NewzIntel.com

Category: Security

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Sports Park set to host top events

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    Declaring Kai Tak Sports Park (KTSP) officially open today, Chief Executive John Lee reminded the public that the venue will soon welcome top local, Mainland and international sports, music and cultural events as “Hong Kong Super March” gets underway.

    Mr Lee officiated at a Grand Opening Ceremony at Kai Tak Stadium, along with other guests including Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Director Zheng Yanxiong, Chief Secretary Chan Kwok-ki, Secretary for Culture, Sports & Tourism Rosanna Law and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Kai Tak Sports Park Limited Henry Cheng.

    Speaking at the ceremony, Mr Lee said that having once been the location of an airport in the heart of a busy city, Kai Tak has evolved to become a new global stage for sports, culture and the arts, reflecting Hong Kong’s spirit of “daring to be the pioneer” and creating unlimited horizons in a limited space.

    The largest sports infrastructure project ever commissioned in Hong Kong, KTSP comprises the 50,000-seater Kai Tak Stadium, the 10,000-seater Kai Tak Arena and the 5,000-seater Kai Tak Youth Sports Ground. It encompasses 700,000 feet of retail, catering, leisure and entertainment facilities.

    The Government said KTSP will boost sports development and inject impetus into related industries such as recreation, entertainment and tourism, as well as the city’s mega-event economy, thereby consolidating Hong Kong’s reputation as an events capital in Asia.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Hardin County, Kentucky, Man Sentenced to Four Years in Federal Prison for Mailing Threats to Kill and Extort

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

    Louisville, KY – A Hardin County, Kentucky man was sentenced yesterday to 4 years in prison for mailing letters with threats to kill and extort.

    U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Kentucky Attorney General Russell Coleman, Special Agent in Charge Michael E. Stansbury of the FBI Louisville Field Office, Commissioner Phillip Burnett, Jr. of the Kentucky State Police, and Chief Jeremy Thompson of the Elizabethtown Police Department made the announcement.

    According to court documents, Kyle Miller, 21, was sentenced to 4 years in federal prison, followed by 3 years supervised release, for mailing threatening communications with threats to kill and extort. On July 6, 2023, August 28, 2023, and October 16, 2023, Miller mailed letters to a victim containing threats to kill. On January 28, 2024, Miller mailed letters to a victim containing threats to kill and extort. On October 13, 2023, Miller mailed a letter to a victim containing a threat to kill.

    There is no parole in the federal system.   

    This case was investigated by the FBI, KSP and Elizabethtown Police Department.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Erwin Roberts prosecuted the case.

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    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Former Fort Campbell Soldier Sentenced to More Than Five Years in Federal Prison for Child Exploitation Offenses

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

    Paducah, KY – A former Fort Campbell soldier was sentenced last week to 5 years and 4 months in federal prison for receiving and distributing child pornography.     

    U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky and Special Agent in Charge Michael E. Stansbury of the Federal Bureau of Investigation Louisville Field Office made the announcement.

    According to court documents, Brett Nicolas Ellison, 24, was sentenced to 5 years and 4 months in prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, for one count of receipt of child pornography and one count of possession of child pornography. Between November 2019 and June 2022, Ellison received and possessed child sexual abuse material while he was a soldier stationed at the Fort Campbell Army Post, possessing over 90 images and 70 videos containing child sexual abuse material.

    Ellison was also ordered to pay $57,000 in restitution to victims.

    There is no parole in the federal system.

    This case was investigated by the FBI Hopkinsville Satellite Office and Army CID.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Raymond McGee, of the U.S. Attorney’s Paducah Branch Office, prosecuted the case.

    This case was brought as 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 Attorneys’ 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, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. For more information about internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab “resources.”

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    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Federal Grand Jury in Louisville Indicts Three Illegal Aliens

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

    Louisville, KY – A federal grand jury in Louisville, Kentucky, returned indictments on February 19, 2025, charging 3 illegal aliens with federal criminal offenses.   

    U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge Michael E. Stansbury of the FBI Louisville Field Office, Special Agent in Charge Rana Saoud of Homeland Security Investigations, Nashville, Police Chief Mike Canon of the Calvert City Police Department, and Sam Olson, Field Office Director for Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) Chicago, U.S. Immigration Customs Enforcement made the announcement.

    According to the indictments:

    Juan Baltazar Felipe-Pedro, age 26, a citizen of Guatemala, was charged with reentry after deportation or removal. On or about January 23, 2025, Felipe-Pedro was an alien found in the United States after having been denied admission, excluded, deported, and removed from the United States on or about April 25, 2019. If convicted he faces a maximum sentence of 2 years in prison. This case is being investigated by HSI and ICE/ERO.

    Jhoandiris Jimenez-Barrio, age 26, and Yirvel Yonaker Rios-Castro, age 20, citizens of Venezuela, were indicted for conspiracy to commit bank larceny and attempted bank larceny. On or about January 31, 2025, they conspired with each other and others to break into and steal money from an automated teller machine (ATM). They traveled to a bank in Calvert City, Kentucky and attempted to open an ATM to steal money. Homeland Security Investigations verified that Jimenez-Barrio and Rios-Castro are Venezuelan and entered the United States illegally. If convicted, the men face a maximum sentence of 50 years in prison. The case is being investigated by the FBI, Calvert City Police Department, and HSI.

    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.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys A. Spencer McKiness, Seth Hancock, and Raymond McGee are prosecuting the cases.

    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 Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Kansas Man Sentenced for Crimes Related to Child Sexual Abuse

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

    KANSAS CITY, KAN. – A Kansas man received a combined sentence of 87 months in prison after pleading guilty in two separate cases related to criminal misconduct involving minors.

    According to court documents, Daniel Paul Prekopa, 46, of Wichita pleaded guilty to one count of attempted travel with intent to engage in illicit sexual conduct. In a separate case, Prekopa pleaded guilty to one count of possession of child sexual abuse materials.

    In September 2023, the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) notified the Wichita Police Department about a cybertip concerning child sexual abuse materials uploaded to a Dropbox account. Law enforcement confirmed through investigation that the account to belonged to Prekopa.  The materials depicted children under the age of 12 years old engaged in sexual conduct. 

    In a separate investigation in September 2023, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Child Exploitation Task Force engaged in covert chat sessions on platforms known to be frequented by adults attempting to lure children into sexual acts. An undercover agent posing as a minor received a direct message from a user later to be confirmed as Daniel Prekopa. Prekopa sent provocative photos of himself and made sexually illicit comments during multiple exchanges with whom he thought to be a minor, at one point writing, “I could get in major trouble since you’re under 16. But idc either” and “And you have damn cops online trying to catfish people to get them in trouble”.

    FBI agents arrested Prekopa after he traveled from Kansas City, Missouri, to Overland Park, Kansas, for the intended purpose of engaging in illicit sexual conduct with a person under the age of 18.

    The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Kansas Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force (ICAC),  and the Wichita Police Department investigated the cases.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Faiza Alhambra prosecuted the cases.

    Project Safe Childhood
    This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc. 
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    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Man jailed following investigation into sexual offending

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    An investigation by the Met’s Public Protection team has resulted in a lengthy sentence for a man who was convicted of a sex offence.

    Laurence Rafter, 43 (01.09.81) of Bittacy Hill, Barnet appeared at Snaresbrook Crown Court on Friday, 28 February where he was sentenced to 14 years’ imprisonment, after officers were able to prove that he had removed a condom during sex without consent.

    He was convicted at the same court on 18 October 2024 for all offences in a unanimous verdict by the jury. He also pleaded guilty last year to harassment against the same victim.

    The court heard that on 15 July 2021 the 32-year-old survivor was contacted by the defendant on a dating app. He posed as a man called “Jay Lincoln” and met the victim at her home address in Islington. The defendant then proceeded to rape the victim who specifically requested the defendant wear a condom, despite him repeatedly requesting not to wear one.

    As he left the address he stated that he was HIV Positive which was later revealed to be a lie. The victim reported the incident to the Met who launched an immediate investigation and supported the victim.

    Detectives from the Public Protection Serious Sexual Offences Team were able to identify Rafter through a distinctive tattoo on his arm recorded by police on a previous arrest which matched photos he had sent to the victim in this case.

    Enquiries showed the level of pre-planning that Rafter had done to commit his offences, creating an alias, setting up a false address and bank statement and using a disposable ‘pre-paid’ mobile phone in a bid to avoid police detection.

    His false driving licence included a pseudonym and he claimed to live in a prosperous area of London in a multi-million pound house. In reality he was employed as an HGV driver and lived in a flat.

    The court also heard that the defendant was previously known for sexual predatory behaviour towards women. In February 2022 he was sentenced to six months’ imprisonment after pleading guilty to malicious communications and threats to disclose a private image relating to two separate victims. In those cases he also posed online using an alias, met the women and subsequently became abusive and threatening towards both women via text messages as well as demanding explicit images.

    After appearing in court on Friday, 28 February, Rafter was sentenced to 14 years in prison. He was ordered to serve two thirds of his sentence before being eligible for parole.

    Detective Chief Inspector Paul Ridley said: “I would like to commend this survivor for the bravery she demonstrated in this case and the evidence she provided. The robust sentence delivered by the judge clearly demonstrates the significant dangerousness that this man poses to women.

    “The investigation team carried out an expansive, diligent and relentless investigation to identify Rafter and secured the evidence to bring him to justice ensuring that the victim was supported throughout.

    “Rafter is a predatory offender who exploited social media to facilitate his violent and abusive behaviour. He devised a fictitious profile posing as a wealthy businessman with multiple businesses around the world in a calculated campaign to violate, threaten and harm the women he met.”

    The Met is putting extra people into specialist Public Protection teams to prioritise this critical work and target offenders, with officers and staff working more closely with partners across London to protect victim survivors and bring offenders to justice.   

    Police are aiming to do much more to identify and tackle the most dangerous and prolific perpetrators of Violence Against Women and Girls, identifying high risk and high harm locations, and making better use of police powers to protect women and girls from perpetrators.  

    Find out more on how to report a rape or sexual assault here. Always call 999 in an emergency.   

    If you’ve been a victim of rape or sexual assault, charities and support agencies can offer help and guidance: 

    Rape Crisis: 08085002222   

    National Rape and Sexual Abuse Helpline: 0808 802 9999    

    Survivors UK: 0203 598 3898 info@survivorsuk.org.   

    Samaritans: 116 123 jo@samaritans.org  

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Serious crash Eudunda

    Source: South Australia Police

    Police are at the scene of a serious crash at Eudunda.

    At 8.45pm Saturday 1 March emergency services were called to the Thiele Highway, just east of the township of Eudunda, after reports that a car had left the road and crashed into a tree.

    The Thiele Highway will be closed between Eudunda Road and Plains Road while the Helicopter lands on the highway. Please take direction from emergency services at the scene if travelling through the area.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Dangerous Driving Incident – Bridport

    Source: Tasmania Police

    Dangerous Driving Incident – Bridport

    Saturday, 1 March 2025 – 9:01 pm.

    Police will be proceeding against a 25-year-old Bridport man with traffic offences after he was observed hooning and driving dangerously in Bridport on Friday night.
    About 10.10pm, a grey Mazda 3 sedan was witnessed travelling north on Main Street, Bridport when it reportedly overtook another vehicle at high speed in a 50km/h zone before proceeding through a roundabout and travelling on the incorrect side of the road at speed. At the time there were pedestrians in the area.
    The vehicle was intercepted by police and the vehicle was clamped for 90 days.
    Anyone with information about this incident or who has dash cam footage of a grey Mazda 3 sedan travelling on Main Street at this time is urged to contact Scottsdale Police Station on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers Tasmania anonymously on 1800 333 000 or at crimestopperstas.com.au

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Palestine asks ICJ for advisory opinion on illegal occupier Israel’s obligations

    More than 180 remained in detention without a clear indication of when or if they would be released, the physicians’ report said.

    “Detainees endure physical, psychological and sexual abuse as well as starvation and medical neglect amounting to torture,” the report said, denouncing a “deeply ingrained policy”.

    Healthcare workers were beaten, threatened, and forced to sign documents in Hebrew during their detention, according to the report based on 20 testimonies collected in prison.

    “Medical personnel were primarily questioned about the Israeli hostages, tunnels, hospital structures and Hamas’s activity,” it said.

    “They were rarely asked questions linking them to any criminal activity, nor were they presented with substantive charges.”

    New Zealand protesters calling for the continuation of the Gaza ceasefire and for peace and justice in Palestine in a march along the Auckland waterfront today. Image: Asia Pacific Report

    Where does Trump stand on the Gaza ceasefire?
     With phase one of the ceasefire due to end today and negotiations barely started on phase two, serious fears are being raised over  the viability of the ceasefire.

    President Donald Trump took credit for the truce that his Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff helped push across the finish line after a year of negotiations led by the Biden administration, Egypt and Qatar, reports Al Jazeera.

    Advocate Maher Nazzal at today’s New Zealand rally for Gaza in Auckland . . . he was elected co-leader of the Palestine Solidarity Network Aotearoa last weekend. Image: Asia Pacific Report

    However, Trump has since sent mixed signals about the deal.

    Earlier last month, he set a firm deadline for Hamas to release all the captives, warning “all hell is going to break out” if it didn’t.

    But he said it was ultimately up to Israel, and the deadline came and went.

    Trump sowed further confusion by proposing that Gaza’s population of about 2.3 million be relocated to other countries and for the US to take over the territory and develop it.

    Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu welcomed the idea, but it was universally rejected by Palestinians and Arab countries, including close US allies. Human rights groups said it could violate international law.

    Trump stood by the plan in a Fox News interview over the weekend but said he was “not forcing it”.


    ‘Finally’ an effort to hold the US accountable, says Al-Haq director
    Palestinian human rights activist Shawan Jabarin has welcomed a plea by the US-based rights group DAWN for the International Criminal Court (ICC) to investigate Joe Biden and senior US officials for aiding Israeli war crimes in Gaza.

    In a video posted by DAWN, Jabarin, director of the Palestinian rights group Al-Haq, said the effort was long overdue.

    “For decades we have called on the international community to hold Israel accountable for its violations of international law, but time and again, the US has used its power and influence to block that accountability, to shield Israel from consequences and to ensure that it can continue its crimes with impunity,” Jabarin said.

    “Now, finally, we see an effort to hold not just Israeli officials accountable but also those who have made these crimes possible: US officials who have armed, financed, and politically defended Israeli atrocities.”

    A father piggybacks his sleepy child during the New Zealand solidarity protest for Palestine in Auckland’s Viaduct today. Image: Asia Pacific Report

    Article by AsiaPacificReport.nz

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Judge grants WA’s injunction request blocking Trump’s illegal order targeting trans youth and gender affirming care

    Source: Washington State News

    Judge grants WA’s injunction request blocking Trump’s illegal orders targeting trans youth and gender affirming care

    SEATTLE – A federal judge today granted Washington state’s request for a preliminary injunction blocking President Trump’s illegal orders to deny life-saving medical care to trans youth. 

    The action follows the judge’s previous grant of a temporary restraining order against the president’s action to withhold research and education grants from medical institutions providing gender affirming care to young people and prioritize potential criminal actions against providers.

    Judge Lauren King previously said the order “blatantly discriminated against trans youth” and would not likely “survive judicial scrutiny.” Judge King reaffirmed that ruling today. 

    “The president’s disregard for the Constitution is obvious and intentional,” Attorney General Nick Brown said. “But once again, states and the courts have stepped up to affirm the rule of law and the values that hold us together as a nation.”

    The state is joined in the lawsuit by the attorneys general of Minnesota, Oregon and Colorado. Three individual doctors also joined as plaintiffs in the case, bringing claims on their own behalf and that of the minors for whom they provide care.

    The states argued the order violates the 5th Amendment’s equal protection guarantee by singling out transgender individuals for mistreatment and discrimination.

    Additionally, Congress has already authorized research and education funding for medical institutions in Washington state, and the president cannot unilaterally overrule congressional intent. The president also cannot unilaterally regulate or criminalize medical practices in Washington state, which are protected by the 10th Amendment, states argue.

    In granting Washington’s preliminary injunction motion, the Court agreed that the plaintiffs were likely to show that the challenged executive orders violate equal protection and the separation of powers.

    The Court went on to firmly warn the federal government against baseless and “bad faith” threats to criminalize medically necessary gender-affirming care. The Court explained, “federal prosecutors and law enforcement are legally and ethically obligated to follow the law, and serious consequences could result from advancing a groundless criminal prosecution.” The Court went on to find that the record is “bereft of any evidence,” that any of the thousands of the licensed doctors and clinicians providing gender affirming care in the Plaintiff States could plausibly be accused of violating federal law.

    Work on this litigation is funded by the Attorney General’s Civil Justice Operating Fund, which is funded by recoveries made by the office in civil enforcement actions made on behalf of Washingtonians.

    Read more about the lawsuit here.

     -30-

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

    Media Contact:

    Email: press@atg.wa.gov

    Phone: (360) 753-2727

    General contacts: Click here

    Media Resource Guide & Attorney General’s Office FAQ

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China enhances publicity, enforcement of law on cultural relics protection

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

    BEIJING, March 1 — Chinese authorities have issued a circular aimed at promoting the publicity and enforcement of the Law on the Protection of Cultural Relics, the National Cultural Heritage Administration said on Saturday.

    A revised version of the law, which takes effect on Saturday, was adopted during a session of the National People’s Congress Standing Committee on Nov. 8, 2024, as part of the country’s efforts to strengthen the protection of its abundant cultural heritage.

    The circular stipulates that local governments should organize educational and promotional activities related to the Law on the Protection of Cultural Relics to comprehensively, accurately and completely understand the purposes and main content of the revisions of the law.

    Local authorities are also asked to carry out campaigns to strengthen awareness of the law, and to promote it in enterprises, schools, communities and rural areas.

    Efforts should be made to encourage all sectors of society to fulfill their obligation to protect cultural relics in accordance with the law, per the document.

    China has been placing increasing emphasis on the protection of its cultural relics. The country is currently conducting a national census of cultural relics, which is set to run through 2026.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cortez Masto Announces Sparks Elementary School Principal as Guest to Presidential Address to Congress

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Nevada Cortez Masto

    Jason Shipman is the Principal at Florence Drake Elementary, the highest-performing Title I school in the region 

    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) announced Jason Shipman, Principal at Florence Drake Elementary School in Sparks, as her guest to President Donald Trump’s 2025 Presidential Address to Congress on March 4, 2025. Under his leadership, Florence Drake Elementary has become one of the highest performing Title I schools in Nevada, receiving the 2024 Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA) Distinguished Schools award. Florence Drake Elementary was also recognized as a 2022 National Blue Ribbon School.

    Following reports that Elon Musk and the “Department of Government Efficiency” plan to eliminate or dramatically cut the Department of Education, students, teachers, and parents at Florence Drake Elementary School and at schools across Nevada face uncertainty. Dissolving the Department of Education would have devastating impacts on public schools, including the potential disruption of the Title I funds that support low-income students. Principal Shipman’s school relies on Title I to pay teachers, keep kids safe, fund classroom equipment, and support special education.

    “I’m the product of Nevada public schools – from kindergarten all the way to my time at UNR – and I know the difference a good education can make in a child’s life,” said Senator Cortez Masto. “As schools across the country face the potential cuts to critical federal funding, I won’t abandon our educators. I’m proud to work with Nevada leaders like Principal Shipman to ensure our students have everything they need to thrive.”

    “I am incredibly proud of the continued success of the students and staff members at Florence Drake Elementary School,” said Jason Shipman, Principal at Florence Drake Elementary School. “We are a Title I school, and the federal funding we receive provides crucial resources and supports to children living in poverty. I can relate to the struggles of our students, as my own family lived in poverty when I was in elementary school. I encountered barriers to my education, as Title I funding had not been established yet, and I saw how those barriers adversely affected many of my friends whose educations and lives were negatively impacted by their lack of access to education. Title I funding is the federal government’s promise to help reduce these barriers so all students have the right to access a free and appropriate education, and I am proud to play a part in helping each of our students find success in our school.”

    Senator Cortez Masto has delivered critical support to students and schools across Nevada. Cortez Masto’s legislation to increase the number of mental health professionals in schools was included in the bipartisan Safer Communities Act, which was signed into law. In addition, the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law included three of Cortez Masto’s bipartisan bills to boost transportation safety for students, expand internet access for both rural and urban schools, and update old school infrastructure. The Senator has also championed bipartisan Reaching English Learners Act to create a competitive grant program to fund partnerships between institutions of higher education and high-need school districts to provide training for new English-language teachers.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Booker, Duckworth, Blunt Rochester Urge Trump Administration to Reopen EPA Environmental Justice Office That Helped Most Disadvantaged Communities Solve Environmental and Public Health Challenges

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Jersey Cory Booker

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Tammy Duckworth (D-IL)—founding co-chairs of the Senate’s first-ever Environmental Justice Caucus—along with U.S. Senator Lisa Blunt Rochester urged EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin to reopen the EPA’s Office of Environmental Justice and External Civil Rights (OEJECR), which Booker and Duckworth led the charge to create, so the office can continue helping our most disadvantaged communities in rural, urban and tribal areas by improving access to clean drinking water, addressing legacy pollution that has led to higher cancer, asthma and death rates and more. Additionally, the Senators are demanding a more detailed explanation behind why the Trump Administration decided to abolish such a critical office and how the Administration is planning to ensure victims of environmental harm receive the attention, resources and protections they deserve.

    “The closure of this office which assisted underserved communities across the country leaves us seriously questioning your commitment to adhere to the Congressional appropriations process of the agency and address the impacts of pollution on communities in urban, suburban, and rural America,” wrote the lawmakers. “The 168 EPA staff placed on administrative leave were dedicated, trusted in their community, and worked to help Americans overcome the public health and economic effects of pollution. We strongly urge you to reinstate this workforce and to provide Congress and the American people a reasonable strategy to make their communities healthier and cleaner.”

    In addition to Booker, Duckworth, and Blunt Rochester, the letter is co-signed by U.S. Senators Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Chris Coons (D-DE), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Andy Kim (D-NJ), Ed Markey (D-MA), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Tina Smith (D-MN), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) and Ron Wyden (D-OR).

    To read the full text of the letter, click here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Arrest – Stolen motor vehicle and pursuit – Palmerston

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    The Northern Territory Police Force has arrested a 20-year-old male in relation to a stolen motor vehicle early this morning in Palmerston.

    Around 2:10am, a stolen Kia Sorento SUV failed to stop at a traffic apprehension along the Stuart Highway and a police pursuit was initiated.

    The stolen Kia collided with a light pole at the intersection of Roystonea Avenue and Temple Terrace before driver abandoned the vehicle and fled on foot.

    Strike Force Trident members located and arrested the 20-year-old male.

    St John Ambulance attended and conveyed the male to Palmerston Regional Hospital under police supervision for assessment and blood tests.

    The offender has been issued a Notice to Appear and will face court at a later date.

    Police continue to urge anyone who witnesses a crime or anti-social behaviour to make contact on 131 444.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Fatal Crash, Birch Hill Road, Loburn

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    One person has died following a two-vehicle crash involving a motorbike at the intersection of Birch Hill Road and Yaxley’s Road, Loburn, Waimakariri District.

    Emergency services responded around 1pm.

    One person was located in a critical condition but was unable to be resuscitated, and sadly died at the scene.

    The Serious Crash Unit has conducted a scene examination and enquiries into the circumstances of the crash are ongoing.

    The road remains closed, but should reopen shortly.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Serious crash near Pōkeno after driver flees police

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    A member of the public has been critically injured after a driver fleeing police crashed head-on into their car near Pōkeno this afternoon. 

    The crash occurred on State Highway 2 at 3pm, when the fleeing driver attempted to avoid road spikes that had been laid across the road and swerved directly into the path of the oncoming car.

    At around 1.20pm today, the stolen car had been observed on traffic cameras on Dominion Road. As a police car approached the stolen car, the driver began driving at high speed and on the wrong side of the road.

    Due to the manner of driving, Police did not pursue the car, but monitored it via Eagle helicopter as it travelled through surrounding suburbs, before heading south on the Southern Motorway, then on to State Highway 2.

    Officers deployed road spikes at two locations on State Highway 2 in an attempt to stop the fleeing driver.

    The driver successfully avoided the first set of road spikes. He also attempted to avoid the second set of road spikes, swerving into the opposite lane and directly into the path of the oncoming car driven by an innocent member of the public.

    The driver of that car suffered critical injuries and has been transported to hospital.  The fleeing driver also suffered critical injuries and has been transported to hospital.

    State Highway 2 is closed in both directions between Avon Road and Koheroa Road and diversions are in place.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Arrest – Serious domestic violence assault – Alice Springs

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    The Northern Territory Police Force has arrested a 24-year-old male in relation to a serious assault that occurred in Alice Springs early this morning.

    Around 12:30am, police received a report that a male had flagged down a vehicle travelling on Larapinta Drive to assistance his female partner that was injured and unconscious.

    The male allegedly nominated himself as the offender to the vehicle occupant before leaving the scene.

    Police and St John Ambulance attended and conveyed the 20-year-old female victim to Alice Springs Hospital for treatment where she remains in a stable condition.

    A 24-year-old male has since been arrested and remains in police custody.

    Investigations are ongoing.    

    Police urge anyone who may have been in the area at the time or who can assist with information relating to the incident to make contact on 131 444. Please quote reference number NTP2500021950.

    If you or anyone you know is experiencing domestic or family violence, please reach out on 131 444 or in an emergency call 000. You can also anonymously report through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. 

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI China: UN chief: US foreign aid cuts to ‘run counter to’ Washington’s global interests

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    The consequences of severe cuts in U.S. foreign aid will be especially devastating for vulnerable people across the world, and the move will “run counter to” Washington’s global interests, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres warned on Friday.

    Guterres said at a press conference that he is deeply concerned about information received in the last 48 hours by UN agencies and aid NGOs regarding severe cuts in U.S. funding.

    “These cuts impact a wide range of critical programmes. From lifesaving humanitarian aid, to support for vulnerable communities recovering from war or natural disaster. From development, to the fight against terrorism and illicit drug trafficking,” he said. “The consequences will be especially devastating for vulnerable people around the world.”

    Besides those hit-hardest countries, including Afghanistan, Syria, South Sudan, and Ukraine, the UN Office on Drugs and Crime will be forced to stop many of its counter-narcotics programmes, including the one fighting the fentanyl crisis, and dramatically reduce activities against human trafficking, Guterres told reporters.

    “Now going through with these cuts will make the world less healthy, less safe and less prosperous,” the UN chief said, warning that the reduction of U.S. humanitarian role and influence “will run counter to American interests globally.”

    Guterres expressed his hope that Washington can reverse these decisions based on more careful reviews.

    The U.S. Department of State announced Wednesday that it had slashed almost all of multi-year aid contracts after a sweeping pause on existing foreign aid last month.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Markey Slams Trump for Weaponizing FBI to Target National Climate Bank Funding

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts Ed Markey

    Senator is co-author of the provision that created the National Clean Investment Fund and Clean Communities Investment Accelerator

    Funds for programs have been frozen for past two weeks with no explanation from Citibank or the EPA

    Washington (February 28, 2025) – Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), a member of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee, today released the following statement after revelations that the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has been questioning the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) over the National Clean Investment Fund and Clean Communities Investment Accelerator. These programs, which are part of the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund, leverage private capital to cut energy bills for families and small businesses, improve resiliency against climate change-fueled disasters, and create local economic opportunity while combatting climate change. The affected $20 billion in funding was lawfully passed by Congress, based on Senator Markey’s National Climate Bank Act, and awarded to grantees around the country.

    Earlier this month, the head of the criminal division at the U.S. Attorney’s office in the District of Columbia, Denise Cheung, was pressured to find evidence of a crime as a justification for freezing the release of the congressionally approved federal funds for the National Clean Investment Fund and the Clean Communities Investment Accelerator. When Cheung declined to pursue an unwarranted criminal investigation due to insufficient evidence, she was forced to resign. Trump Justice Department officials then took additional unprecedented steps to formally freeze this funding—steps which were subsequently rejected by a federal judge and refused by other federal prosecutors. Now, the Trump Justice Department has sent in the FBI.

    “The Trump administration is carrying out a literal bank heist right now, and weaponizing the FBI to do so. First freezing funding, then cravenly searching for a non-existent crime, and now utilizing the FBI to target the climate bank is unfounded and is part of a broader effort by the Trump administration to dismantle the programs that keep Americans safe, healthy, and create jobs. A freeze on these investments would be, by far, the U.S. government’s largest confirmed financial seizure.

    “This kind of illegal and unethical witch hunt is McCarthyesque and shows the Trump administration to be both un-American and deeply worried about the power of clean energy and climate investments. Grantees are already starting to distribute funding to finance projects that will cut energy bills, improve resiliency, and create local economic opportunity around the country.

    “The FBI must immediately stop following the groundless, politicized directives of Trump and Musk and instead return to the important work of protecting the American people, not serving as Trump’s personal corrupt police force. And Citibank must immediately restart the flow of funds to recipients so they can continue to leverage private dollars for projects that will benefit Americans nationwide.”

    Following the passage of the Inflation Reduction Act in 2022, Senators Markey and Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) and Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (MI-06), the House lead on the climate financing legislation, welcomed the launch of the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund in April 2023.

    Since the start of EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin’s unfounded attacks on the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund this month, Senator Markey issued a statement urging Citibank not to give into fearmongering, wrote a letter to the Department of Justice Inspector General about revelations that Assistant U.S. Attorney Denise Cheung was forced to resign after declining to pursue a criminal investigation, and signed onto a letter with the entire Environment and Public Works Committee Democrats demanding answers from the EPA.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Whitehorse — Crime Reduction Unit arrests British Columbia man on warrants, locate drugs and a firearm

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    On February 27, 2025 police officers of the Yukon Crime Reduction Unit (CRU) arrested 48-year-old British Columbia resident, Christopher Munch, as he was wanted on warrants of arrest issued in the province of British Columbia. As a result of their investigation, CRU also seized drugs, cash, trafficking paraphernalia and a firearm.

    On February 27 at approximately 5:30 pm, a member of the Crime Reduction Unit observed Mr. Munch exit a vehicle and enter a business in the Whitehorse downtown area; it was known to the officer that Mr. Munch was wanted on two warrants. Mr. Munch was arrested without incident, along with another male and female who were in the same vehicle. The vehicle was subsequently searched as part of the ongoing investigation and officers discovered a quantity of what is believed to be cocaine and methamphetamine along with money and other items known to be used in the trafficking of illegal drugs such as scales and cell phones. A prohibited firearm was also found inside the vehicle.

    Mr. Munch, along with 37-year-old Robert Suffesick and 45-year-old Nadine Handel, both of Watson Lake, were charged with the following offences:

    Three counts of possession for the purpose of trafficking (cocaine, codeine and methamphetamine);

    Possess a loaded prohibited firearm;

    Possession of property obtained by crime.

    Additionally, Mr. Munch was charged with two counts of fail to comply with a release order.

    Mr. Suffesick and Ms. Handel appeared in court on February 28 and were released on conditions, while Mr. Munch was held in custody and his next court appearance is March 5 in Whitehorse.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Owner of Oahu Physical Therapy Clinic Sentenced to 9 Months in Federal Prison for Health Care Fraud

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    HONOLULU – Acting United States Attorney Kenneth M. Sorenson announced that Stephen Timothy Wells, 41, of Waialua, was sentenced yesterday in federal court by U.S. District Judge Jill A. Otake to 9 months of imprisonment followed by 3 years of supervised release for health care fraud. Wells, the owner of Oahu Spine and Rehab, a physical therapy clinic with locations in Kailua and Aiea, pleaded guilty to the charge on September 27, 2024. As part of his sentence, Wells was also ordered to pay restitution to TRICARE, a healthcare program for United States military service members and their families, and Medicare totaling $392,157.20.

    In his plea agreement, Wells admitted that from July 2013 through early 2020, he submitted false claims for payment for physical therapy services to TRICARE and Medicare. Wells used individuals not trained in physical therapy, including massage therapists, athletic trainers, personal trainers, and an individual who had no professional licenses or certifications whatsoever, to provide physical therapy services to patients. Wells admitted that he knew these individuals were not authorized providers and that he could not legitimately bill TRICARE and Medicare for physical therapy services rendered by them, even under supervision. Nevertheless, Wells billed the programs as though the services had been provided by licensed practitioners.

    “Tens of billions of dollars are lost to health care fraud each year, robbing Americans of vitally needed quality health services,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Ken Sorenson. “Over a nearly seven-year period, the defendant endeavored to bilk our nation’s taxpayer-funded TRICARE and Medicare programs out of as much money as possible. He diverted scarce program dollars from military service members and their families, as well as elderly and disabled Americans—some the most deserving and physically and financially vulnerable members of our society. Today’s sentence should serve as a warning to those who attempt to cheat our taxpayer funded insurance programs: you will be caught and when you are, a prison sentence awaits.”

    This case was investigated by the Defense Criminal Investigative Service, the Office of Inspector General of the Department of Health and Human Services, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, Office of Inspector General.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Mohammad Khatib and Rebecca Perlmutter prosecuted the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Cobra Gold 25 | Royal Thai Army, U.S. Special Operations Forces subject matter expert exchange

    Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND

    Facilitated by Joint Special Operations University, the bilateral exchange for Royal Thai Army Special Forces and U.S. Special Operations participants focused on knowledge of best practices through candid dialogue and iterative demonstrations of processes through hands-on exercises.

    CG25 has three primary events: a command and control exercise, humanitarian civic assistance projects, and a field training exercise to enhance readiness and foster responses to security challenges and natural disasters. Approximately 30 nations participate, with 3,200 U.S. personnel directly involved, underscoring the importance of cooperation and goodwill.

    JSOU’s focus is joint special operations education and has the mandate to support U.S. Special Operations Command Pacific. SOCPAC serves as the operational component command for all SOF missions throughout the Indo-Pacific region.

    The JSOU JPP academic SMEE prepared participants for aspects of special operations forces’ integration during the Cobra Gold command and control event. JPP is a method to determine the use of military capabilities in time and space to achieve objectives within an acceptable level of risk.

    “Having this academic SMEE as part of Cobra Gold 2025 demonstrates the importance both Thai and U.S. leadership place on cognitive warfare,” said JSOU senior mentor retired U.S. Army Col. Scott Malone. “As part of its Joint SOF charter, the university is uniquely positioned to facilitate operational collaboration and the exchange of strategic thought amongst Special Operations partner forces.”

    JSOU’s academic engagements enhance operational collaboration and strategic thinking among partner forces, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and adaptive thinking. Class discussion and group exercises were the primary means for the intellectual exchange.

    “The special operations professionals from Royal Thai Army 1st Special Forces Division and SOD-P collaboration nurtures a culture of continuous improvement and highlights adaptive thinking where knowledge transference and removing barriers to learning is paramount.” said Malone. “This SMEE on day one placing Thai and U.S. participants together in working groups heightens learning and promotes intellectual exchange. This immediate placement allows for each individual to gain a sense of ownership as the combined team is built and fosters unbiased exchanges of best practices as the week progressed.”

    SOD-P provides trained, prepared, and equipped augmentation to the U.S. Army Special Operations Command and SOCPAC.

    “This is an unparalleled opportunity for us to share our expertise with each other,” said U.S. Army Col. David Coughran, commanding officer of SOD-P. “Our focus is on strengthening our combined operational proficiency and leadership acumen, ensuring we are all prepared to handle any eventuality.”

    CG25 is a visible symbol of the U.S.-Thai defense alliance, demonstrating the U.S.’s steadfast commitment to maintaining the conditions for peace and prosperity. Enhancing critical capabilities and readiness enables each force to jointly address regional stability in the Indo-Pacific.

    The 44th iteration of this exercise exemplifies the longstanding alliance with Thailand and reflects the shared commitment to preserving a peaceful, prosperous, and secure Indo-Pacific region.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Oakland Man Who Worked As A Substitute Teacher Charged With Mailing Threatening Letters To East Bay Elementary School

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    OAKLAND – A criminal complaint was unsealed today charging Lester Dale Lee, 69, of Oakland, with mailing threatening communications to Dayton Elementary School in San Leandro.  Lee made his initial appearance in federal district court this morning.  

    According to the criminal complaint and court documents, Lee allegedly mailed threatening letters to Dayton Elementary School on three occasions in May 2023.  All three letters were sent in similar envelopes bearing the same typewritten address label.  On May 3, 2023, the school received a letter addressed to one of its teachers.  In the letter, Lee, posing as the parent of a student in the teacher’s classroom, allegedly used a racial slur to describe some students and threatened to shoot the students and teacher if the school did not remove the African American students from the class.  On May 18, 2023, the school received a second mailing that was addressed to the principal and contained an unidentified white powder.  On May 19, 2023, the school received a third letter that addressed to the same teacher as the May 3 mailing.  Lee again allegedly posed as the parent of a student in the class, used a racial slur to refer to students in the class, and threatened to shoot the African American students and the teachers if they were not removed from the school because he wanted “them all dead.”  

    Lee had worked through a staffing agency as a substitute teacher at numerous school sites within the San Lorenzo Unified School District during the 2022 to 2023 school year, including at Dayton Elementary School.  According to the complaint, Lee was terminated from his substitute teaching position in April 2023, following reports of conflicts between Lee and students at the elementary school.  

    Lee is next scheduled to appear in federal court on March 28, 2025 for a status hearing before U.S. Magistrate Judge Kandis A. Westmore.      

    Acting United States Attorney Patrick D. Robbins and FBI Acting Special Agent in Charge Dan Costin made the announcement.

    A complaint merely alleges that crimes have been committed, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.  If convicted, the defendant faces a maximum sentence of five years in prison and a $100 fine for each violation of 18 U.S.C. § 876(c) and 18 U.S.C. § 1038(a)(1)(A).  Any sentence following conviction would be imposed by the court after consideration of the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and the federal statute governing the imposition of a sentence, 18 U.S.C. § 3553.  

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Evan Mateer is prosecuting the case with the assistance of Amala James.  The prosecution is the result of an investigation by the FBI, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, and the San Leandro Police Department.

    Lester Dale Lee Complaint
     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Further appeal for missing man Geoffrey Kelly

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Police searching for missing man Geoffrey Kelly in Hikumutu are appealing for CCTV from the area.

    Geoffrey’s car was found empty on Friday 21 February on the side of Makomiko Road, and he has not been seen since.

    Investigators would like to hear from anyone on Makomiko Road or Hikumutu Road who has CCTV at their property.

    We are still also appealing for any sightings of Geoffrey between 21 February and now.

    If you can help, please call 105 and quote reference number 250222/1771.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Death – Domestic violence – Alawa

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    The Northern Territory Police Force has arrested a 31-year-old female in relation to a death that occurred in Alawa overnight.

    Around 9:40pm, the Joint Emergency Services Communication Centre received a report that a male and a female had been stabbed at an address on Alawa Crescent. The male was reported to be unconscious.

    Police and St. John Ambulance attended and located the 33-year-old male victim with stab wounds to his legs in a critical condition, and a 51-year-old female with stab wounds to her leg.

    Both victims were conveyed to Royal Darwin Hospital for treatment.

    Paramedics commenced CPR on the 33-year-old male victim who was later pronounced deceased in hospital.

    The 31-year-old female alleged offender was arrested at the scene.

    She is believed to be the male victim’s partner and known to the female victim.

    A crime scene has been declared, and investigations are ongoing.

    The offender remains in police custody with charges expected to be laid at a later date.

    Police urge anyone with information in relation to the incident to make contact on 131 444. Please quote reference number P25057858.

    You can report anonymously through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via https://crimestoppersnt.com.au/.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Two previously deported individuals charged with illegal re-entry

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    BUFFALO, N.Y. –Acting U.S. Attorney Joel Louis Violanti announced today that Manuel Alejandro Estrada-Gonzalez, 31, of Mexico, and Juan Carlos Castro-Cidcas, 44, of El Salvador, were arrested and charged in separate complaints with illegal re-entry after deportation, which carries a maximum penalty of two years in prison.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Aaron J. Mango and Charles M. Kruly, who are handling the cases, stated that according to the complaint against Manuel Alejandro Estrada-Gonzalez, on February 20, 2025, Estrada-Gonzalez was identified as a suspected illegal alien staying at the Buffalo Airport Inn in Cheektowaga, NY. U.S. Border Patrol Agents surveilled the area and located Estrada-Gonzales. He was arrested at the scene. A records check determined that Estrada-Gonzales was ordered removed by an immigration officer twice, once in January 2019,  and a second time in February 2019.

    According to the complaint against Juan Carlos Castro-Cidcas, on February 11, 2025, U.S. Border Patrol Agents were conducting surveillance in Cheektowaga. A records check of a vehicle parked at the Hilton Garden Inn came back to an illegal alien from El Salvador, later identified as Castra-Cidcas. On February 12, 2025, agents returned to the area to conduct further surveillance and spotted him getting into the vehicle. Agents approached Castra-Cidcas but he refused to exit the vehicle. He did exit the vehicle after Cheektowaga Police were called, at which time he was taken into custody. A records check determined that Castra-Cidcas was previously removed from the country in August 2010, and November 2019.

    Estrada-Gonzalez and Castro-Cidcas made initial appearances before U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael J. Roemer and were detained.

    The complaint is the result of an investigation by U.S. Border Patrol, under the direction of Patrol Agent-in-Charge Martin B. Coombs, and the Cheektowaga Police Department, under the direction of Chief Brian Coons.

    The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.

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    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Pacific – On Marshall Islands Remembrance Day, Greenpeace calls for nuclear justice and reparations from the United States

    Source: Greenpeace

    Majuro, Republic of the Marshall Islands, 1 March 2025 – Seventy-one years since the most powerful nuclear weapons tests ever conducted were unleashed across the Marshall Islands by the United States, Greenpeace is calling for the US government to comply with Marshallese demands for recognition and nuclear justice.
    On 1 March 1954, the Castle Bravo nuclear bomb was detonated on Bikini Atoll – the explosion 1,000 times more powerful than the Hiroshima bomb. On Rongelap Atoll, 150 kilometers away, radioactive fallout rained onto the inhabited island, with children mistaking it as snow.
    Today, communities continue to endure the physical, economic, and cultural fallout of the nuclear tests; compensation from the US has fallen far short of expectations for the Marshallese people who are yet to receive an apology; and the accelerating impacts of the climate crisis threaten further displacement of communities.[1]
    “The Marshall Islands bears the deepest scars of a dark legacy – nuclear contamination, forced displacement, and premeditated human experimentation at the hands of the U.S. government.
    To this day, its people continue to grapple with this injustice, all while standing on the frontlines of the climate crisis – facing yet another wave of displacement and devastation for a catastrophe they did not create,” says Greenpeace spokesperson Shiva Gounden.
    “But the Marshallese people and their government are not just survivors-they are warriors for justice, among the most powerful voices demanding bold action, accountability, and reparations on the global stage. Those who have inflicted unimaginable harm on the Marshallese must be held to account and made to pay for the devastation they caused. Greenpeace stands unwaveringly beside Marshallese communities in their fight for justice. Jimwe im Maron”
    To mark the Marshall Islands’ Remembrance Day, the Greenpeace ship Rainbow Warrior is flying the Marshall Islands flag at half-mast, in solidarity with those who lost their lives and are suffering ongoing trauma as a result of the US government’s nuclear weapons testing.
    The Rainbow Warrior is currently in transit to the Marshall Islands where a mission led by Greenpeace will conduct independent scientific research across the country, the results of which will eventually be given to the National Nuclear Commission to support the Marshallese government’s ongoing legal proceedings with the US and at the UN.[2] The trip also marks 40 years since Greenpeace’s original Rainbow Warrior evacuated the people of Rongelap after toxic nuclear fallout rendered their ancestral lands uninhabitable.
    “The immediate effects of the Bravo bomb on 1 March were harrowing. Hours after exposure, many people fell ill – skin peeling off, burning sensation in their eyes, their stomachs were churning in pain. Mothers watched as their children’s hair fell to the ground and blisters devoured their bodies overnight,” says Ariana Tibon Kilma, Chairperson at Marshall Islands National Nuclear Commission.
    “Without their consent, the United States government enrolled them as ‘test subjects’ in a top secret medical study on the effects of radiation on human beings – a study that continued for 40 years. Today on Remembrance Day the trauma of Bravo continues for the remaining survivors and their descendents – this is a legacy not only of suffering, loss, and frustration, but also of strength, unity, and unwavering commitment to justice, truth and accountability.”
    The new Rainbow Warrior will arrive in the Marshall Islands in early March. Alongside the government of the Marshall Islands, Greenpeace will lead an independent scientific mission into the ongoing impacts of the US weapons testing program. Travelling across the country, Greenpeace will reaffirm its solidarity with the Marshallese people – now facing further harm and displacement from the climate crisis, and the emerging threat of deep sea mining in the Pacific.
    Notes

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Serious crash, Loburn

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Emergency services are currently at the scene of a serious two-vehicle crash at the intersection of Birch Hill Road and Yaxleys Road, Loburn, Waimakariri.

    Initial reports suggest one person is injured.

    The road is closed, with diversions in place.

    Motorists are advised to avoid the area if possible.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Southern tier man going to prison for role in meth conspiracy

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    ROCHESTER, N.Y. – Acting U.S. Attorney Joel Louis Violanti announced today that Kenneth Turner, 36, of Hornell, NY, who was convicted of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute, five grams or more of methamphetamine, was sentenced to serve 96 months in prison.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles Moynihan, who handled the case, stated that Turner was arrested in December 2021, after law enforcement discovered a package sent from an address in Nevada to Turner’s residence in Hornell, contained approximately 111 grams of methamphetamine. During the execution of a search warrant at the residence, investigators recovered drug paraphernalia, as well as more methamphetamine.

    Sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Frank Tarentino, New York Field Division, the United States Postal Inspection Service, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Ketty Larco Ward, and the Steuben County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff Jim Allard.

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    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Jamestown drug ring leader going to prison for 25 years

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    BUFFALO, N.Y. – U.S. Attorney Joel Louis Violanti announced today that Rocco A. Beardsley, 39, of Jamestown, NY, who was convicted of narcotic conspiracy and distribution of fentanyl causing death, was sentenced to serve 300 months in prison by U.S. District Judge John L. Sinatra, Jr.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Joshua A. Violanti, Evan K. Glaberson, and Jeffrey E. Intravatola, who handled the case, stated that between late 2018 and March 2020, Beardsley conspired with seven others sell methamphetamine, fentanyl, and other controlled substances in the Jamestown area. On April 9, 2019, Beardsley sold acetyl fentanyl and fentanyl, which resulted in the death of an individual identified as J.A. After learning of J.A.’s death, Beardsley took steps to conceal his involvement in the drug overdose, including by directing others to destroy evidence from the death scene.

    Beardsley bought and sold fentanyl, and methamphetamine for profit and for his own use, utilizing social media to conduct his drug trafficking activities. Beardsley also utilized residences on Sampson Street and Cowden Place in Jamestown for his drug trafficking activities. During the investigation, law enforcement conducted five controlled purchases from Beardsley. In addition, Beardsley and his co-conspirators also participated in a series of money transfers in furtherance of the narcotics conspiracy.

    During the investigation, search warrants were executed at residences associated with the drug conspiracy, during which law enforcement seized approximately 100 grams of methamphetamine, 66 grams of fentanyl, 28 grams of cocaine, 4 grams of crack cocaine, a 12-gauge shotgun, and drug paraphernalia.

    Beardsley was previously convicted in Federal Court in 2007 of conspiracy to distribute crack cocaine and sentenced to serve 57 months in prison. In 2017, he was convicted in New York State Court of Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, and Narcotic Drug Intent To Sell.

    A total of seven defendants were charged and convicted in this case.

    This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.

    The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Frank Tarantino, III, New York Field Division, the Jamestown Police Department, under the direction of Chief Timothy Jackson, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, under the direction of Assistant Special Agent-in-Charge Bryan Miller, the New York State Police, under the direction of Major Amie P. Feroleto, and the Town of Ellicott Police Department, under the direction of Chief William Ohnmeiss Jr.

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