Source: US Whitehouse
Today, at the direction of President Donald J. Trump, the Administration is taking the biggest step in more than 30 years to protect taxpayer-funded benefits for American citizens — NOT illegal aliens. The move, which preserves roughly $40 billion in benefits for American citizens, overturns decades of bureaucratic defiance and builds on President Trump’s executive order directing an END to the subsidization of open borders.
Under President Trump, hardworking Americans will no longer be forced to front the cost of benefits for illegals:
The Department of Health and Human Services is restricting illegal aliens from 13 additional public programs, including Head Start, health workforce scholarships and loans, mental health and substance abuse support, family planning, and more.
The Department of Education is ending free tuition for illegal aliens at post-secondary career and technical education programs.
The Department of Agriculture is restricting illegal aliens from federally funded food assistance programs.
The Department of Labor is barring illegal aliens from accessing federal workforce development resources and grants.
The Department of Justice is closing longstanding loopholes that have allowed illegal aliens to access taxpayer-funded benefits.
The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Justice and Constitutional Development, Mr Xola Nqola, has welcomed the 15-year prison sentence handed down to former apartheid police officer Mr Johan Marais for the 1987 killing of student activist Mr Caiphus Nyoka.
Mr Marais was sentenced today in the Pretoria High Court. He is one of three individuals charged in connection with Mr Nyoka’s murder and pleaded guilty, stating that he had been ordered to assassinate Mr Nyoka.
Mr Nqola said: “This sentence is indeed welcome. A young man was robbed of his life, a bright future. The committee would like to see the finalisation of all apartheid crimes. This will bring some closure for the families and friends of our liberation struggle heroes, even if it does not bring back their loved ones.”
He added: “We commend the prosecuting team for ensuring that justice is done. This should be a message to all those unfinalised matters that the committee would like we want it to proceed in this manner.”
Mr Nqola emphasised that the committee will continue to monitor similar cases, as survivors and families should not have to wait decades for justice.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.
Ukraine’s Zaporizhzhya Nuclear Power Plant (ZNPP) remains connected to its last remaining main power line following the recent loss of all off-site power on 4 July, an ongoing situation that highlights the heightened nuclear safety and security risks during the conflict, Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) said today.
The loss of power– the ninth since the start of the conflict in February 2022 – forced the ZNPP to rely on its backup diesel generators for almost four hours as the plant’s one remaining back-up line remains disconnected after being reportedly damaged by military activity on 7 May. The IAEA team based at the ZNPP site— Europe’s largest nuclear facility — was informed this week that the emergency diesel generator fuel tanks used during the loss of power have since been replenished and the site has enough fuel to enable operation of emergency diesel generators for approximately 20 days, in case of a loss of off-site power event.
The IAEA team at South Ukraine nuclear power plant (SUNPP) reported that the plant also lost its connection to one 750 kilovolt (kV) off-site power line on 4 July, for approximately the same time as the ZNPP lost off-site power. During that time, the SUNPP continued to receive off-site power from its other 750 kV line and all of its 330 kV power lines. There was no impact on the one unit currently operating, while the other two units continue planned maintenance and refueling activities.
The IAEA team continued to assess the availability of spare parts necessary for the continued safe operation of the plant by visiting the storage areas for the parts in the thermomechanical and electrical warehouses located within the ZNPP’s site perimeter and will be requesting the findings of recent audits by the ZNPP of spare parts. The team is also expecting to be updated on the delayed procurement of spare parts needed so that the ZNPP can commence annual maintenance of all 20 emergency diesel generators which are essential to safety in case of a loss of off-site power event.
Also this week, the IAEA team reported that maintenance activities continue at the site, including on one safety train of unit 2 and on the main transformer of unit 4, while maintenance on one safety train of unit 5 is expected to be completed on Friday. Recently, the team also visited all main control rooms where it confirmed the number of operating staff present and recorded safety parameters for all units.
The IAEA team reported hearing military activity on most days over the past week, including gunfire near the plant on 4 July and three explosions close to the plant on 5 July.
The IAEA team at the Rivne nuclear power plant (NPP) reported that one reactor continues its planned maintenance and refueling activities, and one other unit was required to temporarily reduce reactor power to enable for the inspection and repair of one of the turbines. The repairs were successfully completed, and the reactor has returned to nominal full power.
IAEA teams present at all sites — the Khmelnytskyy, Rivne and South Ukraine NPPs and the Chornobyl NPP site — reported hearing air raid alarms on most days over the past week. At the Khmelnytskyy NPP the team was informed that drones were observed as close as five kilometres from the site, while the team at the Rivne NPP had to shelter at its hotel on two separate days and the teams at the Khmelnytskyy and Rivne NPPs sheltered at site today. The team at the Chornobyl NPP site reported hearing the sounds of a drone and anti-aircraft fire at the Chornobyl NPP site on the evening of 9 July, and were informed by the site management that a drone had reportedly flown over the open switchyard and was intercepted by the military.
As part of the IAEA’s comprehensive assistance programme to support nuclear safety and security in Ukraine, the Chornobyl NPP site received equipment aimed at enhancing the nuclear security measures at the site and the Khmelnytskyy and South Ukraine NPPs received equipment aimed at enhancing radiation monitoring capabilities. Additionally, the Ukrainian Hydrometeorological Center and the hydrometeorological organizations of the State Emergency Service of Ukraine received multipurpose radiation monitoring devices.
These deliveries were funded by the European Union, Switzerland and the United Kingdom, and brought the total number of IAEA-coordinated deliveries since the start of the armed conflict to 146.
The Safer Communities and Neighbourhoods (SCAN) unit of the Alberta Sheriffs obtained a court order against the property owner of 6707 32 Ave NW. The property will be closed for 90 days, beginning on July 10 at noon. All individuals must vacate the premises, including the current property owner.
The community safety order, obtained in the Court of King’s Bench, bars all people from the property until the closure period ends on Oct. 8. The property will be boarded up, fenced and all the locks will be changed. SCAN members will continue to monitor the property for activity while their investigation remains ongoing. Community safety order conditions remain in effect until Oct. 8, 2028.
“Once again, the SCAN unit has demonstrated its effectiveness at addressing public safety threats in our communities and neighbourhoods. By suppressing the illegal and dangerous activities occurring at this property, SCAN has helped give the neighbourhood back to law-abiding residents. It is unacceptable for Albertans to have drug-fueled criminal activity and chaos in their backyards, and I urge residents to stay vigilant and continue reporting suspicious activity in their communities.”
“Collaboration with local policing partners is key to the SCAN unit’s success throughout Alberta. Thanks to our close work with the Edmonton Police Service, SCAN has once again helped restore safety to a suffering neighbourhood. Our sheriffs’ dedication to the peace and security of residents has, and will continue to, drive meaningful wins like this.”
“EPS’ long-standing partnership with SCAN continues to be successful and we are pleased it has resulted in the closure of another problem property. Drug-fuelled crime frequently tries to hide in our communities, often targeting its most vulnerable members. Thanks to these partnerships, we are continuing to actively prevent further victimization and restore a sense of safety to our communities.”
The Alberta Sheriffs work with other law enforcement agencies to shut down properties being used for illegal activities. The SCAN unit operates under the Safer Communities and Neighbourhoods Act, which uses legal sanctions and court orders to hold owners accountable for illegal activity happening on their property.
Since its inception in 2008, Alberta’s SCAN unit has investigated more than 10,000 properties and has issued more than 130 community safety orders. Most complaints are resolved by working with owners to stop the illegal activity on their property.
Quick facts
Since 2009, SCAN has investigated the property a total of six times, which has twice resulted in community safety orders temporarily shuttering the home and evicting all occupants.
Since January 2015, the Edmonton Police Service has visited the property more than 250 times. During this time, the house has been a hub for illegal drug trafficking and abuse, including two fatal overdoses.
Earlier investigations resulted in community safety orders closing the property for 90 days and evicting all occupants. Complainants reported suspicious persons, assaults, drug possession and drug trafficking.
In December 2024, SCAN investigators seized a methamphetamine pipe and other drug paraphernalia from the property.
Related information
Report a suspicious property
Related news
Sheriffs close drug house in Fort Saskatchewan (June 4, 2025)
MEDIA AVAILABILITY: InvestigatorKarleen Schenkeyof SCANwill be available between 1:30 and 2 p.m. for on-camera interviews at 6707 32 Avenue NW in Edmonton.
Question for written answer E-002735/2025/rev.1 to the Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Rule 144 Yannis Maniatis (S&D)
According to a letter from the Turkish Foreign Minister to the Office of the President of the Turkish Grand National Assembly, published today[1], Türkiye has initiated secret negotiations with the new regime in Syria on the delimitation of maritime zones beyond territorial waters in the Eastern Mediterranean region.
Bearing in mind that Türkiye has very close relations with the new Syrian regime, and that the Turkish-Libyan memorandum of understanding – by which Türkiye tried to establish an Exclusive Economic Zone between Türkiye and Libya – violates international law, the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea and the sovereign rights of Greece, as recognised by the European Council in its conclusions, can the Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy say:
1.Are there any conditions for lifting sanctions on the Syrian regime? If so, what are they?
2.What steps will she take to prevent such an agreement and protect the sovereign rights of EU Member States in the Eastern Mediterranean?
3.What sanctions will she impose on both Türkiye and the new Syrian regime, should an agreement on the delimitation of maritime zones such as an EEZ or continental shelf between Syria and Türkiye violate international law and the sovereign rights of EU Member States?
The Council regularly monitors the situation in Hungary. At the General Affairs Council meeting of 28 January 2025, Hungary took part in a country-specific discussion, in the framework of the Council’s rule of law dialogue.
The developments mentioned by the Honourable Member fall also within the scope of the ongoing Article 7(1) TEU procedure. In the framework of the said procedure, a hearing of Hungary was held at the General Affairs Council meeting on 27 May.
In July 2021, the Commission, which is responsible for overseeing Member States’ application of Union law, launched an infringement procedure concerning the Hungarian law of 15 June 2021 adopting stricter measures against persons convicted of paedophilia and amending certain laws for the protection of children. A case is now before the Court of Justice of the European Union (Case C-769/22) about the matter.
Governor Josh Green, M.D., took action on 313 of the 321 bills enrolled during the 2025 regular session of the Hawai‘i State Legislature. Of those, Governor Green conducted 13 bill signing ceremonies to bring together community leaders and stakeholders to discuss and highlight impactful legislation. Lieutenant Governor Sylvia Luke led efforts for broadband access and expanded Preschool Open Doors through two bill signing ceremonies as acting governor.
Significant milestones during this legislative bill signing session include the enactment of the state budget:
On June 30, Governor Green signed House Bill 300 (Act 250, SLH 2025), the executive biennium budget, which appropriates $19.8 billion across all means of financing in fiscal year 2026 and $19.7 billion in fiscal year 2027. It includes $10.53 billion in general funds in fiscal 2026 and $10.58 billion in fiscal 2027.
CIP funding within the budget comprises $3.3 billion across all means of financing in fiscal 2026 and $2.3 billion in fiscal year 2027. General obligation bonds to support statewide construction projects allocates $1.4 billion for fiscal 2026 and $432 million for fiscal 2027.
Governor Green line-item vetoed $110 million across the fiscal biennium, representing less than half a percent of the roughly $40 billion state budget. These reductions demonstrate fiscal prudence in maintaining a stabilized state budget amid emerging federal funding uncertainty.
Additional key legislation enacted includes:
On May 27, Governor Green signed Senate Bill 1396 (Act 96, SLH 2025) into law, establishing the nation’s first Green Fee to combat the ever-evolving climate crisis that threatens the state. Guided by recommendations from the Climate Advisory Team (CAT), established by Governor Green, comprehensive climate and community-based policies identified the need for a sustainable funding source to support climate resiliency. Dialogue between key stakeholders and the tourism industry contributed to a collaborative effort to find solutions to safeguard the environment.
The signing of this bill strengthens infrastructure and funds initiatives through the revenue generated by a 0.75% increase to the transient accommodation tax. Revenues will fund environmental stewardship, climate and hazard mitigation and sustainable tourism.
On May 30, Governor Green signed Senate Bill 1300 (Act 139, SLH 2025), expanding access to free school meals for Hawai‘i public school students. The legislation aims to eliminate barriers for students experiencing food insecurity, allowing keiki to focus on learning and extracurricular activities. Beginning in the 2025-26 school year, free school meals will be available to all qualifying students under the National School Lunch Program. The following school year, eligibility will expand to include ‘ohana with income below 300% of the federal poverty level. The act appropriates $3.3 million to the Department of Education over the two school years to subsidise free school meals.
On June 30, Governor Green signed House Bill 1483 (Act 243, SLH 2025), strengthening legislation relating to fireworks crimes and increasing the criminal penalties for violators. These newly enacted provisions aim to safeguard Hawai‘i residents and communities by setting stronger deterrences and implementing additional regulatory measures to support the prosecution of fireworks-related crimes.
To further enhance enforcement, the legislation works to streamline the judicial process by amending the traffic and emergency period infractions adjudication system to include fireworks infractions. The addition shall expedite the handling of the high-volume fireworks violation and reduce the burden on the courts.
On July 7, Governor Green signed Senate Bill 1044 (Act 296, SLH 2025), reactivating the Hawaiʻi Hurricane Relief Fund (HHRF) to provide insurance coverage in scenarios where the private market fails to do so. To provide additional insurance coverage options, the bill enhances the powers of the Hawaiʻi Property Insurance Association (HPIA) and establishes the Condominium Loan Program to help buildings remain insurable, and mandates the Insurance Commissioner to conduct a comprehensive study aimed at developing sustainable strategies for market stabilization.
On July 8, Governor Green signed House Bill 1001 (Act 301, SLH 2025), establishing the Maui Wildfires Settlement Trust Fund to support the funding for the claims of settlement arising from the 2023 Maui wildfires. The bill appropriates $807.5 million to support the state’s portion of the total $4.037 billion settlement agreement. This funding provides timely compensation for survivors as an alternative to lengthy litigation.
To prioritize victims and their families, provisions in Act 301 specify that property and casualty insurance companies can only recover payments made to a policyholder through a statutory lien.
Additionally, Governor Green signed House Bill 1064 (Act 302, SLH 2025), effectuating the Phase Three report provided by the Fire Safety Research Institute, to improve the state’s fire preparedness and response following the 2023 Maui wildfires. The recommendations provided intent to set improvements to the Office of the State Fire Marshal.
Under Act 302, the Office of the State Fire Marshal is transferred to the Department of Law Enforcement and is to be led by the State Fire Marshal, the first in the state in nearly 46 years. The measure establishes roles, duties and discretionary authority for both the Office and the State Fire Marshal. To further integrate this role into the state, organizational structure amendments clarify responsibility and reporting requirements for the State Fire Marshal and the State Fire Council.
Part of the State Fire Marshal’s responsibility is to provide centralized analysis of fire occurrences from across the state using the annual records submitted by each county’s fire chief. The legislation establishes the biennial statistical report requirement to keep the public informed and to provide the legislature with reports regarding the office’s operations.
Governor Green signed more than 300 additional bills, separate from the public bill signing ceremonies.
“This legislative session delivered many important wins, and I’m deeply grateful to the Hawai‘i State Legislature for championing measures that serve our people and protect our ‘āina,” said Governor Green. “At the same time, we faced real challenges, especially the uncertainty of federal funding, which put critical lifelines for our communities at risk.”
It was the foresight and resilience of our communities — and our willingness to listen — that helped move many of these bills across the finish line. I remain committed to advocating for key administrative priorities, including housing, homelessness, healthcare, wellness and resilience, and climate action. Together, we will continue to build a stronger, healthier and more sustainable future for all of Hawai‘i.”
What you need to know:In the second quarter of 2025, the state’s cross-agency enforcement efforts – including UCETF’s largest operation to date – resulted in the seizure of 185,873 pounds of illicit cannabis product valued at $476 million.
Sacramento, California– Governor Gavin Newsom today announced that the state seized $476 millionworthof illegal cannabis between April and June, thanks to the combined efforts of the Governor’s Unified Cannabis Enforcement Task Force (UCETF), co-led by the Department of Cannabis Control (DCC) and the Department of Fish & Wildlife (CDFW).
As a proof point of California’s commitment to the legal cannabis industry, the state seized over 92 tons of illicit cannabis product in the past three months alone. I thank the federal, state, and local partners who conducted these enforcement efforts for protecting consumers and supporting our legal cannabis market.
Governor Gavin Newsom
In the efforts announced today, UCETF received support from the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration, California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, California Department of Parks and Recreation, California Department of Pesticide Regulation, Employment Development Department, and California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection.
Combined enforcement highlights from April through June include:
413,302illegal cannabis plants eradicated
185,873pounds of illegal cannabis seized
214warrants served
77firearms seized
93arrests
“Our teams continue to take an aggressive and proactive approach to eliminating unlicensed cannabis activities,” saidDCC Director Nicole Elliott. “We will remain laser-focused on dismantling illicit cannabis operations until they are all permanently shut down.”
“Over the past quarter, UCETF conducted numerous highly strategic operations that significantly impacted the daily activities of illegal cannabis operators,” saidNathaniel Arnold, Chief of the Law Enforcement Division for the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW). “This success would not be possible without the continued support and dedication of our partners throughout the state.”
In May, UCETF conducted itslargest successful operation to datewith 200 sworn officers and staff from state, local, and federal agencies participating in an enforcement effort spanning 4,600 square miles in the Central Valley. Through 71 search warrants, officials seized:
105,700 illicit cannabis plants
22,057 pounds of processed cannabis valued at $123.5 million
Nine firearms
A unified strategy across California
Since 2019, officials have seized and destroyed over 950 tons, or over 1.9 million pounds, of illegal cannabis worth an estimated retail value of $3.6 billion through over 1,700+ operations.
Thecannabis task forcewas established in 2022 by Governor Newsom to enhance collaboration and enforcement coordination between state, local, and federal partners.Partners on the task forceinclude the Department of Cannabis Control, the Department of Pesticide Regulation, the Department of Toxic Substances Control, and the Department of Fish and Wildlife, among others.
To learn more about the legal California cannabis market, state licenses, and laws, visitcannabis.ca.gov.
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Priority question for written answer P-002806/2025 to the Commission Rule 144 Dirk Gotink (PPE)
A Dutch citizen has been sentenced to imprisonment in Czechia for failing to pay child maintenance, clear evidence of his being unemployed after his former employer went bankrupt. The court refused to carry out a reassessment of his financial capacity, in violation of Article 14 of the 2007 Hague Protocol on the Law Applicable to Maintenance Obligations, which is binding under Regulation (EC) No 4/2009[1]. Criminal proceedings followed, resulting in the issuance of a European arrest warrant (EAW).
1.Is the Commission aware of this case, and is it prepared to assess whether Article 14 of the 2007 Hague Protocol by the Czech authorities in this and similar cases has been applied in line with Union law?
2.Does the Commission agree that issuing an EAW in cases of demonstrable economic incapacity, without prior assessment of the debtor’s means, undermines mutual trust and the proper functioning of judicial cooperation within the EU? If so, why? If not, why not?
3.What concrete measures does the Commission intend to take to prevent disproportionate use of the EAW and within what timeframe?
Submitted: 9.7.2025
[1] Council Regulation (EC) No 4/2009 of 18 December 2008 on jurisdiction, applicable law, recognition and enforcement of decisions and cooperation in matters relating to maintenance obligations, OJ L 7, 10/01/2009, p. 1, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2009/4(1)/oj.
On Thursday, Parliament adopted three emergency resolutions on Dubai, the Central African Republic, and Syria.
Ryan Cornelius’ case in Dubai
Parliament calls for the immediate and unconditional release of Ryan Cornelius, a 71-year-old British citizen detained in Dubai, in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), since 2008. They denounce his inhumane conditions of detention and urge the UAE to abolish the practice of debt-related imprisonment and to respect international human rights standards.
They also point out that the assets seized in this particular case exceed by far the debt owed and demand that Ryan Cornelius be granted an enforceable right to compensation and other remedies, in accordance with international law. Originally sentenced to 10 years on charges of alleged fraud, Ryan Cornelius’ sentence was extended by another 20 years under Dubai Law 37 of 2009, applied retroactively and in violation of international legal standards.
MEPs call on the UK government, the EU Special Representative for Human Rights and the EU Delegation to the United Arab Emirates to raise this issue in all bilateral contacts with the authorities and note that the UN Working Group on Arbitrary Detention has declared this imprisonment illegal, citing lack of due process, forced confessions and refusal of a lawyer.
The resolution was adopted by 511 votes in favour, 50 against, and 75 abstentions. For more details, the full version will be available here. (10/07/25)
Source: United States Department of Justice (National Center for Disaster Fraud)
WASHINGTON DC –Geary Simon, 71, of the District of Columbia, was sentenced today to 15 months in prison for defrauding the STAY DC rental housing assistance program out of more than $38,500 and for being a felon in possession of a firearm, announced U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro.
Simon, aka “Robert Sutton,” pleaded guilty on Nov. 18, 2024, to one count of wire fraud in connection with a presidentially declared disaster or emergency and to one count of possession of a firearm by a prohibited person. In addition to the 15-month prison sentence, U.S. District Judge Dabney L. Friedrich ordered Simon to serve three years of supervised release and to pay restitution to the D.C. government of $38,560.
According to court documents, Simon obtained $38,560 from the city government program called Stronger Together by Assisting You D.C., known as STAY DC. The program was intended to provide financial assistance during the Covid pandemic to help tenants cover housing and utility expenses due to a loss of income. In April 2021, the District allocated $352 million in federal relief funds for the program. Applicants applied for funds from the STAY DC program via an online portal operated by the D.C. Department of Human Services
Simon applied to the program on June 22, 2021. In his application, Simon claimed that he was a tenant who rented a property in the District at 2433 H Street, NW; that his landlord was “Robert Sutton;” and that Simon owed “Robert Sutton” $72,000 in past due rent. All of the statements were false. Simon was not a tenant at that address; “Robert Sutton” was not Simon’s landlord; Simon did not owe “Robert Sutton” the sum of $72,000 in unpaid rent; and the phone number and email address that Simon provided for “Robert Sutton” were for a phone number and email account that Simon created and controlled.
Unaware of the fraud, DC-DHS granted Simon’s application and issued Simon a check for $38,560 that DC-DHS would not otherwise have approved. Simon deposited the check into an account in the name of “The Geary Stephen Simon 2016 Irrevocable Trust.”
Simon used the taxpayer-backed relief funds to pay private school tuition and to satisfy his court-ordered child support obligations.
On March 14, 2024, law enforcement executed a search warrant at Simon’s home. Officers recovered two firearms. Simon has two prior felony convictions, including a conviction for carrying a pistol without a license. By virtue of the prior felonies, Simon was prohibited from possessing any firearms under federal law.
This case was investigated by the FBI Washington Field Office. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney John W. Borchert.
Source: United States Department of Justice (National Center for Disaster Fraud)
WASHINGTON DC –Geary Simon, 71, of the District of Columbia, was sentenced today to 15 months in prison for defrauding the STAY DC rental housing assistance program out of more than $38,500 and for being a felon in possession of a firearm, announced U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro.
Simon, aka “Robert Sutton,” pleaded guilty on Nov. 18, 2024, to one count of wire fraud in connection with a presidentially declared disaster or emergency and to one count of possession of a firearm by a prohibited person. In addition to the 15-month prison sentence, U.S. District Judge Dabney L. Friedrich ordered Simon to serve three years of supervised release and to pay restitution to the D.C. government of $38,560.
According to court documents, Simon obtained $38,560 from the city government program called Stronger Together by Assisting You D.C., known as STAY DC. The program was intended to provide financial assistance during the Covid pandemic to help tenants cover housing and utility expenses due to a loss of income. In April 2021, the District allocated $352 million in federal relief funds for the program. Applicants applied for funds from the STAY DC program via an online portal operated by the D.C. Department of Human Services
Simon applied to the program on June 22, 2021. In his application, Simon claimed that he was a tenant who rented a property in the District at 2433 H Street, NW; that his landlord was “Robert Sutton;” and that Simon owed “Robert Sutton” $72,000 in past due rent. All of the statements were false. Simon was not a tenant at that address; “Robert Sutton” was not Simon’s landlord; Simon did not owe “Robert Sutton” the sum of $72,000 in unpaid rent; and the phone number and email address that Simon provided for “Robert Sutton” were for a phone number and email account that Simon created and controlled.
Unaware of the fraud, DC-DHS granted Simon’s application and issued Simon a check for $38,560 that DC-DHS would not otherwise have approved. Simon deposited the check into an account in the name of “The Geary Stephen Simon 2016 Irrevocable Trust.”
Simon used the taxpayer-backed relief funds to pay private school tuition and to satisfy his court-ordered child support obligations.
On March 14, 2024, law enforcement executed a search warrant at Simon’s home. Officers recovered two firearms. Simon has two prior felony convictions, including a conviction for carrying a pistol without a license. By virtue of the prior felonies, Simon was prohibited from possessing any firearms under federal law.
This case was investigated by the FBI Washington Field Office. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney John W. Borchert.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4
The National Security Department (NSD) of the Hong Kong Police Force took enforcement actions on July 9 and arrested four men, aged between 15 and 47, who were suspected of illegally participating in the Hong Kong Democratic Independence Alliance, which was established in China’s Taiwan region and engaged in activities aimed at committing subversion, in contravention of the offence of subversion under Article 22 of the National Security Law. The arrested persons are being detained for investigation.
The Hong Kong Democratic Independence Alliance was established in 2024 through a social media platform, with the objectives of committing subversion and achieving “Hong Kong independence”. The organisation has publicly expressed its stance in support of secession and subversion on various occasions. Investigation revealed that the arrested persons held different roles within the organisation and were actively involved in its affairs, including planning publicity, liaising with external forces and organising related activities.
Police stressed that any person or organisation inciting secession, subversion or endangering national security in any form is committing a serious offence. Any person who contravenes the offence of “subversion” is liable to a maximum penalty of life imprisonment. Police will ensure that the law is observed and strictly enforced, and will take resolute actions to hold offenders accountable. All illegal acts will be followed up to this end.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4
The Netherlands Hong Kong Business Association (NHKBA), with the support from the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Brussels, organised the annual summer event under the theme “Financial Services and FinTech, Business and Professional Services” on July 7 (Amsterdam time) in Amsterdam, the Netherlands. The event gathered around 100 representatives from Dutch and European business leaders, and Hong Kong representatives to exchange insights on key sectors under the theme.
Speaking at the event, the Special Representative for Hong Kong Economic and Trade Affairs to the European Union, Ms Shirley Yung, highlighted the resilience of Hong Kong’s economy amid global challenges. She emphasised, “Under the ‘one country, two systems’ principle, Hong Kong has maintained a solid institutional foundation of the rule of law, independent judiciary, robust regulatory regime, a low and simple tax system, and free flow of people, goods, capital and information, and has remained a trusted gateway to Asia and a market for global capital.”
Ms Yung cited Hong Kong’s rankings in a number of recent surveys as one of the world’s top three international financial centres, among the top three in global competitiveness, the freest economy in the world, and home to five universities ranked in the world’s top 100.
She further underlined that financial services remain a pillar of Hong Kong’s economy. She remarked, “Our deep capital markets, efficient banking system, and strong legal and regulatory infrastructure provide an ecosystem in which businesses from around the world can thrive. We are also embracing the future through fintech innovation.”
Ms Yung also updated the audience on Hong Kong’s latest efforts to refine financial regulation to balance innovation with investor protection, including the recent completion of legislation on stablecoins. She also discussed Hong Kong’s leading role in green and sustainable bond issuance in Asia.
The NHKBA annual summer event concluded with networking sessions and engaging discussions on how Dutch and European enterprises can benefit from Hong Kong’s role as a “super connector” between Europe, Asia, and China. The evening culminated in a dinner reception, at which the Secretary for Justice, Mr Paul Lam, SC, spoke on Hong Kong’s distinctive advantages of enjoying strong support from the motherland while being closely connected to the world under the “one country, two systems” principle.
MONTGOMERY – Governor Kay Ivey on Thursday announced she will appoint Bo Offord to serve as commissioner of the Alabama Medicaid Agency. Stephanie McGee Azar, after leading the Medicaid Agency for over 13 years, will become the chief executive officer of the State Employees’ Insurance Board of Directors (SEIB).
“As Alabama’s longest consecutively serving Medicaid commissioner, Stephanie Azar has proven herself a skillful manager of the state’s public health insurance program for low-income families,” said Governor Ivey. “She successfully directed annual Medicaid budgets for more than 13 years and shepherded the passage of legislation to create and fund the first Alabama Medicaid Reserve while maintaining a balanced budget. I am grateful to Stephanie for her years of invaluable service, and I am confident she will continue to serve the state well through her new position at SEIB.
“Meanwhile, Bo Offord has diligently helped guide the Alabama Medicaid Agency for close to two decades, serving as assistant general counsel, deputy general counsel and general counsel. He has demonstrated the necessary expertise to ensure the Agency remains on the sound footing Commissioner Azar established, and I look forward to his leadership as he assumes his new role of Medicaid commissioner.”
A graduate of The University of Alabama and Faulkner University’s Thomas Goode Jones School of Law, Offord began practicing law in 2007. Since he joined the Alabama Medicaid Agency in 2010, he has represented and advised the Medicaid Agency in probate, circuit and appellate matters, as well as in complex federal regulatory issues.
“It is an honor to be appointed by Governor Ivey to serve as the next commissioner of the Alabama Medicaid Agency,” said Offord. “I am sincerely thankful for the opportunity to serve the citizens of Alabama in this capacity. I had the privilege to work with Commissioner Azar for 15 years, witnessing firsthand her professionalism and leadership. I am certain she will have nothing but success at the State Employees Insurance Board.”
The Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division has opened an investigation into the State of Minnesota, including the Minnesota Department of Human Services, to determine whether it has engaged in race- and sex-based discrimination in its state employment hiring practices.
In a policy issued earlier this month, the Minnesota Department of Human Services requires its hiring supervisors to provide a “hiring justification when seeking to hire a non-underrepresented candidate.” Hiring supervisors who do not comply with the policy “may be subject to disciplinary action, up to and including termination.” The policy seems to be part of a broader effort by the state to engage in race- and sex-based employment practices in its “affirmative action” objectives.
The Civil Rights Division’s Employment Litigation Section will investigate whether Minnesota is engaged in a pattern or practice of discrimination based on race, sex, and other protected characteristics, pursuant to Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended.
“Minnesotans deserve to have their state government employees hired based on merit, not based on illegal DEI,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi.
“Federal law has long prohibited employment policies that discriminate based on race or sex,” said Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon of the Civil Rights Division. “The Justice Department refuses to tolerate such conduct, and states invite investigation when they engage in biased hiring practices tied to protected characteristics.”
OAKLAND – California Attorney General Rob Bonta today announced securing approximately $720 million nationwide in settlements with eight drug makers that manufactured opioid pills and worsened the nationwide opioid crisis. Based on the overwhelming participation by attorneys general across the country, all eight defendants have agreed to proceed with a sign-on period for local governments. California could receive more than $70 million in total.
“So long as the opioid epidemic continues to ravage communities in California and across the country, we will continue to hold accountable those who played a role in fueling it,” said Attorney General Bonta. “Today’s announcement holds accountable eight drug makers for their role in worsening the opioid crisis and brings much-needed funds for addiction treatment, prevention, and recovery to those impacted by this crisis. The California Department of Justice is committed to keeping our communities safe from the threat posed by the opioid crisis.”
As part of the settlements, the eight defendants will pay funds to states to address the opioid crisis as outlined below:
Mylan (now part of Viatris): $284,447,916 paid over nine years
Hikma: $95,818,293 paid over one to four years
Amneal: $71,751,010 paid over 10 years
Apotex: $63,682,369 paid in a single year
Indivior: $38,022,450 paid over four years
Sun: $30,992,087 paid over one to four years
Alvogen: $18,680,162 paid in a single year
Zydus: $14,859,220 paid in a single year
In addition to these abatement payments, several of the settlements allow states to receive free pharmaceutical products or cash in lieu of this product. Additionally, seven of the companies (not including Indivior) are prohibited from promoting or marketing opioids and opioid products, making or selling any product that contains more than 40 mg of oxycodone per pill, and are required to in place a monitoring and reporting system for suspicious orders. Indivior has agreed to not manufacture or sell opioid products for the next 10 years, but it will be able to continue marketing and selling medications to treat opioid use disorder.
The settlements were negotiated by California, North Carolina, Colorado, Illinois, New York, Oregon, Tennessee, Utah, and Virginia.
Source: United States Senator for Illinois Tammy Duckworth
July 10, 2025
[WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) joined U.S. Senators Alex Padilla (D-CA), Cory Booker (D-NJ) and 10 of their colleagues in introducing legislation requiring Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers to display clearly visible identification during public-facing enforcement actions. The Visible Identification Standards for Immigration-Based Law Enforcement (VISIBLE) Act of 2025 would strengthen oversight, transparency and accountability for the Trump Administration’s indiscriminate and alarming immigration enforcement tactics that have terrorized communities across the nation.
“By sending masked officers without any sort of identification to detain nonviolent migrants, Donald Trump is proving once again that he’s more focused on sowing fear and distrust in our communities than actually making our country safer,” said Duckworth. “This deceptive practice shields federal agents from accountability and hurts public trust in immigration enforcement while creating chaos and confusion for the people being targeted by ICE. Without proper ID, anyone could impersonate an officer. I’m proud to join Senators Padilla and Booker in this effort to hold DHS accountable.”
Under the Trump Administration’s mass deportation agenda, civil immigration enforcement operations have increasingly involved Department of Homeland Security (DHS) officers engaging with the public while wearing unmarked tactical gear, concealing clothing and face coverings that obscure both agency affiliation and personal identity. Without visible badges, names or insignia, members of the public often have no way to confirm whether they are interacting with legitimate government officials.
This lack of transparency endangers public safety by causing widespread confusion and fear, especially in communities already subject to heightened immigration scrutiny. It also increases operational and safety risks for law enforcement personnel by creating an opportunity for immigration enforcement impersonators and compounding uncertainty in high-stress situations. Clear, consistent, visible identification helps reduce miscommunication during enforcement encounters, strengthens officer credibility and improves public cooperation, all of which are vital to mission success. The VISIBLE Act would place a critical check on the government’s power, ensuring basic transparency safeguards that protect public trust and legitimacy in immigration enforcement operations.
Specifically, the VISIBLE Act would:
Require immigration enforcement officers — including DHS personnel such as Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), federal agents detailed to immigration operations and deputized state or local officers — to display clearly legible identification, including their agency name or initials and either their name or badge number, in a manner that remains visible and unobscured by tactical gear or clothing;
Prohibit non-medical face coverings (such as masks or balaclavas) that obscure identity or facial visibility, with exceptions for environmental hazards or covert operations; and
Require DHS to establish disciplinary procedures for violations, report annually to Congress on compliance and investigate complaints through its Office for Civil Rights and Civil Liberties.
The bill does not apply to covert or non-public facing operations, nor does it prohibit face coverings when necessary for officer safety. It also does not apply to enforcement actions conducted solely under criminal authority.
Along with Duckworth, Padilla and Booker, the legislation is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI), Patty Murray (D-WA), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Tina Smith (D-MN), Gary Peters (D-MI), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Peter Welch (D-VT) and Ron Wyden (D-OR).
Copy of the bill text is available on Senator Duckworth’s website.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Salud Carbajal (CA-24)
U.S. Representatives Salud Carbajal (D-CA-24) and Daniel Webster (R-FL-11), senior leaders of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, reintroduced the bipartisan National Infrastructure Investment Corporation (NIIC) Act, which would authorize the creation of a national infrastructure bank.
The bank created by the NIIC Act would be authorized to provide loans and loan guarantees to local infrastructure projects, giving local governments another potential funding source in addition to support provided by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law or other federal and state funding sources.
“The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law was a landmark step in revitalizing our nation’s crumbling infrastructure, but more investment is needed to help fix our country’s roads and bridges, upgrade our waterways and wastewater systems, expand telecommunications capabilities, and more,”said Rep. Carbajal. “This bipartisan bill will unlock billions of dollars a year in private funding to support our nation’s most pressing infrastructure projects.”
“American’s agree that our nations’ infrastructure is long overdue for critical repairs and improvements,”said Rep. Webster. “As a member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, I am committed to working on solutions that improve our nation’s infrastructure. This bipartisan bill would leverage private financing to help local governments and municipalities have access to the capital needed for improving critical infrastructure.”
The bank’s available funding for supporting local projects would come from municipal, state, and union pension funds loaned to the bank, earning interest on the funds and repaying the principal in time for the workers to utilize their retirement savings.
Since its passage in 2021, the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law has delivered more than $1 billion in funding to projects up and down the Central Coast of California.
As a senior member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, Carbajal played a key role in crafting and passing the landmark legislation in partnership with the Biden Administration.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Kat Cammack (R-FL-03)
Washington, D.C.— Today, Congresswoman Kat Cammack (FL-03) and Congressman Tony Gonzales (TX-23) led a group of Republican lawmakers in sending a letter to Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. urging coordination between HHS, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and pharmaceutical manufacturers to fast-track approvals and labeling of anti-parasitic treatments for livestock in response to the outbreak and growing threat of a New World Screwworm (NWS) infestation in Mexico.
The letter highlights the serious health and economic risks posed by NWS, which is moving north through Mexico and approaching the U.S. border. Lawmakers are urging HHS to expedite approvals for antiparasitic treatments—such as ivermectin, doramectin, permethrin, and coumaphos—that are proven effective abroad but lack proper U.S. labeling. They cite the successful 2016 emergency approval of doramectin as a model and call for coordinated action with USDA and EPA to match USDA’s new five-prong strategy, including the sterile fly facility planned in South Texas.
“Time is of the essence, as there are safe, effective treatments already in use around the world that U.S. producers cannot legally deploy because of outdated or incomplete labeling. By working hand-in-hand with USDA and EPA, HHS can cut through bureaucratic red tape to ensure that veterinarians, ranchers, and wildlife managers have the tools they need before an outbreak hits,”said Congresswoman Cammack.“For months, Congressman Gonzales and I have been actively engaged in combatting this threat. Over a month ago, we hosted a roundtable with fellow members of Congress, major stakeholders, and partners to determine the best path forward. We’ve developed an action plan and are working with our partners to execute executive and legislative action. It is now time for action at the federal level to match that urgency.”
“Fast-tracking approvals for anti-parasitic treatments for livestock is another important step we must take to protect our livestock industry from the New World screwworm. From introducing the STOP Screwworms Act and leading funding efforts through my seat on the House Appropriations Committee to working alongside USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins to launch a facility focused on screwworm eradication efforts—I am determined to do everything possible to eliminate this deadly parasite,”said Congressman Tony Gonzales. “Thank you, Rep. Kat Cammack, for your partnership in moving forward critical treatments to protect America’s livestock.”
Source: United States Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.)
Padilla meets with Michael Sullivan, the new chief of the U.S. Capitol PoliceWASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Rules and Administration, which has oversight over the U.S. Capitol Police, issued the following statement after meeting with new Capitol Police Chief Michael Sullivan to welcome him to his new leadership role:
“Amid the recent rise in dangerous political violence and rhetoric, bolstering the safety and security of Members, staff, and visitors to Capitol Hill is essential to the success of our constitutional government. I appreciate the public service and dedication of the officers who work long hours to protect the legislative branch, and I extend a warm welcome to Chief Michael Sullivan to this new leadership position. We had a productive discussion about Member and campus security, recruitment and retention, and officer morale. Alongside my colleagues in Congress, I look forward to working with Chief Sullivan to ensure that the Capitol Police have the resources, training, and support they need to do this incredibly important job safely and successfully.”
Peter C. Anderson has been designated by Attorney General Pamela Bondi as the U.S. Trustee for the Eastern and Northern Districts of California and the District of Nevada (Region 17) on an interim basis effective July 11. Anderson replaces Tracy Hope Davis, who has retired after nearly 28 years of distinguished service to the U.S. Trustee Program (USTP).
Under 28 U.S.C. § 585, the Attorney General may fill U.S. Trustee vacancies by designating an incumbent U.S. Trustee to serve in a second region. Since 2006, Anderson has served as the U.S. Trustee for the Central District of California (Region 16), and he will continue in that role while also overseeing Region 17.
The Executive Office for U.S. Trustees made the announcement.
The USTP’s mission is to promote the integrity and efficiency of the bankruptcy system for the benefit of all stakeholders — debtors, creditors and the public. The USTP consists of 21 regions with 88 field offices nationwide and an Executive Office in Washington, D.C. Learn more about the USTP at www.justice.gov/ust.
Peter C. Anderson has been designated by Attorney General Pamela Bondi as the U.S. Trustee for the Eastern and Northern Districts of California and the District of Nevada (Region 17) on an interim basis effective July 11. Anderson replaces Tracy Hope Davis, who has retired after nearly 28 years of distinguished service to the U.S. Trustee Program (USTP).
Under 28 U.S.C. § 585, the Attorney General may fill U.S. Trustee vacancies by designating an incumbent U.S. Trustee to serve in a second region. Since 2006, Anderson has served as the U.S. Trustee for the Central District of California (Region 16), and he will continue in that role while also overseeing Region 17.
The Executive Office for U.S. Trustees made the announcement.
The USTP’s mission is to promote the integrity and efficiency of the bankruptcy system for the benefit of all stakeholders — debtors, creditors and the public. The USTP consists of 21 regions with 88 field offices nationwide and an Executive Office in Washington, D.C. Learn more about the USTP at www.justice.gov/ust.
Two officers accused of failing to properly care for a man who died having knowingly swallowed drugs have been cleared at a disciplinary hearing.
The hearing, which ended on Thursday, 10 July, found the allegations against PCs Justin Hulf and Mara Sow, both attached to the South Area Command Unit, not proven in connection with the death of Mikias Tekeste.
The hearing had been directed by the Independent Office for Police Conduct after the Met disagreed with its assessment the officers had a case to answer for gross misconduct.
Detective Chief Superintendent Nick Blackburn, who leads policing in the area, said: “Our officers have a clear duty of care to those in their custody. However, Mr Tekeste was responsible for his actions that day and knowingly swallowed drugs.
“The hearing has found that the officers with him in the police van that day acted appropriately.
“Our thoughts remain with Mr Tekeste’s family and friends for their loss.”
On 15 July 2023, PCs Hulf and Sow identified Mr Tekeste, aged 30, as wanted on recall to prison. As they arrested him, he threw away a quantity of class A drugs. He was searched and placed in a police van to be transported to Croydon custody centre.
During the journey, he removed two small packages from his trousers and swallowed them. The officers did not see him doing so.
At the custody centre Mr Tekeste informed the custody officer he was withdrawing and a drugs test came back positive for cocaine and opiates. He was further arrested for possession with intent to supply drugs and placed on 30-minute observations. He became unwell in the cell and had multiple seizures, before falling unconscious. Emergency medical care was provided and paramedics attended. Mr Tekeste was taken to hospital but died from cocaine toxicity.
As with all deaths in custody, the matter was referred to the IOPC.
The IOPC investigation concluded that while the search of Mr Tekeste was appropriate, there was inadequate supervision in the police van and PCs Hulf and Sow should face a gross misconduct hearing.
The panel found the officers acted correctly. Mr Tekeste deliberately concealed his actions while swallowing the drugs inside the police van. The risk assessment applied by the officers was accurate with the information they held at the time and the level of supervision and observation was adequate.
Two officers accused of failing to properly care for a man who died having knowingly swallowed drugs have been cleared at a disciplinary hearing.
The hearing, which ended on Thursday, 10 July, found the allegations against PCs Justin Hulf and Mara Sow, both attached to the South Area Command Unit, not proven in connection with the death of Mikias Tekeste.
The hearing had been directed by the Independent Office for Police Conduct after the Met disagreed with its assessment the officers had a case to answer for gross misconduct.
Detective Chief Superintendent Nick Blackburn, who leads policing in the area, said: “Our officers have a clear duty of care to those in their custody. However, Mr Tekeste was responsible for his actions that day and knowingly swallowed drugs.
“The hearing has found that the officers with him in the police van that day acted appropriately.
“Our thoughts remain with Mr Tekeste’s family and friends for their loss.”
On 15 July 2023, PCs Hulf and Sow identified Mr Tekeste, aged 30, as wanted on recall to prison. As they arrested him, he threw away a quantity of class A drugs. He was searched and placed in a police van to be transported to Croydon custody centre.
During the journey, he removed two small packages from his trousers and swallowed them. The officers did not see him doing so.
At the custody centre Mr Tekeste informed the custody officer he was withdrawing and a drugs test came back positive for cocaine and opiates. He was further arrested for possession with intent to supply drugs and placed on 30-minute observations. He became unwell in the cell and had multiple seizures, before falling unconscious. Emergency medical care was provided and paramedics attended. Mr Tekeste was taken to hospital but died from cocaine toxicity.
As with all deaths in custody, the matter was referred to the IOPC.
The IOPC investigation concluded that while the search of Mr Tekeste was appropriate, there was inadequate supervision in the police van and PCs Hulf and Sow should face a gross misconduct hearing.
The panel found the officers acted correctly. Mr Tekeste deliberately concealed his actions while swallowing the drugs inside the police van. The risk assessment applied by the officers was accurate with the information they held at the time and the level of supervision and observation was adequate.
A woman who violated multiple federal firearms laws was sentenced July 9, 2025, in federal court in Sioux City.
Maria Francisca Portalatin, age 53, from Sioux City, Iowa, pled guilty on February 7, 2025, to one count of being a prohibited person in possession of firearms, one count of making false statements during the purchase of firearms, one count of straw purchase of firearms, and one count of concealing a person from arrest.
Evidence in the case showed that in April of 2023, Portalatin knowingly made false statements and representations on ATF forms to Dunham’s Sports Store in Sioux City in connection with her acquisition of multiple firearms. Portalatin later admitted to law enforcement that she was an unlawful user of methamphetamine and purchased the firearms for Freddie Summerville who she knew was prohibited from possessing a firearm. Evidence further showed, that in June of 2024, law enforcement executed a search warrant at Portalatin’s residence and located the four firearms she had purchased. During an interview with law enforcement, Portalatin admitted she lied on the ATF forms and that she was aware that Freddie Summerville was wanted on a federal warrant. In July of 2024, Portalatin and Summerville were stopped in a vehicle near Sioux Falls. Subsequently, in an interview with law enforcement she admitted they were smoking methamphetamine and that she had helped harbor and conceal Summerville.
Sentencing was held before United States District Court Judge Leonard T. Strand. Portalatin was sentenced to 51 months’ imprisonment and was ordered to pay $1,400 in fines and assessments. She must also serve a 2 year term of supervised release following imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system. This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
The case was investigated by the Sioux City Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms (ATF) and was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Kraig R. Hamit and Kevin C. Fletcher.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl. The case file number is 24-CR-04053. Follow us on X @USAO_NDIA.
A woman who violated multiple federal firearms laws was sentenced July 9, 2025, in federal court in Sioux City.
Maria Francisca Portalatin, age 53, from Sioux City, Iowa, pled guilty on February 7, 2025, to one count of being a prohibited person in possession of firearms, one count of making false statements during the purchase of firearms, one count of straw purchase of firearms, and one count of concealing a person from arrest.
Evidence in the case showed that in April of 2023, Portalatin knowingly made false statements and representations on ATF forms to Dunham’s Sports Store in Sioux City in connection with her acquisition of multiple firearms. Portalatin later admitted to law enforcement that she was an unlawful user of methamphetamine and purchased the firearms for Freddie Summerville who she knew was prohibited from possessing a firearm. Evidence further showed, that in June of 2024, law enforcement executed a search warrant at Portalatin’s residence and located the four firearms she had purchased. During an interview with law enforcement, Portalatin admitted she lied on the ATF forms and that she was aware that Freddie Summerville was wanted on a federal warrant. In July of 2024, Portalatin and Summerville were stopped in a vehicle near Sioux Falls. Subsequently, in an interview with law enforcement she admitted they were smoking methamphetamine and that she had helped harbor and conceal Summerville.
Sentencing was held before United States District Court Judge Leonard T. Strand. Portalatin was sentenced to 51 months’ imprisonment and was ordered to pay $1,400 in fines and assessments. She must also serve a 2 year term of supervised release following imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system. This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
The case was investigated by the Sioux City Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms (ATF) and was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Kraig R. Hamit and Kevin C. Fletcher.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl. The case file number is 24-CR-04053. Follow us on X @USAO_NDIA.
A woman who violated multiple federal firearms laws was sentenced July 9, 2025, in federal court in Sioux City.
Maria Francisca Portalatin, age 53, from Sioux City, Iowa, pled guilty on February 7, 2025, to one count of being a prohibited person in possession of firearms, one count of making false statements during the purchase of firearms, one count of straw purchase of firearms, and one count of concealing a person from arrest.
Evidence in the case showed that in April of 2023, Portalatin knowingly made false statements and representations on ATF forms to Dunham’s Sports Store in Sioux City in connection with her acquisition of multiple firearms. Portalatin later admitted to law enforcement that she was an unlawful user of methamphetamine and purchased the firearms for Freddie Summerville who she knew was prohibited from possessing a firearm. Evidence further showed, that in June of 2024, law enforcement executed a search warrant at Portalatin’s residence and located the four firearms she had purchased. During an interview with law enforcement, Portalatin admitted she lied on the ATF forms and that she was aware that Freddie Summerville was wanted on a federal warrant. In July of 2024, Portalatin and Summerville were stopped in a vehicle near Sioux Falls. Subsequently, in an interview with law enforcement she admitted they were smoking methamphetamine and that she had helped harbor and conceal Summerville.
Sentencing was held before United States District Court Judge Leonard T. Strand. Portalatin was sentenced to 51 months’ imprisonment and was ordered to pay $1,400 in fines and assessments. She must also serve a 2 year term of supervised release following imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system. This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
The case was investigated by the Sioux City Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms (ATF) and was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Kraig R. Hamit and Kevin C. Fletcher.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl. The case file number is 24-CR-04053. Follow us on X @USAO_NDIA.
Source: The Conversation – USA – By Cassandra Burke Robertson, Professor of Law and Director of the Center for Professional Ethics, Case Western Reserve University
New American citizens recite the Oath of Allegiance during a naturalization ceremony in Miami on Aug. 17, 2018.AP Photo/Wilfredo Lee
While a recent Justice Department memo prioritizes national security cases, it directs the department to “maximally pursue denaturalization proceedings in all cases permitted by law and supported by the evidence” across 10 broad priority categories.
Denaturalization is different from deportation, which removes noncitizens from the country. With civil denaturalization, the government files a lawsuit to strip people’s U.S. citizenship after they have become citizens, turning them back into noncitizens who can then be deported.
The government can only do this in specific situations. It must prove someone “illegally procured” citizenship by not meeting the requirements, or that they lied or hid important facts during the citizenship process.
The Trump administration’s “maximal enforcement” approach means pursuing any case where evidence might support taking away citizenship, regardless of priority level or strength of evidence. As our earlier research documented, this has already led to cases like that of Baljinder Singh, whose citizenship was revoked based on a name discrepancy that could easily have resulted from a translator’s error rather than intentional fraud.
A brief history
For most of American history, taking away citizenship has been rare. But it increased dramatically during the 1940s and 1950s during the Red Scare period characterized by intense suspicion of communism. The United States government targeted people it thought were communists or Nazi supporters. Between 1907 and 1967, over 22,000 Americans lost their citizenship this way.
Everything changed in 1967 when the Supreme Court decided Afroyim v. Rusk. The court said the government usually cannot take away citizenship without the person’s consent. It left open only cases involving fraud during the citizenship process.
After this decision, denaturalization became extremely rare. From 1968 to 2013, fewer than 150 people lost their citizenship, mostly war criminals who had hidden their past.
Sen. Joseph McCarthy appears at a March 1950 hearing on his charges of communist infiltration at the State Department. AP Photo/Herbert K. White
How the process works
In criminal lawsuits, defendants get free lawyers if they can’t afford one. They get jury trials. The government must prove guilt “beyond a reasonable doubt” – the highest standard of proof.
People facing denaturalization get no free lawyer, meaning poor defendants often face the government alone. There’s no jury trial – just a judge deciding whether someone deserves to remain American. The burden of proof is lower – “clear and convincing evidence” instead of “beyond a reasonable doubt.” Most important, there’s no time limit, so the government can go back decades to build cases.
The Supreme Court has called citizenship a fundamental right. Chief Justice Earl Warren in 1958 described it as the “right to have rights.”
In our reading of the law, taking away such a fundamental right through civil procedures that lack basic constitutional protection – no right to counsel for those who can’t afford it, no jury trial, and a lower burden of proof – seems to violate the due process of law required by the Constitution when the government seeks to deprive someone of their rights.
The bigger problem is what citizenship-stripping policy does to democracy.
When the government can strip citizenship from naturalized Americans for decades-old conduct through civil procedures with minimal due process protection – pursuing cases based on evidence that might not meet criminal standards – it undermines the security and permanence that citizenship is supposed to provide. This creates a system where naturalized citizens face ongoing vulnerability that can last their entire lives, potentially chilling their full participation in American democracy.
The Justice Department memo establishes 10 priority categories for denaturalization cases. They range from national security threats and war crimes to various forms of fraud, financial crimes and, most importantly, any other cases it deems “sufficiently important to pursue.” This “maximal enforcement” approach means pursuing not just clear cases of fraud, but also any case where evidence might support taking away citizenship, no matter how weak or old the evidence is.
This creates fear throughout immigrant communities.
About 20 million naturalized Americans now must worry that any mistake in their decades-old immigration paperwork could cost them their citizenship.
A two-tier system
This policy effectively creates two different types of American citizens. Native-born Americans never have to worry about losing their citizenship, no matter what they do. But naturalized Americans face ongoing vulnerability that can last their entire lives.
This has already happened. A woman who became a naturalized citizen in 2007 helped her boss with paperwork that was later used in fraud. She cooperated with the FBI investigation, was characterized by prosecutors as only a “minimal participant,” completed her sentence, and still faced losing her citizenship decades later because she didn’t report the crime on her citizenship application – even though she hadn’t been charged at the time.
A woman receives a U.S. flag after passing her citizenship interview in Newark, N.J., on May 25, 2016. AP Photo/Julio Cortez
The Justice Department’s directive to “maximally pursue” cases across 10 broad categories – combined with the first Trump administration’s efforts to review over 700,000 naturalization files – represents an unprecedented expansion of denaturalization efforts.
The policy will almost certainly face legal challenges on constitutional grounds, but the damage may already be done. When naturalized citizens fear their status could be revoked, it undermines the security and permanence that citizenship is supposed to provide.
The Supreme Court, in Afroyim v. Rusk, was focused on protecting existing citizens from losing their citizenship. The constitutional principle behind that decision – that citizenship is a fundamental right which can’t be arbitrarily taken away by whoever happens to be in power – applies equally to how the government handles denaturalization cases today.
The Trump administration’s directive, combined with court procedures that lack basic constitutional protections, risks creating a system that the Afroyim v. Rusk decision sought to prevent – one where, as the Supreme Court said, “A group of citizens temporarily in office can deprive another group of citizens of their citizenship.”
The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
