NewzIntel.com

Category: Security

  • MIL-OSI Security: Pittsburgh Resident Pleads Guilty to Sex Trafficking

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of conspiracy to commit sex trafficking by force, threats of force, fraud, or coercion, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

    Philip Walker, 39, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon.

    In connection with the guilty plea, the Court was advised that, from in and around November 2019 through in and around April 2022, in Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Florida, and Texas, Walker conspired to recruit and entice persons—namely adult females—knowing and in reckless disregard of the fact that means of force, threats of force, fraud, coercion, or any combination of such means would be used to cause those persons to engage in commercial sex acts.

    Judge Bissoon scheduled sentencing for May 29, 2025. The law provides for a total sentence of up to life in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, or both. Under the federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

    Assistant United States Attorney DeMarr W. Moulton is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

    The Federal Bureau of Investigation, with the assistance of the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police Narcotics Division, conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Walker.

    This prosecution is part of Operation T.E.N. (Trafficking Ends Now), an umbrella coalition for law enforcement, community, and non-profit partners in the 25 counties in the Western District of Pennsylvania. This coordinated effort aims to end human trafficking through education and improved cooperation across agencies and service providers, thereby enhancing the office’s ability to empower victims of human trafficking to become thriving survivors.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: United States Attorney’s Office Files Civil Forfeiture Action to Recover Proceeds of Cryptocurrency Investment Fraud Scheme

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    BOSTON – The United States Attorney’s Office filed a civil forfeiture action to recover 7.23918814 BTC (bitcoin), 14,120 USDT (Tether), 105.75351403 ETH (Ethereum) and several other cryptocurrencies, alleged to be proceeds of an online investment fraud scheme. The cryptocurrency currently has an estimated value of more than $170,579.

    In March 2024, an investigation began into a cryptocurrency investment fraud scheme that targeted a Massachusetts resident. In such fraud schemes, often called “pig-butchering” schemes, scammers obtain funds from victims using manipulative tactics. The scammer establishes a level of trust with a victim in online communications and then entices the victim into investing in a fraudulent cryptocurrency scheme. Often the victim is enticed to make additional payments before realizing they are a victim of fraud. The victim’s funds are stolen by the criminal, or criminals, ultimately causing the victim financial and emotional harm. Perpetrators behind these cryptocurrency investment schemes are often located overseas.  

    As alleged in court documents, a Massachusetts resident joined a Facebook Group called “Financial Independence Forum” that purported to be a “community dedicated to assist individuals achieve financial independence and early retirement through reliable investment.” After being shown screenshots showing “profit gains” and receiving message claiming expertise in investments and effective trading strategies, the victim followed instructions to create an account and transfer funds to a new trading platform that law enforcement believes was fraudulent.

    During the investigation, three additional victims were identified from across the United States who sent funds to the same allegedly fraudulent trading platform. Some victim funds were traced to a cryptocurrency account, which was seized in October 2024.

    It is a violation of federal law to use wire communications as part of a scheme to defraud or to obtain money or property by means of false or fraudulent pretenses. It is also a violation of federal law to conduct a financial transaction knowing that the transaction is designed to conceal the nature, location, source, ownership, or control of criminal proceeds. A civil forfeiture action allows third parties to assert claims to property, which must be resolved before the property can be forfeited to the United States and returned to victims.

    This is one of several civil forfeiture actions the U.S. Attorney’s Office has filed seeking to forfeit cryptocurrency traced to fraud schemes targeting Massachusetts victims.

    Members of the public who believe they are victims of a cybercrime – including cryptocurrency scams, romance scams, investment scams and business email compromise fraud scams – should contact USAMA.CyberTip@usdoj.gov.

    United States Attorney Leah B. Foley and Andrew Murphy, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Secret Service, Boston Field Office made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Carol E. Head, Chief of the Asset Recovery Unit is prosecuting the civil forfeiture action.

    The details contained in the civil forfeiture complaint are allegations. The United States Attorney’s Office has not filed a corresponding criminal action in the matter.
     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Memphis Man Sentenced to 270 Months for Sex Trafficking Conspiracy

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that MACEO ROBERTS (“ROBERTS”), age 25, from Memphis, Tennessee, was sentenced on February 12, 2025 before United States District Judge Susie Morgan for conspiring to commit sex trafficking, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1594(c).

    According to court documents, in about Summer 2020, ROBERTS told his co-conspirators, Dominique Peeples and Jeremy Talbert, that he was making a lot of money acting as a pimp, and offered to teach them how to be pimps, as well.  After Peeples and Talbert agreed, ROBERTS “gave” Minor Victim 2, a minor female born in 2003 who had previously performed commercial sex acts under ROBERTS’s direction, to Peeples.  Thereafter, Minor Victim 2 introduced Talbert to Minor Victim 3, a minor female born in 2003, who began performing commercial sex acts under Talbert’s direction.

    During Summer 2020, ROBERTS, Peeples, and Talbert travelled throughout the southern United States, including the New Orleans area, with multiple females, including Minor Victim 2, Minor Victim 3, and Adult Victim 1, for the purpose of having the females engage in commercial sex acts.  ROBERTS taught Peeples and Talbert techniques to oversee and advertise a prostitution operation, including the amount to charge.  ROBERTS also reminded them to keep all of the proceeds.  During this time period, including while in New Orleans, Adult Victim 1 engaged in commercial sex acts at the direction and supervision of ROBERTS, while Minor Victim 2 worked for Peeples and Minor Victim 3 worked for Talbert.

    In about October 2020, ROBERTS assumed control over Minor Victim 3, and required her, not only, to work approximately fifteen hours per day performing commercial sex acts, but also to give him all the money she earned.  ROBERTS beat Adult Victim 1 in front of Minor Victim 3 to show Minor Victim 3 the consequences for not following his instructions.  ROBERTS also provided drugs and alcohol to the victims to control their behavior.

    In about October 2020, Talbert recruited Minor Victim 1, a fourteen-year-old female, to engage in commercial sex acts under his direction.  In about late October 2020, ROBERTS, Peeples, Talbert, Adult Victim 1, Minor Victim 1, and Minor Victim 2 travelled to New Orleans, where they stayed for several months. During this time, ROBERTS, Peeples, and Talbert supervised the commercial sex work of Adult Victim 1, Minor Victim 2, and Minor Victim 1, respectively.  ROBERTS imposed rules and quotas that Adult Victim 1 had to follow and, when she did not meet those quotas or expressed reluctance, ROBERTS threatened to beat and shoot her.

    In January 2021, ROBERTS beat Adult Victim 1 so badly that she required hospitalization in a New Orleans area facility. After Adult Victim 1’s hospital discharge, ROBERTS and Peeples told Adult Victim 1 and Minor Victim 2 that they would bring them home to Memphis.  Instead, ROBERTS and Peeples drove them to Houston and forced them to engage in commercial sex acts until they finally escaped.  ROBERTS and Peeples then returned to Memphis to look for Adult Victim 1 and Minor Victim 2 to punish them for escaping.  ROBERTS located Adult Victim 1, hiding in a hotel bathtub, and choked her.  He also threatened Minor Victim 2.

    Additionally, in about late January 2021, ROBERTS met and began recruiting Adult Victim 2 to perform commercial sex acts under his direction.  Adult Victim 2 did so until about April 2022.  During that time, ROBERTS repeatedly beat, threatened, and victimized Adult Victim 2, including in November 2021 at a New Orleans area hotel.  In about April 2022, shortly before his arrest, ROBERTS punched Adult Victim 2 so hard that he shattered her front teeth.

    U.S. District  Judge Susie Morgan sentenced ROBERTS to 270 months’ imprisonment.  Judge Morgan ordered that this sentence be run consecutively to any sentence imposed on a pending case for attempted murder and robbery in Marion County Superior Court in Indianapolis, Indiana.   Judge Morgan imposed a fifteen year term of supervised release following imprisonment. ROBERTS was ordered to pay $666,000 in restitution to the victims.  ROBERTS must also participate in the sex offender registration and notification program.  In addition, Judge Morgan imposed a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.

    Peeples and Talbert previously pleaded guilty to sex trafficking offenses.  Peeples’s sentencing is set for April 9, 2025, before Judge Sarah S. Vance, and Talbert’s sentencing is set for March 12, 2025, before Judge Lance M. Africk.

    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.”

    The U.S. Attorney’s Office would like to acknowledge the assistance of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the New Orleans Police Department, and the Memphis Police Department with this matter. The prosecution of this case is being handled by Assistant United States Attorneys Maria Carboni of the Financial Crimes Unit and Jordan Ginsberg, Supervisor of the Public Integrity Unit.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Barrasso: Kash Patel Will Restore Transparency at the FBI

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Wyoming John Barrasso
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), Senate Majority Whip, today spoke on the Senate Floor ahead of voting to confirm Kash Patel, President Donald J. Trump’s nominee to be the Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).
    Senator Barrasso also discussed how quickly Senate Republicans are confirming President Trump’s nominees. The Republican-led Senate has now confirmed 18 of President Trump’s nominees. That is faster than the pace of confirmations under President Barack Obama in 2009 and President Joe Biden in 2021.
    Click HERE to watch Senator Barrasso’s remarks.
    Sen. Barrasso’s remarks as prepared:
    “President Trump’s cabinet picks are strong. Senate Republicans are confirming them quickly.
    “By the end of today, we will have confirmed 18 of President Trump’s nominees. These nominees are bold and well-qualified.
    “That is more nominees than President Obama had in 2009. It is more than President Biden had in 2021. More than twice as many.
    “Americans voted for a bold, new direction in Washington. Senate Republicans are delivering it.
    “Yesterday, the Senate confirmed Howard Lutnick to be the Secretary of Commerce. He will kickstart the Golden Age of American Manufacturing.
    “The Senate is also on track to confirm Kelly Loeffler to be the Administrator of the Small Business Administration. Kelly is our former colleague in the Senate. She will be a voice for Main Street America.
    “The Senate will soon vote on the confirmation of Kash Patel. Mr. Patel is the nominee to be the Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
    “The United States is seeing increased threats from terrorism.
    “The previous FBI Director told the Senate one year ago, ‘I see blinking lights everywhere.’
    “On New Year’s Day, 14 Americans were killed in a terrorist attack in New Orleans, Louisiana.
    “That is why the Senate must confirm Mr. Patel with speed and urgency.
    “Once confirmed, Mr. Patel will begin working to restore trust in one of America’s premier law enforcement agencies.
    “Today, regrettably, only 2 in 5 Americans say they hold a favorable view of the FBI. This must change.
    “Kash Patel will refocus the FBI on its core mission of fighting crime. He will reshape the Bureau so it is no longer a tool for political attacks. He will rededicate the Bureau to keeping Americans safe.
    “This is a uniquely qualified nominee.
    “Mr. Patel began his career as a public defender in Florida. He defended the constitutional rights of some of the most dangerous people in the country.
    “He later joined the Obama Department of Justice as a counterterrorism prosecutor. He investigated and prosecuted cases that protected our country from the most serious threats.
    “He received several awards for excellence for bringing terrorists to justice.
    “Mr. Patel saw the power of the FBI to keep Americans safe.
    “He also saw how the power of the FBI could be abused.
    “In Congress, Mr. Patel lead the investigation that exposed that the FBI was spying unlawfully on President Trump’s 2016 campaign.
    “Special Counsel John Durham’s investigation later backed up Mr. Patel’s side of the story. Durham found, ‘The FBI failed to uphold their mission of strict fidelity to the law.’
    “This abuse of power was a breach of Americans’ trust in the FBI.
    “Kash Patel will restore trust by returning the FBI to its core mission of investigating and fighting crime.
    “At his confirmation hearing, he said he will work to cut in half the number of rapes, drug overdoses, and homicides in our country.
    “This is something that every law-abiding American should welcome.
    “For Democrats, however, this is apparently unacceptable. They claim Mr. Patel wants to weaponize government. That is blatantly false.
    “It was Democrats who turned the FBI into a political attack dog against their political opponents.
    “The FBI pressured social media companies to censor the Hunter Biden Laptop story.
    “It partnered with Joe Biden’s Department of Justice in the targeting of concerned parents who protested woke school board meetings.
    “It targeted Catholics as domestic terrorists and spied on them at church.
    “It put politics and personal gain over service to the country.
    “Mr. Patel will end the weaponization and restore transparency.
    “He believes that crime is bad, that two tiers of justice is unacceptable, and that equal justice under the law is good.
    “To Democrats, that’s taboo. To the rest of the country, it’s common sense.
    “Americans want the FBI to fight crime. Kash Patel is the man to do it.
    “If you want to defend our constitutional rights, confirm Kash Patel.
    “If you want justice and accountability, confirm Kash Patel. If you want to keep our communities safe, confirm Kash Patel.
    “Mr. Patel is a man of integrity and fidelity to the rule of law. I look forward to confirming him.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Photos/Video: Kaine, Heinrich, and Environmental Leaders Hold Press Conference on Trump’s War on Affordable, American-Made Energy

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Virginia Tim Kaine

    FULL VIDEO OF THE PRESS CONFERENCE IS AVAILABLE HERE.

    PHOTOS & VIDEO OF KAINE ARE AVAILABLE HERE.

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Tim Kaine (D-VA) and Martin Heinrich (D-NM) and environmental leaders held a press conference calling for the end of President Trump’s war on affordable, American-made energy, which will raise energy costs for Americans and kill high-quality jobs. The senators were joined by Natural Resources Defense Council’s Senior Vice President of Climate Jackie Wong, Sierra Club’s Executive Director Ben Jealous, and League of Conservation Voters’ Senior Vice President of Government Affairs Tiernan Sittenfeld.

    In the hours following his inauguration on January 20, 2025, President Trump signed a slew of executive orders, including the national energy emergency order, to withdraw support for renewable energy—despite its benefits to America’s economy and environment—and grant his administration new powers to promote fossil fuels at the cost of bedrock environmental laws. Kaine and Heinrich introduced legislation to terminate the national energy emergency President Trump declared. The legislation is privileged, meaning that the Senate will be required to vote on it. The vote is expected next week.

    “We are producing more energy now than at any other point in our history, and the U.S. is the envy of the world when it comes to energy innovation and production. The passage of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and Inflation Reduction Act have accelerated clean energy projects and created jobs, and we are on an amazing trajectory,” said Senator Kaine. “Trump’s sham emergency threatens to screw all of that up. Why? Because he’d rather benefit Big Oil and suspend environmental protections than lower costs and create jobs for the American people. I hope my colleagues will join me in voting to terminate President Trump’s emergency.”

    “America is producing more energy than ever before including both conventional and renewable sources. This is happening because of the year-over-year certainty Democrats created with tax structures and permitting that has allowed us to make solar, wind, and energy storage cheaper, faster, and less capital intensive to add to the electric grid. We made it possible to build big things in American once again,” said Senator Heinrich, Ranking Member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee. “But now, Trump’s fake emergency declaration is causing enormous uncertainty. If you’re thinking about opening a new factory, you don’t know what your tax structure will be in the next 12 months. If you’re trying to site and build a new transmission line, the federal agencies you work with just had a ton of their expert staff sacked, making it more difficult to get a permit. This is going to kill skilled trades jobs and drive up the cost of your electricity bills by as much at $480 a year by 2030. Trump’s war on affordable, American-made energy is killing jobs and raising costs on working families.”

    “Trump falsely declared an energy emergency as a pretext to assert authority he lacks and to justify a raft of actions meant to lock us into decades more dependence on the fossil fuels that are driving the climate crisis. There is no energy emergency. There is a climate emergency. Trump’s actions will make it worse,” said Jackie Wong, Senior Vice President for Climate and Energy, Natural Resources Defense Council.

    “In the last four years, if you’re under 52, you’ve seen something happen for the first time in your adult life, which is America opening big new factories from coast to coast to give birth to big new industries,” said Ben Jealous, Executive Director of the Sierra Club. “Trump threatened the jobs of 77,000 workers in the wind industry on day one, sent shockwaves through their families and communities, and threatened to derail the United States from seizing the greatest economic opportunity on Planet Earth right now. Donald Trump’s objective here is to cut taxes and allow fossil fuel industries to continue to destroy beautiful places across this country in the interest of greed when we’ve got a better alternative. It’s time for our country’s people to rise up and demand the President of the United States put their interests first.”

    “We are NOT in an energy emergency. In fact, Trump inherited a thriving clean energy economy with more than 400,000 new jobs and more cheaper and cleaner energy than ever before. Yet Trump and Musk are desperate to impound, freeze, and repeal the very clean energy investments that lower energy bills and create jobs – the majority of which are in districts currently represented by Republicans – so they can pay for tax cuts for their billionaire buddies. Trump and Musk are firing civil servants who help keep our electricity grid safe and secure and gutting clean energy industries that employ thousands of other workers. And Trump and Musk are threatening our air and water and pushing to open up our most precious public lands for permanent destruction so Trump can make good on his promise to Big Oil CEOs to drill, drill, drill,” said Tiernan Sittenfeld, LCV SVP for Government Affairs.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: What is social justice and how is the UN helping to make it a reality worldwide?

    Source: United Nations 2

    Human Rights

    In recent years, the term “social justice” has become a significant part of public discourse, often invoked in discussions about equality, human rights, and societal reforms. But what exactly does social justice mean, and why is it so important?

    The United Nations supports the principle in multiple ways, from addressing economic inequality to access to education, healthcare, and the protection of human rights, with the aim of creating a world where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

    Social justice is for everyone, which is why the UN pays attention to the needs of particularly marginalized and vulnerable communities, such as refugees, indigenous peoples and those living with disabilities.

    Social justice encompasses a wide range of issues which are highlighted as part of World Day of Social Justice marked annually on 20 February.

    Equity, solidarity, human rights

    The UN definition of social justice is “an underlying principle for peaceful and prosperous coexistence within and among nations.” This can be interpreted as a world in which societies are based on the principles of equality and solidarity, understand and value human rights, and recognize the dignity of every human being.

    The five key principles of social justice are often defined as:

    • the recognition that different people have different needs and circumstances (equity),
    • ensuring that everyone has access to the resources and opportunities they need to succeed (access),
    • enabling all individuals to play in role in the political, economic and social life of the communities (participation),
    • protecting the human rights of all individuals (rights) and
    • valuing and respecting differences between people, such as race, gender, and sexual orientation (diversity).

    Social justice is a cornerstone of the United Nations’ mission to promote peace, security, and human rights worldwide and is enshrined in the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, an international blueprint for peace and prosperity.

    The Agenda is broken down into 17 ambitious Goals, which are due to be achieved in the next five years. Some progress has been made, particularly on the reduction of extreme poverty, and improved access to essential health services, but overall they are not on track.

    However, the Goals have been useful in providing UN Member States with clear, objective targets designed to improve the lives of their citizens.

    UN News/Daniel Dickinson

    The Sustainable Development Goals form the bedrock of social justice.

    Promoting decent work

    One of the primary ways the UN supports social justice is through the promotion of decent work and economic opportunities.

    The International Labour Organization (ILO), a specialized UN agency, plays a crucial role in this area. The ILO‘s Decent Work Agenda focuses on creating jobs, guaranteeing rights at work, extending social protection, and promoting social dialogue.

    By advocating for fair wages, safe working conditions, and the elimination of forced labour and child labour, the ILO helps ensure that workers worldwide are treated with dignity and respect.

    © ILO/Shaun Chitsiga

    A banana grower harvests his crop in Manicaland, Zimbabwe.

    The promotion of decent work is one of the Sustainable Development Goals of the 2030 Agenda: Goal 8 (SDG 8) calls for the promotion of inclusive and sustainable economic growth, employment and decent work for all.

    Advancing gender equality

    Gender equality is another critical aspect of social justice that the UN actively promotes. It is a fundamental human right and is critical to a healthy society.

    UN Women, the United Nations entity dedicated to gender equality and the empowerment of women, works to eliminate discrimination against women and girls, empower women, and achieve gender equality, through initiatives such as the HeForShe campaign and the Spotlight Initiative.

    © UNFPA/Mbuto Machil

    A community activist in Cabo Delgado, Mozambique provides information on preventing child marriage and gender-based violence.

    SDG 5 calls for the achievement of gender equality and the empowerment of all women and girls: UN-backed commitments have seen declines in some problem areas, such as child marriage and female genital mutilation (FGM), but many women and girls continue to face barriers to their economic and social empowerment.

    Ensuring access to education

    Despite some recent progress in the percentage of students attaining a basic education, an estimated 300 million children and young people will still lack basic numeracy and literacy skills by 2030.

    © UNICEF

    Students in Chhattisgarh, India, attend a robotics class.

    Education is a powerful tool for reducing inequalities, reaching gender equality and achieving social justice, and the UN is committed to reaching SDG 4, which focuses on ensuring inclusive and equitable quality education and promoting lifelong learning opportunities for all.

    The UN also supports educational and training programmes aim to build tolerance, understanding, and resilience among young people, helping them become advocates for social justice.

    Protecting human rights

    The protection of human rights is at the heart of the UN’s mission, and one of its greatest accomplishments is the drafting and adoption of the groundbreaking Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which paved the way for a comprehensive body of human rights law.

    The Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) works to promote and protect the human rights of all people, monitoring and reporting human rights violations, providing technical assistance to governments, and supporting the work of human rights defenders.

    The work of the OHCHR is crucial in ensuring that individuals can live free from discrimination, violence, and oppression.

    © WHO/Anna Kari

    The SDGs focus on eliminating poverty and providing people with opportunities to prosper.

    • Since 2008 World Day of Social Justice has been celebrated annually on 20 February, following a declaration by the General Assembly.
    • The Day was created as a reminder of the need to build a fairer and more equitable world, and to combat unemployment, social exclusion and poverty.
    • This year’s theme is “Strengthening a just transition for a sustainable future,” acknowledging the need to ensure that the move towards low-carbon economies benefits everyone, especially the most vulnerable.
    • The International Labour Organization (ILO) is marking the occasion with a series of events held in major cities around the world.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Fatal crash, Kaingaroa

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    One person has died following a crash in Kaingaroa last night.

    Police were notified at about 10.40pm that a vehicle had crashed on State Highway 10.

    Unfortunately, the driver was pronounced deceased at the scene.

    No other vehicles were involved.

    Enquiries into the circumstances of the crash are underway.

    ENDS.

    Holly McKay/NZ Police

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Serious crash at Angle Vale

    Source: South Australia Police

    Emergency services are at the scene of a serious crash at Angle Vale.

    The collision occurred at the intersection of Angle Vale Road and Riverbanks Road, Angle Vale.

    Riverbanks Road is closed in both directions.  Angle Vale Road is also closed for eastbound traffic, however, westbound is open.

    Motorists are asked to avoid the area if possible.

    Major Crash officers are attending the scene to assist with the investigation into the crash.

    Anyone who witnessed this incident or has dashcam footage that may assist the investigation is asked to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or online at www.crimestopperssa.com.au

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Animal Rights – SAFE renews call for rodeo ban following four deaths – SAFE

    Source: SAFE For Animals

    SAFE renews call for rodeo ban following four deaths
    SAFE is once again urging the Government to ban rodeo following the deaths of four animals so far this summer – deaths that could have been prevented had the Government acted on long overdue animal welfare reforms.
    SAFE Campaign Manager Emily Hall says animals used in rodeo events endure extreme physical and psychological trauma, and these recent deaths further illustrate the inherent cruelty of rodeo.
    “Over the past two months, we’ve seen animals die from lameness, dislocated limbs, and other severe injuries – all in the name of entertainment,” says Hall.
    “The pain and torment these animals endure is absolutely appalling.”
    Despite drafting a revised rodeo code of welfare two years ago, the National Animal Welfare Advisory Committee (NAWAC) and the Government have failed to progress it. SAFE believes that, as a result, New Zealand’s animal welfare laws remain disconnected from the brutal reality of rodeo practices.
    “The Animal Welfare Act states that the physical handling of animals must minimise the likelihood of unnecessary pain and distress, yet rodeo practices depend on force and rough handling,” says Hall.
    SAFE says releasing the revised code of welfare is urgently needed to allow New Zealanders to have their say on rodeo events, aligning it with both the Animal Welfare Act and public expectations.
    “The release of this revised code will allow Kiwis to voice their opinion on the future of cruel rodeo events” says Hall. “Public consultation is the vital next step.”
    Yesterday, SAFE took further action by placing an ad in The Post and billboards in Wellington calling for immediate Government intervention on rodeo.
    “The abuse of animals in rodeo must end, and NAWAC and Minister Hoggard need to take immediate action to progress the revised code of welfare,” says Hall.
    “It is high time Kiwis had their say on the future of rodeo.”
    SAFE is Aotearoa’s leading animal rights organisation.
    We’re creating a future that ensures the rights of animals are respected. Our core work empowers society to make kinder choices for ourselves, animals and our planet.
    Notes for the editor:
    • Information on the four deaths; The first fatality was of a horse rendered lame following the Taupō rodeo on 29 December who was killed the following day. The second death on December 30 occurred at the Te Anau rodeo, where a three-year-old bull’s hind leg was dislocated during the bull riding event. He was killed on-site. A steer then died prior to the Oruru Valley event on 3 January after being transported from the Warkworth and Far North events. The fourth fatality occurred at the Mad Bull rodeo in Otago on 2 February where a bull died after being ridden the previous day.
    • SAFE’s February 20th Post Ad is attached.
    • Visit SAFE’s website to learn more about our campaign and view our submission form calling on NAWAC and the Animal Welfare Minister to release the draft rodeo code for public consultation. ( https://safe.org.nz/take-action/rodeo-cruelty/ )
    • Whilst vets are required to be on-site at all rodeo events, rodeo clubs are not obliged to report injuries or deaths sustained during events.
    • In July 2022, SAFE and the New Zealand Animal Law Association (NZALA) jointly contested rodeo in the High Court. The court ruled that the National Animal Welfare Advisory Committee (NAWAC) must determine appropriate animal welfare guidelines. However, neither NAWAC nor Andrew Hoggard have provided a justification for the significant delay on the revised rodeo code of welfare.  

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: King Scorns “Thoughtful” Cuts at VA, Impacting Veterans’ Benefits

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Maine Angus King

    WASHINGTON, D.C.— Today, U.S. Senator Angus King (I-ME) scorned the recent firing of one thousands employees at the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) across throughout the country as having a detrimental impact on veterans and their ability to access their earned benefits. In a hearing of the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee (SVAC), King also questioned the Honorable Paul Lawrence Ph.D., nominee to be Deputy Secretary of Veterans Affairs, on his support for these cuts and how he will work within the department to ensure that veterans are not victims of the VA’s quest to “reduce inefficiencies” – and rely solely on new technology – across the federal government.

    “On the layoffs, here is the problem. You have testified, and the press release has been, that this is done in a thoughtful way with reviews. I am a great advocate of Ronald Reagan’s admonition ‘trust but verify.’ I would like to see some data that verifies that that took place. It is hard for me to believe that 1000 people were laid off in a matter of weeks with the kind of thoughtful process that you are defining,” Senator King said, before posing a question that quoted Project 2025 (italicized). “The next administration should explore how reviews would be accelerated with clearance from OMB to target significant cost savings from revising disability rating awards.’ That is a change of benefits. For future claimants, and listen to this, ‘while preserving them fully or partially for existing claimants.’”

    Senator King continued, “Partially is a pregnant term. That means you are talking about potentially reducing benefits for people who are getting them now…the phrase ‘preserving benefits fully or partially for existing claimants’ is not very reassuring to the veterans of this country.”

    Senator King then questioned the nominee on his support for AI in reviewing veterans claims, noting that AI is a tool, but cannot be used as a medical decision maker when lives are at stake — by again quoting Project 2025 (in italics)

    “One is a suggestion for the VA to increase automation. ‘The best way to provide benefits more faster and more accurately is by using technology to perform most of the work.’ We are already learning in the private sector through insurance companies that giving AI the decision about making these kind of decisions does not work well. Do you think increased use of technology and artificial intelligence in claims processing is a good idea?” King asked.

    Dr. Lawrence responded, “Thank you for the question, Senator. If you noticed it said most of the work. The way the claim comes about is that there is a lot of work where you gather information and it is called development. That’s what takes so long, getting the veterans’ information in front of someone to make a decision. Technology can be used to gather the information faster. So, a government employee and a claims adjudicator can make the decision.”

    King asked again, “You are testifying that you are not talking about AI making the decision but simply automating the collection of data?”

    “It is called development. That is correct. The decision should be made by an individual, a V.A. employee as required by law. But also to bring judgment into things. I think technology is great but it is not the end all be all,” Dr. Lawrence concluded.

    Representing one of the states with the highest rates of military families and veterans per capita, Senator King has been a staunch advocate for America’s servicemembers and veterans. Last year, he led the bipartisan Military Spouse Employment Act — pieces of which passed into law in the FY2024 NDAA — which allows military spouses to have a remote work career with any federal agency and helps them to maintain consistent employment should they move with their spouse. He also introduced the Improving Access to Prenatal Care for Military Families Act to expand military family care to cover critical health care during pregnancies. Most recently, he joined the bipartisan Fairness for Servicemembers and their Families Act to improve financial security for military families by ensuring life insurance packages for servicemembers and veterans adjust for increases in cost of living and inflation.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Bill introduced to extend term of acting conflict of interest commissioner

    Legislation has been introduced to extend the appointment term of the acting conflict of interest commissioner until the next conflict of interest commissioner can be appointed.

    Without the proposed legislation, the office will become vacant before the next commissioner can be appointed. Victoria Gray, KC, was appointed to the acting role on Jan. 6, 2025. The term expires 20 sitting days of legislative assembly after the appointment date, on April 7, 2025, as per the Member’s Conflict of Interest Act.

    The search for a commissioner is carried out by a special committee of the legislature through a process that takes approximately six to eight months. Typically, this process would have been already underway, but it has been delayed due to the 2024 provincial general election and interregnum period. Government anticipates that the special committee will be struck imminently and will begin its work shortly.

    The commissioner is an independent officer of the legislative assembly of British Columbia. The commissioner serves five-year terms and provides advice to members of the legislative assembly concerning their obligations under the Members’ Conflict of Interest Act. The commissioner’s primary roles are:

    • to provide confidential advice to members about their obligations under the act;
    • to oversee the disclosure process, including meeting with each member at least annually to review the disclosure of the member’s financial interests; and
    • to respond to allegations that a member has contravened the act and conduct an inquiry if needed.

    Gray completed a five-year term as commissioner from Jan. 6, 2020, to Jan. 5, 2025. She sat on the B.C. Supreme Court from 2001 until 2017, after 19 years of practicing as a commercial litigator in Vancouver and teaching civil litigation at the Peter A. Allard School of Law at the University of British Columbia.

    Learn More:

    For information about the conflict of interest commissioner, visit: https://coibc.ca/

    To read about the appointment of Gray as acting commissioner, visit: https://news.gov.bc.ca/31886

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Ecuadorian Man Sentenced for Conspiring to Introduce Misbranded Prescription Drugs in the United States

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    PHILADELPHIA – Acting United States Attorney Nelson S.T. Thayer, Jr., announced that Daniel Pinos, 30, of Ecuador, was sentenced today to one year of non-reporting probation and a $100 special assessment by United States District Court Judge John M. Gallagher for conspiracy to introduce misbranded drugs into interstate commerce.

    Pinos pleaded guilty last week to a one-count information charging him with that offense.

    Since in or about 2022, Pinos, an Ecuadorian dentist, made regular trips to the United States to provide dental care and prescription drugs in return for payment. Pinos did so even though he was not licensed to practice dentistry or prescribe drugs in the United States. Some of the drugs he dispensed while in the United States were shipped from Ecuador.

    On September 10, 2024, law enforcement encountered Pinos and seized misbranded drugs and medical and dental equipment.

    “In the U.S., we regulate health care and medications, to keep people safe,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Thayer. “Pinos understood that he wasn’t licensed to practice dentistry or provide prescription drugs here, but did so, nonetheless. This office and the FBI will continue to investigate such medical malfeasance and hold those who commit it accountable.”

    “The FBI remains steadfast in our commitment to protect our citizens and safeguard the integrity of our healthcare systems,” said Wayne A. Jacobs, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Philadelphia. “We applaud the hard work of the Allentown Resident Agency and our partners in this case and in their efforts to keep our communities safe.”

    The case was investigated by FBI Philadelphia’s Allentown Resident Agency and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney John J. Boscia.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Hartford Man Sentenced to 11 Years in Federal Prison for Drug Trafficking, Gun Possession Offenses

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Marc H. Silverman, Acting United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that LUIS DeJESUS, 30, of Hartford, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Michael P. Shea in Hartford to 132 months of imprisonment, followed by five years of supervised release, for narcotics distribution and firearm possession offenses.

    According to court documents and statements made in court, DeJesus’s criminal history includes felony convictions in state court for criminal possession of a firearm and burglary in the third degree.

    According to court documents and statements made in court, in 2022, members of the Connecticut State Police’s Statewide Narcotics Task Force – North Central Office conducted a series of controlled purchases of narcotics from DeJesus.  DeJesus was arrested on state charges on December 16, 2022, and, on that date, a court-authorized search of his Hartford residence revealed approximately 460 grams of fentanyl, approximately 90 grams of crack cocaine, nearly a kilogram of marijuana, drug processing and packaging materials, a loaded Glock 45 9mm handgun, a loaded 9mm magazine, and $52,579 in cash.

    The case was adopted for federal prosecution and, on March 7, 2023, a grand jury returned an indictment charging DeJesus with one count of possession with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl and a quantity of cocaine, and one count of unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon.

    After his federal arrest, DeJesus was released on a $100,000 bond and into home confinement at residence of a family member on Warren Street in Hartford.  On November 20, 2023, DeJesus was again arrested after law enforcement executed a search warrant at the residence.  As investigators entered the residence, DeJesus threw fentanyl out of a window.  A search of the residence revealed an additional quantity of fentanyl, a small quantity of cocaine, and drug processing and packaging materials.  In total, DeJesus possessed more than 490 grams of fentanyl on that date.

    On February 20, 2024, the grand jury returned a superseding indictment charging DeJesus with an additional count of possession with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl.

    DeJesus has been detained since November 20, 2023.  On October 17, 2024, he pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl, and unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon.

    This matter was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Hartford Resident Office and the Connecticut State Police’s Statewide Narcotics Task Force – North Central Office, with the assistance of the Federal Bureau of Investigation.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney A. Reed Durham.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Palmdale Man Indicted for Allegedly Producing Sexually Explicit Material Featuring Teenage Girls

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    LOS ANGELES – A Palmdale man is scheduled to be arraigned today on a 12-count federal grand jury indictment alleging he coerced two minors into producing and sharing with him sexually explicit content of themselves and enticed one minor to have sex with him. 

    Darius Desean Edwards, 21, of Palmdale, is charged with five counts of production of child pornography, five counts of receipt of child pornography, and two counts of enticement of a minor to engage in criminal sexual activity.

    Edwards, who was employed by Palmdale’s Department of Parks and Recreation until his recent termination, was arrested this morning and is scheduled to be arraigned this afternoon in United States District Court in downtown Los Angeles.

    According to the indictment, from October 2023 until December 2023, Edwards engaged in sexual conversations with a then 16-year-old girl and requested her to produce and share with him child sexual abuse material (CSAM) of herself. Edwards received at least one video from this victim depicting CSAM.

    In March 2024, Edwards communicated with a then 15-year-old girl and requested that she produce and share with him CSAM of herself. Edwards received at least one photo and three videos from this victim depicting CSAM.

    An indictment contains allegations that a defendant has committed a crime. Every defendant is presumed to be innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in court.

    If convicted, Edwards would face a mandatory minimum sentence of five years in federal prison for each count of receipt of child pornography, a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years in federal prison for each count of production of child pornography, and a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in federal prison and a statutory maximum of life in prison for each count of enticement of a minor to engage in criminal sexual activity.

    The FBI is investigating this matter.

    Assistant United States Attorney Lyndsi Allsop with the Violent and Organized Crime Section is prosecuting this case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Government meeting (2025, No. 5)

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    1. On the allocation of budgetary appropriations to the Ministry of Labor of Russia in 2025 from the reserve fund of the Government of the Russian Federation for the provision of another inter-budget transfer to the budget of the Kursk region

    The draft order is aimed at providing social support to citizens living in the Kursk region and who have lost essential property.

    2. On the draft amendments of the Government of the Russian Federation to the draft federal law No. 770471-8 “On Amending Article 5 of the Federal Law “On Biological Safety in the Russian Federation””

    The draft amendments propose to introduce changes that, among other things, provide for the granting of authority to the Russian Ministry of Health to establish the procedure for applying clinical recommendations.

    3. On amending the Resolution of the Government of the Russian Federation of June 19, 2012 No. 608 (in terms of amending the Regulation on the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation)

    The draft resolution provides for the Russian Ministry of Health to be empowered to approve a list of identity documents that can be used to establish the age of a person purchasing potentially dangerous gas-containing household goods.

    4. On the draft federal law “On Amendments to Article 8 of the Federal Law “On the Development of Small and Medium-Sized Entrepreneurship in the Russian Federation”

    The bill is aimed at specifying the list of support programs, information about the recipients of which must be entered by the bodies and organizations that provided such support into the unified register of small and medium-sized businesses that are recipients of support.

    5. On amendments to the Resolution of the Government of the Russian Federation of July 28, 2018 No. 884 (in terms of amendments to the Regulation on the Ministry of Education of the Russian Federation)

    The draft resolution is aimed at granting the Russian Ministry of Education the authority to approve a federal program of educational work for children’s recreation and health organizations.

    6. On Amendments to the Resolution of the Government of the Russian Federation of July 30, 2004 No. 401 (in terms of amending the Regulation on the Federal Service for Environmental, Technological and Nuclear Supervision)

    The draft resolution is aimed at clarifying the powers of Rostekhnadzor concerning the establishment of standards for permissible emissions of radioactive substances, as well as the approval of methods for developing these standards.

    Moscow, February 19, 2025

    The content of the press releases of the Department of Press Service and References is a presentation of materials submitted by federal executive bodies for discussion at a meeting of the Government of the Russian Federation.

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICE investigation leads to 8 criminal arrests and charges for Trinitarios gang members

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    BOSTON — An investigation led by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement led to federal charges unsealed against two dozen leaders, members and associates of the Trinitarios gang — a violent transnational criminal organization. An ICE Homeland Security Investigations-led a task force arrested eight alleged gang members early Feb. 19, and 22 individuals have been charged with federal offenses, including racketeering conspiracy in connection with six murders and 11 attempted murders. Two individuals, who were juveniles at the time of the alleged criminal offenses, have been charged by the Essex County District Attorney’s Office with murder.

    The charges are the result of a multijurisdictional investigation that began in the aftermath of four murders, and a series of attempted murders and shootings that took place in Lynn, Massachusetts in 2023, allegedly committed by the Trinitarios criminal enterprise.

    According to court documents, Chapters of the Trinitarios were identified in in Lawrence, Lynn, Boston and Haverhill. Trinitarios members in these cities allegedly undertake efforts to dominate their communities by intimidating rival gangs and establishing control over certain neighborhoods. It is further alleged that the Trinitarios do not hesitate to use violence, including murder, to further the organization’s goals and purposes. According to the charging document, these gang rivalries develop through personal enmity and disrespect between members of the rival gangs, competition over drug territory and customers as well as violent acts (such as robberies, shootings and murders) that have been committed by the gangs against each other in the past. It is alleged that these rivalries have become deadly and multiple murders have been committed by Trinitarios gang members.

    Specifically, ICE HSI’s investigation allegedly identified that the Massachusetts Trinitarios have committed at least 10 homicides in Essex County over the past decade and are believed to be responsible for numerous attempted murders, shootings, kidnappings and robberies. Sixteen members of the Trinitarios criminal enterprise in Massachusetts have been charged with six of these murders — two of which took place in Lawrence in 2017 and two double murders in Lynn in 2023. The remaining four homicides are being prosecuted by the Essex District Attorney’s Office.

    “Today the message should be loud and clear: transnational criminal organizations and foreign-born malign actors committing violent acts in our communities will never have refuge in the United States. We are working every day with our state, local, and federal partners to tackle transnational crime from all angles with all of the resources available to us to make our streets safer,” said ICE HSI New England Special Agent in Charge, Michael J. Krol.

    According to the charging documents, the Trinitarios are a hierarchical criminal organization, with positions that are known to exist at the state and local chapter level, whose members adhere to a code of conduct. Enmanuel Paula-Cabral, aka “Nelfew,” aka “Gordo,” aka “Manny,” allegedly serves as the State Supreme of the Trinitarios for Massachusetts, responsible for the entirety of the gang’s criminal activities, coordination with other state leaders and communication with leadership of the Trinitarios in the Dominican Republic.

    Paula-Cabral is also allegedly responsible for the Trinitarios Chapter operating in Manchester, New Hampshire as well the Trinitarios located in Maine, where the gang operates a lucrative drug-trade. Below the Supreme is a position referred to as the “Flag” or “Segundo,” which in Massachusetts is allegedly held by Ery Jordani Rosario, aka “Racacha.”

    The Massachusetts Trinitarios allegedly recruit new members among communities of legal immigrants and illegal aliens from the Dominican Republic — specifically juveniles in local high schools in Lawrence and Lynn. To curry favor with these new recruits, the Trinitarios allegedly appeal to their shared Spanish language and culture, Dominican patriotism and use the appearance of prosperity and brotherhood.

    It is further alleged that members are generally initiated into the gang after a period of observation or probation and are often inducted following the completion of a “mission” — which is generally a substantial act of violence such as shootings, beatings, or fist fights with rival gang members that were the same age or stature. According to the court documents, upon induction, new members are formally “blessed” into the organization during a formal ceremony, are administered oaths by the State Supreme and are awarded with ceremonial beaded necklaces. Younger members are allegedly tasked with lesser roles during many violent “missions,” including standing lookout during a shooting, holding or concealing weapons on behalf of full members and transporting weapons after their use in shootings.

    According to the charging documents, the Trinitarios endeavor to project power over the internet and social media allegedly producing music and music videos featuring members in Trinitarios colors and clothing holding weapons, cash and other items, as well as lyrics that boast about violence, drugs and other criminal endeavors as warnings and threats to other rival gangs.

    “As the court papers make clear, for well over a decade, Trinitarios gang members have engaged in brazen acts of murder, assault, and drug distribution — instilling fear in the communities of Lynn and Lawrence in particular. Today’s law enforcement operation has struck a significant blow against the leadership of the Trinitarios operating in Massachusetts — virtually dismantling an organization responsible for years of bloodshed, drug trafficking, and lawlessness,” said United States Attorney Leah B. Foley. “This enforcement action ends the Trinitarios reign of terror in Massachusetts. Today, our communities are safer with the removal of these alleged violent offenders from our streets, and where appropriate, from our country. This operation is a testament to the tireless collaboration among the dedicated members of our federal, state and local law enforcement agencies. Such shameless and senseless acts of violence have no place anywhere; especially not in any city in Massachusetts. If you threaten the safety of our residents, we will find you, we will hold you accountable, and we will ensure that justice is served.”

    “This operation is another example of how the FBI and our law enforcement partners work together to dismantle large-scale, violent transnational criminal organizations that cause chaos and death in our communities. We believe those arrested today — leaders, members, and close associates of the Trinitarios – have allegedly shown a reckless indifference to human life in order to control their turf, push their poison, and make money. There is no question our streets are safer because of this takedown,” said Jodi Cohen, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division. “The FBI’s North Shore Gang Task Force will continue to work on the public’s behalf to lock up these dangerous offenders who shatter folks’ sense of security and quality of life.”

    “Gang violence, as well as illegal gun and drug trafficking, have no place in the Commonwealth,” said Massachusetts State Police Colonel Geoff Noble. “Operations like this show the Massachusetts State Police is committed to working alongside our law enforcement partners to find those responsible for these crimes, arrest them, and pursue justice. Getting these criminals off the street makes Massachusetts a safer place to live.”

    “This investigation and the results represent the best of law enforcement partnerships. The residents of Essex County are safer today with the dismantling of this violent criminal enterprise,” said Essex County District Attorney Paul F. Tucker.

    “Today’s operation marks the culmination of an extensive investigation, demonstrating the strength of our collaborative efforts to combat gangs and violent criminal activity. These significant arrests will undoubtedly prevent further harm to our community. I want to express my deepest gratitude to our officers and our State and Federal law enforcement partners, the Essex County District Attorney’s Office and the Office of the United States Attorney for Massachusetts for their relentless pursuit of justice and for their commitment to making our city safer,” said Lynn Police Chief Christopher P. Reddy.

    “I commend the successful collaboration with the U.S. Attorney’s Office and Homeland Security Investigations,” says Manchester New Hampshire Police Chief Peter Marr. “By arresting multiple gang members involved in violent criminal activities throughout the region, we are reinforcing the commitment to making our community safer.”

    The charge of conspiracy to conduct enterprise affairs through a pattern of racketeering activity (also known as “racketeering conspiracy” or “RICO conspiracy”) provides for a sentence of up to life in prison, five years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. The charge of conspiracy to interfere with commerce by robbery (Hobbs Act conspiracy) provides for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000.

    The investigation was led by ICE HSI New England’s Strike Force, Massachusetts State Police, the Essex District Attorney’s Office, the Lynn Police Department and the Manchester New Hampshire Police Department. Valuable assistance was provided by ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Hampshire; U.S. Customs and Border Protection; Federal Bureau of Investigations; and the Andover, Boston, Franklin, Lawrence, Peabody and Salem Police Departments.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Missouri Secretary of State Denny Hoskins, CPA, Calls for Repeal of Burdensome Corporate Transparency Act

    Source: US State of Missouri

     

     

    For Immediate Release:   February 19, 2025

               

    Missouri Secretary of State Denny Hoskins, CPA, Calls for Repeal of Burdensome Corporate Transparency Act

    JEFFERSON CITY, MO – Missouri Secretary of State Denny Hoskins, CPA, has joined 19 other Secretaries of State in urging President Donald J. Trump to support the repeal of the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA), a federal law that places costly and confusing reporting requirements on small businesses.

    “The Corporate Transparency Act is government overreach at its worst—hitting small businesses with unnecessary red tape while letting big corporations and nonprofits off the hook,” said Secretary Hoskins. “Missouri’s entrepreneurs should be focused on growing their businesses, not filling out government paperwork under threat of fines or jail time.”

    The CTA requires millions of small businesses to report detailed ownership information to the U.S. Treasury’s Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN), with penalties of up to $10,000 and two years in prison for noncompliance. Meanwhile, large corporations and tax-exempt organizations—entities more likely to engage in illicit financial activity—are exempt from these requirements.

    The coalition of Secretaries of State highlighted the CTA’s flawed implementation, the lack of clear guidance from FinCEN, and the financial burden on small business owners, which is estimated to cost $145 million in compliance expenses nationwide.

    A bill has been introduced in Congress—H.R. 8147, the “Repealing Big Brother Overreach Act”—to fully repeal the CTA. Secretary Hoskins strongly supports this effort and urges lawmakers to act swiftly.

    “I stand with small business owners across Missouri who are frustrated, confused, and rightfully concerned about this law,” Hoskins said. “Repealing the CTA is the right thing to do to protect our entrepreneurs and strengthen our economy.”

    The full letter, signed by 20 Secretaries of State, has been sent to the White House for consideration and is attached to this release. Secretary Hoskins remains committed to advocating for Missouri’s businesses and cutting through unnecessary government bureaucracy. An additional editorial penned by the Secretary is attached for use.

     

    For more information, please contact: Rachael Dunn, Director of Communications, [email protected].

    About Secretary of State Denny Hoskins
    Denny Hoskins, CPA, was elected Missouri Secretary of State in November 2024. With a strong background in business and public service, he is committed to improving government efficiency, transparency, and supporting Missouri families.

    Final Jt. SoS Corp. Transparency Act Letter v20250214.pdf

     

    Repeal the Corporate Transparency Act to Protect Small Businesses
    By Missouri Secretary of State Denny Hoskins, CPA


    Small businesses are the backbone of Missouri’s economy. They create jobs, drive growth, and keep our communities strong. But instead of supporting them, Washington bureaucrats are making it harder to do business.


    The Corporate Transparency Act (CTA), passed in 2021, was supposed to combat money laundering. Instead, it’s a bureaucratic disaster that unfairly burdens Missouri’s small businesses while exempting big corporations and nonprofits.


    What Does the CTA Do?
    The law requires nearly every small business with fewer than 20 employees to report detailed ownership information to the U.S. Treasury’s Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN). If a business owner fails to comply—whether due to confusion or an honest mistake—they could face fines of up to $10,000 and even jail time.


    This means a family-owned restaurant in Kansas City, a small farm in rural Missouri, or a startup in St. Louis must navigate complex federal reporting requirements, while large corporations and tax-exempt organizations—entities far more likely to engage in financial misconduct—are exempt.


    Why Is the CTA a Problem?
    Since the law took effect, my office has been flooded with concerns from small business owners, accountants, and attorneys who are confused about how to comply. The federal government has provided little guidance, leaving entrepreneurs to figure it out on their own—under threat of steep penalties.


    Even worse, experts estimate compliance with the CTA will cost small businesses nationwide over $145 million in administrative expenses. That’s money and time that could be spent hiring workers, expanding operations, and serving customers—not filling out government paperwork.


    Repealing the CTA Is the Right Move

    I have joined 19 other Secretaries of State in calling on President Trump and Congress to repeal the CTA immediately. There is already a solution—H.R. 8147, the “Repealing Big Brother Overreach Act”, which would end this unnecessary burden on small businesses.


    Missouri’s small businesses should not be treated like criminals just for trying to make an honest living. It’s time to repeal the CTA and let entrepreneurs focus on what they do best—creating jobs and growing our economy.


    Denny Hoskins, CPA, serves as Missouri’s 41st Secretary of State, where he advocates for small businesses, election integrity, and economic growth.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Ohio Woman Sentenced to Prison for Insurance Claim Fraud

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    CLEVELAND – Angela Frase, 60, of Sterling, Ohio, has been sentenced to 24 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Dan Aaron Polster after pleading guilty to four counts of mail fraud for accepting insurance checks after she knowingly submitted false claims. Frase was also ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $327,072.

    Frase pleaded guilty to devising a scheme that took place from July 2 to Aug. 23, 2019, to defraud a homeowner’s insurance company. According to court documents, the scheme began when Frase called fire emergency services on July 2, 2019, and again on July 3, 2019, to report a fire in her home. Fire marshals were unable to determine the cause of the fire at the time. The insurance company then housed Frase and her husband at an extended stay hotel. An investigation later conducted by insurance company experts determined no evidence of electrical failure as the cause of the fire.

    On the morning of Aug. 6, 2019, the fire department responded to a natural gas leak at the Frase residence. Home remodeling employees entered the home to work on the damage caused by the fire but were forced to evacuate due to the strong smell of natural gas. The fire marshal later determined that the stove was turned on, filling the residence with explosive-causing levels of natural gas. Frase and her husband were the last people in the home prior to the discovery of gas and claimed to have locked the doors. There was no sign of forced entry.

    On Aug. 6, 2019, at approximately 10:43 p.m., Frase left her extended stay hotel room, drove to her home on Spruce Street in Seville, Ohio, and started a fire. Investigators later learned through her cellphone location data that she remained in the area of her home from 10:54 p.m. until 11:39 p.m. and then returned to her hotel room. On Aug. 7, 2019, at approximately 12:36 a.m., the Sterling Fire Department and Wayne County Sheriff’s Office responded to the home in reference to a fire and explosion. The Ohio State Fire Marshal later determined the cause of the fire was incendiary in nature. In addition to starting the fire, Frase spray-painted what appeared to be racial disparities on her own garage and vandalized her neighbor’s vehicle.

    On Aug. 11, 2019, between 9:30 and 10 p.m., Frase returned to her home and again spray-painted hate speech on her own garage. When a sheriff’s deputy responded and discovered the words, Frase told the deputy that she saw two suspicious individuals running through the field behind her property. Three days later, on Aug. 14, Frase called authorities again after she placed a stuffed doll painted black with a noose tied around its neck in her own mailbox. On Aug. 23, she once again contacted law enforcement to report that she found an envelope at her residence while walking around the property that had a racial slur written on it and inside was a plastic bag filled with an unknown white substance and the word “die.”

    From Nov. 1, 2019 to June 17, 2020, the insurance company mailed four checks to Frase for property losses and damages which she accepted. She was later charged with four counts of mail fraud for attempting to swindle money from the homeowner’s insurance company through intentionally deceptive actions.

    This case was investigated by the FBI Cleveland Division, Wayne County Sheriff’s Office, and Ohio’s Division of State Fire Marshal. Assistant U.S. Attorney Scott Zarzycki for the Northern District of Ohio prosecuted the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Dominican National Sentenced to 4 Years in Federal Prison for Fentanyl Trafficking Offense

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Marc H. Silverman, Acting United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that OVIDALIS JIMINEZ PUJOLS, 39, a citizen of the Dominican Republic last residing in New York, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Vernon D. Oliver in Hartford to 48 months of imprisonment for a fentanyl trafficking offense.

    According to court documents and statements made in court, in February 2023, the Drug Enforcement Administration arranged the controlled purchase of two kilograms of fentanyl from a wholesale supplier of narcotics with multiple distribution points in the northeastern U.S.  Jiminez Pujols and his co-defendant, Winifer Acosta Jiminez, were arrested on February 22, 2023, after they transported the two kilograms of fentanyl from New York to a meeting location in Milford, Connecticut.

    Jiminez Pujols has been detained since his arrest on February 22, 2023.  On November 26, 2024, he pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl.

    Jiminez Pujols faces immigration proceedings when he completes his prison term.

    Acosta Jiminez, who was released on $100,000 bond after federal arrest on January 31, 2024, removed her GPS monitoring equipment on July 31, 2024, and absconded.  She is currently being sought by law enforcement.

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

    This matter is being investigated the Drug Enforcement Administration, with the assistance of the Connecticut State Police and the West Haven Police Department.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Stephanie T. Levick and Nathan J. Guevremont through the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) Program.  OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations through a prosecutor-led and intelligence-driven approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies.  Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News: USS Thomas Hudner (DDG 116) Deploys to Fourth Fleet

    Source: United States Navy

    Thomas Hudner will deploy to the U.S. Southern Command Area of Responsibility (USSOUTHCOM AOR) to support bilateral and multinational maritime operations with partners in the region and conduct Theater Security Cooperation (TSC) port visits.

    “The crew of the USS Thomas Hudner is proud to answer the call for presence in USSOUTHCOM AOR,” said Cmdr. Cameron Ingram, USS Thomas Hudner Commanding Officer. “Our Team is ready to ensure maritime freedom of action in the Caribbean, protect our interests throughout the region and strengthen maritime partnerships.”

    Thomas Hudner returned to Mayport, Florida after an eight-month deployment to the U.S. Naval Forces Europe – Africa area of operations, Jan. 4, 2024. Thomas Hudner was assigned to the Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group (CSG). During the deployment, Thomas Hudner served as an air defense unit for the strike group off the coast of Israel, and worked closely with Allies and Partners on a variety of missions. Additionally, Thomas Hudner led a Surface Action Group comprised of Allied and Partner nations in the English Channel, designed to flex advanced Surface Warfare and Subsurface Warfare tactics.

    U.S. 4th Fleet employs maritime forces in cooperative maritime security operations in order to maintain access, enhance interoperability, and build enduring partnerships that foster regional security in the USSOUTHCOM AOR.

    USSOUTHCOM AOR encompasses 31 countries and 16 dependencies and areas of special sovereignty, including the land mass of Latin America south of Mexico, waters adjacent to Central and South America, and the Caribbean Sea. The region represents about one-sixth of the landmass of the world assigned to regional unified commands.

    U.S. Fleet Forces Command is responsible for manning, training, equipping, and providing combat-ready forces forward to numbered fleets and combatant commanders around the globe.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Marshals Arrest Violent Felon

    Source: US Marshals Service

    Gallatin, TN – A U.S. Marshals task force in Tennessee, working a collateral lead from the USMS in Georgia, arrested a man wanted in Cobb County, Georgia for a slew of felony charges.

    Darzell Thaddeus Wester, 27, was charged with armed robbery, aggravated assault (deadly weapon), aggravated battery, exploitation/ intimidation of elder person, and possession of a firearm during commission of a crime, and a warrant for his arrest was issued in the Superior Court of Cobb County on Jun. 14, 2024.

    On Nov. 15, 2024, the Cobb County Sheriff’s Office requested the assistance of the U. S.  Marshals Service Southeast Regional Fugitive Task Force with locating and apprehending Wester.

    Upon developing information that Wester was residing in the Gallatin area, the Southeast Regional Fugitive Task Force requested the assistance of the U.S. Marshals Service Middle Tennessee Fugitive Task Force.

    The Middle Tennessee Task Force located Wester at a residence on Turner Way in Gallatin. Wester was arrested without incident and taken to the Sumner County Sheriff’s Office jail where he was booked as a fugitive from justice and will await extradition to Georgia.

    Additionally, Wester has three outstanding warrants from Coffee, Robertson, and Dickson Counties in Tennessee. These warrants are for driving under the influence of alcohol, larceny, and fraud, respectively.

    The U.S. Marshals Service is committed to protecting communities by apprehending dangerous fugitives.

    The U.S. Marshals Middle Tennessee Task Force is a multi-agency task force that serves the Middle District of Tennessee. Its membership is comprised of Deputy U.S. Marshals, Putnam, Rutherford, and Sumner County Sheriff’s Deputies, Metro Nashville Police Officers, Tennessee Bureau of Investigation and Tennessee Department of Correction Special Agents, and the Tennessee Highway Patrol.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: New Orleans Woman Guilty Of Violating Federal Controlled Substances Act

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – Today, Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that KIANNA SCOTT (“SCOTT”), age 24, a resident of New Orleans, pled guilty on February 18, 2025, before United States District Judge Darrel James Papillion to use of a communication facility in causing and facilitating the commission of the distribution, and possession with intent to distribute, of fentanyl, heroin, and cocaine , in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 843(b).

    According to court documents, SCOTT used a telephone to assist another known individual in the distribution, and possession with intent to distribute, narcotics within the Eastern District of Louisiana.

    SCOTT faces a maximum term of imprisonment of (4) four years, a fine of up to $250,000.00, up to one year of supervised release, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.

    This investigation was led by the Drug Enforcement Administration – New Orleans Field Division Office, and assisted by the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, the Saint Charles Parish Sheriff’s Office, the Saint John the Baptist Parish Sheriff’s Office, the Lafourche Parish Sheriff’s Office, and the Harahan Police Department.  The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Lynn E. Schiffman of the Narcotics Unit.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Federal Grand Jury in Louisville Indicts 3 Illegal Aliens

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    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-OSI Security: Thibodaux Man Sentenced for Social Security Theft

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    NEW ORLEANS – Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that NATHANIEL HOPKINS, JR. (“HOPKINS”), age 48, of Thibodaux, Louisiana, was sentenced on February 18, 2025 to 3 years of probation by United States District Judge Jay Zainey after previously pleading guilty to Theft of Government Funds, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 641.

    According to court documents, HOPKINS’s wife, was authorized to receive Social Security Administration (“SSA”) Title II – Retirement Survivor Insurance Benefits from 2003 until her death in April, 2014.  From April, 2014 to January, 2024, HOPKINS illegally received benefits designated for his wife totaling approximately $144,176.43, after failing to notify SSA of his wife’s death.  He also accessed $3,200.00 in COVID-19/CARES Act stimulus funds from his deceased wife’s bank account.

    In addition to probation, HOPKINS was ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $144,176.43 to the U.S. Social Security Administration and $3,200.00 to the U.S. Treasury along with a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.

    Acting U.S. Attorney Simpson praised the work of the Social Security Administration, Office of the Inspector General.  The prosecution of this case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Edward J. Rivera of the Financial Crimes Unit.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: New Orleans Man Guilty of Commodity Exchange Act Violation

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    NEW ORLEANS, LA – Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced today that MICHAEL BRIAN DEPETRILLO, (“DEPETRILLO”), age 43, from New Orleans, pled guilty on February 18, 2025 to violating the Commodity Exchange Act, in violation of Title 7, United States Code, Section 13(a). DEPETRILLO faces up to ten (10) years imprisonment, up to three (3) years of supervised release, up to a $1,000,000.00 fine, plus the amount of any proceeds, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.

    According to court documents, DEPETRILLO was not properly registered as a Commodity Pool Operator (“CPO”) or an Associated Person (“AP”) of a CPO with the United States Commodity Futures Trading Commission (“CFTC”). DEPETRILLO, through various companies including, Meteor, LLC; NOLA FX Capital Management, LLC; ELC Enterprise Solutions, LLC; and Argosapolis, LLC, acted as a CPO and AP of a CPO and embezzled client funds in violation of federal law.     DEPETRILLO, while acting as an AP of unregistered CPOs, represented to victim investors that their funds would be pooled and invested in the NOLA FX FUND, that, in turn, would be used to trade foreign currency pairs on a leveraged, margined, or financed basis (“retail forex”).

    DEPETRILLO told investors that pooling their funds would be beneficial to them.  DEPETRILLO further represented, to certain investors, that either METEOR or NOLA FX CAPITAL managed the NOLA FX FUND.  In at least one representation, however, DEPETRILLO identified “NOLA FX Capital,” not the NOLA FX FUND, as the pooled investment vehicle.  DEPETRILLO lured investors by claiming he was investing their funds by trading in the foreign currency exchange, gold futures options, stocks, and cryptocurrency.  Instead of trading as promised, DEPETRILLO misappropriated pool funds.  DEPETRILLO then used these misappropriated pool funds to pay approximately $3,700,000 in “returns” to prior investors; approximately $575,000 on his own personal investments; approximately $425,000 on rent; approximately $200,000 on private air travel; and approximately $300,000 on online gambling, among other personal expenses.  To conceal DEPETRILLO’s misappropriation, he created and issued fictitious account statements in the names NOLA FX FUND and NOLA FX CAPITAL.  The fictitious account statements purported to show that: (1) DEPETRILLO had traded forex using pool participant funds, and (2) the NOLA FX FUND and NOLA FX CAPITAL had achieved significant trading returns for pool participants because of his profitable forex trading.  In fact, DEPETRILLO never deposited pool participant funds into trading accounts belonging to NOLA FX FUND or NOLA FX CAPITAL, and he never achieved the trading returns represented on the false account statements.  DEPETRILLO also did not set up the forex pool in the manner required by the regulations, did not receive pool participant funds in the name of the forex pool, and commingled pool participant funds with his own funds.  DEPETRILLO took in approximately $9.2 million in investor funds from approximately 55 victim investors during a seven-year period.

    Sentencing in this matter is scheduled for May 25, 2025, before United States District Judge Jay C. Zainey.

    The case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (“FBI”).  The FBI is seeking information that may help identify potential victims of DEPETRILLO’s fraudulent scheme.  FBI encourages the public to report any information to http://fbi.gov/depetrillovictims.

    The prosecution of this case is being handled by Assistant United States Attorneys Kathryn McHugh of the Financial Crimes Unit and Brian M. Klebba, Chief of the Financial Crimes Unit.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Lake Station Man Sentenced to 360 Months in Prison

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    HAMMOND – Matthew A. Bugielski, 26 years old, of Lake Station, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Gretchen S. Lund after pleading guilty to Sexual Exploitation of Children, announced Acting United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay.

    Bugielski was sentenced to 360 months in prison, followed by 15 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay restitution to the victim of the offense.

    According to documents in the case, on or about June 19, 2023, Bugielski produced a sexually explicit image of a minor by employing, using, and inducing the minor to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing a visual depiction of such conduct. Further, Bugielski distributed that sexually explicit image to others over the internet. On occasions separate from June 19, 2023, Bugielski distributed other images and videos of child sexual abuse materials over the internet to others.

    This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, with assistance from the Indiana Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, the Indiana State Police, the Indiana State Police Digital Forensics Unit, the Roanoke Police Department, the Huntington County Sheriff’s Office, the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department, the Lake Station Police Department, and the New Chicago Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Emily Morgan.

    The case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood. In 2006, the Department of Justice created Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from exploitation and abuse. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: 14 members of Bandidos motorcycle gang indicted for offenses including racketeering, assault and murder

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    HOUSTON – A 22-count indictment has been unsealed in the Southern District of Texas (SDTX) following an operation targeting multiple members of an allegedly violent, transnational motorcycle gang in the Houston metropolitan area.

    Current and former members of the Bandidos Outlaw Motorcycle Gang and Mascareros Motorcycle Club are charged for their alleged roles in a criminal enterprise engaged in violent criminal activity in and around Houston. The Mascareros is a support club of the Bandidos.

    Several of those are expected to make their initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Dena Hanovice Palermo at 2 p.m. Feb. 20.

    A federal grand jury returned an indictment Feb. 11 against 14 members and associates of the Bandidos outlaw motorcycle gang accusing them of various crimes, to include engaging in a conspiracy to commit racketeering activity and committing violent crimes in furtherance of the gang such as murder, attempted murder and assault. The indictment alleges the Bandidos are a self-identified “outlaw” motorcycle organization with a membership of approximately 1,500 to 2,000 in the United States and an additional 1,000 to 1,500 members internationally, including in Mexico.

    “Ensuring the safety of the public is SDTX’s paramount concern,” said U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei. “The indictment here not only alleges shocking crimes of violence, but also alleges that these offenses were committed openly and wantonly, where any innocent member of the public could have been hurt or killed.” 

    “Today’s indictment is an important step in eliminating the Bandidos Outlaw Motorcycle Gang,” said Supervisory Official Antoinette T. Bacon of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “The Bandidos declare war on rivals—and they wage that war on our streets. Criminal behavior like this has no place in America, and the Department of Justice is fully committed to bringing peace back to our communities.”

    The indictment alleges that beginning in 2019, a violent turf war erupted between the Bandidos and B*EAST, a rival outlaw motorcycle gang in the Houston area. As part of this turf war, Bandidos national leadership allegedly put out a “smash on site” order to commit physical assaults, including murder, against B*EAST members. The turf war has resulted in gunfire exchanged on public roadways and in public establishments with innocent civilians present, according to the charges.

    John M. Pfeffer aka Big John, 32, Darvi Hinojosa aka 10 Round, 35, Bradley Rickenbacker aka Dolla Bill, 37, all of Katy; Michael H. Dunphy aka Money Mike, 57, Cleveland; Christopher Sanchez aka Monster, 40, Tomball; and Brandon K. Hantz aka Loco and Gun Drop, 33, Crosby; are charged with conspiracy to commit racketeering activity. Pfeffer, Dunphy, Hinojosa, Rickenbacker and Sanchez are further charged with multiple counts of assault in aid of racketeering. Pfeffer, Hinojosa, Rickenbacker and Sanchez are also charged with using a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, while Sanchez faces charges of being a felon in possession of a firearm. Hantz is also charged with arson.

    Pfeffer, Hinojosa, Rickenbacker and Sanchez each face up to life in prison if convicted, while Dunphy and Hantz each face up to 20 years on each of their counts upon conviction.

    The indictment also charges David Vargas aka Brake Check and First Time, 33, Houston, with murder in aid of racketeering; using a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence resulting in death; attempted murder in aid of racketeering; and using, carrying, brandishing, discharging and possessing a firearm during and in relation to the attempted murders. All those charges relate to the killing of a rival and the shooting of two others. Murder in aid of racketeering carries a mandatory life sentence or the death penalty, if convicted.

    Further, Pfeffer and Rickenbacker are also charged with assault in aid of racketeering and using a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence  along with Marky Baker aka Pinche Guero and Guero, 40, Ronnie McCabe aka Meathead, 56, and Jeremy Cox aka JD, 37, all of Houston; Roy Gomez aka Repo, 50, Richmond; and Marcel Lett, 56, Pearland. These charges are in relation to an alleged assault and robbery that resulted in the death of a rival. If convicted, they face up to life in prison.

    Hinojosa is also charged along with John Sblendorio aka Tech9, 54, Houston, with conspiracy to commit murder in aid of racketeering, attempted murder in aid of racketeering, assault in aid of racketeering and using a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence in connection with the shooting of a rival gang member. Hinojosa is also charged with conspiracy to distribute cocaine and three counts of possession with intent to distribute cocaine. Sblendorio and Hinojosa each face up to life in prison, if convicted.

    In addition, Sean G. Christison, aka Skinman, 30, Katy, is charged with possession with intent to distribute cocaine and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. He faces a maximum penalty of life imprisonment. 

    The FBI, Texas Board of Criminal Justice – Office of Inspector General, Texas Department of Public Safety and Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office conducted the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation with the assistance of Harris County Sheriff’s Office; Houston and Pasadena Police Departments; Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission; LaMarque and Katy Police Departments; U.S. Marshals Service; Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; and the Cypress-Fairbanks Independent School District Police Department. 

    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.

    This case is being prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Byron H. Black and Kelly Zenón-Matos of the Southern District of Texas are prosecuting the case in partnership with Trial Attorneys Grace H. Bowen and Christopher Taylor of the Department of Justice’s Criminal Division – Violent Crime and Racketeering Section.

    An indictment is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence. A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Ariton, Alabama Man Sentenced to Prison for Gun Crime Committed While on Federal Probation

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

               Montgomery, Ala. – Today, Acting United States Attorney Kevin Davidson announced that 48-year-old Bobby Wayne Williams, from Ariton, Alabama, received a 51-month prison sentence for being a felon in possession of a firearm and for violating the terms of his federal probation. During the sentencing hearing on February 18, 2025, the judge also ordered that Williams serve an additional three years of supervised release following his prison sentence.            

               According to Williams’ plea agreement and other court records, during the summer of 2024, Williams was on federal supervised release and residing in Dale County after completing a 63-month prison sentence from a previous federal gun conviction. In June of 2024, law enforcement obtained an arrest warrant for Williams stemming from allegations that Williams pointed a firearm at his ex-girlfriend and her current boyfriend, then threatened to shoot them both. On August 14, 2024, a United States Probation Officer and deputies from the Dale County Sheriff’s Office conducted a home visit at Williams’ residence to execute the arrest warrant. Officers found Williams in possession of a handgun. Williams’ previous felony conviction prohibits him from possessing a firearm or ammunition. Possessing the firearm and committing a new crime also violated the terms of his supervised release. 

               The Dale County Sheriff’s Office and the United States Probation Office investigated the case, with assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant United States Attorney Russell T. Duraski prosecuted this case.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Detroit Man Sentenced To Over Four Years in Federal Prison For Participating In Multi-State Pandemic Unemployment Insurance Fraud Scheme

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    DETROIT – A man from Detroit, Michigan was sentenced today for his role in a multi-state, million-dollar unemployment insurance fraud scheme aimed at defrauding the U.S. government and the states of Michigan, Pennsylvania, and Maryland, of funds earmarked for unemployment assistance during the COVID-19 pandemic, announced Acting United States Attorney Julie A. Beck.

    Joining in the announcement were Special Agent in Charge Cheyvoryea Gibson, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Special Agent in Charge Charles Miller, Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation, and Megan Howell, Acting Special Agent in Charge, Chicago Region, U.S. Department of Labor Office of Inspector General.

    Tracey Dotson, 49, was sentenced to 51 months in prison and ordered to pay more than $900,000 in restitution in the sentence handed down by United States District Judge Matthew F. Leitman.

    According to court records, Dotson and a co-defendant conspired to, and did, defraud the federal government and the states of Michigan, Pennsylvania, and Maryland of roughly $1 million in funds intended to support individuals who had lost their jobs during the COVID-19 pandemic. The pair committed their crimes through the use of interstate wires and the unauthorized possession and use of social security numbers and other means of identification belonging to other individuals.

    Dotson pleaded guilty to wire fraud and conspiracy to commit wire fraud in April 2024. Dotson and his co-defendant, using stolen personal identification, filed hundreds of false unemployment claims with state unemployment insurance agencies in Michigan, Pennsylvania, and Maryland in the names of other individuals without their knowledge or consent.   The defendants then received hundreds of Bank of America prepaid debit cards in the names of those individuals loaded with roughly $1 million in Pandemic Unemployment Assistance funds at addresses in Michigan and Pennsylvania. Dotson, his co-defendant, and their accomplices then successfully unloaded more than $930,000 from the cards via cash withdrawals and purchases that included high-end jewelry, designer fashion accessories by Gucci and Louis Vuitton, drugs, at least one vehicle, and at least one firearm.

    “Taxpayer unemployment assistance funds diverted to the pockets of criminals during the pandemic resulted in fewer resources that were available for those genuinely in need at that challenging time,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Julie Beck. “Our office is steadfast in its commitment to bringing those to justice who used a global health crisis as a means to illegally line their own pockets at the expense of taxpayers. “

    “This sentence underscores the FBI’s commitment to investigating complex financial crimes,” said Cheyvoryea Gibson, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI in Michigan. “We will not tolerate the greed and selfish conduct demonstrated by those who chose to defraud the unemployment insurance system, especially when we faced an unprecedented global pandemic. The FBI and our federal partners remain steadfast in holding criminals accountable and protecting government assistance programs. The pandemic may be in our rearview mirrors, but our investigations continue to move forward in the name of justice.”

    “Individuals who commit such blatant unemployment insurance fraud and identity theft of this magnitude deserve to be punished to the fullest extent of the law,” said Charles Miller, Special Agent in Charge, Detroit Field Office, IRS Criminal Investigation.  “Tracey Dotson and his co-conspirator took advantage of a program intended to help those in need get through a devastating global pandemic, exposed personal identity information of many, and caused immeasurable hardship to innocent victims. IRS Criminal Investigation remains committed to the pursuit of pandemic fraud and identity theft, together with our partners at the U.S. Attorney’s Office, we will hold those who engage in similar conduct accountable.”

    “Tracey Dotson and his co-conspirator defrauded multiple state workforce agencies by using stolen identities to obtain unemployment insurance (UI) benefits. As a result, he stole vital taxpayer resources intended for unemployed American workers in dire need of UI benefits. Today’s sentencing affirms the Office of Inspector General’s commitment to work with our law enforcement partners to investigate and bring to justice those who exploit this critical benefit program,” said Megan Howell, Acting Special Agent-in-Charge, Great Lakes Region, U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General.

    This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Carl D. Gilmer-Hill and Jessica A. Nathan. The investigation was conducted jointly by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, and Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: 14 Members & Associates of Violent Transnational Motorcycle Gang Indicted on RICO & Murder Charges

    Source: United States Attorneys General 7

    Today, an indictment was unsealed in the Southern District of Texas charging 14 members and associates of the Bandidos Outlaw Motorcycle Gang for their alleged roles in a criminal enterprise engaged in murder, robbery, arson, narcotics distribution, and witness intimidation in and around Houston.

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