Category: Security

MIL-OSI Security: Owner of Kansas City Healthcare Company Sentenced for Bankruptcy Fraud

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Stillwell, Ks., man was sentenced in federal court on April 29, 2025, for bankruptcy fraud related to his healthcare company.

William L. Said, 62, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Greg Kays to 21 months in prison without parole. The court also ordered Said to pay $85,000 in restitution, which was paid at the time of sentencing.

On Oct. 1, 2024, Said plead guilty to one count of bankruptcy fraud. Said admitted that he fraudulently transferred and concealed assets in a bankruptcy case.

Said was the owner, president, and officer in charge of Restorative Brain Clinic, Inc., which provided Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation services. Restorative Brain Clinic, Inc. filed a voluntary bankruptcy case in July 2021. A debtor-in-possession account was established as part of the bankruptcy. Restorative Brain Clinic’s operating funds were stored in the debtor-in-possession account and Said was the only authorized person who had access to the account.

In Sept. 2021, the United States Trustee for Region 13, which includes the Western District of Missouri, filed a motion to convert Restorative Brain Clinic’s bankruptcy to a Chapter 7 liquidation case based on gross mismanagement of the estate and a continuing loss or diminution of assets of the estate. On Oct. 14, 2021, U.S. Bankruptcy Judge Dennis R. Dow presided over an evidentiary hearing on the conversion motion. At the conclusion of evidence, Judge Dow granted the motion to convert the case to a Chapter 7 bankruptcy and found there was mismanagement of assets, self-dealing, and inadequate corporate controls, among other issues. Judge Dow ordered the United States Trustee to appoint a Chapter 7 trustee to identify assets to pursue for unsecured creditors. The hearing concluded at 4:12 p.m.

Minutes after the conversion hearing, where Said was displaced as the fiduciary of the bankruptcy estate and the Bankruptcy Court ordered that Said no longer had control over Restorative Brain Clinic’s assets, Said initiated several wire transfers of money from the debtor-in-possession account. At 4:16 p.m., Said wired $5,000 to his own bank account from the debtor-in-possession account. At 4:25 p.m., Said initiated a wire transfer for $12,400 from the debtor-in-possession account to the bank account of a shareholder in Restorative Brain Clinic. Said also wired $16,300 to a medical staffing company and attempted to wire $5,760 to Restorative Brain Clinic’s landlord. The debtor-in-possession account was frozen before the funds to pay the landlord left the account.

Said also admitted to selling leased medical equipment. Restorative Brain Clinic leased medical equipment manufactured by AB Sciex, LLC in 2018. Said was also the owner of Cox Scientific, which sold medical equipment. In 2019, Cox Scientific agreed to sell AB Sciex medical equipment to a California company. Said sent an electronic invoice to the owner of the California company. The invoice contained a description of the equipment Said was selling along with an itemized list of the equipment’s components, which included a unique serial number for each component. The list of components Said sent to the California company were the same components leased by Restorative Brain Clinic. Said admitted that he scratched out and altered serial numbers on the AB Sciex equipment to conceal he was selling equipment through Cox Scientific that was being rented by Restorative Brain Clinic, Said. Then, Said used the altered serial numbers on the invoice to the California company.

The California company paid $85,000 for the AB Sciex equipment that Said sold to them and which Said did not own.

This case was prosecuted by Special Assistant U.S. Attorneys Bradley Cooper and Adam Miller. It was investigated by the FBI and the United States Trustee for Region 13.

MIL Security OSI –

May 1, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: BATON ROUGE MAN SENTENCING TO 57 MONTHS IN FEDERAL PRISON FOR POSSESSION OF CHILD PORNOGRAPHY

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

Acting United States Attorney April M. Leon announced that U.S. District Judge John W. deGravelles sentenced James S. Burland, age 70, of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, to 57 months in federal prison following his conviction for possession of child pornography. Burland must serve five years of supervised release upon completing his term of imprisonment. The Court also ordered Burland to pay a $5,000 special assessment pursuant to the Justice for Victims of Trafficking Act and ordered him to register as a sex offender upon his release.

In announcing the sentence, the Court described Burland’s possession of 565 images of child pornography, to include images that depicted prepubescent minors and minors under the age of 12, as serious and troubling conduct.

According to admissions made during his plea, on November 11, 2022, Burland uploaded a file containing an image of child pornography to his internet-based cloud storage account. A subsequent investigation identified that between that date and April 9, 2024, Burland possessed at least 173 additional files containing images of child pornography in his internet-based cloud storage account and on some of his personal computers and storage devices.

This matter was investigated by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security – Homeland Security Investigations, Louisiana Bureau of Investigation, Office of the Attorney General, and was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Paul L. Pugliese.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and 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 http://www.justice.gov/psc.

MIL Security OSI –

May 1, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Ukrainian Men Charged with Illegal Entry

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

Burlington, Vermont – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont stated that Mykhailo Ivanchyn, age 21, and Ihor Zelskyi, age 27, of the Ukraine, have been charged by criminal complaint with illegally entering the United States.

On April 29, 2025, Ivanchyn and Zelskyi appeared before United States Magistrate Judge Kevin J. Doyle, who ordered that they be held in custody pending their detention hearings. Ivanchyn’s detention hearing is scheduled for May 2, 2025. Zelskyi’s detention hearing is scheduled for May 5, 2025.

According to court records, at approximately 12:30 a.m. on April 28, 2025, United States Border Patrol agents were alerted of at least two individuals wearing backpacks and walking south near the international border between the United States and Canada along the Sutton River in Franklin County, Vermont. Border Patrol agents responded and apprehended Ivanchyn and Zelskyi, who were wearing backpacks and water waders. Neither defendant had legal status in the United States or authorization to reside in the United States.

The United States Attorney’s Office emphasizes that the complaint contains allegations only and that Ivanchyn and Zelskyi are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. The defendants face up to 6 months’ imprisonment if convicted. The actual sentence, however, would be determined by the Court with guidance from the advisory United States Sentencing Guidelines and the statutory sentencing factors.

Acting United States Attorney Michael P. Drescher commended the investigatory efforts of the United States Border Patrol.

The prosecutor is Assistant United States Attorney Nicole Cate. Ivanchyn is represented by Assistant Federal Public Defender Barclay Johnson. Zelskyi is represented by Rick Bothfeld, Esq.

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 (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).

MIL Security OSI –

May 1, 2025

MIL-OSI: Columbia Financial, Inc. Announces Financial Results for the First Quarter Ended March 31, 2025

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

FAIR LAWN, N.J., April 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Columbia Financial, Inc. (the “Company”) (NASDAQ: CLBK), the mid-tier holding company for Columbia Bank (“Columbia”), reported net income of $8.9 million, or $0.09 per basic and diluted share, for the quarter ended March 31, 2025, as compared to a net loss of $1.2 million, or $0.01 per basic and diluted share, for the quarter ended March 31, 2024. Earnings for the quarter ended March 31, 2025 reflected higher net interest income due to both an increase in interest income and a decrease in interest expense, lower provision for credit losses and a decrease in non-interest expense, partially offset by higher income tax expense.

Mr. Thomas J. Kemly, President and Chief Executive Officer, commented: “During the first quarter of 2025, the Company was able to increase earnings, expand our net interest margin and reduce overall funding costs mainly due to a balance sheet repositioning strategy implemented in the fourth quarter of 2024. We also experienced solid loan growth and an increase in deposits while reducing our overall operating costs. It continues to be challenging to operate in such a volatile economic environment, but we are focused on managing the balance sheet mix and controlling operating expenses while remaining committed to investments in talent and systems that will support future growth.”

Results of Operations for the Three Months Ended March 31, 2025 and March 31, 2024

Net income of $8.9 million was recorded for the quarter ended March 31, 2025, an increase of $10.1 million, compared to a net loss of $1.2 million for the quarter ended March 31, 2024. The increase in net income was primarily attributable to an $8.1 million increase in net interest income, a $2.3 million decrease in provision for credit losses and a $1.8 million decrease in non-interest expense, partially offset by a $3.2 million increase in income tax expense.

Net interest income was $50.3 million for the quarter ended March 31, 2025, an increase of $8.1 million, or 19.3%, from $42.2 million for the quarter ended March 31, 2024. The increase in net interest income was primarily attributable to a $3.5 million increase in interest income and a $4.6 million decrease in interest expense on deposits and borrowings. The increase in interest income was primarily due to an increase in the average balance of loans coupled with an increase in average yields on loans and securities. During the fourth quarter of 2024 the Company implemented a balance sheet repositioning transaction which resulted in an increase in the average yield on securities and a decrease in the cost of borrowings, which had a notable impact on net interest income for the quarter ended March 31, 2025. The 100 basis point decrease in market interest rates during the last four months of 2024 contributed to a decrease in interest expense on borrowings during the quarter ended March 31, 2025. Prepayment penalties, which are included in interest income on loans, totaled $257,000 for the quarter ended March 31, 2025, compared to $268,000 for the quarter ended March 31, 2024.

The average yield on loans for the quarter ended March 31, 2025 increased 10 basis points to 4.89%, as compared to 4.79% for the quarter ended March 31, 2024. Interest income on loans increased due to an increase in both the average balance and yield on loans. The average yield on securities for the quarter ended March 31, 2025 increased 80 basis points to 3.45%, as compared to 2.65% for the quarter ended March 31, 2024. This was a result of lower yielding securities sold as part of the balance sheet repositioning transaction implemented in the fourth quarter of 2024, being replaced with higher yielding securities purchased in 2024 and the quarter ended March 31, 2025. The average yield on other interest-earning assets for the quarter ended March 31, 2025 decreased 31 basis points to 5.75%, as compared to 6.06% for the quarter ended March 31, 2024, due to a decrease in average interest rates received on cash balances, and a decrease in the dividend rate received on Federal Home Loan Bank stock.

Total interest expense was $61.8 million for the quarter ended March 31, 2025, a decrease of $4.6 million, or 6.9%, from $66.4 million for the quarter ended March 31, 2024. The decrease in interest expense was primarily attributable to a 1 basis point decrease in the average cost of interest-bearing deposits along with a 54 basis point decrease in the average cost of borrowings, coupled with a decrease in the average balance of borrowings, partially offset by an increase in the average balance of interest-bearing deposits. Interest expense on deposits increased $1.7 million, or 3.6%, and interest expense on borrowings decreased $6.3 million, or 35.1%.

The Company’s net interest margin for the quarter ended March 31, 2025 increased 36 basis points to 2.11%, when compared to 1.75% for the quarter ended March 31, 2024. The net interest margin increased for the quarter ended March 31, 2025 due to an increase in the average yield on interest-earning assets coupled with a decrease in the average cost of interest-bearing liabilities. The weighted average yield on interest-earning assets increased 19 basis points to 4.69% for the quarter ended March 31, 2025 as compared to 4.50% for the quarter ended March 31, 2024. The average cost of interest-bearing liabilities decreased 17 basis points to 3.21% for the quarter ended March 31, 2025 as compared to 3.38% for the quarter ended March 31, 2024.

The provision for credit losses for the quarter ended March 31, 2025 was $2.9 million, a decrease of $2.3 million, from $5.3 million for the quarter ended March 31, 2024. The decrease in provision for credit losses during the quarter was primarily due to a decrease in net charge-offs, which totaled $857,000 for the quarter ended March 31, 2025 as compared to $5.0 million for the quarter ended March 31, 2024.

Non-interest income was $8.5 million for the quarter ended March 31, 2025, an increase of $1.0 million, or 13.7%, from $7.5 million for the quarter ended March 31, 2024. The increase was primarily attributable to the loss on securities transactions of $1.3 million included in the 2024 period, and an increase of $475,000 in fees related to commercial account treasury services.

Non-interest expense was $43.8 million for the quarter ended March 31, 2025, a decrease of $1.8 million, or 4.0%, from $45.7 million for the quarter ended March 31, 2024. The decrease was primarily attributable to a decrease in professional fees of $2.1 million, as legal, regulatory and compliance-related costs decreased in the 2025 period, and a decrease in federal deposit insurance premiums of $475,000.

Income tax expense was $3.1 million for the quarter ended March 31, 2025, an increase of $3.2 million, as compared to an income tax benefit of $129,000 for the quarter ended March 31, 2024, mainly due to an increase in pre-tax income. The Company’s effective tax rate was 25.9% and 10.0% for the quarters ended March 31, 2025 and 2024, respectively. The effective tax rate for the 2024 period was primarily impacted by permanent income tax differences.

Balance Sheet Summary

Total assets increased $132.4 million, or 1.3%, to $10.6 billion at March 31, 2025 as compared to $10.5 billion at December 31, 2024. The increase in total assets was primarily attributable to an increase in debt securities available for sale of $51.4 million, and an increase in loans receivable, net, of $108.3 million, partially offset by a decrease in cash and cash equivalents of $33.1 million.

Cash and cash equivalents decreased $33.1 million, or 11.5%, to $256.1 million at March 31, 2025 from $289.2 million at December 31, 2024. The decrease was primarily attributable to purchases of securities of $84.7 million, and origination of loans receivable, partially offset by proceeds from principal repayments on securities of $41.2 million, and repayments on loans receivable.

Debt securities available for sale increased $51.4 million, or 5.0%, to $1.1 billion at March 31, 2025 from $1.0 billion at December 31, 2024. The increase was attributable to purchases of securities of $64.8 million, consisting primarily of U.S. government obligations and mortgage-backed securities, and a decrease in the gross unrealized loss on securities of $15.9 million, partially offset by repayments on securities of $29.1 million, and a partial call of a security of $756,000.

Loans receivable, net, increased $108.3 million, or 1.4%, to $8.0 billion at March 31, 2025 from $7.9 billion at December 31, 2024. Multifamily loans and commercial real estate loans increased $107.2 million and $89.5 million, respectively, partially offset by decreases in one-to-four family real estate loans, construction loans, commercial business loans, and home equity loans and advances of $34.4 million, $36.5 million, $8.0 million, and $5.6 million, respectively. The allowance for credit losses for loans increased $2.1 million to $62.0 million at March 31, 2025 from $60.0 million at December 31, 2024, primarily due to an increase in the outstanding balance of loans.

Total liabilities increased $112.4 million, or 1.2%, to $9.5 billion at March 31, 2025 from $9.4 billion at December 31, 2024. The increase was primarily attributable to an increase in total deposits of $98.8 million, or 1.2%, and an increase in borrowings of $27.0 million, or 2.5%, partially offset by a decrease in other liabilities of $15.2 million. The increase in total deposits consisted of increases in non-interest-bearing demand deposits, money market accounts and certificates of deposit of $52.2 million, $92.0 million, and $41.3 million, respectively, partially offset by decreases in interest-bearing demand deposits and savings and club accounts of $85.9 million and $788,000, respectively. The $27.0 million increase in borrowings was driven by a net increase in short-term borrowings of $67.0 million, coupled with new long-term borrowings of $20.0 million, partially offset by repayments of $60.0 million in maturing long-term borrowings.

Total stockholders’ equity increased $20.0 million, or 1.8%, with a balance of $1.1 billion at both March 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024. The increase in total stockholders’ equity was primarily attributable to net income of $8.9 million, and an increase of $9.3 million in other comprehensive income, which includes changes in unrealized losses on debt securities available for sale and unrealized gains on swap contracts, net of taxes, included in other comprehensive income.

Asset Quality

The Company’s non-performing loans at March 31, 2025 totaled $24.9 million, or 0.31% of total gross loans, as compared to $21.7 million, or 0.28% of total gross loans, at December 31, 2024. The $3.2 million increase in non-performing loans was primarily attributable to a $5.9 million construction loan designated as non-performing during the 2025 period, an increase in non-performing one-to-four family real estate loans of $835,000, and an increase in non-performing commercial real estate loans of $452,000, partially offset by a decrease in non-performing commercial business loans of $4.4 million. The $5.9 million non-performing construction loan represents the construction of a mixed use five-story building with both commercial space and apartments. The increase in non-performing one-to-four family real estate loans was due to an increase in the number of loans from 32 non-performing loans at December 31, 2024 to 38 loans at March 31, 2025. The increase in non-performing commercial real estate loans was due to an increase in the number of loans from four non-performing loans at December 31, 2024 to seven loans at March 31, 2025. The decrease in non-performing commercial business loans was primarily attributable to one loan with an outstanding balance of $4.3 million which was paid in full during the 2025 period. Non-performing assets as a percentage of total assets totaled 0.25% at March 31, 2025, as compared to 0.22% at December 31, 2024.

For the quarter ended March 31, 2025, net charge-offs totaled approximately $857,000, as compared to $5.0 million in net charge-offs recorded for the quarter ended March 31, 2024.

The Company’s allowance for credit losses on loans was $62.0 million, or 0.78% of total gross loans, at March 31, 2025, compared to $60.0 million, or 0.76% of total gross loans, at December 31, 2024. The increase in the allowance for credit losses for loans was primarily due to an increase in the outstanding balance of loans.

Additional Liquidity, Loan, and Deposit Information

The Company services a diverse retail and commercial deposit base through its 69 branches. With over 207,000 accounts, the average deposit account balance was approximately $40,000 at March 31, 2025.

Deposit balances are summarized as follows:

	At March 31, 2025				At December 31, 2024
	Balance		Weighted Average Rate		Balance		Weighted Average Rate
	(Dollars in thousands)

Non-interest-bearing demand	$	1,490,243	—	%	$	1,438,030	—	%
Interest-bearing demand		1,935,384	2.08			2,021,312	2.19
Money market accounts		1,333,668	2.84			1,241,691	2.82
Savings and club deposits		651,713	0.70			652,501	0.75
Certificates of deposit		2,783,927	4.08			2,742,615	4.24
Total deposits	$	8,194,935	2.40	%	$	8,096,149	2.47	%

The Company continues to maintain strong liquidity and capital positions. The Company had no outstanding borrowings from the Federal Reserve Discount Window at March 31, 2025. As of March 31, 2025, the Company had immediate access to approximately $2.8 billion of funding, with additional unpledged loan collateral of approximately $2.2 billion.

At March 31, 2025, the Company’s non-performing commercial real estate loans totaled $3.4 million, or 0.04%, of total loans receivable.

The following table presents multifamily real estate, owner occupied commercial real estate, and the components of investor owned commercial real estate loans included in the real estate loan portfolio.

	At March 31, 2025
	(Dollars in thousands)
	Balance		% of Gross Loans		Weighted Average Loan to Value Ratio		Weighted Average Debt Service Coverage
Multifamily Real Estate	$	1,567,862	19.6	%	58.0	%	1.58	x

Owner Occupied Commercial Real Estate	$	689,509	8.6	%	53.7	%	2.23	x

Investor Owned Commercial Real Estate:
Retail / Shopping centers	$	518,841	6.5	%	53.4	%	1.50	x
Mixed Use		220,391	2.8		58.0		1.57
Industrial / Warehouse		423,634	5.3		54.8		1.65
Non-Medical Office		189,617	2.4		51.1		1.65
Medical Office		118,547	1.5		60.0		1.46
Single Purpose		95,041	1.2		54.8		3.14
Other		173,849	2.2		51.3		1.75
Total	$	1,739,920	21.9	%	54.4	%	1.67	x

Total Multifamily and Commercial Real Estate Loans	$	3,997,291	50.1	%	55.7	%	1.73	x

As of March 31, 2025, the Company had less than $1.0 million in loan exposure to office or rent stabilized multifamily loans in New York City.

About Columbia Financial, Inc.

The consolidated financial results include the accounts of Columbia Financial, Inc., its wholly-owned subsidiary Columbia Bank (the “Bank”) and the Bank’s wholly-owned subsidiaries. Columbia Financial, Inc. is a Delaware corporation organized as Columbia Bank’s mid-tier stock holding company. Columbia Financial, Inc. is a majority-owned subsidiary of Columbia Bank, MHC. Columbia Bank is a federally chartered savings bank headquartered in Fair Lawn, New Jersey that operates 69 full-service banking offices and offers traditional financial services to consumers and businesses in its market area.

Forward Looking Statements

Certain statements herein constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Exchange Act and are intended to be covered by the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such statements may be identified by words such as “believes,” “will,” “would,” “expects,” “projects,” “may,” “could,” “developments,” “strategic,” “launching,” “opportunities,” “anticipates,” “estimates,” “intends,” “plans,” “targets” and similar expressions. These statements are based upon the current beliefs and expectations of the Company’s management and are subject to significant risks and uncertainties. Actual results may differ materially from those set forth in the forward-looking statements as a result of numerous factors. Factors that could cause such differences to exist include, but are not limited to, adverse conditions in the capital and debt markets and the impact of such conditions on the Company’s business activities; changes in interest rates, higher inflation and their impact on national and local economic conditions; changes in monetary and fiscal policies of the U.S. Treasury, the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System and other governmental entities; the impact of tariffs, sanctions and other trade policies of the United States and its global trading counterparts; the impact of legal, judicial and regulatory proceedings or investigations, competitive pressures from other financial institutions; the effects of general economic conditions on a national basis or in the local markets in which the Company operates, including changes that adversely affect a borrowers’ ability to service and repay the Company’s loans; the effect of acts of terrorism, war or pandemics, including on our credit quality and business operations, as well as its impact on general economic and financial market conditions; changes in the value of securities in the Company’s portfolio; changes in loan default and charge-off rates; fluctuations in real estate values; the adequacy of loan loss reserves; decreases in deposit levels necessitating increased borrowing to fund loans and securities; legislative changes and changes in government regulation; changes in accounting standards and practices; the risk that goodwill and intangibles recorded in the Company’s consolidated financial statements will become impaired; cyber-attacks, computer viruses and other technological risks that may breach the security of our systems and allow unauthorized access to confidential information; the inability of third party service providers to perform; demand for loans in the Company’s market area; the Company’s ability to attract and maintain deposits and effectively manage liquidity; risks related to the implementation of acquisitions, dispositions, and restructurings; the successful implementation of our December 2024 balance sheet repositioning transaction; the risk that the Company may not be successful in the implementation of its business strategy, or its integration of acquired financial institutions and businesses, and changes in assumptions used in making such forward-looking statements which are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties, including but not limited to, those set forth in Item 1A of the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K and those set forth in the Company’s Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and Current Reports on Form 8-K, all as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”), which are available at the SEC’s website, www.sec.gov. Should one or more of these risks materialize or should underlying beliefs or assumptions prove incorrect, the Company’s actual results could differ materially from those discussed. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date of this release. The Company disclaims any obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements to reflect changes in underlying assumptions or factors, new information, future events or other changes, except as required by law.

Non-GAAP Financial Measures

Reported amounts are presented in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”). This press release also contains certain supplemental non-GAAP information that the Company’s management uses in its analysis of the Company’s financial results. Specifically, the Company provides measures based on what it believes are its operating earnings on a consistent basis and excludes material non-routine operating items which affect the GAAP reporting of results of operations. The Company’s management believes that providing this information to analysts and investors allows them to better understand and evaluate the Company’s core financial results for the periods presented. Because non-GAAP financial measures are not standardized, it may not be possible to compare these financial measures with other companies’ non-GAAP financial measures having the same or similar names.

The Company also provides measurements and ratios based on tangible stockholders’ equity. These measures are commonly utilized by regulators and market analysts to evaluate a company’s financial condition and, therefore, the Company’s management believes that such information is useful to investors.

A reconciliation of GAAP to non-GAAP financial measures are included at the end of this press release. See “Reconciliation of GAAP to Non-GAAP Financial Measures”.


COLUMBIA FINANCIAL, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES Consolidated Statements of Financial Condition (In thousands)

	March 31,		December 31,
	2025		2024
Assets	(Unaudited)
Cash and due from banks	$	255,978	$	289,113
Short-term investments		111		110
Total cash and cash equivalents		256,089		289,223

Debt securities available for sale, at fair value		1,077,331		1,025,946
Debt securities held to maturity, at amortized cost (fair value of $364,428, and $350,153 at March 31, 2025 and December 31, 2024, respectively)		400,975		392,840
Equity securities, at fair value		6,981		6,673
Federal Home Loan Bank stock		61,628		60,387

Loans receivable		8,027,308		7,916,928
Less: allowance for credit losses		62,034		59,958
Loans receivable, net		7,965,274		7,856,970

Accrued interest receivable		41,902		40,383
Office properties and equipment, net		82,592		81,772
Bank-owned life insurance		276,767		274,908
Goodwill and intangible assets		120,487		121,008
Other real estate owned		1,334		1,334
Other assets		316,490		324,049
Total assets	$	10,607,850	$	10,475,493

Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity
Liabilities:
Deposits	$	8,194,935	$	8,096,149
Borrowings		1,107,588		1,080,600
Advance payments by borrowers for taxes and insurance		47,275		45,453
Accrued expenses and other liabilities		157,709		172,915
Total liabilities		9,507,507		9,395,117

Stockholders’ equity:
Total stockholders’ equity		1,100,343		1,080,376
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity	$	10,607,850	$	10,475,493


COLUMBIA FINANCIAL, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES Consolidated Statements of Income (Loss) (In thousands, except per share data)

	Three Months Ended March 31,
	2025		2024
Interest income:	(Unaudited)
Loans receivable	$	95,110	$	92,949
Debt securities available for sale and equity securities		9,742		7,785
Debt securities held to maturity		2,811		2,369
Federal funds and interest-earning deposits		2,858		3,563
Federal Home Loan Bank stock dividends		1,642		1,961
Total interest income		112,163		108,627
Interest expense:
Deposits		50,145		48,418
Borrowings		11,693		18,009
Total interest expense		61,838		66,427

Net interest income		50,325		42,200

Provision for credit losses		2,933		5,278

Net interest income after provision for credit losses		47,392		36,922

Non-interest income:
Demand deposit account fees		1,888		1,413
Bank-owned life insurance		1,859		1,780
Title insurance fees		646		503
Loan fees and service charges		1,056		961
Loss on securities transactions		—		(1,256	)
Change in fair value of equity securities		308		351
Gain on sale of loans		515		185
Other non-interest income		2,199		3,515
Total non-interest income		8,471		7,452

Non-interest expense:
Compensation and employee benefits		28,583		27,513
Occupancy		6,185		5,973
Federal deposit insurance premiums		1,880		2,355
Advertising		531		626
Professional fees		2,515		4,634
Data processing and software expenses		4,061		3,967
Merger-related expenses		—		22
Other non-interest expense, net		90		568
Total non-interest expense		43,845		45,658

Income (loss) before income tax expense (benefit)		12,018		(1,284	)

Income tax expense (benefit)		3,118		(129	)

Net income (loss)	$	8,900	$	(1,155	)

Earnings (loss) per share-basic	$	0.09	$	(0.01	)
Earnings (loss) per share-diluted	$	0.09	$	(0.01	)
Weighted average shares outstanding-basic		101,816,716		101,746,740
Weighted average shares outstanding-diluted		101,816,716		101,988,425


COLUMBIA FINANCIAL, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES Average Balances/Yields

	For the Three Months Ended March 31,
		2025							2024
	Average Balance			Interest and Dividends		Yield / Cost		Average Balance			Interest and Dividends		Yield / Cost
	(Dollars in thousands)
Interest-earnings assets:
Loans	$	7,894,561		$	95,110	4.89	%	$	7,802,865		$	92,949	4.79	%
Securities		1,477,537			12,553	3.45	%		1,543,734			10,154	2.65	%
Other interest-earning assets		317,433			4,500	5.75	%		366,343			5,524	6.06	%
Total interest-earning assets		9,689,531			112,163	4.69	%		9,712,942			108,627	4.50	%
Non-interest-earning assets		873,451							855,618
Total assets	$	10,562,982						$	10,568,560

Interest-bearing liabilities:
Interest-bearing demand	$	2,060,528		$	13,172	2.59	%	$	1,998,749		$	13,384	2.69	%
Money market accounts		1,282,241			7,606	2.41	%		1,234,943			8,769	2.86	%
Savings and club deposits		649,257			1,108	0.69	%		688,535			1,236	0.72	%
Certificates of deposit		2,756,895			28,259	4.16	%		2,516,323			25,029	4.00	%
Total interest-bearing deposits		6,748,921			50,145	3.01	%		6,438,550			48,418	3.02	%
FHLB advances		1,060,911			11,554	4.42	%		1,447,143			17,847	4.96	%
Junior subordinated debentures		7,040			139	8.01	%		7,018			162	9.28	%
Total borrowings		1,067,951			11,693	4.44	%		1,454,161			18,009	4.98	%
Total interest-bearing liabilities		7,816,872		$	61,838	3.21	%		7,892,711		$	66,427	3.38	%

Non-interest-bearing liabilities:
Non-interest-bearing deposits		1,432,837							1,392,274
Other non-interest-bearing liabilities		222,604							240,798
Total liabilities		9,472,313							9,525,783
Total stockholders’ equity		1,090,669							1,042,777
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity	$	10,562,982						$	10,568,560

Net interest income				$	50,325						$	42,200
Interest rate spread						1.48	%						1.12	%
Net interest-earning assets	$	1,872,659						$	1,820,231
Net interest margin						2.11	%						1.75	%
Ratio of interest-earning assets to interest-bearing liabilities		123.96	%						123.06	%


COLUMBIA FINANCIAL, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES Components of Net Interest Rate Spread and Margin

	Average Yields/Costs by Quarter
	March 31, 2025		December 31, 2024		September 30, 2024		June 30, 2024		March 31, 2024
Yield on interest-earning assets:
Loans	4.89	%	4.88	%	5.00	%	4.93	%	4.79	%
Securities	3.45		2.99		2.90		2.89		2.65
Other interest-earning assets	5.75		6.00		6.72		6.30		6.06
Total interest-earning assets	4.69	%	4.61	%	4.70	%	4.64	%	4.50	%

Cost of interest-bearing liabilities:
Total interest-bearing deposits	3.01	%	3.13	%	3.21	%	3.14	%	3.02	%
Total borrowings	4.44		4.65		4.87		4.92		4.98
Total interest-bearing liabilities	3.21	%	3.38	%	3.52	%	3.49	%	3.38	%

Interest rate spread	1.48	%	1.23	%	1.18	%	1.15	%	1.12	%
Net interest margin	2.11	%	1.88	%	1.84	%	1.81	%	1.75	%

Ratio of interest-earning assets to interest-bearing liabilities	123.96	%	124.02	%	123.06	%	123.03	%	123.06	%


COLUMBIA FINANCIAL, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES Selected Financial Highlights

	March 31, 2025		December 31, 2024		September 30, 2024		June 30, 2024		March 31, 2024
SELECTED FINANCIAL RATIOS ⁽¹⁾:
Return on average assets	0.34	%	(0.79	)%	0.23	%	0.17	%	(0.04	)%
Core return on average assets	0.35	%	0.42	%	0.23	%	0.20	%	0.02	%
Return on average equity	3.31	%	(7.86	)%	2.32	%	1.77	%	(0.45	)%
Core return on average equity	3.37	%	4.09	%	2.29	%	2.06	%	0.18	%
Core return on average tangible equity	3.78	%	4.74	%	2.58	%	2.34	%	0.20	%
Interest rate spread	1.48	%	1.23	%	1.18	%	1.15	%	1.12	%
Net interest margin	2.11	%	1.88	%	1.84	%	1.81	%	1.75	%
Non-interest income to average assets	0.33	%	(0.88	)%	0.33	%	0.35	%	0.28	%
Non-interest expense to average assets	1.68	%	1.73	%	1.60	%	1.74	%	1.74	%
Efficiency ratio	74.57	%	205.17	%	78.95	%	86.83	%	91.96	%
Core efficiency ratio	74.20	%	73.68	%	79.14	%	85.34	%	88.39	%
Average interest-earning assets to average interest-bearing liabilities	123.96	%	124.02	%	123.06	%	123.03	%	123.06	%
Net charge-offs to average outstanding loans	0.04	%	0.07	%	0.14	%	0.03	%	0.26	%

⁽¹⁾ Ratios are annualized when appropriate.


ASSET QUALITY DATA:
	March 31, 2025			December 31, 2024			September 30, 2024			June 30, 2024			March 31, 2024
	(Dollars in thousands)

Non-accrual loans	$	24,856		$	21,701		$	28,014		$	25,281		$	22,935
90+ and still accruing		—			—			—			—			—
Non-performing loans		24,856			21,701			28,014			25,281			22,935
Real estate owned		1,334			1,334			1,974			1,974			—
Total non-performing assets	$	26,190		$	23,035		$	29,988		$	27,255		$	22,935

Non-performing loans to total gross loans		0.31	%		0.28	%		0.36	%		0.33	%		0.30	%
Non-performing assets to total assets		0.25	%		0.22	%		0.28	%		0.25	%		0.22	%
Allowance for credit losses on loans (“ACL”)	$	62,034		$	59,958		$	58,495		$	57,062		$	55,401
ACL to total non-performing loans		249.57	%		276.29	%		208.81	%		225.71	%		241.56	%
ACL to gross loans		0.78	%		0.76	%		0.75	%		0.73	%		0.71	%


LOAN DATA:
	March 31, 2025			December 31, 2024			September 30, 2024			June 30, 2024			March 31, 2024
	(In thousands)
Real estate loans:
One-to-four family	$	2,676,566		$	2,710,937		$	2,737,190		$	2,764,177		$	2,778,932
Multifamily		1,567,862			1,460,641			1,399,000			1,409,316			1,429,369
Commercial real estate		2,429,429			2,339,883			2,312,759			2,316,252			2,318,178
Construction		437,081			473,573			510,439			462,880			437,566
Commercial business loans		614,049			622,000			586,447			554,768			538,260
Consumer loans:
Home equity loans and advances		253,439			259,009			261,041			260,427			260,786
Other consumer loans		2,547			3,404			2,877			2,689			2,601
Total gross loans		7,980,973			7,869,447			7,809,753			7,770,509			7,765,692
Purchased credit deteriorated loans		10,395			11,686			11,795			12,150			14,945
Net deferred loan costs, fees and purchased premiums and discounts		35,940			35,795			35,642			36,352			34,992
Allowance for credit losses		(62,034	)		(59,958	)		(58,495	)		(57,062	)		(55,401	)
Loans receivable, net	$	7,965,274		$	7,856,970		$	7,798,695		$	7,761,949		$	7,760,228


CAPITAL RATIOS:
	March 31,		December 31,
	2025 ⁽¹⁾		2024
Company:
Total capital (to risk-weighted assets)	14.12	%	14.20	%
Tier 1 capital (to risk-weighted assets)	13.30	%	13.40	%
Common equity tier 1 capital (to risk-weighted assets)	13.21	%	13.31	%
Tier 1 capital (to adjusted total assets)	10.29	%	10.02	%

Columbia Bank:
Total capital (to risk-weighted assets)	14.37	%	14.41	%
Tier 1 capital (to risk-weighted assets)	13.51	%	13.56	%
Common equity tier 1 capital (to risk-weighted assets)	13.51	%	13.56	%
Tier 1 capital (to adjusted total assets)	9.88	%	9.64	%

⁽¹⁾ Estimated ratios at March 31, 2025


Reconciliation of GAAP to Non-GAAP Financial Measures

Book and Tangible Book Value per Share
	March 31,			December 31,
	2025			2024
	(Dollars in thousands)

Total stockholders’ equity	$	1,100,343		$	1,080,376
Less: goodwill		(110,715	)		(110,715	)
Less: core deposit intangible		(8,443	)		(8,964	)
Total tangible stockholders’ equity	$	981,185		$	960,697

Shares outstanding		104,930,900			104,759,185

Book value per share	$	10.49		$	10.31
Tangible book value per share	$	9.35		$	9.17


Reconciliation of Core Net Income
	Three Months Ended March 31,
		2025		2024
	(In thousands)

Net income (loss)	$	8,900	$	(1,155	)
Add: loss on securities transactions, net of tax		—		1,130
Add: FDIC special assessment, net of tax		—		393
Add: severance expense, net of tax		163		67
Add: merger-related expenses, net of tax		—		20
Core net income	$	9,063	$	455

Return on Average Assets
	Three Months Ended March 31,
	2025			2024
	(Dollars in thousands)

Net income (loss)	$	8,900		$	(1,155	)

Average assets	$	10,562,982		$	10,568,560

Return on average assets		0.34	%	(0.04		)%

Core net income	$	9,063		$	455

Core return on average assets		0.35	%		0.02	%


Reconciliation of GAAP to Non-GAAP Financial Measures (continued)

Return on Average Equity
	Three Months Ended March 31,
	2025			2024
	(Dollars in thousands)

Total average stockholders’ equity	$	1,090,669		$	1,042,777
Add: loss on securities transactions, net of tax		—			1,130
Add: FDIC special assessment, net of tax		—			393
Add: severance expense, net of tax		163			67
Add: merger-related expenses, net of tax		—			20
Core average stockholders’ equity	$	1,090,832		$	1,044,387

Return on average equity		3.31	%	(0.45		)%

Core return on core average equity		3.37	%		0.18	%


Return on Average Tangible Equity
	Three Months Ended March 31,
	2025			2024
	(Dollars in thousands)

Total average stockholders’ equity	$	1,090,669		$	1,042,777
Less: average goodwill		(110,715	)		(110,715	)
Less: average core deposit intangible		(8,784	)		(10,956	)
Total average tangible stockholders’ equity	$	971,170		$	921,106

Core return on average tangible equity		3.78	%		0.20	%


Reconciliation of GAAP to Non-GAAP Financial Measures (continued)

Efficiency Ratios
	Three Months Ended March 31,
	2025			2024
	(Dollars in thousands)

Net interest income	$	50,325		$	42,200
Non-interest income		8,471			7,452
Total income	$	58,796		$	49,652

Non-interest expense	$	43,845		$	45,658

Efficiency ratio		74.57	%		91.96	%

Non-interest income	$	8,471		$	7,452
Add: loss on securities transactions		—			1,256
Core non-interest income	$	8,471		$	8,708

Non-interest expense	$	43,845		$	45,658
Less: FDIC special assessment, net		—			(565	)
Less: severance expense		(220	)		(74	)
Less: merger-related expenses		—			(22	)
Core non-interest expense	$	43,625		$	44,997

Core efficiency ratio		74.20	%		88.39	%

Columbia Financial, Inc.
Investor Relations Department
(833) 550-0717

The MIL Network –

May 1, 2025

MIL-OSI Security: IAEA Kicks Off 2025 Cooperation with G20 under South African Presidency

Source: International Atomic Energy Agency – IAEA

IAEA and South African G20 Presidency side event on the role of nuclear power and the clean energy transitions, in Cape Town. (Photo: B. Carpinelli/IAEA)

For the second year in a row, the IAEA has been invited to collaborate with the G20 on work related to nuclear power. The cooperation with the G20 (Group of Twenty) resumed under the presidency of South Africa at meetings this week in Cape Town, kicking off with a side event hosted by the IAEA and South Africa on the role of nuclear energy in clean energy transitions, as one of the technology dialogues that the presidency is featuring throughout the yearlong process.

Building on its first-ever collaboration on nuclear power with the G20 in 2024 under the presidency of Brazil, the IAEA engagement this year will include publications tailored to inform the group on topics such as the prospects for nuclear power in Africa and repurposing coal-fired plants with nuclear power such as small modular reactors (SMRs), as well as participation in the G20 Ministerial Meeting on Energy, set for 23-26 September.

“At a time when energy access and security of supply are issues of global concern, the role of nuclear energy in low carbon, resilient and affordable energy systems remains indispensable,” IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi said. “Continuing the work that the IAEA began under the presidency of Brazil, we are now looking forward to working with South Africa.”

The first African country to assume the G20 presidency, South Africa is pursuing an Africa-wide approach emphasizing energy security, a just and inclusive clean energy transition and regional energy cooperation. While South Africa remains the only country on the continent to have nuclear power and aims to expand its programme, several African countries have expressed interest in or are embarking its introduction. Egypt is building four large reactors, and other countries such as Ghana and Kenya are working with the IAEA to establish the necessary infrastructure for a nuclear power programme, with a particular interest in SMRs.

The side event opened with special remarks from Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, Minister of Electricity and Energy of South Africa. Delegates from the G20 Energy Transitions Working Group (ETWG) attended the event, which discussed the state of nuclear power in South Africa as well as the IAEA’s outlook on nuclear power and a description of the upcoming publications that the IAEA will publish as part of its G20 collaboration this year. A session on nuclear power project financing issues followed, with panellists from the IAEA, the International Energy Agency, France and South Africa discussing ways to unlock financing for nuclear power projects and pave the way for faster deployment.

“In the wake of the world aiming to reach net zero by 2050, there has been a return to realism where it is globally accepted that nuclear technology has a huge role to play in the energy mix as a key source to ensure countries achieve their energy security, energy sovereignty, and energy justice in the transition,” said Minster Ramokgopa. “The expansion of the nuclear programme gives South Africa energy security and sovereignty that enables the country to move its economy into a digital era, engage in new research frontiers and take its rightful place amongst leading nations.”

Minister Kgosientsho Ramokgopa delivering his opening remarks at the nuclear energy side event hosted by the IAEA and South Africa during the G20 ETWG meetings. (Photo: B. Carpinelli/IAEA)

During the event, delegates from G20 members and invited countries delivered remarks from the floor and offered their national perspectives.

“Italy is working to relaunch the use of sustainable nuclear energy, in its net zero emissions path by 2050. We have created the National Platform for Sustainable Nuclear involving R&D centres and industrial capabilities and nowadays our Government is strongly committed to work on enabling a favourable legislative and regulatory framework aimed at promoting the use of safe and innovative nuclear at the national level, including small modular reactors and Generation IV advanced modular reactors,” said Alberto Pela, Head of Delegation and Senior Advisor on International activities at the Department of Energy of the Ministry of Environment and Energy Security of Italy.

The United Arab Emirates, an invited country, recently began operating four large nuclear power reactors.

“In the UAE, nuclear energy is more than a power source — it’s a cornerstone of our clean, safe, and sustainable energy future,” said Nawal Yousif Alhanaee, Director of the Future Energy Department at the UAE’s Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure. “With the Barakah Nuclear Energy Plant meeting up to 25 per cent of our electricity needs, we affirm our commitment to a carbon-free tomorrow powered by peaceful and reliable nuclear technology.”

MIL Security OSI –

May 1, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Update 289 – IAEA Director General Statement on Situation in Ukraine

Source: International Atomic Energy Agency – IAEA

Ukrainian engineers and construction workers are carrying out temporary repairs of the Chornobyl site’s New Safe Confinement (NSC) that was severely damaged in a drone attack earlier this year, Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) said today.

The drone strike on 14 February pierced a big hole through the roof of the large confinement structure built to prevent any radioactive release from the reactor destroyed in the 1986 accident and protect it from external hazards. It took several weeks to completely extinguish the fires and smouldering caused by this strike.

The IAEA team based at the Chornobyl plant in northern Ukraine visited the NSC in recent days to discuss ongoing efforts by the site to assess the building’s structural integrity following the attack almost three months ago and to observe repairs of the inner and outer cladding to prevent water ingress.

“Immediately after the drone strike Ukrainian emergency personnel rushed to contain and eventually put out the fires. The site is now focusing its efforts on assessing the full extent of the damage while also carrying out short-term repairs. It is clear that the confinement structure – constructed at huge expense and with major international support – suffered extensive damage,” Director General Grossi said.

The Director General reiterated, however, that there has not been any radioactive release as a result of the damage, and that the NSC is able to continue to perform its protective function.

At Ukraine’s Zaporizhzhya Nuclear Power Plant (ZNPP), the IAEA team has continued to hear explosions in the distance every day over the past week, a constant reminder of the potential dangers facing nuclear safety and security.

The IAEA team has conducted walkdowns across the site to observe site activities, visiting all Emergency Control Rooms of the six reactors, the safety systems of unit 4, and the two fresh fuel storage facilities.

At Ukraine’s three operating nuclear power plants (NPPs) – Khmelnytskyy, Rivne and South Ukraine – three of their total of nine reactors remained shutdown for maintenance and refuelling outages.

At the South Ukraine NPP, the IAEA team reported about many air raid alarms over the past week. The team was informed by the site that six drones were detected at a distance of 1.5 km from the plant in the night of 25 April, coinciding with the sound of military activity that appeared to be coming from an attempt to shoot them down.

At the Khmelnytskyy NPP, the IAEA team members were required to shelter on the morning of 30 April due to an air raid alert.

As part of the IAEA’s medical assistance programme for Ukraine, 200 boxes of influenza medication were delivered to the National Research Centre for Radiation Medicine of the National Academy of Medical Sciences of Ukraine (NRCRM), funded by Japan.

MIL Security OSI –

May 1, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Family Driven: Enhancing Global Standards of Radiation Protection of Patients

Source: International Atomic Energy Agency – IAEA

Rizk’s journey in radiation protection and dosimetry started in 2005 when, after completing her master’s degree in Material Science and Electronic Components in 2004, she was offered the job of Technical Manager at the Individual Monitoring Laboratory at the Lebanese Atomic Energy Commission.

There she oversaw the safe occupational radiation exposure of more than 6000 workers across over 400 healthcare facilities, industrial companies and research centres.

“It is important to know what dosimetry is and its importance,” Rizk says, explaining that “it is the measurement and calculation of the radiation dose absorbed by the human body or other devices or objects. It is crucial in fields like radiology, nuclear medicine and radiation therapy to ensure safe and effective use of radiation.”

She also achieved ISO accreditation for the Lebanese laboratory — the first of its kind in the Middle East — setting a new benchmark of standards and quality for radiation protection of occupationally exposed workers in the region.

“Chadia’s efforts have made a lasting impact, consistently raising standards and enhancing practices in the field,” said Director General of the Lebanese Atomic Energy Commission, Bilal Nsouli, and Rizk’s former professor during her Master’s degree.

In 2007, her collaboration with the IAEA began, initially as a fellow and later as a counterpart in four projects under the technical cooperation programme. Rizk worked with the IAEA on individual monitoring and regulatory compliance to improve occupational radiation protection in Lebanon in line with the IAEA International Basic Safety Standards.

“Despite limited resources, she remained steadfast in her commitment to providing dosimetry services according to international standards and her passion for radiation protection research has always stood out,” reflects Filip Vanhavere, Radiation Protection Research Coordinator at the Belgian Nuclear Research Centre who worked with Rizk on an IAEA mission to the Lebanese laboratory.

MIL Security OSI –

May 1, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Dominican National Indicted for Fentanyl Distribution While on Supervised Release for Drug Trafficking Conviction

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

BOSTON – A Dominican national residing in Lawrence has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Boston for allegedly distributing 1,000 fentanyl pills while on federal supervised release for a prior drug trafficking conviction involving heroin and cocaine.

Wagner Ismael Mejia Sanchez, a/k/a “Jose F. Rosario,” a/k/a “Jose Majimbe,” 39, was indicted on one count of distribution of and possession with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl. Mejia Sanchez was previously arrested and charged by criminal complaint on April 1, 2025.

In 2012, Mejia Sanchez was among 10 individuals charged by the U.S. Attorney’s Office in connection with a cocaine and heroin trafficking conspiracy. He subsequently pleaded guilty to his role in the conspiracy and, in 2015, was sentenced to 39 months in prison and 10 years of supervised release.

According to the charging documents, during an investigation into a drug trafficking organization in January 2025, Mejia Sanchez was allegedly identified as a drug supplier who provided fentanyl pills to a distributor and was also observed engaging in suspected hand-to-hand drug transactions. It is alleged that law enforcement subsequently arranged for a controlled purchase from Mejia Sanchez on Feb. 19, 2025 in Lawrence, during which he allegedly distributed approximately 1,000 fentanyl pills (with a net weight of 96.2 grams) while on federal supervised release.

The charge of distribution of 40 grams or more of fentanyl provides for a sentence of at least five and up to 20 years in prison, at least four years and up to a lifetime of supervised release and a fine of up to $5 million. Because of the prior conviction, Mejia Sanchez may face a sentence of at least 10 years and up to life in prison, at least eight years and up to a lifetime of supervised release and a fine of up to $8 million. The defendant is subject to deportation upon completion of any sentence imposed. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based on the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

United States Attorney Leah B. Foley and Stephen Belleau, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration, New England Field Division made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Annapurna Balakrishna of the Narcotics & Money Laundering Unit is prosecuting this case.

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 (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces and Project Safe Neighborhood.

The details contained in the charging document are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

MIL Security OSI –

May 1, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Jury convicts conspirator involved in transporting aliens shot en route to Houston

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

HOUSTON – A 21-year-old New Orleans, Louisiana, resident has been found guilty for conspiracy to transport illegal aliens, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.

Mailon Almendares-Martinez, 21, New Orleans, was convicted of one count of conspiracy to transport aliens.

The jury deliberated for less than an hour before returning the guilty verdict following a three-day trial.

The jury heard how Almendares-Martinez conspired with others from Oct. 30 – Nov. 2, 2022, to transport aliens from the South Texas border to Houston.

The jury heard testimony that Almendares-Martinez recruited friends and conspirators from New Orleans to carry out the scheme. Witnesses testified that Almendares-Martinez and others offered to pay them $1,000 to $2,000 per alien they transported.

Evidence revealed he had directed them as to where to pick up the aliens through WhatsApp messages and phone calls.

After picking up the aliens near the border, the conspirators headed back to Houston. En route, individuals believed to be a part of a rival alien smuggling and transporting organization had shot at them. Two of the aliens suffered gunshot wounds to the arm and leg. One was a native of Honduras who had recently crossed the Rio Grande River and entered the United States illegally.

After the shooting, Almendares-Martinez told the co-conspirators to return to Houston and not seek medical attention for the two wounded aliens.

Co-conspirators then brought the aliens to a motel in Houston Nov. 1, 2022. The next day, the illegal aliens had escaped. Law enforcement arrived at the scene and took four people in custody, to include Jonathan Melendez-Merino, Oscar Melendez-Sosa, Cristian Mencias-Padilla and Cesar Monge-Milla.

The defense attempted to convince the jury Almendares-Martinez was not part of the conspiracy and someone else was using his WhatsApp account to communicate with co-conspirators. They did not believe those claims and found Almendares-Martinez guilty as charged.

“This case demonstrates—like so many cases before it—that human smuggling is an inhumane, dangerous, and sometimes fatal business,” said Ganjei. “Those that smuggle human beings for profit deserve prosecution, and those that would willingly place themselves in a situation to be smuggled need to think twice. Stay home, stay safe.”

U.S. District Judge Kenneth Hoyt presided over trial and set sentencing for Aug. 11. At that time, Almendares-Martinez faces up to 10 years in federal prison as well as a possible $250,000 maximum fine.

Previously released on bond, Almendares-Martinez was taken into custody following the verdict where he will remain pending that hearing.

Seven others, all from New Orleans, Louisiana, previously pleaded guilty in the case – Melendez-Merino, 32, Melendez-Sosa, 22, Mencias-Padilla, 21, and Monge-Milla, 25, along with Yunior Sorto-Ramirez, 23, Bayron Pineda-Alvarado, and Alan Galvez-Baquedano, 22.

Immigration and Customs Enforcement – Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation with the assistance of Houston Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Michael Day and Anthony Franklyn prosecuted the case.

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 Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces and Project Safe Neighborhood.

MIL Security OSI –

May 1, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: ICE Los Angeles, multiagency case dismantles identity theft mill, organized retail scheme spanning 7 California counties

Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

LOS ANGELES — Felony charges were filed April 25 against three people involved in a suspected identity theft mill, where stolen identities were used in an organized retail crime scheme. The scheme involved suspects applying for store credit cards using stolen identities and credit lines to purchase merchandise. The fraud scheme was carried out in Los Angeles, Orange, San Bernardino, Riverside, Alameda, San Mateo, and Santa Clara Counties. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement assisted the investigation led by the California Department of Justice based on a referral from a Signet Jeweler’s Corporate Fraud Investigator, in cooperation by Santa Maria Police Department, Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, California Highway Patrol and Westminster Police department.

“These arrests are the result of excellent collaboration between HSI, private industry, state and local law enforcement partners,” ICE Homeland Security Investigations Orange County Assistant Special Agent in Charge Christopher Bracken. “HSI will work tirelessly with our partners in California to ensure that those who commit fraud will be held accountable.”

As a result of the investigation, a 34-count felony complaint was filed against three defendants by DOJ. The charges include organized retail theft, grand theft, and identity theft of 13 victims.

“I am committed to using the full force of the California Department of Justice to fight organized retail crime both in the field and in the courtroom,” said Attorney General Rob Bonta. “This was not a one-off shoplifting offense, it was a malicious, coordinated scheme. These crimes hurt our businesses and pose a serious threat to our communities. I am thankful to Signet Jewelers as well as our local and state law enforcement partners for their collaboration in the battle against organized retail crime. We will not give up until we put a stop to this criminal activity all together.”

From March 2023 to July 2023, the defendants fraudulently obtained over $100,000 worth of merchandise from high end retail stores and Harbor Freight retailers.

“The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department is deeply committed to tackling organized retail crime through strategic multiagency collaboration, intelligence sharing, and targeted enforcement,” said Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department Detective Division Chief Joe Mendoza. “By working closely with our local, state, and federal partners, we continue to strengthen our efforts, disrupt criminal networks, protect both businesses and our communities, while holding individuals accountable.”

A copy of the criminal complaint in this case is available here. Photos related to this investigation can be found here, here and here.

MIL OSI USA News –

May 1, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General Bonta Sues National Cleaning and Sanitation Company for “No Poach” Agreements

Source: US State of California

OAKLAND – California Attorney General Rob Bonta today announced a lawsuit against Packers Sanitation Services, Inc. LTD., now doing business as Fortrex (PSSI), a national cleaning and sanitation company, for allegedly engaging in unlawful “no poach” agreements that restrict competition and harm workers’ rights. Filed in the San Diego Superior Court, the California Department of Justice (DOJ) alleges that PSSI’s use of illegal agreements – where businesses agree not to solicit or hire each other’s employees – violated California law, specifically the Unfair Competition Law. Through this lawsuit, the DOJ is seeking civil penalties, permanent injunctive relief that bars PSSI from using no-poach agreements, and restitution for employees that were harmed due to PSSI’s alleged unlawful conduct.

“When companies like PSSI use unlawful business practices to limit employee opportunities, they deny workers the freedom to compete for better wages, benefits, and career advancement,” said Attorney General Bonta. “Workers deserve a labor market free from illegal restraints. At the California Department of Justice, we will continue to support workers’ rights by holding accountable any business that undermines a fair labor market.”

PSSI is a national cleaning and sanitation company that contracts with dozens of meatpacking and food processing facilities in California and hundreds across the country. Nationally, PSSI employs over 17,000 workers across approximately 500 worksites. PSSI has had cleaning contracts with over 20 meatpacking and food processing companies in California, including well-known names such as Foster Farms, Harris Ranch, and Pilgrim’s Pride.

Central to the company’s alleged unlawful conduct is its use of prohibited no-poach provisions. This business practice, often hidden from employees, can have serious implications including artificially lowering employee compensation, reducing incentives for companies to improve working conditions, and limiting employee career growth. The DOJ’s investigation revealed that PSSI had implemented a no poach provision in 22 out of its 24 operative contracts in California, which impacted the rights of approximately 6,000 employees who worked pursuant to those contracts. Workers who are aware that they are subject to an unreasonable or overly restrictive noncompete agreement should report it immediately to the Attorney General’s office at oag.ca.gov/report.

Attorney General Bonta is committed to defending workers’ rights, workplace safety, and California’s fair and competitive labor market. Through the Worker Rights and Fair Labor Section, the Civil Rights Enforcement Section, and the Antitrust Law Section, Attorney General Bonta enforces California’s laws to protect the welfare of California workers and legitimate businesses operating in California. This year, Attorney General Bonta filed a lawsuit against the Trump Administration for conducting an illegal mass firing of federal probationary employees. In 2024, Attorney General Bonta took action by defending wages and overtime owed in the West Coast Drywall Lawsuit. In 2023, Attorney General Bonta took action to protect workers, launching an historic investigation into gender discrimination in the National Football League, joined 17 attorneys general in supporting the Federal Trade Commission’s proposed rule limiting noncompete agreements, fought for the rights of transportation workers, and immigrant children. In November 2022, Attorney General Bonta joined 21 attorneys general in filing an amicus brief opposing McDonald’s attempt to evade liability for past alleged efforts to stifle competition and undercut wages through the use of “no-poach” agreements. In October 2022, Attorney General Bonta filed an amicus brief in an effort to protect Californians from discrimination in the employment hiring process.

A copy of the lawsuit can be found here.

MIL OSI USA News –

May 1, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Hutchinson Man Sentenced for Child Pornography Distribution

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

WICHITA, KAN. – A Kansas man was sentenced to 151 months in prison for distributing child exploitation sexual abuse materials.

According to court documents, Zachary Charles Hiskey, 27, of Hutchinson pleaded guilty to one count of distribution of child pornography.

In June 2021, Hiskey used his account on a messaging app called Kik to share videos depicting adult males engaged in sexually explicit activities with prepubescent children. Kik detected the videos and reported the account to law enforcement through a cyber tipline. This led to the discovery of other child exploitation sexual abuse materials connected to Hiskey’s email account and to IP logs at his home in Hutchinson.

While executing a search warrant at Hiskey’s home, investigators found an electronic device with an Internet browser thumbnail of recently viewed child exploitation sexual abuse materials. A forensic examination revealed the Kik account in question had been installed and then deleted on his cell phone.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) investigated the case.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Jason Hart prosecuted the case.

Project Safe Childhood
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and 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.

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MIL Security OSI –

May 1, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Mavillette — Meteghan RCMP investigating shots fired at a residence in Mavillette

Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

Meteghan RCMP Detachment is seeking information in relation to shots fired in Mavillette.

On April 28, Meteghan RCMP received a report of shots fired at a residence on C Boudeau Rd. As the house is believed to have been unoccupied at the time that this incident occurred, there were no injuries reported but it did result in damage to the home.

The investigation is ongoing, led by Meteghan RCMP with assistance from the RCMP Forensic Identification Section.

Anyone with information about this incident is asked to contact Meteghan RCMP at 902-645-2326. To remain anonymous, call Nova Scotia Crime Stoppers, toll-free, at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), submit a secure web tip at www.crimestoppers.ns.ca, or use the P3 Tips app.

MIL Security OSI –

May 1, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Pictou — Search warrant execution leads to more than 50 charges against four people

Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

The Pictou County Integrated Street Crime Enforcement Unit (PCISCEU) executed a search warrant that resulted in 56 charges against four people and the seizure of firearms.

On April 24, as part of an ongoing drug trafficking and firearms investigation, the PCISCEU attended a residence on Gill Crt. in Pictou and executed a search warrant. Five people were safely arrested.

During the search, a quantity of heroin, prescription pills, and trace amounts of other drugs were found and seized. A handgun, a sawed-off shotgun, and ammunition for both were also seized.

Several units assisted with the search warrant execution, including the Nova Scotia RCMP Emergency Response Team and Critical Incident Command, Pictou County District RCMP, Antigonish/Guysborough Street Crimes Enforcement Unit, and Guysborough County District RCMP.

Jamie Lee Jackson, 42, of Stellarton, Joseph Spears, 50, of Pictou, Kelsy Whytewood, 30, of River John, and Jessica Lindblad, 29, of MacLellan’s Brook, are each facing charges of Possession of Heroin for Purpose of Trafficking and Possession of Codeine for the Purpose of Trafficking, several firearms offences, and Possession of Property Obtained by Crime. Each person is also individually charged with multiple other offences, with a total of fifty-six charges sworn.

Jackson, Spears and Whytewood had first court appearances on April 25 at Pictou Provincial Court and were remanded into custody pending future court appearances. Lindblad was released by police with a first court appearance scheduled for July 7 at Pictou Provincial Court.

The fifth person arrested was released without charges.

Note: The PCISCEU is made up of police officers from Pictou County District RCMP, Westville Police Service, and Stellarton Police Service.

MIL Security OSI –

May 1, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Former Hospital Worker Sentenced to 20 Years in Prison for Producing Child Pornography

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

ST. LOUIS – U.S. District Judge Matthew T. Schelp on Wednesday sentenced a man who produced child pornography and secretly recorded women in the hospital where he worked to 20 years in prison.

Ian Wood, 45, of Rolla, Missouri, pleaded guilty in January to one count of production of child pornography and one count of receiving child pornography. He admitted producing child pornography by recording video of three girls when they were nude, including when one girl was 10 years old. He also admitted possessing images and videos in his Google account containing child sexual abuse material (CSAM).

The CSAM triggered an alert to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, which notified law enforcement. A court-approved search of Wood’s Google accounts uncovered the CSAM as well as video files of adult women being recorded by Wood without their consent in the hospital where he worked. The women were filmed in a room and shower in a state of full or partial nudity.

“The actions of this individual are not only reprehensible, but they are also a grotesque violation of human dignity and trust. We will relentlessly pursue anyone who preys on the innocent,” said ICE Homeland Security Investigations Kansas City Special Agent in Charge Mark Zito. “This case reflects the firm commitment of HSI and our law enforcement partners to ensure that predators are identified, apprehended, and brought to justice. We will not tolerate exploitation in any form and will use every resource at our disposal to protect our communities.”

Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations, the Phelps County Sheriff’s Department, the South-Central Missouri Computer Crimes Task Force and the Missouri Department of Social Services’ State Technical Assistance Team investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jillian Anderson prosecuted the case.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Department of Justice Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, 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 www.justice.gov/psc.

MIL Security OSI –

May 1, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Kingsville business owner pleads guilty to tax fraud

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas – A local resident has admitted to failing to pay employment taxes, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.

Timothy Gaines Pollard owned and operated Tim Pollard Construction, a residential remodeling and fence installation business in Bishop and Kingsville.

He admitted that from 2019 through 2021, he was responsible for collecting and withholding employment taxes from his employees’ paychecks. These included federal income, Social Security and Medicare taxes.

Pollard admitted he withheld those monies from his employees but failed to pay them to the United States, as the law requires. Instead, Pollard used the funds to cover personal expenses.

In total, Pollard’s scheme resulted in a total tax loss of over $400,000.

U.S. District Judge David S. Morales will impose sentencing July 30. At that time, Pollard faces up to five years in prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine.

He was permitted to remain on bond pending that hearing.

IRS-Criminal Investigation conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Tyler Foster and John Marck are prosecuting the case.

MIL Security OSI –

May 1, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Three Charged with Trafficking Narcotics in the Naugatuck Valley

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

Marc H. Silverman, Acting United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, Anish Shukla, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the New Haven Division of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Stephen P. Belleau, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration for New England, today announced that a federal grand jury in Hartford returned a 10-count indictment today charging KEYSHON ZIMMERMAN, also known as “AJ,” “Ace,” and “Slick,” 39, of Stratford; ROBERT SMITH, also known as “Mookie,” 43, of Ansonia; and MAHOGANY PETTWAY-STOKES, 45, of Ansonia with offenses related to the trafficking of fentanyl and cocaine in the Naugatuck Valley.

As alleged in court documents and statements made in court, an investigation by the FBI New Haven Transnational Organized Crime Task Force and the DEA New Haven District Office (NHDO) Task Force determined that Zimmerman and Smith were distributing fentanyl, cocaine, and prescription opioids in Connecticut’s Lower Naugatuck Valley. Zimmerman and Smith shared a phone used to coordinate drug transactions. Zimmerman typically used the phone in the morning and early afternoon and Smith used the phone in the late afternoon into the evening. Between July 2024 and April 2025, investigators made multiple controlled purchase of narcotics from Zimmerman, Smith, and Pettway-Stokes.

Zimmerman, Smith, and Pettway-Stokes were arrested on April 23, 2025. It is alleged that as investigators entered Zimmerman’s residence on Main Street in Stratford, they located Zimmerman in a bathroom attempting to flush fentanyl in a toilet. In association with the arrests, a search of Zimmerman’s residence revealed a large quantity of unpackaged fentanyl and cocaine, drug processing and packaging materials, and approximately $21,000 in cash. Searches of two cars parked in Stratford and Ansonia used by Zimmerman revealed additional quantities of fentanyl and cocaine, narcotic pills, a .40 caliber semi-automatic pistol with an obliterated serial number, and a 9mm caliber semi-automatic pistol with an extended magazine. A search of a residence shared by Smith and Pettway-Stokes on Wakelee Avenue in Ansonia revealed two handguns, and a search of an apartment on Olivia Street in Derby revealed narcotics processing and packaging materials, including a kilogram press.

The indictment charges Zimmerman, Smith, and Pettway-Stokes with one count of conspiracy to distribute, and to possess with intent to distribute, fentanyl and cocaine. As to this charge, based on the type and quantity of drug attributed to each defendant, Zimmerman faces a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 10 years and a maximum term of imprisonment of life, and Smith and Pettway-Stokes each faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years.

The indictment also charges Zimmerman, Smith, and Pettway-Stokes with multiple substantive counts related to the possession and distribution of controlled substances. Zimmerman is also charged with two counts of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, an offense that carries a mandatory consecutive term of imprisonment of at least five years on each count.

Zimmerman and Smith are currently detained and Pettway-Stokes is released on a $75,000 bond.

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

This matter is being investigated by the FBI New Haven Transnational Organized Crime Task Force and the DEA New Haven District Office (NHDO) Task Force. The FBI Task Force includes participants from the Connecticut State Police and the North Haven, New Haven, East Haven, Milford, and Brookfield Police Departments, and the DEA Task Force includes participants from the U.S. Marshals Service, Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Division, Connecticut State Police and the New Haven, Waterbury, East Haven, Branford, West Haven, Ansonia, Meriden, Naugatuck, and Shelton Police Departments. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Geoffrey M. Stone.

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 (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).

MIL Security OSI –

May 1, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Dominican National Sentenced to Three Years in prison for Fentanyl Trafficking Charges

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

BOSTON – A Dominican national, residing in Chelsea, Mass., was sentenced yesterday in federal court in Boston for fentanyl trafficking.

Junior Baez Sanchez, 32, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Patti B. Saris to three years in prison. Baez Sanchez is subject to deportation upon completion of the imposed sentence. In January 2025, Baez Sanchez pleaded guilty to two counts of distributing fentanyl and one count of failing to appear for court.

Baez Sanchez distributed more than 40 grams of fentanyl in Chelsea on June 2, 2020 and in Malden on July 15, 2020. In March 2021, Baez Sanchez was indicted by a federal grand jury and was scheduled for trial in October 2022. Baez Sanchez failed to appear for court as required on Oct. 4, 2022—less than two weeks before trial—and the Court issued a warrant for his arrest. Approximately two years later, on Sept. 24, 2024, Baez Sanchez was arrested on the warrant after law enforcement stopped a vehicle driven by Baez Sanchez. At the time of his arrest, Baez Sanchez had 12 clear bags of fentanyl in his pocket.

United States Attorney Leah B. Foley and James M. Ferguson, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Boston Field Division made the announcement today. Special assistance was provided by the Chelsea Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles Dell’Anno of the Criminal Division prosecuted the case.

MIL Security OSI –

May 1, 2025
MIL-OSI Africa: Operation Shanela nets more than 600 suspects in North West

Source: South Africa News Agency

Over 600 suspects were arrested in Operation Shanela in the North West, said the South African Police Service (SAPS).

Police operations in collaboration with other law enforcement agencies that ran from 21-27 April, led to the arrest of 667 suspects.

“The operations, which were conducted under Operation Shanela resulted in the arrest of 667 suspects and recoveries of among others, 12 rounds of ammunition, drugs, three shotguns, 57 cell phones, liquor and other contraband such as cigarettes.

“Out of the 667 suspects, 35 were nabbed for driving under influence of alcohol or drugs, seven for illegal possession of firearms and ammunition, 56 for possession of drugs, 17 for illegal dealing in liquor, 69 for assault with intent to do grievous bodily harm (GBH), 41 for common assault, five for murder and 14 for burglaries at residential and business premises,” said the Office of the Provincial Commissioner of the North West.

The operations covered all the province’s districts and included the setting of roadblocks on all the national and provincial arterial roads, tracing of wanted suspects, stop and searches and compliance inspections at liquor selling outlets and closing of unlicensed liquor premises.

The Anti-Gang Unit arrested three Lesotho foreign nationals on Friday, 25 April 2025, after being found in possession of unlicensed firearms and ammunition.

The first suspect was arrested for illegal possession of a Norinco firearm with eight rounds of ammunition.

The other two suspects, Seronthe Thipe, and Thabo Mphinyame, were found in possession of an unlicensed revolver, four rounds of ammunition and spent 9mm cartridge.

All three accused: Rethabile Ntoyi, 39, Nthipu, 30, and Thabo Mphinyame, 40 appeared in the Orkney Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, 29 April 2025.

“They were all remanded in custody until Friday, 09 May 2025, for further investigation,” said the SAPS.

The Acting Provincial Commissioner of Police in the North West, Major General Patrick Asaneng has called on communities in the Matlosana Municipality including community policing forums and ward councillors not to harbour illegal foreigners who are in the main involved is serious violent crimes such as murders, robberies and damage of essential infrastructure.

“These suspects are often arrested in possession of illegal firearms including automatic rifles smuggled into area and which are not traceable due to them not being in the Central Registry database,” said Asaneng. –SAnews.gov.za

MIL OSI Africa –

May 1, 2025
MIL-OSI Africa: Minister to preside over reburial ceremony of anti-Apartheid activists

Source: South Africa News Agency

Wednesday, April 30, 2025

Department of Justice and Constitutional Development (DJCOD) Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi will, on Saturday, preside over the handover and reburial ceremony of the exhumed remains of political activists who were hanged on death row for politically related offences.

The two activists are Benjamin Malesella Moloise and Abram Zakhele Mngomezulu who were executed by the Apartheid government during the 1980s.

“Benjamin Moloise, an activist of [the] ANC [African National Congress], was convicted in 1983 and executed in 1985 for the 1982 assassination of a security policeman. He denied any involvement, claiming his confession was made under duress. The ANC consistently maintained his innocence.

“Abram Mngomezulu, also an activist of the ANC, was executed on 25 May 1989 after being convicted for the 1987 murder of Mandla Khoza during a rent boycott protest in Soweto. He was sentenced to death, while four teenage co-accused received prison terms ranging from 8 to 15 years,” the department said in a statement.

The DJCOD described the handover and reburial service as “solemn and historic.”

“[The] handover and reburial…marks an important milestone in South Africa’s ongoing journey towards healing, justice, and reconciliation. Between 1960 and 1990, at least 130 individuals were executed on death row for politically motivated offences.

“At the time, the state withheld their remains, denying families the opportunity to mourn and bury their loved ones with dignity. These individuals were interred as paupers in cemeteries around Tshwane, without the knowledge or consent of their families.

“The upcoming ceremony will formally return the remains to their families, offering long-overdue closure and recognition of the ultimate sacrifices made in the struggle for freedom. The department, on behalf of the State, remains firmly committed to advancing justice, fostering national healing, and preserving the dignity of those who paid the highest price in the fight against apartheid,” the department said.

The ceremony will be held from 9am at the Orlando Communal Hall in Soweto on Saturday. – SAnews.gov.za

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MIL OSI Africa –

May 1, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Trump’s Border Protection Nominee Commits to Sharing Public Information about Location in Custody “As Soon As Possible”

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts – Elizabeth Warren
April 30, 2025
Asserts refusing detainees phone calls and their families information on their location will not be his policy
Scott: “I will follow court orders…(and) commit to transparency and sharing (custody and location) information consistent with law and policy as quickly as possible.”
Warren: “Targeting people who have never committed a crime, but who are now terrified that the United States government is going to remove them from their families without any legal help…is not only wrong, it is not making us safer.”
Video of Exchange (YouTube)
Washington, D.C. — At a hearing of the Senate Finance Committee, U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) pushed Mr. Rodney Scott, nominee for Commissioner of Customs and Border Protection (CBP), to commit to following court orders, ensuring agents do not deny entry based on travelers’ political views, allowing detained individuals to make phone calls to their families and their lawyers, and publicly releasing information on where people in CBP custody are being held.
Senator Warren highlighted the Trump administration’s recent disturbing pattern of detaining people with no criminal record, refusing to let them speak with their families and lawyers, and then deporting them even after courts have said not to. Mr. Scott said he would “follow court orders.”
Senator Warren also pointed to a recent report of immigration officials searching a traveler’s phone and denying entry to the United States for criticizing the Trump administration. Mr. Scott agreed that, if confirmed, he would not allow politically motivated denials of entry based on criticism of the President.
Senator Warren pushed Mr. Scott to commit to letting the public know within hours, instead of the current policy of 48 hours, when someone is in CBP custody and where they are located. Mr. Scott refused to commit but said he would share public information about the location of people in CBP custody “as soon as possible.”
“I am concerned that, while I appreciate that you are making commitments to do your best here, that we really are going to need continued oversight to make sure that this happens,” said Senator Warren.
“Targeting people who have never committed a crime, but who are now terrified that the United States government is going to remove them from their families without any legal help… is not making us safer,” Senator Warren concluded.
Transcript: “Hearing to Consider the Nomination of Rodney Scott, of Oklahoma, to be Commissioner of U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Department of Homeland Security, vice Chris Magnus”Senate Finance CommitteeApril 30, 2025
Senator Elizabeth Warren: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. So, Americans want to be safe, but in just 100 days, the Trump administration has started to round up people with no criminal record, move them so that even their families and lawyers have no idea where they are, and deport them even after a court has said not to. That is not making our nation safer.
Now, Mr. Scott, if confirmed as Customs and Border Protection Commissioner, you will decide whether to continue or to reverse these very troubling trends.
So, I want to understand what policies you would follow. Last month, ICE transported Kilmar Abrego Garcia and more than one hundred others to El Salvador after a court ordered they not be removed. Concerns have also been raised about whether CBP is deporting people in violation of court orders.
So let me start there. Mr. Scott, will it be your policy as CBP Commissioner to deport people in violation of court orders?
Mr. Rodney Scott, nominee for Commissioner of Customs and Border Protection: No, ma’am. I will follow court orders.
Senator Warren: That’s what I like to hear. So, let’s try another one. Last month, CBP reportedly searched the phone of a French scientist at a Houston airport, and reportedly found text messages criticizing President Trump’s research policies, and then denied him entry.
Mr. Scott, will it be your policy as CBP Commissioner to deny entry to travelers because they criticize Donald Trump?
Mr. Scott: In my experience, that does not happen. In my experience—
Senator Warren: That’s not my question. My question is will it be your policy that if someone criticizes Donald Trump will be denied entry to the United States of America?
Mr. Scott: No, and I don’t believe that happens today either.
Senator Warren: Alright, but you will make sure that that is not the policy that CBP follows, is that right?
Mr. Scott: If confirmed, that’s correct.
Senator Warren: Alright, let’s do one more. Lawyers and loved ones are finding CBP to be a black box that detains people and refuses to tell anyone where they are for hours, sometimes for days.
For example, two U.S. citizen children and their immigrant mother were detained by CBP for three days without being able to communicate with legal counsel or anyone in their family. They reported feeling “kidnapped.”
Mr. Scott, you said you care about transparency. Will it be your policy for CBP agents to detain a family and prevent them from speaking with counsel or their families for days?
Mr. Scott: That is not the policy of CBP. And if confirmed that would not be my policy.
Senator Warren: Alright. And will you commit to letting the public know within hours, not days, when someone is in CBP custody and where they are located, the same way that ICE does?
Mr. Scott: I have learned to not over commit to something that I can’t follow through on. I commit to transparency and sharing that information consistent with law and policy as quickly as possible, but CBP is slightly different. There’s an interdiction, there’s a processing, we don’t have detention facilities, so a lot of times they are taken somewhere else.
There are time delays and the generality of within hours—as soon as possible I will commit to, but I cannot commit to a specific timeline, because it changes in different parts of the country depending on where the individual is encountered.
Senator Warren: So, are you telling me that literally it can be days before CBP understands they’ve got someone and to let that person be able to call a family member so they’re not frantically wondering what happened to them?
Mr. Scott: So, under the last administration and the chaos that was created the answer to your question was yes. People being arrested were so backed up that in many cases it was taking CBP officers and patrol agents days just to get to them to do basic processing.
Senator Warren: And in the meantime, none of them were permitted to make a phone call?
Mr. Scott: We didn’t know who they were.
Senator Warren: So you can’t let them make a phone call to just tell their family where they are or find a lawyer if that’s what they think they need?
Mr. Scott: I believe there were 15,000 of them in one day. There wasn’t time. It was about officer safety, it was about keeping people safe and keeping them safe. Because it’s not just 15,000 families. There were criminals mixed in there. There were gang members mixed in there. There were cartel members mixed in there. And all of the officers and agents when we create this chaos have to deal with all of that and keep people safe, so it gets delayed.
Today we don’t have that problem, because the Trump administration’s created policies that have deterred all that massive chaos on the border from crossing. So those calls will take place quicker because we actually have time to—
Senator Warren: So, if the Trump administration has ended all the chaos, is there a reason that you cannot commit to let people be able to reach out to their families within hours of being detained by CBP?
You said you got that chaos under control now?
Mr. Scott: I will confirm that if confirmed as commissioner, my commitment to you is we will let them make that call as quickly as reasonably possible with the other factors that I just outlined for you.
Senator Warren: Well, the questions I asked are really straightforward and I’m very worried about what’s happening now—denying people entry because they criticize Donald Trump.
I’m worried about the feeling that people have been disappeared, including mothers with children, for days on end. And I am concerned that, while I appreciate that you are making commitments to do your best here, that we really are going to need continued oversight to make sure that this happens.
Targeting people who have never committed a crime, but who are now terrified that the United States government is going to remove them from their families without any legal help, take them off of our streets or out of our airports is not only wrong, it is not making us safer.
I apologize for going over, Mr. Chairman.

MIL OSI USA News –

May 1, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Kamlager-Dove, Lee Introduce Bipartisan Fresh Start Act
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Sydney Kamlager California (37th District)

WASHINGTON, D.C.– Today, Representatives Sydney Kamlager-Dove (D, CA-37) and Laurel Lee (R, FL-15) introduced the Fresh Start Act, a bipartisan bill to provide support for rehabilitated individuals to have access to employment, housing, and educational opportunities.

“No one should be denied a job, housing, or education because of bureaucratic red tape,” said Rep. Kamlager-Dove. “Millions of Americans have arrest or conviction records that are eligible to be sealed or expunged, yet many are blocked by confusing, burdensome, and costly processes. I’m proud to cosponsor the bipartisan Fresh Start Act, which helps individuals who have been exonerated or who have paid their debts to society get a chance to contribute to their communities. This legislation will give states the resources they need to implement automatic record clearance systems that offer people a fresh start.”

Approximately one-third of Americans have criminal records that can hinder their ability to secure employment, housing, or educational opportunities. While many of them qualify for record-sealing or expungement under state laws, the process is frequently complicated, time-consuming, and costly.

The Fresh Start Act would allow states that have enacted automated record-sealing or expungement laws to apply for federal infrastructure grants to help streamline the process. This federal legislation builds on the momentum of Clean Slate policies enacted in 2018 by a diverse group of 12 states including California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Michigan, Minnesota, New Jersey, New York, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Utah, and Virginia.

“People who have worked to turn their lives around after a criminal conviction deserve the opportunity to move forward, not be held back by administrative barriers. Today, nearly one-third of Americans have a criminal record that can prevent them from getting a job, finding housing, or pursuing education—even when they qualify for record-sealing or expungement. The Fresh Start Act of 2025 modernizes and streamlines these processes for states, helping more individuals access the opportunities they’ve earned. I look forward to seeing my colleagues come together to pass this important legislation and ensure that everyone who deserves a second chance has the opportunity to build a better future,” said Congresswoman Laurel Lee.

Sheena Meade, CEO of The Clean Slate Initiative, said, “The Fresh Start Act recognizes what we’ve seen on the ground: Clean Slate has the power to change lives. This legislation is an essential component of modernizing state infrastructure, making sure federal support is spent on common-sense solutions that are serious about safety and benefit communities across the country. A fresh start should be more than a promise; it should be a reality. With the Fresh Start Act, it can be.”

Jason Pye, Executive Director of the Due Process Institute, said, “The Fresh Start Act is a commonsense policy solution to help improve states’ record-sealing laws. The bill crucially allocates already existing funding to help with the implementation of proven recidivism reduction strategies that result in better economic outcomes and safer communities for us all. We urge members of Congress to join in cosponsoring and supporting this bipartisan legislation.”

Akua Amaning, Director of Criminal Justice Reform, Center for American Progress said, “Everyone deserves the opportunity to unlock their full potential. Yet, for far too many people who have been impacted by America’s criminal legal system, a second chance can be hard to achieve with an arrest or conviction record. The Fresh Start Act will provide important resources to states that are working to remove unnecessary barriers to employment, housing, education, and other critical life resources due to having a record. In helping to create pathways to automatic record expungement at the state level, The Fresh Start Act will not only help individuals transform their lives, but will also improve economic security and public safety outcomes for all. We applaud the bipartisan support for this measure and urge Congress to swiftly pass the Fresh Start Act.”

Patrick Plein, Director of CPAC’s Nolan Center for Justice, said, “Communities are safer when individuals returning from prison are given a fair chance to reintegrate into society and rebuild their lives. The Fresh Start Act recognizes that people are more than their past mistakes—they are hard working parents, employees, and neighbors with the potential to prosper. By removing barriers to opportunity, these bills strengthen families, boost our economy, and promote public safety.”

“The Fresh Start Act is a common sense measure that will help give people who have fulfilled their justice system obligations a second chance,” said Nan Gibson, Executive Director of the JPMorganChase Policy Center. “The bill would make federal grants available to states to upgrade their justice system infrastructure so that states can implement Clean Slate legislation and strengthen their workforce. Over the last six years, our firm has hired more than 21,000 people with a record whose history had no bearing on the requirements of their job, because we know implementing fair chance hiring practices is good for our business and the economy. This measure will enable companies like ours to continue to connect individuals to meaningful career pathways, opening doors to opportunities that transform lives, lift up communities and strengthen the workforce.”

Summary:
- Amends 34 U.S.C. §40302 (National Criminal History Improvement Program, or NCHIP) to include funding for covered automatic expungement and record sealing laws.
- Covered Expungement Law—The term “automatic” is defined as expungement or sealing that does not require any action on the part of the eligible individual. The term “covered expungement law” is defined as a law of a State that provides for the automatic expungement or sealing of a criminal record, subject to requirements imposed by the State.
- Reporting Requirements—A State that receives a grant under the Fresh Start Act of 2025 is required to produce and send a report to the Attorney General, under the guidelines established by the Attorney General, that provides information on:
  - the number of individuals eligible for automatic expungement or sealing disaggregated by race, ethnicity, and gender;
  - the number of individuals whose records have been expunged or sealing disaggregated by race, ethnicity, and gender;
  - and the number of individuals who application for expungement or sealing are still pending disaggregated by race, ethnicity, and gender;
- Inaccessibility of Data for Reporting—If data required for reporting are not available, the State is required to develop and report a plan to obtain as much of the data as possible no later than one (1) year after the first year the grant is awarded.
- Publication—The Attorney General is required to publish and make publicly available a report containing data collected under the reporting requirements.
Read the bill text here.

MIL OSI USA News –
May 1, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Cassidy, Grassley, Colleagues Highlight National Fentanyl Awareness Day

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Louisiana Bill Cassidy

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA), Chuck Grassley (R-IA), and colleagues introduced a resolution designating April 29th, 2025, as “National Fentanyl Awareness Day” to highlight the dangers of counterfeit fentanyl pills.
“Tens of thousands of Americans die each year from fentanyl. In President Trump’s first 100 Days, Republicans have done their best to fight this epidemic, including advancing my HALT Fentanyl Act,” said Dr. Cassidy. “Let’s bring the death toll to zero.”
“Fentanyl overdoses claimed the lives of more than 58,000 Americans last year, many of whom suffered from accidental poisonings after taking counterfeit prescription pills. President Trump has taken strong action to stem the flow of fentanyl pills. Additionally, Congress must act to hold corporations accountable for their role in the illicit drug trade,” Grassley said. “Our resolution demonstrates continuing resolve to put an end to America’s fentanyl epidemic.” “Fentanyl overdoses claimed the lives of more than 58,000 Americans last year, many of whom suffered from accidental poisonings after taking counterfeit prescription pills. President Trump has taken strong action to stem the flow of fentanyl pills. Additionally, Congress must act to hold corporations accountable for their role in the illicit drug trade,” said Senator Grassley. “Our resolution demonstrates continuing resolve to put an end to America’s fentanyl epidemic.”
Cassidy and Grassley were joined by U.S. Senators Mitch McConnell (R-KY), John Fetterman (D-PA), Dave McCormick (R-PA), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Steve Daines (R-MT), Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), Jim Justice (R-WV), Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), Jim Risch (R-ID), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Todd Young (R-IN), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) Deb Fischer (R-NE), Jerry Moran (R-KS), John Hoeven (R-ND), Bill Hagerty (R-TN), Joni Ernst (R-IA), and Susan Collins (R-ME).
Background
In February, Cassidy spoke on the U.S. Senate floor amid Senate Democrats’ attempt to undermine his HALT Fentanyl Act to make permanent the temporary classification of fentanyl-related substances as a Schedule I drug of the Controlled Substances Act (CSA).
Drug overdoses, largely driven by fentanyl, are the leading cause of death among young adults aged 18 to 45 years old. Synthetic opioids like fentanyl account for 66 percent of the total U.S. overdose deaths. In the last two fiscal years, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) seized record amounts of fentanyl —nearly 50,000 pounds—enough to produce more than 2 billion lethal doses. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), in 2023, there were an estimated 107,543 drug overdose deaths—74,702 of which were attributed to fentanyl. This was primarily fueled by synthetic opioids, including illegal fentanyl, which are largely manufactured in Mexico from raw materials supplied by China. In 2022, there were over 50.6 million fentanyl-laced fake prescription pills seized by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), more than doubling the amount seized in 2021.

MIL OSI USA News –

May 1, 2025
MIL-OSI Video: Ahead of the Threat Podcast: Episode Nine – Meredith Griffanti

Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) (video statements)

Are you an expert in communications? Do you need communications help? Are you ready for how to communicate to employees, the government, or your customers if a crisis happens? Many agencies believe they have it covered but when a crisis does happens, the reality comes into focus that communications is a more nuanced and involved part of a response.

Meredith Griffanti and her team do this “all day, every day.” As FTI’s senior managing director for cybersecurity and data privacy communications, Griffanti discusses her observations about the industry, common pitfalls and some changing attitudes about communications with hosts Bryan Vorndran, FBI assistant director of the Cyber Division, and Jamil Farshchi, an FBI strategic engagement advisor.

Kicking off this episode’s Top Three segment with a look at current cybersecurity news, Bryan and Jamil assess the return of the LockBit ransomware group, a new tactic of “microransoms” targeting everyday users, and an FBI advisory warning people about fake FBI agents claiming to be from the Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3): https://www.ic3.gov/PSA/2025/PSA250418#:~:text=Tips%20to%20Protect%20Yourself,or%20other%20law%20enforcement%20officers.

Listen to Ahead of the Threat episodes, read the transcripts, and find related material at https://www.fbi.gov/aheadofthethreat.
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MIL OSI Video –

May 1, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: SCST continues visit to UAE

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

The Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, Miss Rosanna Law, continued her visit to the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

Miss Law met with the Undersecretary of the Ministry of Culture of the UAE, HE Mubarak Al Nakhi, today (April 30, Abu Dhabi time). She highlighted Hong Kong’s ongoing efforts to strengthen international cultural exchanges, expressing strong interest in collaborations with the UAE, a key partner under the Belt and Road Initiative. Miss Law looked forward to establishing closer cultural links and was glad to have identified new opportunities for cooperation on performing arts with the country.

Earlier, on April 29 (Dubai time), Miss Law met the Chief Executive Officer of the Dubai Future Foundation (the Foundation) and Vice Chairman of Dubai Sports Council, HE Khalfan Belhoul. She was impressed by Dubai’s visionary initiatives, such as the Foundation’s projects in artificial intelligence, robotics, and sustainability, as well as the government’s forward-thinking approach in shaping a sustainable and better future for the world. On the sports development front, discussions focused on integrating creativity, innovation, and technology into youth education, with both parties noted the shared aspirations of Hong Kong and Dubai. Miss Law highlighted the similarities in both regions’ sports landscapes, emphasising opportunities for collaboration.

In that afternoon, Miss Law met with the Chief Executive Officer of Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing at Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism, HE Issam Kazim. The discussions underscored shared goals of enhancing tourism through innovative collaboration. Miss Law also noted how Hong Kong is actively promoting tailor-made, high-end travel packages to attract the Middle East tourists.

Miss Law also paid a courtesy call on and attended a dinner hosted by the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the People’s Republic of China to the UAE, Mr Zhang Yiming last night (April 29, Abu Dhabi time). Ambassador Zhang highlighted Hong Kong’s unique strengths as a global hub for business, culture, and tourism. He also underlined the importance of and expressed optimism about the city’s promising future in engaging the Middle East. Miss Law remarked that through the visit, she gained a deeper understanding of the UAE’s proactive and ambitious vision, affirming that Hong Kong and the UAE share many parallels in their development strategies. She emphasised the importance of leveraging these synergies to foster stronger ties between the two regions and expressed her gratitude to the Embassy for its strong support to Hong Kong.

While in the UAE, Miss Law visited a number of iconic historical and tourist attractions, taking herself in the country’s vibrant cultural and architectural marvels. These included the Burj Khalifa and the Museum of the Future in Dubai (April 29, Dubai time), as well as the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, the national and cultural landmark; the Qasr Al Watan, the Presidential Palace; and the Louvre Abu Dhabi Museum, in Abu Dhabi (April 30, Abu Dhabi time) to gain insights into their operations, tourism appeal and the possible collaboration of cultural exchanges.

Miss Law will conclude her visit to the UAE and depart for Riyadh, Saudi Arabia tonight (April 30, Abu Dhabi time).

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

May 1, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Former Credit Union Employee Sentenced for Bank Fraud Conspiracy

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

BEAUMONT, Texas – A Winnie man has been sentenced to federal prison for bank fraud conspiracy in the Eastern District of Texas, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Abe McGlothin, Jr.

Billy Ray Thomas, Jr., 40, pleaded guilty to conspiring to commit bank fraud and was sentenced to 34 months in federal prison by U.S. District Judge Marcia A. Crone on April 29, 2025. Thomas was also ordered to pay restitution of $1,363,825.18

According to information presented in court, on September 6, 2018, a Neches Federal Credit Union (NFCU) member contacted the credit union and reported there were loans reflected on their account that they did not request. Shortly thereafter, another member notified the Credit Union that they also had loans on their account that were not theirs. This type of notification then became common over the next few weeks, involving as many as 30 members, all associated with Thomas, an assistant branch manager for NFCU. An investigation revealed Thomas was working with another individual to commit bank fraud by using family members and acquaintances as the identified borrowers. The victims stated either they did not sign the documents, or they did sign the documents but did so electronically when Thomas would bring them a tablet for signature. In other circumstances, the victims stated they did physically sign some paper documents. However, in most circumstances, the victims stated they did not know what they were signing as they trusted Thomas implicitly. Thomas was originally employed on May 16, 2005, with NFCU at the Pearl Street Branch in Beaumont. At some point, Thomas was promoted to the position of assistant branch manager and some of Thomas’ responsibilities included serving as a loan officer. Thomas resigned from his employment as the assistant branch manager on September 18, 2018. As a result of Thomas’ fraudulent activities, losses are estimated at over $1 million.

This case was investigated by FBI’s Beaumont Field Office and the Beaumont Police Department and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Reynaldo P. Morin.

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MIL Security OSI –

May 1, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Kissimmee Real Estate Broker Sentenced For Bank Fraud

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

Orlando, FL – United States District Judge Wendy W. Berger has sentenced Maria Del Carmen Montes (48, Kissimmee) to 33 months in federal prison for bank fraud. Montes pleaded guilty on January 4, 2024.

According to court documents, Montes, co-conspirator Carlos Ferrer, and others created and executed a mortgage fraud scheme targeting financial institutions. Montes assisted clients with purchasing homes and, after signing the real estate contract, referred her buyers to a loan officer at a mortgage company. In order to qualify her clients for mortgage loans for which they were unqualified, Montes transferred the personal identifying and financial information of her clients to Ferrer and directed Ferrer to create fictitious paystubs and W-2s showing false earnings and length of employment for her clients, knowing that her clients never worked for the companies on the fictitious employment documents. After Ferrer created the documents, Montes submitted the fictitious paystubs and W-2s to the financial institutions who relied on them when making underwriting decisions.

On August 13, 2024, Ferrer was sentenced to four months’ imprisonment and ordered to serve three years of supervised release for his role in the case.

This case was investigated by the Federal Housing Finance Agency – Office of Inspector General, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development – Office of Inspector General, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It was prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Chris Poor.

MIL Security OSI –

May 1, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Louisville Felon Pleads Guilty to Illegally Possessing Firearm

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

Louisville, KY – Yesterday, a Louisville felon pled guilty to illegally possessing a firearm.

U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge John Nokes of the ATF Louisville Field Division, and Chief Paul Humphrey of the Louisville Metro Police Department made the announcement.

According to court documents, Dajuan Simonton, 31, pled guilty to illegal possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. According to the plea agreement, on January 12, 2022, Simonton unlawfully possessed a Glock, model 41 Gen4, .45 caliber handgun, and ammunition.

Simonton is prohibited from possessing a firearm because he had previously been convicted of the following felony offenses.

On January 14, 2019, in Jefferson Circuit Court, Simonton was convicted of 3 counts of receiving a stolen firearm.

On January 14, 2019, in Jefferson Circuit Court, Simonton was convicted of complicity to possession of a controlled substance in the first degree – methamphetamine, complicity to receiving stolen firearm, and tampering with physical evidence.

Simonton is scheduled for sentencing on August 5, 2025, before a United States District Judge for the Western District of Kentucky. Simonton is detained in federal custody pending sentencing. He faces a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison. The judge will determine the sentence after considering the sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors.

There is no parole in the federal system.

This case was investigated by the ATF Louisville Field Division and LMPD.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Alicia P. Gomez is prosecuting this case.

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 (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).

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MIL Security OSI –

May 1, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Shri Gyaneshwar Kumar Singh Takes Charge as Director General & CEO of Indian Institute of Corporate Affairs(IICA), bringing Over 30 Years of Expertise in Finance, Law, and Governance

Source: Government of India

Shri Gyaneshwar Kumar Singh Takes Charge as Director General & CEO of Indian Institute of Corporate Affairs(IICA), bringing Over 30 Years of Expertise in Finance, Law, and Governance

Shri Singh has served in key positions in the Ministry of Corporate Affairs including IEPFA, IBBI, and other important institutions

Posted On: 30 APR 2025 7:51PM by PIB Delhi

Shri Gyaneshwar Kumar Singh, a distinguished officer of the Indian Post & Telecommunication Accounts and Finance Service (IP&TAFS), 1992 batch, has assumed charge as the new Director General and Chief Executive Officer of the Indian Institute of Corporate Affairs (IICA), which is a think tank under the Ministry of Corporate Affairs, Government of India. With an illustrious career spanning over three decades, Shri Singh brings with him a wealth of experience in Finance, Corporate law, Insolvency, Corporate Social Responsibility, ESG Reporting, Public Policy, E-Governance, and Capacity Building.

He has previously served in various key roles including Joint Secretary in the Ministry of Corporate Affairs, CEO of the Investor Education and Protection Fund Authority (IEPFA), and as Member of the Governing Body of the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board of India (IBBI). He was also Government nominee to the Central Council of the Indian Institute of Company Secretaries and Indian Institute of Chartered Accountants of India from 2019 -2021. Notably, he also held the position of DG & CEO of IICA during 2017–18, when he led a remarkable turnaround of the institute, making it financially self-sustaining.

He was Member Secretary of the Insolvency Law Committee (ILC) from 2018 to 2021.He played an important role in implementation of the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code and subsequent amendments to the code up including amendment Act on Pre-packaged insolvency resolution, thereby making the Code more responsive to the needs of the economy. He also made significant contribution in establishment and strengtheningof many new institutions in the Ministry of Corporate Affairs such as NCLT, NCLAT, IEPFA and IBBI.

He possesses core competency in Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and played a pivotal role in assisting the Ministry of Corporate Affairs in launching the National CSR Awards Scheme, which aims to benchmark best CSR practices across the country. He also served as the Member & Convener of the High-Level Committee on Corporate Social Responsibility, contributing significantly to the finalization and submission of the committee’s report in 2019. Furthermore, he played a critical role in overhauling the CSR Rules, 2014, including revamping reporting formats and development of transparent systems for CSR disclosures, enhancing ease of doing business and minimising discretion.

A thought leader in sustainable corporate governance, Shri Singh chaired the Committee on Business Responsibility Reporting (BRR) and submitted a comprehensive report in August 2020. This landmark work laid the foundation for SEBI’s mandate on Business Responsibility and Sustainability Reporting (BRSR) for the top 1000 listed companies on a voluntary basis from FY 2021–22.

Shri Singh holds academic degrees from prestigious institutions including JNU (MA &M.Phil in Sociology), FMS Delhi (MBA in Finance), and Delhi University (LLB and BA Hons in History). His international stint as Capacity Development Advisor with UNDP Afghanistan adds a global dimension to his profile.

His return to IICA signals a promising new chapter for the institute as it continues to serve as a think tank, policy laboratory, and capacity development hub under the aegis of the Ministry of Corporate Affairs. Shri Singh’s visionary leadership is expected to further IICA’s mission of promoting responsible corporate governance, sustainability, and innovation in India’s dynamic business environment.

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MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

May 1, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Mexican Citizen Sentenced to 8 Months for Illegally Reentering the United States After Prior Removal

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

MADISON, WIS. – Timothy M. O’Shea, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Rafael Cruz-Hernandez, 39, a citizen of Mexico found in Monroe County, Wisconsin, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge William M. Conley to 8 months in prison for illegally reentering the United States after having previously been removed. Cruz-Hernandez pleaded guilty to this charge on February 25, 2025.

On December 23, 2023, Cruz-Hernandez was arrested in Monroe County, Wisconsin for a domestic abuse offense. This was his second arrest for a domestic offense. He was originally removed from the United States in 2010, following a conviction for third degree sexual assault.

In choosing an 8-month sentence, Judge Conley considered Cruz-Hernandez’s criminal history and his recent domestic arrests and injunction, along with Cruz-Hernandez’s consistent employment and the outpouring support from his family and friends. Judge Conley noted that he lacks the authority to release Cruz-Hernandez into the community and that he poses a risk of unlawfully returning to the United States. Judge Conley advised him that should he return, he could face higher penalties.

The charge against Cruz-Hernandez was the result of an investigation conducted by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Removal Operations (ERO) and the Sparta Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Colleen Lennon prosecuted this case.

MIL Security OSI –

May 1, 2025