EFTA01660745.pdf

From To: Subject: Fwd: [EXTERNAL EMAIL] - FBI Daily News Briefing - July 3, 2024 Date: Wed, 03 Jul 2024 12:25:44 +0000 Importance: Normal Good morning - Today's headlines. Thanks, Beserat From: FBI News Briefin Sent: Wednesday, July 3, 2024 6:10:03 AM To: FBINewsBriefin: Subject: [EXTERNAL EMAIL] - FBI Daily News Briefing - July 3, 2024 View in Browser PFederal Bureau of Investigation - July 03, 2024 Seal Federal Bureau of Investigation Daily News Briefing (In coordination with the Office of Public Affairs) Email Public Affairs to subscribe to the Daily News Briefing. Mobile version and archive available here. Table of Contents IN THE NEWS • Judge Delays Trump's Hush Money Sentencing Until at Least September After High Court Immunity Ruling • Indigenous Activist Denied Parole for 1975 Killings of Two FBI Agents Serving Warrants • Continued Reporting: The FBI Is Starting a New Program to Prevent Mass Violence COUNTERTERRORISM • Heavy Security Presence Planned for July 4th Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular • U.S. Military Heightens Security Alert Level at European Bases in Response to Threats • Texas Teen Linked to Hoax Calls and Bomb Threats Across the U.S. • Continued Reporting: 9/11 Families Say Biden, Trump Need to Address Saudi Video • Opinion: Alarmism About Terrorism Is Risky and Unjustified EFTA01660745 COUNTERINTELLIGENCE • China Using Surveillance Sites in Cuba, Likely to Spy on United States CRIMINAL INVESTIGATIONS • Special Counsel Is Said to Be Planning to Pursue Trump Cases Past the Election • FBI Investigates Vandalism at Two Jewish Cemeteries in Cincinnati • FBI Offering $10,000 Reward for Help Finding Arsonists in New Mexico Wildfires • FBI in New York Looking to Identify 900+ Victims of Online Porn Marketplace • Michigan Man Pleads Guilty to Kidnapping Store Manager, Stealing 123 Guns, Feds Say • Continued Reporting: New Grand Jury Transcripts Released in Jeffrey Epstein Case Reveal Prosecutors Knew About Accusations • FBI, Arizona Police Say Tips From Public Helped Arrest Man Who Made Threats • Former Iowa Police Chief Sentenced to 5 Years in Prison in Federal Gun Case • FBI Investigating North Charleston's $1.3 Million Anti-Violence Program • FBI Investigating Following Deadly Officer Involved Shooting in Cherokee, North Carolina • Continued Reporting: Texas Man Arrested by FBI Over Alleged School Shooting Plans • FBI Task Force Officer Accuses North Texas Man of Flying Drone Over Globe Life Field During Game • Oakland Mayor Sheng Thao Addresses FBI Raid and More • Florida Developer Tells Friends: Allegations Are Entirely False' in FBI Investigation • Prison Scheme to Murder Witness, Prosecutors and Rival Gang Members Foiled by FBI • FBI Arrests Pennsylvania Man for Allegedly Dealing Fentanyl • Onlyfans Vows It's a Safe Space. Predators Are Exploiting Kids There. • FBI Releases Image of Person Wanted in Florida Bank Robbery CYBER DIVISION • The Tech Crash Course That Trains U.S. Diplomats to Spot Threats • FBI Warns of Increased Cyber Threats to Expanding U.S. Renewable Energy Sector • Ticketmaster Data Hack Update: What Does it Mean for Millions of Customers INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS • Continued Reporting: Bahamas Authorities Find Phone of Chicago Woman Who Went Missing During Yoga Retreat CAPITOL VIOLENCE NEWS • Supreme Court Gives Boost to Jan. 6 Defendants Affected by Obstruction Ruling • Illinois Man Pleads Guilty in Attack on Officers During Jan. 6 Capitol Riot • FBI Arrests Arkansas Man for Allegedly Assaulting Officers During Jan. 6 • Florida Man Sentenced for Assaulting Law Enforcement During Jan. 6 Capitol Breach • Ohio Man Pleads Guilty to Assaulting Law Enforcement During Jan. 6 Capitol Breach • Pennsylvania Proud Boys Member Sentenced to Prison for Role in Jan. 6 Capitol Riot • Judge Grants Search Warrant for Conservative Influencer's Phone in Jan. 6 Investigation • Virginia School Board Member Sentenced for Participation in Jan. 6 Capitol Riot • Arkansas Man Pleads Guilty to Charges After Entering U.S. Capitol During Jan. 6 Riot EFTA01660746  • Attorneys Face Deadline to Wrap Jan. 6 Prosecutions. That Could Slide if Trump Wins OTHER FBI NEWS • Whistleblower Says FBI Abuses Security Clearance to 'Purge' Conservatives, Views Them as 'Unworthy' of Employment • Continued Reporting: Teddy Roosevelt's Watch, Stolen in 1987, Turns up at Florida Auction House • Continued Reporting: FBI IT Support Services Contract INTERNATIONAL NEWS • UN Experts Say Russia Violated International Law by Imprisoning Wall Street Journal Reporter • World's 'Most Successful' Political Party Stares at Sweeping Defeat in U.K. Election • Beijing and Moscow Go From 'No Limits' Friendship to Frenemies in Russia's Backyard • Middle East Crisis: Evacuation Order Brings New Chaos to Southeastern Gaza • Stampede at Religious Gathering in India Kills More Than 100 • U.K. Nurse Lucy Letby Convicted of Attempted Murder in Retrial • Biden, Netanyahu Expected to Meet in Washington During Israeli PM's July Visit • U.S. Sends a Plane of Chinese Migrants to China • German Court Fines Far-Right Politician for Using Nazi Phrase, Again • Migrants Pause in the Amazon Because Getting to the US Is Harder. Most Have No Idea What Lies Ahead OTHER WASHINGTON NEWS • What Is an 'Official' Act, and How Will a Judge Interpret Trump's Immunity? • U.S. Deports 116 Chinese Migrants in First 'Large' Flight in Five Years • Rudy Giuliani Is Disbarred in New York for Spreading Donald Trump's 2020 Election Lies • Biden Proposes New Rule to Protect 36 Million Workers From Extreme Heat • Biden Faces Growing Doubts From Democrats About His 2024 Re-Election • Supreme Court Puts Content Moderation on Solid Legal Ground • Supreme Court Declines to Decide if Felons Can Be Barred From Having a Gun • Judge's Order Greatly Expands Where Biden Can't Enforce a New Rule Protecting LGBTQ+ Students • Small Businesses Could Find Filing for Bankruptcy More Difficult as Government Program Expires • Supreme Court Turns Down a 2nd Amendment Challenge to State Bans on Assault Weapons BIG PICTURE • New York Times • Wall Street Journal • Washington Post • ABC News • CBS News • NBC News • Fox News • CNN WASHINGTON SCHEDULE EFTA01660747 IN THE NEWS Judge Delays Trump's Hush Money Sentencing Until at Least September After High Court Immunity Ruling The Associated Press (07/02, Offenhartz, Peitz) and Reuters (07/02, Cohen, Heavey) reported that in a major reprieve for former President Donald Trump, sentencing for his hush money convictions was postponed until at least September as the judge agreed to weigh the impact of a new Supreme Court ruling on presidential immunity. According to the articles, Trump had been scheduled to face sentencing on July 11, but the postponement sets the sentencing for Sept. 18 at the earliest. Trump's lawyers are arguing that the Supreme Court ruling merits not only delaying the sentencing but also tossing out his conviction. The articles explained that the Supreme Court decision granted broad immunity protections to presidents, making it harder for prosecutors to use evidence of official acts in criminal cases. This ruling restricts prosecutors from citing presidential duties as evidence when trying to prove that unofficial actions violated the law. The articles noted that prosecutors with Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg's office said Trump's argument was "without merit," but agreed to delay the sentencing to give Trump the chance to make his case. A timeline posted by ABC News (07/02, Katersky, Charalambous) illustrated the FBI's involvement in the Hush Money case. The article reported that on April 9, 2018, the FBI executed a search warrant on Michael Cohen's residence and office. Prosecutors alleged that Trump and others engaged in a pressure campaign to ensure Cohen did not cooperate with law enforcement. The article noted that Cohen later pled guilty, admitting his role in the hush money payments and stating that he acted at Trump's direction. Additional reporting on the story was provided by the New York Times (07/02, Protess, Rashbaum, et al.), Wall Street Journal (07/02, Ramey, Fanelli), Washington Post (07/02, Jacobs, Barrett), CNN (07/02, Reid, Valle, et al.), Washington Times (07/02, Howell Jr.), Washington Examiner (07/02, Johnson), CNBC (07/02, Breuninger), NBC News (07/02, Jarrett, Reiss, Satlin), ABC News (07/02, Katersky, Charalambous, Faulders), CBS News (07/02, Kates), Bloomberg (07/02, Voreacos), USA Today (07/02, Bagchi), BBC (07/02, Epstein), New York Post (07/02, Kochman), The Guardian (07/02, Lowell), The Hill (07/02, Schonfeld, Lee), Forbes (07/02, Durkee), and Al Jazeera (07/02, Staff Writer). Indigenous Activist Denied Parole for 1975 Killings of Two FBI Agents Serving Warrants The Associated Press (07/02, Hollingsworth) reported that Indigenous activist Leonard Peltier has been denied parole for the 1975 killings of two FBI agents on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation in South Dakota. According to the article, the U.S. Parole Commission announced that he won't be eligible for another hearing until June 2026. His attorney, Kevin Sharp, criticized the decision, stating, "This decision is a missed opportunity for the United States to finally recognize the misconduct of the FBI and send a message to Indian Country regarding the impacts of the federal government's actions and policies of the 1970s." The FBI and its former agents dispute Peltier's claims of innocence, with Mike Clark, president of the Society of Former Special Agents of the FBI, stating, "They were down, they were wounded, they were helpless and he shot them point blank. It is a heinous crime." The family of one of the agents, Jack Coler, also opposes Peltier's release, with Coler's son writing, "Peltier allows himself to be celebrated thus. He knows his guilt." The article noted that Director Wray said in a statement that "justice continues to prevail." And Natalie Bara, president of the FBI Agents Association, described Peltier in a statement as an "unremorseful murderer." Additional reporting on the story was provided by Reuters (07/02, Clifford), New York Times (07/02, Nostrant), NBC News (07/02, Ortiz), Fox News (07/02, Ruiz), CNN (07/02, Gallagher, Nottingham, Almasy), USA Today (07/02, Becenti), Law360 (07/02, Owens), UPI (07/02, EFTA01660748 Benson), The Hill (07/02, Budryk), Star Tribune (07/02, Mannix), The Guardian (07/02, Walker), HuffPost (07/02, Bendery), and SDPB (07/02, Strubinger). Continued Reporting: The FBI Is Starting a New Program to Prevent Mass Violence Spectrum News (07/02, Thompson) reported that the FBI Cleveland and FBI Behavioral Analysis Unit (BAU) are urging the public to be aware of behaviors that might indicate someone is on a "pathway to violence." In a release, Greg Nelsen, FBI Cleveland Special Agent in Charge, emphasized the importance of reporting suspicious behavior, saying, "As bystanders, we might think we are overreacting... The reality is that it is vitally important to report suspicious behavior, whether to the FBI or to local law enforcement." According to the article, the BAU's Prevent Mass Violence campaign encourages reporting troubling behaviors to authorities or trusted individuals. These behaviors include threats, fantasies about violence, creating materials explaining future violence, and increasing isolation. The article quoted Brad Hentschel, a supervisory special agent in BAU: "Mass shooters don't just snap. Recognizing and reporting the warning signs of someone thinking about and preparing for violence can be lifesaving." Utah News Dispatch (07/02, Dunphey) reported that the FBI's new Prevent Mass Violence campaign aims to help the public recognize and report warning signs of potential mass shooters. Shohini Sinha, the special agent in charge of the Salt Lake City FBI Field Office, emphasized, "Active shooters, mass shooters, do not just snap. They consider, they plan and they prepare for their attacks over time, sometimes as long as years. Often, people around them see what's happening." She highlighted behaviors such as making violent jokes or comments, experiencing unusual difficulty coping with stress, and isolating from others. Sinha also stated, "If you notice somebody doing any of these things, it's important that you talk to somebody you trust. What is important is that you tell somebody, because we can't do anything about it if we don't know." The article also detailed cases illustrating these warning signs, including a local shooting incident and a foiled school attack. WOIO (CBS-19) (07/02, McSweeney) and KSL-FM (07/02, Peterson) also reported on the story. Back to Top COUNTERTERRORISM Heavy Security Presence Planned for July 4th Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular Boston Globe (07/02, Sweeney) reported that despite no credible threats being detected, there will be a heavy security presence at the Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular on July 4th, and attendees are urged to avoid bringing prohibited items. According to the article, Jodi Cohen, the special agent in charge of the FBI's Boston Division, said the FBI "is not aware of any specific or credible threats" targeting the Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular or any other July 4th festivities. "That said ... we must maintain a heightened state of vigilance, given that we are home to many patriotic and historical landmarks, and this event is an attractive and symbolic target," Cohen said at Tuesday's news conference. "The threats we are facing from domestic, international, and state-sponsored terrorism actors are all elevated. But the law enforcement team standing here today is actively collecting and sharing intelligence about the possible threats in real-time so that we can make informed decisions on the best use of our resources should potential threats to public safety arise." The article noted that Cohen asked the public to be "an extension of our eyes and ears" and "reach out to law enforcement if you come across someone or something that doesn't seem quite right." She continued, "Before many mass attacks, perpetrators have shown signs they were on the pathway to violence, including comments, jokes, or threats about violent plans, reduced interest in hobbies, or other activities, increasing isolation from family, friends or others, and angry outbursts or physical aggression. In many cases, a witness to these signs did not know who to alert about their concern. Please report them to us or local law enforcement because working together, we increase our chances of preventing mass violence." WABC (ABC-7) (07/02, Staff Writer) noted that one of the scenarios the FBI is warning about is the use of drones to attack large groups that are watching fireworks EFTA01660749 in NYC or across the country. According to the article, a recent FBI terrorism bulletin emphasized the threat of "attack drones," which are unmanned aircraft systems that could potentially drop explosives on crowds. The article explained that throughout the city, police have installed drone detectors that can spot an unauthorized device and even take control over it. WCVB (ABC-5) (07/02, Haynes) also reported on the story. U.S. Military Heightens Security Alert Level at European Bases in Response to Threats CBS News (07/02, Staff Writer) reported that the U.S. military has raised its security alert level to Charlie at bases throughout Europe due to various threats, including the ongoing wars in Ukraine and Gaza, upcoming major events like the Olympics, and recent elections in France and the U.K. According to the article, this heightened security follows a worldwide alert issued by the FBI and Homeland Security in May, warning of potential terrorist attacks by ISIS at Pride events in Europe. The article noted that raising the threat level to Charlie means additional security measures will be in place at U.S. military installations, but it's up to each commander's discretion to determine what those measures are. It also means service members and their families who are living in each community should be more aware of their surroundings and maintain a lower profile. Clearance Jobs (07/02, Suciu) also reported on the story. Texas Teen Linked to Hoax Calls and Bomb Threats Across the U.S. KDFW (FOX-4) (07/02, Staff Writer) reported that a teenager in Texas is accused of making over 100 hoax bomb threats and swatting calls across multiple states, leading to an extensive investigation by the Collin County Sheriff's Office. According to the article, the investigation, which began with a false SWAT incident report in St. Paul, Texas, uncovered similar threats directed at various schools and grocery stores and involved sophisticated methods to mask the caller's identity. The article noted that the FBI and multiple local law enforcement agencies conducted a raid on the suspect's home, with charges against the teen still pending. Continued Reporting: 9/11Families Say Biden, Trump Need to Address Saudi Video The New York Post (07/02, Morphet, Crane) reported that families of 9/11victims criticized President Biden and former President Trump for their silence regarding new footage showing a suspected Saudi spy filming U.S. landmarks before the attacks. According to the article, Brett Eagleson, president of 9/11 Justice, expressed the victims' frustration, saying, "It's 23 years later, and our government has failed to bring us accountability, closure and justice." The article noted that retired FBI Agent Richard Lambert, who is involved in the families' lawsuit against Saudi Arabia, suggested the footage could have informed al Qaeda's targeting decisions, highlighting the ongoing demand for justice and accountability from U.S. leaders. News Nation Now (07/02, Ingle) also reported on the story. Opinion: Alarmism About Terrorism Is Risky and Unjustified An opinion piece from Discourse (07/02, Nowrasteh, Ard) reported that authors Graham Allison and Michael J. Morell argued in Foreign Affairs about the imminent threat of terrorist attacks in the U.S., suggesting that complacency is riskier than alarmism. They emphasized the serious potential of an attack and urged action, particularly given the porous nature of the southern U.S. border. The article critiqued the Foreign Affair's piece as overly alarmist, citing statistics to demonstrate the rarity of foreign-born terrorist attacks on U.S. soil and the small impact of those that do occur. The article mentioned that Director Wray has expressed concerns about the possibility of terrorists entering the U.S. through the southern border and is investigating various plots. The article assessed that the evidence he provided doesn't strongly support claims of an immediate threat. The author assessed that alarmism about terrorism is risky and unjustified, and advocated for a balanced approach that avoids unnecessary panic. EFTA01660750 Back to Top COUNTERINTELLIGENCE China Using Surveillance Sites in Cuba, Likely to Spy on United States The National Desk (07/02, Frazao) reported that China is using surveillance sites in Cuba to spy on the United States. According to the article, intelligence experts have raised alarms about Chinese electronic eavesdropping stations in Cuba, which are in proximity to U.S. military and space facilities, with Matthew Funaiole noting that "signal intelligence facilities are one of the best ways" for China to gather information about U.S. operations. The article explained that surveillance sites have seen recent upgrades, such as a new dish antenna installed in January, enhancing their capability to track U.S. aircraft, ships, and missiles. The article noted that during a January hearing before the Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party, Director Wray said, "The CCP's dangerous actions, China's multi-pronged assault on our national and economic security, make it the defining threat of our generation?' Back to Top CRIMINAL INVESTIGATIONS Special Counsel Is Said to Be Planning to Pursue Trump Cases Past the Election The New York Times (07/02, Feuer) reported that the special counsel Jack Smith plans to pursue his two criminal cases against former President Donald J. Trump through the election and even up until Inauguration Day if Trump wins the presidential race, according to a person familiar with Smith's thinking. The article stated that Smith believes that under DOJ regulations, his mandate as special counsel and his authority to keep the cases going do not depend on a change of administration and extend until he is formally removed from his post, the person said. According to the article, the special counsel's office is prepared to push forward for as long as possible on the two indictments it has filed against Trump. One of those, brought in Washington, has accused the former president of plotting to subvert the 2020 election. The other, filed in Florida, has charged Trump with holding on to a trove of highly sensitive classified documents after he left office and then obstructing the government's repeated efforts to retrieve them. The Washington Post (07/02, Barrett, Stein), and Newsweek (07/02, Palmer) also reported on the story. FBI Investigates Vandalism at Two Jewish Cemeteries in Cincinnati The Associated Press (07/02, Staff Writer) reported that the FBI and police in Cincinnati are investigating the damage of nearly 180 gravestones at two Jewish cemeteries. The tombstones, some dating back to the late 1800s, likely were knocked over between June 25 and Monday, according to the Jewish Federation of Cincinnati. The article added that the damage was found in two Jewish sections of the Covedale Cemetery complex on Monday. CNN (07/02, Henderson, Bishop) reported that Sue Susskind, executive director of the Jewish Cemeteries of Greater Cincinnati, said law enforcement has now granted permission for the gravestones to be repaired and inspected. Some of the gravestones are so heavy, they will have to be lifted up by cranes, she said. The article added that they hope to identify names and pull reports from the Jewish Cemeteries database, Susskind said. For the older graves not in the system, the organization will have to "go on the ground and try to figure it out." FBI Offering $10,000 Reward for Help Finding Arsonists in New Mexico Wildfires The New York Post (07/02, Joyce) reported that the FBI wants to know who is responsible for the South Fork and Salt fires surrounding Ruidoso, offering up to $10,000 as a reward for information that leads to the arrest and conviction of "the person or persons responsible for starting the fires near Ruidoso, New Mexico," according to its website. The article added that the FBI's Albuquerque field office declined to say EFTA01660751 whether or not the FBI thinks people set the fires on tribal lands intentionally or if it thinks the same individuals started both fires. So far, the fires have destroyed over 1,400 structures, including 500 homes, and killed two people. The article noted that as the FBI seeks the perpetrators of the fire, President Joe Biden declared that New Mexico had a major disaster ongoing on June 20. It came one day after Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham filed a Major Disaster Declaration request, according to a press release from her office. FBI in New York Looking to Identify 900+ Victims of Online Porn Marketplace The New York Post (07/02, Gibbon) reported that a top FBI agent took to X on Tuesday to personally plead for more than 900 suspected victims of an accused child and adult-porn peddler to contact the agency. The article noted that the move comes six months after Kyle White, 25, "The Ho Zone" creator, was busted for allegedly targeting hundreds of unsuspecting online users by plucking their images and selling them to subscribers on the Telegram messaging app under the name THZ Admin. The article quoted FBI New York Special Agent in Charge Leslie Backschies who said in a video on X, "Some of the victims include social media influencers, NCAA and semi-professional athletes, actresses, models, teenagers and victims of blackmail or sextortion, if you or someone you know suspects that White shared your private images or videos without permission, please report it." The article stated that federal prosecutors charged White with two counts of receipt, distribution, and advertisement of child pornography in January, calling his alleged illicit online sex market "abhorrent and depraved." The FBI is asking victims to come forward by visiting the THZ Victim site and filling out a short form with the agency promising that the information will remain confidential. WHAM (CBS-6) (07/02, Staff Writer) also reported on the story. Michigan Man Pleads Guilty to Kidnapping Store Manager, Stealing 123 Guns, Feds Say NBC News (07/02, Planas) reported that a Michigan man pleaded guilty to kidnapping a manager of a sporting goods store at gunpoint last year and then making off with more than 100 handguns, federal authorities said Tuesday. Darnell Bishop, 33, of Benton Harbor, also pleaded guilty to brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, according to a statement from the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Western District of Michigan. A DOJ press release quoted Cheyvoryea Gibson, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI in Michigan, who said, "Today's guilty plea confirms that justice has been served, and Mr. Bishop will be held accountable for the heinous crimes committed against the victim and the victim's place of work, I commend the investigative efforts and achievements of the FBI's Benton Harbor Safe Streets Task Force and our local, state, and federal partners for their dedication to this case. Nevertheless, our daily work continues to contribute to the safety of our communities." Continued Reporting: New Grand Jury Transcripts Released in Jeffrey Epstein Case Reveal Prosecutors Knew About Accusations CBS News (07/02, Duncan, Hoffman) reported that a Florida judge on Monday unveiled 150 pages of grand jury transcripts from 2006 that looked into sex trafficking and rape allegations made against financier Jeffrey Epstein. The newly released documents from 18 years ago unveiled by Palm Beach County Circuit Judge Luis Delgado revealed that prosecutors knew about detailed accusations against Epstein — years before the financier was given a sweetheart deal. The article noted that according to 2006 testimony, the investigation against Epstein began a year earlier. Two victims were questioned during the proceedings — including one who alleged that Epstein, then in his 50s, molested her when she was 14 years old. The second victim said she was raped by Epstein the day before her 18th birthday. A detective on the case testified that victims were paid for the sex acts and encouraged to recruit other underage girls and told "the younger, the better." The article mentioned that Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis signed a bill in February allowing the release of the documents on July 1 or afterward. Florida grand jury transcripts are usually kept secret, but the bill created an exemption for cases like Epstein's. The article EFTA01660752 added that twelve of Epstein's accusers sued the FBI in February for failure to protect them, according to a complaint filed in federal court in New York. The complaint alleges that tips, reports, and complaints about Epstein's activities were provided to the FBI starting in 1996. USA TODAY (07/02, Phillips, Baltz), and the Independent (07/02, Liddell) also reported on the story. FBI, Arizona Police Say Tips From Public Helped Arrest Man Who Made Threats KGUN (ABC-9) (07/02, Staff Writer) reported that Gary M. Restaino, a U.S. Attorney with the District of Arizona, and officials from the University of Arizona Police Department and the FBI held a press conference to discuss developments in threats made at the University of Arizona, involving Michael Pengchung Lee, Tuesday morning. Lee was sentenced today to 16 months in prison for making death threats against University of Arizona fraternities and sororities in 2023. The article mentioned that law enforcement said this was an example of the system working, catching a threat before it was acted upon. Tips from the public helped arrest Lee quickly after he first made threats. The article quoted Jason Alexander, an Arizona Special FBI Agent, who said, "You made the difference in this case." KVOA (NBC-4) (07/02, Spector), and KOLD (CBS-13) (07/02, Wallace) also reported on the story. Former Iowa Police Chief Sentenced to 5 Years in Prison in Federal Gun Case The Associated Press (07/02, Staff Writer) reported that a former small-town Iowa police chief has been sentenced to five years in federal prison for lying to authorities to acquire machine guns that prosecutors said he sold for his own profit. The article added that former Adair Police Chief Brad Wendt was convicted in February of making false statements to the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, conspiring to do so, and illegally possessing a machine gun. According to the article, Wendt was indicted in December 2022. Authorities said he bought machine guns for the police department, then sold them for an almost $80,000 personal profit. Trial evidence showed he bought machine guns for his gun store, including a .50-caliber machine gun he mounted on his armored Humvee, federal prosecutors said. A DOJ press release from February noted that this case was investigated by ATF and FBI. FBI Investigating North Charleston's $1.3 Million Anti-Violence Program The Post and Courier (07/02, Herscowitz, Grzeszczak) reported that the FBI has opened an inquiry into North Charleston's $1.3 million grant program aimed at curbing gun violence in the state's third-largest city, the city's former police chief said. The article added that Greg Gomes said an FBI agent contacted him on June 28 and asked him to preserve all documents related to the city-led initiative. Gomes' last day at the department was June 30; he announced in April his plans to retire. The article mentioned that the probe comes six months after a Post and Courier investigation found scant oversight and a lack of strategy hampered the first-time program. City Council in December 2022 approved $100,000 grants to a raft of nonprofits with the goal of slashing gun violence in neighborhoods contending with an uptick in shootings. WCSC (CBS-5) (07/02, Lute) also reported on the story. FBI Investigating Following Deadly Officer Involved Shooting in Cherokee, North Carolina WHNS (Fox-21) (07/02, Stoddard) reported that the Charlotte Division of the FBI announced that they are investigating following a deadly officer-involved shooting in Cherokee, North Carolina. The article added that FBI officials said the incident happened on July 1 and involved the Cherokee Police Department. According to officials, a suspect passed away following the shooting. Continued Reporting: Texas Man Arrested by FBI Over Alleged School Shooting Plans MY SA (07/02, Romero) reported that a Texas Hill Country teen was arrested after someone went to the FBI to report the 19-year-old's alleged intentions to go on a mass shooting spree. The New Braunfels resident reportedly talked about his plans for a school shooting to his then-girlfriend. The article added EFTA01660753 that Cameron Peterson was indicted on gun charges after an anonymous whistleblower reported him to the FBI for planning a mass shooting. According to the article, the "tipster" said to the FBI that Peterson "has severe emotional issues, idolizes violence and school shootings," according to the criminal complaint documents. The anonymous tip to the FBI was based on secondhand information by Peterson's girlfriend who broke up with him for a short period of time. The ex-girlfriend told the tipster that Peterson kept "dozen or so" journals with detailed "fantasies and plans" for a school shooting, he also talked about his plans to carry out the crime, according to the documents. FBI Task Force Officer Accuses North Texas Man of Flying Drone Over Globe Life Field During Game WFAA (ABC-8) (07/02, Yanes) reported that an FBI Task Force officer has accused Jason Carvell Banner of flying a drone around Globe Life Field while it was under a temporary flight restriction (TFR) during a Texas Rangers game. The article stated that according to the criminal complaint, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issued a TFR, which temporarily restricts all aircraft from operating within three nautical miles of any regular or postseason Major League Baseball game. This is also known as the stadium TFR, and it goes into effect one hour before the start of an event and ends one hour after the event is over. The article mentioned that the criminal complaint says that on Oct. 19, 2023, Arlington police officers responded to parking lot D of the stadium about a small unmanned aircraft -- or a drone -- while the Rangers hosted the Houston Astros. According to the document, Texas Rangers security was with the accused operator, Banner. Banner allegedly admitted to police that he was flying the drone that evening and let an FBI special agent examine it after this confession, the document states. The complaint states that the FBI Task Force officer confirmed the drone had flown in the TFR area and with his experience he noted that the drone has a feature that alerts operators if they are in a restricted airspace. Due to this knowledge, the Task Force officer believes that Banner knowingly and willfully violated the TFR, the complaint states. Oakland Mayor Sheng Thao Addresses FBI Raid and More KTVU (Fox-2) (07/02, Staff Writer) reported that Oakland Mayor Sheng Thao gave her first interview with a news organization on Tuesday following the FBI raid on her house at the end of June. The article noted that in a one-on-one interview with KTVU, Thao appeared confident and calm, answering some questions about the agents scouring her Maiden Lane home, but refusing to answer others. She also talked about the recall effort against her, the budget, the sale of the Oakland Coliseum, and the city's new police chief, Floyd Mitchell. The article included an interview transcript concerning the FBI raid. Florida Developer Tells Friends: `Allegations Are Entirely False' in FBI Investigation The Miami Herald (07/02, Hanks, Weaver) reported that Miami developer Sergio Pino this week told friends and professional contacts he's innocent in the FBI's investigation into threats made against his wife and said he's been frustrated by not being able to tell his side of the story after the probe became public last week. The article noted that the Herald reported that federal investigators are looking into the possibility that Pino hired others to menace his estranged wife after she moved out of their Coral Gables home and filed for divorce in 2022. Four men have been charged with stalking Tatiana Pino in connection with a hit-and-run incident last summer when a man driving a rented Home Depot truck rammed her car at her Pinecrest home. Last week, FBI agents raided Sergio Pino's home and business in Coral Gables as part of its ongoing investigation into the threats. Prison Scheme to Murder Witness, Prosecutors and Rival Gang Members Foiled by FBI The Providence Journal (07/02, Reynolds) reported that a prisoner in a federal holding facility in Rhode Island conspired with another man to kill five people, including two federal prosecutors, according to an indictment handed up by a grand jury last week in U.S. District Court. The article added that Elijah Melton EFTA01660754 faced fentanyl trafficking charges and was held at the Donald F. Wyatt Detention Facility. While there, he set a plan in motion to target two assistant U.S. Attorneys, two rival gang members, and a hostile witness on whose head he put a $150,000 bounty, according to an FBI agent's affidavit. According to the article, to set the scheme in motion, Melton sought assistance from another prisoner at the Wyatt Detention Facility earlier this year who eventually told the FBI about the plot, says the affidavit, which was filed in U.S. District Court, Boston, in May. FBI Arrests Pennsylvania Man for Allegedly Dealing Fentanyl The News-Item (07/02, Zyla) reported that a man who was charged by state police last year with selling fentanyl to an undercover trooper three times between July 25 and Aug. 8 was taken into custody by the FBI and Shamokin police Tuesday morning pursuant to a federal grand jury indictment outlining similar offenses. The article stated that Francesco Banks, 38, pleaded not guilty on Tuesday in the United States District Court of the Middle District of Pennsylvania to three counts of distribution of a controlled substance, possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance and possession of a firearm by a felon for offenses alleged to have taken place between July 25 and Sept. 21in Shamokin. Onlyfans Vows It's a Safe Space. Predators Are Exploiting Kids There. Reuters (07/02, So, Marshall, Szep) reported that half of the 30 police complaints about child exploitation on OnlyFans said Twitter, Instagram, Snapchat, and other social media played a role in promoting the content. X, then called Twitter, helped 25-year-old Wyatt Maxwell earn thousands of dollars on OnlyFans before federal investigators discovered he had been exploiting a boy. According to the article, Maxwell, a cabaret singer, repeatedly filmed himself and a 16-year-old Kansas boy having sex at Maxwell's home and a local park in 2020 and 2021. He posted about 20 videos on OnlyFans and a smaller rival website, JustFor.Fans, charging subscribers $15 a month on both platforms. The article noted that a JustFor.Fans spokesperson said the website was informed about Maxwell's account by the FBI in February 2021 and immediately shut it down. "We take any activities involving minors incredibly seriously," he added. FBI Releases Image of Person Wanted in Florida Bank Robbery WPEC (CBS-12) (07/02, Viviani) reported that the FBI shared a surveillance image Tuesday of the individual wanted in connection with a bank robbery in Davie. The article stated that the incident took place shortly after 1:30 p.m. when a robber went into a PNC Bank branch and demanded money, the federal agency explained. The article mentioned that anyone with information about the robbery is asked to call the FBI's Miami office. Back to Top CYBER DIVISION The Tech Crash Course That Trains U.S. Diplomats to Spot Threats WIRED (07/02, Geller) reported that the U.S. State Department is training diplomats in cybersecurity, privacy, telecommunications, and other technology issues to advance U.S. policy abroad. According to the article, the week-long in-person class consists of 45- to 90-minute sessions on topics such as internet freedom, privacy, ransomware, 5G, and Al. Diplomats learn how the internet works on a technical level, and how the military and the FBI coordinate with foreign partners to take down hackers' computer networks. Nathaniel Fick, the US ambassador-at-large for cyberspace and digital policy, emphasized the importance of understanding these issues, stating, "Technology as a source of influence is increasingly foundational." The article noted that the training program aims to equip diplomats with the skills to identify digital shortcomings and security gaps in their host countries, thereby enhancing America's tech diplomacy and countering threats from adversaries like Russia and China. FBI Warns of Increased Cyber Threats to Expanding U.S. Renewable Energy Sector EFTA01660755 The Center Square (07/02, Mckendry) reported that the FBI has issued an official alert to the public about the potential for malicious cyber actors to disrupt power generation, steal intellectual property, or hold critical information for ransom within the U.S. renewable energy sector. The warning comes as federal and local governments increasingly advocate for renewable energies, expanding the industry and creating more opportunities for cyber threats. The article added that according to the FBI, a 2019 incident underscored these risks when a private company lost visibility into approximately 500 megawatts of its wind and photovoltaic sites across California, Utah, and Wyoming due to a denial-of-service attack exploiting an unpatched firewall. Federal agencies, including the Department of Defense, the largest energy consumer within the U.S. government, are increasingly sourcing energy from local electric grids. The article mentioned that researchers are developing passive sensor devices to detect unusual electrical activity and counter such threats. By detecting deviations from normal patterns or unexpected fluctuations in electrical activity, these sensors can effectively identify potential cyber intrusions or unauthorized access attempts targeting the system's functionality. Industrial Cyber (07/02, Ribeiro) also reported on the story. Ticketmaster Data Hack Update: What Does it Mean for Millions of Customers Newsweek (07/02, Gooding) reported that Ticketmaster has confirmed to customers in the U.S. that it experienced a data breach earlier this year, but insisted that their accounts with the site were secure. Users of the ticket-selling site began sharing emails they had received last week about the data breach, first reported in late May. Email addresses, phone numbers, and some encrypted payment information were included in the breach, the company said, adding that it was notifying customers who had been affected. The article mentioned that the group behind the data breach was reported to be ShinyHunters, which first appeared in 2020. The article noted that the FBI reportedly tried to stop the hackers by shutting down the site they used to operate in May but without success. Back to Top INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS Continued Reporting: Bahamas Authorities Find Phone of Chicago Woman Who Went Missing During Yoga Retreat NBC News (07/02, Romero) reported that authorities in the Bahamas said Tuesday the search for an American woman who disappeared during a yoga retreat is a top priority amid calls by friends and family members for U.S. intervention. The article noted that the Royal Bahamas Police Force said in a statement that it found the cell phone and other items belonging to Chicago resident Taylor Casey, 41, who was last seen at a Paradise Island yoga retreat on June 19. The article stated that the device was found in nearby waters, the police force said, and her journal and other personal items were also discovered as part of its response after Sivananda Ashram Yoga Retreat Bahamas reported Casey missing on June 20. Casey's U.S. passport hasn't been found, the police force said. It said it has deployed divers, drones, tracking dogs, and Paradise Island-based officers in its ongoing search. Also Tuesday, Chicago police issued a missing persons alert for Casey, asking anyone who knows where she might be to get in touch. CNN (07/02, Mascarenhas) reported that the family is now calling for the FBI to take over the investigation into Casey's disappearance. Casey's family and friends have spoken to FBI officials on the phone since returning, but those calls have not led to the agency intervening in the case, according to the release. UPI (07/02, Coote) also reported on the story. Back to Top CAPITOL VIOLENCE NEWS EFTA01660756 Supreme Court Gives Boost to Jan. 6 Defendants Affected by Obstruction Ruling NBC News (07/02, Hurley, Reilly) reported that the Supreme Court has remanded the cases of two men, Edward Lang and Garret Miller, involved in the Jan. 6 Capitol riot, to lower courts to re-evaluate the applicability of obstruction charges following a recent ruling. According to the article, this ruling, which favored another defendant, Joseph Fischer, questioned whether the obstruction statute was applicable to their actions during the riot. The article noted that Edward Lang was reported to have been swept up in the crowd's violence, struggling with police officers in what he claimed was self-defense. Garret Miller was accused of pushing against officers both outside and inside the Capitol, and he also made threats on social media against Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. Illinois Man Pleads Guilty in Attack on Officers During Jan. 6 Capitol Riot UPI (07/02, Heuer) and Chicago Sun-Times (07/02, Sherry) reported that Robin Lee Reierson, 69, from Schiller Park, Illinois, pleaded guilty to assaulting police officers during the January 6 Capitol riot. Federal prosecutors said he positioned himself in front of a police barricade and pushed a barrier made of bicycle racks into a line of police officers. He was arrested by FBI agents on August 23 and is among over 1,450 individuals charged with federal crimes related to the event. The articles noted that the ongoing investigation highlights the severity of the riot, with more than 500 people facing charges for felony assaults on police officers or impeding law enforcement. FBI Arrests Arkansas Man for Allegedly Assaulting Officers During Jan. 6 KARK (NBC-4) (07/02, Ramirez) reported that the FBI arrested David Michael Camden, a 45-year-old man from Tontitown, Arkansas, for his alleged role in assaulting officers during the January 6 riot. According to the article, Camden faces multiple charges, including felony offenses of assaulting, resisting, or impeding certain officers, and was involved in actions such as pushing a bike rack barricade at police and deploying a fire extinguisher against them. The article noted that the FBI said they arrested Camden in Fayetteville and that Camden was nicknamed the "#littlemansprayer." Florida Man Sentenced for Assaulting Law Enforcement During Jan. 6 Capitol Breach Tallahassee Democrat (07/02, Barrera) reported that Raymund Joseph Cholod, a 54-year-old from Tallahassee, was sentenced to 40 months in federal prison for assaulting police officers during the January 6 Capitol riot. The article explained that on January 6, Cholod was among the first group of rioters in the tunnel leading into the Capitol, where he engaged in violent actions against police, including throwing a stick and shouting at them. The article explained that the FBI received a tip from a confidential source in February 2022, tying Cholod to a motel in St. Petersburg. FBI agents interviewed employees at the unnamed motel. After showing surveillance photos from the U.S. Capitol, two employees said he had been a guest in 2019. A former direct supervisor of Cholod was later contacted and identified him as the man in surveillance photos at the U.S. Capitol. Ohio Man Pleads Guilty to Assaulting Law Enforcement During Jan. 6 Capitol Breach WOIO (CBS-19) (07/02, Koster) reported that Kyle Andrew Campbell, a 31-year-old from Columbus, Ohio, pleaded guilty to assaulting law enforcement during the January 6 breach of the U.S. Capitol. According to the Department of Justice, Campbell was actively involved in the riot, where he overcame barriers, confronted police, and at one point, forcibly rushed and struck an officer with a riot shield. The article noted that the FBI arrested Campbell on December 11, 2023, as part of an ongoing investigation. Pennsylvania Proud Boys Member Sentenced to Prison for Role in Jan. 6 Capitol Riot EFTA01660757 WTXF (FOX-29) (07/02, Staff Writer) reported that Brian Healion, a 33-year-old member of the Philadelphia chapter of the Proud Boys, was sentenced to 100 days in prison and 36 months of supervised release for his involvement in the January 6 Capitol riot. According to the article, Healion, who was part of a subgroup within the Proud Boys known as the Ministry of Self-Defense, participated in the breach, leading chants and crossing police barriers during the event. The article noted that he was arrested by the FBI on December 10, 2021, in Upper Darby, and the ongoing invest