NewzIntel.com

Category: Security

  • MIL-OSI Global: Same-sex marriage is under attack by state lawmakers, emboldened by Trump’s anti-LGBTQ+ measures and the Supreme Court’s willingness to overturn precedent

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Paul M. Collins Jr., Professor of Legal Studies and Political Science, UMass Amherst

    Jeff Sralla, left, and his partner of 28 years, Gerald Gafford, wed in 2015 in Texas. AP Photo/Eric Gay

    Same-sex marriage, which the U.S. Supreme Court in 2015 legalized nationwide in the case known as Obergefell v. Hodges, is facing resurgent hostility.

    In the decade since the court’s decision, public support for same-sex marriage has increased. Currently, about 70% of Americans approve of legally recognizing the marriages of same-sex couples, a 10-percentage-point bump from 2015.

    Obergefell led to an increase in marriages among same-sex partners, with more than 700,000 same-sex couples currently married.

    Despite this, Republican lawmakers in five states have recently introduced symbolic bills calling on the Supreme Court to overturn its ruling in Obergefell.

    And Republican lawmakers in two states have proposed legislation that creates a new category of marriage, called “covenant marriage,” that is reserved for one man and one woman.

    As a professor of legal studies, I believe such attacks on same-sex marriage represent a serious threat to the institution.

    And others share my concern.

    A 2024 poll of married same-sex couples found that 54% of respondents are worried that the Supreme Court might overturn Obergefell, with only 17% saying they did not anticipate such a challenge.

    Recognizing this fear, Democratic legislators in Michigan have called for the state to pass a ballot initiative to protect same-sex marriage. The initiative would repeal a part of the state constitution that banned same-sex marriage, but which was invalidated by the subsequent Obergefell decision. If Obergefell were overturned, that ban in the Michigan constitution would go into effect again.

    And a law firm in Missouri is helping LGBTQ+ couples establish medical power of attorney plans in the event Obergefell is reversed.

    Here’s what’s known about the current attacks on same-sex marriage.

    Plaintiff James Obergefell of Ohio, center, wipes his eyes after exiting the Supreme Court in Washington on April 28, 2015, following arguments before the court over the right of gay and lesbian couples to marry.
    AP Photo/Cliff Owen

    What happens if anti-Obergefell state legislation passes?

    Currently, two types of legislation have been introduced by Republican state lawmakers.

    First, symbolic legislation that calls on the Supreme Court to overturn Obergefell has been introduced in Idaho, Michigan, Montana, North Dakota and South Dakota.

    This legislation is symbolic, since state legislatures do not have control over what the Supreme Court does. And even if it passes, the legislation does not directly threaten the legality of same-sex marriage in those states because it does not address those states’ marriage laws.

    But if it becomes law, this legislation sends a clear signal that, should Obergefell be overturned, these states could quickly enact legislation banning same-sex marriage. For a state such as Michigan, whose constitutional language defining marriage as between one man and one woman is still on the books, the status quo would revert immediately to outlawing same-sex marriage – it wouldn’t require any legislative vote.

    Second, lawmakers in Missouri and Tennessee have introduced legislation that would create a new category of marriage that would be available only to opposite-sex couples. So-called “covenant marriage” would require that the couples who choose this kind of marriage undergo counseling prior to getting married and creates significant obstacles to getting divorced, except under very specific circumstances, such as spousal abuse.

    Tennessee’s sponsor of the legislation, Rep. Gino Bulso, a Republican, was quoted on Knoxnews.com as saying his legislation “seeks to challenge the U.S. Supreme Court’s egregiously wrong 2015 decision in Obergefell v. Hodges.” According to Bulso, “The bill is not ‘anti’ anything or any person. It simply recognizes the natural order of things.”

    Since this version of covenant marriage excludes same-sex couples, they would be denied access to covenant marriages, although they would still have access to more traditional forms of marriage.

    Timing of attacks

    Efforts by state Republican lawmakers to revisit same-sex marriage bans are part of a broader assault on LGBTQ+ rights taking place in the U.S.

    The timing of these efforts is primarily driven by two factors: Donald Trump’s second term as president and the Supreme Court’s 2022 decision in Dobbs v. Jackson, which overturned the constitutional guarantee of the right to an abortion.

    During his first term in office, Trump enacted policies harmful to the LGBTQ+ community, particularly involving health care and transgender rights.

    But the Biden administration reversed most of these policies.

    In his second term, Trump has upped his hostility to the LGBTQ+ community, following an election campaign in which he made transgender rights a wedge issue. This includes canceling more than US$125 million in federal grants related to LGBTQ+ health programs and stopping the enforcement of the Equal Access Rule, a federal policy that ensured access to federal housing programs regardless of gender identity.

    In turn, this has emboldened Republican lawmakers to target same-sex marriage and other protections for the LGBTQ+ community.

    The Supreme Court’s decision to overrule Roe v. Wade in Dobbs v. Jackson is the other key factor motivating the timing of attacks on same-sex marriage.

    Legislators in the Tennessee statehouse, seen here, introduced legislation that would create a new category of marriage that would be available only to opposite-sex couples.
    AP Photo/George Walker IV

    In Dobbs, the court’s conservative majority indicated its willingness to revisit – and overrule – precedents that it disagreed with, even if those precedents were supported by a large majority of the public, as was the case for Roe.

    In addition, Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas wrote a concurring opinion in Dobbs in which he argued that the Supreme Court should apply the logic used to overrule Roe to reconsider other decisions, including Obergefell. Although Thomas’ concurring opinion does not have the force of law, it nonetheless sent what some court observers say is a clear message to opponents of same-sex marriage that at least one justice has an appetite for reconsidering Obergefell.

    Reaffirm or overrule?

    Should the Supreme Court agree to hear a challenge to Obergefell, one of two main outcomes is likely.

    First, the court could reaffirm Obergefell. This would probably put an end to most Republican attacks on same-sex marriage and would maintain the status quo by prohibiting states from outlawing same-sex marriage.

    It would also serve to make the Supreme Court appear moderate, which may enhance its near historically low public approval ratings.

    Second, the court could overrule Obergefell. If a majority of justices did so, I believe they would almost certainly use the same logic employed to overturn Roe v. Wade. That is, the court’s conservative majority could argue that the Constitution does not recognize marriage as a fundamental right, and therefore it is up to the states to regulate and define marriage, including prohibiting same-sex couples from obtaining marriage licenses.

    Under the Respect for Marriage Act, however, signed into law by President Joe Biden in 2022, states outlawing same-sex marriage would have to recognize same-sex marriages performed in other states, as would the federal government.

    The bottom line is that Trump’s second term and the Supreme Court’s conservative activism have lit a fire in some Republican lawmakers, who are targeting same-sex marriage as part of a broader attack on LGBTQ+ rights.

    If successful, these efforts would be a dramatic blow to the progress made toward LGBTQ+ equality over the past two decades.

    Paul M. Collins Jr. does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Same-sex marriage is under attack by state lawmakers, emboldened by Trump’s anti-LGBTQ+ measures and the Supreme Court’s willingness to overturn precedent – https://theconversation.com/same-sex-marriage-is-under-attack-by-state-lawmakers-emboldened-by-trumps-anti-lgbtq-measures-and-the-supreme-courts-willingness-to-overturn-precedent-252154

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: OSCE Presence organizes advanced risk assessment training for Albanian State Police analysts

    Source: Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe – OSCE

    Headline: OSCE Presence organizes advanced risk assessment training for Albanian State Police analysts

    One of the sessions of the advanced risk assessment training for State Police analysts organized by the OSCE Presence in Albania, Tirana, 11 April 2025. (OSCE) Photo details

    From 7 to 11 April 2025, the OSCE Presence in Albania held an intensive training programme focused on strengthening the analytical capabilities of the Albanian State Police. The training brought together analysts from the Information Analysis Units at central and local levels, equipping them with advanced skills in risk assessment of criminal groups.
    The programme aimed to enhance the capacity of police analysts to identify, assess and prioritize criminal threats, with a focus on organized crime networks operating in Albania. Through practical exercises and expert-led sessions, participants learned how to produce high-quality risk assessment products that support evidence-based policing and strategic decision-making.
    This initiative is part of the Presence’s broader, long-standing support to the Directorate of Information Analysis and Archive within the State Police. Over recent years, the OSCE Presence has played a pivotal role in modernizing the police’s analytical infrastructure and methods. A cornerstone of this support was the procurement and delivery of licenses for the i2 Analyst’s Notebook software – a premier tool used internationally for data visualization, link analysis and criminal intelligence processing.
    In addition to enhancing technical infrastructure, the Presence has facilitated comprehensive capacity-building programmes that include both basic and advanced training in crime analysis. These sessions have empowered police analysts and officers to effectively use modern analytical tools for crime mapping, trend analysis and operational planning.
    These efforts have significantly contributed to the Albanian State Police’s shift toward intelligence-led policing, enabling a more proactive and strategic approach to combating organized and serious crime.
    Through continued collaboration with national institutions, the OSCE Presence in Albania reaffirms its commitment to supporting sustainable security sector reforms and fostering professional law enforcement practices in line with international standards.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Council receives analysis of Constitutional Change Engagement

    Source: Northern Ireland – City of Derry

    Council receives analysis of Constitutional Change Engagement

    14 April 2025

    Derry City and Strabane District Council has published a detailed independent analysis of the engagement that was carried out in 2023 relating to the issue of Constitutional Change and its implications for the Council area and the North West.

    The engagement was carried out following a notice of motion agreed by Council and members of the public, and other stakeholders were invited to inform themselves on the issue of constitutional change and give their views, experiences and research relating to Constitutional Change and the implications for the Derry and Strabane Council area.  The engagement process was carried out over a four-month period and the results of the findings have been collated and independently analysed by Professor Mark Slevin of Ulster University, and are now available for the public to read via the Council website at – Unity-Thematic_Analysis-(1-1-2025).pdf Unity-Thematic_Analysis-(1-1-2025).pdf

    A total of 242 responses were received as part of the public consultation exercise that were subsequently screened and categorised into subthemes with commentary used as supporting evidence to capture the diverse perspectives and to provide a comprehensive understanding of the overall exercise. The outcome of the analysis highlighted that while there is a wide range of perspectives on constitutional change, the majority of views expressed in the survey were positive.

    Professor Slevin in his report said:  “While most participants supported reunification as a means to promote equality, economic growth, and governance reform, other expressed concerns about economic stability, identity preservation and political instability.”

    Professor Slevin said the findings emphasised the need for careful planning, inclusive dialogue and a transparent process such as a Citizens Assembly, to accurately address the aspirations and fears of everyone. He said participants in the engagement exercise stressed the need for lessons to be learned from the Brexit process and for all voices and views to be heard. He said participants were of the view that “to create a fair and stable transition process, detailed planning, economic analysis and social inclusion needed to be prioritised.”

    The five themes identified in the analysis was – Support for Irish Unity; Economic and Infrastructural Development; Governance and Political Reform; Social Justice and Historical Grievances and Concerns and Opposition to Change.

    Under the first theme of Support for Irish Unity many participants expressed support for Irish unity referencing potential economic, social and cultural benefits with many viewing it as an opportunity to address inequalities that some have seen to be caused by partition. Some participants viewed it as an opportunity to restore Ireland’s position within the European union and to create new and effective governance structures, with some saying it was a pathway towards fairness, equality and sovereignty, whilst highlighting the need for inclusivity and democratic planning to ensure a successful transition process.

    The second theme of Economic and Infrastructural Development emerged as a very central theme in the engagement process with many participants arguing that Irish unity would go some way towards addressing economic deficiencies created by partition and the duplication of services and would improve current infrastructure and transport, attract international investment and streamline governance.

    Many of the participants in the engagement process expressed their dissatisfaction with the political structure under Stormont and Westminster and were of the view that a united Ireland would provide better governance, accountability and policy-making under the third theme of Governance and Political Reform while under the Social Justice and Historical Grievances theme, the need for social justice and for historical grievances to be acknowledged, was highlighted. Many respondents cited systematic inequalities in education, access to employment and healthcare, as well as a legacy of discrimination as issues that could be addressed as part of Constitutional Change.

    Under the theme of Concerns and Opposition to Change a few respondents expressed concerns about the impact on economic stability, identity preservation and political instability. Unionist perspectives were a recurring theme with some participants opposing change outright while others highlighting the need for inclusive planning and dialogue to address fears and opposition to any constitutional change.

    Professor Slevin in his conclusion of the analysis report cautioned on the limitations of the engagement exercise saying that the sampling of those taking part was opportunistic and self-selecting and for that reason the views expressed could not be generalised to the wider population. He said: “The nature of the issued being explored may have impacted on who chose to engage with the survey, and how they answered. The study was qualitative in nature, and this means that themes can be identified but their overall significance and importance cannot be assessed.”

    It was agreed at the March meeting of Full Council that the results of the Engagement would be made public for the public to access via the website at – https://www.derrystrabane.com/Constitutional-Change

    It was also agreed at the meeting that representative organisations would be invited to attend further meetings of the Unity Working Group, that was set up for elected members to discuss this issue, and that a third tranche of engagement with the community would be considered, subject to a further report with details and costings.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Mayor launches Workers Rights and Social Justice Programme

    Source: Northern Ireland – City of Derry

    Mayor launches Workers Rights and Social Justice Programme

    14 April 2025

    The programme for this year’s Workers Rights and Social Justice Week in Derry and Strabane has gone live this week with a range of events focusing on workers’ unity and activism.

    The programme will reflect on the campaign by the workers’ rights movement down through the decades and provides an opportunity to highlight issues that are facing workforces today.

    It will feature events hosted by Derry City and Strabane District Council (DCSDC) and by Derry Trades Union Council (DTUC) and will run from April 26th to the 5th of May, 2025.

    Looking ahead to Workers Rights and Social Justice Week, Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District, Councillor Lilian Seenoi Barr, said: “I would really encourage people to support the events taking place throughout WR&SJ Week, which have been planned to educate, inspire and empower local workers.

    “It’s an opportunity to share learnings and raise awareness of the issues that are impacting us in our workplaces every day. As a Council we support the campaign to ensure all employees are fairly paid and feel valued in their work. So much has already been achieved but more needs to be done, and it’s important that we to continue to work together in solidarity to progress the campaign for change.”

    The programme opens at 12noon on Saturday April 26th, with a day of workshops, discussions and entertainment in the Guildhall, exploring workers’ unity across the decades, communities and culture. Everyone is welcome to attend this free event, and booking is not required.

    On May 1st, the Alley Theatre will play host to a special talk by Alana Moore on the work of prominent local campaigner and activist Ann Browne, titled ‘Our Local Girl Loved Worldwide’. Ann Browne campaigned extensively for workers in, and refugees from, Latin America, particularly those involved in the mining and similar industries. Ann first developed a love for Latin America at Queen’s University where she studied Spanish and at London’s Institute of Latin American Studies. During her time at university she was also an avid supporter of the civil rights movement, and she took that passion with her when she worked in London and Brussels when she joined the Miners’ International Federation (MIF).

    The talk sets the scene for the opening of a special exhibition in Ann Browne’s honour titled ‘Ann’s Journey: Honouring the Life and Legacy of Strabane’s Trade Union Pioneer’. The exhibition will run throughout May.

    The annual Noelene O’Kane Annual Walk around the City Walls will also take place on Thursday May 1st, leaving Magazine Gate at 6pm with the opportunity to hear more about significant events in the working class history of the city.

    Find out more about the full programme of events at www.derrystrabane.com/workersrights

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: HK wins 300 innovation prizes

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    Hong Kong teams participating in the 50th International Exhibition of Inventions of Geneva won about 300 prizes, including two Grand Awards, seven Special Awards, about 55 Gold Medals with Congratulations of Jury and about 80 Gold Medals.

    In particular, the Prize of the Republic & Canton of Geneva, one of the Grand Awards, went to the “Two-Phase Immersion Cooling System for High Performance Computer Workstation” jointly developed by the Civil Aviation Department (CAD) and the Electrical & Mechanical Services Department (EMSD). This prize represents a governmental level of honour and recognition, marking the first time for departments of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government to receive this prestigious award.

    The CAD-EMSD innovation provides a highly efficient heat dissipation capability for the CAD’s high-performance air traffic control tower simulator by immersing heat-generating computer components into a sealed container filled with a non-conductive cooling liquid. Heat dissipation is achieved through the vaporisation of the cooling liquid, providing a more efficient energy saving system with an extended equipment life time compared with traditional air cooling.

    Meanwhile, the Hong Kong Police Force’s “Scameter Series” won another Gold Award named the International Press Prize.

    The Tracking Solution for Outdoor Activity Safety, also jointly developed by CAD and EMSD, won the Gold Medal with Congratulations of Jury prize at the exhibition.

    Furthermore, local public research and development (R&D) institutes, including the Productivity Council, the Nano & Advanced Materials Institute as well as the Logistics & Supply Chain MultiTech R&D Centre, also achieved outstanding results at the Edison Awards 2025, winning a total of four Gold Awards and three Silver Awards.

    Secretary for Innovation, Technology & Industry Prof Sun Dong congratulated the Hong Kong teams on their remarkable achievements.

    He said: “I am proud of the number of international awards received by Hong Kong teams. This is not only a significant recognition of Hong Kong’s achievements in scientific research, but also highlights Hong Kong’s strong innovation and technology (I&T) capabilities as well as our rich pool of talent.

    “The achievements of the Hong Kong teams on the global stage further solidify our position in the I&T landscape in the world. The Hong Kong SAR Government will continue to invest resources and strive to build Hong Kong into an international I&T centre.”

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: President Meloni attends celebrations for 173rd anniversary of the establishment of the Italian State Police

    Source: Government of Italy (English)

    10 Aprile 2025

    The President of the Council of Ministers, Giorgia Meloni, attended today’s ceremony to mark the 173rd anniversary of the establishment of the Italian State Police (Polizia di Stato).

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Upcoming US Law Webinars – May 2025

    Source: US Global Legal Monitor

    We hope you will join us in May for the next offering of our Orientation to Legal Research webinar focusing on U.S. federal statutes, and an Orientation to Law Library Collections (OLLC) webinar, which will feature the Alaska State Court Law Library as part of our 50 State Law Libraries Outreach Project. The 50 State Law Libraries Outreach Project aims to strengthen the ties between the Law Library of Congress and state law libraries by sharing information about our collections, products, and services with one another and with the public. Susan Falk, state law librarian, will present from the Alaska State Court Law Library during the webinar. The Law Library will also offer a Lunch and Learn webinar, which will focus on public international law and the general principles of law as they relate to international law. We hope you will join us for these upcoming webinars in May!

    An Orientation to Legal Research: U.S. Federal Statutes

    Date: Thursday, May 8, 2025, 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. EDT

    Content: This webinar is designed to give a basic introduction to legal sources and research techniques. This entry in the series provides an overview of U.S. statutory and legislative research, including information about how to find and use the U.S. Code, the U.S. Statutes at Large, and U.S. federal bills and resolutions.

    Instructor: Jason Zarin. Jason is a legal reference specialist at the Law Library. Jason has a B.A. in economics from Tufts University, an M.A. in economics from UCLA, a J.D. from the University of Southern California, an LL.M. in taxation from Georgetown University, and a Master of Science in information systems from the University of Texas at Austin.

    Register here. 

    An Orientation to Law Library Collections Webinar Featuring the Alaska State Court Law Library 

    Date: Thursday, May 15, 2025, 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. EDT

    Content: This webinar will feature a special appearance by law librarians from the Alaska State Court Law Library as part of the State Law Libraries Outreach Project. The purpose of the State Law Libraries Outreach Project is to strengthen the ties between the Law Library of Congress and state law libraries by sharing information about our collections, products, and services with one another and with the public. This project involves providing a guest spot for state law librarians, or their designees, to discuss the collections and services they offer during our Orientation to Law Library Collections Webinars.

    Instructor: Sarah Friedman. Sarah Friedman is a legal reference librarian at the Law Library of Congress. Sarah holds a B.A. in English literature and criticism from the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth and a J.D. from Roger Williams University School of Law.

    Register here. 

    Flyer announcing the Lunch and Learn webinar titled, An Overview of Public International Law. Created by Taylor Gulatsi.

    A Lunch and Learn Webinar: An Overview of Public International Law

    Date: Tuesday, May 20, 2025, 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. EDT

    Content: This entry in the series provides an introduction to treaty practice and international conventions, international customary law and its relationship to international law, general principles of law as they relate to international law, and a final category covering other evidence for international law. The presentation also briefly discusses the inclusion of international governmental organizations, such as the United Nations, within the framework of international law.

    Instructor: Louis Myers. Louis Myers holds a B.A. in history from Kent State University, a J.D. from the University of Idaho College of Law, and an M.L.I.S. from Kent State University.

    Register here.

    To learn about other upcoming classes on domestic and foreign law topics, visit the Legal Research Institute. Please request ADA accommodations at least five business days in advance by contacting (202) 707-6362 or [email protected].

    Subscribe to In Custodia Legis – it’s free! – to receive interesting posts drawn from the Law Library of Congress’s vast collections and our staff’s expertise in U.S., foreign, and international law.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: FBI Detroit Hosts Second Webinar in West Michigan Educating Community on Sextortion

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

    The FBI Detroit Field Office—Grand Rapids Resident Agency will be hosting a second webinar focusing on the dangers of Sextortion. The first webinar delved into the topic of online child sexual exploitation. This will be held on Thursday, April 17, 2025, at 6 p.m.

    Sextortion is a serious crime that occurs when someone threatens to distribute your private and sensitive material if you don’t provide them images of a sexual nature, sexual favors, or money.

    Participants can expect the presentations to provide an overview of what sextortion looks like, information on threat indicators and signs of exploitation, and examples of how this crime has impacted Michigan, especially the west side of the state.

    “FBI members in Michigan are hosting a series of informative webinars to raise awareness about the dangers of sextortion and online sexual exploitation. These webinars aim to educate the public and actively combat these harmful trends by fostering open and honest conversations while providing vital, life-saving resources,” said Cheyvoryea Gibson, special agent in charge of the FBI in Michigan. “Our investigations have shown that many young people with access to cell phones or other electronic devices are increasingly targeted by predators with malicious and deeply disturbing intentions. We remain committed to tirelessly working to disrupt and investigate these dangerous individuals who seek to exploit and harm our youth through sextortion.”

    The Detroit Field Office has provided suggested information and tips on how to protect your loved ones from being victims of sextortion:

    • Be selective about what you share online.
    • Block or ignore messages from strangers.
    • Be wary of anyone you encounter for the first time online or of anyone that wants to move to a different platform to have a conversation.
    • People can pretend to be anything or anyone online, and their videos or photos are not proof of who they say they may be.
    • Any content you create can be made public and you have little control over where it is shared next.
    • Do not send any money or additional content to the blackmailer.
    • Don’t be ashamed. Ask for help. If you are receiving messages or requests online that don’t seem right, block the sender, report them to the platform’s safety administrators, tell a trusted adult, or the FBI

    If our youth are being exploited, they are a victim and should report it. The FBI has staff dedicated to assisting victims of a crime.

    To submit a tip to the FBI, contact your local FBI field office, call 1-800-CALL-FBI, or make a report online at tips.fbi.gov.

    To join the sextortion webinar, click here and follow the prompts. Meeting ID: 992 840 970 169 Passcode: xx2du9DQ. To dial by phone, +1 304-848-3555, 708637250# United States, Phone conference ID: 708 637 250#.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Overland Park Man Sentenced for Abusing Incentive Rewards Program

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

    KANSAS CITY, KAN. – A Kansas man was sentenced to 15 months in prison for causing a $1.2 million loss to a company by submitting false invoices in connection a performance incentive rewards program.  The prison sentence will be followed by two years of supervised release, and Cummings is ordered to pay more than $1.2 million in restitution.

    According to court documents, Barry Cummings, 52, of Overland Park, pleaded guilty to one count of mail fraud. 

    An energy management company offered a performance-based rewards program as an incentive to non-employee resellers, contractors, and others to sell its products. Participants submitted information regarding sales to earn points they could then redeem for items like airline vouchers, hotel stays, gift cards, and electronic devices.

    In 2017, a business in Lenexa, Kansas, hired Cummings, and he enrolled in the victim company’s rewards program through that affiliation. In his plea agreement, Cummings admitted to orchestrating a years-long scheme to defraud the victim company’s rewards program.  Cummings admitted to logging into the rewards site and submitting fraudulent sales claims, which falsely represented that he had sold the company’s products. Cummings admitted that he never sold a single one of the company’s products despite the thousands of sales claims he submitted representing that he did.  

    After his termination from the Lenexa business in April 2018, Cummings continually logged into the rewards website to submit fraudulent invoices and redeem points, using the email he previously had at the Lenexa business. As an example, during a 12-hour period in November 2018, Cummings submitted 834 fraudulent invoices for which he received more than 2.8 million points. In 2019, he submitted 5,543 false claims for 22.5 million points. Cummings used point redemptions to receive more than 2,000 rewards at a value that caused a $1,233,024 loss to the victim company.

    The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) investigated the case.  The victim energy company cooperated and provided invaluable assistance in the investigation.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Huschka prosecuted the case.

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: California Resident Indicted for Wire Fraud for Scheme to Steal Nearly $1 Million From Seattle Area Employer

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

    Defendant used company credit card for personal expenses and created fake vendor to raid company coffers

    Seattle – A Seattle grand jury this week indicted a 43-year-old Laguna Niguel, California man on six counts of wire fraud for his scheme to steal nearly $1 million from his employer, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Teal Luthy Miller. Paul Joseph Welch was the IT manager of Kent, Washington energy manufacturing company Algas-SDI when he allegedly used various schemes to steal more than $950,000 from the company. Welch will be arraigned on the indictment on April 17, 2025.

    According to the indictment, Welch worked for the company from 2011 to 2024. He was promoted to Information Technology Manager in 2018. The indictment alleges that as early as 2017, Welch used the company’s Amazon business account to make unauthorized personal purchases from Amazon.com. Between 2017 and 2023, those purchases totaled at least $43,000. Welch primarily purchased electronics such at televisions, laptops and more—all for personal use. In 2019, Welch began using his company credit card for personal purchases through other online retailers such as Apple, Alaska Airlines, Instacart and BestBuy. Between 2019 and 2024, those unauthorized personal purchases totaled at least an additional $60,000.

    The scheme really accelerated in January 2021 when Welch began making payments to himself disguised as payments to a computer services company. Welch allegedly created a series of email addresses and payment processor accounts using a business name that was very similar to a legitimate computer services company based in Washington State. Welch then used Algas-SDI company credit cards to pay the computer services company under the guise that the company was providing IT equipment and services to Algas-SDI.  However, the legitimate computer services company had no relationship with Welch and never provided any services or equipment to Algas-SDI. The credit card payments Welch made from Algas-SDI’s credit cards went directly to the payment processor accounts that Welch controlled. Between 2021 and 2024 Welch allegedly used this scheme to transfer approximately $879,175 from company accounts to his own accounts.

    Algas-SDI tried to verify the legitimacy of Welch’s activity on multiple occasions, but each time, Welch allegedly provided false or misleading information to cover up his scheme. Algas-SDI employees asked Welch to submit invoices to substantiate his charges, but Welch allegedly emailed phony documents designed to look like invoices from the legitimate computer services company. At one point in 2023, an Algas-SDI accounting employee identified personal purchases on Welch’s company credit card. Welch claimed the charges were inadvertent and said he would repay the company. Welch never repaid the charges and continued to defraud the company through unauthorized personal purchases and more fake vendor charges. In January 2024, alone, Welch allegedly submitted phony invoices to Algas-SDI showing that the computer services company had purportedly invoiced Algas-SDI more than $55,000 for equipment and services in that timeframe.

    On January 19, 2024, Algas-SDI employees confronted Welch about the charges from the computer services company accounts that Welch controlled. After Welch again told Algas-SDI that the vendor was a real vendor for the company, the company fired him.

    The wire fraud charges represent six of the times Welch emailed the company false statements or invoices purported to be from a legitimate computer services company.

    In all, between 2017 and January 2024 Walch secretly made at least 250 fraudulent charges for the third party vendor he controlled. He made at least 140 unauthorized purchases with retailers using the company credit card and at least 100 fraudulent purchases on the company’s Amazon account. While Welch profited some $950,000 from his theft, the loss to ALGAS-SDI was approximately $982,520 due to various fees on the transactions.

    Wire fraud is punishable by up to 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.

    The charges contained in the indictment are only allegations. A person is presumed innocent unless and until he or she is proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    The case is being investigated by the FBI. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Dane A. Westermeyer.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Third Man Guilty of Laundering Funds From Nine-Year Fraud Scheme

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

    HOUSTON – A 62-year-old Houston resident has admitted to laundering proceeds from a large-scale bank fraud scheme, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.

    William Mills admitted that from 2014 to 2023, he conspired with others in a bank fraud scheme involving dozens of loans totaling at least $35 million in fraudulent loan proceeds.  

    As part of the plea, Mills acknowledged opening and maintaining shell companies and bank accounts to collect money from the scheme. He then laundered the fraud proceeds by wiring them to bank accounts other co-conspirators controlled.

    Mills and others accomplished the bank fraud by preparing loan applications that contained false and fraudulent information and documents, including fake equipment sales invoices, income tax returns and financial and bank statements.

    U.S. District Keith Ellison will impose sentencing June 27. At that time, Mills faces up to 10 years in federal prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine or twice the amount involved in the transaction. 

    He will remain in custody pending that hearing.

    Two other Houston residents charged in the case, Jeremiah Almaguer, 45, Bun Khath, 44, both of Houston, previously pleaded guilty to money laundering in the same scheme and are awaiting sentencing. Another Houston resident charged in the case – Hugo Villanueva, 70, – is considered a fugitive, and a warrant remains outstanding for his arrest. Anyone with information about his whereabouts is asked to contact the FBI at 713-693-5000.

    The Federal Housing Finance Agency-Office of Inspector General (OIG), IRS Criminal Investigation, FBI and Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation-OIG conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Belinda Beek is prosecuting the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Butler County Resident Charged with Making Threats to Assault and Murder President Donald J. Trump, Other United States Officials, and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Agents

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

    PITTSBURGH, Pa. – Shawn Monper, 32, a resident of Butler, Pennsylvania, has been charged by federal criminal complaint with making threats to assault and murder President Donald J. Trump, other United States officials, and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

    “I want to applaud the outstanding and courageous investigative work of the FBI and the Butler Township Police Department, who thankfully identified and apprehended this individual before he could carry out his threats against President Trump’s life and the lives of other innocent Americans,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “Rest assured that whenever and wherever threats of assassination or mass violence occur, this Department of Justice will find, arrest, and prosecute the suspect to the fullest extent of the law and seek the maximum appropriate punishment.”

    According to the federal criminal complaint, on April 8, 2025, the Federal Bureau of Investigation National Threat Operations Section (NTOS) received an emergency disclosure regarding threats posted to YouTube by user “Mr Satan.” Federal agents determined that the threatening statements occurred between January 15, 2025, and April 5, 2025. The subsequent federal investigation affirmed that the internet activity associated with “Mr Satan” corresponded with Shawn Monper’s residence in the Western District of Pennsylvania.

    The investigation further established that Monper sought and obtained a firearms permit shortly following President Trump’s inauguration. In February 2025, Monper commented using his “Mr Satan” account: “I have bought several guns and been stocking up on ammo since Trump got in office.” Further, in March 2025, Monper commented using his account: “Eventually im going to do a mass shooting.” One week later, Monper commented: “I have been buying 1 gun a month since the election, body armor, and ammo.”

    The criminal complaint identified the following threatening statements regarding President Trump, other United States officials, and ICE agents:

    February 17, 2025: “Nah, we just need to start killing people, Trump, Elon, all the heads of agencies Trump appointed, and anyone who stands in the way. Remember, we are the majority, MAGA is a minority of the country, and by the time its time to make the move, they will be weakened, many will be crushed by these policies, and they will want revenge too. American Revolution 2.0”

    March 4, 2025: “im going to assassinate him myself.” This threat was made in a YouTube video titled “Live: Trump’s address to Congress.”

    March 18, 2025: “ICE are terrorist people, we need to start killing them.”

    April 1, 2025: “If I see an armed ice agent, I will consider it a domestic terrorist, and an active shooter and open fire on them.”

    On April 9, 2025, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, with the assistance of the Butler Township Police Department, arrested Monper on the federal criminal complaint. On April 10, 2025, Monper was ordered detained pending preliminary and detention hearings scheduled for April 14, 2025, at 1:00 pm.

    Assistant United States Attorney Brendan J. McKenna is prosecuting this case on behalf of the United States.

    The Federal Bureau of Investigation and Butler Township Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the criminal complaint against Monper.

    A criminal complaint is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Berry Corporation Strengthens Executive Leadership Team with Appointment of General Counsel

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    DALLAS, April 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Berry Corporation (bry) (NASDAQ: BRY) (“Berry” or the “Company”) today announced the appointment of Jenarae Garland as Vice President, General Counsel, Corporate Secretary and Chief Compliance Officer, effective immediately. Ms. Garland brings with her a wealth of industry experience, having served as a key strategic legal partner to executive leadership teams and boards of major energy corporations, including advising on capital markets and commercial and strategic transactions.

    Fernando Araujo, Berry’s Chief Executive Officer, commented, “We are excited to welcome Jenarae to our executive leadership team during this pivotal time for our business. She is an accomplished lawyer and business leader, with experience that will have an immediate, positive impact as we work hard to accelerate growth, drive a high-performance culture and create long-term value for our Company and our stakeholders. Working closely with our board of directors and executive leadership team, Jenarae will be a critical partner in driving sustainable and profitable growth.”

    Prior to joining Berry, Ms. Garland served in roles of increasing responsibility in the legal department of Phillips 66 (NYSE: PSX), a Fortune 50 integrated downstream energy provider, most recently as Deputy General Counsel, Corporate and Assistant Corporate Secretary. Before joining Phillips 66, she served in various leadership roles within the legal department of Occidental Petroleum Corporation (NYSE: OXY), most recently as Assistant General Counsel, Oxy Low Carbon Ventures. She began her career as a corporate associate at Vinson & Elkins LLP representing public and private companies primarily within the energy industry in capital markets offerings, mergers and acquisitions, financial reporting and corporate governance matters. Ms. Garland holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Communications from the University of Texas at Austin and graduated magna cum laude from Tulane University Law School.

    About Berry Corporation (BRY)

    Berry is a publicly traded (NASDAQ: BRY) western United States independent upstream energy company with a focus on onshore, low geologic risk, long-lived oil and gas reserves. We operate in two business segments: (i) exploration and production (“E&P”) and (ii) well servicing and abandonment services. Our E&P assets are located in California and Utah, are characterized by high oil content and are predominantly located in rural areas with low population. Our California assets are in the San Joaquin Basin (100% oil), and our Utah assets are in the Uinta Basin (65% oil). We provide our well servicing and abandonment services to third party operators in California and our California E&P operations through C&J Well Services (CJWS). More information can be found at the Company’s website at www.bry.com.

    COMPANY CONTACT:

    Christopher Denison – Investor Relations
    ir@bry.com
    (661) 616-3811

    Forward Looking Statements

    This news release contains forward-looking statements. Berry’s management believes that its expectations are based on reasonable assumptions. No assurance, however, can be given that such expectations will prove correct. A number of factors could cause actual results to differ materially from the projections, anticipated results, or other expectations expressed in this news release. These factors include our ability to meet financial guidance or distribution expectations; our ability to safely and efficiently operate Berry’s assets; the supply of, demand for, and price of oil, natural gas, NGLs, and related products or services; our capital program and development and production plans; potential acquisitions and other strategic opportunities; reserves; hedging activities; and the other factors described in the “Risk Factors” section of Berry’s most-recent Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission and other public filings and press releases. Berry undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Leaked ‘working paper’ on New Caledonia’s political future sparks new concerns

    By Patrick Decloitre, RNZ Pacific correspondent French Pacific desk

    A leaked “working paper” on New Caledonia’s future political status is causing concern on the local stage and has prompted a “clarification” from the French government’s Minister for Overseas Manuel Valls.

    Details of the document, which was supposed to remain confidential, have been widely circulated online over the past few days.

    Valls said earlier the confidentiality of the document was supposed to ensure expected results of ongoing talks would not be jeopardised.

    However, following the leak, Valls said in a release on Friday that, for the time being, it was nothing more than a “working paper”.

    The document results from earlier rounds of talks when Valls was in Nouméa during his previous trips in February and March 2025.

    Valls is due to return to New Caledonia on April 29 for another round of talks and possibly “negotiations” and more political talks are ongoing behind closed doors.

    French Minister of Overseas Manuel Valls (front left) greets the New Caledonian territorial President Alcide Ponga (right) as Senator Georges Naturel looks on during his arrival for a military honours ceremony in Nouméa in February. Image: AFP/RNZ Pacific

    He has denied that it can be regarded as a “unilateral proposal” from Paris.

    The latest roundtable session was on Friday, April 11, held remotely via a video conference between Valls in Paris and all political stakeholders (both pro-France and pro-independence parties) in Nouméa.

    All tendencies across the political spectrum have reaffirmed their strong and sometimes “non-negotiable” respective stances.

    Parties opposed to independence, who regard New Caledonia as being part of France, have consistently maintained that the results of the latest three referendums on self-determination — held in 2018, 2020 and 2021 — should be respected. They reject the notion of independence.

    The last referendum in December 2021 was, however, largely boycotted by the pro-independence movement and indigenous Kanak voters.

    On the pro-independence side, the Kanak and Socialist National Liberation Front (FLNKS, dominated by the Union Calédonienne) is announcing a “convention” on April 26 — just three days before Valls’s return — to decide on whether it should now fully engage in negotiations proper.

    In a news conference last week, the FLNKS was critical of the French-suggested approach, saying it would only commit if they “see the benefits” and that the document was “patronising”.

    Two other pro-independence parties — the PALIKA (Kanak Liberation Party) and the UPM (Union Progressiste en Mélanésie) — have distanced themselves from the FLNKS, which they see as too radical under Union Calédonienne’s influence and dominance) and hold a more moderate view.

    PALIKA held a general meeting late last week to reaffirm that, while they too were regarding the path to sovereignty as their paramount goal, they were already committed to participating in future “negotiations” since “all topics have been taken into account” (in the working document).

    They are favour an “independence association” pathway.

    Carefully chosen words
     In his release on Friday, Valls said the main pillars of future negotiations were articulated around the themes of:

    • “democracy and the rule of law”, a “decolonisation process”, the right to self-determination, a future “fundamental law” that would seal New Caledonia’s future status (and would then, if locally approved, be ratified by French Parliament and later included in the French Constitution);
    • the powers of New Caledonia’s three provinces (including on tax and revenue collection matters); and
    • a future New Caledonia citizenship (and its conditions of eligibility) with the associated definition of who meets the requirements to vote at local elections.

    Citizenship
     On acquiring New Caledonia citizenship, a consensus seems to emerge on the minimum time of residence: it would be “10 to 15” years with other criteria such as an “exam” to ascertain the candidate’s knowledge and respect of cultural “values and specificities”.

    Every person born in New Caledonia, children and spouses of qualified citizens, would also automatically qualify for New Caledonia’s citizenship.

    Power-sharing
     On power-sharing, the draft also touches on the “sovereign” powers (international relations, defence, law and order, justice, currency) which would remain within the French realm, but in a stronger association for New Caledonia.

    All other powers, regarded as “non-sovereign”, would remain under direct control of New Caledonia as they have already been transferred, gradually, to New Caledonia, over the past 27 years, under the Nouméa Accord.

    New Caledonia would also be consulted on all negotiations related to the Pacific islands region and would get representation at European Union level.

    Local diplomats would also be trained under France’s Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs.

    Under the Nouméa Accord, the training process was already initiated more than 10 years ago with New Caledonian representatives appointed and hosted at French embassies in the region — Fiji, New Zealand, Australia.

    A local “strategic committee” would also be set up on defence matters.

    However, despite long-time FLNKS demands, this would not allow for a seat at the United Nations.

    In terms of currency, the present French Pacific Francs (CFP, XPF) would be abolished for a new currency that would remain pegged to the Euro, provided France’s other two Pacific territories (French Polynesia, Wallis-and-Futuna — which are also using the CFP) agree.

    Reinforced provincial powers
     A new proposal, in terms of reinforced provincial powers, would be to grant each of New Caledonia’s three provinces (North, South and Loyalty Islands) the capacity — currently held by New Caledonia’s government — to generate and collect its own taxes.

    Each province would then re-distribute their collected tax revenues to the central government and municipalities.

    This is also reported to be a sensitive point during the talks, since about 80 percent of New Caledonia’s wealth is located in the Southern Province, which also generates more than 90 percent of all of New Caledonia’s tax revenues.

    This is perceived as a concession to pro-France parties, which are calling for an “internal federation” model for New Caledonia, a prospect strongly opposed by pro-independence parties who are denouncing what they liken to some kind of “partition” for the French Pacific dependency.

    In the currently discussed project, the representation at the Congress (Parliament) of New Caledonia would be revised among the three provinces to better reflect their respective weight according to demographic changes.

    The representation would be re-assessed and possibly modified after each population census.

    Under the proposed text, New Caledonia’s government would remain based on the notion of “collegiality”.

    Future referendum — no more just ‘yes’ or ‘no’ to independence
     The current working paper, on the right to self-determination, suggests that any future referendum on self-determination no longer has a specified deadline, but should take place after a “stabilisation and reconstruction” phase.

    It would no longer ask the binary question of “yes” or “no” to independence and full sovereignty, but rather seek the approval of a “comprehensive project”.

    To activate a referendum, the approval of at least three fifths of New Caledonia’s 54-seat Congress would be needed.

    The Congress’s current makeup, almost equally split in two between pro-France and pro-independence parties, this 3/5th threshold could only be found if there is a consensual vote beyond party lines.

    Some of the FLNKS’s earlier demands, like having its president Christian Téin (elected in absentia in August 2024 ) part of the talks, now seem to have been dropped.

    Téin was arrested in June 2024 for alleged involvement in the May 2024 insurrectional riots that caused 14 dead (including two French gendarmes), hundreds of injured, thousands of jobless and the destruction of several hundred businesses for a total estimated damage of 2.2 billion euros (NZ$4.3 billion).

    Four days after his arrest, Téin was transferred from New Caledonia to mainland France.

    Although he is still remanded in custody pending his trial (for alleged involvement in organised criminal-related acts), his case was recently transferred from the jurisdiction of judges in Nouméa to mainland France magistrates.

    Union Calédonienne president and pro-independence front man Emmanuel Tjibaou told public broadcaster NC la 1ère yesterday he was in regular contact with Téin from his jail in Mulhouse (northeastern France).

    Another recent development that could also be perceived as a concession to the FLNKS is that last week, France announced the replacement of French High commissioner Louis Le Franc, France’s representative and man in charge in Nouméa during last year’s riots.

    ‘We are facing a decisive moment’, says Valls
     Valls said he remained hopeful that despite “all positions remaining at present still far from each other . . . evolutions are still possible”.

    “I reaffirm the (French) State’s full commitment to pursue this approach, in the spirit of the Matignon and Nouméa Accords (signed respectively in 1988 and 1998) to build together a united, appeased and prosperous New Caledonia,” Valls concluded.

    “We are facing a decisive moment for the future of New Caledonia, which is confronted with a particularly grave economic and social situation. Civil peace remains fragile.”

    The much sought-after agreement, which has been at the centre of political talks since they resumed in early 2025 after a three-year hiatus, is supposed to replace the Nouméa Accord from 1998.

    The 1998 pact, which outlines the notion of gradual transfer of sovereign powers from France to new Caledonia, but also the notion of “common destiny”, stipulates that after three referendums on self-determination resulting in a majority of “no”, then the political partners are to meet and “discuss the situation thus created”.

    Determination, anxiety and hope
     On all sides of the political landscape, ahead of any outcome for the crucial talks, the current atmosphere is a mix of determination, anxiety and hope, with a touch of disillusionment.

    The pro-independence movement’s Emmanuel Tjibaou has to manage a sometimes radical base.

    He told NC la 1ère that the main objective remained “the path to sovereignty”.

    Within the pro-France camp, there is also defiance towards Vall’s approach and expected results.

    Among their ranks, one lingering angst, founded or not, is to see an agreement being concluded that would not respond to their expectations of New Caledonia remaining part of France.

    This worst-case scenario, in their view, would bring back sad memories of Algeria’s pre-independence process decades ago.

    On 4 June 1958, in the midst of its war against Algeria’s National Liberation Front (FLN), French President General De Gaulle, while on a visit to Algiers, shouted a resounding “Je vous ai compris!” (“I have understood you”) to a crowd of cheering pro-France and French Algerians who were convinced at the time that their voice had been heard in favour of French Algeria.

    On 19 March 1962, after years of a bloody war, the Evian Accords were signed, paving the way for Algeria’s independence on July 3.

    “I had to take precautions, I had to proceed progressively and this is how we made it”, De Gaulle explained to the French daily Le Monde in 1966.

    In the meantime, in an atmosphere of fear and violence, an estimated 700,000 French citizens from Algeria were “repatriated” by boat to mainland France.

    As an alternative posed to French nationals at the time, FLN’s slogan was “la valise ou le cercueil” (“the suitcase or the coffin”).

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

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General Alan Wilson announces SC Human Trafficking Task Force releases new national hotline posters to commemorate 10th anniversary of state lawRead More

    Source: US State of South Carolina

    (COLUMBIA, S.C.) – South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson, Chair of the South Carolina Human Trafficking Task Force, announced the release of two new legislatively mandated posters for use across the state. The first version of the poster was released 10 years ago when the General Assembly passed a law requiring hotline posters in certain business establishments.

    South Carolina law (Code 16-3-2100) requires the national human trafficking hotline poster, including the specific language included, to be hung in the following locations:

    • Establishments that have been declared a nuisance for prostitution pursuant to law;
    • An adult business, including a nightclub, bar, restaurant, or another similar establishment in which a person appears in a state of sexually explicit nudity or semi-nudity, as defined by law;
    • Businesses and establishments that offer massage or bodywork services by any person who is not licensed under appropriate laws;
    • Emergency rooms within any hospital;
    • Urgent care centers;
    • Any hotel, motel, room, or accommodation furnished to transients for which fees are charged in this state;
    • All agricultural labor contractors and agricultural labor transporters as defined by law;
    • All airports, train stations, bus stations, rest areas, and truck stops.

    The information must be posted in each public restroom for the business or establishment, and in a prominent location conspicuous to the public at the entrance of the establishment. The Department of Revenue, the State Law Enforcement Division, and the Department of Transportation, depending on regulatory control or authority, are authorized to issue a written warning and assess a fine of not more than fifty dollars. Each day that the poster is not hung in the establishment constitutes a separate and distinct violation, and the establishment may be fined appropriately.

    The new designs were developed in conjunction with the State Task Force Survivor Advisory Subcommittee. The posters can be downloaded on the State Task Force website at humantrafficking.scag.gov. The 11 Regional Human Trafficking Task Forces across the state will also be provided with 1,000 copies to help distribute posters.

    To report an incident or seek victim services, call the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 888-373-7888. The Hotline is confidential and open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: 04-12-25 LAW NEWS RELEASE – Gun Buyback Program

    Source: US State of Hawaii

    04-12-25 LAW NEWS RELEASE – Gun Buyback Program

    Posted on Apr 12, 2025 in Latest Department News, Newsroom

     

    STATE OF HAWAIʻI

    KA MOKU ʻĀINA O HAWAIʻI

     

    DEPARTMENT OF LAW ENFORCEMENT

    KA ʻOIHANA HOʻOKŌ KĀNĀWAI

     

    JOSH GREEN, M.D.

    GOVERNOR

    KE KIAʻĀINA

     

    MIKE LAMBERT

    DIRECTOR

    KA LUNA HOʻOKELE

     

    OʻAHU COMMUNITY GUN BUYBACK PROGRAM NETS 367 FIREARMS

    Residents Received $37,900 in Grocery Gift Cards

     

     

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

    April 12, 2025

    HONOLULU – O‘ahu residents today turned in an estimated 367 firearms of all types in exchange for $37,900 in Foodland gift cards distributed by the Hawai‘i Department of Law Enforcement (DLE), as part of efforts by the administration of Governor Josh Green, M.D., to protect Hawai‘i residents from gun violence. The Department of the Attorney General, Honolulu Police Department and the Aloha Stadium Authority are  partnering in this initiative.

    “I want to thank everyone who turned in an unwanted firearm today, because in doing so, you have helped to make our community that much safer,” said Governor Green. “Keeping ourselves and each other safe and healthy is a personal choice that also benefits our neighbors. We thank DLE Director Mike Lambert for continuing this effort and for our partners’ help in this ongoing gun buyback program.”

    “We are working to make our community safer in many ways, including initiatives like this gun buyback program. These unwanted guns will never again be used. They will never again pose any type of threat to a loved one or have an opportunity to be used in a crime,” said Department of Law Enforcement Director Mike Lambert.

     

    Individuals who turned in the following firearms were thanked with Foodland gift cards given in exchange:

    • $200 Foodland gift card for automatic firearms of any type, semi-automatic rifles, ghost guns.
    • $100 Foodland gift card for handguns, rifles, shotguns, bump stocks, Glock switches

    There was no limit on the number of firearms turned in, but individuals were limited to receiving a maximum of three gift cards total. DLE personnel accepted both working and non-working firearms and also offered gun locks for anyone who didn’t wish to turn in a gun, but still wanted to make their firearms safe. Licensed gun dealers, as well as active and retired law enforcement officers, were not eligible to participate.

    DLE continues to plan for gun buyback events on the neighbor islands. “Neighbor island police officers attended today’s event and were also present during previous events,” said DLE Deputy Director Jared Redulla. “The neighbor island officers are observing to learn the various tasks associated with the gun buyback program so that events can be run on the neighbor islands in the future.” Plans for future gun buyback events will be announced as scheduled.

    DLE thanks the 2024 Legislature for appropriating funding in the fiscal year 2025 budget for the April 12 event.

    This is an amnesty program, in which no questions were asked about the person dropping off any firearms. No identification was required. On-site officials reserved the right to refuse acceptance of firearms or issuing of gift cards.

    # # #

    Media contact:

    Jared K. Redulla

    Deputy Director of Law Enforcement

    Department of Law Enforcement

    Cellphone Number: 808-864-9431

    Email: [email protected]

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Lombardo Announces Appointment of 7th Judicial District Judge

    Source: US State of Nevada

    Carson City, NV April 11, 2025

    Today, Governor Joe Lombardo announced the appointment of Dylan V. Frehner as a Judge for the Seventh Judicial District Court, Department 2.

    “I am honored to announce the appointment of Dylan V. Frehner to the Seventh Judicial District Court, Department 2,” said Governor Joe Lombardo. “Frehner is well-rounded in many areas of the law and brings 20 years of experience as a rural attorney. His dedication to Nevada law and his commitment to serving the public make him a valuable addition to this judicial position.”

    Frehner has served as the Lincoln County District Attorney since 2018, where he has managed criminal cases and provided legal counsel to county officials. Over the last 20 years, he has practiced in various areas of law, including family law, estate planning, and representation of the Lincoln County Water District (LCWD). He earned recognition from the Nevada Department of Wildlife for securing the first felony conviction for a wildlife crime in the state.

    “I am grateful and honored by Governor Lombardo’s appointment,” said Dylan Frehner. “It is extremely humbling to follow in the footsteps of great judges like Judge Fairman and Judge Papez. I will work tirelessly to maintain the standard of fairness that has been established in the Seventh Judicial District.”

    Frehner earned his Juris Doctor with Distinction from the University of the Pacific, McGeorge School of Law. While attending the University of Nevada, Reno, he met his wife and started a family. Additionally, he served as a legislative intern for the minority leader during the 2001 Nevada Legislative Session. During law school, he impressively won his first mock trial competition, which awarded him scholarship money to help finance his education.

    Outside of his legal career, Frehner considers his most significant role to be that of a husband and father to five children.

    ### 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Call for information – Burglary – Alice Springs

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    The Northern Territory Police Force is calling for information in relation to a burglary that occurred at a business in Alice Springs on Saturday.

    At 7:10am, police received a report of an unlawful entry at a business on Briggs Drive in Connellan. Sometime around 1am that morning, a white LDV G10 van with NT registration CC 34 KM attended the business. The vehicle was subsequently identified as being stolen earlier from an address on the Ross Highway.

    Four occupants exited the vehicle and jumped a security fence, gaining access to the rear of the building by allegedly breaking the glass panels of the door. It is alleged they caused further damaged once inside and subsequently stole a debit card, cash, and keys to an inoperable vehicle.

    The offenders left the location in the stolen van and allegedly used the stolen debit card to make a purchase at a convenience store.

    The stolen van was later recovered by police after it was found abandoned in East Side on Sunday.

    The offenders remain outstanding.

    Strike Force Viper have carriage of the investigation and urge anyone with information to contact police on 131 444. Please quote reference P25100044. Anonymous reports can also be made through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via https://crimestoppersnt.com.au/.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Arrests – Stolen motor vehicle – Alice Springs

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    The Northern Territory Police Force has arrested five offenders in relation to a motor vehicle that was stolen in Alice Springs on Friday morning.

    At 1:30am on Friday 11 April, police received reports that a residence in Araluen had been burgled, with a wallet, car keys and a red Holden Cruze stolen from the property.

    At 11:15pm on Saturday 12 April, the stolen motor vehicle was sighted on Larapinta Drive, Gillen. A resolution strategy was formed and members from Southern Traffic Operations, Strike Force Viper, the Territory Safety Division (TSD) and general duties members were deployed.

    Around 11:35pm, tyre deflation devices were successfully deployed on the vehicle on South Terrace. Police initiated a pursuit, with the vehicle coming to a stop on Blain Street in Araluen.

    Two 15-year-old males, one 15-year-old female, and two 18-year-old females fled from the vehicle on foot but were arrested a short time later.

    They have been charged with Drive/Ride Motor Vehicle Without Consent and are due to appear in court today.

    Police continue to urge anyone who witnesses crime or antisocial behaviour to call police on 131 444. In an emergency, dial 000. Anonymous reports can also be made through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via https://crimestoppersnt.com.au/.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Arrests – Aggravated robbery – Yarrawonga

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    The Northern Territory Police Force has arrested two female youths in relation to an aggravated robbery that occurred in Yarrawonga on Saturday evening.

    Around 7:15pm, the Joint Emergency Services Communication Centre received reports of an alarm activation at a service station on Yarrawonga Road.

    It is alleged that the two females threatened staff before one female jumped behind the counter and stole a large quantity of cigarettes. The offenders then fled the scene on foot.

    The staff member was able to safely secure himself in the back office during the incident.

    A short time later, Strike Force Trident arrested two females aged 12 and 15 at an address in Gray.

    Both youths have been charged with aggravated robbery and will face court at a later date.

    Police urge anyone with information about the incident to make contact on 131 444. Please quote reference number P25100536. Anonymous reports can be made through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or https://crimestoppersnt.com.au/.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: UPDATE: Arrests – Stolen motor vehicle – Alice Springs

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    The Northern Territory Police Force has arrested three youths in relation to a motor vehicle that was stolen on Thursday evening in Alice Springs.

    At 1:30pm on Friday 11 April, police received reports that the stolen Toyota Prado was driving erratically in the vicinity of Ilparpa Road.

    A co-ordinated response involving members from Strike Force Viper, the Dog Operations Unit (DOU), the Territory Safety Division (TSD), and general duties members resulted in the successful deployment of tyre deflation devices on the vehicle.

    The offenders abandoned the vehicle in scrubland and fled on foot. Patrol Dog Huey successfully tracked and located the three youths, aged 11, 12, and 13-years-old. They were taken into custody without incident.

    The 13-year-old male has since been charged with Theft, Damage Property, Breach bail and traffic related offences.

    The 11 and 12-year-old females were dealt with under the provisions of the Youth Justice Act (2005).

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Territory Road Policing – Back to School

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    The Northern Territory Police Force is reminding all road users to take extra care with students returning to school across the Territory this week.

    With an increase in foot, bicycle and vehicle traffic around school zones and surrounding areas, police are urging drivers to slow down, be alert and observe all signage.

    Superintendent Rick Magree said, “With students returning to school and several public holidays approaching, it is a timely reminder to be mindful of increased traffic on the roads.

    “The Territory Road Policing Division will be maintaining a strong presence on rural and major roads in the coming weeks.

    “We will be out across the Top End with pop up Random Breath Test stations and can be Anywhere. Anytime.

    “Remember the Fatal Five; Always wear a seatbelt, never get behind the wheel under the influence of alcohol or other drugs, manage fatigue, stick to the speed limit and eliminate distractions.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Call for information – Aggravated burglary – Katherine

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    The Northern Territory Police Force is calling for information in relation to an aggravated burglary at a residence in Katherine overnight.

    About 12:05am, police received a call from a female resident who had been woken up in her room by a male intruder. It is alleged three unknown male offenders entered the residence and one went upstairs and entered the bedroom. She called Triple Zero and the group left stealing a quantity of alcohol and her vehicle before police arrival.

    Police CCTV operators located the vehicle in the Katherine CBD and nearby members initiated a pursuit which was terminated a short time later due to safety reasons. At one point the stolen motor vehicle allegedly drove on the opposite side of the road toward a stationary police vehicle and swerved last minute, narrowly missing collision. The vehicle came to a stop on Riverbank Drive and all three alleged offenders fled the scene on foot.

    The Crime Command have carriage of the investigation.

    Anyone with information in relation to this incident is urged to contact police on 131 444 and reference to job number P25100858. You can anonymously report crime via Crimestoppers on 1800 333 000.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Call for information – Single vehicle crash – McMinns Lagoon

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    The Northern Territory Police Force is calling for information in relation to a single vehicle crash that occurred in McMinns Lagoon over the weekend.

    Around 12pm Saturday 5 April 2025, a white Toyota RAV4 travelling on the Stuart Highway in the vicinity of Sayer Road, spun in a circle before coming to a stop on the median strip.

    A male driving a silver Mitsubishi Triton, with a flat tray and toolboxes, stopped to render assistance to the Toyota before making a report to police.

    Detectives believe the driver of Mitsubishi can assist with the investigation and urge them to make contact.

    Police urge anyone with information or dash-cam footage in the area between 11:30am and 1pm to make contact on 131 444. Please quote reference NTP2500035499.

    Anonymous reports can also be made through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or through https://crimestoppers.com.au/.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Call for information – Property offences – Katherine

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    The Northern Territory Police Force is calling for information in relation to property offences at a Government facility overnight in Katherine.

    About 2:30pm, police received reports of an unlawful entry at a Government facility on First Street. It is alleged an unknown number of offenders smashed a window to gain access to the building before damaging a locker and stealing keys. The offenders then stole a Toyota Rav 4 located at the premises and drove through the properties rear gate.

    Police attended and recovered the vehicle at a small community nearby.

    If you have any information in relation to this incident you are urged to contact police on 131 444 and make reference to P25099954. You can anonymously report crime through Crimestoppers on 1800 333 000.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Arrests – Crash – Nightcliff

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    The Northern Territory Police Force has arrested two people in relation to a crash in Nightcliff yesterday.

    Around 3:40pm yesterday, police received reports of a TV theft that occurred at a business in a shopping centre at Yarrawonga. A male purchased a TV and allegedly provided two females believed to be known to him with the receipt afterwards. It is alleged the two females walked around for an hour and loaded their trolley with a separate TV and other items before walking out and presenting the same receipt.

    Shopping centre security staff were made aware of the suspicious activity and upon questioning the females one of them allegedly swung a metal bat at the security guard before fleeing the scene in a vehicle.

    About 11:20pm the same day, Strike Force Trident detectives attended a residence in Nightcliff in relation to the ongoing investigation. The alleged offender from the previous incident arrived at the residence while police were in attendance and tried to flee by jumping on the side of a vehicle that was being driven by someone believed to be known to her.

    The vehicle later crashed into a fence on Eugenia Street with all occupants within the vehicle fleeing, and the woman, fleeing the scene on foot. Three adult occupants of the vehicle were located hiding in nearby yards. The female that police were looking for remains outstanding.

    A 37-year-old male was arrested on suspicion of being the driver and conveyed to Royal Darwin Hospital for the purpose of a blood test and medical assessment.

    A 29-year-old female was arrested for disorderly behaviour and conveyed to Royal Darwin Hospital for a medical assessment.

    Strike Force Trident have carriage of the investigations.

    Anyone with information in relation to either of these incidents is urged to contact police on 131 444. You can anonymously report crime via Crimestoppers by calling 1800 333 000.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Search and Rescue Operation – Nitmiluk

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    The Northern Territory Police Force successfully located a 70-year-old male foreign national in Nitmiluk National Park this morning after receiving reports of concerns for his welfare.

    Around 11:45pm last night, police received reports of the man not returning to his accommodation in Nitmiluk. Parks and wildlife rangers commenced initial search efforts in the area and were unable to locate him overnight.

    Earlier this morning the Search and Rescue Section deployed land and aerial assets to locate the man.

    Around 10am, the man was located from the helicopter and has since been recovered.

    He will be transported to Katherine Regional Hospital for medical assessment.

    Sergeant Chris Grotherr said “Police are relieved of this search operations positive outcome and would like to thank members from NT Emergency Service and Parks and Wildlife rangers who also assisted with the operation.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Call for information – Aggravated burglary – Alice Springs

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    The Northern Territory Police Force is calling for information in relation to an aggravated burglary that occurred at a camping ground in Alice Springs this morning.

    Around 5:40am, police received a report of an aggravated burglary at a camping ground on Gap Road.

    It is alleged two males, one of which was armed with a hammer, unlawfully entered a caravan occupied by an 84-year-old male. The offenders allegedly stole cash and alcohol before jumping a fence and fleeing the area on foot.

    The victim was not injured during the incident.

    The offenders remain outstanding, and police urge anyone with information to contact police on 131 444. Please quote reference P25101845. Anonymous reports can also be made through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via https://crimestoppersnt.com.au/.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Call for information – Assault – Wadeye

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    The Northern Territory Police Force is calling for information after an assault occurred in Wadeye last week.

    Around 5:45am on Friday 11 April, it is alleged that a 23-year-old male was driving his Toyota Hilux work vehicle along Perdjert Street when an unknown man threw a large rock at the vehicle.

    The rock impacted the driver’s side window with the victim suffering serious facial injuries, requiring treatment at the local clinic.

    Investigations into the incident are ongoing and police are urging anyone within the community with information to come forward on 131 444 or visit your local station.

    Please quote reference number NTP2500037483. Anonymous reports can be made through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Arrests – Stolen motor vehicles – Nightcliff

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    The Northern Territory Police Force has arrested three female youths in relation to two stolen motor vehicles in Nightcliff overnight.

    Around 8:35pm, police received reports that a residence was unlawfully entered, and a grey Lexus and a quantity of alcohol were stolen.

    Later at 9:25pm, police received a report that a blue Volkswagen was stolen from a separate residence after having had the keys stolen two days ago.

    Police allege the two vehicles travelled together throughout the Greater Darwin Region before stopping within the vicinity of a business on Camphor Street in Nightcliff at around 3am. Police received reports of the suspicious activity, and the offenders fled in one of the vehicles before police arrival. With assistance from police CCTV operators the attending members located the vehicle a short distance away.

    The vehicle was observed losing control and crashing into a fence at a slow speed at the intersection of Progress Drive and Phoenix Street. All three female youths, aged 14, 14 and 17-years-old, self-extracted from the vehicle and were apprehended.

    The blue Volkswagen was located abandoned on Pandanus Street this morning and Strike Force Trident detectives have carriage of the investigation.

    MIL OSI News –