NewzIntel.com

Category: Security

  • MIL-OSI Security: Rensselaer County Sex Offender Sentenced to 292 Months for Receiving Child Pornography

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    ALBANY, NEW YORK – Zachary Cota, age 32, formerly of Castleton-on-Hudson, New York, was sentenced today to 292 months in prison for receiving child pornography.  United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III and Craig L. Tremaroli, Special Agent in Charge of the Albany Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), made the announcement.

    Cota previously admitted that he used SnapChat to solicit three children to send him nude photos.  After an 8-year-old and a 13-year-old provided the requested photos, Cota threatened to reveal what they had done, in an effort to coerce the children to send additional child sexual abuse material.  At the time of these crimes, Cota was on probation following a state conviction for course of sexual conduct against a child.  When his Probation Officer asked to see Cota’s phone, Cota locked himself in a bathroom and began deleting its contents.  A forensic search of Cota’s phone revealed an additional 900 images of child pornography, including screenshots of a video chat between Cota and a naked child. 

    United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III stated: “Cota’s depraved and disgusting conduct has justly resulted in a lengthy term of imprisonment that will make our community safer. We will continue to investigate and prosecute sex offenders and pedophiles who use the Internet and social media applications to prey on children.” 

    FBI Special Agent in Charge Craig L. Tremaroli stated: “Today’s sentence underscores the FBI’s unwavering commitment to protecting children from dangerous predators like Mr. Cota. We will continue to work together with our law enforcement partners at every level to identify and investigate these disturbing individuals and ensure justice is delivered to the victims.”

    United States District Judge Anne M. Nardacci also imposed a life term of supervised release and ordered Cota to forfeit the Samsung phone he used to commit the offense. Cota must also continue to register as a sex offender upon his release from prison.

    The FBI Albany Field Office’s Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force investigated the case, which Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonathan S. Reiner prosecuted as part of Project Safe Childhood.

    Project Safe Childhood is a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Cleaver, Local Federal Employees Hold Press Conference Condemning Cuts to Federal Workforce

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Emanuel Cleaver II (5th District Missouri)

    (Kansas City, MO) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) held a press conference with local employees from the American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE), National Treasury Employees Union (NTEU), Service Employees International Union (SEIU), Missouri National Education Association (MNEA), National Association of Letter Carriers (NALC), and the American Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organizations (AFL-CIO) to highlight the impact of the Trump administration and Elon Musk’s cuts to the federal workforce. More than 30,000 federal workers are employed in Missouri’s Fifth Congressional District, with one economist estimating the region could lose 6,000 good-paying federal jobs, which could wipe out thousands of other jobs in the process. 

    “The Trump administration and Elon Musk have treated our federal workforce like a disposable expense, rather than the backbone of a functioning democracy,” said Congressman Cleaver. “Slashing jobs, hollowing out agencies, and undermining public service isn’t reform – it’s sabotage. I’m proud to stand with the unions representing the men and women who keep this country running. Today’s gathering is a line in the sand. We’re standing with the workers who’ve been silenced, sidelined, and scapegoated – and we won’t let billionaires hollow out public service under the guise of efficiency without a fight.”

    The basics:

    Where do federal employees work?

    • Federal employees work in every congressional district in the country. In fact, 80 percent of the 2.3 million federal civilian employees work outside the D.C. region. As a result, mass firings have the potential to not only affect government services, but also to disrupt local economies.

    What departments employ the most federal employees?

    • Eight departments each employ over 100,000 civilian employees. They are the Department of Veterans Affairs, Department of Homeland Security, Department of the Army, Department of the Navy, Department of the Air Force, Department of Justice, Department of Treasury, and other Department of Defense employees not included in the branches of the military. Employees at these agencies account for almost 75 percent of the federal civilian workforce, not including U.S. Postal Service workers. 

    How much money is spent on federal employees?

    • Approximately 4 percent of all federal spending is compensation for civilian employees. In fiscal year 2022, the federal government spent $6.3 trillion in total outlays but only $271 billion was from compensation to civilian employees. For comparison, the gross tax gap from taxes the wealthy owe but refuse to pay is approximately $696 billion, or 2.5 times more than all compensation to civilian employees. Total civilian employee compensation is dwarfed by the amounts that wealthy tax cheats don’t pay in taxes.
    • Moreover, as Congressional Republicans enable DOGE cuts in communities across the country, they are currently working to pass a $4.5 trillion tax cut that overwhelmingly benefits the top 5% of Americans.

    Emanuel Cleaver, II is the U.S. Representative for Missouri’s Fifth Congressional District, which includes Kansas City, Independence, Lee’s Summit, Raytown, Grandview, Sugar Creek, Greenwood, Blue Springs, North Kansas City, Gladstone, and Claycomo. He is a member of the exclusive House Financial Services Committee and Ranking Member of the House Subcommittee on Housing and Insurance. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ranking Member Hoyer Remarks at FSGG Hearing on the Federal Judiciary

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Steny H Hoyer (MD-05)

    WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (MD-05), Ranking Member of the Financial Services and General Government (FSGG) Appropriations Subcommittee, delivered opening remarks at the FSGG hearing on the Federal Judiciary. Below is a video and transcript of his remarks:
     

    Click here to watch a full video of remarks.
     

    “Thank you very much, Mr. Chairman. I want to thank Judge Conrad and Judge St. Eve for being with us and for the meeting we had, which was very helpful as a preface to this hearing. If the Judiciary, Mr. Chairman, is to meet this pivotal moment and preserve the rule of law, we must ensure that it has the resources and independence it needs to function as a co-equal branch of government. That’s why I’m very disturbed to see certain House Republicans call for retaliation against judges who rule on the law as they see it, but with which the President’s administration may disagree.

    “Judiciary Chair Jim Jordan sent a letter asking this committee to limit funding the Judiciary uses to issue and enforce injunctions. Other House Republicans have filed articles of impeachment against judges, not for any misconduct, but rather for ruling against the administration. Federal judges who block Trump’s illegal executive actions are just trying to do their jobs and interpreting the law. That is their role and that is critical to our democracy. Many were appointed by Republican presidents, some were even appointed by Donald Trump himself. I agree with Chief Justice Roberts’ assessment earlier this week, that retaliation against them has, to use his words, ‘endangered the rule of law.’ You can’t claim to stand for law and order when you threaten the independence of the branch responsible for upholding law and order. Some of my colleagues across the aisle agree, and I hope they’ll stand up for the Judiciary. Our subcommittee needs to ensure our courts receive the resources they need to fulfill their duties under the Constitution. Doing so is especially important considering the recent Continuing Resolution did not provide any funding increase for the Judiciary in Fiscal Year ‘25.

    “Six of the eleven judicial branch appropriations were funded at a freeze for a second year, meaning they were forced to continue operating at Fiscal Year ‘23 levels. For Fiscal Year ‘26, Judiciary requested $9.4 billion in discretionary funding, an increase of $800 million, or 9.3%, over the ‘25 Continuing Resolution. Most of that increase, however, some 68%, is just to offset inflation, while the rest is for programmatic reassessment. Failing to fulfill that request would threaten the Judiciary’s ability to perform basic, constitutional, and statutory functions. I’m particularly concerned, Mr. Chairman, about our federal public defender program, which has faced a severe staffing shortage and budget shortfall for years. As a matter of fact, we made a mistake in this committee and the Senate made a further mistake – which was corrected – which would have completely undermined the ability to perform the public defender service as is necessary.

    “The Judiciary has requested $1.77 billion for defender services, an increase – a substantial increase – of $350 million, or 22%, over the Fiscal Year ‘25 CR. Again, a freeze at ‘23 levels. Without that funding, courts will struggle to ensure that Americans are provided their constitutional right to an attorney, a competent attorney. We also need to ensure that our courts can keep up with the increasing caseloads. That means following through on the request to increase funding for the Court of Appeals and district courts by $345 million, or 6%, and again for the administrative office of the U.S. courts by $8 million, or 8%, over the ‘25 CR. Again, we’re talking about ’73 levels, essentially. Without these increases to help our courts here hire staff as needed and cover basic operational costs, case backlogs will only continue to grow, making it harder for Americans to receive timely justice and due process. I know all the committee members understand this, but criminal cases will become – must become before the civil cases because of the right to a speedy trial. That means small businesses and other Americans will be pushed to later resolution of their cases.

    “We also need to devote more resources to keep our judges and courts safe at the time when Donald Trump and his allies are vilifying our courts. The public hears that and it has a tendency to inflame those who may be irrational, may be mentally ill, or just may be angry. We ought to fulfill its request for a $142 million, or 19% increase above the ‘25 CR for court security – now court security is a euphemism for making sure our judges are safe, making sure that our judges are not intimidated, making sure that justice will be served unrelated to the threat of violence.

    “I look forward to hearing more from Judge Conrad and Judge St. Eve – although I want to say to you, I’m going to go back to my other hearing, I’m going back and forth, but my staff will be here and I’m going to hear everything you say but it may not be – it may be virtually. Everyone who stands for law and order, Mr. Chairman, ought to be united in the mission of ensuring that our Judiciary is safe, neutral, and articulating their thoughts regarding – and opinions with reference to the law, unrelated to intimidation and forces beyond their control. I yield back.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ranking Member Hoyer Remarks at the FSGG Hearing on the Federal Trade Commission

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Steny H Hoyer (MD-05)

    WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (MD-05), Ranking Member of the Financial Services and General Government (FSGG) Appropriations Subcommittee, delivered opening remarks at the FSGG hearing on the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). Below is a video and transcript of his remarks:
     

    Click  here to watch a full video of his remarks.

    “I thank the chairman very much. Welcome, Chairman Ferguson, to the committee. I want to thank you for the work that you have done and you’re doing. You had a very extensive statement. Footnoted more than any other statement I think I’ve read for an opening statement. I thought I was reading a law brief, but having said that, it was very comprehensive.

    “But one of the things I noticed in it, and I say this at the outset, well, I’m going to ask questions later. I’m going to be going in and out. It has nothing to do with your testimony. It has to do with we have two hearings going on at the same time.

    “One of my top priorities, Mr. Chairman as you know, throughout my time in Congress has been making our workers, our businesses, and our entire economy more competitive.

    “That is why I, as Majority Leader, started the agenda that I call Make It In America. Which obviously is a double entendre. People came to America to make it, to succeed. But also, the way we’re going to succeed better, is to make it—whatever it may be—in America. We’re moving towards that effort. But as you point out in your statement, it can be a self-defeating effort. The larger one enterprise gets other enterprises are left by the wayside. Many of the historic bills we passed in the 117th Congress – including the Chips and Science Act, the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, and the Inflation Reduction Act – were designed to promote competition and to grow manufacturing and our science research in America. That’s the objective we all ought to share.

    “If you support innovation, if you support growth, if you support development, then you have to support competition. I tell my Democrats, if you want to be pro-worker, you need to be pro-employer. Both need to be in equilibrium. Both have a role to play. And both need a referee. [turns to colleague on the dais] You talked about cop on the beat. Referee.

    “If you recognize the importance of the free market, as I do, then you have to recognize how crucial it is to keep it free and keep it a market. The FTC is essential to that mission to promote fair competition and protect American consumers. It breaks up monopolies that inflate the price of everything from groceries to gas to health care. It protects Americans from scam calls, fraud, and unfair business practices. It stands up for Americans’ privacy rights, going after businesses that misuse or fail to secure their personal data. One thing I may just [pulls out smart phone] it ticks me when I get advertisements that I don’t ask for on this device which I own. I don’t know whether there is a solution to that, because obviously they have to ‘pay for the product they give me.’ That is a particular concern that I have that you may pay attention to.  

    “The FTC needs to maintain public trust and credibility to do this vital, nonpartisan work. Now I mention nonpartisan work, but what I started to say, let me say, I noticed at least three times in the opening sort-of synopsis of your statement that you use the term ‘the Trump-Vance FTC.’ I was caught by that, because I don’t see that very often in statements that are made. Actually, it’s America’s FTC. Now, you’re appointed, you’re a Republican, I’m a Democrat, so we have different points of view. But we need to make sure the agenda of the administration really needs to be in this case from your perspective, the agenda of what the FTC is intended to do. Now we may have differences on that, but I would urge you to do it in as non-partisan a way, and, frankly, I urged your predecessor to do the same thing. There would be different views as to whether that was accomplished. The FTC needs to maintain public trust and credibility as I said, and that will help I think. That’s why the agency has always been independent.

    “I am deeply concerned by this administration’s efforts frankly to undermine—not only the independence that that naming it the Trump-Vance FTC would imply—but it also seems to be creeping into almost everything we do. Where so-called ‘non-loyalists’ are being fired. They need to be loyal to the country and the oath that we all take to the Constitution and the laws thereof. Not to any individual or group of individuals. In March, Donald Trump violated 90 years of supreme court precedent when he fired two Democratic FTC commissioners without any legal cause, which under the law is required.

    “Those two commissioners are challenging that action in court, I hope they win. And if it’s anything like the dozens of other cases we’ve seen in the past four months, I believe the courts will likely rule against the administration. [Turns to Rep. Joyce] One more minute? Nevertheless, Trump’s attempt to politicize the FTC ought to concern us all. So should the reports that Elon Musk and his DOGE agents may be able to access sensitive financial data the FTC compiles on American businesses, including Musk’s competitors. That is the opposite of the FTC’s purpose, and we must not let it happen. Democrats and Republicans need to come together to protect this vital institution and ensure it has the resources it needs to keep serving the American people. I thank FTC’s Chair Ferguson for joining us today, and I hope he can address some of these concerns and speak to the importance of this funding. The American people are counting on the FTC, and the FTC is counting on this committee. Thank you very much, Mr. Chairman.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Sen. Johnson Joins Sen. Cotton in Introducing Bipartisan Bill to Protect Military Installations from Unauthorized Drones

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Wisconsin Ron Johnson

    WASHINGTON – Yesterday, U.S. Sen. Ron Johnson (R-Wis.) joined U.S. Sen. Tom Cotton (R-Ark.) in introducing the Comprehensive Operations for Unmanned-System Neutralization and Threat Elimination Response (COUNTER) Act. The bipartisan legislation will help enhance airspace security at military installations.

    Sens. Johnson and Cotton were joined by U.S. Senators Jim Banks (R-Ind.), Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), John Boozman (R-Ark.), Katie Britt (R-Ala.), Ted Budd (R-N.C.), Shelley Moore Capito (R-W. Va.), Susan Collins (R-Maine), John Cornyn (R-Texas), Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), John Hoeven (R-N.D.), Jim Justice (R-W. Va.), Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), James Lankford (R-Okla.), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.), Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.), Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), Markwayne Mullin (R-Okla.), Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), Rick Scott (R-Fla.), Eric Schmitt (R-Mo.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), and Todd Young (R-Ind.).

    U.S. Reps. Chrissy Houlahan (D-Penn.) and August Pfluger (R-Texas) are introducing companion legislation in the U.S. House of Representatives.

    Full text of the letter can be found here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Johnson Introduces Bipartisan Transformational Public Transit Bill

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Hank Johnson (GA-04)

    On the final day of Infrastructure Week, Rep. Hank Johnson introduces legislation to invest $80B in public transit across large cities, small towns, and rural communities to better serve constituents and working families

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — On the final day of Infrastructure Week, Congressman Hank Johnson (GA-04), a senior member of the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, re-introduced the Stronger Communities Through Better Transit Act, which would provide $20 billion annually for four years ($80 billion total) to transit systems for their operating budgets.

    The bill would provide targeted federal funding to help transit agencies increase bus and rail service, especially in places with existing poor service, disadvantaged communities, and areas of persistent poverty. The funding will be in addition to existing state, local and farebox revenue and will support additional services above and beyond what is currently being provided. Agencies could use funding under this bill to make “substantial improvements to transit service.”

    “Transit in our communities is as essential as food on our tables, clothes on our backs and a roof over our heads,” said Rep. Johnson. “This kind of funding is a game-changer for Atlanta and communities across the nation. Simply put, people could get to more places in less time using transit. Jobs, schools, and other daily destinations that previously took too long to reach would become more accessible. People would feel less strain on household budgets as their transportation costs shrink. They would have more time to spend with their families as time spent commuting falls.”

    The Stronger Communities Through Better Transit Act builds on the momentum of Infrastructure Week by supporting efforts to create a more equitable, efficient, and connected transportation system for all Americans.

    The Stronger Communities Through Better Transit Act would:

    •    Authorize $20 billion annually for FY2025-FY2028
    •    Create a new formula grant program to support the operating costs of public transportation and certain associated capital costs
    •    Require funds must be used for projects that make “substantial improvements to transit service” –  that directly boosts frequency of buses, trains and increases routes
    •    Clearly define funding for “areas of persistent poverty” and “underserved communities;”

    According to the Transit Center, a foundation that works to improve public transit in cities across the U.S., in Atlanta alone, $20 billion in annual transit funding could mean a 40 percent gain in service that could vastly improve access to transit that arrives at least every 15 minutes, all day, seven days a week.

    In some parts of the city, that would increase the number of jobs reachable within 30 minutes on transit by a factor of eight, it said.

    In cities and communities across the country, a federal program to support transit services could yield similar benefits by helping families lower transportation costs, drive economic opportunity and racial equity and reduce greenhouse gases.

    Cosponsors include: Reps. Cohen, McClellan, Tlaib,  Frost, Cleaver, Dean, Boyle, Doggett, Wilson (FL), Ramirez, Kennedy (NY), McIver, Norton, Smith (WA), Sykes, Gomez, Simon, D. Davis (IL), Schakowsky, Carbajal, Garcia (CA), Sanchez, Mullin, DelBene, McGarvey,  Raskin, R. Kelly, Garamendi, Veasey, Horsford, McBath, Meng, Ruiz, Carter (LA), Titus, Lynch, Fields, Morelle, Scanlon, Omar, Foushee, Tonko, Moore (WI), Adams, Magaziner, Pocan, Moulton, Evans (PA), Landsman, Thompson, Jayapal, Watson Coleman, DeGette, Mfume, Deluzio, Hayes, Thanedar, Barragán, Beatty, Brown, Fitzpatrick, Ocasio-Cortez, Garcia (IL), Lee (PA), Khanna, Neal, Pingree, Clarke (NY), Krishnamoorthi, Sherman, Budzinski, Ansari, Nadler, Cherfilus-McCormick, Ryan, Gottheimer, Casten, Jackson, Garcia (TX), Velazquez, Houlahan, Sorensen, Huffman, Foster, Chu, Ross, Vargas, Stansbury, Goldman, Amo, Moskowitz, Sewell, Dingell, Harder, Quigley, Salinas, Takano, Bishop, Ivey.

    The bill is supported by: Transport Workers Union of America, Amalgamated Transit Union, MARTA, T4America, Natural Resources Defense Council, National Campaign for Transit Justice, Sierra Club, International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers, Union of Concerned Scientists

    What stakeholders are saying:

    “The federal government inexplicably funds transit capital investments without providing the operations funding to ensure that buses and trains can run safely, on time, and frequently enough to benefit working families,” said TWU International President John Samuelsen. “This bill would end a transit funding practice that doesn’t make sense and ensure that federal dollars can go toward transit operating expenses that improve service and ridership.”

    “Transportation labor has long supported strong federal action that facilitates sustainable and reliable public transit service,” Transportation Trades Department, AFL-CIO President Greg Regan said. “By providing $20 billion per year over the next four years, transit agencies would have the opportunity to increase service frequency, expand service areas, extend operating hours and overall improve the passenger experience. We applaud Rep. Johnson for understanding the importance of this public service and introducing this legislation.”

    To read the bill, click HERE.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Three Nominees Forwarded for District Court Judge in the Fifth Judicial District

    Source: US State of Nebraska

    . Doele, Norfolk; Julie L. Reiter, David City; and Breanna D. Flaherty of Columbus.

    The Fifth Judicial District consists of Boone, Butler, Colfax, Hamilton, Merrick, Nance, Platte, Polk, Saunders, Seward, and York counties. The vacancy is due to the appointment of Justice Jason M. Bergevin to the Nebraska Supreme Court.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Blue Ridge Arrives in Wellington, New Zealand for the First Time

    Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

    WELLINGTON, New Zealand — U.S. 7th Fleet flagship USS Blue Ridge (LCC 19) arrived in Wellington, New Zealand for a port visit, May 16, 2025. This historic arrival marks the first time Blue Ridge has visited New Zealand as well as its capital city. The last two U.S Navy ships to visit Wellington were USS Howard (DDG 83) in 2021 and USS Sampson (DDG 102) in 2016.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-Evening Report: ER Report: A Roundup of Significant Articles on EveningReport.nz for May 17, 2025

    ER Report: Here is a summary of significant articles published on EveningReport.nz on May 17, 2025.

    A life of service: celebrating the career of Luamanuvao Dame Winnie Laban
    SPECIAL REPORT: By Moera Tuilaepa-Taylor, RNZ Pacific manager At this year’s May graduation ceremony, Te Herenga Waka Victoria University’s Luamanuvao Dame Winnie Laban, was awarded an honorary doctorate in recognition for her contribution to education. Although she has now stepped down from the role, Luamanuvao served as the university’s Assistant Vice-Chancellor, Pasifika, for 14 years.

    ‘Manu jumping’: The physics behind making humongous splashes in the pool
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Pankaj Rohilla, Postdoctoral Fellow in Fluid Dynamics, Georgia Institute of Technology Maybe you’ve unknowingly tried to do a manu jump. Isabel Pavia/Moment via Getty Images Whether diving off docks, cannonballing into lakes or leaping off the high board, there’s nothing quite like the joy of jumping into

    Time for NZ media to ditch the propaganda and stand against genocide
    COMMENTARY: By Saige England in Christchurch “RNZ is failing in its duty to inform the public of an entirely preventable humanitarian catastrophe.” Tautoko to Jeremy Rose, Ramon Das and Eugene Doyle for this critique of a review of RNZ’s coverage of a genocide. Sadly, this highlights RNZ’s failure to report the genocide from the perspective

    Media Council makes ‘stop Telikom PNG silencing journalists’ plea to PM Marape
    The Media Council of Papua New Guinea (MCPNG) has called on Prime Minister James Marape to stop Telikom PNG silencing and suppressing media personnel. Telikom PNG, which is 100 percent government-owned, has two key outlets: FM100 radio and EMTV. Recently, it sacked FM100 talkback host Culligan Tanda after he featured opposition East Sepik Governor Allan

    Ben Roberts-Smith has lost an appeal in his long-running defamation case. Here’s why
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Rick Sarre, Emeritus Professor in Law and Criminal Justice, University of South Australia The full Federal Court has dismissed Ben Roberts-Smith’s appeal to have his defamation case loss overturned. It is important in seeking to understand this judgement to know the history of the case. In June

    With a new minister for early childhood education, what can the federal government do to make centres safer?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Victoria Minson, Senior Lecturer in Early Childhood Education, Australian Catholic University This week, more reports emerged of horrific abuse of children at childcare centres. An ABC investigation reported young children had suffered burns and been verbally abused. In another case, a baby was repeatedly slapped by an

    Australian researchers use a quantum computer to simulate how real molecules behave
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Ivan Kassal, Professor of Chemical Physics, University of Sydney University of Sydney Nano Institute When a molecule absorbs light, it undergoes a whirlwind of quantum-mechanical transformations. Electrons jump between energy levels, atoms vibrate, and chemical bonds shift — all within millionths of a billionth of a second.

    To boost the nation’s health, the government’s proposed food strategy must put people over profits
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Rachael Walshe, Post-doctoral Researcher, University of Canberra crbellette/sShutterstock On election night, a triumphant Anthony Albanese took to the stage brandishing a Medicare card as a symbol of the nation’s commitment to public healthcare. As the re-elected government gets to work on its promised national food security strategy

    You usually need more than a few drops of blood, saliva or urine to detect illnesses. Here’s why
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Amali Cooray, PhD Candidate in Genetic Engineering and Cancer, WEHI (Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research) Lumen Photos/Shutterstock In the 2000s, biotech company Theranos promised to revolutionise blood testing. Founder Elizabeth Holmes claimed Theranos technology could perform hundreds of tests using just a finger-prick drop

    Some young trans people take sex hormones so their bodies better align with their gender. What are the benefits and risks?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Cristyn Davies, Senior Research Fellow in the Specialty of Child and Adolescent Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney romain-jorge/Shutterstock Triggered by hormonal changes in the brain and body, puberty marks a physical transformation. Oestrogen and testosterone – often called “sex hormones” – drive many

    Saudi Arabia has big AI ambitions. They could come at the cost of human rights
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Niusha Shafiabady, Associate Professor in Computational Intelligence, Australian Catholic University This week, on his tour of the Middle East, United States President Donald Trump unveiled a suite of new deals with Saudi Arabia. Trump claimed the deals were worth more than US$1 trillion (A$1.5 trillion). This is

    Why Anthony Albanese’s presence at Pope Leo’s inauguration is shrewd politics
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Darius von Guttner Sporzynski, Historian, Australian Catholic University When Prime Minister Anthony Albanese steps into St Peter’s Square for the inaugural Mass of Pope Leo XIV on Sunday, the optics will be far more than pious courtesy. For a day, the Vatican will temporarily be the world’s

    The space race is being reshaped by geopolitics, offering opportunities for countries such as New Zealand
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Peter Zámborský, Senior Lecturer, Management & International Business, University of Auckland, Waipapa Taumata Rau NASA/Getty Imges The space economy is being reshaped — not just by innovation, but by geopolitics. What was once dominated by state space agencies, and more recently by private ventures, is evolving into

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Trail runner rescued from the Overland Track in Cradle Mountain National Park

    Source: New South Wales Community and Justice

    Trail runner rescued from the Overland Track in Cradle Mountain National Park

    Saturday, 17 May 2025 – 12:02 pm.

    A female trail runner has been rescued after becoming lost on the Overland Track in Cradle Mountain National Park last night.
    Search and Rescue was called to coordinate rescue of the woman from Overland Track after the woman called emergency authorities on her mobile.
    Police and a Tasmania Parks and Wildlife ranger located the woman around 8pm last night, seeking shelter overnight at the Waterfall Hut.
    The woman was then walked out to safety a short time ago,
    Police advise bushwalkers against walking alone, and to ensure they carry sufficient warm clothing and food, and emergency communication devices. A two-way messaging emergency device is preferred.• Ensure you’re prepared with appropriate equipment – take a map and torch, clothing and footwear to suit any conditions, regardless of the season take a waterproof jacket; adequate food and water, first aid kit.• Research your intended trip – ensure the trip is within your abilities and fitness level, and you have a route plan, map and check the expected weather forecast.• Let someone know before you go – ensure someone knows your route and expected return time.• Always carry a fully charged mobile phone and consider a portable charger to extend battery life. Batteries do not last as long when cold and mobile navigation apps deplete batteries quicker than other apps.• Carry a Personal Locator Beacon but be aware that they are a one-way communication device.• Be flexible. Be prepared to turn back or change plans if severe weather is forecast or eventuates during the walk. Making the decision to push on when you should turn back can put you in danger.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: A life of service: celebrating the career of Luamanuvao Dame Winnie Laban

    SPECIAL REPORT: By Moera Tuilaepa-Taylor, RNZ Pacific manager

    At this year’s May graduation ceremony, Te Herenga Waka Victoria University’s Luamanuvao Dame Winnie Laban, was awarded an honorary doctorate in recognition for her contribution to education.

    Although she has now stepped down from the role, Luamanuvao served as the university’s Assistant Vice-Chancellor, Pasifika, for 14 years. In that time has worked tirelessly to raise Pasifika students’ achievement.

    “It’s really important that they [Pasifika students] make the most of the opportunities that education has to offer,” she said.

    “Secondly, education teaches you how to write, to research, to critique, but more importantly, become an informed voice and considering what’s happening in society now with AI and also technology and social media, it’s really important that we can tell our stories and share our values, and we counter that by receiving a good education and applying ourselves to do well.”

    When asked about the importance of service, Luamanuvao explained “there’s a saying in Samoan, ‘o le ala i le pule o le tautua’ so the road to authority and leadership is through service”.

    “And we’ve always been taught how important it is not to indulge in our own individual success, but to always become a voice and support our brothers and sisters, and our families and in our communities who are especially struggling.”

    Juliana Faataualofa Lafaialii, Samoa’s Deputy Head of Mission/Counsellor to NZ (from left); Philippa Toleafoa; Luamanuvao Dame Winnie Laban; Afamasaga Faamatalaupu Toleafoa, Samoa’s High Commissioner to NZ; and Labour MP Pesetatamalelagi Barbara Edmonds . Image: Pesetatamalelagi Barbara Edmonds/RNZ Pacific

    As she accepted her honorary doctorate, she spoke about the importance of women taking on leadership roles.

    ‘Our powerful women’
    “Yes, many Pacific people will know how powerful our women are, especially our mothers, our grandmothers, and great grandmothers. We actually come from cultures of very powerful and very strong women . . .  it’s not centered in the individual women. It’s centered on the well-being of our families, and our communities. And that’s what women leadership is all about in the Pacific.”

    She did not expect the honourary doctorate from Te Herenga Waka Victoria University because “I’ve always been aspirational for others. And we Pacific people have been brought up that we are the people of the ‘we’ and not the me.”

    The number of Pasifika students enrolled at the University, during Luamanuvao’s time as Assistant Vice-Chancellor, increased from 4.70 percent in 2010 to 6.64 pecent in 2024. She said she “would have loved to have doubled that number” so that it was more in line with the number of Pasifika people living in New Zealand.

    Luamanuvao Dame Winnie Laban and supporters during an International Women’s day event in Wellington. Image: RNZ Pacific

    Two of the initiatives she started, during her time at the University, was the Pasifika Roadshow taking information about university life out to the wider community and the Improving Pasifika Legal Education Project.

    Helping Pasifika Law students succeed was very important to her. While Pasifika make up make up only 3 percent of Lawyers, they are overrepresented in the legal system, comprising 12 percent of the prison population.

    Another passion of hers was encouraging Pasifika to enter academia. “I think we’ve had an increase in Pacific academics in some areas. For example, with the Faculty of Law, we’ve got two senior Pacific women in lecturer positions . . . We’ve also got four associate professors, and now I’ve finished, there’s also a vacancy for another.”

    Prior to her work in education Luamanuvao was the first Pasifika woman to enter New Zealand politics, in 1999.

    First Pacific woman MP
    “I was fortunate that when I ran for Parliament, I ran first as a list MP, and as you know, within the parties, they have selection process that are quite robust, and so I became the first Pacific woman MP.”

    “What motivated me was the car parts factory that closed in Wainuiomata, and most of the workers were men, but they were also Pacific, Māori and palagi, who basically arrived at work one morning and were told the factory was closing.”

    “But what really hit me, and hurt me, that these were not the values of Aotearoa. They’re not the values of our Pacific region. These are human beings, and for many men, particularly, to have a job, it’s about providing for your family. It’s about status.

    “So, if factories were going to close down, where was the planning to upskill them so they could continue in employment? None of them wanted to go for the unemployment benefit.

    “They wanted to continue in paid work. So it’s those milestones that I make it worthwhile. It’s just a pity, because election cycles are three years, and as you know, people will vote how they want to vote, and if there’s a change, all the hard work you’ve put in gets reversed and but fundamentally, I believe that New Zealand and Pacific people have wonderful values that all of us try to live by, and that will continue to feed the light and ensure that people have a choice.”

    Luamanuvao Dame Winnie Laban PhD and her husband Dr Peter Swain. Image: Trudy Logologo/RNZ Pacific

    Although she first entered Parliament as a list MP, she subsequently won the Mana electorate seat. She retained the seat ,for the Labour party, from 2002 until she stepped away from politics in 2010.

    During that time she was Minister of Pacific Peoples, 2007-2008, and even though Labour was defeated in the 2008 election, she continued to hold the Mana seat by a comfortable margin.

    Mentoring many MPs
    Although she has left political life, Luamanuvao has also been involved in mentoring many Pasifika Members of Parliament, and helping them cope with the challenges and opportunities that go with the role.

    One of the primary motivators in her life has been the struggles of her parents, who left Samoa in 1954 to build a better future for their children, in New Zealand. She acknowledged that all of her successes can be attributed to her parents and the sacrifices they made.

    “Yes, well, I think everybody can look at a genealogy of history of families leaving their homeland to come to Aotearoa, why, to build a better life and opportunities, including education for their children.

    “And I often remind our generation of young people now that your parents left their home, for you. And I’ve often reflected because my parents have passed away on the pain of leaving their parents, but there was always this loving generosity in that both my parents were the eldest of huge families.

    “They left everything for them, and actually arrived in New Zealand with very little. But there was this determination to succeed.

    “Secondly, they are a minority in a country where they’re not the majority, or they are the indigenous people of their country. So also, overcoming those barriers, their hard work, their dreams, but more importantly, the huge love for our communities and fairness and justice was installed in Ken and I my brother, from a very young age, about serving and about giving and about reciprocity.”

    Although she has left her role in tertiary education Luamanuvao vows to continue working to support the next generation of Pasifika leaders, in New Zealand and around the Pacific region.

    Her lifelong commitment to service, continues as she’s a founding member of The Fale Malae Trust, a group whose vision is to build an internationally significant, landmark Fale Malae on the Wellington waterfront.

    This article is republished under a community partnership agreement with RNZ.

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Saipan Soldiers Excel in the Guam National Guard

    Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

    CHALAN PAGO, Guam (May 9, 2025) — The rhythm of sledgehammers and a chorus of power tools make the Guam Guard’s 1224th Engineer Support Company easy to find. They are out in town this morning, removing subfloors, rerouting electrical circuits, and sealing windows at Safe Haven, a resource center for new and expecting mothers in need.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Coast Guard, partners locate Lucky Harvest west of Guam

    Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

    SANTA RITA, Guam — The U.S. Coast Guard, with support from U.S. Navy and local partners, located the 47-foot vessel Lucky Harvest, carrying two mariners, which had been missing since departing Alamagan Island, Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, on May 12, 2025, en route to Saipan.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Coast Guard rescues 3 boaters off Fort De Soto

    Source: United States Coast Guard

    U.S. Coast Guard sent this bulletin at 05/16/2025 10:00 PM EDT

     

    05/16/2025 09:34 PM EDT

    CLEARWATER, Fla. — A Coast Guard Station St. Petersburg boat crew rescued three boaters, Friday, after their 29-foot boat capsized approximately six miles west of Bunces Pass.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rosen Leads Colleagues in Demanding Trump Lifts Hold on High-Speed Internet Funding for Nevada

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV)

    WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV) led 11 of her colleagues in a letter demanding that the Trump Administration release funding for states under the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program. This program connects families in the hardest-to-serve communities to high-speed internet and works to close the digital divide. Senator Rosen helped create the BEAD program, as part of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, and she secured $416 million for Nevada. The state has been approved to receive the funding since January 2025, but the Trump Administration’s pause on this critical program is indefinitely delaying Nevada’s ability to connect Nevadans to high-speed internet.
    The letter was signed by Senators Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Mark Warner (D-VA), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Gary Peters (D-MI), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), and Angus King (I-ME).
    “We write with concern regarding the National Telecommunications and Information Administration’s (NTIA) recent announcement that it is delaying the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program,” wrote the Senators. “This unprecedented move by the NTIA will further delay our communities from having the connectivity they need to grow and thrive. To unlock the full strength of the U.S. economy, every community must have access to the vast opportunities enabled by broadband, and this can be achieved by your Administration following the law as outlined in the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (P.L. 117-58).”
    “Currently, there are multiple states ready for broadband providers to put shovels in the ground tomorrow,” they continued. “NTIA must act swiftly to release BEAD funding to states that have already been approved and expeditiously work to approve the remaining eligible applications. Time is of the essence, and our rural and tribal communities cannot afford more delays.”
    The full letter can be found HERE.
    Senator Rosen has been a strong advocate for expanding high-speed internet access in Nevada. Through her efforts, she has secured $550 million in federal funding through various programs and legislation for the High Speed Nevada Initiative, including the Middle Mile Infrastructure Grant Program she created. Senator Rosen helped write the broadband section of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, securing $65 billion in overall investments to make high-speed internet affordable for Americans. She also successfully pushed the Federal Communications Commission to update its deeply flawed National Broadband Map and ensure Nevada receives its fair share of BEAD funding.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Statement from Attorney General Bonta Regarding the United States Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit Decision to Uphold AB 5

    Source: US State of California

    Friday, May 16, 2025

    Contact: (916) 210-6000, agpressoffice@doj.ca.gov

    OAKLAND – California Attorney General Rob Bonta today issued the following statement regarding the United States Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit’s decision to uphold AB 5 in Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association, Inc. v. Bonta. The case was brought by the California Trucking Association, along with Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association, Inc. (OOIDA) in the Southern District of California. Plaintiffs argued that applying AB 5 to drivers who own their trucks and lease their services to motor carriers violates the Commerce Clause of the United States Constitution. In today’s decision, the Ninth Circuit disagreed, concluding that AB 5 neither discriminates against interstate commerce nor imposes an excessive burden upon it. 

    “We’re pleased with Court’s decision today to uphold AB 5’s protections. This landmark law is essential in preventing the exploitation of workers misclassified as independent contractors, including in the trucking industry, and ensures a more just and equitable economy for all Californians. The California Department of Justice remains steadfast in our commitment to standing up for the rights of our workers to receive the benefits and protections to which they are legally entitled.”

    A copy of the ruling is available here.

    # # #

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: DHS Debunks Fake News Narratives About Law Enforcement During Police Week

    Source: US Department of Homeland Security

    WASHINGTON – The Department of Homeland Security today released the following facts about Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) recent operations and Customs and Border Protection arrests to set the record straight on misleading news narratives and reporting.

    “Even during National Police Week, the media, members of Congress, and sanctuary politicians have demonized ICE and CBP officers who bravely serve their country,” said Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin. “Attacks and smears against ICE have resulted in officers facing a 413% increase in assaults. We are setting the facts straight and reassuring America that President Trump and Secretary Noem will continue to support ICE and CBP in their efforts to make America safe again.

    Debunking the Biggest False News Stories this Week 

    Delaney Hall Storming was “oversight” by Congressional members  

    • At least three members of Congress, Representatives Robert Menendez, Jr., LaMonica McIver and Bonnie Watson Coleman, claimed that breaking into Delaney Hall was “oversight”—but it is actually trespassing and put ICE officers and detainees at risk.
    • Video footage shows McIver assaulting an ICE officer.
    • The allegations made by Newark politicians that Delaney Hall does not have the proper permitting are false. ICE maintains valid permits and inspections for plumbing and electricity and fire codes have been cleared.
    • Delaney Hall currently confines murderers, rapists, suspected terrorists and gang members.
    • There was no need for Congressional members to storm Delaney Hall—they could have just scheduled a tour. ICE will comply with the law and accommodate Members of Congress seeking to tour an ICE detention facility for the purpose of conducting oversight.
    • Safety, security, and good order are always primary considerations in a detention facility, and visitors must be properly identified and attired. 

    Nashville Mayor Smears ICE Enforcement  

    • Mayor Freddie O’Connell and biased news media framed ICE operations in Nashville as “not focused on making us safer.”
    • In reality, of the 196 illegal aliens ICE arrested, 95 had prior criminal convictions and pending criminal charges and 31 were previously removed individuals who reentered the U.S. illegally, which is a felony offense under federal law.
    • The successful operation resulted in the arrests of an MS-13 affiliate, a murderer, sex offenders, and illegal aliens convicted of assault. 

    ICE’s Hawaii Operation focused on “coffee farmers” 

    • Completely leaving out the facts and rap sheets of criminals arrested, the New York Times peddled a misleading narrative about ICE’s operation in Hawaii targeted criminal illegal aliens.
    • The operation resulted in the arrest of illegal aliens charged with kidnapping, assault, firearms offenses, drug offenses and theft. 

     Yamal Said, Lord Buffalo drummer, detained by border officials at airport

    • Yamal Said is a Mexican national and lawful U.S. permanent resident.
    • Yamal Said had a warrant for his arrest after violating a restraining order at least TWICE.
    • When he was attempting to leave the U.S., he was apprehended by CBP and has been turned over to local law enforcement.
    • If you come to our country and break our laws, you will be arrested. 

    Boston ICE agents arrest mother in front of her daughters 

    • What the media failed to report is the target of this ICE operation was a violent criminal illegal alien, Ferreira de Oliveira. She was arrested by local police for assault and battery with a dangerous weapon, and assault and battery of a pregnant victim.
    • District Councilor for the City of Worcester Haxhiaj pulled a political stunt and incited chaos by trying to obstruct law enforcement. ICE officers and local police regained control of the situation and ICE arrested Ferreira de Oliveira.
    • The previous administration’s open border policies allowed this criminal to illegally enter our country in August of 2022. Thanks to President Trump and Secretary Noem this criminal is off our streets.  

    Lies for likes: Influencer claims he was targeted for “political beliefs”  

    • Claims that Hasan Piker’s political beliefs triggered a CBP inspection are baseless.
    • CBP officers follow the law, not agendas. Upon entering the country, this individual was referred for further inspection—a routine, lawful process that occurs daily, and can apply to any traveler.   

    Once his inspection was complete, he was promptly released. 

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: FBI New Orleans Seeking Information on Escaped Inmates

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

    At the request of the New Orleans Police Department, FBI New Orleans has surged resources to assist with apprehending inmates who escaped from the Orleans Parish Jail on May 16, 2025. The FBI routinely offers assistance to our law enforcement partners, to provide additional manpower and specialized resources. 

    In addition, the FBI is offering a reward of up to $5,000 for tips leading to the arrest of any of the inmates. 

    Anyone with information is asked to call the FBI at 1-800-Call-FBI or send digital tips to fbi.gov/neworleansfugitives

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cantwell Statement on Trump Administration Withholding $500M for Fish Passage at Howard Hanson Dam

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington Maria Cantwell

    05.16.25

    Cantwell Statement on Trump Administration Withholding $500M for Fish Passage at Howard Hanson Dam

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), ranking member of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation and senior member of the Senate Finance Committee, released this statement following news that the Trump administration is withholding $500 million in planned federal funding to construct fish passage at Howard Hanson Dam.

    “Constructing fish passage at Howard Hanson Dam was key to reopening at least 60 miles of prime salmon and steelhead habitat, nearly doubling Green River spawning grounds for endangered salmon and steelhead,” said Sen. Cantwell. “Withholding funding for this project is a stab in the back to tribal, commercial, and recreational fishing families. It also amounts to an abandonment of our commitment to tribal treaty rights, and ignores federal law intended to protect salmon.” 

    In November 2021, nine members of the Washington Democratic congressional delegation led by Sen. Cantwell and Rep. Kim Schrier, M.D. (D, WA-08) sent a letter to Assistant Secretary of the Army for Civil Works Michael Connor and Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Acting Director Shalanda Young requesting the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and OMB prioritize funding for the planned Howard A. Hanson Dam fish passage facility on the Green River as part of the $17.1 billion in funding included for the Corps in the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA).

    In February 2020, Sen. Cantwell joined Rep. Schrier and the entire bipartisan Washington congressional delegation in sending a letter to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and OMB requesting funding for the dam.

    Sen. Cantwell was the leading champion in securing a historic $2.855 billion investment in salmon recovery and ecosystem restoration programs in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law that passed in November 2021. This funding includes a Cantwell-authored provision to provide $1 billion for the U.S. Department of Transportation to create a new program aimed at removing, replacing, or restoring culverts, which enable the recovery of salmon passage and habitats.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: During National Police Week, Rosen Addresses Nevada & National Law Enforcement, Pledges Continued Federal Support

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV)
    WASHINGTON, DC – During National Police Week, U.S. Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV) addressed the National Association of Police Organizations, including Nevada law enforcement officers, to thank them for their service to our communities and renew her pledge to work across party lines to make sure they have the resources they need. In her remarks, Senator Rosen detailed her bipartisan efforts to address the police officer shortage and provide law enforcement agencies with the federal resources they need to continue doing their jobs safely and effectively.
    Below are excerpts from Senator Rosen’s remarks as written:
    Let me start by saying how truly grateful I am to the National Association of Police Organizations for all of the work you do every day to keep our communities safe.
    I’m honored to be here with you during National Police Week to say: thank you.
    Each day, you put on your uniform knowing the risks, whether it’s a routine traffic stop or a domestic dispute, any situation can escalate in the blink of an eye.
    […]
    As I’ve met with law enforcement officers all across my state of Nevada, one challenge I hear again and again is the shortage of officers and support staff. 
    This isn’t just a Nevada problem. This is a national crisis.
    When departments are understaffed, the burden on existing officers grows, stretching resources thin and putting even more pressure on those still on the job.
    That’s why I’ve been working across party lines to help recruit and retain the next generation of law enforcement officers.
    I was proud to help pass the bipartisan Recruit and Retain Act, which was signed into law last year. 
    This law established a federal pipeline program to strengthen collaboration between local police departments and schools, helping encourage more young people to pursue careers in law enforcement.
    It also expands the COPS Hiring Program to help local departments cover the costs of recruiting and onboarding new officers.
    This is a critical step to making sure we’re expanding training and making it easier for departments to hire new officers based on the needs and demands of their communities.
    […]
    At the end of the day, this all comes down to one thing: respect – respect for your service, respect for your sacrifice, and respect for your commitment to keeping us safe.
    You are the heroes who put your lives on the line to protect our families, fight crime, and keep us all safe. 
    I promise that as long as I’m in the Senate, I will continue working with my colleagues — Democrats, Republicans, and Independents — to support you, invest in your health and safety, and ensure that you and your families have the support you’ve earned.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Update 3: U.S. Coast Guard, partners locate Lucky Harvest west of Guam

    Source: United States Coast Guard

     

    05/16/2025 07:16 PM EDT

    SANTA RITA, Guam — The U.S. Coast Guard, with support from U.S. Navy and local partners, located the 47-foot vessel Lucky Harvest, carrying two mariners, which had been missing since departing Alamagan Island, Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, on May 12, 2025, en route to Saipan. 

    For breaking news follow us on twitter @USCGHawaiiPac

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Reckless endanger serious harm – Palumpa

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Northern Territory Police are investigating after a child was struck with an arrow in Palumpa yesterday.

    Around 5:30pm,  police received a report of a disturbance in Palumpa involving multiple people allegedly armed with weapons. 

    A short time later, local clinic staff contacted police advising a 4-year-old male child had been presented to the clinic by his mother, with an arrow protruding through his right foot.

    The injuries are considered non-life-threatening and the child is being conveyed to Royal Darwin Hospital for treatment.

    Initial investigations indicate up to for males approached a residence, with one firing a crossbow through the front door, striking the child.

    Police have identified the alleged offender and efforts are currently underway to locate him.

    Anyone with information is urged to contact police on 131 444 or to visit your local station.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Coast Guard searching for overdue vessel Lucky Harvest near Saipan

    Source: United States Coast Guard

     

    05/14/2025 06:35 PM EDT

    SANTA RITA, Guam — The U.S. Coast Guard is searching for the 47-foot vessel Lucky Harvest, carrying two mariners, which went missing after leaving Alamagan Island, Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, May 14, 2025. 

    For breaking news follow us on twitter @USCGHawaiiPac

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Jayapal Statement on SCOTUS Order Blocking Trump Admin’s Efforts to Deport Immigrants Without Due Process

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal (7th District of Washington)

    WASHINGTON, DC — U.S. Representative Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), Ranking Member of the Immigration Integrity, Security, and Enforcement Subcommittee, released the following statement regarding the Supreme Court’s 7-2 decision blocking the Trump administration from violating due process rights with its reckless implementation of the Alien Enemies Act.

    “Once again, the Supreme Court, including Justices appointed by Trump, overwhelmingly ruled that all people, including immigrants, are entitled to due process. 

    “The Trump administration has been kidnapping and disappearing immigrants, violating their right to due process. By the administration’s own admission, people have been deported by mistake. Their goal appears to be to run roughshod over our Constitution and any fundamental rights. While this is not a final ruling on the merits of the case, it is another critical warning to the administration that it cannot ignore due process. Now, the Trump administration must stop these illegal actions and abide by judicial rulings.”

    Issues: Immigration

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Griffith Actions to Honor, Support Law Enforcement During National Police Week

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Morgan Griffith (R-VA)

    The United States of America celebrates May 11, 2025, through May 17, 2025, as National Police Week. The U.S. House of Representatives voted on three measures during National Police Week to help law enforcement:

    • H.R. 2240 – Improving Law Enforcement Officer Safety and Wellness Through Data Act. Directs the U.S. Department of Justice to gather data on violent attacks against law enforcement officers.
    • H.R. 2243 – LEOSA Reform Act. Improves the Law Enforcement Officer Safety Act and extends concealed carry privileges to qualified law enforcement officers.
    • H.R. 2255 – Federal Law Enforcement Officer Service Weapon Purchase Act. Allows current federal law enforcement officers in good standing to purchase a retired weapon at market value from a federal agency.

    U.S. Congressman Morgan Griffith (R-VA) voted in favor of all three measures. 

    On Thursday, May 15, Congressman Griffith attended the 44th Annual National Peace Officers’ Memorial Service on the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol. The ceremony honored the country’s fallen law enforcement officers. During the ceremony, Vice President J.D. Vance delivered remarks. Second Lady Usha Vance, Attorney General Pam Bondi and Border Czar Tom Homan also attended the Service.

    The Service featured a roll call of the 147 fallen police officers who perished in the last year, including Smyth County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Hunter Reedy. In August of 2024, Deputy Reedy was killed by gunfire and his partner, Deputy Michael Fedorchuk, was injured. Deputy Reedy’s family participated in the Service while Smyth County Sheriff “Chip” Shuler and some of Deputy Reedy’s colleagues were in attendance.

    Following the week of DC activities, Congressman Griffith issued the following statement:

    “Many Virginia communities are equipped with safe streets and peaceful neighborhoods thanks to the firm support and care of our law enforcement officers. I will continue to ‘back the blue’, fight against efforts to defund the police and honor the courageous service of our law enforcement. My heart and prayers go out to the family of Deputy Reedy, the Smyth County Sheriff’s Office and the greater law enforcement community of Southwest, Southside and Central Virginia. The emotional service at the Capitol demonstrates America’s rich culture in celebrating the contributions and sacrifices of law enforcement.”

    BACKGROUND

    Congressman Griffith submitted into the Congressional Record an Extension of Remarks honoring the courageous service of Deputy Hunter Reedy.

    Congressman Griffith also requested a flag be flown over the U.S. Capitol.

    Congressman Griffith presented Deputy Reedy’s family with a printed copy of the Congressional Record and the flag during a ceremony at the Southwest Virginia Criminal Justice Training Academy.

    A copy of the remarks in the Congressional Record can be found here.

    A video of Deputy Reedy’s name being called at the Memorial Service can be found here.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICE, joint partner investigation results in illegal alien, alleged human smuggler from Mexico indictment for first material support of terrorism charges against CJNG Member

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    WASHINGTON — An indictment unsealed May 16 in the Western District of Texas is the first in the nation to charge a Mexican national with providing material support to a designated foreign terrorist organization based on her involvement with the Cartel de Jalisco Nueva Generación, including providing the cartel with grenades and engaging in alien smuggling, firearms trafficking, bulk cash smuggling, and narcotics trafficking on its behalf, following a groundbreaking U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and joint law enforcement partner investigation.

    “We will never allow criminal gangs and cartels to terrorize American communities,” said Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem. “The days of unchecked gang and cartel violence are over.”

    “Cartels like CJNG are terrorist groups that wreak havoc in American communities and are responsible for countless lives lost in the United States, Mexico, and elsewhere.” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “This announcement demonstrates the Justice Department’s unwavering commitment to securing our borders and protecting Americans through effective prosecution.”

    According to court documents, Maria Del Rosario Navarro-Sanchez, 39, of Mexico, conspired with others to provide and did attempt to provide grenades to CJNG, a designated foreign terrorist organization. Additionally, Navarro-Sanchez, is charged with conspiracy to smuggle and transport aliens in the United States, straw purchasing and trafficking in firearms, bulk cash smuggling conspiracy, and conspiracy to possess a controlled substance with intent to distribute. Co-defendant Luis Carlos Davalos-Lopez, 27, of Mexico, is charged with conspiracy to smuggle illegal aliens into and transport aliens in the United States, straw purchasing and firearms trafficking. Co-defendant Gustavo Castro-Medina, 28, of Mexico, is charged with straw purchasing and firearms trafficking, conspiracy to possess a controlled substance with intent to distribute, and possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute.

    On Feb. 20, the U.S. Department of State announced the designation of eight international cartels, including CJNG, as Foreign Terrorist Organizations and specially designated global terrorists. This designation makes available much stronger criminal charges in the fight to secure our nation’s borders. CJNG is a transnational criminal organization that controls a significant portion of the narcotics trafficking trade and has a presence in nearly every part of Mexico and dozens of other countries, including the United States. In addition to trafficking fentanyl, CJNG engages in money laundering, bribery, extortion of migrants, taxing of migrant smugglers, and other criminal activities, including acts of violence and intimidation. According to the State Department, CJNG has conducted attacks on Mexican military and police with military grade weaponry, the use of drones to drop explosives on Mexican law enforcement, and assassinations or attempted assassinations of Mexican officials.

    On Jan. 20, President Trump directed ICE, the Justice Department and other agencies to pursue total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations because they pose extremely serious threats to the United States, including by jeopardizing a stable and secure border. These and other criminal organizations commit brutal and intolerable violent crimes related to narcotics and firearms trafficking, money laundering, extortion, and other criminal acts. They also are responsible for huge flows of illegal immigration into the United States. They organize and facilitate all manners of illicit travel and immigration into the United States through the southern and northern borders and rely on co-conspirators and organization members operating in various countries throughout North and South America. This situation is untenable and threatens our national security. ICE, DOJ and its law enforcement partners are committed to protecting the United States against invasion, working urgently toward the goal of total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations, aggressively enforcing our immigration laws, and maximizing the impact and effectiveness of all available law enforcement tools.

    “Supplying grenades to a designated terrorist organization — while trafficking firearms, narcotics, and human beings — is not just criminal; it’s a direct assault on the security of the United States,” said ICE acting Director Todd M. Lyons. “Sanchez acted as a key enabler of violence who empowered cartels and terrorist organizations. Her crimes extended beyond smuggling; she was involved in firearms trafficking, bulk cash smuggling conspiracy, and a conspiracy to distribute controlled substances. Her actions endangered countless lives and undermined our efforts to protect the nation’s borders and communities. Confronting this level of criminality demands more than resolve — it requires a unified, all-of-government response, and that’s exactly what we demonstrated today: a coordinated effort to identify, disrupt, and bring to justice those who profit from violence and human suffering.”

    “As alleged, the defendant engaged in multiple of the most insidious kinds of criminal activity: firearms trafficking, narcotics trafficking, human and bulk cash smuggling, and even providing grenades to CJNG,” said Matthew R. Galeotti, Head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “Today’s announcement demonstrates the Criminal Division’s hard work and commitment to eliminate cartels and foreign terrorist organizations like CJNG.”

    “The slew of federal charges we have brought against Navarro-Sanchez sends a monumental message through the ranks of cartels like CJNG—now designated as a terrorist organization—along with those who support them in various capacities, that U.S. law enforcement is turning up the pressure to crack down on unlawful immigration practices and to dismantle the smuggling of illicit drugs and firearms,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Margaret Leachman for the Western District of Texas. “These crimes, all included as allegations in the indictment, do nothing but place human lives on both sides of the border in grave danger, while loading the pockets of criminals who profit off of them.”

    “The arrest of Maria Del Rosario Navarro-Sanchez should send a clear message to people who wish to align themselves with terrorist groups that they will be sought out and held to the highest extent of the law,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “I’m extremely proud of the dedicated men and women of the FBI and its law enforcement partners who work tirelessly every day to protect Americans and keep our communities safe.”

    “The brutality and destruction inflicted by cartels and terrorist organizations is devastating communities across the United States and around the world,” said Bureau of Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives Acting Director Dan Driscoll. “The capture and arrest of Maria Del Rosario Navarro-Sanchez demonstrates what international law enforcement cooperation can achieve when united against the threat posed by these violent networks. ATF and our partners will use every tool at our disposal to relentlessly hunt down, dismantle, and bring to justice every trafficker, every cartel operative, and every individual who dares to threaten the safety and sovereignty of our communities.”

    “This case lays bare the true nature of the threat we face,” said Drug Enforcement Administration Acting Administrator Robert Murphy. “A cartel associate providing support to a designated foreign terrorist organization is not just a criminal threat — it is a national security threat. DEA will use every tool of law enforcement to dismantle CJNG and its network that floods our streets with poison, traffics in human lives, and wages violence against law and order. We are not just keeping our communities safe from dangerous, illegal drugs — we are fighting a national security crisis.”

    Since its establishment, Joint Task Force Alpha’s work has resulted in increased coordination and collaboration between both domestic and foreign law enforcement; precedent setting indictments, extraditions and prosecutions; more than 365 domestic and international arrests of leaders, organizers, and significant facilitators of these crimes; more than 334 U.S. convictions; more than 281 defendants sentenced, including significant jail sentences imposed; and substantial seizures and forfeitures of assets and contraband including millions of dollars in cash, real property, vehicles, firearms and ammunition, and drugs. ICE Homeland Security Investigations El Paso, the FBI, ATF, and DEA assisted by the U.S. Border Patrol, investigated the case. ATF Legal Attachés in Mexico City and the Mexico Attorney General’s Office also known as Fiscalía General de la República Firearms Trafficking Unit provided substantial assistance. The CBP’s National Targeting Center, and ICE HSI’s Human Smuggling Unit in Washington, D.C. also provided assistance with the investigation.

    Human smuggling is a multibillion-dollar industry for transnational criminal organizations that do not value human safety and take advantage of vulnerable people. HSI investigates human smuggling networks that pose a national security and public safety risk, jeopardize lives, or engage in violence, abuse, or extortion.

    The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Kyle Myers and JTFA Associate Director Ian Hanna of the Western District of Texas, and Trial Attorney Marie Zisa of the Criminal Division’s Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs and Judicial Attachés in Mexico provided substantial assistance. The Justice Department thanks its Mexican law enforcement partners, who arrested Navarro-Sanchez on May 4, during an enforcement operation.

    This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations, and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Project Safe Neighborhood.

    This case is also part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces Strike Force Initiative, which provides for the establishment of permanent multi-agency task force teams that work side-by-side in the same location. This co-located model enables agents from different agencies to collaborate on intelligence-driven, multi­ jurisdictional operations to disrupt and dismantle the most significant drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations. The OCDETF El Paso / Las Cruces Strike Force is comprised of agents and officers from HSI, CBP, DEA, FBI, IRS Criminal Investigation, the U.S. Marshals Service, ATF, the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office, and the El Paso Police Department.

    Individuals across the world can report suspicious criminal activity to the ICE Tip Line 24 hours a day, seven days a week at 866-DHS-2-ICE. Highly trained specialists take reports from both the public and law enforcement agencies on more than 400 laws enforced by ICE.

    The charges contained in an indictment are merely allegations. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Lakewood Homicide Suspect Captured by U.S. Marshals Fugitive Task Force in Colorado Springs

    Source: US Marshals Service

    Denver, CO – The U.S. Marshals Service Colorado Violent Offender Task Force located and arrested a Lakewood homicide suspect Wednesday night in Colorado Springs. 

    Philix Baca, 20, is wanted by the Lakewood Police Department (LPD) on a felony arrest warrant for first-degree murder in connection to the April 13, 2024 shooting death of a 14-year-old male in Lakewood. A warrant for Baca’s arrest was issued on April 15, 2024. In the days following the homicide, multiple co-defendants were apprehended, but Baca fled and had been on the run since.

    On Wednesday, Task Force Officers (TFOs) from LPD’s Special Enforcement Team (SET) who are assigned to the U.S. Marshals Service’s Colorado Violent Offender Task Force (COVOTF) in Denver developed information indicating Baca may be in the Colorado Springs area. The LPD TFOs joined Deputy U.S. Marshals in Colorado Springs as well as other COVOTF TFOs from the Fountain Police Department and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to set up a surveillance operation. While conducting surveillance, a person matching Baca’s description was observed exiting a vehicle and going inside a residence in the 5000 block of Whimsical Drive in Colorado Springs. COVOTF investigators then obtained a search warrant for the residence.

    Due to the violent nature of the case and the potential of the suspect being armed, COVOTF investigators requested assistance from the Colorado Springs Police Department’s Tactical Enforcement Unit (TEU) in contacting the residence. CSPD TEU executed the search warrant at the residence and Baca was safely taken into custody. 

    Baca was transported to the El Paso County Criminal Justice Center where he was booked on the outstanding homicide warrant.

    The success of this arrest represents a culmination of extensive cooperative investigative efforts between the Lakewood Police Department, U.S. Marshals Colorado Violent Offender Task Force, Colorado Springs Police Department, Fountain Police Department, and Immigration and Customs Enforcement. 

    The Colorado Violent Offender Task Force is a multi-jurisdictional fugitive task force that targets the most violent offenders to include those wanted for murder, assault, sex offenses, and other serious offenses throughout the state and country.  Nationally, the U.S. Marshals Service fugitive programs are carried out with local law enforcement in 94 district offices, 85 local fugitive task forces, eight regional task forces, as well as a growing network of offices in foreign countries.         

    Tips can be submitted to the U.S. Marshals Service directly and anonymously by downloading the USMS Tips app to your Apple or Android device. You can also follow the latest news and updates about the U.S. Marshals Service on Facebook and X (formerly Twitter); @USMarshalsHQ or @USMSDenver.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Financial news: On changing the list of bonds available to non-qualified investors with testing

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Exchange – Moscow Exchange –

    From May 23, 2025, for the conclusion of transactions with bonds secured by a pledge of monetary claimsy1sh, non-qualified investors will be required to undergo appropriate testing. On the specified date, the relevant amendments to the Law “On the Securities Market” will come into force.

    In this regard, the Moscow Exchange information service “Marking of complex financial products” The corresponding marking will be placed on 11 bonds of the following issuers:

    “Specialized financial company VTB RKS-1”, “Specialized financial company MOS MSP 6”, “Specialized financial company RLO elevator replacement”, “Specialized financial company SB Securitization”, “Specialized financial company Split Finance 1”, “Specialized financial company SOVCOM SECURITY”, “Specialized financial company GPB-SPK”.

    Marking is done in the “Complex Product” field of the “Financial Instruments” table. For bonds secured by a pledge of monetary claims, the marking number is 16.

    Marking of complex financial products was implemented on August 2, 2021. Financial instruments are marked with values of the TComplexProduct type, which was added in the IFCBroker38 version of the broker’s gateway interface on the stock market.

    The information service “Marking of financial instruments” allows traders to automate the restriction of access to financial instruments for their clients in accordance with the requirements and recommendations of the regulator. The service was developed in partnership with Interfax.

     
    y1sh Bonds secured by a pledge of monetary claims and not being mortgage-backed bonds or bonds issued by a specialized project financing company, 100 percent of whose shares (interests in the authorized capital) belong to the Russian Federation or the state development corporation “VEB.RF” or a single development institute in the housing sector, as defined by Federal Law No. 225-FZ of July 13, 2015 “On promoting the development and improving the efficiency of management in the housing sector and on amendments to certain legislative acts of the Russian Federation”. Contact information for the media 7 (495) 363-3232Pr@moex.kom

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    Please Note; This Information is Raw Content Directly from the Information Source. It is access to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect

    HTTPS: //VVV. MOEX.K.M.M.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Search continues for missing man on Hobart’s Eastern Shore

    Source: New South Wales Community and Justice

    Search continues for missing man on Hobart’s Eastern Shore

    Saturday, 17 May 2025 – 8:16 am.

    Police are this morning continuing the search for a 63-year-old man who was reported missing on Hobart’s Eastern Shore on Thursday afternoon.Search and Rescue officers, uniform police patrols and aerial searches using police drones and helicopter resources have been utilised in the past two days to try and locate the man, who was reported missing about 4pm on Thursday.The last confirmed sighting of the man was near his home at Rokeby.Police and the man’s family hold serious concerns for his welfare as he lives with a medical condition, and he will be in urgent need of medication.The man was last seen wearing black track pants with a black top and could be identified by a walking style that has a distinct shuffle and forward-leaning posture.If you have seen the man, or may have information about his whereabouts, please contact police on 131 444 and quote ESCAD number 384-15052925.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Department of Justice Announces Settlement of Litigation Between the Federal Government and Rare Breed Triggers

    Source: US Justice – Antitrust Division

    Headline: Department of Justice Announces Settlement of Litigation Between the Federal Government and Rare Breed Triggers

    Today, in accordance with President Trump’s Executive Order Protecting Second Amendment Rights, as well as the Attorney General’s Second Amendment Enforcement Task Force, the Department of Justice announced the settlement of litigation between the federal government and Rare Breed Triggers.

    MIL OSI USA News –