#ProactiveMeasures

[usnewsper-business]

Bronx Police Fight Shoplifting with Secret Officers: Crime Drops! #Bronx #communityengagement #crimedataanalysis #NYPD #plainclothesofficers #policepresence #proactivemeasures #reducingcrime #retailtheft #shoplifting

[hillingdontoday]

'Project Palisade' launched to Safeguard Elderly victims of burglary

In a bid to enhance the support system for elderly victims of burglary, detectives in west London have rolled out a pioneering project called 'Project Palisade.' This groundbreaking initiative involves a collaborative effort between the police, local council, and the NHS to ensure comprehensive assistance is available to seniors affected by burglary. Under the project, a range of services are offered to victims, ranging from police officers connecting with organizations like AgeUK for emotional support to facilitating referrals to the council for the installation of new alarms or locks. These measures are designed to help victims regain a sense of security following the traumatic experience of a burglary. The project also focuses on proactive crime prevention by raising awareness within the community. Police officers actively engage with the public at various venues, disseminating information about the modus operandi of criminals who often target the elderly. Bespoke leaflets containing preventive advice are distributed at key locations such as GP surgeries and pharmacies to educate residents on safeguarding their homes. Authorities acknowledge the prevalence of organized criminal groups targeting older individuals who live alone. The criminals often exploit the trust of their victims by impersonating trusted figures, such as employees from utility services. These deceitful acts are commonly executed in proximity to roadworks or water repairs, adding an element of authenticity to their schemes. In an innovative move, 'Project Palisade' has forged a partnership with Thames Water to access information about planned roadworks across West London. Neighbourhood police teams utilize this data to deploy strategically to these areas, warning residents about the potential risks associated with criminal activities, especially those involving impersonation near ongoing road repairs. This collaborative effort not only seeks to provide immediate support to victims but also aims to create a safer environment by preemptively addressing the root causes of such crimes. 'Project Palisade' stands as a commendable example of inter-agency cooperation in the ongoing fight against crimes targeting vulnerable members of the community. Detective Inspector Tom Collins, who set up the project, said: “The impact of burglaries on anyone – but especially the elderly community who often live alone – cannot be underestimated. We know that their trauma does not end when the burglary is over but rather it often leaves them feeling anxious, depressed and unable to feel safe in their homes again. “Investigating these crimes is paramount but we should not overlook the emotional trauma caused and we must play our part in helping tackle this. Our partners have been fundamental in providing the aftercare needed and we will continue to work together in this victim-focused way.” #CommunitySafety #ProjectPalisade #ProjectPalisade #ElderlySupport #BurglaryAftercare #CrimePrevention #PolicePartnership #NHSCollaboration #SafetyAwareness #ThamesWaterAlliance #VictimSupport #PreventiveMeasures #NeighborhoodSafety #ProjectAwareness #SafeCommunities #InteragencyCooperation Read the full article

[thxnews]

Amazon: Turning Point, Guilty Plea in Counterfeit Case

  Unprecedented Success in the Battle Against Counterfeits

In a groundbreaking development, Amazon's Counterfeit Crimes Unit (CCU) joined forces with the Prada Group and other luxury brands to provide vital information and evidence to Chinese law enforcement. Consequently, this collaboration led to a guilty plea from a counterfeiter involved in the sale of counterfeit luxury goods, marking a significant turning point in the fight for Intellectual Property rights.   A Landmark Case Without Seized Counterfeit Products This case stands out as an exceptional milestone in the ongoing struggle against counterfeit goods. It represents an unusual scenario where a criminal referral from Amazon's CCU resulted in a criminal judgment. Importantly, this judgment was primarily based on evidence derived from overseas counterfeit sales records and fulfillment center inventory records located outside of China, rather than the typical reliance on seized counterfeit products.  

Departure from Conventional Legal Practices

Traditionally, courts issued criminal judgments when there was tangible evidence of counterfeits seized during law enforcement raids. In this case, however, the court primarily depended on information furnished by Amazon and luxury brands, including Prada.   Amazon's Early Detection and Referral to Chinese Authorities Amazon's CCU first detected the defendant's counterfeiting activities in 2021. Following rigorous internal investigations, Amazon initiated a criminal referral to the relevant regional Chinese enforcement agency, specifically the Public Security Bureau (PSB), to launch a criminal case. The court sentenced the individual to three years in prison, imposed a $25,000 fine, and will seize and destroy all proceeds acquired from the sale of counterfeit goods, along with their illicit inventory of counterfeit items.  

A Victory for Intellectual Property Protection

  Kebharu Smith, director of Amazon's CCU, stated, "The guilty plea is a significant win for Amazon's CCU, but more importantly, it's a win for all of those who share our commitment to tackling the industry-wide issue of counterfeiting. This successful result would not have been possible without the collaboration with law enforcement and luxury players such as the Prada Group. We are grateful for their support and look forward to continuing to take the fight to counterfeiters."   Francesca Secondari, Prada Group's General Counsel and Chief Legal Officer emphasized their unwavering commitment to eradicating the sale of counterfeit goods, aiming to protect their brands' integrity and ensure the high-quality standards expected by their customers. She praised the partnership with Amazon as a significant step forward in the ongoing battle against those who attempt to break the law and harm their customers.   Amazon's Ongoing Commitment to Counterfeit Prevention Amazon has deployed an array of automated protection technologies to prevent counterfeits from entering its platform. In 2022, Amazon's systems thwarted more than 800,000 attempts by bad actors to open new selling accounts before listing a single product for sale. Over 99% of listings suspected of being fraudulent or counterfeit were blocked or removed through Amazon's proactive, automated protections. Amazon continues its commitment to pursuing bad actors who seek to evade these protections and remains dedicated to upholding the integrity of its platform. In 2022, Amazon's CCU took legal action or referred over 1,300 criminals for investigation across the United States, the United Kingdom, the European Union, and China, working closely with brands and law enforcement worldwide to hold wrongdoers accountable.   Sources: THX News & Amazon. Read the full article

[usnewsper-politics]

Lawmakers Call for Action: UPenn Faces Criticism Over Anti-Semitic Incidents on Campus #accountability #AmyGutmann #AntiDefamationLeague #antiSemiticincidents #collegecampuses #concretesteps #diversityandinclusion #hatecrimes #highereducationinstitutions #Holocaust #Jewishfaculty #Jewishstudents #lawmakers #proactivemeasures. #studentssafety #swastikas #transparency #universitiesresponses #UniversityofPennsylvania #UPenn #zerotolerancepolicy

[thxnews]

Stronger Together: Combatting Smuggling for Filipinos

  BOC Pledges Cooperation with Other Government Agencies

In response to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s stern warning against agricultural smugglers and hoarders during his second State of the Nation Address (SONA), the Bureau of Customs (BOC) has declared its unwavering commitment to intensify proactive measures in the fight against agricultural smuggling. Furthermore, the BOC assured the public that it would closely coordinate with other government agencies to curb illicit activities that are considered economic sabotage.  

Enhancing Fraud Detection and Intelligence Capabilities

To bolster its efforts, the BOC announced its plans to enhance both pre-arrival and post-arrival technical targeting and fraud detection mechanisms for imported goods. This includes strategic investments in additional equipment and rigorous capacity building for personnel to further strengthen intelligence and enforcement capabilities. The bureau firmly believes that these comprehensive measures will significantly contribute to curbing agricultural smuggling and safeguarding the nation's economic interests.  

Supporting Prosecution and Accountability

Among the bureau's proactive measures is its commitment to support the prosecution of smugglers. The BOC expressed its determination to work closely and cooperatively with the Department of Justice (DOJ) to increase the conviction rate of smugglers, thus serving as a strong deterrent to others involved in such illicit activities. Furthermore, holding erring customs personnel accountable is also a top priority for the BOC, with several show-cause orders already issued against them. Additionally, a total of 66 BOC personnel are currently undergoing thorough investigation by the Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service (CIIS) due to detected violations, ensuring internal accountability and integrity within the bureau.   Collaboration and Joint Operations To tackle the issue on multiple fronts, the BOC emphasized the paramount importance of intelligence sharing, seamless collaboration, and joint operations with both local and international enforcement agencies. This multi-pronged approach aims to strengthen the bureau's ability to detect and apprehend smuggling activities effectively.  

Impressive Results of Anti-Smuggling Efforts

As of July 25, the BOC has conducted an impressive 654 anti-smuggling operations, resulting in the seizure of smuggled products worth a staggering PHP 30.1 billion. Among these seizures, PHP 2.9 billion worth of agricultural goods were recovered. The BOC's diligence and vigilance have led to the revocation of accreditation for 95 importers and 36 customs brokers who violated or failed to comply with customs regulations.   Priority on Food Security and Production The commitment to combat agricultural smuggling is part of President Marcos Jr.'s administration's overarching goal of ensuring food security, affordability, and increased production in the country. As the concurrent chief of the Department of Agriculture, President Marcos Jr. recognizes the vital role that combatting smuggling plays in achieving these objectives.  

Summary

the Bureau of Customs, under the direction of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., is determined to strengthen its proactive measures in combating agricultural smuggling. Through enhanced fraud detection and intelligence capabilities, support for prosecution, and cooperation with other agencies, the BOC aims to safeguard the nation's food security and economic interests. The robust results of their anti-smuggling efforts demonstrate their commitment to ensuring that the Philippines remains free from the damaging effects of agricultural smuggling.   Sources: THX News & Philippine News Agency. Read the full article

[usnewsper-politics]

Lawmakers Call for Action: UPenn Faces Criticism Over Anti-Semitic Incidents on Campus #accountability #AmyGutmann #AntiDefamationLeague #antiSemiticincidents #collegecampuses #concretesteps #diversityandinclusion #hatecrimes #highereducationinstitutions #Holocaust #Jewishfaculty #Jewishstudents #lawmakers #proactivemeasures. #studentssafety #swastikas #transparency #universitiesresponses #UniversityofPennsylvania #UPenn #zerotolerancepolicy