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6/3/25. 7:05 NA FBI Daily News Briefing View in Browser June 03, 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 • Colorado Suspect Planned Antisemitic Attack for a Year, FBI Says • Continued Reporting: News Coverage of Director Patel COUNTERTERRORISM • Romanian Citizen Pleads Guilty to 'Swatting' Numerous Members of Congress, Churches, and a Former U.S. President • U.S. Citizen Who Trained and Fought for ISIS Sentenced to 10 Years in Federal Prison • Former FBI AD Says U.S. Government Taking 'Dramatically Different Approach' Using Terrorism Charges Against Drug Cartels • How the FBI Started Treating Animal Rights Activists as Bioterrorists • Suspicious Incendiary Device Found Near Blue Ridge Parkway in North Carolina Prompts Evacuation • Continued Reporting: FBI Flaws in Whitmer Kidnapping Case Gain Renewed Spotlight Amid Pardon Speculation COUNTERINTELLIGENCE • Lawmaker Says CCP to Blame for U.S. Decision to Revoke Student Visas • Opinion: The Man Putin Couldn't Kill • Opinion: China's Courtroom Espionage Strategy Demands a Federal Response CRIMINAL INVESTIGATIONS • FBI Asking for Pictures, Videos, Information From North Carolina Mass Shooting • Law Enforcement Looking Into Instagram Posts Linked to Louisiana Escapee • North Carolina Deputies, FBI Conduct New Searches in Decade-Old Missing Person's Case • Continued Reporting: FBI Offers $20K Reward for Escaped Ex-Police Chief Convicted of Murder, Rape • FBI Dive Team Searching Alaskan Lake for Weapon Linked to 2024 Case • Continued Reporting: University of Michigan Student Fled to China After Being Charged With Voting Illegally, FBI Says • FBI Washington Field Office Seeking Additional Information Regarding Man Arrested on Child Sexual Abuse Material Charges • Armed Teens Who Broke Into Washington High School May Have Been Conducting 'Dry Run', FBI Now Involved • Former DC Teacher Arrested, Charged With Soliciting Child Pornography https://sendy.barbaricum.corn/W/5g2b692W1JESAlhRy8922GWsVA/D7h892P8xUD9RG692Sk892pRgyGA/U6d0D7uCmGug64YDp763SAOO 1/12 EFTA01656010 6/3/25. 7:05 AM FBI Daily News Briefing • FBI Offers Reward for Information on Suspect In Two Chicago Bank Robberies • FBI Houston Looking for 'Call Me Maybe Menace' Accused of Attempted Bank Robbery FINANCIAL CRIME & CORPORATE SCANDALS • Continued Reporting: FBI 'Probing' MLBPA and NFLPA Finances CYBER DIVISION • Impersonation of White House Chief of Staff Under Federal Probe • FBI Cracks Down on Crypting Crew in a Global Counter-Antivirus Service Disruption • U.S. Cyber Agency CISA Faces Stiff Budget Cuts • Funnull Infrastructure Provider Hit With OFAC Sanctions Over Role in Cyber Scams INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS • FBI Appreciates Pakistani Police for Brilliant Investigation in Murder Case OTHER FBI NEWS • FBI Seeks Tips on Gender-Affirming Surgeries for Children • Utah Teenager Located Safe and in Good Health After Going Missing in April • FBI Dallas Office Honors Late Specialist Bryan Myers, Reflects on Lingering Health Impacts of 9/11 • Busch PROtective Awarded FBI Ballistic Helmet Contract • Kansas Sheriff and FBI Team Up for Crime Probe • Las Vegas Man Who Served Nearly 33 Years in Prison Sues Over Wrongful Conviction in FBI Agent's Death • FBI Staff Instructed Not to Celebrate Pride in Any Official Capacity, According to Leaked Email • Homeland Security Stonewalling Info on Noncitizen Dna Collection Operation, Lawsuit Alleges • Lil Durk's Team Accuses Key FBI Informant of Being a Former Gang Member With a Criminal History in Bid to Get Out of Jail • Opinion: Victims' Lawsuits Show FBI and DOJ's Focus on Epstein Files Misses the Mark OTHER WASHINGTON NEWS • FEMA Staff Baffled After Head Said He Was Unaware of U.S. Hurricane Season, Sources Say • After Several Attacks, Heightened Anxiety Among American Jews • Trump Sanctuary List Disappears From Homeland Security Website After Criticism • Liberal News Outlet Mocked for Reporting on 'Mysterious' Drop in Fentanyl Flowing Across Border • Largest Ever ICE Operation Results in Nearly 1,500 Illegals Arrested in Blue State • Clarence Thomas Blasts Supreme Court for Punting on Legality of AR-15 Ban • Trump Says U.S. Stockpiling Weapons at Historic Rate After Warning Iran Will Never Enrich Uranium • DOJ Says It Had 'Cooperating Witness' Inside Harvard Law Journal Who Now Works at White House • Trump's Justice Department Examining Pardons Issued by Biden • Trump Asks U.S. Supreme Court to Allow Mass Federal Layoffs IN THE NEWS Colorado Suspect Planned Antisemitic Attack for a Year, FBI Says CNN (06/02, Sable, Park, et al.) reported that Mohamed Sabry Soliman, an Egyptian national, has been charged with federal hate crime and 16 counts of attempted murder for an antisemitic attack in Colorado. The suspect allegedly used a flamethrower and Molotov cocktails to set people on fire at a Jewish community event, injuring at https://sendy.barbaricum.corNW/5g2b892W1JFSAIhRy8922GWsVA,D7h892P8xUD9RGB92Sk892pRgyGAN6d0D7uCmGug64YOp763SAOO 2112 EFTA01656011 6/3/25.7:05 AM FBI Daily News Briefing least 12 people. Soliman told investigators he had planned the attack for a year, wanting to "kill all Zionist people", and could face up to 384 years in state prison and life in federal prison if convicted. According to the article, witnesses reported seeing the suspect use "a makeshift flamethrower" and that he "threw an incendiary device into the crowd," FBI Denver Special Agent-in-Charge Mark D. Michalek said Sunday during a news conference. The Wall Street Journal (06/02, Gurman, Morphet, Albert) added that Soliman disguised himself as a gardener to get close to the group, intending to die by self-immolation after the attack, but got scared. The article noted that investigators think Soliman acted alone, and they were continuing to pore over evidence collected from his home, car, and electronic devices, said SA Michalek. Soliman said he "did this because he hated this group and needed to stop them from taking over 'our land; which he explained to be Palestine," an FBI agent wrote in federal court documents. Politico (06/02, Messerly) reported that President Trump blamed the attack on lax U.S. immigration laws, stating the suspect entered the country through "Biden's ridiculous Open Border Policy". The suspect overstayed his visa and was in the country illegally, according to a OHS official. "It is clear that this is a targeted act of violence and the FBI is investigating this as an act of terrorism; FBI SA Michalek said in the press conference. "It's our job — the FBI, the Boulder police, and our law enforcement and community partners — to bring these criminals to justice and keep these communities safe." The Washington Times (06/02, Dinan) reported that the DHS is promoting a tip line for reporting suspicious activity by illegal immigrants, including terrorist activity and crimes. The move comes after the pro-Israel attack in Colorado, allegedly carried out by an Egyptian man who overstayed his visa. The New York Past (06/02, Crane) reported that CNN is being criticized for downplaying a hate- fueled firebomb attack in Colorado, which the FBI labeled as a "targeted terror attack". Juliette Kayyem, a CNN national security analyst, called the FBI's labeling "juvenile" and said they should wait for an investigation before making conclusions. "The guy shouted 'Free Palestine' while throwing fire bombs at a crowd of Jewish people," Ben Williamson, an assistant director for the FBI's public affairs unit wrote on X. "We correctly referred to an investigation of terrorism, will continue to do so and we have zero interest in what either these CNN guests have to say. Kick rocks?' Fox News (06/02, Crane) quoted Jason Pack, a retired FBI supervisory special agent: "From a behavioral and psychological profiling perspective, this suggests impulsive extremism or a desire for martyrdom rather than escape or survival," he said. "These traits are often associated with ideologically driven lone actors. This kind of attacker typically operates without a support network but may be influenced by online propaganda or perceived injustices. The erratic behavior, crude weaponry, and politically charged language point to a disorganized, emotionally unstable individual whose radicalization, if confirmed, could place the case within the growing trend of unpredictable, lone-wolf-style domestic attacks." Additional reporting on the story was provided by Associated Press (06/02, Sievin, Tucker), Washington Post (06/02, Somasundaram, Strobel, et al.), Fox News (06/02, Rumpf- Whitten) (2), BBC (06/02, Halpert), NewsNation (06/02, Djordjevic), New York Times (06/02, Cullen), Reuters (06/02, Gracia, Wingrove, McKay) (2), Washington Examiner (06/02, Deese), Washington Times (06/02, Picket) (2), ABC News (06/02, Barr, Shapiro, et al.), CBS News (06/02, Thomas), The Guardian (06/02, Gedeon), USA Today (06/02, Bacon, Hughes, et al.), New York Post (06/02, Glebova), Newsweek (06/02, Rahman, Croucher), The Independent (06/03, Sommerlad, Muzaffar, O'Connell), and Daily KOS (06/02, Willis). Continued Reporting: News Coverage of Director Patel A transcript of a podcast published by NPR (06/02, Lucas) discussed how Director Patel, a former critic of the FBI, is now leading the agency and making drastic changes, including a different leadership style that is more flashy and social media-oriented. According to the article, Director Patel has begun transferring around 1,500 FBI employees out of headquarters in Washington, D.C. to locations around the country, a move that former FBI officials generally support. The article noted that Director Patel has shifted the FBI's priorities to focus on immigration enforcement, crushing violent crime, and defending the homeland, and has disbanded the FBI's premier Public Corruption Squad, which investigated public officials, including Trump himself. Huntsville Business Journal (06/02, Thursday) reported that Director Patel's testimony has raised concerns about the future of the agency's presence in Huntsville, Alabama, due to inconsistent support for the 2026 budget proposal, which includes a $545 million reduction in funding. The proposed budget cuts could lead to the loss of 1,300 FBI employees, contradicting Director Patel's statement that the agency can fulfill its operational needs despite the reductions. The article noted that Local leaders, including Senators Tommy Tuberville and Katie Britt, support the FBI's growing presence in Huntsville, but face challenges in balancing national security priorities with economic and social needs amid federal workforce reductions and budget constraints. WREG (CBS-3) (06/02, Copeland, Fayard) added that Shelby County commissioners in Memphis will vote on a resolution to request $10 billion in federal aid to combat crime after Director Patel called Memphis the "homicide capital" of America. The proposed $10 billion investment would fund various projects, including a new jail, rebuilding the Regional One Trauma Center, and addressing school Mips://senily.barbancum.comAy/5q2b692W1JFSAlhFty8922GWsVAO711892P8xUD9RG692Sk892pRgyGA/U6d0D7uCmGug64YDp763SAOQ 3112 EFTA01656012 6/3/25. 7:05 AM FBI Daily News Briefing maintenance. The resolution is in response to Patel's remarks and has received support from Senator Marsha Blackburn and Memphis Mayor Paul Young, who welcome additional resources to fight crime. MSNBC (06/02, Video) published broadcast coverage entitled: "Increasing Unease at FBI as Patel Ousts Top Officials, Threatens Staffers With Polygraphs." According to the video, the New York Times reported that there is increasing unease at the FBI as Director Patel has ousted some of the bureau's top officials and threatened staffers with polygraphs. Back to Top COUNTERTERRORISM Romanian Citizen Pleads Guilty to 'Swatting' Numerous Members of Congress, Churches, and a Former U.S. President The Associated Press (06/02, Staff Writer) and Reuters (06/02, Satter) reported that Thomasz Szabo, a 26-year-old Romanian citizen, pleaded guilty to a "swatting" plot that targeted a former U.S. president and several members of Congress. According to the articles, Szabo pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy and one count of making bomb threats and is scheduled to be sentenced on October 23. The plot, which also involved Nemanja Radovanovic of Serbia, targeted roughly 100 people with bogus police emergencies, including a former elected official from the executive branch who was targeted with a false killing and explosion threat. "Swatting is a serious crime that wastes public resources, threatens individuals and communities, and jeopardizes law enforcement personnel," said Special Agent in Charge Alvin M. Winston Sr. of FBI Minneapolis in the press release. "This guilty plea is the result of significant efforts by the FBI and our law enforcement partners at home and abroad. Together, we will continue to ensure that there is no anonymity for offenders who use law enforcement to target public figures, institutions, and individuals." Additional reporting on the story was provided by the Atlanta Journal-Constitution (06/02, Baruchman), Roll Call (06/02, Tarinelli), Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty (06/03, Staff Writer), and UPI (06/02, Cone). U.S. Citizen Who Trained and Fought for ISIS Sentenced to 10 Years in Federal Prison The Associated Press (06/02, Staff Writer) reported that Lirim Sylejmani, a 49-year-old naturalized U.S. citizen, was sentenced to 10 years in federal prison for receiving military training from the Islamic State group. According to the article, Sylejmani pleaded guilty to the charge and will also serve a lifetime of supervised release after his prison term. He had joined the Islamic State in Syria in 2015, engaging in battles against U.S.-led forces, and was captured in 2019. "The conduct is far more than a single, impulsive act. He chose to jeopardize the safety of his family by bringing them to a war-torn country to join and take up arms for ISIS," prosecutors wrote. The press release noted that the case was investigated by the FBI's Joint Terrorism Task Force. WUSA (CBS-9) (06/02, Sopher) also reported on the story. Former FBI AD Says U.S. Government Taking 'Dramatically Different Approach' Using Terrorism Charges Against Drug Cartels Fox News (06/02, Sabes, Papa) reported that the U.S. government is taking a "dramatically different approach" to fighting drug cartels by using terrorism charges, according to former FBI assistant director Chris Swecker. "This administration is taking a dramatically different approach to fighting drug cartels, who are the most powerful criminal organizations on the planet right now," Swecker said. "It is perfect for narco-traffickers because if you can go after anyone who supports these trafficking cartels and leaders and members in any way, if they give them a paperclip, if they provide financial support, if they work for them, they're a hit man." According to the article, Pedro Inzunza Noriega and his son, Pedro Inzunza Coronel, were charged with narco-terrorism, material support of terrorism, drug trafficking, and money laundering as members of the Sinaloa cartel's Beltran Leyva Organization (BLO) faction. "It also gives us some extra territorial punch, if you will. It gives us the ability, if we want to, to dip into foreign countries," he added. The article explained that this approach allows for increased penalties, extradition, and the ability to charge anyone who supports or is affiliated with a drug cartel, with potential sentences of up to 20 years. How the FBI Started Treating Animal Rights Activists as Bioterrorists The Intercept (06/02, Sledge) reported that the FBI has been working together to treat animal rights activists as bioterrorists, with the FBI citing the potential spread of diseases like bird flu as a threat to the food chain. According to the article, documents obtained by Property of the People, a nonprofit, show a close relationship between law enforcement and agriculture industry groups, with the FBI sharing information with groups like the https://sendy.barbaricum.corN\v/5g2b692W1JFSAIhRy8922GWsVA/D7h892P8xUD9RG692Sk892pRgyGAN6d0D7uCmGug64YDp763SAOO 4/12 EFTA01656013 6/3/25. 7:05 AM FBI Daily News Briefing Animal Agriculture Alliance. The article stated that animal rights activists, such as those from Direct Action Everywhere, have been targeted and labeled as "animal rights violent extremists" by the industry and law enforcement, with some facing serious charges and prison time, like Zoe Rosenberg, who is accused of being a "biosecurity risk" for participating in an "open rescue" of chickens. The article highlighted that in a statement, the FBI defended its relationship with members of the private sector. "Our goal is to protect our communities from unlawful activity while at the same time upholding the Constitution," the agency said in an unsigned statement. "The FBI focuses on individuals who commit or intend to commit violence and activity that constitutes a federal crime or poses a threat to national security. The FBI can never open an investigation based solely on First Amendment-protected activity." Suspicious Incendiary Device Found Near Blue Ridge Parkway in North Carolina Prompts Evacuation Fox News (06/02, Wehner) reported that a suspicious incendiary device was found near the Blue Ridge Parkway in Asheville, North Carolina, prompting an evacuation of the Folk Art Center. The device, referred to as an "Improvised Incendiary Device", was safely removed by specialists, and there are no current threats to the public. The article noted that the Asheville Police Department Bomb Squad, the FBI, and the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation responded to the scene. Queen City News (06/02, Woodhouse) also reported on the story. Continued Reporting: FBI Flaws in Whitmer Kidnapping Case Gain Renewed Spotlight Amid Pardon Speculation The Washington Examiner (06/02, Deese) reported that President Trump is considering pardons for men convicted of plotting to kidnap Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, citing potential flaws in the case. According to the article, the convictions of Barry Croft Jr. and Adam Fox are under scrutiny, with defense attorneys arguing they were manipulated by an FBI sting operation. The article noted that the case's integrity is being questioned, with journalist Julie Kelly meeting with pardon attorney Ed Martin to review alleged flaws in the FBI's handling of the case. "The number of FBI informants that were embedded in this operation, the undercover agents, what they did when they were introduced to the operation, how they targeted these men, how they organized various events — so they got them stoned and drunk and then recorded them to use as evidence later," Kelly told the Washington Examiner. "Just the level of granular involvement by the informants and agents, but also how so much of it was dictated from higher-ups, including the handling agents out of the Detroit FBI field office." The article highlighted that the FBI's counterterrorism strategy came under fire during the prosecution of men accused of plotting to kidnap Whitmer, with critics alleging that the bureau's use of informants veered into outright entrapment. Back to Top COUNTERINTELLIGENCE Lawmaker Says CCP to Blame for U.S. Decision to Revoke Student Visas NTD (06/02, Yang) reported that Rep. John Moolenaar, Chair of the House Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party, blames the CCP for the U.S. decision to revoke student visas for international students from China. Moolenaar accuses the Chinese communist regime of manipulating and pressuring overseas students into participating in espionage against the U.S. "I think it's a huge problem when you have a foreign government who is influencing students on another country, its property, and making them do the bidding of the Chinese Communist Party," Moolenaar said in a May 29 interview with Bloomberg TV. The article highlighted that the FBI warns on its website that the CCP uses its post-graduate students and postdoctoral researchers in fields such as engineering, science, and mathematics to "operate as non-traditional collectors of intellectual property." Opinion: The Man Putin Couldn't Kill An opinion piece from the New York Times (06/02, Gessen) reported that Christo Grozev, an investigative journalist, has been targeted by President Vladimir Putin for his work in unmasking Russian spies and exposing their operations. According to the article, the plot to kill Grozev was foiled, and six Bulgarian nationals were sentenced to prison terms for their involvement in the plot, which was orchestrated by a fugitive financier recruited by Russian intelligence. Grozev's work has led to significant revelations, including identifying the secret police agents behind the poisoning of Russian opposition leader Aleksei Navalny, and he continues to investigate and expose Russian operations despite the risks to his life. The article highlighted that the FBI's foreign influence task force, which used to protect foreign dissidents in the United States, has been disbanded. Opinion: China's Courtroom Espionage Strategy Demands a Federal Response https://sendy.barbancum.coinAW5g2b592W1JFSAIhRy8922GWsVA/D7h892P8xUD9RG592Sk892pRgyGAM6d0D7uCmGug64YOp763SAOO 5/12 EFTA01656014 6/3/25. 7:05 AM FBI Daily News Briefing An opinion piece from The Hill (06/02, Tiahrt) reported that China's state-owned enterprise, Pangang Group, admitted to state-sponsored industrial espionage in a U.S. court, highlighting the country's role in using commercial enterprises for geopolitical gain. According to the article, third-party litigation funding, which allows outside financiers to fund lawsuits in exchange for a cut of potential winnings, poses a national security risk as it can be used by foreign entities to drain resources from U.S. companies and gain access to proprietary information. The article noted that proposed federal laws, such as the Protecting Our Courts from Foreign Manipulation Act and the Litigation Funding Transparency Act, introduced by Rep. Ben Cline and Rep. Darrell Issa, respectively, aim to address this issue by requiring transparency and prohibiting foreign governments from investing in third-party litigation funding. The article highlighted that the FBI has called China's economic espionage the "greatest long- term threat to our nation's information and intellectual property, and to our economic vitality." The author stated that "we lack even the most basic safeguards to ensure that our courtrooms aren't being used as intelligence- gathering venues for hostile foreign powers. That is unacceptable." Back to Top CRIMINAL INVESTIGATIONS FBI Asking for Pictures, Videos, Information From North Carolina Mass Shooting WBTV (CBS-3) (06/02, Tucker) reported that the FBI is asking the community for any pictures, videos or information from this weekend's mass shooting in Catawba County. Shots rang out around 12:45 a.m. on Sunday, June 1 at a house party on Walnut Acres Drive in the Mountain View area, which is just south of Hickory. According to the article, the Catawba County Sheriff's Office said 12 people were shot or hurt in other ways, including one man who died. The victims ranged from 16 to 58 years old. The 58-year-old, Shawn Patrick Hood, died. Investigators said at least 80 shots were fired during the melee, and the crime scene spanned about two acres. As of Sunday evening, the sheriff's office, FBI and state investigators were still working to determine a motive for the violence. WSOC (ABC-9) (06/02, Faherty), Queen City News (06/02, Jennes, Bowyer, et al.), and Newsweek (06/02, Stanton) also reported on the story. Law Enforcement Looking Into Instagram Posts Linked to Louisiana Escapee WWL (CBS-4) (06/02, Staff Writer) reported that eighteen days after one of the largest jail escapes in New Orleans history, authorities are still searching for two men, and the cost of that manhunt continues to climb. According to the article, of the 10 inmates who escaped from the Orleans Justice Center in the early hours of May 16, eight have been captured and 16 others have been arrested for allegedly helping them flee or hide. Several of those accused accomplices, however, are now out on bond, even as the multi-agency search continues for Antoine Massey and Derrick Groves, the two remaining fugitives. Authorities are actively investigating videos circulating on Instagram that allegedly feature Antoine Massey. However, the authenticity of these videos has not been confirmed. Federal sources confirm investigators were made aware of the Massey post late Monday afternoon. The article mentioned that in the video, the man says he is "one of the ones that was let out of OJC." He also sought help from rappers Meek Mill, Lil Wayne, and NBA YoungBoy, as well as President Donald Trump. At one point, the man says, "Who I was in the past is not who I am today," while denying allegations that he threatened a maintenance worker with a weapon and called the jail system "corrupted" and referencing both OJC and St. Tammany Parish jails. He also displays what he claims are affidavits, stating, "This is the affidavits on a date right here." Authorities have not confirmed whether the video was recorded after the escape or if the person in the video is indeed Massey. Nola.com (06/02, Cartolano), WVUE (Fox-8) (06/02, Killett), CNN (06/02, Boyette, Yan), and USA TODAY (06/02, Robledo) also reported on the story. North Carolina Deputies, FBI Conduct New Searches in Decade-Old Missing Person's Case WMBF (NBC-32) (06/02, Staff Writer) reported that in the continued effort to find a Fairmont woman who disappeared 10 years ago, the Robeson County Sheriff's Office continues to search for Sara Graham. RCSO confirmed deputies and the FBI conducted multiple searches across the county on Monday in an ongoing effort to find Graham, who disappeared on Feb. 4, 2015. According to the article, authorities left early on the morning of Feb. 4, 2015, to go to work at Walmart but she never made it there. Hours later, her van was found abandoned in a field along East McDonald Road. The FBI and Robeson County Sheriff's Office have followed hundreds of leads and interviewed dozens of people, but none have led them to Graham's whereabouts. "We are not giving up on finding and seeking justice for Sara," said Sheriff Burnis Wilkins. "Homicide Detectives, along with FBI Agents, are continuing to investigate and are following up on every new lead they receive. Someone has yet to come forward, https://sendy.barbaricum.cornAv/5g2b692W1JFSAIhRy8922GWsVA/D7h892P8xUD9RG692Sk892pRgyGAN6d0D7uCmGug64Y0p763SA00 6112 EFTA01656015 6/3/25. 7:05 AM FBI Daily News Briefing and now is the time to do so." The sheriff's office said the Nash County Sheriff's Office, North Carolina Troopers Association K9 Search and Rescue unit, and the Deep Branch Volunteer Fire Department helped with Monday's searches. The FBI is offering a reward up to $5,000 for any information that leads them to Graham. Continued Reporting: FBI Offers $20K Reward for Escaped Ex-Police Chief Convicted of Murder, Rape Live Now Fox (06/02, Williams) reported that Hardin, the former police chief in the small town of Gateway near the Arkansas-Missouri border, was serving lengthy sentences for murder and rape. He was the subject of the TV documentary "Devil in the Ozarks." According to the article, he escaped last month from the North Central Unit — a medium-security prison also known as the Calico Rock prison — by wearing an outfit designed to look like a law enforcement uniform, according to Champion. A prison officer opened a secure gate, allowing him to leave the facility. Champion said that someone should have checked Hardin's identity before he was allowed to leave the facility, describing the lack of verification as a "lapse" that is being investigated. The FBI is offering a $20,000 reward for information leading to the arrest of the escaped inmate. FBI Dive Team Searching Alaskan Lake for Weapon Linked to 2024 Case KTUU (CBS-5) (06/02, White) reported that FBI dive teams were seen searching Cheney Lake in Anchorage on Monday for evidence related to a 2024 case. An Anchorage Police Department officer at the scene confirmed to Alaska's News Source that divers are looking for a weapon, but did not offer what specific case it stemmed from. The investigation is ongoing. Continued Reporting: University of Michigan Student Fled to China After Being Charged With Voting Illegally, FBI Says CBS News (06/02, Lentz) reported that a Chinese national charged with voting illegally at the University of Michigan has fled the U.S., according to a criminal complaint filed by the Federal Bureau of Investigation that was unsealed on Friday. Haoxiang Gao was attending the Ann Arbor-based university in October 2024 and lived on campus, authorities said. The article added that safety officials with the school spoke with Gao on Oct. 28 after hearing reports that a student had unlawfully cast a vote in the 2024 general election, according to the recently unsealed court documents. Gao admitted during the conversation with the school that he registered to vote and did cast a vote at a polling location on campus on Oct. 27. He was charged by the state on Oct. 30 with one count each of unauthorized elector attempting to vote and making a false affidavit for the purpose of securing voter registration, court records show. The FBI said in the filing that Gao's passport was in the possession of school safety officials during a court hearing. However, according to prosecutors, Gao boarded a Delta flight from Detroit International Airport to Shanghai, China, on Jan. 19 using a Chinese passport in his name with a serial number ending in "7137." Just the News (06/02, Mittelstadt) also reported on the story. FBI Washington Field Office Seeking Additional Information Regarding Man Arrested on Child Sexual Abuse Material Charges MLA (ABC-7) (06/02, James) reported that the FBI Washington Field Office is looking for additional information on Devonne Keith Brown, 56, who was arrested on child sexual abuse material (CSAM) charges. Brown was working at a school in northeast D.C. and could have been involved in a youth track club, according to the FBI in Washington. Brown is accused of soliciting the production of CSAM from a young girl in Prince George's County, Maryland, according to court documents. He allegedly met in person at a grocery store near the girl's home. "Those who prey on minors to solicit the production of CSAM are morally reprehensible and will be held accountable for their heinous crimes," said Steven Jensen, assistant director in charge of the FBI Washington Field Office. WUSA (CBS-9) (06/02, Gilstrap, Gregory) also reported on the story. Armed Teens Who Broke Into Washington High School May Have Been Conducting 'Dry Run', FBI Now Involved KIRO (CBS-7) (06/02, Staff Writer) reported that the Enumclaw Police Department needs help identifying three people who broke into Enumclaw High School over the weekend. The department says the teens were masked and had at least one gun on them, but they didn't take anything or vandalize the school. On Monday afternoon, the Enumclaw police chief told the outlet they believe the visit may have been a dry run for a shooting. The FBI is now involved as police and federal agents continue to investigate. Chief Floyd said it's believed that one of the suspects who had their phone out was allegedly recording the whole thing, which is why investigators believe this was a rehearsal of some sort. Enumclaw High School will have increased police presence for the rest of the school year, or until the individuals can be identified and apprehended. https://sendy.barbaricum.corN\v/5g2b592W1JFSAIhRy8922GWsVA/D7h892P8xUD9RG592Sk892pRgyGAN6d0D7uCmGug64YOp763SAOO 7/12 EFTA01656016 6/3/25. 7:05 AM FBI Daily News Briefing Former DC Teacher Arrested, Charged With Soliciting Child Pornography Fox News (06/02, Casiano) reported that a former Washington, D.C., schoolteacher has been arrested by the FBI for allegedly soliciting child pornography from a minor, the Justice Department said Monday. Devonne Keith Brown, 56, who taught health at the IDEA Public Charter School, is accused of soliciting child sexual abuse materials from a young girl in Prince George's County, Maryland. "Those who prey on minors to solicit the production of CSAM are morally reprehensible and will be held accountable for their heinous crimes," said Steven Jensen, assistant director in charge of the FBI Washington Field Office. "The FBI remains committed to protecting our children and ridding our communities of this grievous scourge." FBI Offers Reward for Information on Suspect In Two Chicago Bank Robberies WLS (ABC-7) (06/02, Staff Writer) reported that the FBI is offering a reward for information on the suspect in two North Side bank robberies on Monday. Just after 9:30 a.m., the suspect robbed a Huntington Bank, and then the same suspect robbed the Fifth Third Bank, the FBI said. The FBI is offering a reward of up to $5,000 for information leading to the suspect's arrest and conviction. CBS News (06/02, Bizzle), WGN (CW-9) (06/02, Ong), WTTW (06/02, Masterson), and WFLD (Fox-32) (06/02, King) also reported on the story. FBI Houston Looking for 'Call Me Maybe Menace' Accused of Attempted Bank Robbery KPRC (NBC-2) (06/02, Humble) reported that federal investigators need help finding a wanted man dubbed the "Call Me Maybe Menace," accused of trying to rob a bank in Texas. Back on May 23, the FBI said the "Call Me Maybe Menace" tried to rob the Woodforest National Bank and first pretended to as if he were on a call. He then approached a bank teller, slipped them a note that demanded cash. He stayed on the phone throughout the entire incident until he was able to walk out of the bank but didn't get away with any money. A reward of up to $5,000 is being offered for any information that can help lead to his. Back to Top FINANCIAL CRIME & CORPORATE SCANDALS Continued Reporting: FBI 'Probing' MLBPA and NFLPA Finances SportsPro (06/02, Sim) reported that OneTeam Partners, the US-based licensing joint venture between the National Football League Players Association (NFLPA) and Major League Baseball Players Association (MLBPA), is reportedly having its financial dealings investigated by the FBI. According to ESPN, which first reported the probe, FBI agents have contacted MLB players about their knowledge of financial deals related to OneTeam Partners. The players are not said to be considered targets of the inquiry, which is being run out of the Eastern District of New York. Back to Top CYBER DIVISION Impersonation of White House Chief of Staff Under Federal Probe SC World (06/02, Staff Writer) reported that the personal mobile device of White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles was infiltrated in a cyberattack, allowing attackers to impersonate her in messages and calls to various officials. According to the article, the incident is under federal investigation, with the FBI emphasizing its commitment to protecting the administration's communication security. The article noted that this is not the first time Wiles' messages have been compromised, as she was previously targeted by alleged Iranian state-sponsored threat actors during Donald Trump's presidential campaign. "Safeguarding our administration officials' ability to securely communicate to accomplish the president's mission is a top priority," said Director Patel in a statement. ABC News (06/02, Murray) also reported on the story. FBI Cracks Down on Crypting Crew in a Global Counter-Antivirus Service Disruption CSO Online (06/02, Sharma) reported that U.S. law enforcement, in coordination with global efforts, has disrupted counter-antivirus (CAV) operations by seizing four leading domains, including AVCheck.net, Cryptor.biz, and Crypt.guru. According to the article, the seized domains were part of an "online software crypting syndicate" that helped cybercriminals evade detection by scrambling malware codes and refining their tools to slip past security systems. The article noted that the takedown, part of Operation Endgame, aims to disrupt the activities of cybercriminals and prevent victims, with the FBI and other authorities working together to shut down providers of malicious tools for cybercriminals. "Cybercriminals don't just create malware; they perfect it for maximum https://sendy.barbaricum.cornAW5g2b592W1JFSAIhRy8922GWsVA,D7h892P8xUD9RG592Sk892pRgyGAM6d0D7uCmGug64YOp763SAOO 51-I 2 EFTA01656017 6/3/25. 7:05 AM FBI Daily News Briefing destruction," said the release, citing FBI Houston Special Agent in Charge Douglas Wiliams. "By leveraging counter antivirus services, malicious actors refine their weapons against the world's toughest security systems to better slip past firewalls, evade forensic analysis, and wreak havoc across victims' systems." Tech Monitor (06/02, Bairaboina) also reported on the story. U.S. Cyber Agency CISA Faces Stiff Budget Cuts The Wall Street Journal (06/02, Rundle) reported that CISA faces a $495 million funding cut to $2.38 billion in President Trump's proposed budget for fiscal 2026. According to the article, the budget proposes a head-count reduction of approximately 1,000 positions, or around one-third of CISA's workforce, with significant cuts to outreach programs and the election-security program. The cuts have been criticized by Democrats and some Republicans, who argue that reducing CISA's operations will weaken the country's cyber defenses at a time when cyber threats are perceived to be at a record high. Computer Weekly (06/02, Scroxton) reported that other planned cuts potentially affecting the U.S.' cyber security mission include proposals to trim the budget allocated to the FBI, which deals with cyber crime in the U.S., and a unit at the Department of Energy that deals with threats to CNI. Additional reporting on the story was provided by Nextgov (06/02, Dimolfetta), CyberScoop (06/02, Starks), and Cybersecurity Dive (06/02, Geller). Funnull Infrastructure Provider Hit With OFAC Sanctions Over Role in Cyber Scams CPO Magazine (06/02, Ikeda) reported that the Philippines-based company Funnull Technology and its administrator Liu Lizhi have been sanctioned by the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) for providing infrastructure for hundreds of thousands of malicious sites engaging in cyber scams. According to the article, Funnull has facilitated over $200 million in fraud by supporting "pig butchering" schemes, including cryptocurrency and romance scams, with the help of legitimate U.S. IP addresses and secure "https" URLs. The article noted that the FBI has issued a cybersecurity advisory warning about the company's role in these scams, which have been linked to crime rings in Southeast Asia and have used forced labor to communicate with victims. Back to Top INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS FBI Appreciates Pakistani Police for Brilliant Investigation in Murder Case PVT (06/02, Staff Writer) reported that the FBI commended the Rawalpindi Police on Monday for their outstanding investigation and prosecution that led to the conviction of the accused in the murder case of American national Wajiha Swati. During a meeting held at the Police Lines Headquarters in Rawalpindi, a US delegation, including FBI Legal Attaché Chris Watkins, Assistant Legal Attaché Maxi Million, and Muhammad Naveed, presented a letter of appreciation to City Police Officer (CPO) Syed Khalid Hamdani. According to the article, Watkins highlighted the FBI's gratitude towards CPO Hamdani and his team for their thorough investigation and diligent follow-up, which resulted in the strict punishment of those responsible for the murder of Wajiha Swati. He also acknowledged the excellent security provided by the Rawalpindi Police to the FBI teams during the case hearings. Back to Top OTHER FBI NEWS FBI Seeks Tips on Gender-Affirming Surgeries for Children Axios (06/02, Rubin) reported that the FBI on Monday requested tips from the public on hospitals, clinics or practitioners performing gender-affirming surgeries to youth. "Help the FBI protect children," the FBI wrote. "As the Attorney General has made clear, we will protect our children and hold accountable those who mutilate them under the guise of gender-affirming care." The Hill (06/02, Crisp) reported that according to the independent KFF policy tracker, youth gender-affirming care has been outlawed in 27 states — starting with Arkansas in 2021. Seventeen states are facing legal challenges over the restrictions, so they have been temporarily put on hold. The article mentioned that the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has adopted the position that it "rejects gender ideology and condemns the harms it causes to children, by promoting their chemical and surgical mutilation, and to women, by depriving them of their dignity, safety, well-being, and opportunities," and it removed a web page on gender-affirming care from its website because it "does not reflect biological reality and https://sendy.barbaricum.corN\v/5g2b692W1JFSAIhRy8922GWsVA/D7h892P8xUD9RG692Sk892pRgyGAN6d0D7uCmGug64YOp763SAOO 9/12 EFTA01656018 6/3/25. 7:05 AM FBI Daily News Briefing therefore the Administration and this Department rejects it." The FBI's call for tips comes as the LGBTQ community celebrates Pride Month and Washington, D.C., hosts the 2025 World Pride festivities. Utah Teenager Located Safe and in Good Health After Going Missing in April The Guardian (06/02, Dunbar) reported that a 15-year-old Utah girl, who vanished in April, has been located safe and in good health in Colorado Springs, authorities confirmed late on Sunday night. According to Sgt Shaun Becker, Alisa Petrov walked into the Colorado Springs police department earlier that evening and identified herself. Officials stated she appeared to be unharmed and physically well. Alisa had last been seen six weeks ago on 21 April, captured on surveillance footage leaving a train platform in Provo. That marked the last known sighting of her until this week's development. Investigators have not yet disclosed how she traveled to Colorado or whether she was coerced or detained during her time away. The article mentioned that in a Facebook post, Nikolai Petrov shared the good news. "We are all really happy that Alisa is found and looking forward to seeing her!' he wrote on Facebook. "Special thanks to the South Jordan Police Department who worked on weekends, and to the Salt Lake City FBI who helped them. Thank you to all of our friends for your help and support." FBI Dallas Office Honors Late Specialist Bryan Myers, Reflects on Lingering Health Impacts of 9/11 Hoodline (06/02, Dawson) reported that on the anniversary of his passing, the FBI Dallas office took a moment to honor the memory of Supervisory Administrative Specialist Bryan Myers, who succumbed to health complications tied to his exposure to toxic air during the 9/11 recovery efforts. According to the article, Myers died in 2022, and his sacrifice was remembered in a social media post that paid tribute to his dedication and service. The FBI Dallas's post, which featured a link to the FBI's Wall of Honor, recognized Myers as part of the broader community of first responders who have endured lasting health repercussions from their work at Ground Zero. Busch PROtective Awarded FBI Ballistic Helmet Contract PR Newswire (06/02, Staff Writer) reported that Busch PROtective is proud to announce its revolutionary lightweight ballistic helmet, the AMP-1X, has been selected by the FBI as the primary protective ballistic helmet for all federal agents within the DOJ. According to the article, following up on their 2019 award from the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) for helmets, this back-to-back Dal selection highlights the premium ballistic capabilities introduced by Busch PROtective into the United States law enforcement market utilizing a patented heat-resistant hybridized aramid solution. Kansas Sheriff and FBI Team Up for Crime Probe KSN (NBC-16) (06/02, Butler, Mace) reported that the Cherokee County Sheriff's Office is teaming up with the FBI to investigate crime in the area. The partnership will allow the Cherokee County Sheriff's Office to assign one of its deputies as an FBI Task Force Officer. That deputy will be assigned to investigate criminal activity within Cherokee County while working with other law enforcement agencies. According to the article, it's part of the FBI Safe Streets Task Force Program, which focuses on identifying and targeting criminals and groups accused of serious felony offenses. The goal is to prioritize investigations so they can be brought before prosecutors while giving investigators all resources available to local and federal law enforcement agencies. Las Vegas Man Who Served Nearly 33 Years in Prison Sues Over Wrongful Conviction in FBI Agent's Death KTNV (ABC-13) (06/02, Wright) reported that a Las Vegas man is suing Clark County, the District Attorney's Office, and the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department after he was wrongfully convicted of murder. Carlos Gurri spent nearly 33 years behind bars after he was convicted on charges related to a botched bank robbery and the murder of FBI Special Agent John Bailey. The incident happened in June 1990. On May 31, 2023, the state dismissed all charges against Gurri. According to the lawsuit, attorneys for Gurri state he should be entitled to $100,000 for each year that he was wrongfully imprisoned, rounded up to the nearest half year, as well as attorneys' fees. FBI Staff Instructed Not to Celebrate Pride in Any Official Capacity, According to Leaked Email Pink News (06/02, Perry) reported that the FBI's assistant director for public affairs Ben Williamson told staff he had received "several questions about the FBI's stance on Pride Month and what related activities FBI divisions and employees should or should not participate in". The article quoted Williamson, who stated, "So, I want to take the opportunity to make FBI leadership's expectations clear: There should be no official FBI actions, events, or messaging regarding Pride Month." In the email, Williamson went on to set out that staff are "free to do as you like" in their "personal capacity" and "on your own time". Homeland Security Stonewalling Info on Noncitizen Dna Collection Operation, Lawsuit Alleges https://sendy.barbancum.cornAv/5g2b692W1JFSAIhRy8922GWsVNO7h892P8xUD9RG692Sk892pRgyGAM6d0D7uCmGug64YDp763SAOO 10/12 EFTA01656019 6/3125. 7:05 AM FBI Daily News Briefing NBC News (06/02, Gamboa) reported that the Trump administration has been turning to DNA technology to help find and arrest immigrants, including children, but immigration advocates say it has been slow to spell out how it's using and overseeing the genetic information. According to the article, three groups sued the Department of Homeland Security on Monday after trying to get records about the data collection program since last summer, during the Biden administration. The plaintiffs are the Georgetown Law Center on Privacy & Technology, part of the Georgetown University Law School that focuses on privacy and surveillance law and policy; the Amica Center for Immigrant Rights and Americans for Immigrant Justice, both immigrant rights groups. The groups describe in their lawsuit their back-and-forth with DHS, Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Customs and Border Protection since they originally requested information about their DNA collection from noncitizens on Aug. 1, 2024. The article noted that since 2020, DHS has expanded its DNA collection program and increased DNA contributions to the FBI's database, CODIS, by 5,000%, becoming the largest contributor, according to the Georgetown center. The DNA database of the FBI can be accessed by police across the country for criminal investigations, the plaintiff groups said in a statement. Newsweek (06/02, Mordowanec) also reported on the story. Lil Durk's Team Accuses Key FBI Informant of Being a Former Gang Member With a Criminal History in Bid to Get Out of Jail Sportskeeda (06/02, Bal) and Complex (06/02, Mahadevan) reported that Lil Durk and his legal team have alleged that the prosecution in his murder-for-hire case is relying on an untrustworthy FBI informant. Durk believed he should be released from jail before the trial, claiming that the informant had been providing false information to the prosecution. "The government repeatedly cites allegations from a federal case out of Illinois where Mr. Banks has never been charged and never will be charged, despite the passage of over three years since the underlying incident," Durkio's attorney, Drew Findling, said in a statement. "The government's own exhibit reveals that the allegations pertaining to Mr. Banks are based primarily on information from a cooperating human source, 'CHS 11 described in the affidavit as a paid FBI informant and former gang member with a criminal history." Opinion: Victims' Lawsuits Show FBI and DOJ's Focus on Epstein Files Misses the Mark An opinion piece by MSNBC (06/02, Rubin) stated that on Thursday, a woman named Maria filed a lawsuit against the federal government that begins with a paragraph both familiar and chilling: "For nearly a quarter of a century," charges, Jeffrey Epstein got away with a "wide-ranging sex trafficking venture" in which she was one of hundreds of victims. And worse, alleges, the high-profile financier was able to do so because the FBI, Justice Department and United States Attorneys' offices "failed to listen to or protect his sex-trafficked, sexually abused, and sexually exploited victims." The author added that alleges that she first reported to the FBI that she was sexually assaulted by Epstein and his partner Ghislaine Maxwell in 1996, that she told the agent that Epstein had also committed "multiple serious sex crimes" against other girls and young women, including one of her minor sisters; that Epstein had stolen and transported across state lines nude and partially nude pictures of both of her minor sisters; and that, with others, Epstein was producing and distributing content that could constitute child pornography. The author mentioned that another similar suit now features 28 plaintiffs who accuse the FBI of "gross negligence and reckless indifference" to Epstein and his associates' sexual abuse and trafficking of them and others for two decades. These lawsuits also seem unlikely to succeed for several reasons, including but not limited to the plaintiffs' sheer delay in bringing them. The author claimed that the existence of and others' suits, and the plaintiffs' collective demand that the FBI right its wrongs, demands our attention. That's especially true because what the victims seem to most want from the FBI — accountability for their ongoing trauma and internal reform to ensure something like the Epstein saga never recurs. Back to Top OTHER WASHINGTON NEWS FEMA Staff Baffled After Head Said He Was Unaware of U.S. Hurricane Season, Sources Say Reuters After Several Attacks, Heightened Anxiety Among American Jews New York Times Trump Sanctuary List Disappears From Homeland Security Website After Criticism Wall Street Journal https://sendy.barbaticum.corN1W5g2b892W1JFSAIhRy8922GWsVA/D7h892P8xUD9RGB92Sk892pRgyGAM6d0D7uCmGug64YDp763SAOQ 11/12 EFTA01656020 6/3/25. 7:05 Ml FBI Daily News Briefing Liberal News Outlet Mocked for Reporting on 'Mysterious' Drop in Fentanyl Flowing Across Border Fox News Largest Ever ICE Operation Results in Nearly 1,500 Illegals Arrested in Blue State Fox News Clarence Thomas Blasts Supreme Court for Punting on Legality of AR-15 Ban Washington Examiner Trump Says U.S. Stockpiling Weapons at Historic Rate After Warning Iran Will Never Enrich Uranium Washington Examiner DOJ Says It Had 'Cooperating Witness' Inside Harvard Law Journal Who Now Works at White House Washington Examiner Trump's Justice Department Examining Pardons Issued by Biden Reuters Trump Asks U.S. Supreme Court to Allow Mass Federal Layoffs Reuters Back to Top Email Public Affairs to subscribe to the Daily News Briefing. 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