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  • MIL-OSI Global: Anti-LGBTQ+ policies harm the health of not only LGBTQ+ people, but all Americans

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Nathaniel Tran, Assistant Professor of Health Policy and Administration, University of Illinois Chicago

    Courts across the nation are debating whether LGBTQ+ people should be protected from discrimination. Kevin Dietsch/Getty Images

    In 2024, state legislatures introduced an all-time record of 533 bills targeting LGBTQ+ populations. These policies create a patchwork of legal landscapes that vary widely between and within states, affecting aspects of everyday life ranging from how kids learn and play to where adults live and work.

    All of these policies have implications for the health of not only LGBTQ+ people but also the general public.

    I am a health policy researcher who studies how state and federal legislation affect public health. Research has shown that the social determinants of health – the opportunities and resources that affect how people live, learn, play, work and age – play a significant role in LGBTQ+ well-being. Newly published work from my colleagues and I show how anti-LGBTQ+ public policies can have lasting effects on everyone’s health.

    Existing policies and LGBTQ+ health

    Same-sex marriage provides a clear example of the direct and indirect ways public policies affect LGBTQ+ health.

    Most people in the U.S. have health insurance through their employer, which usually offers coverage for employees and their family, including a spouse and children. A landmark 2015 study found that health coverage significantly increased for adults in same-sex marriages after its legalization in New York state. After same-sex marriage was legalized nationwide, a follow-up study also showed an increase in health insurance coverage among gay and lesbian couples.

    Even among single LGBTQ+ people who did not get married, same-sex marriage may have also improved their health by improving social attitudes toward LGBTQ+ people overall. Researchers found that gay and bisexual men, regardless of whether they were single or married, spent less on medical visits, mental health visits and overall health care spending after Massachusetts legalized same-sex marriage in 2004.

    Massachusetts was the first state to legalize same-sex marriage.
    Victoria Arocho/AP Photo

    Access to gender-affirming care provides another example of how public policies affect the health of LGBTQ+ people.

    A 2020 national study of nearly 30,000 transgender and nonbinary people found that suicide attempts and mental health hospitalizations declined in states that passed policies requiring private insurers to equally cover services they already provide for cisgender people for transgender people. No other studies directly analyze how policies regulating access to care affect the health of trans and nonbinary people.

    However, a large body of clinical research supports the health benefits of gender-affirming care. A randomized clinical trial and prospective study found that starting gender-affirming hormone therapy reduced depression and suicidality in transgender and nonbinary people. Several recent systematic reviews analyzing 124 peer-reviewed studies conducted over the past 50 years also found that gender-affirming surgery and hormone therapy improved quality of life and mental health.

    Policies outside health affect LGBTQ+ well-being

    Policies outside of health care – such as nondiscrimination, education and workplace protections – also affect LGBTQ+ well-being.

    For example, transgender and nonbinary people living in states with policies that specifically include gender identity in hate crime and discrimination protections reported better mental health than those in states without protections. Similarly, LGBTQ+ students in schools with designated safe spaces reported lower rates of suicidal thoughts.

    However, the surge in anti-LGBTQ+ policies in the U.S., initially focusing on youth, has significantly increased polarization between and within states. For example, while 17 states have implemented guidances to make schools safer and more inclusive for transgender youth, 25 states have banned transgender youth from using bathrooms and playing on sports teams that align with their gender. Meanwhile, South Dakota and Missouri have enacted laws to preempt progressive schools and districts from adding LGBTQ+ student protections and supportive resources.

    The Trump administration is also actively targeting resources that support LGBTQ+ students by reducing funding to schools that offer these programs.

    Inclusive spaces can help support the health of LGBTQ+ students.
    Jessica Hill/AP Photo

    In 2020, the Supreme Court ruled 6-3 in Bostock v. Clayton County that federal sex-based nondiscrimination protections in the workplace included discrimination based on gender identity and sexual orientation. Researchers found that LGBTQ+ older adults with co-workers supportive of their gender and sexuality experienced less workplace conflict and cognitive health problems compared with those who did not.

    The Trump administration is working to restrict the scope of federal antidiscrimination protections to exclude LGBTQ+ people.

    Harms of emerging anti-LGBTQ policies

    Emerging anti-LGBTQ+ policies could also have consequences for large swaths of the population beyond LGBTQ+ people.

    In 2025, the Supreme Court will hear Braidwood v. Becerra, a case arguing that requiring employers to cover PrEP – a once-a-day pill that is highly effective at preventing HIV infection – as part of the insurance plan they offer employees violates their religious freedom. Texas District Judge Reed O’Connor agreed that mandating PrEP coverage requires the plaintiffs to “facilitate and encourage homosexual behavior.”

    O’Connor ruled in 2023 to overturn the Affordable Care Act’s requirement that insurers fully cover preventive care. He argues this can be done on the grounds that the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force – a group of physicians and researchers that evaluates the quality and efficacy of preventive services – is unconstitutional. This legal challenge puts free coverage of mammograms, vaccinations and other preventive services into limbo for millions of Americans.

    The Trump administration has taken down CDC pages providing information about HIV.

    The Trump administration has scrubbed federal web pages of resources, programs and documents that reference gender and LGBTQ+ people. This order includes removing datasets that have been continuously updated since the 1980s to track public health issues such as homelessness, bullying in schools, and smoking and drinking, likely because they include LGBTQ+ demographic information.

    The administration has also ordered federal health agencies to retract scientific research that may be inclusive of LGBTQ+ people by searching for specific keywords, such as “gender.” The National Science Foundation is also screening active scientific research projects that use words like “women,” “trauma” and “disability.” Removing this data not only hamstrings public health research and programming for LGBTQ+ populations, but also restricts it for all Americans.

    These decisions are in stark contrast to countries such as England, Wales, New Zealand and Australia, which have collected or are planning to collect LGBTQ+ demographic data as part of their national census. Including LGBTQ+ people in demographic data reflects best practices that were outlined in the Federal Evidence Agenda on LGBTQI+ Equity issued under the Biden administration. These guidelines have since been removed.

    Far-reaching consequences

    The rapid escalation of anti-LGBTQ+ policies in recent years is already taking its toll on youth, with negative news coverage of LGBTQ+ issues causing spikes in suicidal thoughts.

    These policies also have far-reaching consequences for the broader public. Rigorous and long-standing research demonstrates that LGBTQ+-inclusive policies support safer communities and stronger economies for everyone, while exclusionary laws worsen and limit access to essential services.

    Ongoing legal battles and policy shifts will shape the future of LGBTQ+ rights, with rippling effects on public health, workplace protections and health care access for all Americans.

    Nathaniel Tran does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Anti-LGBTQ+ policies harm the health of not only LGBTQ+ people, but all Americans – https://theconversation.com/anti-lgbtq-policies-harm-the-health-of-not-only-lgbtq-people-but-all-americans-248992

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK project will improve livelihoods and climate resilience of communities in Alta Verapaz and the dry corridor

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    A three-year project will provide tools for families in climate sensitive areas to better plan the management of their landscapes and improve well-being of indigenous and ladino communities.

    Edwin Castellanos, Viceministro de Recursos Naturales y Cambio Climático; Juliana Correa, Embajadora del Reino Unido; Jeremy Haggar, Universidad de Greenwich

    The British Ambassador to Guatemala, Juliana Correa, and the Vice Minister of Environment and Climate Change, Edwin Castellanos, attended on 6 February in Chiquimula the launch of workshop for the project “Nature-based solutions for climate resilience of indigenous and local communities in Guatemala”, a UK Official Development Assistance (ODA) programme funded through the Global Centre on Biodiversity for Climate (GCBC) by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) in the United Kingdom.

    The project has a duration of three years and will invest more than US$1million (£847,784) in communities in the Departments of Alta Verapaz and Chiquimula.  Activities on the ground will be implemented by the University of Greenwich, the Tropical Agricultural Research and Higher Education Centre (CATIE), the University of Valle of Guatemala (UVG), and the Federation of Cooperatives of the Verapaces R.L. (FEDECOVERA).

    The project aims to facilitate the integration of traditional and scientific knowledge about nature to plan a more climate-resilient landscape through the implementation of nature-based solutions. It will assess the effectiveness of different reforestation systems and their contribution to climate resilience; support indigenous and local communities to document their understanding of nature’s contribution to their livelihoods; and develop guidelines and tools for the co-design of nature-based solutions for climate resilience and justice at a multi-stakeholder level.

    In Alta Verapaz activities will focus on a high rainfall montane region populated by Q’eqchi’ communities whose main income sources come from cardamom, coffee and timber production. FEDECOVERA represents some 40,000 Q’eqchi’ families supporting their access to Fairtrade, Organic, and Forest Stewardship Council certified markets.

    Interventions in Chiquimula will cover the “dry corridor” populated with Maya Chorti and ladino communities near the border with Honduras and El Salvador. The project will identify with local communities how to improve environmental resilience to flooding and drought that affects traditional and commercial cropping systems. 

    The evidence collected will contribute to building capacity in local and national environmental planning processes, and environmental regulations and incentives adapted to the needs of local communities in Guatemala. Lessons from the application of these processes will be shared to inform climate change planning processes in the country and Central America.

    Juliana Correa, British Ambassador to Guatemala, said:

    A top priority of our Foreign Secretary is to support indigenous peoples’ rights and their role in protecting forests. The UK is committed to provide funding for nature, forests, and forest communities, particularly their livelihoods and their rights to protect that nature.  I’m looking forward to seeing the wider impact of this project in Guatemala.

    Updates to this page

    Published 6 February 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General Alan Wilson says planned ‘mass resistance’ to ICE operations will be met with serious consequencesRead More

    Source: US State of South Carolina

    (COLUMBIA, S.C.) — It has come to the attention of Attorney General Alan Wilson that an organization is planning a meeting on Saturday, February 8, with the stated goal of organizing a “mass resistance” and forming a “Community ICE Raid Response Network.” While every South Carolinian has the constitutional right to peacefully assemble and express their views, any efforts to obstruct or interfere with law enforcement will have serious consequences. 

    In recent years, South Carolina, along with the rest of the nation, has faced an unprecedented amount of illegal immigration. However, with the new Trump administration in 2025, there is a renewed commitment to ensuring that those who entered the country illegally, especially those who pose a risk to public safety, are deterred and removed. The Attorney General’s Office remains steadfast in its dedication to working with President Donald Trump and enforcing federal immigration laws without interference or obstruction. 

    Recent events serve as a reminder of the dangers associated with unlawful resistance. Just last week, during an anti-deportation protest in Greenville, a demonstrator crashed a vehicle into a crowd, injuring two people. This reckless behavior, which showed a complete disregard for public safety, will not be tolerated. The Attorney General’s Office emphasizes that we cannot, and will not, allow any actions that threaten the safety of our communities, law enforcement officers, or innocent bystanders. 

    Let it be clear: any individual who engages in illegal activities, whether by obstructing law enforcement, interfering with investigations, or attempting to disrupt lawful immigration enforcement efforts, will face prosecution to the fullest extent of the law. 

    Attorney General Wilson urges all parties involved to respect the legal process and act within the bounds of the law. We will continue to collaborate with local and state law enforcement agencies to ensure the safety and security of all South Carolinians. 

    You can read his letter to the Columbia, SC Chapter of the Democratic Socialists of America here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Jasper County felon guilty of federal firearms and drug trafficking crimes

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    BEAUMONT, Texas – A Buna man has been convicted of federal firearms and drug trafficking violations in the Eastern District of Texas, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Abe McGlothin, Jr.

    Leotis Cornelius McMahon, 48, was convicted of being a felon in possession of a firearm and possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute following a three-day trial before U.S. District Judge Marcia A. Crone on February 5, 2025.

    According to information presented in court, in 2023, law enforcement was investigating McMahon for distributing narcotics within Southeast Texas.  After a prolonged surveillance operation, a traffic stop was conducted on McMahon where he was found to be transporting large amounts of marijuana, cocaine, and nearly a kilogram of “actual” methamphetamine.  After the traffic stop, a search warrant for McMahon’s residence in Buna was obtained and executed.  Law enforcement discovered materials used in the distribution of narcotics as well as four separate firearms, one being an AR style pistol. One of the firearms seized from McMahon’s residence was stolen.

    McMahon was operating what was described as a mobile illegal drug shop.  The amounts of controlled substances, along with the tools used in trafficking such as scales and bags used for distribution, seized from McMahon indicated that he was dealing significant quantities of drugs for profit.

    Further investigation revealed McMahon is a convicted felon and prohibited by federal law from owning or possessing firearms or ammunition.

    McMahon was indicted by a federal grand jury on July 10, 2024.  He faces up to life in federal prison at sentencing. The maximum statutory sentence prescribed by Congress is provided here for information purposes, as the sentencing will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors.  A sentencing hearing will be scheduled after the completion of a presentence investigation by the U.S. Probation Office.

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

    This case was investigated by the Texas Department of Public Safety – Criminal Investigations; Lumberton Police Department; Jasper County Sheriff’s Office; Beaumont Police Department; U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration; and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.  This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jonathan Lee and John B. Ross.

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Former Utah Gymnastics Coach Admits to Having a Hidden Camera to Produce Child Sexual Abuse Materials

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    SALT LAKE CITY, Utah – A Utah gymnastics coach and owner of USA Gymnastics World pleaded guilty to transportation of a minor with intent to engage in criminal sexual activity.

    Adam Richard Jacobs, 34, of Woods Cross, Utah, was charged by indictment in April 2023. See press release: Utah Gymnastics Coach Arrested on Child Exploitation Charges

    According to court documents and admissions made at the change of plea hearing, Jacobs, beginning on a date unknown and continuing until March 2023, transported a minor from Utah to other states including Florida and Texas as his gymnastics coach. During this time, he placed a hidden camera in the minor’s hotel room and bathroom to produce child sexual abuse materials. Jacobs further admitted that all electronic devices seized pursuant to a search warrant served in March 2023 were used to further participate in the production of child sexual abuse materials.

    As stated in court documents, a USA Gymnastics World employee discovered a hidden camera twice in a unisex restroom at the facility and contacted police. A subsequent investigation recovered approximately 120 video files of victims in the restroom. Approximately 40 videos showed Jacobs setting up the cameras in his home and at USA Gymnastics World.

    Jacobs is scheduled to be sentenced August 14, 2025, at 3:00 p.m. before a U.S. District Court Judge at the Orrin G. Hatch United States District Courthouse in downtown Salt Lake City.

    U.S. Attorney, Trina A. Higgins, of the District of Utah made the announcement.

    The case is being investigated jointly by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Woods Cross Police Department, the Utah Attorney General’s Office Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, Kaysville Police Department, Clearfield Police Department, the United States Secret Service, and the Davis County Attorney’s Office.

    Special Assistant United States Attorney Carl Hollan and Assistant United States Attorney Carol Dain of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Utah are prosecuting the case.

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Eleven Members And Associates Of Paterson Based Gang Known As “100k” Indicted For Racketeering For Their Roles In A Murder, Three Shootings, Two Robberies, Drug Trafficking Activities, Bank Fraud, And Other Crimes

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    NEWARK, N.J. – Eleven members of the Paterson based neighborhood street gang known as “100k” were indicted for their roles in a violent racketeering conspiracy, Acting U.S. Attorney Vikas Khanna announced today.

    The Indictment charges Jasun Allah, a/k/a “Rackz,” 21, of Paterson (“J.Allah”); Christopher Thomas, a/k/a “CJ,” 27, of Hackensack; Michael Davis, a/k/a “Baby 3,” 27, of Paterson; Jazmeir Reyes, a/k/a “Baby Joe,” a/k/a “Joe,” 19, of Paterson; Kyzeik Robinson, a/k/a “Doo Doo,” a/k/a “King Sparks,” a/k/a “Sparks,” 19, of Paterson; Jacim Pitts, a/k/a “Jefe,” 24, of Paterson; Born Allah, a/k/a “Freedom,” 23, of Paterson (“B.Allah”); Elijah Rubio, a/k/a “Lottery,” 20, of Paterson; Trasean Short, a/k/a “Hound,” 19, of Elmwood Park; Elijah Byrd, a/k/a “CEO,” 19, of Paterson; and Quincy Franklin, a/k/a “Double O,” 27, of Paterson with one count of conspiracy to violate the Racketeer Influenced Corrupt Organizations statute (“RICO”), in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1962(d) (“RICO conspiracy”). The Indictment also incorporates charges connected to a drug conspiracy involving Reyes, Davis, Robinson, and Pitts and the attempted armed robbery of a postal inspector by Reyes, which were previously charged on complaint.

    These charges are the result of a long-running investigation coordinated between the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the New Jersey State Police, the United States Postal Inspection Service, and the Passaic County Sheriff’s Office, among other law enforcement agencies.

    According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:

    J.Allah, Thomas, Davis, Reyes, Robinson, Pitts, B.Allah, Rubio, Short, Byrd, and Franklin are all members and associates of the neighborhood based street gang known as “100k,” which operates in the area of North Main Street and Jefferson Street in Paterson, New Jersey (the “100k Enterprise”).  Since in or around January 2022, these members and associates of the 100k Enterprise have engaged in numerous criminal acts in furtherance of their gang, including murder, shootings, robberies, drug trafficking, and bank and wire fraud.

    Since the gangs founding in 2016, members and associates of the 100k Enterprise have engaged in acts of violence against members of rival gangs, such as their primary rival, “the Blockboyz,” which operates out of the Presidential Tower Housing Complex in Paterson, among other rival gangs, such as “4k,” which operates in the area of Rosa Parks Boulevard near Lyon Street, Keen Street, and Mercer Street, also in Paterson.

    Several of these acts of violence are charged in the Superseding Indictment. Specifically, on or about October 1, 2023, in retaliation for the death of a high ranking member of the 100k Enterprise, J.Allah, Thomas, Davis, and other members and associates of the 100k Enterprise shot and killed Victim-2, in territory controlled by the Blockboyz.

    On or about May 27, 2024, Pitts and other members and associates of the 100k Enterprise shot and injured Victim-3, a member of the rival gang “4k.”

    On or about October 3, 2024, Short exchanged fire with Victim-4 in territory controlled by the 100k Enterprise. Weeks later, on or about November 17, 2024, Short shot and injured Victim-5, a member of the Blockboyz, in territory controlled by the Blockboyz, and Byrd acted as the driver in that November shooting.

    The defendants raised money for themselves and the 100k Enterprise by engaging in robberies, drug trafficking, and bank fraud and other financial schemes. Two such robberies are charged in the Indictment, including the armed robbery of a commercial marijuana store on or about January 13, 2022 by Reyes, B.Allah, Short, Rubio, and others; and the attempted armed robbery of Victim-1, a United States Postal Service employee, on or about July 28, 2023 by Reyes, who tried to obtain an arrow key from the victim. This arrow key would have allowed members of the 100k Enterprise to gain access to United States Postal Service mailboxes within a certain geographic area or postal route.

    The gang’s drug trafficking activities were extensive, with investigators conducting 16 controlled buys with Reyes, Robinson, Davis, and Pitts by utilizing undercover officers and observing countless more drug deals committed by the defendants within and around the territory of Paterson controlled by the 100k Enterprise through physical surveillance and review of cell phone records and social media accounts controlled by the defendants.  

    The charge of RICO conspiracy in the Indictment carries a maximum statutory penalty of life in prison as to J.Allah, Thomas, and Davis, and a maximum statutory penalty of 20 years in prison as to Reyes, Robinson, Pitts, B.Allah, Rubio, Short, Byrd, and Franklin.

    The count of conspiracy to distribute controlled substances charged in the Indictment against Reyes, Robinson, Davis, and Pitts carries a mandatory minimum term of 5 years in prison and a maximum penalty of 40 years in prison and a fine of at least $5 million. On each of the counts of distribution and possession with intent to distribute controlled substances, Reyes, Robinson, Davis, and Pitts face a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a maximum fine of $1 million.

    On each of the counts of attempted Hobbs Act robbery and assaulting or impeding certain United States officers or employees, Reyes faces a maximum penalty of 20 years’ imprisonment and up to a $250,000 fine, or twice the gain or loss from the offense, whichever is greatest. On the count of brandishing a firearm in connection with a crime of violence, Reyes faces a mandatory minimum term of 7 years and a maximum term of life imprisonment, which must run consecutively to any other prison sentence imposed, and a fine of up to $250,000.  

    Acting U.S. Attorney Khanna credited law enforcement members with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Newark Field Division, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge L.C. Cheeks, Jr.; the New Jersey State Police, Gangs and Organized Crime North Unit, under the direction of Col. Patrick J. Callahan; the United States Postal Inspection Service, under the direction of Inspector in Charge Christopher Nielsen; the Passaic County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff Thomas Adamo; the Paterson Police Department, under the direction of Officer In Charge Patrick Murray; the Bergen County Sheriff’s Office under the direction of Sheriff Anthony Cureton; the Passaic County Prosecutor’s Office under the direction of Prosecutor Camelia Valdes; and the Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office under the direction of Prosecutor Mark Musella with the investigation leading to today’s charges.

    This case is part of the Paterson Violent Crime Initiative (VCI), which was formed in 2020 by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Jersey, the Passaic County Prosecutor’s Office, and the City of Paterson’s Department of Public Safety for the purpose of combatting violent crime in and around Paterson. As part of this partnership, federal, state, county, and city agencies collaborate and pool resources to prosecute violent offenders who endanger the safety of the community. The VCI is composed of the U.S. Attorney’s Office, the FBI, the ATF, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the U.S. Marshals, the Paterson Department of Public Safety, the Paterson Police Department, the Passaic County Prosecutor’s Office, the Passaic County Sheriff’s Office, N.J. State Parole, Bergen County Jail, N.J. State Police Regional Operations and Intelligence Center/Real Time Crime Center, and N.J. Department of Corrections.

    The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jake A. Nasar of the Criminal Division in Newark.
     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: News 02/6/2025 Blackburn Celebrates Her Legislation Passing Out of Commerce Committee

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn) released the following statement after five bills that she sponsored or co-sponsored passed out of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation. This includes the American Music Tourism Act, the Promoting Resilient Supply Chains Act, the Strengthening Support for American Manufacturing Act, the She DRIVES Act, and the TORNADO Act.

    “The 119th Congress is already off to a productive start, and I am pleased that five of my bills have moved forward out of the Commerce Committee to the full Senate for a vote,” said Senator Blackburn. “I urge my Senate colleagues to support this legislation, which will promote American music tourism, strengthen U.S. supply chains for emerging technologies, boost domestic manufacturing, enhance vehicle safety standards, and improve the forecasting of hazardous weather.” 

    BACKGROUND:

    See below for more information on each piece of legislation.

    • The American Music Tourism Act, sponsored by Senator Blackburn, would leverage the existing framework within the Department of Commerce to highlight and promote music tourism in the United States. It would require the Department of Commerce’s Assistant Secretary for Travel and Tourism to implement a plan to support and increase music tourism for both domestic and international visitors as well as a report to Congress on the successes and vulnerabilities of the Assistant Secretary’s goals to increase travel and tourism.
    • The Promoting Resilient Supply Chains Act, co-led by Senator Blackburn, would authorize the Department of Commerce to strengthen American supply chains for critical industries and emerging technologies by working with the private sector and U.S. government partners to anticipate and prevent future supply chain disruptions before they happen.
    • The Strengthening Support for American Manufacturing Act, co-led by Senator Blackburn, would streamline federal efforts to boost domestic manufacturers and support workers. It would also assess the Department of Commerce’s efforts to support manufacturers and suggest solutions to improve the Department’s manufacturing programs to better serve manufacturers – many of which are small businesses.
    • The She Develops Regulations in Vehicle Equality and Safety (She DRIVES) Act, co-led by Senator Blackburn, would enhance passenger vehicle safety by updating U.S. crashworthiness testing procedures. It would require the use of the most advanced testing devices available, including a female crash test dummy.
    • The Tornado Observation Research Notification and Deployment to Operations (TORNADO) Act, co-sponsored by Senator Blackburn, would improve the forecasting of tornadoes and other hazardous weather by requiring the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration to prepare and submit an action plan for the national implementation of high-resolution probabilistic guidance for tornado forecasting and prediction. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kennedy, Cramer reintroduce bill to prevent banks from discriminating against law-abiding businesses

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator John Kennedy (Louisiana)

    WASHINGTON – Sen. John Kennedy (R-La.), a member of the Senate Banking Committee, joined Sen. Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.) in reintroducing the Fair Access to Banking Act to prevent banks from denying services to law-abiding businesses for political purposes.  

    “Banks shouldn’t stop customers from accessing accounts or services based on political affiliation or industry. I’m proud to help introduce the Fair Access to Banking Act to make sure financial institutions aren’t working as political activists against law-abiding Americans,” said Kennedy.

    “When progressives failed at banning these entire industries, what they did instead is they turned to weaponizing banks as sort of a backdoor to carry out their activist goals. Financial institutions are backed by taxpayers, for crying out loud! They should be obligated to provide services in an unbiased, risk-based manner. The Fair Access to Banking Act ensures that banks provide fair access to services and enacts strict penalties for categorically discriminating against legal industries and individuals,” said Cramer.

    In 2021, the Trump administration finalized its Fair Access Rule to require banks to make individual risk assessments and stop broad discrimination against customers. However, the Biden administration paused the rule’s implementation. 

    The Fair Access to Banking Act would penalize banks and credit unions with more than $10 billion in assets for refusing services to law-abiding companies or people. The bill also requires banks to give a written explanation for denying services to a customer.

    Background:

    • The Fair Access to Banking Act would protect Americans in the wake of major banks’ move to discriminate against legal businesses. Some of the largest U.S. banks have blocked businesses and consumers from accessing financial services based on political ideology.
    • In 2020, five of the country’s largest banks announced they will not provide loans or credit to support oil and gas drilling in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge even though Congress explicitly authorized it.
    • In 2021, JPMorgan Chase declared it would refuse financial services to coal producers. Bank of America also began a politically motivated effort to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions from its financing activities by 2050, an effort directly targeting producers of reliable American energy. Earlier this year, however, Bank of America quietly withdrew from a climate alliance seeking net-zero emissions.
    • Payment services like Apple Pay and PayPal have denied their services for transactions involving firearms or ammunition.

    Sens. Jim Banks (R-Ind.), John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), John Boozman (R-Ark.), Katie Britt (R-Ala.), Ted Budd (R-N.C.), Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), Bill Cassidy (R-La.), John Cornyn (R-Texas), Tom Cotton (R-Ark.), Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), Ted Cruz (R-Texas), John Curtis (R-Utah), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), Bill Hagerty (R-Tenn.), John Hoeven (R-N.D.), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.), Ron Johnson (R-Wis.), Jim Justice (R-W.Va.), James Lankford (R-Okla.), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.), Roger Marshall (R-Kan.), Dave McCormick (R-Pa.), Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), Bernie Moreno (R-Ohio), Markwayne Mullin (R-Okla.), Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.), Jim Risch (R-Idaho), Eric Schmitt (R-Mo.), Rick Scott (R-Fla.), Tim Scott (R-S.C.), Tim Sheehy (R-Mont.), Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.) and Roger Wicker (R-Miss.) also cosponsored the bill. 

    The full bill text is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kennedy in National Review: Work requirements would improve Medicaid—and the lives of those on the program

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator John Kennedy (Louisiana)

    WASHINGTON – Sen. John Kennedy (R-La.) today penned this op-ed in National Review arguing that adding a work requirement to Medicaid would save taxpayers money and improve the health of those on the program.

    Key excerpts of the op-ed are below:

    “Medicaid is supposed to be an investment in our country’s health and well-being. So why doesn’t the program encourage more Americans to enter the workforce and improve their physical, mental, and financial health?

    “Numerous studies have shown that human beings are happier and healthier when they are employed. Long-term joblessness is associated with higher rates of cardiovascular disease, depression, and anxiety. One study even recommended employment as a ‘critical mental health intervention.’

    “Still, taxpayers today are footing the bill for an estimated 15 million able-bodied adults without children or other dependents to receive health-care coverage under Medicaid without any obligation to get a job. Many of them are simply choosing not to work. Both the taxpayer and the Medicaid recipients themselves would be better off if the program had a work requirement.”

    . . .

    “Nearly one in four Americans is on Medicaid today. Federal and state spending on the program has nearly doubled since 2020. COVID-19 was responsible for some of the spending surge, but there has been no effort to return Medicaid spending back to pre-pandemic levels.

    “This is unsustainable. Medicaid is well on its way to costing taxpayers $1 trillion per year. Congress must find a way to get able-bodied Americans back on their feet and off Medicaid. With the right incentives in place, these Americans can leave this life of poverty and dependency to set out on a pathway toward success.

    “A person without a job is not healthy. He’s not happy. He’s not free. Who really wants to be a slave to some government entitlement program?”

    . . .

    “Medicaid is an investment in our public health. Congress should treat it that way. Adding a work requirement to Medicaid will make the United States a stronger, healthier country and remind the world that America respects the dignity of hard work.”

    Read Kennedy’s full op-ed here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General James’ Office of Special Investigation Releases Report on Death of Caesar Robinson

    Source: US State of New York

    NEW YORK – New York Attorney General Letitia James’ Office of Special Investigation (OSI) today released its report on the death of Caesar Robinson, who died on April 13, 2023 after an encounter with members of the New York City Police Department (NYPD) in Brooklyn. Following a thorough investigation, which included review of body-worn camera footage and building security camera footage, interviews with involved officers, and comprehensive legal analysis, OSI concluded that a prosecutor would not be able to disprove beyond a reasonable doubt at trial that the officers’ actions were justified under New York law.

    On the afternoon of April 13, NYPD officers responded to a 911 call reporting a possible burglary in progress at an apartment at 330 Lewis Avenue in Brooklyn. Officers knocked on the door of the apartment where the possible burglary was reported, and Mr. Robinson answered the door with a gun in his hand. When Mr. Robinson began to raise the gun toward the officers, one officer directed Mr. Robinson to drop his weapon. Mr. Robinson did not comply, and the officers discharged their service weapons, striking him. Mr. Robinson was transported to a local hospital where he was pronounced dead.

    Under New York’s justification law, a police officer may use deadly physical force when the officer reasonably believes it to be necessary to defend against the use of deadly physical force by another. In this case, when Mr. Robinson opened the door to his apartment, he was holding a gun in his hand, raised it towards the officers, and did not comply when directed to drop it. Under these circumstances, given the law and the evidence, a prosecutor would not be able to disprove beyond a reasonable doubt at trial that the officers’ use of deadly physical force against Mr. Robinson was justified, and therefore OSI determined that criminal charges would not be pursued in this matter.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General James Secures Prison Sentence for Serial Health Care Fraudster

    Source: US State of New York

    NEW YORK – New York Attorney General Letitia James today announced the sentencing of Imran Shams, 66, of California, to eight and one third to twenty-five years in state prison for his role in a scheme that wrongfully billed Medicaid millions of dollars for fraudulent medical testing services. On March 6, 2020, Shams pleaded guilty to Grand Larceny in the First and Second Degrees and agreed to pay restitution of $7 million. Shams is currently serving a 13-year federal prison sentence following convictions in the United States District Courts for the Eastern District of New York and the Central District of California for conduct related to his New York scheme, as well as other health care fraud schemes.

    “When criminal organizations abuse our health care system, the most vulnerable patients suffer,” said Attorney General James. “Imram Shams and his accomplices ran a despicable scheme that used vulnerable New Yorkers to steal millions of dollars meant to provide care for low-income patients. My office will continue to go after those who try to profit by undermining the Medicaid program and bring bad actors to justice.”

    Shams’ sentencing is the culmination of a multi-year investigation and prosecution of the illegal activity of Multi-Specialty, a fraudulent medical clinic secretly owned by Shams, who was banned from billing Medicaid as a provider due to a previous health care fraud conviction. Multi-Specialty illegally paid Medicaid recipients a kickback of $20 to $50 to enter the clinic and submit to unnecessary and usually fraudulent evaluations and tests. These were often administered by untrained and incompetent individuals recruited to dress like health care professionals in order to lend an appearance of legitimacy to the fraud.

    Soliciting Medicaid recipients by offering to pay them to accept medical services paid for by Medicaid is unlawful under state and federal law. After bribing recipients to enter his clinic, Shams used licensed health care providers complicit in the scheme to submit fraudulent claims to Medicaid and to Medicaid-funded Managed Care Organizations (MCOs) for unnecessary or nonexistent services. Shams also received millions of dollars in kickbacks for exclusively referring patients for diagnostic testing, regardless of medical need, to companies owned by other participants in the scheme, Tea Kaganovich and Ramazi Mitaishvili, both of Brooklyn.

    Shams was sentenced today to eight and one third to twenty-five years in prison, to run concurrent with his federal sentence, by Judge Michele Rodney of the New York County Supreme Court, and is the last defendant to be sentenced in this scheme. His sentence follows the convictions and sentencings of Kaganovich and Mitaishvili on charges of Grand Larceny in the First Degree. Both received a sentence of one and a half to four and a half years in state prison in November 2023. In addition, a radiologist complicit in the scheme, Bernard Bentley of East Hampton, New York received a sentence of three years of probation on charges of Grand Larceny in the Second Degree for his role in fraudulently billing Medicaid over eight million dollars for fraudulent diagnostic testing services.

    Kaganovich and Mitaishvili were prosecuted in a related criminal case in the Eastern District of New York, and as part of that case, were ordered to pay over $18 million of restitution to the New York Medicaid Fraud Restitution Fund, and it is expected that more than seven million dollars in assets seized from those defendants as part of the federal case will be remitted to New York.

    The Attorney General would like to thank the New York State Office of the Medicaid Inspector General (OMIG), the U.S. Department of Justice Medicare Strike Force, which operates from the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Eastern District of New York; the United States Department of Health and Human Services, Office of the Inspector General (HHS OIG); the New York City Human Resources Administration, Medicaid Provider Investigations and Audit Unit, and HealthFirst for their assistance and cooperation in this investigation. 

    Senior Detective Stanislav Tabakov investigated the case with the assistance of Detective Supervisor Dominick DiGennaro. Senior Auditor Investigator Lisandra Defex conducted the financial analysis with the assistance of MFCU New York City Regional Chief Auditor Investigator Thomasina Smith and Deputy Regional Chief Auditor Jonathan Romano.

    Special Assistant Attorney General Chase Ruddy prosecuted the criminal case under the supervision of NYC Regional Director Twan V. Bounds. Deputy Chief of MFCU’s Civil Enforcement Division, Konrad F. Payne, negotiated monetary settlements attendant to each defendant’s guilty pleas that recovered millions of dollars for the state. Alee Scott is the Chief of MFCU’s Civil Enforcement Division. Thomas O’Hanlon is MFCU’s Chief of Criminal Investigations. MFCU is led by Director Amy Held and Assistant Deputy Attorney General Paul Mahoney. The Division of Criminal Justice is led by Chief Deputy Attorney General José Maldonado under the oversight of First Deputy Attorney General Jennifer Levy.

    MFCU defends the public by addressing Medicaid provider fraud and protecting nursing home residents from abuse and neglect. If an individual believes they have information about Medicaid provider fraud or about an incident of abuse or neglect of a nursing home resident, they can file a confidential complaint online or call the MFCU hotline at (800) 771-7755. If the situation is an emergency, please call 911.

    New York MFCU’s total funding for federal fiscal year (FY) 2025 is $70,502,916. Of that total, 75 percent, or $52,877,188, is funded from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. The remaining 25 percent, totaling $17,625,728 for FY 2025, is funded by New York State.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cortez Masto, Moran Introduce Legislation to Expand Production of Electric Distribution Transformers

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Nevada Cortez Masto

    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) and Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) introduced the Credit Incentives for Resilient Critical Utility Infrastructure and Transformers (CIRCUIT) Act to encourage the production of electric distribution transformers – devices that take high-voltage electricity from power lines and reduce it to lower voltage levels suitable for homes, businesses, and other end-users.

    The U.S. is in the middle of unprecedented demand for power transformers, which has left the energy sector uncertain about the stability of the future grid. Current production is unable to keep up with demand from new housing, data centers and more. This legislation would expand the Advanced Manufacturing Production Credit (45X) passed as part of the Inflation Reduction Act to include distribution transformers to bolster the domestic energy economy.

    “Nevada is leading the way in 21st Century energy technologies and manufacturing, and we need more distribution transformers to connect new sources of energy and power to the grid,” said Sen. Cortez Masto. “Our bipartisan legislation to boost the production of distribution transformers is critical for lowering energy costs, supporting energy resiliency, and strengthening our national security.”

    “Demand for energy and power is continuing to grow in Kansas and across the country as housing, businesses and transportation needs expand,” said Sen. Moran. “Creating a tax credit to incentivize domestic production and manufacturing of distribution transformers will help the United States move closer to energy independence, provide jobs and keep up with rising demands.”

    “Distribution transformers are essential to a reliable electrical grid that supports our nation’s critical infrastructure,” said Debra Phillips, President and CEO of National Electric Manufacturers Association (NEMA). “NEMA thanks Senators Moran (KS) and Cortez Masto (NV) for their leadership on the bipartisan CIRCUIT Act that will ensure domestic manufacturers of distribution transformers qualify for the 45X tax credit, intended for advanced manufacturing of critical energy components. The CIRCUIT Act will also help mitigate supply chain issues that distribution transformers have faced while encouraging continued on-shoring and domestic production. We look forward to continuing to work with our bipartisan partners in Congress to create solutions that boost the resilience of our nation’s electrical grid and expand U.S. manufacturing in critical supply chains.”

    “For years, public power utilities across the country have faced a severe and ongoing shortage of distribution transformers,” said Scott Corwin, President & CEO, American Public Power Association. “This critical shortage threatens grid reliability, delays storm recovery, and dampens economic development. The American Public Power Association applauds Senators Moran and Cortez Masto for introducing the CIRCUIT Act to incentivize domestic manufacturing of distribution transformers, and we urge its swift enactment.”

    “Expanding the manufacturing credit to include distribution transformers will help give domestic manufacturers needed certainty as they work to ensure a resilient national supply chain for electric cooperatives and other utilities,” said Jim Matheson, CEO of the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association. “We thank Sens. Moran and Cortez Masto for introducing this legislation, which is critical to strengthening the domestic energy economy and assisting co-ops in their mission to provide safe, reliable and affordable power to their members.”

    The full text of the bill can be found here.

    As part of her Innovation State Initiative, Senator Cortez Masto has led efforts in Congress to support Nevada’s energy industries and cut through red tape, while lowering costs for families. At a Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee hearing last March, she discussed the need to speed up interconnection processes with FERC nominees.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: IMF Staff Concludes Visit to Lithuania

    Source: IMF – News in Russian

    February 6, 2025

    End-of-Mission press releases include statements of IMF staff teams that convey preliminary findings after a visit to a country. The views expressed in this statement are those of the IMF staff and do not necessarily represent the views of the IMF’s Executive Board. This mission will not result in a Board discussion.

    Washington, DC: An International Monetary Fund (IMF) mission, led by Ms. Kazuko Shirono, visited Vilnius during January 27–31, 2025, to meet with the Lithuanian authorities and other stakeholders to discuss recent economic developments, the outlook, and policy priorities. At the end of the visit, the mission issued the following statement:

    “The Lithuanian economy has shown notable resilience against a series of unprecedented shocks in recent years. Following subdued growth in 2023, the economy gained momentum in 2024 and is expected to expand further in 2025. The economic recovery so far has been primarily driven by private consumption—supported by strong growth of real income reflecting high wage growth and low inflation—helping to offset weak private investment. Despite persistent uncertainty on foreign markets, the external sector also positively contributed to growth, with robust services exports in particular. Looking forward, the positive growth momentum will be supported by easing monetary conditions, the recovery of corporate profits, and the healthy financial position of households. However, weaker than expected external demand—especially in key eurozone trade partners—and policy uncertainty in major economies could weight on domestic sentiment and exports performance, posing downside risks to the growth outlook.”

    “After further disinflation in 2024 inflation will rise in 2025, in part due to higher indirect taxes, before stabilizing above 2 percent in the medium term. Headline inflation declined to a low of 0.1 percent in October 2024, reflecting persistent negative base effects from energy and food prices and tighter monetary policy since mid-2022; it gained some pace afterwards reaching 1.9 percent by the end of the year. Core inflation remained historically high on the back of strong price growth in services, supported by high wage growth, despite the moderation of processed food and non-energy industrial prices. While Lithuania’s inflation has dropped below that in the rest of the eurozone during 2024, high rates of inflation and wage growth in the previous years leave price and wage levels elevated, reinforcing the need to restore productivity growth to preserve competitiveness.”

    “The fiscal position in 2024 appears to have been significantly better than expected due to accounting factors and higher revenue performance. In 2025, however, fiscal performance is projected to worsen largely because of defense and social expenditures that will result in a wider budget deficit and an increase in government debt as a share of GDP. The new coalition government is preparing its post-election policy priorities and action plan, including a significant further increase in defense expenditures. Furthermore, there are additional long-term spending pressures—emanating from adverse demographic shifts and the green transition. Momentous challenges in the social security system also create the need to continue to incentivize the public to save more for retirement. Altogether, Lithuania faces a pressing need to mobilize additional sources of revenue on a permanent basis and attain greater efficiency in the public sector. Importantly, any spending realignments will entail critical policy tradeoffs including vis-à-vis education, healthcare, and pensions, and revenue-generating tax measures will be key to safeguarding hard-earned policy credibility and fiscal sustainability.”  

    “Lithuania’s banking system continues to be well capitalized with ample liquidity buffers. Profitability remains at a record high, despite lower interest rates and the temporary levy on banks introduced in 2023 and extended through 2025. Balance sheet risks are contained given large capital buffers, increasing deposits and high profitability allowing to absorb potential losses, while the ratio of NPLs remains at low levels. Private credit is recovering supported by easing financial conditions. Residential real estate activity and prices are picking up since the second half of 2024 while commercial real estate activity remains subdued.”

    “The mission would like to thank the authorities and other counterparts in Lithuania for the candid discussions and useful exchange of views.”

    IMF Communications Department
    MEDIA RELATIONS

    PRESS OFFICER: Boris Balabanov

    Phone: +1 202 623-7100Email: MEDIA@IMF.org

    https://www.imf.org/en/News/Articles/2025/02/03/pr25025-lithuania-imf-staff-concludes-visit

    MIL OSI

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Incidents on South-Western Motorway and Southern Motorway

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Motorists on Auckland’s South Western and Southern Motorway network may experience delays this morning, after two fatal incidents on the network in the early hours of this morning.

    Emergency services attended an incident on South Western Motorway, Mount Roskil reported at around 1am. A person had entered the motorway on foot and had been struck by a vehicle. The person died at the scene, no other injuries are reported. Enquiries into the circumstances of the incident are ongoing.

    Emergency services attended a crash involving a single vehicle on Southern Motorway, Otara, reported at around 2.20am. One person died at the scene, two people were transported to Auckland Hospital in a critical condition and two other people were transported to Middlemore Hospital in a serious condition. Enquiries into the circumstances of the incident are ongoing.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Harbour Breton — Man charged with drugs offences by Harbour Breton RCMP

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Following an investigation conducted by Harbour Breton RCMP, 46-year-old Sheldon Cribb is charged with a number of criminal offences.

    The investigation began in September, 2024. In continuing with the investigation, a search warrant, obtained under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act, was obtained and vehicle associated to Cribb was searched in October, 2024. Inside the vehicle, officers located a quantity of cocaine, cash, contraband tobacco and other items consistent with drug trafficking.

    On February 4, 2025, in support of evidence gained during the course of this investigation, the following charges were laid against Cribb:

    • Possession of cocaine for the purpose of trafficking – Controlled Drugs and Substances Act
    • Possession of unstamped tobacco – Excise Act 2001
    • Possession of contraband tobacco – Revenue Administration Act

    He is set to appear in court to answer to all of these charges on February 18, 2025.

    The investigation is continuing.

    Harbour Breton RCMP thanks the public for continuing to report suspected drug-trafficking and other illegal activities in the community. If you have information about illegal drug activities in your community, please contact your local police or crime stoppers to make a report.

    RCMP NL continues to fulfill its mandate to protect public safety, enforce the law, and ensure the delivery of priority policing services in Newfoundland and Labrador.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Charlotte Man Is Sentenced To Prison For Illegal Possession Of A Firearm And Transfer Of A Machinegun

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Today, U.S. District Judge Kenneth D. Bell sentenced Shakor Daniels, 26, of Charlotte, to 37 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and transfer of a machinegun, announced Dena J. King, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina.

    Bennie Mims, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), Charlotte Field Division, joins U.S. Attorney King in making today’s announcement.

    According to court documents and court proceedings, on June 13, 2023, law enforcement stopped Daniels’s vehicle for a traffic violation. Over the course of the traffic stop, officers found two firearms inside the vehicle. Daniels admitted to possessing a firearm for protection.

    Court documents show that, in the fall of 2023, law enforcement determined that Daniels was advertising Glock switches for sale on his social media account, which included the tag line “Go fed or go home.” A Glock switch is an illegal conversion device that enables a conventional semi-automatic pistol to function as a fully automatic firearm. According to court records, on several occasions, undercover ATF agents purchased multiple items from Daniels, including Glock switches for handguns and a rifle, and a 45-round drum magazine. On January 14, 2024, Daniels sent an image of a handgun to an undercover ATF agent that Daniels was selling. The undercover agent agreed to meet Daniels to purchase the firearm. On January 16, 2024, Daniels was arrested when he arrived to sell the firearm to the undercover agent. Daniels has prior criminal convictions, and he is prohibited from possessing firearms.

    Daniels is currently in federal custody and will be transferred to the custody of the Federal Bureau of Prisons upon designation of a federal facility.

    The ATF investigated the case with the assistance of the Charlotte Mecklenburg Police Department.

    The U.S. Attorney’s Office in Charlotte prosecuted the case. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: New Orleans Man Sentenced for Federal Gun and Drug Charges

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that JOHNNIE HAGANS (“HAGANS”), age 32, was sentenced on January 30, 2025, by United States District Judge Carl J. Barbier, after previously pleading guilty to a multi-count indictment.  Count 1 charged him with possession with the intent to distribute cocaine and fentanyl, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and (b)(1)(C).  Count 2 charged him with possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c)(1)(A)(1).  Counts 3 and 4 charged him with being a felon in possession a firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(8).

    HAGANS was sentenced to 157 months imprisonment as to all counts of the indictment, with Counts 1, 3, and 4 to run concurrently, and the sentence for Count 2 to run consecutively to those counts.  Judge Barbier also placed HAGANS on supervised release for 3 years and ordered payment of a $400 mandatory special assessment fee.

    According to court documents, on January 23, 2024, a New Orleans Police Department (NOPD) officer surveilling a Valero gas station in New Orleans saw HAGANS making multiple hand-to-hand drug sales.  NOPD patrol officers detected an object in HAGANS’s waistband recognizable as a firearm.  HAGANS fled from the officers and discarded a Ruger Model LCPII, .380 caliber pistol, that officers later recovered, in an open lot.  Officers also obtained a search warrant for a Nissan Rogue SUV located in the Valero gas station parking lot that HAGANS had previously  accessed.  Inside the SUV, officers found a Kahr Arms Model CW40, .40 caliber pistol, and a plastic bag containing cocaine.  Officers later obtained a search warrant for HAGANS’s residence and recovered a Romarm/Cugir Model Micro Draco, 7.62-millimeter pistol and an Anderson Arms Model AM-15, .223 caliber /5.56-millimeter pistol.

    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.

    U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Department.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Troy Bell of the Violent Crime Unit.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: £1.3million investment could see improvements to parks, splash pools and sports facilities across Portsmouth

    Source: City of Portsmouth

    Portsmouth City Council’s administration has included a number of initiatives within its budget proposals, which it believes will enhance the quality of life for residents and visitors alike.

    Parks and open spaces are the green lungs of the city. Funding has been allocated to improve them, including a biological dredging project to remove sediment and improve water quality at Baffins Pond, a project many residents are keen to see. A two-year project to improve irrigation and biodiversity at Southsea Common, ensuring it remains a vibrant space for public events, will also get the go-ahead.

    Playing outdoors allows children to develop self-confidence, independence, fitness and self-esteem. If adopted, the proposals will enable the Council to continue the planned programme of renewal of play equipment across Portsmouth, in both parks and adventure playgrounds. In addition, the splash pools at Canoe Lake and Clarence Esplanade will be fully refurbished, and splash pools at four other sites will undergo relining.

    There is match funding for the Playzones project bid, which could see new multi-use games areas created at five sites across the city if the bid is successful. The £300k investment from the Council would then unlock £1.3m of funding from the Football Foundation towards the scheme. There is also money for enhancements to the city’s green infrastructure, which will help promote environmental sustainability.

    The city’s heritage is also recognised, with funding proposed for essential treatments to preserve key bronze statues, including the Grade II-listed Nelson statue, Queen Victoria, and Charles Dickens. The plans also include the installation of memorial plaques to honour the historic contributions and sacrifices made during World War II, as part of plans to commemorate the 80th anniversaries of VE Day and VJ Day.

    Cllr Steve Pitt, Leader of Portsmouth City Council, said:

    “Because of our prudent approach to the Council’s finances, we can make these commitments despite the funding issues affecting local authorities across the country. These investments reflect our commitment to maintaining and improving Portsmouth’s public spaces for future generations.

    “From playgrounds to historic statues, these projects will provide residents with enhanced recreational opportunities and will ensure the city continues to be a welcoming, vibrant, and inclusive place to live, work, and visit.”

    These proposals are in addition to the £20m invested into sports facilities across the city since 2017. There are future investments planned, including £22m towards creating a new hub in Bransbury Park, which will bring sports, swimming, and healthcare together, including a learner pool that can be utilised by many nearby schools.

    The council is also leading the renovation of Hilsea Lido, which is funded by the UK government and will open this year, 90 years since it first opened in 1935.

    These proposals are part of the Council’s capital budget, which can be used for major one-off projects and statutory improvements. The capital funding can’t be used for funding the ongoing delivery of council services such as pressures arising from temporary accommodation and social care.

    The budget proposals will be considered at the council’s Cabinet meeting on 11 February and if accepted will then go to the Full Council meeting on 25 February for approval.

    • The proposed locations for the Playzones project are Beacon View School, Stamshaw Park, Baffins Pond, Mayfield School and the Charles Dickens Centre.
    • The splash pools that would be relined are in Stamshaw, Buckland, Portsea and Paulsgrove.
    • The playgrounds that would receive new play equipment include Victoria Park, College Park, Southsea Common & Drayton Park.
    • The adventure playgrounds that would receive new play equipment are Landport, Somerstown, Portsea, Paulsgrove, Stamshaw and Buckland.
    • The budget papers are available here, and the appendices with a full breakdown can be found here.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Acting United States Attorney Fondren Announces Federal Indictments for Firearm and Violent Crimes

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Memphis, TN – Acting United States Attorney Reagan Fondren announced today the indictments of seven individuals who were charged with federal gun and violent crime offenses in West Tennessee.  Acting United States Attorney Fondren emphasized that the United States’ commitment to prosecuting individuals who illegally possess firearms and commit violent offenses remains a top priority for her office.

    The following defendants were charged with firearm or violent crime offenses:

    • Torrian Floyd, 35. Floyd was indicted on January 30, 2025, on one count of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
    • Mohamadou Ba, 21. Ba was indicted on January 30, 2025, on one count of robbery of a business affecting interstate commerce, one count of brandishing a firearm during and in relation to the robbery, and for being a felon in possession of a firearm.
    • Maurice Harris, 31. Harris was indicted on three counts robbery of a business affecting interstate commerce, three counts of brandishing a firearm during and in relation to the robberies, and for being a felon in possession of a firearm.
    • Marshun Lewis, 24. Lewis was indicted on two counts robbery of a postal carrier and two counts of brandishing a firearm during and in relation to the robberies.
    • Royce Newsome, 32, and Alvin Anthony, 30. Newsome and Anthony were indicted on one count each of conspiracy to commit carjacking and carjacking. Additionally, Newsome was indicted on one count of aiding and abetting a robbery, and Anthony was indicted on one count of accessory after the fact to the carjacking.
    • Christopher Busby, 53. Busby was indicted on two counts of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.

    These cases are being investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Safe Streets Task Force; the Project Safe Neighborhoods Gun Task Force; the Memphis Police Department; and the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office.  Anyone with information about switches or other federal gun crimes can call 1-800-ATF-GUNS (1-800-283-4867).

    The charges and allegations contained in the indictments are merely accusations of criminal conduct, not evidence.  The defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt and convicted through due process of law.  If convicted, each defendant’s sentence will be determined by the Court after review of the factors unique to the case, including the defendant’s prior criminal records (if any), the defendant’s role in the offense, and the characteristics of the violation.

    These indictments are 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 of Justice 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, using data-driven methods to set focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

    Acting United States Attorney Fondren thanked the Assistant United States Attorneys prosecuting these cases, as well as the law enforcement partners who investigated the cases. 

    ###

    For more information, please contact the Media Relations Team at USATNW.Media@usdoj.gov. Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office on Facebook or on X at @WDTNNews for office news and updates.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Trio Sentenced to More Than 16 Years in Federal Prison for Mail Theft and Card Cracking Scheme

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    INDIANAPOLIS— Three individuals have been sentenced to a combined 16 years in federal prison for their roles in a multi-year mail theft and bank fraud scheme.

    According to court documents, between October 2021 and April 2022, Cortez Venable, Ephraim Aung, and Brooke Bryan conspired together to commit bank fraud using financial documents such as checks and money orders, which were stolen from U.S. Postal Service (USPS) collection boxes. These collection boxes can only be opened by special “arrow keys” that belong to USPS letter carriers. In order to obtain the arrow keys, Venable and other unknown individuals robbed postal workers at gunpoint while they were on their daily routes delivering mail. Venable robbed a letter carrier on October 4, 2021. Prior to the robbery, Venable and Aung had been in contact via text message. Aung told Venable to take the letter carrier’s mail bag, in addition to their arrow keys, and to look for checks in the stolen mail.

    On December 6, 2021, Bryan and Aung served as lookouts while other unknown men attempted to rob a letter carrier of her arrow key in the parking lot of an apartment complex. The letter carrier ran to Bryan and Aung’s vehicle for help, unaware that they were involved in the scheme.

    Aung again served as a lookout during an armed robbery of a letter carrier that occurred on December 21, 2021.

    Using the arrow keys taken during the robberies, Venable and Aung stole mail, checks and money orders from USPS blue collection boxes in the Indianapolis area. Next, they used the stolen checks and money orders to obtain real cash by either (1) creating fraudulent checks and money orders using some or all of the information found on the stolen checks and money orders; or (2) altering the payee information on the stolen checks and money orders. Venable and Aung recruited others to deposit the fraudulent checks and money orders into their personal bank accounts, a scheme that has come to be known as “card cracking.” Bryan also deposited stolen financial instruments into her personal account.

    Card cracking is a form of fraud where bank account holders respond to an online solicitation for “easy money” and provide a debit card for withdrawal of fake check deposits. Criminals use social media platforms like Facebook, X, Instagram, or Telegram to solicit account holders. Those who respond to these solicitations – now accomplices – provide their debit card, PIN, password, and other personal identifying information to give the criminal direct access to their account, as well as payment of sometimes $15,000 for the service. The fraudster deposits the worthless checks and either immediately withdraws the funds at an ATM or transfers it out of the account via money transfer applications like Zelle or CashApp. The criminal sometimes provides the customer with a cut of the money withdrawn using worthless checks – or, in other cases, takes all funds out of the customer’s account.

    During a search of Venable’s car and home, U.S. Postal Service Investigators recovered 247 pieces of stolen mail, three arrow keys, $70,121.44 in stolen checks and four firearms. As a convicted felon, Venable was prohibited from possessing firearms.

    Investigators also searched the apartment that Bryan and Aung shared and located several stolen checks, altered money orders, laptops, a printer, a scanner, and blank check stock, along with other items commonly used to alter checks, including razor blades and white out. Multiple firearms were also recovered in their residence.

    In total, more than 150 people were victimized by this scheme, losing a total of approximately $104,747.09.

    Aung, Bryan and Venable were convicted and sentenced as follows:

    Defendant Charges Sentence
    Ephraim Aung, 23, Indianapolis
    • Conspiracy to Commit Bank Fraud
    • Bank Fraud, 2 Counts
    • Mail Theft

    5 years imprisonment

    3 years supervised release

    $807 in restitution

    $500 fine
    Brooke Bryan, 22, Indianapolis
    • Conspiracy to Commit Bank Fraud
    • Bank Fraud

    18 months imprisonment

    2 years supervised release

    $807 in restitution

    $500 fine
    Cortez Venable, 27, Lawrence
    • Conspiracy to Commit Bank Fraud
    • Bank Fraud
    • Robbery or Mail
    • Brandishing a Firearm In Furtherance of a Crime of Violence
    • Mail Theft
    • Keys or Locks Stolen

    130 months imprisonment

    3 years supervised release

    $807 in restitution

    $500 fine

    “Not only did this scheme victimize and traumatize letter carriers – it also victimized ordinary citizens who rely on the United States mail to send important correspondence or pay bills,” said John E. Childress, Acting United States Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “Letter carriers should not have to live in fear of gun violence simply for doing their jobs. Americans should not have to fear that their important financial documents will be stolen and exploited by fraudsters who wreak financial havoc. The serious federal prison sentences in this case demonstrates that the Department of Justice, working with our federal partners, will ensure there will be serious consequences for violence against public servants and fraud against the public.”

    “This sentencing represents the hard work and dedication by USPS OIG Special Agents, the U.S. Postal Inspectors and the Beech Grove and Lawrence Police Departments, working with the U.S. Attorney’s Office to bring charges on this significant mail theft investigation. Substantial sentences such as these are a staunch reminder of the severity of stealing from the U.S. Mail,” said Special Agent in Charge Dennus Bishop, U.S. Postal Service, Office of Inspector General, Central Area Field Office. “The majority of postal employees are hard-working public servants dedicated to moving mail to its proper destination. The USPS OIG, along with our law enforcement partners, remain committed to safeguarding the U.S. Mail and ensuring the accountability and integrity of U.S. Postal Service employees.”

    “The sentencing of these three individuals shows the utmost importance we place on the safety of U.S. Postal Service employees and the sanctity of the U.S. mail,” said Detroit Division Acting Inspector in Charge Felicia George. “We will not stop pursuing those who seek to harm our employees and victimize postal customers. We will bring them to justice to account for their violent and selfish crimes. The partnerships we’ve established with our USPS OIG counterparts, local police departments, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office allowed us to work jointly to pursue and hold these individuals accountable. Let this serve as reminder to those who want to make a quick dollar by traumatizing our letter carriers and financially preying on the American public: We will find you and bring you to justice.”

    The U.S. Postal Inspection Service investigated this case, with assistance from the U.S. Postal Service – Office of the Inspector General, the Beech Grove Police Department, and the Lawrence Police Department. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Judge Sarah Evans Barker.

    Acting U.S. Attorney Childress thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kelsey Massa and Meredith Wood and former Assistant U.S. Attorney Lawrence Hilton, who prosecuted this case.

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: New Orleans Man Guilty of Drug Trafficking and Possessing Two Machineguns

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – TIERON PRICE (“PRICE”), age 22, pled guilty on February 4, 2025 before U.S. District Judge Darrel J. Papillion, to two counts of possessing a machinegun, in violation of 18 U.S.C. §§ 922(o) and 924(a)(2); possession with intent to distribute tapentadol, in violation of 21 U.S.C. §§ 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(C); and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 924(c)(1)(A)(i).

    According to court documents, on May 22, 2023, PRICE was driving a stolen vehicle in New Orleans. When Louisiana State Police troopers attempted to pull him over, PRICE accelerated and led troopers on a dangerous, and potentially life threatening, car chase. The chase ended when PRICE struck a vehicle stopped at a red light.  PRICE, and two other occupants, fled but were caught.  Inside a backpack carried by one of the other occupants was a Glock Model 17, nine-millimeter caliber pistol, equipped with a Glock auto-sear, making the firearm a fully-automatic machinegun.  The machinegun had a bullet in the chamber and was loaded with an extended magazine containing 23 rounds of ammunition. 

    PRICE was arrested after the car chase but subsequently released on bond.  On January 19, 2024,  New Orleans Police Department detectives executed a search warrant at PRICE’s residence.  During the search, officers found a Glock Model 19, nine-millimeter caliber pistol, a black Glock auto-sear hidden in a baby bassinet, and a drum magazine loaded with 49 rounds.  PRICE was seen the day  before the search with the same gun equipped with the auto-sear and the drum magazine.  During the search, officers also found over $6,000 in cash, and 95 tapentadol pills that PRICE intended to distribute.

    As to each of his convictions for possession of a machinegun, PRICE faces up to 10 years in prison, up to three years of supervised release, and up to a $250,000 fine.  As to his drug trafficking conviction, he faces up to 20 years in prison, at least three years of supervised release, and up to a $1,000,000 fine.  As to his conviction for possessing a firearm in furtherance of that drug trafficking crime, he faces a mandatory minimum sentence of five years and up to life in prison, which must run consecutively to any other sentence, and up to five years of supervised release.  Each count also carries a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.

    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 Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Louisiana State Police, and the New Orleans Police Department.  It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney David Berman of the Violent Crime Unit.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Three Metro East Men Sentenced to Federal Prison for Wire Fraud in Gas Pump Scheme

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    EAST ST. LOUIS, Ill. – A federal judge in southern Illinois sentenced three men to prison for their involvement in a scheme to use counterfeit credit and debit cards to fill up tanks for gas station patrons in exchange for cash.

    Dee E. Day, 31, of Belleville, was sentenced Monday to 30 months’ imprisonment and ordered to pay $14,295 in restitution. Marquise Q. Golliday, 29, of Collinsville, and Montuelle F. Wright, 33, of East St. Louis, were each previously sentenced to 28 months’ imprisonment.

    Day, Golliday and Wright each pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, access device fraud and aggravated identity theft.

    “Financial exploitation and identity theft crimes are serious offenses with lasting effects on victims, but thankfully, our law enforcement partners worked swiftly to disband this criminal ring,” said U.S. Attorney Rachelle Aud Crowe.

    According to court documents, the conspirators had counterfeit credit and debit cards with one set of information on the front, but the routing information was electronically modified and reencoded on the cards’ magnetic strip. The encoded data included the victims’ names and card numbers.

    “Financial crimes perpetrated on law-abiding citizens often have lasting effects on unknowing victims. The U.S. Secret Service is dedicated to stopping and deterring such crimes to safeguard our nation’s financial security as well as innocent people,” Special Agent in Charge Dai Tran, of the Chicago Field Office, said. “I’m proud of our agency’s work on this case and I’m thankful to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for pursuing it.”

    The trio used the modified cards to charge more than 130 fraudulent transactions on accounts belonging to 34 victims totaling more than $14,000.

    Most of the fraud was committed at a Sauget gas station from Nov. 1-5, 2019. Similar conduct was reported at gas stations in Columbia and Fairview Heights in Illinois and Valley Park, Missouri.

    The U.S. Secret Service led the investigation, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Peter Reed prosecuted the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Former Labor Union Financial Secretary Pleads Guilty to Embezzling Union Assets

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A resident of Freedom, Pennsylvania, has pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of embezzlement of labor union assets, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.

    Vincent Wolf, 57, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Marilyn J. Horan.

    In connection with the guilty plea, the Court was advised that, from approximately April 2013 through April 2021, Wolf served as the financial secretary for the United Steelworkers Local Union 623 in Freedom. As financial secretary, Wolf was responsible for maintaining all financial records, preparing annual reports, and issuing payments on behalf of Local 623 related to union officers’ salaries and expenses. An audit of the union’s finances following Wolf’s re-election loss revealed that Wolf omitted from those records disbursements that he made to himself in the form of writing union checks to himself, ATM withdrawals, and using the union debit card to buy lunch and alcohol. The audit determined that Wolf embezzled a total of $14,695.

    Judge Horan scheduled sentencing for June 4, 2025. The law provides for a total sentence of up to five years in prison, a fine of up to $10,000 or twice the gross pecuniary gain to Wolf, or both. Under the federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

    Assistant United States Attorney Brendan J. McKenna is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

    The U.S. Department of Labor’s Office of Labor-Management Standards conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Wolf.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News: Truman Strike Group Units Arrive in Greece for Port Visit

    Source: United States Navy

    While the strike group’s material readiness is the top priority of the visit, ensuring maintenance and upkeep across the ships and aircraft, Sailors will have the opportunity to enjoy liberty and experience Crete’s rich history and culture. 

    “I’m incredibly proud of the dedication and service of this team and their tireless work around the clock,” said Capt. Dave Snowden, commanding officer of USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75). “Their efforts keep our ship operating at peak performance and aircraft ready to support combat operations.” 

    After entering the U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) area of responsibility on Dec. 14, the Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group (HSTCSG) supported multiple self-defense strikes against targets across Iran-backed Houthi-controlled areas of Yemen. The strikes directly contributed to CENTCOM’s campaign to degrade the Houthis attempts to threaten regional partners and the free flow of commerce in the region. On Feb. 1, HSTCSG conducted airstrikes against ISIS-Somalia in support of U.S. Africa Command and in coordination with the Federal Government of Somalia. 

    “The Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group remains the most adaptable and lethal presence in theater,” said Rear Adm. Sean Bailey, commander, HSTCSG. “This port visit provides the opportunity to reset and focus on maintenance for maximum readiness ahead of future operations.” 

    The visit is HSTCSG’s third port visit of deployment, following stops in Oslo, Norway, and Marseille, France. NSA Souda Bay is a remote forward operating installation that enables power projection and warfighting capabilities from the Eastern Mediterranean.

    “Team Souda is happy to welcome HSTCSG to Crete,” from Capt. Stephen Steacy, commanding officer, NSA Souda Bay. “As the crossroads of the 6th Fleet, we are strategically located in the Eastern Mediterranean to support our forward-deployed forces. The hospitality of the local community is unmatched, giving Sailors the opportunity for a much-needed break.”

    The Dwight D. Eisenhower Carrier Strike Group (IKECSG) visited NSA Souda Bay for a similar port visit in April 2024. The IKECSG and HSTCSG have operated in the most intense period of sustained combat activity for the U.S. Navy since World War II.

    The carrier strike group includes the flagship USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75); Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 1, with eight embarked aviation squadrons; staffs from CSG-8, CVW-1, and Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 28; the Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Gettysburg (CG 64); and two Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyers, USS Stout (DDG 55) and USS Jason Dunham (DDG 109). 

    HSTCSG’s mission is to conduct prompt and sustained combat operations at sea and maintain a forward presence through sea control and power projection capabilities. For more information, visit DVIDS at https://www.dvidshub.net/unit/CVN75. 
     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Tariffs on non-folding e-bikes from China revoked

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Government accepts TRA recommendation to revoke anti-dumping and countervailing measures on imports of Chinese non-folding e-bikes to the UK.

    The Secretary of State for Business and Trade has today (Thursday 6 February) accepted a recommendation provided by the TRA to revoke anti-dumping and countervailing measures on imports of Chinese non-folding e-bikes to the UK. Non-folding e-bikes make up around 95% of the UK’s total e-bikes market.

    Anti-dumping and countervailing measures on e-bikes imported from China, both folding and non-folding, were transitioned when the UK left the EU. The current anti-dumping measure is an ad valorem tariff of 10.3% to 70.1%, while the current countervailing measure is an ad valorem tariff of 3.9% to 17.2%.

    The TRA found that revoking the measures on non-folding e-bikes could mean that consumers, on average, could save around £200 each as a result of being able to purchase cheaper e-bikes.

    Alternative option accepted

    In its transition reviews, the TRA found that keeping the measures on all imports of Chinese e-bikes would not be in the economic interest of the UK.

    Under the UK’s reformed trade remedies regime, if the TRA finds that a measure is not in the economic interest of the UK, it offers the Secretary of State for Business and Trade alternative options to revoking the measures.

    These alternative options included only maintaining the measures on folding e-bikes as UK producers are more heavily concentrated in this market. It is this option that the Secretary of State has today accepted.

    The measure only applying to folding e-bikes will come into force from 7 February 2025.

    Notes to Editors

    • The goods investigated were classified as cycles, with pedal assistance, with an auxiliary electric motor.
    • The averages used here are estimates representing the average impacts across scenarios modelled.
    • The investigations covered the period from 1 April 2022 to 31 March 2023. In order to assess injury, the TRA examined the period from April 2019 to March 2023. 
    • The TRA is the UK body that investigates whether trade remedy measures are needed to counter unfair import practices and unforeseen surges of imports. 
    • Trade remedy investigations were carried out by the EU Commission on the UK’s behalf until the UK left the EU. A number of EU trade remedy measures of interest to UK producers were carried across into UK law when the UK left the EU and the TRA is currently reviewing each one to assess whether it is suitable for UK needs.

    Updates to this page

    Published 6 February 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Flu and COVID-19 surveillance reports bulletin 2025

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    This bulletin (formally Weekly Winter Briefing) brings together the latest surveillance data, along with the latest public health advice for flu, COVID-19, RSV and other viruses common in winter.

    For updates from previous years, see Flu and COVID-19 surveillance reports published up to week 52 2024

    Latest update

    Thursday 6 February 2025

    In week 5:

    • influenza (flu) activity overall decreased across most indicators and was at medium activity levels – there continues to be an increase in influenza B across some indicators
    • COVID-19 activity remained stable across most indicators and was at baseline activity levels
    • respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) activity decreased across most indicators and was circulating at low levels overall

    For more information see the flu, COVID-19 and RSV surveillance report and norovirus surveillance report.

    Flu surveillance data

    In week 5:

    • flu activity overall decreased across most indicators and was at medium activity levels – there continues to be an increase in influenza B across some indicators
    • flu positivity decreased with a weekly mean positivity rate of 14%, compared to 15.6% in the previous week, this is based on a percentage of people who test positive among those with symptoms tested
    • overall, flu hospitalisations decreased slightly to 6.40 per 100,000 population, compared with 7.00 per 100,000 in the previous week
    • in week 5, the weekly influenza-like illnesses (ILI) General Practice (GP) consultation rate decreased to 13.9 per 100,000 compared with 15.4 per 100,000 in the previous week
    • reporting of the weekly influenza vaccine uptake for the 2024 to 2025 season concluded last week
    • up to the end of week 4 (week ending 26 January 2025), vaccine uptake was 39.7% for those under 65 years in a clinical risk group, 34.8% in all pregnant women and 74.6% for all those aged 65 years and over
    • uptake was 41.4% for children aged 2 years of age and 43.2% for children aged 3 years of age

    COVID-19 surveillance data

    In week 5:

    • COVID-19 activity remained stable across most indicators and was at baseline activity levels
    • COVID-19 positivity in hospital settings remained stable with a weekly mean positivity rate of 2.5% compared with 2.4% in the previous week
    • COVID-19 hospitalisations remained stable at 1.15 per 100,000 compared to 1.12 per 100,000 in the previous week
    • COVID-19 ICU admissions remained stable at 0.03 per 100,000 compared with 0.03 per 100,000 in the previous week
    • there were 9 COVID-19 acute respiratory incidents reported in week 4
    • the highest hospital admission rate was in the North-West, which increased to 1.79 per 100,00 compared with 1.36 per 100,000 in the previous week
    • those aged 85 years and over had the highest hospital admission rate, which increased to 13.84 per 100,000 compared with 11.78 per 100,000 in the previous week  
    • up to the end of week 5 (week ending 2 February 2025), 23.6% of those under 65 years in a clinical risk group and 59.3% of all people aged over 65 years old, who are living and resident in England had been vaccinated

    Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) surveillance data

    In week 5:

    • respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) activity decreased across most indicators and was circulating at low levels overall
    • emergency department attendances for acute bronchiolitis remained stable
    • RSV positivity decreased to 2.5% compared with 3.9% in the previous week
    • overall, hospital admissions decreased to 1.06 per 100,000 compared with 1.42 per 100,000 in the previous week

    UKHSA monitors Human metapneumovirus (hMPV) detections in patients seen in GP practices or tested by hospital laboratories and reports on this in the weekly surveillance report.

    hMPV is a common respiratory infection in winter and current levels are expected at this time of year. Infections are usually mild, causing symptoms of a common cold. Most people have had hMPV by the time they are five years old and catch it again throughout their lives. In week 5, hMPV laboratory test positivity increased slightly to 4.2% from 3.8% in the previous week.

    Dr Alexander Allen, Consultant Epidemiologist at UKHSA, said: 

    We’re pleased to see that the downward trend in flu activity has continued into this week.

    If you have already had your flu vaccine this season, you can be reassured that the vaccine offers the best defence and protects against multiple strains. The predominant circulating flu strain continues to be A H1N1 clade 5a.2a. and the flu vaccine is well matched.

    If you’re eligible and haven’t yet had your flu vaccine, it’s important that you take this offer up if available through local services. This includes anyone recently pregnant or newly diagnosed as in an eligible clinical risk group.

    If you have symptoms of flu or COVID-19 such as a high temperature, cough and feeling tired and achy, try to limit your contact with others, especially those who are vulnerable. If you have symptoms and need to leave the house, our advice remains that you should consider wearing a face covering. Washing hands regularly and using and disposing tissues in bins can reduce the spread of respiratory illnesses, as can ensuring that indoor areas are well ventilated.

    Norovirus surveillance data

    In week 4:

    • norovirus reports in the 2-week period between 13 January 2025 to 26 January 2025 were 15% higher than the previous 2-week period
    • the total number of reports was 114.5% higher than the 5-season average for the same 2-week period – reporting remained highest in adults aged 65 years and over
    • rotavirus reporting increased in recent weeks but was within expected levels during the 2-week period of weeks 3 and 4 of 2025
    • the number of norovirus outbreaks reported to the Hospital Norovirus Outbreak Reporting System (HNORS) since the start of the 2024/2025 season is 15.8% higher than the 5-season average
    • while some of the increased reporting may be attributable to the increased use of PCR multiplex technology (capable of detecting multiple gastrointestinal pathogens in one test), it is likely that the emergence of an unusual norovirus genotype, GII.17, as well as changes in the epidemiology following the COVID-19 pandemic and other factors are contributing to the observed rise
    • during the 2024/2025 season to date, the majority (90.7%) of samples characterised were norovirus genogroup 2 (GII), of which the most frequently identified genotype was GII.17 (55.4%), an increase of this genotype has also been observed in other counties during 2024 and is being closely monitored – at present there is no indication it leads to more severe illness (note: it isn’t accurate to refer to GII.17 as ‘Kawasaki’ and this term is causing confusion with Kawasaki Disease, which is an unrelated disease)
    • laboratory reports represent just a small proportion of total norovirus cases and it has been estimated that for every case of norovirus reported to national surveillance in the UK there are about 288 in the community that go unreported, representing an annual burden of around 3 million cases
    • norovirus symptoms include nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea but can also include a high temperature, abdominal pain and aching limbs
    • norovirus infections can cause dehydration, especially in vulnerable groups such as young children and older or immunocompromised people, so if you do get ill it is important to drink plenty of fluids during that time

    Amy Douglas, Epidemiologist at UKHSA said:

    Norovirus cases are way above what we would usually see at this time of year and outbreaks in hospitals continue to rise. Just because you’ve had norovirus doesn’t mean you won’t get it again.

    It’s really important that if you have diarrhoea and vomiting, you take steps to avoid passing the infection on, including not  visiting people in hospitals and care homes.

    Do not return to work, school or nursery until 48 hours after your symptoms have stopped and don’t prepare food for others in that time either. This is because you can still pass on the virus in the days after you stop being sick.

    Washing your hands with soap and warm water and using bleach-based products to clean surfaces will also help stop infections from spreading. Alcohol gels do not kill norovirus so don’t rely on these alone.

    Norovirus infections can cause dehydration, especially in vulnerable groups such as young children and older or immunocompromised people, so if you do get ill it is important to drink plenty of fluids during that time.

    Washing your hands with soap and warm water and using bleach-based products to clean surfaces will also help stop infections from spreading. Alcohol gels do not kill norovirus so don’t rely on these alone.

    Previous

    Thursday 30 January 2025

    This bulletin (formally Weekly Winter Briefing) brings together the latest surveillance data, along with the latest public health advice for flu, COVID-19, RSV and other viruses common in winter.

    In week 4:

    • influenza activity overall decreased across most indicators and was at medium activity levels – there continues to be an increase in influenza B across some indicators
    • COVID-19 activity remained stable across most indicators and was at baseline activity levels
    • respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) activity showed a mixed picture and was circulating at low levels overall

    For more information see the flu, COVID-19 and RSV surveillance report and norovirus surveillance report.

    Flu surveillance data for week 4

    • Flu activity overall decreased across most indicators and was at medium activity levels. There continues to be an increase in influenza B across some indicators.
    • Flu positivity decreased with a weekly mean positivity rate of 15.6%, compared to 27.4% in the previous week. This is based on a percentage of people who test positive among those with symptoms tested.
    • Overall, flu hospitalisations decreased to 7.13 per 100,000 population, compared with 8.51 per 100,000 in the previous week.
    • For primary care surveillance, due to a technical issue in processing the data, the influenza-like-illness (ILI) consultations indicator has not been updated this week. In week 3, the weekly ILI General Practice (GP) consultation rate decreased to 17 per 100,000 compared with 23.1 per 100,000 in the previous week.
    • Up to the end of week 4 (week ending 26 January 2025), vaccine uptake was 39.7% for those under 65 years in a clinical risk group, 34.8% in all pregnant women and 74.6% for all those aged 65 years and over. Uptake was 41.4% for children aged 2 years of age and 43.2% for children aged 3 years of age.

    COVID-19 surveillance data for week 4

    • COVID-19 activity remained stable across most indicators and was at baseline activity levels.
    • COVID-19 positivity in hospital settings remained stable with a weekly mean positivity rate of 2.4% compared with 2.4% in the previous week.
    • COVID-19 hospitalisations decreased to 1.13 per 100,000 compared to 1.33 per 100,000 in the previous week.
    • COVID-19 ICU admissions remained stable at 0.03 per 100,000 compared with 0.05 per 100,000 in the previous week.
    • There were 11 COVID-19 acute respiratory incidents reported in week 4.
    • The highest hospital admission rate was in the North-East, which decreased to 2.37 per 100,00 compared with 2.74 per 100,000 in the previous week. 
    • Those aged 85 years and over had the highest hospital admission rate, which decreased to 11.86 per 100,000 compared with 15.14 per 100,000 in the previous week.  
    • Up to the end of week 4 (week ending 26 January 2025), 23.6% of those under 65 years in a clinical risk group and 59.3% of all people aged over 65 years old, who are living and resident in England had been vaccinated.

    Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) surveillance data for week 4

    • Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) activity showed a mixed picture and was circulating at low levels overall.
    • Emergency department attendances for acute bronchiolitis remained stable.
    • RSV positivity decreased slightly to 3.8% compared with 4.2% in the previous week.
    • Overall, hospital admissions increased to 1.42 per 100,000 compared with 1.20 per 100,000 in the previous week.
    • UKHSA monitors Human metapneumovirus (hMPV) detections in patients seen in GP practices or tested by hospital laboratories and reports on this in the weekly surveillance report. hMPV is a common respiratory infection in winter and current levels are expected at this time of year. Infections are usually mild, causing symptoms of a common cold and most people have had hMPV by the time they are five years old and catch it again throughout their lives. In week 4, hMPV laboratory test positivity decreased to 3.9% from 4.5% in the previous week.

    Dr Alexander Allen, Consultant Epidemiologist at UKHSA, said: 

    We’re continuing to see flu activity decrease, which is really promising at this stage in the season. People are still reminded to take protective measures to ensure we keep cases down as we have seen a recent increase in cases of influenza B amongst children, although this is to be expected at this time of year.

    The vaccine offers the best defence against flu and protects against multiple flu strains, including B strains. The predominant circulating flu strain continues to be A H1N1 clade 5a.2a. Analysis by UKHSA laboratory scientists shows that the H1N1 component of the flu vaccine is well matched.

    If you’re eligible and have not yet had your flu vaccine, it’s important that you take this offer up if available through local services. This includes anyone recently pregnant or newly diagnosed as in an eligible clinical risk group.

    If you have symptoms of flu or COVID-19 such as a high temperature, cough and feeling tired and achy, try to limit your contact with others, especially those who are vulnerable. If you have symptoms and need to leave the house, our advice remains that you should consider wearing a face covering. Washing hands regularly and using and disposing tissues in bins can reduce the spread of respiratory illnesses, as can ensuring that indoor areas are well ventilated.

    Norovirus surveillance data for week 3

    • Norovirus reports in the 2-week period between 6 January 2025 to 19 January 2025 were 18.3% higher than the previous 2-week period. The total number of reports was 113.3% higher than the 5-season average for the same 2-week period. Reporting remained highest in adults aged 65 years and over.
    • Rotavirus reporting has started to increase again in recent weeks but was within expected levels during the 2-week period of weeks 2 and 3 of 2025.
    • The number of norovirus outbreaks reported to the Hospital Norovirus Outbreak Reporting System (HNORS) since the start of the 2024/2025 season is 14.3% higher than the 5-season average.
    • While some of the increased reporting may be attributable to the increased use of PCR multiplex technology (capable of detecting multiple gastrointestinal pathogens in one test), it is likely that the emergence of an unusual norovirus genotype, GII.17, as well as changes in the epidemiology following the COVID-19 pandemic and other factors are contributing to the observed rise.
    • During the 2024/2025 season to date, the majority (90.4%) of samples characterised were norovirus genogroup 2 (GII), of which the most frequently identified genotype was GII.17 (56.3%), an increase of this genotype has also been observed in other counties during 2024 and is being closely monitored — at present there is no indication it leads to more severe illness (note: it is not accurate to refer to GII.17 as ‘Kawasaki’ and this term is causing confusion with Kawasaki Disease, which is an unrelated disease)
    • Laboratory reports represent just a small proportion of total norovirus cases and it has been estimated that for every case of norovirus reported to national surveillance in the UK there are about 288 in the community that go unreported, representing an annual burden of around 3 million cases.
    • Norovirus symptoms include nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea but can also include a high temperature, abdominal pain and aching limbs. Norovirus infections can cause dehydration, especially in vulnerable groups such as young children and older or immunocompromised people, so if you do get ill it is important to drink plenty of fluids during that time.

    Amy Douglas, Epidemiologist at UKHSA said:

    Norovirus cases are over double what we would usually see at this time of year. This isn’t just unpleasant for those affected – it’s having a big impact on hospitals and care homes.

    It’s really important that if you have diarrhoea and vomiting, you take steps to avoid passing the infection on. Please avoid visiting people in hospitals and care homes to prevent passing on the infection in these settings.

    Do not return to work, school or nursery until 48 hours after your symptoms have stopped and don’t prepare food for others in that time either. This is because you can still pass on the virus in the days after you stop being sick.

    Washing your hands with soap and warm water and using bleach-based products to clean surfaces will also help stop infections from spreading. Alcohol gels do not kill norovirus so do not rely on these alone.

    Previous

    Thursday 23 January 2025

    This bulletin (formally Weekly Winter Briefing) brings together the latest surveillance data, along with the latest public health advice for flu, COVID-19, RSV and other viruses common in winter.

    In week 3:

    • influenza activity overall decreased across most indicators and was at medium activity levels; however, laboratory surveillance indicated an increase in influenza B
    • COVID-19 activity remained stable across most indicators and was at baseline activity levels
    • respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) activity decreased across most indicators and was circulating at low levels of activity

    For more information see the flu, COVID-19 and RSV surveillance report and norovirus surveillance report.

    Flu surveillance data for week 3

    • Flu activity overall decreased across most indicators and was at medium activity levels. However, laboratory surveillance indicated an increase in influenza B.
    • Flu positivity decreased with a weekly mean positivity rate of 17.5%, compared to 21.1% in the previous week. This is based on a percentage of people who test positive among those with symptoms tested.
    • Overall, flu hospitalisations decreased to 8.41 per 100,000 population, compared with 9.92 per 100,000 in the previous week.
    • The weekly influenza-like illnesses (ILI) general practice (GP) consultation rate decreased to 17 per 100,000 compared with 23.1 per 100,000 in the previous week.
    • Up to the end of week 3 (week ending 19 January 2025), vaccine uptake was 39.5% for those aged under 65 years in a clinical risk group, 34.5% in all pregnant women and 74.4% for all those aged 65 years and over. Uptake was 41.2% for children aged 2 years of age and 43% for children aged 3 years of age.
    • Some indicators suggested an increase in flu activity in children over the last week, this is in line with an expected increase in respiratory virus activity in children following the post Christmas return to school.

    COVID-19 surveillance data for week 3

    • COVID-19 activity remained stable across most indicators and was at baseline activity levels.
    • COVID-19 positivity in hospital settings increased slightly with a weekly mean positivity rate of 2.4%, compared to 2.2% in the previous week. 
    • COVID-19 hospitalisations remained stable at 1.32 per 100,000 compared to 1.35 per 100,000 in the previous week.
    • COVID-19 ICU admissions remained stable at 0.04 per 100,000 compared with 0.04 per 100,000 in the previous week.
    • There were 10 COVID-19 acute respiratory incidents reported in week 3.
    • The highest hospital admission rate was in the North-East, which remained stable at 2.74 per 100,000, compared with 2.78 per 100,000 in the previous week.
    • Those aged 85 years and over had the highest hospital admission rate, which decreased slightly to 14.65 per 100,000 compared with 15.45 per 100,000 in the previous week.  
    • Up to the end of week 3 (week ending 19 January 2025), 23.6% of those under 65 years in a clinical risk group and 59.3% of all people aged over 65 years old, who are living and resident in England had been vaccinated.

    Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) surveillance data for week 3

    • Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) activity decreased across most indicators and was circulating at low levels overall.
    • Emergency department attendances for acute bronchiolitis increased.
    • RSV positivity decreased slightly to 4.2% compared with 4.7% in the previous week.
    • Overall, hospital admissions decreased to 1.21 per 100,000 compared with 1.57 per 100,000 in the previous week.
    • UKHSA monitors Human metapneumovirus (hMPV) detections in patients seen in GP practices or tested by hospital laboratories and reports on this in the weekly surveillance report. Most people have had hMPV by the time they are 5 years old and catch it again throughout their lives. In week 3, Human metapneumovirus (hMPV) laboratory test positivity increased to 4.9% from 3.5% in the previous week.

    Dr Jamie Lopez Bernal, Consultant Epidemiologist at UKHSA, said: 

    It’s encouraging that flu activity is continuing to decrease this week and is currently circulating at medium levels. Flu positivity has decreased by 3.6% this week, but we should remember that flu season is not over yet and people should continue to take protective measures to keep us on this downward trend.

    We’re monitoring a slight increase in Influenza B positivity this week, which is to be expected towards the end of winter and the vaccine protects against multiple flu strains, including B. The predominant circulating flu strain continues to be A H1N1 clade 5a.2a. Analysis by UKHSA laboratory scientists shows that the H1N1 component of the flu vaccine is well matched.

    If you’re eligible and have not yet had your flu vaccine, it’s important that you take this offer up if available through local services. This includes anyone recently pregnant or newly diagnosed as in an eligible clinical risk group.

    If you have symptoms of flu or COVID-19 such as a high temperature, cough and feeling tired and achy, try to limit your contact with others, especially those who are vulnerable. If you have symptoms and need to leave the house, our advice remains that you should consider wearing a face covering. Washing hands regularly and using and disposing tissues in bins can reduce the spread of respiratory illnesses.

    Norovirus surveillance data for week 2

    • Norovirus reports in the 2-week period between 30 December 2024 to 12 January 2025 were 12% higher than the previous 2-week period. The total number of reports was 89.8% higher than the 5-season average for the same 2-week period.
    • Rotavirus reporting has started to increase again in recent weeks but was within expected levels during the 2-week period of weeks 1 and 2 of 2025.
    • The number of norovirus outbreaks reported to the Hospital Norovirus Outbreak Reporting System (HNORS) since the start of the 2024/2025 season is 7.2% higher than the 5-season average.
    • During weeks 1 and 2 of 2025, reporting remained highest in adults aged 65 years and over.
    • While some of the increased reporting may be attributable to the increased use of PCR multiplex technology (capable of detecting multiple gastrointestinal pathogens in one test), it is likely that the emergence of an unusual norovirus genotype, GII.17, as well as changes in the epidemiology following the COVID-19 pandemic and other factors are contributing to the observed rise.
    • During the 2024/2025 season to date, the majority (90.5%) of samples characterised were norovirus genogroup 2 (GII), of which the most frequently identified genotype was GII.17 (58%), an increase of this genotype has also been observed in other counties during 2024 and is being closely monitored — at present there is no indication it leads to more severe illness (note: it isn’t accurate to refer to GII.17 as ‘Kawasaki’ and this term is causing confusion with Kawasaki Disease, which is an unrelated disease).
    • Laboratory reports represent just a small proportion of total norovirus cases and it has been estimated that for every case of norovirus reported to national surveillance in the UK there are about 288 in the community that go unreported, representing an annual burden of around 3 million cases.
    • Norovirus symptoms include nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea but can also include a high temperature, abdominal pain and aching limbs. Norovirus infections can cause dehydration, especially in vulnerable groups such as young children and older or immunocompromised people, so if you do get ill it is important to drink plenty of fluids during that time.

    Amy Douglas, Epidemiologist at UKHSA said:

    Norovirus activity has remained high in recent weeks and has started to increase again, as we expected following the post-Christmas return to school and work.

    If you have diarrhoea and vomiting, you can take steps to avoid passing the infection on. Do not return to work, school or nursery until 48 hours after your symptoms have stopped and do not prepare food for others in that time either. If you are unwell, avoid visiting people in hospitals and care homes to prevent passing on the infection in these settings. Washing your hands with soap and warm water and using bleach-based products to clean surfaces will also help stop infections from spreading. Alcohol gels do not kill norovirus so do not rely on these alone.

    Previous

    Thursday 16 January 2025

    This bulletin (formally Weekly Winter Briefing) brings together the latest surveillance data, along with the latest public health advice for flu, COVID-19, RSV and other viruses common in winter.

    In week 2:

    • influenza (flu) activity showed a mixed picture with some recent decline, and was circulating at medium levels
    • COVID-19 activity remained stable across most indicators and was at baseline activity levels
    • Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) activity decreased across most indicators and was circulating at low levels of activity

    For more information, see the flu, COVID-19 and RSV surveillance report and norovirus surveillance report.

    Flu surveillance data for week 2

    • Flu activity showed a mixed picture with some indicators suggesting that activity may have reached a peak, and declined in recent weeks to medium levels
    • Flu positivity decreased with a weekly mean positivity rate of 20.9%, compared to 28.4% in the previous week (this is based on a percentage of people who test positive among those with symptoms tested)
    • Overall, flu hospitalisations decreased to medium levels of 9.47 per 100,000 population, compared with 13.43 per 100,000 in the previous week.
    • The weekly influenza-like illnesses (ILI) General Practice (GP) consultation rate increased to 23.1 per 100,000 compared with 20.6 per 100,000 in the previous week. Note that this is not considered to indicate rising activity as it follows two weeks with bank holidays, in which the number of GP appointments available was reduced
    • Up to the end of week 2 (week ending 12 January 2025), vaccine uptake stood at 39.1% of those under 65 years in a clinical risk group, 34.2% in all pregnant women and 74.1% in all those aged 65 years and over, 41.1% of children aged 2 years of age and 42.7% of children aged 3 years of age have been vaccinated

    COVID-19 surveillance data for week 2

    • COVID-19 activity remained stable across most indicators and was circulating at baseline levels
    • COVID-19 positivity in hospital settings decreased slightly with a weekly mean positivity rate of 2.1%, compared to 2.3% in the previous week
    • COVID-19 hospitalisations remained stable at 1.34 per 100,000 compared to 1.39 per 100,000 in the previous week
    • COVID-19 ICU admissions remained stable at 0.04 per 100,000 compared with 0.06 per 100,000 in the previous week
    • There were 8 COVID-19 acute respiratory incidents reported in week 2
    • The highest hospital admission rate was in the North-East, which remained stable at 2.74 per 100,000, compared with 2.78 per 100,000 in the previous week
    • Those aged 85 years and over had the highest hospital admission rate, which remained stable at  15.47 per 100,000 compared with 15.13 per 100,000 in the previous week  
    • Up to the end of week 2 (week ending 12 January 2025), 23.6% of those under 65 years in a clinical risk group and 59.2% of all people aged over 65 years old, who are living and resident in England had been vaccinated

    Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) surveillance data for week 2

    • Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) activity decreased across most indicators and was circulating at low levels overall
    • Emergency department attendances for acute bronchiolitis decreased
    • RSV positivity decreased to 4.7% compared with 6.2% in the previous week

    • Overall, hospital admissions decreased to 1.52 per 100,000 compared with 2.10 per 100,000 in the previous week

    • UKHSA monitors Human metapneumovirus (hMPV) detections in patients seen in GP practices or tested by hospital laboratories and reports on this in the weekly surveillance report. Most people have had hMPV by the time they are five years old and catch it again throughout their lives. In week 2, Human metapneumovirus (hMPV) laboratory test positivity decreased to 3.5% from 4.6% in the previous week

    Dr Conall Watson, Consultant Epidemiologist at UKHSA, said: 

    Flu activity is currently heading in the right direction, falling from high to medium levels overall this week. One of our key indicators is the percentage of positive flu tests, and this has come down from 28% to 21%. This is promising but we are nowhere near out of flu season yet. Mixing increases in January as people return to workplaces and schools which increases the chances for flu viruses to spread. 

    We urge everyone to do their bit to keep us on this downward trend.  If you have symptoms of flu or COVID-19 such as a high temperature, cough and feeling tired and achy, try to limit your contact with others, especially those who are vulnerable. If you have symptoms and need to leave the house, our advice remains that you should consider wearing a face covering. Washing hands regularly and using and disposing tissues in bins can reduce the spread of respiratory illnesses.

    If you’re eligible and haven’t yet had your flu vaccine, it’s important that you take this offer up if available through local services. This includes anyone recently pregnant or newly diagnosed as in an eligible clinical risk group.

    The vaccine protects against multiple flu strains and we are monitoring influenza type B activity closely as this can rise towards the end of winter. The predominant circulating flu strain continues to be A H1N1 clade 5a.2a. Analysis by UKHSA laboratory scientists shows that the H1N1 component of the flu vaccine is well matched.

    Norovirus surveillance data for week 1

    • Norovirus reports in the 2-week period between 23 December to 05 January 2024 were 6.7% lower than the previous 2-week period, although have increased in week 1 of 2025.
    • The decrease over the festive period has also been seen in previous years should be interpreted with caution as likely reflects changes in patterns of healthcare use, social mixing and lagged reporting due to the Christmas holidays, as well as the impact of school holidays. However, the total number of reports was 70.1% higher than the 5-season average for the same 2-week period.
    • Rotavirus reporting has decreased in recent weeks and was within expected levels during the 2-week period of weeks 52 of 2024 and 1 of 2025.
    • The number of norovirus outbreaks reported to the Hospital Norovirus Outbreak Reporting System (HNORS) since the start of the 2024/2025 season is 8.7% higher than the 5-season average.
    • Norovirus reporting remained high across all regions of England and all age groups, with the highest number of reports in adults aged 65 years and over.
    • While some of the increased reporting may be attributable to the increased use of PCR multiplex technology (capable of detecting multiple gastrointestinal pathogens in one test), it is likely that the emergence of an unusual norovirus genotype, GII.17, as well as changes in the epidemiology following the COVID-19 pandemic and other factors are contributing to the observed rise.
    • During the 2024/2025 season to date, the majority (90.4%) of samples characterised were norovirus genogroup 2 (GII), of which the most frequently identified genotype was GII.17 (58.1%), an increase of this genotype has also been observed in other counties during 2024 and is being closely monitored — at present there is no indication it leads to more severe illness (note: it isn’t accurate to refer to GII.17 as ‘Kawasaki’ and this term is causing confusion with Kawasaki Disease, which is an unrelated disease)
    • Laboratory reports represent just a small proportion of total norovirus cases and it has been estimated that for every case of norovirus reported to national surveillance in the UK there are about 288 in the community that go unreported, representing an annual burden of around 3 million cases.
    • Norovirus symptoms include nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea but can also include a high temperature, abdominal pain and aching limbs. Norovirus infections can cause dehydration, especially in vulnerable groups such as young children and older or immunocompromised people, so if you do get ill it is important to drink plenty of fluids during that time.

    Amy Douglas, Epidemiologist at UKHSA said:

    Norovirus activity remains high.

    If you have diarrhoea and vomiting, you can take steps to avoid passing the infection on. Do not return to work, school or nursery until 48 hours after your symptoms have stopped and don’t prepare food for others in that time either. If you are unwell, avoid visiting people in hospitals and care homes to prevent passing on the infection in these settings.  > Washing your hands with soap and warm water and using bleach-based products to clean surfaces will also help stop infections from spreading. Alcohol gels do not kill norovirus so don’t rely on these alone.

    Previous

    Thursday 09 January 2025

    This bulletin (formally Weekly Winter Briefing) brings together the latest surveillance data, along with the latest public health advice for flu, COVID-19, RSV and other viruses common in winter.

    In week 1:

    • COVID-19 activity remained stable across most indicators and was at baseline activity levels
    • influenza (flu) activity showed a mixed picture with some indicators suggesting that activity may have reached a peak, though activity remains at high levels
    • Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) activity decreased across most indicators and was circulating at low levels

    For more information, see the flu, COVID-19 and RSV surveillance report and norovirus surveillance report.

    Flu surveillance data for week 1

    • Flu activity showed a mixed picture with some indicators suggesting that activity may have reached a peak, though activity remains at high levels
    • flu positivity decreased slightly with a weekly mean positivity rate of 28.1%, compared to 29.7% in the previous week. This is based on a percentage of people who test positive among those with symptoms tested at sentinel “spotter” laboratories, reported through the Respiratory DataMart surveillance system
    • overall, flu hospitalisations remained stable at 13.41 per 100,000, compared with 13.90 per 100,000 in the previous week
    • the weekly influenza-like illnesses (ILI) General Practice (GP) consultation rate increased to 20.6 per 100,000 compared with 13.9 per 100,000 in the previous week
    • up to the end of week 1, vaccine uptake stood at 38.6% of those under 65 years in a clinical risk group, 33.8% in all pregnant women and 73.8% in all those aged 65 years and over. 40.9% of children aged 2 years of age and 42.5% of children aged 3 years of age have been vaccinated

    COVID-19 surveillance data for week 1

    • COVID-19 activity remained stable across most indicators and was circulating at baseline levels
    • COVID-19 positivity in hospital settings decreased with a weekly mean positivity rate of 2.2%, compared to 2.5% in the previous week
    • COVID-19 hospitalisations remained stable at 1.39 per 100,000 compared to 1.32 per 100,000 in the previous week
    • COVID-19 ICU admissions remained stable at 0.06 per 100,000 compared with 0.04 per 100,000 in the previous week
    • there were 12 COVID-19 acute respiratory incidents reported in week 1
    • the highest hospital admission rate was in the North-East at 2.78 per 100,000, increasing from 1.68 per 100,000 in the previous week
    • those aged 85 years and over had the highest hospital admission rate, which increased to 15.36 per 100,000 compared with 12.64 per 100,000 in the previous week
    • up to the end of week 1, 23.5% of those under 65 years in a clinical risk group and 59.1% of all people aged over 65 years old, who are living and resident in England had been vaccinated

    Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) surveillance data for week 1

    • Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) activity decreased across most indicators and was circulating at low levels overall
    • emergency department attendances for acute bronchiolitis decreased
    • RSV positivity decreased slightly to 6.2% compared with 7.2% in the previous week
    • overall, hospital admissions decreased to 2.14 per 100,000 compared with 2.48 per 100,000 in the previous week

    Dr Conall Watson, Consultant Epidemiologist at UKHSA, said: 

    We are continuing to see high levels of flu this week and ongoing admissions to hospitals and intensive care.  Although activity has remained stable coming into the new year, influenza activity can be unpredictable as people return to work and school and opportunities for the virus to spread can increase. 

    The predominant circulating flu strain continues to be A H1N1 clade 5a.2a, and the World Health Organization has so far concluded that the H1 component of the flu vaccine is well matched. If you’re still offered a vaccine through local services, it’s important that you take this up, including if you are pregnant or a health and social care worker.

    If you have symptoms of flu or COVID-19 such as a high temperature, cough and feeling tired and achy, try to limit your contact with others, especially those who are vulnerable. If you have symptoms and need to leave the house, our advice remains that you should consider wearing a face covering. Washing hands regularly and using and disposing tissues in bins can reduce the spread of respiratory illnesses.

    Norovirus surveillance data for week 52

    • Norovirus activity has decreased in recent weeks, with reports in the 2-week period between 16 to 29 December 2024 12.1% lower than the previous 2-week period. The decrease over the festive period has also been seen in previous years and should be interpreted with caution as it likely reflects changes in patterns of healthcare use, social mixing and lagged reporting due to the Christmas holidays, as well as the impact of school holidays. However, the total number of reports was 63.6% higher than the 5-season average for the same 2-week period.
    • Rotavirus reporting has decreased in recent weeks and was within expected levels during the 2-week period of weeks 51 and 52.
    • The number of norovirus outbreaks reported to the Hospital Norovirus Outbreak Reporting System (HNORS) since the start of the 2024/2025 season is 11.7% higher than the 5-season average.
    • Norovirus reporting remained high across all regions of England and all age groups, with the highest number of reports in adults aged 65 years and over.
    • While some of the increased reporting may be attributable to the increased use of PCR multiplex technology (capable of detecting multiple gastrointestinal pathogens in one test), it is likely that the emergence of an unusual norovirus genotype, GII.17, as well as changes in the epidemiology following the COVID-19 pandemic and other factors are contributing to the observed high levels.
    • During the 2024/2025 season to date, the majority (89.5%) of samples characterised were norovirus genogroup 2 (GII), of which the most frequently identified genotype was GII.17 (59.7%), an increase of this genotype has also been observed in other counties during 2024 and is being closely monitored — at present there is no indication it leads to more severe illness (note: it isn’t accurate to refer to GII.17 as ‘Kawasaki’ and this term is causing confusion with Kawasaki Disease, which is an unrelated disease)
    • Laboratory reports represent just a small proportion of total norovirus cases and it has been estimated that for every case of norovirus reported to national surveillance in the UK there are about 288 in the community that go unreported, representing an annual burden of around 3 million cases.
    • Norovirus symptoms include nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea but can also include a high temperature, abdominal pain and aching limbs. Norovirus infections can cause dehydration, especially in vulnerable groups such as young children and older or immunocompromised people, so if you do get ill it is important to drink plenty of fluids during that time.

    Amy Douglas, Epidemiologist at UKHSA, said:

    Although there was a decrease in reports of norovirus over the festive period, cases still remain high and we expect levels to rise further with the return to school.

    If you have diarrhoea and vomiting, you can take steps to avoid passing the infection on. Do not return to work, school or nursery until 48 hours after your symptoms have stopped and don’t prepare food for others in that time either. If you are unwell, avoid visiting people in hospitals and care homes to prevent passing on the infection in these settings.

    Washing your hands with soap and warm water and using bleach-based products to clean surfaces will also help stop infections from spreading. Alcohol gels do not kill norovirus so don’t rely on these alone.

    Updates to this page

    Published 6 February 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Three men arrested in connection with Hoads Wood illegal waste dumping

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Three men were arrested on 5 February as part of an investigation into the large-scale, illegal tipping of waste at the Hoads Wood SSSI in Ashford, Kent

    Three men were arrested yesterday (Wednesday 5 February) as part of an investigation into the large-scale, illegal tipping of waste at the Hoads Wood Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) in Ashford, Kent. 

    Environment Agency Enforcement Officers, Kent Police and the Joint Unit for Waste Crime worked closely together to secure the arrests and custody of the suspects.

    Two of the individuals – aged 44 and 62 – are from the Isle of Sheppey, while the third, aged 41, resides near Sittingbourne. All three have been interviewed, and evidence obtained during the arrests will support the next stages of the investigation.

    The Environment Agency began a criminal investigation in 2023 after 30,000 tonnes of household and construction waste, piled 15 feet high in places, was discovered to have been dumped throughout Hoads Wood, near Ashford.  

    We subsequently secured a court order, banning unauthorised access to the woodland and to successfully stop more waste being dumped, and have since appointed a specialist company to remove the waste and help return the site to its former state.

    Our investigation seeks to establish those responsible for co-ordinating the offending and bring them to court. These arrests mark an important next step in delivering justice for the local community.

    The Environment Agency’s Director of Operations for East and South East England, Simon Hawkins, said:

    The dumping of thousands of tonnes of waste at Hoads Wood in 2023 was a flagrant act of vandalism – with horrendous consequences for the local community and environment.

    The Environment Agency and Kent Police have been working tirelessly to uncover the identity of those responsible and bring them to justice, and to take the fight to organised criminal networks. The arrest of three individuals yesterday is a major step forward for our investigation and should bring some comfort to residents whose lives have been upended by this crime.

    Sergeant Darren Walshaw of Kent Police’s Rural Task Force said:

    Fly-tipping and environmental crime is a blight on Kent’s beautiful landscape and we are committed to supporting the Environment Agency in its ongoing efforts to bring those responsible to justice.

    We do this by making arrests, gathering evidence and carrying out preventative activities including spot checks of vehicles seen in areas where such offences are common.

    People who thoughtlessly dump large volumes of waste are often linked to other forms of criminal activity and their illegal acts must not be tolerated.

    The Environment Agency continues to monitor the site for any effect on air or water quality, and will ensure all necessary environmental authorisations are in place while the waste is cleared.

    Waste crime pollutes our environment, undercuts legitimate business and significantly affects our farmers and rural communities – which is why we’re committed to tackling it.

    In 2023/24, we successfully shut down 63 illegal waste sites, bringing the total number in operation to 344 – the lowest total figure on record. Enforcement officers also prevented nearly 34,000 tonnes of waste from being illegally exported by waste criminals. 

    If you have any information that may assist with this investigation, please call our 24-hour hotline on 0800 807060. Or report anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555111 or the Crimestoppers website.

    Updates to this page

    Published 6 February 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Improving miscarriage care

    Source: Scottish Government

    £1.5 million to support delivery of compassionate, high-quality care.

    Women can expect improved miscarriage care Public Health and Women’s Health Minister Jenni Minto has pledged, after unveiling a new framework, backed by £1.5 million funding.

    The framework sets out a range of actions for Scotland’s NHS boards to implement, including ensuring that women going through miscarriage have a separate, private space. It will introduce a graded model of miscarriage care across the country. This means all women can receive tailored support and services, and won’t have to wait until a third miscarriage. This will include access to progesterone prescriptions – where clinically appropriate – both for threatened and recurrent miscarriage.

    These changes will be supported by £1.5 million Scottish Government funding and aim to ensure that early pregnancy care is equitable so that no women are disadvantaged, regardless of where they access and receive care.

    The Minister for Public Health and Women’s Health said:

    “The loss of a baby, no matter at what stage of pregnancy, has a profound and lasting impact on women and their families. To all who have experienced such a tragedy, I offer my deepest sympathy. The Scottish Government recognises this impact and is clear that women and families who have experienced pregnancy or baby loss must be provided with the right information, care and support, tailored to their individual circumstances.

    “I am very grateful to everyone in Scotland’s NHS who works to provide miscarriage care and support.

    “I know there is already a lot of good work underway within NHS Boards to improve miscarriage care services. The 2025-26 Budget, if approved by Parliament, will provide £1.5 million to support NHS Boards to improve delivery of sensitive and compassionate miscarriage care.”

    Kath Abrahams, Chief Executive of pregnancy charity Tommy’s commented:

    “We are delighted to see the Delivery Framework for Miscarriage Care in Scotland launching today. The Framework is a real milestone on the path to excellent care for women and families in Scotland and Tommy’s has been pleased to work closely with our colleagues in Scottish Government as they have developed the Framework, which aims to ensure the right support and care for parents after every tragic loss. With compassionate care at its heart, we are looking forward to continuing to support our Scottish colleagues as they oversee the rollout.”

    The Miscarriage Association’s Chief Executive Vicki Robinson said:

    “We are extremely pleased to see the publication of this important Framework for Miscarriage Care in Scotland, which represents a significant step forward in ensuring that those experiencing miscarriage receive the compassionate, high-quality care they deserve during such a heart-breaking time.

    “This framework is a vital step in providing evidence-based care and offering women additional support in early pregnancy. We are proud to have contributed to its development and look forward to seeing it bring positive change. This is a crucial milestone in ensuring that miscarriage care is accessible, equitable, and compassionate across Scotland.”

    Background

    The Delivery Framework for Miscarriage Care in Scotland, and Progesterone Pathway, will help and support NHS Boards to implement the Programme for Government commitments and support improvements in delivery of miscarriage care.

    Progesterone is a hormone that plays an important role in the menstrual cycle and in maintaining a pregnancy in the early stages. If a woman has miscarried before and is bleeding in early pregnancy, they may benefit from taking progesterone. It may also be suitable for women who have had four or more miscarriages with no bleeding.

    Always get medical help if:

    • you’re bleeding from your vagina
    • you’ve got strong, cramping pain
    • your waters break
    • your baby’s movements have changed, or you haven’t felt them move for a while.

    If you’re registered, contact your midwife or local maternity unit. If you’re not registered, contact your GP or the NHS 24 111 service. Find out more Miscarriage | NHS inform

     Additional quotes:

    Held In Our Hearts Chief Executive Nicola Welsh said:

    “We are very pleased to have been part of the Delivery Framework for Miscarriage Care ensuring the lived experience voices were represented in the key actions of the Framework. Over the last few years, much progress has been made to better understand the impact a miscarriage has on families, and we have come a long way in listening to women’s needs and being able to deliver timely and trauma informed care. Held In Our Hearts offer Hospital to Home care which provides six home visits to those who experience loss from 12 weeks of pregnancy and offer support to anyone who has experienced a miscarriage. Working collaboratively, we must make sure no one is alone in their grief and people have the support they need at a difficult time.  We hope the new Delivery Framework for Miscarriage Care ensures families across Scotland receive the care they need, and deserve, following loss.”

    Sands Chief Executive Dr Clea Harmer said:

    “We welcome the announcement of a Delivery Framework for Miscarriage Care and Progesterone Pathway in Scotland, to ensure that everyone affected by pregnancy loss before 24 weeks gets the high-quality care and support, they need. 

    “The loss of a baby, no matter what stage of pregnancy, is a traumatic event that can have a profound impact on parents and families. Sands will continue to work with the Scottish Government, and all NHS Boards in Scotland, to improve the quality and consistency of care for everyone affected by pregnancy loss.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Historic milestone in major New Park Village estate regeneration

    Source: City of Wolverhampton

    It is part of a major redevelopment of council housing in the area that will see 205 outdated residential properties flattened and replaced with 188 new energy efficient homes.

    Poor quality bungalows on Valley Road have already been removed by contractor DSM Demolition and now the main flats at Ellerton Walk, which sit within 8 linked deck access blocks each with integral garages at ground floor level are being pulled down.

    The regeneration will provide new 2, 3 and 4 bedroom homes for rent, as well as increased car parking and improved public open space at the heart of the estate, which will include a children’s play area, green gym and seating.

    Under phase 1 of the masterplan 98 new homes will be constructed, while phase 2 will deliver 83 new properties. A site on Longford Road is earmarked for 7 new bungalows.

    The demolition works will pave the way for construction partner, Keon Homes, appointed through the council’s new development framework, to begin development of the new homes in summer 2025.

    The £40million programme will be funded from the council’s Housing Revenue Account (HRA) capital budget.

    Steven Spencer, New Park Village resident, Member of New Park Village Committee and Resident Steering Group Member, said: “I have lived on New Park Village coming up to 27 years and I’m over the moon to see the demolition works well underway.

    “The maisonettes are in a state of disrepair and I’m not sad to see them go. Residents are looking forward to new homes that are fit for families.”

    Councillor Steve Evans, City of Wolverhampton Council Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for City Housing, said: “This is a truly historic milestone for housing in our city that will transform the lives of residents at New Park Village.

    “We are continuing to invest heavily in new and replacement council housing and these demolition works will pave the way for a very different looking New Park Village that will make a major difference to its residents.

    “It forms part of our commitment to deliver good homes in well connected neighbourhoods across the city.

    “In the long term, the redevelopment will contribute to the improvement of tenants living conditions with the provision of highly energy efficient new homes, better play areas and green space creating an environmentally friendly estate.”

    The redevelopment scheme will be phased over several years to minimise disruption to residents.

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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Initial analysis of Perth city parking reveals ample capacity

    Source: Scotland – City of Perth

    Visitors bringing their cars to Perth can rest assured that even on the busiest days, choosing one of the nearby, but less visible car parks, they will never struggle to find a space.

    The ongoing parking survey, commissioned by the Council’s Transportation and Development Team and conducted by transport consultants Systra, has provided valuable insights into the usage patterns of car parks in Perth city centre. Early analysis of the data collected so far shows that although certain car parks experience high demand, the overall parking infrastructure is well-equipped to handle the influx of vehicles. This finding is particularly encouraging for both residents and visitors, as it highlights the city’s ability to accommodate increased visitor numbers without causing significant inconvenience.

    Key findings from the initial analysis include:

    • The weekday maximum occupancy level across the city is 56% in 2024, compared to 66% in 2017.
    • The Saturday maximum occupancy level is also 56% in 2024, compared to 67% in 2017.
    • The average duration of stay across all areas surveyed has decreased slightly from 73 minutes in 2017 to 69 minutes in 2024 on weekdays, and increased from 65 minutes in 2017 to 67 minutes in 2024 on Saturdays.

    A fuller analysis of the parking survey is currently underway and is expected to be finalised later this month.

    Council Leader, Councillor Grant Laing, commented, “When Council agreed to choose Thimblerow as the site for our new city centre swimming and sports facility, we did so knowing that the car park had long been identified as a development site. The initial findings of the recent parking survey confirm that Perth is well-served for parking spaces and that there will remain sufficient capacity for everyone who needs to still make private car journeys even after the new facility is built.

    “The great thing about Perth’s compact city centre is that you’re never far from alternative options, whether that’s bus routes, cycle paths or other car parks. By making better use of the existing city centre parking facilities, we can continue to attract visitors and support local businesses, contributing to the overall vibrancy and economic health of the city.”

    The parking survey data will be used to provide an evidence base for future decision-making on developments within the city centre as well as delivery of the Council’s Mobility Strategy (PDF, 19 MB).

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