Weekly Update: DHS Response to COVID-19

 The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and its component offices have stood ready to assist communities across the nation facing unforeseen challenges amid a pandemic environment.  

Admiral Karl Schultz, Commandant of the Coast Guard, stated, “The Coast Guard is working closely with all state and local first responders and federal partners in response to Hurricane Delta. This is the sixth major storm to impact the Gulf coast during this year’s historic hurricane season. As with previous storms, the Coast Guard had assets pre-staged throughout the region to be ready to immediately respond where needed. Amidst the backdrop of the COVID-19 pandemic, Coast Guard women and men across the country and around the world remain Semper Paratus.”  Cyber Security and Infrastructure Agency (CISA) Continuing to Secure the Election Process. On October 7th, CISA released the Election Infographic Products, a set of infographics products that identify changes in mail-in voting this year as a result of COVID voting policies. The series includes three infographics and two maps designed to combat disinformation by equipping election officials, stakeholders, and voters with information on the mail-in voting, post-election, and election results processes, and the security measures that were implemented to safeguard the 2020 election season and increase the resilience of the American electorate.   Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Providing Grants to States for Supplemental Lost Wages Payments. To ease the economic burden for those struggling with lost wages due to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, President Trump authorized FEMA to expend up to $44 billion from the Disaster Relief Fund for lost wage payments. As of October 9th, Administrator Gaynor has approved 49 states, Puerto Rico, Guam, the U.S. Virgin Islands, the Commonwealth of Northern Mariana Islands and the District of Columbia for FEMA grants under this unprecedented program. FEMA’s grant funding will allow the approved states to provide those unemployed due to COVID-19 $300 or 400 per week on top of their regular unemployment benefit. As of October 9th, FEMA has awarded more than $42.3 Billion in support of Lost Wages supplemental assistance. All approved grant applicants receive an initial obligation of three weeks of funding, with additional disbursements made on a weekly basis.  Providing Full Federal Reimbursement for States’ National Guard Forces. On August 3rd, President Trump granted an extension for the use of the National Guard under Federal Title 32 orders to respond to COVID-19 until December 31, 2020. As of October 8th, 16,267 National Guard troops have activated in T-32 duty status and 432 troops have activated in State Active Duty status to help with testing and other response efforts. To date, President Trump has approved 49 National Guard requests for federal support for the use of National Guard personnel in a Title 32 duty status through December 31. For those states and territories that are approved under these criteria, FEMA executed a fully reimbursable mission assignment to the Department of Defense, including reimbursement for pay and allowances of National Guard personnel serving in a Title 32 duty status in fulfillment of the FEMA mission assignment.  Federal Law Enforcement Training Center (FLETC) Graduating the Next Generation of Law Enforcement. FLETC continues to successfully implement testing, identification, isolation and containment protocols in managing the COVID-19 virus.  As of October 9, nearly 3,700 officers and agents have successfully graduated and are now in the field performing work that is critical to protect the homeland since training was restarted on June 17. There are currently 2,159 students attending in-residence training at Glynco, Charleston, and Artesia training delivery points, with an additional 97 students attending training at the Cheltenham training delivery point. Their graduation in the coming months and the continual influx of new students ensures that our federal law enforcement partners receive the trained personnel they need to help keep our nation secure. In addition, more than 7,100 officers and agents from federal, state, local, and tribal have taken part in FLETC online training, including nearly 4,200 participants for the Integrated Use of Force series.  Science and Technology (S&T)  Driving Evidence-Based Policymaking. On October 7, the DHS Science and Technology Directorate updated its Master Question List (MQL), and does so weekly, to compile available research on operationally-relevant questions to aid decision makers in the COVID-19 response. The MQL is a quick-reference guide covering what is known about the virus, what additional information is needed, and who may be working to address these fundamental questions. New entries include:  Cross-reactivity from seasonal coronaviruses enhances the immune response toward the S2 unit of the SARS-CoV-2 Spike protein.  Nguyen-Contant, P.; Embong, A. K.; Kanagaiah, P.; Chaves, F. A.; Yang, H.; Branche, A. R.; Topham, D. J.; Sangster, M. Y., S Protein-Reactive IgG and Memory B Cell Production after Human SARS-CoV-2 Infection Includes Broad Reactivity to the S2 Subunit. mBio 2020,11 (5), e01991-20. https://mbio.asm.org/content/mbio/11/5/e01991-20.full.pdf  India has approved a rapid CRISPR-based test paper capable of generating results with 96% sensitivity and 98% specificity within an hour of nasopharyngeal swab.  Updated from India's new paper Covid-19 test could be a ‘game changer’. BBC https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-54338864  Regular disinfection of hospital rooms (with benzalkonium wipes) can reduce the presence of SARS-CoV-2 on surfaces, though contamination is widespread without regular cleaning.  Kim, U. J.; Lee, S. Y.; Lee, J. Y.; Lee, A.; Kim, S. E.; Choi, O.-J.; Lee, J. S.; Kee, S.-J.; Jang, H.-C., Air and Environmental Contamination Caused by COVID-19 Patients: a Multi-Center Study. J Korean Med Sci 2020,35 (37). https://doi.org/10.3346/jkms.2020.35.e332  Methylene blue (in combination with visible light) is being investigated for decontamination of N95 respirators.  University of Washington Medicine, Researchers seek cost-effective way to decontaminate PPE. https://newsroom.uw.edu/postscript/researchers-seek-cost-effective-way-decontaminate-ppe  Transportation Security Administration (TSA) Keeping Americans Safe While Ensuring Continuity of U.S. Travel and Commerce. Between Oct. 4th through Oct. 10th, TSA screened more than 5.7 million passengers, who have all reached their destinations safely. TSA officers are required to wear facial protection and gloves while on duty at the checkpoint. In support of air travel and all other modes of transportation, the agency continues to follow CDC guidance to protect Americans, its workers, and the nation’s transportation system. TSA continues to promote its “Stay Healthy. Stay Secure” campaign which outlines significant airport checkpoint modifications, including new technologies that reduce or eliminate physical contact, implemented to contain the spread of COVID-19, comply with CDC guidelines, and promote healthy and secure summer travel.  Ready to Ensure Safety During the Summer Travel Period. TSA announced the implementation of new credential authentication technology (CAT) at Albany International Airport on Oct. 5 and at Billings International Airport on Oct. 8 that allows the TSA screening officer to verify the traveler’s identity with little to no physical contact with the airline traveler. On Oct 6, TSA announced new 3D checkpoint scanner technology at Long Island’s MacArthur Airport.  The 3-D imagery allows TSA officers to manipulate the image on screen to get a better view of a bag’s contents and often clear items without having to open a carry-on bag, thereby reducing physical contact. On Oct 7, TSA announced new acrylic barriers deployments throughout various checkpoint areas at Philadelphia International Airport to help reduce the spread of COVID-19.    United States Coast Guard (USCG) Monitoring Vessels that Pose a Risk to Public Health. As of October 8th, the USCG is tracking 61 cruise ships moored, at anchor, or underway in vicinity of a U.S. port, or with potential to arrive in a US port, with approximately 9,296 crewmembers. This includes an estimated 184 American Citizens crewmembers dispersed among 31 vessels. The Coast Guard is working with the CDC based on its extension of the No Sail Order for cruise ships, which permits the off-loading of crewmembers following submission of a plan to the CDC.  Reservists. As of October 10th, the USCG has recalled and deployed 442 Reservists in support of COVID-19 operations. They are activated to serve in numerous types of roles, including work in IT support, medical clinics, PPE warehouses, command centers and other incident management roles, notably assisting federal partners such as HHS, and supporting state emergency operations centers on behalf of FEMA.   U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Keeping the Public Safe from COVID-19-related Fraud. ICE’s Operation Stolen Promise (OSP) targets fraudulent activity stemming from the pandemic. The initiative combines ICE’s Homeland Security Investigation’s (HSI) expertise in global trade investigations, financial fraud, and cyber investigations with robust private and public partnerships to disrupt and dismantle this criminal activity and strengthen global supply-chain security. As of October 7, as part of OSP, the agency has made 135 criminal arrests, analyzed 65,573 COVID-19-related domains, seized more than $12,004,505 million in illicit proceeds, disrupted 51 instances of illicit activity, sent 1,392 leads to domestic and international field offices, executed 126 search warrants and made 1,437 COVID-19-related seizures to include prohibited test kits and pharmaceuticals, counterfeit masks and more.  U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP)  Protecting American Businesses. Last week, CBP announced the seizure of nearly 60,000 counterfeit facemasks by the Baltimore Field Office that violated trademarks of numerous U.S. consumer brands.

Guantanamo Periodic Review Board Media Invitation Announced

 Oct. 9, 2020

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The Department of Defense will allocate seats for news media at the Pentagon satellite viewing location on Oct. 20, to cover unclassified portions of the Guantanamo Periodic Review Board for Ismael Ali Faraj Ali Bakush (ISN - 708).

Due to limited space availability, selection is not guaranteed. Upon selection, additional information on meeting time and location will be provided.

Media desiring to observe the hearing should send requests via email to osd.pentagon.pa.mbx.gtmo-press@mail.mil.

All requests must be received no later than noon ET, Oct. 15. Media members should include their name, position, sponsoring organization and contact information (cell phone and email address) in their request. Multiple names from the same organization may be submitted.

Further information, including media ground rules, can be viewed at the Periodic Review Secretariat website at http://www/prs.mil.

ISIS Militants Charged With Deaths Of Americans In Syria

 Two ‘Beatles’ charged with hostage-taking of American citizens in Syria and other terrorism offenses that resulted in the deaths of James Wright Foley, Steven Joel Sotloff, Peter Edward Kassig, and Kayla Jean Mueller

Two militant fighters for the Islamic State of Iraq and al-Sham (ISIS), a foreign terrorist organization, are expected to arrive in the United States today in FBI custody on charges related to their participation in a brutal hostage-taking scheme that resulted in the deaths of four American citizens, as well as the deaths of British and Japanese nationals, in Syria.

Former British citizens Alexanda Amon Kotey, 36, and El Shafee Elsheikh, 32, are expected to make their initial appearances in federal court in Alexandria, Virginia this afternoon.

“These charges are the product of many years of hard work in pursuit of justice for our citizens slain by ISIS.  Although we cannot bring them back, we can and will seek justice for them, their families, and for all Americans,” said Attorney General William P. Barr. “Our message to other terrorists around the world is this — if you harm Americans, you will face American arms on the battlefield or American law in our courtrooms. Either way, you will be pursued to the ends of the earth until justice is done.”

“Today, we remember the victims, Jim Foley, Steven Sotloff, Peter Kassig, and Kayla Mueller, and their families who are forever affected by these senseless acts of violence,” said FBI Director Christopher Wray. “These families have suffered with the painful loss of their loved ones at the hands of brutal killers; today's charges demonstrate the FBI's dedication and commitment to giving them the justice they deserve.  We, along with our partners in the U.S. Government, remain steadfast in our duty to bring to justice those who have harmed our citizens -- no matter where they are, and no matter how long it takes. I'm grateful to the men and women of the FBI, the victims' families, and our domestic and international partners, for their tireless efforts to bring us to where we stand today with the prosecution of these men on U.S. soil.”

According to allegations in the indictment, from 2012 to 2015, Kotey, Elsheikh, Mohamed Emwazi (deceased), and a fourth British citizen (CC-1) currently incarcerated in Turkey, were ISIS fighters and participated in the abduction of American and European hostages in Syria. The men also allegedly engaged in a prolonged pattern of physical and psychological violence against the hostages, including against American citizens James Wright Foley, Kayla Jean Mueller, Steven Joel Sotloff, and Peter Edward Kassig. Due to their English accents and their history together in the United Kingdom, the four men were often referred to by hostages as “The Beatles”.

From August 2014 through October 2014, ISIS released videos depicting Emwazi’s barbaric beheadings of Foley, Sotloff, and British citizens David Haines and Alan Henning. In November 2014, ISIS released a video depicting the decapitated head of Kassig. In January 2015, ISIS released videos with images of two dead Japanese citizens.

“Kotey and Elsheikh are alleged to have committed horrific crimes in support of ISIS, including hostage taking resulting in the deaths of four American citizens,” said G. Zachary Terwilliger, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia. “Their alleged acts have shattered the lives of four American families. What each these families have sought more than anything else is for these defendants to have their day in court. Well, that day has come. While we cannot return their loved ones or undo the pain that these families face each day, we can do everything possible to ensure that the defendants are held accountable for their alleged savage actions.”

According to allegations in the indictment, Kotey, Elsheikh, and Emwazi, worked closely with Abu Muhammed al-Adnani, a former leading ISIS commander and chief media spokesperson. Until he was killed in a United States military airstrike in August 2016, Adnani reported directly to Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, the former self-proclaimed leader of ISIS. Baghdadi was killed during a United States military operation in Syria in October 2019.

“The indictments of Alexanda Kotey and Elshafee Elsheikh are the result of more than eight years of tireless work by the FBI Washington Field Office and personnel across the U.S. Government and the international law enforcement community,” said Acting Assistant Director in Charge James A. Dawson, FBI Washington Field Office. “These individuals allegedly conducted a litany of heinous and barbaric crimes as part of their duties as members of ISIS and for too long, the families of their victims have suffered while awaiting the day they would finally see justice for their loved ones. The men and women of the FBI remain dedicated to bringing the full force of the US justice system upon those who harm our citizens in furtherance of terrorism.”

Kotey, Elsheikh, and Emwazi met repeatedly with Adnani concerning the hostage-taking scheme and other matters. Between November 2012 and February 2015, Kotey, Elsheikh, Emwazi, and other ISIS fighters committed acts inflicting pain, suffering, cruelty and mistreatment on American, British, and other hostages in captivity.   

Throughout the captivity of the American hostages and others, Kotey, Elsheikh, and Emwazi allegedly supervised detention facilities holding hostages and were responsible for transferring hostages between detention facilities, in addition to engaging in a prolonged pattern of physical and psychological violence against hostages. From November 2013 to February 2015, Kotey and Elsheikh allegedly coordinated the Western-hostage ransom negotiations conducted by email. Kotey and Elsheikh knew and understood that the release of American and other hostages was conditioned on the transfer of large sums of money or concessions from the United States government, such as the release of Muslim prisoners.

According to allegations in the indictment, on or about April 25, 2014, Kotey, Elsheikh, and Emwazi forcibly moved the Italian, Danish, and German citizens, along with two other European humanitarian aid workers, to an isolated area approximately two miles from their prison to witness the execution of a Syrian prisoner. Kotey and Elsheikh knew and understood this execution was part of the hostage negotiation process. Emwazi executed the Syrian prisoner by shooting him in the back of the head and then numerous times in the torso as he fell into a grave. Kotey instructed the hostages to kneel at the side of the grave and witness the execution while holding handmade signs pleading for their release. Elsheikh videotaped the execution of the Syrian hostage, and after the execution the three men returned the European hostages to the prison with Elsheikh telling one hostage, “You’re next, [First name].”

The indictment alleges that ISIS fighters also forcibly seized the following additional individuals: Two United Kingdom citizens, an Italian citizen, a Danish citizen, a German citizen, four French citizens, three Spanish citizens, a New Zealand citizen, and a Russian citizen.

Kotey and Elsheikh were captured together in January 2018 by the Syrian Democratic Forces as they attempted to escape Syria for Turkey. Emwazi was killed in a United States military airstrike conducted in November 2015 in Syria.      

 

The American Victims

James Wright Foley – In November 2012, Kotey, Elsheikh, Emwazi, and other ISIS fighters forcibly seized and detained Foley, a citizen of both the United States and the United Kingdom. On or about Aug. 19, 2014, ISIS’s media center released a video depicting Emwazi beheading Foley.

Kayla Jean Mueller – In August 2013, ISIS fighters forcibly seized and detained Mueller in Syria. Beginning in or about October 2014, Baghdadi sexually abused Mueller against her will while she was held captive in Syria. On or about Feb. 7, 2015, Mueller’s family received an email from ISIS fighters confirming Mueller’s death in Syria.

Steven Joel Sotloff – In August 2013, ISIS fighters forcibly seized and detained Sotloff in Syria. On or about Sept. 2, 2014, ISIS’s media center released a video depicting Emwazi beheading Sotloff.

Peter Edward Kassig – In October 2013, ISIS fighters forcibly seized and detained Kassig in Syria. On or about Nov. 16, 2014, ISIS’s media center released a video depicting the decapitated head of Kassig.

Kotey and Elsheikh are each charged with conspiracy to commit hostage taking resulting in death; four counts of hostage taking resulting in death; conspiracy to murder United States citizens outside of the United States; conspiracy to provide material support to terrorists — hostage taking and murder — resulting in death; and conspiracy to provide material support to a designated foreign terrorist organization resulting in death. If convicted, each defendant faces a maximum penalty of life in prison.

The Department of Justice expresses its profound appreciation to the United Kingdom government as well as the Syrian Democratic Forces for their dedicated commitment to assist the United States in seeking justice for all the victims of the alleged crimes.  

This case is being investigated by the FBI’s Washington Field Office. The Justice Department’s National Security Division and Office of International Affairs provided valuable assistance.

First Assistant U.S. Attorney Raj Parekh, and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Dennis M. Fitzpatrick, John T. Gibbs and Aidan Taft Grano, and Trial Attorney Alicia Cook of the National Security Division‘s Counterterrorism Section (CTS) are handling the prosecution, with the assistance of CTS Deputy Chief Bridget Behling.

An indictment is merely an accusation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.

United States Seizes Domain Names Used by Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps

 Seizure Documents Describe Iranian Government’s Efforts to Use Domains as Part of Global Disinformation Campaign

The United States has seized 92 domain names that were unlawfully used by Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) to engage in a global disinformation campaign, announced the Department of Justice. 

According to the seizure documents, four of the domains purported to be genuine news outlets but were actually controlled by the IRGC and targeted the United States for the spread of Iranian propaganda to influence United States domestic and foreign policy in violation of the Foreign Agents Registration Act (FARA), and the remainder spread Iranian propaganda to other parts of the world.  In addition, the seizure documents describe how all 92 domains were being used in violation of U.S. sanctions targeting both the Government of Iran and the IRGC. 

“We will continue to use all of our tools to stop the Iranian Government from misusing U.S. companies and social media to spread propaganda covertly, to attempt to influence the American public secretly, and to sow discord,” said Assistant Attorney General for National Security John C. Demers.  “Fake news organizations have become a new outlet for disinformation spread by authoritarian countries as they continue to try to undermine our democracy.  Today’s actions show that we can use a variety of laws to vindicate the value of transparency.”        

 “Today we are 92 domains closer to shutting down Iran’s worldwide disinformation campaign,” said U.S. Attorney David L. Anderson for the Northern District of California.  “This important work will continue.  Iran cannot be allowed to hide behind fake news sites.  If Iran wants to be heard using U.S. facilities, it must reveal its true colors.”

“Today, we successfully seized 92 domains involved in a disinformation campaign conducted by Iran-based actors to promote pro-Iranian propaganda.  This investigation, initiated by intelligence we received from Google, was a collaborative effort between the FBI and social media companies Google, Facebook, and Twitter,” said FBI Special Agent in Charge Bennett. “This case is a perfect example of why the FBI San Francisco Division prioritizes maintaining an ongoing relationship with a variety of social media and technology companies.  These relationships enable a quick exchange of information to better protect against threats to the nation’s security and our democratic processes. The FBI also urges the public to remain vigilant about the information they find and share on social media. Every citizen must do their part to use a critical eye and look for trusted sources of information. We all have a role to play in protecting the American democratic system from foreign adversaries.”

Pursuant to the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA), unauthorized exports of goods, technology or services to Iran, directly or indirectly from the United States or by a United States person are prohibited. Pursuant to the IEEPA, the Secretary of the Treasury promulgated the Iranian Transactions and Sanctions Regulations (ITSR) that prohibit the provision of services to the Government of Iran without a license.  The Department of Treasury may issue a license through its Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC).  Further, the United States has found that the IRGC has provided material support to a number of terrorist groups, including Hizballah, Hamas, and the Taliban and, on April 15, 2019, the IRGC was designated as a Foreign Terrorist Organization by the United States Government.

In this case, the United States seized 92 domain names on Oct. 7, 2020, pursuant to a seizure warrant.  The seizure documents describe how the 92 seized domain names were being operated in violation of federal law. 

Four of the domain names, “newsstand7.com,” “usjournal.net,” “usjournal.us,” and “twtoday.net,” were seized pursuant to FARA.  FARA establishes a registration, reporting, and disclosure regime for agents of foreign principals (which includes foreign non-government individuals and entities) so that the U.S. government and the people of the United States are informed of the source of information and the identity of persons attempting to influence U.S. public opinion, policy, and law.  FARA requires, among other things, that persons subject to its requirements submit periodic registration statements containing truthful information about their activities and the income earned from them.  Disclosure of the required information allows the federal government and the American people to evaluate the statements and activities of such persons in light of their function as foreign agents.  Here, the four domains purported to be independent news outlets, but were actually operated by or on behalf of the IRGC to target the United States with pro-Iranian propaganda in an attempt to influence the American people to change United States foreign and domestic policy toward Iran and the Middle East.  These domains targeted a United States audience without proper registration pursuant to FARA and without notifying the American public with a conspicuous notice that the content of the domains was being published on behalf of the IRGC and the Government of Iran.

In addition, the remaining 88 domains targeted audiences in Western Europe, the Middle East, and South East Asia and masqueraded as genuine news outlets while actually being operated by the IRGC to spread pro-Iranian disinformation around the globe to the benefit of the Government of Iran.  The Government of Iran and the IRGC utilized website and domain services in the United States without a license from OFAC.  All 92 domains are owned and operated by United States companies.  Neither the IRGC nor the Government of Iran obtained a license from the Office of Foreign Assets Control prior to utilizing the domain names.  A list of the 92 seized domain names is available here.

Weekly Update: DHS Response to COVID-19

 

Leadership at the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and across its component offices will continue to champion efforts to combat COVID-19 and ensure public health and safety remain a top priority as it navigates through the pandemic environment.   “Since the onset of the coronavirus outbreak, the Department of Homeland Security has never wavered in its commitment to keep the Homeland secure.” said Acting Deputy Secretary Ken Cuccinelli. “Every day, our front-line workers are committed to protecting the American people amid difficult circumstances while displaying our values of strength, commitment, and resilience.  I remain confident in the Department’s ability to continue to help the American people continue to fight this virus and come out on the other side stronger than before.”  Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Providing Grants to States for Supplemental Lost Wages Payments. To ease the economic burden for those struggling with lost wages due to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, President Trump authorized FEMA to expend up to $44 billion from the Disaster Relief Fund for lost wage payments. As of October 2nd, Administrator Gaynor has approved 49 states, Guam, the U.S. Virgin Islands, the Commonwealth of Northern Mariana Islands and the District of Columbia for FEMA grants under this unprecedented program. FEMA’s grant funding will allow the approved states to provide those unemployed due to COVID-19 $300 or 400 per week on top of their regular unemployment benefit. As of October 2nd, FEMA has awarded more than $41.7 Billion in support of Lost Wages supplemental assistance. All approved grant applicants receive an initial obligation of three weeks of funding, with additional disbursements made on a weekly basis.  Providing Full Federal Reimbursement for States’ National Guard Forces. On August 3rd, President Trump granted an extension for the use of the National Guard under Federal Title 32 orders to respond to COVID-19 until December 31, 2020. As of October 2nd, 16,309 National Guard troops have activated in T-32 duty status and 333 troops have activated in State Active Duty status to help with testing and other response efforts. To date, President Trump has approved 49 National Guard requests for federal support for the use of National Guard personnel in a Title 32 duty status through December 31. For those states and territories that are approved under these criteria, FEMA executed a fully reimbursable mission assignment to the Department of Defense, including reimbursement for pay and allowances of National Guard personnel serving in a Title 32 duty status in fulfillment of the FEMA mission assignment.  Federal Law Enforcement Training Center (FLETC) Graduating the Next Generation of Law Enforcement. FLETC continues to successfully implement testing, identification, isolation and containment protocols in managing the COVID-19 virus.  As of October 2, nearly 3,400 officers and agents have successfully graduated and are now in the field performing work that is critical to protect the homeland since training was restarted on June 17. There are currently 2,142 students attending in-residence training at Glynco, Charleston, and Artesia training delivery points, with an additional 68 students attending training at the Cheltenham training delivery point. Their graduation in the coming months and the continual influx of new students ensures that our federal law enforcement partners receive the trained personnel they need to help keep our nation secure. In addition, more than 7,100 officers and agents from federal, state, local, and tribal have taken part in FLETC online training, including nearly 4,200 participants for the Integrated Use of Force series.  Science and Technology (S&T) Driving Evidence-Based Policymaking. On September 30, the DHS Science and Technology Directorate updated its Master Question List (MQL), and does so weekly, to compile available research on operationally-relevant questions to aid decision makers in the COVID-19 response. The MQL is a quick-reference guide covering what is known about the virus, what additional information is needed, and who may be working to address these fundamental questions. New entries include:  Sniffer dogs are being used at airports in Finland to recommend individuals for subsequent SARS-CoV-2 PCR testing: Press, A., Finland deploys coronavirus-sniffing dogs at main airport. https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/world/finland-deploys-coronavirus-sniffing-dogs-at-main-airport/ar-BB19li6Z?li=BBnbcA1  Globally there are five vaccine candidates that have received broad use approval (summary): CanSino’s Ad5-nCoV vaccine - Chinese military Staff, CanSino's COVID-19 vaccine candidate approved for military use in China, Reuters 2020. https://www.reuters.com/article/us-health-coronavirus-china-vaccine/cansinos-covid-19-vaccine-candidate-approved-for-military-use-in-china-idUSKBN2400DZ   Gamelaya’svaccine - Conditional approval in Russia: Russia Approves First COVID-19 Vaccine, FDA News 2020.  https://www.fdanews.com/articles/198492-russia-approves-first-covid-19-vaccine  SinoVac’sCoronaVac candidate - China for limited emergency use: Sinovac’s Covid-19 vaccine gets emergency use approval in China, Pharmaceutical Technology 2020. https://www.pharmaceutical-technology.com/news/sinovac-vaccine-emergency-use/  Two of Sinopharm’sinactivated vaccine - United Arab Emirates: Deng, C.; Jones, R., In Global Covid-19 Vaccine Race, Chinese Shot Receives First Foreign Approval, Wall Street Journal 2020. https://www.wsj.com/articles/in-global-covid-19-vaccine-race-chinese-shot-receives-first-foreign-approval-11600171149  Transportation Security Administration (TSA) Keeping Americans Safe While Ensuring Continuity of U.S. Travel and Commerce. Between Sept. 27th through Oct. 3rd, TSA screened more than 5,264,226 passengers, who have all reached their destinations safely. TSA officers are required to wear facial protection and gloves while on duty at the checkpoint. In support of air travel and all other modes of transportation, the agency continues to follow CDC guidance to protect Americans, its workers, and the nation’s transportation system. TSA continues to promote its “Stay Healthy. Stay Secure” campaign which outlines significant airport checkpoint modifications, including new technologies that reduce or eliminate physical contact, implemented to contain the spread of COVID-19, comply with CDC guidelines, and promote healthy and secure summer travel.  Ready to Ensure Safety During the Summer Travel Period. On Sept. 29, TSA Administrator Pekoske visited JFK International Airport in NYC where he held a virtual town hall with all TSA employees.  TSA announced the implementation of new 3D checkpoint scanner technology at Buffalo Niagara International Airport on Sept 28, at Chippewa Regional Airport in Wisconsin on Sept 29, and at Harrisburg International on Sept 30.  The 3-D imagery allows TSA officers to manipulate the image on screen to get a better view of a bag’s contents and often clear items without having to open a carry-on bag, thereby reducing physical contact. On Sept 29, TSA announced acrylic barrier installations at various points throughout checkpoints at the following airports - Newark Liberty, Reagan National, Dulles, Raleigh-Durham - to help reduce the spread of COVID-19.    United States Coast Guard (USCG) Monitoring Vessels that Pose a Risk to Public Health. As of October 2nd, the USCG is tracking 61 cruise ships moored, at anchor, or underway in vicinity of a U.S. port, or with potential to arrive in a US port, with approximately 9,236 crewmembers. This includes an estimated 190 American Citizens crewmembers dispersed among 34 vessels. The Coast Guard is working with the CDC based on its extension of the No Sail Order for cruise ships, which permits the off-loading of crewmembers following submission of a plan to the CDC.  Reservists. As of October 2nd, the USCG has recalled and deployed 439 Reservists in support of COVID-19 operations. They are activated to serve in numerous types of roles, including work in IT support, medical clinics, PPE warehouses, command centers and other incident management roles, notably assisting federal partners such as HHS, and supporting state emergency operations centers on behalf of FEMA.  U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Keeping the Public Safe from COVID-19-Related Fraud. ICE’s Operation Stolen Promise (OSP) targets fraudulent activity stemming from the pandemic. The initiative combines ICE’s Homeland Security Investigation’s (HSI) expertise in global trade investigations, financial fraud, and cyber investigations with robust private and public partnerships to disrupt and dismantle this criminal activity and strengthen global supply-chain security. As of September 30, as part of OSP, the agency has made 132 criminal arrests, analyzed 63,674 COVID-19-related domains, seized more than $10,538,205 million in illicit proceeds, disrupted 51 instances of illicit activity, sent 1,374 leads to domestic and international field offices, executed 119 search warrants and made 1,369 COVID-19-related seizures to include prohibited test kits and pharmaceuticals, counterfeit masks and more.  U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Continuing to Keep Americans Safe. Since January 1, CBP has made 1,147 seizures to protect consumers from counterfeit and prohibited COVID-19 products:   376 seizures of FDA-prohibited COVID-19 test kits, with more than 175,000 test kits seized.  319 seizures of counterfeit facemasks, with more than 12.6 million masks seized. 116 seizures of EPA-prohibited anti-virus lanyards, with more than 36,000 seized. 210 seizures of FDA-prohibited chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine tablets, with more than 36,000 seized.  92 seizures of antibiotics, such as azithromycin, with more than 5,000 tablets seized.  34 seizures of hand sanitizers, with nearly 300,000 items seized.

Two Isis Members Charged

 Miami, Fl. -- Two United States citizens who were detained by the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) and recently transferred to the custody of the FBI have been charged with material support violations relating to their support for the Islamic State of Iraq and al-Sham (ISIS), a designated foreign terrorist organization.

Emraan Ali, 53, a U.S. citizen born in Trinidad & Tobago, was charged in a complaint with providing and attempting to provide material support to ISIS, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 2339B.  Emraan Ali had his initial appearance today in federal court and his pre-trial detention hearing is scheduled on Friday, October 2, 2020 at 1:30 P.M. before U.S. Magistrate Judge Edwin G. Torres.

Jihad Ali, 19, a U.S. citizen born in New York, was charged in a complaint with conspiracy to provide material support to ISIS, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 371.  Jihad Ali had his initial appearance today in federal court and his pre-trial detention hearing is scheduled on Monday, October 5, 2020 at 1:30 P.M. before U.S. Magistrate Judge Chris M. McAliley.

According to the criminal complaints, in March 2015, Emraan Ali traveled to Syria with his family, including his son, Jihad Ali, to join ISIS.  Both Emraan Ali and Jihad Ali received military and religious training and served as fighters in support of the terrorist organization.  In addition to serving as a fighter, Emraan Ali served in various other roles in support of ISIS.  Emraan and Jihad Ali finally surrendered to the SDF near Baghuz in March 2019, during the last sustained ISIS battles to maintain territory in Syria.

Ariana Fajardo Orshan, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Florida, John C. Demers, Assistant Attorney General for National Security, George Piro, Special Agent in Charge, FBI, Miami Field Office, and the members of the South Florida Joint Terrorism Task Force (JTTF), made the announcement.  

Ms. Fajardo Orshan and Assistant Attorney General Demers commended the investigative efforts of the FBI and the JTTF.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Rick Del Toro and Jonathan Kobrinski, with assistance from Trial Attorney Elisa Poteat of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section.

A criminal complaint is merely an allegation, and every defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

Honolulu man charged with possession of chemical weapon and unregistered destructive device

 HONOLULU – Ethan Sandomire, 20, a resident of Honolulu, Hawaii, was indicted by a federal grand jury today with possessing and attempting to possess a chemical weapon, and possessing an unregistered destructive device.

According to the indictment and other court documents, between approximately December 2019 and March 2020, Sandomire conducted extensive research into explosives, explosive devices, chemical and biological weapons, and related topics, and wrote privately about his plans for explosive and chemical attacks in and around Honolulu, Hawaii.

In early 2020, Sandomire ordered the materials to make a destructive device from multiple online vendors, which were then delivered to his residence. At or around the time of Sandomire’s arrest on March 29, 2020, the FBI seized the items that Sandomire had ordered online from a separate location, including, among other things: approximately 30 pounds of aluminum powder, approximately 30 pounds of ultra-pure potassium perchlorate, approximately 45 pounds of potassium perchlorate, and multiple ignition systems, wireless firing systems, and victim-initiated tripwire systems.

On February 24, 2020, Sandomire went to a hardware store in Honolulu and purchased items that, when combined, create chlorine gas, a toxic chemical. That same day, Sandomire searched the internet multiple times for the blueprints and floor plans of a large residential apartment building centrally located in Honolulu, Hawaii (“Building A”). Building A has approximately 450 residential apartment units, several commercial units, and a multi-level grocery store.

Two days later, on February 26, 2020, Sandomire visited Building A in person. Security camera footage showed Sandomire waiting outside the main lobby for someone to exit, then walking into the lobby before the doors closed, and taking the elevator to the sixth-floor parking area. He took pictures on his cellphone of structural support columns inside the parking garage that is located below Building A’s outdoor recreational area and lap pool. He also took pictures of a storage area and large air vents coming out of an air handler that serves a 16,000 square-foot space elsewhere in Building A.

Sandomire returned to Building A’s main lobby and asked for copies of the building’s floor plans from the front desk staff, which the staff member did not provide. He also visited the building developer’s office and took photographs of a physical model of Building A.

Sandomire’s personal computer contained a desktop note entitled “destroy [Building A]” by using chemicals and explosives, among other thing, and numerous folders with extensive research into explosives, chemical weapons, biological weapons, improvised munitions, and similar topics. Some of the folders were entitled “building demolition,” “my attack plan,” “explosives,” and “bio warfare.” The folders contained digital versions of approximately 54 books about explosives and related topics. Sandomire’s computer also contained an instructional document titled “Advanced Chemical Weapons Design and Manufacture,” with the subtitle “Chemicals that Kill in 30 Seconds or your Money Back.”

The charges filed today include one count of Possession of a chemical weapon, which carries a maximum statutory penalty of life imprisonment and a fine of not more than $250,000, and one count of Possession of an unregistered destructive device, which carries a maximum statutory penalty of 10 years’ imprisonment and a fine of not more than $10,000.

In announcing the charges, U.S. Attorney for the District of Hawaii, Kenji M. Price stated “My office will use the tools at its disposal to protect the community from those who possess destructive devices and chemical weapons. These kinds of cases underscore the importance of vigilant action by law enforcement to protect the public from the acquisition and use of materials that can cause devastating harm to our communities. This is the second case this year brought by my office that involves a violation of the federal chemical weapons statute, and we will continue to vigorously pursue, and bring to justice, those who endanger our communities by violating this law.”

“It is our priority at the FBI to keep the citizens of Hawaii and the United States safe and to ensure that individuals like Ethan Sandomire are stopped before they terrorize our communities. Even though Sandomire went to great lengths to obtain the knowledge and the materials to construct a chemical weapon and an explosive device, the men and women of the Honolulu FBI disrupted his evil intentions before he could cause harm. Today’s indictment is an example of the FBI's commitment of making Hawaii a safer place for all,” said Federal Bureau of Investigation Special Agent in Charge Eli S. Miranda.

An indictment is merely an accusation, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless proven guilty.

This case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Marc A. Wallenstein with the assistance of the Department of Justice’s National Security Division.