NewzIntel.com

Category: Security

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ricketts Leads Bicameral Legislation Pushing European Allies to Snapback U.N. Sanctions on Iran

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Pete Ricketts (Nebraska)
    February 13, 2025
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) introduced bicameral legislation that would push the United Kingdom, France, and Germany, otherwise known as the E3, to start a snapback of U.N. sanctions on Iran. These snapback sanctions would incude export controls, travel bans, asset freezes, and other restrictions on those involved in Iranian nuclear and missile activities. U.S. Representatives Claudia Tenney (R-NY-24) and Josh Gottheimer (D-NJ-05) introduced bipartisan companion legislation in the House.
    “Iran is the leading state sponsor of terrorism, and their actions have led to the murder of American servicemembers,” Senator Ricketts said. “Iran’s possession of a nuclear weapon would threaten our security and the security of our allies. Snapback sanctions are key to ensuring that President Trump’s maximum pressure campaign is successful. This legislation delivers a strong message to our European allies. They need to step up.”
    “Under the Biden administration, Iran grew more emboldened, bolstering its terrorist proxies worldwide with training, funding, and intelligence—all while expanding its nuclear stockpile,” Rep. Tenney said. “In contrast, within his first month in office, President Trump has taken decisive action to counter Iran’s malign influence and has pledged to reinstate his Maximum Pressure campaign. However, our E3 allies must invoke snapback sanctions on Iran before the ability to do so expires this October. Invoking snapback sanctions will restore all the UN sanctions on Iran that were lifted by the Obama administration’s failed Iran nuclear deal. This bicameral and bipartisan resolution sends a strong message to the E3 that it needs to step up and stop enabling Iran’s nuclear expansion. The time for snapback is now.”
    “We cannot forget where the money ends up when sanctions are lifted on Iran — the world’s leading state sponsor of terror,” Rep. Gottheimer said. “The Iranian regime continues to finance a robust network of terrorist proxies, including Hamas, Palestinian Islamic Jihad, Hezbollah, and the Houthis, while actively trying to jumpstart their nuclear program. These actions pose a grave threat to the security and stability of the Middle East, our key democratic ally Israel, and the entire world. Our E3 allies must act swiftly and initiate snapback sanctions to curb Iran’s nuclear and other nefarious ambitions.”
    Ricketts’ bill is co-sponsored by Senators John Barrasso (R-WY), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), John Cornyn (R-TX), Mike Crapo (R-ID), Ted Cruz (R-TX), Deb Fischer (R-NE), Bill Hagerty (R-TN), Jim Justice (R-WV), Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), Tim Sheehy (R-MT), Dan Sullivan (R-AK), and Todd Young (R-IN).
    Text of the legislation can be found here. Bill introduction was first covered by Fox News here.
    Ricketts announced the legislation yesterday in a conference call with Nebraska media.
    BACKGROUND:
    Specifically, the legislation:
    Recognizes that Iran’s possession of a nuclear weapon would threaten the security of the United States, our allies, and our partners;
    Condemns Iran’s flagrant and repeated violations of the first Iran nuclear deal;
    Condemns Communist China and Putin’s Russia for supporting Iran’s malign activities;
    Reaffirms America’s right to take any necessary measures to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons;
    Supports increased sanctions on entities and individuals supporting Iran’s nuclear program;
    Calls on the United Kingdom, France, and Germany to invoke the snapback of United Nations sanctions against Iran under U.N. Security Council Resolution 2231 as soon as possible.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Have you seen Dezray?

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Police are seeking the public’s assistance in locating 16-year-old Dezray who has been reported missing from the Mount Wellington area.

    Dezray was last seen on 19 January and is described as being 175cm tall with short brown hair and brown eyes.

    He is known to frequent the Auckland City, West Auckland and Northland areas.

    Police and Dezray’s family have concerns for his safety.

    We ask anyone who sights Dezray to please contact Police as soon as possible on 111.

    Additionally, anyone who has further information on his whereabouts should contact Police on 105, using the reference number 250121/4356.

    ENDS.

    Holly McKay/NZ Police

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Name release: Fatal crash, Mountain Road, Inglewood

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Police can now name the pedestrian who died following a crash on Mountain Road, Inglewood on 4 February.

    She was 63-year-old Jacqueline Deam, of Inglewood.

    Our thoughts are with those close to her at this difficult time.

    Enquiries into the circumstances of the crash remain ongoing.

    ENDS 

    Issued by Police Media Centre 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General Bonta Sues Trump Administration, Challenging Elon Musk’s Unconstitutional Exercise of Power

    Source: US State of California Department of Justice

    Thursday, February 13, 2025

    Contact: (916) 210-6000, agpressoffice@doj.ca.gov

    Musk was never elected, nominated, or confirmed — an affront to the U.S. Constitution

    OAKLAND — California Attorney General Rob Bonta today joined a coalition of 14 attorneys general in filing a lawsuit that challenges Elon Musk’s unlawful exercise of power. In today’s lawsuit, the attorneys general argue that Mr. Musk, an unconfirmed, unelected government employee, is exercising authority that exceeds what the U.S. Constitution permits. In his commanding of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), the lawsuit alleges, Mr. Musk is acting with at least as much authority as a “principal officer of the United States” — a position that only Congress can create and one that requires Senate confirmation. The lawsuit alleges that, by acting as a “principal officer,” Mr. Musk is acting in violation of the U.S. Constitution’s Appointments Clause, and the coalition seeks to immediately halt this unlawful exercise of power. 

    “Elon Musk does not occupy a position that Congress created or that the Senate confirmed — Mr. Musk occupies a position the President made up. This is a clear and dangerous effort to bypass the nomination and confirmation process required under the Constitution. DOGE’s ransacking of federal agencies has sown tremendous chaos, instilled distrust among the American people, and has caused deep harm to our country,” said Attorney General Bonta. “Like a bull in a china shop, Mr. Musk is wielding an enormous amount of illegitimized power over sensitive systems and important government programs that are vital to the American way of life.”

    In the lawsuit filed today, the attorneys general argue that Mr. Musk has unraveled federal agencies, accessed sensitive data, and caused widespread disruption for state and local governments, as well as critical systems American people rely on daily. By disrupting billions of dollars in federal funding essential for law enforcement, healthcare, education, and other critical services, Mr. Musk’s actions harm the states, including California. 

    In filing today’s lawsuit, Attorney General Bonta joins the attorneys general of New Mexico, Arizona, Michigan, Connecticut, Hawaii, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Nevada, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, and Washington.  

    A copy of the complaint can be found here. 

    # # #

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Former Illinois Speaker of the House Michael J. Madigan Convicted on Federal Conspiracy and Bribery Charges

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

    CHICAGO — A federal jury in Chicago today convicted former Speaker of the Illinois House of Representatives MICHAEL J. MADIGAN on conspiracy and bribery charges for using his official position to corruptly solicit and receive personal financial rewards for himself and his associates.

    Madigan, 82, of Chicago, was convicted on ten counts against him, including one count of conspiracy to commit an offense against the United States, four counts of using interstate facilities to promote unlawful activity, three counts of wire fraud, and two counts of bribery.  The jury acquitted Madigan on four counts of using interstate facilities to promote unlawful activity, two bribery counts, and an attempted extortion count.  U.S. District Judge John Robert Blakey declared a mistrial on six other counts for which the jury did not reach a unanimous verdict – one count of racketeering conspiracy, two counts of wire fraud, one count of bribery, one count of conspiracy to commit an offense against the United States, and one count of using interstate facilities to promote unlawful activity.

    The jury returned its verdicts against Madigan after a four-month trial in U.S. District Court in Chicago.  A sentencing hearing has not yet been scheduled.  Each wire fraud count is punishable by a maximum sentence of 20 years in federal prison, while each bribery count is punishable by up to ten years.  The maximum for conspiracy to commit an offense against the United States and each count of using interstate facilities to promote unlawful activity is five years.

    Judge Blakey also declared a mistrial as to all six deadlocked counts against a co-defendant, MICHAEL F. MCCLAIN, 77, of Quincy, Ill.  McClain was charged with one count of racketeering conspiracy, two counts of wire fraud, one count of bribery, one count of conspiracy to commit an offense against the United States, and one count of using interstate facilities to promote unlawful activity.

    Evidence at trial revealed that Madigan, who served as House Speaker and occupied a number of other political roles, conspired with others to cause the utility company Commonwealth Edison to make monetary payments to Madigan’s associates as a reward for their loyalty to Madigan, in return for performing little or no legitimate work for the business.  The true nature of the payments was to influence and reward Madigan in connection with specific legislation ComEd sought in the Illinois General Assembly.

    Madigan was also convicted of scheming to accept legal work unlawfully steered to his private law firm and his son by an Alderman of the Chicago City Council, in exchange for Madigan’s assistance in inducing the Governor of Illinois to appoint the Alderman to a compensated State Board position.

    The verdicts were announced by Morris Pasqual, Acting United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois, Douglas S. DePodesta, Special Agent-in-Charge of the Chicago Field Office of the FBI, and Ramsey E. Covington, Acting Special Agent-in-Charge of the IRS Criminal Investigation Division in Chicago.  The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Amarjeet S. Bhachu, Diane MacArthur, Sarah E. Streicker, and Julia Schwartz.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Two East Bay Residents, One Of Whom Was A Bank Teller, Indicted On Charges Of Cashing Stolen U.S. Treasury Checks

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    OAKLAND – A federal grand jury has indicted Franchesca Calagui, 25, and Dondre Gray, 27, with conspiracy to commit bank fraud and bank fraud, and also charged Calagui with receipt of U.S. Treasury check with forged endorsement or signature.

    According to the indictment unsealed yesterday, from around May 2022 through March 2023, Calagui and Gray, both of Emeryville, Calif., conspired to obtain stolen U.S. Treasury checks, recruit others to fraudulently endorse or sign the stolen U.S. Treasury checks, and give the checks to Calagui to cash for the defendants’ personal benefit.  At the time, Calagui was a part-time associate banker at JP Morgan Chase Bank.

    The indictment describes text messages between Gray and Calagui discussing the ongoing scheme in which Gray stated “I definitely don’t wanna scam with chase since you work there,” and Calagui responded “I do not care if u scam us lmao.”  Gray allegedly explained how he operated the scheme using runners, individuals who gets paid to enter a bank with a fraudulent check, cash it, and return the proceeds to the person who employed the runner.  In all, the defendants are charged with devising and executing a scheme to cash at least 339 stolen U.S. Treasury checks totaling more than $850,000.

    Acting United States Attorney Patrick D. Robbins, FBI Acting Special Agent in Charge Dan Costin, Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA) Acting Special Agent in Charge Brandon Knarr, Special Agent in Charge Tyler Hatcher of the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI) Los Angeles Field Office, Special Agent in Charge Ryan Korner from the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation Office of Inspector General (FDIC-OIG), San Francisco Division Inspector in Charge Stephen M. Sherwood of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS), Special Agent in Charge Dimitriana Nikolov with the Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Inspector General’s (VA OIG) Northwest Field Office, and Acting Special Agent in Charge Dean Lake of the Social Security Administration Office of the Inspector General (SSA OIG) made the announcement.

    Both defendants are charged with one count of conspiracy to commit bank fraud under 18 U.S.C. § 1349 and five counts of bank fraud under 18 U.S.C. §§ 1344(1), (2).  Calagui is also charged with five counts of receipt of U.S. Treasury check with forged endorsement or signature under 18 U.S.C. § 510(b).  Calagui and Gray were arrested and made their initial appearances in federal district court yesterday.  Defendants are next scheduled to appear before U.S. District Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers on April 3, 2025, for a status conference.

    An indictment merely alleges that a crime has been committed, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.  If convicted, each defendant faces a maximum sentence of 30 years in prison and a fine of $1,000,000 on each charged count.  Any sentence following conviction would be imposed by the court after consideration of the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and the federal statute governing the imposition of a sentence, 18 U.S.C. § 3553.

    Special Assistant United States Attorney Cynthia Johnson is prosecuting this case with the assistance of Amala James. The prosecution is the result of an investigation by the FBI, TIGTA, IRS-CI, FDIC-OIG, USPIS, VA OIG, and SSA OIG.

    Franchesca Calagui Indictment
     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Brazilian National Pleads Guilty to Perjury

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Defendant convicted of murder, attempted murder and physical and mental torture by Brazilian authorities for his involvement in “The Slaughter of Curió” in 2015

    BOSTON – A Brazilian national residing in Malden, Mass. has pleaded guilty in federal court in Boston for lying on his asylum application and at an immigration hearing. Upon applying for a U.S. Visa, the defendant never disclosed his arrest in a case involving the murders of 11 people, mostly teenagers, in Brazil in retaliation for the death of a police officer, an incident known as The Slaughter of Curió.

    Antonio Jose De Abreu Vidal Filho, 31, pleaded guilty to two counts of perjury before U.S. District Court Judge Denise J. Casper who scheduled sentencing for Mau 29, 2025. In May 2024, De Abreu was indicted by a federal grand jury.

    In April 2014, De Abreu joined the Ceara State Military Police – Brazilian state forces who, under the governor, do first line policing on the street. In the early morning hours of Nov. 12, 2015, numerous Brazilian military police officers employed by the government of the Brazilian state of Ceará, including De Abreu, participated in a mass killing event of primarily young people from the impoverished neighborhoods of Barroso, Messejana, Guajeru, Curió and Lagoa Redonda in the capital of Ceará.

    The killings were in retaliation for the death of another police officer who was attempting to defend his wife who was being assaulted. In total, 11 people, mostly teenagers, were murdered and many others seriously injured and tortured. This incident has come to be known as A Chacina do Curió or The Slaughter of Curió or The Curió Massacre. A total of 45 individuals, including De Abreu, were charged by the Brazilian authorities and, on Aug. 31, 2016, De Abreu was arrested and detained by the Brazilian police. He was subsequently released pending trial on May 24, 2017.  

    Two weeks later, on June 9, 2017, while in Recife, Brazil, De Abreu applied for a United States non-immigrant B2 visitor visa. When asked whether he had ever been arrested or convicted for any offense or crime, De Abreu responded “no.” Thereafter, on or about June 21, 2017, the United States Department of State approved De Abreu’s Visa Application and issued him the B2 Visa based upon his false representations. De Abreu used the B2 Visa and travelled to Miami on May 30, 2018.

    Between May 30, 2018 through Aug. 14, 2023, as a result of the approval of his Visa Application, De Abreu obtained various state driver’s licenses, a social security card, travel documents and authorizations for employment.  

    De Abreu applied for asylum on Jan. 29, 2020, and lied when asked whether he had ever been accused, charged, arrested, detained, interrogated and imprisoned in any country other than the United States. He also failed to disclose his arrest and detention in Brazil when he applied for adjustment of status with United States Citizenship and Immigration Service.

    On June 25, 2023, De Abreu was convicted of 11 counts of murder, three counts of attempted murder and four counts of physical and mental torture in the First Court of Fortaleza, Ceará. That same day, De Abreu was sentenced to 275 years and 11 months in prison and an arrest warrant issued.

    On Feb. 9, 2024, De Abreu testified under oath at an immigration hearing conducted by U.S. Immigration Court, falsely claiming that he had never lied to immigration officials and that the only reason he had left off important information on immigration documents filed with the United States government was because he had not yet been arrested.

    The charge of misuse of visas, permits and other documents provides for a sentence of up to 10 years in prison, up to three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. The charge of perjury provides for a sentence of up to five years in prison, up to three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. The charge of falsifying, concealing and covering up a material fact provides for a sentence of up to five years in prison, up to three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.

    United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; Michael J. Krol,  Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in New England; Bradley Parker, Special Agent in Charge of the Social Security Administration, Office of Inspector General, Boston Field Office; Mathew O’Brien, Special Agent in Charge of U.S. Department of State’s Diplomatic Security Service, Boston Field Office; and Denis C. Riordan, District Director of the Fraud Detection and National Security Division of United States Citizenship and Immigration Services, Boston Field Division made the announcement today. This matter was investigated with the assistance of the United States Interagency Human Rights Violators & War Crimes Center. Assistant U.S. Attorney Laura J. Kaplan of the National Security Unit is prosecuting the case.
     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Three Sales Executives Charged in Connection With Pre-IPO Fraud Scheme

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Defendants Lied to Investors Regarding Hidden Markups and Fees and Stole Millions of Dollars in Investor Funds for Themselves

    Earlier today, at the federal court in Brooklyn, a superseding indictment was unsealed charging Robert Cassino, also known as “Bobby Cassino,” Joseph Passalaqua and Joseph Rivera with securities fraud conspiracy, wire fraud conspiracy and securities fraud.  The defendants were arrested today and are being arraigned this afternoon before United States Magistrate Judge James R. Cho.  Raymond John Pirrello, Jr., also known as “Ray John,” was previously indicted for his involvement in the scheme.

    John J. Durham, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York and James E. Dennehy, Assistant Director in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation, New York Field Office (FBI) announced the charges.

    “The defendants repeatedly lied to investors about the costs associated with their investments and diverted millions of dollars in undisclosed mark-up fees to their sales offices,” stated United States Attorney Durham.  “My Office will vigorously prosecute those who seek to take advantage of individual investors for their own greed.”

    Mr. Durham expressed his appreciation to the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), New York Regional Office, for its significant cooperation and assistance during the investigation.

    “At the behest of the company’s leadership, three defendants allegedly enticed investors with material misinformation to steal millions of their dollars through undisclosed upfront fees. This alleged scheme allowed the defendants’ respective sales offices to unlawfully profit at the expense of their clients’ trust and money. The FBI will never permit any individual to engage in hypocritical financial practices to covertly divert investments for personal enrichment,” stated FBI Assistant Director in Charge Dennehy.

    As detailed in the superseding indictment, Pirrello, Cassino, Passalaqua and Rivera engaged in a scheme to defraud investors and prospective investors in securities offered by the company Late Stage Management, LLC (Late Stage). Late Stage was a New Jersey based manager of investment funds that offered investors “no fee” opportunities to invest in “Pre IPO” stocks, i.e., shares of stock in companies that anticipated an initial public offering (“IPO”) in the near term.  Late Stage worked with several sales offices throughout New Jersey, New York and Florida to promote the investments, including Pre IPO Marketing, Inc. (“Pre IPO Marketing”), Prior2IPO and B4IPO.

    Pirrello worked as the partner to the leadership of Late Stage, and Cassino, Passalaqua and Rivera led operations at Pre IPO Marketing, Prior2IPO and B4IPO, respectively.  Pirrello and co-conspirators communicated with Cassino, Passalaqua, Rivera and others about how to market Late Stage to investors.  Cassino, Passalaqua and Rivera then made material misrepresentations and omissions to investors and potential investors in Late Stage relating to, among other things, the existence and amount of fees paid by investors in stock offered by Late Stage.  For example, they claimed that the only time Late Stage profited was on exit, when the company made its IPO or sold to a larger company, in which case it would be entitled to a 20% share of the investor’s profits.  In reality, however, Late Stage charged fees in the form of upfront markups ranging from 10-50% of each investment.  In total, between approximately March 2019 and July 2022, sales offices working on behalf of Late Stage raised approximately $528 million from investors and diverted approximately $88.6 million in undisclosed upfront markups to Pirrello, Cassino, Passalaqua, Rivera and their co-conspirators.   

    The charges in the indictment are allegations and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

    If you believe that you or someone you know was victimized by Pirrello, Cassino, Passalaqua, Rivera or their co-conspirators, please inform the FBI at the following website: www.fbi.gov/Pirrello or by calling 1-800-CALL-FBI.

    The government’s case is being handled by the Office’s Business and Securities Fraud Section.  Assistant United States  Attorney Jessica K. Weigel is in charge of the prosecution with assistance from Special Agent Martin Sullivan and Paralegal Specialist Sarah Burn.

    The Defendants:

    ROBERT CASSINO (also known as “Bobby Cassino”)
    Age: 62
    Long Beach, New York

    JOSEPH PASSALAQUA
    Age:  36
    Sparta, New Jersey

    JOSEPH RIVERA
    Age: 45
    Elmont, New York

    Previously Indicted Defendant:

    RAYMOND JOHN PIRRELLO, JR. (also known as “Ray John”)
    Age: 48
    Sparta, New Jersey

    E.D.N.Y. Docket No. 23-CR-499 (S-1) (KAM)

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Haverhill Man Pleads Guilty to Fraudulent Pandemic Unemployment Assistance Claim for Brazilian Resident

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    BOSTON – A Haverhill man has pleaded guilty to making false statements in connection with a Massachusetts Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) claim he submitted in 2020 on behalf of a man who was living in Brazil at the time, and therefore ineligible to receive PUA benefits.

    Julio Roncaly Morais, 42, pleaded guilty to one count of false statements before U.S. District Court Judge Allison D. Burroughs who scheduled sentencing for May 28, 2025. In June 2024, Morias was indicted by a federal grand jury.

    Morais filed a Massachusetts PUA claim on June 3, 2020, on behalf of a co-conspirator who was living in Brazil before and after the PUA claim was filed. In the PUA application, Morais certified under penalty of perjury that the co-conspirator was a resident of Massachusetts and was able and available to work in Massachusetts but was unable to due to the pandemic. As a result of this claim, the Massachusetts Department of Unemployment Assistance paid a total of $5,202 in benefits before suspending payments.  

    The charge of false statements provides for a sentence of up to five years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.

    United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; Michael J. Krol, Special Agent in charge for the Homeland Security Investigations New England Field Office; Jonathan Mellone, Special Agent in Charge of the Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General; and Thomas Demeo, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Internal Revenue Service’s Criminal Investigations in Boston made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, Fraud Detection and National Security and the Woburn and Norwood Police Departments. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kelly Begg Lawrence, James D. Herbert and Samuel R. Feldman of the Criminal Division are prosecuting the case.
     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Sacramento Woman Pleads Guilty to Participation in Nearly $2.6 Million COVID-19 Benefit Fraud Scheme

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    SACRAMENTO, Calif. —Tabitha Leigh Markle, 53, of Sacramento, pleaded guilty today to mail fraud and aggravated identity theft in a scheme to defraud the unemployment insurance benefit program during the COVID-19 pandemic, Acting U.S. Attorney Michele Beckwith announced.

    According to court documents, between April 2020 and January 2021, Markle defrauded the California Employment Development Department (EDD) and the United States out of unemployment insurance benefits. Markle collected personally identifiable information (PII) including names, dates of birth, Social Security numbers and other information, and submitted fraudulent applications for unemployment insurance (UI) benefits to EDD. Markle and her associates caused the UI debit cards to be mailed to addresses she listed in the fraudulent applications. They used the cards that were issued in the names of the supposed beneficiaries to withdraw cash from ATMs throughout California. Markle and her associates often appeared in ATM surveillance photos taking out large amounts of cash from the cards. Markle and her criminal associates obtained approximately $2,599,038 from the fraud.

    Markle also used the means of identification of various victims, including N.T., who was a resident of Oakland. Without N.T.’s knowledge or permission, Markle filed a false unemployment insurance application with California EDD using N.T.’s true name and other identifying information, but using a false email address, phone number and mailing address. Markle’s associates withdrew thousands of dollars of unemployment insurance benefits from the card issued to N.T.

    This case is the product of an investigation by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation Office of Inspector General, California EDD – Investigation Division, and the United States Department of Labor Office of Inspector General. Assistant U.S. Attorney Christina McCall is prosecuting the case.

    Markle is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Troy L. Nunley on May 13, 2025. Markle faces a maximum statutory penalty of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine (or twice the amount of the loss) for mail fraud, plus supervised release of up to five years. She also faces a mandatory two-year consecutive prison and a fine of up to $250,000 for aggravated identity theft. The actual sentence, however, will be determined at the discretion of the Court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables.

    This effort is part of a California COVID-19 Fraud Enforcement Strike Force operation, one of five interagency COVID-19 fraud strike force teams established by the U.S. Department of Justice. The California Strike Force combines law enforcement and prosecutorial resources in the Eastern and Central Districts of California and focuses on large-scale, multistate pandemic relief fraud perpetrated by criminal organizations and transnational actors. The strike forces use prosecutor-led and data analyst-driven teams to identify and bring to justice those who stole pandemic relief funds. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Lottery Fraud Scheme Against Seniors Lands South Florida Man in Federal Prison

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    MIAMI – A Miami man has been sentenced to 44 months in federal prison and ordered to pay $234,995 in victim restitution for participating in a nationwide lottery fraud scheme targeting seniors. The sentence comes after the defendant pleaded guilty in October 2024 to conspiring to commit mail and wire fraud and to criminal contempt for violating a court order.

    From May 2020 to July 2022, Akiel Doman, 34, of North Miami Beach, Florida, and others repeatedly called victims throughout the United States and falsely told them that they had won millions of dollars and often, a car, in a lottery. The caller, falsely claiming to be a representative of the lottery company, told the victims that they needed to first pay fees or taxes to claim their winnings. Others working with Doman gave the victims specific instructions on how, and to whom, to send the purported fees or taxes. In connection with this scheme, the victims sent money, including direct deposits, to Doman’s bank accounts.

    Doman also violated a consent decree entered by the United States District Court for the Southern District of Florida in 2019 prohibiting him from participating in lottery frauds. United States v. Doman, No. 18-cv-24731.

    U.S. Attorney Hayden P. O’Byrne for the Southern District of Florida and Acting Inspector in Charge Steven L. Hodges of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS), Miami Division, made this announcement.

    USPIS Miami investigated this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Bertha R. Mitrani prosecuted it.

    Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Southern District of Florida at www.flsd.uscourts.gov or at http://pacer.flsd.uscourts.gov, under case number 24-cr-60133.

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Foreign Nationals Plead Guilty to Illegal Entry into the United States

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Burlington, Vermont – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont stated that Mura Kvec, 39, Manix Razmias, 38, and Geto Kvec, 19, all citizens of Romania, pleaded guilty to a criminal complaint charging each of them with illegally entering the United States at a time or place other than designated for entering the country by immigration authorities.

    According to court records, on February 10, 2025, at approximately 12:45 a.m., U.S. Border Patrol agents were notified of three individuals walking south on Lake Road in Newport Center, Vermont, a road that borders the United States and Canada. Minutes later, a Border Patrol Agent stopped a car with four individuals traveling south on Lake Road and conducted an immigration inspection. In response to the agent’s questions, the driver was determined to be a U.S. citizen. The other passengers, Mura Kvec, Manix Razmias and Geto Kvec, admitted to being citizens of Romania. None of them possessed the necessary documents that would allow them to stay or remain in the United States legally. Under further questioning, the United States Border Patrol determined the three Romanians had entered the United States at a place other than an open port of entry.

    During their initial court appearance before United States Magistrate Judge Kevin J. Doyle on February 11, 2025, each of the three Romanians entered a guilty plea and received a time-served sentence. They had faced up to 6 months’ imprisonment.

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

    The prosecutor was Assistant United States Attorney Greg Waples. Karen Shingler, Esq. represented Mura Kvec, Michael Straub, Esq. represented Manix Razmias, and the Office of the Federal Public Defender represented Geto Kvec.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: IMAGERY AVAILABLE: Coast Guard rescues three mariners 40 miles offshore from Caillou Bay, Louisiana

    Source: United States Coast Guard

    News Release  

    U.S. Coast Guard 8th District Heartland
    Contact: 8th District Public Affairs
    Office: 504-671-2020
    After Hours: 618-225-9008
    Eighth District online newsroom

     

    Port conditions change based on weather forecasts, and current port conditions can be viewed on the following Coast Guard homeport webpages:

    For more information follow us on Facebook and Twitter.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: SH1 Greenlane Interchange closed to southbound traffic

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    |

    NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) advises all southbound lanes on State Highway 1 at the Greenlane Interchange are closed due to a serious crash.

    Motorists are asked to delay their journeys, where possible, consider alternate routes and expect delays and diversions. Traffic is heavy around the Greenlane Interchange and NZ Police expect the closure to be in place for at least two hours, while the Serious Crash Unit investigates.

    Auckland through-traffic should use the Western Ring Route to travel south, from SH1 to State Highway 18 at Albany, left to State Highway 16 through Westgate and right to the State Highway 20 Southbound Waterview Tunnel to continue south from the SH1/SH20 link in Manukau.

    The Greenlane southbound on-ramp remains open, as do all northbound lanes.

    People are encouraged to visit the Journey Planner website (journeys.nzta.govt.nz(external link)) for up to date information on the closure and detour route before they travel.

    NZTA thanks everyone for their patience.

    Tags

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Marshals Lone Star Fugitive Task Force Capture a Triple Play Rounding Up 3 Capital Murder Suspects

    Source: US Marshals Service

    Austin, TX – Members of the U.S. Marshals (USMS) Lone Star Fugitive Task Force (LSFTF) continued their work of making Austin neighborhoods safer by apprehending three capital murder suspects on Wednesday.

    The Austin Police Department (APD) requested assistance from the LSFTF to locate and apprehend three suspects sought on capital murder charges from an incident that occurred May 4, 2024, in the 1800 block of Colony Creek Drive in Austin, where a male victim was located lying face down from an apparent gunshot wound. 

    The APD Homicide Unit investigated the incident and identified three suspects who allegedly conspired and acted with one another to commit the murder. 

    On Feb. 7, the Homicide Unit obtained warrants on three suspects in the City of Austin Municipal Court and requested assistance from the LSFTF – Austin Division to locate and apprehend the three suspects who were last known to reside in the city. 

    Members of the LSFTF continued investigative efforts with the Austin Police Department Tactical Intelligence Unit that led to the apprehension of three suspects, who were considered armed and dangerous. 

    Aden Munoz, Aka, “Jermiah”, 18, of Austin, was arrested on in the 1900 block of Hearthside Drive in Austin.

    Bethany Libby, Aka, “Sista Grace”, 37, of Austin, was arrested in the 7900 block of San Felipe Boulevard in Austin.

    Michael Carter, Aka, “Kujo”, 23, of Austin, was arrested in the 900 block of Bedford Street in Austin. 

    All suspects have been transported and transferred to the Austin Police Department.

    Members of the Lone Star Fugitive Task Force in Austin:

    Austin Police Department-Tactical Intelligence Unit
    Georgetown, Round Rock, and San Marcos Police Departments
    Caldwell, Hays, Travis, and Williamson County Sheriff’s Offices
    Texas Attorney General’s Office
    Texas Department of Criminal Justice OIG
    Texas Department of Public Safety
    U.S. Immigration & Customs Enforcement
    U.S. DHS/Homeland Security Investigations

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: FBI Los Angeles Field Office Warns of Romance Scams Ahead of Valentine’s Day

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

    LOS ANGELES—The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is working to raise awareness about online romance scams, also called confidence fraud. In this type of fraud, scammers take advantage of people looking for romantic partners on dating websites, apps, or social media by obtaining access to their financial or personal identifying information. Romance scams are prevalent, especially during this time of year.

    Romance scams occur when a criminal uses a fake online identity to gain a victim’s affection and trust. These scammers are present on most dating and social media sites. They look to establish a relationship as quickly as possible and endear themselves to the victim. Many may propose marriage and make plans to meet in person. Eventually, they will ask for money.

    “Confidence fraud, or romance scams, can happen to anyone at any time. The criminals who carry out romance scams are experts at what they do” said Akil Davis, Assistant Director in Charge of the FBI Los Angeles Field Office. “Individuals who are looking for love and companionship are the target victims of this online fraud. The FBI cautions everyone who may be romantically involved with a person online to proceed carefully and stay alert to warning signs. If you suspect an online relationship is a scam, stop all contact immediately.”

    To avoid meeting in person, romance scammers often claim to live or work in other parts of the country or world. Eventually, when they feel they have gained the trust of their victims, these criminals will request money from them, oftentimes for a medical emergency, an unexpected legal fee, or some other false purpose.

    Romance scams/confidence schemes have resulted in one of the highest amounts of financial losses when compared to other Internet-facilitated crimes. According to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center, roughly 18,000 victims reported nearly $700,000,000 in losses in 2023, the most recent statistical year available.

    That same year, over 2000 victims in California reported more than $100,000,000 in losses.

    While anyone can fall victim to these schemes, bad actors are known to target women over age 40 who are widowed, divorced, elderly, or disabled.

    If you develop a relationship with someone you meet online, please consider the following tips and beware of the red flags:

    • Research the person’s photo and profile using online searches to see if the image, name, or details have been used elsewhere.
    • Beware if the individual seems too perfect or quickly asks you to leave a dating service or social media site to go “offline.”
    • The individual professes love quickly.
    • The individual tries to isolate you from friends and family.
    • The individual makes plans to visit you, but always cancels because of some emergency. If you haven’t met the person after a few months, for whatever reason, you have good reason to be suspicious.
    • Go slowly and ask lots of questions.
    • Be careful what you post and make public online. Scammers can use details shared on social media and dating sites to better understand and target you.
    • Never send money to anyone you have only communicated with online or by phone.

    If you suspect an online relationship is a scam, stop all contact immediately. If you are the victim of a romance scam, file a complaint with the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (www.ic3.gov).

    Resources:

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: iPower Reports Fiscal Second Quarter 2025 Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Fiscal Q2 Revenue up 14% to $19.1 Million

    Achieves GAAP Profitability and Positive Cash Flow from Operations

    RANCHO CUCAMONGA, Calif., Feb. 13, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — iPower Inc. (Nasdaq: IPW) (“iPower” or the “Company”), a tech and data-driven ecommerce services provider and online retailer, today announced its financial results for the fiscal second quarter ended December 31, 2024.

    Fiscal Q2 2025 Results vs. Year-Ago Quarter

    • Total revenue increased 14% to $19.1 million.
    • Gross profit increased 15% to $8.4 million, with gross margin up 40 bps to 44.0%.
    • Net income attributable to iPower improved to $0.2 million or $0.01 per share, compared to net loss attributable to iPower of $1.9 million or $(0.06) per share.
    • As of December 31, 2024, total debt was reduced by 31% to $4.4 million compared to $6.3 million as of June 30, 2024.

    Management Commentary

    “We delivered strong results across all key financial metrics in our fiscal second quarter while further enhancing our SuperSuite platform,” said Lawrence Tan, CEO of iPower. “Throughout the quarter, we continued to optimize operations and strengthen our presence across both our established and emerging sales channels. We also remain focused on supply chain diversification by exploring new supplier relationships beyond our existing network, reinforcing our commitment to building a more resilient and adaptable infrastructure.”

    “Our SuperSuite platform is gaining further momentum as we leverage our superior supply chain, warehousing and merchandising expertise to drive sales growth for partners with innovative product catalogs. Additionally, we are making steady progress with our recently launched SaaS platform, refining its capabilities to improve supplier collaboration, streamline operations, and better align partners with evolving market demands. With a strong pipeline of prospective partners, we are well-positioned to capitalize on the growing demand for SuperSuite as we bolster our comprehensive service offerings.”

    iPower CFO, Kevin Vassily, added, “Our ongoing efforts to optimize our cost structure have delivered meaningful results as we continue to drive gross margin expansion and operating leverage in our business. We have also officially shuttered our legacy commercial hydroponics business, as we are now focused on our core competency as a data-driven, consumer products and services company. We believe these initiatives, coupled with our accelerating growth in our SuperSuite business, will enable us to execute on our goals ahead.”

    Fiscal Second Quarter 2025 Financial Results 

    Total revenue in the fiscal second quarter of 2025 increased 14% to $19.1 million compared to $16.8 million for the same period in fiscal 2024. The increase was driven primarily by growth in iPower’s SuperSuite supply chain offerings, as well as greater product sales to the Company’s largest channel partner.

    Gross profit in the fiscal second quarter of 2025 increased 15% to $8.4 million compared to $7.3 million in the same quarter in fiscal 2024. As a percentage of revenue, gross margin increased 40 basis points to 44.0% compared to 43.6% in the year-ago period. The increase in gross margin was primarily driven by improved pricing through key supplier negotiations.

    Total operating expenses in the fiscal second quarter of 2025 improved 22% to $7.7 million compared to $9.9 million for the same period in fiscal 2024. The decrease in operating expenses was driven primarily by lower selling and fulfillment expenses related to the Company’s largest channel partner.

    Net income attributable to iPower in the fiscal second quarter of 2025 improved to $0.2 million or $0.01 per share, compared to net loss attributable to iPower of $1.9 million or $(0.06) per share for the same period in fiscal 2024.

    Cash and cash equivalents were $2.9 million at December 31, 2024, compared to $7.4 million at June 30, 2024. As a result of the Company’s debt paydown, total debt was reduced by 31% to $4.4 million compared to $6.3 million as of June 30, 2024.

    Conference Call 

    The Company will hold a conference call today, February 13, 2025, at 4:30 p.m. Eastern Time to discuss its results for the fiscal second quarter ended December 31, 2024.

    iPower’s management will host the conference call, which will be followed by a question-and-answer session.

    The conference call details are as follows:

    Date: Thursday, February 13, 2025
    Time: 4:30 p.m. Eastern time
    Dial-in registration link: here
    Live webcast registration link: here

    Please dial into the conference call 5-10 minutes prior to the start time. If you have any difficulty connecting with the conference call, please contact the Company’s investor relations team at IPW@elevate-ir.com.

    The conference call will also be broadcast live and available for replay in the Events & Presentations section of the Company’s website at www.meetipower.com.

    About iPower Inc. 

    iPower Inc. is a tech and data-driven online retailer, as well as a provider of value-added ecommerce services for third-party products and brands. iPower’s capabilities include a full spectrum of online channels, robust fulfillment capacity, a nationwide network of warehouses, competitive last mile delivery partners and a differentiated business intelligence platform. iPower believes that these capabilities will enable it to efficiently move a diverse catalog of SKUs from its supply chain partners to end consumers every day, providing the best value to customers in the U.S. and other countries. For more information, please visit iPower’s website at www.meetipower.com.

    Forward-Looking Statements 

    All statements other than statements of historical fact in this press release are forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties and are based on current expectations and projections about future events and financial trends that iPower believes may affect its financial condition, results of operations, business strategy, and financial needs. Investors can identify these forward-looking statements by words or phrases such as “may,” “will,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “aim,” “estimate,” “intend,” “plan,” “believe,” “potential,” “continue,” “is/are likely to” or other similar expressions. iPower undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent events or circumstances, or changes in its expectations, except as may be required by law. Although iPower believes that the expectations expressed in these forward-looking statements are reasonable, it cannot assure you that such expectations will turn out to be correct, and iPower cautions investors that actual results may differ materially from the anticipated results and encourages investors to review other factors that may affect its future results and performance in iPower’s Annual Report on Form 10-K, as filed with the SEC on September 20, 2024, and in its other SEC filings, including Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and Current Reports on Form 8-K.

    Investor Relations Contact

    Sean Mansouri, CFA or Aaron D’Souza
    Elevate IR
    (720) 330-2829
    IPW@elevate-ir.com

    iPower Inc. and Subsidiaries
    Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets
    As of December 31, 2024 and June 30, 2024
     
              December 31,   June 30,
              2024   2024
              (Unaudited)      
    ASSETS            
    Current assets            
      Cash and cash equivalent   $ 2,877,457     $ 7,377,837  
      Accounts receivable, net     13,926,432       14,740,093  
      Inventories, net     9,183,631       10,546,273  
      Prepayments and other current assets, net     2,292,744       2,346,534  
          Total current assets     28,280,264       35,010,737  
                       
    Non-current assets            
      Right of use – non-current     4,757,429       6,124,163  
      Property and equipment, net     303,059       370,887  
      Deferred tax assets, net     3,001,517       2,445,605  
      Goodwill     3,034,110       3,034,110  
      Intangible assets, net     3,306,014       3,630,700  
      Other non-current assets     1,187,179       679,655  
          Total non-current assets     15,589,308       16,285,120  
                       
          Total assets   $ 43,869,572     $ 51,295,857  
                       
    LIABILITIES AND EQUITY            
    Current liabilities            
      Accounts payable, net     8,853,320       11,227,116  
      Other payables and accrued liabilities     3,491,596       3,885,487  
      Lease liability – current     1,540,624       2,039,301  
      Short-term loan payable     –       491,214  
      Short-term loan payable – related party     350,000       350,000  
      Revolving loan payable, net     –       5,500,739  
      Income taxes payable     274,947       276,158  
          Total current liabilities     14,510,487       23,770,015  
                       
    Non-current liabilities            
      Long-term revolving loan payable, net     4,042,400       –  
      Lease liability – non-current     3,612,756       4,509,809  
                       
          Total non-current liabilities     7,655,156       4,509,809  
                       
          Total liabilities     22,165,643       28,279,824  
                       
    Commitments and contingency     –       –  
                       
    Stockholders’ Equity            
      Preferred stock, $0.001 par value; 20,000,000 shares authorized; 0 shares issued and            
        outstanding at December 31, 2024 and June 30, 2024     –       –  
      Common stock, $0.001 par value; 180,000,000 shares authorized; 31,359,899 and            
        31,359,899 shares issued and outstanding at December 31, 2024 and June 30, 2024     31,361       31,361  
      Additional paid in capital     33,867,156       33,463,883  
      Accumulated deficits     (12,041,063 )     (10,230,601 )
      Non-controlling interest     (44,195 )     (38,204 )
      Accumulated other comprehensive loss     (109,330 )     (210,406 )
          Total stockholders’ equity     21,703,929       23,016,033  
                       
          Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity   $ 43,869,572     $ 51,295,857  
                       
    iPower Inc. and Subsidiaries
    Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Loss
    For the Three and Six Months Ended December 31, 2024 and 2023
     
            For the Three Months Ended December 31,   For the Six Months Ended December 31,
            2024   2023   2024   2023
            (Unaudited)   (Unaudited)   (Unaudited)   (Unaudited)
    REVENUES                    
      Product sales   $ 17,606,889     $ 16,800,122     $ 35,882,301     $ 43,308,496  
      Service income     1,465,682       –       2,198,791       –  
        Total revenues     19,072,571       16,800,122       38,081,092       43,308,496  
                                 
    COST OF REVENUES                        
      Product costs     9,461,119       9,481,882       19,378,567       24,231,411  
      Service costs     1,221,566       –       1,824,742       –  
        Total cost of revenues     10,682,685       9,481,882       21,203,309       24,231,411  
                                 
    GROSS PROFIT     8,389,886       7,318,240       16,877,783       19,077,085  
                                 
    OPERATING EXPENSES:                        
      Selling and fulfillment     4,628,914       6,936,980       10,543,722       17,000,451  
      General and administrative     3,077,365       2,933,607       8,396,888       5,897,658  
        Total operating expenses     7,706,279       9,870,587       18,940,610       22,898,109  
                                 
    INCOME (LOSS) FROM OPERATIONS     683,607       (2,552,347 )     (2,062,827 )     (3,821,024 )
                                 
    OTHER INCOME (EXPENSE)                        
      Interest expenses     (140,672 )     (182,612 )     (280,634 )     (410,977 )
      Loss on equity method investment     (802 )     (801 )     (1,721 )     (1,826 )
      Other non-operating income (expenses)     (205,958 )     128,838       12,728       61,672  
        Total other expenses, net     (347,432 )     (54,575 )     (269,627 )     (351,131 )
                                 
    INCOME (LOSS) BEFORE INCOME TAXES     336,175       (2,606,922 )     (2,332,454 )     (4,172,155 )
                                 
    PROVISION FOR INCOME TAX EXPENSE (BENEFIT)     120,511       (688,939 )     (516,001 )     (964,821 )
    NET INCOME (LOSS)     215,664       (1,917,983 )     (1,816,453 )     (3,207,334 )
                                 
      Non-controlling interest     (3,155 )     (3,155 )     (5,991 )     (5,991 )
                                 
    NET INCOME (LOSS) ATTRIBUTABLE TO IPOWER INC.   $ 218,819     $ (1,914,828 )   $ (1,810,462 )   $ (3,201,343 )
                                 
    OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)                        
      Foreign currency translation adjustments     156,130       (160,255 )     101,076       (160,962 )
                                 
    COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS) ATTRIBUTABLE TO IPOWER INC.     $ 374,949     $ (2,075,083 )   $ (1,709,386 )   $ (3,362,305 )
                                 
    WEIGHTED AVERAGE NUMBER OF COMMON STOCK                        
      Basic     31,437,517       29,790,242       31,427,360       29,777,378  
                                 
      Diluted     31,437,517       29,790,242       31,427,360       29,777,378  
                                 
    EARNINGS (LOSSES) PER SHARE                        
      Basic   $ 0.01     $ (0.06 )   $ (0.06 )   $ (0.11 )
                                 
      Diluted   $ 0.01     $ (0.06 )   $ (0.06 )   $ (0.11 )
                                 

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Consumer NZ Valentine’s Day alert: Beware the red flags

    Source: Consumer NZ

    Consumer NZ is warning New Zealanders to be on high alert this Valentine’s Day as romance scammers flip the typical scam protection advice on its head.

    Ruairi O’Shea, Consumer NZ investigative writer, says romance scams are particularly insidious because they don’t follow the typical patterns associated with scams.

    “Romance scams work because they bypass the red flags we’re trained to look out for. Instead of demanding urgent action or sending texts with links out of the blue, romance scammers build trust over months,” says O’Shea.

    “And unlike an unsolicited text with a dodgy link, you may have even initiated first contact by swiping left on a dating app. It’s a slow burn, with scammers building trust before recommending investment opportunities or asking for intimate pictures that they could use to blackmail a person.

    “Victims genuinely believe they’re in a relationship: they trust the other person implicitly and believe that person will act in their best interests.”

    Between 2023 and 2024, a French woman was targeted by a scammer using generative artificial intelligence (AI) to successfully convince her she was speaking to the American actor Brad Pitt. She was scammed out of almost NZ$1.5 million.

    “Romance scams can be utterly devastating because of the financial and emotional toll they take.  

    “Love is a strong incentive, and sadly, scammers know this and exploit it.”

    Recognising these three ‘red flags’ can protect you from romance scams

    The long game

    Unlike traditional scams that rely on urgency, romance scammers play the long game. O’Shea says this slow-building trust makes victims more likely to overlook the more common or “typical” signs of a scam.  

    The investment  

    Once the scammer is confident they’ve established trust, they will begin exploiting.

    “It might start with the scammer revealing a seemingly minor financial stress, and because they feel committed to this relationship, the victim may even proactively offer to help resolve the problem.

    “Later, the scammer might casually recommend an investment opportunity, which, unfortunately, turns out to be fake.”

    Strictly online

    “It’s not new to hear of someone who is in a happy, committed relationship, with kids, a dog and a house, after having initially met their partner on a dating app.

    “What is new, however, is the sophisticated way in which scammers are using AI to basically turbocharge their authenticity,” O’Shea says.

    “Be suspicious if the person you meet online is reluctant to get together in the flesh. Their reasons for keeping a relationship secret or online can be incredibly convincing – health, travel, work, family – but if you can’t meet them in person, you shouldn’t trust them.”

    4 don’ts to protect yourself and those you love (in real life) from romance scams

    Don’t keep it on the down-low – talk to friends and family about online relationships: a fresh pair of eyes could help spot the signs of a scam.

    Don’t give someone anything you wouldn’t post publicly on social media – this isn’t just intimate photographs but also your address or other potentially sensitive personal information.

    Don’t send money to anyone you’ve only communicated with online – if you haven’t met someone in person, don’t give them anything of monetary value.

    Don’t move to another messaging service – if you meet someone on a dating platform and they suggest moving to an encrypted messaging service like WhatsApp, be suspicious.

    What to do if you’re the victim of a romance scam

    If you’re the victim of a romance scam, contact the Police, Manaaki Tāngata Victim Support, your bank and Netsafe (the nation’s non-profit online safety organisation) immediately: a scam doesn’t necessarily end when a victim realises they’ve been scammed.  

    It’s also important to report online scams to CERT NZ, part of the National Cyber Security Centre. The National Cuber Security Centre runs Own Your Online and the service has helpful advice on how to spot a scam and what to do if you get caught out.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General Bonta, Coalition of Attorneys General Secure Preliminary Injunction in Birthright Citizenship Case

    Source: US State of California Department of Justice

    OAKLAND – California Attorney General Rob Bonta today, along with the attorneys general of New Jersey, Massachusetts, Delaware, Colorado, Connecticut, Hawaii, Maine, Maryland, Michigan, Nevada, New York, and Vermont, and the City and County of San Francisco, issued a joint statement in response to a decision by the U.S. District Court for the District of Massachusetts granting a preliminary injunction against President Trump’s unconstitutional executive order terminating birthright citizenship. On January 21, 2025, Attorney General Bonta, New Jersey Attorney General Matt Platkin, and Massachusetts Attorney General Andrea Campbell led a coalition of 19 states in filing a lawsuit challenging the order.

    “President Trump may believe that he is above the law, but today’s preliminary injunction sends a clear message: He is not a king, and he cannot rewrite the Constitution with the stroke of a pen. 

    “The President and his allies made clear long before he was sworn in that they would pursue this illegal action, and our coalition was prepared to challenge it as soon as President Trump fulfilled this unconstitutional campaign promise on Inauguration Day.

    “We immediately stood up for our Constitution, for the rule of law, and for American children across the country who would have been deprived of their constitutional rights – and today we delivered for them. This is not yet over, and we will continue to fight every single step of the way until President Trump is permanently prevented from trampling on the Fourteenth Amendment rights of all Americans.”

    President Trump issued an executive order on January 20, 2025, fulfilling his campaign promise to end birthright citizenship, in violation of the Fourteenth Amendment of the United States Constitution and Section 1401 of the Immigration and Nationality Act. To stop the President’s unlawful action, which would have harmed hundreds of thousands of American children and their families, the coalition sued in the District of Massachusetts to invalidate the executive order and to enjoin any actions taken to implement it. The states requested immediate relief to prevent the President’s order from taking effect. The request was granted by Judge Leo Sorokin. 

    Birthright citizenship dates back centuries—including to pre-Civil War America. Although the Supreme Court’s notorious decision in Dred Scott denied birthright citizenship to the descendants of slaves, the post-Civil War United States adopted the Fourteenth Amendment to protect citizenship for children born in this country. As the filings explain, the U.S. Supreme Court has repeatedly confirmed that birthright citizenship does not depend on the immigration status of the baby’s parents.

    If allowed to stand, this order would have, for the first time since the Fourteenth Amendment was adopted in 1868, meant thousands of babies born each year in California who otherwise would have been citizens would no longer enjoy the privileges and benefits of citizenship. The children whose citizenship would be stripped by the President’s order would lose their most basic rights and would be forced to live under the threat of deportation. They would lose eligibility for a wide range of federal services and programs. They would lose their ability obtain a Social Security number and, as they age, to work lawfully. And they would lose their right to vote, serve on juries, and run for certain offices. Despite the Constitution’s guarantee of citizenship, thousands of children would — for the first time — lose their ability to fully and fairly be a part of American society as a citizen with all its benefits and privileges.

    In addition to harming hundreds of thousands of residents, the President’s order would have significantly harmed the States themselves, too. Among other things, this order would cause the states to lose federal funding to programs that they administer, such as Medicaid, the Children’s Health Insurance Program, and foster care and adoption assistance programs, which all turn at least in part on the immigration status of the resident being served. States would also be required — at their considerable expense — to immediately begin modifying their operation and administration of benefits programs to account for this change, which would impose significant burdens on multiple agencies that operate programs for the benefit of the States’ residents. The States’ filings explain that they should not have to bear these dramatic costs while their case proceeds because the order is directly inconsistent with the Constitution, the Immigration and Nationality Act, and two U.S. Supreme Court decisions.

    A copy of the court’s decision is available here. A copy of the preliminary injunction order is available here. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Grassley, Cortez Masto Lead Bipartisan Effort to Crack Down on Illicit Xylazine

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Iowa Chuck Grassley
    WASHINGTON – Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) and Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) reintroduced bipartisan, bicameral legislation to fight the spread of illicit xylazine. The Combatting Illicit Xylazine Act would classify this highly toxic sedative as Schedule III under the Controlled Substances Act, while protecting its legitimate use in large animal veterinary medicine. Reps. Jimmy Panetta (D-Calif.) and August Pfluger (R-Texas) are leading companion legislation in the House of Representatives. Attorney General Pam Bondi, on her first day in office, advocated for the scheduling of xylazine in an internal Department of Justice memo. 
    “Illicit xylazine is contributing to the national drug epidemic and driving up overdose deaths in communities across the country. Our nation’s laws must keep pace with emerging drug trends,” Grassley said. “This bipartisan bill recognizes the lethal threat of xylazine and provides law enforcement new tools to combat its spread, while ensuring veterinarians, ranchers and cattlemen can continue to access the drug for legitimate animal treatment.” 
    “Xylazine poses a growing threat across the Silver State, and our law enforcement officers simply don’t have the tools they need to keep our communities safe from this dangerous drug,” said Cortez Masto. “My bipartisan, bicameral bill would crack down on illegal use of xylazine while protecting its legitimate use by veterinarians and ranchers. It’s time for Congress to act now and pass this life-saving legislation.” 
    Specifically, the Combatting Illicit Xylazine Act would: 
    Classify xylazine as a Schedule III drug under the Controlled Substances Act; 
    Enable the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) to track xylazine’s manufacturing; 
    Require a report on prevalence, risks and recommendations to best regulate xylazine; and 
    Ensure veterinarians, farmers and ranchers can still use xylazine for its intended purpose – to treat large animals – by clearly defining “ultimate user” as someone lawfully permitted to possess a controlled substance for legitimate use. 
    The Combatting Illicit Xylazine Act is endorsed by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA). 
    “The Combating Illicit Xylazine Act strikes the right balance of helping address the public health threat of illicit xylazine while maintaining veterinary access to this critical animal sedative,” said Dr. Sandra Faeh, President of the American Veterinary Medical Association. “Strongly endorsed by the AVMA, this legislation is essential to protecting our communities from the grave health and safety risks of illicit xylazine, upholding animal welfare, supporting public health, and ensuring our nation’s veterinarians are equipped with all the necessary resources to provide high-quality veterinary care.” 
    Additional cosponsors include Sens. Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.), Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.), Rick Scott (R-Fla.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Katie Britt (R-Ala.), Shelly Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), Todd Young (R-Ind.), Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Jim Risch (R-Idaho), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) and Roger Wicker (R-Miss.).
    Find bill text HERE. 
    Background:
    Xylazine is a veterinary tranquilizer that bad actors use as a low-cost cutting agent for fentanyl. In 2022, the DEA found that 23 percent of the fentanyl powder seized across 48 states contained xylazine.  
    Grassley this Congress also introduced the bipartisan HALT Fentanyl Act to permanently classify illicit, fentanyl-related substances as Schedule I under the Controlled Substances Act. Both bills would provide law enforcement the tools they need to effectively combat the nation’s drug epidemic. 
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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Whistleblowers’ Accounts Expose Dark Reality of Yearslong Weaponization and Political Infection at FBI

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Iowa Chuck Grassley
    WASHINGTON – Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) today during an executive business meeting highlighted whistleblowers’ first-person accounts of the retaliation and abuse they have suffered at the hands of current and former top FBI officials. Grassley’s comments came shortly before voting to advance Kash Patel’s nomination to be FBI Director. While reading the whistleblowers’ accounts into the congressional record, Chairman Grassley noted:
    “I’d like to have the White House and my Republican colleagues take note of this, because I think some of these people should be reinstated because of how [un]justly they’ve been treated. And like you’ve heard me so many times say, whistleblowers are treated like a skunk at a picnic. And I hope my Democrat colleagues will learn a lesson about how the FBI has previously treated whistleblowers, both under Republican administrations and Democrat administrations. So that we don’t have this happening again.”
    In a story this morning, RealClearInvestigations further detailed the plight of FBI whistleblowers.
    A Weaponized FBI: It’s Real, Whistleblowers Testify, Boasting Scars to Prove It
    By Ben Weingarten
    November 13, 2025
    Democrats have cast the Trump administration’s ouster of eight senior FBI leaders as a “purge” and act of “retribution” from a weaponized Justice Department, some likening it to President Nixon’s “Saturday Night Massacre.” 
    But former colleagues of the terminated “G-men” say this narrative is backward. FBI officials, past and present, have marshaled significant evidence via whistleblower complaints and testimony indicating that several terminated leaders routinely used their offices for partisan purposes.
    These include allegations that at least two of the fired officials, Jeffrey Veltri and Dena Perkins, manipulated the security clearance review process to personally and professionally punish conservatives, COVID-19 vaccine skeptics, and Jan. 6 whistleblowers who reported suspected bureau malfeasance, and retaliated against those who came to the whistleblowers’ defense. 
    A third, Timothy Dunham, is also alleged to have improperly suspended security clearances.
    Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) read numerous accounts of alleged misconduct perpetrated by these and other officials into the record this morning as the committee considered the nomination of Kash Patel for FBI Director…
    Read the full RealClearInvestigations story HERE. Read Grassley’s full opening statement HERE.
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  • MIL-OSI USA News: Trump Administration: Follow the Law

    Source: The White House

    President Donald J. Trump and his administration have a simple message: follow the law. Since taking office, the Trump Administration has wasted no time taking action against states and entities which have opted for defiance.

    Here are only a few examples:

    • The Department of Education has launched investigations into the California Interscholastic Federation and the Minnesota State High School League over their failures to comply with President Trump’s executive order protecting girls in sports. The department has also announced probes into the widespread anti-Semitic harassment at five public universities across the country.
    • The Department of Justice (DOJ) has sued the State of New York and its top officials over their willful failure to comply with federal immigration laws. The DOJ has also filed lawsuits against the State of Illinois and the City of Chicago over their dangerous and illegal so-called “sanctuary” policies.
    • The Environmental Protection Administration (EPA) has announced referrals to the Office of Inspector General and the DOJ over a scheme by outgoing Biden EPA staffers to bury billions of dollars in federal funding at an outside financial institution in an effort to shield the funds from oversight and accountability.
    • The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has opened an investigation into discriminatory DEI policies at Comcast — an entity which it regulates — following President Trump’s executive order ending such policies. The FCC has also taken action against a Soros-backed, San Francisco-based radio station after the station broadcasted the locations of undercover federal immigration authorities conducting dangerous operations in the area, and has launched an investigation into NPR and PBS over potential violations of federal laws.
    • The Department of Homeland Security has “clawed back” tens of millions of dollars in funds paid by rogue FEMA officials to house illegal aliens in luxury New York City hotels.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: ExCo Non-official Members visit Kai Tak Sports Park (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    The following is issued on behalf of the Executive Council Secretariat:

         Non-official Members of the Executive Council (ExCo Non-official Members) visited Kai Tak Sports Park today (February 13) to tour various venues and facilities in the park.

         ExCo Non-official Members accompanied by the Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, Miss Rosanna Law; the Permanent Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, Ms Vivian Sum; and the Commissioner for Sports, Mr George Tsoi, were briefed by the staff on the design and planning of the Kai Tak Sports Park. 

         ExCo Non-official Members toured the Kai Tak Stadium which could accommodate 50 000 spectators. They learned about facilities such as the retractable roof, and the flexible pitch surface, customisable staging and seating configurations that can be adapted based on the scale and nature of events. They also visited other venues, including the Central Square, the Kai Tak Arena and the Kai Tak Youth Sports Ground.

         ExCo Non-official Members commended on the comprehensive facilities of the Kai Tak Sports Park, which is the largest sports infrastructure project in Hong Kong’s history and can host international sports and entertainment mega events. Apart from the three major venues, the Sports Park also features various retail, catering as well as leisure and entertainment facilities. They hoped that after the opening of the Kai Tak Sports Park, Hong Kong will host more large-scale international events, attracting more tourists from around the globe and further promoting Hong Kong as an events capital and a popular destination for global travelers. This would further expand the mega event economy and strengthen impetus for economic growth in Hong Kong.

         ExCo Non-official Members were pleased to learn that relevant government departments and the Kai Tak Sports Park are preparing for the official opening in full steam. They wished for a successful opening ceremony.

         Joining the visit were ExCo Non-official Members Professor Arthur Li, Mr Ronny Tong, Dr Moses Cheng, Mrs Margaret Leung, Mr Chan Kin-por and Mr Stanley Ng.            

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Serious crash on the Barrier Highway

    Source: South Australia Police

    Police are at the scene of a serious crash at Porter Lagoon in the state’s mid north.

    At 6.20am on Friday 14 February, emergency services were called to the Barrier Highway, 18 kms south of Burra after reports of a single truck roll over.

    The Barrier Highway is closed between Black Springs and Hanson.

    Motorists are asked to avoid the area.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Transport Department alerts public to fraudulent SMS messages purported to be from HKeToll

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Transport Department alerts public to fraudulent SMS messages purported to be from HKeToll
    Transport Department alerts public to fraudulent SMS messages purported to be from HKeToll
    ******************************************************************************************

         The Transport Department (TD) today (February 14) alerted members of the public to fraudulent SMS messages purported to be issued by the HKeToll and provided a hyperlink with the domain name (http[:]//hketoll.taobaocainiao.top[/]ZA17vEtuG6) that lead to a fake HKeToll website, which seeks to deceive recipients into making payments and obtain their credit card information.     The TD clarifies that the SMS messages were not issued by the HKeToll and has referred the case to the Police for follow-up. Members of the public are reminded that the HKeToll will not send SMS messages or emails to vehicle owners with hyperlinks which direct them to the websites to carry out transactions. If a vehicle owner wishes to pay an outstanding toll online, they must log in to the HKeToll website (hketoll.gov.hk) or mobile app.     Members of the public should stay alert when receiving unidentified messages. They should not visit suspicious websites and disclose any personal information. Anyone who has provided his or her personal information to the websites concerned should contact the Police. For enquiries about the HKeToll, please call 3853 7333.

     
    Ends/Thursday, February 13, 2025Issued at HKT 20:13

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Washington County Man Pleads Guilty to Distribution and Possession of Child Sexual Abuse Material

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    ALBANY, NEW YORK – David Dion, age 47, of Greenwich, New York, pled guilty today to charges that he distributed and possessed child sexual abuse material (CSAM). United States Attorney Carla B. Freedman; Craig L. Tremaroli, Special Agent in Charge of the Albany Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI); and New York State Police (NYSP) Superintendent Steven G. James made the announcement.

    Dion admitted that from July 2023 to January 2024, he distributed images and videos of CSAM via an encrypted chat messenger to another person, and possessed images of CSAM on five electronic devices on February 28, 2024, when his residence was searched. He also admitted that he produced morphed images of CSAM by using non-pornographic images of known children and superimposing the faces of those children onto other images of CSAM he found on the Internet to create an adapted or modified depiction of an identifiable minor engaged in sexually explicit conduct. Dion possessed more than 130,000 images of CSAM across his devices.

    Sentencing is currently scheduled for June 13, 2025, before United States District Judge Anne M. Nardacci. Dion faces at least 5 years and up to 20 years in prison, a maximum fine of $250,000, and a term of post-imprisonment supervised release of at least 5 years and up to life. A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the particular statute the defendant is charged with violating, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, and other factors. Dion may also be ordered to pay restitution to the victims of his offenses and forfeit the devices used in the offenses. Dion will also have to register as a sex offender upon his release from prison.

    The FBI and NYSP are investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Alexander P. Wentworth-Ping is prosecuting the case.

    Launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice, Project Safe Childhood is led by United States Attorney’s offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), and is designed to marshal federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Armed Cocaine Trafficker Is Sentenced To Prison

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Today, U.S. District Judge Kenneth D. Bell sentenced an armed cocaine trafficker to five years in prison, announced Lawrence J. Cameron, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina. Cleveland Pegues, 40, of Charlotte, was also ordered to serve three years of supervised release after he is released from prison.

    Bennie Mims, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), Charlotte Field Division, and Chief Johnny Jennings of the Charlotte Mecklenburg Police Department (CMPD), join Acting U.S. Attorney Cameron in making today’s announcement.

    According to court documents and court proceedings, on March 15, 2023, CMPD officers attempted to conduct a traffic stop on a black Honda Accord for a traffic violation. The driver of the vehicle initially pulled over, but as the officers exited their vehicle the driver took off at a high rate of speed. As the vehicle sped away, the officers observed a bag being thrown from the passenger window. Officers recovered the bag which contained quantities of marijuana and cocaine. The officers also conducted a search of the area where the vehicle had traveled and located a stolen and loaded firearm. During the investigation, the officers determined that the driver of the vehicle was Pegues.

    According to filed documents, on March 29, 2023, while surveilling Pegues, officers observed the defendant walking toward a truck, carrying bags. When Pegues saw the officers, he attempted to flee on foot, but he was quickly taken into custody. Court records show that Pegues had been carrying a shopping bag and a satchel. Officers searched the satchel, where they found a Pietro Beretta, Model 96A1, .40 caliber pistol with one round in the chamber and 10 rounds in the magazine; a stolen Smith and Wesson, Model 66, 357 Magnum revolver loaded with six rounds; and a Beretta magazine loaded with six rounds of .40 caliber ammunition. Inside the shopping bag, officers found multiple plastic bags containing over 100 grams of cocaine packaged for distribution, quantities of MDMA and cocaine base, and more than half a kilogram of marijuana packaged in several bags. The officers also found digital scales and cash. Court documents show that law enforcement executed a search warrant at Pegues apartment, where they seized $7,000 in U.S. currency, ammunition, drug paraphernalia, and a money counter.

    On August 29, 2024, Pegues pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute cocaine, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. Pegues will remain in federal custody pending placement by the Federal Bureau of Prisons at a designated facility.

    In making today’s announcement, Acting U.S. Attorney Cameron thanked the ATF and CMPD for their investigation of the case.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Nick J. Miller of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Charlotte prosecuted the case. 

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Kanawha County Man Pleads Guilty to Withholding Information in Bankruptcy Case

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    CHARLESTON, W.Va. – James Eugene Wells, 73, of Marmet, pleaded guilty today to withholding records relating to the property or financial affairs of a debtor in bankruptcy from an officer of the court or a United States Trustee entitled to its possession.

    According to court documents and statements made in court, in October 2022, a Charleston business solely owned by Wells’ wife filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy. Wells helped with the business’ day-to-day management, including by overseeing many of its financial affairs, but was never an employee of the business. Wells admitted that he applied for and obtained five loans in the business’ name after the bankruptcy filing, from February 2023 through February 2024. Wells further admitted that he did not disclose the existence of the loans to the United States Trustee, who oversees the administration of bankruptcy cases in the Southern District of West Virginia.

    On January 31, 2024, the U.S. Bankruptcy Court held a hearing on the U.S. Trustee’s motion to dismiss the business’ bankruptcy case. That day, the bankruptcy lawyer for the business informed the U.S. Trustee of the existence of one of the four loans that Wells had obtained by that time in the business’ name. Wells admitted that during the motion hearing, including while the bankruptcy judge questioned him under oath, he did not disclose the existence of the other three loans. Wells further admitted that the fifth loan, obtained on February 8, 2024, was not approved by the bankruptcy court or disclosed to the U.S. Trustee. On February 21, 2024, the bankruptcy court dismissed the business’ bankruptcy case.

    A total of $68,000 was obtained in proceeds from the five loans and used for the business’ operations. The lender charged the business $9,700 in fees.

    Wells is scheduled to be sentenced on May 5, 2025, and faces a maximum penalty of five years in prison, up to three years of supervised release, and a $250,000 fine.

    United States Attorney Will Thompson made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). The United States Trustee’s Charleston field office, which serves West Virginia, made the criminal referral of this case to the U.S. Attorney’s Office. The United States Trustee Program is a component of the Department of Justice whose mission is to promote the integrity and efficiency of the bankruptcy system for the benefit of all stakeholders — debtors, creditors and the public.

    United States District Judge Joseph R. Goodwin presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan T. Storage is prosecuting the case.

    A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:25-cr-7.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Former U.S. Postal Service employee in Billings admits stealing mail

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    BILLINGS — A former U.S. Postal Service employee admitted to a theft charge today after he was accused of stealing mail when he tried to sell $850 worth of sports cards to a Billings sports memorabilia business that had attempted to ship the cards to a different customer, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said.

    The defendant, Zachary Louis Simpson, 37, pleaded guilty to theft of mail by employee. Simpson faces a maximum of five years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release.

    U.S. Magistrate Judge Timothy J. Cavan presided. A sentencing date will be set before U.S. District Judge Susan P. Watters. The court will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Simpson was released pending further proceedings.

    The government alleged in court documents that between March 27, 2023 and April 3, 2024, Simpson was employed by the U.S. Postal Service and sorted packages at the mail facility in Billings. Simpson had access to and was entrusted with mail during his shifts at the sorting facility. While employed with the Postal Service, Simpson stole packages from the sorting facility and took them home. On March 12, 2024, the U.S. Postal Service Office of Inspector General was contacted regarding Simpson. A sports memorabilia business in Billings notified law enforcement that Simpson came into the store to sell $850 of sports cards. The company realized that it had recently attempted to ship those same cards to a different customer through the mail. An investigation determined that the packages containing these cards had transited the postal sorting facility in Billings on a date Simpson was working. Law enforcement conducted a trash pull at Simpson’s residence and found dozens of empty packages in his trash that were addressed to other people at different locations. Investigators executed a search warrant at Simpson’s residence and seized more than 100 additional empty packages that were not addressed to Simpson. Agents also recovered more than 10,000 sports trading cards and other memorabilia. The Postal Service contacted a number of the victims whose packages were found in Simpson’s possession. Many reported that their packages contained sports trading cards that never reached the intended destination.

    The U.S. Attorney’s Office is prosecuting the case. The U.S. Postal Service Office of Inspector General, with assistance from the Eastern Montana High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Task Force, conducted the investigation.

    XXX

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  • MIL-OSI Security: 2013 Stranger Armed Rape Solved by Maryland DNA Upon Arrest Law Results in Guilty Verdict

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

                WASHINGTON –Samuel Peaks, 36, of Washington, D.C., has been found guilty by a jury, in the Superior Court of the District of Columbia, of one count of first degree sexual abuse while armed with aggravating circumstances for a February 12, 2013 assault of a stranger in the 4400 block of Gault Place, NE, announced U.S. Attorney Edward R. Martin, Jr. and Chief Pamela Smith of the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD). 

                Sentencing is scheduled in front of Superior Court Judge Neal Kravitz for May 2, 2025. Peaks faces a maximum sentence of life in prison.

                According to the government’s evidence that was presented at trial, at approximately 6:00 a.m., on February 12, 2013, Peaks encountered the victim at the Minnesota Ave. Metro and tried to speak with her. The victim rejected his advances and walked away. The defendant followed her, brandished a gun, forced her to put a condom on his penis, and perform a sexual act on him. Peaks threw the condom on the ground afterward. The victim immediately reported to police, who responded and recovered the condom.

                The condom was timely tested for DNA in 2013 and resulted in a mixture of DNA from the victim and an unknown male. The case was pending without an identification of a suspect until the defendant was arrested for an attempted homicide in Maryland in 2020, where his DNA was collected pursuant to Maryland’s DNA upon arrest law and entered into CODIS.

                The defendant’s DNA was compared to the male profile from the seized condom developed in the 2013 DNA testing and was determined to be a match.

                This case was investigated by the Metropolitan Police Department and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia.

                The case was investigated by Assistant United States Attorney Amy Zubrensky and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Sarah Folse and Raha Mokhtari, of the Sex Offense and Domestic Violence Section.

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