Latest news with #King'sPoliceMedal
Business Wire
05-08-2025
- Business
- Business Wire
5 Stones intelligence Strengthens Leadership With Addition of High-profile Federal and International Recruits
MIAMI--(BUSINESS WIRE)--5 Stones intelligence (5Si)®, a leading professional intelligence and investigations firm headquartered in Miami, FL, with additional offices in Washington, D.C. and across the globe, has announced a significant expansion of its leadership team. The company has welcomed seven seasoned law enforcement, intelligence, and military professionals from the U.S., U.K., and Israel, while also promoting two exemplary internal leaders, further strengthening its position as the operator of the world's largest private HUMINT intelligence network serving government, corporate, and private-sector Clients worldwide. "The caliber of talent joining and advancing within 5Si is extraordinary. Their collective skills reinforce our mission to deliver world-class intelligence and investigative solutions for every Client we serve." –5Si Founder David Tinsley Share The new hires include Helene Miller KPM, former London Metropolitan Police Detective Chief Inspector; Bailea Tinsley, former FBI Special Agent; Daniel Forst, former Israel Defense Force Unit 8200; Mack Strong, former HSI Miami Supervisory Special Agent; Matthew Germanowski, former DEA Special Operations Senior Executive; John Gazzarra, former DEA Assistant Special Agent in Charge; and Louis Sastre, former Miami Police Task Force Agent. In addition to these appointments, Grayson Blake has been promoted to Director of Science & Technology Services, and Matthew Tinsley has been promoted to Chief of Staff. "Our Clients rely on us for their most sensitive investigations and intelligence challenges," said Brian Talay, CEO of 5Si. "With more than 100 years of combined global law enforcement and intelligence experience, the addition of these exceptional individuals further enhances our global services and enables us to continue delivering extraordinary outcomes for our Clients." Helene Miller, KPM, 5Si's Director of Global Investigations and Risk Management for the United Kingdom and Europe, provides strategic investigative leadership to 5Si's government and commercial Clients across Europe from the firm's London office. A decorated former Detective Chief Inspector with London's Metropolitan Police Service, Miller brings more than 30 years of leadership in complex investigations, risk management, and international crime operations. She also served with the U.K.'s National Crime Agency (NCA). She was awarded the prestigious King's Police Medal for distinguished service. Recognized as "Crime Fighter of the Year" for her work combating modern slavery and human trafficking, Miller led a 120-person detective unit specializing in mass fatalities, family liaison, and high-risk cases. Bailea Tinsley, 5Si's Director of Global Investigations and Intelligence Services, operates from the Washington, D.C. office. A former FBI Special Agent, Tinsley brings extensive experience investigating transnational criminal enterprises and complex financial crimes, including major cases on Native American reservations. Her assignments spanned the Baltimore, Nashville, and Oklahoma City field offices. Before joining the FBI, she practiced law in Finance and Corporate Restructuring and holds a J.D. from Emory University School of Law. Tinsley is also trained in multiple law enforcement and intelligence disciplines and is proficient in French with additional Arabic skills. At 5Si, she leads high-level global investigations and litigation strategies for government and commercial Clients across diverse international sectors. Daniel Forst, 5Si's Director of Global Technology Solutions and Services, is based in the firm's Jerusalem office. A veteran of Israel's elite IDF Unit 8200, Forst brings over 20 years of experience advancing deep-tech solutions across defense, homeland security, and intelligence sectors. He has led high-impact initiatives on Iran and global terrorism, operating in politically unstable regions and conflict zones. A recognized subject matter expert in Technical Covert Operations, Forst provides 5Si Clients with access to cutting-edge technologies and strategic guidance on complex geopolitical threats. He holds a degree in East Asian Studies from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem and speaks multiple languages. Forst also supports veteran-focused resilience programs and serves on the board of a nonprofit educational theater. Mack Strong, 5Si's Director of Global Security and Sensitive Investigations and Intelligence, oversees complex international investigations from the firm's Miami office. A distinguished former HSI Supervisory Special Agent, Strong led groundbreaking international operations for the Department of Homeland Security focused on complex financial crimes, illicit networks, and national security threats. He is a recognized subject matter expert in anti-money laundering, kleptocracy, OFAC sanctions enforcement, FCPA violations, and due diligence under the Patriot Act and Bank Secrecy Act. With extensive expertise in asset tracing, financial fraud, and global compliance strategies, Strong delivers high-level investigative insight to 5Si's government, corporate, and private-sector Clients, helping navigate risk in today's interconnected threat landscape. Matthew Germanowski, a Director at 5Si, oversees investigative efforts for U.S. congressional committees and serves as a key leader on 5 Stones' federal contracts, including the IRS Criminal Investigation SAISS contract and the Department of State's international training programs. As a former DEA Special Agent, Germanowski held high-level classified roles within the DEA's Special Operations Division and Office of Professional Responsibility. He led global narco-terrorism and money laundering investigations, briefed the Attorney General, and directed internal affairs oversight as Deputy Chairman of the Board of Professional Conduct. A seasoned instructor, he has delivered advanced training in over a dozen countries on undercover operations and transnational organized crime. Germanowski is also a committed Christian and mentor to aspiring government professionals. John Gazzarra, a Director of 5Si, brings decades of high-level experience in both federal law enforcement and corporate security. A former DEA Special Agent, Gazzarra led complex international investigations in high-threat environments before transitioning to a senior security leadership role at Coca-Cola. He is a bilingual (English/Spanish) Subject Matter Expert in global security, risk mitigation, crisis management, and high-stakes investigative strategy. Known for his ability to navigate multinational investigations with precision, Gazzarra currently oversees the expansion of 5Si's Commercial and Private Client operations worldwide. Louis Sastre, 5Si Director of Surveillance Operations, is a seasoned surveillance specialist with over 20 years of field experience, including service as a DEA Miami Task Force Agent. He has led sophisticated physical surveillance operations across the U.S., South America, Asia, and the Middle East. Sastre is a Subject Matter Expert in deploying and managing a wide range of surveillance technologies—including sensors, video systems, and real-time coverage solutions—to support global intelligence and investigative missions. He now directs surveillance operations for 5Si's government and private-sector Clients. Grayson Blake, 5Si Director of Science & Technology Services, leads 5Si's innovation in Open-Source Intelligence (OSINT) and digital investigative technologies. Blake specializes in OSINT research, online data collection, and complex digital footprint analysis. He designs and implements advanced intelligence workflows that transform raw data into actionable insights. Recognized as a thought leader in AI and tech-enabled investigations, Blake guides teams in expanding 5Si's digital capabilities to support global intelligence and investigative objectives with precision and speed. Matthew Tinsley, 5Si Chief of Staff, coordinates all agency operations to ensure exceptional service delivery across the firm's global Client base. A certified Personal Protection Specialist (PPS), Tinsley previously led 5Si's Global Surveillance and Protection Operations, with field experience spanning the U.S., Israel, and the West Bank. He holds degrees from Lee University (Global Business) and Tennessee Wesleyan (MBA). He has completed executive programs at Oxford Saïd, Yale, and MIT—where he earned certifications in Blockchain, AI, and Digital Currency tracing. Tinsley is also Chainalysis Reactor Certified (CRC). He has trained with the Israeli Shin Bet, the Executive Protection Institute, and Gunsite Academy, among others, with specialized expertise in advanced firearms, tactical systems, and threat mitigation. "The caliber of talent joining and advancing within 5Si is extraordinary," added 5Si Founder David Tinsley. "These individuals bring decades of specialized expertise, proven leadership, and unmatched dedication to service. Their collective skills reinforce our mission to deliver world-class intelligence and investigative solutions for every Client we serve, no matter the complexity or scale of the challenge. We're proud to welcome these exceptional professionals to the 5Si team." 5 Stones intelligence (5Si)® is a leading U.S.-based intelligence and investigations firm founded in 2007, with offices in Miami, Washington D.C., and global operations across Europe, the Middle East, Asia, Africa, and the Americas, delivering full-spectrum solutions in human intelligence (HUMINT), forensic investigations, financial and technical intelligence, risk mitigation, AML compliance, and protective services, for government, corporate, legal, and nonprofit Clients. Staffed by elite professionals from the FBI, DEA, CIA, and global military and law enforcement, 5Si operates the world's largest private HUMINT network, providing mission-critical intelligence with integrity, discretion, and international reach. Learn more at
Yahoo
14-06-2025
- Yahoo
Police officers named in King's Birthday Honours
Three West Midlands Police officers have been recognised in the King's Birthday Honours list. Sgt Tim Rogers, retired Det Ch Supt Sam Ridding and retired Det Supt Nigel Walsh were each awarded the King's Police Medal. Ms Ridding was a response officer in Sutton Coldfield, before working her way up to lead the force's professional standards department. Mr Walsh worked in counter terrorism, while Sgt Rogers supports and trains police drivers. "Throughout their careers they have worked tirelessly to make a difference in policing and help others," said West Midlands Police Chief Constable Craig Guildford. "This has ranged from assisting members of the public in their time of need, catching criminals and supporting colleagues." He thanked the officers for their contributions, and said the honours were well-deserved. Ms Ridding's career saw her take on roles investigating kidnapping, murders and corruption. The force said she was widely known among colleagues for her tenacity and relentless work to secure justice for victims and bereaved families. Mr Walsh worked in counter terrorism policing before his retirement earlier this year. Bosses at the force said he had strengthened relationships between policing and security services nationally, and developed ways to protect communities against terrorism. He has since returned to a staff role after retiring as an officer. Sgt Rogers has been secretary of the West Midlands Police Federation, and led a national campaign for law changes to help protect officers in pursuit of suspects or assisting victims. Follow BBC Birmingham on BBC Sounds, Facebook, X and Instagram. Awards for off-duty PCs who stopped armed burglars Award nomination for PC who saved burning woman Fire rescue police couple put up for bravery award West Midlands Police
BBC News
14-06-2025
- BBC News
West Midlands Police officers awarded in King's Birthday Honours
Three West Midlands Police officers have been recognised in the King's Birthday Honours Tim Rogers, retired Det Ch Supt Sam Ridding and retired Det Supt Nigel Walsh were each awarded the King's Police Ridding was a response officer in Sutton Coldfield, before working her way up to lead the force's professional standards Walsh worked in counter terrorism, while Sgt Rogers supports and trains police drivers. "Throughout their careers they have worked tirelessly to make a difference in policing and help others," said West Midlands Police Chief Constable Craig Guildford."This has ranged from assisting members of the public in their time of need, catching criminals and supporting colleagues."He thanked the officers for their contributions, and said the honours were well-deserved. Ms Ridding's career saw her take on roles investigating kidnapping, murders and force said she was widely known among colleagues for her tenacity and relentless work to secure justice for victims and bereaved Walsh worked in counter terrorism policing before his retirement earlier this at the force said he had strengthened relationships between policing and security services nationally, and developed ways to protect communities against has since returned to a staff role after retiring as an Rogers has been secretary of the West Midlands Police Federation, and led a national campaign for law changes to help protect officers in pursuit of suspects or assisting victims. Follow BBC Birmingham on BBC Sounds, Facebook, X and Instagram.
The Independent
13-06-2025
- Health
- The Independent
Retired police officer who was key in naloxone rollout honoured
A retired Assistant Chief Constable who was instrumental in rolling out an overdose antidote to frontline officers has said he is 'delighted and humbled' to be recognised in the King's Birthday Honours. Retired Police Scotland Assistant Chief Constable Gary Ritchie has been awarded the King's Police Medal, while the force's chief officer of Human Resources Nicky Page becomes an MBE. Gary Ritchie joined what was then Strathclyde Police in 1991 and retired in April 2025 after more than three decades of police service. He was appointed as an Assistant Chief Constable in 2019 and was instrumental in the rollout of naloxone, which is used to reverse the effect of opioids, to all frontline police officers in 2020. He also played a key role during the Cop26 climate summit in Glasgow in 2021 and during the Covid-19 pandemic, acting as Gold Commander during both. Mr Ritchie said: 'I am both delighted and humbled that I have been awarded the King's Police Medal. 'Any personal achievements which have led to me receiving this award have only been made possible by the many people inside and outside the service who have contributed to the successful initiatives, projects and operations that we have undertaken over the years. 'The award is much more a recognition of their contributions and, at times, wise counsel and advice. 'I will be forever grateful and proud of what we achieved together.' Nicky Page becomes an MBE for services to policing, equality and health. She joined Strathclyde Police in 2010 and has provided strategic human resources leadership for more than 22,000 people in Police Scotland. This included playing a key role during the transition period that brought together eight legacy forces to form Police Scotland in 2013. She led the Staff Pay, Reward and Modernisation Project, aligning pay and conditions across the organisation, which the force said contributed to a reduction in the gender pay gap. Since 2017, she has also volunteered as a Community First Responder with the Scottish Ambulance Service, contributing more than 1000 hours of service while balancing the demands of her role and family life. She said: 'I am both grateful and surprised to receive this honour. 'I'm deeply appreciative of the support I have received from my colleagues in policing, the Ambulance Service and fellow responders within the Bathgate Group. 'This honour reflects the shared commitment and teamwork that have made my contribution possible.' Chief Constable Jo Farrell praised the pair. She said: 'I want to warmly congratulate Gary and Nicky on this well deserved recognition of their outstanding careers in public service, leadership and collaboration across sectors. ' Police officers, staff and volunteers work hard to deliver for our communities and these awards are an opportunity to thank them and celebrate their huge contributions to society.'
Yahoo
13-06-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Retired police officer who was key in naloxone rollout honoured
A retired Assistant Chief Constable who was instrumental in rolling out an overdose antidote to frontline officers has said he is 'delighted and humbled' to be recognised in the King's Birthday Honours. Retired Police Scotland Assistant Chief Constable Gary Ritchie has been awarded the King's Police Medal, while the force's chief officer of Human Resources Nicky Page becomes an MBE. Gary Ritchie joined what was then Strathclyde Police in 1991 and retired in April 2025 after more than three decades of police service. He was appointed as an Assistant Chief Constable in 2019 and was instrumental in the rollout of naloxone, which is used to reverse the effect of opioids, to all frontline police officers in 2020. He also played a key role during the Cop26 climate summit in Glasgow in 2021 and during the Covid-19 pandemic, acting as Gold Commander during both. Mr Ritchie said: 'I am both delighted and humbled that I have been awarded the King's Police Medal. 'Any personal achievements which have led to me receiving this award have only been made possible by the many people inside and outside the service who have contributed to the successful initiatives, projects and operations that we have undertaken over the years. 'The award is much more a recognition of their contributions and, at times, wise counsel and advice. 'I will be forever grateful and proud of what we achieved together.' Nicky Page becomes an MBE for services to policing, equality and health. She joined Strathclyde Police in 2010 and has provided strategic human resources leadership for more than 22,000 people in Police Scotland. This included playing a key role during the transition period that brought together eight legacy forces to form Police Scotland in 2013. She led the Staff Pay, Reward and Modernisation Project, aligning pay and conditions across the organisation, which the force said contributed to a reduction in the gender pay gap. Since 2017, she has also volunteered as a Community First Responder with the Scottish Ambulance Service, contributing more than 1000 hours of service while balancing the demands of her role and family life. She said: 'I am both grateful and surprised to receive this honour. 'I'm deeply appreciative of the support I have received from my colleagues in policing, the Ambulance Service and fellow responders within the Bathgate Group. 'This honour reflects the shared commitment and teamwork that have made my contribution possible.' Chief Constable Jo Farrell praised the pair. She said: 'I want to warmly congratulate Gary and Nicky on this well deserved recognition of their outstanding careers in public service, leadership and collaboration across sectors. 'Police officers, staff and volunteers work hard to deliver for our communities and these awards are an opportunity to thank them and celebrate their huge contributions to society.'
