EFTA00163398.pdf

From: FBI News Briefing <fbinewsbriefing@barbaricum.com> To: "FBINewsBriefing" <FBINewsBriefing@ic.fbi.gov> Subject: [EXTERNAL EMAIL] - FBI Daily News Briefing - May 8, 2025 Date: Thu, 08 May 2025 10:15:09 +0000 Importance: Normal View in Browser Federal Bureau of Investigation Seal May 08, 2025 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 • 205 Alleged Child Sex Abuse Offenders Arrested in FBI-Led Five-Day Nationwide Crackdown • FBI Needs More Money Than White House Requested, Director Patel Tells Lawmakers • FBI Poring Through 'Tens of Thousands' of Jeffrey Epstein's Child Porn Videos COUNTERTERRORISM • New York Man Charged with Federal Hate Crimes After Repeatedly Assaulting Jewish Victims • The Neo-Nazi 764 Cult Is Targeting Kids as Young as Nine • Texas Man Convicted of Making Threats to Kill Nashville District Attorney Glenn Funk • FBI Houston Seeks Suspect in Bar Arson Explosion • Virginia Man Who Bankrolled ISIS Erupts in Court, Gets 30-Year Prison Term • Brazil Rejects U.S. Request to Classify Local Gangs as Terrorist Organizations COUNTERINTELLIGENCE • Uncovering Chinese Academic Espionage at Stanford • Continued Reporting: Denmark Summons U.S. Ambassador Over Greenland Spying Report • Opinion: Can Trump Restore the Constitutional Limits on Domestic Spying? CRIMINAL INVESTIGATIONS • Durbin Calls on DOJ to Investigate Anonymous Pizza Deliveries to Judges' Homes • MS-13 Member to Be Locked up for 55 Years for Quadruple Machete Massacre in Long Island Park • FBI Investigating After Armed Standoff In Virginia • FBI Offering up to $75,000 Reward for Information on Emily Pike Murder • FBI Arrests Man Connected to Texas Bathroom Child Sex Assault Suspect EFTA00163398 • Continued Reporting: FBI Goes After Laser Attacks on Aircraft • FBI Helps Track Kidnapping for Ransom Suspect • California Man Wanted on Child Pornography Charges in Miami • Video Found on Device in U.K. Leads to Charges for South Carolina, Man, FBI Says • Ex-WWE Wrestler Accused of Attempting to Buy Child Porn • Scuba Instructor Arrested in Mexico After 13 Years on Run for North Texas Child Sex Assault Charges CYBER DIVISION • CISA, FBI, EPA, DOE Issue Joint Alert on Rising Cyber Threats to Critical Infrastructure OT Systems • DOJ Seizes Nine Global 'Denial of Service' Operations; Alaska FBI Plays Key Role • FBI Issues Warning as Scammers Target Victims of Crime LAW ENFORCEMENT SERVICES • Continued Reporting: Aurora Strikes Agreement With FBI, Military to Address Drones Near Buckley Space Force Base INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS • Continued Reporting: FBI Briefed Embassy in Honduras on Mass Shooting Threats OTHER FBI NEWS • National Archives Releases More Robert F. Kennedy Files • Continued Reporting: 'Morning Joe' Retracts Nightclub Allegation Against Director Patel • Continued Reporting: FBI Criticized Over Investigation Into 2017 Congressional Baseball Shooting • Continued Reporting: FBI Gives Permission to Start Marijuana License Background Checks INTERNATIONAL NEWS • India Strikes Alleged Headquarters of Militant Groups in Pakistan's Heartland • Ukraine Considers Shift From Dollar to Euro Amid Geopolitical Realignments • U.S. Pushes Nations Facing Tariffs to Approve Musk's Starlink, Cables Show • No Pope Is Chosen After First Day of Vatican Conclave • Fentanyl Crisis Provided Opening for U.S.-China Trade Talks • The 'Narco-Subs' Helping to Flood Europe With Cocaine • Libya's Leaders Say They Haven't Agreed to Accept Deported Migrants From the U.S. • Putin Says Russia Stands With China Against 'Neo-Nazism' • North Korea Fires Short-Range Missiles Possibly in Performance Test for Export • Colombia's Top Court Orders Arrests of Former Legislature Presidents • Greek Police Arrest Far-Right Group Accused of Robberies, Assaults OTHER WASHINGTON NEWS • Dozens of Students Arrested in Pro-palestinian Protest at Columbia University • Former Memphis Police Officers Found Not Guilty in Killing of Tyre Nichols • Trump Picks a 'MAHA' Movement Leader for Surgeon General • Fed Sees Rising Risks to Economy as It Leaves Rates Unchanged • Judge Warns Trump Administration Against Libya Deportations EFTA00163399 " Trump Administration Eyes Release of Hur Interview Blocked by Biden " Trump to Pitch Sweeping Medicare Drug Price Plan " U.S. Charges NY Man With Hate Crimes Over Columbia Protests " House GOP Backing off Some Medicaid Cuts as Report Shows Millions of People Would Lose Health Care " House Republicans Push to Sell Hundreds of Thousands of Acres of Public Lands in the West WASHINGTON SCHEDULE IN THE NEWS 205 Alleged Child Sex Abuse Offenders Arrested in FBI-Led Five-Day Nationwide Crackdown Fox News (05/07, Dorgan) reported that Attorney General Bondi and Director Patel announced that 205 alleged child sex predators have been arrested in the last five days as part of a joint operation called "Operation Restore Justice", which also resulted in the rescue of 115 children across the country. The operation, which spanned 55 FBI field offices, is considered "historic" and "unprecedented" by AG Bondi, who warned parents to be vigilant of sex predators posing as children online and targeting their kids. According to the article, AG Bondi emphasized that the arrested individuals, if convicted, will face the maximum penalty in prison, including life imprisonment, and stressed that the FBI and the Department of Justice will prosecute those who harm children and target them online. "No more," Director Patel said. "If you harm our children, you will be given no sanctuary. There is no place we will not come to hunt you down. There is no place we will not look for you, and there is no cage we will not put you in should you do harm to our children, the prioritization of this administration." The press release quoted a statement from Director Patel: "Every child deserves to grow up free from fear and exploitation, and the FBI will continue to be relentless in our pursuit of those who exploit the most vulnerable among us. Operation Restore Justice proves that no predator is out of reach and no child will be forgotten. By leveraging the strength of all our field offices and our federal, state, and local partners, we're sending a clear message: there is no place to hide for those who prey on children." Additional reporting on the story was provided by the The Hill (05/07, Crisp), Hoodline (05/07, Taylor), Los Angeles Times (05/07, Garcia), National Review (05/07, Zimmermann), New York Post (05/07, Blair), NewsNation (05/07, Whiteside), The National Desk (05/07, Altman-Devilbiss), UPI (05/07, Stark), USA Today (05/07, Robledo), Washington Examiner (05/07, Knox), and Washington Post (05/07, Stein, Roebuck). Local Reporting WMTW (ABC-8) (05/07, Reed) reported that Joseph A. Maile, 26, of Presque Isle, is charged by criminal complaint for allegedly attempting to sex traffic a child and enticement of a minor, according to the FBI's Boston Division, which covers the entire state of Maine. FBI Boston said Maile was among seven people the field office arrested as part of the operation. Five of the other suspects are Massachusetts residents, while a New York man was accused of sending obscenity to an 11-year-old in Massachusetts. KSHB (NBC-41) (05/07, Kaut) reported that Trevor Teegarden, a Missouri man, faces federal child sex crimes charges after being arrested in the week-long FBI effort. Teegarden is charged with attempted production of child pornography, attempted transfer of obscene material to a minor, receipt of child pornography, and possession of child pornography. "FBI Kansas City is uncompromising in its mission to protect children from exploitation;' said Stephen A. Cyrus, special agent in charge of FBI Kansas City. "Today's announcement reiterates our commitment to that goal. FBI Kansas City has and will continue to prioritize the work of combating child sexual exploitation and the violent predators who prey on children." WOWT (NBC-6) (05/07, Dvorak), KOLN (CBS-10) (05/07, Staff Writer), and KLIN-FM (ABC-4) (05/07, Stanton) reported that the FBI Omaha Field Office arrested 3 alleged child sex abuse offenders and served 4 federal search warrants as part of a nationwide crackdown. "The harm child sexual predators inflict is vast. Locking them up is one of the most important actions the FBI and our law enforcement partners can take to protect children: said FBI Omaha special agent in charge, Eugene Kowel. "We are proud of the work of our Violent Crimes Against Children Task Force in Operation Restore Justice and will remain relentless in our pursuit of these criminals to ensure the safety of the most vulnerable members of our community?' WAGA (Fox-5) (05/07, Staff Writer) and WJBF (NBC-6) (05/07, Wise) reported that in Georgia, 9 individuals were arrested, charged with crimes including possession of child sexual abuse material and enticement of a minor. "Our commitment is resolute. FBI Atlanta remains steadfast in its EFTA00163400 mission to safeguard children from those who seek to harm society's most vulnerable," said Paul Brown, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Atlanta. "However, let there be no confusion—this week's operation is just one chapter in a relentless, year-round effort that our dedicated agents are fully invested in. We will continue to leverage every tool and resource at our disposal to track down child predators and ensure they face justice." WKRG (CBS-5) (05/07, O'Donnell) reported that three Alabama men, James Eugene Dees, Zachary Ray Norris, and Jason WC Jones, were among those arrested for various child exploitation charges. "The FBI is unwavering in its commitment to identifying and apprehending those who prey on children," FBI Mobile Field Office Special Agent in Charge Timothy O'Malley said. "Through relentless investigation and strong partnerships, the FBI works tirelessly to protect our communities and safeguard the most vulnerable — our children. The dedication of the men and women behind these efforts is a clear reflection of the FBI's core mission and values." WKRG (CBS-5) (05/07, O'Donnell) and WSLS (NBC-10) (05/07, Staff Writer) reported that in Virginia, the Richmond Field Office arrested three suspects: Allan Martin, Saoeun Hing, and Christopher Johnson, on charges related to child exploitation. Stanley M. Meador, Special Agent in charge of the FBI Richmond Field Office, emphasized the commitment of the FBI Richmond team and its Child Exploitation Task Forces to track down offenders and hold them accountable. "Child exploitation cases are among our top priorities, as they involve our most vulnerable victims," he stated. KTVX (ABC-4) (05/07, Baggerly) reported that the FBI arrested 205 alleged child sex abuse offenders, including 3 in Utah, as part of Operation Restore Justice. FBI Agent Dustin Grant emphasized the importance of parent involvement in keeping children safe online and encouraged victims to speak up, as the operation aims to prevent further victimization of children and bring justice to those affected. "It doesn't mean social media in itself is bad, it's just when you let a kid drive, there are inherent risks and dangers that are associated with that. So just like in a car, you'd probably want them to have seatbelts, and you're going to have them maybe ride with somebody for a while, just to make sure that they're safe. That's the same as social media," Grant said. KPIX (ABC-5) (05/07, Fang) reported that according to the FBI's San Francisco field office, 34-year-old Erik Antonio Contreras was arrested on April 30. "This coordinated effort across all FBI field offices was not just about making arrests, it was about standing up for those who cannot defend themselves," said Sanjay Virmani, FBI Special Agent in Charge of the San Francisco Field Office. Additional local reporting on the story was provided by WJXT (CW-18) (05/07, Shemenski), KOMO (ABC-4) (05/07, Staff Writer), KXNET (CBS-12) (05/07, Segal), WMAR (ABC-2) (05/07, Philippe-Auguste), and WGME (CBS-13) (05/07, Staff Writer). FBI Needs More Money Than White House Requested, Director Patel Tells Lawmakers Reuters (05/07, Lynch, Goudsward) and the Associated Press (05/07, Tucker) reported that Director Patel is seeking $1 billion more in funding than the White House requested, to avoid cuts to FBI staff and support law enforcement activities. The White House budget proposal cuts the FBI's budget by $545 million, which Patel says is insufficient to combat violent crime and terrorism. Asked to specify at a House Appropriations subcommittee which positions would need to be cut if the funding reduction was implemented, Director Patel replied: "At this time, we have not looked at who to cut. We are focusing our energies on how not to have them cut by coming in here and highlighting to you that we can't do the mission on those 2011 budget levels." He added, "That's the proposed budget, not by the FBI. The proposed budget that I put forward is to cover us for $11.1 billion, which would not have us cut any positions?' Director Patel also defended the FBI's plan to relocate about 1,000 FBI employees from the Washington area to cities around the country, one of the first initiatives he revealed upon being sworn in as director in February. "Part of the process is not just putting people out sporadically, throwing darts on the map. What we've done is we've taken a process with the career employees at the FBI and said, 'Where are some of the most violent crime places in America?' Director Patel said. Additional reporting on the story was provided by the Daily Mail (05/07, Lepore), The Hill (05/07, Beitsch), New York Post (05/07, Nava) (2), Newsweek (05/07, Sheth) (2), Roll Call (05/07, Tarinelli), USA Today (05/07, Jansen), Washington Examiner (05/07, Oliver), and CBS News (05/07, Video). FBI Poring Through 'Tens of Thousands' of Jeffrey Epstein's Child Porn Videos Washington Times (05/07, Ferrechio) reported that the FBI is reviewing "tens of thousands" of Jeffrey Epstein's child pom videos to protect the victims before releasing any information to the public. Attorney General Pam Bondi denied claims that the files have been destroyed or gone missing, citing the large volume of information that needs to be reviewed. According to the article, the case involves high-profile names such as former President Bill Clinton and Prince Andrew, who deny any wrongdoing, with hundreds of victims and a large amount of evidence to be processed. The article noted that at least one victim implicated President Trump, but there is no evidence he participated in Epstein's sex crimes. Trump said he was "not a fan" of Epstein and banned him from his Mar-a-Lago EFTA00163401 club prior to 2008, when, according to a book about the president, Epstein hit on the teenage daughter of another club member. Miami Herald (05/07, Catanese) and Newsweek (05/07, Croucher) also reported on the story. Back to Top COUNTERTERRORISM New York Man Charged with Federal Hate Crimes After Repeatedly Assaulting Jewish Victims The New York Times (05/07, Stack) reported that Tarek Bazrouk, a 20-year-old New York man, has been charged with federal hate crimes for assaulting Jewish protesters at demonstrations over the war in Gaza. The charges include three hate crime counts, each carrying a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison, for kicking and punching Jewish protesters wearing religious attire or carrying Israeli flags. In the press release, Christopher G. Raia, the assistant director in charge of the FBI's New York field office, accused Bazrouk of "demonstrating a pattern of supporting antisemitic terrorist organizations." A search of his cellphone after his arrest revealed pro-Hamas propaganda and text messages in which he identified himself as a "Jew hateG" prosecutors said. Additional reporting on the story was provided by NBC-4 (WNBC) (05/07, Dienst, Copenhagen, Winter), New York Post (05/07, Glebova, Crane), and Reuters (05/07, Staff Writer). The Neo-Nazi 764 Cult Is Targeting Kids as Young as Nine Fox News (05/07, Conklin) reported that the FBI is investigating a network of online predators known as "764" that targets minors on social media and coerces them into creating violent or explicit content. According to the article, at least 250 suspects are being targeted in the investigation, which involves all 55 FBI field offices across the country. The article noted that two alleged leaders of the network, Leonidas Varagiannis and Prasan Nepal, were recently arrested and face life in prison if convicted for their roles in operating an international child exploitation enterprise. In a May 6 post on X, Director Patel called the group "deeply disturbing," adding that it is "critically important to understand what's out there and be aware of the threats American kids and families are facing every day. The criminals in these networks use online platforms to target vulnerable kids, coerce victims, and recruit others, often resulting in horrible cases of abuse. It is absolutely tragic — and I want people to know we're cracking down hard," he wrote. "Remember, last week we announced our agents and partners arrested two alleged leaders within 764. We've opened hundreds of cases around the country, and our field offices are fully engaged. This is a priority for myself, Deputy Director Dan Bongino, and our leadership team." Additional reporting on the story was provided by the Boston Herald (05/07, Reynolds), Newsweek (05/07, Burman), the New York Post (05/07, Downing) (2), and WPBF (ABC-25) (05/07, Parker). Texas Man Convicted of Making Threats to Kill Nashville District Attorney Glenn Funk CBS News (05/07, Myers) reported that a North Texas man, David Aaron Bloyed, 60, has been convicted of threatening to lynch and kill Nashville District Attorney Glenn Funk. Bloyed was found guilty of one count of communicating a threat in interstate commerce and faces up to five years in federal prison. The threats were linked to the Goyim Defense League's (GDL) antisemitic activities in downtown Nashville, and law enforcement officials have condemned the threats and vowed to combat similar incidents. The article highlighted that the FBI Nashville Field Office and the Metropolitan Nashville Police Department have been investigating the case. WKRN (ABC-2) (05/07, Barker) quoted Assistant Director in Charge of the FBI's Counterterrorism Division, David J. Scott: "The conviction of David Bloyed is yet another example of the FBI's commitment to holding those accountable who threaten public officials and the Jewish community. This criminal behavior and these disgusting threats will not be tolerated. The FBI will continue to work with our partners across the nation to investigate, identify, and hold those accountable who threaten violence and harm to specific communities and people." FBI Houston Seeks Suspect in Bar Arson Explosion KHOU (CBS-11) (05/07, James) reported that the FBI Houston office is asking for the public's assistance in locating Miziah Brice Shepherd, who is wanted in connection with a 2020 anon incident that caused an explosion at Bar 5015 on Almeda Road. Shepherd is charged with conspiracy to commit anon related to the intentionally set fire that occurred at the Houston establishment in June 2020, the FBI said in a social media post Wednesday. The case involved a joint investigation by the Houston Arson Bureau, the Houston Police Department, the FBI, and the ATF. Additional reporting on the story was provided by the Houston Chronicle (05/07, Ferguson) and KIRK (ABC-13) (05/07, Staff Writer). EFTA00163402 Virginia Man Who Bankrolled ISIS Erupts in Court, Gets 30-Year Prison Term The Washington Post (05/07, Rizzo) reported that Mohammed Azharuddin Chhipa, a 35-year-old Virginia man, was sentenced to 30 years and four months in prison for sending at least $185,000 to the Islamic State. According to the article, Chhipa was convicted of supporting terrorism and was described by the judge as a "key middleman" who rounded up funds from Islamic State supporters in the U.S. and sent the money overseas. The article noted that the sentencing hearing was marked by a heated exchange between Chhipa and the judge, with Chhipa denying any wrongdoing and criticizing the government, and ended with Chhipa's brother, Irfan Chhipa, being arrested in the courthouse lobby. The article highlighted that the FBI began monitoring Chhipa in 2008 and closed its counterterrorism probe in 2018 without seeking criminal charges, then reopened its investigation after an agent in Miami noticed an account that was later linked to Chhipa was posting pro-Islamic State commentary on Facebook. The FBI executed a search warrant at his Fairfax, Virginia, home in 2019 and found a trove of terrorist propaganda materials, according to court records. Brazil Rejects U.S. Request to Classify Local Gangs as Terrorist Organizations Reuters (05/07, Brito) reported that the Brazilian government rejected a U.S. request to classify two major criminal gangs, Primeiro Comando da Capital (PCC) and Comando Vermelho (CV), as terrorist organizations. According to the article, the U.S. request was made due to the gangs' alleged presence in the U.S. and their involvement in activities such as gun trafficking and money laundering. Brazil's national secretary of public security, Mario Sarrubo, stated that Brazilian law only considers organizations that violently clash with the government for religious or racial reasons to be terrorists, and that the PCC and CV are considered criminal organizations, not terrorist ones. The article highlighted that the FBI had reported the PCC and the Comando Vermelho had cells in 12 U.S. states, mainly Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Florida, Connecticut, and Tennessee. Back to Top COUNTERINTELLIGENCE Uncovering Chinese Academic Espionage at Stanford Stanford Review (05/07, Staff Writer) reported that an investigation at Stanford University uncovered a case of Chinese academic espionage, where a Chinese agent impersonated a Stanford student, targeting students conducting sensitive research on China. According to the article, the agent, posing as "Charles Chen", used social media to approach students, including Anna, a Stanford student researching China-related topics, and attempted to gather intelligence on her research. The article noted that experts and students familiar with Chinese intelligence- gathering operations at Stanford confirmed that the CCP has a "crowdsourced approach" to gathering information, using civilians unaffiliated with the intelligence community to acquire and report sensitive information, with many Chinese international students on campus being actively recruited to report to the CCP. Former FBI Director Christopher Wray has called this theft of academic research "one of the largest transfers of wealth in human history." The article also examined the case of Stanford student Chen Song, who was indicted for lying about her affiliation with the Chinese military. The case illustrates the CCP's demands for total compliance and direction towards sensitive information, with Song sending updates on her research work at Stanford to a Chinese government entity. The article highlighted that D0J documents alleged that Song sent multiple updates to a Chinese government entity detailing the "nature, results, and value of her research work at Stanford." Assistant Director Alan E. Kohler Jr. of the FBI's Counterintelligence Division stated, "Time and again, the Chinese government prioritizes stealing U.S. research and taking advantage of our universities over obeying international norms." Continued Reporting: Denmark Summons U.S. Ambassador Over Greenland Spying Report The BBC (05/07, Matza) reported that Denmark's foreign minister, Lars Lokke Rasmussen, will summon the U.S. ambassador over a report that U.S. spy agencies are focusing on Greenland. The Wall Street Journal report alleges that U.S. spy agencies are targeting Greenland's independence movement and American goals to extract mineral resources. The move comes amid President Donald Trump's repeated vows to take control of Greenland, which has been controlled by Denmark for about 300 years. The article stated that Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard accused the Wall Street Journal of attempting to "undermine President Trump by politicizing and leaking classified information." While not denying the report, she accused the newspaper of "breaking the law and undermining our nation's security and democracy." The article does not contain a direct FBI mention. EFTA00163403 Opinion: Can Trump Restore the Constitutional Limits on Domestic Spying? An opinion piece from the Washington Times (05/07, Napolitano) reported that the Patriot Act of 2001 destroyed the "wall" between federal law enforcement and federal spies, allowing law enforcement to access data gathered by domestic spying agencies. According to the article, the Fourth Amendment requires a warrant issued by a judge based on probable cause of crime for a search or seizure to be lawful, but the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA) lowered this standard and permitted general warrants. The article assessed that President Trump can stop domestic spying without search warrants and re-erect the wall between spying and law enforcement with a phone call, but he may fear the wrath of the intelligence community. Back to Top CRIMINAL INVESTIGATIONS Durbin Calls on DOJ to Investigate Anonymous Pizza Deliveries to Judges' Homes Fox News (05/07, Wallace) reported that the top Democrat on the Senate Judiciary Committee has called on the DOJ and the FBI to "immediately investigate" a string of anonymous pizza deliveries sent to judges' homes. The article added that in the event that the DOJ and the FBI have already initiated investigations, Senate Judiciary Committee Ranking Member Dick Durbin, D-III., also asked Attorney General Pam Bondi and Director Patel for an update on those efforts. "In recent months, federal judges and their relatives have received anonymous deliveries to their homes," Durbin wrote in a letter to Bondi and Director Patel on Tuesday. "These deliveries are threats intended to show that those seeking to intimidate the targeted judge know the judge's address or their family members' addresses. The targeted individuals reportedly include Supreme Court justices, judges handling legal cases involving the Administration, and the children of judges. Some of these deliveries were made using the name of Judge Esther Salas's son, Daniel Anderl, who was murdered at the family's home by a former litigant who posed as a deliveryman." The Washington Examiner (05/07, Lim), and the Huffington Post (05/07, Golgowski) also reported on the story. MS-13 Member to Be Locked up for 55 Years for Quadruple Machete Massacre in Long Island Park The New York Post (05/07, Young) reported that a vicious MS-13 member known as "Antichrist" will spend the next 55 years in federal prison for his role in savagely hacking four suspected rivals to death with machetes in a Long Island park. Omar Antonio Villalta, 29, was handed the lengthy prison term Wednesday for conspiring with other members of the notorious El Salvadoran gang to plan and execute the bloody massacre in Central Islip on April 11, 2017, according to the US Attorney's Office for the Eastern District of New York. Villalta is the sixth person sentenced in the quadruple killing of Michael Lopez, 20; Justin Llivicura, 16; and Jorge Tigre and Jefferson Villalobos, both 18. The article added that more than a dozen MS-13 members and associates, who incorrectly believed the victims were rival gang members, were charged with their murders, prosecutors said. A DOJ press release quoted FBI Assistant Director in Charge Raia, who said, "Omar Antonio Villalta, an MS-13 member, repeatedly played judge, jury, and executioner by unlawfully issuing death sentences to five victims perceived to be disrespectful or rivals to the gang. These slaughters reflect the gang's gruesome retributive tactics while demonstrating utter disregard for life with the rapid succession of murders. May today's legitimate sentencing reflect the FBI's steadfast commitment to dismantling any gang from plaguing our communities with rampant violence." Patch (05/07, Eckardt), and Hoodline (05/07, Draper) also reported on the story. FBI Investigating After Armed Standoff In Virginia ARL Now (05/07, Staff Writer) reported that a large contingent of FBI personnel and unmarked vehicles have blocked off a street in an otherwise quiet north Arlington neighborhood. An armed standoff involving someone inside a house on the 3600 block of N. Abingdon Street, in the Old Glebe neighborhood, started early Wednesday morning. A "troubled, socially isolated young man" on the block is believed to be at the center of a federal investigation, according to several tipsters. The article mentioned that in a statement, the FBI's Washington Field Office said that there is "no threat to public safety." The standoff was "safely resolved" late Wednesday afternoon, the FBI said, though agents are remaining on scene as part of the investigation. "The barricade situation at a home in the 3600 block of N. Abingdon Street in Arlington, Virginia, has been safely resolved," the Bureau said in a statement. "There is no threat to public safety, but investigators remain at the residence executing the search warrant. We thank the Arlington County Police Department for their assistance." WUSA (CBS-9) (05/07, Video), WJLA (ABC-7) (05/07, Peluffo), and DC News Now (05/07, Allen) also reported on the story. EFTA00163404 FBI Offering up to $75,000 Reward for Information on Emily Pike Murder KTAR News (05/07, Veenstra) reported that the FBI is offering up to $75,000 for information leading to the identification of those responsible for murdering Mesa teen Emily Pike. The FBI's reward is in addition to the $75,000 reward already being offered by the San Carlos Apache Tribe. The FBI Phoenix Field Office is working in tandem with the Gila County Sheriff's Office as the investigation remains ongoing. The article mentioned that Pike was a teenager who was reported as missing from her group home near Mesa Drive and McKellips Road in Mesa on Jan. 27. The Mesa Police Department issued a missing/runaway juvenile bulletin for Pike two days later. Her remains were found near US 60 milepost 277 on Feb. 14, about 80 miles west of her home. Two weeks later, authorities confirmed the identity of her body. Arizona Family (05/07, Zotcavage), KPNX (NBC-12) (05/07, Reagan), and KJZZ (05/07, Marizco) also reported on the story. FBI Arrests Man Connected to Texas Bathroom Child Sex Assault Suspect KPRC (NBC-2) (05/07, Newberry) reported that the FBI has arrested a Texas man on child pornography charges who they say is connected to a man previously arrested for filming himself and others sexually assaulting children in the bathroom at a mall. Joshua Jerome Finney, 40, has been in federal custody since last summer. A federal grand jury returned a three-count indictment in April, and Finney has since entered a not guilty plea. Finney was arrested for receipt of child pornography but prosecutors added new charges, including distribution and possession of child pornography, that he made a first appearance on last week. According to the federal criminal complaint, Finney was exchanging sexual messages and graphic child sexual abuse material with Arthur Hector Fernandez, who was arrested by FBI Houston in December 2023. Continued Reporting: FBI Goes After Laser Attacks on Aircraft Flying Magazine (05/07, Godlewski) reported that the FBI is offering up to $10,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of people involved in laser incidents on aircraft in Washington state. According to the agency, pilots on approach to Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (KSEA) and Spokane International Airport (KGEG) have reported a marked increase in the number of laser incidents. The FBI has identified neighborhoods where the attacks are coming from. In Seattle, there have been laser incidents over SeaTac, Vashon, White Center, Burien, West Kent, Lake Meridian Park, East Hill, and Des Moines. These neighborhoods are under the approach and departure path of Sea-Tac airport. The article mentioned that in Spokane, laser incidents were reported from the Nine Mile Falls, West Plains, Green Bluff, and Hillyard neighborhoods. The FBI does not think the incidents in the two cities are connected, and they are working with local law enforcement, and asking for the public's help to identify and locate the people responsible for the attacks. KREM (CBS-2) (05/07, Video) also reported on the story. FBI Helps Track Kidnapping for Ransom Suspect KSBW (NBC-8) (05/07, Tovar) reported that California police reported the arrest of a man wanted for two armed robberies in Santa Barbara County. Raul Muniz, 34, was booked into the Monterey County Jail on charges of kidnapping for ransom, robbery, and dissuading a witness. His bail has been set at $1 million. The article added that Muniz was allegedly involved in armed gas station robberies in the Santa Maria area, occurring in February 2025 and November 2024. Muniz, a King City resident, was arrested last night outside a gas station while waiting to meet his girlfriend, police said. The FBI also assisted in the investigation leading to Muniz's capture. California Man Wanted on Child Pornography Charges in Miami The Press Democrat (05/07, Armstrong) reported that the FBI is offering a $10,000 reward for any information leading to the arrest and conviction of a man wanted on child pornography charges who may be in Sonoma County, the FBI's San Francisco branch announced Wednesday. Reginold Lamont Nelson, 32, has been charged with felony production of child pornography, enticement of a minor and receipt of child pornography, FBI officials said. The article added that Nelson has been known to use other aliases including, James Morgan, Nova Coagula and Reginold Lamont Nelson II, the FBI said. Video Found on Device in U.K. Leads to Charges for South Carolina, Man, FBI Says WYFF (NBC-4) (05/07, Moore) reported that video found on a device in the United Kingdom led to charges for an Anderson County, South Carolina, man, according to the FBI. The investigation began when UK law enforcement discovered video evidence during a device search. The video, dated June 6, 2020, showed criminal activity involving a minor and David Lynn Wells. Wells was identified as a U.S. citizen and was already in South Carolina Department of Corrections custody for prior offenses involving a minor. Ex-WWE Wrestler Accused of Attempting to Buy Child Porn EFTA00163405 Fox News (05/07, Thompson) reported that an ex-WWE wrestler was indicted by a Tennessee grand jury after allegedly attempting to purchase child pornography in 2024. Michael Droese, who went by Duke "The Dumpster" Droese during his wrestling days from 1994-96, faces one count of attempted sexual exploitation of a minor. District Attorney General Chris Stanford of the 31st Judicial District in Tennessee announced the indictment in a press release on Monday. The FBI was tipped off to the attempted purchase by Droese, who then told Jason Walker of the Warren County Sheriff's Department in March. The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation was brought in to assist the Sheriff's Department, eventually bringing in Droese. Scuba Instructor Arrested in Mexico After 13 Years on Run for North Texas Child Sex Assault Charges CBS News (05/07, Myers) reported that a man who had been evading authorities for 13 years on charges of aggravated sexual assault of a child in Johnson and Tarrant counties has been arrested in Cozumel, Mexico, where he was working as a scuba instructor, authorities said. The FBI took 50-year-old Rogelio "Christopher" Guadalupe Gonzalez into custody last week, according to the Johnson County District Attorney's Office. Gonzalez had been wanted since 2012, authorities said. "This arrest demonstrated our office's unwavering commitment to pursuing justice, no matter how long it takes or how far a fugitive may run," Johnson County Assistant District Attorney Christy May said in a social media post. Back to Top CYBER DIVISION CISA, FBI, EPA, DOE Issue Joint Alert on Rising Cyber Threats to Critical Infrastructure OT Systems Industrial Cyber (05/07, Ribeiro) reported that CISA, the FBI, the EPA, and the DOE have identified rising cyber threats to critical infrastructure operational technology (OT) systems. To mitigate these threats, critical infrastructure entities are urged to remove OT connections from the public internet, change default passwords, secure remote access, and segment IT and OT networks. The article added that organizations should also maintain and test their ability to operate OT systems manually, and regularly communicate with third-party providers to address potential security issues and enhance their overall security posture. DOJ Seizes Nine Global 'Denial of Service' Operations; Alaska FBI Plays Key Role Must Read Alaska (05/07, Downing) reported that the DOJ seized nine internet domains linked to global distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) for-hire operations. According to the article, the seized domains, including Cfxapi and Neostress, facilitated hundreds of thousands of DDoS attacks worldwide, targeting schools, government agencies, and other entities. The operation, part of Operation PowerOFF, was a coordinated international effort with partners like Poland's Central Cybercrime Bureau and involved key contributions from the Alaska FBI. FBI Issues Warning as Scammers Target Victims of Crime Malware Bytes (05/07, Arntz) reported that the FBI has issued a warning about scammers impersonating FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) employees to target victims of crime. According to the article, scammers contact victims through various methods, claiming to have recovered lost money and asking for personal and financial data, or payment for recovery services. The article noted that to avoid these scams, be cautious of spoofed email addresses, urgent language, requests for sensitive information, and unsolicited attachments or links, and report suspicious emails to the official IC3 website. Back to Top LAW ENFORCEMENT SERVICES Continued Reporting: Aurora Strikes Agreement With FBI, Military to Address Drones Near Buckley Space Force Base CBS News (05/07, Portillo) reported that the Aurora City Council voted Monday to approve an agreement with the FBI and the U.S. military to address unmanned aircraft systems, including drones, illegally operating over Buckley Space Force Base. Mayor Mike Coffman has said in recent months that there has been a rise in incidents of people illegally operating drones around military installations across the country. However, military law enforcement has limited to no jurisdiction to detain operators located off the installation without the help of local law enforcement agencies. The memorandum states that the growing use of drones in restricted airspace poses a threat to the EFTA00163406 installation and DoD assets. "This is one step forward in working with the DoD and the FBI to protect the goals and missions of Buckley Space Force Base, as well as our national security," said Coffman. Back to Top INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS Continued Reporting: FBI Briefed Embassy in Honduras on Mass Shooting Threats AA (05/07, Rocha) reported that Honduran Police said Tuesday that the US Embassy in Honduras was briefed by the FBI on the supposed mass shooting threats. Juan Manuel Aguilar Godoy, the head of Honduras' National Police, said the US Embassy issued a security alert based on information shared by the FBI. The article added that, according to the intelligence supplied by the US Federal Agency, three different landmarks were targeted: the Elliot Dover Christian School in Tegucigalpa, the Centro Civico in Tegucigalpa, and an unnamed mall in Tegucigalpa. "The FBI was the one who obtained the information, and according to international regulations, they are obligated to notify their citizens. They are a source from the US government, and we give it the corresponding treatment," said Godoy. Back to Top OTHER FBI NEWS National Archives Releases More Robert F. Kennedy Files The New York Times (05/07, Barnes) reported that the National Archives released on Wednesday a second tranche of documents related to the assassination of Senator Robert F. Kennedy of New York, though the documents are unlikely to change scholars' views of his murder. The release of 60,000 additional documents was announced by Tulsi Gabbard, the director of national intelligence. "After the initial release of 10,000 documents three weeks ago, we searched FBI and CIA warehouses for any records not previously turned over to The National Archives," Gabbard wrote on social media. "More than 60,000 documents were discovered, declassified, and digitized for public viewing. Today's release is an important step toward maximum transparency, finding the truth, and sharing the truth." CBS News (05/07, Walsh) also reported on the story. Continued Reporting: 'Morning Joe' Retracts Nightclub Allegation Against Director Patel SAN (05/07, Staff Writer) reported that former FBI official Frank Figliuzzi alleged on May 2 that Director Patel spends more time in nightclubs than at headquarters. This claim followed reports that Patel has reduced daily briefings from every day to twice weekly and divides time between Washington and Las Vegas. According to the article, Senate Democrats have called for an investigation into Director Patel's use of FBI resources, focusing on his use of agency aircraft and travel expenses. Figliuzzi described the situation as "both a blessing and a curse" because Director Patel tries to lead without experience, while the bureau faces internal chaos. "Morning Joe" cohost Jonathan Lemire clarified on May 5 that Figliuzzi's nightclub allegation was a misstatement and has not been independently verified. Continued Reporting: FBI Criticized Over Investigation Into 2017 Congressional Baseball Shooting SAN (05/07, Bogan, Wik) reported that Republican members of the House Intelligence Committee released a report on Tuesday, May 6 that found the FBI's initial conclusions about the 2017 Congressional baseball shooting were wrong: it was domestic terrorism, not "suicide by cop." The article noted that the report stated the FBI at first deemed the incident suicide by cop based on false statements and the "manipulation of known facts." In 2021, the FBI told Congress it changed its determination to domestic terrorism, the report pointed out. According to the report, the FBI failed to conduct substantive interviews with all victims and witnesses, which led to an "incomplete investigation and substandard analysis." Just the News (05/07, Solomon), and Fox News (05/07, Video) also reported on the story. Continued Reporting: FBI Gives Permission to Start Marijuana License Background Checks The Delaware News Journal (05/07, Brennan) reported that the FBI issued the state marijuana office a service code, which will allow background checks to actually begin in Delaware. Those with marijuana business licenses have until June 6 to get their fingerprinting done. If they are approved, they will be issued a conditional license and have 18 months to become fully operational or they can lose their license. "Fingerprint-based background checks are a vital part of ensuring public safety and maintaining the integrity of the program," said Paul Hyland, acting EFTA00163407 marijuana commissioner in the announcement on May 5. "We appreciate the FBI's collaboration and are excited that selected applicants can continue moving forward." Back to Top INTERNATIONAL NEWS India Strikes Alleged Headquarters of Militant Groups in Pakistan's Heartland Reuters, Associated Press, New York Times, Fox News Ukraine Considers Shift From Dollar to Euro Amid Geopolitical Realignments Reuters U.S. Pushes Nations Facing Tariffs to Approve Musk's Starlink, Cables Show Washington Post No Pope Is Chosen After First Day of Vatican Conclave Washington Post Fentanyl Crisis Provided Opening for U.S.-China Trade Talks Wall Street Journal The 'Narco-Subs' Helping to Flood Europe With Cocaine Wall Street Journal Libya's Leaders Say They Haven't Agreed to Accept Deported Migrants From the U.S. Wall Street Journal Putin Says Russia Stands With China Against 'Neo-Nazism' Reuters North Korea Fires Short-Range Missiles Possibly in Performance Test for Export Reuters Colombia's Top Court Orders Arrests of Former Legislature Presidents Reuters Greek Police Arrest Far-Right Group Accused of Robberies, Assaults Reuters Back to Top OTHER WASHINGTON NEWS Dozens of Students Arrested in Pro-palestinian Protest at Columbia University Reuters, Wall Street Journal, Washington Post, CNN, New York Post Former Memphis Police Officers Found Not Guilty in Killing of Tyre Nichols Washington Post, Reuters, Fox News, Associated Press, New York Times Trump Picks a 'MAHA' Movement Leader for Surgeon General Wall Street Journal, Associated Press, Fox News, BBC, New York Times Fed Sees Rising Risks to Economy as It Leaves Rates Unchanged Reuters Judge Warns Trump Administration Against Libya Deportations Washington Post Trump Administration Eyes Release of Hur Interview Blocked by Biden Politico EFTA00163408 Trump to Pitch Sweeping Medicare Drug Price Plan Politico U.S. Charges NY Man With Hate Crimes Over Columbia Protests Reuters House GOP Backing off Some Medicaid Cuts as Report Shows Millions of People Would Lose Health Care Associated Press House Republicans Push to Sell Hundreds of Thousands of Acres of Public Lands in the West Associated Press Back to Top WASHINGTON SCHEDULE White House President Trump • 8:45 AM: In-Town Pool Call Time • 10:00 AM: The President makes a Trade Announcement • 12:00 PM: The President and FIRST LADY participate in a Celebration of Military Mothers Vice President Vance • No official presidential schedule released or announced. US Senate • Hearings to examine proposed budget estimates for fiscal year 2026 for the Federal Bureau of Investigation. — 9:00 AM — Host: Appropriations • Business meeting to consider the nominations of Andrea Travnicek of North Dakota and Leslie Beyer of Texas both to be an Assistant Secretary of the Interior and Theodore J. Garrish of Maryland to be an Assistant Secretary (Nuclear Energy) and Tristan Abbey of Florida to be Administrator of the Energy Information Administration both of the Department of Energy to be immediately followed by hearings to examine the nominations of William L. Doffermyre of Texas to be Solicitor of the Department of the Interior and Catherine Jereza of Maryland to be an Assistant Secretary (Electricity) and Kyle Haustveit of Oklahoma to be an Assistant Secretary (Fossil Energy) both of the Department of Energy.. — 9:30 AM — Host: Energy and Natural Resources • Hearings to examine the nominations of Michael Obadal of Virginia to be Under Secretary of the Army and Sean O'Keefe of Virginia to be a Deputy Under Secretary both of the Department of Defense. — 9:30 AM — Host: Armed Services • Hearings to examine proposed budget estimates for fiscal year 2026 for the Department of Homeland Security — 10:00 AM — Host: Appropriations • Hearings to examine the nomination of James O'Neill of California to be Deputy Secretary of Health and Human Services.. — 10:00 AM — Host: Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions US House of Representatives • Hearing: Oversight Hearing The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency. — 9:00 AM — Host: Committee on Appropriations EFTA00163409 • Hearing: Information Technology and Artificial Intelligence Posture of the Department of Defense. — 9:00 AM — Host: Committee on Armed Services • Hearing: Spread Freedom Not Woke Values: An American Agenda for Democracy and Human Rights. — 11:00 AM — Host: Committee on Foreign Affairs Cabinet Members • Secretary of State Rubio attends meetings and briefings at the Department of State. Visitors • No events scheduled. General Events • Brookings: Supporting and expanding the K-12 STEM teacher pipeline — Thursday, May 8, 2025. Location: Online event, 2:00 PM. In the wake of the pandemic, the supply of teachers into U.S. schools has emerged as a critical vulnerability, hampering schools' ability to offer quality instruction and support learning recovery efforts. K-12 teaching positions in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM subjects) continue to account for a disproportionate share of hard-to-staff positions, with national trendlines showing a quickly shrinking supply of newly certified teacher candidates in these fields over the past decade. The weak supply of teachers coincides with high expected growth in STEM fields and increasing demand for more STEM instruction to prepare students for 21st century occupations. • CSIS: The Trade War and Geopolitical Competition with China I The Capital Cable #112 — Thursday, May 8, 2025. Location: Online event, 9:30 AM. As tensions continue to rise between the U.S. and China over reciprocal tariffs and geopolitical competition, what do we need to know about the trade war and the next phase of U.S.-China tensions? • CSIS: Antarctic Global Diplomacy—Preview of the Annual Antarctic Treaty Meeting — Thursday, May 8, 2025. Location: Online event, 10:00 AM. Join the Americas Program for a conversation on what will be discussed at this year's Antarctic Treaty Consultative Meeting (ATCM) in Milan from 23 June to 3 July 2025. • CSIS: Press Briefing: Previewing President Trump's Trip to the Middle East — Thursday, May 8, 2025. Location: Online event, 10:00 AM. The Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) will host a call-in press briefing on Thursday, May 8, at 10:00 a.m. EDT to preview key topics to watch in relation to President Trump's upcoming trip to the Middle East as well as geopolitical dynamics in the region. • CATO Institute: Crushing Capitalism How Populist Policies Are Threatening the American Dream — Thursday, May 8, 2025. Location: Online event, 2:30 PM. Populist narratives are gaining traction across the political spectrum, claiming that free markets have failed the American middle class. Critics argue that trade, immigration, and technological change have hollowed out manufacturing jobs and created an economy that no longer works for most Americans. • American Progress: Managing the Climate Change-Fueled Insurance Crisis — Thursday, May 8, 2025. Location: Online event, 2:00 PM. Please join the Center for American Progress for a virtual event featuring keynote remarks from U.S. Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) and a panel of experts who will discuss the interconnected issues and potential solutions of the climate change-fueled insurance crisis. • AEI: The American Dream Lecture Series: Conservatives and Culture—A Failure of Imagination — Thursday, May 8, 2025. Location: AEI Auditorium, 5:00 PM. For decades, American conservatives have lamented that the nation's arts and culture are dominated by leftist perspectives. This narrow ideology has diminished the range, vitality, and quality of the fine arts while leaving audiences increasingly bored or alienated by high culture. But right-of-center artists, institutional leaders, and donors have failed to create a culture that celebrates their own traditions, religious beliefs, and civic vision. They have neither successfully cultivated conservative forms of artistic technique and craft nor inspired much meaningful innovation. What opportunities for cultural renewal are currently available? EFTA00163410 • Atlantic Council: General John Raymond on national security and the future of space commerce — Thursday, May 8, 2025. Location: Atlantic Council, 9:30 AM. On Thursday, May 8 at 9:30 a.m. ET, the Atlantic Council will host an #ACFrontPage conversation with the first chief of space operations of the US Space Force, General (ret.) John W. Raymond, on leveraging commercial space capabilities for national security. This event is part of the Scowcroft Center for Strategy and Security's flagship Commanders Series, generously supported by Saab. • Hudson Institute: Winning the Fight: How Ending Malaria Advances American Interests — Thursday, May 8, 2025. Location: Hudson Institute, 10:00 AM. As the Trump administration reevaluates the United States' approach to foreign assistance and global health programs, the People's Republic of China is sending a message throughout the Global South: America cannot be trusted. As the PRC seeks to supplant the US as the world's preeminent power, America's commitment to continue leading in global health—specifically in the fight against malaria—is more critical than ever. • Hudson Institute: Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovit on Europe's Growing Role in Transatlantic Ties — Thursday, May 8, 2025. Location: Hudson Institute, 1:30 PM. Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovie, a leading voice in support of increasing Europe's role in the transatlantic alliance, will join Hudson for a fireside chat. Email Public Affairs to subscribe to the Daily News Briefing. Mobile version and archive available here. EFTA00163411