NewzIntel.com

Category: Security

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Future Swirl whipping up a storm with plant-based soft-serve and ICON grant

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Future Swirl founder Maddalena Eastbrook at her pop-up van.

    Future Swirl is a Canberra-based start-up whipping up a storm in the ice-cream world.

    Founder Maddi Easterbrook wanted to challenge the popular coconut, almond and soy-based ice-creams that dominate the dairy free alternatives market, with an oat milk soft-serve.

    A hugely successful summer season with a pop-up van in Braddon showed Maddi that her idea had real potential.

    “We opened Summernats weekend in Braddon and I was blown away by the response,” said Maddi.

    “It was by far our best weekend during that January to May period in the van. It was really reaffirming. I thought the Summernats demographic would not be my audience, but we had so many converts and repeat customers over that weekend who turned into oat milk soft-serve lovers! It showed me there’s a lot of potential for us to grow.”

    That experience paved the way for Maddi to secure an Innovation Connect (ICON) grant from the Canberra Innovation Network (CBRIN).

    CBRIN receives funding from the ACT Government to support entrepreneurs, innovators and start-ups—like Future Swirl—in Canberra. It offers business support, programs, grants and access to networks of other entrepreneurs.

    “The idea [for the ICON grant] was to take that soft-serve, which you can only get when I’m selling at markets in the van, and bring it to independent grocers in Canberra and straight to our customers in take home tubs.

    “I received matched funding for $30,000,” Maddi said. “I contributed $30,000 myself and bought machinery to scale the business and work on product development.

    “With that money I can move manufacturing out of the pop-up van and into a premises.”

    The take home tubs are being manufactured at the Centre for Entrepreneurial Technology (CEAT) at ANU. CEAT is another ACT Government grant-funded spin out from the Priority Investment Program.

    “I would encourage anyone who is thinking of applying for an ICON grant to do it,” she said.

    “I was nervous about pitching my idea against people developing AI and high-tech solutions.

    “But plant-based food alternatives are a growing and global industry, valued at nearly $5 billion and it’s expected to reach just over $100 billion by 2030. Being a vegan myself, I’m in a unique position to create a product that I would want to eat, rather than multi-nationals that are producing because there is a gap in the market.

    “CBRIN could see my product has the capacity to scale and succeed.”

    Maddi’s oat milk soft-serve is also filling a much-needed gap in the food allergen market. Her soft-serve is nut free, dairy free and soy free.

    “It was amazing to see children who had never eaten a soft-serve or ice-cream before, sitting in the park enjoying their first taste in their 10 or 12 years of life,” Maddi said.

    “My desire to start Future Swirl came from being vegan and being passionate about sustainability and plant-based food being the best way for individuals to reduce their carbon footprint. But meeting this need in the food allergen market has been an added bonus.

    “It’s pretty great seeing the joy of a kid eating an soft-serve in the park! And soft-serves are very nostalgic.”

    Future Swirl’s signature and most popular vanilla and chocolate oat milk based soft-serve.

    As for what’s next for Future Swirl, Maddi is preparing to bring her take home tubs to Canberrans but also has her eyes set on the Sydney and Melbourne market.

    CBRIN’s ICON grants are currently open and close on 11 September.

    For more information visit the ICON website.

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  • MIL-OSI Australia: Research improving brain cancer treatment

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Professor Leonie Quinn, Canberra Brain Cancer Collaborative Lead and Research and Innovation Fund recipient

    Canberra Brain Cancer Collaborative has created Canberra’s first Brain Cancer Biobank.

    Headed by Professor Leonie Quinn and her team, the collaborative has been able to develop this with a $300,000 grant awarded in the 2022 Research Innovation Fundround.

    The biobank stores brain cancer biospecimens and genomic data from patients treated at Canberra Hospital.

    It contributes to Brain Cancer Biobanking Australia – a virtual biobank hub that allows researchers around the country to access brain cancer tissue, samples and data.

    The information gathered by the biobank enables researchers at ANU’s John Curtin School of Medical Research to create 3D bio-printed ‘mini brains’.

    This allows them to analyse how tumours grow and respond to treatment, and to trial new therapeutic drugs tailored to each patient. It is hoped this will help develop new cancer treatments and improve clinical care.

    “The ACT Health Research Innovation Fund has provided us with an exciting opportunity to explore the complex environment where brain cancer occurs and ultimately develop new treatments,” Professor Quinn, Canberra Brain Cancer Collaborative Lead and Research and Innovation Fund recipient, said.

    “The biobank will enable more personalised treatments, which are critical to improving survival rates and quality of life for people diagnosed with the disease. It will secure the ACT as a health research hub and improve the clinical experience of cancer patients around Australia.”

    The Research and Innovation Fund is guided by Better Together: A strategic plan for research in the ACT health system 2022-2030.

    Five fellowships through the Research Innovation Fund2023 have recently been announced, supporting early and mid-career Canberra health researchers.

    The diverse research projects selected include enhancing post-diagnostic care for dementia patients, supporting community response to voluntary assisted dying, and studying allergies and immunodeficienciesof patients in the ACT.

    For more information about the fund go to health.act.gov.au/research/centre-health-and-medical-research.

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  • MIL-OSI Australia: New rebate to help small businesses electrify

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Downer Community Centre recently received a rebate to replace gas heating with efficient reverse cycle heating.

    ACT small businesses can now access rebates of up to $10,000 to help transition their workplaces and work practices away from fossil-fuel gas to efficient electric appliances.

    The rebates will support businesses to be more sustainable, in reducing both their emissions and operating costs.

    Small to medium business can take advantage of the rebate, to upgrade to efficient electric appliances.

    The rebates can pay for up to half the upfront cost of upgrading.

    The ACT Government’s Sustainable Business Program complements the new rebate. The program provides expert advice at no cost, helping businesses identify areas of their business they can improve and act in the smartest, most cost-effective way.

    The Downer Community Centre is using the new rebate to switch from gas heating to efficient reverse cycle heating. This change will help them save $1900 per year in bills and two tonnes per year of CO2 emissions.

    ACT businesses with fewer than 20 employees are eligible for up to $10,000 in support through energy efficiency rebates.

    The maximum rebate for electric-to-electric upgrades is $5,000 (incl GST), while fossil-fuel gas-to-electric upgrade rebates are capped at $10,000 (including GST).

    To find out more, visit the Everyday Climate Choices website, or contact the Sustainable Business team at sustainablebusiness@act.gov.au.

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  • MIL-OSI Australia: New Lanyon Valley dog park designs released

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Check out the final designs for a new dog park for Tuggeranong.

    Final designs have been released for a new dog park in the Lanyon Valley.

    The new park provides another option for Tuggeranong residents to exercise and socialise their dogs off-leash.

    The new off-leash fenced park will be located on the corner of Jim Pike Avenue and Woodcock Drive in Gordon.

    Features for the new park include:

    • small and large dog areas
    • grass play area
    • dog agility area
    • two airlock style entrance gates
    • accessible gravel loop path
    • picnic shelter, seating and drinking fountain
    • area for dog training marquee or coffee van
    • plantings and native trees for canopy cover
    • 1.8 metre high black chain link fence
    • gravel car park.

    Work is underway to complete final planning and environmental approvals.  Once finalised a construction company will be selected to build the new park.

    More information on the project can be found on the City Services website: cityservices.act.gov.au

    Lanyon Valley Dog Park final design.

    Lanyon Valley Dog Park location.

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  • MIL-OSI Australia: Progress for new Franklin dog park

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Final designs have been released for the new Franklin fenced dog park.

    Final designs have been released for the new fenced dog park in Franklin.

    The new park provides another option for Gungahlin residents to exercise and socialise their dogs off-leash.

    Located in the open area on the corner of Nullarbor Avenue and Oodgeroo Avenue, dogs will enjoy an agility area and an irrigated grass area perfect for playing fetch.

    The design also includes a picnic shelter, drinking fountain, seating, an accessible loop park, bike rails and a gravel carpark.

    Work is now underway to find a construction contractor for the new park. Once selected, construction will begin.

    Franklin Dog Park final design.

    Franklin dog park location map.

    More information on the project can be found on the City Services website: cityservices.act.gov.au

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  • MIL-OSI Australia: New safety standards for home swimming pools

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    New reforms make it mandatory for all home swimming pools to meet modern safety standards.

    The ACT Government has introduced new reforms to help to keep people safe around home pools.

    The regulatory reforms make it mandatory for all home swimming pools to comply with modern safety standards.

    The most common location in the ACT for drowning death and injury for children under the age of five is in home swimming pools.

    Pool designs and safety standards have changed, and pools that were installed many years ago may not comply with these important modern standards. Requiring pools and spas to be up to modern safety standards rather than when the pool was constructed will reduce the risk of people drowning or suffering serious injury.

    To ease the pressure on property owners to comply with the modern safety standard the reforms are proposed to start from 1 May 2024 with a four-year transition period.

    Under the reforms:

    • all pool owners will be required to maintain their pool barriers
    • residents who have a swimming pool on their property will be required to make sure that all doors and gates providing access to the swimming pool are kept securely closed at all times when they are not in use
    • homeowners with a pool that applies to the reforms will have to bring swimming pool barriers up to compliance with the prescribed safety standards or seek an exemption, which can be considered in limited circumstances
    • homeowners will also be required to inform prospective tenants and purchasers of the new requirements and the compliance status of their pool.

    The reforms will apply to all home swimming pools and spa pools that can contain water to a depth greater than 300mm.

    These reforms bring the ACT in line with other jurisdictions that have already introduced swimming pool barrier reforms in recent years.

    For more information on the reforms visit the ACT Government’s Planning website.

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  • MIL-OSI Australia: Celebrating Canberra’s multicultural champions

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Dr Lubna Alam from ALO Enlightened Women Inc, winner of the ACT Outstanding Excellence for Diversity and Inclusion award.

    The ACT Multicultural Awards celebrate and recognise the outstanding contributions of individuals and organisations that continue to make Canberra a welcoming and inclusive city.

    The 2023 recipients were awarded across five categories for their commitment in working towards a vibrant, diverse community, and to realising the benefits of this diversity in real ways.

    • ACT Multicultural Individual Champion: Mijica Rose Lus
      Rose supports multicultural communities in the ACT in a range of ways such as the Aurosokwo project, which included a range of activities from creating care packs, book drives, and medical outreach, to collaborating with local charities and organisations.
    • ACT Community Organisation (Multicultural Champion): ALO Enlightened Women Inc
      ALO has made an important impact on the lives of hundreds of multicultural community members, in particular vulnerable migrant and refugee women, through its range of programs and services.
    • ACT Multicultural Arts, Media or Culture: Radio Manpasand
      Since its beginning in 2004, Radio Manpasand’s commitment to serving the Indian and subcontinental movement is evident through its long-standing and impactful presence on the airwaves and beyond.
    • ACT Outstanding Excellence for Diversity and Inclusion: Dr Lubna Alam
      Dr Alam is a co-founder of ALO Enlightened Women Inc., supporting and empowering vulnerable migrant women through the organisation. She is greatly involved in the wider multicultural community, providing assistance and leadership to support an inclusive society.
    • Lifetime Achievement Award: Domenic Mico OAM
      For the past 50 years, Mr Mico has and continues to be deeply connected with the multicultural and arts communities in the ACT. As the former Artistic Director of the National Multicultural Festival, he was instrumental in the event’s development. He is also the former Director of the Tuggeranong Arts Centre and was involved in many other cultural and artistic events and programs in the community.

    In addition to the winners listed above, six Highly Commended award recipients were recognised.

    A complete list of the winners and highly commended recipients can be found on the Community Services Directorate website: act.gov.au/open/multicultural-awards-winners

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  • MIL-OSI Australia: Heritage refresh to tell Canberra’s stories

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Historic Brayshaws Hut in Namadgi National Park

    Canberrans are invited to give input on a proposed refresh of the ACT’s heritage system.

    A comprehensive external review has resulted in a range of recommended reforms, intended to better identify, protect and celebrate places of natural and cultural significance in the territory.

    The community is encouraged to share feedback on the review, specifically on issues like transparency in decision-making, access to information and risks or unintended consequences.

    The review contains two key themes:

    1. establishing ACT Aboriginal People as the decision makers on their cultural heritage
    2. the need to strengthen the governance and administration of the ACT’s heritage arrangements.

    Ensuring the ACT has well-functioning heritage arrangements that recognise and conserve natural, cultural and First Nations heritage for current and future generations is the priority.

    Canberrans can have their say via two online surveys or thought online or in-person consultation sessions to encourage more in-depth discussion.

    First Nations Canberrans, general community and industry members are all invited to participate.

    The review, announced in December 2022, has involved exploring best practice models for heritage laws, frameworks and arrangements from other jurisdictions and proposing a fit for purpose model for the ACT.

    The ACT Government appointed an interim Heritage Council in April to continue to deliver council responsibilities under the Heritage Act 2004 and to support this comprehensive review and reform process.

    View the full report and have your say on the ACT heritage system reforms through the YourSay Conversations website.

    Find out more about heritage in the ACT on the ACT Environment website.

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  • MIL-OSI Australia: Kingston park name commemorates Mr Alfred Stafford MBE

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Mr Stafford was the official driver of Prime Minster Robert Menzies for many years.

    A park in Kingston has been named in commemoration of Gamilaroi and Darug man Mr Alfred George Stafford MBE.

    The park, located adjacent to Trevillian Quay at the Kingston Foreshore estate, has been officially named Alf Stafford Park.

    This honours Mr Stafford for his significant contributions to Canberra through his public service, sporting achievements and association with early Kingston.

    Mr Stafford was an avid sportsman and the official driver of Prime Minster Robert Menzies for many years. An enduring friendship developed between the two men and their families.

    He worked as a parliamentary driver and as a Ministerial Attendant at Parliament House, serving numerous Australian prime ministers before retiring in 1972.

    Mr Stafford was appointed a Member of the Order of the British Empire for his dedicated service to several of Australia’s prime ministers.

    Originally from Binnaway, NSW, Mr Stafford moved to Canberra in the 1930s and quickly became a prominent member of the Kingston community as a local business owner and cricketer.

    He was captain of the Kingston district cricket club team and captained Federal Capital Territory Cricket Association representative team matches.

    Alf Stafford’s family said they are proud of his achievements and are looking forward to his memory living on through the naming of Alf Stafford Park.

    “Alf was a much loved and respected father, grandfather, great grandfather and friend,” Mr Stafford’s family said.

    “There was a saying around Old Parliament House: ‘Prime Ministers come and go, but Alf Stafford goes on forever’, to which Alf would reply ‘I wish it was true’.

    “Today, our family is proud to honour his wish. Through the unveiling of ‘Alf Stafford Park’, we pay respect to a true gentleman (the last of the hat tippers!) providing a legacy, ensuring Alf’s memory lives on,” his family said.

    A  portrait of Mr Stafford as a young man.

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  • MIL-OSI Australia: Electric mowers join the fleet for mowing season

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Electric mowers offer many benefits beyond low emissions.

    The ACT Government is charging up Canberra’s rapid response mowing team who are equipped with new electric ride-on mowers this mowing season.

    The ACT’s mowing season generally runs from September until March. This gives the team ample opportunity to monitor the new mowers’ effectiveness.

    One electric mower was trialled successfully last mowing season.

    This season, the new electric models will replace four diesel-powered mowers, to mow over five thousand hectares of grass each mowing cycle.

    The change will support the ACT Government’s commitment to achieve zero net emissions from Government operations by 2040.

    The new mowers offer benefits beyond low emissions. They require minimal maintenance with no grease points or belts.

    They have tubeless tyres which help achieve excellent cutting results and increase rider comfort.

    They are also lighter than other machines in the fleet and so have less chance of becoming bogged.

    The mowers take about six hours to charge and provide eight hours of run time.

    Last season, the mowing team spent more than 35,000 hours on machines mowing across Canberra.

    After a busy couple of seasons with high rainfall, this season is not expected to be as wet. It will still be a busy one, however, as a well-watered landscape will provide plenty of moisture for strong grass growth in the coming months.

    The mowing team is well prepared to manage grass growth across Canberra this season.

    They will be supported by the rapid response mowing team of 10 extra staff and eight additional mowers to help bolster mowing capacity.

    There will be a focus on higher priority areas such as those presenting safety issues.

    Canberrans can keep up to date on when their suburb will be mown with the mowing map displayed on the City Services website at cityservices.act.gov.au

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  • MIL-OSI Australia: Canberra’s Skykraft take to space with PIP grant

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Skykraft’s Air Traffic Management satellites take off from California in June this year on board a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket.

    A Canberra-based company is taking their satellites to space and notching up world first achievements in both the space industry and the global air navigation sector.

    Skykraft is developing a constellation of more than 200 satellites in low-earth orbit to provide global Air Traffic Management (ATM) services from space.

    These services will provide surveillance and communication capabilities for air traffic control, especially over remote or oceanic regions not covered by ground-based infrastructure.

    In 2018-19 Skykraft applied for and won $1 million dollars in matched funding from the ACT Government’s Priority Investment Program (PIP). PIP grants foster innovation and collaboration between, industry, research institutions and universities to solve industry needs.

    Skykraft was established in 2017 as a spin-off from The University of New South Wales (UNSW) Canberra. Skykraft’s CEO, Dr Michael Frater, said funding early on from the ACT Government was the financial boost they needed to get things off the ground.

    “The confidence from receiving the PIP funding, rather than being drip-fed small grants, created a big shift for us. It gave us the ability to build our team and focus on developing our product,” he said.

    Skykraft’s recent successful trial of space-based voice communications in the Very High Frequency (VHF) aviation band demonstrated the feasibility of satellite communication directly with aircraft using existing equipment. This use of satellites in place of ground-based radio systems will allow global real-time communications between pilots and air traffic controllers for the first time.

    “We are proud to have taken another step to bringing this world-first capability to market,” said Dr Michael Frater, CEO of Skykraft.

    “VHF voice and data communication that covers the entire extent of an aircraft’s journey is the missing piece for Air Traffic Management and will unlock efficiency gains globally.”

    Skykraft’s satellite manufacturing facility in Canberra is the centre for the design, build and operation of the more than 200 satellites that will make up the constellation providing space-based ATM services, which will commence operations in 2025.

    This constellation will be maintained with a regular five-year satellite replenishment cycle. It will support a sustainable space manufacturing capability in the nation’s capital producing 40-50 satellites annually.

    “Our manufacturing capability provides long-term employment for Canberrans in the advanced manufacturing sector,” Dr Frater said.  “We’re also creating opportunities for companies from the Canberra region to input to the manufacturing process, with suppliers in Queanbeyan, Wodonga and Newcastle.”

    In 2023, Skykraft put 10 satellites into space across two launches, more than tripling the total mass of Australian manufactured space objects ever placed in orbit.

    Skykraft will continue this rapid pace as they deploy the full satellite constellation to deliver their ATM service globally.

    The ACT Government’s PIP grant is currently open until 31 October 2023.

    For more information visit the PIP website: act.gov.au/pip

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  • MIL-OSI Australia: New program to protect fruit bats with wildlife-safe netting

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Fruit netting should have no gaps for wildlife to enter from the ground or sky.

    ACT Wildlife have launched a new program, supported by the ACT Government, to replace fruit netting with wildlife safe options for free.

    An upcoming amendment to the Nature Conservation Act 2014 will ban the use of unsafe netting in the ACT.

    This new program is aimed at supporting the ACT’s transition to wildlife-safe netting ahead of the amendment, to protect native wildlife from population decline.

    There will be free pop-up events over the coming months where Canberrans can bring their unsafe netting and have it replaced for free.

    Netting protects fruit trees from native animals, like birds and bats, that are keen for a snack. However, it can also entangle threatened wildlife if the mesh size is too large or it is not installed correctly.

    “Unsafe netting causes death and injury to flying foxes, birds, lizards, snakes and other wildlife. Seeing the harm these nets cause is heartbreaking for wildlife rescue volunteers,” Clare Wynter, Flying Foxes Co-Ordinator at ACT Wildlife, said.

    Fruit netting should have a mesh size of 5mm x 5mm or smaller, with no gaps for wildlife to enter from the ground or sky.

    “Backyard fruit trees can be protected with far less chance of harming wildlife simply by using nets with holes smaller than you can put a finger through.  These kinds of nets are better for both fruit trees and wild animals,” Clare said.

    This small change will make a big difference to native wildlife in the ACT, which is currently facing an extinction crisis.

    Find out more about wildlife-safe fruit-tree netting on the ACT Government Environment website.

    If you come across entangled wildlife, please don’t try to release animals yourself. Call Access Canberra on 13 22 81 to arrange a safe rescue with a qualified wildlife handler.

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  • MIL-OSI Australia: New community health services coming to South Tuggeranong

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    A pre-design artist’s impression of the South Tuggeranong health centre.

    The new South Tuggeranong health centre will be built in Conder.

    Services at the centre will be designed to meet local needs and will provide residents in South Tuggeranong with more health services, closer to home.

    This new facility is the first of four new health centres for the ACT, with another three coming to the Inner South, North Gungahlin and West Belconnen.

    They will provide localised multidisciplinary care with a focus on preventive care and advice, early intervention, and the management of chronic illness.

    In the 2023-24 Budget, the ACT Government committed $16.6 million over four years to design and construct a new community-based facility in South Tuggeranong, and to plan the sites and early design for community-based health centres in the Inner South and North Gungahlin.

    The new health centre will be part of this commitment to plan and build a health care system that can grow with the Canberra community.

    It will be designed to have the flexibility to cater to different services.

    It will also bring together skilled, multidisciplinary professionals with state-of-the-art technology and quality infrastructure.

    The location in Conder was identified following a 2022 feasibility study.

    It provides good connections for the community, being close to arterial roads, having good access to public transport routes and accessible car parking.

    It is also close to other existing health facilities and services nearby, such as general practice, pharmacy, imaging, pathology, allied health and dental.

    Having access to care closer to home will also reduce the need for South Tuggeranong residents to go to hospital for treatment and appointments.

    A tender has recently been released to progress the design of the health centre in South Tuggeranong. The clinical services and design will be finalised in consultation with clinicians, consumers and the local community before the project progresses to the development application stage, which is expected in the first half of 2024.

    There will also be upcoming opportunities for local residents to have their say on health centres coming to the Inner South and North Gungahlin.

    For more information, visit the Built for CBR website.

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  • MIL-OSI Australia: ACT Government electric vehicles on show ahead of World EV day

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Transport Canberra and City Services’ electric operational vehicles were displayed at King Edward Terrace on Thursday.

    ACT Government electric operational vehicles were displayed at King Edward Terrace on Thursday, ahead of World EV Day on 9 September.

    While most Canberrans would be familiar with the territory’s electric buses, they may have been surprised to also see electric mowers, a street sweeper, excavator, tipper truck and mini-bus.

    Transport Canberra and City Services’ growing electric fleet demonstrates the ACT Government’s commitment to achieve zero net emissions from government operations by 2040.

    Next year, these vehicles will be joined by an electric litter collection truck, which will replace a diesel utility vehicle. Another 94 electric buses are also set to be added to the fleet over coming years.

    The bus transition, combined with the introduction of light rail, means 20 per cent of overall public transport trips in Canberra are powered by 100 per cent renewable electricity.

    The addition of electric buses to Canberra roads is having an impact on Transport Canberra staff, as well as the environment.

    Trainer Assessor Jeff works in bus operations, carrying out licence upgrades and in-house training.

    This includes showing bus drivers how to operate the new vehicles.

    “After extensive familiarisation training at the beginning of the year, I then spent the first initial six weeks teaching drivers how to work the electric buses. Within that six weeks I drove over 200 kilometres just in the Tuggeranong depot training staff, before handing the training over to my colleagues to continue the education,” he said.

    To Jeff, the buses present both a big and little change. “Someone asked me how to describe it once and I said they are wonderfully normal.

    “They have lots of power, they go very well compared to diesel buses. They are like any new car, it’s always nice to drive something that’s brand new. They go very nicely, they drive and steer like any other bus and are quite comfortable,” he said.

    In addition to buses and maintenance vehicles, Transport Canberra and City Services is also ensuring all newly leased government passenger vehicles are zero emissions where fit for purpose.

    The target is to transition the entire passenger fleet to zero emission by 2025.

    World EV Day presents a great time to showcase the electric vehicles in Transport Canberra and City Services’ fleet and highlight what’s next for the transition.

    In its fourth year, World EV Day helps to unite companies, individuals, governments and others for a day of announcements that continue to propel e-mobility around the world.

    More information on World EV day can be found online at WorldEVday.org

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  • MIL-OSI Australia: Money saving tips for the savvy consumer

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Comparing energy suppliers and carefully reviewing your bills are key steps in becoming an informed consumer.

    Ongoing cost of living pressures continue to impact household budgets.

    With all Canberrans trying to make their dollars stretch further, here are some tips that may help you become a savvy consumer and save some money along the way.

    • Set up a realistic budget
    • Shop around
    • Read and keep paperwork in relation to purchases
    • Look after your receipts
    • Know your consumer guarantee rights and when you’re entitled to a refund, repair or replacement
    • If something goes wrong with a purchase, talk to the business and describe the problem and explain how you would like them to fix it.

    Learn more about consumer guarantees in the ACT.

    Use unit pricing when grocery shopping

    Considering unit pricing is one way to help you budget and save while grocery shopping.

    Unit pricing at supermarkets shows not just the cost of a product, but the value of that product as a cost per standard unit of measurement. This is usually displayed on shelf labels.

    Unit pricing allows you to compare the cost of grocery products quickly and accurately – for example between brands, specials and package sizes, between packaged and unpackaged, or between fresh and frozen.

    Learn more about unit pricing.

    Other tips to help you get the most out of your grocery shopping

    • Meal plan and check what you’ve got in your cupboards, fridge and freezer before going shopping, so you use up things before they go out of date
    • Write a shopping list
    • Choose in season fruit and vegetables
    • Shop around for the best prices
    • Try supermarket or home brands.

    Review your memberships and subscription services

    Whether it’s a gym membership, newspaper subscription, streaming service or food delivery service you’re signed up to, it pays to review your memberships regularly. These small monthly costs can soon add up.

    Before signing up to a new subscription, make sure you read and understand the terms and conditions and are aware of any ongoing fees before clicking through online.

    When reviewing membership and subscription services consider:

    • What services do I use?
    • Is there a better deal or a cheaper plan?
    • Is there a low-cost alternative?
    • Can I rotate through subscriptions?

    Look for the best deal before filling up

    Feeling the pinch at the petrol bowser? Doing a little research before you fill up might help save you money.

    While a lot of factors can influence the price you pay for fuel, a quick look at a petrol price app or website before you fill up can help you compare and save.

    Have a look at the list of fuel price reporting apps and websites available.

    https://www.fuelcheck.nsw.gov.au/app

    Review your bills  

    When it comes to paying utilities or renewing annual insurances beware of paying a ‘loyalty or lazy tax’.

    A loyalty tax refers to the practice of businesses offering lower rates or premiums to new customers while charging higher rates or premiums to long-term customers, who have been loyal to a company or institution for many years.

    Consider comparison websites

    It pays to shop around and compare premiums with other providers to ensure you’re getting the best product, premium or policy based on your circumstances.

    To compare energy suppliers and make sure you’re getting the best deal, you can use the Australian Government’s Energy Made Easy website.

    Using comparison websites can be helpful but they have limitations and may not cover all your options. ASIC’s Moneysmart website has tips on using comparison websites.

    If you’re finding it hard to keep up with regular payments like gas, electricity and phone, visit Moneysmart for steps you can take to sort things out.

    You can also call the free National Debt Helpline on 1800 007 007.

    Visit ASIC’s Moneysmart website

    ASIC’s Moneysmart website contains tips, tools and resources to help you manage your money, reduce your debt and plan for your future.

    It also has information on budgeting, reducing living costs and getting help if you need it.

    Find support

    Do you know what concessions, rebates and other supports are available to Canberrans from the ACT Government? See what you might be eligible for.

    If you require emergency support or financial assistance, you can find contact details for a range of support services on the Australian Government website.

    Get ACT news and events delivered straight to your inbox, sign up to our email newsletter:


    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Work begins to upgrade Tuggeranong Foreshore

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Artist’s impression of improved Tuggeranong Foreshore.

    Work has kicked off on improvements along Tuggeranong Foreshore.

    Upgrades to the foreshore between Reed Street South and Tuggeranong Town Park follow completed upgrades in recent years to Anketell Street, the laneways and pedestrian and cyclist improvements.

    Upgrades the Tuggeranong Foreshore include:

    • improving the Tuggeranong Town Park playground with new play equipment and picnic spots
    • upgrading the existing Tuggeranong Town Park toilet with new, accessible features
    • improving the accessibility and safety of the foreshore path network, including path widening, removal of obstacles, new seating and upgrading lighting
    • renovation of the existing boardwalk to improve safety and accessibility
    • skate park works to address safety issues and rideability, such as minor resurfacing and replacement of damaged ramp surfaces.

    There were more than 657 ideas from the local community during the feedback period last year. The upgrades will improve connections in and around the town centre, improve public access and safety and encourage the community to spend more time in public spaces.

    Seven work zones will be set up to allow as much area as possible to remain open as work is carried out. A staging program is available online showing the anticipated start dates of each work zone.

    The improvements to Tuggeranong Foreshore are expected to be completed by mid-2024.

    More information about the project can be found on the Built for CBR website: builtforcbr.act.gov.au

    To learn more about Canberra’s largest urban infrastructure improvement program, please visit the City Services website: cityservices.act.gov.au/bettersuburbs

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    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: My little big idea for Richardson

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Submissions have opened for a new initiative called ‘My little big idea’ which will see a project in Richardson receive up to $40,000.

    The Tuggeranong community can now submit ideas to help improve Richardson as part of a new initiative from the ACT Government.

    The new ‘My little big idea’ pilot program aims to involve the community in the decision-making process and up to $40,000 is available for ideas that could have a big impact in Richardson.

    All ideas for improvements will be considered, with one winning idea to receive the funding to make it happen.

    Potential ideas could include a street library, fitness or cooking classes, a playgroup, event, or series of activities.

    A community panel and the public will have the final say on which idea will receive funding which will be shared in 2024.

    The program will build on previous programs inviting input from Canberrans on what is needed in their suburb and explore how similar approaches can be used alongside existing budget consultation processes.

    To learn more, submit an idea or join a community panel, please visit yoursay.act.gov.au

    Get ACT news and events delivered straight to your inbox, sign up to our email newsletter:


    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Garran Surge Centre deconstruction underway

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Following deconstruction of the Garran Surge centre, an improved oval will be returned to the community.

    Work has started to deconstruct the Garran Surge Centre.

    The purpose-built centre played a critical role in during the COVID-19 pandemic as a testing site, vaccination centre and COVID-19 treatment clinic for minor injuries and illnesses.

    Once the centre has been deconstructed, an improved Garran oval will be returned to the community. The oval will include a new cricket pitch, modern LED lighting and a drought-tolerant playing surface.

    The upgraded oval is expected to open for Garran Primary School students and public use by mid-2024.

    In addition to the removal of the surge centre, the final Critical Services Building crane at the Canberra Hospital Expansion project has also been removed.

    The two cranes that worked on the building were named Cranosaurus and Lightening McCrane by students from Garran Primary School. The flags from the cranes have been returned to the students.

    Construction of the critical services building is moving at pace with more of the façade now visible as scaffolding is removed. Inside the building, installation of internal facilities is also progressing well.

    For more information about the Garran oval restoration please visit: builtforcbr.act.gov.au

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    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Whitehorse — Whitehorse RCMP have charged a youth in relation to a disturbance on Main Street

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Whitehorse RCMP have charged a youth for pointing a firearm and possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose.

    On March 15, 2025, Whitehorse RCMP responded to multiple reports of a disturbance between a large group of young adults and youth on Main Street in Whitehorse where weapons were involved. As a result of the investigation, a youth was charged on March 20, 2025 and cannot be named under the Youth Criminal Justice Act. This matter is before the courts, and no further information will be released at this time.

    Whitehorse RCMP are aware that several videos and photographs of the incident are still circulating on social media. Whitehorse RCMP urge anyone with any additional information or anyone who witnessed the disturbance, to come forward by contacting the Whitehorse RCMP at 867-667-5555. To remain anonymous, please contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.

    See: RCMP investigate disturbance on Main Street in Whitehorse | Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Four Individuals Sentenced in Sophisticated, Wide-Spread Fraud Schemes

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

    The defendants defrauded CARES Act and other programs out of more than $4.8 million

    PROVIDENCE – Four Florida residents convicted in U.S. District Court in Rhode Island for executing one of the largest schemes in the country to defraud Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act programs, including in Rhode Island, have been sentenced to federal prison, announced Acting United States Attorney Sara Miron Bloom.

    Court documents illustrate that the defendants defrauded various federally funded programs of more than $4.8 million.

    Each of the defendants pleaded guilty to charges of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and aggravated identity theft.  The schemes involved obtaining and using stolen personal identifying information to submit fraudulent applications to multiple state unemployment agencies, including the Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training, and to submit fraudulent Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL) and Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan applications, for pandemic-related benefits made available under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act and the Families First Coronavirus Response Act.

    Additionally, the defendants submitted fraudulent applications in the names of other persons to federal and state agencies to obtain tax refunds, stimulus payments, and disaster relief funds and loans.

    The scheme also involved using the stolen personal identifying information to open bank accounts that were used to receive, deposit, and transfer fraudulently obtained government benefits and payments and to obtain debit cards for the fraudulently opened bank that were used to withdraw the fraudulently obtained funds. 

    U.S. District Court Judge Mellisa R. DuBose sentenced

    • Tony Mertile 33, of Miramar, FL, identified in court documents as the leader of the conspiracy, to a term of 72 months of incarceration to be followed by three years of supervised release;
    • Junior Mertile, 35,of Pembroke Pines, FL, to a term of 54 months of incarceration to be followed by three years of supervised release.
    • Allen Bien-Aime, 33, of Lehigh Acres, FL, to a term of imprisonment of 48 months to be followed by three years of supervised release;
    • James Legerme, 33, of Sunrise, FL, to a term of imprisonment of 48 months of incarceration to be followed by three years of supervised release; and

    In accordance with signed plea agreements filed with the court, the government moved to forfeit a total of $4,857,191 in funds, or $1,214,294.75 from each defendant, that constitutes proceeds of the conspiracy. The defendants have also forfeited hundreds of thousands of dollars’ worth of Rolex watches and assorted jewelry, and over $1.1 million dollar in cash seized from the residences of Tony Mertile, Junior Mertile, and James Legerme at the time of their arrests. Each defendant is also jointly and several liable for $4,456,927.36 in restitution to be paid to agencies and financial intuitions that were defrauded.

    The case was jointly prosecuted in U.S. District Court by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Denise M. Barton and Stacey A. Erickson and Special Assistant United States Attorney and Rhode Island Assistant Attorney General John M. Moreira, Chief of the Rhode Island Attorney General’s Public Integrity Unit.

    The investigation was conducted by the United States Attorney’s Office, Rhode Island Department of the Attorney General, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Department of Labor – Office of Inspector General, Rhode Island State Police, and the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigations, with substantial assistance from the United States Postal Inspection Service, United States Secret Service, and United States Social Security Administration, Office of Inspector General/Office of Investigations.

     Acting United States Attorney Bloom, FBI Boston Division Special Agent in Charge Jodi Cohen, and Jonathan Mellone, Special Agent in Charge of Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General thank the Miami Division of the FBI, the Fort Myers Resident Agency of the FBI Tampa Division, the FBI’s Complex Financial Crimes Unit, and the U.S. Marshal Service in Florida for their assistance at the time the defendants were arrested and detained in Florida.

    Acting United States Attorney Bloom also extends her gratitude to prosecutors in the Middle District of Florida and the Southern District of Florida for their assistance.

    Rhode Islanders who believe their personal identification has been stolen and used to fraudulently obtain unemployment benefits from the RIDLT are urged to contact the Rhode Island State Police at financialcrimes@risp.gov or the FBI Providence office at (401) 272-8310.

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Birmingham Heroin Supplier Sentenced To 365 Months

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Court documents showed that Harding was a heroin supplier in Birmingham who was introduced to a conspirator from Baldwin County, Alabama, by another conspirator in Birmingham.  As a result of the introduction, ounces of heroin were transported from Birmingham to Daphne, Alabama, where they were distributed to local heroin dealers.  The Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI) obtained a court-authorized wiretap on two of the local conspirators and identified Harding as the primary supplier for heroin. One of the drug shipments being discussed by the conspirators in the monitored phone calls was intercepted on I-65 in Baldwin County by Baldwin County sheriff’s deputies.  The deputies seized approximately 205 grams of heroin hidden in the trunk of a rental car.  The driver of the car, identified as Quantis Clark, was arrested and indicted separately.  Clark pled guilty in federal court to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances during June of 2019.  He was sentenced on August 30, 2022, to five years imprisonment.

    When FBI agents involved in the Baldwin County investigation were preparing to arrest Harding in Birmingham, they discovered that Homeland Security agents and Alabama Law Enforcement agents were also investigating Harding on drug charges.  In September of 2019, a search warrant was executed on Harding’s Birmingham residence and agents seized eight firearms, two kilograms of heroin, and additional amounts of cocaine and crack cocaine.  In October of 2019, Harding was arrested on the indictment returned in the Southern District of Alabama.

    Court documents also showed that Harding occupied a leadership role in the drug conspiracy.  Court documents further showed that Harding had a long and significant criminal history with prior felony convictions spanning four decades.  United States District Court Judge Terry F. Moorer imposed the 365-month sentence at the sentencing hearing on March 19.  The judge ordered that the prison sentence will be followed by a four-year term of supervised release.  Harding will undergo testing and treatment for drug abuse. The judge also imposed a special condition that the probation office may search Harding’s person or property upon a showing of reasonable suspicion that he is in violation of any of the conditions of his supervision.  No fine was imposed but the judge ordered that Harding pay $100 in special mandatory assessments.

    The FBI, the Baldwin County Sheriff’s Office, the Baldwin County Drug Task Force, the Foley Police Department, the Daphne Police Department, Gulf Shores Police Department and the Bay Minette Police Department, and the Mobile County Sheriff’s Office all participated in the  investigation.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Gloria Bedwell prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States.

    The investigation was part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF)  operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs and transnational criminal organization that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Volta Finance Limited – Net Asset Value(s) as at 28 February 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Volta Finance Limited (VTA / VTAS)
    February 2025 monthly report

    NOT FOR RELEASE, DISTRIBUTION, OR PUBLICATION, IN WHOLE OR PART, IN OR INTO THE UNITED STATES

    Guernsey, March 21st, 2025

    AXA IM has published the Volta Finance Limited (the “Company” or “Volta Finance” or “Volta”) monthly report for February 2025. The full report is attached to this release and will be available on Volta’s website shortly (www.voltafinance.com).

    Performance and Portfolio Activity

    Dear Investors,

    Volta Finance’s net performance for the month of February established at +1.6%, taking the Aug 2024-to-date performance at +13.1%. Both our investments in CLO Debt and CLO Equity performed positively over the course of the month, with European CLO Equities benefiting from a strong price appreciation despite market volatility.

    Volatility intensified in February as US policy and mixed economic data releases triggered a repricing of risk across the board. The pursuit of a tariff strategy from the US administration sent a cautionary message regarding the near-term inflation outlook, and raised concerns regarding the sustainability of US growth in the context of current expansion being supported by a steady consumer spending momentum. The interest rate on 10-year U.S. government bonds fluctuated, going up to 4.60% and then dropping back to 4.20%. Additionally, the number of people filing for unemployment benefits hit its highest level this year due to job cuts in companies and federal agencies. Following unsuccessful mediation talks between the US and Ukraine at the White House on February 28th – and the radical shift in US foreign policy strategy – the European Commission suggested allowing countries to spend more on defense without strict budget rules for four years. Germany also announced plans to change its Constitution to borrow €900 billion for defense and infrastructure projects. As a result, European government bond yields changed noticeably, while the Euro and European stock markets improved. The uncertainty in politics and the economy led to increased volatility in credit markets: the European High Yield index (Xover) took a “V” shape over the month and closed around 15bps wide of the tights. On the Loan side, Euro Loans closed c. 30cts up at 98.70px (Morningstar European Leveraged Loan Index) on the back of strong technicals, while US Loans were down 45cts at 97.15px. Primary CLO markets remained busy, although we noticed softer subscription levels. In terms of performance, CLO markets performed in line with broader Credits on a rating adjusted basis: BBs total returns stood at +0.9% while US High Yield returned +0.65% in the same period, Euro High Yield was up +1% and Global Loans gained +0.3%.
    Looking at Volta Finance’s cashflow, the portfolio generated c. €28m equivalent of interests and coupons over the last six months, representing c.20% of February’s NAV on an annualized basis.

    Over the month, Volta’s CLO Equity tranches returned a 2.4% performance** while CLO Debt tranches returned +1.7% performance**, cash representing c. 9.8% of the NAV.

    Volta is around 21% exposed to USD, the February currency moves had no meaningful impact on the overall performance (+0.02%) although we anticipate FX moves to have a greater impact next month.

    As of end of February 2025, Volta’s NAV was €283.5m, i.e. €7.75 per share.

    *It should be noted that approximately 4.49% of Volta’s GAV comprises investments for which the relevant NAVs as at the month-end date are normally available only after Volta’s NAV has already been published. Volta’s policy is to publish its NAV on as timely a basis as possible to provide shareholders with Volta’s appropriately up-to-date NAV information. Consequently, such investments are valued using the most recently available NAV for each fund or quoted price for such subordinated notes. The most recently available fund NAV or quoted price was 4.38% as at 31 January 2025, 0.11% as at 30 September 2024.

    ** “performances” of asset classes are calculated as the Dietz-performance of the assets in each bucket, taking into account the Mark-to-Market of the assets at period ends, payments received from the assets over the period, and ignoring changes in cross-currency rates. Nevertheless, some residual currency effects could impact the aggregate value of the portfolio when aggregating each bucket.

    CONTACTS

    For the Investment Manager
    AXA Investment Managers Paris
    François Touati
    francois.touati@axa-im.com
    +33 (0) 1 44 45 80 22

    Olivier Pons
    Olivier.pons@axa-im.com
    +33 (0) 1 44 45 87 30

    Company Secretary and Administrator
    BNP Paribas S.A, Guernsey Branch
    guernsey.bp2s.volta.cosec@bnpparibas.com 
    +44 (0) 1481 750 853

    Corporate Broker
    Cavendish Securities plc
    Andrew Worne
    Daniel Balabanoff
    +44 (0) 20 7397 8900

    *****
    ABOUT VOLTA FINANCE LIMITED

    Volta Finance Limited is incorporated in Guernsey under The Companies (Guernsey) Law, 2008 (as amended) and listed on Euronext Amsterdam and the London Stock Exchange’s Main Market for listed securities. Volta’s home member state for the purposes of the EU Transparency Directive is the Netherlands. As such, Volta is subject to regulation and supervision by the AFM, being the regulator for financial markets in the Netherlands.

    Volta’s Investment objectives are to preserve its capital across the credit cycle and to provide a stable stream of income to its Shareholders through dividends that it expects to distribute on a quarterly basis. The Company currently seeks to achieve its investment objectives by pursuing exposure predominantly to CLO’s and similar asset classes. A more diversified investment strategy across structured finance assets may be pursued opportunistically. The Company has appointed AXA Investment Managers Paris an investment management company with a division specialised in structured credit, for the investment management of all its assets.

    *****

    ABOUT AXA INVESTMENT MANAGERS
    AXA Investment Managers (AXA IM) is a multi-expert asset management company within the AXA Group, a global leader in financial protection and wealth management. AXA IM is one of the largest European-based asset managers with 2,700 professionals and €844 billion in assets under management as of the end of December 2023.  

    *****

    This press release is published by AXA Investment Managers Paris (“AXA IM”), in its capacity as alternative investment fund manager (within the meaning of Directive 2011/61/EU, the “AIFM Directive”) of Volta Finance Limited (the “Volta Finance”) whose portfolio is managed by AXA IM.

    This press release is for information only and does not constitute an invitation or inducement to acquire shares in Volta Finance. Its circulation may be prohibited in certain jurisdictions and no recipient may circulate copies of this document in breach of such limitations or restrictions. This document is not an offer for sale of the securities referred to herein in the United States or to persons who are “U.S. persons” for purposes of Regulation S under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”), or otherwise in circumstances where such offer would be restricted by applicable law. Such securities may not be sold in the United States absent registration or an exemption from registration from the Securities Act. Volta Finance does not intend to register any portion of the offer of such securities in the United States or to conduct a public offering of such securities in the United States.

    *****

    This communication is only being distributed to and is only directed at (i) persons who are outside the United Kingdom or (ii) investment professionals falling within Article 19(5) of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (Financial Promotion) Order 2005 (the “Order”) or (iii) high net worth companies, and other persons to whom it may lawfully be communicated, falling within Article 49(2)(a) to (d) of the Order (all such persons together being referred to as “relevant persons”). The securities referred to herein are only available to, and any invitation, offer or agreement to subscribe, purchase or otherwise acquire such securities will be engaged in only with, relevant persons. Any person who is not a relevant person should not act or rely on this document or any of its contents. Past performance cannot be relied on as a guide to future performance.

    *****
    This press release contains statements that are, or may deemed to be, “forward-looking statements”. These forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology, including the terms “believes”, “anticipated”, “expects”, “intends”, “is/are expected”, “may”, “will” or “should”. They include the statements regarding the level of the dividend, the current market context and its impact on the long-term return of Volta Finance’s investments. By their nature, forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties and readers are cautioned that any such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance. Volta Finance’s actual results, portfolio composition and performance may differ materially from the impression created by the forward-looking statements. AXA IM does not undertake any obligation to publicly update or revise forward-looking statements.

    Any target information is based on certain assumptions as to future events which may not prove to be realised. Due to the uncertainty surrounding these future events, the targets are not intended to be and should not be regarded as profits or earnings or any other type of forecasts. There can be no assurance that any of these targets will be achieved. In addition, no assurance can be given that the investment objective will be achieved.

    The figures provided that relate to past months or years and past performance cannot be relied on as a guide to future performance or construed as a reliable indicator as to future performance. Throughout this review, the citation of specific trades or strategies is intended to illustrate some of the investment methodologies and philosophies of Volta Finance, as implemented by AXA IM. The historical success or AXA IM’s belief in the future success, of any of these trades or strategies is not indicative of, and has no bearing on, future results.

    The valuation of financial assets can vary significantly from the prices that the AXA IM could obtain if it sought to liquidate the positions on behalf of the Volta Finance due to market conditions and general economic environment. Such valuations do not constitute a fairness or similar opinion and should not be regarded as such.

    Editor: AXA INVESTMENT MANAGERS PARIS, a company incorporated under the laws of France, having its registered office located at Tour Majunga, 6, Place de la Pyramide – 92800 Puteaux. AXA IMP is authorized by the Autorité des Marchés Financiers under registration number GP92008 as an alternative investment fund manager within the meaning of the AIFM Directive.

    *****

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Gang Member Who Coordinated Drug Deals From State Prison Sentenced to Federal Prison

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

    CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas – A 45-year-old Corpus Christi resident has been sentenced conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.

    George Gomez aka Quick is a confirmed Texas Syndicate gang member. He pleaded guilty Dec. 19, 2024.

    U.S. District Judge David S. Morales has ordered Gomez to serve 300 months in federal prison to be immediately followed by five years of supervised release. The court also ordered his federal prison sentence run consecutively to his current state prison sentence. He will begin serving the 25-year sentence following completion of his state prison term of incarceration.

    At the hearing, the court heard about Gomez’s extensive criminal history that began at age 17 when he was convicted of unlawful carrying of a weapon and cocaine possession. He was later convicted of possession of cocaine two more times as well as aggravated assault. In handing down the sentence, Judge Morales emphasized that Gomez had committed this current offense while in prison for a drug possession charge. Furthermore, he noted that his crimes seemed be getting worse as he was now possessing narcotics with the intent to distribute and no longer simply possessing them.

    Gomez was serving a 17-year sentence in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice for cocaine possession when he obtained a contraband cell phone and began coordinating narcotics deals for other Texas Syndicate gang members while incarcerated.

    The investigation into the Texas Syndicate led to the discovery that Gomez was facilitating the distribution of methamphetamine to local drug dealers in Corpus Christi.

    Gomez was brought over from the Texas Department of Criminal Justice to answer for his federal charges. 

    The Drug Enforcement Administration, FBI and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation with the assistance of the National Guard and Texas Board of Criminal Justice – Office of Inspector General. OCDETF identifies, disrupts and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found on the Department of Justice’s OCDETF webpage. 

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Barbara J. De Pena and Brittany Jensen prosecuted the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Former Culpeper Sheriff Sentenced to 10 Years on Federal Bribery Charges

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Scott Jenkins Received Over $75,000 in Cash Payments in Exchange for Auxiliary Deputy Sheriff Appointments

    CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. – The former sheriff of Culpeper County, Virginia was sentenced today to 10 years in federal prison for accepting over $75,000 in bribes in exchange for appointing numerous Northern Virginia businessmen as auxiliary deputy sheriffs within his department.

    In December 2024, a jury convicted Scott Howard Jenkins, 53, of Culpeper, Virginia, of one count of conspiracy, four counts of honest services fraud, and seven counts of bribery concerning programs receiving federal funds.

    “Scott Jenkins violated his oath of office and the faith the citizens of Culpeper County placed in him when he engaged in a cash-for-badges scheme,” Acting United States Attorney Zachary T. Lee said today. “We hold our elected law enforcement officials to a higher standard of conduct and this case proves that when those officials use their authority for unjust personal enrichment, the Department of Justice will hold them accountable. I am grateful to the FBI for their tireless work on this investigation.”

    “Every law enforcement officer takes an oath to serve and protect the community– that includes following the law they’ve sworn to uphold.  I am proud of the diligent work our investigative team did on this case to bring Jenkins to justice,” said Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Richmond Division, Stanley M. Meador.

    According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, Jenkins accepted cash bribes and bribes in the form of campaign contributions from co-defendants Rick Rahim, Fredric Gumbinner, and James Metcalf, as well as at least five others, including two FBI undercover agents.

    Rahim, Gumbinner, and Metcalf have all pled guilty for their roles in the conspiracy.

    In return for the bribes, Jenkins appointed each of the bribe payors as auxiliary deputy sheriffs, a sworn law-enforcement position, and issued them official Culpeper County Sheriff’s Office badges and credentials. The bribe payors were not trained or vetted and did not render any legitimate services to the Sheriff’s Office or the citizens of Culpeper County.

    In addition, Jenkins pressured other local officials to approve a petition filed in Culpeper County Circuit Court by Rahim, a convicted felon, to restore his right to possess a firearm and which falsely stated that Rahim resided in Culpeper County.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Melanie Smith for the Western District of Virginia and Trial Attorneys Celia Choy and Lina Peng of the Criminal Division’s Public Integrity Section (PIN) prosecuted the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Federal Law Enforcement in Chicago Seizes $214 Million in Alleged “Pump and Dump” Investment Fraud Investigation; Seven Defendants Indicted

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    CHICAGO — Seven individuals have been indicted on criminal charges as part of a federal investigation that disrupted an alleged “pump-and-dump” investment fraud scheme and resulted in government seizures of approximately $214 million.

    From November 2024 to February 2025, the defendants engaged in misleading promotion and coordinated trading of shares of China Liberal Education Holdings, Ltd., a company incorporated in the Cayman Islands that purported to provide educational services in China, according to an indictment returned Thursday in U.S. District Court in Chicago.  The scheme, known as a “pump-and-dump,” allegedly involved individuals in China posing as U.S.-based investment advisors on social media and messaging platforms and falsely promising significant returns from investments in the company.  The misleading promotion and coordinated trading caused the stock price to artificially rise, at which point the defendants sold thousands of shares and made millions of dollars in profits, the indictment states.  The stock price ultimately decreased significantly, at the expense of other investors, some of whom lost almost the entirety of their investment.

    Charged with wire fraud and securities fraud are LIM XIANG JIE CEDRIC, 50, of Malaysia, MING-SHEN CHENG, 36, of Taiwan, KO SEN CHAI, 57, of Malaysia, KING SUNG WONG, 39, of Malaysia, SIONG WEE VUN, 37, of Malaysia, CHIEN LUNG MA, 54, of Taiwan, and KOK WAH WONG, 56, of Malaysia.  The defendants are not in custody and warrants have been issued for their arrests.

    During the investigation, federal law enforcement seized approximately $214 million in alleged proceeds from the fraud scheme. The funds are currently in U.S. custody. The U.S. Attorney’s Office in Chicago on Thursday filed a civil complaint seeking to have the money permanently forfeited to the United States, which would allow the government to return the money to victim investors.

    The indictment and forfeiture complaint were announced by Morris Pasqual, Acting United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois, and Douglas S. DePodesta, Special Agent-in-Charge of the Chicago Field Office of the FBI.  Valuable assistance was provided by the Boston Regional Office of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission and the SEC’s Office of Inspector General.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Jared Hasten represents the government.

    Each count of securities fraud is punishable by up to 25 years in federal prison, while the maximum sentence for each count of wire fraud is 20 years.  The public is reminded that an indictment contains only charges and is not evidence of guilt.  The defendants are presumed innocent and entitled to a fair trial at which the government has the burden of proving guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

    If you believe you or someone you know may have been victimized by the fraud scheme charged in the indictment, you are encouraged to notify the FBI by completing this online form or calling 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324).

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Honduran National Sentenced To 2 Years’ Imprisonment After Illegally Reentering The United States

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Tampa, Florida – U.S. District Judge Richard A. Lazzara today sentenced Jose del Carmen Sanchez-Garcia (42), a Honduras national, to two years in federal prison for illegally reentering the United States without authorization by federal immigration officials. Sanchez-Garcia pled guilty on December 27, 2024.

    According to court documents, federal law enforcement learned that Sanchez-Garcia was in the United States on February 1, 2023, after Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office arrested him on state criminal charges. Sanchez-Garcia had no permission to be in the United States and had previously been removed from the United States four times before. He had previously been convicted for illegal reentry to the United States after deportation once before, in 2017.

    This case was investigated by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO). It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Michael J. Buchanan.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Baltimore Man Sentenced to More Than 30 Years in Federal Prison for Sexually Exploiting Multiple Minors

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Baltimore, Maryland – Today, U.S. District Judge Ellen L. Hollander sentenced Delroy James Scott, 25, of Baltimore, Maryland, to 32 years in federal prison, followed by 50 years of supervised release, for the coercion and enticement of a minor and sexually exploiting six minors.

    Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, announced the sentence with Special Agent in Charge William J. DelBagno of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI); Chief Robert McCullough, Baltimore County Police Department; Baltimore County State’s Attorney Scott Shellenberger; Chief Charles H. Hinnant, Cumberland Police Department; and Allegany County State’s Attorney James Elliott.

    According to his guilty plea, between November 2021 and May 2022, Scott exploited six minor females between the ages of 9 and 14. Scott, who used an alias and pretended to be 16, utilized mobile phones and online applications to meet and communicate with the minor victims.  He then persuaded, induced, enticed, and coerced the minor victims to meet him to engage in sex acts and/or to produce sexually explicit images and videos. Scott also had victims send him explicit images and videos and threatened to expose some of the victims to coerce them to produce explicit videos and engage in additional sex acts.

    Scott traveled to the apartment of Minor Victim 1, age 9, on two separate occasions and coerced the victim to engage in sex acts. He pressured Minor Victim 2, age 11, to send explicit videos and images, and then threatened to expose her to her parents if she didn’t meet Scott in person to engage in sex acts.  Scott convinced Minor Victim 3, age 13, to provide the address to her Alleghany County residence where he climbed into her bedroom window and sexually assaulted her.

    The defendant traveled to the middle school of Minor Victim 4, age 12, on three separate mornings, and coerced the victim to engage in sex acts by threatening to expose her with videos he claimed he made of them.  He coerced Minor Victim 5, age 10, to produce and send him explicit videos and then coerced her to send additional explicit videos by threatening to tell her mother.

    Scott recorded he and Minor Victim 6, age 15, engaging in sexually explicit conduct on multiple occasions.  Additionally, according to facts presented at sentencing, between 2017 and 2022, Scott engaged in similar unlawful conduct with multiple minor victims between the ages of 12 and 16.

    This case is part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative, launched in May 2006, by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse.  Led by the United States Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims.  For more information about Project Safe Childhood, visit www.justice.gov/psc.  Learn more about Internet safety education by clicking on the “Resources” tab on the left of the page.

    U.S. Attorney Hayes commended the FBI, Baltimore County Police Department, Baltimore State’s Attorney’s Office, Cumberland Police Department, and Allegany County State’s Attorney’s Office for their work in the investigation.  Ms. Hayes also thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul E. Budlow who prosecuted the case.

    For more information about the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to help the community, please visit www.justice.gov/usao-md/project-safe-childhood and https://www.justice.gov/usao-md/community-outreach.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Federal Grand Jury Indicts Four Chinese Nationals for Possessing Counterfeit Access Devices

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Louisville, KY – A federal grand jury in Louisville, Kentucky, returned two indictments on March 19, 2025, charging a total of four Chinese nationals with possessing more than fifteen counterfeit and unauthorized access devices as part of gift card tampering schemes.

    U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge Rana Saoud of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Nashville, Special Agent in Charge Michael E. Stansbury of the FBI Louisville Field Office, and Chief Barry S. Wilkerson of the St. Matthews Police Department made the announcement.

    According to the first indictment, Zhiqiang Huang and Chaoming Lin were charged with possessing more than fifteen counterfeit and unauthorized access devices following their arrest on October 19, 2024. That day, Kroger security personnel observed Lin placing gift cards on the rack at a Kroger store in Louisville. Later, following a stop by St. Matthews police, Huang and Lin were found to be in possession of approximately 5,000 gifts cards. A subsequent analysis of those gift cards indicated 2,000 were likely altered.   

    According to the second indictment, Huixing Yu and Tianlong Chen were charged with possessing more than fifteen counterfeit and unauthorized access devices following their arrest on October 19, 2024. That day, Kroger security personnel observed Chen placing gift cards on the rack at a Kroger store in Louisville. Later, following a stop by St. Matthews police, Yu and Chen were found to be in possession of approximately 650 gifts cards. A subsequent analysis of those gift cards indicated 250 were likely altered.   

    Gift card tampering is a form of organized retail crime. Gift card tampering involves stealing gift cards from retail stores, tampering the gift card to steal sensitive information, and then placing the gift card back into commerce at a retailer to be sold to unsuspecting consumers. When a consumer purchases the tampered gift card and loads funds onto the gift card at the point of sale, the funds are diverted and stolen.

    Individuals and organizations engaged in gift card tampering often target brands that can be redeemed for goods, or items that can be easily liquidated on digital marketplaces. Large retailers are primary targets due to the high levels of consumer traffic and quick inventory turnover.

    If convicted, each defendant faces a sentence of up to 10 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors.

    There is no parole in the federal system.

    This case is being investigated by HSI, FBI, and St. Matthews Police Department.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney David Weiser is prosecuting this case.

    These cases are 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).

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

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Fresno-Based Bank Fraud Scheme Recruited Participants on Facebook

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    FRESNO, Calif. — Abreiana Rogers, 29, of Los Angeles, made an initial appearance in federal court in Fresno Thursday for charges stemming from her participation in a year-long bank fraud scheme that sought to defraud credit unions of nearly $1 million, Acting U.S. Attorney Michele Beckwith announced.

    Five co-defendants in the scheme made their initial appearances in November 2024: Fresno residents Nyric Hinton, 26; Zion Brewer, 39; Zorian Temple, 23; Davonntae Barfield, 30; and Harry Cooper Neal, 29.

    All six defendants were charged with conspiracy to commit bank fraud. Rogers was also charged with four counts of bank fraud and one count of aggravated identity theft. Hinton was charged with one count of bank fraud. Temple and Barfield were also each charged with two counts of bank fraud.

    According to court documents, between April 2022 and Jan. 31, 2023, the defendants used Facebook and Facebook Messenger to recruit bank account holders, promising these account holders a cut of any fraudulent funds deposited into their accounts. The defendants then used those individuals’ bank accounts to deposit stolen and fraudulent checks. Brewer, a U.S. Postal Service employee, assisted by stealing mail containing checks and other financial information, and by providing that information to his co-conspirators.

    The defendants and others would then rapidly deplete the fraudulently deposited funds from the account holders’ accounts using electronic transfers and cash withdrawals. The defendants then shared the proceeds among themselves and other co-conspirators. To circumvent financial institutions’ fraud protection systems, the defendants shared information about known weaknesses in the financial institutions’ fraud protection systems. To conceal the fraud, the defendants instructed account holders to claim that their accounts had been compromised if contacted by the financial institutions about the fraudulent deposits.

    The defendants are alleged to have attempted at least $1 million in fraudulent transactions with financial institutions, fraudulently used over 100 bank accounts, and obtained hundreds of thousands of dollars from the financial institutions.

    This case is the product of an investigation by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the U.S. Postal Service Office of Inspector General, and the Fresno Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey A. Spivak is prosecuting the case.

    The case is set for a status conference on June 4, 2025.

    If convicted, the defendants face a maximum statutory penalty of 30 years in prison and a $250,000 fine for conspiracy to commit bank fraud and for any count of bank fraud. Rogers also faces a two-year mandatory consecutive prison sentence for aggravated identity theft if convicted. Any sentence, however, would be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables. The charges are only allegations; the defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Two Men Sentenced for Conspiracy to Distribute Cocaine in Northern Kentucky

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    COVINGTON, Ky. – Two men, John Christopher Davis, 54, of Cincinnati, Ohio, and Douglas DeAngelo Wade, 45, of Covington, Kentucky, were sentenced on Friday, to 188 months in prison, by Chief U.S. District Judge David Bunning. Each was convicted of conspiracy to distribute cocaine. In addition, Davis was convicted of possession with intent to distribute cocaine, and Wade was convicted of distribution of cocaine. 

    According to their plea agreements and other court filings, from approximately January 1, 2023, through January 26, 2024, Davis and Wade conspired with co-defendants, Terry Mitchell, Michael Labordeaux, Stephen Russ, Gregory Soard and others to knowingly distribute more than 500 grams of cocaine in Kenton County, Ky., and elsewhere. Wade was the head of the conspiracy and regularly supplied cocaine and cocaine base to Davis and others to distribute it. 

    Both Davis and Wade had prior drug trafficking convictions.  Davis was previously convicted of first-degree trafficking in a controlled substance, cocaine, in 2003 and 2006 in Kenton County Circuit Court. He was additionally convicted of possession with intent to distribute five grams or more of cocaine base in 2007 in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Kentucky. Similarly, Wade was previously convicted of distribution of over 50 grams of cocaine base in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Kentucky.

    Soard was previously sentenced to 96 months in prison in January 2025. Russ was sentenced to 105 months in prison in December 2024. Mitchell is scheduled to be sentenced on April 4, and Labordeaux is scheduled to be sentenced on May 9. 

    Under federal law, Davis and Wade must serve 85 percent of their prison sentence. Upon Davis’ release from prison, he will be under the supervision of the U.S. Probation Office for six years, and Wade will be under the supervision of the U.S. Probation Office for eight years.

    Paul McCaffrey, Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky; Michael Stansbury, Special Agent in Charge, FBI, Louisville Field Office; and Chief Brian Valenti, Covington Police Department, jointly announced the sentence.

    The investigation was conducted by the FBI and Covington Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Tony Bracke is prosecuting the case on behalf of the United States.

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