essential resources to support students both inside and outside the classroom. In a state where so many students come from diverse linguistic backgrounds, this funding is vital to helping students thrive and supporting their families.

    Additionally, the funding freeze jeopardizes critical adult education programs in New Mexico, which stand to lose more than $4.7 million in support. These funds are essential for GED programs, English language proficiency classes, literacy and math instruction, and workplace readiness training. By providing adults with opportunities to join the workforce, continue their education, and improve their quality of life, these programs strengthen entire communities. Just last year, Doña Ana Community College enrolled 1,431 students in its adult education program, and last month alone, nearly 100 students graduated with their GED. Cutting these investments threatens to set back thousands of New Mexicans who are working to build a better future for themselves and their families.

    Citing these devastating consequences to the education and well-being of New Mexico students, the lawmakers conclude, “Your illegal freeze threatens to force staff layoffs, increase class sizes, and cut student services at schools across New Mexico. Every teacher let go, every tutor lost, and every child left behind is a direct consequence of this reckless decision. New Mexico’s educators and students have always done more with less. Diverting funds meant for our children in unconscionable and schools deserve better. We call on you to do your constitutional duty and release these funds without delay.”

    Public officials across the country have raised strong concerns about the freeze in funding. Earlier this month, New Mexico Attorney General Raúl Torrez joined 21 states across the country to sue the Trump Administration for withholding the education funds.

    Read the full text of the letter here and below:

    President Trump:

    We write to demand the immediate release of the nearly $7 billion in federal education funding your administration is unlawfully withholding. Your actions jeopardize New Mexico’s students, educators, and schools, and directly violate the U.S. Constitution’s Appropriations Clause, which grants Congress the power to control public funds.

    You personally signed these funds into law as part of the FY 2025 Full-Year Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act on March 15, 2025. Then, on June 30th, you informed state and local education agencies that you are withholding these critical funds indefinitely. Withholding these funds beyond the end of the fiscal year would violate the Impoundment Control Act of 1974. Further, the law mandates that the president submit a formal message to Congress justifying any deferral of funds.

    For New Mexico, the funding freeze is devastating. It impacts programs that provide after-school care, English language instruction, and adult literacy classes, to name a few. Without these funds, schools cannot pay for teacher training, afterschool programs, adult literacy classes, or support multilingual learners. These dollars are not luxuries; they are essential investments in our children’s futures.

    The Nita M. Lowey 21st Century Community Learning Centers program supports afterschool programs that strengthen literacy, STEM skills, mental health, and violence prevention. New Mexico was set to receive more than $9 million this year and now more than 10,000 children in New Mexico risk losing access entirely. In 2021, almost 90 percent of students who participated in a 21st Century Community Learning program saw better homework completion rates, increased classroom participation, and improved in-class behavior.

    New Mexico will also lose $5.8 million in funding for English Language Acquisition programs that support multilingual learners. These programs help English learners attain English proficiency, achieve high levels of academic success, and strengthen family engagement. The funding also improves educator training and provides essential resources to support students both inside and outside the classroom. In a state where so many students come from diverse linguistic backgrounds, this funding is vital to helping students thrive and supporting their families.

    Additionally, the funding freeze jeopardizes critical adult education programs in New Mexico, which stand to lose more than $4.7 million in support. These funds are essential for GED programs, English language proficiency classes, literacy and math instruction, and workplace readiness training. By providing adults with opportunities to join the workforce, continue their education, and improve their quality of life, these programs strengthen entire communities. Just last year, Doña Ana Community College enrolled 1,431 students in its adult education program, and last month alone, nearly 100 students graduated with their GED. Cutting these investments threatens to set back thousands of New Mexicans who are working to build a better future for themselves and their families.

    Your illegal freeze threatens to force staff layoffs, increase class sizes, and cut student services at schools across New Mexico. Every teacher let go, every tutor lost, and every child left behind is a direct consequence of this reckless decision. New Mexico’s educators and students have always done more with less. Diverting funds meant for our children in unconscionable and schools deserve better.

    We call on you to do your constitutional duty and release these funds without delay.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Marat Khusnullin: The new building for counselors in Artek is 70% ready

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – Government of the Russian Federation –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Roofing work has been completed in the camp counselors’ accommodation building, which is being built on the territory of the Solnechny camp of the Artek International Children’s Center in Crimea. This was reported by Deputy Prime Minister Marat Khusnullin.

    “The International Children’s Center “Artek” is a place where true friendship is born and strengthened, where children from all over the country and the world learn mutual understanding, trust and joint creativity. The construction of a modern building for the teaching staff of the camp “Solnechny” is another step towards creating high-quality conditions for those who inspire and guide the younger generation. The new building with an area of over 12 thousand square meters is designed for 400 people. It will provide comfortable conditions for the employees to live and relax: living rooms, coworking spaces, universal classrooms, recreation areas and all the necessary utility rooms. The roof has already been installed at the facility, the facade work and the installation of utility networks for the facility are nearing completion. The facility is over 70% complete. More than 130 specialists are working at the construction site,” said Marat Khusnullin.

    In addition, work is actively underway to install internal engineering systems, and finish the rooms and corridors. Also, as part of the project, work is being carried out to install a new block-modular boiler house with a capacity of 18 MW.

    “The camp counselor’s building is being built using modular technology. The modules were delivered to the construction site with finished living rooms and bathrooms. Currently, work on installing engineering protection against landslide processes is also nearing completion on the site, and landscaping work has begun. The construction of the building is planned to be completed by the end of 2025,” noted Karen Oganesyan, General Director of the Unified Customer Production and Consulting Company.

    By the end of 2025, it is also planned to complete the construction of the Center for Innovative Educational Technologies, which is designed for 1.2 thousand students. In addition to classrooms, there will be art and rehearsal halls, an amphitheater, modern workshops, a universal hall for 700 seats and much more.

    The construction and reconstruction of capital construction projects of the International Children’s Center “Artek” are carried out within the framework of the comprehensive state program “Construction”, supervised by the Ministry of Construction.

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Coroner’s inquest will review death of Jeremy Charles Myrhaug

    The circumstances surrounding the death of Jeremy Charles Myrhaug will be reviewed during a coroner’s inquest, scheduled for Monday, Sept. 8 until Friday, Sept. 19, 2025.

    The inquest will be held at the Burnaby Coroners’ Court (20th floor, 4720 Kingsway, Metrotower II, Metrotown, Burnaby), starting at 9:30 a.m. on Monday, Sept. 8.

    On Jan. 8, 2020, Jeremy Charles Myrhaug’s death was reported to the BC Coroners Service. It followed events involving members of the Salmon Arm Royal Canadian Mounted Police. Jeremy Charles Myrhaug was 40 years old at the time of his death.

    Under Section 18(2) of the Coroners Act, inquests are mandatory for any deaths that occur while a person was detained by or in the custody of a peace officer.

    A coroner’s inquest is a non-fault-finding public inquiry that serves three primary functions:

    • to determine the facts related to a death, including the identity of the deceased and how, when, where and by what means the individual came to their death, as well as a classification for the death;
    • to make recommendations, where appropriate and supported by evidence, to prevent deaths in similar circumstances; and
    • to ensure public confidence that the circumstances surrounding the death of an individual will not be overlooked, concealed or ignored.

    Presiding coroner John Knox and a jury of five people will hear evidence from witnesses under oath to determine the facts surrounding this death. The jury will have the opportunity to make recommendations, as outlined above, though the jury must not make any finding of legal responsibility or express any conclusion of law.

    Anyone attending the inquest, including media, is prohibited from broadcasting and publishing inquest proceedings, including over social media. Supreme Court-accredited media are permitted to record the proceeding solely for the accuracy of their notes; the recording is not to be broadcast in any form. Accredited media members must provide proof to the sheriff and always visibly display their accreditation when they are recording or using electronic devices in court. Recording for any other purpose, or by anyone without appropriate accreditation, is strictly prohibited. 

    Learn More:

    For more information on inquests, visit: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/life-events/death/coroners-service/inquest-schedule-jury-findings-verdicts

    To learn about the BC Coroners Service, visit: http://www.gov.bc.ca/coroners/

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: AG Brown files a lawsuit against Fidelity Information Services to protect the personal data of people who apply for or receive food assistance benefits

    Source: Washington State News

    SEATTLE – Attorney General Nick Brown today filed a breach of contract lawsuit against Fidelity Information Services (FIS) to block the company from illegally disclosing the private, personal data of more than one million Washington residents who receive or applied for food assistance benefits to the federal government for its deportation efforts.

    Since 2015, FIS has served as the contractor for Washington’s Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) to deliver benefit payments to recipients. DSHS administers food assistance programs including the federally funded Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and the state-funded Food Assistance Program (FAP). FAP provides food benefits to people who would be eligible for SNAP but are excluded from the federal program because of their immigration status.

    “People who need food assistance for themselves and their families should be able to trust that their data will be protected and kept private,” Brown said. “If a contractor fails to uphold the terms they’ve agreed to, we will hold them accountable under the law.”

    Washington law requires that the information of public benefits applicants and recipients be protected from unauthorized disclosure or improper use. Additionally, the contract with FIS requires the company to get DSHS’s express written consent before disclosing this information and to follow DSHS policies and rules protecting recipients’ information.

    Nevertheless, FIS informed DSHS on May 9 that it intended to turn over the personal data of SNAP cardholders and data about transactions to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). That came in the wake of guidance from USDA incorrectly claiming it could use federal food benefits law to obtain SNAP data directly from contractors, rather than state agencies, to use for the Trump administration’s immigration enforcement efforts.

    DSHS told FIS on May 14 that the agency does not consent to the disclosure of confidential information to USDA, and FIS initially pledged that it would refrain from sharing the data until authorized. But since then, as USDA has continued its efforts to collect personal data of SNAP recipients, FIS failed to respond to repeated requests from DSHS asking for confirmation that it would not turn over any data without DSHS’s express consent.

    In the complaint, filed in Thurston County Superior Court, Brown argues that DSHS is entitled to a court order blocking FIS from disclosing confidential information to USDA and a declaration that unauthorized disclosure would constitute a breach of contract. The complaint also asks the court to determine that any unauthorized disclosure of confidential and personally identifiable information would violate the Washington Consumer Protection Act and the Washington Law Against Discrimination.

    Brown is asking the court to order FIS not to disclose any confidential information to any third party without the express written consent of DSHS.

    A copy of the complaint is available here.

    -30-

    Washington’s Attorney General serves the people and the state of Washington. As the state’s largest law firm, the Attorney General’s Office provides legal representation to every state agency, board, and commission in Washington. Additionally, the Office serves the people directly by enforcing consumer protection, civil rights, and environmental protection laws. The Office also prosecutes elder abuse, Medicaid fraud, and handles sexually violent predator cases in 38 of Washington’s 39 counties. Visit www.atg.wa.gov to learn more.

    Media Contact:

    Email: press@atg.wa.gov

    Phone: (360) 753-2727

    General contacts: Click here

    Media Resource Guide & Attorney General’s Office FAQ

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Criminal Illegal Alien Charged for Attempting to Stab ICE Officers and Detainees at 26 Federal Plaza Facility in New York City

    Source: US Department of Homeland Security

    Violent illegal alien was released in the United States under President Biden

    WASHINGTON – The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) today released the following statement after the U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York announced federal charges against Bass Ndiaye—an illegal alien from Senegal—for assaulting U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers and other detainees with a deadly and dangerous weapon.  

    ICE arrested Ndiaye on July 17, 2025, and took him to the 26 Federal Plaza immigration processing center in New York City, New York. On July 18, while awaiting processing at 26 Federal Plaza, Ndiaye took a pair of scissors and attempted to stab ICE officers. He also attempted to injure approximately one dozen other detainees. Our brave ICE law enforcement successfully disarmed Ndiaye and saved the other detainees.  

    “ICE arrested Bass Ndiaye, an illegal alien from Senegal, who attempted to stab law enforcement officers and more than a dozen other detainees. This criminal illegal alien who was released into the country under President Biden will face justice for his violent crimes.” said Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin. “Our ICE law enforcement is facing an 830% increase in assaults against them. Secretary Noem stands with the brave men and women of law enforcement as they risk their lives to remove criminal illegal aliens and protect Americans.”

    Ndiaye was arrested on October 22, 2023, by Border Patrol at the southern border and then released into the country by the Biden administration. 

    Ndiaye has been charged with one count of assaulting an officer of the U.S. using a deadly or dangerous weapon, which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison.

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congresswoman Torres FY26 Community Projects $21 Million to California’s 35th Congressional District

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Norma Torres (35th District of California)

    July 24, 2025

    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representative Norma J. Torres (CA-35) announced the inclusion of 15 Community Project Funding requests in the House Appropriations Committee funding bills for Fiscal Year 2026. The bills including these projects have all been considered at the subcommittee level, and most have passed through the full Appropriations Committee and now advance to the House floor for consideration.  If fully funded, these locally driven proposals would bring more than $21,772,000 in federal resources directly to communities across California’s 35th Congressional District.

    “As a senior Member of the House Appropriations Committee, I am proud to advocate for strategic federal investments that reflect the real needs of our region—from clean water and safer streets to affordable housing and economic development,” said Congresswoman Torres. “Every one of these projects was developed in close partnership with our local governments, schools, and nonprofits. They will improve public safety, support small businesses, enhance critical infrastructure, and uplift the people of the Inland Empire.”

    Project Include: 

    Autism Society Inland Empire’s Law Enforcement Training Initiative – $1,031,000

    Provides training and resources for law enforcement to foster safer interactions with community members with a condition or disability that may impact communication or require additional accommodations or awareness during an interaction in several cities in the 35th District.

    Chino Basin Advanced Water Purification Demonstration Facility – $1,092,000

    First-of-its-kind water purification facility to increase water quality and long-term resilience.

    Chino Benson Emergency Power Generator Project – $1,092,000

    Backup power to ensure continued water delivery in Chino during outages.

    Chino Valley Innovation Center – $2,000,000

    Establishes a local entrepreneurship hub to support business growth and job creation.

    City of Montclair Fire Department Tractor Tiller Truck – $850,000

    Funds a high-maneuverability fire truck to enhance emergency response.

    City of Upland Campus Avenue Storm Drain Improvement – $1,092,000

    Upgrades storm drain system to prevent flooding and protect homes, schools, and businesses.

    Cypress Grove Supportive Housing – $2,000,000

    Supports the construction of permanent housing to address local homelessness in Fontana.

    Eastvale Library and Innovation Center – $3,100,000

    Expands access to information, education, and community programming.

    Los Serranos Flood Protection Project – $1,092,000

    Installs storm drain system to mitigate flood risk in Chino Hills.

    Merrill Center Crisis Stabilization Unit Rehabilitation – $1,100,000

    Rehabilitates critical behavioral health facilities to support those in crisis in Ontario.

    Monte Vista Water District Pipeline Replacement Project –$1,092,000

    Replaces aging pipeline infrastructure in Montclair to prevent leaks and improve water flow.

    Ontario-Montclair School District’s Safer Schools Initiative – $1,031,000

    Improves school safety infrastructure in collaboration with local law enforcement.

    Ontario Section 219 Recycled Water Expansion Project – $3,200,000

    Constructs 13 miles of new infrastructure to deliver recycled water to public landscapes.

    The Hub on Holt: Space for Entrepreneurship, Creation, and Innovation – $1,000,000

    Revitalizes a blighted corridor to support small businesses and community engagement in Ontario.

    Vista Verde II Affordable Housing Development – $1,000,000

    Adds affordable housing and promotes economic growth through construction jobs in Ontario.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Texas Man Pleads Guilty for Filing False Tax Returns

    Source: US State Government of Utah

    A Texas man pleaded guilty today to filing false tax returns with the IRS before U.S. Magistrate Judge Susan Hightower for the Western District of Texas. The plea must be accepted by a U.S. district court judge.

    The following is according to court documents and statements made in court: Jason Smith, of Kerrville, was an independent distributor for a multi-level marketing (MLM) business that sold, among other things, essential oils and aromatherapy products. Smith created an entity, Live Young Now International Ministries (Live Young Now), and directed the MLM business to pay his compensation to that entity. Smith maintained control over Live Young Now’s bank accounts and used those funds to pay for personal expenses including his mortgage, automobiles, a motorcycle, a tractor, and an airplane. Although he received tax forms from the MLM business reporting his compensation as over $1,400,000 each year for both 2018 and 2019, Smith did not provide those forms to his return preparer and falsely told his return preparer that he did not have any such forms. This caused Smith’s return preparer to prepare false tax returns that omitted more than $2.9 million in income that Smith had earned from the MLM and instead reported that Smith earned only $43 from it. Instead, Smith reported earning only $43 from the MLM. In total, Smith caused a tax loss to the IRS over $1,500,000.

    Smith is scheduled to be sentenced at a later date. He faces a maximum penalty of three years in prison for each count of filing a false tax return, as well as a period of supervised release, restitution, and monetary penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    Deputy Assistant Attorney General Karen E. Kelly of the Justice Department’s Tax Division made the announcement.

    IRS Criminal Investigation is investigating the case.

    Trial Attorneys Parker Tobin and Daniel Lipkowitz of the Tax Division are prosecuting the case.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Texas Man Pleads Guilty for Filing False Tax Returns

    Source: United States Attorneys General

    A Texas man pleaded guilty today to filing false tax returns with the IRS before U.S. Magistrate Judge Susan Hightower for the Western District of Texas. The plea must be accepted by a U.S. district court judge.

    The following is according to court documents and statements made in court: Jason Smith, of Kerrville, was an independent distributor for a multi-level marketing (MLM) business that sold, among other things, essential oils and aromatherapy products. Smith created an entity, Live Young Now International Ministries (Live Young Now), and directed the MLM business to pay his compensation to that entity. Smith maintained control over Live Young Now’s bank accounts and used those funds to pay for personal expenses including his mortgage, automobiles, a motorcycle, a tractor, and an airplane. Although he received tax forms from the MLM business reporting his compensation as over $1,400,000 each year for both 2018 and 2019, Smith did not provide those forms to his return preparer and falsely told his return preparer that he did not have any such forms. This caused Smith’s return preparer to prepare false tax returns that omitted more than $2.9 million in income that Smith had earned from the MLM and instead reported that Smith earned only $43 from it. Instead, Smith reported earning only $43 from the MLM. In total, Smith caused a tax loss to the IRS over $1,500,000.

    Smith is scheduled to be sentenced at a later date. He faces a maximum penalty of three years in prison for each count of filing a false tax return, as well as a period of supervised release, restitution, and monetary penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    Deputy Assistant Attorney General Karen E. Kelly of the Justice Department’s Tax Division made the announcement.

    IRS Criminal Investigation is investigating the case.

    Trial Attorneys Parker Tobin and Daniel Lipkowitz of the Tax Division are prosecuting the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Texas Man Pleads Guilty for Filing False Tax Returns

    Source: United States Attorneys General

    A Texas man pleaded guilty today to filing false tax returns with the IRS before U.S. Magistrate Judge Susan Hightower for the Western District of Texas. The plea must be accepted by a U.S. district court judge.

    The following is according to court documents and statements made in court: Jason Smith, of Kerrville, was an independent distributor for a multi-level marketing (MLM) business that sold, among other things, essential oils and aromatherapy products. Smith created an entity, Live Young Now International Ministries (Live Young Now), and directed the MLM business to pay his compensation to that entity. Smith maintained control over Live Young Now’s bank accounts and used those funds to pay for personal expenses including his mortgage, automobiles, a motorcycle, a tractor, and an airplane. Although he received tax forms from the MLM business reporting his compensation as over $1,400,000 each year for both 2018 and 2019, Smith did not provide those forms to his return preparer and falsely told his return preparer that he did not have any such forms. This caused Smith’s return preparer to prepare false tax returns that omitted more than $2.9 million in income that Smith had earned from the MLM and instead reported that Smith earned only $43 from it. Instead, Smith reported earning only $43 from the MLM. In total, Smith caused a tax loss to the IRS over $1,500,000.

    Smith is scheduled to be sentenced at a later date. He faces a maximum penalty of three years in prison for each count of filing a false tax return, as well as a period of supervised release, restitution, and monetary penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    Deputy Assistant Attorney General Karen E. Kelly of the Justice Department’s Tax Division made the announcement.

    IRS Criminal Investigation is investigating the case.

    Trial Attorneys Parker Tobin and Daniel Lipkowitz of the Tax Division are prosecuting the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Malliotakis Applauds DOJ Lawsuit to Hold NYC Accountable for Dangerous Sanctuary Policies

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis (NY-11)

    July 24, 2025

    (NEW YORK, NY) – Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis issued the following statement regarding the Department of Justice’s lawsuit against New York City over its sanctuary city policies.

     

    “I thank Attorney General Pam Bondi and the Department of Justice for taking action to hold New York City accountable for its dangerous sanctuary policies, which have enabled violent crime in our streets, cost innocent lives, and resulted in billions of taxpayer dollars coming out of New Yorkers’ pockets. 

     

    Restoring public safety in our communities starts with New York City cooperating with ICE’s detainer requests. Failing to do so keeps dangerous criminals on our streets. I filed a Freedom of Information Law request that revealed just how far-reaching the consequences of these failed policies have become. The data showed that over 16,000 crimes were committed by thousands of perpetrators who were residing at hotels and shelters at taxpayer expense. The facts speak for themselves: sanctuary policies aren’t just misguided they are costly and dangerous.

     

    I look forward to continuing to work with the Department of Justice and the Trump Administration to enforce immigration laws, protect our communities, and hold city officials accountable for putting politics before public safety.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: FBI and Law Enforcement Partners Arrest Members of the Mexican Mafia Prison Gang

    Source: US FBI

    Today, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) San Diego Field Office–Imperial County Resident Agency, FBI Los Angeles, FBI SWAT, ATF Los Angeles–El Centro Office, the Imperial County Sheriff’s Office (ICSO) Border Crime Suppression Team, the United States Marshals Service, and other law enforcement partners conducted court-authorized law enforcement activity related to an ongoing investigation involving the Mexican Mafia criminal enterprise. 

    “Removing violent criminals from our streets and seizing their resources is a top priority for the FBI and paramount to our mission of protecting the American people,” said Special Agent in Charge Mark Dargis of the San Diego Field Office. “Today’s successful operation is another example of what we can accomplish by working closely with our law enforcement partners on the shared goal of safer communities.” 

    The FBI and its law enforcement partners arrested a total of five individuals believed to be associated with the Mexican Mafia prison gang and seized several firearms, illicit proceeds, distribution amounts of methamphetamine, and electronics. All subjects were indicted for allegedly operating an illegal gambling establishment, money laundering, and/or importation of methamphetamine. 

    Since the start of this extensive investigation, the FBI, ATF, ICSO, and other law enforcement partner agencies have executed a number of search warrants and seized U.S. currency, drugs, firearms, electronics, and gambling machines. So far, 16 subjects associated with the Mexican Mafia have been indicted and or arrested on federal charges, including alleged drug trafficking and importation, weapons offenses, money laundering, and operating an illegal gambling business. 

    FBI San Diego will continue to collaborate with its law enforcement partners and U.S. Attorney’s Office to apprehend individuals tied to violent criminal organizations and bring them to justice. Learn more about the FBI’s violent crime program. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Landmark Bancorp, Inc. Announces Second Quarter 2025 Earnings per Share of $0.75 Declares Cash Dividend of $0.21 per Share

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Manhattan, KS, July 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Landmark Bancorp, Inc. (“Landmark”; Nasdaq: LARK) reported diluted earnings per share of $0.75 for the second quarter of 2025, compared to $0.81 per share in the first quarter of 2025 and $0.52 per share in the same quarter of the prior year. Net earnings for the second quarter totaled $4.4 million, compared to $4.7 million in the prior quarter and $3.0 million in the second quarter of 2024. For the three months ended June 30, 2025, the return on average assets was 1.11%, the return on average equity was 12.25% and the efficiency ratio(1) was 62.8%.

    For the first six months of 2025, diluted earnings per share totaled $1.56 compared to $1.01 during the same period in 2024. Net earnings for the first six months of 2025 totaled $9.1 million, compared to $5.8 million in the first six months of 2024. For the six months ended June 30, 2025, the return on average assets was 1.16%, the return on average equity was 12.96%, and the efficiency ratio(1) was 63.4%.

    Second Quarter 2025 Performance Highlights

      ● Total gross loans increased in the second quarter 2025 by $42.9 million, an annualized increase of 16.0% over the prior quarter.
      ● The net interest margin improved 7 basis points to 3.83% compared to 3.76% in prior quarter and 3.25% in the second quarter of the prior year.
      ● Net interest income increased $564,000, or 4.3%, in the second quarter of 2025, and increased $2.7 million, or 24.7%, from the same quarter of the prior year.
      ● Deposits increased $23.4 million, or 1.9%, from the same quarter of the prior year, and declined $61.9 million from the prior quarter.
      ● Total assets increased $46.7 million, or 11.9% annualized, compared to the prior quarter.
      ● Credit quality remained stable with net charge-offs totaling $40,000 in the second quarter.
      ● Stockholders’ equity increased $5.7 million, and the ratio of equity to assets increased to 9.13% in the second quarter.
         

    In making this announcement, Abby Wendel, President and Chief Executive Officer of Landmark, commented, “I am pleased to report continued strong net earnings this quarter driven by growth in loans and net interest income. Loan demand remained strong in the second quarter of 2025, especially for commercial, commercial real estate and residential mortgage loans as total gross loans increased by $42.9 million or 16.0% annualized. Despite a decrease in total deposits in the second quarter, we have sustained year-over-year growth of $23.4 million, or 1.9%. The strong growth in our loan portfolio led to net interest income growth of 24.7% over the previous year and continued expansion in our net interest margin, which increased to 3.83%. Non-interest income increased by 8.0% this quarter compared to the prior quarter and expenses were well controlled. Credit quality remained solid overall with minimal net charge-offs. A provision for credit losses of $1.0 million was recorded this quarter to reflect the growth in loans and higher reserves against individually evaluated loans on non-accrual. Our strong performance is a direct result of the daily commitment and effort our associates put into making Landmark the top choice for both customers and investors.”

    Landmark’s Board of Directors declared a cash dividend of $0.21 per share, to be paid August 27, 2025, to common stockholders of record as of the close of business on August 13, 2025.

    Management will host a conference call to discuss the Company’s financial results at 10:00 a.m. (Central time) on Friday, July 25, 2025. Investors may participate via telephone by dialing (833) 470-1428 and using access code 703723. A replay of the call will be available through August 1, 2025, by dialing (855) 762-8306 and using access code 160217.

    (1) Non-GAAP financial measure. See the “Non-GAAP Financial Measures” section of this press release for a reconciliation. 

    Net Interest Income

    Net interest income in the second quarter of 2025 totaled $13.7 million representing an increase of $564,000, or 4.3%, compared to the previous quarter and an increase of $2.7 million, or 24.7%, in the same quarter of the prior year. The increase in net interest income this quarter was driven by higher interest income on loans and lower interest expense on deposits. The net interest margin increased to 3.83% during the second quarter from 3.76% during the prior quarter and 3.25% in the second quarter of the prior year. Compared to the previous quarter, interest income on loans increased $791,000 to $17.2 million, due to higher average balances combined with higher yields on loans. Average loan balances increased $33.3 million, while the average tax-equivalent yield on the loan portfolio increased 3 basis points to 6.37%. Interest on investment securities declined slightly due to lower balances, partially offset by higher earning rates. Compared to the first quarter of 2025, interest on deposits decreased $92,000, or 1.8%, due to lower rates and balances. Interest on other borrowed funds increased by $284,000, due to higher average balances. The average rate on interest-bearing deposits decreased 3 basis points to 2.14% while the average rate on other borrowed funds decreased 11 basis points to 4.98% in the second quarter of 2025.

    Non-Interest Income

    Non-interest income totaled $3.6 million for the second quarter of 2025, an increase of $268,000 from the previous quarter. The increase in non-interest income during the second quarter of 2025 was primarily due to increases of $178,000 in gains on sales of loans and $88,000 in fees and service charges.

    Non-Interest Expense

    During the second quarter of 2025, non-interest expense totaled $11.0 million, an increase of $200,000, or 1.9%, compared to the prior quarter. The increase in non-interest expense was primarily due to increases of $233,000 in data processing expense and $101,000 in other non-interest expense. The increase in data processing expense resulted from the implementation of additional services added and account growth, while the increase in other non-interest expense was primarily due to higher losses at our captive insurance subsidiary. Partially offsetting those increases was a decline in professional fees related to lower consulting and legal expenses during the quarter.

    Income Tax Expense

    Landmark recorded income tax expense of $944,000 in the second quarter of 2025 compared to $1.0 million in the first quarter of 2025. The effective tax rate was 17.7% in the second quarter of 2025 compared to 17.8% in the first quarter of 2025.

    Balance Sheet Highlights

    As of June 30, 2025, gross loans totaled $1.1 billion, an increase of $42.9 million, or 16.0% annualized since March 31, 2025. During the quarter, loan growth was primarily comprised of one-to-four family residential real estate (growth of $21.5 million), commercial (growth of $13.4 million) and commercial real estate (growth of $10.9 million). Investment securities available-for-sale decreased $3.6 million during the second quarter of 2025 mainly due to maturities. Pre-tax unrealized net losses on the investment securities portfolio decreased from $17.1 million at March 31, 2025, to $13.9 million at June 30, 2025, mainly due to lower market rates for these securities at June 30, 2025.

    Period end deposit balances decreased $61.9 million to $1.3 billion at June 30, 2025. The decline in deposits was driven by decreases in money market and checking accounts (decrease of $50.5 million), non-interest-bearing demand deposits (decrease of $16.5 million) and savings (decrease of $1.1 million), partially offset by an increase in certificates of deposit (increase of $6.2 million). The decrease in deposits was primarily driven by a decline in brokered deposits as well as lower core deposit balances at June 30, 2025. Total borrowings increased $105.9 million during the second quarter 2025 to fund asset growth and to offset lower deposit balances. At June 30, 2025, the loan to deposits ratio was 86.6% compared to 79.5% in the prior quarter.

    Stockholders’ equity increased to $148.4 million (book value of $25.66 per share) as of June 30, 2025, from $142.7 million (book value of $24.69 per share) as of March 31, 2025. The increase in stockholders’ equity was due mainly to a decrease in accumulated other comprehensive losses (lower unrealized net losses on investment securities) along with net earnings during the quarter. The ratio of equity to total assets increased to 9.13% on June 30, 2025, from 9.04% on March 31, 2025.

    The allowance for credit losses totaled $13.8 million, or 1.23% of total gross loans on June 30, 2025, compared to $12.8 million, or 1.19% of total gross loans on March 31, 2025. Net loan charge-offs totaled $40,000 in the second quarter of 2025, compared to $23,000 during the first quarter of 2025 and net recoveries of $52,000 in the second quarter of the prior year. A provision for credit losses on loans of $1.0 million was recorded in the second quarter of 2025 compared to no provision in the first quarter of 2025.

    Non-performing loans totaled $17.0 million, or 1.52% of gross loans, at June 30, 2025, compared to $13.3 million, or 1.24% of gross loans, at March 31, 2025. Loans 30-89 days delinquent totaled $4.3 million, or 0.39% of gross loans, as of June 30, 2025, compared to $10.0 million, or 0.93% of gross loans, as of March 31, 2025.

    About Landmark

    Landmark Bancorp, Inc., the holding company for Landmark National Bank, is listed on the Nasdaq Global Market under the symbol “LARK.” Headquartered in Manhattan, Kansas, Landmark National Bank is a community banking organization dedicated to providing quality financial and banking services. Landmark National Bank has 29 locations in 23 communities across Kansas: Manhattan (2), Auburn, Dodge City (2), Fort Scott (2), Garden City, Great Bend (2), Hoisington, Iola, Junction City, La Crosse, Lawrence (2), Lenexa, Louisburg, Mound City, Osage City, Osawatomie, Overland Park, Paola, Pittsburg, Prairie Village, Topeka (2), Wamego and Wellsville, Kansas. Visit www.banklandmark.com for more information.

    Contact:
    Mark A. Herpich
    Chief Financial Officer
    (785) 565-2000

    Special Note Concerning Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release may contain forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 with respect to the financial condition, results of operations, plans, objectives, future performance and business of Landmark. Forward-looking statements, which may be based upon beliefs, expectations and assumptions of our management and on information currently available to management, are generally identifiable by the use of words such as “believe,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “plan,” “intend,” “estimate,” “may,” “will,” “would,” “could,” “should” or other similar expressions. Additionally, all statements in this press release, including forward-looking statements, speak only as of the date they are made, and Landmark undertakes no obligation to update any statement in light of new information or future events. A number of factors, many of which are beyond our ability to control or predict, could cause actual results to differ materially from those in our forward-looking statements. These factors include, among others, the following: (i) the strength of the local, state, national and international economies and financial markets, including the effects of inflationary pressures and future monetary policies of the Federal Reserve in response thereto; (ii) effects on the U.S. economy resulting from the threat or implementation of new, or changes to, existing policies, regulations, regulatory and other governmental agencies and executive orders, including tariffs, immigration policy, regulatory and other governmental agencies, DEI and ESG initiatives, consumer protection, foreign policy and tax regulations; ; (iii) changes in interest rates and prepayment rates of our assets; (iv) increased competition in the financial services sector and the inability to attract new customers, including from non-bank competitors such as credit unions and “fintech” companies; (v) timely development and acceptance of new products and services; (vi) rapid and expensive technological changes implemented by us and other parties in the financial services industry, including third-party vendors, which may be more difficult to implement or more expensive than anticipated or which may have unforeseen consequence to us and our customers, including the development and implementation of tools incorporating artificial intelligence; (vii) our risk management framework; (viii) interruptions in information technology and telecommunications systems and third-party services; (ix) the economic effects of severe weather, natural disasters, widespread disease or pandemics, or other external events; (x) the loss of key executives or employees; (xi) changes in consumer spending; (xii) integration of acquired businesses; (xiii) the commencement, cost and outcome of litigation and other legal proceedings and regulatory actions against us or to which the Company may become subject; (xiv) changes in accounting policies and practices, such as the implementation of the current expected credit losses accounting standard; (xv) the economic impact of past and any future terrorist attacks, acts of war, including ongoing conflicts in the Middle East and the Russian invasion of Ukraine, or threats thereof, and the response of the United States to any such threats and attacks; (xvi) the ability to manage credit risk, forecast loan losses and maintain an adequate allowance for loan losses; (xvii) fluctuations in the value of securities held in our securities portfolio; (xviii) concentrations within our loan portfolio and large loans to certain borrowers (including commercial real estate loans); (xix) the concentration of large deposits from certain clients who have balances above current FDIC insurance limits and may withdraw deposits to diversify their exposure; (xx) the level of non-performing assets on our balance sheets; (xxi) the ability to raise additional capital; (xxii) the occurrence of fraudulent activity, breaches or failures of our or our third-party vendors’ information security controls or cybersecurity-related incidents, including as a result of sophisticated attacks using artificial intelligence and similar tools or as a result of insider fraud; (xxiii) declines in real estate values; (xxiv) the effects of fraud on the part of our employees, customers, vendors or counterparties; (xxv) the Company’s success at managing and responding to the risks involved in the foregoing items; and (xxvi) any other risks described in the “Risk Factors” sections of reports filed by Landmark with the Securities and Exchange Commission. These risks and uncertainties should be considered in evaluating forward-looking statements, and undue reliance should not be placed on such statements. Additional information concerning Landmark and its business, including additional risk factors that could materially affect Landmark’s financial results, is included in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

    LANDMARK BANCORP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
    Consolidated Balance Sheets (unaudited)

        June 30,     March 31,     December 31,     September 30,     June 30,  
    (Dollars in thousands)   2025     2025     2024     2024     2024  
    Assets                              
    Cash and cash equivalents   $ 25,038     $ 21,881     $ 20,275     $ 21,211     $ 23,889  
    Interest-bearing deposits at other banks     3,463       3,973       4,110       4,363       4,881  
    Investment securities available-for-sale, at fair value:                                        
    U.S. treasury securities     51,624       58,424       64,458       83,753       89,325  
    Municipal obligations, tax exempt     100,802       101,812       107,128       112,126       114,047  
    Municipal obligations, taxable     75,037       70,614       71,715       75,129       74,588  
    Agency mortgage-backed securities     124,979       125,142       129,211       140,004       142,499  
    Total investment securities available-for-sale     352,442       355,992       372,512       411,012       420,459  
    Investment securities held-to-maturity     3,730       3,701       3,672       3,643       3,613  
    Bank stocks, at cost     10,946       6,225       6,618       7,894       9,647  
    Loans:                                        
    One-to-four family residential real estate     377,133       355,632       352,209       344,380       332,090  
    Construction and land     26,373       28,645       25,328       23,454       30,480  
    Commercial real estate     370,455       359,579       345,159       324,016       318,850  
    Commercial     204,303       190,881       192,325       181,652       178,876  
    Agriculture     100,348       101,808       100,562       91,986       84,523  
    Municipal     6,938       7,082       7,091       7,098       6,556  
    Consumer     32,234       31,297       29,679       29,263       29,200  
    Total gross loans     1,117,784       1,074,924       1,052,353       1,001,849       980,575  
    Net deferred loan (fees) costs and loans in process     (615 )     (426 )     (307 )     (63 )     (583 )
    Allowance for credit losses     (13,762 )     (12,802 )     (12,825 )     (11,544 )     (10,903 )
    Loans, net     1,103,407       1,061,696       1,039,221       990,242       969,089  
    Loans held for sale, at fair value     4,773       2,997       3,420       3,250       2,513  
    Bank owned life insurance     39,607       39,329       39,056       39,176       38,826  
    Premises and equipment, net     19,654       19,886       20,220       20,976       20,986  
    Goodwill     32,377       32,377       32,377       32,377       32,377  
    Other intangible assets, net     2,275       2,426       2,578       2,729       2,900  
    Mortgage servicing rights     3,082       3,045       3,061       3,041       2,997  
    Real estate owned, net     167       167       167       428       428  
    Other assets     23,904       24,894       26,855       23,309       28,149  
    Total assets   $ 1,624,865     $ 1,578,589     $ 1,574,142     $ 1,563,651     $ 1,560,754  
                                             
    Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity                                        
    Liabilities:                                        
    Deposits:                                        
    Non-interest-bearing demand     351,993       368,480       351,595       360,188       360,631  
    Money market and checking     562,919       613,459       636,963       565,629       546,385  
    Savings     148,092       149,223       145,514       145,825       150,996  
    Certificates of deposit     210,897       204,660       194,694       203,860       192,470  
    Total deposits     1,273,901       1,335,822       1,328,766       1,275,502       1,250,482  
    FHLB and other borrowings     155,110       48,767       53,046       92,050       131,330  
    Subordinated debentures     21,651       21,651       21,651       21,651       21,651  
    Repurchase agreements     5,825       6,256       13,808       9,528       8,745  
    Accrued interest and other liabilities     20,002       23,442       20,656       25,229       20,292  
    Total liabilities     1,476,489       1,435,938       1,437,927       1,423,960       1,432,500  
    Stockholders’ equity:                                        
    Common stock     58       58       58       55       55  
    Additional paid-in capital     95,266       95,148       95,051       89,532       89,469  
    Retained earnings     63,612       60,422       56,934       60,549       57,774  
    Treasury stock, at cost     –       –       –       (396 )     (330 )
    Accumulated other comprehensive loss     (10,560 )     (12,977 )     (15,828 )     (10,049 )     (18,714 )
    Total stockholders’ equity     148,376       142,651       136,215       139,691       128,254  
    Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity   $ 1,624,865     $ 1,578,589     $ 1,574,142     $ 1,563,651     $ 1,560,754  


    LANDMARK BANCORP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
    Consolidated Statements of Earnings (unaudited)

        Three months ended,     Six months ended,  
        June 30,     March 31,     June 30,     June 30,     June 30,  
    (Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)   2025     2025     2024     2025     2024  
    Interest income:                                        
    Loans   $ 17,186     $ 16,395     $ 15,022     $ 33,581     $ 29,512  
    Investment securities:                                        
    Taxable     2,163       2,180       2,359       4,343       4,787  
    Tax-exempt     701       719       759       1,420       1,523  
    Interest-bearing deposits at banks     48       48       40       96       103  
    Total interest income     20,098       19,342       18,180       39,440       35,925  
    Interest expense:                                        
    Deposits     5,144       5,236       5,673       10,380       11,130  
    FHLB and other borrowings     861       565       1,027       1,426       2,049  
    Subordinated debentures     358       357       418       715       830  
    Repurchase agreements     52       65       88       117       195  
    Total interest expense     6,415       6,223       7,206       12,638       14,204  
    Net interest income     13,683       13,119       10,974       26,802       21,721  
    Provision for credit losses     1,000       –       –       1,000       300  
    Net interest income after provision for credit losses     12,683       13,119       10,974       25,802       21,421  
    Non-interest income:                                        
    Fees and service charges     2,476       2,388       2,691       4,864       5,152  
    Gains on sales of loans, net     740       562       648       1,302       1,160  
    Bank owned life insurance     278       272       248       550       493  
    Losses on sales of investment securities, net     –       (2 )     –       (2 )     –  
    Other     132       138       133       270       315  
    Total non-interest income     3,626       3,358       3,720       6,984       7,120  
    Non-interest expense:                                        
    Compensation and benefits     6,234       6,154       5,504       12,388       11,036  
    Occupancy and equipment     1,244       1,252       1,294       2,496       2,684  
    Data processing     629       396       492       1,025       973  
    Amortization of mortgage servicing rights and other intangibles     238       239       256       477       668  
    Professional fees     540       745       649       1,285       1,296  
    Valuation allowance on real estate held for sale     –       –       979       –       1,108  
    Other     2,076       1,975       1,921       4,051       3,881  
    Total non-interest expense     10,961       10,761       11,095       21,722       21,646  
    Earnings before income taxes     5,348       5,716       3,599       11,064       6,895  
    Income tax expense     944       1,015       587       1,959       1,105  
    Net earnings   $ 4,404     $ 4,701     $ 3,012     $ 9,105     $ 5,790  
                                             
    Net earnings per share (1)                                        
    Basic   $ 0.76     $ 0.81     $ 0.52     $ 1.58     $ 1.01  
    Diluted     0.75       0.81       0.52       1.56       1.01  
    Dividends per share (1)     0.21       0.21       0.20       0.42       0.40  
    Shares outstanding at end of period (1)     5,783,312       5,778,610       5,743,044       5,783,312       5,743,044  
    Weighted average common shares outstanding – basic (1)     5,782,555       5,777,593       5,745,310       5,780,930       5,744,381  
    Weighted average common shares outstanding – diluted (1)     5,840,923       5,814,650       5,748,053       5,827,844       5,748,332  
                                             
    Tax equivalent net interest income   $ 13,851     $ 13,291     $ 11,167     $ 27,142     $ 22,075  
                                             

    (1) Share and per share values at or for the periods ended June 30, 2024 have been adjusted to give effect to the 5% stock dividend paid during December 2024.


    LANDMARK BANCORP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
    Select Ratios and Other Data (unaudited)

        As of or for the     As of or for the  
        three months ended,     six months ended,  
        June 30,     March 31,     June 30,     June 30,     June 30,  
    (Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)   2025     2025     2024     2025     2024  
    Performance ratios:                                        
    Return on average assets (1)     1.11 %     1.21 %     0.78 %     1.16 %     0.75 %
    Return on average equity (1)     12.25 %     13.71 %     9.72 %     12.96 %     9.30 %
    Net interest margin (1)(2)     3.83 %     3.76 %     3.21 %     3.80 %     3.16 %
    Effective tax rate     17.7 %     17.8 %     16.3 %     17.7 %     16.0 %
    Efficiency ratio (3)     62.8 %     64.1 %     67.9 %     63.4 %     70.0 %
    Non-interest income to total income (3)     20.9 %     20.4 %     25.3 %     20.7 %     24.7 %
                                             
    Average balances:                                        
    Investment securities   $ 363,878     $ 377,845     $ 437,136     $ 370,823     $ 447,034  
    Loans     1,081,865       1,048,585       955,104       1,065,317       950,420  
    Assets     1,592,939       1,574,295       1,545,816       1,583,669       1,550,739  
    Interest-bearing deposits     965,214       979,787       936,237       972,460       935,827  
    FHLB and other borrowings     74,007       48,428       72,875       61,288       72,747  
    Subordinated debentures     21,651       21,651       21,651       21,651       21,651  
    Repurchase agreements     6,683       8,634       11,524       7,653       12,947  
    Stockholders’ equity   $ 144,151     $ 139,068     $ 124,624     $ 141,623     $ 125,235  
                                             
    Average tax equivalent yield/cost (1):                                        
    Investment securities     3.34 %     3.29 %     3.04 %     3.32 %     2.99 %
    Loans     6.37 %     6.34 %     6.33 %     6.36 %     6.25 %
    Total interest-bearing assets     5.60 %     5.53 %     5.29 %     5.56 %     5.20 %
    Interest-bearing deposits     2.14 %     2.17 %     2.44 %     2.15 %     2.39 %
    FHLB and other borrowings     4.67 %     4.73 %     5.67 %     4.69 %     5.66 %
    Subordinated debentures     6.63 %     6.69 %     7.76 %     6.66 %     7.71 %
    Repurchase agreements     3.12 %     3.05 %     3.07 %     3.08 %     3.03 %
    Total interest-bearing liabilities     2.41 %     2.38 %     2.78 %     2.40 %     2.74 %
                                             
    Capital ratios:                                        
    Equity to total assets     9.13 %     9.04 %     8.22 %                
    Tangible equity to tangible assets (3)     7.15 %     6.99 %     6.09 %                
    Book value per share   $ 25.66     $ 24.69     $ 22.33                  
    Tangible book value per share (3)   $ 19.66     $ 18.66     $ 16.19                  
                                             
    Rollforward of allowance for credit losses (loans):                                        
    Beginning balance   $ 12,802     $ 12,825     $ 10,851     $ 12,825     $ 10,608  
    Charge-offs     (103 )     (108 )     (119 )     (211 )     (260 )
    Recoveries     63       85       171       148       305  
    Provision for credit losses for loans     1,000       –       –       1,000       250  
    Ending balance   $ 13,762     $ 12,802     $ 10,903     $ 13,762     $ 10,903  
                                             
    Allowance for unfunded loan commitments   $ 150     $ 150     $ 300                  
                                             
    Non-performing assets:                                        
    Non-accrual loans   $ 16,984     $ 13,280     $ 5,007                  
    Accruing loans over 90 days past due     –       –       –                  
    Real estate owned     167       167       428                  
    Total non-performing assets   $ 17,151     $ 13,447     $ 5,435                  
                                             
    Loans 30-89 days delinquent   $ 4,321     $ 9,977     $ 1,872                  
                                             
    Other ratios:                                        
    Loans to deposits     86.62 %     79.48 %     77.50 %                
    Loans 30-89 days delinquent and still accruing to gross loans outstanding     0.39 %     0.93 %     0.19 %                
    Total non-performing loans to gross loans outstanding     1.52 %     1.24 %     0.51 %                
    Total non-performing assets to total assets     1.06 %     0.85 %     0.35 %                
    Allowance for credit losses to gross loans outstanding     1.23 %     1.19 %     1.11 %                
    Allowance for credit losses to total non-performing loans     81.03 %     96.40 %     217.76 %                
    Net loan charge-offs to average loans (1)     0.01 %     0.01 %     -0.02 %     0.01 %     -0.01 %
    (1 ) Information is annualized.
    (2 ) Net interest margin is presented on a fully tax equivalent basis, using a 21% federal tax rate.
    (3 ) Non-GAAP financial measures. See the “Non-GAAP Financial Measures” section of this press release for a reconciliation to the most comparable GAAP equivalent.
         

    LANDMARK BANCORP, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
    Non-GAAP Finacials Measures (unaudited)

        As of or for the     As of or for the  
        three months ended,     six months ended,  
        June 30,     March 31,     June 30,     June 30,     June 30,  
    (Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)   2025     2025     2024     2025     2024  
                                   
    Non-GAAP financial ratio reconciliation:                                        
    Total non-interest expense   $ 10,961     $ 10,761     $ 11,095     $ 21,722     $ 21,646  
    Less: foreclosure and real estate owned expense     49       (50 )     39       (1 )     (11 )
    Less: amortization of other intangibles     (151 )     (152 )     (171 )     (303 )     (341 )
    Less: valuation allowance on real estate held for sale     –       –       (979 )     –       (1,108 )
    Adjusted non-interest expense (A)     10,859       10,559       9,984       21,418       20,186  
                                             
    Net interest income (B)     13,683       13,119       10,974       26,802       21,721  
                                             
    Non-interest income     3,626       3,358       3,720       6,984       7,120  
    Less: losses on sales of investment securities, net     –       2       –       2       –  
    Less: gains on sales of premises and equipment and foreclosed assets     (9 )     –       –       (9 )     9  
    Adjusted non-interest income (C)   $ 3,617     $ 3,360     $ 3,720     $ 6,977     $ 7,129  
                                             
    Efficiency ratio (A/(B+C))     62.8 %     64.1 %     67.9 %     63.4 %     70.0 %
    Non-interest income to total income (C/(B+C))     20.9 %     20.4 %     25.3 %     20.7 %     24.7 %
                                             
    Total stockholders’ equity   $ 148,376     $ 142,651     $ 128,254                  
    Less: goodwill and other intangible assets     (34,652 )     (34,803 )     (35,277 )                
    Tangible equity (D)   $ 113,724     $ 107,848     $ 92,977                  
                                             
    Total assets   $ 1,624,865     $ 1,578,589     $ 1,560,754                  
    Less: goodwill and other intangible assets     (34,652 )     (34,803 )     (35,277 )                
    Tangible assets (E)   $ 1,590,213     $ 1,543,786     $ 1,525,477                  
                                             
    Tangible equity to tangible assets (D/E)     7.15 %     6.99 %     6.09 %                
                                             
    Shares outstanding at end of period (F)     5,783,312       5,778,610       5,743,044                  
                                             
    Tangible book value per share (D/F)   $ 19.66     $ 18.66     $ 16.19                  

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News in Brief: US-Philippine Airmen strengthen ties during Cope Thunder 25-2

    Source: United States Airforce

    PACAF participated in Cope Thunder 25-2, a unique platform that integrates U.S. and Philippine Air Forces and enhances interoperability through bilateral fighter training, subject matter expert exchanges and key leadership

    engagements.CLARK AIR BASE, Philippines (AFNS) —  

    U.S. Pacific Air Forces and Philippine Air Force members participated in Cope Thunder 25-2, a bilateral training conducted across multiple locations in the Philippines. The exercise aimed to strengthen partnerships and support the Philippine Air Force’s modernization efforts, promoting regional and global stability.

    Established in the Philippines in 1976, Cope Thunder provides a unique platform to integrate U.S. and Philippine Air Forces and enhance interoperability through bilateral fighter training, subject matter expert exchanges and key leadership engagements. Cope Thunder 25-2 also marked the first time a U.S. Air Force F-35A Lightning II squadron has deployed to the Philippines.

    “It’s obvious that this isn’t a relationship that’s simply on paper,” said Lt. Col. Bryan Mussler, 421st Mission Generation Force Element commander. “We’ve been integrating with them for a long time, and their mentality and approach to operations is very similar to ours.”

    Subject matter expert exchanges during the exercise enabled U.S. and Philippine Airmen in similar career fields to share best practices and effective techniques aimed at improving day-to-day operations for both forces. These exchanges included maintenance, firefighting, airfield operations, electromagnetic warfare and basic fighter maneuvers, with U.S. and Philippine pilots flying side by side.

    U.S. Air Force maintainers, assigned to the 421st Mission Generation Force Element, depart the flightline after conducting preflight operations on an F-35A Lightning II during Cope Thunder 25-2 at Clark Air Base, Philippines, July 7, 2025. The exercise enhances interoperability between the U.S. Air Force and the Philippine Air Force and supported the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ modernization efforts. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Aden Brown)
    U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Arnaldo Puente Mendez, 421st Mission Generation Force Element aerospace ground equipment maintainer, briefs Philippine Air Force airmen on a self-generating nitrogen servicing cart during Cope Thunder 25-2 at Clark Air Base, Philippines, July 9, 2025. During the subject matter expert exchange, U.S. Airmen provided valuable insight into equipment used for aircraft maintenance, supporting Armed Forces of the Philippines’ modernization efforts. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Aden Brown)
    U.S. Air Force Capt. Tyler Rico, second to the left, and Capt. Toney Fisher, right, 421st Mission Generation Force Element F-35A pilots, coordinate flight plans with Philippine Air Force pilots during the Cope Thunder 25-2 exercise at Clark Air Base, Philippines, July 7, 2025. The training conducted between the U.S. and Philippine Air Force strengthens both the ability to respond together for potential future crises, contingencies and natural disasters. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Aden Brown) (Image blurred for operational security)

    “We worked closely with the PAF pilots, and it was clear they are professional and highly capable aviators that employ their weapon systems with skill and precision,” said Capt. Tobey Fisher, 421st Mission Generation Force Element F-35A instructor pilot. “Additionally, this exercise afforded the 421st MGFE the opportunity to operate at a remote airfield with minimal support.”

    The F-35A maintenance team supported Cope Thunder 25-2 with a lean, agile team, operating with roughly one-third of the personnel they typically have at their home station.

    “It’s really cool to see such a small team come here and execute the mission,” said Maj. Clinton Bialcak, 421st Fighter Generation Squadron commander, referring to executing the F-35 maintenance mission. “I think everyone in the region, in the world and in the Department of Defense sees that we can do it and they can rely on us.”

    The U.S. Air Force’s participation reflects ongoing efforts to strengthen coordination with regional allies and partners.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News in Brief: Air Force stands up A6 for warfighter communications, cyber systems

    Source: United States Airforce

    The Department of the Air Force has created a new AF/A6 Deputy Chief of Staff office dedicated to warfighter communications and cyber systems.ARLINGTON, Va. (AFNS) —  

     This structure is designed to address operational communications and cyber needs effectively throughout the force.

    The creation of the AF/A6 office separates the responsibilities for communications and cyber systems from the previous A2/6 framework, marking one of the most significant reorganizations of the Air Staff in over 30 years.

    According to Air Force leaders, the change is designed to improve readiness, resilience and operational effectiveness by aligning resources and risk management with mission requirements.

    “We created the A6 to ensure communications and cyber systems are available, secure and aligned with warfighter priorities,” said Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. David W. Allvin. “This office will help us focus resources and oversight where it matters most — supporting the mission in contested environments.”

    Members of the new Deputy of the Chief of Staff Warfighter, Communications and Cyber Systems remove their old patches and replace them with new ones at the Pentagon, Arlington, Virginia, July 23, 2025. The creation of the AF/A6 office separates the responsibilities for communications and cyber systems from the previous A2/6 framework, marking one of the most significant reorganizations of the Air Staff in over 30 years. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Stuart Bright)
    The new Deputy of the Air Force Warfighter, Communications and Cyber Systems patch is displayed at the Pentagon, Arlington, Va., July 23, 2025. The new Air Force A6 logo was designed by Master Sgt. Michael Williams, 85th Engineering Installation Squadron. The creation of the AF/A6 office separates the responsibilities for communications and cyber systems from the previous A2/6 framework, marking one of the most significant reorganizations of the Air Staff in over 30 years. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Stuart Bright)

    Lt. Gen. Leah Lauderback, former Deputy Chief of Staff for Intelligence, Surveillance, Reconnaissance and Cyber Effects Operations, said the A6 will serve as a critical link between operational feedback and strategic planning.

    “Standing up the A6 allows us to manage risk, prioritize limited resources and advocate for warfighter needs using data from across the enterprise,” Lauderback said. “It’s a necessary step to treat communications and cyber as the operational enablers they are.”

    Maj. Gen. Michelle Edmondson has been appointed to serve as the first standalone Deputy Chief of Staff for AF/A6. Her experience in operations, training and strategic planning is expected to help the office’s focus on delivering integrated, resilient communications capabilities across domains.

    “Our mission is to ensure warfighters have the reliable, secure communications they need to succeed in a complex and contested environment,” Edmondson said. “We’re building an enterprise that connects people, systems and decisions at the speed required by today’s operational demands.”

    The office will coordinate with various stakeholders, including the department’s chief information officer, the principal cyber advisor, major command A6 offices, acquisition program offices and other operational and functional communities.

    Officials emphasized the AF/A6 will be organized around a warfighter-centric model, designed to support current capabilities while informing future investment decisions and force design initiatives.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News in Brief: Operation Healthy Tennessee: Where readiness meets relief

    Source: United States Airforce

    EVENSVILLE, Tenn. (AFNS) —  More than 200 service members from the U.S. Air Force, Air National Guard, U.S. Army, U.S. Navy, U.S. Army Reserve and U.S. Air Force Reserve participated in Operation Healthy Tennessee, as part of the Department of Defense’s Innovative Readiness Training program, held July 11–21. Over the course of the mission, they provided no-cost medical, dental, optometry and veterinary services to over 2,600 residents across Rhea, Bledsoe and area counties.

    The IRT program is a unique U.S. DoD initiative that enhances military readiness through hands-on, real-world training while delivering critical services to communities in need.

    “This is a great opportunity to not only get services that the community may not be able to afford but they can see what the military provides”, said Cathy Swafford, Rhea County community lead. “You can tell that [the military members] just really want to serve their community and give back.”

    Operation Healthy Tennessee brought together service members across the joint force, fostering an environment to strengthen readiness while offering services such as medical, dental, optometry, nutrition counseling and veterinary care, all provided at no cost by credentialed professionals.

    “We are providing a great level of service,” stated Maj. Ralph Garcia, Bledsoe County officer in charge. “It’s a collaborative joint effort to bring resources to underserved communities.”

    The mission proved to be a powerful example of the program’s impact, making a strong contribution towards the IRT Program.

    U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Shannando Harrison, a dental technician assigned to the 88th dental squadron, Ohio, holds a baby while the baby’s mother receives dental care during Operation Healthy Tennessee, Bledsoe County High School, Pikeville, Tenn., July 18, 2025. Operation Healthy Tennessee provides no-cost medical, dental, vision and veterinary services to the residents of Bledsoe and Rhea County, as well as the surrounding areas while satisfying training requirements for active-duty, reserve and Air National Guard service members and units. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by SSgt. Sarah Stalder Lundgren)
    U.S. Army Sgt. Yeneidee Charriez Hernandez, an animal care specialist, assigned to the 7350th Veterinary Detachment, Ala., weighs a cat during veterinary care during Operation Healthy Tennessee, Rhea County Fair Grounds, Rhea County, Tenn., July 21, 2025. Operation Healthy Tennessee provides no-cost medical, dental, vision and veterinary services to the residents of Bledsoe and Rhea County, as well as the surrounding areas while satisfying training requirements for active-duty, reserve and Air National Guard service members and units. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by SSgt. Sarah Stalder Lundgren)
    A U.S. Air Force dental technician completes a dental X-ray for a local resident during Operation Healthy Tennessee, Rhea County Middle School, Evensville, Tenn., July 10, 2025. Operation Healthy Tennessee provides no-cost medical, dental, vision and veterinary services to the residents of Bledsoe and Rhea County, as well as the surrounding areas while satisfying training requirements for active-duty, reserve and Air National Guard service members and units.

    In just 10 days, two medical clinic locations served 2,000 patients and completed more than 15,000 medical, dental and optometry procedures. The veterinary team treated 677 pets, delivering services valued at $314,465. A specialized optometry team, assigned to the mission as part of a Naval Ophthalmic Readiness Activity, built and distributed more than 770 pairs of glasses for those in need.

    The fair market value of all medical and veterinary services provided is totaled at $1.9 million.

    “Training is such an important part of an IRT,” said Lt. Danielle Lloyd, Operation Healthy Tennessee officer in charge. “Although we are providing much needed medical care to this community, at the same time, we are training to make sure we are staying mission ready.”

    The operation logged more than 25,000 training hours across categories including readiness, certification, clinic skills, ad-hoc tasks and hands-on training.

    IRT missions, like Operation Healthy Tennessee, often represent a once-in-a-career opportunity, and participants are encouraged to fully embrace the collaborative environment, network with fellow service members and connect with the public to which we are caring for to maximize the experience.

    “Now that we’ve had our last day of clinical care and we’re able to see the final numbers, it’s such a good feeling to see that we’ve helped so many community members,” Lloyd said. “There’s no better feeling than seeing someone who desperately needed care and being able to provide it at no cost.”

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News in Brief: USS Thomas Hudner Returns from Deployment to 4th and 6th Fleet

    Source: United States Navy

    The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Thomas Hudner (DDG 116) returned to Naval Station Mayport July 23, concluding a five-month deployment across multiple geographic theaters, including the U.S. 4th and 6th Fleet areas of operations.

    The crew departed Feb. 18, 2025, with their mission focused on strengthening international maritime security and relations with partner nations in the U.S. Southern Command area of responsibility. Shortly after arrival on station, Thomas Hudner welcomed the Honorable Pete Hegseth, Secretary of Defense, who recognized Thomas Hudner’s high-performing Sailors during his tour of Naval Support Activity (NSA) Guantanamo Bay facilities.

    Upon departing NSA Guantanamo Bay, Thomas Hudner conducted trilateral operations in the Caribbean Sea with the Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Normandy (CG 60), the United Kingdom Royal Navy River-class offshore patrol vessel HMS Medway (P 223) and the Royal Netherlands Navy Holland-class offshore patrol vessel HNLMS Groningen (P843), enhancing interoperability among Allied naval forces. Thomas Hudner also conducted freedom of navigation operations off the coast of Cuba, reinforcing the U.S. Navy’s commitment to unity, security, and stability in the Caribbean, Central and South American maritime regions.

    “The crew of Thomas Hudner has consistently proven their unwavering commitment in safeguarding America’s national security interests and maintaining the U.S. Navy’s maritime dominance worldwide,” said Cmdr. Cameron Ingram, commanding officer of Thomas Hudner. “I could not be more proud of my team!”

    Throughout their deployment in the U.S. European Command area of responsibility, Thomas Hudner’s crew trained and engaged in a variety of activities, from maritime security operations to joint exercises with Allied and partner navies in the European theater.

    Thomas Hudner participated in several notable exercises, including Formidable Shield 2025, executed alongside 11 NATO Allies in the North and Norwegian Seas and North Atlantic Ocean. During Formidable Shield 2025, Thomas Hudner executed joint, live-fire Integrated Air and Missile Defense (IAMD) training utilizing NATO command and control reporting structures to enhance interoperability among Allied naval forces.

    Thomas Hudner also conducted several port visits and collaborative operations with Norway, the United Kingdom, Spain and Greece, reinforcing the U.S. Navy’s commitment to unity, security and stability in the region. During the 81st anniversary of D-Day landings in Normandy, Thomas Hudner also had the honor of representing the U.S. Navy and hosting a reception with Adm. Stuart B. Munsch, commander, U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa, and various other distinguished government and military leaders in the European theater.

    Following operations in U.S. 6th Fleet’s northern flank, Thomas Hudner was assigned to conduct national tasking in the Eastern Mediterranean supporting Operation Cobalt Shield. Through this mission, Thomas Hudner successfully conducted maritime security operations and promoted regional stability while executing ballistic missile defense operations.

    Thomas Hudner served as the flagship for multiple distinguished visitors throughout her deployment, including the Honorable Pete Hegseth, U.S. Defense Secretary; Air Force Gen. Dan Caine, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff; Adm. Christopher Grady, Vice Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff; Adm. Alvin Holsey, commander, U.S. Southern Command; Adm. Stuart B. Munsch, commander, U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa; and members of the German, French and Royal navies.

    “Over the course of a five-month deployment, USS Thomas Hudner and her exceptional crew exemplified the strength of American naval power and international cooperation,” said Capt. Aaron Anderson, Commander, Naval Surface Group Southeast. “Their efforts reflect the strength of our commitment to maritime security and cooperation with our Allies.”

    Thomas Hudner is a multi-mission air warfare, undersea warfare, naval surface fire support, surface warfare and ballistic missile defense surface combatant capable of supporting carrier battle groups and amphibious forces, operating independently, or operating as the flagship of a surface action group.

    U.S. 2nd Fleet, reestablished in 2018 in response to the changing global security environment, develops and employs maritime ready forces to fight across multiple domains in the Atlantic and Arctic in order to ensure access, deter aggression and defend U.S., Allied, and partner interests.

    For more U.S. 2nd Fleet news and photos, visit facebook.com/US2ndFleet, https://www.c2f.usff.navy.mil/, X – @US2ndFleet, and https://www.linkedin.com/company/commander-u-s-2nd-fleet.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Former Kokomo Police Department Officer Charged with Sexually Assaulting 14-Year-old Girl

    Source: US State of California

    A federal grand jury in Indianapolis, Indiana, returned a two-count indictment, unsealed today, charging former Kokomo Police Department officer Sinmi Asomuyide with sexually assaulting a 14-year-old girl and with lying to state investigators to try to cover up the assault.

    The first count of the indictment charges Asomuyide, who was 31 years old, with willfully depriving Minor #1, who was 14 years old, of her constitutional rights by sexually assaulting her.  The first count also charges that the defendant’s conduct included kidnapping.

    The second count of the indictment charges Asomuyide with lying to the Indiana State Police to try to cover up the assault by, among other things, denying having sexual contact with Minor #1 and denying that there would be any reason for the presence of his semen in his squad car when, in fact, he ejaculated inside his squad car after causing Minor #1’s hand to touch his exposed penis.

    If convicted, Asomuyide faces a maximum sentence of life in prison.

    Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division, Interim U.S. Attorney Thomas E. Wheeler for the Southern District of Indiana, and Special Agent in Charge Timothy O’Malley of the FBI Indianapolis Field Office made the announcement.

    The FBI Indianapolis Field Office is investigating the case, with the cooperation of the Kokomo Police Department; Bloomington Police Department; and Indiana State Police.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Peter Blackett for the Southern District of Indiana and Senior Sex Crimes Counsel Tara Allison of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division are prosecuting the case.

    This investigation is ongoing.  Anyone with additional information is encouraged to call the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI.

    An indictment is merely an allegation. The defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ending Crime and Disorder on America’s Streets

    US Senate News:

    Source: US Whitehouse
    By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, it is hereby ordered:
    Section 1.  Purpose and Policy.  Endemic vagrancy, disorderly behavior, sudden confrontations, and violent attacks have made our cities unsafe.  The number of individuals living on the streets in the United States on a single night during the last year of the previous administration — 274,224 — was the highest ever recorded.  The overwhelming majority of these individuals are addicted to drugs, have a mental health condition, or both.  Nearly two-thirds of homeless individuals report having regularly used hard drugs like methamphetamines, cocaine, or opioids in their lifetimes.  An equally large share of homeless individuals reported suffering from mental health conditions.  The Federal Government and the States have spent tens of billions of dollars on failed programs that address homelessness but not its root causes, leaving other citizens vulnerable to public safety threats.
    Shifting homeless individuals into long-term institutional settings for humane treatment through the appropriate use of civil commitment will restore public order.  Surrendering our cities and citizens to disorder and fear is neither compassionate to the homeless nor other citizens.  My Administration will take a new approach focused on protecting public safety.
    Sec. 2.  Restoring Civil Commitment.  (a)  The Attorney General, in consultation with the Secretary of Health and Human Services, shall take appropriate action to:
    (i)   seek, in appropriate cases, the reversal of Federal or State judicial precedents and the termination of consent decrees that impede the United States’ policy of encouraging civil commitment of individuals with mental illness who pose risks to themselves or the public or are living on the streets and cannot care for themselves in appropriate facilities for appropriate periods of time; and
    (ii)  provide assistance to State and local governments, through technical guidance, grants, or other legally available means, for the identification, adoption, and implementation of maximally flexible civil commitment, institutional treatment, and “step-down” treatment standards that allow for the appropriate commitment and treatment of individuals with mental illness who pose a danger to others or are living on the streets and cannot care for themselves.
    Sec. 3.  Fighting Vagrancy on America’s Streets.  (a)  The Attorney General, the Secretary of Health and Human Services, the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, and the Secretary of Transportation shall take immediate steps to assess their discretionary grant programs and determine whether priority for those grants may be given to grantees in States and municipalities that actively meet the below criteria, to the maximum extent permitted by law:
    (i)    enforce prohibitions on open illicit drug use;
    (ii)   enforce prohibitions on urban camping and loitering;
    (iii)  enforce prohibitions on urban squatting;
    (iv)   enforce, and where necessary, adopt, standards that address individuals who are a danger to themselves or others and suffer from serious mental illness or substance use disorder, or who are living on the streets and cannot care for themselves, through assisted outpatient treatment or by moving them into treatment centers or other appropriate facilities via civil commitment or other available means, to the maximum extent permitted by law; or
    (v)    substantially implement and comply with, to the extent required, the registration and notification obligations of the Sex Offender Registry and Notification Act, particularly in the case of registered sex offenders with no fixed address, including by adequately mapping and checking the location of homeless sex offenders.
    (b)  The Attorney General shall:
    (i)    ensure that homeless individuals arrested for Federal crimes are evaluated, consistent with 18 U.S.C. 4248, to determine whether they are sexually dangerous persons and certified accordingly for civil commitment;
    (ii)   take all necessary steps to ensure the availability of funds under the Emergency Federal Law Enforcement Assistance program to support, as consistent with 34 U.S.C. 50101 et seq., encampment removal efforts in areas for which public safety is at risk and State and local resources are inadequate;
    (iii)  assess Federal resources to determine whether they may be directed toward ensuring, to the extent permitted by law, that detainees with serious mental illness are not released into the public because of a lack of forensic bed capacity at appropriate local, State, and Federal jails or hospitals; and
    (iv)   enhance requirements that prisons and residential reentry centers that are under the authority of the Attorney General or receive funding from the Attorney General require in-custody housing release plans and, to the maximum extent practicable, require individuals to comply.
    Sec. 4.  Redirecting Federal Resources Toward Effective Methods of Addressing Homelessness.  (a)  The Secretary of Health and Human Services shall take appropriate action to:
    (i)    ensure that discretionary grants issued by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration for substance use disorder prevention, treatment, and recovery fund evidence-based programs and do not fund programs that fail to achieve adequate outcomes, including so-called “harm reduction” or “safe consumption” efforts that only facilitate illegal drug use and its attendant harm;
    (ii)   provide technical assistance to assisted outpatient treatment programs for individuals with serious mental illness or addiction during and after the civil commitment process focused on shifting such individuals off of the streets and public programs and into private housing and support networks; and
    (iii)  ensure that Federal funds for Federally Qualified Health Centers and Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics reduce rather than promote homelessness by supporting, to the maximum extent permitted by law, comprehensive services for individuals with serious mental illness and substance use disorder, including crisis intervention services.
    (b)  The Attorney General shall prioritize available funding to support the expansion of drug courts and mental health courts for individuals for which such diversion serves public safety.
    Sec. 5.  Increasing Accountability and Safety in America’s Homelessness Programs.  (a)  The Secretary of Health and Human Services and the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development shall take appropriate actions to increase accountability in their provision of, and grants awarded for, homelessness assistance and transitional living programs.  These actions shall include, to the extent permitted by law, ending support for “housing first” policies that deprioritize accountability and fail to promote treatment, recovery, and self-sufficiency; increasing competition among grantees through broadening the applicant pool; and holding grantees to higher standards of effectiveness in reducing homelessness and increasing public safety.  
    (b)  The Secretary of Housing and Urban Development shall, as appropriate, take steps to require recipients of Federal housing and homelessness assistance to increase requirements that persons participating in the recipients’ programs who suffer from substance use disorder or serious mental illness use substance abuse treatment or mental health services as a condition of participation.
    (c)  With respect to recipients of Federal housing and homelessness assistance that operate drug injection sites or “safe consumption sites,” knowingly distribute drug paraphernalia, or permit the use or distribution of illicit drugs on property under their control:
    (i)   the Attorney General shall review whether such recipients are in violation of Federal law, including 21 U.S.C. 856, and bring civil or criminal actions in appropriate cases; and
    (ii)  the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, in coordination with the Attorney General, shall review whether such recipients are in violation of the terms of the programs pursuant to which they receive Federal housing and homelessness assistance and freeze their assistance as appropriate.
    (d)  The Secretary of Housing and Urban Development shall take appropriate measures and revise regulations as necessary to allow, where permissible under applicable law, federally funded programs to exclusively house women and children and to stop sex offenders who receive homelessness assistance through such programs from being housed with unrelated children. 
    (e)  The Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, in consultation with the Attorney General and the Secretary of Health and Human Services, shall, as appropriate and to the extent permitted by law:
    (i)   allow or require the recipients of Federal funding for homelessness assistance to collect health-related information that the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development identifies as necessary to the effective and efficient operation of the funding program from all persons to whom such assistance is provided; and
    (ii)  require those funding recipients to share such data with law enforcement authorities in circumstances permitted by law and to use the collected health data to provide appropriate medical care to individuals with mental health diagnoses or to connect individuals to public health resources.
    Sec. 6.  General Provisions.  (a)  Nothing in this order shall be construed to impair or otherwise affect:
    (i)   the authority granted by law to an executive department or agency, or the head thereof; or
    (ii)  the functions of the Director of the Office of Management and Budget relating to budgetary, administrative, or legislative proposals.
    (b)  This order shall be implemented consistent with applicable law and subject to the availability of appropriations.
    (c)  This order is not intended to, and does not, create any right or benefit, substantive or procedural, enforceable at law or in equity by any party against the United States, its departments, agencies, or entities, its officers, employees, or agents, or any other person.
    (d)  The costs for publication of this order shall be borne by the Department of Housing and Urban Development.
                                  DONALD J. TRUMP
    THE WHITE HOUSE,
        July 24, 2025.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ending Crime and Disorder on America’s Streets

    US Senate News:

    Source: US Whitehouse
    By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, it is hereby ordered:
    Section 1.  Purpose and Policy.  Endemic vagrancy, disorderly behavior, sudden confrontations, and violent attacks have made our cities unsafe.  The number of individuals living on the streets in the United States on a single night during the last year of the previous administration — 274,224 — was the highest ever recorded.  The overwhelming majority of these individuals are addicted to drugs, have a mental health condition, or both.  Nearly two-thirds of homeless individuals report having regularly used hard drugs like methamphetamines, cocaine, or opioids in their lifetimes.  An equally large share of homeless individuals reported suffering from mental health conditions.  The Federal Government and the States have spent tens of billions of dollars on failed programs that address homelessness but not its root causes, leaving other citizens vulnerable to public safety threats.
    Shifting homeless individuals into long-term institutional settings for humane treatment through the appropriate use of civil commitment will restore public order.  Surrendering our cities and citizens to disorder and fear is neither compassionate to the homeless nor other citizens.  My Administration will take a new approach focused on protecting public safety.
    Sec. 2.  Restoring Civil Commitment.  (a)  The Attorney General, in consultation with the Secretary of Health and Human Services, shall take appropriate action to:
    (i)   seek, in appropriate cases, the reversal of Federal or State judicial precedents and the termination of consent decrees that impede the United States’ policy of encouraging civil commitment of individuals with mental illness who pose risks to themselves or the public or are living on the streets and cannot care for themselves in appropriate facilities for appropriate periods of time; and
    (ii)  provide assistance to State and local governments, through technical guidance, grants, or other legally available means, for the identification, adoption, and implementation of maximally flexible civil commitment, institutional treatment, and “step-down” treatment standards that allow for the appropriate commitment and treatment of individuals with mental illness who pose a danger to others or are living on the streets and cannot care for themselves.
    Sec. 3.  Fighting Vagrancy on America’s Streets.  (a)  The Attorney General, the Secretary of Health and Human Services, the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, and the Secretary of Transportation shall take immediate steps to assess their discretionary grant programs and determine whether priority for those grants may be given to grantees in States and municipalities that actively meet the below criteria, to the maximum extent permitted by law:
    (i)    enforce prohibitions on open illicit drug use;
    (ii)   enforce prohibitions on urban camping and loitering;
    (iii)  enforce prohibitions on urban squatting;
    (iv)   enforce, and where necessary, adopt, standards that address individuals who are a danger to themselves or others and suffer from serious mental illness or substance use disorder, or who are living on the streets and cannot care for themselves, through assisted outpatient treatment or by moving them into treatment centers or other appropriate facilities via civil commitment or other available means, to the maximum extent permitted by law; or
    (v)    substantially implement and comply with, to the extent required, the registration and notification obligations of the Sex Offender Registry and Notification Act, particularly in the case of registered sex offenders with no fixed address, including by adequately mapping and checking the location of homeless sex offenders.
    (b)  The Attorney General shall:
    (i)    ensure that homeless individuals arrested for Federal crimes are evaluated, consistent with 18 U.S.C. 4248, to determine whether they are sexually dangerous persons and certified accordingly for civil commitment;
    (ii)   take all necessary steps to ensure the availability of funds under the Emergency Federal Law Enforcement Assistance program to support, as consistent with 34 U.S.C. 50101 et seq., encampment removal efforts in areas for which public safety is at risk and State and local resources are inadequate;
    (iii)  assess Federal resources to determine whether they may be directed toward ensuring, to the extent permitted by law, that detainees with serious mental illness are not released into the public because of a lack of forensic bed capacity at appropriate local, State, and Federal jails or hospitals; and
    (iv)   enhance requirements that prisons and residential reentry centers that are under the authority of the Attorney General or receive funding from the Attorney General require in-custody housing release plans and, to the maximum extent practicable, require individuals to comply.
    Sec. 4.  Redirecting Federal Resources Toward Effective Methods of Addressing Homelessness.  (a)  The Secretary of Health and Human Services shall take appropriate action to:
    (i)    ensure that discretionary grants issued by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration for substance use disorder prevention, treatment, and recovery fund evidence-based programs and do not fund programs that fail to achieve adequate outcomes, including so-called “harm reduction” or “safe consumption” efforts that only facilitate illegal drug use and its attendant harm;
    (ii)   provide technical assistance to assisted outpatient treatment programs for individuals with serious mental illness or addiction during and after the civil commitment process focused on shifting such individuals off of the streets and public programs and into private housing and support networks; and
    (iii)  ensure that Federal funds for Federally Qualified Health Centers and Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics reduce rather than promote homelessness by supporting, to the maximum extent permitted by law, comprehensive services for individuals with serious mental illness and substance use disorder, including crisis intervention services.
    (b)  The Attorney General shall prioritize available funding to support the expansion of drug courts and mental health courts for individuals for which such diversion serves public safety.
    Sec. 5.  Increasing Accountability and Safety in America’s Homelessness Programs.  (a)  The Secretary of Health and Human Services and the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development shall take appropriate actions to increase accountability in their provision of, and grants awarded for, homelessness assistance and transitional living programs.  These actions shall include, to the extent permitted by law, ending support for “housing first” policies that deprioritize accountability and fail to promote treatment, recovery, and self-sufficiency; increasing competition among grantees through broadening the applicant pool; and holding grantees to higher standards of effectiveness in reducing homelessness and increasing public safety.  
    (b)  The Secretary of Housing and Urban Development shall, as appropriate, take steps to require recipients of Federal housing and homelessness assistance to increase requirements that persons participating in the recipients’ programs who suffer from substance use disorder or serious mental illness use substance abuse treatment or mental health services as a condition of participation.
    (c)  With respect to recipients of Federal housing and homelessness assistance that operate drug injection sites or “safe consumption sites,” knowingly distribute drug paraphernalia, or permit the use or distribution of illicit drugs on property under their control:
    (i)   the Attorney General shall review whether such recipients are in violation of Federal law, including 21 U.S.C. 856, and bring civil or criminal actions in appropriate cases; and
    (ii)  the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, in coordination with the Attorney General, shall review whether such recipients are in violation of the terms of the programs pursuant to which they receive Federal housing and homelessness assistance and freeze their assistance as appropriate.
    (d)  The Secretary of Housing and Urban Development shall take appropriate measures and revise regulations as necessary to allow, where permissible under applicable law, federally funded programs to exclusively house women and children and to stop sex offenders who receive homelessness assistance through such programs from being housed with unrelated children. 
    (e)  The Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, in consultation with the Attorney General and the Secretary of Health and Human Services, shall, as appropriate and to the extent permitted by law:
    (i)   allow or require the recipients of Federal funding for homelessness assistance to collect health-related information that the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development identifies as necessary to the effective and efficient operation of the funding program from all persons to whom such assistance is provided; and
    (ii)  require those funding recipients to share such data with law enforcement authorities in circumstances permitted by law and to use the collected health data to provide appropriate medical care to individuals with mental health diagnoses or to connect individuals to public health resources.
    Sec. 6.  General Provisions.  (a)  Nothing in this order shall be construed to impair or otherwise affect:
    (i)   the authority granted by law to an executive department or agency, or the head thereof; or
    (ii)  the functions of the Director of the Office of Management and Budget relating to budgetary, administrative, or legislative proposals.
    (b)  This order shall be implemented consistent with applicable law and subject to the availability of appropriations.
    (c)  This order is not intended to, and does not, create any right or benefit, substantive or procedural, enforceable at law or in equity by any party against the United States, its departments, agencies, or entities, its officers, employees, or agents, or any other person.
    (d)  The costs for publication of this order shall be borne by the Department of Housing and Urban Development.
                                  DONALD J. TRUMP
    THE WHITE HOUSE,
        July 24, 2025.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Saving College Sports

    US Senate News:

    Source: US Whitehouse
    By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, it is hereby ordered:
    Section 1.  Purpose and Policy.  College sports are a uniquely American institution that provide life-changing educational and leadership-development opportunities to more than 500,000 student-athletes through almost $4 billion in scholarships each year.  College athletics also provide substantial support to local economies and form an indelible part of family activities, pastimes, and culture in many communities. 
    While major college football games can draw tens of millions of television viewers and attendees, they feature only a very small sample of the many athletes who benefit from the transformational opportunities that college athletics provide.  Sixty-five percent of the 2024 United States Olympic Team members were current or former National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) varsity athletes, and approximately seventy-five percent were collegiate athletes.  The 2024 United States Olympic Team earned 126 total medals, leading the overall medal count for the eighth consecutive Summer Olympic Games. 
    Beyond driving our unrivaled success in international competition, college athletes are more likely to report better outcomes in important respects during college and after graduation.  A substantial majority of female executives at the largest American companies participated in sports during adolescence, many at the high school or collegiate level, and examples of business leaders and former Presidents who played college sports are legion.  It is no exaggeration to say that America’s system of collegiate athletics plays an integral role in forging the leaders that drive our Nation’s success.
    Yet the future of college sports is under unprecedented threat.  Waves of recent litigation against collegiate athletics governing rules have eliminated limits on athlete compensation, pay-for-play recruiting inducements, and transfers between universities, unleashing a sea change that threatens the viability of college sports.  While changes providing some increased benefits and flexibility to student-athletes were overdue and should be maintained, the inability to maintain reasonable rules and guardrails is a mortal threat to most college sports.
    To illustrate, following a 2021 antitrust ruling from the United States Supreme Court striking down NCAA restrictions, the NCAA changed its rules to permit players to receive compensation for their name, image, and likeness (NIL) from third parties.  But guardrails designed to ensure that these were legitimate, market-value NIL payments for endorsements or similar services, rather than simply pay-for-play inducements, were eliminated through litigation.  Other limits on player transfers among schools were also taken down through litigation. 
    This has created an out-of-control, rudderless system in which competing university donors engage in bidding wars for the best players, who can change teams each season.  Meanwhile, more than 30 States have passed their own NIL laws in a chaotic race to the bottom, sometimes to gain temporary competitive advantages for their major collegiate teams.  As a result, players at some universities will receive more than $50 million per year, mostly for the revenue-generating sports like football.  Entering the 2024 season, players on the eventual college football national champion team were being paid around $20 million annually.  By the 2025 season, football players at one university will reportedly be paid $35-40 million, with revenue-sharing included. 
    This not only reduces competition and parity by creating an oligarchy of teams that can simply buy the best players — including the best players from less-wealthy programs at the end of each season — but the imperative that university donors must devote ever-escalating resources to compete in the revenue-generating sports like football and basketball siphons away the resources necessary to support the panoply of non-revenue sports.  Absent guardrails to stop the madness and ensure a reasonable, balanced use of resources across collegiate athletic programs that preserves their educational and developmental benefits, many college sports will soon cease to exist.
    A national solution is urgently needed to prevent this situation from deteriorating beyond repair and to protect non-revenue sports, including many women’s sports, that comprise the backbone of intercollegiate athletics, drive American superiority at the Olympics and other international competitions, and catalyze hundreds of thousands of student-athletes to fuel American success in myriad ways.
    Attempting to create some guardrails and shelter from litigation, colleges have adopted a new regime, deciding to pay athletes directly and simultaneously limit the total number of athletes on their campuses.  Given that the new roster limits, by exceeding the scholarship limits they replace, will increase the potential number of scholarships available in many sports, this opportunity must be utilized to strengthen and expand non-revenue sports.  Simultaneously, the third-party market of pay-for-play inducements must be eliminated before its insatiable demand for resources dries up support for non-revenue sports.  Otherwise, a crucial American asset will be lost.
    It is the policy of my Administration that all college sports should be preserved and, where possible, expanded.  My Administration will therefore provide the stability, fairness, and balance necessary to protect student-athletes, collegiate athletic scholarships and opportunities, and the special American institution of college sports.  It is common sense that college sports are not, and should not be, professional sports, and my Administration will take action accordingly.
    Sec. 2.  Protecting and Expanding Women’s and Non-Revenue Sports and Prohibiting Third-Party Pay-for-Play Payments.  (a)  It is the policy of the executive branch that opportunities for scholarships and collegiate athletic competition in women’s and non-revenue sports must be preserved and, where possible, expanded, including specifically as follows with respect to the 2025-2026 athletic season and future athletic seasons:
    (i)    collegiate athletic departments with greater than $125,000,000 in revenue during the 2024-2025 athletic season should provide more scholarship opportunities in non-revenue sports than during the 2024-2025 athletic season and should provide the maximum number of roster spots for non-revenue sports permitted under the applicable collegiate athletic rules;
    (ii)   college athletic departments with greater than $50,000,000 in revenue during the 2024-2025 athletic season should provide at least as many scholarship opportunities in non-revenue sports as provided during the 2024-2025 athletic season and should provide the maximum number of roster spots for non-revenue sports permitted under the applicable collegiate athletic rules; and
    (iii)  college athletic departments with $50,000,000 or less in revenue during the 2024-2025 athletic season or that do not have any revenue-generating sports should not disproportionately reduce scholarship opportunities or roster spots for sports based on the revenue that the sport generates.
         (b)  It is the policy of the executive branch that any revenue-sharing permitted between universities and collegiate athletes should be designed and implemented in a manner that preserves or expands scholarships and collegiate athletic opportunities in women’s and non-revenue sports.
    (c)  To preserve the critical educational and developmental benefits of collegiate athletics for our Nation, it is the policy of the executive branch that third-party, pay-for-play payments to collegiate athletes are improper and should not be permitted by universities.  This policy does not apply to compensation provided to an athlete for the fair market value that the athlete provides to a third party, such as for a brand endorsement. 
    (d)  Within 30 days of the date of this order, the Secretary of Education, in consultation with the Attorney General, the Secretary of Health and Human Services, the Secretary of Education, and the Chairman of the Federal Trade Commission, shall develop a plan to advance the policies set forth in subsections (a)-(c) of this section through all available and appropriate regulatory, enforcement, and litigation mechanisms, including Federal funding decisions, enforcement of Title IX of the Education Amendments Act of 1972, prohibiting unconstitutional actions by States to regulate interstate commerce, and enforcement of other constitutional and statutory protections, and by working with the Congress and State governments, as appropriate. 
    Sec. 3.  Student-Athlete Status.  The Secretary of Labor and the National Labor Relations Board shall determine and implement the appropriate measures with respect to clarifying the status of collegiate athletes, including through guidance, rules, or other appropriate actions, that will maximize the educational benefits and opportunities provided by higher education institutions through athletics.
    Sec. 4.  Legal Protections for College Athletics from Lawsuits.  (a)  The Attorney General and the Chairman of the Federal Trade Commission shall work to stabilize and preserve college athletics through litigation, guidelines, policies, or other actions, as appropriate, by protecting the rights and interests of student-athletes and the long-term availability of collegiate athletic scholarships and opportunities when such elements are unreasonably challenged under antitrust or other legal theories.
    (b)  Within 60 days of the date of this order, to advance the purposes of subsection (a) of this section, the Attorney General and the Chairman of the Federal Trade Commission shall:
    (i)   review, and as necessary revise, litigation positions, guidelines, policies, or other actions; and
    (ii)  develop a plan to implement appropriate future litigation positions, guidelines, policies, or other actions.
    Sec. 5.  Protecting Development of the United States Olympic Team.  The Assistant to the President for Domestic Policy and the Director of the White House Office of Public Liaison shall consult the United States Olympic and Paralympic Committee and other appropriate organizations of American athletes about safeguarding the integral role and competitive advantage that American collegiate athletics provide in developing athletes to represent our Nation in international athletic competitions.
    Sec. 6.  General Provisions.  (a)  Nothing in this order shall be construed to impair or otherwise affect:
    (i)   the authority granted by law to an executive department or agency, or the head thereof; or
    (ii)  the functions of the Director of the Office of Management and Budget relating to budgetary, administrative, or legislative proposals.
    (b)  This order shall be implemented consistent with applicable law and subject to the availability of appropriations.
    (c)  This order is not intended to, and does not, create any right or benefit, substantive or procedural, enforceable at law or in equity by any party against the United States, its departments, agencies, or entities, its officers, employees, or agents, or any other person.
         (d)  The costs for publication of this order shall be borne by the Department of Education.
                                  DONALD J. TRUMP
    THE WHITE HOUSE,
        July 24, 2025.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cantwell Intros Bipartisan Bill to Help Tribes Combat MMIWP Crisis and Fentanyl Trafficking

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington Maria Cantwell

    07.24.25

    Cantwell Intros Bipartisan Bill to Help Tribes Combat MMIWP Crisis and Fentanyl Trafficking

    Bipartisan legislation would boost federal benefits to help recruit and retain tribal law enforcement officers; This week – local, federal, and tribal law enforcement indict 12 individuals in major drug trafficking operation on Yakama Nation lands

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), a senior member of the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs, Senator Markwayne Mullin (R-OK), Representative Dan Newhouse (R, WA-04) and Representative Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (D, WA-03) introduced the Parity for Tribal Law Enforcement Act of 2025. The legislation would help tribal police departments hire and retain tribal law enforcement officers by providing access to federal retirement, pension, death, and injury benefits on par with law enforcement officers from non-tribal jurisdictions.

    “Tribes need more law enforcement officers to fight both the fentanyl and murdered and missing indigenous people epidemics and to respond to emergencies in their communities,” said Sen. Cantwell. “The Parity for Tribal Law Enforcement Act will help tribal communities get the law enforcement resources they need to keep their communities safe.”

    “Tribal police departments work tirelessly to protect and serve our communities in Oklahoma and around the nation,” said Sen. Mullin. “Tribal police should receive equal treatment and resources needed for the safety of their communities without going through excessive red tape. I’m proud to join with my colleagues on this and support our Tribal law enforcement.”

    “As the missing and murdered indigenous women crisis continues to plague tribal communities across the country, tribal law enforcement agencies are facing serious challenges with recruiting and retaining officers and resources,” said Rep. Newhouse. “This bipartisan legislation empowers tribal law enforcement to build and maintain strong, well-trained forces who will be far better equipped to address the MMIW crisis, counter illicit drug flow, and protect tribal communities in Central Washington. I thank members of the House and Senate on both sides of the aisle who understand the scale of these challenges and are helping to lead towards a solution.”

    According to the Department of Interior, public safety and justice at the Bureau of Indian Affairs is funded at just 13% of need and over 25,600 personnel are needed to adequately serve Indian Country. This includes at least 13,000 more tribal law enforcement officers to meet FBI Community Safety Standards.

    “The Colville Tribes strongly supports the ‘Parity for Tribal Law Enforcement Act.’ The bill would implement long overdue reforms and remove administrative barriers to tribal law officers enforcing federal laws on their reservation lands. It will also assist the Colville Tribes and other tribes in recruiting and retaining officers, which is critical for rural tribes that have large land bases and not enough officers to adequately patrol.” – Jarred-Michael Erickson, Chairman, Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation

    “Bolstering support for Tribal law enforcement recruitment and retention is crucial to addressing the many serious and systemic public safety issues in Indian Country. The issue is particularly pressing for the Yakama Nation and other tribes with large-land bases and a severe lack of resources to adequately patrol such a vast area. At Yakama we are facing an overwhelming confluence of public safety crises. We have experienced a surge in violent and property crimes, the highest rate of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women/People in the region, and a terrifying rise in outside gang and cartel-related drug activity coming onto our lands, including the pervasive and deadly fentanyl epidemic. The recent coordinated, multi-agency drug trafficking interdiction “Operation Overdrive” that dismantled a large drug distribution network operating on the Yakama Reservation shows what is possible when all levels of government work together to make our communities safer. The Parity for Tribal Law Enforcement Act will help give the Yakama Nation and other tribes the tools and funding necessary to protect our communities and people who live, work, and raise their families on our lands. The Yakama Nation appreciates Senator Cantwell and Congressman Newhouse’s partnership with us and their continued work to address long-standing impediments to Tribal sovereignty and our public safety efforts.” – Jeremy Takala, Law & Order Committee Chairman, Yakama Nation Tribal Council

    “The Chehalis Tribe strongly supports the bill. Our Tribe is fortunate in that we are able to pay our law enforcement officers competitive salaries but competitive retirement benefits are currently out of reach for Chehalis and most other tribes around the country. If enacted, this will allow Chehalis and other tribes to take care of the officers that patrol and keep our communities safe.” – Dustin Klatush, Chairman, Confederated Tribes of the Chehalis Reservation

    “Many tribal police departments are chronically understaffed and massively underfunded. The Parity for Tribal Law Enforcement Act would level the playing field for tribal police benefits, retirement, and pension, allowing tribes to improve retention and recruitment of officers on tribal lands. Ultimately, passage of the act would help improve overall safety in tribal communities. We are grateful to Senator Cantwell, Congressman Newhouse, Congresswoman, Gluesenkamp Perez, and their colleagues for championing this act and hope the overwhelming tribal support will ensure its approval.” – Chairman Glen Nenema, Kalispel Tribe of Indians

    “As a tribal law enforcement officer and an elected tribal leader, I know firsthand how hard it is to recruit and retain law enforcement officers. This bill will make it so much easier to achieve that objective by ensuring tribal law enforcement officers have access to proper retirement benefits. This bill will make our community safer.” – Vice-President Everett Ekdahl, Jr. Keweenaw Bay Indian Community

    “The Parity for Tribal Law Enforcement Act will provide tribal nations with the tools necessary to recruit and retain law enforcements officers. It shows Congress’s commitment to public safety on tribal lands and the fair treatment of tribal law enforcement officers. We are grateful for Senator Cantwell, Congressman Newhouse, and Congresswoman Gluesenkamp Perez for their leadership on this important issue.” – Chairman Leonard Forsman, Suquamish Tribe

    “The Parity for Tribal Law Enforcement Act represents a crucial advancement in ensuring that tribal law enforcement agencies, such as Hopi Law Enforcement Services, have the support they need to protect those that live and work on the Hopi Reservation. The Hopi Tribe is grateful to Senator Cantwell, Congressman Newhouse, Congresswoman Gluesenkamp Perez, and their colleagues for their leadership strengthening recruitment, retention, and public safety across tribal nations.” – Chairman Timothy Nuvangyaoma, Hopi Tribe

    “Access to resources is critical to improving the recruitment and retention tribal law enforcement officers. The Parity for Tribal Law Enforcement Act removes administrative barriers and provides the necessary reforms to protect our community. The Nisqually Tribe thanks Senator Cantwell and Representative Newhouse for their leadership in strengthening safety and security across tribal communities.” – Chairman Ken Choke, Nisqually Tribe

    “Jurisdictional gaps in Indian Country have allowed far too many criminals to fall through the cracks. We appreciate Senator Cantwell’s leadership in taking meaningful action to close these gaps. By allowing qualified Tribal officers operating under 638 contracts to enforce federal law and receive federal protections, this bill strengthens our ability to respond to serious criminal activity on our reservation.” Chairman Anthony Hillaire, Lummi Nation

    Combatting the Fentanyl Epidemic

    Sen. Cantwell is a strong advocate for increasing the presence of tribal law enforcement officers on reservations to help combat the fentanyl epidemic and Murdered and Missing Indigenous Women and People (MMIWP) crisis among Native communities.

    Sen. Cantwell first introduced the Parity for Tribal Law Enforcement Act in July 2023. The bipartisan bill was first considered at a U.S. Senate Indian Affairs Committee hearing on May 1, 2024. During a hearing on the fentanyl crisis in Indian Country later that month, Sen. Cantwell pressed federal officials about the need to help tribes hire and keep more tribal law enforcement officers and highlighted several tribes in Washington state that urgently need more resources to improve chronic understaffing issues.

    In October 2023, Sen. Cantwell sent a letter to the leaders of the U.S. Senate Indian Affairs Committee requesting that the committee hold an oversight hearing on how to address the fentanyl crisis in Indian Country. Soon after, the committee announced two hearings on the topic. At the November 2023 hearing titled: “Fentanyl in Native Communities: Native Perspectives on Addressing the Growing Crisis,” Sen. Cantwell invited Lummi Nation Chairman Anthony Hillarie to testify.

    In December 2023, Vanessa Waldref, the United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Washington, and Glen Melville, Deputy Bureau Director at the Bureau of Indian Affairs’ Office of Justice Services and member of the Makah Tribe, participated in the second hearing titled: “Fentanyl in Native Communities: Examining the Federal Response to the Growing Crisis.” At the hearing, both Waldref and Melville commented that fentanyl traffickers often target tribal lands due to lack of tribal law enforcement.

    A background document on Sen. Cantwell’s legislative track record and advocacy to combat the fentanyl crisis is available HERE.

    Fighting Against MMIWP Crisis

    In 2020, Sen. Cantwell’s Savanna’s Act was signed into law to help federal, state, and tribal law enforcement agencies better respond to cases of missing and murdered indigenous women and people by improving coordination among all levels of law enforcement, increasing data collection and information sharing, and providing tribal governments with vital resources.

    In May 2023, Sen. Cantwell announced she sent a letter to the Biden Administration urging them to prioritize funding to assist Tribes and organizations working to combat the MMIWP crisis.

    Following Sen. Cantwell’s urging, in June 2023 the U.S. Department of Justice announced the creation of the Missing or Murdered Indigenous Persons Regional Outreach Program, which dedicated five Assistant U.S. Attorneys and five coordinators to the task of resolving the cases of missing and murdered indigenous people. This included dedicated personnel based in Eastern Washington.

    In October 2024, Sen. Cantwell announced $6.9 million in federal funding for state and municipal law enforcement agencies, tribal justice departments and programs, and medical examiner offices to help fight the fentanyl crisis, gun violence, and violence against women and children.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Murray, Booker, Schumer, Duckworth, DeLauro Reintroduce Bicameral Legislation to Increase Access to Fertility Treatment

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington State Patty Murray

    Washington, D.C. –  Today, U.S. Senators Patty Murray (D-WA), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY), and Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) along with U.S. Representative Rosa DeLauro (D-CT) reintroduced the bicameral Access to Fertility Treatment and Care Act, legislation that would require more health insurers to provide coverage for infertility treatment, as well as fertility preservation services for individuals who undergo medically necessary procedures that may cause infertility, such as chemotherapy.

    “Infertility is a painful struggle for millions of people in America, and the steep cost of infertility treatment like IVF prevents many of them from growing their families—that’s just wrong. The Access to Fertility Treatment and Services Act would require more insurance plans, including TRICARE and the VA coverage our veterans and their families rely on, to cover infertility treatment without raising insurance costs or copays. We should be doing everything we can to support families and make it easier to have and raise children in America, and our legislation is one important step in that direction,” said Senator Murray.

    “Everyone’s path to parenthood is different, and the decision to pursue fertility treatments is deeply personal,” said Senator Booker. “Nobody should have to choose between financial stability and the opportunity to have a family. On top of that, people who find themselves at the daunting intersection of a cancer diagnosis and fertility challenges should have access to affordable fertility services. This legislation would require more insurance plans to cover fertility treatments so that Americans no longer face barriers to care when deciding to start a family.” 

    “While Republicans have tried to brand themselves as the pro-family party, Senate Democrats are putting forward actual solutions to help the millions of Americans grappling with the financial and medical realities of safely growing their families,” said Leader Schumer. “Infertility can – and does – affect so many in our communities, and while Republicans continue their relentless attacks on reproductive rights, I will keep fighting to protect access to affordable health care and am proud to support this legislation which offers hope and opportunity to many with this deeply personal decision.”

    “Millions of Americans depend on IVF to build a family—and yet, this treatment is too often out of reach for so many because of exorbitant, out-of-pocket costs,” said Senator Duckworth. “If Donald Trump really wants to deliver on his campaign promise to ensure IVF is covered for those who rely on it, he’d call on Republicans to support our bill that would expand coverage for so many more Americans. Otherwise, all the pro-IVF talking points are just more empty promises from people who have proven time and again they have no interest in actually taking any meaningful action to protect IVF access.”

    “When people don’t have insurance coverage for fertility care, they are forced to make impossible choices between paying for treatment or affording essentials,” said Congresswoman DeLauro. “The emotional and physical toll of trying to build a family is already heavy. We should not add a crushing financial burden on top of it. This bill ensures that all families have the insurance coverage they deserve. Americans should have the opportunity to grow their families without sacrificing their basic needs.”

    “Every day providers encounter patients who need medical treatments like IVF to build their families, but have to forego, delay, or stop treatment because they cannot afford it,” said Sean Tipton, ASRM Chief Advocacy & Policy Officer. “While ASRM has championed progress on state-level IVF mandates, we firmly believe that access to health care should not depend on your zip code. For this reason, we remain grateful to Sen. Booker and Rep. DeLauro for their tireless leadership on the Access to Infertility Treatment and Care Act. It is well past time for Congress to pass this critical legislation and achieve access to family building care for all Americans.”

    “Every day, millions of Americans face heartbreaking and unnecessary barriers to building their families, simply because they can’t afford the out-of-pocket medical costs. Access to fertility treatment should not depend on your income, your zip code, or your employer. The ‘Access to Fertility Treatment and Care Act’ is a critical step toward ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to pursue their dream of having a family. On behalf of RESOLVE and the family-building community, I thank Senator Cory Booker and Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro for their steadfast leadership in championing equitable access to care,” said Danielle Melfi, President & CEO, RESOLVE: The National Infertility Association.

    Despite the prevalence of infertility – a reported one in six couples have challenges conceiving – coverage for treatment options is limited. In 2024, nearly half of large employers voluntarily offered fertility benefits and 97% of those offering benefits reported no significant increase in costs to their medical plans.

    Specifically, the Access to Fertility Treatment and Care Act would:

    1. Require most private health insurance plans, as well as plans offered by the Federal Employees Health Benefits Program, Medicaid, TRICARE, ERISA, and the VA, to provide coverage for treatment of infertility without raising insurance or copayment costs.
    2. Ensure these plans cover fertility preservation services for individuals who undergo a medically necessary procedure that may cause infertility.

    The bill is endorsed by the following organizations: Alliance for Fertility Preservation, Endocrine Society, Hadassah, The Women’s Zionist Organization of America, North American Society for Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology, National Women’s Political Caucus, American Society for Reductive Medicine, Resolve, MomsRising, In Our Own Voice: National Black, Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda, National partnership for Women and Families, Invisible Project, Human Rights Campaign, Families USA, National  LGBTQ Task Force Action Fund, Service Women’s Action Network, Guttmacher, ACOG, and AllPaths Family Building.

    The bill is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Chris Coons (D-DE) and Amy Klobuchar (D-MN).

    The full text of the bill can be found HERE.

    Senators Murray has been leading the charge to protect IVF for the millions of Americans who rely on it nationwide. Last Congress, Murray introduced the Right to IVF Act in the Senate—which would establish a nationwide right to IVF and other assisted reproductive technology (ART) and lower the costs of IVF treatment for middle-class families. The Right to IVF Act also includes Senator Murray’s longtime bill—the Veteran Families Health Services Act—to help veterans and servicemembers, who experience higher rates of infertility and encounter restrictive laws and policies before they can access IVF services.

    Despite many Republicans publicly claiming to support IVF, nearly every Senate Republican voted against the bill in June twice last year. Overall, Republicans blocked legislation that would protect IVF nationwide three separate times last year.

    Senator Murray has been fighting for over a decade to expand access to IVF care for veterans and servicemembers, and  protect servicemembers’ and veterans’ access to the reproductive care they deserve. She has introduced multiple pieces of legislation to address the challenges veterans face when starting a family after their service, and in 2012, Senator Murray secured Senate passage of a provision to end the ban on IVF services at VA.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Crash at Wingfield

    Source: New South Wales – News

    The Port River Expressway has reopened after an overnight crash.

    The single vehicle collision occurred on the Port River Expressway at Wingfield about 2.45am on Friday 25 July.

    A car hit a light pole on the median strip and ended up in a ditch.

    The driver, a 32-year-old Elizabeth North man, was extricated from the wrecked car by emergency services and taken to hospital with serious injuries.

    His passenger, a 21-year-old Elizabeth Downs woman, also sustained injuries and was taken to hospital.

    The road was closed until 5am but has since reopened.

    The car was towed from the scene.

    Investigations into the crash are continuing.

    Anyone who witnessed the collision or has any dashcam footage is asked to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or online at www.crimestopperssa.com.au

    191115

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Former Kokomo Police Department Officer Charged with Sexually Assaulting 14-Year-old Girl

    Source: United States Attorneys General

    A federal grand jury in Indianapolis, Indiana, returned a two-count indictment, unsealed today, charging former Kokomo Police Department officer Sinmi Asomuyide with sexually assaulting a 14-year-old girl and with lying to state investigators to try to cover up the assault.

    The first count of the indictment charges Asomuyide, who was 31 years old, with willfully depriving Minor #1, who was 14 years old, of her constitutional rights by sexually assaulting her.  The first count also charges that the defendant’s conduct included kidnapping.

    The second count of the indictment charges Asomuyide with lying to the Indiana State Police to try to cover up the assault by, among other things, denying having sexual contact with Minor #1 and denying that there would be any reason for the presence of his semen in his squad car when, in fact, he ejaculated inside his squad car after causing Minor #1’s hand to touch his exposed penis.

    If convicted, Asomuyide faces a maximum sentence of life in prison.

    Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division, Interim U.S. Attorney Thomas E. Wheeler for the Southern District of Indiana, and Special Agent in Charge Timothy O’Malley of the FBI Indianapolis Field Office made the announcement.

    The FBI Indianapolis Field Office is investigating the case, with the cooperation of the Kokomo Police Department; Bloomington Police Department; and Indiana State Police.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Peter Blackett for the Southern District of Indiana and Senior Sex Crimes Counsel Tara Allison of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division are prosecuting the case.

    This investigation is ongoing.  Anyone with additional information is encouraged to call the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI.

    An indictment is merely an allegation. The defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Last person on Interpol’s Red Notice list of 100 fugitives in Asia returned to China

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    BEIJING, July 24 (Xinhua) — Fugitive suspect Zhou Jinghua, the last person on the International Criminal Police Organization’s (Interpol) 100 most wanted fugitives list of “red notices” to be in Asia, has been repatriated to China thanks to cooperation between law enforcement and judicial authorities in China and Thailand. –0–

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