Weekend Arrests Include 15 Other Fugitives
December 21, 2009: U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers at the San Ysidro and Otay Mesa passenger ports of entry over the weekend arrested 16 wanted fugitives including a man wanted for arson by the Kennedale Police Department in Texas. Early Sunday morning at about 6 a.m., 34-year-old John Hummel entered the San Ysidro border station as a pedestrian. The CBP officer interviewing Hummel developed information that he was a missing person and considered armed and dangerous and escorted him to the secondary area for further investigation.
Further systems checks revealed that Hummel was the subject of an outstanding felony warrant for arson in a subsequent homicide investigation.
Hummel, a U.S. citizen and resident of Grand Prarie, Texas, was arrested and booked into the San Diego County jail.
From Friday at 6 a.m. through 6 a.m. Monday, CBP officers working at the San Ysidro border station and nearby Otay Mesa port also captured 15 other fugitives; they were wanted for crimes such as robbery, burglary, and dangerous drugs.
Tuesday, December 22, 2009
CBP Officers Seize Marijuana at 2 New Mexico Ports Monday
The seizure at the Santa Teresa port of entry was made just before 11 a.m. when a 1998 Dodge Ram entered from Mexico. CBP officers working at the primary inspection booth noticed that the driver was nervous. CBP officers used several layers of enforcement to pinpoint the reason for the driver’s demeanor. A “Buster” density meter, X-ray equipment, and drug sniffing dog helped CBP officers pinpoint the drug load in the fuel tank. CBP officers removed a total of 148 pounds of marijuana from the fuel tank.
CBP officers arrested the driver of the truck, 33-year-old Jose Espinoza Torres of Ciudad Juarez, Mexico. He was turned over to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement special agents to face federal charges in relation to the failed drug smuggling attempt.
The seizure at the Columbus port of entry was made just before 3 p.m. when a 2009 Ford Excursion entered from Mexico. CBP officers working at the primary inspection booth selected the vehicle for a thorough exam. CBP officers X-rayed the vehicle and noted a dense area in the fuel tank consistent with previous drug loads. A CBP drug sniffing dog searched the vehicle and alerted to the fuel tank. CBP officers removed a total of 213 pounds of marijuana from the fuel tank.
CBP officers arrested the driver of the SUV, 22-year-old Vanessa Ann Marie Maestas of Phoenix, Ariz. She was turned over to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement special agents to face federal charges in relation to the failed drug smuggling attempt.
CBP in Atlanta Arrests 2 Wanted Fugitives
December 22, 2009: United States Customs and Border Protection officers at Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport arrested two wanted individuals who arrived in Atlanta over the weekend officials announced today.
The arrests were made while CBP officers were conducting routine inspections of arriving international passengers. The first individual, 30-year-old United States citizen Michael Colantuono, arrived from Italy and was wanted for Sexual Exploitation of a Minor out of Virginia.
The second individual, 34-year-old United States citizen Clint Roach, arrived from Nigeria and was wanted for Unlawful Possession of a Firearm by a Felon out of Texas. After both individuals were identified and the warrants confirmed, they were arrested and turned over to the Atlanta Police Department for extradition.
“While our primary mission is anti-terrorism we are also committed to securing our homeland through the apprehension of wanted criminals entering our society,” said Stephen Kremer, CBP area port director in Atlanta. “These arrests demonstrate our officer’s vigilance and dedication to securing the homeland and safeguarding our citizens.”
The arrests were made while CBP officers were conducting routine inspections of arriving international passengers. The first individual, 30-year-old United States citizen Michael Colantuono, arrived from Italy and was wanted for Sexual Exploitation of a Minor out of Virginia.
The second individual, 34-year-old United States citizen Clint Roach, arrived from Nigeria and was wanted for Unlawful Possession of a Firearm by a Felon out of Texas. After both individuals were identified and the warrants confirmed, they were arrested and turned over to the Atlanta Police Department for extradition.
“While our primary mission is anti-terrorism we are also committed to securing our homeland through the apprehension of wanted criminals entering our society,” said Stephen Kremer, CBP area port director in Atlanta. “These arrests demonstrate our officer’s vigilance and dedication to securing the homeland and safeguarding our citizens.”
Douglas CBP Officers Seize Marijuana Taped to Young Teen
December 21, 2009: U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers stopped a drug smuggling attempt when they apprehended a 13-year-old boy trying to smuggle marijuana taped to his body. Approximately a pound of marijuana is found taped to a teens inner thigh.
On December 18 at about 3 p.m., CBP officers were screening travelers when they observed a 13-year-old boy wearing loose clothing. The boy was identified as a resident of Agua Prieta, Sonora, Mexico. The CBP officers searched the boy and found that he had one package of marijuana taped to his inner thigh. The marijuana weighed about a pound and had an estimated street value of more than $1,700.
CBP officers seized the marijuana. CBP officers held the boy for questioning. The boy was released to the custody of his mother.
On December 18 at about 3 p.m., CBP officers were screening travelers when they observed a 13-year-old boy wearing loose clothing. The boy was identified as a resident of Agua Prieta, Sonora, Mexico. The CBP officers searched the boy and found that he had one package of marijuana taped to his inner thigh. The marijuana weighed about a pound and had an estimated street value of more than $1,700.
CBP officers seized the marijuana. CBP officers held the boy for questioning. The boy was released to the custody of his mother.
Busy Weekends Continue for Border Patrol, Agents Net 10 Tons of Marijuana
December 21, 2009: U.S. Border Patrol agents of the Rio Grande Valley Sector kept busy over the weekend making numerous marijuana seizures totaling nearly 10 tons.
Border Patrol agents continue to find large amounts of marijuana along the southern border.
Beginning Thursday, agents made multiple unrelated seizures that netted a total of 19,988 pounds of marijuana with an estimated street value of nearly $16 million. The seizures included close to six tons of marijuana that were found concealed within various produce shipments on Saturday and Sunday at the Falfurrias and Kingsville Border Patrol Checkpoints.
The previous weekend, during a 24-hour period beginning on December 11, agents nabbed more than 15,000 pounds of marijuana.
Over the past two weekends agents have seized a combined total of over 34,000 pounds of marijuana valued at nearly $30 million.
All narcotics, suspects and conveyances were turned over to the Drug Enforcement Administration for further investigation.
To report suspicious activity, contact the Rio Grande Valley Border Patrol Sector’s toll-free telephone number at 1-800-863-9382.
CBP Officers Seize $230,000 in Marijuana from Vehicle in Douglas
December 20, 2009: U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers stopped a drug-smuggling attempt when they seized 145 pounds of marijuana concealed in the rocker panels of a vehicle they were searching.
On December 19 at 5 a.m., CBP officers were screening travelers when they became suspicious of a 1994 Chrysler Caravan being driven by a 23-year-old man who was identified as a resident of Cananea, Sonora, Mexico. Utilizing high-tech equipment, the CBP officers searched the man’s vehicle and discovered that the rocker panels were loaded with packages of marijuana. The total weight of marijuana was 145 pounds with an estimated street value of $230,000.
CBP officers seized the vehicle and the marijuana. The man was turned over to the custody of Immigration and Customs Enforcement for further investigation and prosecution.
On December 19 at 5 a.m., CBP officers were screening travelers when they became suspicious of a 1994 Chrysler Caravan being driven by a 23-year-old man who was identified as a resident of Cananea, Sonora, Mexico. Utilizing high-tech equipment, the CBP officers searched the man’s vehicle and discovered that the rocker panels were loaded with packages of marijuana. The total weight of marijuana was 145 pounds with an estimated street value of $230,000.
CBP officers seized the vehicle and the marijuana. The man was turned over to the custody of Immigration and Customs Enforcement for further investigation and prosecution.
Thursday, December 17, 2009
Border Patrol Seizes Nearly 400 Pounds of Marijuana Stashed in Gas Tank
On Dec 15, 2009, El Centro Sector Border Patrol agents working the Highway 86 checkpoint seized nearly 400 pounds of marijuana with an estimated value of more than $300,000. At approximately 5:30 a.m., a white colored pick-up truck approached the primary inspection area at the Highway 86 Border Patrol checkpoint. The pick-up was referred to the secondary inspection.
While in secondary, a Border Patrol canine team conducted a cursory inspection of the vehicle. The canine team alerted to the bed area of the pick-up. A physical search of the bed area of the pick-up revealed 64 bundles of marijuana. All 64 bundles were concealed inside an auxiliary gas tank located in the bed of the pick-up.
The driver of the pick-up, a legal permanent resident, was turned over to the Drug Enforcement Administration along with the vehicle and marijuana.
According to El Centro Sector, Chief Patrol Agent Jeffrey Calhoon, “This is a testament of Border Patrol’s effectiveness,” he said. “It shows how our checkpoints are a valuable tool when it comes to establishing a second line of defense for stemming the flow of dangerous narcotics into our country.”
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
Border Patrol Agents Arrest Suspected Smugglers, Seize Drugs
December 16, 2009: U.S. Border Patrol agents arrested eight suspected drug smugglers and seized six backpacks loaded with marijuana near Sentinel, Ariz. early Tuesday morning.
At about 3 a.m., a Border Patrol agent detected a group of eight backpackers crossing the desert about five miles south of Interstate 8 near the Sentinel Rest Area.
The Border Patrol agent maintained a constant visual of the group while agents in the area moved into place to apprehend the suspected smugglers. As agents closed in, the group dropped their backpacks and ran north to avoid apprehension.
Through a coordinated effort, agents moved in on the group and apprehended all eight suspected smugglers. After a brief search of the area, agents recovered the six makeshift burlap-style backpacks containing eight bundles of marijuana.
The eight suspected smugglers and backpacks of marijuana were transported to the Wellton Border Patrol Station for processing. The backpacks contained 260 pounds of marijuana with an estimated street value of $208,000. The smugglers will be processed for removal and the marijuana will be destroyed.
At about 3 a.m., a Border Patrol agent detected a group of eight backpackers crossing the desert about five miles south of Interstate 8 near the Sentinel Rest Area.
The Border Patrol agent maintained a constant visual of the group while agents in the area moved into place to apprehend the suspected smugglers. As agents closed in, the group dropped their backpacks and ran north to avoid apprehension.
Through a coordinated effort, agents moved in on the group and apprehended all eight suspected smugglers. After a brief search of the area, agents recovered the six makeshift burlap-style backpacks containing eight bundles of marijuana.
The eight suspected smugglers and backpacks of marijuana were transported to the Wellton Border Patrol Station for processing. The backpacks contained 260 pounds of marijuana with an estimated street value of $208,000. The smugglers will be processed for removal and the marijuana will be destroyed.
St. Mary Border Patrol, Montana Air and Marine Agents Assist Blackfeet Tribe
n Wednesday, U.S. Border Patrol agents from the St. Mary Border Patrol Station and Customs and Border Protection Air Interdiction agents from the Montana Air Branch teamed up with officers from the Blackfeet Department of Homeland Security
to conduct welfare checks on snow-bound ranchers on the Blackfeet Reservation.
The Border Patrol’s mission of border security includes the goal of maintaining partnerships with other agencies to make border communities safer. St. Mary Station Patrol Agent in Charge Erik Dubbe said, “Working with our law enforcement partners to help the communities is a satisfying part of the job. We have developed a close working relationship with the Blackfeet Tribe.”
Heavy snow and extremely cold temperatures reaching down to about 35 degrees below zero had hit the eastern side of the Rocky Mountains, and Robert DesRosier, director of the Blackfeet Department of Homeland Security, was concerned about the welfare of several ranchers. DesRosier and Deputy Keith LameBear requested assistance from the Border Patrol in reaching the snow-bound residents on the Blackfeet Reservation. PAIC Dubbe assigned two agents to assist, and also requested assistance from the CBP Montana Air Branch, who had a Blackhawk helicopter in the area.
Air Interdiction agents (pilots) flew the group to several isolated ranches on the reservation, some more than seven miles off the main road, to make sure the residents were safe and had food. Because of the heavy snow, all the roads in the rural areas were impassable by automobiles. All the residents they checked were safe, but were running out of food. The agents and officers returned to their stations without incident, and tribal officials returned to the ranches the next day with off-road vehicles to deliver food and supplies.
to conduct welfare checks on snow-bound ranchers on the Blackfeet Reservation.The Border Patrol’s mission of border security includes the goal of maintaining partnerships with other agencies to make border communities safer. St. Mary Station Patrol Agent in Charge Erik Dubbe said, “Working with our law enforcement partners to help the communities is a satisfying part of the job. We have developed a close working relationship with the Blackfeet Tribe.”
Heavy snow and extremely cold temperatures reaching down to about 35 degrees below zero had hit the eastern side of the Rocky Mountains, and Robert DesRosier, director of the Blackfeet Department of Homeland Security, was concerned about the welfare of several ranchers. DesRosier and Deputy Keith LameBear requested assistance from the Border Patrol in reaching the snow-bound residents on the Blackfeet Reservation. PAIC Dubbe assigned two agents to assist, and also requested assistance from the CBP Montana Air Branch, who had a Blackhawk helicopter in the area.
Air Interdiction agents (pilots) flew the group to several isolated ranches on the reservation, some more than seven miles off the main road, to make sure the residents were safe and had food. Because of the heavy snow, all the roads in the rural areas were impassable by automobiles. All the residents they checked were safe, but were running out of food. The agents and officers returned to their stations without incident, and tribal officials returned to the ranches the next day with off-road vehicles to deliver food and supplies.
Border Patrol Seizes More than 22 Pounds of Cocaine in Vehicle’s Dash
December 15, 2009: On December 14, El Centro Sector Border Patrol agents working the Interstate 8 checkpoint seized approximately 22.7 pounds of cocaine with an estimated value of $746,400.At approximately 12 p.m., a silver colored vehicle entered the Interstate 8 checkpoint for inspection. The vehicle was referred for a secondary inspection. While in secondary, a Border Patrol canine team conducted a cursory inspection and alerted, leading the agents to the dash board area of the vehicle.
Agents conducted a physical search of the dashboard area and uncovered several packages concealed in the dashboard. A total of nine packages containing cocaine were removed from the vehicle’s dashboard.
The driver and passenger, both legal permanent residents, were turned over to the Drug Enforcement Administration along with the vehicle and cocaine.
This fiscal year to date, the El Centro Sector Border Patrol has seized more the 530 pounds of cocaine with an estimated street value of more than $17 million. These seizures at the Interstate 8 checkpoint are at record place having already surpassing fiscal year 2009’s total cocaine seizures of 174 pounds.
CBP Southbound Operations in Douglas Recovers $70,000 Found in Tires
December 15, 2009: U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers stopped an illegal exportation of $70,000 while screening traffic going into Mexico.On December 13 at about 7 p.m., CBP officers were screening traffic going into Mexico as part of a southbound operation. The officers selected a 2008 Chevrolet Cheyenne being driven by a 28-year-old man from Magdalena, Sonora, Mexico.
Utilizing high-tech equipment, CBP officers discovered that the man was attempting to smuggle $70,000 out of United States by concealing the money in the spare tire of the vehicle he was driving.
CBP officers seized the vehicle and the illegal currency. The man was turned over to the custody of Immigration and Customs Enforcement for further investigation.
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Crime Mapping
On January 28, 2010, Conversations with American Heroes at the Watering Hole will feature a discussion with Michael R. King on Crime Mapping.
Program Date: January 28, 2010
Program Time: 1700 Hours Pacific
Topic: Crime Mapping
Listen Live: www.americanheroesradio.com/crime_mapping.html
About the Guest
Michael R. King is a National Law Enforcement Account Manager for ESRI, the Environmental Systems Research Institute, a worldwide leader of GIS software. He was a Product Planning Manager for Motorola, Inc. from 2004-2006. In 2004, Michael R. King retired from full-time Law Enforcement and has over 28 years of service. He began his law enforcement career in 1979. After 8 years of experience with the Ogden Utah Police Department, Michael R. King became the Chief of Staff for Weber County Attorney, Reed M. Richards. He served in that capacity and as lead investigator for 8 years.
In 1993, Michael R. King became an investigator with the Utah Attorney General’s Office where he investigated sexual offenses, cult activity and white-collar crimes. He was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant and eventually promoted to Chief of Staff under Attorney General Jan Graham. During this time, King was trained as a criminal profiler through the FBI. He served as the co-chair of the FBI’s Violent Criminal Apprehension Program National Board. Michael R. King has consulted on hundreds of complex criminal cases around the world.
Michael R. King has a Master of Criminal Justice Degree and a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Criminal Justice. He is an adjunct faculty member for the school of Criminal Justice at Salt Lake Community College and Weber State University. He is a member of the Harvard Medical School Program in Psychiatry and the Law (2003-present) and is a Visiting Scholar for the School of Nursing at Boston College (2005-present).
Mike has authored, in part or whole, a number of books, including: Analyzing Criminal Behavior; Cold Case Methodology; and, Predators: Who They are and How to Stop Them.
About the Watering Hole
The Watering Hole is Police slang for a location cops go off-duty to blow off steam and talk about work and life. American Heroes Radio brings you to the watering hole, where it is Sometimes funny; sometimes serious; but, always interesting.
About the Host
Lieutenant Raymond E. Foster was a sworn member of the Los Angeles Police Department for 24 years. He retired in 2003 at the rank of Lieutenant. He holds a bachelor’s from the Union Institute and University in Criminal Justice Management and a Master’s Degree in Public Financial Management from California State University, Fullerton; and, has completed his doctoral course work. Raymond E. Foster has been a part-time lecturer at California State University, Fullerton and Fresno; and is currently a Criminal Justice Department chair, faculty advisor and lecturer with the Union Institute and University. He has experience teaching upper division courses in Law Enforcement, public policy, Public Safety Technology and leadership. Raymond is an experienced author who has published numerous articles in a wide range of venues including magazines such as Government Technology, Mobile Government, Airborne Law Enforcement Magazine, and Police One. He has appeared on the History Channel and radio programs in the United States and Europe as subject matter expert in technological applications in Law Enforcement.
Listen, call, join us at the Watering Hole:
Program Contact Information
Lieutenant Raymond E. Foster, LAPD (ret.), MPA
editor@police-writers.com
909.599.7530
Program Date: January 28, 2010
Program Time: 1700 Hours Pacific
Topic: Crime Mapping
Listen Live: www.americanheroesradio.com/crime_mapping.html
About the Guest
Michael R. King is a National Law Enforcement Account Manager for ESRI, the Environmental Systems Research Institute, a worldwide leader of GIS software. He was a Product Planning Manager for Motorola, Inc. from 2004-2006. In 2004, Michael R. King retired from full-time Law Enforcement and has over 28 years of service. He began his law enforcement career in 1979. After 8 years of experience with the Ogden Utah Police Department, Michael R. King became the Chief of Staff for Weber County Attorney, Reed M. Richards. He served in that capacity and as lead investigator for 8 years.
In 1993, Michael R. King became an investigator with the Utah Attorney General’s Office where he investigated sexual offenses, cult activity and white-collar crimes. He was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant and eventually promoted to Chief of Staff under Attorney General Jan Graham. During this time, King was trained as a criminal profiler through the FBI. He served as the co-chair of the FBI’s Violent Criminal Apprehension Program National Board. Michael R. King has consulted on hundreds of complex criminal cases around the world.
Michael R. King has a Master of Criminal Justice Degree and a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Criminal Justice. He is an adjunct faculty member for the school of Criminal Justice at Salt Lake Community College and Weber State University. He is a member of the Harvard Medical School Program in Psychiatry and the Law (2003-present) and is a Visiting Scholar for the School of Nursing at Boston College (2005-present).
Mike has authored, in part or whole, a number of books, including: Analyzing Criminal Behavior; Cold Case Methodology; and, Predators: Who They are and How to Stop Them.
About the Watering Hole
The Watering Hole is Police slang for a location cops go off-duty to blow off steam and talk about work and life. American Heroes Radio brings you to the watering hole, where it is Sometimes funny; sometimes serious; but, always interesting.
About the Host
Lieutenant Raymond E. Foster was a sworn member of the Los Angeles Police Department for 24 years. He retired in 2003 at the rank of Lieutenant. He holds a bachelor’s from the Union Institute and University in Criminal Justice Management and a Master’s Degree in Public Financial Management from California State University, Fullerton; and, has completed his doctoral course work. Raymond E. Foster has been a part-time lecturer at California State University, Fullerton and Fresno; and is currently a Criminal Justice Department chair, faculty advisor and lecturer with the Union Institute and University. He has experience teaching upper division courses in Law Enforcement, public policy, Public Safety Technology and leadership. Raymond is an experienced author who has published numerous articles in a wide range of venues including magazines such as Government Technology, Mobile Government, Airborne Law Enforcement Magazine, and Police One. He has appeared on the History Channel and radio programs in the United States and Europe as subject matter expert in technological applications in Law Enforcement.
Listen, call, join us at the Watering Hole:
Program Contact Information
Lieutenant Raymond E. Foster, LAPD (ret.), MPA
editor@police-writers.com
909.599.7530
Border Patrol Agents Rescue Missing Boy in Arizona
Monday, December 14, 2009: U.S. Border Patrol agents working near the Naco Station located an 11-year-old boy Sunday morning who had been reported missing hours earlier by his mother.
“Border Patrol agents are first responders as well as law enforcement officers,” said Naco Station Patrol Agent in Charge Humberto De La Cruz. “We are happy that both are safe and we were able to avert this potential tragedy and reunite the woman with her son.”
Border Patrol agents became aware of the situation when the woman told agents that she was separated from her son while trying to avoid apprehension by the Border Patrol. She also claimed that her son was suffering from dehydration and had not eaten in three days.
Border Patrol agents immediately responded, activating the Border Patrol Search, Trauma, and Rescue (BORSTAR) team, bringing in additional agents from the Willcox Border Patrol Station, and deploying a total of three mobile surveillance scopes. The boy was found hiding in brush with a group of 11 illegal aliens. The boy appeared to be in good health and was reunited with his mother at the Naco Station.
In fiscal 2009, Tucson Sector Border Patrol agents rescued almost 600 illegal aliens from the Sonora Desert. Border Patrol agents never hesitate to help individuals lost or in need of medical assistance, regardless of nationality
“Border Patrol agents are first responders as well as law enforcement officers,” said Naco Station Patrol Agent in Charge Humberto De La Cruz. “We are happy that both are safe and we were able to avert this potential tragedy and reunite the woman with her son.”
Border Patrol agents became aware of the situation when the woman told agents that she was separated from her son while trying to avoid apprehension by the Border Patrol. She also claimed that her son was suffering from dehydration and had not eaten in three days.
Border Patrol agents immediately responded, activating the Border Patrol Search, Trauma, and Rescue (BORSTAR) team, bringing in additional agents from the Willcox Border Patrol Station, and deploying a total of three mobile surveillance scopes. The boy was found hiding in brush with a group of 11 illegal aliens. The boy appeared to be in good health and was reunited with his mother at the Naco Station.
In fiscal 2009, Tucson Sector Border Patrol agents rescued almost 600 illegal aliens from the Sonora Desert. Border Patrol agents never hesitate to help individuals lost or in need of medical assistance, regardless of nationality
Monday, December 14, 2009
Border Patrol Agents Seize Nearly 1,000 Pounds of Marijuana
December 11, 2009: U.S. Border Patrol agents in Lordsburg seized nearly 1,000 pounds of marijuana Thursday in three separate events. Lordsburg Horse Patrol agents conducting line watch operations Thursday morning discovered footprints in a remote location just south of Animas, N.M. The agents followed the footprints north and were able to quickly close the gap between themselves and the narcotic smugglers. The Horse Patrol, along with other agents, apprehended six undocumented aliens that had entered the country illegally and were attempting to conceal themselves in the heavy brush. The individuals were carrying five bundles of marijuana weighing 228 pounds with an estimated street value of $182,400.00.
Earlier in the day, the Lordsburg station seized a total of 757 pounds of marijuana resulting from two separate events. The bundles of marijuana were backpacked into the United States from Mexico by individuals that entered the United States illegally. Agents used traditional methods, such as tracking, to follow the foot sign left behind by the smugglers in the rugged southern New Mexico terrain.
The total estimated street value of the marijuana seized by the Lordsburg Station on Thursday was $787,800.
These latest seizures demonstrate the dedication and effectiveness of Border Patrol agents and their commitment to keeping drugs and criminal activity out of our communities in the ongoing effort to secure our nation’s borders.
Earlier in the day, the Lordsburg station seized a total of 757 pounds of marijuana resulting from two separate events. The bundles of marijuana were backpacked into the United States from Mexico by individuals that entered the United States illegally. Agents used traditional methods, such as tracking, to follow the foot sign left behind by the smugglers in the rugged southern New Mexico terrain.
The total estimated street value of the marijuana seized by the Lordsburg Station on Thursday was $787,800.
These latest seizures demonstrate the dedication and effectiveness of Border Patrol agents and their commitment to keeping drugs and criminal activity out of our communities in the ongoing effort to secure our nation’s borders.
Friday, December 11, 2009
Border Patrol Arrests Convicted Sex Offender
December 10, 2009: U.S. Border Patrol agents assigned to the El Centro, Calif. sector, arrested a convicted sex offender Wednesday east of Calexico, Calif.
Jeffrey A. Calhoon, chief patrol agent of the El Centro sector, stated “Reducing crime in border communities is one facet of the Border Patrol’s National Strategy. This is a perfect example of the Border Patrol taking one more dangerous criminal off the streets who is a threat to our border communities.”
Border Patrol agents from the Calexico Station arrested the male Mexican national after he made an illegal entry into the United States. Record checks revealed the subject has a conviction for Rape by Force and Lewd Acts with a Child under fourteen years of age. The offender was sentenced to a five year prison term for the offense. The subject is subject to prosecution for re-entry after deportation.
Jeffrey A. Calhoon, chief patrol agent of the El Centro sector, stated “Reducing crime in border communities is one facet of the Border Patrol’s National Strategy. This is a perfect example of the Border Patrol taking one more dangerous criminal off the streets who is a threat to our border communities.”
Border Patrol agents from the Calexico Station arrested the male Mexican national after he made an illegal entry into the United States. Record checks revealed the subject has a conviction for Rape by Force and Lewd Acts with a Child under fourteen years of age. The offender was sentenced to a five year prison term for the offense. The subject is subject to prosecution for re-entry after deportation.
Felon in Possession of Handgun Arrested at Northwest Border
December 10, 2009: U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers Monday took into custody Michael Pinkney, 28, of Ridgecrest, California for allegedly being a convicted felon in possession of a handgun when he attempted to enter the United States at the Peace Arch border crossing.
Pinkney was characterized as incoherent and rambling, resulting in a heightened level of suspicion that caused officers to isolate him from the rest of the traveling public. During a search of the vehicle officers discovered a loaded pistol magazine in the center console and a pistol in Pinkney’s duffel bag. Also discovered was a hockey mask and dark cap.
“All of Washington state is acutely aware of the serious threat unrepentant criminals can present to our society and the law enforcement community,” said Area Port Director Greg Alvarez. “We are thankful that our officers have been able to perform this arrest safely and without harm to themselves or innocent members of the traveling public.”
Pinkney was turned over to the Blaine Police Department where further investigation revealed that the vehicle Pinkney was driving, although not yet listed as stolen, was taken without the owner’s consent.
Pinkney was characterized as incoherent and rambling, resulting in a heightened level of suspicion that caused officers to isolate him from the rest of the traveling public. During a search of the vehicle officers discovered a loaded pistol magazine in the center console and a pistol in Pinkney’s duffel bag. Also discovered was a hockey mask and dark cap.
“All of Washington state is acutely aware of the serious threat unrepentant criminals can present to our society and the law enforcement community,” said Area Port Director Greg Alvarez. “We are thankful that our officers have been able to perform this arrest safely and without harm to themselves or innocent members of the traveling public.”
Pinkney was turned over to the Blaine Police Department where further investigation revealed that the vehicle Pinkney was driving, although not yet listed as stolen, was taken without the owner’s consent.
CBP, Arizona Police Join Forces to Recover Stolen Goods
December 11, 2009: U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers and the Yuma, Ariz. Police Department joined in enforcement efforts to recover four refrigerated truck units and a backhoe.
CBP Officers assigned to the cargo facility were conducting commercial truck inspections Wednesday along with a Yuma Police Detective assigned to a regional auto theft team. During the coordinated inspections of inbound and outbound trucks the officers found four stolen trucks and a backhoe.
“CBP is very receptive to any law enforcement partnerships because it proves to be a success against those breaking the law,” said William K. Brooks. “We will continue to coordinate different strategies with our local law enforcement counterparts.”
The stolen goods were seized and the drivers were released pending further investigation by the Yuma Police Department.
While anti-terrorism is the primary mission of U.S. Customs and Border Protection, the inspection process at the ports of entry associated with this mission results in impressive numbers of enforcement actions in all categories.
CBP Officers assigned to the cargo facility were conducting commercial truck inspections Wednesday along with a Yuma Police Detective assigned to a regional auto theft team. During the coordinated inspections of inbound and outbound trucks the officers found four stolen trucks and a backhoe.
“CBP is very receptive to any law enforcement partnerships because it proves to be a success against those breaking the law,” said William K. Brooks. “We will continue to coordinate different strategies with our local law enforcement counterparts.”
The stolen goods were seized and the drivers were released pending further investigation by the Yuma Police Department.
While anti-terrorism is the primary mission of U.S. Customs and Border Protection, the inspection process at the ports of entry associated with this mission results in impressive numbers of enforcement actions in all categories.
Thursday, December 10, 2009
Solving Missing Persons Cases
by Beth Pearsall with Danielle Weiss
This article highlights NIJ's National Missing and Unidentified Persons System (NamUs), the first national repository of its kind. NamUs, which provides a "needed bridge" between law enforcement agencies, medical examiners, coroners and the public, already houses more than 2,000 missing persons and 5,000 unidentified decedent cases that could potentially be solved with the help of this new communication tool.
Read On
http://www.ojp.usdoj.gov/nij/pubs-sum/228382.htm
This article highlights NIJ's National Missing and Unidentified Persons System (NamUs), the first national repository of its kind. NamUs, which provides a "needed bridge" between law enforcement agencies, medical examiners, coroners and the public, already houses more than 2,000 missing persons and 5,000 unidentified decedent cases that could potentially be solved with the help of this new communication tool.
Read On
http://www.ojp.usdoj.gov/nij/pubs-sum/228382.htm
Learning From 9/11: Organizational Change in the New York City and Arlington County, Va., Police Departments
When a terrorist attack or other mass casualty incident occurs, the primary responsibility for responding to the attack falls to local law enforcement. Little is available in the way of best practices for responding to large-scale critical incidents. A study of the two law enforcement agencies that dealt most directly with the 9/11 terrorist attacks — the New York City Police Department and the Arlington County, Va., Police Department — looked at what practices the agencies had in place that enabled them to respond to the attacks; what special challenges they faced in responding to the attacks; and what changes in organization, training, and policies and procedures they implemented in the aftermath of the attacks to improve their ability to prevent, anticipate and coordinate their response to terrorist and other critical incidents. This Research for Practice summarizes the study findings and presents the implications of the agencies’ experience for! law enforcement.
DOWNLOAD THE REPORT
http://www.ncjrs.gov/pdffiles1/nij/227346.pdf
DOWNLOAD THE REPORT
http://www.ncjrs.gov/pdffiles1/nij/227346.pdf
Unconventional Delivery of Deadly Force in a Correctional Facility
By Tracy E. Barnhart & Gary T. Klugiewicz
We wanted to write an article on a topic that you might have thought that you never would read about in print. This article is going to discuss how and when to use deadly force in a correctional facility and most importantly how to defend your actions. Since most corrections officers are not trained or equipped with weapons designed to deliver deadly force the techniques we are going to discuss will need to be unconventional. The following information is the kind of stuff we talk about before roll call when we hear about an assault on an officer from the previous shift. This type of violent assault against a corrections officer could happen anywhere. It could even happen in your facility. These life threatening assaults could happen to a friend or someone who you went to the academy with or it could happen to you. Hopefully it’s doesn’t end up like the incident referenced below with an officer being killed.
READ ON
http://www.police-writers.com/articles/unconvential_delivery_deadly_force.html
We wanted to write an article on a topic that you might have thought that you never would read about in print. This article is going to discuss how and when to use deadly force in a correctional facility and most importantly how to defend your actions. Since most corrections officers are not trained or equipped with weapons designed to deliver deadly force the techniques we are going to discuss will need to be unconventional. The following information is the kind of stuff we talk about before roll call when we hear about an assault on an officer from the previous shift. This type of violent assault against a corrections officer could happen anywhere. It could even happen in your facility. These life threatening assaults could happen to a friend or someone who you went to the academy with or it could happen to you. Hopefully it’s doesn’t end up like the incident referenced below with an officer being killed.
READ ON
http://www.police-writers.com/articles/unconvential_delivery_deadly_force.html
My Supervisor is an Idiot
There are plenty of books and articles on being a good leader and being a good follower. Indeed, excellent followership starts with leadership. Moreover, there are a lot of good books because there a lot of people who need leadership training and mentoring. But, what do you do when your supervisor is an idiot? Here are ten tips:
www.pokerleadership.com/supervisor_idiot.html
www.pokerleadership.com/supervisor_idiot.html
CBP Partners with Mexican Authorities in Douglas
Thursday, December 10, 2009: U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers put on a clinic for local Mexican authorities from Agua Prieta, Sonora, Mexico to assist them in the application of newly acquired high-tech tools.
Mexican authorities have stepped up their efforts in their fight against terrorism and organized crime. They are receiving high-tech tools that will assist them in their efforts to detect contraband being imported or exported out of their country. To assist them in their efforts, CBP Douglas port of entry held a clinic to assist them in their search techniques and application of their high-tech tools.
“U.S. Customs and Border Protection foments partnerships with many law enforcement agencies,” said Jose Lopez, supervisor for passenger processing and liaison with local Mexican law enforcement authorities, “these partnerships are an integral part in securing our nation’s borders. The criminal element can no longer commit a crime and casually leave the country to escape the consequences. Protecting the border is now an international exerted effort and is made up of a complex network of many national and international agencies. Customs and Border Protection remains firm in it’s commitment to securing our notion’s borders.”
While anti-terrorism is the primary mission of U.S. Customs and Border Protection, the inspection process at the ports of entry associated with this mission results in impressive numbers of enforcement actions in all categories
Mexican authorities have stepped up their efforts in their fight against terrorism and organized crime. They are receiving high-tech tools that will assist them in their efforts to detect contraband being imported or exported out of their country. To assist them in their efforts, CBP Douglas port of entry held a clinic to assist them in their search techniques and application of their high-tech tools.
“U.S. Customs and Border Protection foments partnerships with many law enforcement agencies,” said Jose Lopez, supervisor for passenger processing and liaison with local Mexican law enforcement authorities, “these partnerships are an integral part in securing our nation’s borders. The criminal element can no longer commit a crime and casually leave the country to escape the consequences. Protecting the border is now an international exerted effort and is made up of a complex network of many national and international agencies. Customs and Border Protection remains firm in it’s commitment to securing our notion’s borders.”
While anti-terrorism is the primary mission of U.S. Customs and Border Protection, the inspection process at the ports of entry associated with this mission results in impressive numbers of enforcement actions in all categories
Academy to Retirement: A Journey Through the Policing Lifecycle
A part of NIJ's "Research in the Real World" Series
Friday, December 11, 2009
10:00 am–11:30 am (Eastern Time)
Office of Justice Programs, 3rd Floor Ballroom
810 7th Street, NW
Washington, DC 20531
Have you wondered how we can do a better job of recruiting and training law enforcement officers and what makes officers choose to leave or stay through retirement? If so, please join us to learn about an NIJ-funded project on the policing lifecycle.
Hear what Dennis Rosenbaum and his team are doing to help improve officer health, productivity, and attitudes; increase effectiveness of police training programs and supervisory methods; improve leadership development; and establish standardized and widely accepted definitions and benchmarks for good policing.
Whether you are a policymaker, decision-maker or an officer in the field, if you are interested in policing, this event is for you.
The seminar is free, but you must RSVP to gain access to the OJP building. Allow 20 minutes to go through security.
Know someone who might want to attend? For more information about this event or to RSVP, please contact Yolanda Curtis at 202-305-2554 or Yolanda.Curtis@usdoj.gov.
Friday, December 11, 2009
10:00 am–11:30 am (Eastern Time)
Office of Justice Programs, 3rd Floor Ballroom
810 7th Street, NW
Washington, DC 20531
Have you wondered how we can do a better job of recruiting and training law enforcement officers and what makes officers choose to leave or stay through retirement? If so, please join us to learn about an NIJ-funded project on the policing lifecycle.
Hear what Dennis Rosenbaum and his team are doing to help improve officer health, productivity, and attitudes; increase effectiveness of police training programs and supervisory methods; improve leadership development; and establish standardized and widely accepted definitions and benchmarks for good policing.
Whether you are a policymaker, decision-maker or an officer in the field, if you are interested in policing, this event is for you.
The seminar is free, but you must RSVP to gain access to the OJP building. Allow 20 minutes to go through security.
Know someone who might want to attend? For more information about this event or to RSVP, please contact Yolanda Curtis at 202-305-2554 or Yolanda.Curtis@usdoj.gov.
Wednesday, December 09, 2009
Respirator Trusted-Source Information Page
This information may be regarded as a trusted source to verify which respirators are approved by NIOSH, how to get them and how to use them. This web page is currently under development, and therefore not all areas are functional at this time. We hope that you visit us frequently to use the new capabilities as they become available. The web page will include content to address each of 3 sections of information as follows:
Section 1: NIOSH-Approved Respirators: What are they, How can they be identified, Where can I get them?
Section 2: Use of NIOSH Respirators: Information on how to implement the use of respirators in the Workplace and use them appropriately.
Section 3: Ancillary Respirator Information: Commonly asked Questions and Answers (Fact Sheets), Respirator Myths, Science of Respirator Function and Performance, Respiratory Protective Devices Not Approved by NIOSH.
Visit the website
http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/npptl/topics/respirators/disp_part/RespSource.html
Section 1: NIOSH-Approved Respirators: What are they, How can they be identified, Where can I get them?
Section 2: Use of NIOSH Respirators: Information on how to implement the use of respirators in the Workplace and use them appropriately.
Section 3: Ancillary Respirator Information: Commonly asked Questions and Answers (Fact Sheets), Respirator Myths, Science of Respirator Function and Performance, Respiratory Protective Devices Not Approved by NIOSH.
Visit the website
http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/npptl/topics/respirators/disp_part/RespSource.html
CBP Officers Confiscate Marijuana, Process Immigration Violators, Recover Undeclared Currency at Lukeville Port
Tuesday, December 08, 2009: U. S. Customs and Border Protection officers at the Lukeville port of entry wrapped up a busy weekend by preventing 342 pounds of marijuana from entering the United States on three separate events and a total of six arrests.
The first seizure occurred on Sunday, December 6, at 11 a.m., when CBP officers conducting routine inspections of travelers and vehicles entering the United States selected a 1995 Ford Explorer and driver for exam. When examined, CBP officers utilized high tech x-ray equipment and detected several anomalies within the gas tank. The officers saw a metal box inside the gas tank. CBP officers utilized a narcotic detection dog who alerted to the presence of narcotics in the gas tank. The gas tank was removed and three metal boxes were discovered inside the tank. CBP officers removed the three boxes and opened them. Inside each box was one package of marijuana. The approximate weight of the narcotic was 127 pounds.
Later the same day, at approximately 3:30 p.m., CBP officers discovered 93 bundles of marijuana floating inside the gas tank of a 2004 Jeep Cherokee. CBP officers removed the marijuana from the gas tank. All occupants were citizens of Mexico or the United States and ranged in age from 20 to 54 years old.
In both cases the narcotics and vehicles was seized and subjects were turned over to Immigration and Customs Enforcement for further investigation.
Earlier in the day U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers were screening traffic leaving the United States. Officers selected a 2009 Ford Expedition being driving by a 32-year-old Mexican citizen and three occupants. Two of the occupants were unable to produce documentation and it was determined they were illegally in the United States. Both were taken into custody and processed as immigration violators. Also discovered was a total of $16,650 in undeclared currency.
The first seizure occurred on Sunday, December 6, at 11 a.m., when CBP officers conducting routine inspections of travelers and vehicles entering the United States selected a 1995 Ford Explorer and driver for exam. When examined, CBP officers utilized high tech x-ray equipment and detected several anomalies within the gas tank. The officers saw a metal box inside the gas tank. CBP officers utilized a narcotic detection dog who alerted to the presence of narcotics in the gas tank. The gas tank was removed and three metal boxes were discovered inside the tank. CBP officers removed the three boxes and opened them. Inside each box was one package of marijuana. The approximate weight of the narcotic was 127 pounds.
Later the same day, at approximately 3:30 p.m., CBP officers discovered 93 bundles of marijuana floating inside the gas tank of a 2004 Jeep Cherokee. CBP officers removed the marijuana from the gas tank. All occupants were citizens of Mexico or the United States and ranged in age from 20 to 54 years old.
In both cases the narcotics and vehicles was seized and subjects were turned over to Immigration and Customs Enforcement for further investigation.
Earlier in the day U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers were screening traffic leaving the United States. Officers selected a 2009 Ford Expedition being driving by a 32-year-old Mexican citizen and three occupants. Two of the occupants were unable to produce documentation and it was determined they were illegally in the United States. Both were taken into custody and processed as immigration violators. Also discovered was a total of $16,650 in undeclared currency.
Steamroller Concealing Marijuana Contributes to 2 Tons Seized at Laredo Cargo Facility
December 08, 2009: U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers working at the World Trade Bridge commercial cargo lot at the Laredo, Texas Laredo port of entry seized more than two tons of marijuana last week. The drugs valued in excess of $4.4 million in the two separate cases were concealed inside a steamroller and a shipment of air and oil filters.The latest and largest seizure occurred on Friday, December 4. It is the second large drug load discovered in a commercial truck in less than two weeks at the Laredo port. On November 24, CBP officers at this same commercial cargo lot seized more than 1,765 pounds of marijuana.
The Friday seizure was made just after 7 p.m. when a 1994 Kenworth tractor hauling a 2002 Wabash trailer entered the compound from Mexico. After interviewing the driver, Jesus Mendoza Martinez, a 30-year-old Mexican citizen from Nuevo Laredo, Tamaulipas, Mexico a CBP officer referred the tractor-trailer rig to the cargo x-ray unit for closer examination. A CBP officer determined that there were anomalies within the manifested cargo inside the trailer.
CBP officers conducted a physical and closer visual inspection of the shipment that revealed bundles co-mingled among the manifested pallets of air and oil filters. A total of 73 bundles were removed from the trailer. The bundles contained 2,677 pounds of marijuana, which has a street value of more than $2.7 million. The tractor and trailer were also seized by CBP officers.
click for hi-res
Packages of marijuana totaling 1,765 pounds are discovered in a steamroller. Just days before, CBP officers at the same commercial bridge had stopped another significant load of marijuana. CBP officers referred the 1997 International tractor pulling a 2003 Lufkin flatbed trailer with a vibration road roller machine for a non-intrusive imagining system scan that resulted in anomalies being detected within the wheels of the heavy-duty roller. CBP narcotics detector dog “Donna” also alerted to the odor of narcotics emanating from the wheels of the roller. CBP officers conducted an intensive examination and discovered a total of 195 bundles carrying 1,765 pounds of marijuana within the metal wheels of the road roller. The marijuana has an estimated street value of $1.7 million.
In both of these cases, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement special agents investigated the seizures that resulted in the arrests of two men on federal drug violations.
“Laredo’s CBP officers are dedicated to balancing the facilitation of trade with our priority border security mission. Our officers used a combination of their experience and technological tools to ferret out well-hidden contraband, as was the case with the heavy duty road roller,” said Gene Garza, CBP port director, Laredo. “These two cases resulting in over two tons of narcotics demonstrate the daily enforcement efforts of our officers. They successfully accomplish this mission, while not impeding the flow of commerce that is so strongly linked to the economy of Laredo.”
CBP Officers Arrest Body Carrier at Douglas Port
December 09, 2009: U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers stopped a drug smuggling attempt when they apprehended a 21-year-old man trying to smuggle marijuana taped to his body. On December 8 at about 8:30 p.m. CBP officers were screening travelers when they observed a 21-year-old man walking very oddly. The man was identified as a U.S citizen and resident of Douglas. The CBP officers searched the man and found that he had packages of marijuana weighting about two pounds taped to his torso. The marijuana had an estimated street value of more than $3,500.CBP officers seized the marijuana. The man was turned over to Immigration and Customs Enforcement for questioning.
Tuesday, December 08, 2009
Santa Teresa CBP Officers Make Largest Cocaine Seizure in 5 Years
December 07, 2009: El Paso, TexasU.S. Customs and Border Protection officers working at El Paso area ports of entry made one cocaine and several marijuana seizures during the last week. CBP officers confiscated a total of 53 pounds of cocaine and 1,156 pounds of marijuana.
“This is the largest cocaine seizure CBP officers at the Santa Teresa port of entry have made in more than five years,” said Ana Hinojosa, U.S. Customs and Border Protection director of Field Operations in El Paso. “Despite exceptionally heavy traffic on Saturday, CBP officers remained focused on their mission and were able to stop a sizeable drug load from entering the U.S.”
CBP officers at the Santa Teresa port of entry confiscated 53.24 pounds of cocaine on Saturday. The seizure was made after a 2000 Honda Odyssey entered the port from Mexico. A CBP officer at the primary inspection booth noticed inconsistencies in statements given by the driver and referred the vehicle to secondary for further examination. CBP drug sniffing dog “Popeye” searched the vehicle and alerted to the glove compartment area.
The vehicle was taken to a separate inspection area where an extensive inspection of the vehicle was conducted. CBP officers discovered 23 cocaine-filled packages concealed in a non-factory compartment in the front area of the dashboard in the firewall. The contents of the bundles tested positive for cocaine.
CBP officers at the port arrested the driver, 36-year-old Ruby Rodriguez, of Deming, N.M. She was turned over to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement special agents to face federal charges including importation of a controlled substance and possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance.
In addition to the drug seizures, CBP officers recorded 56 immigration violations at area ports this week including 43 intended immigrants and 13 imposters. Intended immigrants will use a legally issued border-crossing card (laser visa) to live or work in the U.S., which is not authorized. They also lose their documents and are generally returned to Mexico. Imposters generally will use a legitimate entry document assigned to another person and present it as their own. Violators generally lose their documents, can be prosecuted and go to jail and/or are returned to Mexico.
CBP officers working at area ports made a total of 22 fugitive apprehensions and located a missing juvenile during the period.
In addition to the drug busts, CBP officers working at ports of entry in El Paso, West Texas and New Mexico made three seizures of agricultural items. Violators paid $775 in penalties in association with the violations. Prohibited food products seized included tangerines, grapefruits, pomegranates and guavas.
While anti-terrorism is the primary mission of U.S. Customs and Border Protection, the inspection process at the ports of entry associated with this mission results in impressive numbers of enforcement actions in all categories.
McAllen Horse Patrol Agents Seize Drugs Concealed in Brush
December 07, 2009: McAllen, Texas — U.S. Border Patrol agents on horseback discovered 191 pounds of marijuana Friday evening with an estimated street value of $152,800.
Agents assigned to the McAllen station were on horse patrol near the Hidalgo, Texas port of entry when they discovered the marijuana concealed in a brushy area along the Rio Grande River. The contraband was most likely hidden in the brush for transport at a later time.
The Border Patrol uses horses to navigate areas along the Rio Grande River that vehicles cannot access. Agents on horses can also navigate rugged terrain rapidly and quietly. Horse Patrol remains one of the most effective means of drug and illegal immigrant interdiction to this day and its roots bridge the history of the Border Patrol since the agency’s creation in 1924.
Agents assigned to the McAllen station were on horse patrol near the Hidalgo, Texas port of entry when they discovered the marijuana concealed in a brushy area along the Rio Grande River. The contraband was most likely hidden in the brush for transport at a later time.
The Border Patrol uses horses to navigate areas along the Rio Grande River that vehicles cannot access. Agents on horses can also navigate rugged terrain rapidly and quietly. Horse Patrol remains one of the most effective means of drug and illegal immigrant interdiction to this day and its roots bridge the history of the Border Patrol since the agency’s creation in 1924.
ISPLA Represents Industry at FTC Roundtable in Washington, D.C.
December 7, 2009: Bruce Hulme, Director of Government Affairs for Investigative and Security Professionals for Legislative Action (ISPLA) has been invited to take part in the Federal Trade Commission’s public roundtable discussions, a series of day long discussions on Evolving Consumer Privacy Issues. The first roundtable discussion in this series was on December 7th with the focus on exploring the privacy challenges posed by the vast array of 21st century technology and business practices that collect and use consumer data, including those of professional investigators. Mr. Hulme provided the profession’s position regarding the legitimate need for continued access to information by professional investigators.
The roundtable discussions will consider the risks and benefits of information collection and use in online and offline contexts, consumer expectations surrounding various information management practices, and the adequacy of existing legal and self-regulatory controls to address privacy interests. Roundtable participants will include stakeholders representing a wide range of views and experiences. The participation of the investigation industry is critical to counter-balance the legitimate concerns of privacy advocates and other industry forces.
ISPLA is concerned with the prospect of additional regulations and laws that limit the legitimate use of consumer information. Its participation, at the behest of the FTC, reflects on the association’s reputation among regulators and legislators as a significant and reasoned voice for the industry.
The second privacy roundtable discussion will take place on January 28, 2010. The event, hosted by the Berkeley Center for Law and Technology, will take place at the University of California, Berkeley, School of Law Booth Auditorium. ISPLA will be participating.
The mission of ISPLA is to monitor and identify critical legislative and regulatory issues in order to provide a forum for debate and discussion within the investigative and security professions and to serve as an advocate for these professions. To find out more about ISPLA and how you can support your profession go to www.ispla.org.
The roundtable discussions will consider the risks and benefits of information collection and use in online and offline contexts, consumer expectations surrounding various information management practices, and the adequacy of existing legal and self-regulatory controls to address privacy interests. Roundtable participants will include stakeholders representing a wide range of views and experiences. The participation of the investigation industry is critical to counter-balance the legitimate concerns of privacy advocates and other industry forces.
ISPLA is concerned with the prospect of additional regulations and laws that limit the legitimate use of consumer information. Its participation, at the behest of the FTC, reflects on the association’s reputation among regulators and legislators as a significant and reasoned voice for the industry.
The second privacy roundtable discussion will take place on January 28, 2010. The event, hosted by the Berkeley Center for Law and Technology, will take place at the University of California, Berkeley, School of Law Booth Auditorium. ISPLA will be participating.
The mission of ISPLA is to monitor and identify critical legislative and regulatory issues in order to provide a forum for debate and discussion within the investigative and security professions and to serve as an advocate for these professions. To find out more about ISPLA and how you can support your profession go to www.ispla.org.
Monday, December 07, 2009
Dulles CBP Arrests Pittsburgh Rape Suspect
December 07, 2009: Sterling, VA – Customs and Border Protection officers at Washington-Dulles International Airport arrested Branden Frazier on Friday night on Pittsburgh Police Department charges of strong arm rape.
Frazier, 18, of Pittsburgh, arrived to Dulles from Frankfurt, Germany at about 7:40 p.m. Friday. He was referred to a secondary inspection where CBP officers confirmed Frazier’s identity and arrested him.
Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority Police confirmed the warrant and extradition request with the Pittsburgh Police Department and took Frazier into custody.
“CBP officers take great pride in bringing fugitives to justice, particularly one charged with a crime as heinous as this charge alleges,” said Christopher Hess, CBP port director for the Port of Washington. “CBP’s capability to detect and arrest wanted fugitives is one of the unique consequences of CBP’s mission of protecting the nation at our ports of entry. We know precisely who is attempting entry to the U.S. and can vett them prior to their arrival.”
Airlines are required to submit passenger manifests to CBP prior to their international flights departing from foreign soil. CBP then vetts those passengers against several law enforcement databases to identify those who may pose a threat to the U.S., or who have outstanding arrest warrants, or who have previous immigration, customs or agriculture violations.
CBP officers and agriculture specialists processed more than three million passengers at Dulles during fiscal year 2009.
Frazier, 18, of Pittsburgh, arrived to Dulles from Frankfurt, Germany at about 7:40 p.m. Friday. He was referred to a secondary inspection where CBP officers confirmed Frazier’s identity and arrested him.
Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority Police confirmed the warrant and extradition request with the Pittsburgh Police Department and took Frazier into custody.
“CBP officers take great pride in bringing fugitives to justice, particularly one charged with a crime as heinous as this charge alleges,” said Christopher Hess, CBP port director for the Port of Washington. “CBP’s capability to detect and arrest wanted fugitives is one of the unique consequences of CBP’s mission of protecting the nation at our ports of entry. We know precisely who is attempting entry to the U.S. and can vett them prior to their arrival.”
Airlines are required to submit passenger manifests to CBP prior to their international flights departing from foreign soil. CBP then vetts those passengers against several law enforcement databases to identify those who may pose a threat to the U.S., or who have outstanding arrest warrants, or who have previous immigration, customs or agriculture violations.
CBP officers and agriculture specialists processed more than three million passengers at Dulles during fiscal year 2009.
Santa Teresa CBP Officer Make Largest Cocaine Seizure in 5 Years
December 07, 2009: El Paso, Texas - U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers working at El Paso area ports of entry made one cocaine and several marijuana seizures during the last week. CBP officers confiscated a total of 53 pounds of cocaine and 1,156 pounds of marijuana.
“This is the largest cocaine seizure CBP officers at the Santa Teresa port of entry have made in more than five years,” said Ana Hinojosa, U.S. Customs and Border Protection director of Field Operations in El Paso. “Despite exceptionally heavy traffic on Saturday, CBP officers remained focused on their mission and were able to stop a sizeable drug load from entering the U.S.”
CBP officers at the Santa Teresa port of entry confiscated 53.24 pounds of cocaine on Saturday. The seizure was made after a 2000 Honda Odyssey entered the port from Mexico. A CBP officer at the primary inspection booth noticed inconsistencies in statements given by the driver and referred the vehicle to secondary for further examination. CBP drug sniffing dog “Popeye” searched the vehicle and alerted to the glove compartment area.
The vehicle was taken to a separate inspection area where an extensive inspection of the vehicle was conducted. CBP officers discovered 23 cocaine-filled packages concealed in a non-factory compartment in the front area of the dashboard in the firewall. The contents of the bundles tested positive for cocaine.
CBP officers at the port arrested the driver, 36-year-old Ruby Rodriguez, of Deming, N.M. She was turned over to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement special agents to face federal charges including importation of a controlled substance and possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance.
In addition to the drug seizures, CBP officers recorded 56 immigration violations at area ports this week including 43 intended immigrants and 13 imposters. Intended immigrants will use a legally issued border-crossing card (laser visa) to live or work in the U.S., which is not authorized. They also lose their documents and are generally returned to Mexico. Imposters generally will use a legitimate entry document assigned to another person and present it as their own. Violators generally lose their documents, can be prosecuted and go to jail and/or are returned to Mexico.
CBP officers working at area ports made a total of 22 fugitive apprehensions and located a missing juvenile during the period.
In addition to the drug busts, CBP officers working at ports of entry in El Paso, West Texas and New Mexico made three seizures of agricultural items. Violators paid $775 in penalties in association with the violations. Prohibited food products seized included tangerines, grapefruits, pomegranates and guavas.
While anti-terrorism is the primary mission of U.S. Customs and Border Protection, the inspection process at the ports of entry associated with this mission results in impressive numbers of enforcement actions in all categories.
“This is the largest cocaine seizure CBP officers at the Santa Teresa port of entry have made in more than five years,” said Ana Hinojosa, U.S. Customs and Border Protection director of Field Operations in El Paso. “Despite exceptionally heavy traffic on Saturday, CBP officers remained focused on their mission and were able to stop a sizeable drug load from entering the U.S.”
CBP officers at the Santa Teresa port of entry confiscated 53.24 pounds of cocaine on Saturday. The seizure was made after a 2000 Honda Odyssey entered the port from Mexico. A CBP officer at the primary inspection booth noticed inconsistencies in statements given by the driver and referred the vehicle to secondary for further examination. CBP drug sniffing dog “Popeye” searched the vehicle and alerted to the glove compartment area.
The vehicle was taken to a separate inspection area where an extensive inspection of the vehicle was conducted. CBP officers discovered 23 cocaine-filled packages concealed in a non-factory compartment in the front area of the dashboard in the firewall. The contents of the bundles tested positive for cocaine.
CBP officers at the port arrested the driver, 36-year-old Ruby Rodriguez, of Deming, N.M. She was turned over to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement special agents to face federal charges including importation of a controlled substance and possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance.
In addition to the drug seizures, CBP officers recorded 56 immigration violations at area ports this week including 43 intended immigrants and 13 imposters. Intended immigrants will use a legally issued border-crossing card (laser visa) to live or work in the U.S., which is not authorized. They also lose their documents and are generally returned to Mexico. Imposters generally will use a legitimate entry document assigned to another person and present it as their own. Violators generally lose their documents, can be prosecuted and go to jail and/or are returned to Mexico.
CBP officers working at area ports made a total of 22 fugitive apprehensions and located a missing juvenile during the period.
In addition to the drug busts, CBP officers working at ports of entry in El Paso, West Texas and New Mexico made three seizures of agricultural items. Violators paid $775 in penalties in association with the violations. Prohibited food products seized included tangerines, grapefruits, pomegranates and guavas.
While anti-terrorism is the primary mission of U.S. Customs and Border Protection, the inspection process at the ports of entry associated with this mission results in impressive numbers of enforcement actions in all categories.
Border Patrol Seizes $868,000 Worth of Marijuana from Makeshift Backbacks
December 07, 2009: Wellton, Ariz. – U.S. Border Patrol agents seized more than 1,000 pounds of marijuana while tracking three different groups of suspected drug smugglers in a desolate area of southwest Arizona.
Border Patrol agents assigned to Camp Grip detected the illegal entry of six individuals about 30 miles west of the Lukeville, Ariz. port of entry at about noon on Thursday. With help from CBP Air Interdiction agents, Border Patrol agents on the ground located the group of six suspected drug smugglers along with six makeshift backpacks full of marijuana. The backpacks contained 13 bundles of marijuana and weigh approximately 293 pounds.
On Friday afternoon, CBP Air Interdiction agents helped Camp Grip agents locate another group of suspected drug smugglers near the same area. Agents arrested four more suspected smugglers and seized nine large bundles of marijuana weighing approximately 47 pounds each.
On Saturday morning, Camp Grip agents detected the illegal entry of another 10 individuals that crossed the border near the same area. As agents closed in on the group, the suspected drug smugglers dropped eight backpacks and ran back into Mexico to avoid apprehension. The backpacks contained several bundles of marijuana weighing a total of 370 pounds.
Since Thursday, Camp Grip agents have arrested 10 suspected drug smugglers and seized 1,085 pounds of marijuana worth an estimated street value of $868,000. The suspected smugglers will be charged with drug smuggling and illegal entry.
Camp Grip is Yuma Sector’s tactically deployed forward operating base that is designed to gain operational control of the seam between the Yuma and Tucson Sectors. The success of Camp Grip demonstrates the Border Patrol’s ability to mobilize its enforcement stance along the southwest border where needed. These bases act as a deterrent and an additional detection platform, ensuring that smuggling organizations understand that if they operate in these areas, they will be pursued and apprehended.
Border Patrol agents assigned to Camp Grip detected the illegal entry of six individuals about 30 miles west of the Lukeville, Ariz. port of entry at about noon on Thursday. With help from CBP Air Interdiction agents, Border Patrol agents on the ground located the group of six suspected drug smugglers along with six makeshift backpacks full of marijuana. The backpacks contained 13 bundles of marijuana and weigh approximately 293 pounds.
On Friday afternoon, CBP Air Interdiction agents helped Camp Grip agents locate another group of suspected drug smugglers near the same area. Agents arrested four more suspected smugglers and seized nine large bundles of marijuana weighing approximately 47 pounds each.
On Saturday morning, Camp Grip agents detected the illegal entry of another 10 individuals that crossed the border near the same area. As agents closed in on the group, the suspected drug smugglers dropped eight backpacks and ran back into Mexico to avoid apprehension. The backpacks contained several bundles of marijuana weighing a total of 370 pounds.
Since Thursday, Camp Grip agents have arrested 10 suspected drug smugglers and seized 1,085 pounds of marijuana worth an estimated street value of $868,000. The suspected smugglers will be charged with drug smuggling and illegal entry.
Camp Grip is Yuma Sector’s tactically deployed forward operating base that is designed to gain operational control of the seam between the Yuma and Tucson Sectors. The success of Camp Grip demonstrates the Border Patrol’s ability to mobilize its enforcement stance along the southwest border where needed. These bases act as a deterrent and an additional detection platform, ensuring that smuggling organizations understand that if they operate in these areas, they will be pursued and apprehended.
CBP Officer in Arizona Seize $133,412 in Undeclared Currency
December 04, 2009: Nogales, Ariz. - U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers working at the Dennis DeConcini port of entry yesterday discover $133,412 hidden inside a Volkswagen Beetle. A 22-year-old man from Sonora, Mexico is arrested.
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Packages of undeclared currency are found in a Volkswagen Beetle. On Thursday afternoon, CBP officers conducting routine inspections of vehicles leaving the United States selected a 2001 Volkswagen Beetle for exam. The vehicle was occupied by a 22-year-old man from Sonora, Mexico.
While conducting their inspection, CBP officers discovered several packages of U.S. currency hidden in the rear quarter panel of the vehicle. Officers removed numerous packages totaling $133,412.
The money was seized. The driver of the vehicle was arrested and turned over to Immigration and Customs Enforcement for further investigation.
click for hi-res
Packages of undeclared currency are found in a Volkswagen Beetle. On Thursday afternoon, CBP officers conducting routine inspections of vehicles leaving the United States selected a 2001 Volkswagen Beetle for exam. The vehicle was occupied by a 22-year-old man from Sonora, Mexico.
While conducting their inspection, CBP officers discovered several packages of U.S. currency hidden in the rear quarter panel of the vehicle. Officers removed numerous packages totaling $133,412.
The money was seized. The driver of the vehicle was arrested and turned over to Immigration and Customs Enforcement for further investigation.
Resolve to be Ready in 2010
As the New Year approaches, the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s Ready Campaign is once again reminding people to Resolve to be Ready in 2010. While nearly 50 percent of Americans make New Year's Eve resolutions, very few manage to keep them. The Ready Campaign would like to make an emergency preparedness resolution easy to keep by providing the tools and resources needed to take the three important steps: get a kit, make a plan and be informed about the different types of emergencies that can happen in your area and their appropriate responses. We hope you will join the Ready Campaign this Holiday Season in promoting Resolve to be Ready.
On this page you will find a toolkit to help your organization develop internal and external messages to encourage your members, employees, constituents, customers and community to make a New Year's resolution to prepare for emergencies. You will also find Web banners for your organization's Web site, a sample E-mail and a Newsletter you can share with your key constituents.
More Information
http://www.ready.gov/america/about/resolve2010.html
On this page you will find a toolkit to help your organization develop internal and external messages to encourage your members, employees, constituents, customers and community to make a New Year's resolution to prepare for emergencies. You will also find Web banners for your organization's Web site, a sample E-mail and a Newsletter you can share with your key constituents.
More Information
http://www.ready.gov/america/about/resolve2010.html
Forensic Science in Homicide Investigations
On December 17, 2009, Conversations with American Heroes at the Watering Hole will feature a discussion with Vernon J. Geberth, NYPD (ret.) on Forensic Science in Homicide Investigations.
Program Date: December 17, 2009
Program Time: 1700 hours, Pacific
Topic: Forensic Science in Homicide Investigations
Listen Live: www.americanheroesradio.com/forensic_science_homicide_investigations.html
About the Guest
Vernon Geberth is a retired lieutenant-commander of the New York Police Department. As the commanding officer of the Bronx Homicide Task Force, his investigators handled more than four hundred murder investigations every year. Vernon Geberth is recipient of over sixty awards for bravery and exceptional work during twenty-three years of service. He has personally investigated, supervised, assessed, researched and consulted on over eight thousand homicides.
Vernon Geberth has master's degrees in both psychology and professional studies, is a graduate of the FBI's National Academy. Over the past twenty-five years, he has taught over 50,000 police officers his comprehensive course in Practical Homicide Investigation.
Geberth’s book, Practical Homicide Investigation has been referred to as the "Bible of Homicide." His subsequent works, “The Practical Homicide Investigation Checklist and Field Guide” and “Sex-Related Homicide and Death Investigation: Practical and Clinical Perspectives,” demonstrate his professional ability and subject matter expert command over homicide investigations. In addition to his own works Geberth has been an editor in over forty other textbooks. He has devoted his life to the study of murder and was the first law enforcement professional to devise standard guidelines and protocols for proficient death inquiries. Currently he is president of P.H.I. Investigative Consultants, Inc., a New York-based corporation that provides state-of-the-art instruction and consultation regarding homicide investigations to police officers.
About the Watering Hole
The Watering Hole is Police slang for a location cops go off-duty to blow off steam and talk about work and life. American Heroes Radio brings you to the watering hole, where it is Sometimes funny; sometimes serious; but, always interesting.
About the Host
Lieutenant Raymond E. Foster was a sworn member of the Los Angeles Police Department for 24 years. He retired in 2003 at the rank of Lieutenant. He holds a bachelor’s from the Union Institute and University in Criminal Justice Management and a Master’s Degree in Public Financial Management from California State University, Fullerton; and, has completed his doctoral course work. Raymond E. Foster has been a part-time lecturer at California State University, Fullerton and Fresno; and is currently a Criminal Justice Department chair, faculty advisor and lecturer with the Union Institute and University. He has experience teaching upper division courses in Law Enforcement, public policy, Public Safety Technology and leadership. Raymond is an experienced author who has published numerous articles in a wide range of venues including magazines such as Government Technology, Mobile Government, Airborne Law Enforcement Magazine, and Police One. He has appeared on the History Channel and radio programs in the United States and Europe as subject matter expert in technological applications in Law Enforcement.
Listen, call, join us at the Watering Hole:
www.americanheroesradio.com/forensic_science_homicide_investigations.html
Program Contact Information
Lieutenant Raymond E. Foster, LAPD (ret.), MPA
editor@police-writers.com
909.599.7530
Program Date: December 17, 2009
Program Time: 1700 hours, Pacific
Topic: Forensic Science in Homicide Investigations
Listen Live: www.americanheroesradio.com/forensic_science_homicide_investigations.html
About the Guest
Vernon Geberth is a retired lieutenant-commander of the New York Police Department. As the commanding officer of the Bronx Homicide Task Force, his investigators handled more than four hundred murder investigations every year. Vernon Geberth is recipient of over sixty awards for bravery and exceptional work during twenty-three years of service. He has personally investigated, supervised, assessed, researched and consulted on over eight thousand homicides.
Vernon Geberth has master's degrees in both psychology and professional studies, is a graduate of the FBI's National Academy. Over the past twenty-five years, he has taught over 50,000 police officers his comprehensive course in Practical Homicide Investigation.
Geberth’s book, Practical Homicide Investigation has been referred to as the "Bible of Homicide." His subsequent works, “The Practical Homicide Investigation Checklist and Field Guide” and “Sex-Related Homicide and Death Investigation: Practical and Clinical Perspectives,” demonstrate his professional ability and subject matter expert command over homicide investigations. In addition to his own works Geberth has been an editor in over forty other textbooks. He has devoted his life to the study of murder and was the first law enforcement professional to devise standard guidelines and protocols for proficient death inquiries. Currently he is president of P.H.I. Investigative Consultants, Inc., a New York-based corporation that provides state-of-the-art instruction and consultation regarding homicide investigations to police officers.
About the Watering Hole
The Watering Hole is Police slang for a location cops go off-duty to blow off steam and talk about work and life. American Heroes Radio brings you to the watering hole, where it is Sometimes funny; sometimes serious; but, always interesting.
About the Host
Lieutenant Raymond E. Foster was a sworn member of the Los Angeles Police Department for 24 years. He retired in 2003 at the rank of Lieutenant. He holds a bachelor’s from the Union Institute and University in Criminal Justice Management and a Master’s Degree in Public Financial Management from California State University, Fullerton; and, has completed his doctoral course work. Raymond E. Foster has been a part-time lecturer at California State University, Fullerton and Fresno; and is currently a Criminal Justice Department chair, faculty advisor and lecturer with the Union Institute and University. He has experience teaching upper division courses in Law Enforcement, public policy, Public Safety Technology and leadership. Raymond is an experienced author who has published numerous articles in a wide range of venues including magazines such as Government Technology, Mobile Government, Airborne Law Enforcement Magazine, and Police One. He has appeared on the History Channel and radio programs in the United States and Europe as subject matter expert in technological applications in Law Enforcement.
Listen, call, join us at the Watering Hole:
www.americanheroesradio.com/forensic_science_homicide_investigations.html
Program Contact Information
Lieutenant Raymond E. Foster, LAPD (ret.), MPA
editor@police-writers.com
909.599.7530
Sunday, December 06, 2009
CBP, ICE Release Annual Report on Counterfeit Goods Seized
December 03, 2009: U.S. Customs and Border Protection and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement announced today that in fiscal year 2009 they made 14,841 seizures of counterfeit and pirated goods with a total domestic value of $260.7 million.
The annual intellectual property rights report is now available on the CBP and ICE Web site.
Imports of counterfeit and pirated goods undermine the economic vitality of the United States directly by reducing sales of legitimate goods, and indirectly by reducing employment, incentives to engage in research and development, and tax revenues. Additionally, these goods can threaten the safety of consumers and the security of the United States if the goods are of inferior quality and are used in health care or potentially hazardous consumer goods, or in critical infrastructure such as defense, financial, and telecommunications systems. The theft of intellectual property also undermines the rule of law and often funds organized crime.
“Current economic conditions make CBP’s work to stop trade in counterfeited and pirated goods even more significant,” said CBP’s Acting Commissioner Jayson Ahern, “While we are especially concerned about substandard and unsafe counterfeit imports that threaten consumer safety and national security, we are also protecting American businesses and workers from economic harm.”
“As this global problem continues to grow and increasingly threatens the public’s health and safety, ICE and CBP continue to strengthen our response through the National Intellectual Property Rights Coordination Center,” said John Morton, Department of Homeland Security Assistant Secretary for ICE. “At the center, U.S. government agencies work together across jurisdictions and with partners around the world to protect U.S. trademarks and U.S. consumers.”
In FY 2009, more than 62 percent of the value of seizures of goods infringing IPR that also posed potential safety or security risks came from China. India was the second highest source country with 9 percent. The total domestic value of counterfeit products seized presenting potential safety or security risks seized was $32 million. Pharmaceuticals were the top product in this category
China continues to be the number one source country for counterfeit and pirated goods seized, accounting for 79 percent or $204.7 million of the total seizure value.
For the fourth year in a row, footwear was the top product seized, accounting for 38 percent of the entire domestic value of IPR infringing goods. Jewelry appeared on the top products list for the first time, accounting for four percent of the total domestic value of IPR seizures.
The top 10 categories of IPR infringing products seized include footwear, consumer electronics, wearing apparel, computers/hardware, pharmaceuticals, and toys/electronic games.
As the federal agency responsible for U.S. border enforcement, CBP is a key player in IPR enforcement. CBP’s IPR enforcement focuses on improving risk analysis to enhance the capability to target and interdict shipments of fake goods while facilitating the flow of legitimate trade; identifying business practices linked to importing counterfeit goods and working with companies to change those practices; using audits to deprive counterfeiters and pirates of their profits; working with IPR holders to protect their rights; and cooperating with other government agencies, foreign customs administrations and international organizations to strengthen IPR enforcement around the world.
As the largest investigative arm of the Department of Homeland Security, ICE plays a significant role in targeting criminal organizations responsible for producing, smuggling, and distributing counterfeit products. The ICE-managed National Intellectual Property Rights Coordination Center (IPR Center) is the federal government's central point of contact for criminal investigations of IPR violations. In this state-of-the-art facility, agents and officers from ICE and CBP along with the Department of Commerce, Health and Human Services' Food and Drug Administration, the Department of Justice's Federal Bureau of Investigation and Computer Crime And Intellectual Property Section, and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, employ a task force model to more effectively use their authorities and resources to attack the international problem of counterfeit, tainted and substandard goods.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection is the unified border agency within the Department of Homeland Security charged with the management, control and protection of our nation's borders at and between the official ports of entry. CBP is charged with keeping terrorists and terrorist weapons out of the country while enforcing hundreds of U.S. laws.
The annual intellectual property rights report is now available on the CBP and ICE Web site.
Imports of counterfeit and pirated goods undermine the economic vitality of the United States directly by reducing sales of legitimate goods, and indirectly by reducing employment, incentives to engage in research and development, and tax revenues. Additionally, these goods can threaten the safety of consumers and the security of the United States if the goods are of inferior quality and are used in health care or potentially hazardous consumer goods, or in critical infrastructure such as defense, financial, and telecommunications systems. The theft of intellectual property also undermines the rule of law and often funds organized crime.
“Current economic conditions make CBP’s work to stop trade in counterfeited and pirated goods even more significant,” said CBP’s Acting Commissioner Jayson Ahern, “While we are especially concerned about substandard and unsafe counterfeit imports that threaten consumer safety and national security, we are also protecting American businesses and workers from economic harm.”
“As this global problem continues to grow and increasingly threatens the public’s health and safety, ICE and CBP continue to strengthen our response through the National Intellectual Property Rights Coordination Center,” said John Morton, Department of Homeland Security Assistant Secretary for ICE. “At the center, U.S. government agencies work together across jurisdictions and with partners around the world to protect U.S. trademarks and U.S. consumers.”
In FY 2009, more than 62 percent of the value of seizures of goods infringing IPR that also posed potential safety or security risks came from China. India was the second highest source country with 9 percent. The total domestic value of counterfeit products seized presenting potential safety or security risks seized was $32 million. Pharmaceuticals were the top product in this category
China continues to be the number one source country for counterfeit and pirated goods seized, accounting for 79 percent or $204.7 million of the total seizure value.
For the fourth year in a row, footwear was the top product seized, accounting for 38 percent of the entire domestic value of IPR infringing goods. Jewelry appeared on the top products list for the first time, accounting for four percent of the total domestic value of IPR seizures.
The top 10 categories of IPR infringing products seized include footwear, consumer electronics, wearing apparel, computers/hardware, pharmaceuticals, and toys/electronic games.
As the federal agency responsible for U.S. border enforcement, CBP is a key player in IPR enforcement. CBP’s IPR enforcement focuses on improving risk analysis to enhance the capability to target and interdict shipments of fake goods while facilitating the flow of legitimate trade; identifying business practices linked to importing counterfeit goods and working with companies to change those practices; using audits to deprive counterfeiters and pirates of their profits; working with IPR holders to protect their rights; and cooperating with other government agencies, foreign customs administrations and international organizations to strengthen IPR enforcement around the world.
As the largest investigative arm of the Department of Homeland Security, ICE plays a significant role in targeting criminal organizations responsible for producing, smuggling, and distributing counterfeit products. The ICE-managed National Intellectual Property Rights Coordination Center (IPR Center) is the federal government's central point of contact for criminal investigations of IPR violations. In this state-of-the-art facility, agents and officers from ICE and CBP along with the Department of Commerce, Health and Human Services' Food and Drug Administration, the Department of Justice's Federal Bureau of Investigation and Computer Crime And Intellectual Property Section, and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, employ a task force model to more effectively use their authorities and resources to attack the international problem of counterfeit, tainted and substandard goods.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection is the unified border agency within the Department of Homeland Security charged with the management, control and protection of our nation's borders at and between the official ports of entry. CBP is charged with keeping terrorists and terrorist weapons out of the country while enforcing hundreds of U.S. laws.
GOES Web Site Now Available in Spanish
December 03, 2009: U.S. Customs and Border Protection announced today the Global Online Enrollment System (GOES) Web site has been enhanced to facilitate the Trusted Traveler Program application process for Spanish-speaking travelers. Trusted traveler programs provide expedited CBP processing for pre-approved, low-risk travelers and include NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST and Global Entry.
Travelers interested in becoming a Trusted Traveler Program member can apply by submitting their application online through the GOES system. Applicants must voluntarily undergo a biographical background check against criminal, law enforcement, customs, immigration and terrorist indices; a 10-fingerprint law enforcement check; and a personal interview with a CBP officer at a program enrollment center. Program fees apply and must be paid at the time of application. ( GOES )
Approved Trusted Traveler Program members can now also update their passport or Lawful Permanent Resident card information on GOES.
NEXUS is a joint CBP-Canada Border Services Agency program that enhances border security while simplifying the entry process for pre-approved, low-risk travelers. It was established in 2002 and more than 368,000 members participate in the program.
SENTRI is a land-border crossing program that provides expedited CBP processing for pre-approved, low-risk travelers along the U.S./Mexico border. More than 206,000 travelers from both sides of the border currently are registered in the SENTRI program.
The Free and Secure Trade (FAST) program is available to commercial drivers crossing both the northern and southern borders. Currently, the program has more than 92,000 members.
Global Entry is available for U.S. citizens or Lawful Permanent Residents who are frequent international travelers. Biometric fingerprint technology is used to verify the passenger’s identity and confirm his or her status as a Global Entry participant. CBP launched Global Entry in June 2008 and has more than 28,000 members.
For more information about Trusted Traveler Programs please visit the CBP Web site.
Travelers interested in becoming a Trusted Traveler Program member can apply by submitting their application online through the GOES system. Applicants must voluntarily undergo a biographical background check against criminal, law enforcement, customs, immigration and terrorist indices; a 10-fingerprint law enforcement check; and a personal interview with a CBP officer at a program enrollment center. Program fees apply and must be paid at the time of application. ( GOES )
Approved Trusted Traveler Program members can now also update their passport or Lawful Permanent Resident card information on GOES.
NEXUS is a joint CBP-Canada Border Services Agency program that enhances border security while simplifying the entry process for pre-approved, low-risk travelers. It was established in 2002 and more than 368,000 members participate in the program.
SENTRI is a land-border crossing program that provides expedited CBP processing for pre-approved, low-risk travelers along the U.S./Mexico border. More than 206,000 travelers from both sides of the border currently are registered in the SENTRI program.
The Free and Secure Trade (FAST) program is available to commercial drivers crossing both the northern and southern borders. Currently, the program has more than 92,000 members.
Global Entry is available for U.S. citizens or Lawful Permanent Residents who are frequent international travelers. Biometric fingerprint technology is used to verify the passenger’s identity and confirm his or her status as a Global Entry participant. CBP launched Global Entry in June 2008 and has more than 28,000 members.
For more information about Trusted Traveler Programs please visit the CBP Web site.
CBP Officers Arrest Individuals Attempting to Smuggle Narcotics Taped to Body
December 03, 2009: San Luis, Ariz. – U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers assigned at the San Luis port of entry yesterday demonstrated their commitment in safeguarding the U.S. border. A 24-year-old woman is behind bars for attempting to smuggle more than pounds of cocaine taped to her body. Also in custody, a 17-year old who was caught smuggling marijuana taped to his leg.
On December 2, the woman applied for entry through the pedestrian building and was met with CBP officers who were processing travelers entering the country. The skilled officers noticed something unusual about the woman’s demeanor. Upon closer examination discovered she had three cocaine packages taped to her torso area.
The woman was immediately arrested and turned over to the Immigration and Customs Enforcement for further investigation and the cocaine was seized. The cocaine has an estimated street value of $183,040.00
Also on the same day, a 17-year-old attempted to enter the country through the pedestrian lane and was found to have one marijuana package taped to the inside of his leg with an approximate weight of more than one pound.
The young man was immediately arrested and turned over to the San Luis, Ariz., police department for further investigation and marijuana was seized. The marijuana has an estimated street value of more than $3,520.00.
On December 2, the woman applied for entry through the pedestrian building and was met with CBP officers who were processing travelers entering the country. The skilled officers noticed something unusual about the woman’s demeanor. Upon closer examination discovered she had three cocaine packages taped to her torso area.
The woman was immediately arrested and turned over to the Immigration and Customs Enforcement for further investigation and the cocaine was seized. The cocaine has an estimated street value of $183,040.00
Also on the same day, a 17-year-old attempted to enter the country through the pedestrian lane and was found to have one marijuana package taped to the inside of his leg with an approximate weight of more than one pound.
The young man was immediately arrested and turned over to the San Luis, Ariz., police department for further investigation and marijuana was seized. The marijuana has an estimated street value of more than $3,520.00.
Important Update for BSA E-Filers on SAR Validations Implementation
On December 12, 2009, FinCEN will implement the second phase of the BSA E-Filing SAR Acknowledgements and Validation process. Phase I was implemented in September 2009 and provided BSA E-Filers with an acknowledgement of receipt for a submitted Suspicious Activity Report (SAR). Phase II applies data quality checks and will provide filers with information on the quality of their submissions for electronically filed SARs of all types: Suspicious Activity Report by Depository Institutions (SAR-DI), Suspicious Activity Report by the Securities and Futures Industries (SAR-SF), Suspicious Activity Report by Casinos and Card Clubs (SAR-C), and Suspicious Activity Report by Money Services Businesses (SAR-MSB). The BSA Electronic Filing Requirements have been revised to include the SAR Acknowledgement file record formats and SAR Validation error codes.
The BSA E-Filing system offers filers a self-enrollment feature to allow financial institutions to register to receive SAR Acknowledgement files when they are ready to begin using the error feedback provided. There is no enrollment deadline at this time; however, FinCEN strongly encourages filers to enroll to receive this critical feedback.
Please direct questions about the SAR Batch Validation process to the BSA E-Filing Help Desk at 1-888-827-2778 (option 6) or via email at BSAEFilingHelp@notes.tcs.treas.gov. The Help Desk is available Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET. The BSA E-Filing homepage is located at http://bsaefiling.fincen.treas.gov.
The BSA E-Filing system offers filers a self-enrollment feature to allow financial institutions to register to receive SAR Acknowledgement files when they are ready to begin using the error feedback provided. There is no enrollment deadline at this time; however, FinCEN strongly encourages filers to enroll to receive this critical feedback.
Please direct questions about the SAR Batch Validation process to the BSA E-Filing Help Desk at 1-888-827-2778 (option 6) or via email at BSAEFilingHelp@notes.tcs.treas.gov. The Help Desk is available Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET. The BSA E-Filing homepage is located at http://bsaefiling.fincen.treas.gov.
NJFA Classes, workshops, seminars and other training
Will be held at this new address as of January 1st.
On January 2nd we will be having a Grand Opening party. Please come and help us celebrate. We will be right next door to Caso’s, so you can bring your gun permits and FID’s, because now as of January we have to buy one gun a month. So let’s start right away!
There will be many events scheduled for this day. So far:
Utah AND Florida CCW class get both, $200, ($100 if you’ve already done Basic Pistol). Register here. You will notice a different look to our website we are upgrading and making significant changes
Caitlin Kelly will be there signing her book ‘Blown Away: American Women and Guns’
Elizabeth Greenman (Krav Maga – Spar NYC)
Many other Senseis, Shihans and Martial Artists
And other activities are developing!
There will be food, drink, music and some of the sexiest people in the NY/NJ gun community (shooting is sexy, so as long as you have a gun you qualify!)
Please RSVP so we can know how many to expect
MORE INFORMATION
http://www.njfirearms.com/index.php
On January 2nd we will be having a Grand Opening party. Please come and help us celebrate. We will be right next door to Caso’s, so you can bring your gun permits and FID’s, because now as of January we have to buy one gun a month. So let’s start right away!
There will be many events scheduled for this day. So far:
Utah AND Florida CCW class get both, $200, ($100 if you’ve already done Basic Pistol). Register here. You will notice a different look to our website we are upgrading and making significant changes
Caitlin Kelly will be there signing her book ‘Blown Away: American Women and Guns’
Elizabeth Greenman (Krav Maga – Spar NYC)
Many other Senseis, Shihans and Martial Artists
And other activities are developing!
There will be food, drink, music and some of the sexiest people in the NY/NJ gun community (shooting is sexy, so as long as you have a gun you qualify!)
Please RSVP so we can know how many to expect
MORE INFORMATION
http://www.njfirearms.com/index.php
Wednesday, December 02, 2009
Community Preparedness Webinar Series: An Introduction to the Citizen Corps Volunteer Liability Guide
Date and Time: Monday, December 7th @ 2-3pm EST
Presenter: Claire Lee Reiss, J.D.
Well-trained volunteers supplement governmental resources in all phases of emergency management. Identifying and supporting policy and practice that promote and strengthen public participation is, therefore, an important element of Citizen Corps’ implementation.
FEMA has learned from Citizen Corps Councils, volunteer program managers, and volunteers that liability is a significant concern and a potential barrier to volunteer involvement in emergency services. Liability—legal responsibility for one’s acts or omissions—includes diverse concerns: legally imposed payment of damages for personal injury or property damage; penalties for practicing a profession or trade without the required license or permit; compensation for lost income and medical expenses of an injured volunteer; and damages for breach of contract.
To offer guidance in this area, FEMA funded the nonprofit Public Entity Risk Institute (PERI) to develop the Citizen Corps Volunteer Liability Guide (CCVLG) to provide an overview of liability and to suggest some approaches to addressing these concerns.
MORE INFORMATION
http://www.citizencorps.gov/news/webcasts/liability.shtm
Presenter: Claire Lee Reiss, J.D.
Well-trained volunteers supplement governmental resources in all phases of emergency management. Identifying and supporting policy and practice that promote and strengthen public participation is, therefore, an important element of Citizen Corps’ implementation.
FEMA has learned from Citizen Corps Councils, volunteer program managers, and volunteers that liability is a significant concern and a potential barrier to volunteer involvement in emergency services. Liability—legal responsibility for one’s acts or omissions—includes diverse concerns: legally imposed payment of damages for personal injury or property damage; penalties for practicing a profession or trade without the required license or permit; compensation for lost income and medical expenses of an injured volunteer; and damages for breach of contract.
To offer guidance in this area, FEMA funded the nonprofit Public Entity Risk Institute (PERI) to develop the Citizen Corps Volunteer Liability Guide (CCVLG) to provide an overview of liability and to suggest some approaches to addressing these concerns.
MORE INFORMATION
http://www.citizencorps.gov/news/webcasts/liability.shtm
Monday, November 30, 2009
HURRICANE SEASON OFFICIALLY ENDS – ADMINISTRATOR FUGATE URGES VIGILANCE
Today, November 30, 2009, marks the official end of the 2009 Atlantic Hurricane Season and with that, the Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Administrator Craig Fugate reminds citizens to remain vigilant and stay prepared. Disasters are not limited to hurricanes or a specific time of year – they can occur anytime, anywhere. “I can never remind people enough to stay prepared for potential disasters. We must never let our guard down. I am thankful for a quieter than usual hurricane season, but the fact remains disasters may occur at any time and without warning, said FEMA Administrator Craig Fugate. “As we head into the winter season, we must all remain vigilant and remember to take the time to prepare ourselves and our families. Assemble a kit, have a family disaster plan and stay informed during disasters.”
Winter weather, increased holiday traveling, and holiday fire safety are opportunities to focus on personal preparedness. Gather a preparedness kit including a 3-day supply of food and water, blankets, and first-aid kit for both your home and car. Ensure your family preparedness plan and contacts are up to date and exercise your plan. Finally, learn about the emergency plans that have been established in your area by your state and local government.
Please visit: www.ready.gov or www.fema.gov for more preparedness information.
Winter weather, increased holiday traveling, and holiday fire safety are opportunities to focus on personal preparedness. Gather a preparedness kit including a 3-day supply of food and water, blankets, and first-aid kit for both your home and car. Ensure your family preparedness plan and contacts are up to date and exercise your plan. Finally, learn about the emergency plans that have been established in your area by your state and local government.
Please visit: www.ready.gov or www.fema.gov for more preparedness information.
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Treasury Designates Financial Network Tied to the Rodriguez Orejuela Family as Specially Designated Narcotics Traffickers
The U.S. Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) today designated a network of 14 individuals and 25 companies in Colombia, Spain and the Netherlands as Specially Designated Narcotics Traffickers (SDNTs) for supporting the network of Gilberto Rodriguez Orejuela, leader of the Cali Cartel. Hernando Mejia Uribe, a Colombian national, is the lynchpin of this network of Colombians and Spaniards who collaborated to hide assets belonging to the previously designated family members of Cali Cartel leaders Miguel and Gilberto Rodriguez Orejuela. Today's action is being taken pursuant to Executive Order 12978, which freezes any assets the designated entities may have that are subject to U.S. jurisdiction and prohibits all financial and commercial transactions by any U.S. person with those entities.
Hernando Mejia Uribe is a long-time associate of Miguel and Gilberto Rodriguez Orejuela and controlled a number of Colombian properties belonging to previously designated Rodriguez Orejuela family members. In February 2009, Mejia Uribe was arrested by Colombian authorities, along with Gilberto Rodriguez Orejuela's children, Humberto, Jaime, and Maria Alexandra Rodriguez Mondragon, on charges of money laundering and acting as a front person for the Rodriguez Orejuela family.
"Today's designation of a previously hidden, multi-national network demonstrates the great lengths that the Rodriquez Orejuela family has gone to hide their assets from authorities – and OFAC's commitment for almost fifteen years to expose and block assets from their drug trafficking and money laundering activities in support the Government of Columbia's counter-narcotics efforts," said OFAC Director Adam J. Szubin.
Hernando Mejia Uribe owns or controls a number of Colombian companies, principally located in Cartagena, Colombia, including: Inversiones El Progreso S.A., Euromar Caribe S.A., and Inversiones Lamarc S.A. Mejia Uribe's network also includes his wife, Maria Emma Botero Aristizabal; lawyers Luis Carlos Gamboa Morales and Luis Gonzalo Baena Cardenas; and accountants Inmaculada Diaz Chacon and Sixto Parra Millares. Through the companies Inversiones El Progreso S.A. and Under Par Real Estate S.L., the Mejia Uribe network is involved in real estate projects in Cartagena, Colombia with the two Spanish developers Laureano Ramos Rodriguez and Marco Jose Fernandez Montero Additionally, the Spanish developers control a number of companies including: Under Par Real Estate S.L., Auriga Interlexus S.L., and Servicios De Control Integral De Obras S.L. in Spain and Colombia Real Estate Development B.V. and Arawak Holding B.V. in the Netherlands. The individuals and entities are all targeted in today's action.
In 2006, Miguel and Gilberto Rodriguez Orejuela pleaded guilty to drug trafficking charges in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida and money laundering charges in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York. In connection with Miguel and Gilberto Rodriguez Orejuelas' guilty pleas, 28 of their family members who were previously designated as SDNTs entered into an agreement with the U.S. Department of Justice and the U.S. Department of the Treasury in September 2006.
As part of this agreement, the 28 family members were obligated to identify all "forfeitable property" financed in whole or in part with narcotics proceeds and to identify all other assets of any nature whatsoever that are owned or controlled by any family member who is a party to the agreement. The Hernando Mejia Uribe financial network identified today worked to conceal assets that were not previously identified by several Rodriguez Orejuela family members who are designated as SDNTs by OFAC.
Today's designation is part of the ongoing interagency effort by the Departments of the Treasury, Justice, State and Homeland Security to implement Executive Order 12978 which applies financial sanctions to Colombia's drug cartels.
Hernando Mejia Uribe is a long-time associate of Miguel and Gilberto Rodriguez Orejuela and controlled a number of Colombian properties belonging to previously designated Rodriguez Orejuela family members. In February 2009, Mejia Uribe was arrested by Colombian authorities, along with Gilberto Rodriguez Orejuela's children, Humberto, Jaime, and Maria Alexandra Rodriguez Mondragon, on charges of money laundering and acting as a front person for the Rodriguez Orejuela family.
"Today's designation of a previously hidden, multi-national network demonstrates the great lengths that the Rodriquez Orejuela family has gone to hide their assets from authorities – and OFAC's commitment for almost fifteen years to expose and block assets from their drug trafficking and money laundering activities in support the Government of Columbia's counter-narcotics efforts," said OFAC Director Adam J. Szubin.
Hernando Mejia Uribe owns or controls a number of Colombian companies, principally located in Cartagena, Colombia, including: Inversiones El Progreso S.A., Euromar Caribe S.A., and Inversiones Lamarc S.A. Mejia Uribe's network also includes his wife, Maria Emma Botero Aristizabal; lawyers Luis Carlos Gamboa Morales and Luis Gonzalo Baena Cardenas; and accountants Inmaculada Diaz Chacon and Sixto Parra Millares. Through the companies Inversiones El Progreso S.A. and Under Par Real Estate S.L., the Mejia Uribe network is involved in real estate projects in Cartagena, Colombia with the two Spanish developers Laureano Ramos Rodriguez and Marco Jose Fernandez Montero Additionally, the Spanish developers control a number of companies including: Under Par Real Estate S.L., Auriga Interlexus S.L., and Servicios De Control Integral De Obras S.L. in Spain and Colombia Real Estate Development B.V. and Arawak Holding B.V. in the Netherlands. The individuals and entities are all targeted in today's action.
In 2006, Miguel and Gilberto Rodriguez Orejuela pleaded guilty to drug trafficking charges in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida and money laundering charges in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York. In connection with Miguel and Gilberto Rodriguez Orejuelas' guilty pleas, 28 of their family members who were previously designated as SDNTs entered into an agreement with the U.S. Department of Justice and the U.S. Department of the Treasury in September 2006.
As part of this agreement, the 28 family members were obligated to identify all "forfeitable property" financed in whole or in part with narcotics proceeds and to identify all other assets of any nature whatsoever that are owned or controlled by any family member who is a party to the agreement. The Hernando Mejia Uribe financial network identified today worked to conceal assets that were not previously identified by several Rodriguez Orejuela family members who are designated as SDNTs by OFAC.
Today's designation is part of the ongoing interagency effort by the Departments of the Treasury, Justice, State and Homeland Security to implement Executive Order 12978 which applies financial sanctions to Colombia's drug cartels.
Thursday, October 29, 2009
Can you predict lethal intimate partner violence?
November 12, 2009
3 pm - 5 pm (Eastern Time)
Of all women murdered in the United States, 40-50 percent are murdered by their intimate partners and 45 percent are murdered when they are trying to leave an abusive partner. Women threatened with a gun are 20 times more likely to be murdered.
Approximately 1.3 million women are physically assaulted by an intimate partner per year in the United States.
Practitioners and researchers have built strong partnerships to understand and prevent intimate partner violence. In this expert chat you will learn about the Danger Assessment (DA) and how this tool is changing the way police in Baltimore, Maryland, are addressing domestic violence. What Baltimore is doing may help your jurisdiction.
Panelists include:
Andy Klein, Ph.D. - Moderator, Senior Research Analyst with Advocates for Human Potential, Inc.
Marci Van De Mark, LCSW-C - Assistant Director, Adult & Community Services Division, Baltimore County Department of Social Services
Jacquelyn Campbell, Ph.D., RN - Researcher; Anna D. Wolf Chair & Professor, Department of Community Public Health at Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing
Rene Renick, MA, LPC, EMBA - Director of Programs and Operations, National Network to End Domestic Violence
Register today!
http://www.innovations.harvard.edu/spotlight.html?id=2407
3 pm - 5 pm (Eastern Time)
Of all women murdered in the United States, 40-50 percent are murdered by their intimate partners and 45 percent are murdered when they are trying to leave an abusive partner. Women threatened with a gun are 20 times more likely to be murdered.
Approximately 1.3 million women are physically assaulted by an intimate partner per year in the United States.
Practitioners and researchers have built strong partnerships to understand and prevent intimate partner violence. In this expert chat you will learn about the Danger Assessment (DA) and how this tool is changing the way police in Baltimore, Maryland, are addressing domestic violence. What Baltimore is doing may help your jurisdiction.
Panelists include:
Andy Klein, Ph.D. - Moderator, Senior Research Analyst with Advocates for Human Potential, Inc.
Marci Van De Mark, LCSW-C - Assistant Director, Adult & Community Services Division, Baltimore County Department of Social Services
Jacquelyn Campbell, Ph.D., RN - Researcher; Anna D. Wolf Chair & Professor, Department of Community Public Health at Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing
Rene Renick, MA, LPC, EMBA - Director of Programs and Operations, National Network to End Domestic Violence
Register today!
http://www.innovations.harvard.edu/spotlight.html?id=2407
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
U.S. Fire Administration Kicks off Public Fire Safety Campaign On Home Smoke Alarms and Residential Fire Sprinklers
Washington, D.C. – The U.S. Fire Administration (USFA) today launched an effort to encourage everyone to install and maintain home smoke alarms and, if possible, sprinklers. More than 3,000 people die in home fires each year, and the majority of them have no working smoke alarm. To prevent these deaths, the USFA, a division of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is sponsoring the nationwide Install. Inspect. Protect. Campaign, which emphasizes that “Smoke Alarms Save Lives.”
“The U.S. Fire Administration tracks fatal home fires every day, and it is tragic to see how many deaths are linked to homes without working smoke alarms,” said Kelvin J. Cochran, U.S. Fire Administrator. “The USFA is committed to preventing the loss of life and we want residents and fire fighters to be safe.” He added, “Smoke alarms are inexpensive, easy to install, and easy to maintain. We are asking everyone to make sure they have working smoke alarms in their homes, and if possible, sprinklers.”
When both smoke alarms and fire sprinklers are present in a home, the risk of dying in a fire is reduced by 82 percent, when compared to a residence without either. According to the National Fire Protection Association, between 2003-2006, almost two-thirds of home fire deaths resulted from fires in homes with either no smoke alarms or no working smoke alarms.
Cochran also emphasized that firefighters often die in the line of duty trying to rescue people who did not get out at the first sign of a fire. He added, “Smoke alarms and sprinklers give you and your family more time to get out, before firefighters have to come in to rescue you.”
The Install. Inspect. Protect. Campaign is promoting fire safety through a free Campaign Toolkit DVD; featuring English and Spanish educational materials; print, radio and television PSAs; children’s materials, a video demonstration of how quickly a home fire spreads, and on the USFA’s consumer-friendly Web site at www.usfa.dhs.gov/smokealarms.
The USFA has always promoted fire safety and the use of smoke alarms through materials and in campaigns, such as “Tribute to Heroes” and “Prepare. Practice. Prevent the Unthinkable: A Parents’ Guide to Fire Safety for Babies and Toddlers,” to name a few. Now, emphasizing the importance of both smoke alarms and sprinklers, our PSAs --“My Dad” and “My Mom” – focus on the viewpoint of the child of a firefighter. The campaign materials include real stories of people whose lives have been saved because they had a working smoke alarm.
The USFA offers a few helpful tips on smoke alarms and sprinklers:
Place properly installed and maintained smoke alarms both inside and outside of sleeping areas and on every level of your home.
Interconnected smoke alarms are best, because if one sounds, they all sound.
The U.S. Fire Administration recommends that every residence and place where people sleep be equipped with both ionization and photoelectric smoke alarms or dual sensor smoke alarms, which contain both ionization and photoelectric smoke sensors.
Test smoke alarms monthly and change alkaline batteries at least once every year, or as instructed by the manufacturer. You can use a date you already know, like your birthday or when you change your clocks as a reminder.
If possible, install residential fire sprinklers in your home.
Avoid painting or covering the fire sprinkler, because that will affect the sensitivity to heat.
Organizations in partnership with the U.S. Fire Administration’s Install. Inspect. Protect. Campaign include the American Fire Sprinkler Association, Burn Institute, Everyone Goes Home, Fire and Emergency Manufacturers and Services Association, Fire Department Safety Officers Association, Home Fire Sprinkler Coalition, Home Safety Council, International Association of Black Professional Fire Fighters, International Association of Fire Chiefs, International Association of Women in Fire & Emergency Services, National Association of State Fire Marshals (NASFM) , NASFM Fire Research and Education Foundation, National Association of Hispanic Firefighters, National Fallen Firefighters Foundation, National Fire Protection Association, National Fire Sprinkler Association, National Volunteer Fire Council, and Safe Kids Worldwide.
Materials can be downloaded at www.usfa.dhs.gov/smokealarms (English) or www.usfa.dhs.gov/detectoresdehumo (Spanish). The Campaign Toolkit disc with all campaign materials is available from the USFA Publications Center at www.usfa.dhs.gov or by calling (800)561-3356.
“The U.S. Fire Administration tracks fatal home fires every day, and it is tragic to see how many deaths are linked to homes without working smoke alarms,” said Kelvin J. Cochran, U.S. Fire Administrator. “The USFA is committed to preventing the loss of life and we want residents and fire fighters to be safe.” He added, “Smoke alarms are inexpensive, easy to install, and easy to maintain. We are asking everyone to make sure they have working smoke alarms in their homes, and if possible, sprinklers.”
When both smoke alarms and fire sprinklers are present in a home, the risk of dying in a fire is reduced by 82 percent, when compared to a residence without either. According to the National Fire Protection Association, between 2003-2006, almost two-thirds of home fire deaths resulted from fires in homes with either no smoke alarms or no working smoke alarms.
Cochran also emphasized that firefighters often die in the line of duty trying to rescue people who did not get out at the first sign of a fire. He added, “Smoke alarms and sprinklers give you and your family more time to get out, before firefighters have to come in to rescue you.”
The Install. Inspect. Protect. Campaign is promoting fire safety through a free Campaign Toolkit DVD; featuring English and Spanish educational materials; print, radio and television PSAs; children’s materials, a video demonstration of how quickly a home fire spreads, and on the USFA’s consumer-friendly Web site at www.usfa.dhs.gov/smokealarms.
The USFA has always promoted fire safety and the use of smoke alarms through materials and in campaigns, such as “Tribute to Heroes” and “Prepare. Practice. Prevent the Unthinkable: A Parents’ Guide to Fire Safety for Babies and Toddlers,” to name a few. Now, emphasizing the importance of both smoke alarms and sprinklers, our PSAs --“My Dad” and “My Mom” – focus on the viewpoint of the child of a firefighter. The campaign materials include real stories of people whose lives have been saved because they had a working smoke alarm.
The USFA offers a few helpful tips on smoke alarms and sprinklers:
Place properly installed and maintained smoke alarms both inside and outside of sleeping areas and on every level of your home.
Interconnected smoke alarms are best, because if one sounds, they all sound.
The U.S. Fire Administration recommends that every residence and place where people sleep be equipped with both ionization and photoelectric smoke alarms or dual sensor smoke alarms, which contain both ionization and photoelectric smoke sensors.
Test smoke alarms monthly and change alkaline batteries at least once every year, or as instructed by the manufacturer. You can use a date you already know, like your birthday or when you change your clocks as a reminder.
If possible, install residential fire sprinklers in your home.
Avoid painting or covering the fire sprinkler, because that will affect the sensitivity to heat.
Organizations in partnership with the U.S. Fire Administration’s Install. Inspect. Protect. Campaign include the American Fire Sprinkler Association, Burn Institute, Everyone Goes Home, Fire and Emergency Manufacturers and Services Association, Fire Department Safety Officers Association, Home Fire Sprinkler Coalition, Home Safety Council, International Association of Black Professional Fire Fighters, International Association of Fire Chiefs, International Association of Women in Fire & Emergency Services, National Association of State Fire Marshals (NASFM) , NASFM Fire Research and Education Foundation, National Association of Hispanic Firefighters, National Fallen Firefighters Foundation, National Fire Protection Association, National Fire Sprinkler Association, National Volunteer Fire Council, and Safe Kids Worldwide.
Materials can be downloaded at www.usfa.dhs.gov/smokealarms (English) or www.usfa.dhs.gov/detectoresdehumo (Spanish). The Campaign Toolkit disc with all campaign materials is available from the USFA Publications Center at www.usfa.dhs.gov or by calling (800)561-3356.
Thursday, October 22, 2009
Treasury Designates Mexican Nationals, Company as Specially Designated Narcotics Traffickers
The U.S. Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) today designated Mexican national Edgardo Leyva Escandon, five members of his financial network, and one Mexico-based company as Specially Designated Narcotics Traffickers for their ties to the Arellano Felix Organization (Tijuana Cartel), Francisco Javier Arellano Felix, or Tijuana Cartel member, Edgardo Leyva Escandon. Pursuant to the Foreign Narcotics Kingpin Designation Act (Kingpin Act), today's designation freezes any assets the designees may have under U.S. jurisdiction and prohibits U.S. persons from conducting financial or commercial transactions with the designees.
"We are taking this action to disrupt Edgardo Leyva Escandon's ability to access weapons and financial conduits on behalf of the Arellano Felix Organization," said OFAC Director Adam J. Szubin. "We will do everything in our power to support the determined counter-narcotics efforts of the Government of Mexico."
The Arellano Felix Organization was named a Tier I Kingpin by the President in June 2004. The principal of this Arellano Felix Organization cell is Edgardo Leyva Escandon, the organization's primary ammunition and firearms supplier, an assassin and a personal assistant to Francisco Javier Arellano Felix, also designated a Tier I Kingpin in June 2004. According to a Southern District of California complaint, Leyva Escandon purchased cases of ammunition from multiple San Diego-based firearms merchants, acquiring thousands of rounds at a time. During a July 22, 2006 search of Leyva Escandon's residence, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) seized more than 450 rounds of assorted ammunition and conversion kits for the production of fully automatic Uzi machine guns.
In addition to ammunition trafficking, Leyva Escandon helped procure the Dock Holiday yacht, which was utilized by Francisco Javier Arellano Felix. On August 14, 2006, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), with assistance from the U.S. Coast Guard, arrested Francisco Javier Arellano Felix while he was on-board the Dock Holiday in international waters.
In addition to the ATF, Edgardo Leyva Escandon is wanted by the DEA and is the subject of a $2 million reward under the auspices of the State Department's Narcotics Rewards Program.
Also designated today are the following Edgardo Leyva Escandon financial operators: Aristoteles Alejandro Abaroa Preciado, Victor Manuel Abaroa Diaz, Victor Hussein Abaroa Preciado, Elia Yolanda Preciado Gamez and Rosa Yolanda Nabila Abaroa Preciado. The designation also includes a maritime equipment supplier Tienda Marina Abaroa, based in Baja California Sur, Mexico.
This action is part of ongoing efforts under the Kingpin Act to apply financial measures against significant foreign narcotics traffickers worldwide. Internationally, more than 500 businesses and individuals associated with 82 drug kingpins have been designated pursuant to the Kingpin Act since June 2000. Penalties for violations of the Kingpin Act range from civil penalties of up to $1.075 million per violation to more severe criminal penalties. Criminal penalties for corporate officers may include up to 30 years in prison and fines up to $5 million. Criminal fines for corporations may reach $10 million. Other individuals face up to 10 years in prison and fines pursuant to Title 18 of the United States Code for criminal violations of the Kingpin Act.
Today's designation would not have been possible without key support from DEA's San Diego Field Division, Tijuana Resident Office and Mazatlan Resident Office; the ATF's San Diego Field Office; and the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Southern District of California.
"We are taking this action to disrupt Edgardo Leyva Escandon's ability to access weapons and financial conduits on behalf of the Arellano Felix Organization," said OFAC Director Adam J. Szubin. "We will do everything in our power to support the determined counter-narcotics efforts of the Government of Mexico."
The Arellano Felix Organization was named a Tier I Kingpin by the President in June 2004. The principal of this Arellano Felix Organization cell is Edgardo Leyva Escandon, the organization's primary ammunition and firearms supplier, an assassin and a personal assistant to Francisco Javier Arellano Felix, also designated a Tier I Kingpin in June 2004. According to a Southern District of California complaint, Leyva Escandon purchased cases of ammunition from multiple San Diego-based firearms merchants, acquiring thousands of rounds at a time. During a July 22, 2006 search of Leyva Escandon's residence, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) seized more than 450 rounds of assorted ammunition and conversion kits for the production of fully automatic Uzi machine guns.
In addition to ammunition trafficking, Leyva Escandon helped procure the Dock Holiday yacht, which was utilized by Francisco Javier Arellano Felix. On August 14, 2006, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), with assistance from the U.S. Coast Guard, arrested Francisco Javier Arellano Felix while he was on-board the Dock Holiday in international waters.
In addition to the ATF, Edgardo Leyva Escandon is wanted by the DEA and is the subject of a $2 million reward under the auspices of the State Department's Narcotics Rewards Program.
Also designated today are the following Edgardo Leyva Escandon financial operators: Aristoteles Alejandro Abaroa Preciado, Victor Manuel Abaroa Diaz, Victor Hussein Abaroa Preciado, Elia Yolanda Preciado Gamez and Rosa Yolanda Nabila Abaroa Preciado. The designation also includes a maritime equipment supplier Tienda Marina Abaroa, based in Baja California Sur, Mexico.
This action is part of ongoing efforts under the Kingpin Act to apply financial measures against significant foreign narcotics traffickers worldwide. Internationally, more than 500 businesses and individuals associated with 82 drug kingpins have been designated pursuant to the Kingpin Act since June 2000. Penalties for violations of the Kingpin Act range from civil penalties of up to $1.075 million per violation to more severe criminal penalties. Criminal penalties for corporate officers may include up to 30 years in prison and fines up to $5 million. Criminal fines for corporations may reach $10 million. Other individuals face up to 10 years in prison and fines pursuant to Title 18 of the United States Code for criminal violations of the Kingpin Act.
Today's designation would not have been possible without key support from DEA's San Diego Field Division, Tijuana Resident Office and Mazatlan Resident Office; the ATF's San Diego Field Office; and the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Southern District of California.
Wednesday, October 07, 2009
Suitability of Assessment Instruments for Delinquent Girls
Provides a comprehensive guide to help juvenile justice practitioners determine which standardized assessment instruments should be used when working with delinquent girls. Practitioners can use risk-assessment instruments to identify youth who may recidivate and determine whether youth should be placed in treatment programs or provided other services. This OJJDP Bulletin, part of the Girls Study Group Series, presents recommendations for how practitioners can choose an instrument that is validated, appropriate, and cost-effective.
DOWNLOAD THE INSTRUMENTS
http://ojjdp.ncjrs.gov/publications/PubAbstract.asp?pubi=248526
DOWNLOAD THE INSTRUMENTS
http://ojjdp.ncjrs.gov/publications/PubAbstract.asp?pubi=248526
Monday, October 05, 2009
MICHIGAN'S TRAFFIC SAFETY OFFICE, GOVERNORS HIGHWAY SAFETY ASSOCIATION RECOMMEND LIMITS, BANS ON CELL USE WHILE DRIVING
National Drive Safely Work Week Oct. 5-9
As businesses in the state and across the nation prepare to remind their workforces about safe driving practices as part of Drive Safely Work Week (DSWW), the Michigan Office of Highway Safety Planning (OHSP) and the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA) recommend employers review cell phone and texting use policies for their organization.
"Every company is different and has individual needs with regard to communication on the road," said Michael L. Prince, OHSP director. "We are encouraging every employer to consider adopting a policy for their employees to send a clear message that driving distractions are potentially dangerous and carry unnecessary risks. Warnings simply do not change behavior."
The GHSA recommends banning cell phone use and texting by all employees while driving for business purposes and encourages companies to develop and use systems that would limit or disable certain cell phone functions while an employee is driving.
In 2008, 908 Michigan drivers involved in a crash reported they were using a cell phone prior to the crash. Michigan crash data does not capture information specific to text messaging. Last year, there were a total of 316,057 traffic crashes.
While other distractions do occur during driving, curbing or reducing the use of cell phones while driving is one way to minimize the risk of traffic crashes and related injuries to employees.
DSWW is the annual workplace safety campaign of the Network for Employers for Traffic Safety (NETS) that seeks to remind employees of safe driving practices on and off the job.
The Michigan NETS program encourages employers to adopt safe driving policies, reward employees for safety belt use, include articles in company newsletters, display posters and provide safe driving reminders and tips throughout the year.
State cell phone/texting laws and related resources are posted at http://www.ghsa.org/html/issues/summit.html.
As businesses in the state and across the nation prepare to remind their workforces about safe driving practices as part of Drive Safely Work Week (DSWW), the Michigan Office of Highway Safety Planning (OHSP) and the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA) recommend employers review cell phone and texting use policies for their organization.
"Every company is different and has individual needs with regard to communication on the road," said Michael L. Prince, OHSP director. "We are encouraging every employer to consider adopting a policy for their employees to send a clear message that driving distractions are potentially dangerous and carry unnecessary risks. Warnings simply do not change behavior."
The GHSA recommends banning cell phone use and texting by all employees while driving for business purposes and encourages companies to develop and use systems that would limit or disable certain cell phone functions while an employee is driving.
In 2008, 908 Michigan drivers involved in a crash reported they were using a cell phone prior to the crash. Michigan crash data does not capture information specific to text messaging. Last year, there were a total of 316,057 traffic crashes.
While other distractions do occur during driving, curbing or reducing the use of cell phones while driving is one way to minimize the risk of traffic crashes and related injuries to employees.
DSWW is the annual workplace safety campaign of the Network for Employers for Traffic Safety (NETS) that seeks to remind employees of safe driving practices on and off the job.
The Michigan NETS program encourages employers to adopt safe driving policies, reward employees for safety belt use, include articles in company newsletters, display posters and provide safe driving reminders and tips throughout the year.
State cell phone/texting laws and related resources are posted at http://www.ghsa.org/html/issues/summit.html.
Friday, October 02, 2009
Supporting Children Living with Grief and Trauma: A Multidisciplinary Approach
Date: October 27-28, 2009
Duration: 2 days
Cost: $200.00
City/State: Baltimore, MD
Training Location: Courtyard Baltimore Downtown/Inner Harbor
1000 Aliceanna Street
Baltimore, MD 21202
Instructors: Carroll Ann Ellis and Mary Beth Williams
This training will focus on the needs of children who experience grief and trauma as a result of homicide and how victim service providers, mental health professionals, and law enforcement can work together to best serve these children. Topics include:
The signs of grief and trauma in children affected by a homicidal death and the unique challenges surrounding this experience; Appropriate intervention strategies with children experiencing grief and trauma in order to make referrals; and, Strategies to enhance multidisciplinary responses to the special needs of children who experience grief and trauma.
MORE INFORMATION
https://www.sei2003.com/OVCTTAC2009/SupportingChildren.asp
Duration: 2 days
Cost: $200.00
City/State: Baltimore, MD
Training Location: Courtyard Baltimore Downtown/Inner Harbor
1000 Aliceanna Street
Baltimore, MD 21202
Instructors: Carroll Ann Ellis and Mary Beth Williams
This training will focus on the needs of children who experience grief and trauma as a result of homicide and how victim service providers, mental health professionals, and law enforcement can work together to best serve these children. Topics include:
The signs of grief and trauma in children affected by a homicidal death and the unique challenges surrounding this experience; Appropriate intervention strategies with children experiencing grief and trauma in order to make referrals; and, Strategies to enhance multidisciplinary responses to the special needs of children who experience grief and trauma.
MORE INFORMATION
https://www.sei2003.com/OVCTTAC2009/SupportingChildren.asp
2010 Community Awareness Project Funding
NAVAA will reimburse 60 communities up to $5,000 each to aid them in conducting 2010 National Crime Victims' Rights Week initiatives designed to enhance the general public's awareness of crime victims' rights and services, focuing on this year's theme, "Crime Victims' Rights: Fairness. Dignity. Respect."
Eligibility
Public agencies, nonprofit organizations, community-based victim service organizations, faith-based organizations, tribal organizations, and community coalitions committed to advocating for the rights and services of crime victims are among those encouraged to apply.
Organizations without 501(c) 3 status that serve crime victims and VOCA-funded organizations also are eligible to apply. Applications from individuals will not be considered for funding. Individuals with innovative ideas related to this project are encouraged to work in partnership with an organization or community coalition.
MORE INFORMATION
http://cap.navaa.org
Eligibility
Public agencies, nonprofit organizations, community-based victim service organizations, faith-based organizations, tribal organizations, and community coalitions committed to advocating for the rights and services of crime victims are among those encouraged to apply.
Organizations without 501(c) 3 status that serve crime victims and VOCA-funded organizations also are eligible to apply. Applications from individuals will not be considered for funding. Individuals with innovative ideas related to this project are encouraged to work in partnership with an organization or community coalition.
MORE INFORMATION
http://cap.navaa.org
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