HOUSTON – A 39-year-old man has entered a guilty plea to wire fraud for a Payroll Protection Plan (PPP) scheme involving the submission of a series of false applications under the name of a business that did not exist, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
Antonio Jackson submitted false documents on four separate applications for PPP funds during the COVID-19 epidemic. Jackson claimed to have multiple employees at a business that was later found to have been entirely fictitious.
To further the fraud, Jackson submitted false tax documents, bank statements and employee forms to the Small Business Administration (SBA), ultimately resulting in a loss of $491,711 to the SBA.
As part of his plea, Jackson also admitted to several other frauds he had committed during this timeframe. One included a scheme to defraud a Washington D.C.-based federal credit union through a series of false home improvement loan applications. He also acknowledged a mortgage fraud by claiming honorable discharge for a Veteran’s Affairs Department backed loan, a scheme to avoid paying taxes on a residence in Brazoria County by claiming to be an fully disabled veteran and to committing credit card abuse in December 2024.
In total, losses associated with Jackson’s various frauds have exceeded $2 million.
“Going after fraudsters who take money meant for hard-working Americans is a priority for this office. Doing so both upholds the public trust and protects the taxpayer,” said Ganjei.
As part of his plea, Jackson has agreed to pay full restitution for his crimes.
U.S. District Judge Lee H. Rosenthal will impose sentencing April 16. At that time, Jackson faces up to 20 years in federal prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine.
He will remain in custody pending that hearing.
The SBA-Office of Inspector General conducted the investigation with the assistance of the Department of Veteran’s Affairs. Assistant U.S. Attorney Thomas Carter prosecuted the case.
New Zealand’s housing crisis disproportionately affects Māori in rural areas where healthy homes are in short supply and collective land ownership presents a challenge to banks.
Governments have been grappling with this issue. The previous Labour-led government committed more than NZ$730 million to Māori-led housing solutions, and an announcement this week by the current coalition government saw a $200 million investment into affordable rentals.
But Whare Ora, a community-run housing initiative in Te Tairāwhiti (East Coast), shows that innovative approaches to home ownership can be found within communities.
Since 2020, Whare Ora has developed a social enterprise model, focused on producing healthy, affordable and transportable whare (houses) for local communities. Run by the charitable company Hikurangi Enterprises, Whare Ora has now supplied more than 80 homes for local whānau.
This holds particular potential for Indigenous housing.
Financial barriers
Despite Whare Ora producing high-quality houses at affordable prices, access to finance remains a significant barrier for whānau placing homes on ancestral lands.
This is mainly due to the perceived risk of lending against Māori freehold land, which is inalienable and often collectively owned. This creates issues for mainstream retail lenders that require land to be alienable to a single owner to secure a mortgage.
In exceptional circumstances, such as Ngāti Whātua Ōrakei’s recent agreement with BNZ, this can be mitigated if a trust can provide a guarantee over lending. This usually requires a large asset base or financial holdings.
However, the majority of Māori who want to build homes on ancestral lands are individual or collective whānau who don’t have access to such resources. The perceived risk excludes many who could service a loan but are unable to because the financial services don’t exist or aren’t designed for collectively-owned land.
This is a systemic issue, documented by the National Housing Commission in 1983 and the Auditor General’s reports in 2011 and 2014.
Affordable portable houses provide an opportunity to build on ancestral lands. Hikurangi Enterprises, CC BY-SA
Community partnerships
Seeking a solution to this finance barrier, Hikurangi Enterprises collaborated with Community Finance, a community-to-community lender, to investigate possible ways to administer lending for housing on collectively-owned land.
Supported by philanthropic organisations, this collaboration has given way to Kaenga Hou, a new trust set up to provide a range of progressive home-ownership options in Te Tairāwhiti.
Significantly, one option facilitates lending on ancestral land through a license-to-occupy agreement, based on an ethical finance model funded by impact investors.
Impact investors provide finance capital at below-market interest rates, while producing a social or environmental benefit (in this case addressing regional housing issues and strengthening Māori wellbeing through connections to ancestral lands).
This allows for more compassionate and innovative forms of investment, where complex issues can be worked through rather than written off as too risky or not profitable enough.
An ethical finance model
In designing a model to attract impact investment, Kaenga Hou and Community Finance sought innovative ways to mitigate investor risk while placing whānau at the centre of decisions, protecting them from exploitative lending and ensuring fair outcomes.
This was achieved through a creative rent-to-buy programme using whānau rental payments to reduce risk and build resilience into the model.
In short, whānau make rental payments to the trust. A portion of these payments repays the trust’s interest payments to investors funding the model. Another part builds a savings account, allowing the whānau to buy the home outright over time.
A final portion will be directed toward a support mechanism for all whānau in the programme. Known as the aroha fund, this aspires to support others if they face unexpected financial difficulty.
Innovation lies in the subtle details that reduce risk for both whānau and the investors. For example, the aroha fund increases the chance of programme completion, setting whānau up to succeed, while ensuring financial and social returns for the ethical investor.
Similarly, in the unlikely event whānau have to exit the programme, a proportion of the money accrued through the savings account can be returned and they would have paid an affordable rent while in the programme.
In this worst-case scenario, the programme aims to leave whānau in a better-off position than when they entered, uplifting whānau and safeguarding the reputation of investors. Collectively, these aspects ensure that positive whānau outcomes are just as important as creating a financial return.
Lessons for Te Tiriti-led futures
At its heart, housing on ancestral lands is a Te Tiriti issue. The Waitangi Tribunal recently concluded the Crown has a duty to provide housing because of the guarantee of tino rangatiratanga over kāinga (homes and settlements).
The government currently provides a loan scheme for housing on whenua Māori, but since its inception in 2010 it has been constantly scrutinised for low uptake and accessibility, with similar pitfalls to retail lending.
This highlights the importance of taking lessons from community-led innovations and their approaches. In this case, more compassionate investment and a whānau-centred finance model created new possibilities for managing risk associated with lending to ancestral Māori lands.
Genuine partnerships, seeking to protect whānau while participating in finance systems, were key. This provides a road map for how Aotearoa might face such pressing issues, now and into the future.
Jack Barrett does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
The UN’s top humanitarian official in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) on Tuesday called for Goma airport to be urgently reopened, warning its continued closure is paralyzing relief operations.
“Goma airport is a lifeline,” said Bruno Lemarquis. “Without it, the evacuation of the seriously injured, the delivery of medical supplies and the reception of humanitarian reinforcements are paralyzed.”
Growing casualties
The M23 armed group, supported by Rwandan troops, seized the airport last week as its fighters swept through Goma – the regional capital of North Kivu. Several hundred people have reportedly been killed in the hostilities, with tens of thousands more forced to flee their homes.
Rebels have seized control of large areas of Goma, setting up checkpoints and severely restricting humanitarian access, according to the UN Population Fund (UNFPA). This has disrupted the delivery of food, water, and medical aid for up to two million people.
Humanitarian workers also face restricted access to displacement camps, limiting the provision of essential services, including emergency obstetric care.
An absolute emergency
Mr. Lemarquis urged all parties to “shoulder their responsibilities” and facilitate the immediate reopening of the airport.
“Every hour lost puts more lives at risk. This is an absolute emergency. All those involved must act without delay to enable humanitarian flights to resume operations and guarantee access to relief supplies,” he stressed.
“The survival of thousands of people depends on it.”
Sexual violence ‘tragically routine’
Meanwhile, UN Women, the Organization’s lead agency for protection of women and girls, warned that reports of sexual violence and exploitation have become “tragically routine.”
“As the clashes unfold in a country that has endured prolonged instability, women and girls are bearing the brunt of both direct and indirect consequences, with their rights, safety, and dignity increasingly under threat,” said the agency’s Sofia Calltorp, Chief of Humanitarian Action, briefing journalists in Geneva.
Local women’s organizations have reported widespread sexual violence, forced displacement, and severe gaps in basic social as well as protection services.
With the situation worsening, UN Women called for immediate action by State and non-state actors in DRC as well as the wider international community to combat sexual and gender-based violence and end impunity for perpetrators.
Aftermath in Goma
In Goma, displacement sites around the city have been abandoned and destroyed, with water, sanitation, and health facilities severely damaged, according to UN aid coordination office, OCHA.
The city has also seen a surge in crime, including vehicle hijackings and looting of humanitarian warehouses belonging to UN agencies and partner organizations.
Although some businesses have resumed operations, schools remain closed, internet services are down, and hospitals are overwhelmed. The UN World Health Organization (WHO) is warning of potential disease outbreaks, including mpox, cholera and measles.
South Kivu
In South Kivu’s Kalehe territory, clashes since 25 January between the Congolese army and M23 rebels have displaced thousands. Some 6,900 people have fled to Bukavu, while others are seeking refuge in host communities.
The situation remains dire, with a worsening cholera outbreak due to disrupted health services.
Adding to the crisis, the 90-day suspension of US humanitarian funding is severely impacting food security, sanitation and relief efforts in both North and South Kivu, humanitarian partners warned.
A New York man pleaded guilty today in federal court in Albany, New York, to civil rights and firearm charges related to his threatening conduct targeted at a Jewish synagogue.
According to court documents, Mufid Fawaz Alkhader, 29, of Schenectady, pleaded guilty to an information charging one count of obstructing the free exercise of religious beliefs by threat of force, one count of brandishing a firearm during the commission of this offense, and one count of conspiring to purchase a firearm unlawfully. Alkhader was arrested on Dec. 7, 2023, and has been in federal custody since that date.
“The defendant’s violent, antisemitic and terrifying act targeted the Temple Israel congregation, the larger Jewish community, and the right of every person to practice their religion without fear of violence,” said U.S. Attorney Carla Freedman for the Northern District of New York. “I commend law enforcement for acting swiftly to arrest Mufid Fawaz Alkhader, to investigate his motives and his illegal acquisition of the shotgun, and to bring about today’s guilty plea to a crime carrying a minimum term of seven years in prison.”
“Mr. Alkhader’s plea confirms his deliberate and premeditated intentions to illegally acquire a gun and use it to bring terror to the Temple Israel community as they were preparing to celebrate the first night of Hanukkah,” said Special Agent in Charge Craig Tremaroli of the FBI Albany Field Office. “Thanks to the swift actions of the Temple Israel community and our law enforcement partners, justice has been served. The FBI remains steadfast in our mission to ensure all our communities can live without fear of hateful violence.”
“This guilty plea shows accountability for unlawfully obtaining a firearm and using it to instill fear. By stopping those who seek to use firearms to threaten and intimidate others, we are sending a message that gun violence will not be tolerated,” said Special Agent in Charge Bryan Miller of the New York Field Division for the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). “This case demonstrates the dangerous consequences of unlawful gun possession. The cooperation between federal, state and local agencies remains critical in dismantling illegal gun trafficking. The successful resolution of this case was made possible due to collaboration between ATF NY Albany, FBI Albany, Albany PD, NYSP, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office.”
On the afternoon of Dec. 7, 2023, Alkhader took an Uber from his home in Schenectady to Temple Israel Synagogue in Albany. Upon arriving, he walked up the front steps of the synagogue, removed a shotgun from a duffel bag he had been carrying, and discharged two rounds into the air, shouting, “Free Palestine!” Still holding the shotgun, he then attempted to remove an Israeli flag from a flagpole outside of the synagogue before walking away. He was apprehended shortly after by Albany Police Department officers.
Alkhader’s threatening actions forced the daycare operating inside of Temple Israel at the time of his actions to go into lockdown. Alkhader also significantly disrupted activities that the Temple Israel community had planned to celebrate the Jewish holiday of Hanukkah and made congregants afraid to return to their place of worship.
For obstruction of free exercise of religious beliefs by threat of force, Alkhader faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a mandatory minimum penalty of seven years for brandishing a firearm during the commission of his crime. Alkhader faces a maximum of five years in prison for participating in a conspiracy to unlawfully purchase a firearm. He also faces a fine of up to $250,000 for each count. Alkhader is scheduled to be sentenced on June 6. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The FBI Albany Field Office investigated the case with assistance from ATF and the Albany Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Richard Belliss and Alexander Wentworth-Ping for the Northern District of New York and Trial Attorney Trevor Kempner of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division prosecuted the case with assistance from Trial Attorney Jennifer Levy of the Justice Department’s National Security Division.
United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania, Jacqueline C. Romero, announced today that the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania has entered a consent judgment against Michael DiCiurcio of Philadelphia, PA. In its complaint against DiCiurcio, the United States alleges that DiCiurcio operated small unmanned aircraft systems (“sUAS”) – commonly known as drones – unlawfully and unsafely in the Philadelphia area between at least December 2019 to the present, in violation of Federal Aviation Administration (“FAA”) requirements.
The United States alleges that DiCiurcio operated flights at night, in close proximity to the William Penn Statue, PSFS Building, and Liberty One Building, resulting in the sUAS almost striking a church steeple during one flight. The United States alleges that during certain flights DiCiurcio improperly operated the sUAS inside of controlled airspace near the Philadelphia airport, over people and cars, and, in at least one instance, lost control of the sUAS, causing it to fly uncontrolled over Philadelphia.
The FAA warned DiCiurcio in writing and provided him with counseling and education regarding requirements for safe operations of a sUAS under the Federal Aviation Regulations. The United States alleges that DiCiurcio nonetheless has continued to operate sUASs illegally and in a careless or reckless manner that endangers others.
Terms of the Consent Judgment
On January 23, 2025, before Magistrate Judge Jose Arteaga, DiCiurcio agreed to the terms of the consent judgment, including that: DiCiurcio (1) admits that all allegations of his conduct set forth in the Verified Complaint are true and accurate; (2) admits that the conduct as alleged in the Verified Complaint violated FAA regulations and safety guidance as alleged; and (3) accepts the administrative findings of violations and further acknowledges that the FAA will deem those matters as findings of violations that may be considered aggravating factors in any future enforcement proceedings against him.
In addition, DiCiurcio agrees that he will: (1) never operate in any manner any sUAS of any type, size, model, of any kind within the United States, nor will he ever seek any type of certification or license to operate any type or form of sUAS; (2) take down the YouTube channel known as “Philly Drone Life” and no longer operate or resurrect its content or any part in any form; (3) abandon those sUAS and other items he surrendered to the FAA on May 23, 2024, pursuant to the Court’s Order sanctioning DiCiurcio for contempt of the preliminary injunction entered by the Court on February 29, 2024.
On January 29, 2025, Chief Judge Mitchell S. Goldberg signed the consent judgment.
“We work hard to educate people about safely flying their drones, and we don’t hesitate to take strong enforcement action when pilots deliberately flout the rules,” said Deputy FAA Administrator Katie Thomson.
“Failing to adhere to the safety requirements for flying small unmanned aircraft systems endangers people and property,” said U.S. Attorney Romero. “All drone flyers have a responsibility to ensure that they observe all applicable regulations and guidance. Our Office is committed to ensuring total compliance with the FAA regulations and we will vigorously enforce violations wherever we find them.”
The allegations regarding unsafe sUAS flights in violation of FAA regulations are described in detail in the complaint. The case is captioned United States of America v. Michael DiCiurcio, Case No. 24-0612 (E.D. Pa.).
The case has been investigated by the FAA’s Flight Standards Division, and the U.S. Department of Transportation Office of the Inspector General. The case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Viveca D. Parker.
All civil claims are allegations only. There has been no determination of civil liability.
Source: United States Senator for Vermont – Bernie Sanders
WASHINGTON, Feb. 4 – Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) today released the following statement after voting no during a Senate Finance Committee mark-up on the nomination of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to serve as Secretary of Health and Human Services:
There are a few issues that Mr. Kennedy and I agree on.
We agree on the need to stop the ultra-processed food industry from getting our kids addicted to unhealthy and dangerous products that cause obesity, diabetes and other life-threatening diseases.
We agree on the need to lower the outrageous prices we pay for prescription drugs in this country.
We agree that we should stop Big Pharma from being allowed to flood the airwaves with advertising.
But, despite those agreements, I cannot in good conscience vote for someone who denies and will dilute our public health protections, sow distrust in science and oversee massive cuts to health care programs for low-income people, nursing home care for seniors and long-term care for people with disabilities.
Despite what Mr. Kennedy believes, the overwhelming consensus within the scientific community is clear: Vaccines are safe and effective. Over the past 50 years, vaccines have saved the lives of over 150 million people throughout the world and reduced the infant mortality rate by 40%. Vaccines have not, as Mr. Kennedy has claimed, “poisoned an entire generation of American children.”
Vaccines do not, as Mr. Kennedy has claimed, cause autism. More than a dozen rigorous scientific studies from around the world involving hundreds of thousands of children have proven that.
The polio vaccine has not killed, as Mr. Kennedy has claimed, more people than polio ever did. The scientific community has found that the polio vaccine has saved 1.5 million lives and has prevented more than 20 million people from becoming paralyzed since 1988.
The COVID vaccine was not, as Mr. Kennedy has claimed, “the deadliest vaccine ever made.” The scientific community has found that the COVID vaccine saved over three million lives and prevented over 18 million hospitalizations in the United States alone.
In my view, we should listen to nearly 20,000 doctors who have told us that Mr. Kennedy has “a well-documented history of spreading dangerous disinformation on vaccines and public health interventions, leaving vulnerable communities unprotected and placing millions of lives at risk. His appointment is a direct threat to the safety of our patients and the public at large.”
We should listen to over 900 public health officials in 41 states who have urged us to prioritize science and reject Mr. Kennedy’s “dangerous” nomination.
We should listen to 77 Nobel Laureates who have told us that putting Mr. Kennedy in charge of HHS would “put the public’s health in jeopardy and undermine America’s global leadership in the health sciences, in both the public and commercial sectors.”
A New York man pleaded guilty today in federal court in Albany, New York, to civil rights and firearm charges related to his threatening conduct targeted at a Jewish synagogue.
According to court documents, Mufid Fawaz Alkhader, 29, of Schenectady, pleaded guilty to an information charging one count of obstructing the free exercise of religious beliefs by threat of force, one count of brandishing a firearm during the commission of this offense, and one count of conspiring to purchase a firearm unlawfully. Alkhader was arrested on Dec. 7, 2023, and has been in federal custody since that date.
“The defendant’s violent, antisemitic and terrifying act targeted the Temple Israel congregation, the larger Jewish community, and the right of every person to practice their religion without fear of violence,” said U.S. Attorney Carla Freedman for the Northern District of New York. “I commend law enforcement for acting swiftly to arrest Mufid Fawaz Alkhader, to investigate his motives and his illegal acquisition of the shotgun, and to bring about today’s guilty plea to a crime carrying a minimum term of seven years in prison.”
“Mr. Alkhader’s plea confirms his deliberate and premeditated intentions to illegally acquire a gun and use it to bring terror to the Temple Israel community as they were preparing to celebrate the first night of Hanukkah,” said Special Agent in Charge Craig Tremaroli of the FBI Albany Field Office. “Thanks to the swift actions of the Temple Israel community and our law enforcement partners, justice has been served. The FBI remains steadfast in our mission to ensure all our communities can live without fear of hateful violence.”
“This guilty plea shows accountability for unlawfully obtaining a firearm and using it to instill fear. By stopping those who seek to use firearms to threaten and intimidate others, we are sending a message that gun violence will not be tolerated,” said Special Agent in Charge Bryan Miller of the New York Field Division for the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). “This case demonstrates the dangerous consequences of unlawful gun possession. The cooperation between federal, state and local agencies remains critical in dismantling illegal gun trafficking. The successful resolution of this case was made possible due to collaboration between ATF NY Albany, FBI Albany, Albany PD, NYSP, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office.”
On the afternoon of Dec. 7, 2023, Alkhader took an Uber from his home in Schenectady to Temple Israel Synagogue in Albany. Upon arriving, he walked up the front steps of the synagogue, removed a shotgun from a duffel bag he had been carrying, and discharged two rounds into the air, shouting, “Free Palestine!” Still holding the shotgun, he then attempted to remove an Israeli flag from a flagpole outside of the synagogue before walking away. He was apprehended shortly after by Albany Police Department officers.
Alkhader’s threatening actions forced the daycare operating inside of Temple Israel at the time of his actions to go into lockdown. Alkhader also significantly disrupted activities that the Temple Israel community had planned to celebrate the Jewish holiday of Hanukkah and made congregants afraid to return to their place of worship.
For obstruction of free exercise of religious beliefs by threat of force, Alkhader faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a mandatory minimum penalty of seven years for brandishing a firearm during the commission of his crime. Alkhader faces a maximum of five years in prison for participating in a conspiracy to unlawfully purchase a firearm. He also faces a fine of up to $250,000 for each count. Alkhader is scheduled to be sentenced on June 6. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The FBI Albany Field Office investigated the case with assistance from ATF and the Albany Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Richard Belliss and Alexander Wentworth-Ping for the Northern District of New York and Trial Attorney Trevor Kempner of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division prosecuted the case with assistance from Trial Attorney Jennifer Levy of the Justice Department’s National Security Division.
The Wetaskiwin RCMP Crime Reduction Unit has concluded a two-day project focusing on active property crime offenders in the surrounding rural areas. During the project, Wetaskiwin RCMP officers worked in collaboration with RCMP officers from the Leduc Crime Reduction Unit, RCMP Air Services, and Camrose Police Service.
On Nov. 27, 2024, Wetaskiwin RCMP Crime Reduction Unit officers located a stolen truck in Camrose. A tire deflation device was utilized to disable the vehicle, and the lone occupant was arrested.
The vehicle had been stolen in Devon, Alta. on Oct. 26, 2024.
RCMP charged a 39-year-old individual, a resident of Camrose County, with:
Fraudulent concealment;
Possession of property obtained by crime under $5000;
Offences under the Traffic Safety Act (x2).
The 39-year-old individual was taken before a justice of the peace and remanded into custody with his next court date set for Dec. 11, 2024, at the Albert Court of Justice in Camrose.
On Nov. 27, 2024 Camrose Police officers arrested repeat offender, a 57-year-old individual, a resident of Bawlf, Alta., for breaching a conditional sentence order. The 39-year-old individual was found to be in possession of methamphetamine and unstamped cigarettes.
She has been additionally charged with:
Possession of a controlled substance;
Charge under the Tobacco Ta Act.
The 39-year-old individual was taken before justice of the peace and remanded into custody with her next court date set for Dec. 11, 2024.
On Nov. 28, 2024 officers from the Camrose Police Service located a stolen vehicle. Officers were able to safely stop the vehicle and arrest the driver.
A 26-year-old individual, a resident of Camrose, has been charged with:
Possession of property obtained by crime over $5000;
Possession of property obtained by crime under $5000;
Mischief over $5000;
Possession of a controlled substance;
Charges under the Traffic Safety Act (x5).
The 26-year-old individual was taken before a justice of the peace and released with her next court date set for Jan. 8, 2025, at the Albert Court of Justice in Camrose.
On Nov. 28, 2024, officers from the Wetaskiwin Crime Reduction Unit were monitoring a property in Leduc County, Alta., known for prolific offenders and stolen property. Officers attempted a traffic stop on a vehicle, and the driver fled. The vehicle was disabled from a tire deflation device. The vehicle fled onto the property and the driver was arrested.
A 28-year-old individual, a resident of Leduc County resident, has been charged with:
Flight from Peace Officer
Fraudulent concealment
Additionally, the 28-year-old individual was arrested for outstanding warrants out of Edmonton which including breaking and entering.
While on the property, police observed a stolen truck from Calmar, Alta. on Nov. 12, 2024. Officers obtained a search warrant for the property and seized the stolen truck.
RCMP charged two individuals from the home a 58-year-old individual and a 32-year-old individual, they were charged with:
Possession of property obtained by crime over $5000;
Possession of property obtained by crime under $5000 (x2).
Additionally, the 32-year-old individual had warrants for breaching a probation order.
The 58-year-old individual was released from custody with her net court date set for Jan. 23, 2025, at the Alberta Court of Justice in Leduc.
The 32-year-old individual was taken before a justice of the peace and remanded into custody with his next court date set in the future.
“Coordinated enforcement efforts focusing on repeat offenders can be very effective,” says Cpl. John Learn, “having these kinds of successes working closely with our Camrose Police Services partners will no doubt foster more similar projects in the future.”
Sgt. Scott Sveinbjornson of the Camrose Police Services emphasizes the importance of targeting prolific offenders and breaking down judicial boundaries to achieve successful outcomes. He notes that integrated efforts and close collaboration with the R.C.M.P. will remain key strategies for producing positive results in future projects.
On August 4, 2024, Prince Albert RCMP received a report of a single vehicle rollover on Whitfield Road, in the RM of Buckland.
Officers immediately responded. One adult female passenger was declared deceased by EMS at the scene. The adult female driver and an adult male passenger were taken to hospital with injuries described as non-life-threatening in nature.
Prince Albert RCMP continued to investigate with the assistance of a Saskatchewan RCMP collision reconstructionist.
As a result of continued investigation, an adult female was arrested in Prince Albert on January 22.
33-year-old Destiny Michel from Prince Albert is charged with:
– one count, operate a conveyance causing death, Section 320.13(3), Criminal Code;
– one count, operate a conveyance with a blood alcohol concentration equal or greater than 80 mg/100 ml of blood, Section 320.14(3), Criminal Code; and
– one count, operate a conveyance in a manner that was dangerous to the public, Section 320.13(3), Criminal Code.
She is scheduled to appear in Prince Albert Provincial Court on February 13, 2025.
Source: US Senator for New Mexico Ben Ray Luján
Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) joined U.S. Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA) and a group of their colleagues in issuing a letter to Acting Secretary of Health and Human Services Dorothy A. Fink, M.D. and Acting Director of the Office of Head Start Captain Tala Hooban expressing concern about the acute financial impacts and lingering uncertainty faced by Head Start programs across the country as a result of the Office of Management and Budget’s (OMB) memo that imposed a government-wide hiring freeze. Senator Luján is a Head Start alumnus and has long advocated to fund and protect Head Start programs.
While the White House later clarified that Head Start would not be targeted by the funding freeze and the OMB later rescinded memo, Head Start programs were temporarily unable to access the Payment Management System (PMS) to use their allocated federal funds. As a result, Head Start programs nationwide have not had funding disbursed in a timely manner – imperiling their ability to pay staff and keep educational and child care programs up and running.
“Head Start programs cannot pay their teachers and staff and continue normal operations without the assurances of payment processing and notices of grant renewals and awards,” wrote the Senators. “This will impact children, families, and communities across the country, particularly the rural communities where these programs represent a large share of the child care options.”
“Even if this issue extends beyond the Office of Head Start, we urge you to do everything in your power to ensure these programs receive transparent and frequent communication on the progress of their funds being released. Head Start programs operate on razor-thin margins and cannot survive without timely intervention. Children, families, employees, and educators all depend on these critical federal funds,” the Senators continued.
In addition to Luján and Kaine, the letter was signed by U.S. Senators Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE), Tina Smith (D-MN), Mark R. Warner (D-VA), Jack Reed (D-RI), Charles E. Schumer (D-NY), Bernard Sanders (I-VT), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Edward J. Markey (D-MA), Richard J. Durbin (D-IL), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Peter Welch (D-VT), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Jeffrey A. Merkley (D-OR), Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), and Andy Kim (D-NJ).
The full text of the letter is available here and below.
Dear Acting Secretary Dr. Fink and Acting Director Captain Hooban:
We are writing today to raise ongoing, urgent concerns experienced by Head Start programs in our states and across the country. These concerns include (1) a lack of clarity on the status of renewals and notice of awards in the February 1st grant cycle, (2) delays in processing reimbursements through the Payment Management System (PMS), and (3) a lack of clear communication with grantees throughout this confusing time.
We request your immediate action and assurance on the following:
All requests for disbursements of funds submitted through PMS to be promptly processed to allow all Head Start programs to draw down federal funds;
Programs on the February 1st grant cycle will be notified of their renewal or notice of award before the deadline to ensure no lapse in funding or program operations; and
Transparent and consistent communication with Head Start programs to address the ongoing challenges.
Since its inception in 1965, Head Start has provided critical early childhood education and comprehensive services to nearly 40 million low-income young children and their families in communities across the nation. Today, Head Start programs are supported by 250,000 staff to serve nearly 800,000 children across the nation. Head Start’s comprehensive services ensure children receive age-appropriate health care, dental care, immunizations, and health insurance, and they provide referrals to other critical services for parents, such as job training, adult education, nutrition services, and housing support. For the last several years, Congress has worked in a bipartisan manner to recognize this longstanding federal program’s important work by providing increased appropriations.
Since the morning of Tuesday, January 28th, the Head Start community has faced immense uncertainty and disruptions by the Office of Management and Budget’s (OMB) memo (M-25-13), directing federal agencies to “temporarily pause all activities related to obligation or disbursement of all federal financial assistance.” While the Trump Administration later clarified that Head Start would not be the target of the funding freeze, many Head Start programs across the country were unable to access the PMS to draw down federal funds. PMS was reinstated, but programs across the country have not had funding disbursed in a timely manner.
Head Start programs cannot pay their teachers and staff and continue normal operations without the assurances of payment processing and notices of grant renewals and awards. This will impact children, families, and communities across the country, particularly the rural communities where these programs represent a large share of the child care options.
Even if this issue extends beyond the Office of Head Start, we urge you to do everything in your power to ensure these programs receive transparent and frequent communication on the progress of their funds being released. Head Start programs operate on razor-thin margins and cannot survive without timely intervention. Children, families, employees, and educators all depend on these critical federal funds.
Once these issues are resolved, we request you provide responses to the following questions:
What factors contributed to delayed disbursements to Head Start programs through the Payment Management System? What steps will be taken to ensure such delays will not occur in the future?
How many Head Start programs were impacted by this delay and what were the immediate consequences on operations and services for children and families?
What factors led to the lack of communication about grant renewals and awards for the February 1st cycle? What steps will be taken to ensure timely notices in the future?
We thank you for your quick attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
BALTIMORE — U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement apprehended an undocumented Guatemalan alien with criminal charges. Gener Pop-Cuz, 20, was arrested Feb. 1, after the Prince George’s County Department of Corrections declined to honor ICE’s immigration detainer.
The corrections department released Pop into the lobby, instead of safely handing him over to the ICE deportation officer who was waiting for the exchange, and he resisted arrest during the initial encounter. However, Pop was eventually subdued and placed in handcuffs as corrections officers failed to intervene.
“Nobody wins when jurisdictions fail to transfer custody of violent offenders,” said ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Baltimore acting Field Office Director Matthew Elliston. “Cooperation between local law enforcement and ICE is critical to ensuring the safety of our officers, the public, and even the criminal aliens in custody. I strongly encourage our local jurisdictions to evaluate their policies and look forward to the day when we can put aside politics and do what’s best for the people of Maryland.”
The U.S. Border Patrol encountered Pop near Rio Grande Valley, Texas, Nov. 13, 2017, and served him a notice to appear, transferring him to ICE custody on the same date. ICE released Pop on an order of recognizance Nov. 15, 2017.
A Department of Justice immigration judge ordered Pop removed to Guatemala Nov. 16, 2022, after he failed to show for his immigration hearing.
The Laurel Police Department arrested and charged Pop on Feb. 1 with possession of a loaded handgun, illegal possession of ammunition, possession of a firearm, and trespassing on private property. He was released on bond by the Prince George’s County Commissioner’s Office the same date. ICE then lodged an immigration detainer on Pop with the Prince George’s County Department of Corrections in Upper Marlboro.
Pop will remain in the custody of ICE pending removal.
ERO conducts removals of individuals without a lawful basis to remain in the United States, including at the order of immigration judges with the Justice Department’s Executive Office for Immigration Review. EOIR is a separate entity from DHS and ICE. Immigration judges in these courts make decisions based on the merits of each individual case, determining if a noncitizen is subject to a final order of removal or eligible for certain forms of relief from removal.
Detainers are critical public safety tools because they focus enforcement resources on removable noncitizens who have been arrested for criminal activity. Detainers increase the safety of all parties involved — ERO personnel, law enforcement officials, the removable noncitizens and the public — by allowing an arrest to be made in a secure and controlled custodial setting as opposed to at-large within the community. Since detainers result in the direct transfer of a noncitizen from state or local custody to ERO custody, they also minimize the potential that an individual will reoffend. Additionally, detainers conserve scarce government resources by allowing ERO to take criminal noncitizens into custody directly rather than expending resources locating these individuals at-large.
Members of the public can report crimes and suspicious activity by dialing 866-DHS-2-ICE (866-347-2423) or completing the online tip form.
Learn more about ICE’s mission to increase public safety in our Maryland communities on X, formerly known as Twitter, at @EROBaltimore.
NEWARK, N.J. – A Plus Pharmacy LLC, the former owner of A Plus Pharmacy, a pharmacy located in Manalapan, New Jersey, has agreed to pay $350,000 to resolve allegations that it violated the False Claims Act by knowingly billing a federal health care program for certain medications that it never dispensed, Acting U.S. Attorney Vikas Khanna announced today.
According to the contentions of the United States in the settlement agreement:
The United States alleged that, from January 1, 2015, through February 27, 2023, A Plus Pharmacy LLC caused the submission of claims for reimbursement to the Medicare Part D Program for certain drugs that were never dispensed to beneficiaries. The government contends that inventory records showed that A Plus Pharmacy LLC did not purchase enough of these medications from wholesalers to fill the prescriptions billed to the federal health care program.
The resolution obtained in this matter was the result of a coordinated effort between the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Jersey and the Justice Department’s Civil Division, Commercial Litigation Branch, Fraud Section, with assistance from the U.S. Marshals Service.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Robert Toll and Kruti Dharia of the Opioid Abuse Prevention and Enforcement Unit and Senior Trial Counsel Jennifer Cihon in the Civil Division’s Commercial Litigation Branch (Fraud Section).
The government’s pursuit of these matters illustrates the government’s emphasis on combating healthcare fraud. One of the most powerful tools in this effort is the False Claims Act. Tips and complaints from all sources about potential fraud, waste, abuse, and mismanagement can be reported to the Department of Health and Human Services, at 1-800-HHS-TIPS (800-447-8477).
The claims settled by the agreement are allegations only, and there has been no admission of liability.
Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)
EVANSVILE- 29 defendants have been sentenced to a combined 378 years in federal prison for their roles in a large methamphetamine and fentanyl drug trafficking organization that operated in Southern Indiana.
According to court documents, between January 2020 and November 2021, the following 29 individuals conspired together to distribute a total of nearly 500 pounds of methamphetamine and over three kilograms of fentanyl. This investigation led to the seizure of over 80 pounds of methamphetamine, over 560 grams of fentanyl, and $240,000 in United States currency.
Jeramey Smith served as the leader of the drug trafficking operation. Smith began obtaining multiple pound quantities of crystal methamphetamine from Julian Green in early 2020 until April of 2021 when he changed his source of supply to a cartel linked individual based in Houston, Texas. In June of 2021, Smith was robbed of a large amount of cash and was unable to pay his supplier for the lost product. Smith resorted back to Green to obtain the crystal methamphetamine.
DeJarnett was one of Smith’s top methamphetamine customers, often purchasing up to 20 pounds at a time. After Smith obtained the methamphetamine from either Green or his Mexican source of supply, he then distributed the methamphetamine to mid -level distributors in Indianapolis and Evansville.
In September 2021, Smith branched out to also begin selling large quantities of fentanyl-laced pills. Smith would obtain fentanyl powder from Markey and/or Moore, who would then press the powder into pills. Smith then used his same distributors to distribute the fentanyl throughout Southern Indiana. Law enforcement seized an automated pill press during the course of the investigation. Smith also used violence and intimidation to further his drug business by having his distributors robbed of their drug proceeds at gun point.
Additionally, several members of the drug trafficking used firearms to protect themselves and their profits. In total, law enforcement officers seized over 30 firearms from the defendants during court-authorized searches at multiple locations in Indianapolis and Evansville.
The charges and sentences are described below:
Defendant
Charge(s)
Prison Sentence
Jeramey Smith, 35 Indianapolis, IN
Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine
Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Fentanyl
Felon in Possession of a Firearm
Obstruction of Commerce by Robbery
240 months (20 years)
5 years supervised release
Julian Green, 36
Indianapolis, IN
Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine
Felon in Possession of a Firearm
210 months (17.5 years)
Indianapolis, IN
Hannah Kissel, 28
Indianapolis, IN
Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine
Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Fentanyl
97 months (8 years)
3 years supervised release
Jordan Wilson, 41
Evansville, IN
Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine
Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Fentanyl
Felon in Possession of a Firearm
216 months (15.7 years)
5 years supervised release
Timothy Rice, 35
Evansville, IN
Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine
204 months (17 years)
5 years supervised release
Archilles Johnson, 40
Evansville, IN
Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine
180 months (15 years)
5 years supervised release
Deonte Howard, 36
Evansville, IN
Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine
180 months (15 years)
5 years supervised release
Julie Hunt, 37
Petersburg, IN
Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine
Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Fentanyl
60 months (5 years)
3 years supervised release
Torrance Mimms, 34
Evansville, IN
Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine
180 months (15 years)
5 years supervised release
Keisha Jewell, 40
Princeton, IN
Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine
Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Fentanyl
108 years (9 years)
3 years supervised release
Davion Hays, 38
Evansville, IN
Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine
144 months (12 years)
5 years supervised release
Jason Mitchell, 43
Henderson, KY
Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine
204 months (17 years)
5 years supervised release
Denny Taylor, 49
Princeton, IN
Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine
180 months (15 years)
5 years supervised release
Aaron Hardiman, 42
Princeton, IN
Conspiracy to Distribute Fentanyl
120 months (10 years)
5 years supervised release
Roman Wills, 43
Evansville, IN
Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine
180 months (15 years)
5 years supervised release
Michael Sanders, 48
Owensboro, KY
Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine
168 months (14 years)
5 years supervised release
Gregory Snyder, 62
Evansville, IN
Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine
36 months (3 years)
4 years supervised release
Joshua Gahagan, 41
Evansville, IN
Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine
180 months (15 years)
5 years supervised release
Gregory Markey, 35
Indianapolis, IN
Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Fentanyl
168 months (14 years)
5 years supervised release
L.C. Moore, II, 31
Indianapolis, IN
Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Fentanyl
120 months (5 years)
5 years supervised release
Dominique Baquet, 31
Indianapolis, IN
Obstruction of Commerce by Robbery
57 months (4.7 years)
3 years supervised release
Antonio DeJarnett, 36
Evansville, IN
Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine
264 months (22 years)
5 years supervised release
Ryan Pinkston, 42
Evansville, IN
Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine
Felon in Possession of Ammunition
240 months (20 years)
5 years supervised release
Robert Embry, 46
Evansville, IN
Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine
60 months (5 years)
5 years supervised release
Becky Edwards, 39
Evansville, IN
Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine
120 months (10 years)
5 years supervised release
Edward Meredith, 59
Evansville, IN
Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine
120 months (10 years)
5 years supervised release
Joshua Wilson, 33
Evansville, IN
Use of a Communication Facility with the Intent to Commit or Facilitate the Distribution of Methamphetamine
30 months (2.5 years)
No supervised release
Tabitha Seabeck, 32
Henderson, KY
Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine
180 months (15 years)
5 years supervised release
Zachary Addison, 42
Evansville, IN
Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine
Felon in Possession of a Firearm
300 months (25 years)
5 years supervised release
“The members of this conspiracy will spend decades in federal prison for pumping pounds of methamphetamine and fentanyl onto our streets,” said John E. Childress, Acting United States Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “Drug use devastates so many families and kills hundreds of Hoosiers every year. That’s why we will work with our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners to dismantle armed organizations trafficking in deadly drugs. The sentences imposed in this case demonstrate our continued commitment to protecting the public from these dangerous criminals.”
“Dismantling a major drug trafficking organization that was responsible for distributing multi-hundred-pound quantities of methamphetamine and kilogram quantities of fentanyl onto the streets of Indiana was a big win for law enforcement. Because of the exceptional collaborative efforts by law enforcement, we were able to achieve this remarkable outcome,” said DEA Assistant Special Agent in Charge, Michael Gannon. “This investigation was a wonderful victory for all Hoosiers and sends a crystal-clear message to major drug dealers we will continue working together with our partners to dismantle their illicit operations.”
“This sentencing is a significant victory in the relentless fight against the trafficking of deadly drugs and underscores the FBI’s commitment to pursue those who wreak havoc on our communities through their illegal drug trade,” said FBI Indianapolis Special Agent in Charge Herbert J. Stapleton. “The FBI will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to ensure those who endanger public safety and contribute to this crisis are held accountable.”
“I would like to thank the dedicated Evansville Police Officers and Vanderburgh County Sheriff’s Office Deputies as well as our federal partners in the DEA and US Attorney’s Office for their roles in getting these individuals off our streets. The manufacturing and distribution of methamphetamine and fentanyl have brought death and destruction to our communities and have done irreversible damage to families in the worst way possible. This community will not tolerate that kind of behavior and illegal activity, and we will use every resource available to us to stop it and put dealers behind bars.”
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Evansville Resident Office, with the FBI, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Evansville Vanderburgh County Joint Task Force, DEA Indianapolis and Indianapolis Metro Drug Task Force providing valuable assistance. The sentenced were imposed by U.S. District Court Judge Matthew P. Brookman.
Acting U.S. Attorney John E. Childress thanked Assistant United States Attorneys Lauren Wheatley and Jeremy Kemper, who prosecuted this case.
According to the Drug Enforcement Administration, as little as two milligrams of fentanyl can be fatal, depending on a person’s body size, tolerance, and past usage—a tiny amount that can fit on the tip of a pencil. Seven out of ten illegal fentanyl tablets seized from U.S. streets and analyzed by the DEA have been found to contain a potentially lethal dose of the drug.
One Pill Can Kill: Avoid pills bought on the street because One Pill Can Kill. Fentanyl has now become the leading cause of death for adults in the United States. Fentanyl is a highly potent opioid that drug dealers dilute with cutting agents to make counterfeit prescription pills that appear to be Oxycodone, Percocet, Xanax, and other drugs. Fake prescription pills laced with fentanyl are usually shaped and colored to look like pills sold at pharmacies. For example, fake prescription pills known as “M30s” imitate Oxycodone obtained from a pharmacy, but when sold on the street the pills routinely contain fentanyl. These pills are usually round tablets and often light blue in color, though they may be in different shapes and a rainbow of colors. They often have “M” and “30” imprinted on opposite sides of the pill. Do not take these or any other pills bought on the street – they are routinely fake and poisonous, and you won’t know until it’s too late.
We inform you that, based on the letter of the Bank of Russia and in accordance with Part I. General Part and Part II. Stock Market Section of the Rules for Conducting Trading on the Stock Market, Deposit Market and Credit Market of Moscow Exchange PJSC, the order establishes the form, time, term and procedure for holding auctions for the placement and trading of the following federal loan bonds:
1.
Name of the Issuer
Ministry of Finance of the Russian Federation
Name of security
federal loan bonds with constant coupon income
State registration number of the issue
26228RMFS from 22.04.2019
Date of the auction
05 February 2025
Information about the placement (trading mode, placement form)
The placement of Bonds will be carried out in the Trading Mode “Placement: Auction” by holding an Auction to determine the placement price. BoardId: PACT (Settlements: Ruble)
Trade code
SU2228RMFS5
ISIN code
RO000A100A82
Calculation code
B01
Additional conditions of placement
The share of non-competitive bids in relation to the total volume of bids submitted by the Bidder may not exceed 90%.
Information about the placement (trading mode, placement form)
The placement of Bonds will be carried out in the Trading Mode “Placement: Auction” by holding an Auction to determine the placement price. BoardId: PACT (Settlements: Ruble)
Trade code
CO26246RMFS7
ISIN code
RO000A108E1
Calculation code
B01
Additional conditions of placement
The share of non-competitive bids in relation to the total volume of bids submitted by the Bidder may not exceed 90%.
Contact information for media 7 (495) 363-3232Pr@moex.kom
Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.
Please Note; This Information is Raw Content Directly from the Information Source. It is access to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect
Meza-Flores, also known as “Chapo Isidro,” is the alleged leader of the Meza-Flores transnational criminal organization, which is based in Sinaloa, Mexico. The organization is allegedly responsible for the possession, distribution, and importation of large quantities of cocaine, fentanyl, heroin, methamphetamine, and marijuana into the U.S.
“For decades, the public has shared information with the FBI that has helped us capture dangerous criminals,” Special Agent in Charge Sean Ryan said. “Today, we ask you to help us find Fausto Isidro Meza-Flores so we can bring him to justice and curb the flow of illegal drugs into our country.”
Meza-Flores was originally indicted on May 2, 2012, in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia. On November 26, 2019, a federal grand jury returned a superseding indictment charging Meza-Flores with drug trafficking violations and possession of a firearm. According to the indictment, Meza-Flores allegedly conspired to manufacture and distribute cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, and marijuana in the U.S. from 2005 to 2019.
As the alleged leader of the Meza-Flores transnational criminal organization, Meza-Flores leads a group of heavily armed gunmen who use violence to maintain control of areas in Mexico used for the production and transportation of narcotics destined for the U.S.
Meza-Flores is 42 years old. He has brown eyes and dark brown hair. He is 5 feet, 6 inches tall and weighs approximately 160 pounds. He likely resides in Mexico.
The U.S. State Department’s Narcotics Rewards Program is offering a reward of up to $5 million for information that leads to Meza-Flores’ arrest and/or conviction.
If you have information about Meza-Flores, please call 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324), your local FBI office or the nearest American Embassy or Consulate or submit a tip via tips.fbi.gov. You can also contact the FBI via WhatsApp at 571-379-3951. WhatsApp is neither a government-operated nor a government-controlled platform.
Conspiracy to Manufacture and Distribute Five Hundred Grams or More of Methamphetamine, Distribute Five Kilograms or More of Cocaine, Distribute One Kilogram or More of Heroin, and Distribute One Thousand Kilograms or More of Marijuana for Importation into the United States; Use and Possession of a Firearm
ORLANDO, Fla., Feb. 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Sunlight Solutions, a cloud-native provider of core administration technology and innovative Insurtech services, announces Sunlight P&C, a Property and Casualty focused division – a move underscoring the company’s continued dedication to addressing the evolving needs of the insurance industry. This strategic realignment is aimed at delivering specialized solutions that cater to the unique challenges faced by P&C carriers, MGAs, and Brokers.
“The needs of P&C insurers are continually evolving. We’ve found that focusing on specific markets allows us to move fast and adapt to what our clients need,” said Didier Lamour, CEO. “The creation of a business unit to solely focus on P&C is the next step in our journey to build customer focus into Sunlight Solutions.”
Leading this new division is John Morey, who has over 15 years of experience in product development, marketing, and business development and has a proven track record of driving innovation and growth. John stated, “I am excited to lead the expanded P&C-focused effort at Sunlight. The P&C market has been a key area of success for Sunlight since its inception. This new structure will enable us to explore the market further and provide even more value to our clients.”
The establishment of Sunlight P&C represents a significant milestone in Sunlight Solutions’ growth trajectory. By concentrating resources on this specific segment, the company aims to leverage its expertise and innovative technology to offer tailored solutions that bolster the efficiency and effectiveness of P&C insurers.
For more information about Sunlight Solutions and its new Property and Casualty focused division, please visit www.sunlightsolutions.com
RENO, Nev., Feb. 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — ITS Logistics today released the Q1 ITS Logistics US Distribution and Fulfillment Index, Powered by Cresa. This quarter the index reveals that warehousing costs are estimated to account for 13% of the total supply chain expenses, while last-mile delivery holds the largest share at 41% of the total supply chain costs.
“The 1.03% increase in the Producer Price Index (PPI) for warehousing and storage services from August 2024 to December 2024 reflects a modest upward trend in the costs associated with these services,” said Ryan Martin, President of Distribution and Fulfillment for ITS Logistics. “This increase could be attributed to several factors, including seasonal demand fluctuations, inflationary pressures, or higher operating costs such as labor, energy, or real estate expenses.”
According to a recent Wall Street Journal article, developers have slowed down on the construction of new buildings, which has constrained the new space that’s available. In addition, an increase in pricing has occurred. Cushman & Wakefield also reported that about 426 million square feet of new warehouse space was established last year. That number was down 31% from a year earlier. Average asking rent across the U.S. also rose to $10.13 per square foot in the fourth quarter, which was a 4.5% increase from 2023 and a 61% increase from the fourth quarter in 2019.
“From a business perspective, this rise suggests that providers of warehousing and storage services are adjusting their prices in response to market conditions or cost structures,” continued Martin. “For customers, this highlights the importance of strategic planning and potential renegotiation of contracts to mitigate cost impacts. For service providers, the consistent increase reinforces the need to maintain competitive service quality while managing operational efficiency.”
This growth suggests a stabilization and slight rebound in warehousing costs after the earlier declines observed in Q3.
ITS Logistics offers a full suite of network transportation solutions across North America and omnichannel distribution and fulfillment services to 95% of the U.S. population within two days. These services include drayage and intermodal in 22 coastal ports and 30 rail ramps, a full suite of asset and asset-lite transportation solutions, omnichannel distribution and fulfillment, and outbound small parcel.
The ITS Logistics US Distribution and Fulfillment Index tracks the Producer Price Index (PPI) for Warehousing and Storage and offers a regional markets overview to optimize warehousing and delivery costs. All major markets in the US are highlighted each quarter via the Index. Visit here for a full, comprehensive copy of the index with expected forecasts for the US distribution and fulfillment sector of the supply chain industry.
About ITS Logistics ITS Logistics is one of North America’s fastest-growing, asset-based modern 3PLs, providing solutions for the industry’s most complicated supply chain challenges. With a people-first culture committed to excellence, the company relentlessly strives to deliver unmatched value through best-in-class service, expertise, and innovation. The ITS Logistics portfolio features North America’s #19 asset-lite freight brokerage, the #12 drayage and intermodal solution, a top 50 dedicated fleet, an innovative cloud-based technology ecosystem, and a nationwide distribution and fulfillment network.
Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:
CAIRO, Egypt, February 4, 2025/APO Group/ —
The International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation (ITFC) (www.ITFC-IDB.org), a member of the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) Group, today announced the signing of its 2025 annual work program with the Arab Republic of Egypt, valued at $1.5 billion.
This agreement is part of a five-year framework, totaling $6 billion, aimed at enhancing Egypt’s growth across critical sectors including energy, food security, and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The initiative is designed to boost Egypt’s economic development, support exporters, and create job opportunities for youth and women. This agreement, worth $1.5 billion, is part of the broader framework agreement between the two parties, valued at $6 billion over five years. The program is designed to support key sectors of the Egyptian economy, including energy, food security, and the empowerment of small and medium enterprises (SMEs), in line with Egypt’s goals for sustainable economic development and growth.
The signing ceremony, held in Cairo, was attended by key officials including His Excellency Lieutenant General Engineer Kamel Al-Wazir, Deputy Prime Minister for Industrial Affairs and Minister of Industry and Transport; Her Excellency Dr. Rania Al-Mashat, Minister of Planning, Economic Development, and International Cooperation, and Governor of Egypt at the Islamic Development Bank; and His Excellency Dr. Sherif Farouk, Minister of Supply and Internal Trade. The agreement was signed by Eng. Hani Salem Sonbol, CEO of ITFC and Acting CEO of ICD; Mr. Hossam El-Garrahi, Vice Chairman of the General Authority for Supply Commodities; and Mrs. Amal Tantawy, Executive Vice President for Financial and Economic Affairs at the Egyptian General Petroleum Corporation. ITFC’s 2025 program for Egypt includes trade finance operations to support the energy and food security sectors, as well as SMEs, with a focus on projects benefiting the Egyptian General Petroleum Corporation and the General Authority for Supply Commodities. The program also encompasses a wide range of initiatives to promote trade and business development, including the Arab African Trade Bridges (AATB) Program, the second phase of the Aid for Trade Initiative for Arab Countries (AfTIAS 2.0), and a comprehensive suite of programs designed to support Egyptian exporters and SMEs. Additionally, ITFC will continue its efforts to support women and youth through specific empowerment initiatives and technical training programs.
Since 2008, ITFC has committed over $18.7 billion to Egypt, financing key sectors such as energy, food security, and supporting SMEs and women entrepreneurs. This agreement underscores ITFC’s ongoing role as a key partner in Egypt’s economic development, leveraging its expertise in trade finance to empower vital sectors and foster inclusive growth.
Engineer Kamel El-Wazir, the Deputy Prime Minister for Industrial Development and Minister of Industry and Transport, said: “Today, through this partnership, we reaffirm our commitment to developing these vital sectors, ensuring the improvement of transportation infrastructure, updating the industrial sector, and enhancing its competitiveness. ITFC has proven, over the years, its vital role in supporting member countries of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) by offering innovative financial solutions and supporting developmental projects that contribute to stimulating economic growth and creating job opportunities.” He added: “The signing of today’s annual work program represents a strategic step that strengthens our partnership and opens new horizons for cooperation in infrastructure projects, manufacturing, and logistics services.”
Dr. Sherif Farouk, Minister of Supply and Internal Trade, said: “The allocation of $700 million from the ITFC to the General Authority for Supply Commodities, within the framework of the institution’s annual program for 2025, reflects the institution’s commitment to supporting government efforts aimed at achieving food security and fulfilling the state’s obligations towards its citizens.” He added: “The cooperation with the ITFC has not only been a financial commitment, but also a main pillar in the state’s efforts to secure its strategic needs of basic goods, enhance the Ministry of Supply and Internal Trade’s capacity to face emergency challenges, and ensure market stability. This confirms that this partnership represents a true foundation for supporting food security and ensuring sustainability in the supply of basic goods, which positively impacts the life of the Egyptian citizen.”
H.E. Dr. Rania Al-Mashat, Minister of Planning, Economic Development, and International Cooperation, and Egypt’s Governor at the Islamic Development Bank, stated that the signing of the annual work program with ITFC represents a new step in the successful development partnership with the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) Group in general, and the International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation (ITFC) in particular, which has contributed over 17 years to supporting the provision of strategic goods in the Egyptian market. She explained that the institution’s work program for 2025 aims to support food security and provide petroleum to the Egyptian General Petroleum Corporation in a way that enhances the availability of petroleum products and energy in the Egyptian market. This partnership also strengthens ongoing programs to encourage exporters and enable them to access foreign markets, as well as enhance efforts in training and developing small and medium-sized enterprises.
The International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation (ITFC) is a member of the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) Group, dedicated to facilitating trade in its member countries through the provision of financing solutions and technical support. ITFC’s mission is to support sustainable economic development by empowering businesses, particularly SMEs, women, and youth, through trade finance and capacity-building initiatives.
Eng. Hani Salem Sonbol, CEO of ITFC, expressed his pride in the longstanding partnership with Egypt, stating: “ITFC is committed to working with Egypt to drive sustainable economic growth. We are excited to expand our support for SMEs, women, and youth, while continuing to foster Egypt’s export capabilities. In 2025, we will introduce new initiatives that aim to empower these vital groups, creating lasting impact for Egypt’s economy.”
Headline: NCDHHS Livestream Spanish-language Cafecito and Tele-Town Hall: NC Crisis Services — Get Help 24/7
NCDHHS Livestream Spanish-language Cafecito and Tele-Town Hall: NC Crisis Services — Get Help 24/7 jwerner
The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services will host a live Spanish-language Cafecito and tele-town hall on Thursday, Feb. 6, from 6 to 7 p.m., to discuss how people can support their mental well-being, find resources and get help for themselves or someone else experiencing a mental health crisis.
Event participants include:
Carolina Siliceo Perez, MLAS, Acting Director for Latinx/Hispanic Policy and Strategy, NCDHHS
Mary Jones, Director of Client Care and Engagement, El Futuro
Amanda Huber Lopera, MSW, LCSW, Psychotherapist and Executive Director, Sunrise-Amanecer Inc.
Nearly 1 in 4 adults in North Carolina have reported symptoms of anxiety or depression. Nationally, more than 1 in 3 Hispanic adults have reported these symptoms as well. Help is available. Mental health crisis services offer non-judgmental, confidential and compassionate care to connect North Carolinians with resources and support — available at little or no cost — to get help with social or family situations, depression, anxiety, thoughts of suicide, substance use or if they just need someone to talk to.
The Cafecito will stream live from the NCDHHS Facebook and YouTube accounts, where viewers can submit questions. The event also includes a tele-town hall, which invites people by phone to listen in and submit questions. People can dial into the event by calling 855-756-7520 Ext. 119233#. Cafecito and tele-town hall panelists will discuss:
Ways to support and improve mental well-being within the Hispanic/Latinx community
When to get help for yourself or a loved one
What NC crisis services are, how to access them and how to request support in Spanish
Where to find mental health information and resources in Spanish
NCDHHS recently launched a new Crisis Services page, available in English and Spanish, to connect people to services. The page includes a searchable map to find community crisis centers, as well as a zip code search to find a mobile crisis team. If you or someone you love feels overwhelmed, NC crisis services are here to help:
Call, text, or chat with 988 for immediate support, 24/7
Talk to someone with lived experience through the Peer Warmline: 855-PEERS-NC (currently in English only)
Have help come to you — trained mobile crisis teams will meet you in a safe place at low or no cost
Visit a community crisis center for fast, in-person help from licensed clinicians
El Departamento de Salud y Servicios Humanos de Carolina del Norte (NCDHHS) presentará un Cafecito, una conversación virtual y telefónica en vivo el jueves 6 de febrero, de 6 a 7 p.m., para hablar sobre cómo las personas pueden apoyar su bienestar mental, encontrar recursos y obtener ayuda para sí mismos o para alguien más que esté atravesando una crisis de salud mental.
Panelistas del evento incluyen:
Carolina Siliceo Perez, directora Interina de Política y Estrategia Latina e Hispana, NCDHHS
Mary Jones, directora de Atención y Compromiso al Cliente, El Futuro
Amanda Huber Lopera, MSW, LCSW, psicoterapeuta y directora ejecutiva de Sunrise-Amanecer Inc.
Casi1 de cada 4adultos en Carolina del Norte ha reportado síntomas de ansiedad o depresión. A nivel nacional, más de 1 de cada 3 adultos hispanos han reportado estos mismos síntomas. Hay ayuda disponible. Los servicios de crisis de salud mental ofrecen atención confidencial, sin juicios y con mucha compasión para conectar a los habitantes de Carolina del Norte con los recursos y el apoyo necesario, disponibles a bajo costo o sin costo, para recibir ayuda con situaciones sociales o familiares, depresión, ansiedad, pensamientos suicidas, consumo de sustancias o si solo necesitan a alguien con quien hablar.
El Cafecito se transmitirá en vivo desde las cuentas deFacebook,TwitteryYouTubedel NCDHHS, donde los espectadores podrán enviar sus preguntas. El evento incluirá una opción de telecomunicación, que invita a las personas a escuchar y enviar preguntas por teléfono.
Las personas pueden unirse al evento llamando al 855-756-7520 extensión 119233#.
Las panelistas del evento hablarán sobre los siguientes temas:
Formas de apoyar y mejorar el bienestar mental dentro de la comunidad hispana y latina
Cuando buscar ayuda para usted mismo o para un ser querido
Qué son los servicios de crisis en Carolina del Norte, cómo acceder a ellos y cómo solicitar apoyo en español
Dónde encontrar información y recursos sobre salud mental en español
El NCDHHS lanzó recientemente una nuevapágina de servicios de respuesta a crisis, disponible en inglés y español, para conectar a las personas con los servicios de apoyo. La página incluye un mapa interactivo para encontrar centros comunitarios de respuesta a crisis, así como una búsqueda por código postal para localizar un equipo móvil de respuesta a crisis. Si usted o un ser querido se siente abrumada/o, los servicios de respuesta a crisis de Carolina del Norte están aquí para apoyarlos:
Llame o envíe un mensaje de texto o chat a laLínea 988para obtener apoyo inmediato, las 24 horas, los 7 días de la semana
Hable con alguien con experiencia vivida a través de la línea de apoyo entre pares: 855-PEERS-NC (actualmente solo en inglés)
Haga que la ayuda llegue hasta donde usted está: equipos móviles de respuesta a crisis entrenados le encontrarán en un lugar seguro a bajo costo o sin costo
Visite un centro comunitario de respuesta a crisis para recibir ayuda rápida y en persona de profesionales licenciados.
Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (b)
WAYCROSS, GA: A newly unsealed federal indictment alleges dozens of defendants, many of them in prison, participated in an extensive drug trafficking operation spanning several south Georgia communities.
The indictment in USA v. Brinson, et al., names 37 individuals in the Coffee, Atkinson, and Bacon County area as conspirators, charging them with Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute and to Distribute Cocaine, Methamphetamine, Oxycodone, and Marijuana, said Tara M. Lyons, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Georgia. Conviction on the charge carries a maximum penalty of up to life in prison for most defendants, along with substantial financial penalties and a period of supervised release upon completion of any prison term.
There is no parole in the federal system.
“This operation makes it clear that rural communities aren’t immune from the scourge of drug trafficking,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Lyons. “We applaud the diligent work of our law enforcement partners in this investigation.”
As described in the indictment, the defendants are alleged to have participated in a conspiracy to import and distribute large amounts of illegal drugs in the Douglas, Georgia, community and surrounding counties. Much of the conspiracy was directed from inside Georgia state prisons using contraband cell phones. The 60-count indictment includes the seizure of 21 illegally possessed firearms and more than $17,000.
Those named in the indictment include:
Litarus Brinson, a/k/a “Ben Brokebefore,” 26, an inmate at the Jenkins Correctional Center;
Christopher Brockington, a/k/a “Chris Brock,” 44, of Douglas;
Keevon Bussey, a/k/a “Guado Gettinguap Gomez,” 26, of Douglas;
Stacey Daniels, 32, of Douglas;
Kenneth Davis, 62, being held in the Coffee County Jail;
T’Kiya Eady, 24, of Lagrange, Georgia;
Patrick Ellis, 42, of Atlanta;
Anthony Gaskin Jr., 35, of Pearson, Georgia;
Dacia Gaskins, a/k/a “Sheree Gaskins,” 31, of Douglas, a former Georgia state corrections officer;
Ernest Goodman, 42, an inmate of the Ware County Jail;
Christopher Hawkins, a/k/a “Rayshon Hawkins,” 30, of Douglas;
Qudarious Hawkins, a/k/a “Don Esclobar,” 25, of Douglas;
Breanna Henderson, 34, of Douglas;
Corey Hill, 34, of Ambrose, Georgia;
Demarcus Holland, 32, of Douglas;
Wanda Hollinger, 57, of Douglas;
Zarionna Holloway, a/k/a “Channel Parker,” 23, of Douglas;
Roger Jenkins, 27, a/k/a “Glee Jenkins,” a/k/a “WMG Glee,” of Alma, Georgia;
Marquan Jenkins, a/k/a “Anna Brooke,” a/k/a “Mary Thompson,” 30, an inmate at Macon State Prison;
Richard Jewell, 51, of Douglas;
Aaron Kahn, 49, of Douglas;
James Lander, 35, Douglas;
Jeffrey Maxwell, a/k/a “EBK Kokaine,” 28, an inmate of Wilcox State Prison;
Darien McDaniel, 35, of Waycross, Georgia;
Antarious McTear, 30, of Douglas;
Adrian Munford, a/k/a “Jugg King,” 41, of Waycross
Reginald Powell, a/k/a “Yetti Glock,” 36, of Douglas;
Patricia Raven, a/k/a “Ms. Pat,” 65, of Valdosta, Georgia;
Marcus Reynolds, a/k/a “Marc Marc,” 44, an inmate at Georgia Diagnostic and Classification Prison;
James Robinson, 33, an inmate at Telfair State Prison;
Sedarrien Smith, a/k/a “Slug Da Menace,” 24, of Douglas;
Billy Toombs Jr., 32, of Douglas;
Dequatte Tucker, a/k/a “Deshawn Tucker,” a/k/a “Esco,” a/k/a “Freeband Esco,” 33, an inmate at Wheeler Correctional Facility;
Travis Tucker, 33, of Douglas;
Assyria Watts, a/k/a “Jefe Cain,” 29, of Douglas; and,
Brian Wright, 48, of Alma, Georgia.
Criminal indictments contain only charges; defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
“The FBI and our law enforcement partners were able to achieve today’s arrests and seizures because all of us never stopped working together, combining our resources, and advocating for a safer place to live for everyone in this community,” said FBI Atlanta Assistant Special Agent in Charge Brian Ozden. “And we will not rest until we bring back to our community a sense of security and law and order that is so greatly needed.”
“This operation was only successful because of the collaborative effort of the various agencies,” said Coffee County Sheriff Fred T. Cole. “As the sheriff, it is my mission to eliminate the spread of illegal drugs in our community. This operation highlights the importance of community safety and the lasting effects it has on our community.”
This investigation took place under the umbrella of the U.S. Department of Justice’s Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program that has been successful in bringing together all levels of law enforcement to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer.
The case also was investigated under the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF). OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach.
Agencies conducting the investigation include the FBI, the Coffee County Sheriff’s Office Drug Unit, the Georgia Bureau of Investigation Southeast Regional Drug Enforcement Office, the Georgia State Patrol, the Georgia Department of Community Supervision, the Douglas Police Department, the Bacon County Sheriff’s Office, the Atkinson County Sheriff’s Office, the Waycross Police Department, the Marion County (Florida) Sheriff’s Office, and the Jacksonville (Florida) County Sheriff’s Office. The case is being prosecuted for the United States by Southern District of Georgia Assistant U.S. Attorneys Bradley R. Thompson and Joshua K. Davis.
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
An innovative biocontrol project has been launched aiming to reduce the spread of floating pennywort in the Cam Washes, SSSI.
Weevil (Listronotus elongatus)
Led by CABI (www.cabi.org), a not-for-profit inter-governmental organisation specialising in natural solutions for invasive non-native plants, the project is funded by the Environment Agency, working in partnership with CABI scientists.
Floating pennywort (Hydrocotyle ranunculoides), an invasive aquatic weed plant native to South America, has become a major threat to the UK’s waterbodies. It is known for its rapid growth and ability to spread up to 20cm a day, forming dense mats that disrupt ecosystems, causing deoxygenation, blocking flood defences, impacting recreational activities, and contributing to flood risk issues.
The cost of controlling floating pennywort, together with the impact on tourism and recreation is estimated to exceed £25 million annually in the UK. To address this growing problem and reduce the spread of the plant, a South American weevil Listronotus elongatus, was approved for release in the UK in 2021 after a decade of safety testing; this is the fourth weed biological control solution approved for release in the UK.
Unlike traditional control methods such as manual or mechanical removal and herbicide applications, which are costly, labour-intensive, and often ineffective, the biocontrol with the weevil presents a long-term, self-sustaining solution. The weevil has evolved to only feed and develop on floating pennywort, reducing biosecurity issues that can arise from disturbance.
The trial involved the release of weevils on the Cam Washes SSSI. This site was chosen for the weevil release due to the difficulties of controlling floating pennywort using traditional methods and the need to manage the reinfestation of the River Cam.
Prior to the release, the extent of floating pennywort spread was captured using drone footage. It is hoped that continued drone monitoring will help to show how effective these weevils could be as a cost-effective solution to managing this invasive species.
Djami Djeddour, Senior CABI project lead said: “We are thrilled to be able to work in partnership with the Environment Agency to help tackle floating pennywort in the Cam Washes. Biological control of non-native, invasive aquatic weeds using specialist insects has proved highly effective globally, and we are hopeful that these released weevils (beetles) will be the plant’s Achilles’ heel. Once the weevil populations are successfully established, they will play an important role in the sustainable control of floating pennywort, reducing its impact on native habitats and enhancing their biological diversity and function”.
Pippa Keynes, Environment Agency project lead, said “We are very happy to partner with CABI in this important project. Following on from extensive Floating Pennywort control work that has been carried out on the Bedford Ouse, we are keen to explore different ways of controlling this invasive plant which can cause havoc on our waterways.”
For East Anglia press office please contact (24 hours): 0800 917 9250
Fort Lauderdale, FL, Feb. 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Board member Martin Schmidt has informed the boards of OptimumBank (the “Bank”), and OptimumBank Holding, Inc. (the “Company”), that he will resign from both boards, effective January 28, 2025. Mr. Schmidt will remain fully supportive of the continued success of the Bank and Company.
Mr. Schmidt resides in South Florida and has served as a Director since August 2015. Mr. Schmidt’s significant experience in the financial services industry helped the board to recover through regulatory issues as quickly as possible leaving the Bank with a strong capital structure, explosive growth and a bright future. Chairman Moishe Gubin commented: “It was a pleasure having Martin Schmidt on the Boards for nearly a decade. His insight and wisdom assisted the Bank and Company in innumerable ways and on a more personal note, I looked forward to his cheerful disposition during our monthly meetings. On behalf of myself and the Board of Directors I would like to thank Martin for his loyalty and contributions and wish him well in his future endeavors.”
About OptimumBank Holdings, Inc.
OptimumBank Holdings, Inc. operates as the bank holding company for OptimumBank that provides a range of consumer and commercial banking services to individuals and businesses.
The company accepts demand interest-bearing and noninterest-bearing savings, money market, NOW and time deposit accounts, as well as certificates of deposit; and offers residential and commercial real estate, commercial, and consumer loans, as well as lending lines for working capital needs. It also provides debit and ATM cards; investment, cash management, and notary and night depository services; and direct deposits, money orders, cashier’s checks, domestic collections, drive-in tellers, and banking by mail, as well as Internet banking services. In addition, the company engages in holding, managing, and disposal of foreclosed real estate. It operates through banking offices located in Broward County, Florida. OptimumBank Holdings, Inc. was founded in 2000 and is based in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
Safe Harbor Statement:
This press release contains forward-looking statements that can be identified by terminology such as “believes,” “expects,” “potential,” “plans,” “suggests,” “may,” “should,” “could,” “intends,” or similar expressions. Many forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results to be materially different from any future results or implied by such statements. These factors include, but are not limited to, our limited operating history, managing our expected growth, risks associated with integration of acquired websites, possible inadvertent infringement of third-party intellectual property rights, our ability to effectively compete, our acquisition strategy, and a limited public market for our common stock, among other risks. OptimumBank Holdings, Inc.’s future results may also be impacted by other risk factors listed from time-to-time in its SEC filings. Many factors are difficult to predict accurately and are generally beyond the company’s control. Forward looking statements speak only as to the date they are made and OptimumBank Holdings, Inc. does not undertake to update forward-looking statements to reflect circumstances or events that occur after the date the forward-looking statements are made.
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
Waste including asbestos was burned next to a housing estate and ancient woodland
Burning waste found at the illegal waste site
A man has been fined for operating an illegal waste site near Milton Keynes, following an investigation by the Environment Agency.
Mark Greenhalgh, age 64 of Walnut Tree, Milton Keynes, pleaded guilty to two waste crime charges at Milton Keynes Magistrates’ Court on 31st January. He has been ordered to pay fines, victim surcharges and prosecution costs totalling £20,864.
From 2018 to 2023, Environment Agency officers investigated the site in Woburn Sands which Mr Greenhalgh operated without an environmental permit. Despite repeated visits, he ignored the Environment Agency’s guidance and failed to comply with a notice requiring him to clear the waste from the land. Officers found an increased amount of waste on site with each visit.
Drone image showing part of the illegal waste site
Waste was burned repeatedly including asbestos, plastic, metals, wood, soft furnishings, vehicles, domestic appliances and commercial refrigeration units. Scrap vehicles were also stored and broken on site.
The waste site is surrounded by a housing estate and ancient woodland. The activities of the illegal operation put the neighbouring residents and nature at huge risk of harm.
All types of waste were stored improperly, creating even more fire risk. The local fire and rescue service were called to the site numerous times throughout the years, and in August 2022 there was a significant fire on site. The fire service had to close a road and deploy multiple pumps, using an estimated 800,000 litres of water.
Louis de Quincey, East Anglia Environmental Crime Officer, said:
Waste criminals make their profits by breaking the law and not paying tax. Illegal waste sites such as the one operated by Mr Greenhalgh undermine legitimate businesses which carry out their activities with consideration for the environment.
The Environment Agency works to stop waste criminals and support legitimate business whilst protecting communities and nature from harm. We take illegal waste activity very seriously and will not hesitate to disrupt criminal activity and prosecute those responsible.
Anyone who suspects illegal waste activity should report it to our 24-hour incident hotline on 0800 807060, or anonymously through CrimeStoppers on 0800 555111.
Background information
Charges:
Mark Greenhalgh, between 13 September 2018 and 10 July 2023, did deposit controlled waste on land at the north side of Bow Brickhill Road, Woburn Sands, registered under title number BM146933, when there was not in force an environmental permit authorising such a deposit.
Mark Greenhalgh, between 13 September 2018 and 10 July 2023, did knowingly cause or knowingly permit the deposit of controlled waste on land at the north side of Bow Brickhill Road, Woburn Sands, registered under title number BM146933, when there was not in force an environmental permit authorising such a deposit.
Sentence:
Mark Greenhalgh was ordered to pay a total of £20,864.23 within 12 months, after which the debt will be enforced. This total consists of:
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
On February 4-5, the Department of Business and Trade (DBT) organized an Infrastructure Trade Mission aimed at increasing UK’s private sector participation in Guatemalan projects.
Seven UK infrastructure companies are participating in this two-day event which will allow them to meet with government, municipal and private sector representatives; with a focus on multiple areas, which are critical to improving Guatemala’s infrastructure delivery and sustainable development.
The visit aims to better understand the Guatemalan authorities’ plans for infrastructure projects delivery at national and municipal levels, including mobility, water sanitation, hospitals and private sector led construction. It also seeks to create business opportunities between local and the UK companies participating, these are:
Andrade Gutierrez (engineering and construction)
Arup (design, planning and engineering)
Biwater (water treatment and solutions)
Gleeds (construction consultancy)
JCB (construction machinery)
QGMI UK (engineering)
Steer (infrastructure consultancy)
Whilst in Guatemala, the delegation wants to explore opportunities presented by the country’s plans to improve its critical infrastructure, including updated legislation, the use of Private Public Partnerships and the desire to continue building the UK-Guatemala economic relationship. This highlights the British government’s commitment to opening new overseas markets for UK firms, driving up prosperity and deliver national renewal.
The UK is committed to supporting viable green enterprises which help to promote green recoveries in urban transport, renewable energy and water and sanitation to help countries across the world pursue green and sustainable growth and economic development.
To mark the visit, the British Ambassador to Guatemala, Juliana Correa, said:
I am delighted to welcome the visit of some of the leading UK infrastructure companies that will explore the great potential of Guatemala. President Arevalo has put infrastructure delivery as a priority for his administration, and the UK is a global leader in this sector. This is a great opportunity to provide a platform to develop key partnerships that are useful to create cities that lead economic and social development.
Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (b)
El FBI agregó hoy a Fausto Isidro Meza-Flores a la lista de los Diez Fugitivos Más Buscados. Es la adición número 533 a la lista.
Meza-Flores, también conocido como “Chapo Isidro”, es el presunto líder de la organización criminal transnacional Meza-Flores, con sede en Sinaloa, México. La organización es presuntamente responsable de la posesión, distribución e importación de grandes cantidades de cocaína, fentanilo, heroína, metanfetamina y marihuana a los Estados Unidos.
“Durante décadas, el público ha compartido información con el FBI que nos ha ayudado a capturar criminales peligrosos”, dijo el Agente Especial a Cargo Sean Ryan. “Hoy, les pedimos que nos ayuden a encontrar a Fausto Isidro Meza-Flores, para que podamos llevarlo ante la justicia y frenar el flujo de drogas ilegales a nuestro país”.
Meza-Flores fue acusado originalmente el 2 de mayo de 2012 en el Tribunal de Distrito de los Estados Unidos para el Distrito de Columbia. El 26 de noviembre de 2019, un gran jurado federal emitió una acusación formal sustitutiva acusando a Meza-Flores de violaciones de tráfico de drogas y posesión de un arma de fuego. Según la acusación, Meza-Flores supuestamente conspiró para fabricar y distribuir cocaína, heroína, metanfetamina y marihuana en los Estados Unidos entre 2005 y 2019.
Conspiracy to Manufacture and Distribute Five Hundred Grams or More of Methamphetamine, Distribute Five Kilograms or More of Cocaine, Distribute One Kilogram or More of Heroin, and Distribute One Thousand Kilograms or More of Marijuana for Importation into the United States; Use and Possession of a Firearm
ROANOKE, Va. – The third man involved in robbing the Carter Bank and Trust on Hershberger Road in Roanoke in June 2023, pled guilty recently in U.S. District Court in Roanoke for his role in the robbery.
Tishawn Simpson, 25, of Roanoke, pled guilty last week to one count of bank robbery.
According to court documents, on June 22, 2023, two masked men, Simpson and Demonte Belcher, entered the Carter Bank and Trust, one carrying a blue bank bag and the other carrying a green plastic bag and presented the teller with a note that stated “[l]ets make everything right you have least (sic) than 30 seconds to give me $50K or die got nothing to lose.” As a result of this threat, the men left the bank with $8,659 in cash, but left the demand note behind. Simpson was identified as a suspect when a DNA analysis revealed that he had contributed to a DNA profile that the FBI Laboratory had developed from one of the robber’s masks that law enforcement recovered.
A third man, Ramel Abrams, did not physically enter the bank, however his fingerprints were found on the demand note and the clothing worn by both robbers was found inside of his apartment. Furthermore, location information obtained from Abrams’ phone records indicates that he was near Carter Bank & Trust just prior to the robbery.
All three men have pled guilty for their roles in the robbery. In August, Belcher was sentenced to 37 months in federal prison and in December Abrams was sentenced to 30 months for his role in the robbery Simpson will be sentenced in May.
Acting United States Attorney Zachary T. Lee Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’ s Richmond Division Stanley M. Meador, and Chief of the Roanoke City Police Department Scott Booth made the announcement.
The Roanoke City Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation are investigating the case and received assistance from the Star City Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Salem Police Department, and the Roanoke City Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Keith Parrella and M. Coleman Adams are prosecuting the case.
Defendant Conspired with Other to Set the Stores on Fire, Robbed a Store, and Went Back Later to Steal Money from an ATM
Greenbelt, Maryland – After a 5-day trial, a federal jury found Stephen Kennedy, 33, of Temple Hills, Maryland, guilty of conspiracy to commit arson, arson affecting interstate commerce, commercial robbery, using or carrying a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, carrying and explosive device during the commission of a felony, and being a felon in possession of a firearm. The Defendant was found not guilty as to one count of arson affecting interstate commerce.
The verdict was announced by Erek L. Barron, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland; Special Agent in Charge Toni M. Crosby of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) Baltimore Field Division; Acting Maryland State Fire Marshal Jason M. Mowbray; St. Mary’s County Sheriff Steven A. Hall; Chief Malik Aziz of the Prince George’s County Police Department; and Chief Tiffany D. Green of the Prince George’s County Fire/EMS Department.
According to the 8-count superseding indictment, from at least January 2021 to January 2022, Kennedy and other conspirators, including co-defendant Donnell Kelly, conspired to commit arsons at 7-Eleven convenience stores so that they could later steal cash contained in ATMs in the stores. Specifically, the indictment alleges that Kennedy and Kelly traveled to 7-Eleven locations while they were open for business and deployed explosive devices to set fire to the buildings, and on at least one occasion, demanded the contents of the cash register. The defendants burned the stores to force their closure and shut off power to the security cameras, which enabled them to return to the unguarded locations to burglarize the ATMs. This resulted in losses to the ATM company of at least $90,000. To conceal the evidence of their crimes, one of Kennedy’s co-conspirators made false police reports regarding stolen license plates.
Kennedy faces a mandatory minimum sentence of five years and a maximum sentence of 20 years in federal prison for the arson conspiracy and for arson affecting interstate commerce; a maximum of 20 years in prison for commercial robbery; a mandatory minimum sentence of 30 years and up to life in federal prison for using a destructive device in furtherance of a crime of violence; a ten year sentence for carrying an explosive during the commission of another federal felony; and a maximum of 10 years in federal prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm. Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after taking into account the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Co-defendant Donnell Kelly pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit arson and was sentenced to 10 years with supervised release for a term of 3 years, on October 2, 2024 before Judge Peter J. Messitte. U.S. District Judge Theodore D. Chuang has scheduled sentencing for Kennedy on May 30, 2025 at 2:30 p.m.
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 Barron commended the ATF’s Baltimore Field Division’s Arson & Explosive Investigations Group, the Office of the Maryland State Fire Marshal, the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office, the Prince George’s County Fire/EMS Department, and the Prince George’s County Police Department for their work in the investigation and thanked the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia, the ATF Washington Field Division, the U.S. Marshals Service, and the Alexandria, Virginia Fire and Police Departments for their assistance. Mr. Barron thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys Joshua Rosenthal and Christopher Sarma, who are prosecuting the case.
French and Spanish authorities, with the support of Eurojust and Europol, have stopped an illegal drug delivery into France arriving from Spain. The drug seizure is part of an operation against an international trafficking network active in the two countries. Authorities arrested 24 members of the network, including the two leaders, and seized over 150 kg of drugs with a market value of EUR 2.5 million.
The French criminal group set up import routes to transport drugs into France from their headquarters in Spain. Using vehicles with hidden compartments, the group was able to avoid detection and transport multiple types of synthetic drugs and cannabis into France. By frequently changing the routes used, the group further ensured that they remained undetected.
French authorities started investigating the network together with their partners in Spain in June 2024. They soon located the head of the network in Southern Spain and investigated the criminal activities such as drug trafficking and money laundering. A takedown of the network was planned, with the preparation of European Investigation Orders and European Arrest Warrants taking place at Eurojust.
Europol supported the investigation by providing analytical expertise to map out the syndicate’s structure, identify key players and track smuggling routes. Europol also coordinated intelligence sharing and funded the deployment of French officers to Spain to facilitate cross-border cooperation. On the action day, Europol deployed experts to France and Spain to ensure real-time information exchange between the involved law enforcement authorities.
On 28 January, actions to take down the group took place simultaneously in Spain and France. Authorities caught a drug convoy arriving in France in the early morning. Over 120 kg of drugs were intercepted from the delivery. The three drivers and the head of the network in France were arrested on the spot. During searches in France, money, drugs and weapons were seized, and 13 suspects were put in police custody and 9 in preventive custody. In Spain, the two leaders of the criminal group were arrested, and cash and drugs were seized during house searches. The leaders are now awaiting extradition to France. The members of the criminal group who were involved in drug trafficking and money laundering could face up to 30 years in prison.
The following authorities carried out the operations:
France: JIRS Rennes (interregional specialised jurisdiction); Gendarmerie Nationale (SR Rennes)
Spain: Public Prosecution Office Antidrug; Central Investigative Court num 2 at Audiencia Nacional; National Police (Policía Nacional – UDYCO Málaga)
Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation FBI Crime News
I’m Brian Driscoll, and it’s my honor to be representing the men and women of the FBI as acting director.
I want to take a few minutes to share with you some of the important work those men and women have been doing across the country and around the world—every day—to keep the American people safe.
I’ll start with our Top Ten list.
The Ten Most Wanted Fugitives list has been helping the FBI apprehend dangerous criminals for 75 years. In that time, we’ve located or arrested nearly 500 fugitives on the list, including two in just the past week:
Donald Eugene Fields II, who was arrested in Florida on charges of child sex trafficking and child rape; and Arnoldo Jiminez, who was taken into custody in Mexico on murder charges.
I’m grateful to both of these case teams for their work and to our partners for their support in bringing these violent criminals to justice.
You’ve heard the FBI always gets its man, but our work is never done.
Today, we’re announcing the addition of Fausto Isidro Meza-Flores to the FBI’s Ten Most Wanted Fugitives list.
Known as El Chapo Isidro, he’s accused of spending the last 20 years flooding the U.S. with fentanyl, cocaine, heroin, and other deadly drugs, first as an independent drug trafficker and later as the head of the Meza-Flores cartel.
In addition to the scourge of illicit drugs Meza-Flores and his organization have unleashed into the United States from across our southern border, they’re also accused of heinous crimes ranging from kidnapping and extortion to torture and murder.
The U.S. government is offering a reward of up to $5 million for information leading to his arrest and conviction, and we encourage anyone with information about his whereabouts to contact the FBI and help us add Meza-Flores to the list of dangerous fugitives we’ve brought to justice together.
But that’s just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the exceptional work the FBI’s been doing lately.
Every day, our men and women are working hard to be there for our partners and keep our communities safe.
That includes all the work we’ve been doing to support the Department of Homeland Security in its immigration enforcement efforts. We’ve got special agents, intelligence analysts, and more supporting DHS teams across the country, from New York and Chicago to El Paso, Newark, and Denver. So far, this work has led to the arrest of dangerous criminals and terrorists all across the country, and we’ve taken illegal firearms off the streets and out of our communities.
At the same time, our people are hard at work with our local, state, and federal partners in the run-up to this Sunday’s Super Bowl. In addition to our team in New Orleans, we’ve deployed scores of FBI employees to surge in support of this effort—from bomb techs to SWAT operators to intelligence analysts—and each one of them is focused on keeping the event safe for everyone.
Our teams have also been working around the clock to respond to the tragic plane crashes in Philadelphia and Washington, D.C., in support of recovery efforts.
All of that work is critically important to our partners and to the American people, but it doesn’t even scratch the surface of the work the men and women of the FBI are doing every single day, across the country and around the world, to keep people safe.
We will never take our eyes off of our mission: protecting the American people and upholding the Constitution.
Because at the Bureau, we’re focused on the work, the people we do the work with—our partners—and the people we do the work for—the American people.