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Category: Transport

  • MIL-OSI Global: Five ways to inspire ocean connection: reflections from my 40-year marine ecology career

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Martin Attrill, Professor of Marine Ecology, University of Plymouth

    For 40 years, I’ve worked as a marine ecologist and, since 1992, I’ve been based in Plymouth, Devon – a global hub for coastal marine research and teaching. As I think back to how our understanding of life in our oceans has changed over that time, here are five lessons I have learnt.

    1. Start with the basics

    Back in the 1970s, the band America wrote: “The ocean is a desert with its life underground, and the perfect disguise above”. Many people I speak to actually don’t see much beyond that grey-blue surface.

    Back in 2014 my colleagues and I were quite shocked at the response to a big survey we did on public perception of the marine environment in the UK, particularly when we break out of our marine bubbles. If an organism was remotely colourful or interesting, most people assumed it didn’t live in UK waters.

    That reminded me not to underestimate how little most people know, or care, about UK seas. Make no assumptions.

    While Blue Planet and other beautiful TV series have undoubtedly helped raise the profile of the world’s seas, some have potentially reinforced this view of local waters – that you have to travel to far-off exotic locations to find any interesting and spectacular life.

    2. Inspire deep connection

    Research shows the almost unparalleled restorative power of being in, on, under or by the sea. You do not need to dive to feel a strong ocean connection – building sandcastles, catching crabs on a line in a harbour, skimming stones or letting the cold water wash over your feet can work wonders.

    Rockpooling is also an incredible window into the underwater world – suddenly all this weird and wonderful life opens up to us in a small, simple and accessible puddle.

    Rockpooling is a fun and easy way to explore marine life.
    Laura Schwormstedt/Shutterstock

    People need to be given more opportunities to form lasting connections with the ocean. Organisations such as Plymouth’s Ocean Conservation Trust and Devon Wildlife Trust are bringing young people to the sea, sometimes for the first time.

    Enabling ocean connection is just as important for people who don’t have the chance or ability to physically be there, for example through virtual reality. I’ve also been involved in transforming Plymouth Sound into the UK’s first national marine park – this concept is all about engaging people with this stretch of coastline, getting them connected to the ocean and inspiring them to care. And the marine park model could be replicated around the UK.


    Local science, global stories.

    This article is part of a series, Secrets of the Sea, exploring how marine scientists are developing climate solutions.

    In collaboration with the BBC, Anna Turns travels around the West Country coastline to meet ocean experts making exciting discoveries beneath the waves.

    3. Take the pressure off

    If you leave the ocean alone, it can recover. Very few shallow areas of our global ocean remain untouched. But, as demonstrated so well in David Attenborough’s latest film, Ocean, if you remove all the most damaging impacts (particularly physical fishing damage), then the sea has great powers of recovery.

    In the UK, bluefin tuna and humpback whales have returned as the pressure to hunt them has been better managed. The cold water reefs on the seabed in Lyme Bay off the south coast of England have recovered remarkably just four years after a ban on towed fishing gear was introduced.

    Today, there are so few properly protected areas where all damaging or extractive activities are completely removed to give nature a chance, particularly in the UK. Some habitats may need a bit of help from us – active restoration or replanting of seagrass beds and oyster reefs will help kickstart regrowth.

    What is seagrass? The Ocean Conservation Trust explains.

    4. Plastic is a distraction

    The flow of plastics into the ocean must certainly be stopped. But I worry that the plastic pollution problem is a bandwagon that so many businesses, media outlets and governments have jumped on. Has a decade-long focus on “solving” the plastic crisis been a troublesome distraction? Banning single-use straws can seem like an easy win because leaders can be seen to be taking action – but it does little to solve the ocean’s biggest problems.

    Meanwhile, the most complex and hard to resolve activities that seriously harm our seas, such as industrial overfishing, are still not being dealt with. The most damaging fishing practices such as trawling and dredging continue legally, astonishingly even within designated marine protected areas. Such highly damaging activities have no place near sensitive habitats and this has been so well demonstrated in Ocean.

    The recent UK ban on sandeel fishing gives me hope. This landmark decision was made to benefit nature (protecting food supply for seabirds), restricting a fishery that does not even supply food for humans. Sandeels are used to make fishmeal and fish oil to feed farmed fish and livestock.

    Yet, damaging fishing practices such as trawling and dredging continue legally, even within designated marine protected areas. Such highly damaging activities have no place near sensitive habitats.

    I firmly believe that the most effective and straightforward solution for the UK is to prohibit all towed fishing gear from within at least three miles of the coast – including developing a series of fully protected marine reserves.

    In Lyme Bay, this approach has led to a real win-win because the seas are now recovering, and local fishers, holidaymakers and coastal communities are benefiting too.



    Read more:
    David Attenborough’s Ocean reveals how bottom trawling is hurting sealife in horrifying detail

    5. Add a dose of ocean optimism

    Rising eco-anxiety, particularly in younger people, is not surprising given the state of the world. Faced with the nature and climate crisis, it is easy to feel utter despair.

    Climate change will undoubtedly change our planet. Yet, without oceans absorbing most of the carbon (while producing half the oxygen we breathe), this planet would already be uninhabitable for human civilisation. Making our oceans as healthy and resilient as possible is therefore crucial.

    Right now, we need some ocean optimism. Sharing the stories of progress and innovation that show how patches of the sea are recovering can demonstrate what’s possible and inspire further positive action. By showcasing areas now rich with diverse marine life now that industrial-scale damage has been stopped or whale populations that are booming now that harpoons are a thing of the past, a vision for a better, bluer future can become reality at scale.

    Listen to episode one of Secrets of the Sea here on BBC Sounds, presented by Anna Turns for The Conversation.

    Don’t have time to read about climate change as much as you’d like?

    Get a weekly roundup in your inbox instead. Every Wednesday, The Conversation’s environment editor writes Imagine, a short email that goes a little deeper into just one climate issue. Join the 45,000+ readers who’ve subscribed so far.

    Martin Attrill receives and has received funding from a series of government, NGO and private sector bodies, all of which is directed to the University of Plymouth, not personally. Current and recent funding includes from UK Government (NEIRF), Heritage Lottery Fund, Natural Environmental Research Council, EU INTERREG and ERDF. He is affiliated with Ocean Conservation Trust (Chief Scientific Advisor) and a trustee of the Manta Trust.

    – ref. Five ways to inspire ocean connection: reflections from my 40-year marine ecology career – https://theconversation.com/five-ways-to-inspire-ocean-connection-reflections-from-my-40-year-marine-ecology-career-250162

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Federal Grand Jury in Louisville Returns Superseding Indictment Charging Three Men with Murder of Federal Witness

    Source: US FBI

    Louisville, KY – On May 6, 2025, a federal grand jury in Louisville returned a superseding indictment charging three men with conspiring to kill, and ultimately murdering, a witness in a federal investigation. Two of the defendants were previously charged with drug trafficking and firearms-related charges.    

    U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge Jim Scott of the DEA Louisville Field Division, Acting Special Agent in Charge Olivia Olson of the FBI Louisville Field Office, Special Agent in Charge John Nokes of the ATF Louisville Field Division, Special Agent in Charge Rana Saoud of Homeland Security Investigations Nashville, Special Agent in Charge Karen Wingerd of the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation, Cincinnati Field Office, and Chief Paul Humphrey of the Louisville Metro Police Department made the announcement.

    According to the superseding indictment, Anyelle Curtley, Sr., 47, of Louisville, Delrico Nelson, 48, of Macomb, Illinois, and Antoyne Penick, 48, of Louisville, are each charged with conspiracy to tamper with a witness or informant by killing and conspiracy to retaliate against a witness or informant by killing. The superseding indictment alleges that between December 28, 2023, and January 31, 2023, Curtley Sr., Nelson, and Penick conspired and agreed to kill Victim 1 with the intent to prevent the testimony of Victim 1 in an official proceeding and to prevent Victim 1 from communicating with a law enforcement officer or judge information relating to the commission of a federal offense. Additionally, the superseding indictment alleges that the three men conspired and agreed to kill Victim 1 in retaliation for providing information to a law enforcement officer relating to the commission of a federal offense.

    Also, according to the superseding indictment, Curtley Sr. and Nelson, aided and abetted by each other, killed Victim 1, who was a person assisting a federal investigation, while that assistance was being rendered and because of it. Finally, the superseding indictment alleges that Curtley Sr. and Nelson aided and abetted each other in the murder of Victim 1 through the use of a firearm.

    This indictment supersedes an indictment returned March 5, 2024, charging Curtley, Sr. and others with drug trafficking and firearms related charges.

    The March 5, 2024, indictment charged Carl Delph, 53, of California, Curtley, Sr., Anyelle Curtley, Jr., 26, Adrian Richie, 35, Joseph Cousins, 39, Alandro O’Neal, 50, Jeroy Boyd, 44, Ameer Ellis, 45, Paul Butler, Jr., 35, and Susan Jenkins, 41, all of Louisville, with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances. Beginning as early as May 9, 2023, and continuing through February 21, 2024, the defendants conspired to possess with the intent to distribute and distributed over 50 grams of methamphetamine, over 400 grams of fentanyl, and over 500 grams of cocaine.

    Delph and Curtley, Sr. were also charged with a money laundering conspiracy.

    Delph was also charged with distributing over 500 grams of cocaine and distributing over 400 grams of fentanyl.

    Curtley, Sr. was also charged with distributing methamphetamine, cocaine, and fentanyl, attempting to possess with the intent to distribute cocaine and fentanyl, possessing with the intent to distribute fentanyl, possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. On December 28, 2023, Curtley, Sr., possessed a Glock, model 27, .40 caliber handgun. Curtley, Sr. was prohibited from possessing a firearm because he had previously been convicted the following felony offense.

    On May 19, 2010, in the United States District Court for the Western District of Kentucky, Curtley, Sr. was convicted of possession with intent to distribute cocaine and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.

    Curtley, Jr. was also charged with distributing fentanyl and cocaine.

    Richie and Cousins were also charged with distributing fentanyl.

    O’Neal, Ellis, and Jenkins were also charged with distributing methamphetamine.

    Boyd was also charged with distributing cocaine.

    Butler, Jr. was also charged with distributing methamphetamine and fentanyl.

    Cousins and O’Neal have pled guilty and are pending sentencing before a United States District Judge.

    An additional federal indictment was returned on March 5, 2024, charging Christopher Curtley, 50, and Penick, both of Louisville, with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances. Beginning as early as January 9, 2024, and continuing through February 29, 2024, the defendants conspired to distribute methamphetamine, fentanyl, and heroin.

    Christopher Curtley was also charged with distributing fentanyl and methamphetamine.

    Penick was also charged with distributing fentanyl, methamphetamine, and heroin. Penick was also charged with possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. On January 24, 2024, Penick possessed a Heritage Manufacturing Inc., Model Rough Rider, .22 caliber revolver. Penick was prohibited from possessing a firearm because he had previously been convicted of the following felony offenses.

    On September 27, 2017, in Jefferson Circuit Court, Penick was convicted of flagrant non-support.

    On October 19, 2015, in Clark Circuit Court, Clark County, Indiana, Penick was convicted of theft.

    On November 1, 2010, in Clark Superior Court, Clark County, Indiana, Penick was convicted of theft, robbery (two counts), and dealing in marijuana.

    Those charges against Christopher Curtley and Penick remain pending.

    Curtley Sr. and Penick previously appeared before a U.S. Magistrate Judges of the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Kentucky on the underlying drug and firearm charges. Nelson appeared before a U.S. Magistrate Judge for Central District of Illinois on May 8, 2025. Curtley Sr., Nelson, and Penick have been ordered detained pending trial. If convicted of the offenses alleged in the superseding indictment, all three defendants face a potential sentence of death, life, or any term of years. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors.

    There is no parole in the federal system. 

    This case is being investigated by the DEA, FBI, HSI, ATF, IRS-CI, and the Louisville Metro Police Department, with assistance from the Kentucky State Police and Macomb, Illinois Police Department.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Frank Dahl and Josh Porter are prosecuting the case, with assistance from paralegal Aaron Cooper.

    This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).

    An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Global: What’s it like being a raven or a crow?

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Walter Veit, Lecturer, Department of Philosophy, University of Reading

    Corvids are no birdbrains. Mimmo Lusito/Pexels, CC BY-SA

    Many of us as children may have wondered what’s going on inside the mind of an animal – what are they thinking and feeling? Most animal researchers study science because of their fascination with animals, but for a long time scientific norms made it impossible to even raise the question of animal consciousness without losing scientific credibility.

    Fortunately, those days have ended, thanks in large part to pioneering work by scientists such as Donald Griffin, who argued from the 1980s to his death in 2003 that animal minds should be a topic for scientific study.

    We are philosophers who study consciousness, and in our recent research we worked with other scientists to explore what the world might be like from the point of view of corvids, the family of birds that includes ravens, crows, jays and magpies.

    “Birdbrain” used to be a common insult but corvids have such surprising intelligence that they are sometimes described by scientists and journalists as “feathered apes”. But we wanted to go beyond intelligence. To do this we examined five dimensions of their experience by combing through studies on their behaviour, cognition, brains, emotions and consciousness.

    Get your news from actual experts, straight to your inbox. Sign up to our daily newsletter to receive all The Conversation UK’s latest coverage of news and research, from politics and business to the arts and sciences.

    Corvids’ eyes have incredibly sharp resolution that allows them to navigate while flying at high speeds and to find potential sources of food. Their hearing is excellent, perhaps unsurprising for songbirds, allowing them to even distinguish reliable from unreliable group members by assessing and remembering their alert calls.

    They also have a good sense of smell, which they use to help them find nuts and other food they have hidden. Unfortunately, we do not know how their smell compares to a lot of other animals, because there are not enough studies on corvids’ sense of smell yet.

    Emotional lives

    Corvids show cognitive biases, similar to humans. They have negative moods and show signs of pessimism after observing similar states in others.

    But they also show positive moods after successfully using tools – just like humans. And they can also show neophobia – wariness of new objects.

    Even if you come with treats to give them, corvids are reluctant to fly close to someone they haven’t met before, but are confident with humans they know well – another common human trait.

    It is common for people to only attribute emotional lives to mammals, but corvids show that we should study the emotions of birds in more detail.

    Integrated experiences

    We humans have one stream of consciousness. But birds lack a corpus callosum, the structure that connects the two brain hemispheres in us and other mammals.

    Their brain halves show a lot of division of labour, such as using their different eyes to focus on different tasks. However, that doesn’t necessarily mean that their experience is split into two selves – it could suggest a kind of partial unity different from our own.

    Perhaps their consciousness is more like split-brain human patients who have had their corpus callosum cut to reduce the effects of seizures. When two pictures are presented in their respective left and right visual fields, these people will draw what they see on the left side with their left hand, whereas they will verbally describe what is on the right, giving the appearance of two selves in one body.

    Consciousness across time

    Corvids show remarkable abilities in their sense of self across time. Because they often hide food (scientists call this caching), they can remember not just where they hid food, but also what kind of food it was and how long ago they hid it – which is relevant for more perishable foods such as insects, compared to longer-lasting nuts.

    Here their memory far outstrips our own or, for that matter, most other animals when it comes to hiding objects, with some corvids caching and remembering over a thousand food items in a month for later consumption. No human would be able to remember that many hiding spots.

    Corvids can even plan, collecting and storing a tool such as a spoon for future use.

    Is this magpie waiting for the photographer to go away before it hides its nut?
    Fercast/Shutterstock

    A rich sense of self

    They not only recognise themselves in mirrors, but also understand other minds. Research has shown corvids go back to remove cached food and hide it elsewhere if they know they have been observed – but only if they have stolen from others in the past.

    Male jays will watch the feeding behaviour of a female they want to court, so they can bring their preferred food. Even more solitary corvids, such as ravens, seem to have well-developed social skills, which scientists used to think were largely restricted to mammals.

    In all of this, there is still a great deal of uncertainty. Learning about the minds of other animals requires a great deal of inference from sparse and often ambiguous data. But we believe that there is scientific evidence for rich conscious experiences in corvids. For most species, it is a lack of research, not a lack of capacity, that keeps us silent on what their subjective experiences are like.

    This research also has implications for corvid welfare. Understanding what the world is like for an animal means understanding what feels good and bad for them. Their good memories may mean they suffer longer from a negative experience, neophobia will mean novel objects should be introduced slowly, their social abilities mean they should be housed in groups. Giving them tools could allow them enriching experiences.

    All this should be taken into account when deciding how to care for these birds when kept in cavity, and how to minimise welfare risks in other interactions with them.

    The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. What’s it like being a raven or a crow? – https://theconversation.com/whats-it-like-being-a-raven-or-a-crow-257171

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Oscar Wilde’s The Ballad of Reading Gaol is a work of art activism beloved by Banksy

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Sondeep Kandola, Senior Lecturer in English Literature and Cultural History, Liverpool John Moores University

    Oscar Wilde photographed by Napoleon Sarony (c. 1882). Library of Congress

    In 2021, Banksy revealed a mural of Oscar Wilde, clad in prisoner garb, making an escape from the abandoned Reading jail. The artist claimed that he would donate profits from the sale of the stencil he used to create the work (a projected £10 million) to set up an arts hub in the Grade II listed building.

    This hasn’t yet taken place, but speaking about the work at the time, Banksy dubbed Wilde “the patron saint of smashing two contrasting ideas together to create magic. Converting the place that destroyed him into a refuge for art feels so perfect we have to do it.”

    In 1895, Wilde was sentenced to two years of hard labour for “gross indecency” after being convicted of “homosexual acts”. He was posthumously pardoned in 2017 under the Turing Law.

    The Ballad of Reading Gaol, which he wrote two years after his release, hypnotically details the psychological and physical horrors of living in isolation in unsanitary single-cells for 23 hours a day.

    It also reveals the mind-numbing conditions and physically exhausting jobs that were relentlessly inflicted on prisoners in Wilde’s day. They were required to ascend 56 steps a minute for nine hours a day on a treadmill, break stones and pick oakum (fibres from the ropes used on ships). And to do so in complete silence.

    This article is part of Rethinking the Classics. The stories in this series offer insightful new ways to think about and interpret classic books and artworks. This is the canon – with a twist.

    In the poem, Wilde details the intense surveillance techniques and harsh punishments adopted by the prison wardens against the “outcast men”.

    Oscar Wilde’s prison cell in Reading Gaol as it appears today.
    Jack1956/Wiki Commons

    “Like ape or clown, in monstrous garb,” he writes, the inmates silently trudge the prison yard in their one allotted hour of exercise per day. The poem focuses on one prisoner in particular, named only as CTW, who is sentenced to death for murdering his wife. It traces his walk to the “hideous” shed where he is to be executed, which ghoulishly sees him “cross his own coffin”.

    More gothic images abound. CTW’s impending burial in an unhallowed and anonymous grave is described as “with yawning mouth the horrid hole / Gaped for a living thing” while “the very mud cried out for blood”.

    Wilde also references a scene from Coleridge’s 1797 masterpiece The Rime of the Ancient Mariner as he envisions phantoms dancing a “grisly masque” in which they sing of inexorable triumph of sin in prison, “the Secret House of Shame”.

    Moreover, Wilde denies that the sacrifice that CTW has offered to the prison with his execution is ultimately redemptive for him as:

    He did not pass in purple pomp

    Nor ride a moon-white steed

    Three yards of cord and a sliding board

    Are all the gallows need.

    In the ballad, Wilde represents the prison experience as sadistic and unrelenting. Much like Banksy over a century later, Wilde used the degree of anonymity the poem afforded (he published it under his cell number, C33) to berate an inhumane society and the distressing penal policy of “hard labour, hard fare, hard board” that he was forced to endure.

    The Ballad of Reading Gaol can ultimately be read as a celebration of compassion, resilience and art activism. Through the poem and letters he wrote to the Daily Chronicle, Wilde publicly attempted to “try and change [prison life] for others”.

    Wilde and his lover, Lord Alfred Douglas in 1893.
    British Library

    Despite Wilde’s public notoriety, Irish MPs Michael Davitt and T.P. O’Connor even went as far as to quote the ballad in parliamentary debates, which led to the adoption of some of the recommendations that Wilde had made in his letters in the 1898 Prison Reform Act.

    Although Wilde, himself, was to suffer the psychological and physical effects of his imprisonment until the end of his short life two years later, the 1898 Act saw the treadmill abolished, ensured solitary confinement could only be used for a maximum of 28 days and children were separated from adult prisoners. And yet, sadly, Wilde’s description of “the foul and dark latrine” of “humanity’s machine” continues to reverberate today.

    On August 22 2024, “independent monitors” into the conditions at Wandsworth Prison (where Wilde was briefly held) found it to be “crumbling, overcrowded and vermin-infested, with inmates living in half the cell space available when it was first opened in 1851”.

    While Wilde’s “swan song” joins with Banksy’s escaped prisoner to expose the failings of modern penal practices, it also reminds us of the enduring power of art and imagination to foster change.

    Beyond the canon

    As part of the Rethinking the Classics series, we’re asking our experts to recommend a book or artwork that tackles similar themes to the canonical work in question, but isn’t (yet) considered a classic itself. Here is Sondeep Kandola’s suggestion:

    If you are looking for further reading on the topic of prison life and the prison experience, Andy West’s memoir The Life Inside (2022) offers a sobering and often witty reflection on living in the carceral state today. A philosophy teacher in prison, West explores the notion of freedom, redemption and our broken prison system.

    You might also be interested to read Brendan Behan’s powerful 1958 autobiography Borstal Boy and Bobby Sands’ courageous Writings from Prison (2020), two incarcerated Irish writers who shared Wilde’s republican sympathies and similarly questioned the ethics and integrity of the British government who imprisoned them.

    Sondeep Kandola 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.

    – ref. Oscar Wilde’s The Ballad of Reading Gaol is a work of art activism beloved by Banksy – https://theconversation.com/oscar-wildes-the-ballad-of-reading-gaol-is-a-work-of-art-activism-beloved-by-banksy-237581

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Former Senior Partner at McKinsey & Company Sentenced

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Martin Elling to Serve Six Months in Federal Prison for Obstructing Justice Related to his Work with Purdue Pharma

    ABINGDON, Va. – A former senior partner at McKinsey & Company, a global management consulting firm based in New York, N.Y., that agreed in 2024 to pay $650 million to resolve criminal and civil investigations into the firm’s consulting work with opioids manufacturers, including Purdue Pharma, L.P., was sentenced yesterday to six months in federal prison for obstructing justice related to his work on Purdue matters. In addition, Elling was ordered to serve two years of supervised release following his incarceration, which includes a requirement that he perform 1,000 hours of community service. The court also imposed a $40,000 fine.

    Martin Elling, 60, a U.S. citizen most recently residing in Bangkok, Thailand, pled guilty in January 2025 to a one-count Information charging him with knowingly destroying records with the intent to impede, obstruct, and influence the investigation and proper administration of a matter within the jurisdiction of the United States Department of Justice.

    “Martin Elling willfully destroyed records in order to obstruct a Department of Justice investigation related to the actions of McKinsey & Company, Purdue Pharma and the opioid crisis that has devastated communities in this region. He will now have six months to fully comprehend the consequences of those actions,” Acting United States Attorney Zachary T. Lee said today. “This sentence should be an example to all individuals considering similar actions – if you destroy records, if you impeded a Department of Justice investigation, you will go to jail.”

    “Today’s sentencing sends a resounding message: those who attempt to obstruct justice and conceal the truth – no matter how senior, sophisticated, or well-connected – will be held accountable,” said Leah B. Foley, U.S. Attorney for the District of Massachusetts. “Mr. Elling’s efforts to erase evidence tied to McKinsey’s work with Purdue Pharma were not just a breach of corporate integrity – they were a calculated effort to hinder a federal investigation into one of the most devastating public health crises in our nation’s history. Justice requires the truth, and our office will continue to pursue it wherever the facts lead.”

    “Knowingly destroying records and documents to impede a government investigation into the unlawful prescribing of opioids impairs the ability of law enforcement to do its job and endangers the public health,” said Special Agent in Charge George A. Scavdis of the FDA Office of Criminal Investigations Metro Washington Field Office. “We will continue to investigate and bring to justice those who attempt to thwart these important investigations and whose actions put profits over patient safety.”

    “The opioid epidemic has left a trail of heartbreak across Virginia and the nation,” said Virginia Attorney General Jason Miyares. “I commend both the US Department of Justice and my office’s Medicaid Fraud Control Unit for their exemplary efforts and partnership to ensure justice is served.”

    According to court documents, in May 2013, Purdue engaged McKinsey to recover lost OxyContin sales. Purdue retained McKinsey to conduct a rapid assessment of the underlying drivers of OxyContin performance, identify key opportunities to increase near-term OxyContin revenue and develop plans to capture priority opportunities. This 2013 effort was called Evolve to Excellence, or “E2E,” and included McKinsey advising Purdue on how to “turbocharge” the sales pipeline for OxyContin by, among other strategies, intensifying marketing to High Value Prescribers.

    Elling served as the director of the client services team for approximately 30 of McKinsey’s engagements with Purdue. He had a senior, relationship-focused role with respect to the E2E engagement and was involved in securing the engagement for McKinsey.

    On July 4, 2018, Elling emailed another senior partner: “Just saw in the FT that [Purdue board member] is being sued by states attorneys general for her role on the [Purdue] Board. It probably makes sense to have a quick conversation with the risk committee to see if we should be doing anything other [than] eliminating all our documents and emails. Suspect not but as things get tougher there someone might turn to us.”

    According to court documents, forensic analysis of Elling’s McKinsey-issued laptop found that Elling in fact deleted materials related to McKinsey’s work for Purdue from the laptop, as well as a Purdue-related folder from his Outlook email account. On August 22, 2018, Elling emailed himself an apparent to-do list, with the subject line, “When home.” The items listed included: “delete old pur [Purdue Pharma] documents from laptop[.]” Forensic analysis of Elling’s laptop by the Department of Justice’s Computer Crimes and Intellectual Property Section determined that between approximately April 2018 and September 2018, Elling removed a folder titled “Purdue” (which included a subfolder entitled “Strategy”) from his Windows operating system that contained more than 100 items for whom the filenames indicate they were from as far back as 2004 and included the name of the Purdue Pharma CEO at the time of the origination of the Purdue Pharma engagements with McKinsey. The CEO was among the former Purdue Pharma executives who, in 2007, pled guilty and was convicted of misbranding in United States District Court in Abingdon.

    On August 25, 2018, Elling emailed himself the following, “Remove Pur[due] folder from garbage[.]” Elling was aware of the investigations into Purdue Pharma’s conduct and knowingly deleted folders, documents, and emails from his McKinsey-issued laptop knowing these documents would be pertinent to those investigations.

    The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Randy Ramseyer of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Virginia; Assistant United States Attorneys Amanda P. Masselam Strachan and William B. Brady of the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Massachusetts; Senior Trial Counsel Kristen M. Echemendia of the Civil Division’s Commercial Litigation Branch (Fraud Section); Trial Attorneys Jessica Harvey and Steven R. Scott of the Civil Division’s Consumer Protection Branch; and Special Assistant United States Attorneys and Assistant Attorneys General Kristin Gray and Kimberly Bolton of the Virginia Office of the Attorney General’s Medicaid Fraud Control Unit.

    The matter was investigated by the Food and Drug Administration – Office of Criminal Investigations, Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Offices of the Inspector General of the Department of Health and Human Services, Department of Veterans Affairs, and Office of Personnel Management, with assistance from the Department of Justice’s Computer Crimes and Intellectual Property Section.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Seconds from Disaster: Rescued from Submerged Car in McKenzie River

    Source: US Coast Guard (video statements)

    Darla West, sister of Linn West, was dramatically rescued by a Coast Guard Air Station North Bend aircrew after her car was swept into the frigid waters of the McKenzie River in Oregon. Trapped in her car as it was partially submerged, Darla clung to hope and remained remarkably calm while awaiting help. The swift response of the Coast Guard, navigating challenging terrain and swift currents, proved lifesaving.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_qTZKWPHebo

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Security: New Orleans Man Guilty of Drug Trafficking and Possessing AR-15 Pistol Inside Hospital

    Source: US FBI

    NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA –ERIC FALKINS (“FALKINS”), age 19, a resident of New Orleans, pleaded guilty on May 8, 2025, before Chief U.S. District Judge Nanette Jolivette Brown, to conspiracy to distribute, and possess with the intent to distribute, marijuana, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(D), and 846; possession with the intent to distribute marijuana, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(D); and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c)(1)(A)(i).

    According to court documents, FALKINS had been selling marijuana in New Orleans since at least 2023, and conspiring with others to help him sell drugs.  On January 24, 2024, FALKINS went to Touro Infirmary hospital in New Orleans to visit a patient.  FALKINS brought a backpack inside the hospital that smelled like marijuana.  Inside the backpack, were two plastic bags containing distributable quantities of marijuana; 17 sealed, pre-packaged bags of marijuana; a sealed bag of marijuana edibles; two digital scales; and a Radical Firearms Model RF-15, multi-caliber semi-automatic pistol, loaded with 29 rounds of ammunition. 

    As to each of his drug trafficking convictions, FALKINS faces up to 5 years in prison, up to a $250,000 fine, and a minimum of two years of supervised release.  As to his conviction for possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, he faces a mandatory minimum sentence of five years and up to life in prison, which must run consecutively to any other sentence, and up to five years of supervised release.  Each count also carries a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.

    This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone.  On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

    The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.  Assistant United States Attorney David Berman of the Violent Crime Unit is in charge of the prosecution.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: New Orleans Man Sentenced for Federal Firearms Offense

    Source: US FBI

    NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – LaMICHAEL JACKSON (“JACKSON”), age 26, was sentenced on May 8, 2025 by U.S. District Judge Eldon E. Fallon to thirty-nine (39) months in prison followed by three years of supervised release, along with a $100 mandatory special assessment fee, after previously pleading guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm, in violation of 18 U.S.C. §§ 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(8).

    According to court documents, New Orleans Police Department (NOPD) officers on patrol in Hollygrove saw JACKSON crossing the street holding a Palmetto State Armory Model PA-15 pistol. JACKSON fled in a vehicle before being cut off by an NOPD patrol car.  Inside the vehicle, officers recovered a second gun belonging to JACKSON, a Glock Model 43x, nine-millimeter handgun.  Both firearms were loaded when they were recovered.  JACKSON is prohibited from possessing a firearm by prior felony convictions for aggravated assault with a firearm, and possession of a firearm with an obliterated serial number.

    This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone.  On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

    The case was investigated by the New Orleans Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.  It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney David Berman of the Violent Crime Unit.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: New Orleans Man Caught on Video Firing Gun and Driving Stolen Car Sentenced to 15 Years in Prison for Machinegun and Drug Trafficking Crimes

    Source: US FBI

    NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – RENARD SANTIAGO (“SANTIAGO”), age 19, was sentenced on May 13, 2025 by U.S. District Judge Wendy B. Vitter to fifteen (15) years in prison, followed by four (4) years of supervised release, along with a mandatory $400 special assessment fee, after previously pleading guilty to conspiracy, and possession with the intent to distribute, marijuana, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(D), and 846; possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c)(1)(A)(i); and possession of a machinegun, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(o) and 924(a)(2).

    According to court documents, in 2024, SANTIAGO was wanted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (“FBI”) and the New Orleans Police Department.  Specifically, an arrest warrant had been issued for SANTIAGO for an armed robbery committed on October 10, 2023.  On December 25, 2023,he was captured on surveillance video firing a handgun with a drum magazine attached and then driving away in a stolen SUV.  During their investigation into his whereabouts, law enforcement officers saw stories on SANTIAGO’s social media account showing SANTIAGO in possession of a handgun equipped with a machinegun conversion device, posing with large amounts of cash, and advertising the sale of marijuana.  The next day, officers executed a search warrant at SANTIAGO’s residence.  SANTIAGO hid in the attic for four hours before he was finally forced out of the house.  Inside the attic, officers found SANTIAGO’s handgun, with the machinegun conversion device still attached, a distributable quantity of marijuana, and over $400 in cash.

    This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone.  On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

    The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the New Orleans Police Department.  It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney David Berman of the Violent Crime Unit.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Federal Grand Jury Returns Indictment Charging Two Men Involved in Robberies at Stores in Shreveport

    Source: US FBI

    SHREVEPORT, La. – Acting United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook announced that a federal grand jury has returned an indictment charging two men for their involvement in the robbery of two stores in Shreveport. 

    Kevin Terrell Lewis a/k/a “Kelvin Lewis,” 38, of Arlington, Texas, and his brother, Larry Dewayne Lewis, 44, of Shreveport, have been charged with two counts of robbery and one count of conspiracy to using, carrying, brandishing and discharging firearms during and in relation to a crime of violence. Kelvin Lewis was also charged with two counts of using, carrying, and brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence.

    The indictment alleges that on or about December 23, 2024, Kelvin Lewis and Larry Lewis, each aided and abetted by the other, committed robbery of personal property consisting of approximately $500 in United States currency from the victim owner/manager of the Pull-Up Liquor located at 5619 Hearne Avenue in Shreveport, as he was closing the store and walking to his car in the parking lot. 

    The indictment further alleges that on or about January 22, 2025, Kelvin Lewis and Larry Lewis, each aided and abetted by the other, committed robbery of personal property consisting of prescription drugs and a work van that was in the care, custody and control of victim B.J. as he was making a delivery from the Hackbarth Company to Walgreens located at 3124 Line Avenue in Shreveport. 

    Kelvin Lewis is charged in the indictment with using, carrying, and brandishing semi-automatic firearms during and in relation to these crimes of violence. The indictment also alleges that Kelvin Lewis and Larry Lewis conspired to use, carry, brandish and discharge a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, namely, robbery.

    If convicted, each defendant faces a sentence of not less than 10 years or more than life in prison, and a fine of up to $250,000.  

    Larry Dewayne Lewis is currently in federal custody after being indicted on February 5, 2025, and charged with one count of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. 

    This investigation is ongoing and is being led by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Shreveport Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys J. Aaron Crawford and William C. Gaskins.

    An indictment is merely an accusation, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

    # # #

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Nine-year-old bitten and dingo injured on K’gari

    Source: Tasmania Police

    Issued: 23 May 2025

    A nine-year-old boy has been injured after a dingo attack at Yidney Rocks at K’gari/Fraser Island.

    The dingo was injured by passers-by who ran to the boy’s aid.

    The boy has been transported to hospital for treatment.

    Rangers are now searching for the dingo and will increase patrols in the area.

    Visitors to K’gari/Fraser Island are reminded to keep a stick with them, and watch children at all times.

    Report any concerning dingo encounters by calling 07 4127 9150 or emailing dingo.ranger@des.qld.gov.au

    Visitors to K’gari are reminded to Be dingo-safe! at all times:

    • Always stay close (within arm’s reach) to children and young teenagers
    • Always walk in groups and carry a stick
    • Never feed dingoes
    • Camp in fenced areas where possible
    • Do not run. Running or jogging can trigger a negative dingo interaction
    • Lock up food stores and iceboxes (even on a boat)
    • Never store food or food containers in tents, and
    • Secure all rubbish, fish and bait.

    For more information go to K’gari dingoes.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI: ALRMiner Launches Smarter System to Boost Returns and Cut Energy Use

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Monmouth, Monmouthshire, May 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —

    The platform has evolved to accommodate the needs of its growing customer base throughout the years. ALRMiner introduced their revolutionary Mining Optimization System to enhance operational consistency and decrease  electricity use throughout their global mining operations. The platform of ALR Miner reached 7.9 million users  in 180 countries which represents a major growth milestone.

    This strategic rollout addresses long-standing inefficiencies in cloud mining by enabling real-time resource allocation based on blockchain load, network demand, and power availability. By continually adjusting its operations to match market and environmental dynamics, the platform now delivers greater reward stability without increasing hardware strain or energy consumption.

    The new system evaluates variables such as network congestion, mining difficulty, and local energy cost patterns, rerouting computing capacity accordingly. The impact is immediate: more consistent returns for users and reduced energy draw during low-efficiency cycles.

    “This launch is the result of years of disciplined engineering and field testing,” said Olivia Miller, Director of Communications at ALR Miner. “We’re not just scaling infrastructure—we’re refining the very core of how mining works. Our users expect reliable, transparent results. This system delivers just that, with smarter energy use and more predictable rewards.”

    During the multi-region trial phase, ALR Miner observed a 22% improvement in daily yield accuracy and a 30% reduction in unnecessary power usage across its Canada, Nordic, and Eastern European operations. The company’s design and energy teams coordinated across five time zones to ensure the update seamlessly integrates with every active contract.

    This latest development supports ALR Miner’s overarching commitment to responsible and sustainable growth. Each of its facilities runs on clean energy—predominantly solar, hydroelectric, and wind. The optimization system really enhances this eco-friendly model by adjusting to changes in renewable energy availability on the fly. So when there’s more stress on the grid or whenever the solar energy production drops, the system quickly adapts to keep everything running efficiently without losing any output.

    Here’s What ALR Miner Users Can Expect: 

    • Payouts every day that are more reliable: The system is set up to handle tasks quickly, so returns will stay steady no matter what level of contract you choose. 
    • Aligning with the environment: The platform also runs on renewable energy, which is good for the environment because it means less reliance on fossil fuels.
    • Hassle-Free Integration: Users don’t have to lift a finger; everything runs smoothly on the platform itself. 

    ALR Miner simplifies the mining process for both newcomers and experienced miners alike. There are no hidden fees, no need for personal equipment, and everything is transparent. With its optimization system now launched, ALR Miner is committed to technical integrity, environmental care, and user satisfaction. 

    To get more details or check out contract options, https://alrminer.com

    Media Contact:
     Olivia Miller
    Director of Communications
    media@alrminer.com
    +44 7514 226545

    Company Address:
     ALR Miner Headquarters
    78 Queen Street, Monmouthshire, UK

    Disclaimer: This press release is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice, legal advice, or investment recommendations. Cryptocurrency involves risk and market volatility. Please research or consult a licensed financial advisor before making investment decisions. Alrminer.com and associated parties are not liable for any financial loss incurred.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: TerraVest Industries Inc. Announces Closing of Upsized Bought Deal Offering of Common Shares and Concurrent Closing of the Over-Allotment Option

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO U.S. NEWSWIRE SERVICES OR FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES.

    TORONTO, May 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — TerraVest Industries Inc. (TSX:TVK) (“TerraVest” or the “Company”) is pleased to announce that it has closed its previously announced bought deal treasury offering (the “Offering”) and concurrent closing of the exercise in full of the over-allotment option granted to a syndicate of underwriters (the “Underwriters”) with National Bank Financial Markets, Canaccord Genuity, and Desjardins Capital Markets acting as Co-Bookrunners. Pursuant to the Offering, the Company issued an aggregate 2,001,000 common shares (the “Shares”) at a price of $160.30 per share (the “Offer Price”) for gross proceeds of $320,760,300. The gross proceeds include 261,000 Shares issued at the same Offer Price for gross proceeds of $41,838,300 on the exercise in full of the over-allotment option granted to the Underwriters.

    The net proceeds from the Offering will be initially allocated towards repaying existing debt and supporting general corporate activities, until required for future acquisitions or growth opportunities.

    ABOUT TERRAVEST INDUSTRIES INC.:

    TerraVest is a diversified industrial company that manufactures and sells goods and services to a variety of end-markets. The Company is a market-leading manufacturer of home heating products, propane, anhydrous ammonia (“NH3”) and natural gas liquids (“NGL”) transport vehicles and storage vessels, energy processing equipment and fiberglass storage tanks. TerraVest is focused on acquiring and operating market-leading businesses that will benefit from TerraVest’s financial and operational support. For more information on the Company, please visit https://terravestindustries.com/. Additional information relating to the Company, including all public filings, is available on SEDAR+ (www.sedarplus.ca).

    FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:
    Dustin Haw         
    Chief Executive Officer         
    TerraVest Industries Inc.         
    ir@terravestindustries.com

    Caution Concerning Forward-Looking Statements

    This news release contains forward-looking statements. All statements other than statements of historical fact contained in this news release are forward-looking statements, including, without limitation, statements regarding the use of proceeds of the Offering, potential for future acquisitions by TerraVest, our strategic direction and evaluation of the business segments and TerraVest as a whole, TerraVest’s plans with respect to its existing portfolio businesses and long-term acquisition strategy and other plans and objectives of or involving TerraVest. Readers can identify many of these statements by looking for words such as “expects” and “will” or similar terms or variations of these words. Although management believes that the expectations represented in such forward-looking statements are reasonable, there can be no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct.

    By their nature, forward-looking statements require us to make assumptions and, accordingly, forward-looking statements are subject to inherent risks and uncertainties. There is significant risk that the forward-looking statements will not prove to be accurate. We caution readers of this news release not to place undue reliance on our forward-looking statements because a number of factors may cause actual future circumstances, results, conditions, actions or events to differ materially from the plans, expectations, estimates or intentions expressed in the forward-looking statements and the assumptions underlying the forward-looking statements.

    Assumptions and analysis about the performance of TerraVest as a whole and its business segments, the markets in which the business segments compete and the prospects and values of the business segments are considered in setting the business plan for TerraVest, plans and/or ability to pay dividends, outlook for operations, financial position, results and cash flows, other plans and objectives and in making related forward-looking statements. Such assumptions include, without limitation, demand for products and services of the business segments in respect of the Canadian and other markets in which the businesses are active will be stable, and that input costs to business segments do not vary significantly from levels experienced historically. Should any of these factors or assumptions vary, actual results may differ materially from the forward-looking statements.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Free Psychic Love Reading [2025] Best Love Psychics Online

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Las Vegas, Nevada, May 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Are you feeling lost in love, unsure about your current relationship, or curious about what’s ahead in your romantic future? A free psychic love reading can provide the clarity and guidance you need. Whether you’re navigating heartbreak, looking for your soulmate, or wanting to deepen your current bond, the best love psychics offer real insights that can transform your love life.

    ⇒ Connect with Real Love Psychics – First Reading Free!

    In a major update that’s generating buzz among spiritual seekers and those looking for clarity in love, the-psychic-experts.com has released its highly anticipated 2025 report on the best love psychic services offering free psychic love readings.

    Get a free psychic love reading from the best love psychics online! Accurate, compassionate, and trusted by thousands seeking clarity in relationships.

    ⇒ Connect with the Best Love Psychics Instantly – Free Reading Available

    An Urgent Need for Love Clarity in 2025

    According to the team at the-psychic-experts.com, more people than ever are turning to love psychics to answer deep emotional questions that traditional relationship advice can’t always solve. “People want clarity. They want confirmation, and they want it from a trusted source,” says a spokesperson for the site.

    This latest update from the-psychic-experts.com is designed to demystify the often-confusing world of free psychic love reading services, guiding users toward the most trusted and accurate web options without spending money upfront.

    Discover your romantic future with a free psychic love reading. Connect now with the best love psychics for clarity, truth, and emotional guidance.

    ⇒ Your Love Reading Is Waiting – Free Session from Trusted Psychics

    Who Should Explore Free Psychic Love Reading Services?

    If you’ve ever asked yourself any of the following:

    • Is my partner really my soulmate?
    • Will my ex come back?
    • Why do I keep attracting the same type of person?
    • What is blocking me from finding love?
    •  Should I stay in this relationship or walk away?

    Then, a psychic love reading could offer insights you haven’t considered. Even skeptics are often surprised by the accuracy of their readings, especially when they go in with an open heart and the right questions.

    Looking for answers in love? Try a free psychic love reading with the best love psychics. Accurate, compassionate, and available 24/7 to guide you.

    ⇒ Discover What the Best Love Psychics See in Your Future – Free Session

    How Psychic Experts Rank The Best Love Psychics

    This newly launched report results from months of careful evaluation by the psychic experts
    editorial and research teams. Platforms were reviewed based on multiple criteria:

    • Reader accuracy and connection quality
    • Transparency in pricing and session flow
    • Accessibility to free love psychic reading trials
    • User satisfaction and real testimonials
    •  Availability of love-focused psychics

    “We know how painful it can be to feel lost in your love life,” the spokesperson concluded. “This new report is for the people who are ready to stop guessing and start receiving answers.”

    With a rising number of people now searching for free psychic love reading, this announcement marks a significant moment in 2025’s spiritual and emotional wellness landscape.

    Unlock love insights with a free psychic love reading from the best love psychics. Trusted, accurate, and ready to reveal what’s next in your relationship.

    ⇒ Connect with the Best Love Psychics for a Free Love Reading Now

    What Is a Psychic Love Reading and How It Works

    In a world where love is more complicated than ever, many seek guidance beyond traditional advice. Whether it’s the uncertainty of modern dating, the pain of a breakup, or the confusion of emotions that come with long-term relationships, people are turning to a different kind of wisdom: psychic love reading.

    What exactly is a psychic love reading? How does it work, and can it offer real answers? Let’s break it down so you know what to expect when you begin this spiritual journey through free psychic love reading sessions.

    ⇒ Ask Your Love Question Today – First Psychic Reading Is Free

    Understanding the Core Concept

    A psychic love reading is a spiritual insight focused on your romantic life. Unlike general psychic readings that might touch on career, money, or family, this type of reading is laser-focused on your heart, emotions, desires, past, and potential romantic future.

    These readings are conducted by gifted individuals who use various intuitive tools or extrasensory perception to tune into your energy and love life. Depending on the reader, tools like tarot cards, astrology charts, or clairvoyance might be used to help explore the answers to your love questions to ask a psychic.

    Some people might ask, “What is a psychic really seeing when they look into my love life?” A good psychic doesn’t just tell you what you want to hear. They sense emotional patterns, energies between people, and potential timelines for romantic outcomes.

    ⇒ Get Real Answers from the Best Love Psychics – Free Session Awaits

    The Role of Energy in Love Psychic Sessions

    Energy drives everything, especially relationships. Whether you are trying to attract someone, wondering if an ex will return, or questioning whether you should walk away from a connection, energy plays a central role.

    In a love psychic session, the reader tunes into your energetic field. They pick up on emotional imprints left by past relationships and current romantic attachments. Think of it like scanning a frequency. Just as radio can tune in to different channels, love psychics can tune in to the energetic story of your heart.

    This is why it’s essential to come with clarity and openness. The more honest and receptive you are, the more accurate and insightful your free psychic love reading will likely be.

    ⇒ Start Your Free Love Psychic Reading – Trusted Experts Online Now

    How a Love Psychic Reading Session Works

    While each session may vary depending on the psychic’s abilities and methods, most psychic love reading experiences follow a general structure:

    1. Connection – The session begins with the psychic connecting to your energy or asking for a specific focus (e.g., your love life).
    2. Questioning – You are often encouraged to ask a free psychic love question. This could be about a current partner, a crush, your emotional past, or the future.
    3. Revelation – The psychic provides information based on what they sense or see. They may use spiritual tools to give context to their insights.
    4. Clarification – You can ask follow-up questions for further details.
    5. Advice – Many readers close the session by offering emotional guidance or affirmations to help you move forward.

    ⇒ Start a Free Love Reading – Talk to the Best Psychics Online

    If you’re unsure of what to say during your session, you can prepare some of the most common questions to ask a psychic about love, such as:

    • Is this person right for me?
    • Will I find true love soon?
    • Is my ex thinking about me?
    • Am I emotionally ready for a relationship?
    • How can I attract the right partner?

    Get the answers your heart needs with a free psychic love reading. Connect with the best love psychics and discover the truth about your relationship path.

    ⇒ Reveal the Truth About Your Love Life with a Free Psychic Reading

    Why People Choose Psychic Love Reading Services

    There’s no shortage of advice on love with books, podcasts, blogs, and therapists. So why are so many people searching for a free love psychic reading?

    The answer lies in intuition. Sometimes, logical advice doesn’t quite resonate. You may already know what your friends or therapist will say, but a psychic taps into a realm of emotional and spiritual truth that transcends surface-level understanding.

    Here’s why people often choose a psychic love reading:

    • They want spiritual validation for feelings they can’t explain.
    • They’re seeking closure or clarity about a breakup.
    • They feel stuck in repetitive dating patterns.
    • They want to know the emotional intentions of another person.
    • They’re curious about soulmate or twin flame connections.

    For many, a session with a love psychic is less about prediction and more about perspective.

    Discover what your heart needs to know with a free psychic love reading. Only the best love psychics deliver real, honest answers.

    ⇒ Find Peace in Love – Start a Free Psychic Reading with Love Experts

    Are Love Psychic Readings Accurate?

    This is one of the most common concerns for anyone new to psychic services. The truth is that accuracy can vary depending on the reader, your own energy, and your openness.

    That said, many users report surprisingly specific and meaningful revelations during their free psychic love reading. It’s important to note that psychic insights are not set in stone. They’re more like weather forecasts, reading current emotional conditions and offering probable outcomes based on those energies.

    But remember, free will plays a role in any outcome. A good love psychic helps you make informed decisions; they don’t force one version of the future on you.

    Get powerful love insights today with a free psychic love reading. Connect instantly with the best love psychics for trusted guidance.

    ⇒ Meet the Best Love Psychics – Your First Reading Is Totally Free!

    What Happens When You Ask a Free Psychic Love Question?

    One of the biggest draws of services offered at the-psychic-experts.com is the ability to ask a free psychic love question before committing to a longer session. It lets you test the waters, see how the psychic responds, and get a feel for their approach, all without risk.

    When you ask a free psychic love question, you’ll want to keep it focused and open-ended. 

    For example:

    • “What can you tell me about my current romantic connection?”
    • “What’s blocking me from finding lasting love?”
    • “What do I need to know about this person I’m dating?”

    Depending on the reader’s style, the answer may include emotional context, timelines, or even symbolic interpretations.

    Explore your romantic path with a free psychic love reading. Talk to the best love psychics now for deep, personal revelations.

    ⇒ Struggling in Love? Get a Free Psychic Love Reading Today

    Are Psychic Love Readings Only for Single People?

    Not at all. Psychic love reading sessions are just as powerful for people in long-term relationships. You might seek clarity about your partner’s emotional availability, long-term compatibility, or whether the relationship is still aligned with your life path.

    Even married couples seek love psychic reading free sessions to better understand each other or rekindle passion. It’s not about suspicion or insecurity but emotional growth and deeper insight.

    Whether navigating a breakup, manifesting your soulmate, or struggling to communicate with a current partner, a psychic love reading can offer the clarity that traditional methods often miss.
    You’re taking an empowering step toward emotional wisdom and spiritual alignment by focusing your questions, keeping an open mind, and choosing the right resource, like those offered through the-psychic-experts.com.

    ⇒ Experience your free psychic love reading and explore what love has in store!

    Benefits of Getting a Psychic Love Reading

    A psychic love reading isn’t just a novel experience; it can be deeply transformative. People often seek these sessions when they feel stuck, confused, heartbroken, or curious. However, once they go through the process, they often discover benefits beyond simple answers about their love life.

    Let’s take a comprehensive look at the real-world emotional, spiritual, and relational benefits of free psychic love reading. Whether you believe in spiritual energy or are simply open to alternative perspectives, there’s something to be gained from this journey into the heart’s mysteries.

    Deep Emotional Clarity

    Sometimes, love makes us feel foggy. We second-guess ourselves, misinterpret signs, or obsess over what our partner is thinking. A psychic love reading helps you see through the emotional clutter and clarifies what’s happening within your love life.

    A skilled love psychic tunes into your emotional patterns and translates them into words and truths you may not have been able to articulate yourself. The result is not just clarity but also peace of mind.

    ⇒ Ask a Free Psychic Love Question – Get Guidance from Real Experts

    Objective Spiritual Insight

    Unlike friends or family, who often have emotional attachments to your decisions, love psychics provide a non-judgmental space to receive guidance. When you ask a free psychic love question, the response comes from a neutral, spiritual place. This can be incredibly helpful when you feel your social circle isn’t giving you the guidance you need or simply want insight without interference.

    Since their feedback is based on energy, intuition, or spiritual tools rather than opinions or expectations, it offers a refreshing level of objectivity.

    Answers to Unspoken Questions

    There are some things we hesitate to ask others, such as questions we carry in our hearts but never say out loud. You can voice those hidden doubts and curiosities through a free love psychic reading.

    Many people use this space to explore emotionally intense or taboo subjects:

    • Is my partner still thinking about their ex?
    • Why do I feel disconnected in this relationship?
    • Am I blocking myself from love?

    These may be difficult topics to discuss openly, but love psychics are attuned to handling emotional depth without discomfort.

    ⇒ Explore Your Love Path with a Free Psychic Love Reading

    Validation of Your Intuition

    Have you ever had a “gut feeling” about someone but dismissed it? Then, months later, I realized you were right. One of the subtle but powerful benefits of a psychic love reading is that it can validate what you already know deep down.

    When a psychic echoes something you’ve been feeling or suspecting, it reinforces your own inner voice. That sense of confirmation can empower you to trust yourself more in future decisions.

    Releasing Past Baggage

    Past relationships often leave energetic imprints that continue to influence your present. You may not realize that you’re carrying emotional weight from an old connection until a love psychic reading free session reveals it.

    Psychics can sense lingering attachments, unresolved emotions, or karmic ties that are subtly affecting your ability to move forward. Once these are acknowledged, they can be addressed and released. This emotional clearing creates space for new, healthier love to enter your life.

    Guidance During Uncertainty

    The unknown can be terrifying, especially when it comes to love. You may deal with long-distance dynamics, non-committal partners, confusing breakups, or love triangles. In these moments of doubt, a free psychic love reading can offer clarity and guidance that helps you make confident decisions.

    Even if you don’t get definitive answers, spiritual insight allows you to navigate difficult emotional terrain with more strength and awareness.

    ⇒ No More Uncertainty in Love. Get Started with Free Psychic Love Reading!

    Exploring Future Possibilities

    Not all psychic love reading sessions are about resolving problems. Many people turn to love psychics to get a preview of what’s to come.

    Through these sessions, you may gain a better understanding of:

    • Potential romantic partners entering your life
    • Relationship timelines and milestones
    • Compatibility with new people you’re dating
    • Spiritual or emotional development within your relationship

    While nothing is set in stone, having a glimpse of potential outcomes can help you plan, prepare, or protect your heart accordingly.

    Better Decision-Making in Love

    When you’re emotionally involved, decision-making can be difficult. Your mind might say one thing while your heart says another. A psychic love reading acts as a spiritual compass to help you make love-related decisions more confidently.

    Should you give someone another chance? Is it time to move on? Can the relationship be saved? These are just some love questions to ask a psychic that can help you weigh your choices more effectively.

    ⇒ Connect with the Best Love Psychics Instantly – Free Reading Available

    Enhancing Self-Awareness

    One of the most overlooked benefits of a free psychic love reading is how much you learn about yourself. The reading may highlight patterns in how you show up in love, your emotional blind spots, or even the kinds of energy you attract.

    Self-awareness is the foundation of healthy relationships. When you understand your emotional makeup better, you can cultivate deeper, more authentic connections with others.

    Boosting Your Manifestation Abilities

    In the spiritual world, manifestation is attracting what you desire into your life. When you receive insight from a love psychic, you’re given tools and advice to help align your energy with what you truly want, whether it’s a soulmate, commitment, or emotional healing.

    Many users of free love psychic reading services report that after receiving their reading, they felt more aligned, confident, and clear about what to attract next.

    ⇒ Discover What’s Next in Your Love Life – Free Reading Included

    Peace of Mind Through Honest Answers

    At the end of the day, most people simply want peace of mind. Even if the answers you receive from a psychic love reading are not what you hoped to hear, there is comfort in knowing the truth. Being able to stop guessing and start healing is a powerful gift.

    Whether you’re getting back in the dating pool or healing from heartbreak, sometimes knowing is better than not knowing.

    Accessible & Affordable Support

    Another important benefit? Accessibility. You don’t need to book a therapist or wait weeks for an appointment. At the-psychic-experts.com, you can ask a free psychic love question and immediately start receiving insights. This kind of immediate support is invaluable when emotions are running high or you need guidance at the moment.

    Plus, getting a free psychic love question answered allows you to test the service without commitment. That level of accessibility makes spiritual guidance feel much more reachable for people who’ve never tried it before.

    Breaking Negative Dating Patterns

    Many people unknowingly fall into the same toxic patterns again and again. You may keep attracting emotionally unavailable partners or getting involved in one-sided relationships. A psychic love reading can help identify those recurring issues so you can break free from them.

    It offers the chance to step back, see the bigger picture, and understand what you’re being called to change. 

    ⇒ Ask Your First Psychic Love Question – No Charge, No Waiting

    Feeling Spiritually Supported

    Even for skeptics, there is something comforting about knowing the universe (or something greater) is listening. When you engage in a free psychic love reading, you connect with a larger spiritual reality that assures you you’re not alone in your emotional journey.

    This support can be deeply reassuring during times of loneliness or confusion. You may even leave the session feeling lighter, hopeful, and emotionally recharged.

    Developing a Regular Reflective Practice

    Psychic love reading can become part of a regular spiritual or emotional wellness practice for those who find value in it. Just as some people see therapists or journal regularly, others check in with love psychics to help them stay emotionally balanced and spiritually aligned.

    Even one question can lead to profound shifts in perspective, especially when done consistently over time.

    ⇒ Take the first step and ask your free psychic love question now!

    Who Are Free Psychic Love Readings Best For?

    While a free psychic love reading can offer value to virtually anyone interested in love or relationships, specific groups benefit most from this form of spiritual guidance. Love is universal, but the questions we ask and the answers we need vary depending on our emotional experiences and personal journeys.

    Let’s take a closer look at the kinds of individuals who may find tremendous value in exploring a free love psychic reading and how different relationship stages or challenges may call for different types of insight.

    ⇒ Find Clarity Now – Free Love Psychic Reading by Top Psychics

    The Recently Heartbroken

    Breakups leave people emotionally shaken and mentally confused. If you’ve recently gone through a painful breakup or separation, a psychic love reading can help you make sense of what just happened. You may be wondering:

    • Was it the right decision?
    • Will they come back?
    • Did they really love me?

    By asking a free psychic love question, you can receive spiritual insight that soothes your heart and gives you a better understanding of the deeper purpose behind the connection and the separation.

    The Hopeful Romantics

    If you still believe in love despite disappointments or setbacks, you’re likely craving clarity about what the future holds. A love psychic reading free session is perfect for those who are hopeful yet unsure.

    You might want to know:

    • When will I meet my soulmate?
    • Is love in my near future?
    • Am I emotionally ready for a new relationship?

    A good love psychic can help you understand the energy you’re currently radiating and what kind of relationship it’s likely to attract. If there are blocks, emotional, spiritual, or karmic, you’ll get guidance on how to release them.

    Singles Looking for Direction

    Being single can be empowering but also disorienting, especially when you’re actively looking for love but unsure where or how to find it. A free psychic love reading offers emotional encouragement and practical insight into how you’re energetically positioned.

    You may want to know:

    • What kind of partner should I be looking for?
    • Are my standards aligned with my emotional needs?
    • Is someone from my past still affecting my ability to move forward?

    When you ask a free psychic love question, you open a doorway to more conscious dating grounded in intuition rather than guesswork.

    ⇒ Get a Free Love Reading Online – Ask One Psychic Question Today

    Those in Complicated Relationships

    Not all relationships are picture-perfect. Many people are involved in situationships, long-distance romances, secret love affairs, or emotionally unstable connections. In these tangled dynamics, advice from friends or even therapists may fall short.

    That’s where a love psychic reading can help illuminate the deeper soul-level lessons behind the relationship:

    • Is this person truly my match?
    • Why do I feel so connected despite the chaos?
    • Should I stay and fight for it, or is it time to let go?

    Whether you’re dealing with commitment issues, an emotional rollercoaster, or an undefined bond, a free psychic love question can help you understand what’s really happening beneath the surface.

    People Facing Major Relationship Decisions

    Making big decisions in your love life, such as moving in together, getting married, or separating, often brings emotional overwhelm. If your heart and mind are at odds, a free love psychic reading can serve as a spiritual compass.

    This kind of reading is perfect for:

    • Engaged couples looking for validation
    • People questioning long-term compatibility
    • Individuals struggling with when or how to let go

    The answers you receive won’t dictate your life, but they can clarify your thoughts and give you the courage to make choices with confidence and spiritual support.

    ⇒ Start a Free Psychic Love Session with the Best Experts in 2025

    Those Curious About a Past Connection

    Sometimes, a former partner lingers in your thoughts or dreams long after the relationship ends. A psychic love reading may reveal unresolved energy or emotional bonds that haven’t been broken yet.

    You might ask:

    • Why can’t I stop thinking about them?
    • Was it a karmic or soulmate connection?
    • Will our paths cross again?

    These are powerful love questions to ask a psychic, especially when seeking closure or trying to understand what the relationship means in a broader, spiritual sense.

    ⇒ Ask a Free Psychic Love Question Right Now – Real Answers Only

    Emotionally Blocked Individuals

    Some people have been hurt so deeply that they struggle to open up again. A love psychic can help identify emotional wounds, subconscious blocks, or even generational patterns that keep someone close to love.

    In these cases, the reading becomes less about predicting romance and more about energetic healing. This is a powerful journey for those who:

    • Feel emotionally numb
    • Constantly attract unavailable partners
    • Have trust issues rooted in trauma

    A free psychic love reading can act as the first step in a healing process that gently reopens your heart and helps you believe in love again.

    Conclusion

    A free psychic love reading offers clarity, empowerment, and emotional healing. Whether you’re curious about a new connection, heartbroken from a past one, or simply looking for insight into your future, a love psychic can help illuminate the path.

    The value of these sessions lies in their ability to help people uncover hidden emotional patterns, identify romantic potential, and understand soul-level relationships. The experience is personal and often profound, especially when one is dealing with uncertainty in love or facing a crossroads in one’s romantic life.

    At the-psychic-experts.com, you can ask a free psychic love question and receive a personalized response tailored to your emotional and spiritual needs. These readings are about understanding who you are, how you connect, and how to open your heart more fully.

    If you’ve been struggling with matters of the heart, now is the time to seek insight from a trusted guide. Discover what’s possible for your love life, starting with a free love psychic reading from a platform ranked among the best by the psychic experts.

    FAQs 

    What is a psychic love reading?

    A psychic love reading is a session with a spiritual advisor who uses intuition, energy reading, or divination tools to provide insights into your romantic life.

    Can I really get a free psychic love reading online?

    Yes, many platforms, including the-psychic-experts.com, offer the option to ask a free psychic love question or receive a limited free love psychic reading to help you get started.

    What are the best love questions to ask a psychic?

    You can ask about timing (“When will I meet someone?”), compatibility (“Is this person right for me?”), or spiritual bonds (“Is this my soulmate?”). Choose questions to ask a psychic about love specific to your situation.

    Who are love psychics best suited for?

    Love psychics are ideal for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of their romantic life, whether you’re single, dating, healing from heartbreak, or in a complicated relationship.

    Media Contact
    Company: The Psychic Experts
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    Email: support@the-psychic-experts.com
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    URL: https://the-psychic-experts.com/
    Phone: +1 414-203-2598
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    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Imperial Petroleum Inc. Reports First Quarter 2025 Financial and Operating Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    ATHENS, Greece, May 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — IMPERIAL PETROLEUM INC. (NASDAQ: IMPP; the “Company”), a ship-owning company providing petroleum products, crude oil and dry bulk seaborne transportation services, announced today its unaudited financial and operating results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2025.

    OPERATIONAL AND FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

    • Fleet operational utilization of 83.8% in Q1 25’ versus 86% in Q4 24’ and 80.6% in Q1 24’.
    • About 47% of fleet calendar days were dedicated to time charter activity while 53% to spot activity.
    • Delivery of the dry bulk carrier, Supra Pasha (2012 built) on April 26th 2025; the remaining six contracted dry bulk carriers will be delivered by June 2025.
    • Revenues of $32.1 million in Q1 25’ compared to $41.2 million in Q1 24’- a 22.1% decline as market rates were stronger during Q1 24’.
    • Net income of $11.3 million in Q1 25’ versus $16.7 million in Q1 24’, corresponding to an EPS, basic of $0.32.
    • EBITDA1 of $14.7 million for Q1 25’.
    • Revenues and net income increased by $5.9 million (or 22.5%) and $7.4 million (or 189.7%), respectively, in Q1 25’ compared to Q4 24’.
    • Cash and cash equivalents including time deposits of $227.4 million as of March 31, 2025 which is 167.5% higher than our current market capitalization of about $85 million.
    • Recurring profitability and debt free capital structure facilitate robust cash flow generation.

    First Quarter 2025 Results:

    • Revenues for the three months ended March 31, 2025 amounted to $32.1 million, a decrease of $9.1 million, or 22.1%, compared to revenues of $41.2 million for the three months ended March 31, 2024, primarily due to a decrease in the spot market tanker rates. During the three months ended March 31, 2024 average spot rates for product and suezmax tankers were 26.9% and 24.2% higher than average spot rates during the three months ended March 31, 2025.
    • Voyage expenses and vessels’ operating expenses for the three months ended March 31, 2025 were $10.5 million and $7.1 million, respectively, compared to $13.5 million and $6.0 million, respectively, for the three months ended March 31, 2024. The $3.0 million decrease in voyage expenses is mainly attributed to increased time charter activity leading to a decline in spot days by 16.1%. The decline in spot days along with the decrease in the Suez Canal transits compared to the same period of last year, led to decreased bunker consumption by 21.2% and lower port expenses by 30.8%. The $1.1 million increase in vessels’ operating expenses is primarily due to the increased size of our fleet by an average of 2.1 vessels between the two periods.
    • Drydocking costs for the three months ended March 31, 2025 and 2024 were nil and $0.6 million, respectively. This decrease is due to the fact that during the three months ended March 31, 2025, no vessel underwent drydocking whereas during the three months ended March 31, 2024 our aframax tanker commenced its drydocking which was concluded within April 2024.
    • General and administrative costs for both the three months ended March 31, 2025 and 2024 were $1.2 million.
    • Depreciation for the three months ended March 31, 2025 and 2024 was $5.0 million and $4.0 million, respectively. The change is attributable to the increase in the average number of vessels in our fleet.
    • Management fees for the three months ended March 31, 2025 and 2024 were $0.5 million and $0.4 million, respectively. The change is attributable to the increase in the average number of vessels in our fleet.
    • Interest and finance costs for the three months ended March 31, 2025 and 2024 were $0.6 million and $0.002 million, respectively. The $0.6 million of costs for the three months ended March 31, 2025 relate mainly to accrued interest expense – related party in connection with the $14.0 million and $24.0 million part of the acquisition prices of our bulk carriers, Neptulus and Clean Imperial, respectively. These balances were completely settled in April 2025. For accounting purposes, the outstanding balances payable on the two vessels were required to be allocated between principal and imputed interest, despite the fact that no interest was contractually charged by the sellers. The total amounts ultimately paid remained consistent with the originally agreed purchase prices.
    • Interest income for the three months ended March 31, 2025 was $2.2 million as compared to $1.0 million for the three months ended March 31, 2024. The $1.2 million increase is mainly attributed to a higher amount of funds placed under time deposits.
    • Interest income – related party for the three months ended March 31, 2025 was nil as compared to $0.8 million for the three months ended March 31, 2024. The decrease is mainly attributed to the $0.8 million of accrued interest income – related party for the three months ended March 31, 2024 in connection with the $38.7 million of the sale price of the Aframax tanker Afrapearl II (ex. Stealth Berana). The balance was collected in July 2024, thus the balance for the three months ended March 31, 2025 was nil.
    • Foreign exchange (loss)/gain for the three months ended March 31, 2025 was a gain of $1.7 million as compared to a loss of $0.8 million for the three months ended March 31, 2024. The $1.7 million foreign exchange gain for the three months ended March 31, 2025, is mainly attributed the strengthening of the euro currency against the dollar at the end of the three months ended March 31, 2025 when compared to the respective currency values at the end of year 2024.
    • As a result of the above, for the three months ended March 31, 2025, the Company reported net income of $11.3 million, compared to net income of $16.7 million for the three months ended March 31, 2024. Dividends paid on Series A Preferred Shares amounted to $0.4 million for the three months ended March 31, 2025. The weighted average number of shares of common stock outstanding, basic, for the three months ended March 31, 2025 was 32.9 million. Earnings per share, basic and diluted, for the three months ended March 31, 2025 amounted to $0.32 and $0.30, respectively, compared to earnings per share, basic and diluted, of $0.56 and $0.50, respectively, for the three months ended March 31, 2024.
    • Adjusted net income1 was $12.2 million corresponding to an Adjusted EPS1, basic of $0.34 for the three months ended March 31, 2025 compared to an Adjusted net income of $17.5 million corresponding to an Adjusted EPS, basic, of $0.59 for the same period of last year.
    • EBITDA1 for the three months ended March 31, 2025 amounted to $14.7 million, while Adjusted EBITDA1 for the three months ended March 31, 2025 amounted to $15.6 million.
    • An average of 11.90 vessels were owned by the Company during the three months ended March 31, 2025 compared to 9.84 vessels for the same period of 2024.

    1 EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA, Adjusted Net Income and Adjusted EPS are non-GAAP measures. Refer to the reconciliation of these measures to the most directly comparable financial measure in accordance with GAAP set forth later in this release. Reconciliations of Adjusted Net Income, EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA to Net Income are set forth below.

    Fleet Employment Table

    As of May 23, 2025, the profile and deployment of our fleet is the following:

                           
    Name Year
    Built    		    Country
    Built    		    Vessel Size
    (dwt)    		    Vessel
    Type    		    Employment
    Status    		    Expiration of
    Charter(1)
    Tankers                           
    Magic Wand 2008    Korea    47,000    MR product tanker    Time Charter   October 2025
    Clean Thrasher 2008    Korea    47,000    MR product tanker    Time Charter    May 2025
    Clean Sanctuary (ex. Falcon Maryam) 2009    Korea    46,000    MR product tanker    Spot     
    Clean Nirvana 2008    Korea    50,000    MR product tanker    Spot     
    Clean Justice 2011    Japan    46,000    MR product tanker    Time Charter    September 2027
    Aquadisiac 2008   Korea   51,000   MR product tanker   Spot    
    Clean Imperial 2009   Korea   40,000   MR product tanker   Time Charter   January 2026
    Suez Enchanted 2007    Korea    160,000    Suezmax tanker    Spot     
    Suez Protopia 2008    Korea    160,000    Suezmax tanker    Spot     
    Drybulk Carriers(2)                           
    Eco Wildfire 2013    Japan    33,000    Handysize drybulk    Time Charter    May 2025
    Glorieuse 2012    Japan    38,000    Handysize drybulk    Time Charter    June 2025
    Neptulus 2012   Japan   33,000   Handysize drybulk   Time Charter   June 2025
    Supra Pasha 2012   Japan   56,000   Supramax drybulk   Spot    
    Fleet Total           807,000 dwt               
    (1)
    (2)    		 Earliest date charters could expire.
    We have contracted to acquire six Japanese built drybulk carriers, aggregating approximately 387,000 dwt, which are
    expected to be delivered to us by June 2025.
       

    CEO Harry Vafias Commented

    Another year commenced with a positive momentum for Imperial Petroleum. We are happy as we consider the $11.3 million of net income generated in Q1 25’ a very good result given the eventful but softish market. This is a busy period for our Company but at the same time exciting as we are taking on delivery of another six drybulk vessels. Within the short life of Imperial Petroleum, we are expanding our fleet from four vessels to nineteen by the second quarter of 2025; our goal of growing fast and transforming a small company to medium sized was achieved. We feel confident that the diversified quality non- Chinese fleet we have created will pay off. Imperial Petroleum enjoys fast growth, recurring profits, zero bank debt and liquidity as of March 31, 2025 in excess of $220 million and as per our view ticks all the boxes that define a successful operation.

    Conference Call details:

    On May 23, 2025 at 10:00 am ET, the company’s management will host a conference call to discuss the results and the company’s operations and outlook.

    Online Registration:

    Conference call participants should pre-register using the below link to receive the dial-in numbers and a personal PIN, which are required to access the conference call.

    https://register-conf.media-server.com/register/BIaef045aa9f5b46a7b5e8eb48c2e56115

    Slides and audio webcast:

    There will also be a live and then archived webcast of the conference call, through the IMPERIAL PETROLEUM INC. website (www.ImperialPetro.com). Participants to the live webcast should register on the website approximately 10 minutes prior to the start of the webcast.

    About IMPERIAL PETROLEUM INC.        

    IMPERIAL PETROLEUM INC. is a ship-owning company providing petroleum products, crude oil and drybulk seaborne transportation services. The Company owns a total of thirteen vessels on the water – seven M.R. product tankers, two suezmax tankers and four handysize drybulk carriers – with a total capacity of 807,000 deadweight tons (dwt), and has contracted to acquire an additional six drybulk carriers of 387,000 dwt aggregate capacity. Following these deliveries, the Company’s fleet will count a total of 19 vessels with an aggregate capacity of 1.2 million dwt. IMPERIAL PETROLEUM INC.’s shares of common stock and 8.75% Series A Cumulative Redeemable Perpetual Preferred Stock are listed on the Nasdaq Capital Market and trade under the symbols “IMPP” and “IMPPP,” respectively.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    Matters discussed in this release may constitute forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements reflect our current views with respect to future events and financial performance and may include statements concerning plans, objectives, goals, strategies, future events or performance, and underlying assumptions and other statements, which are other than statements of historical facts. The forward-looking statements in this release are based upon various assumptions, many of which are based, in turn, upon further assumptions, including without limitation, management’s examination of historical operating trends, data contained in our records and other data available from third parties. Although IMPERIAL PETROLEUM INC. believes that these assumptions were reasonable when made, because these assumptions are inherently subject to significant uncertainties and contingencies which are difficult or impossible to predict and are beyond our control, IMPERIAL PETROLEUM INC. cannot assure you that it will achieve or accomplish these expectations, beliefs or projections. Important factors that, in our view, could cause actual results to differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking statements include the strength of world economies and currencies, geopolitical conditions, including any trade disruptions resulting from tariffs and other protectionist measures imposed by the United States or  other countries, general market conditions, including changes in charter hire rates and vessel values, charter counterparty performance, changes in demand that may affect attitudes of time charterers to scheduled and unscheduled drydockings, changes in IMPERIAL PETROLEUM INC’s operating expenses, including bunker prices, drydocking and insurance costs, ability to obtain financing and comply with covenants in our financing arrangements, actions taken by regulatory authorities, potential liability from pending or future litigation, domestic and international political conditions, the conflict in Ukraine and related sanctions, the conflicts in the Middle East, potential disruption of shipping routes due to ongoing attacks by Houthis in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden or accidents and political events or acts by terrorists.

    Risks and uncertainties are further described in reports filed by IMPERIAL PETROLEUM INC. with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.

    Fleet List and Fleet Deployment        
    For information on our fleet and further information:
    Visit our website at www.ImperialPetro.com

    Company Contact:
    Fenia Sakellaris
    IMPERIAL PETROLEUM INC.
    E-mail: info@ImperialPetro.com

    Fleet Data:
    The following key indicators highlight the Company’s operating performance during the three month periods ended March 31, 2024 and 2025.

    FLEET DATA Q1 2024 Q1 2025
    Average number of vessels (1) 9.84 11.90
    Period end number of owned vessels in fleet 11 12
    Total calendar days for fleet (2) 895 1,071
    Total voyage days for fleet (3) 878 1,067
    Fleet utilization (4) 98.1% 99.6%
    Total charter days for fleet (5) 207 504
    Total spot market days for fleet (6) 671 563
    Fleet operational utilization (7) 80.6% 83.8%
         

    1) Average number of vessels is the number of owned vessels that constituted our fleet for the relevant period, as measured by the sum of the number of days each vessel was a part of our fleet during the period divided by the number of calendar days in that period.
    2) Total calendar days for fleet are the total days the vessels we operated were in our possession for the relevant period including off-hire days associated with major repairs, drydockings or special or intermediate surveys.
    3) Total voyage days for fleet reflect the total days the vessels we operated were in our possession for the relevant period net of off-hire days associated with major repairs, drydockings or special or intermediate surveys.
    4) Fleet utilization is the percentage of time that our vessels were available for revenue generating voyage days, and is determined by dividing voyage days by fleet calendar days for the relevant period.
    5) Total charter days for fleet are the number of voyage days the vessels operated on time or bareboat charters for the relevant period.
    6) Total spot market charter days for fleet are the number of voyage days the vessels operated on spot market charters for the relevant period.
    7) Fleet operational utilization is the percentage of time that our vessels generated revenue, and is determined by dividing voyage days excluding idle days by fleet calendar days for the relevant period.

    Reconciliation of Adjusted Net Income, EBITDA, adjusted EBITDA and adjusted EPS:

    Adjusted net income represents net income before share based compensation. EBITDA represents net income before interest and finance costs, interest income and depreciation. Adjusted EBITDA represents net income before interest and finance costs, interest income, depreciation and share based compensation.
    Adjusted EPS represents Adjusted net income attributable to common shareholders divided by the weighted average number of shares. EBITDA, adjusted EBITDA, adjusted net income and adjusted EPS are not recognized measurements under U.S. GAAP. Our calculation of EBITDA, adjusted EBITDA, adjusted net income and adjusted EPS may not be comparable to that reported by other companies in the shipping or other industries. In evaluating Adjusted EBITDA, Adjusted net income and Adjusted EPS, you should be aware that in the future we may incur expenses that are the same as or similar to some of the adjustments in this presentation.

    EBITDA, adjusted EBITDA, adjusted net income and adjusted EPS are included herein because they are a basis, upon which we and our investors assess our financial performance. They allow us to present our performance from period to period on a comparable basis and provide investors with a means of better evaluating and understanding our operating performance.

    (Expressed in United States Dollars,
    except number of shares)    		 Third Quarter Ended March 31st,
      2024   2025
    Net Income – Adjusted Net Income      
    Net income 16,654,604   11,290,986
    Plus share based compensation 858,810   889,076
    Adjusted Net Income 17,513,414   12,180,062
           
    Net income – EBITDA      
    Net income 16,654,604   11,290,986
    Plus interest and finance costs 2,430   606,383
    Less interest income (1,785,878)   (2,184,394)
    Plus depreciation 4,027,061   5,002,837
    EBITDA 18,898,217   14,715,812
           
    Net income – Adjusted EBITDA      
    Net income 16,654,604   11,290,986
    Plus share based compensation 858,810   889,076
    Plus interest and finance costs 2,430   606,383
    Less interest income (1,785,878)   (2,184,394)
    Plus depreciation 4,027,061   5,002,837
    Adjusted EBITDA 19,757,027   15,604,888
           
    EPS      
    Numerator      
    Net income 16,654,604   11,290,986
    Less: Cumulative dividends on preferred shares (435,246)   (435,246)
    Less: Undistributed earnings allocated to non-vested shares (856,950)   (453,265)
    Net income attributable to common shareholders, basic 15,362,408   10,402,475
    Denominator      
    Weighted average number of shares 27,613,661   32,944,925
    EPS – Basic 0.56   0.32
           
    Adjusted EPS      
    Numerator      
    Adjusted net income 17,513,414   12,180,062
    Less: Cumulative dividends on preferred shares (435,246)   (435,246)
    Less: Undistributed earnings allocated to non-vested shares (902,326)   (490,387)
    Adjusted net income attributable to common shareholders, basic 16,175,842   11,254,429
           
    Denominator      
    Weighted average number of shares 27,613,661   32,944,925
    Adjusted EPS, Basic 0.59   0.34
           

    Imperial Petroleum Inc.
    Unaudited Consolidated Statements of Income
    (Expressed in United States Dollars, except for number of shares)

        Quarters Ended March 31,
        2024   2025
             
    Revenues      
      Revenues 41,203,281   32,091,626
             
    Expenses      
      Voyage expenses 12,963,607   10,054,114
      Voyage expenses – related party 514,414   401,753
      Vessels’ operating expenses 5,951,561   7,021,928
      Vessels’ operating expenses – related party 82,000   98,500
      Drydocking costs 625,457   —
      Management fees – related party 393,800   471,240
      General and administrative expenses 1,207,168   1,217,977
      Depreciation 4,027,061   5,002,837
    Total expenses 25,765,068   24,268,349
             
    Income from operations 15,438,213   7,823,277
             
    Other (expenses)/income      
      Interest and finance costs (2,430)   (3,607)
      Interest expense – related party —   (602,776)
      Interest income 1,035,261   2,184,394
      Interest income – related party 750,617   —
      Dividend income from related party 189,583   187,500
      Foreign exchange (loss)/gain (756,640)   1,702,198
    Other income, net 1,216,391   3,467,709
             
    Net Income 16,654,604   11,290,986
             
    Earnings per share      
    – Basic 0.56   0.32
    – Diluted 0.50   0.30
             
    Weighted average number of shares      
    -Basic 27,613,661   32,944,925
    -Diluted 30,951,012   34,258,803
             

    Imperial Petroleum Inc.
    Unaudited Consolidated Balance Sheets
    (Expressed in United States Dollars)

        December 31,   March 31,
        2024   2025
             
    Assets      
    Current assets      
      Cash and cash equivalents 67,783,531   126,520,450
      Time deposits 138,948,481   100,900,500
      Trade and other receivables 13,456,083   8,772,549
      Other current assets 652,769   67,374
      Inventories 7,306,356   6,705,115
      Advances and prepayments 250,562   209,858
    Total current assets 228,397,782   243,175,846
             
    Non current assets      
      Operating lease right-of-use asset 78,761   60,239
      Vessels, net 208,230,018   227,015,031
      Investment in related party 12,798,500   12,794,333
    Total non current assets 221,107,279   239,869,603
    Total assets 449,505,061   483,045,449
             
    Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity      
    Current liabilities      
      Trade accounts payable 5,243,872   5,923,098
      Payable to related parties 18,725,514   39,232,604
      Accrued liabilities 3,370,020   3,604,467
      Operating lease liability, current portion 1,419,226   60,239
      Deferred income 78,761   1,812,557
    Total current liabilities 28,837,393   50,632,965
             
    Total liabilities 28,837,393   50,632,965
             
    Commitments and contingencies      
             
    Stockholders’ equity      
      Common stock 382,755   386,671
      Preferred Stock, Series A 7,959   7,959
      Preferred Stock, Series B 160   160
      Treasury stock (8,390,225)   (8,390,225)
      Additional paid-in capital 282,642,357   283,527,517
      Retained earnings 146,024,662   156,880,402
    Total stockholders’ equity 420,667,668   432,412,484
    Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity 449,505,061   483,045,449
           

    Imperial Petroleum Inc.
    Unaudited Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
    (Expressed in United States Dollars

        Three Month Periods Ended March 31,
        2024   2025
         
    Cash flows from operating activities      
      Net income for the period 16,654,604   11,290,986
             
    Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash      
      provided by operating activities:      
      Depreciation 4,027,061   5,002,837
      Non – cash lease expense 17,550   18,522
      Share based compensation 858,810   889,076
      Unrealized foreign exchange loss/(gain) on time deposits 799,150   (358,420)
      Dividend income from related party (189,583)   —
             
    Changes in operating assets and liabilities:      
      (Increase)/decrease in      
      Trade and other receivables (3,249,129)   4,683,534
      Other current assets (532,029)   585,395
      Inventories (574,256)   601,241
      Changes in operating lease liabilities (17,550)   (18,522)
      Advances and prepayments (45,536)   40,704
      Due from related parties (879,732)   4,167
      Increase/(decrease) in      
      Trade accounts payable (1,100,028)   679,226
      Due to related parties 2,839,227   (3,369,040)
      Accrued liabilities 903,784   234,447
      Deferred income (869,166)   393,331
    Net cash provided by operating activities 18,643,177   20,677,484
             
    Cash flows from investing activities      
      Dividends income received 191,667   —
      Acquisition and improvement of vessels (72,257,190)   (4,350)
      Increase in bank time deposits (31,695,420)   (57,958,390)
      Maturity of bank time deposits 31,368,080   96,364,791
    Net cash (used in)/provided by investing activities (72,392,863)   38,402,051
             
    Cash flows from financing activities      
      Stock issuance costs (2,504,498)   —
      Dividends paid on preferred shares (341,947)   (342,616)
    Net cash used in financing activities (2,846,445)   (342,616)
             
    Net (decrease)/increase in cash and cash equivalents (56,596,131)   58,736,919
    Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period 91,927,512   67,783,531
    Cash and cash equivalents at end of period 35,331,381   126,520,450
    Cash breakdown       
      Cash and cash equivalents 35,331,381   126,520,450
    Total cash and cash equivalents shown in the statements of cash flows 35,331,381   126,520,450

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Bulletin from the Annual General Meeting of Terranet AB on May 23, 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    The annual general meeting of Terranet AB (the “Company”) was held today, May 23, 2025, in Lund. The meeting resolved, with the required majority and in accordance with the board’s proposal, on the following main resolutions.

    Adoption of the profit and loss account and balance sheet
    The annual general meeting resolved to adopt the income statement and balance sheet of the Company and the consolidated income statement and consolidated balance sheet.

    Allocation of profits
    The annual general meeting decided to allocate the result in accordance with the board’s proposal in the annual report, i.e. that the result be carried forward.

    Discharge from liability
    The members of the board of directors and the CEO were discharged from liability for the financial year 2024.

    Election of Board of Directors, auditor and remuneration
    The annual general meeting resolved that the board of directors shall consist of five (5) members without deputies. It was further resolved that the Company shall have a registered accounting firm as auditor.

    Torgny Hellström, Anders Blom, Magnus Edman and Mats Fägerhag were re-elected as board members. Uwe Brandenburg was also elected as a new board member. Torgny Hellström was re-elected chairman of the board.

    The registered accounting firm Ernst & Young AB (“EY“) was elected as the Company’s auditor. EY has announced that the authorized public accountant Martin Henriksson will be the auditor in charge.

    It was resolved that a fee of SEK 185,000 shall be paid to each of the members elected by the annual general meeting who are not employed by the Company or the Group, and SEK 495,000 to the chairman of the board. A fee of SEK 27,500 shall be paid to each of the members of the
    remuneration committee (maximum three members) and a fee of SEK 65,000 shall be paid to each of the members of the audit committee (maximum two members), and SEK 110,000 to its chairman. It was resolved that fees to the auditor shall be paid according to approved invoices.

    Decision to amend the articles of association
    The annual general meeting decided to amend the articles of association as follows.

    Previous wording New wording
    § 4 Share capital

    The share capital shall be not less than SEK 3,300,000 and not more than SEK 13,200,000.

    		 § 4 Share capital

    The share capital shall be not less than SEK 14,500,000 and not more than SEK 58,000,000.
    § 5 Number of shares

    The number of shares shall be not less than 330 000 000 and not more than 1 320 000 000.

    		 § 5 Number of shares

    The number of shares shall be not less than 1 450 000 000 and not more than 5 800 000 000.

    Approval of the Board’s decision on a directed share issue
    The meeting resolved to approve the board of directors’ resolution of April 16, 2025 on a new share issue of up to 5,461,210 units (the “Directed Issue“). The new series B shares and warrants shall be issued in units. Each unit contains 33 series B shares and five (5) warrants of series TO9 B. The Company’s share capital may, through the Directed Issue, be increased by a maximum of SEK 1,802,199.30 through the issuance of a maximum of 180,219,930 series B shares. The subscription price per unit amounts to SEK 2.97, corresponding to a subscription price per share of SEK 0.09.

    The right to subscribe for shares in the Directed Issue is, with deviation from the shareholders’ preferential rights, granted to a number of pre-announced investors, existing shareholders and members of the Company’s management and board of directors.

    Through the Directed Issue, a maximum of 27,306,050 warrants of series TO9 B are issued, entailing an increase of the share capital upon full exercise by a maximum of SEK 273,060.50. Each warrant of series TO9 B entitles the holder to subscribe for one (1) series B share at a subscription price corresponding to SEK 0.18. The subscription price may not be less than the share’s quota value applicable at any given time. Subscription for new shares by exercising the warrants of series TO9 B can take place during the period from December 1, 2025 up to and including December 15, 2025.

    Approval of the Board’s decision on a rights issue of units
    The annual general meeting also resolved to approve the board of directors’ resolution of April 16, 2025 on a new issue of a maximum of 13,880,714 units with preferential rights for existing shareholders (the “Rights Issue”). The new shares and warrants shall be issued in units (so-called units). Each unit shall contain twelve (12) series B shares and three (3) warrants of series TO9 B. The Company’s share capital may, through the Rights Issue, be increased by a maximum of SEK 1,665,685.68 through the issue of a maximum of 166,568,568 series B shares. The subscription price amounts to SEK 1.08 per unit, corresponding to a subscription price of SEK 0.09 per share. The warrants are issued without consideration.

    The right to subscribe for units in the Rights Issue shall, with preferential rights, be granted to those who are registered as shareholders in the Company on the record date for the Rights Issue, whereby the holding of one (1) series B share entitles to one (1) unit right. Eighty-six (86) unit rights entitle to subscription of one (1) unit. Subscription of units shall take place during the period from May 27, 2025 up to and including June 11, 2025.

    Through the Rights Issue, a maximum of 41,642,142 warrants of series TO9 B are issued, entailing an increase in the share capital upon full exercise by a maximum of SEK 416,421.42. Each warrant of series TO9 B entitles the holder to subscribe for one (1) series B share at a subscription price corresponding to SEK 0.18. The subscription price may not be less than the share’s quota value applicable at any given time. Subscription for new shares by exercising the warrants of series TO9 B can take place during the period from December 1, 2025 up to and including December 15, 2025.

    Resolution to authorize the Board of Directors to resolve new issues of shares, warrants and convertibles
    The annual general meeting resolved to authorize the board of directors to decide, on one or more occasions up until the next annual general meeting, on the issue of series B shares, warrants and/or convertibles with the right to subscribe for or convert series B shares, with or without deviation from the shareholders’ preferential rights, within the limits of the articles of association applicable at any given time, to be paid in cash, in kind and/or by set-off.

    The main reason for the board of directors to be able to decide on a new share issue without preferential rights for shareholders as described above is to be able to raise new capital to increase the Company’s flexibility for financing.

    Resolution authorizing the Board of Directors to make minor adjustments to the resolutions adopted by the General Meeting
    The meeting resolved to authorize the board of directors, the CEO or the person otherwise appointed by the board of directors to make such minor adjustments and clarifications to the resolutions adopted at the annual general meeting as are necessary for the registration of the resolutions.

    _______________

    Lund in May 2025
    Terranet AB
    The Board of Directors

    For more information, please contact:        
    Lars Lindell, CEO
    E-mail: lars.lindell@terranet.se

    About Terranet AB (publ)
    Terranet’s goal is to save lives in urban traffic. The company develops innovative technical solutions for Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) and Autonomous Vehicles (AV). Terranet’s anti-collision system BlincVision laser scans and detects road objects up to ten times faster than any other ADAS technology available today.

    The company is headquartered in Lund, with offices in Gothenburg and Stuttgart. Since 2017, Terranet has been listed on Nasdaq First North Premier Growth Market (Nasdaq: TERRNT-B). Follow our journey at: www.terranet.se

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Mammography equipment market in South Korea to grow at 4% CAGR through 2036, forecasts GlobalData

    Source: GlobalData

    Mammography equipment market in South Korea to grow at 4% CAGR through 2036, forecasts GlobalData

    Posted in Medical Devices

    The market for mammography equipment in South Korea is undergoing significant growth. This upsurge is attributable to the broadening scope of breast cancer screening initiatives, increased public awareness, and the incorporation of sophisticated imaging technologies. Owing to these factors, the mammography equipment market in South Korea is set to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of approximately 4% through 2036, forecasts GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.

    GlobalData’s latest report, “Mammography Equipment Market Size by Segments, Share, Regulatory, Reimbursement, Installed Base and Forecast to 2036,” reveals that South Korea represented nearly 20% of the mammography equipment market in the Asia-Pacific region in 2024. This significant share highlights the country’s strong healthcare infrastructure, early embrace of new technologies, and a clear national focus on preventive healthcare and innovation.

    In March 2025, a comprehensive Korean study revealed that the utilization of Lunit INSIGHT MMG, an AI-powered mammography software developed by the South Korean medical AI firm Lunit Inc., enhanced breast cancer detection rates by 13.8% without elevating recall rates. The findings affirm South Korea’s advancing role in shaping high-impact, AI-driven medical imaging practices that prioritize accuracy without added patient burden.

    Shagufta Hasan, Medical Devices Analyst at GlobalData, comments: “Despite the growth of mammography market in South Korea, breast cancer detection still faces challenges related to inconsistent access, diagnostic delays, and disparities in the adoption of technology, factors that may hinder early intervention and patient outcomes. However, solutions such as the Lunit INSIGHT MMG and DBT represent a transformative shift in breast imaging. These advanced diagnostic solutions are paving the way for more detailed, efficient, and accessible screening pathways, aligning with the country’s broader commitment to preventive healthcare and innovation.”

    AI solutions such as Lunit INSIGHT MMG and DBT streamline case prioritization, support early diagnosis, and enhance precision across diverse clinical environments. By reducing diagnostic delays and standardizing interpretation regardless of reader experience, these solutions help bridge gaps in access and technological disparities, ultimately supporting more equitable breast cancer screening outcomes.

    Hasan concludes: “South Korea appears to be strategically poised to influence the future of breast imaging through continued investment, fostering strategic partnerships, and expanding its global outreach. By reinforcing its position in the advancement of diagnostic technologies, it is likely to enhance access to high-quality care to patients with breast cancer, and bolster its global impact.”

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Taiwan commits to multi-layered defense modernization amid heightened regional tensions, observes GlobalData

    Source: GlobalData

    Taiwan commits to multi-layered defense modernization amid heightened regional tensions, observes GlobalData

    Posted in Aerospace, Defense & Security

    Taiwan is undertaking a comprehensive, multi-layered defense modernization effort, driven by rising security threats and the imperative to deter potential aggression from China. With defense spending projected to reach $23.5 billion in 2030, Taiwan is prioritizing advanced air, naval, and unmanned systems, while also strengthening logistics and support infrastructure to enhance resilience and sustain prolonged military operations, says GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.

    GlobalData’s latest report, “Taiwan Defense Market Size and Trends, Budget Allocation, Regulations, Key Acquisitions, Competitive Landscape and Forecast, 2025-30,”Australia Defense Market Size and Trends, Budget Allocation, Regulations, Key Acquisitions, Competitive Landscape and Forecast, 2022-27’ reveals that the country’s cumulative defense spending is anticipated to reach $112.2 billion during 2026-30, out of which the acquisition budget share is estimated to be approximately average 14.7%, amounting to $16.5 billion.

    Abhijit Apsingikar, Aerospace & Defense Analyst at GlobalData, comments: “Persistent Chinese incursions into territorial waters and airspace, along with the constant threat of a potential naval amphibious invasion, have compelled Taiwan to make substantial investments in strengthening its overall defense posture.”

    Against this backdrop, Taiwan placed a contract to procure 66 new F-16 Block 70/72 aircraft in 2020 and first of the new aircraft were delivered in March 2025. The country has also completed modernizing its existing fleet of 139 F-16 A/B multirole aircraft to F-16 Block 70/72 standard as a part of the first phase of Peace Phoenix Rising program, last of which was delivered in December 2023. Taiwan is also in the process of reinforcing its sea denial capabilities by investing in Hai Kun-class submarines, while also investing in acquisition of Harpoon Coastal Defense System.

    Over the period 2020-25, Taiwan sanctioned a large defense investment fund disbursed over multiple years. The key focus of these investments was directed towards strengthening the defense infrastructure and to revitalize defense R&D capabilities within the country, with its Navy being a key beneficiary. Taiwan is also in the process of building a new 2,500-ton light frigate to bolster its naval defense capabilities.

    Apsingikar continues: “The ongoing Russo-Ukraine war offers a template for Taiwan to adopt proven methods for defending against a stronger adversary by deploying unmanned platforms such as unmanned aerial vehicles, unmanned ground vehicles, unmanned surface vessels and unmanned underwater vehicles. These platforms can assist Taiwan to compensate for its relatively smaller military strength and combat potential”

    Although Taiwan’s defense RDT&E spending is modest with a budgetary allocation of $530 million for 2025, its anticipated to be directed mainly towards R&D in automated unmanned systems. For instance, Taiwan is developing Huilong uncrewed underwater vehicle (UUV), the Endeavor Manta Unmanned Surface Vessel, and Tu-40 Fixed Wing Unmanned Aerial Vehicle.

    Apsingikar concludes: “Taiwan is strategically focused on building a resilient and multi-layered defense posture. The emphasis is not only on acquiring advanced platforms but also on investing in robust logistics, maintenance, and support infrastructure. This integrated approach is critical to sustaining prolonged defense operations and delaying potential aggression long enough to enable allied intervention. By learning from modern conflict scenarios, Taiwan is prioritizing asymmetric warfare capabilities, particularly unmanned systems and sea denial strategies, to offset its numerical disadvantage and enhance its deterrence credibility in the region.”

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: APAC automotive infrared reflective glazing market to record 1.0% CAGR over 2024-29, forecasts GlobalData

    Source: GlobalData

    APAC automotive infrared reflective glazing market to record 1.0% CAGR over 2024-29, forecasts GlobalData

    Posted in Automotive

    The automotive sector in the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region is witnessing a transformative shift driven by advancements in glazing technology, particularly infrared-reflecting (IRR) glazing. This innovative technology is revolutionizing passenger comfort and energy efficiency in vehicles. As automakers embrace larger glazing areas and panoramic roofs, the APAC IRR glazing market is expected to record a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 1.0% over 2024-29, according to GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.

    GlobalData’s latest report, “Global Sector Overview & Forecast: Automotive Glazing Q1 2025,” reveals that the APAC automotive Infrared reflective glazing market is poised to grow from an estimated 65.1 million units in 2024 to 68.6 million units in 2029.

    Madhuchhanda Palit, Automotive Analyst at GlobalData, comments: “The introduction of IRR glazing has revolutionized the way vehicles manage heat load, particularly in regions with high solar exposure. In the APAC market, where temperatures can soar, the ability of IRR glazing to reject up to 60% of solar energy translates into a marked reduction in cabin temperatures.  As automakers in the APAC region increasingly prioritize sustainability and efficiency, the integration of IRR glazing is poised to become a standard feature in new vehicle models.”

    The evolution of IRR glazing technology has been propelled by advancements in coating processes, particularly the magnetron sputtering technique, which allows for the production of multilayer coatings on a large scale. This innovation has enabled manufacturers to create high-performance glazing solutions that meet the stringent visible light transmittance requirements essential for automotive applications. Companies like Guardian and Saint-Gobain are at the forefront of this trend, offering products such as Guardian SilverGuard IRR and Sun Ban, which not only enhance thermal performance but also provide superior UV protection.

    Moreover, as automakers like BMW, Citroen, and Ford lead the charge in offering advanced glazing solutions, the opportunity for IRR glazing to enhance vehicle differentiation and aesthetics becomes increasingly pronounced. The integration of IRR technology into vehicle design not only meets consumer demands but also allows manufacturers to stand out in a crowded marketplace.

    Palit adds: “Looking ahead, the future of the IRR glazing market in the APAC region appears promising. As vehicle designs continue to evolve, there is an increasing trend towards larger sunroofs and glass surfaces, necessitating innovative glazing solutions that address heat absorption and privacy concerns. The advancements in coating technologies, such as the magnetron sputtering process, are expected to enhance the production capabilities of IRR glazing, further driving market growth.”

    In addition, with the rising number of electric vehicles (EVs) in the APAC region, the demand for energy-efficient solutions like IRR glazing is anticipated to surge. EV manufacturers are particularly interested in technologies that extend battery range and reduce energy consumption, making IRR glazing a viable choice.

    Palit concludes: “In summary, the IRR glazing market is set to experience significant growth in the APAC region, driven by consumer demand for comfort, energy efficiency, and aesthetic appeal. The advancements in glazing technology and the competitive landscape will further fuel this expansion, positioning IRR glazing as a critical component in the evolving automotive sector.

    “While the future holds considerable potential, it is essential for stakeholders to remain agile and responsive to market dynamics, ensuring that innovations continue to meet the diverse needs of consumers across the region.”

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Ionis’ Olezarsen to achieve global sales of approximately $849 million by 2032, forecasts GlobalData

    Source: GlobalData

    Ionis’ Olezarsen to achieve global sales of approximately $849 million by 2032, forecasts GlobalData

    Posted in Pharma

    Ionis Pharmaceuticals has announced positive topline results from the ESSENCE study evaluating Olezarsen in individuals with moderate hypertriglyceridemia who are at risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). Upon approval, the drug is projected to achieve global sales of approximately $849 million by 2032, according to GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.

    The study met its primary endpoint, demonstrating a statistically significant, placebo-adjusted reduction in triglyceride levels of 61% and 58% at six months with the 80mg and 50mg monthly doses, respectively (p

    Dr Shireen Mohammad, Senior Cardiovascular and Metabolic Disorders Analyst at GlobalData, concludes: “This data is highly anticipated and will be crucial in determining the drug’s efficacy and safety profile. Positive results could pave the way for regulatory approval and establish olezarsen as a first-in-class treatment option for patients with limited alternatives.”

    Olezarsen is an antisense oligonucleotide (ASO) designed to selectively inhibit the expression of the APOC3 gene. By decreasing the production of apolipoprotein C-III (ApoC-III)—a protein that hinders triglyceride metabolism—olezarsen promotes the efficient breakdown and clearance of triglyceride-rich lipoproteins. This leads to a marked reduction in plasma triglyceride levels, positioning olezarsen as a promising treatment for severe hypertriglyceridemia, familial chylomicronemia syndrome (FCS), and other dyslipidemias.

    Key opinion leaders (KOLs) interviewed by GlobalData emphasized a significant unmet need for effective treatments targeting rare genetic lipid disorders, particularly FCS and familial hypercholesterolemia (FH).

    Dr Mohammad adds: “Notably, there are currently no FDA-approved therapies for FCS, underscoring the urgency for new options that can lower triglyceride levels and mitigate associated complications. With its targeted mechanism and encouraging data, olezarsen has the potential to address this therapeutic gap.”

    Pivotal Phase III results from the ongoing CORE and CORE2 trials, which are evaluating olezarsen for the treatment of severe hypertriglyceridemia (sHTG), are expected in Q3 2025.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Chicago Man Sentenced for Conspiracy to Distribute Cocaine Resulting in the Death of a Young Dubuque Woman

    Source: US FBI

    A man who conspired with others to distribute large quantities of cocaine that resulted in the death of a young Dubuque, Iowa, woman was sentenced today to more than 24 years in federal prison.

    Maurice Levelle Randolph, age 45, from Chicago, Illinois, received the prison term after a December 5, 2024, guilty plea to one count of conspiracy to distribute 500 grams of more of cocaine within 1000 feet of several parks and schools in Dubuque between 2017 and April 2021, that resulted in the death of a young Dubuque woman on February 14, 2021.

    At the plea hearing, Randolph admitted he was a member of a conspiracy to distribute cocaine in the Dubuque area near numerous parks and schools.  He admitted he brought cocaine from Chicago and then worked with others to distribute the cocaine to customers in Dubuque.  On February 14, 2021, one of Randolph’s co-conspirators distributed cocaine to a young woman in Dubuque who went home, used the cocaine and died.  

    Randolph was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Chief Judge C.J. Williams.  Randolph was sentenced to 292 months’ imprisonment.  He was ordered to make $13,911 in restitution jointly with two other individuals to the victim’s family.  He must also serve an 8-year term of supervised release after the prison term.  The Court also forfeited $17,203 in drug proceeds seized from Randolph.  There is no parole in the federal system.

    Randolph is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be transported to a federal prison.

    The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Patrick J. Reinert and Nicole Nagin and was investigated as part of the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) program of the United States Department

    of Justice through a cooperative effort of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, Iowa Medical Examiner’s Office and the Dubuque Drug Task Force, comprised of Dubuque Police Department, Dubuque Sheriff’s Office.  OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF. 

    Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.

    The case file number is 23-CR-01013.

    Follow us on X @USAO_NDIA.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Waterloo Man Who Attempted to Murder Victim Sentenced to Federal Prison

    Source: US FBI

    A man who discharged multiple rounds of ammunition in downtown Waterloo during a murder attempt was sentenced on May 12, 2025, to more than thirteen years in federal prison.

    Laindrell Myquail Cooper, age 22, from Waterloo, Iowa, received the prison term after an October 21, 2024 guilty plea to possession of ammunition by a felon.

    Information from sentencing showed that Cooper was a member of a gang in Waterloo.  On the morning of November 18, 2022, an associate of Cooper’s got into an argument with the victim at a barbershop in downtown Waterloo.  Cooper’s associate called someone to bring Cooper downtown.  Cooper was dressed in all black clothing, including a mask.  Cooper was dropped off a few blocks from the barbershop.  After briefly entering and exiting the barbershop, he located the victim across the street.  Cooper walked into the middle of the street, around a city bus, and then fired at least six rounds of ammunition at the victim, pursuing him as he sought shelter in the entryway of a storefront.  Cooper’s actions caused another man to discharge his firearm as three of his family members were in a car in or near the line of fire.  No one was injured.  Two storefronts and two cars were damaged by gunfire.  Additional evidence established that Cooper previously possessed a firearm that ballistics testing showed was discharged in a shots-fired incident that occurred in Waterloo on July 5, 2021.    

    Cooper was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Chief Judge C.J. Williams.  In pronouncing the sentence, Chief Judge Williams stated that Cooper represented “a clear and present danger to the public.”  Cooper was sentenced to 160 months’ imprisonment.  He must also serve a three-year term of supervised release after the prison term.  There is no parole in the federal system.

    This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

    Cooper is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be transported to a federal prison.

    The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kyndra Lundquist and investigated by investigated by a Federal Task Force composed of the Waterloo Police Department, Federal Bureau of Investigation, and Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco and Firearms assisted by the Black Hawk County Sheriff’s Office and Cedar Falls Police Department.    

    Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.

    The case file number is 23-CR-2034.

    Follow us on X @USAO_NDIA.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Cedar Rapids Man Involved in Two Shootings Sentenced to a Decade in Federal Prison

    Source: US FBI

    A man who shot at a woman and child, and later pointed a gun at someone who shot back at him, was sentenced today to 10 years in federal prison.

    David Rafael Walker, age 38, from Cedar Rapids, Iowa, received the prison term after a December 11, 2024 jury verdict finding him guilty of one count of possession of a firearm by a felon.

    Evidence at trial and the sentencing hearing showed that on December 14, 2021, in Cedar Rapids, Walker shot at a woman and a child because he was mad that she went to lunch with another man.  Three days later, Walker was driving a car in Cedar Rapids and noticed that he was being followed by another car.  He stopped his car in the middle of the street, opened his car door, and pointed a gun at the other car.  A person in the other car shot at him.  This shooting was captured on doorbell cameras in the area.  Walker has felony convictions for attempting to elude, manufacturing or delivering heroin, and other drug offenses.  

    Walker was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Chief Judge C.J. Williams.  Walker was sentenced to 120 months’ imprisonment and must also serve a three-year term of supervised release after the prison term.  There is no parole in the federal system.

    This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

    Walker is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be transported to a federal prison.

    The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Devra Hake, Emily Nydle, and Dan Tvedt, and was investigated by the Cedar Rapids Safe Streets Task Force.  The task force is composed of representatives from the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Cedar Rapids Police Department, and the Marion Police Department.  

    Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.

    The case file number is 23-CR-65.

    Follow us on X @USAO_NDIA.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Man Sentenced for Crimes Committed on the Santee Sioux Nation Indian Reservation

    Source: US FBI

    United States Attorney Lesley A. Woods announced that Mongecka (aka “Monga”) Eastman, 24, originally of South Dakota, was sentenced on May 15, 2025, in federal court in Omaha, Nebraska, for assault resulting in serious bodily injury and sexual abuse without consent. United States District Court Judge Brian C. Buescher sentenced Eastman to 120 months’ imprisonment on the assault case, to run concurrent with the 120-month sentence imposed by Judge Buescher in the sexual abuse case. There is no parole in the federal system. After Eastman’s release from prison, he will begin a 3-year term of supervised release on the assault case to run concurrent with a 10-year term of supervised release on the sexual abuse case.

    In February 2021, Eastman subjected a minor female to a sexual act without her consent. Eastman entered the minor female’s bedroom in Santee, Nebraska, while she was changing her clothes. Eastman then forced himself on the minor victim, twisting her arm to the point of pain and pinning her to a bed before sexually assaulting her. The minor victim later disclosed the sexual assault to a trusted adult, who notified law enforcement.

    In September 2023, Eastman seriously assaulted an adult male victim in multiple rural locations on the Santee Sioux Nation Indian Reservation, using a minor to assist him in committing the offense. Eastman and the minor hit and kicked the victim, and Eastman repeatedly slammed the victim onto the hood of a vehicle, leaving dents in the metal. The victim sustained serious bodily injuries from the assault which required emergency medical care and hospitalization, including injuries to his liver and nose, a concussion, and a subdural hemorrhage.

    These cases were prosecuted in federal court because the offenses are felonies which occurred on the Santee Sioux Nation Indian Reservation in Nebraska.

    This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Taunton Man Sentenced to More Than Two Years in Prison for $1 Million Health Care Fraud Scheme

    Source: US FBI

    BOSTON – A Taunton man, formerly of Brockton, was sentenced today in federal court in Boston for orchestrating a scheme to defraud various health insurance companies of over $1 million in false reimbursement claims for bogus medical expenses purportedly incurred during international travel.

    Henry Ezeonyido, 37, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Leo T. Sorokin to 27 months in prison, to be followed by three of supervised release. Ezeonyido was also ordered to pay $655,313 in restitution and to forfeit $396,998 in criminal proceeds. In February 2025, Ezeonyido pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit health care fraud and six counts of health care fraud.

    Ezeonyido was arrested and charged in July 2024 along with co-conspirators Brendon Ashe, Aqiyla Atherton, Darline Cobbler and Ariel Lambert. Ezeonyido was later indicted by a federal grand jury in September 2024. All four of Ezeonyido’s co-defendants pleaded guilty to their roles in the scheme and were subsequently sentenced to probation.

    From approximately October 2019 to February 2022, Ezeonyido submitted fraudulent health insurance claims – on his own behalf and on behalf of at least seven other individuals, including Ashe, Atherton, Cobbler and Lambert – to five different health insurance companies for expensive medical treatment that they purportedly received and paid for out-of-pocket while traveling overseas. Many of the claims included fake traumatic injuries such as stabbings, gunshot wounds and hit and run car accidents that the defendants and others purportedly suffered requiring their hospitalization abroad. In nearly all instances, the individuals were actually in the United States at the time of the purported international medical events. Some of the individuals on whose behalf Ezeonyido submitted claims were knowing and willful participants in the scheme, while others either had no knowledge of the claims submitted on their behalf or were manipulated into providing their health insurance information, which Ezeonyido then used to submit fraudulent claims, later demanding a cut of the proceeds.

    Ezeonyido submitted fabricated documents to the victim health insurance companies in support of the fraudulent claims, including fabricated medical records purporting to show the medical care received, fabricated bank records purporting to show payment to the international treatment facilities and, where the claim related to a fake traumatic injury, fabricated police reports describing the circumstances of the alleged event. In many instances, the details of the claims – including the purported dates of service, country where the alleged medical event occurred, and nature and circumstances of the alleged injuries – and the fabricated records submitted in support of the claims were nearly identical to one another.

    As a result of these fraudulent claims, the victim health insurance companies were billed over $1 million for services that were never provided, resulting in payments totaling approximately $655,313. Upon receiving these payments from their health insurance companies, Ashe, Cobbler, Lambert and others, paid a portion of the proceeds to Ezeonyido and other co-conspirators, including Atherton, who acted as an intermediary, bringing others into the scheme in exchange for a cut of their paid claims. In total, Ezeonyido retained approximately $396,998 in fraud proceeds.  

    United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; Kimberly Milka, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division; Ketty Larco-Ward, Inspector in Charge of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service’s Boston Division; and Anthony DiPaolo, Insurance Fraud Bureau Executive Director made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Leslie A. Wright of the Health Care Fraud Unit prosecuted the case.
     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Director of Mobile Medical Diagnostics Company Agrees to Plead Guilty to Kickback Scheme

    Source: US FBI

    Scheme allegedly resulted in approximately $70.6 million in fraudulent bills to Medicare

    BOSTON – A New York-based director of operations and sales for the Northeast region of a mobile medical diagnostics company has been charged and has agreed to plead guilty to conspiring to provide kickbacks to doctors in exchange for ordering medically unnecessary brain scans.

    James Rausch, 57, of Port Jefferson Station, N.Y., has been charged with one count of conspiracy to violate the anti-kickback statute. A plea hearing has not yet been scheduled by the Court.  

    According to the charging documents, from approximately March 2015 through September 2020, Rausch conspired with others, including two managers for a mobile medical diagnostics company that performed transcranial doppler (TCD) scans, to enter into kickback agreements with various doctors. TCD scans are brain scans that measure blood flow in parts of the brain. It is alleged that Rausch and his co-conspirators agreed to offer and pay doctors kickbacks, some in cash and others by check, based on the number of TCD ultrasounds the doctors ordered. Rausch and his co-conspirators allegedly created purported rental and administrative service agreements that, on paper, made it appear as if the doctors’ practices were compensated for the TCD company’s use of space as well as for administrative costs associated with processing each order – based on fair market value, not based on the volume or value of referrals. It is alleged that these agreements were shams that hid the true nature of the payment arrangement for each test.  

    It is alleged that the scheme as a whole resulted in fraudulent bills of approximately $70.6 million to Medicare. Medicare paid approximately $27.2 million to the TCD company for the fraudulent claims.

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

    United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; Roberto Coviello, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General; Kimberly Milka, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division; Thomas Demeo, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Internal Revenue Service’s Criminal Investigation, Boston Field Office; Kelly M. Lawson, Acting Regional Director of the U.S. Department of Labor, Employee Benefits Security Administration, Boston Regional Office; Ketty Larco-Ward, Inspector in Charge of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Boston Division; and Christopher Algieri, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Inspector General, Northeast Field Office made the announcement. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Howard Locker and Mackenzie Queenin of the Health Care Fraud Unit are prosecuting the case.

    The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: ATF Updates National Policy on Federal Firearm Licensee Inspections To Promote Fairness, Consistency, and Public Safety

    Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)

    The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives today issued an updated national policy for administrative actions related to compliance inspections of federal firearms licensees. The guidance promotes clear, consistent and fact-based decisions that uphold ATF’s commitment to public safety and respect for Second Amendment rights.

    The policy replaces the 2021 Enhanced Regulatory Enforcement policy, also known as the “zero-tolerance” policy. It directs industry operations investigators to consider all circumstances of an inspection rather than applying automatic outcomes, ensuring ATF uses its regulatory authority fairly and effectively.

    “This update is about getting it right and making sure we’re focused on public safety,” ATF Acting Director Daniel Driscoll said. “Under the previous policy, some licensees were being penalized for simple mistakes such as, forgetting to put their license number on forms. This new guidance gives our investigators the discretion to tell the difference between an honest mistake and a real threat to public safety. Law-abiding dealers deserve a system that treats them fairly, not like suspects. They are our partners and the first line of defense in our efforts to combat firearms trafficking.”

    The policy provides investigators and field leadership clearer guidelines for evaluating violations, weighing mitigating and aggravating factors, and determining the proper response—from education and warnings to administrative actions. Decisions must factor in whether licensees self-reported issues, implemented corrective actions, or present a continuing threat to public safety.

    These updates support the administration’s efforts to increase transparency and public confidence in government oversight, reaffirming ATF’s commitment to accountability and legitimate business practices.

    Key points of the updated policy

    • Context-driven enforcement: Serious, willful violations may lead to administrative action, while minor or clerical errors may be addressed with education or warnings.
    • No automatic revocation: Removes the prior policy’s presumption of license revocation, instead considering intent, compliance history and public-safety risks.
    • Stronger public-safety focus: Investigators must evaluate whether continued operations pose a public-safety threat or contribute to violent crime, and whether the licensee demonstrates the ability to comply moving forward.
    • Clear legal standards and timelines: Defines key terms such as “willful” and “knowing” and establishes uniform timelines for reviews, actions and coordination.
    • Support for lawful industry engagement: ATF continues early intervention and collaboration with responsible licensees, while firmly addressing repeat or serious violations.

    ATF conducts compliance inspections as part of its mission to ensure firearms are sold, transferred and documented in accordance with federal law. The revised policy ensures inspections are fair, consistent and focused on reducing violent crime while protecting the rights of responsible gun owners.

    Compliance inspections also support ATF’s broader efforts to combat firearms trafficking. By examining dealer records and business practices, industry operations investigators can identify suspicious patterns—such as straw purchases or missing inventory—that may indicate firearms are being diverted into illegal markets. These findings assist in criminal investigations and help reduce violent crime by preventing guns from falling into the wrong hands.

    ATF is the federal law enforcement agency responsible for regulating the firearm industry and enforcing laws related to firearms and violent crime. For more information, visit atf.gov or follow @ATFHQ on X.

    Contact: ATF Public Affairs Division, Liaison2@atf.gov

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Fish barrier removal project along US 2 begins May 27 near Snohomish

    Source: Washington State News 2

    WSDOT and Snohomish County will improve fish access along Sexton Creek south of Three Lakes Road

    SNOHOMISH – A new project that will remove barriers to fish along Sexton Creek, a tributary to the Pilchuck River, east of Snohomish shows how important collaboration can be in reconnecting streams and keeping state waterways healthy.

    The Washington State Department of Transportation and Snohomish County will begin a joint project Tuesday, May 27, to replace existing 5½-foot culverts along Sexton Creek with new structures that will allow fish to swim freely.

    Contractor crews working for WSDOT will install an improved, three-sided box structure beneath US 2, while the county project will replace culverts under Sexton Road with a 29-foot-wide, steel arch culvert and remove other barriers on Sexton Creek near where it empties into the Pilchuck River.

    WSDOT’s US 2/Sexton Creek to Pilchuck River Fish Passage and Snohomish County’s Sexton Road Culvert Replacement projects will restore access to the full reach of the tributary for Chinook, coho, pink and chum salmon and steelhead, sea-run cutthroat, bull and resident trout. WSDOT will oversee construction for both projects.

    What to expect

    Beginning Tuesday, May 27, crews will begin building a bypass road along US 2, creating a safe work zone to remove and replace the existing culvert while allowing traffic to flow. People traveling in the area also can expect:

    • Up to three Saturday night full closures of US 2 with detours.
    • Nighttime lane closures of US 2 with alternating traffic.
    • Traffic shifts on US 2, with one lane remaining open in each direction.
    • Daytime shoulder closures along US 2.
    • Sexton Road closed to through traffic for up to two months beginning in July.
    • Local access to homes along Sexton Road near the closure.

    Construction is expected to finish in fall 2025.

    Fish passage program

    WSDOT has worked for nearly three decades to improve fish passage and open natural habitat. A 2013 federal injunction also directed WSDOT to significantly speed up efforts to replace fish barriers. The US 2 culvert along Sexton Creek is subject to the federal injunction.

    Snohomish County has been improving fish passage for over 35 years, with an increased emphasis on barrier removal and improvements since 2015. The county works closely with Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife and local tribes to identify and correct barriers related to county roads.

    New fish-friendly structures are larger, more resilient to change in the landscape and provide long-term fish passage. People can use the WSDOT interactive map to learn about corrected and uncorrected barriers and the injunction boundary.

    Funding for the $9 million US 2 portion of the project comes from state gas tax, Connecting Washington and Move Ahead Washington accounts. Snohomish County’s portion of the project is funded by a Washington State Department of Recreation and Conservation Office Fish Barrier Removal Board grant, a Bi-Partisan Infrastructure Law grant administered by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and Snohomish County Surface Water Management utility fees.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NCDHHS Emphasizes Summer Safety Practices as Temperatures Rise Across North Carolina

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: NCDHHS Emphasizes Summer Safety Practices as Temperatures Rise Across North Carolina

    NCDHHS Emphasizes Summer Safety Practices as Temperatures Rise Across North Carolina
    jawerner

    As summer approaches, the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services is reminding residents to take simple, proactive steps to enjoy outdoor activities safely. With the arrival of warmer weather, NCDHHS is highlighting key tips on water safety, heat protection and food safety to help prevent illness, injury and death. 

    May is National Water Safety Month, and a timely reminder that drowning remains the leading cause of death for children ages one through four, but it is preventable.

    “Every North Carolinian deserves to enjoy the summer season without risk to their health or safety,” said Dr. Kelly Kimple, Interim State Health Director and NCDHHS Chief Medical Officer. “By taking small, thoughtful actions — like supervising children near water, staying cool during extreme heat and practicing safe grilling — we can all stay safe this summer.”

    Water Safety: Preventing Tragedy Before It Happens

    As families head to pools, lakes and beaches, NCDHHS urges everyone to keep these water safety practices in mind:

    • Actively Supervise: Drowning can happen silently and in seconds. Always keep a close eye on children near water.
    • Secure Pool Areas: Keep gates and doors closed and locked. Remove pool ladders when not in use.
    • Know the Water: Be aware of currents, depth changes and undertows at beaches, lakes and rivers.
    • Stay Healthy: Don’t swim when ill with diarrhea to prevent spreading germs.
    • Check Water Quality: Ensure pools are properly disinfected. Local health departments routinely inspect public pools, spas and splash pads.
    • Be Cautious in All Recreational Waters: Lakes and rivers may carry bacteria or harmful algae blooms. Check advisories before swimming.

    Heat Safety: Protecting Against Rising Temperatures 

    According to the North Carolina Climate Science Update, the state continues to experience an increasing number of extreme heat days — those reaching 95 degrees or higher. From May through September 2024, North Carolina recorded over 4,600 emergency department visits for heat-related illness.

    NCDHHS encourages all residents to: 

    • Watch for Symptoms: Nausea, dizziness, headache, confusion or a rapid pulse could indicate heat exhaustion or heat stroke.
    • Hydrate and Cool Down: Move to a cooler area, sip water slowly and seek medical help if symptoms persist.
    • Know Who’s at Risk: Children, older adults, pregnant individuals, outdoor workers, athletes and those without air conditioning are most vulnerable. 

    To stay informed, sign up for the NCDHHS Heat Health Alert System on the NC Climate and Health team webpage.

    Grill Smart: Avoid Foodborne Illness This Summer

    Summer gatherings often mean grilling and increased risk for foodborne illness. The majority of reported foodborne outbreaks in North Carolina occur between May and August.

    Stay safe with these grilling guidelines:

    • Wash Up: Scrub hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds before and after handling food.
    • Separate Raw and Cooked Foods: Prevent cross-contamination by keeping raw meats apart from other foods.
    • Cook to Safe Temperatures: Use a food thermometer to ensure meats reach the correct internal temperature.
    • Store Leftovers Promptly: Refrigerate or freeze within two hours; consume within three to four days.
    • Clean the Grill: Sanitize surfaces and utensils before and after each use.

    For more information on healthy swimming practices, visit the U.S. Center for Disease Control and Prevention’s Healthy Swimming page, and for tips on safe grilling, visit Safe Grilling Tips. The CDC also has guidance for heat-related illness prevention. More summer safety tips are also available on the NCDHHS Division of Public Health website.

    A medida que se acerca el verano, el Departamento de Salud y Servicios Humanos de Carolina del Norte les recuerda a los habitantes que tomen medidas simples y proactivas para disfrutar las actividades al aire libre de manera segura. Con la llegada del clima más cálido, NCDHHS está destacando consejos clave sobre seguridad del agua, protección contra el calor y seguridad alimentaria para ayudar a prevenir enfermedades, lesiones y muertes.

    Mayo es el Mes Nacional de la Seguridad del Agua y es un recordatorio oportuno de que el ahogamiento sigue siendo la principal causa de muerte entre los niños de uno a cuatro años, pero se puede prevenir.

    “Todos los habitantes de Carolina del Norte merecen disfrutar de la temporada de verano sin riesgo para su salud o seguridad”, dijo la Dra. Kelly Kimple, Directora de Salud Estatal Interina y Directora Médica de NCDHHS. “Al tomar medidas pequeñas y reflexivas, como supervisar a los niños cerca del agua, mantener la calma durante el calor extremo, y asar a la parrilla con cuidado, todos podemos estar seguros este verano”.

    Seguridad del agua: prevenir la tragedia antes de que suceda

    Mientras las familias se dirigen a piscinas, lagos y playas, NCDHHS anima a todos a tener en cuenta estas prácticas de seguridad en el agua:

    • Supervisar activamente: El ahogamiento puede ocurrir en silencio y en segundos. Vigile siempre de cerca a los niños cerca del agua.
    • Asegure las areas de la piscina: Mantenga las puertas y portones cerrados con llave. Retire las escaleras de la piscina cuando no esté en uso.
    • Conozca el agua: Esté atento a las corrientes, cambios de profundidad y resacas en playas, lagos y ríos.
    • Manténgase saludable: No nade cuando esté enfermo con diarrea para evitar la propagación de gérmenes.
    • Compruebe la calidad del agua: asegúrese de que las piscinas estén desinfectadas correctamente. Los departamentos de salud locales inspeccionan rutinariamente las piscinas públicas, los spas y las áreas de chapoteo.
    • Tenga cuidado en todas las aguas recreativas: Los lagos y ríos pueden transportar bacterias o proliferacion de algas dañinas. Consulte las advertencias antes de nadar.

    Seguridad contra el calor extremo: protección contra el aumento de la temperatura 

    De acuerdo con la Actualización de la ciencia climática de Carolina del Norte, el estado continúa experimentando un número creciente de días de calor extremo, aquellos que alcanzan los 95 grados o más. Desde mayo a septiembre de 2024, Carolina del Norte registró más de 4600 visitas al departamento de emergencias por enfermedades relacionadas con el calor.

    NCDHHS anima a todos los habitantes a: 

    • Estar atento a los síntomas: Las náuseas, los mareos, el dolor de cabeza, la confusión o un pulso rápido podrían indicar agotamiento por calor o golpe de calor.
    • Hidratarse y refrescarse: Muévase a un área más fresca, beba agua lentamente y busque ayuda médica si los síntomas persisten.
    • Saber quién está en riesgo: Los niños, los adultos mayores, las personas embarazadas, los trabajadores al aire libre, los atletas y los que no tienen aire acondicionado son los más vulnerables.

    Para mantenerse informado, regístrese en el Sistema de Alerta de Salud por Calor de NCDHHS en la página web del equipo de Clima y Salud de NC.

    Haga parrillada inteligentemente: evite las enfermedades transmitidas por los alimentos este verano

    Las reuniones de verano a menudo significan asar a la parrilla y un mayor riesgo de enfermedades transmitidas por los alimentos. La mayoría de los brotes transmitidos por alimentos reportados en Carolina del Norte ocurren entre mayo y agosto.

    Manténgase seguro con estas pautas para asar a la parrilla:

    • Lavarse: Frote las manos con agua y jabón durante al menos 20 segundos antes y después de tocar los alimentos.
    • Separar los alimentos crudos y cocidos: evite la contaminación cruzada manteniendo las carnes crudas separadas de otros alimentos.
    • Cocinar a temperaturas seguras: Use un termómetro de alimentos para asegurarse de que las carnes alcancen la temperatura interna correcta.
    • Almacenar las sobras rápidamente: Refrigerar o congelar en dos horas; consumir en tres o cuatro días.
    • Limpiar la parrilla: Desinfectar las superficies y los utensilios antes y después de cada uso.

    Para obtener más información sobre prácticas de natación saludables, visite la página web de los Centros para el Control y la Prevención de Enfermedades (CDC, por sus siglas en inglés) Natación saludable, y para obtener consejos sobre hacer una parrillada segura, visite Consejos sobre la parrillada segura. Los CDC también tienen una guía para la prevención de enfermedades relacionadas con el calor. También hay más consejos de seguridad de verano disponibles en el sitio web de la División de Salud Pública de NCDHHS.

    May 23, 2025

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Steer Clear of Harmful Algae Blooms this Summer

    Source: US State of Rhode Island

    As we approach the summer months and recreational activities on the State’s abundant lakes, ponds and rivers increase, the Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH) and the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM) remind the public to be on the lookout for harmful algae blooms (HABs). HABs are caused by blue-green algae, also known as cyanobacteria, which are naturally present in bodies of freshwater. Higher temperatures, slow moving water, and high amounts of nutrients cause the cyanobacteria to grow excessively and create potential for HABs. These HABs can produce toxins which can be harmful to humans and animals.

    RIDOH and DEM work together to monitor and respond to HABs and issue recreational advisories when thresholds are met. During a HAB, all recreation, including swimming, fishing, boating, and kayaking should be avoided. In addition people should not drink untreated water or eat fish from affected waterbodies. Pet owners should not allow pets to drink or swim in this water. State and local officials work to post warnings around bodies of water when HABs are present. However, the public should be on the lookout for HABs and know to avoid affected waters if they encounter a HAB before warnings have been posted.

    Affected waters may be bright to dark green in color and have dense, floating algal mats on the water’s surface. The water may look like green paint, thick pea soup, or green cottage cheese. If you see bodies of water that look like this, it’s best for people and pets to avoid contact with the water.

    Skin contact with water containing blue-green algae can cause irritation of the skin, nose, eyes, and throat. Symptoms can include stomachache, diarrhea, vomiting, and nausea. Less common symptoms can include dizziness, headache, fever, liver damage, and nervous system damage. Young children and pets are at higher risk for health effects associated with HABs because they are more likely to swallow water when they are in or around bodies of water.

    If you come into contact with a HAB, rinse your skin with clean water as soon as possible and, when you get home, take a shower and wash your clothes. If your pet comes into contact with the water, immediately wash your pet with clean water and do not let the pet lick algae off its fur. Call a veterinarian if your pet shows any symptoms of blue-green algae poisoning, including loss of energy, loss of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, or any unexplained sickness that occurs within a day or so after being in contact with a HAB. People who have had contact with a HAB and have any of the symptoms described above should call a healthcare professional.

    To report suspected blue-green algae blooms, contact DEM’s Office of Water Resources at 401-222-4700 or DEM.OWRCyano@dem.ri.gov and if possible, send a photograph of the reported algae bloom.

    MIL OSI USA News –