EFTA Document EFTA01655315

From: FBI News Briefing To: "FBINewsBriefing Subject: [EXTERNAL EMAIL] - FBI Daily News Briefing - July 23, 2025 Date: Wed, 23 Jul 2025 10:15:07 +0000 Importance: Normal View in Browser Federal Bureau of Investigation Seal July 23, 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 • Donald Trump Accuses Barack Obama of 'Treason' Over 2016 Election Claims • Continued Reporting: Dal Seeks Meeting With Ghislaine Maxwell Amid Epstein Outrage • Manhattan Bomb Plot Foiled as Feds Charge NY Man With Building, Stashing IEDs Across City • U.S. Files Forfeiture Action Against $2 Million in Digital Currency Involved in Hamas Fundraising • Five Defendants Sentenced in Connection With Operating One of the Largest Illegal Television Show Streaming Services in the U.S. COUNTERTERRORISM • Increasing Drone Incidents Near U.S. Airports, Stadiums Prompt Alarm, Officials Say • Isle of Wight Bomb Suspect Pleads Guilty to Two Felonies • Illionis Man Arrested in Possible Bomb-Making Scheme COUNTERINTELLIGENCE • U.S. Lawmakers Demand FBI Reconsider Certifying Biometric Scanners From China • Continued Reporting: Ex-Engineer Admits Guilt in L.A. Espionage Drama • Analysis: How Russia Uses Organized Crime for Espionage CRIMINAL INVESTIGATIONS • Fed Building in Chicago Locked Down for Hours; Negotiations Underway With Armed Man • Across-the-Board Convictions in Final Highs RICO Trial of 2025 • Costco Murder Suspect Apprehended in Kenya, Extradited to Seattle • Continued Reporting: 21 Arrested in Metro Atlanta Drug Trafficking Investigation, FBI Says • California Man Gets 28 Years for Trafficking Drugs to Georgia EFTA01655315 • Federal Judge Sends Kai James to Prison in Multi-State Drug Operation • Missouri Man Sentenced to 25 Years for Meth and Gun Charges • FBI Drops Probe of Kraken Founder, Returns Dozens of Seized Devices • Continued Reporting: California Financial Advisor Charged With Allegedly Operating Long-Running $9.5 Million Ponzi Scheme • FBI Columbia Warns of Government Impersonation Scams • FBI Investigates Vandalism Incident at Pennsylvania Catholic Church • Continued Reporting: Former FBI Agent Convicted of Rape Committed 'Dastardly Evil' Crimes • Continued Reporting: Burglars Use Explosive to Get Into ATM at Target in California CYBER DIVISION • Continued Reporting: Microsoft and FBI Respond to Widespread Cyber Assault • FBI Urges Vigilance Against Interlock Ransomware Group Behind Recent Healthcare Attacks • FBI Warns to Not Install These Apps INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS • Fugitive Arrested by FBI in U.S, Punjab Cops Eye His Return OTHER FBI NEWS • Continued Reporting: Extent of FBI Surveillance Revealed for MLK Files • Continued Reporting: FBI Allegedly Botched Probe Into Hillary Clinton's Emails • FBI Spied on Catholic Priest for Not Divulging Info on Parishioner INTERNATIONAL NEWS • Trump Secures Historic $550B Trade Deal With Japan: 'Never Been Anything Like It' • 9-Year-Old Canadian Girl Whose Father Was Charged With Her Murder Was Drowned, Authorities Say • Inside Syria's Sectarian Cauldron: A Kidnapping Triggers a Cascade of Violence • Trump's Fixation With Greenland Has Ended Denmark's Love Affair With the U.S. • Food Aid Becomes Main Sticking Point in Gaza Cease-Fire Talks • UN Body Says Israeli Forces Have Killed Over 1,000 Aid-Seekers in Gaza Since May, as Hunger Worsens • Thousands Gather to Protest as Zelenskyy Signs Bill Weakening Anti-Corruption Agencies • U.S. Government Employee Banned From Leaving China • U.S.-Philippines Trade Talks Yield Modest Tariff Shift After Trump-Marcos Meeting • Syrian Committee Reports 1,426 Killed in March Violence, Says Commanders Did Not Order It OTHER WASHINGTON NEWS • Trump Administration Fights to Keep Ex-Trump Lawyer Alina Habba as New Jersey Federal Prosecutor • Federal Grand Juror Charged With Leaking Information Appears in Court • U.S. Ends a Mail Fraud Case, 32 Years Late • Ex-Elections Clerk Tina Peters Asks for Unprecedented Release Amid Appeal • Idaho Victims' Families to Address Killer Directly at Kohberger Sentencing • Morgan Stanley's Screening of Wealth-Management Clients Draws More Scrutiny • Masked ICE Agents Detain Former Afghan Interpreter Who Helped U.S. Military • Dem Fundraising Giant Actblue Hit With Subpoena by Top House Committees EFTA01655316 • Dems Seek Retaliation Over GOP Cuts as Thune Calls for 'Cooperation' on Funding Vote • Federal Judge Greenlights Push to Hold Trump Admin in Contempt • CCP Weaponizes U.S. Courts to Silence Critics, Harm American Interests, Congress Hears WASHINGTON SCHEDULE IN THE NEWS Donald Trump Accuses Barack Obama of 'Treason' Over 2016 Election Claims The Associated Press (07/22, Tucker, Megerian) and Reuters (07/22, Holland, Spetalnick, Landay) reported that President Donald Trump accused former President Barack Obama of "treason" for allegedly trying to tie him to Russia and undermine his 2016 presidential campaign. Trump made the accusation without providing evidence, and a spokesperson for Obama denounced the claim as "ridiculous and a weak attempt at distraction". An assessment by the U.S. intelligence community published in January 2017 concluded that Russia, using social media disinformation, hacking, and Russian bot farms, sought to damage Democrat Hillary Clinton's campaign and bolster Trump. The assessment determined that the actual impact was likely limited and showed no evidence that Moscow's efforts actually changed voting outcomes. A 2020 bipartisan report by the Senate intelligence committee had found that Russia used Republican political operative Paul Manafort, the WikiLeaks website, and others to try to influence the 2016 election to help Trump's campaign. The Washington Examiner (07/22, O'Keefe) reported that President Trump told members of Congress at a reception Tuesday to say former President Obama "cheated on the election," if the media do not ask them "appropriate" questions. Trump has been attacking former President Obama following intense media attention concerning Trump's relationship with convicted sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein. Additional reporting on the story was provided by Axios (07/22, Habeshian), Al Jazeera (07/22, Staff Writer), ABC News (07/22, Forrester) (2), CNN (07/22, Wolf), NBC News (07/22, Alba, Hillyard, et al.), BBC (07/22, Matza), New York Times (07/22, Broadwater), Politico (07/22, Stokols), USA Today (07/22, Crowley), The Guardian (07/22, Tait), Newsweek (07/22, Gooding, Whisnant), NewsNation (07/22, Whiteside), and Washington Examiner (07/22, Datoc). Continued Reporting: DOJ Seeks Meeting With Ghislaine Maxwell Amid Epstein Outrage The Associated Press (07/22, Tucker) reported that the DOJ wants to interview Ghislaine Maxwell, Jeffrey Epstein's former girlfriend, about potential crimes against victims. Maxwell is currently serving a 20-year prison sentence for helping Epstein sexually abuse underage girls. The Justice Department's request to interview Maxwell is part of an effort to appear transparent and pursue justice in the Epstein case, with Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche stating that the Dal and FBI will hear what Maxwell has to say if she has information about crimes against victims. Additional reporting on the story was provided by Washington Post (07/22, Roebuck, Goba, Jacobs), The Guardian (07/22, Olivares), New York Post (07/22, King, Nerozzi), Reuters (07/22, Lynch, Chiacu), Washington Examiner (07/22, Rosciglione), The Daily Beast (07/22, Tomazin), and The Times (07/22, Ensor). Mike Johnson Shuts Down U.S. House Until September to Prevent Congress from Voting to Release Epstein Files The Wall Street Journal (07/22, Li, Gurman) reported that the House of Representatives came to a standstill due to disputes over disclosures from the Jeffrey Epstein investigation. Republican leadership cut short the week's session and postponed action until September to avoid votes on releasing more Epstein-related material. The decision was made to prevent Democrats from forcing votes that could put Republicans in uncomfortable positions regarding the disgraced financier and sex offender, Jeffrey Epstein. Additional reporting on the story was provided by Associated Press (07/22, Groves, Mascaro), People (07/22, Kile), and Reuters (07/22, Morgan). Judge Overseeing DOI Epstein Grand Jury Records Request Asks for More Information ABC News (07/22, Mallin, Hill, Charalambous) reported that District Judge Paul Engelmayer plans to rule "expeditiously" on the Justice Department's request to unseal grand jury records from Ghislaine Maxwell's case, but needs more information. The Justice Department has been given until July 29 to submit a brief outlining their justification for seeking the release of the records, including whether they have reviewed grand jury transcripts and provided notice to victims. Lawyers for Maxwell and victims in the case will also have the opportunity to review EFTA01655317 and respond to the proposed release of the grand jury transcripts, with victims having until August 5 to address their positions. Trump's Wall Street Journal Suit Over Epstein Story Faces Timing Hurdle Reuters (07/22, Cohen) reported that Donald Trump's lawsuit against the Wall Street Journal over a story about him and Jeffrey Epstein may face hurdles due to non-compliance with Florida state rules on the timing of defamation lawsuits. According to the article, Trump would need to clear a high bar to win the case, including proving "actual malice" by the Journal, which means showing the paper knew the article was false or acted with reckless disregard for its truth. The article noted that the lawsuit may be dismissed due to Trump's failure to provide the required five-day notice period before filing the suit, and experts warn that his willingness to sue could have a chilling effect on media coverage of his administration. The article highlighted that in 2019, Deputy Director Bongino sued online news outlet The Daily Beast for defamation over a story about his departure from the National Rifle Association's online video channel. The case was dismissed the next year. U.S. District Judge Jose Martinez in Miami sided with the Daily Beast in finding that Deputy Director Bongino did not comply with the provision, but said the basis of his decision was that Bongino's case lacked merit. The Cut (07/22, Gonzalez-Ramirez) and Snopes (07/22, Deng) also reported on the story. Manhattan Bomb Plot Foiled as Feds Charge NY Man With Building, Stashing IEDs Across City Fox News (07/22, Baehr) reported that Michael Gann, a 55-year-old New York man, has been charged with building and stashing homemade bombs across Manhattan. Authorities found at least 7 improvised explosive devices (IEDs) made by Gann, including some on subway tracks and residential rooftops. FBI Assistant Director Christopher Raia credited the "swift partnership" between agencies for stopping Gann before he could inflict harm. The press release provided the full quote from Raia: "Michael Gann allegedly produced multiple improvised explosive devices intended for use in Manhattan. Due to the successful partnership of law enforcement agencies in New York, Gann was swiftly brought to justice before he could harm innocent civilians shortly after his dangerous actions became known. The FBI's Joint Terrorism Task Force is enduring in its commitment and determination to protect the homeland." U.S. Files Forfeiture Action Against $2 Million in Digital Currency Involved in Hamas Fundraising Just the News (07/22, Severi) reported that the Dal has unsealed a civil forfeiture action against approximately $2 million in cryptocurrency. The digital currency is linked to companies connected to BuyCash, which is accused of funding Hamas and other terrorist groups, including ISIS and Al-Qaida affiliates. The action aims to dismantle the financial infrastructure of terrorism by seizing cryptocurrency held in accounts connected to BuyCash, with owners like Ahmed Alaqad having been designated as supporters of Hamas by the U.S. Department of the Treasury. The press release quoted FBI Assistant Director in Charge Steven J. Jensen of the Washington Field Office: "This forfeiture action demonstrates that no matter what lengths terrorism financiers take to obscure their illegal transactions, the FBI will aggressively disrupt the transmission of illicit proceeds intended to support designated terrorist organizations like Hamas." Five Defendants Sentenced in Connection With Operating One of the Largest Illegal Television Show Streaming Services in the U.S. KLAS (CBS-8) (07/22, Haas) and KSNV (NBC-3) (07/22, Staff Writer) reported that five Las Vegas men have been sentenced in the "Jetflicks" streaming case, a large-scale internet piracy operation that made millions from stolen copyrighted TV programs. According to the articles, the sentences range from 7 years in federal prison for Kristopher Lee Dallmann to probation and community service for others, including Peter H. Huber, Jared Edward Jaurequi, Felipe Garcia, and Douglas M. Courson. The articles noted that the case is considered the largest internet piracy case to go to trial, with an estimated $37.5 million in copyright infringement, and is part of a broader effort to deter and disrupt intellectual property crime. The press release quoted Assistant Director Jose A. Perez of the FBI Criminal Investigative Division: "By building and running one of the largest unauthorized streaming services in the U.S., these individuals not only stole from content creators and legitimate streaming services, they undermined the integrity of our economy and the rule of law. These sentencings are a reminder that illegal actions have consequences. The FBI and our partners are unwavering in our commitment to protect intellectual property rights and hold criminals accountable." Back to Top EFTA01655318 COUNTERTERRORISM Increasing Drone Incidents Near U.S. Airports, Stadiums Prompt Alarm, Officials Say Reuters (07/22, Shepardson) reported that there have been over 3,000 drone incidents near U.S. airports since 2021, with 11 aircraft taking evasive action to avoid collisions this year. U.S. officials, including Steven Willoughby and Senators John Cornyn and Ted Cruz, are raising concerns about the intentional use of drones for attacks and the lack of preparedness to address the threat. Congress is being urged to change laws to toughen penalties for drone use and give federal agencies new authority to address drones that may be used to threaten the public or events, with proposed legislation aiming to expand federal coverage for airports, critical infrastructure, and high- risk areas. The article highlighted that of around 90,000 special events annually where the FBI could have had counter-drone protection, it was only used in about 0.05% of events, according to testimony from the DOJ and the FBI. Isle of Wight Bomb Suspect Pleads Guilty to Two Felonies Suffolk News Herald (07/22, Faleski) reported that Brad Spafford, a 36-year-old Isle of Wight County man, pleaded guilty to two felony charges related to possessing an unregistered short-barrel rifle and an unregistered destructive device. Spafford faces up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000 on each charge, as well as supervised release and forfeiture of seized items, including chemicals, metals, and firearms. The charges stem from an FBI raid on Spafford's home, where over 150 pipe bombs and other explosive materials were found, including a notebook with recipes for homemade explosives and a military-grade explosive. Illionis Man Arrested in Possible Bomb-Making Scheme Fox Valley Magazine (07/22, Stukel) reported that a 46-year-old Elgin man was arrested after authorities found materials for building explosive devices at his mother's home in unincorporated Elgin. According to the article, the Kane County Sheriff's Office, along with the FBI, ATF, and DHS, responded to the scene and collected hundreds of suspected explosives and bomb-making components. The article noted that the suspect has been charged with multiple felonies, including Possession of Explosives or Incendiary Devices, Possession of Explosive Materials without a License, and Manufacture/Possession of Bombs or Grenades. WSPY-FM (07/22, Staff Writer) also reported on the story. Back to Top COUNTERINTELLIGENCE U.S. Lawmakers Demand FBI Reconsider Certifying Biometric Scanners From China Biometric Update (07/22, Kimery) reported that U.S. lawmakers are demanding that the FBI reconsider certifying biometric scanners from Chinese companies with ties to the People's Liberation Army (PLA) and Ministry of State Security (MSS). According to the article, the lawmakers argue that the FBI's certification of these products, including those from companies like Hikvision, provides a "seal of approval" that legitimizes dangerous technologies and sends a misleading signal of legitimacy. Lawmakers are also calling on Director Patel to immediately review the Certified Products List and develop a comprehensive policy framework to prevent the future certification of devices from companies linked to foreign adversaries. Continued Reporting: Ex-Engineer Admits Guilt in L.A. Espionage Drama Hoodline (07/22, Martinez) reported that Chenguang Gong, a former Southern California engineer, has pleaded guilty to stealing top-secret missile tracking technology from a Los Angeles-area development company. According to the article, Gong admitted to transferring over 3,600 files containing sensitive information to his personal storage devices, which could compromise national security and cause significant economic damage. The article noted that the Counterintelligence Task Force of the FBI's Los Angeles Field Office is leading the investigation into Gong's activities. Gong's underhanded activities were not confined to this singular instance; between 2014 and 2022, he's reported to have applied to Chinese government 'Talent Programs' with proposals that included technology designs obtained during his tenure at several major U.S. defense contractors. Analysis: How Russia Uses Organized Crime for Espionage An analysis piece from Newsline Institute (07/22, Kremzer) reported that Russia has increased its use of organized crime groups to conduct operations abroad, including political targeting and financial crime, since its invasion of EFTA01655319 Ukraine in 2022. The Russian state's collaboration with Russian-based organized crime (RBOC) groups allows for plausible deniability and cost-effective disruption of enemies, while also empowering these criminal networks. RBOC groups have been used for covert actions, including assassinations, and have been covertly taxed by the FSB to fund Russian covert operations, making them a useful resource for Russia, especially with its degraded intelligence capacity. The author assessed that the FBI's Counterintelligence Division and the U.S. State Department's Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs should increase liaisons with national and local law enforcement in RBOC hotspots. The CIA and FBI should also increase cooperation with intelligence agencies in areas where RBOC groups are most active, especially regarding Russian dissidents. Back to Top CRIMINAL INVESTIGATIONS Fed Building in Chicago Locked Down for Hours; Negotiations Underway With Armed Man WLS (ABC-7) (07/22, Nagy, Markoff, et al.) reported that a standoff at the Dirksen Federal Building in downtown Chicago ended after roughly 9 hours when federal agents rushed toward a man armed with a knife in the building's lobby. The man, who had been in the lobby since 11 a.m., was taken out on a stretcher with a wound on his neck and will be taken to a hospital, according to a U.S. Marshals spokesperson. The article noted that no one else was injured in the incident, which is being investigated by the FBI and involved a mandatory evacuation order and lockdown of the building earlier in the day. "The FBI has the best hostage negotiators in the world. They are doing everything they can to avoid a catastrophic incident," Derek Mayer, former Secret Service deputy special agent in charge, was quoted as saying. Additional reporting on the story was provided by WBBM (CBS-2) (07/22, Tenenbaum, Brennan), WMAQ (NBC-5) (07/22, Staff Writer), WFLD (Fox-32) (07/22, Chronis, Flosi, King), WGN (CW- 9) (07/22, Koval, Lewis, et al.), Chicago Sun-Times (07/22, Seidel, Schuba, et al.), Chicago Tribune (07/22, Tong), ABA Journal (07/22, Weiss), Hindustan Times (07/22, Banerjee), Law360 (07/22, Bott), Patch (07/22, Barnes), and Bloomberg Law (07/22, Crepeau). Across-the-Board Convictions in Final Highs RICO Trial of 2025 WCCO-AM (07/22, Staff Writer) reported that a jury found Cortez Blakemore and Robert Lesure guilty of RICO conspiracy and conspiracy to distribute controlled substances in connection with the Highs gang in Minneapolis. The two men were involved in selling fentanyl and contributing to violence and fear in the community, according to prosecutors. Blakemore and Lesure are the 37th and 38th defendants to be convicted out of 40 members of the Highs gang charged in the federal crackdown. "In the wake of the guilty verdicts in the Highs gang RICO trial, it becomes abundantly clear that the efficacy of our justice system hinges not merely on the application of law, but on the transformative power of collaborative law enforcement partnerships," stated FBI Minneapolis Special Agent in Charge Alvin M. Winston Sr. in the press release. "These alliances are essential, for they weave a fabric of shared intelligence and resources that fortify our collective resolve against violent crime, ensuring that justice is not merely an ideal, but a tangible reality for our communities." Costco Murder Suspect Apprehended in Kenya, Extradited to Seattle KOMO (ABC-4) (07/22, Harris) reported that Salman S. Haji, a 20-year-old suspect in the murder of 67-year-old Yuam Ming, has been apprehended in Kenya and extradited to the U.S. According to the article, Haji is charged with murder, attempted robbery, and robbery, and is being held in the King County Jail in Seattle with a bail set at $5 million. Haji's co-defendant, Ilyiss Abdi, is also charged with the same crimes and is being held in the King County Jail with a bail of $6 million. The article highlighted that the U.S. Attorney's Office in Seattle confirmed Salman S. Haji was taken into custody by the FBI in Kenya. Law & Crime and KING (NBC-5) (07/22, Swaby) also reported on the story. Continued Reporting: 21 Arrested in Metro Atlanta Drug Trafficking Investigation, FBI Says WAGA (Fox-5) (07/22, Raby) reported that 21 people were arrested in a metro Atlanta drug trafficking investigation led by the FBI's Atlanta branch. The investigation resulted in the seizure of over $5 million worth of drugs, including marijuana, methamphetamine, and cocaine. During the searches, officials say they found and seized 76.8 pounds of marijuana, 9.7 pounds of methamphetamine, 13.4 pounds of powder cocaine, 4.32 pounds of ecstasy/MDMA, and 15.45 pounds of THC edibles. Investigators believe the ecstasy and MDMA had been cut with fentanyl. Those arrested are being held at the Houston County Detention Center and face charges under Georgia's Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) Act. EFTA01655320 California Man Gets 28 Years for Trafficking Drugs to Georgia WAGA (Fox-5) (07/22, Daniel) reported that Wilfort Foster III, a 41-year-old California man, was sentenced to 28 years in federal prison for leading a drug-trafficking ring that transported meth and fentanyl into Georgia. Foster pleaded guilty to narcotics and money laundering conspiracy charges, which took place from 2018 to 2022, and was also sentenced to 5 years of supervised release. The operation, which was run out of Foster's California barbershop, involved the transportation of methamphetamine and fentanyl from California to Georgia, and resulted in the seizure of significant quantities of narcotics and over a dozen firearms. "This sentencing marks the end of a years-long effort to dismantle a dangerous drug trafficking network that was pushing lethal fentanyl and methamphetamine into our communities," said Paul Brown, special agent in charge of FBI Atlanta. Additional reporting on the story was provided by The Georgia Sun (07/22, Clark) and Atlanta News First (07/22, Staff Writer). Federal Judge Sends Kai James to Prison in Multi-State Drug Operation The Virgin Islands Consortium (07/22, Staff Writer) reported that Kai James, 37, of St. Croix, has been sentenced to 120 months in federal prison for his role in a multi-state drug operation tied to the St. Croix airport and prison. According to the article, James pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute cocaine and marijuana and was a manager and supervisor in a criminal enterprise led by his relative, Ivan James. The drug trafficking operation smuggled cocaine and marijuana through the Henry E. Rohlsen Airport and into the Golden Grove Correctional Facility, with multiple other individuals also sentenced for their roles in the organization. "The guilty plea of Kai James represents a decisive blow against the violent narcotics conspiracy that plagued the people of St. Croix for far too long," said DEA Caribbean Division Special Agent in Charge Michael A. Miranda. "We are proud to have worked alongside the USAO, HSI, FBI, CBP, and ATF to bring justice to those impacted by these crimes?' Missouri Man Sentenced to 25 Years for Meth and Gun Charges Ozarks First (07/22, Bell) reported that Russell Lee Deck Jr., a 47-year-old Springfield man, has been sentenced to 25 years in federal prison without parole for meth and gun charges. According to the article, Deck pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. The sentence follows a 2022 incident where Deck led police on a high-speed pursuit, crashed into a vehicle, and was found with methamphetamine and handguns. The case was investigated by the FBI. FBI Drops Probe of Kraken Founder, Returns Dozens of Seized Devices Fortune (07/22, Roberts) reported that the FBI has dropped its investigation of Jesse Powell, founder of Kraken, a cryptocurrency exchange, and returned dozens of seized devices. The investigation stemmed from a management dispute with an arts non-profit, Verge, which Powell founded, and not from his operation of the crypto exchange. Powell plans to continue his civil lawsuit against Verge's board members, alleging they conspired against him and made baseless accusations that led to the FBI raid on his home. Additional reporting on the story was provided by Cryptopolitan (07/22, Muchai), Cointelegraph (07/22, Wright), and CoinDesk (07/22, Shumba). Continued Reporting: California Financial Advisor Charged With Allegedly Operating Long-Running $9.5 Million Ponzi Scheme Contra Costa (07/22, Staff Writer) reported that Edwin Emmett Lickiss, Jr., a former East Bay financial advisor, has been indicted for allegedly operating a $9.5 million Ponzi scheme. According to the article, Lickiss, 77, is accused of falsely representing to investors that he would invest their funds in government bonds and other bonds, and instead used the funds for personal use and to pay earlier investors. The article highlighted that the prosecution is the result of an investigation by the FBI and IRS-CI. FBI Columbia Warns of Government Impersonation Scams Cola Daily (07/22, Wallace) reported that the FBI is warning the public about a rise in government impersonation scams in South Carolina, where scammers pose as government officials to threaten arrest or prosecution. According to the article, scammers typically spoof the FBI's Columbia Field Office phone number and instruct victims to provide money or personal information to avoid fines and penalties. The article noted that the FBI reminded the public that they will never demand payment via gift cards, cryptocurrency, or cash, and advised people to hang up and verify the caller's identity by contacting their local FBI field office directly. FBI Investigates Vandalism Incident at Pennsylvania Catholic Church Catholic World Report (07/22, Payne) reported that the FBI is investigating a vandalism incident at St. Elizabeth of Hungary Church in Pleasant Hills, Pennsylvania, where anti-Catholic and anti-Semitic messages were found. EFTA01655321 According to the article, Bishop Mark Eckman stated that the vandalism has "wounded" the parish and the diocesan family, and the diocese has released photos of the damage to aid in the investigation. The article noted that the incident is being led by the FBI's Pittsburgh field office, with spokesman Bradford Arick confirming that the agency is investigating the reported vandalism. Continued Reporting: Former FBI Agent Convicted of Rape Committed 'Dastardly Evil' Crimes Bethesda Magazine (07/22, Griffin) reported that Eduardo Valdivia, a former FBI agent, was convicted of raping three women he lured to his tattoo parlor for tattoos and modeling photoshoots. According to the article, Valdivia, who faces up to 122 years in prison, used his FBI training in covert surveillance tactics and deception to commit the crimes, according to Montgomery County State's Attorney John McCarthy. The article noted that Valdivia's attorney, Robert Bonsib, said Valdivia maintains the acts were consensual and plans to appeal the conviction after sentencing. Continued Reporting: Burglars Use Explosive to Get Into ATM at Target in California Mercury News (07/22, Rodgers) reported that burglars used an explosive to break into an ATM at a Target store in San Ramon. According to the article, the incident occurred early Sunday morning and caused damage to the store's east entrance, but no one was injured. FBI agents were called in to comb through the scene. The San Ramon Police Department and FBI are investigating, with Detective Hugh Cotton and the FBI available for contact regarding any information about the break-in. Bay Area Telegraph (07/22, Smith) also reported on the story. Back to Top CYBER DIVISION Continued Reporting: Microsoft and FBI Respond to Widespread Cyber Assault Clearance Jobs (07/22, Suciu) reported that Microsoft issued an alert about a cyberattack targeting its SharePoint servers, used by government agencies and businesses, and released security updates to protect against the vulnerability. According to the article, the FBI is aware of the attacks and is working with federal and private-sector partners to respond to the incident, which is considered a "zero-day exploit" due to the previously unknown software vulnerability. The article noted that security experts advise organizations to apply Microsoft's security updates immediately and take additional mitigation steps to reduce the risk of a data breach. The Record (07/22, Greig) also reported on the story. FBI Urges Vigilance Against Interlock Ransomware Group Behind Recent Healthcare Attacks Bleeping Computer (07/22, Gatlan) reported that CISA and the FBI warn of increased Interlock ransomware attacks targeting businesses and critical infrastructure with double extortion tactics. According to the article, the advisory, co-authored with HHS and MS-ISAC, provides indicators of compromise and mitigation measures against Interlock, which emerged in September 2024. Interlock has targeted various sectors, especially healthcare, and has been linked to ClickFix and NodeSnake attacks, recently breaching DaVita and Kettering Health. The article highlighted that the FBI noted Interlock's unusual tactics, including drive-by downloads and the new FileFix technique for deploying malware. Recommended defenses include DNS filtering, web access firewalls, user training, system updates, network segmentation, ICAM policies, and MFA. The Record (07/22, Greig) also reported on the story. FBI Warns to Not Install These Apps Forbes (07/22, Doffman) reported that the FBI warned of a growing threat where scammers contact citizens with unsolicited messages, claiming their money is at risk from a hacker. The scammers trick victims into installing an app, which allows them to access the victim's device and steal their money by guiding them to move it to a "safe account". To stay safe, the FBI advises citizens to never install apps or software when asked to do so in unsolicited calls, texts, or emails, and to adopt a zero-tolerance approach to such messages. Back to Top INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS Fugitive Arrested by FBI in U.S, Punjab Cops Eye His Return Times of India (07/22, Gopal) reported that Pavittar Singh, also known as 'Chaura', a fugitive wanted by Punjab Police, has been arrested by the FBI in the U.S. as part of its 'Summer Heat' crackdown on gang violence. According EFTA01655322 to the article, Punjab Police are now renewing efforts to bring him back to India, although it is unclear whether he will be extradited or deported. Chaura is accused of various crimes in India, including murder, attempted murder, and extortion, and is also believed to have links with banned militant groups such as Babbar Khalsa International. Back to Top OTHER FBI NEWS Continued Reporting: Extent of FBI Surveillance Revealed for MLK Files CNN (07/22, Bailey) reported that the Trump administration has released over 240,000 pages of previously sealed FBI files related to the surveillance of Martin Luther King Jr. The files include internal FBI memos, wiretaps, and electronic surveillance records, but experts say they do not appear to contain any major revelations. The King family has objected to the release, urging the public to view the records in their full historical context, while King's niece, Alveda King, has expressed gratitude to President Trump for the release. Additional reporting on the story was provided by The Times (07/22, Thurston), Axios (07/22, Contreras), Austin American-Statesman (07/22, Malenfant), CBS News (07/22, Walsh), BBC (07/22, Drenon), and NBC News (07/22, Luce). Continued Reporting: FBI Allegedly Botched Probe Into Hillary Clinton's Emails The National Desk (07/22, Frazao) reported that newly declassified documents reveal that evidence was ignored in the Hillary Clinton email investigation, according to Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley. According to the article, the documents, which were declassified by the DOJ, show that the FBI had thumb drives containing data related to the investigation, but the majority of the data was never reviewed. The article noted that Senators Marsha Blackburn and Chuck Grassley are accusing the FBI, under James Comey, of turning a blind eye to possible wrongdoing by Hillary Clinton and not conducting a thorough investigation. Fox News (07/22, Video) (2) also posted broadcast coverage of the story. FBI Spied on Catholic Priest for Not Divulging Info on Parishioner Catholic News Agency (07/22, Arnold) reported that the FBI's Richmond office spied on a Catholic priest for refusing to disclose confidential information about a parishioner, investigating his background, travel plans, and credit card information. According to the article, the investigation was part of a broader effort by the FBI to target "radical traditionalist" Catholics, with the national FBI headquarters involved and coordinating with other field offices. The article explained that a report by the House Judiciary Committee, led by Ohio Rep. Jim Jordan, found that the FBI's actions were a violation of religious liberties and that the Biden administration had withheld information and misled Congress about the extent of the investigation. Back to Top INTERNATIONAL NEWS Trump Secures Historic $550B Trade Deal With Japan: 'Never Been Anything Like It' Fox News, Wall Street Journal, Reuters, CNN, CNBC 9-Year-Old Canadian Girl Whose Father Was Charged With Her Murder Was Drowned, Authorities Say Fox News Inside Syria's Sectarian Cauldron: A Kidnapping Triggers a Cascade of Violence Wall Street Journal Trump's Fixation With Greenland Has Ended Denmark's Love Affair With the U.S. Wall Street Journal Food Aid Becomes Main Sticking Point in Gaza Cease-Fire Talks Wall Street Journal UN Body Says Israeli Forces Have Killed Over 1,000 Aid-Seekers in Gaza Since May, as Hunger Worsens Associated Press Thousands Gather to Protest as Zelenskyy Signs Bill Weakening Anti-Corruption Agencies Associated Press EFTA01655323 U.S. Government Employee Banned From Leaving China Associated Press U.S.-Philippines Trade Talks Yield Modest Tariff Shift After Trump-Marcos Meeting Reuters Syrian Committee Reports 1,426 Killed in March Violence, Says Commanders Did Not Order It Reuters Back to Top OTHER WASHINGTON NEWS Trump Administration Fights to Keep Ex-Trump Lawyer Alina Habba as New Jersey Federal Prosecutor Associated Press, New York Times, Bloomberg, Politico, Wall Street Journal Federal Grand Juror Charged With Leaking Information Appears in Court Boston.com, Boston Globe U.S. Ends a Mail Fraud Case, 32 Years Late Reuters Ex-Elections Clerk Tina Peters Asks for Unprecedented Release Amid Appeal Courthouse News Idaho Victims' Families to Address Killer Directly at Kohberger Sentencing Fox News Morgan Stanley's Screening of Wealth-Management Clients Draws More Scrutiny Wall Street Journal Masked ICE Agents Detain Former Afghan Interpreter Who Helped U.S. Military Reuters Dem Fundraising Giant Actblue Hit With Subpoena by Top House Committees Fox News Dems Seek Retaliation Over GOP Cuts as Thune Calls for 'Cooperation' on Funding Vote Fox News Federal Judge Greenlights Push to Hold Trump Admin in Contempt Fox News CCP Weaponizes U.S. Courts to Silence Critics, Harm American Interests, Congress Hears The Epoch Times Back to Top WASHINGTON SCHEDULE White House President Trump • 9:00 AM: In-Town Pool Call Time • 1:00 PM: Press Briefing by the White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt • 4:35 PM: The President departs The White House en route Andrew W. Mellon Auditorium • 5:00 PM: The President delivers remarks and signs Executive Orders at Al Summit EFTA01655324 • 5:55 PM: The President arrives The White House Vice President Vance • No official presidential schedule released or announced. US Senate • Hearings to examine challenges to meeting increased electricity demand. — 10:00 AM — Host: Energy and Natural Resources • Business meeting to consider pending calendar nominations• to be immediately followed by a hearing to examine dismantling transnational criminal organizations in the Americas. — 10:00 AM — Host: Foreign Relations • Hearings to examine the nominations of Katherine Scarlett of Ohio to be a Member of the Council on Environmental Quality and Jeffrey Hall of Virginia to be an Assistant Administrator both of the Environmental Protection Agency. — 10:00 AM — Host: Environment and Public Works • Hearings to examine the nominations of Seval Oz of California and Michael Rutherford of Florida both to be an Assistant Secretary and Gregory Zerzan of Texas to be General Counsel all of the Department of Transportation. — 10:00 AM — Host: Commerce, Science, and Transportation • Business meeting to consider the nominations of Benjamin DeMarzo of Virginia to be an Assistant Secretary and Craig Trainor of Virginia to be an Assistant Secretary both of the Department of Housing and Urban Development Jovan Jovanovic of Pennsylvania to be President of the Export-Import Bank of the United States for a term expiring January 20 2029 Francis Brooke of Virginia to be an Assistant Secretary of the Treasury and David Peters of Virginia to be an Assistant Secretary of Commerce. — 10:30 AM — Host: Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs • Hearings to examine choice and literacy focusing on empowering families for better educational results. — 2:00 PM — Host: Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions • Hearings to examine ending illegal discrimination and preferences focusing on enforcing our civil rights laws. — 2:30 PM — Host: Judiciary • Hearings to examine United States diplomatic strategies for a dynamic Middle East. — 2:30 PM — Host: Foreign Relations • Hearings to examine innovation in the crosshairs focusing on countering China's industrial espionage. — 2:00 PM — Host: Small Business and Entrepreneurship • Hearings to examine the road ahead focusing on proposals to improve America's transportation infrastructure. — 3:00 PM — Host: Environment and Public Works • Hearings to examine the nomination of Richard Fordyce of Missouri to be Under Secretary of Agriculture for Farm Production and Conservation. — 3:00 PM — Host: Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry • Hearings to examine the nominations of John Bartrum of Indiana to be Under Secretary for Health of the Department of Veterans Affairs and Jeremiah Workman of Ohio to be Assistant Secretary of Labor for Veterans' Employment and Training. — 4:00 PM — Host: Veterans' Affairs US House of Representatives • Markup: H.R. 1319 the "Modern Worker Empowerment Act"• H.R. 1320 the "Modern Worker Security Act"• H.R. 4366 the "Save Local Business Act"• H.R. 4312 the "Student Compensation and Opportunity through Rights and Endorsements SCORE Act"• H.R. 4307 the "Enhancing Detection of Human Trafficking Act". — 9:30 AM — Host: Committee on Education and Workforce EFTA01655325 • Hearing: "Fixing Emergency Management: Examining Improvements to FEMA's Disaster Response" — 10:00 AM — Host: Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure • Hearing: United We Stand: Strategies to Counter PRC Economic Coercion Against Democracies. — 10:00 AM — Host: Select Committee on the Strategic Competition Between the United States and the Chinese Communist Party • Markup: SST Full Committee Markup. — 10:00 AM — Host: Committee on Science, Space, and Technology • Hearing: FY26 State Department Posture: Bureau of Political Affairs — 10:00 AM — Host: Committee on Foreign Affairs • Markup: FC Markup on: H.R. 178 Rep. McClintock To require the Secretary of Agriculture to carry out activities to suppress wildfires and for other purposes. H.R. 179 Rep. McClintock Proven Forest Management Act of 2025 H.R. 345 Rep. Harder Fire Department Repayment Act of 2025H.R. 528 Rep. Pettersen Post- Disaster Reforestation and Restoration Act of 2025H.R. 839 Rep. Arrington To prohibit the implementation of a Land Protection Plan for Muleshoe National Wildlife Refuge. - 10:00 AM — Host: Committee on Natural Resources • Markup: Fiscal Year 2026 National Security Department of State and Related Programs Bill. — 10:00 AM — Host: Committee on Appropriations • Hearing: Reforming Defense Acquisition to Deliver Capability at the Speed of Relevance. — 10:00 AM — Host: Committee on Armed Services • Markup: Markup of Two Bills. — 10:00 AM — Host: Committee on Energy and Commerce • Markup: Markup on: H.R. 740 Veterans Assuring Critical Care Expansions to Support Servicemembers Act of 2025• H.R. 1663 Veterans Scam And Fraud Evasion Act of 2025• H. R. 3400 the Territorial Response and Access to Veterans Essential Lifecare Act• H. R. 3726 Fisher House Availability Act of 2025• H. R. 3767 Health Professionals Scholarship Program Improvement Act of 2025• H.R. 2605 Service Dogs Assisting Veterans Act• H.R. 2137 Review Every Veterans Claim Act of 2025• H. R. 3123 Ernest Pe. — 10:15 AM — Host: Committee on Veterans' Affairs • Hearing: Bureau of Counterterrorism FY26 Budget Posture Hearing. — 2:00 PM — Host: Committee on Foreign Affairs • Hearing: Catch and Release Lose and Forget: Addressing the Crisis of Unaccompanied Alien Children Part I. — 12:00 PM — Host: Committee on Oversight and Government Reform • Hearing: An Update on Mail Theft and Crime — 2:00 PM — Host: Committee on Oversight and Government Reform Cabinet Members • Secretary of State Rubio meets with Jordanian Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi at the Department of State at 4:30 PM. Visitors • No events scheduled. General Events • Brookings: 14th annual Municipal Finance Conference — Wednesday, July 23, 2025. Location: Online event, 8:45 AM. The annual Municipal Finance Conference brings together academics, practitioners, issuers, and regulators to discuss recent research on municipal capital markets and state and local fiscal issues. The conference is a joint venture of the Hutchins Center on Fiscal and Monetary Policy at the Brookings Institution, the Rosenberg Institute of Global Finance at Brandeis International Business School, the Mitch Daniels School of Business at Purdue University, the Harris School of Public Policy at University of Chicago, EFTA01655326 and the LBJ School of Public Affairs at University of Texas at Austin. The 2025 conference will primarily be held in person, with livestream options for remote viewers, on July 22 and 23 at 1777 F St. NW. • CSIS: Rising India and the Prospects for India—U.S. Economic Ties — Wednesday, July 23, 2025. Location: Online event, 11:00 AM. Please join the Chair on India and Emerging Asia Economics at the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) for a public event featuring Dr. Arvind Panagariya, Chairman of the 16th Finance Commission of India, on July 23, 2025, at 11:00 am ET. • CATO Institute: Presidential Tariff Authorities and the Need for Reform— Wednesday, July 23, 2025. Location: Online event, 3:00 PM. Article I, Section 8 of the US Constitution grants Congress the sole power to "lay and collect Taxes, Duties, Imposts and Excises" and to regulate commerce with foreign countries. Today, however, Congress has broadly delegated its tariff powers to the executive branch via several laws that give the president vast, discretionary authority to impose sweeping trade restrictions with little, if any, input or oversight by the other branches of government, US trading partners, or the American public. Recent tariffs increasingly call such delegations into question. • Atlantic Council: An inside look at Russian abuses against Ukraine's frontline communities— Wednesday, July 23, 2025. Location: Online event, 10:0M. The Atlantic Council's Eurasia Center releases its new short documentary, "Being near: Faith in the frontline city of Kherson," and hosts an accompanying panel discussion on Russian abuses in frontline territories in Ukraine. • Hudson Institute: Postponed I Designating the Polisario Front: A Conversation with Rep. Joe Wilson— Wednesday, July 23, 2025. Location: Hudson Institute, 80:0M. Michael Doran, director of Hudson's Center for Peace and Security in the Middle East, will host Congressman Joe Wilson (R-SC) for a discussion on the strategic benefits of designating the Polisario Front as a foreign terrorist organization (FTO). • Hudson Institute: Postponed I The State of Republican Foreign Policy with Congressman Jake Ellzey — Wednesday, July 23, 2025. Location: Hudson Institute, 3:00 PM. Six months into his second administration, President Donald Trump has reshaped the United States' foreign policy. His administration has recalibrated trade relationships with allies and adversaries, begun efforts to reshore advanced manufacturing and industrial power, forged partnerships in artificial intelligence, secured the southern border, and conducted military strikes against Iran's nuclear program. But questions remain about ending the Russia-Ukraine War, shaping the future of the Middle East, and sustaining a tenuous economic and military balance with Beijing. Email Public Affairs to subscribe to the Daily News Briefing. Mobile version and archive available here. EFTA01655327