Suspicious Activities Involving Israeli Art
Students at DEA Facilities
Background:
In January, 2001, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Office
of Security Programs (IS), began to receive reports of Israeli art
students attempting to penetrate several DEA Field Offices in the
continental United States. Additionally, there have been reports of
Israeli art students visiting the homes of numerous DEA employees. These
incidents have occurred since at least the beginning of 2000, and have
continued to the present. The number of reported incidents increased in
November/December 2000, and has continued to date. These incidents have
involved several other law enforcement and Department of Defense
agencies, with contacts made at other agencies' facilities and the
residences of their employees. Geographically, these incidents are very
widespread, ranging from California to Florida. The majority of the
incidents have occurred in the southern half of the continental U.S.
with the most activity reported in the state of Florida. Since April
2001, the number of reported incidents has declined, however, the
geographic spread of the incidents has increased to Wisconsin, Oklahoma,
and Los Angeles.
The activities of these Israeli art students raised the
suspicion of IS and other field offices when attempts were made to
circumvent the access control systems at DEA offices, and when these
individuals began to solicit their paintings at the homes of DEA
employees. The nature of the individuals' conduct, combined with
intelligence information and historical information regarding past
incidents involving Israeli Organized Crime, leads IS to believe the
incidents may well be an organized intelligence gathering activity. It
is believed by IS that these incidents should not be the basis for any
immediate concern for the safety and security of DEA personnel, however,
employees should continue to exercise due caution in safeguarding
information relating to DEA investigations, or activities.
DEA Orlando has developed the first drug nexus to this group.
Telephone numbers obtained from an Israel Art Student encountered at the
Orlando D.O. have been linked to several ongoing DEA MDMA (Ecstasy)
investigations in Florida, California, Texas, and New York. The Orlando
D.O. has opened an investigation that is being coordinated with DEA HQs.
In general, these individuals appear to be organized in teams of 8 to
10 people, with one person described as the "Team Leader". They are
usually encountered in pairs or individually carrying a makeshift art
portfolio. Several times, they have, been seen or admitted to being
dropped off in an area by the Team Leader, who returns later to pick
them up. The females are usually described as very attractive, and all
are generally in their early to mid-20s. Most admit to having served in
the Israeli Military. This is not surprising given the mandatory
military service require in Israel, however, a majority of those
questioned has stated they served in military intelligence, electronic
signal intercept, or explosive ordinance units. Some have been linked to
high-ranking officials in the Israeli military. One was the son of a
two-star general, one served as the bodyguard to the head of the Israeli
Army, one served in a Patriot missile unit. That these people are now
traveling in the U.S. selling art seems not to fit their background.
Their stories are remarkable only in their consistency. At first,
they will state that they are art students, either from the University
of Jerusalem, or the Bezalel Academy of Arts in Jerusalem. Other times
they will purport to be promoting a new art studio in the area. When
pressed for details as to the location of the art studio or why they are
selling the paintings, they become evasive. Some claim to be the artist
who painted the artwork, others claim they promoting the work of others
or of Israel. Information has been received which indicates the art is
actually produced in China. When told that they cannot solicit on
federal facilities, they will claim that the paintings are not for sale,
but that they are soliciting interest in the paintings, either for an
art studio or for a future art sale.
An incident report by DEA Tampa has revealed much information
relating to these individuals. DEA Agents at the Tampa District Office
questioned the Team Leader of a group of 9 individuals at length, The
Team Leader stated he purchases the paintings for $8 to $10 dollars from
an individual in the Hollywood/Ft. Lauderdale, Florida area. The
paintings are then sold for $50 to $80 dollars. (Other offices have
reported the paintings selling for $150-$200 dollars.) The individuals
come to the U. S. on tourist visas, and finance their stay here by
selling the paintings. The Hollywood, Florida area seems to be a central
point for these individuals with several having addresses in this area.
There have been incidents where criminal and/or suspicious activity
has been associated with these individuals. Two were arrested by FPS in
Plantation, FL with counterfeit Social Security Cards. Baton Rouge, LA
discovered a small amount (personal use amount) of marijuana in the
residence of one group, and some of the individuals interviewed by
DEA/Tampa admitted to smoking marijuana. Criminal records checks have
revealed some arrest history on persons associated with these groups.
Passport irregularities have been reported. A review of their passports
shows travel to several other countries, to include Thailand, Laos,
India, Kenya, Central and South America, Australia, Germany, Amsterdam,
and Canada. One individual presented a Canadian citizenship card along
with his Israeli passport. A report from EPA/Denver involved a female
art student going to the house of an EPA Special Agent to sell art, and
returning later to photograph the house. There is a report of one of
these individuals being seen diagramming the layout of a federal
facility. This information has not been directly reported to DEA, and
has not been confirmed by first-hand observation.
When encountered at residences, some of these individuals are
persistent in trying to get inside the home. Some have asked to use the
telephone when leaving. Some employees have reported that they came only
to their house, while others have reported that the students approached
the entire neighborhood.
IS requested that all DEA Field Divisions canvas their employees to
determine if these activities have occurred in their area. Additionally,
information has been received from several other federal law enforcement
acencies. The following is a summary, by DEA Division Offices, of the
events that have taken place:
Atlanta Division
1. Sometime in July or August 2000, a woman claiming to be a student
from a foreign country attempted to enter the Chattanooga, Tennessee
Resident Office. The woman was attempting to sell homemade pins that she
hand painted and put together herself. An Office Assistant advised the
woman that she was on Federal Property and solicitation was prohibited.
The Office Assistant claimed the woman was from the Middle East, but
cannot recall the exact location.
2. In mid to late December 2000, a male and female subject described
as being in their mid-twentles arrived at the residence of a Special
Agent. The male subject spoke fluent English, however the female subject
had a heavy accent. Both subjects claimed to be Israeli art students.
The Special Agent examined some of the artwork, but became suspicious
when the students would not provide him with a contact telephone number
in case he should decide to buy something. Subsequently, the Special
Agent saw some of the exact same artwork for sale at kiosk in the Mall
of Georgia. The Special Agent questioned the salesperson about the
origin of the artwork, but the salesperson was uncooperative.
3. During the first week of January 2001, an individual identifying
himself as an Israeli art student attempted to bring artwork into the
Columbus, Georgia Resident Office. The individual was not permitted to
enter the office.
4. The following was received by the Montgomery, Alabama District
Office:
On 3/27/2001, approximately 1:45 p.m., Montgomery District Office
Group Supervisor John W. Wall was exiting the
elevator on the first floor of our building enroute to a meeting. Our
building is a small two-story office building that also contains the
offices of the U.S. Bureau of Prisons, U.S. Geological Survey, Dyncorp
and a small investment company (Newman Investments). As G/S Wall got out of the elevator, a white female was
getting on. G/S Wall noticed she was carrying
a large blue artist portfolio. GIS Wall [not redacted] engaged
her in conversation and asked if she was in our building on government
business to which the female stated that she was an art student from
Austria and was promoting her work. G/S Wall
asked if she was actually from Israel and the female later identified as
Vanina Erika DARDIC, DOB 3/5/78, stated again that she was from Austria.
DARDIC got on the elevator for the second floor and G/S Wall went to his OGV
and notified me with instructions to re-interview the female.
5. Several minutes passed and DARDIC never came to our office.
(Investigation later revealed that DARDIC did not visit any of the
offices in our buildling. Moments later an administrative assistant
observed DARDIC walking through the parking lot in the direction of
other buildings.
6. At that point, agents set out on foot to find DARDIC. The agents
observed another white female later identified as Ester SAGES, DOB
9/30/77, walking through the office complex, also carrying a large blue
portfolio. SAGES was followed on foot a short distance to a van that was
parked on a side road where the agents made contact with a white male,
identifitd as Marcelo VALANSI, DOB 11/24/77. VALANSI took SAGES'
portfolio and placed it into the van, a 1984 GMC full-size custom van
bearing Florida tag T11YZX, registered to Marcelo VALANSI at 901 SE 1st
Ave., #2, Gainesville, Florida.
7. The agents approached SAGES and VALANSI, identified themselves and
separated the two for interviews. VALANSI stated that he was an art
student at the University of Florida and stated that they were traveling
around to "'promote" the work of new artists. Information revealed that
VALANSI was registered at Santa Fe Community College in 1999 and not the
University of Florida. VALANSI produced an ID card from Argentina, DNI
26,316,660, card #190961, and stated that he was on spring break from
the University of Florida where he has been a student for three years.
VALANSI stated his passport was in his hotel room at the Governor's
House Hotel, #180. VALANSI stated that he and approximately five other
students had been in Montgomery about two days and planned to stay
several more.
8. Ester SAGES produced an Israeli passport, #6470399, and stated
that she had been in the U.S. approximately 3 weeks (Visa type R, class
B1/B2). SAGES claimed to be an artist but does not attend school
anywhere. SAGES admitted to having served in the Israeli Army for two
years (mandatory service). SAGES identified her father as Elyahu SAGES
(deceased) and her mother as Marjalit SAGES. SAGES gave the same story
as being in Montgomery to "promote" the artists work.
9. While talking to VALANSI and SAGES, Vanina DARDIC walked up and
was interviewed. DARDIC, provided an ID card from Argentina (DNI
26,473,227, card #J8557), but stated that she had dual citizenship
(Argentina and Israel). DARDIC stated that she was born in Argentina to
an Argentine father, Mario DARDIC, and an Israeli mother, Judith COHEN
(maiden name). She moved to Israel when she was 12 years of age and
served in the Israeli Army, DARDIC reported that she is the girlfriend
of Marcelo VALANSI. DARDIC spoke English, Hebrew and Spanish. SAGES
spoke English and, Hebrew. VALANSI spoke English and Spanish.
10. VALANSI was asked if the artwork was for sale, to which he stated
"not really" that they were "promoting" their work and that it is
important to artists that people like their work. VALANSI was asked if,
hypothetically, someone liked his work and wanted to commission him to
paint something, how would someone get in contact with him? VALANSI was
very hesitant to provide a means of contact. When pressed, VALANSI
provided Gainesville telephone #352-378-1435 as a contact nurniber. He
was asked how their group could afford to travel around "promoting"
artwork if they derive no income from it. He stated that his parents,
Roberto and Graziela VALANSI finance his travels. The parent's address
in Buenos Aires is reportedly Salguero 2468 Apartment 15.
11. Ester SAGES stated that one of their stops inMontgomery was going
to be the Jewish Fcderation Office which is located adjacent to where
their van was parked (2820 Fairlane Dr., Montgomery, telephone
#334-277-5820). All of the subjects were photographed, however SAGES
initially did not want her picture taken.
12. EPIC was contacted for information on their entries into the U.S.
EPIC queries indicated the following:
VALANSI, Marcelo (Argentina passport #26316660)
1). Admission date: 2/01/2001
Admission Class: F1
(Student)
Port of Entry: Miami, FL
Arrival from: Tel Aviv
Israel
Visa Issued: Buenos Aires (8/20/98)
Carrier: Al Israel
Airlines (flt 201)
Intended address: 901 S.E. 1st Ave.,
Gainesville, FL
2). Admission date: 10/18/00
Admission to: 1/17/01
Admission
Class: CP (Public Interest Parole)
Port of Entry: Miami,
FL
Arrival from: unk (most likely Columbia)
Carrier: Avianca
(flt 8)
Intended address: 901 S.E. 1st Ave., Gainesville,
FL
Departure date: 12/28/00 from Miami
3). Admission date: 11/12/99
Admission Class: WT/VW (Visitor w/o
Visa)
Port of Entry: Miami, FL
Arrival from: Santiago,
Chile
Carrier: La Lan Chile (flt 500)
Intended address: 901 S.E.
1st Ave., Gainesville, FL
Departure date: unk
4). Admission date: 04/15/99
Port of Entry: Miami, FL
Arrival
from: San Jose (Juan Santamari)
Carrier: LACSA (flt
620)
Departure clate: unk
5). Admission date: 01/11/99
Admission Class: F1
(Student)
Port of Entry: Marmi, FL
Arrival from: unk
Carrier:
La Lan Chile (flt 500)
Intended address: 901 S.E. 1st Ave.,
Gainesville, FL
Departure date: unk
6). Admission date: 9/23/98
Admitted to: 12/31/98
Admission
Class: Fl (Student)
Port of Entry: Miami, FL
Arrival from:
unk
Carrier: A L Argentina (flt 1324)
Intended address: 617 E.
University Ave., Gainesville, FL
Departure date: 12/19/98
7). Admission date: 05/04/98
Admitted to: 11/03/98
Admission
Class: B2 (Visitor)
Port of Entry: Miami, FL
Arrival from:
Unk
Visa issued: Buenos Aires 5/11/90
Carrier: E U Empresa
Ecuatoriana (flt 800)
Intended address: 617 E. University Ave.,
Gainesville, FL
Departure date: 08/10/98
8). Admission date: 1/02/97
Admitted to: 7/01/98
Admission
Class: B2 (Visitor)
Port of Entry: Maini, FL
Arrival from:
unk
Visa issued: Buenos Aires 5/11/90
Carrier: La Lan Chile (flt
502)
Intended address: 143 6 Washington Ave., Miami,
FL
Departure date: 03/13/98
13. SAGES, Ester (Israel passport 96470399)
1). Admission date: 3/03/01
Admission Class: B2
(Visitor)
Port of Entry: Newark International
Arrival from: Tel
Aviv Israel
Carrier: Continental Airlines (flt 91)
2). Admission date: 12/23/99
Admitted to: 6/22/00
Admission
Class: B2 (Visitor)
Port of Entry: Newark, N.J.
Arrival from:
Tel Aviv Israel
Carrier: El Al Israel
Intended address: Attornet
161, New York City, New York
Departure date: 01/09/00
3). Admission date: 08/24/95
Admitted to: 2/23/96
Admission
Class: B2 (Vishor)
Port of Entry: New York
Arrival from: Tel
Aviv Israel
Visa issued: Buenos Aires 5/11/90
Carrier: El Al
Israel
Intended address: Hotel Carlton, New York City, New
York
Departure date: 9/20/95
14. DARDIC, Vanina Erika (Argentina passport #10581811)
1.) Admission date: 2/01/01
Port of Entry: Miami,
FL
Arrival from: London (Gatwick Int'l)
Visa issued: Buenos
Aires 5/11/90
Carrier: Virgin Atlantic Airlines (flt 5)
2). Admission date: 10/18/00
Admission Class: CP (Public
Interest Parole)
Port of Entry: Mami, FL
Arrival from.: Bogota,
Columbia
Visa issued: Buenos Aires 5/11/90
Carrier: Avianca (flt
8)
Intended address: 901 S.E. 1st. Ave., Gainesville,
FL
Departure date: 12/25/00
3). Admission date: 12/23/99
Port of Entry: New York
Carrier:
Tower Air (flt 31)
(no further info)
15. Regarding the groups story as art students, specifically VALANSI
stating that he is a student at the University of Florida out on
springbreak, RAC Dick McEnany, Gainesville
R.O. inquired as to VALANSI's status as a student. RAC McEnany advised
that VALANSI was last registered in the spring of 1999. RAC McEnany also
stated that spring break was already over for this year.
16. It is noted that in addition to the three subjects contacted,
another group of three alleged art students were documented workin
another office complex on Perry Hill Road (Interstate Park) in
Montgomery on the same day (3/27/2001). This group is known to have
solicited several offices in that complex which are Department of
Defense contractors (Maxwell Air Force Base is in Montgomery).
Montgomery FBI agents made contact with that group at their hotel (La
Quinta Inn) and identified them.
17. The local FBI office was contacted and provided with this
information for follow-up as necessary. The FBI POC RAC Sharon Ormsby.
Boston Division
18. There have been no reports of suspicious activities by Israeli
art students occurring, at DEA facilities or at the residences of any
DEA Employee under the Boston Division.
Caribbean Division
No response,
Chicago Division
20. On or around June 26, 2000, a male and female claiming they were
Israeli art students, visited the home of a Diversion Investigator, The
male was described as Caucasian, 5'8", 160 lbs., dark brown hair,
clean-shaven, brown eyes, and early 20's. The female was described as
5'6", 160 lbs., long curly dark brown hair with blonde highlights, early
20's. The students left the residence without incident.
21. On or around June 30, 2000, a second set of Israeli art students
arrived at the home of the same Diversion Investigator. These students
were confrontational when asked to leave and the police were called
(16th District Chicago Police Dept.). The male was described as 5'6",
150 lbs., slim build, dark skin, no facial hair, very dark hair, early
20's. The female was described as 5'8", slim build, brown shoulder
length hair, and early 20's. They did approach other homes in the
Diversion Investigator's neighborhood. The Israeli students were seen
entering a Chevy Astro van, steel gray in color, with darkened windows.
Dallas Division
22. On January 4, 2001, SPI Contract Guard
William Armstrong purchased a painting for $200.00 from an
Israeli art student.. The transaction took place outside of the Dallas
Divisional Office. Mr. Armstrong wrote a
check payable to a Gal BLAIN.
23. Sometime in January 2001, a male claiming to be an Israeli art
student selling paintings visited the home of a DEA Intelligence Analyst
and OPR Senior Inspector. The male was described as Caucasian, in his
mid twenties. The DEA employees did not purchase any artwork.
24. On February 5, 2001, Security Guard
Armstrong observed an individual matching the descriptions of the
Israeli art student enter an office building directly East of the Dallas
Divisional Office. Mr. Armstrong notified the
Federal Protective Service Officers. The FPS Officers responded to the
location, located the individual, and conducted an interview. The
Israeli art student claimed he was selling paintings. NADDIS EPIC, INS
Soundex, and state system checks were conducted for the above
individual, with negative results.
25. As of March 26, 2001, local law enforcement continued to
encounter Israeli Nationals, either alone or in groups, selling artwork
in the Dallas area. The Israelis appeared to be organized and
structured, with the lower level consisting of the artwork sellers while
the next level consists of the drivers. The hierarchy above the drivers
remains undefined. Many of the art sellers claim to be studerts of a
Jerusalem art school, and several appear to have had prior Israeli
military experience. A standard method of operation is for a driver to
drop off three or four salespersons in an area, returning several hours
later for pickup. Bank checks found in the possession of several of the
students suggest that the artwork sells for between $50.00 and $150.00.
26. Several local law enforcement agencies have provided information
to the DEA Dallas office pertaining to recent encounters. On January 2,
2001, an 6fficer of the Euless Police Department sighted a 1995 Chevy
Van, white, California plate 3HXN005, parked with back doors opened
behind a small office complex that was closed due to the Christmas/New
Year holidays. The officer's initial inspection showed five persons
present and that the rear of the van was filled with 40 to 50 framed
artwork. Neither the frames nor the artwork appeared to be high quality,
per the officer. The officer noted that the van and subjects were
stopped in a non-residential area that consisted of a golf course, a
chemical company and a storage facility for a defense contractor. When
questioned, the subjects indicated they were selling paintings in the
area, but were evasive in answering questions thereafter. For example,
several subjects stated they were staying in Irving, Texas, but were not
sure exactly where. The subjects were warned on the scene for selling
paintings without a permit, and released. Although all five subjects
possessed passports, only name and DOB information was recorded for
each. All subjects were negative in law enforcement indices. The five
subjects were identified as:
Gilad LIFSHITZ, W/M, DOB 09/17/1973 (Note: Lifshitz was
the vehicle driver)
Betzalel YANAY, W/M, DOB 09/04/1978
Morin
Miryam BITON, W/F, DOB 07/14/1980
Daria SASSON, W/F, DOB
08/10/1980
Keren TOUYZ, W/F, DOB 08/20/1978
27. At the time of the encounter Gilad LIFSHITZ, the driver of the
van, was in possession of a Florida driver's license, number
L123-280-78-337-0, that showed a DOB of 09/17/1978, and an address of
19115 Collins Ave # 102, Sunny Isles Beach, F1 33160. Sunny Isles Beach
is in the Miami area. Perhaps coincidentally, per DEA's Office of
Security Programs, two Israelis previously encountered in Miami were in
possession of counterfeit US Social Security Cards. The cards were
reportedly obtained in Miami from an unidentified person who was selling
the cards near a Florida driver's license office.
28. As previously reported, LIFSHITZ was driving a 1995 Chevy Van
with California plate 3HXN005. A California registration check showed
that this van, VIN 1GAHG39K5SF112662, was apparently sold to B I Auto
Inc, 31861, 854 Ackerman Dr, Danville, California, circa August 30,
2000. A check of vin 1GAHG39K5SF112662 showed that it is associated with
a 1995 Chev/Spt owned by Gilad LIFSHITZ of 7535 N. Beltline Rd, Apt 316,
Irving, Texas 75062. (Note: this may be the Irving address referred to
by the Israeli art students). (ISP Note: Michael CALMANOVIC, identified
by I&NS Dallas and arrested on Marcy 28, 2001, rented at least 5
apartments in the Irving, TX area, and used a mail drop located at 3575
N. Beltline Road, Irving, TX.) Current vehicle tag is TX/86YYF, title
date is 02/10/2001, expiration date is 01/2002. The previous owner is
listed as Noam TZOR. What, if any, relationship there may be between
TZOR and B I Auto Iac is unknown.
29. In a separate but related matter, on March 16, 2001, the same
officer from the Euless PD encountered Sharon ROTEM, aka Sharone, an
Israeli art student, at a Kentucky Fried Chicken on Euless Blvd in
Euless, Texas. ROTEM was described as a white male, DOB 031277, passport
number 7948317, street address: 6023 Moshe Dayan, Holon, Israel. ROTEM
claimed association with a Jerusalem art school and had approximately 20
paintings in his possession. The officer noted that ROTEM was an Israeli
citizen who was selling "artwork" without a permit, and issued a
warning. During the interview, ROTEM stated he was with two others and
they were going to be picked up at 17:00 that afternoon. The pickup
location was unspecified. ROTEM informed the officer that he (ROTEM) was
out of the Israeli military and was doing "Good Deed" work. ROTEM also
stated that he was staying in Irving, but didn't know where or the name
of the hotel, and that he was going to drive to Austin Texas, later that
day. ROTEM was negative in law enforcement indices. In ROTEM's
possession were several airline tickets, as follows:
-9th of March: Continental Flight 91 from Tel Aviv to
Newark, NJ.
-10th of March: Continental Flight 1133 from Newark, NJ to Dallas,
TX. This ticket shows a return to Newark on May l4th via Continent al
Flight 1138.
-Continental Flight 90 to Tel Aviv.
30. Sandwiched between the two Euless incidents was an incident in
Richardson, Texas. Per a Richardson Police Department report, on March
15, 2001, officers were dispatched in reference to two females
soliciting artwork. Once located, the subjects were identified via their
Israeli passports as Maya MAIMON and Nofar BADIHI. Both subjects were
arrested for soliciting without a city permit. Prior to being
interviewed by police officers, an unidentified male called the jail to
inquire about the two female subjects. The U/I male was told he could
come to the station to get further information. Two subjects arrived and
were identified as Gadi REGEV and Eyal ARTZI (Texas DL number 19554509).
A conversation regarding bond and visitation issues ensued, after which
the males left. During a search of the two female suspects' property,
several checks were found. Most were filled in with the amount and
signature, but the payee blank was void. Also during the search of
MAIMON's purse a prescription of cloriazepam prescribed to Marco
FERNANDEZ was found. It was determined that FERNANDEZ was MAIMON's
boyfriend. Fourteen checks, the prescription, and $130 dollars cash were
placed in property as evidence. The paintings that the suspects were
selling were also impounded.
31. Maya MAIMON was in possession of documentation showing her
passport number as 5467894, US B1/B2 visa, DOB 26Dec1978, Nationality
Israel, Issue Date: 18Oct2000, Expiration Date: 15Oct2010.
32. Nofar BADIHI was in possession of documentation showing her
passport number as 5640993, DOB 21/03/1979 (sic), Place of Birth:
Israel, date of issue: 05/12/1993; date of expiry (sic): 04/12/1995; US
Visa B1/B2, issue date: 05Ju11996, Expiry Date: 02Jul2006.
33. Among the various documents were airline tickets reflecting the
travel of Maya MAIMON and Marco MARABOTTO from DFW airport to
Albuquerque, NM, via Delta flight 2238, on March 24, 2001. Each ticket
also reflected Delta flight 1944 from Las Vegas to DFW on April 1, 2001.
34. Additional documents showed Marco FERNANDEZ's to be the same as
Marco Antonio FERNANDEZ De Castro Marabotto, DOB 13Apr1977, passport
number 99390039611, Issuing State: Mexico; place of birth: Mexico, date
of issue 16Jul1999, expiration date: 16Jul2000.
36. Gadi REGEV was described as DOB: 17Dec1975, Nationality: Israel,
passport number 5454338, visa type: B1/B2, issuing post: Tel Aviv, issue
date: 05Nov1998, expiration date: 04Nov2008.
37. Eyal ARTZI's driver's license shows DL # 19554509, DOB
05-27-1977, address: 10334 Sandra Lynn Dr., Dallas, TX 75228, and an
expiration date of. 06-27-07. A commercial database shows that ARTZI is
the owner of a 1993 Plymouth Acclaim, Texas plate: J75FYB, date
registered 08/21/2000, expiration date: 07/31/2001.
38. Another incident involved an Israeli art student who attempted to
sell paintings at the residence of S/A Michael
Durr in Flower Mound, Texas, on March 25, 2001 at approximately
17:30. S/A Durr was slightly delayed and when
he opened the door the art student had already departed and was
approaching another house. S/A Durr called
the Flower Mound police department, which responded. The art student was
identified as David SUSI, W/M, DOB 01/09/1975, who was staying at an
unspecified location in Irving, Texas. The student was not detained.
Dallas I&NS Investigative Reports
(The following is information received by ISP from I&NS Special
Agent George Putnam, Dallas, TX. This
information is gleaned from I&NS reports, and is consolidated for
this paper.)
39. On March 22, 2001, I&NS Dallas received a request from FPS
Dallas S/A's Ellison and Stokes to assist in an investigation regarding
Israeli art students. On March 26, 2001, agents went to the Oak Hills
Apartment Complex in Irving, Texas to conduct interviews of Israeli
nationals staying at those apartments. At approximately 11:30 pm, agents
arrested Dahan ELDAD, an Israeli male, and Elsa Beatriz AFRICANO-Leon, a
Colombia female at apartment 4228. ELDAD and AFRICANO were proceeding
toward apartment # 173, where four Israeli nationals were in custody.
ELDAD and AFRICANO were found to be nonimmigrant aliens in violation of
their status, and placed under arrest by S/A Martini and Olivarez. A
search of their apartment revealed a small amount of marijuana and a
"bong" Additionally, checks in the amount of $150.00 (2)and $560.00,
with the notation "For Paintings" were found in his possession.
40. At approximately 1:26 am on 3/27/01, S/A's arrested Eran LIVNI,
an Israeli male, Aran OFEK, and Israeli male, and Michal GAL, DOB
8/10/79, POB: Afula Israel, I&NS #A75-894-941, an Israel female in
apartment 216. OFEK and GAL were recognizedby FPS S/A Stokes as having been interviewed by FPS subsequent
to attempting to sell paintings at the DEA Dallas F.D. on Regal Row.
LIVNI admitted to the S/A's he had engaged in attempting to sell art.
Also present in apartment 216 were Noam GAVRIEL an Israeli national, and
Netta Kritzman, a U.S. citizen. Personal belongings were retrieved from
apartment #259 for OFEK and GAL. Three other Israeli nationals were
encountered in apartment 9259, however, they were not found to be in
violation of I&NS status and not arrested (nor identified in the
report).
41. Aran OFEK stated that his father was a retired two-star general
in the Israeli Army. (NFI). (ISP note: Israel recently launched its 5th
spy satellite, identified as the OFEK 5. It is unknown if the name of
the satellite and these persons is related.)
42. Michal GAL was subsequently held on a $10,000 cash bond. The bond
was placed by Ophir BAER, DOB: 11-11-56, an Israeli male on a
nonimmigrant H1B1 class visa. BAER was petitioned to work in the U.S. by
AMDOCS, Inc. on Sept.
7, 1999, which was valid from Dec 10, 1999 to Sept 30, 2002. The visa
was issued in Tel Aviv. BAER listed his address as 7845 La Cabeza Drive,
Dallas, TX 75248 with telephone numbers (home) 972-392-0473 and (work)
214-576-5741, SSN: 627-70-0979. BAER also is identified with an address
of 1125 East Campbell Road, Richardson, TX. BAER's SSN is also
identified with a John BAER and Annie BAER at the 7845 La Cabeza
address. BAER stated he was a relative of GAL. On the bond papers, it
was reflected that GAL would be staying at 22 Palisade Terrace,
Edgewater, NJ 07020 Tel: 201-224-0797 / 210-310-3521. A cashier check
#0001594012 from Bank of America in the amount of $ 10,000 was posted.
43. AMDOCS is an Israeli communications software company, based in
the U.S. at 1390 Timberlake Manor Parkway, Chesterfield (St. Louis), MO
63017-6041, telephone number 314-821-3242. AMDOCS is traded on the NYSE
under DOX. On April 17, 2001, AMDOCS released a statement that he had
signed a five-year outsourcing agreement with BellSouth. AMDOCS also
lists an address of #1 Bell Plaza, St. Louis, Mo, which is the address
for Bell South. AMDOCS also has a seven-year outsourcing agreement with
Nextel Communications, a provider of digital wireless telecommunications
services. Under this agreement, AMDOCS will provide Nextel with a
comprehensive billing and customer care information software and support
services. The president of AMDOC in Texas is identified as Boaz DOTAN,
address: 23 Abba Hillel, St. Ranat Gan, Israel. Treasurer is listed as
Beverly A."WHITMAN, SSN: 400-88-4097. Secretary is listed as Gregory
CHRISTOFFEL, SSN: 389-52-8560 at 91 Bell Plaza, St. Louis, MO.
44. Also arrested during this operation was Eran MOSHE (identified
with I&NS #A75-894-459), who stated he was a former Israeli special
operations soldier.
45. It is noted that following the arrests of the Israeli nationals
on March 26/27th, the Israeli embassy was notified that citizens of its
country had been arrested by I&NS. The Israeli embassy,arranged for
air transportation out of the county on March 31, 2001.
46. On March 27, 2001, at approximately 2:30 pm, three Israeli
nationals arriving frorn Frankfurt, Germany, were admitted as
non-immigrant visitors through the Dallas / Ft. Worth Airport (DFW).
They were identified as Julia VAINSHTEIN, an Israeli female, DPOB:
11-12-78/Russia, Dilka BORENSTEIN, DPOB: 03-15-79/Israel, and Ofir
NAVON, DPOB: 09-02-79/Israel. BORENSTEIN stated to have been recently
discharged as an Israeli Military Intelligence officer. NAVON claimed to
be a former Israeli Army demolition/explosive ordnance disposal
specialist. The three stated they intended to tour the Dallas area for a
few days, and then go to Houston, New York, and Los Angeles. They
claimed not to know anyone in the Dallas area. Surveillance was
maintained on the three after they left the inspection area. They were
seen being picked up by an individual subsequently identified as Michael
CALMANOVIC, who was driving a black Jeep bearing, Texas tags L44-CVD.
This tag comes back to CALMANOVIC at 3575 N. Beltline Road, Apt 316,
Irving, Texas. Subsequent investigation revealed this address to be a
mailbox.
47. In December of 2000, an Israeli art student by the name of Cohen
MEYTAL was observed by a DEA employee sitting on the western street curb
of the Dallas Divisional Office selling artwork. The student claimed
that a group of Israeli art students (about 20) would paint works of art
and them at local places of business. The employee purchased a painting
and was offered to have it framed by an acquaintance of the Israeli
group. The check was made out to Cohen MEYTAL and mailed to the
following address:
Cohen Meytal
c/o Calmanovic
3575 N. Beltline Road
P.O. Box 316
Irving, Texas 75062
This address is identified with Michael CALMANOVIC. See report under
LABORATORIES, paragraph #161.)
48. On March 31, 2001, I&NS Deportation Officer Michael L. Bush was assigned escort duties for the
13 Israelis arrested on March 26/27, 2001 in Irving, Texas. At that
time, one of the Israelis (not identified in the report) stated that
five individuals in Israel were responsible for recruiting Israeli
nationals to come to the U.S. for the purpose of selling art
door-to-door. The detainee identified "ITAY' who lives in California,
(subsequently identified as Itay SIMON), as the direct link between the
five persons in Israel, and the U.S. operation. The detainee stated that
the Texas contact for the organization is "Michael", who lives in the
Dallas area and drives a black Jeep. The detainee stated that Michael
(CALMANOVIC), is subordinate in the art-vending scheme to Itay (SIMON).
49. Based on investigative leads developed by I&NS S/A R. Marra and R. Martini,
the Rochelle Plaza Apartments, located at 312 Rochelle Road, and the
Hidden Ridge Apartments, located at 1103 FEdden Ridge, both in Irving,
Texas, were identified as possible residences used by CALMANOVIC. On
April 14, 2001, I&NS and FPS S/As interviewed Ms. Mary Stanton,
Property Manager for the Rochelle Apartments. Ms. Stanton stated that
CALMANOVIC had rented five (5) apartments in the complex, and that these
apartments were occupied by 25 Israelis. Ms. Stanton stated that all of
the Israelis left suddenly and vacated the apartments on the week of
March 26/27th, (the time of the arrests of the 13 other Israelis). Ms.
Stanton stated she believed CALMANOVIC was still in the Dallas area, as
he had recently called regarding his security deposits. Copies of the
lease agreements and copies of Israeli passports were provided by Ms.
Stanton.
50. Following this, the agents went to the Hidden Ridge Apartments,
and at approximately 1:00 pm encountered CALMANOVIC and Itay SIMON in
apartment #3018. Thev were in the process of vacating that apartment at
the time. CALMANOVIC was identified as an Israeli citizen, DPOB:
09-06-75/Israel. SIMON was identified as an Israeli citizen, DPOB:
02-27-78/Israel. I&NS S/A Martini
positively identified CALMANOVIC as the driver of the black Jeep
Cherokee that picked-up VAINSHTEIN, BORENSTEIN, and NAVON at DFW on
March 27th. (See paragraph #46 above). CALMANOVIC stated he was a
recently dicharged electronic intercept operator for the Israeli
military, and SIMON stated he was recently discharged from the Israeli
Army, where he did "classified work for Israeli national security".
SIMON refused to answer further questions regarding his military
service. Both CALMANOVIC and SIMON were both arrested by I&NS and
held on $50,000 bond. This bond was subsequently posted.
Telephone number 214-882-5196 was identified as a possible contact
number for CALMANOVIC in Dallas. This number is owned by NEXTEL
Communications. Through an administrative subpoena, the subscriber was
identified as Michael CALMANOVIC, 11012 Ventura Blvd, Studio City, CA
91604, business phone number 469-446-7777, SSN 613-23-1430, CA DL #
0077480. The service was established on March 29, 2001. NOTE:
11012 Ventura Blvd, Studio City, CA is associated in MSQ with telephone
number 818-980-6955, subscribed to SOTERE, Christopher C. in case file
number R1-96-0160. MSQ also lists 11012 Ventura Blvd apartment #68,
Studio City, CA with JACOBS, Peter, NADDIS #3539920, from case file
R3-93-0098.
Prior to the service start date of March 29, 2001 for Michael
CALMANOVIC, the phone number 214-882-5196 was used by N Lal MUMITH and
Talal MUMITH (NADDIS Negative) DBA American Limo and Transportation
(NADDIS Negative), 415 E. Airport Freeway, Suite 280, Irving, TX 75062,
business phone number 972-256-0546 (all NADDIS Negative). Telephone
number 214-882-5196 was changed to 214-882-8534 on February 13, 2001 and
effective March 29, 2001 the phone was assigned to CALMANOVIC.
In addition to telephone number 214-882-5196, there are six (6)
additional phone numbers assigned to the account (all NADDIS Negative)
with the assigned users name. The following list is all the phone
numbers on account number 3231266 subscribed to Michael CALMANOVIC with
a users name:
Phone Number User
214-882-5196 Gilad
214-837-3574 Roy
469-446-1248 Mosh (likely Eran MOSHE, para 944)
214-837-5996 Gil
214-876-1235 Gilad
214-837-7449 Michael
217-837-2056 Asaf
A nationwide search of available commercial databases for Michael
CALMANOVIC, identified one Michael CALMANOVIC at 319 S. 177th Place
4201, Seattle, Washington 98148, home phone number 206-244-7705 (all
NADDIS Negative). A search against the social security number was
negative. CREF indicates that one Michael CALMANOVIC is associated with
310 S. 177th Place, Apt3 04, Seattle, WA (206) 242-3484, and 317 S.
177th Place, Apt 104, Seattle, WA (206)-277-8303. All NADDIS Negative.
51. On March 28, 2001 at approximately 2:00 pm, three-Israeli
nationals arrived at DFW again from Frankfurt, Germany. They were
identified as Yoni ENGEL, male, DPOB: 09-14-79/Israel, Yotam DAGA1,
DPOB: 04-06-78/Israel, and Or ALROEI, DPOB 08-08-78/Israel. ENGEL
identified himself as a former company commander in the Israeli Army.
Arriving on this same flight was Eli RABINOVITZ, a U.S. citizen, DOB
03-27-79, U.S. Passport E3701329518. RABINOVITZ was described as a
white, male, approximately 5'6" in height, 175 pounds, with brown hair
in long dreadlocks and a small patch of hair beneath his bottom lip.
RABINOVOTZ was seen waiting outside of the I&NS area, and seemed to
be impatient. He was observed speaking to a white female who was waiting
by the curb. She was not identified, but is described as being
approximately 35-40 yoa, 5'6", 150 pounds, with short reddish-brown
hair. She was dressed in European style clothes, and appeared to SA
Putnam to be possibly German. Once an
I&NS Inspector escorted one of the above Israelis out of the
I&NS area, RABINOVITZ starting speaking to the Israeli in Hebrew.
Once ENGEL, DAGAI and ALROEI had collected their bags, they walked
outside and spoke with RABINOVITZ, and then split into groups. During
this time, ENGEL was seen to be the leader of the group, giving orders
to the DAGAI and ALROEI. The unidentified white female stayed with
RABINOVITZ at the curb, while ENGEL, DAGAI and ALROEI walked down the
sidewalk to the next terminal. DAGAI then quickly walked into the
terminal at the same time as a blue GMC Safari Van, bearing California
tags 3LVA018 arrived at the curb and picked-up ENGEL and ALROEI. The van
then quickly departed. DMV records indicate this van is registered to
ADESA GOLDEN GATE, Address: 6700 Stevenson Blvd., Fremont, CA, transfer
date 11-28-00:, receipt date: 12-11-00. In a few minutes, the van
returned and stopped quickly at the curb. DAGAI then came from the
terminal door-way and entered the van. The van then quickly departed.
Again, the van returned to the area, and RABINOVOTZ got into the van and
the unlidentified female spoke to the occupants, then it again departed.
S/A4 Putnam attempted to locate the van,
however it could not be found. When he returned to the area, the
unidentified female had also departed.
52. On April 4, 2001, four (4), and possibly six (6), Israelis were
arrested in by the Ladue Missouri Police Dept. for peddling without a
license. Three of these individuals were identified ay Yoni ENGEL, Yotam
DAGAI, and Or ALROEI. During interviews conducted by I&NS St. Louis,
three of the subjects claimed to have traveled directly from New York
City, NY to Dallas, TX. A fourth subject claimed to have arrived at
Dallas by way of New York City, Minneapolis, and Seattle. All then
claimed to have met in San Antonio, TX with a fifth subject, identified
as Ben SADAN, an Israeli national approximately 24 yoa, who acted as
their driver. SADAN reportedly uses a cellular telephone with number
214-562-1110. The group claimed they then traveled from San Antonio, TX
to Oklahoma City, OK, Tulsa, OK, Wichita, KS, Topeka, KS, Kansas City,
MO, Springfield, MO, and then to St. Louis for the purpose of "showing"
art produced by art students from the University of Art at Jerusalem.
All admitted opening bank accounts at various branches of Bank of
America. They further stated that the money collected from the sale of
any art was normally deposited into various Bank of America accounts
with an unspecified amount going to the individual seller. (See
paragraph #129, under St. Louis Division).
53. On an unspecified date, (but believed to be on or about May 9,
2001 three Israeli nationals arrived at DFW via Air France Flight #40
from Paris, France. Two were sent for secondary inspection and
interviewed by I&NS Agents. They were identified as Tomer BEN DOR,
male, Israeli, DOB: 08-24-75, Marina GLIKMAN, female, Israeli, DOB:
12-15-72. BEN DOR stated he planned on being in the Dallas, TX area for
approximately two weeks and then was planning on traveling to Mexico,
New York City, and Canada before returning to Israel. BEN DOR was in
possession of a return ticket to Israel dated July 8, 2001 and a rental
car reservation through Hertz for May 9, 2001 to June 9, 2001. BEN DOR
stated he works for NICE, a software engineering company in Israel. BEN
DOR stated he served in the Israeli military on a unit that was
responsible for Patriot missile defense.
54. BEN DOR stated he intended to stay at the La Quinta Inn, 14925
Landmark Blvd, Addison, TX, however a check of the hotel revealed no
reservations under his name. BEN DOR was in possession of $1500 in cash
and a credit card, which he stated he was going to use to help pay his
expenses while in the U. S. BEN DOR stated he is a friend of GLIKMAN and
traveled to the U.S. with her, but might travel throughout the U.S.
alone. During a search of BEN DOR's luggage a printout from a Windows
readme file named "WinPOS-53-readme" was found that has some reference
to a file named "DEA Groups".
55. Marina GLIKMAN stated she would be visiting the U.S. for two
months in the Dallas area. She originally claimed to be traveling alone,
but later claimed to be traveling with BEN DOR. GLIKMAN stated that an
individual named Ronen AKIVA or "HILLEL" (subsequently identified as
Hillel DOR) would pick her up. GLIKMAN did not know the address of AKIVA
or HILLEL, but had home and cellular telephone numbers for both, (not
identified). GLIKMAN stated she did not know whom AKIVA worked for.
GLIKMAN also stated she was planning on staying at the La Quinta Inn,
and was in possession of $1500 in cash and a credit card. Again, a check
of the hotel revealed no reservation under her name. GLIKMAN claimed to
be a computer programmer for RETALIX RAANANA in
Israel, and a prior intelligence officer in the Israeli military. During
a search of her personal luggage, a Declaration for Personal Effects
Shipping to Overseas was found which reflected she has shipped personal
effects, to include furniture and clothing, to 8081 Royal Ridge Parkway,
Irving, TX, the address used by RETALIX
USA.
56. While GLIKMAN and BEN DOR were being processed, I&NS
Inspectors went to the lobby of DFW to attempt to identify any
individuals who were present to meet GLIKMAN and BEN DOR. The Inspectors
identified Hillel DOR, male, Israeli, DOB: 04-06-71 and Zeev MILLER,
male, Israeli, DOB: 09-04-71. MILLER had also arrived on the same flight
as GLIKMAN and BEN DOR. MILLER claimed he was a student at Tel Aviv
University studying software engineering while working part-time for
RETALIX in Israel. MILLER stated he intended to travel to Mexico, New
York, and Canada while on vacation. MILLER stated he was an explosive
ordinance/combat engineer while in the Israeli military. MILLER was in
possession of $1200 in cash and a Visa credit card. Hillel DOR stated he
was at the airport to pick-up GLIKMAN. I&NS S/As verified that DOR
had entered the U.S. in January, 2001 as an H-1B nonimmigrant, working
for RETALIX USA.
57. RETALIX provides integrated, enterprise-wide software for the
retail food industry. It has headquarters in the U.S. and Israel.
RETALIX, USA Inc is the U.S. subsidiary of the parent company, based in
Israel. It was founded in 1982 as POINT OF SALE LIMITED and changed its
name in November 2000. It is trades on the NASDAQ market under RTLX. The
company has over 450 einployees, with subsidiary offices in the U.S. and
the United Kingdom. The chairman and CEO is Barry SHAKED, who replaced
Lawrence ALLMAN as the president and CEO of RETALIX USA on January 31,
2001.
Denver Division
58. Sometime in July or August 2000, on two separate occasions, a
male described as Caucasian, 5'8", black hair, wearing baggy clothing,
entered the reception area of the Denver Divisional Office. The
unidentified male spoke with a heavy accent and was carrying a black
artwork brief case. The unidentified male asked to speak with anyone
interested in purchasing artwork. The unidentified rriale was asked to
leave and did so without incident.
59. Sometime in December 2000, an unidentified white male, 20-25
years of age entered the Colorado Springs, Colorado Resident Office in
an attempt to sell artwork, He was asked to leave and did so without
incident.
60. Four separate incidents involving unidentified persons attempting
to sell artwork at the Salt Lake City, Utah Resident Office were
reported by a Receptionist. These incidents occurred during the 2000
calendar year. In each incident, all suspicious persons entered the
reception area of the Salt Lake City, Utah Resident Office asking to
speak to anyone interested in purchasing artwork. All subjects spoke
with a heavy accent believed to be French. All subjects were asked to
leave and did so without incident.
61. A second receptionist at the Salt Lake Ciiy, Utah Resident Office
reported one male and two female subjects attempted to sell artwork in
the reception area. The receptionist asked the male subject where
he was from. Apparently, he claimed he was from Israel. The receptionist
purchased a painting, for $100.00 and was not issued a receipt. This
incident occurred sometime in January 2001.
Detroit Division
62. A Vehicle Technician at the Detroit Division reported that during
the fall of 2000, a female appearing to be either Jewish or Arabic in
her twenties visited her home in Southfield, Kentucky in an attempt to
sell her artwork. The Vehicle Technician declined to purchase any
paintings and the female left. The Vehicle Technician said it appeared
the female was going door to door.
63. A DEA-6 Report of Investigation was received from the Louisville,
Kentucky Resident Office detailmig the suspicious activities of Israeli
art students. On February 12, 2001, an individual who identified himself
as an Israeli art student visited the residence of a Special Agent. The
individual stated he was selling artwork door to door. He claimed he and
other Israeli students were staying at a Motel 6 in Lexington, Kentucky.
The Special Agent examined the individual's Israeli Ministries of
Transport photo ID. The ID indicated that the individual was Shabar
FREIDMAN, driver's license number 6728447 and ID number 033056433. On
February 13, 2001, a Special Agent made contact with an individual
outside the Lexington, Kentucky Resident Office. The individual claimed
to be an Israeli art student. The individual was identified as Gerzon
Ofir AVRAHAM, (DOB 08/12/77). AVRAHAM presented his Israeli passport
(96315574) and a Ministries of Transport ID number 034193615. Contact
was made with AVRAHAM after ATF personnel observed him walking around
the property of the Lexington, Kentucky Resident Office. During an
interview with AVRAHAM he stated that he did not enter the Resident
Office and that he was trying to sell his artwork to individuals in the
area. AVRAHAM also stated that he and seven other Israelis were in the
U.S. traveling and selling artwork. AVRAHAM claimed that he and the
others go to businesses and residenes in an attempt to have people buy
their artwork. Apparently, the Israelis were staying at a Motel 6
located in Lexington, Kentucky and are planning to travel to Cincinnati,
Ohio. AVRAHAM told the Special Agents that there are two groups of
Israeli students currently in the U.S. The second group was then
currently in Memphis, Tennessee and Houston, Texas. The Israelis plan to
stay in the U.S. until the end ofMarch or the beginning of April.
AVRAHAM also claimed that one of the members of his group, SHAHAR (LNU),
visited the residence of a police officer. SHAHAR told AVRAHAM that the
police officer questioned him about the purpose of his visit.
El Paso Division
64. On February 28, 2001, at approximately 6:30 p.m. the Albuquerque
District Office Duty Agent received a phone call from Patrick Dawson in Phoenix, Arizona (606) 664-5647.
Dawson stated that their respective office
had received a Teletype stating that a terrorist organization from the
Middle East has been attempting to obtain information about the layout
of different law enforcement agencies throughout the United States.
According to Dawson the organization sends
college students with framed paintings/prints to law enforcement
buildings in an attempt to gather information about the layout of the
buildings.
65. On or around January 28, 2001, a young man attempting to sell
artwork approached a DEA Receptionist for the Albuquerque District
Office. The Receptionist advised the young man that the District Office
was a federal building and that she or anyone else was not interested.
The Receptionist observed: the young man leave; however, she does not
remember the description of the individual.
66. On Tuesday, March 6, 2001, a young female came to the IRS office
trying to sell artwork. The woman was dressed neatly in an "American
style" dress. The woman spoke very quietly and with a heavy accent,
which made her very difficult to understand. She advised one of the IRS
employees that she was Mongolian and that she had to sell a certain
amount of artwork to get an art scholarship. She carried a small
portfolio type container and produced a childish and unframed painting
of some sort of animal with glitter. One of the witnesses described it
as something the girl might have done herself. The girl was told that
soliciting was not allowed in the building and she left the IRS office.
No one apparently saw the woman leave the floor or building and no other
subjects were seen. The woman described her as being in her late teens
to early 20's, plump / chunky and approximately 4'11 " and light
complected.
Houston Division
67. On October 20, 2000, a male Israeli art student was observed by
the Security Officers entering the lobby level and enter an elevator
from a secure area of the Houston, Texas Divisional Office. Security
Officers were able to apprehend the art student before he could enter a
secure area on the second floor. There are no written reports of the
incident nor any identification attempt made of the art student.
68. On January 16, 2001, a male Israeli art student was observed by a
United States Customs Service Special Agent entering a secured parking
lot area that leads into the Houston Divisional Office. The USCS Special
Avent stopped the art student and turned him over to the Security
Officers. The student claimed he wanted to gain access to the building
to sell artwork. No personal identification information was obtained.
69. On January 22, 2001, a third Israeli art student entered the
lobby of the Houston Division and asked the Security Officer if he could
utilize a pay phone. The Security Officer informed the student that
there was no public phone available. The Security Officer asked the
student if he had any artwork to sell. The student said, "yes," and
proceeded to inform the Security Officer that another student visited
the Houston Division a week ago to sell artwork. The Security Offlicer
told the student that someone upstairs wanted to see the artwork. The
Houston Division Special Agent/Security Officer S/A John Martin, Assistant Special Agent in Charge
Ric Ludowig, and another Special Agent
interviewed the student. The Israeli art student was carrying a Florida
State Driver's License (#B650-520-76-047-0). The information on the
license was Lior BARAM, 10733 Cleary Blvd., #206, Plantation, Florida,
33324-0000, (DOB 02/07/76), 5'9", dark eyes and black hair. BARAM
admitted to serving three years in the Israeli military and served his
last two years in Intelligence, working with classified information.
BARAM spoke fluent English with an accent. He also claimed to be
an art student at Bezalel University in Jerusalem; however, he could not
spell Bezalel. BARAM stated there were fifteen (15) Israeli art students
in the Houston, Texas area attempting to sell their artwork. BARAM
claimed to realize that the Houston Division was a Federal building and
that be would not be able to sell his artwork there. BARAM was asked how
he knew the Houston Division was a Federal Building. BARAM response was,
"By looking around and seeing all of the cars." BARAM also stated that
after he left the military, he traveled for one year, worked at a car
rental company, and studied at BEZALEL UNIVERSITY.
70. BARAM could not provide the name of address or phone number of a
place he was staying. He also referred to the person heading the student
affair as his "supervisor." When BARAM pronounced the name cf his
supervisor it sounded like "Ori," and that Ori could be contacted at
(847) 456-6166. The telephone number was called and Ori was not
available. No one at that phone number could provide any information.
BARAM was allowed to use a DEA telephone to call someone to pick him up.
BARAM dialed 1-800-462-3541, but did not speak to anyone. When asked, he
stated he tried to call a friend in New York. BARAM was instructed to
leave and never return. BARAM cialmed he had visited the U.S. three
times on a tourist visa, A records check from the Immigration and
Naturalization Service revealed BARAM had visited the U.S. in 1997 and
once in 2000 and 2001.
a) On May 10, 1997, BARAM entered the U.S., via Miami,
under admission number 75957562105, on American Airlines flight #5776.
He departed the U.S., via New York, on British Airways flight #0001 on
May 17, 1997. His U. S. tourist visa was issued on March 18, 1997.
b) On August 25, 1997, BARAM entered the U.S. via Los Angeles,
under admission number 35627816705, on El Al Israel flight #0105. At
that time he was carrying an Israeli passport (#4787090) and it is
presumed he may have entered the U.S. under the same U.S. tourist visa
as noted above. BARAM departed the U.S. on December 13, 1997, via
Miami, on Air Jamaica flight #0093.
c) On December 16, 1997, BARAM entered the U.S. via Miami, under
admission number 76155245005, on Air Jamaica flight #0090. There was
no date of issue for the U.S. tourist visa, however, the visa was
issued in Jerusalem. BARAM departed the U.S., via Newark, NJ, on El AL
Israel flight #0001 on January 3, 1998.
d) On November 22, 2000, BARAM re-entered the U.S., via New York,
on El Al Israel flight #0003. He was carrying Israeli passport
(#8722103) and was issued a U.S. tourist visa on November 15, 2000 in
Tel Aviv. There is no departure information listed for this trip.
70 On March 1, 2001, two college students selling art visited the
home of a Staff Assistant from the San Antonio, Texas District Office.
The Staff Assistant's husband answered the door and sent the students on
their way. No information as to where they were from was revealed. No
vehicle was seen and they were walking door to door.
71. On March 23, 2001, the Houston Division HIDTA faxed ISP a
security alert that was issued from ONDCR. The security alert describes
the apparent attempts by Israeli nationals to learn about government
personnel and office layouts. The security alert reads:
"A Supervisory Special Agent from OTG has received
information from the other OTG's that there was an on-going "security
threat" in the form of individuals who are purportedly "Israeli
National Art Students" that are targeting government office selling
"artwork." The purpose of them targeting Law Enforcement in unknown.
Intelligence information indicates that they are specifically
targeting Law Enforcement agencies as they showed up in an ATF office
in Lexington, KY, where their office is in a commercial building NOT
associated with the government. When questioned by the ATF, the
"students" were vague about why they were selling the artwork in that
particular office. In the St. Louis area, the source thought that the
students were Palestinian and they have been at the DEA office in that
city. At that location, the Intel indicates that they were caught
"diagramming" the inside of the building. Also in St. Louis, several
of the Law Enforcement's Officer's homes have been visited by these
folks. One DCIS agent reported two individuals, who appeared to be of
Middle Eastern extraction, went to his house and tried to gain entry
under the ruse of "selling art." When he refused entry to them, they
left. What was unusual is that he watched them and they did not visit
any other houses in the area. Since this came from DEA, who is
apparently on of the major targets, I thoughy it imperative to get the
word out as soon as practical. DEA is attempting to build a database
of the contacts in all areas. A TIGTA Special Agent reports that he
was visited at his home in west Little Rock, AR approximately two
months ago by a woman "selling artwork," and fitting this description.
It is unknown HOW these folks are getting the home addresses of the
agents contacted, whether via surveillance or by FOIA. requests, but
it is certainly well to be aware of anyone who may fit this
description and appears to be following an agent."
Los Angeles Division
72. On March 8, 2001, at approximately 6:30 p.m., two males claiming
to be art students from UCLA, visited the home of Intelligence
Supervisor Lori Fernandes and ASAC John Fernandes, of the Los Angeles Division. The
two males said they were attending school from Europe and were trying to
sell art to support their economy. The two males looked to be in their
20's. One male had very short black hair and the other had black hair
that extended about two inches below his ears. The I/S Fernandes informed the males that she was not
interested and they left the residence. The two males departed the
neighborhood in a vehicle bearing a Maryland license plate #HLB785, The
plate comes back to a 1991 Ford registered to Leviella MENDEL at 8377
Tamar Drive, #37, Columbia, Maryland, DOB 10/29/75, driver's license
#M-534-514-009-032, 5'7", 150 lbs. All M204 inquiries were negative.
Additional inquiries revealed MENDEL has a new residential address, 4733
Haskell Ave., #46, Encino, California. Criminal checks are still
pending.
73. On Wednesday April 2, 2001 at approximately 8:00 PM one of two
individuals rang the doorbell of the residence of a DEA Special Agent
Wayne Schmidt in Duarte, California. Upon
answering the door, the S/A observed the two individuals walking away
from the residence and walking toward an adjoining neighbor's residence.
Upon exiting the residence, the S/A observed that both individuals, a
male and a female, were at the neighbor's front door and stated that
they were "Israeli art students", The neighbor advised them she was not
interested and both left the area walking south on foot. The S/A
observed that the male spoke English with a pronounced accent and was
approximately 5'10" medium build short curly dark hair and carried an
artist's portfolio. The female was approximately 5'7" with shoulder
length auburn hair. The S/A was not able to obtain any further
description due to the lack of available light in the area. The S/A
returned to his residence and contacted by telephone the Temple Station
of the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department (LASO) and requested
assistance in attempting to find and identify the individuals. While
awaiting the arrival of the LASO, the S/A returned to the area where he
had last observed the individuals and attempted to locate their exact
location without success. The S/A was contacted telephonically by LASO
Sergeant Joseph B. O'Conner [not redacted]. Subsequently, the S/A
briefed Sergeant O'Conner in person at a
location away from his residence, While briefing, Sergeant O'Conner dispatched a number of marked police units
into the area of the last sighting. After approximately 30 minutes of
searching the area the units reported no observations. Sergeant O'Conner, along with several LASO Deputies canvases
on foot the residents of several houses north and south of the S/A's
residence on the pretext of looking for door to door peddlers. Sergeant
O'Conner determined that the two individuals
approached the resident of 615 Royalview Street, Duarte, identified as
Kathy SABGUNDJIAN (626) 358-6453 (626) 256-1027 at approximately 7:30 PM
and had entered that residence and stayed for approximately 30 minutes.
Ms. SABGUNJIAN had made a purchase from the individuals. During
questioning by Sergeant O'Conner Ms.
SAPGUNDJIAN recalled that the two individuals would not give her their
names nor did they provide her with a telephone number. When asked about
framing the artwork the individuals obtained Ms. SABGUNDJIAN's telephone
numbers and said that they will be in touch with her. Sergeant O'Conner left his business card wtih Ms. SABGUNJIAN
and requested that she contact him in the event the art students
telephoned. Sergeant O'Conner also requested
that Ms. SABGUNDJIAN not tell the sellers about his visit.
Miami Division
74. The Miami Division, including SouthCom, ATF, INS, FDLE, and
SFISC, and the Southeast Laboratory, (for lab incidents, see
Laboratories), has had at least 20 encounters with Israelis selling
artwork. These encounters took place at the Divisional Office and at the
residences of several employees. A Chemist made a purchase at his
residence via personal check for $155.00. The check was deposited into
Colonial Bank account number 067001518. A copy of the check has been
furnished.
75. In a Federal Protective Service report dated February 9, 2001, a
FPS Officer while on patrol at a Federal facility adjacently located to
DEA, was notified by a Security Officer that there were two individuals
walking around the back of the building. The subjects stated that they
were there from Israel to try to sell paintings for art school. The male
subject was carrying an Israeli passport, a Florida State driver's
license, and a Florida state ID card. The female subject had a Florida
State driver's license and a Florida state ID card. The female subject
could not provide a passport or visa from Israel. The subjects were
detained and transferred to FPS Miami Headquarters where they were
interviewed. Both subjects were issued tickets for "soliciting for
commercial purposes." While interviewed, both subjects produced
counterfeit social security cards. Both subjects stated they were
approached by a man at the Florida State driver's license office and
paid him $100.00 for the counterfeit social security cards. Both
subjects were issued tickets for "possession of a false U.S, Government
document." The male subject was identified as Ohad AHARON and the female
as Yafit SEGAL. Later in the intervievv, SEGAL stated that they are not
art students, but answered an ad in Israel to go to the U.S. to sell
art. The company, which is located in Florida, is "Oil Paintings and
Frames Universal Art," and the manager's name is ALMOG. SEGAL also
stated that they had a disagreement with ALMOG, left the company, and
decided to sell art on their own. The art is bought from a company in
Los Angeles, California. SEGAL and AHARON were released and the case
remains open with the U.S. Dept. of State.
75. [Number reused] On February 15, 2001, an off duty agent
spotted two individuals believed to be identified with subjects of a
security adviory posted by the Miami F.D. Surveillance was conducted and
the local police approached them to obtain identification and
photographs. They were both carrying passports. The female's name was
Hammutal COHEN, DOB 01/29/62, passport 416077838, Immigration departure
#41060016307 (02/12/01), 5'8", 145 lbs. The male's name was Itay
RUBINSTEIN, DOB 01/17/79, U.S. visa #39127358, date of entry 12/28/00,
passport #39127358, 6'0", 165 lbs, They stated they were showing artwork
that was not for sale. They were promoting an art gallery that was
opening in New York. DEA Special Agents observed these two individuals
in a strip mall near the DEA Orlando District Office in Heathrow,
Florida. The Israelis were observed going business-to-business selling
artwork they carried in a large portfolio. The agents photographed the
two individuals,
76. On March 1, 2001, at approximately 3:00 p.m., SA Kevin McLaughlin of theTampa DO responded to a
knock at one of the fifth floor office doors. (It should be noted that
the Tampa DO occupies the fourth and fifth floors of a First Union bank
Office building). The reception area is on the fourth floor, with the
fifthi floor doors being locked, and possessing no signs of
idwitification.) At the door was a young fernale who immediately
identified herself as an Israeli aii student who had beautiful art to
sell. She was carrying a crudely made portfolio of canvas, matted, but
unframed pictures. Taking note of the posted Miami Field Division
Security Alert regarding a similar incident, SA McLaughlin invited her into one of the interview
rooms and SA Adrian Chindgren joined him in
listening to her presentation. She had approxiinately 15 paintings of
different styles, some copies of famous works, and others similar in
style to famous artists. When asked her name, she identified herself as
Bella POLLCSON, and pointed out one of the paintings was signed by that
name. She then changed her story and said that the paintings were not
for sale, but that she was there to promote an art show in Sarasota, FL,
and asked for the agents' business cards so that information regarding
the show could be mailed to them. She was not able to say when, or where
the show would take place. After this discrepancy, the agents began to
question her more closely, and her responses were evasive at best. When
asked whom she was with, she stated that she was dropped at this office
building by her Team Leader, who knew everything and could answer more
questions. The Team Leader was described as a male driving a red van,
dropping off this female, with another four females and a male.
77. Tampa DO agents then began searching the area around the Tampa DO
office and found the individuals described by the young female. Two of
the girls were on a street corner near another busy office complex area
and as agents were speaking with thern, the red van pulled up. All were
escorted to the Tampa DO for questioning.
78. Agents from the Tampa DO then interviewed each of the subjects.
Through identification that was produced, it wat revealed that the
female who approached the Tampa DO and identified hersclf as Bella
POLLCSON, was now identified as Inbal VAKSHI. The other subjects were:
Sussie OSHRA, Keren KUZNITZ, Keren MATATIA, Livnat SELLA, Eli COHEN,
Oshirt ZAGURI, Rachel KENDEL, and Hanan SERFATY. SERFATY, the driver of
the red van, was identified as the Team Leader. All of the subjects gave
ambiguous answers to the agents, but keeping to the story that they were
Israeli art students.
79, VAKSHI produced an Israeli identification card, an Israeli
passport, a student identification card, and a Florida driver's license
for Sarah Minna SASSOON. VAKSI stated that she had received the license
from a friend of hers who was no longer living in Florida.
80. S/A David Keikin interviewed subject
Hanan SERFATY. SERFATY stated that he served in the Israeli military
between the ages of 18-21. He further indicated that he arrived in the
U.S. approximately one year ago at the age of 23. When questioned as to
what he did between the ages of 21 and 24, he refused to answer. The
interviewing agent indicated that SERFATY's command of the English
language was excellent, even the utitilization of slang words. SERFATY
indicated that he resides in Hollywood, FL, with a phone number of (954)
478-1006. He further related that he purchases the paintings from an
Anglo male, TOM (LNU) for $8.00-$15.00/piece, In turn, each piece of
artwork is subsequently sold for $50-80. TOM (LNU) allegedly resides in
Hollywood/Ft. Lauderdale area, and reportedly has a storage unit in
south Florida where he keeps the artwork to be picked up.
81. It should be noted that in SERFATY's possession were deposit and
withdrawal slips for Washington Mutual Bank account #038300002297689,
dating, from December 19, 2000 through February 21, 2001. The fifty-one
(51) slips were for transactions at various banks in Dade and Broward
County, FL, banks, specifically in Coral Gables, Miami, Hollywood,
Aventura, and Tamarac, The deposits for the timeframe toaled $93,252,00,
with withdrawals totaling $86,000. Also in SERFATY's possession were
four (4) deposit slips for First Union Bank account #1010017986436, from
February 26, 2001 through March 1, 2001, totaling $14,250.
82. After being photographed, the subjects were released. G/S Mark Baughman contacted G/S James Williams, Miami Field Division SOG, and was
instructed to contact Matheson of the Federal Protective Service in
Atlanta, which he did telephomically. On March 2, 2001, G/S Baughman contacted Air Force Intelligence, OSI at
MacDill Air Force Base and relayed all pertinent information to Air
Force Commander Joseph Lukowski. Copies of
all documents were forwarded to Commander Lukowski.
83. Follow-up calls to the Tampa Police Department revealed the
following information. On 2/27/01, the Tampa Police Dept. responded to
two calls of suspicious persons in the Davis Island area of Tampa.
Shortly after 8 PM, officers responded to the first call and encountered
a male and female alleging to be selling art prints in a residential
area. One of the homes they embarked upon was that of a U.S. Marshal.
During the interview of the two subjects, the male claimed he was
previously a police officer with the Israeli Army and was currently
touring the U.S. with an associate. The male subject was identified as
Assaf MARZIANO, DOB: 02-04-78. The female subject was identified as Orit
BENDALAK, DOB: 10-28-78. MARZIANO stated that he had relatives in Miami,
but could not recall their names. He also claimed that he was traveling
to Los Angeles after leaving FL. Both subjects claimed that a NADAV
(LNU) was responsible for introducing them to the idea of selling
artwork while in Miami, and added that NADAV was responsible for
dropping off the subjects on Davis Island to sell artwork. BENDALAK
stated that she originally left Israel and traveled to Thailand and
Taiwan. She also claimed that while serving in the Israeli army, she was
trained as a bomb technician. At 9:15 PM, a second call brought TPD
officers to another location on Davis Island, which resulted in the
interview of another male and female also selling artwork. These
subjects claimed to ro be promoting artwork for an organization that
they could not recall the name of. They both additionally claimed that
they had been dropped off in Tampa after departing Miami on same day.
These subjects are identified as Michael SIMON, DOB: 11-23-78 and Ilana
HARARI, DOB: 4-29-79. TPD fingerprinted and photographed all 4 subjects.
(The Tampa DO retains copies of all documentation.) These subjects all
had passports in their possession reflecting travel through Czech,
Warsaw, and Nepal (10/2000). It should be noted that in addition to one
Deputy U.S. Marshal residing on Davis Island, also residing there is a
DEA agent and his spouse who is a Deputy U.S. Marshal, a FL state
representative, and a captain with the Tampa Police, Dept.
84. The day before this incident, February 28, 2001, four students
were observed going door-to-door in a Tampa neighborhood. They knocked
on the door of a U.S. Marshal. The U.S. Marshal stated that the students
were selling and promoting artwork for the Jerusalem Art Academy. The
students claimed they came to the U.S. on February 21, 2001 from Israel,
through New York, and then to visit friends in Miami. None of the
students could provide the names of their ftiends. The students
indicated that they had just recently traveled to Thailand and Taiwan.
The students indicated that they had served in the Israeli military
(which is required). One male stated he was a police officer in the
military and one female stated she was trained as a bomb technician.
85. On March 6, 2001, two males and one female student attempted to
sell artwork at the IRS office in Maitland, Florida, The students
appeared to be from the Middle East and possibly Israeli, according to
the IRS agent. Two agents encountered the students and they were asked
to wait while a supervisor was contacted. The students left and were
followed to the parking lot. The students were seen getting into a
vehicle bearing Florida license plate number D36-TTQ. The registration
belongs to Seth Thomas BURKHOLDER of 3329 Bartlett Blvd., Orlando,
Florida. The vehicle is a white 1995 Nissan pickup.
86. The U.S. Marshals Service also provided information regarding
similar incidents at the Federal Courthouse and Federal Building in
downtown Tampa. On February 7, 2001, a female carrying a large flat
package was stopped on the 17th floor of the courthouse. The female
stated that she was an Israeli art student that had some photos and
paintings to sell. The subject was instructed to check with the first
floor Security Post to get permission. The subject then departed to the
elevators. It was noted that the female had a thick accent possibly
middle-eastern.
87. An inquiry at the U.S. Attomey's Office (USAO) in Tampa by the
Marshals Service revealed that a female had visited the USAO floor of a
commercial bank building where they lease space. She claimed to have
pictures to see, and may also have claimed to be an Israeli art student.
88. On February 27, 2001, Deputy U.S. Marshal (DUSM) Scott Ley observed two females fitting the profile
of the Israeli art student seen at the Tampa Federal courthouse,
standing on a street corner in downtown Tampa. They were carrying
hand-made portfolios, approximately 4-ft. by 3-ft, made up of white foam
core sides with heavily taped carrying handles. One of the females was
followed into a commercial bank buildina where she proceeded to sell her
paintings. She proceeded to other buildings in the area for the next
hour, before joining a third female in the lobby of another bank
building. The third female had set up her artwork in the lobby.
Information obtained from the building management revealed a Florida IID
card in the name of Keren KUZNITZ, and a telephone number for her
"boss," The number, (954) 478-0961 is a Voice Stream Wireless cellular
phone out of Fort Lauderdale, FL. 12. DUSM Ley approached this female and inquired about the
paintings, She immediately identified herself as an Israeli art student
named Keren. She stated that she was one of the ten students from a
class of forty that traveled to the U.S. for one month selling their own
artwork as a fundraiser. DUSM Ley purchased a
painting for $150.00, and obtained additional information from KUZNITZ.
The name of her "Team Leader" and/or "Boss" is Hanane SARFATI, and the
name of the art school is BEZALEL. The "boss" was to pick the art
students up in downtown Tampa at approximately 5:00 p.m. Additional
surveillance revealed a dark-colored mini van, driven by a white male
with dark hair, picking up approximately six females, all carrying
similar "portfolios," in a crowded area during downtown Tampa rush hour.
The Florida license plate on the van was U71 DLD, a 1991 red Dodge
mini-van, registered to Hanane SARFATI, W/M, DOB 06/03/1977, 4220
Sheridan St. #303, Hollywood, FL, and 701 S. 21st Ave., Hollywood, FL. A
Florida Driver's License check revealed S613-320-77-203-0 to belong to
Hinane SARFATI, 4220 Sheridan St.,, #303, Hollywood, FL. This license
has been suspended and is not curreatly valid.
89. The U.S. Marshals Service subsequently found the BEZALEL ACADEMY
OF ARTS AND DESIGN in Jerusalem via the Intemet. The telephone number is
011-972-2589-3333; website http://www.bezalel.ac.il/. The
Tampa DO has copies of all of the above reports, photographs, and
identification. For further information, please contact GS Jane Feeney or IRS Bonnie
Godshall.
90. The following was received by the RAC of the Ft. Meyers kesident
Office: Commonwealth Financial Center (CFC) (the DEA FTMRO is a tenant
of this building) and approached several people attempting to sell
artwork. The females were asked to leave by tenants on the fourth floor
that then notifiied the FTMRO. [Note: a MFD On 15 March 2001, sometime
after noontime, two white females entered the Security Alert on these
Israeli art students was previously given to the non-DEA tenants of the
Commonwealth Financial Center, Also, other tenants of the building
reported seeing this group on a previous occasion.] SA's Paul Mangone and Mark
Strang approached the females and asked them what their business
ws in the building. The two females, subsequently identified as Zwaig
MEIRAV and Hilda MACHBUBI told the agents that they arrived that same
day from Fort Lauderdale "by bus" and planned on returning the same day.
They said they had "walked" from the bus station in downtown Fort Myers
to the CFC. They said they had no identification on them. As they left
the CFC, SAs Mangone and Strang followed the two females as they walked
around the neighborhood returning to the corner of New Brittany Blvd.
and College Parkway after, apparently, placing a telephone call to
associates.
91. A short time later, SA Mangone saw a
bronze/tan Ford Aerostar XLT, bearing Florida license number T37-VTH,
arrive at the northeast comer of New Brittany Blvd. and College Parkway.
Two other persons occupied this vehicle. These persons were subsequently
identified as Nimrod SIMKIN and Inbal KEREN. MEIRAV and MACHBUBI then
entered the vehicle. SAs Mangone and Strang followed the vehicle as it headed west on
College Parkway toward the city of Cape Coral. The vehicle entered Cape
Coral on Cape Coral Parkway then turned north on Del Prado Blvd. It
turned into a small business center on the East Side of Del Prado Blvd
and parked in the parking lot of the business.
92. SA's Mangone and Strang then approached the vehicle and the driver,
SIMKIN, who was already out of the vehicle. SA Mangone [not
redacted] then asked the other three occupants to exit the vehicle.
SA Mangone asked each to provide ID, which
they did. SA Mangone asked MEIRAV why she
lied to him at the CFC. She said she was afraid. SA Mangone asked SIMKIN, the vehicle driver, for
permission to search the vehicle. SA Mangone [not redacted] saw a
small Panasonic digital recorder and photographic equipment in the
vehicle.
93. The following personal information was obtained from the four
individuals:
Zwaig MEIRAV, w/f, thin build, short long dark hair, DOB:
2/9/76, US VISA control #20003205620012, Israeli passport #7831088
Hilda MACHBUBI, w/f, DOB: 5/4/79, US VISA control #20000397210011,
Israeli passport # 6530284, FL ID # M211-320-79-664-0
Nimrod SIMKIN, w/m, over 6' tall, curly hair, DOB: 9/2/77, FL DL#
S525-620-77-3220
Inbal KEREN, w/f, DOB: 7/17/79, US VISA control #20001710300009,
Israeli passport #6082073
94. SIMKIN explained that they are part of a group of Israeli
students who are working to earn money so that they may continue their
education in Israel. All of the students travel to the United States on
tourist visas and pay for their own airfare and living expenses. They
remain in the U.S. for a period of four months then return to Israel.
SIMKIN did not know how many students participate in this program but
stated that in addition to himself and the three females currently with
him there are three other students residing in Ft. Lauderdale. These
students learn of this opportunity in Israel and they are put in touch
with a several outlets where they purchase paintings out of pocket. The
students then sell the paintings and they retain any profit for
themselves. SIMKIN was unable to provide names of the persons/businesses
from which they purchase the paintings nor was he able to provide the
name of the organization that sponsors this employment.
The following was received from the Orlando District Office:
95. On May 2, 2001 in response to that Interoffice memorandum, SA
Lee Madeam noted a suspicious vehicle outside
of the Orlando District Office parked in the travel lanes taking
photographs of the office building and parking lots. SA Madeam attempted to get a closer look at this
vehicle and possibly a license plate number, however, this vehicle sped
away before he could reach it. SA Madeam
described this vehicle as a late model Mitsubishi Diamante, maroon in
color. SA Madeam described the driver of this
vehicle as a white male.
96. On May 3, 2001, the DEA Orlando District Office was visited by an
Israeli art student at approximately 1:00 p.m. This subject was detained
and identified as Peer SEGALOVITZ (DOB: 03-16-1974). SEGALOVITZ is a 27
year old male that has been in the United States since January 17, 2001.
SEGALOVITZ is in the United States on a B-2 (visitation) visa which
expires July 17, 2001. INS was contacted and INS requested that DEA
detain SEGALOVITZ until they could arrive to take him into custody. FBI
SA John Weyrauch also responded to assist with the interrogation.
SEGALOVITZ was interrogated for approximately 4 hours while waiting for
INS to respond. SEGALOVITZ was untruthful about his reasoning to be in
the United States for approximately the first 3 hours. SEGALOVITZ
finally admitted that he was one of approximately 30 Israeli art
students who are currently in Florida. SEGALOVITZ would not admit what
their purpose was in Florida, but did state that they were not here for
legitimate means.
97. SEGALOVITZ reluctantly stated that he was an officer of the
Israeli military special forces 605 battalion in Golan Heights.
SEGALOVITZ has the rank of Leiutenent and his military ID number is
5087989. SEGALOVITZ stated that he commanded approximately 80 men.
SEGALOVITZ stated that he had been in infantry, but as a platoon leader
he and his men specialized in demolition. SEGALOVITZ then began to
explain the various types of explosives that he was familiar with and
stated that his main purpose was to clear mine fields for Israeli tanks
and soldiers. SEGALOVITZ acknowledged he could blow up buildings,
bridges, cars and anything else that he needed too. SEGALOVITZ further
stated that he was very familiar with small arms and had operational
knowledge of tanks and other large military machinery. SEGALOVITZ stated
that the only thing he was not trained to operate was military aircraft.
SEGALOVITZ admitted that he had been in two (2) military actions in
Lebanon involving explosives, these missions were to eradicate members
of the Hezbolah. SEGALOVITZ asked agents not to divulge this information
to Israel because it would lead to his immediate arrest in Israel,
98. SEGALOVITZ stated that he was aware of Israeli Organized Crime,
involvment in drug smuggling and weapons smuggling. SEGALOVITZ admitted
that he was selling art and working for his brother's company.
SEGALOVITZ identified his brother as Dror SEGALOVITZ with an address of
8187 N. University Drive Apartment 129 in Tamarac, Florida. A search of
Peer SEGALOVITZ and his vehicle found numerous deposit slips, paintings,
receipts for art sales and art equipment. INS SA's Nigel Jason and Bill
Forester from the Orlando INS Office responded and arrested Peer
SEGALOVITZ for violation of his B-2 (visitation) visa by working in the
United States.
99. Following the interview of Peer SEGALOVITZ, FBI SA John Weyrauch
[not redacted] drove to several area shopping centers lookin for
SEGALOVITZ's buddy "Schlomo" as SEGALOVITZ called him. S/A Weyrauch
[not redacted] spotted an odd looking male (long braided pony
tail) with art portfolio like SEGALOVITZ's at a Winn Dixie, just down
the street from the Orlando D.O. S/A Weyrauch [not redacted]
approached the individual and did an interview. The subject
identified himself as follows:
Akyuz Shmuel SAGIV
Israeli Passport # 8710426
DOB:
09-27-1976
POB: Maaloot, Israel
Entered US IN New
York
Address unknown
PN 954-712-2126
SAGIV stated he is scheduled to leave the U.S. in May to go back to
Israel. SAGIV stated he has a cousin (NFI) in Hollywood, FL, and a
cousin (NFI) in Coral Springs, FL. SAGIV stated he was in the Israeli
military in 1995-1996, and was the personal bodyguard of the highest
ranking General in the Israeli Army. He also stated he was a demolition
expert.
SAGIV stated he met Peer SEGALOVITZ one week earlier, in a pub. SAGIV
stated SEGALOVITZ asked him to help set-up art in Orlando, FL. SAGIV
stated he knew nothing about art, but that they drove to Orlando that
day but did not stay overnight. He stated he did not go to Daytona, FL,
and did not stay in the Knights Inn. (Receipts found in SEGALOVITZs
pocket indicated they did.) SAGIV stated he did not know anyone named
"AVI" and did not know that Peer SEGALOVITZ had a brother named Dror.
S/A Weyrauch stated that SAGIV was evasive
with answers, that SAGIV did not speak English well, and S/A Weyrauch had to continually repeat questions.
Following the interview, SAGIV was released.
100. On May 3, 2001, at approximately 1:30 pm, while SEGALOVITZ was
being interrogated, T/S James Wise spotted a
maroon car with a while male sitting inside. This car was parked in the
turn lane outside of the DEA (Orlando) office building, T/S Wise was not able to get the license plate number
of the vehicle, as the driver sped away as T/S Wise approached it.
New Orleans Division
A female identifying herse as an Israeli art student visited the
Little Rock, Arkansas Resident Office in mid January 2001. The female
student was attempting to sell her artwork. She was allowed into the
reception area where she displayed a cassava bag with approximately six
to eight pictures to the Receptionist and a National Guard Analyst. Both
employees were not interested and the female student left without
incident.
102. Also in mid January 2001, a white male, approximately 25 years
old, visited the Birmingham, Alabama Resident Office in an attempt to
sell some artwork, A Task Force Agent at the front desk informed the
unidentified male that he was not interested and the unidentified male
left.
103. On March 7, 2001 at approximately 7:15 PM, the wife of the RAC
of the Little Rock, Arkansas Resident Office was contacted at her
residence by a male and female attempting to sell paintings. After she
turned them away, the wife informed the RAC of the encounter. The RAC
exited his residence and observed the male and female knock on the door
of his neighbor's house and, after receiving no reply, walk back to the
street. The RAC contacted them at this time. The male verbally
identified himself as Danny SILVER. The female attempted to verbally
identify herself several times but the RAC was unable to understand her
as she had a very heavy accent. Both subjects were in their early
twenties and, according to SILVER, were Israeli nationals. The RAC asked
to see some form of identification. SILVER said that they had Israeli
driver licenses and military cards but he refused to show these items to
the RAC. SILVER said that he and the female were part of a group of
twenty-five Israeli art students going around the area selling paintings
and attempting to generate interest in a planned art gallery in St.
Louis, Missouri. SILVER refused to identify the director and the
location of the planned gallery. SILVER had in his possession a large
case containing five or six paintings. The RAC asked SILVER how they
arrived at his neighborhood. He initially said they drove but changed
his story after the RAC requested to see his vehicle. SILVER then said
that he and the female arrived in a taxi and would leave the same way.
The RAC asked SILVER who had sent them to the neighborhood. SILVER said
that their supervisor had sent them and that their supervisor makes the
decisions as to where the students go to sell their art. SILVER refused
to identify the supervisor and refused to provide a telephone number for
him. The RAC asked SILVER for the telephone number and address of their
current residence. SILVER said they were staying in a local hotel but
refused to provide the name of the hotel or the telephone number. SILVER
then stated that he did not want to answer anymore questions and that he
wanted to leave. The RAC returned to his residence and called for a
Little Rock Police Department patrol unit to search the area in an
attempt to locate SILVER and the female for the purpose of identifying
them. The RAC also searched the area. Neither the patrol unit nor the
RAC was successful in locating SILVER and the female. In a subsequent
discussion with the RAC's wife, he learned that this past summer she had
been visited at their residence by a young female with an unknown accent
attempting to sell paintings.
104. The following is information received by the Special Agent in
Charge of the New Orleans Division:
During the period of February 16 through February 23, 2001, Group
Supervisor (GS) James E. Myles, Jr. and
Security Specialist (SS) Allen Davis met with
members of the Federal law enforcement community in the metropolitan
area of New Orleans, Louisiana to discuss matters regardmg the above
captioned subject. The following Federal law enforcement agencies
reported negative responses: U.S. Customs Service (USCS) and the Bureau
of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms (ATF).
105. The following offices reported incidents of Israeli students
approaching their employees at their office or residence:
United States Secret Service New Orleans, LA
106. On Friday, February 16, 2001, S/S Allen
Davis and GS James E. Myles, Jr. met
with United States Secret Service Special Agent in Charge (SAC) Michael James and Assistant Special Agent in Charge
(ASAC) Kent Tate in New Orleans, Louisiana.
SAC stated that in December 2000, around Christmas time, two young
Israeli students visited his residence with artwork. SAC James further recounted that approximately two
weeks prior to his personal encounter with the Israeli students, two
other young Israeli students attempted to sell artwork to his spouse at
their residence. Neither SAC James nor his
spouse purchased artwork from the students. Finally, SAC James disclosed that his office was in receipt of a
Counter terrorism Advisory Report regarding suspicious activities around
Federal buildings that related to Israeli students. SAC James provided S/S Davis
with a copy of the report.
Federal Bureau of Investigation / New Orleans, LA
107. On Tuesday morning February 20 2001, SS Davis and GS Myles
interviewed Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Special Agent (SA)
Gary McDaniel in his office. SA McDaniel is the designated security officer for the
FBI office which is located at 2901 Leon C. Simon Boulevard, New
Orleans, Louisiana. SA McDaniel stated that
he was unaware of any incidents involving Israeli students. SA McDaniel assured SS Davis that he would canvass his office regarding
the Israeli incidents and contact SS Davis if
any significant information was discovered. Later the same evening, SA
McDaniel reported to SS Davis that no Israeli students had approached FBI
employees at the office or their residences. SA McDaniel queried his perimeter security officers to
determine if they had been approached by anyone attempting to sell
artwork with negative results.
108. On Wednesday, February 21, 2001, SA McDaniel contacted SS Davis and reported that the FBI had information
that an Israeli student attempted to sell artwork to U.S. Federal
Magistrate Docia Dalby and U.S. District
Judge James Brady at their residences in
Baton Rouge, Louisiana. SA McDaniel did not
know if either Magistrate Dalby or Judge
Brady purchased any of the artwork.
US. Marshals Service / New Orleans, LA
109. On Tuesday afternoon, February 20, 2001, GS Myles and SS Davis
interviewed U.S. Deputy Marshal Bernie
Deschamp at his office in the Hale Boggs Federal Building, 500
Camp Street, New Orleans, Louisiana. Deputy Deschamp reported that he learned about an incident
that involved males who identified themselves only as Israeli students
while trying to enter the DEA and FBI buildings in Houston, Texas
attempting to sell paintings to building occupants. Deputy Deschamp further reported that an alert regarding
the Israeli students in Houston, Texas became official when he received
a Security Advisory Notice regarding suspicious activities around
Federal buildings from Acting U.S. Deputy Director Louie T. McKinney.
110, Deputy Deschamp stated that on
February 13, 2001, days after receiving the Security Advisory Notice, he
received a telephone call from the United States Coast Guard Office,
which is also located in the Hale Boggs Federal Building on the 13th
floor, and was advised that an unknown male was in Room 1341 showing
artwork to employees, According to Deputy Deschamp the unknown male was identified as David
DROR; White Male; 5'10" tall; 170 pounds; Date of Birth 10/04/76;
citizenship: Israeli/Canadian; National Origin: Israeli (Tel Aviv); and
U.S. Visa (B-1/B-2) number 7338630. Deputy Deschamp explained that DROR entered the Hale Boggs
Federal Building from Magazine Street, got on the elevator and went up
to the 13th floor to the U.S. Bankruptcy Court. Deputy Deschamp described the item DROR was carrying when
he entered the Hale Boggs Federal Building as an oversized black binder
with gray duct tape wrapped around the carrying handle. DROR departed
U.S. Bankruptcy Court and went to the nearby U.S. Coast Guard Office.
Deputy Deschamp stated that pursuant to the
telephone call received from the U.S. Coast Guard, DROR was temporarily
detained and interviewed by the U.S. Marshals Service. At the same time,
a Personal History Data Sheet was also completed for DROR. In addition,
Deputy Deschamp stated that he contacted FBI
Special Agent Pete Licata in New Orleans,
Louisiana before contacting FBI Special Agent who is assigned to the FBI
Joint Terrorism Task Force (JTTF) in Houston, Texas. Deputy Deschamp provided SS Davis a copy of theU.S. Marshals' Security Advisory
Notice along with other related documents.
U.S. Federal Protective Service New Orleans, LA
111. On February 20, 2001, SS Davis and GS
Myles met with U.S. Federal Protective
Service (FPS) Supervisor Lieutenant Herbert
Patterson at his office in the aforementioned Hale Boggs Federal
Building. Lt. Patterson stated that his
office did receive a general alert notice from the FPS's Headquarters'
Office in Ft. Worth., Texas regarding suspicious activities around
Federal buildings. No specific details regarding Israeli students were
mentioned in the advisory. Lt. Patterson
canvassed his office regarding suspicious activities around the Hale
Boggs Federal Building and received negative responses. Lt. Patterson assured SS Davis and GS Myles that he
would contact them at the DEA New Orleans Divisional Office if any
information was obtained regarding the Israeli students.
112. On March 21, 2001, the DEA Little Rock, Arkansas Residen t
Office reported that an IRS S/A assigned to Little Rock was visited at
his home on the night of March 20, 2001. The IRS S/A identified the
individual as Idan UNIKOVSKY, a W/M with DOB 7-22-79. Identification was
made via an Israeli passport number not obtained. UNIKOVSKY stated he
was part of a group of 8 Israeli art students who are attending the
University of Jerusalem. They have been in Memphis, TN and Baton Rouge,
LA. He identified their "Team Leader" as Sharon RATZADY, (NFI), After
the IRS S/A identified himself to UNIKOVSKY as a federal agent,
UNIKOVSKY asked if he could take a picture of himself with the Agent, to
show his friends that he had met a U.S. federal agent. The IRS agent
refused, and sent him on his way.
New York Division
113. On September 24, 1999, a Senior Investigator of Task Force Group
T-11 two suspicious Israeli Nationala parked outside the New York
Divisional Office in a white Chevrolet van. The two subjects were
identified as Yaniv Shem TOV (DOB 06/02/74) and Sahlev DOR (DOB
08/08/77). NADDIS and NCIC checks were negative,
Newark Division
114. No response.
Philadelphia Division
115. There have been no reports of suspicious activities by Israeli
art students occurring at DEA facilities or at the residences of any DEA
Employee under the Philadelphia Division.
Phoenix Division
116. On February 28, 2001, at approximately 3:15 p.m., a white male
identified as Travis Wayne SMITH, (DOB 11/09/74, U.S. Citizen), went to
the Asset Forfeiture Unit located on the second floor of the Phoenix
Division, to sell framed painting and posters. SMITH stated he had just
come from the U.S. Customs office and sold artwork to a gentleman that
was re-doing his office. SMITH also stated he had visited other floors
and tenants in the building and sold artwork to them. An Investigative
Assistant contacted Asset Forfeiture Unit's Task Force Agents regarding
the unauthorized solicitor. The Task Force Agents asked SMITH for
identification. SMITH wanted to know why he was being asked for ID and
he was told because he was a suspicious person. Phoenix Police
Department and Identification Bureau records revealed SMITH had two
outstanding misdemeanor traffic warrants for driving on a suspended
license. SMITH was booked into the Madison Street Jail. SMITH has FBI
No. 530083DB8 (Assault - Domestic Violence). On the same day, the Task
Force Agents checked SMITH'S residence, 615 S. Hardy, #210, Tempe,
Arizona, and found that he is in fact renting that apartment. A search
of SMITH'S vehicle revealed it was rented from Enterprise Rental Car in
Albuquerque, New Mexico. SMITH had a Washington State driver's license,
but was born in Utah. On March 1, 2001, the Task Force Agents went to
SMITH'S place of employment, Sun City Designs, 7662 Gray Rd., #105,
Scottsdale, Arizona, and contacted the branch manager Ramon ESTRADA
(H/M, DOB 07/26/63). ESTRADA said he has known SMI TH for three years
while working for the company. ESTRADA claimed that his business offers
incentives for sales people to sell framed artwork to commercial
businesses. ESTRADA also claimed that the business provides the artwork
to the sales people and takes a percentage of the sales.
117. A NCIC triple "I" check revealed that the Los Angeles Sheriff's
Office arrested Ramon ESTRADA in December 1982 for "processing marijuana
for sale". ESTRADA was arrested in May 1995 for "transport/sell
narcotics" by the Los Angeles Police Dept. and again in July 1995 by the
Lake Tahoe, CA Police Dept. for "transport/sell narcotics," and "adult
giving minor narcotics." ESTRADA was arrested in August 1995 by King
County, Washington Sheriff s Office for "domestic violence." ESTRADA'S
FBI No. 76435FAO, CASID No. CA07401218 and WASID No. WA17692473.
San Diego Division
118. A number of San Diego Field Division employees, including the
Southwest Laboratory, (for incidents at the Southwest Lab see
Laboratories), and the Carlsbad Resident Office, reported attempts to
sell artwork by Israeli students. The description of one Israeli female
is, early 20's, 5'7", light complexion, thin build, 110 lbs. Another
Israeli female is described as 5'4", dark brown hair, 130 lbs., and both
are considered very attractive. There is no description for the Israeli
male involved. All of the students claimed they were in the country to
open their own art gallery in San Diego. ISP has not received a detailed
report of the incidents.
119. The San Diego Division is currently working with the FBI,
Department of State, and CIA personnel on advancing this investigation.
Five names were retrieved from DEA and FBI sources and ran through INS.
There were hits on three Israeli individuals who entered the U.S. on
non-immigrant tourist visas. A license plate was also found belonging to
a 1997 Chevy van that the students were seen in. The registration
belongs to Yaniv Zacoravich GILOR. GILOR has rented hotel rooms and
seems to be the leader of the group.
San Francisco Division
120. A young brown haired woman claiming to be from San Francisco
College selling artwork contacted the wife of a Special Agent at home in
mid January 2001. The young woman was observed contacting two of the
Special Agent's neighbors.
121. Approximately one year ago, a Group Supervisor from the
Sacramento, California Resident Office purchased a painting from a
female identified as Hagit GROSS (DOB 09/30/78), Israeli passport
#5111696.
122. A Special Agent of the Fresno, California Resident Office was
approached at his home by a female identifying herself as an Israeli art
student selling artwork.
123. On January 4, 2001, two Special Agents were conducting
surveillance at a shopping center in East Palo Alto, Cafforriia. A brown
haired female, 18-21 yoa, 5'4", 140 lbs., approached the agents. She was
carrying a brown portfolio and identified herself as an Israeli exchange
student selling art to earn money. The agents declined and then observed
the female approach another individual in the parking lot.
Seattle Division
124. There have been no reports of suspicious activities by Israeli
art students occurring at DEA facilities or at the residences of any DEA
Employee under the Seattle Division.
125. On December 12, 2000, Shay ASHKENAZI, male, Israeli, DOB:
11-12-74, Israeli Passport number 6847902, arrived at the SEA TAC
International Airport via Northwest Airlines flight 33 from Tel Aviv,
Israel. He was referred for secondary inspection by the I&NS
Inspectors. As reported by I&NS Intelligence officer Omar N. Nuri,
ASHKENAZI stated he was a former Israeli intelligence officer, and was
now traveling to "enjoy life". He claimed to have been in the U.S. in
April 2000, when he was involved in a car accident in South Carolina.
The purpose of this trip was to finalize the case with his attorney and
to receive medical treatment. ASHKEHAZI volunteered information that a
fraud scheme involving Israeli nationals was taking place in the U.S. He
stated that young male and female Israelis are being recruited in Israel
to enter the U.S. with B-1/B-2 tourist visas and be employed as
door-to-door salesmen of paintings that are shipped to the U.S. from
Israel. He claimed that one of the individuals involved in this is
"Mikaeel" (sic) and is present in Texas operating this business. (See
above paragraphs regarding Michael CALMANOVIC). He stated the Israelis
usually operate in Texas, New York, Atlanta, Georgia, Washington, and
possibly other states. ASHKEHAZI stated another person involved in this
is "GERUD" (LNU), residing at 27461-150th Avenue SE, Kent, WA 98402 with
telephone 253-638-8143. ASHKEHAZI was admitted into the U.S. following
the inspection.
St. Louis Division
126. In early February 2001, G/S James
Dunne was contacted at his home by a young woman offering to sell
original watercolor paintings. The woman was approximately 25 years of
age and spoke with a Middle Eastern accent. G/S Dunne informed the woman he was not interested. She
left and proceeded to a neighbor's home. G/S Dunne said this type of incident is uncommon in his
neighborhood.
127. On March 1, 2001, one male and one female purporting to be
Israeli art students visited the home of a Special Agent from the Kansas
City District Office. This Special Agent was TDY in Pittsburgh when this
incident occurred. The two subjects made contact with the Special
Agent's wife. The students were described as clean cut, 22 - 23 years of
age, with a slight Middle Eastern appearance. They were carrying a large
black portfolio and showed the Specia Agent's wife a painting of a
church. The Special Agent's wife told the students she was not
interested and the students departed. No vehicle was observed. When the
Special Agent returned on March 5, 2001, he canvassed his neighborhood
and found that the students had contacted some of his neighbors. One
neighbor told the agent that the students claimed they were from the
University of Jerusalem. None of the Special Agents neighbors are in the
law enforcement field.
128. On Wednesday April 4, 2001, an Israeli male subject entered the
public lobby of the building housing the St. Louis Division Office
carrying a portfolio of paintings. A DEA employee happened to be passing
through the lobby at that time and asked the subject where he was going.
The subject was uncertain, and was told to leave the premises. The
employee then informed ASAC II of the situation and several Agents were
sent to interview the subject.
129. During the interview the subject was identified as Or ALROEI,
DOB 8/8/78, Israeli passport # 6679687, Israeli drivers license #
6800268. The Agents also obtained flight information from ALROEI
indicating that he flew into St. Louis on 3/28/01 on Lufthansa Airlines
flight number LH691. A small piece of paper in ALROEI's wallet had a
handwritten telephone number of 214-882-5196. (Note; this is one of the
Nextel telephones obtained by Michael CALMANOVIC, see above.) ALROEI was
very nervous and gave several conflicting statements about showing the
artwork but not selling it. ALROEI was advised not to solicit the
building, and sent on his way. (See Paragraphs #51 and 52 above.) ALROEI
was subsequently arrested by I&NS.
Washington D.C. Division
130. On March 5, 2001, a Richmond area ATF Agent and FBI Agent were
solicited at their homes by two females claiming to be Israeli art
students.
131. On March 12 2001, a Richmond, Virginia District Office Special
Agent observed Bran KEDEM trying to open the north side entrance to the
Richmond D.O. The Special Agent inquired as to KEDEM's business. KEDEM
told the Special Agent that he was an Israeli art student who was
selling paintings. The Special Ageat alerted his Acting Group Supervisor
who invited KEDEM into the office where KEDEM was interviewed. KEDEM was
interviewed by the S/A and A/GS and later by a Henrico County Business
Inspector. KEDEM presented a Florida State driver's license and an
Israeli driver's license. KEDEM told the auents he did not have a
passport with him. KEDEM provided the following information:
132. KEDEM is an Israeli citizen who came to the United States with a
group whose intention is to sell artwork. KEDEM arrived in the country
during November 2000 in Miami, FL, via Mexico. KEDEM has visited several
east coast cities including Miami, FL, Plantation, FL, and Atlanta, GA.
KEDEM has been in Richmond, VA for about one week. KEDEM was in the
company of five other Israeli nationals in the Richmond area, They are
females; Limor PERLAS, Shiri ASE, Orit KEMETCH, and Shmrt MER and a
male; Kobi BOUZAGLO. ASE is one of the females who solicited at the home
of a local ATF Agent. The group is lodging at the Econo Lodge located at
6523 Midlothian Turnpike, Richmond, VA. KEDEM plans on leaving Richmond
on Tuesday 3/13/01, via a flight from Newport News, VA, to Miami, FL.
KEDEM will remain in Miami for a few days until returning to Israel via
a flight out of New York City. KEDEM said he did not realize that he was
soliciting at a U.S. Government office and said that he had no knowledge
of the locations of any U.S. Government offices in the area. KEDEM also
stated he did not have any knowledge of the addresses of any government
employees in the area. KEDEM traveled in a van bearing Florida license
plate #M31FHI. KEDEM reported that Kobi BOUZAGLO (his boss) had a
cellular phone number of 1-888-321-6213, During the interview, the local
ATF, FBI, INS, Henrico County Police Dept., and the Henrico County
Business Inspections Dept. were notified. A Henrico County Business
Inspections office supervisor responded. The supervisor informed KEDEM
that he was in misdemeanor violation of law and that he would have to
appear in front of a local magistrate. At the request of the HCBI
supervisor, KEDEM was transported to the Henrico County Court where
KEDEM was taken before a magistrate. The Richmond D.O. obtained
photographs and fingerprints of KEDEM. I&NS verified that KEDEM
entered the country as a visitor on 11/25/00 in Miami, Fl, via Mexicana
Airlines and that he was allowed to stay until May 24, 2001. However, he
had no permission to work or solicit business in. the U.S.
133. The morning of April 10, 2001, at approximately. 8:52 a.m.
anindividual entered Washington, D.C. DEA Field Division building at 801
I Street NW, Washington, DC and inquired as to the agencies and
occupants housed in the building. This individual was probing for
information. The guard informed the individual that the information was
not to be given out. The individual was still insistent about the
building occupants, which includes not only DEA, but I&NS and
Veteran Affairs. The Justice Protective Guard asked for ID, but the
individual refused to show any. He was asked to leave. He appeared ready
to write the information in a black portfolio he was carrying. The
Federal Protective Service was notified by the guard service at 9:21
a.m. The individual was a white male, approximately 5'4" in height,
weighed approximately 185 lbs, had gray hair, with a receding hairline,
wearing, a grayish shirt, gray slacks and a black windbreaker.
Special Operations Division
The Office of Investigative Technology has provided the following
information:
134. On Monday 3/19/2001 S/A Jeffrey
Behrmann's wife notified ST Unit Chief Louis
Palombella of an incident, which occurred at the Behrmann [not
redacted] home the previous evening. S/A Palombella and S/A Howard
Oberst interviewed Mrs. Behrmann at
her home on Monday afternoon regarding the incident. Mrs. Behrmann related the following information to the
Agents.
135. On Sunday evening March 18, 2001, about.8:00 PM an individual
she described as a White male, 5'6 to 5'7 with medium dark complexion,
dark curly hair, dark eyes, and a prominent nose came to her front door.
The individual was wearing dark clothing and spoke with an accent, which
she believed to be of Middle Eastern origin. The individual purported
himself to be an Israeli Art Student, and attempted to sell Mrs. Behrmann pictures or paintings. Mrs. Behrmann noted that he had what appeared to be a
small table or object leaning against his side. Mrs. Behrmann had virtually no dialog with the
individual except to tell him she was not interested and immediately
closed the door. Mrs. Behrmann did not see
what if any vehicle the individual was driving, but did see a white van
drive by her house, and make a "U' turn down the street a short time
later. Mrs. Behrmann called the Spotsylvania
County Sheriff's office to report the incident on a non-emergency line,
and noted that a marked police car made a tour of the neighborhood about
20 minutes after the incident occurred.
136. During the interview the agents showed Mrs. Behrmann the photographs of the individuals who
have been included in the Security Alert bulletin. Mrs. Behrmann picked out the picture of Ohad AHARON as
possibly being the same person who had come to her front door.
137. Following the interview with Mrs. Behrmann, the agents met with Lt. E. K. Lunsford of the Spotsylvania County Sheriff's
Department. During the meeting the agents informed the Lieutenant of the
incident at the residence, and of the DEA security alert issued by the
Miami Field Division. The agents requested that the Lieutenant brief the
officers assigned to the area where the home was located and to provide
extra patrol in that area at least until S/A Behrmann returned home from assignment.
138. On April 11, 2001 at approximately 5:00pm, Senior Inspector
Larry Loveless was notified by Deputy
Assistant Administrator John Sheridan, ST,
that two Israeli art students were at a shopping center in
Fredericksburg, Va. The two had visited the store owned by an employee
at ST. S/I Loveless contacted Virginia ABC
Special Agent Carter Wells who contacted the
Fredericksburg Police Department for assistance. S/A Wells and Officer Ed
Medina, FPD, responded to the Gateway Village Shopping center,
located on Plank Road (Route 3), Fredericksburg, VA. They approached two
females who were inside a coffee shop in the shopping center. The
females were identified as Yael GAVISH and Meirav BALHAMS. They were
carrying a homemade portfolio, with several paintings.
139. GAVISH presented Israeli passport number 5013766, issued
12/03/92. The passport had been renewed twice, with the current
expiration shown as March 12, 2002. S/A Wells
obtained color photocopies of pertinent pages of her passport, which
were provided to S/I Loveless [not redacted]. She was described
as a W/F, DOB: October 03, 1978, long dark brown hair. GAVISH spoke very
little English. GAVISH was issued a U.S. class B1/B-2 visa at Tel Aviv
on July 04, 2000. Visa Control Number 20001818940002, foil number
35995526. The visa page contains two (2) US I&NS entry stamps; one
dated Sep. 15, 2000 New York, and the other dated Mar 09, 2001, New
York. Other entries reflected in the passport are as follows:
4-12-92 Kenya Immigration (entry) stamp and
visa
4-28-92 Kenya Exit Stamp
4-28-92 Israel Entry
Stamp
4-31-92 Israel Exit Stamp
8-13-95 Israel Entry
Stamp
8-17-95 Taba Border Control entry (Israel)
07-25-96 Haifa
Border Control exit (Israel)
07-27-96 ? pireas
08-07-96 ? same
as above athina
07-07-97 Cyprus entry as visitor, max stay until
7-21-97
7-12-97 Cyprus exit
7-13-97 Israel entry
7-08-98
Israel Entry Stamp MA
8-28-99 Israel exit
8-28-99
Amsterdam
09-01-99 Amsterdam (?)
09-01-99 Israel entry
199?
Arabic ? unknown (2 stamps entry and exit?)
Undated
Brazil
03-03-2000 Israel exit
03-10-2000 Amsterdam
unknown
03-10-2000 Israel entry
09-15-2000 Israel
exit
09-15-2000 U.S. (New York) entry B-1/B-2 Visa issued
7-5-2000
09-20-2000 Mexico entry
10-13-2000 Mexico
exit
10-13-2000 Guatemala entry
11-18-2000 Aeropuerto Juan
Santamaria Entry Stamp
12-08-2000 Panama entry
12-08-2000 Cosa
Rica exit with postage type stamp
12-11-2000 ? Spanish language
entry
12-11-2000 Panama exit
12-13-2000 Bogotá, Colombia
entry
02-05-2001 Bogotá, Colombia exit
02-05-2001 ? Spanish
language visa or immigration stamp
03-09-2001 U.S. (New York) entry
140. BALHAMS presented a New York State identification card, number
140-614-039, issued March 02, 2000. The card lists her DOB as October
31, 1978, with an address of 354 PTERSN PLNK RD I (Paterson Plank Road)
Jersey City, NJ 07650. She is described as a W/F 5'03" brown eyes and
brown hair. BALHAMS spoke very good English, and was the leader of these
two individuals.
141. The girls approached a shopkeeper in the shopping center and
stated they were art students from a school in New York, and were
traveling across the country selling their artworks. They had several
unframed oil paintings, which they were selling for $130 each. The
shopkeeper asked if he could contact them later to purchase paintings,
and they replied no, and could not provide a telephone number for him to
call. They left the shop, and were seen going to other shops in the
area.
142. When interviewed by the FPD, the girls stated they had been
dropped off at the shopping center, and would be picked up later. FPD
obtained Polaroid photos of the two girls. They were then observed going
to a local restaurant, where they sat and waited. At approximately 6:30
pm, a W/M, late 20's, dark hair, wearing bright orange pants met with
the girls inside the restaurant. The W/M then left on foot, and was
followed several blocks until he entered a maroon colored Ford Van. The
shop owner advised that the van circled the shopping center lot for 15
to 20 minutes. The shop owner stated the van had NY tags.
Office of Training
143. There have been no reports of suspicious activities by Israeli
art students occurring at DEA facilities or at the residences of any DEA
Employee at the Office of Training.
El Paso Intelligence Center (EPIC)
144. There have been no reports of suspicious activities by Israeli
art students occurring at DEA facilities or at the residences of any DEA
Employee at the El Paso Intelligence Center.
Office of Aviation Operations
145. In September 2000, two males who attempted to sell him artwork
approached a Supervisory Special Agent/Pilot at his residence.
Approximately two weeks ago, the SSA/P noticed two males selling artwork
in his neighborhood. The Special Agent's residence is located in
Plantation, Florida.
146. On February 1, 2001, one male, approximately 21 yoa, sold some
artwork to a Special Agent/Pilot at his residence located in San
Francisco, California. The SA/P wrote a check to Rony SHLOMO in the
amount of $125.00.
147. On February 8, 2001, a male, approximately 25 yoa, attempted to
sell a Special Agent some artwork at her residence in Northeast
Albuquerque, New Mexico.
148. On February 12, 2001, a Special Agent was approached at his
residence by a male, 19-21 yoa that attempted to sell her artwork. The
Special Agent's residence is located in Miami, Florida.
149. In late January or early February 2001, two people attempted to
sell some artwork to a Raytheon Aerospace Support Services Contract
Employee at his residence, The employee's residence is located in
Arlington, Texas.
Laboratories
North Central Lab - Chicago, Illinois
150. There have been no reports of suspicious activities by Israeli
art students occurring at DEA facilities or at the residences of any DEA
Employee at the North Central Laboratory.
Mid Atlantic Lab - Washington, D.C.
151. There have been no reports of suspicious activities by Israeli
art students occurring at DEA facilities or at the residences of any DEA
Employee at the Mid Atlantic Laboratory.
Western Lab - San Francisco, California
152. There have been no reports of suspicious activities by Israeli
art students occurring at DEA facilities or at the residences of any DEA
Employee at the Western Laboratory.
Southwest Lab - National City, California
153. On September 18, 2000, a female Israeli art student approached a
Security Guard. At the same time, the Southwest Labokatory Director was
in the lobby speaking with a contractor. The female approached the Lab
Director and asked him to look at some paintings. The Lab Director
declined and she proceeded to ask him his opinion of the paintings. The
female stated that she is a student and works at a studio in La Jolla,
California. A few weeks later a male of Middle Eastern decent visited
the Southwest Lab selling artwork and spoke to the same Security Guard.
The Security Guard noted that the male spoke with the same accent as the
female who had visited the lab prieviously. The male left the building
without speaking to anyone else.
154. The Lab Director also had an encounter at his residence, date
unknown. One male and one female with oil paintings visited the Lab
Director's home and wanted to show some paintings. The Lab Director
informed the male and female that he was not interested and they left.
155. At approximately 7:40 PM on Thursday, May 31, 2001, an Israeli
Art Student came to the residence of Forensic Chemist William R. Dietz. He had a large black portfolio
containing artistic pictures. He stated he was from Israel and wanted to
know if Dietz would be interested in
purchasing some paintings. Dietz asked him to
repeat where he was from and he said Israel. When Dietz asked where he went to school, he said it was
a school in Israel. When Dietz asked for the
name of the school he avoided answering the question by saying he (Dietz) wouldn't know it.
156. Dietz told him that he didn't have
time to speak with him further because he was busy, but asked him if he
could provide a business card. He said he did not have one. It also
appeared that he did not possess any other form of identification or
permit to sell items door-to-door. Dietz was
able to ask the Israeli his name. He stated it was Gar, or something
close to that. The man was approximately 5'8"-5'10" tall; short curly
brown hair; tan complexion; and wore an orange T-shirt containing some
sort of design and/or words.
157. Dietz's wife stated that she had seen
the man coming from the house next door, but the timing of his departure
from that house was so quick that there was either no response or he did
not even follow through with his visit. Then walked to the other side of
the street and away from the house down the street that was
perpendicular to the Dietz's house. This
street has many cul-de-sacs off of it, but the man never walked down any
of them. He merely walked to the end of the street and turned the
corner. He was not seen at that time getting into a car.
158. At approximately 8:15 PM that same evening, Dietz had to drive to the store. As Dietz drove down his street, a small blue car
(license plate no. 3WAE681) pulled in front and was being driven by a
male that appeared to be similar to the man. The car made several turns
within the neighborhood, and eventually picked up a female. The blue
car's sporadic driving lead to believe that the driver did not have a
clear understanding of where it was to pick up the female passenger and
may have even been searching for her.
Northeast Lab - New York, New York
159. There have been no reports of suspicious activities by Israeli
art students occurring it DEA facilities or at the residences of any DEA
Employee at the Northeast Laboratory.
Southeast Lab - Miami, Florida
160. Sometime between August and October 2000, a male described as
5'8", black hair, tan complexion, possibly Middle Eastern decent,
visited the home of a Forensic Chemist. The male claimed he was an
Israeli art student selling art work. The Chemist declined to purchase
any of the artwork and the student went on his way.
161. Sometime between August and October 2000, a male described as
5'8", dark complexion, possibly of Middle Eastern decent visited the
home of another Forensic Chemist. The young man asked the Chemist if he
had ever heard of his art school in Israel (name unknown). The Chemist
responded negatively and the student began to show the Chemist some
paintings. The student entered the home, used the restroom, and
proceeded to discuss the sale of the paintings, The student advised that
the paintings were not for sale, but used to generate interest and
support for his school. The Chemist asked if there was a show or display
somewhere that he could go to look at these paintings. The student said
no and then agreed to sell the Chemist the painting he wanted. The
student offered a discount price if the Chemist purchased more than one.
The Chemist purchased one painting and then showed the student out.
162. On January 21, 2001, a young man carrying a portfolio of
paintings visited the home of a Security Specialist. The young man
introduced himself as an Israeli art student selling artwork from his
school in Israel. The Security Specialist advised the student that he
was not interested and the student left.
163. On February 7, 2001, Inbar KOCHAVI, an Israeli National
attempted solicitation at the Southeast Laboratory. KOCHAVI was escorted
out of the building. KOCHAVI was later located in an adjacent federal
occupied building. A Special Agent, Federal Protective Service Officers
and the Southeast Lab Security Specialist identified KOCHAVI as an
Israeli art student visiting the U.S. for the first time. Apparently,
she is staying with her friend Rani DRORE. KOCHAVI also stated DRORE is
a 27-year-old male living in the Kendall, Florida area. KOCHAVI
initially stated she was selling the artwork and utilizing the monies
for scholarships. Later, she revealed that she wasn't selling the
paintings, but presenting them to people and businesses in the U.S. for
the purpose of promoting the art students in Israel. KOCHAVI could not
spell the name of the school, but wrote out "Bezalel," located in
Jerusalem. KOCHAVI also revealed that she served time in the Israeli
military as a secretary (A FPS Officer explained that all Israeli adults
serve two years in the military upon reaching the age of 18). She
claimed she is currently employed as a waitress at a restaurant called
"Yotveta" in the city of "Hertzlia." KOCHAVI stated that she arrived in
Miami, Florida either Friday, February 2, 2001, or Saturday, February 3,
2001. She stated she flew from Ben Gurion Airport in Israel to New York,
and then to Miami. KOCHAVI'S passport has a U.S. Immigration stamp that
indicates she landed in New York on December 31, 2000. KOCHAVI was asked
about her transportation to and from the area and she stated her friend
DRORE was dropping her off and picking her up. DRORE was expected to
pick KOCHAVI up in a white van. KOCHAVI was asked about the names of
others of fellow students that might be involved in the artwork
promotion. She claimed there might be students like herself in the U.S.,
but she was not aware of this activity in other foreign nations. KOCHAVI
provided Israeli passport #7674731. KOCHAVI was released and observed
entering a blue van with Florida license plate #IA336J. The registration
revealed the van to be owned by Legum YOCHAI of 13753 SW 90th Ave.,
Miami, Florida 33176
164. On the evening of February 18, 2001, two subjects visited the
residence of a Forensic Chemist. The two subjects were identified as one
male, 21-25 yoa, 6'0", 185 lbs., dark hair, close cut, neat appearance,
and one female, 21-25 yoa, 5'6", 140 lbs brown hair just past the
shoulders with a slight perm, neat appearance. The two subjects politely
identified themselves as Israeli art students selling artwork. The
Chemist informed the students he was not interested. He did ask them for
a business card, but they could not provide one. Upon their departure,
the Chemist observed the two subjects visit the other units in his
building. The Chemist believes one resident purchased a painting.
South Central Laboratory - Dallas, Texas
165. In December of 2000, an Israeli art student by the name of Cohen
MEYTAL was observed by a DEA employee sitting on the western street curb
of the Dallas Divisional Office selling artwork. The student claimed
that a group of Israeli art students (about 20) would paint works of art
and sell them at local places of business. The employee purchased a
painting and was offered to have it framed by an acquaintance of the
Israeli group. The check was made out to Cohen MEYTAL and mailed to the
following address:
Cohen Meytal
c/o Calmanovic
3575 N. Beltline Road
P.O. Box 316
Irving, Texas 75062
166. Another DEA employee purchased a painting from the same Israel
art student for $135.00. The employee paid by check and the student
informed the employee that a framer would be in touch with him. On
December 15, 2000, a man named Rosie SISSO framed the picture from the
back of a panel van in a parking lot next to DEA's property. There were
two men in the van; however, the employee only dealt with one. The
framer wanted to visit the employee's home to match the frame to his
furnishing, but the employee declined. Later in January, a Forensic
Chemist informed the employee that an artist associated with the first
incident wanted to talk with him in the DEA from parking lot. The artist
wanted to sell more paintings and the employee told him he would canvas
the building and let him know around 4:00 or 5:00 p.m. At 5:00 p.m., the
employee told the artist no one was interested and the artist left.
167. In January 2001, another employee was approached at his home by
two Israeli art students, one male and one female. The students stated
they were selling their artwork for profit. The employee explained that
he was not interested. The employee canvassed his neighbors and found
that one of his neighbors purchased a painting from the students. The
Lab Security Officer advised the employee to try and obtain a copy of
the cancelled check from his neighbor. A copy of the check has not been
obtained yet.
168. Sometime in the first part of January, an employee was jogging
and noticed two guys selling artwork door to door. The employee
approached the two men and asked where they were from. The two men
stated they were from Israel. The employee did not make a purchase. The
employee observed the two men visit another home,
169. On March 4, 2001, a DEA Chemist was approached at his home by an
Israeli art student selling her paintings. The Chemist gave her his
phone number and asked her to contact the Security Officer at his office
on Monday, March 5, 2001. On March 5,2001, at approximately 3:00 p.m.,
the same student contacted the Security Officer, via telephone. The
student said her name was Elsa, but refused to relinquish her last name.
Elsa claimed she is with a group of twenty art students from Israel
traveling and promoting their artwork. Elsa produced a tourist visa. The
Security Officer asked Elsa for a call back number. Elsa said she was
staying with friends and then abruptly hung up the phone.
Tegucigalpa Country Office
170. On February 28, 2001, a couple attempted to sell at the
residence of the Tegucigalpa Country Attaché. His neighbors advised the
Country Attaché that a man and a woman in a red car were trying to open
the CA's gate. The neighbors asked the couple what they wanted and
advised them that no one was home. The couple left the area. No
identification information was revealed.
United States Environmental Protection Agency Incident
171. On March 1, 2001, a female went to the residence of an EPA
Special Agent. She stated she was showing art painted by international
students, which will be for sale soon at an art gallery opening soon,
late March or April 2001, at a Cherry Creek location in Denver, CO. The
EPA Agent told the female he was not interested in purchasing any
artwork and she responded she was not selling the paintings, but trying
to generate interest so people would visit the art gallery when it
opened. She stood at the agent's doorway and showed the agent, his wife
and daughter approximately ten paintings. The agent asked the female if
the gallery would be opening at the Cherry Creek Mall. The female stated
she did not think so, but that it would be at a location near the mall.
The female was described as 5'4", black hair, dark eyes, wore glasses
and a long black wool coat. She appeared to be in her mid 20's, spoke
excellent English with a slight foreign accent. On March 16, 2001, the
EPA Agent was informed by EPA-OIG that a security alert where "Israeli"
art students are purportedly going to the residences of Federal Law
Enforcement Agents around the country under the ruse of selling art. On
the same date, the EPA Agent contacted art galleries, the Cherry Creek
Chamber of Commerce, and Cherry Creek North, Inc., to determine if a new
art gallery was going to open in the Cherry Creek area. All responded
negatively, and said they never heard of a group of international
students trying to open a gallery.
172. On March 16, 17, and 18, 2001, the EPA Agent spoke with several
of his neighbors and determined the following information: The female
described in the above incident and a male, dark skin, mid 20's
contacted neighbor's houses within two blocks around the agent's
residence. Both of them identified themselves as Israeli art students.
No other houses in the neighborhood, or in neighborhoods next to the
agent's were contacted. On March 17, 2001, the EPA Agent spoke with his
uncle who was at the agent's residence in the afternoon on March 1,
2001. The agent's uncle stated that he was talking to a construction
worker next door to the agent's residence when a female with long black
hair and olive colored skin, mid 20's, drove up to the agent's residence
and took pictures of his house. The female only took photos of the
agent's residence and then let the area in a late model sedan, silver in
color. She left quickly and no license plate information was obtained.
173. A neighbor of the EPA Agent was visited by the male and female
and bought paintings. The check to the male was made out to Odfd
WEISFELNER. The check to the female was made out to Guy KEDEM. The
female left a business card stating EAG-Guy Kedem, European Art Group,
Oil Paintings; Phone number (720) 581-7076; Fax number (303) 336-7006.
On March 19, 2001, the EPA Agent contacted Quest Security to obtain
information on these numbers. The (720) number is unlisted and the (303)
number is a fax.number for Heritage Creek Apartments, 650 South Dahlia
Circle, Denver, Colorado.
FPS Information
174. Santa Ana FPS reported to that while at the Starbucks drinking
coffee after business hours last week, one of them overheard 2 Middle
Easterners sitting outside talking in Arabic, making reference to our
building and apparently making diagrams of our building and discussing
explosives. Local police were notified.
Tinker Air Force Base
175. On April 30,2001, an Air Force alert was issued from Tinker Air
Force (TAFB), in Oklahoma City concerning a "possible intelligence
collection effort being conducted by Israeli Art Students". On May 16,
2001, U.S. Air Force Office of Special Investigations (OSI), TAFB, and
the Midwest City Police Department (MCPD), requested assistance from
I&NS Oklahoma City to a location in Midwest City, OK It was
indicated that four (4) individuals from Israel had been encountered by
the MCPD attempting to sell art in the Midwest City area.
176. On May 17th, four (4) Israeli art students were reported in the
Midwest City, OK area. They stated they were there "to present and
promote" Israeli art. MCPD located and detained the 4 individuals, all
whom were in violation of their visas. Their vehicle was obtained also.
The four were identified as:
Name DOB POB Israeli Passort # US Visa #
Yaron OHANA 02-04-78 Haifa, Israel 8421721 42252049
Ronen KALFON 04-13-76 Haifa, Israel 8168262 35966019
Zeev COHEN 03-26-78 Haifa, Israel 5524033 33331965
Naor TOPAZ 06-08-77 Haifa, Israel 8081705 33306515
All 4 were charged with violating the status of their visas -- to wit
selling art, and were booked into the Oklahoma City jail by I&NS.
All 4 requested voluntary departure. Bond was initially set at $25,000
for each. All 4 had in their possession, pre-purchased return airfare to
Bangkok, Thailand. FBI OKC requested that the "Students" be held for
debrief/interview.
177. While booking, a personal check was found secreted between the
buttocks of Ronen KALFON. Additionally, in the personal effects of Naor
TOPAZ a number of uncashed checks were obtained, several post-dated to
future dates.
Volk Field Air National Guard Base, Camp Douglas,
Wisconsin
178. On Saturday, May 19, 2001, at approximately 3:10 pm, two Israeli
Nationals requested permission to visit a museum located at Volk Field,
ANG Base. Approximately ten minutes after being allowed on the base, the
two were seen on an active runway, taking photographs. The individuals
were identified as Tsvi WATERMANN, white male, DOB: June 7, 1979,
Address: Pri Megadim 36 Mevaseret Zion, Israel, Israeli Passport 5728101
expiration date July 20, 2002, U.S. visa class B1/B2 expiration date
March 20, 2011, and Gal KANTOR, white, male, DOB: Sep 08, 1975, Address:
Kibbuts Ellon MP Western Galilee, Israel 22845, Israeli Passport 9
8261507 expiration date of Oct 20, 2004, U.S. B1/B2 visa, control number
19993358160012, expiration date of Nov 30, 2009. WATERMANN was also in
possession of an Israeli Ministry of Transport driver's license, number
7046942, which reflects his first name spelled as "Zvi".
179. KANTOR was driving a 2001 green Ford Mustang, bearing Illinois
tags SEU-760, which was rented from Hertz Car Rental at O'Hare Airport
in Chicago, IL. A search of the car revealed cameras and exposed film.
The film was developed, and one picture depicted WATERMANN in the car on
the runway. There were no photos of any aircraft.
180. WATERMANN, and KANTOR were released to the Juneau County
Sheriff's Department and charged with misdemeanor trespass. They were
subsequently released after fine of $210 each.
181. During interviews, they stated that they were traveling from
Chicago, IL to Duluth, MN, stopping enroute to visit a friend in Cold
Springs, MN. They stated they stopped at Volk Field only to visit the
museum. WATERMANN stated he was recently discharged from the Israel
military, and was taking a trip around the world, WATERMANN had in his
possession airline tickets with the following itinerary:
April 11, 2001 Tel Aviv - Toronto
April 15, 2001
Toronto - Newark
April 19, 2001 Newark - Chicago
Aug 01, 2001
Chicago - Las Vegas
Aug 04, 2001 Las Vegas - San Francisco
Aug
08, 2001 San Francisco - Los Angeles
Aug 10, 2001 Los Angeles -
Honolulu
Aug 13, 2001 Honolulu - Sydney, Australia
Jan 10, 2002
Sydney - Hong Kong
Jan 17, 2002 Hong Kong - Frankfurt - Tel Aviv
The ticket was issued by the Sititara Travel Agency in Jerusalem. The
cost of the ticket' was $2,634 (U.S.).
182. Both were asked if they were involved in the selling of art
while in the U.S. KANTOR became very upset over this, and questioned why
the were being asked about that. KANTOR stated he had been involved in
that a long time ago, and had sold art recently while in Chicago. He
stated he was involved in a prograrn called "Shasheem", (NFI). Sgt. Kurt
Moore of Volk Field stated that when asked about the art sales, that
KANTOR's whole demeanor changed, and he then became uncooperative. Each
asked to telephone the Israeli Embassy.
INDEXING SECTION:
1. BLAIN, Gat NADDIS negative, occupation: Israeli art student, sold
painting to DEA employee in Dallas, TX on 01/04/2001 (Identified in
paragraph 22)
2. FREIDMAN, Shabar NADDIS - Negative driver's license (#6728447), ID
(#033056433)
3. AVRAHAM, Gerzon Ofir NADDIS - Negative. DOB (08/12177), Israel
passport (#6315574), Israeli Ministries of Transport ID (#034193615)
4. L.N.U., Shahar NADDIS - Negative
5. BARAM, Lior NADDIS - Negative. Florida driver's license
(#B650-520-76-047-0), 10733 Cleary Blvd., #206, Plantation, Florida,
33324-0000, (DOB 02/07/76), 5'9", dark eyes and black hair
6, COHEN, Hammutal NADDIS - Negative DOB (01/29/62), Israeli passport
(#6077838), Immigration departure (#41060016307 02/12/01), 5'8", 145
lbs.
7. RUBINSTEIN, Itay NADDIS - Negative DOB (01/17/79), US, visa
(#39127358), date of entry 12/23/00, Israeli passport (#39127358)
[sic, see visa], 6'0", 165 lbs.
8. AHARON, Ohad NADDIS - Negative
9. SEGAL, Yafit NADDIS - Negative
10. TOV, Yaniv Sheni NADDIS - Negative DOE (06/02/74) NADDIS negative
11. DOR, Sahlev NADDIS - Negative DOB (08/08/77) NADDIS negative
AJ 12. GROSS, Hagit NADDIS - Negative DOB (09/30/78), Israeli
passport (#5111696)
13. SHLOMO, Rony NADDIS - Negative approximately 21 yoa
14. KOCHAVI, Inbar NADDIS - Negative Israeli passport (#7674731)
15. DRORE, Rani NADDIS - Negative approximately 27 yoa
16..YOCHAI, Legurn NADDIS - Negative 13 753 SO 90th Ave., Mami,
Florida 33176
17. MEYTAL, Cohen NADDIS - Negative. Address: c/o Calmanovic, 3575 N.
Beltline Rd,, P.0, Box 316, Irving, Texas 75062. Addressed used by
Michael Calmanovic, identified below
18. SISSO, Rosie NADDIS - Negative.
19. BURKHOLDER, Seth Thomas NADDIS - Negative. 3329 Bartlett i6d.,
Orlando, Florida, 1995 white Nissan pickup bearing Florida license plate
D36-TTQ.
20. L.N.U., Elsa NADDIS - Negative.
21. SMITH, Travis Wayne NADDIS - Negative. white male, DOB
(11/09/74), FBI No. 530083DBS (Assault - Domestic Violence) address: 615
S. Hardy, 4210, Tempe, Arizona
22. ESTRADA, Ramon Hispanic male, NADDIS - Negative. DOB (07/26/63),
arrested 12/82 "processing marijuana for sale," 5/95 "transport/sell
narcotics," 7/95 "transport/sell narcotics, adult giving minor
narcotics, " 8/95 "domestic violence." FBI No. 7643 5FAG, CASID No.
CA07401218, WASID No. WA17692473
23. GILOR, Yaniv Zacoravich NADDIS - Negative. registered owner of a
1997 Chevy van in San Diego, CA
24. MENDEL, Leviella NADDIS - Negative. 83 77 Tamar Drive, #37,
Columbia, Maryland, DOB 10/29/75, Maryland driver's license
#M-534-514-009-032, 5'7", 150 lbs. Additional inquiries revealed MENDEL
has a new residential address, 4733 Haskell Ave., #46, Encino,
California.
25. SILVER, Danny NADDIS - Negative. (NFI)
The Tampa, Fforida District Office identified the following
individuals (#26-942):
26. BENDALAK, Orit: NADDIS negative, DOB 10-28-78, WF, POB Israel,
5'7", 140 lbs., brown hair, brown eyes.
27. BEZALEL ACADEMY OF ARTS AND DESIGN: NADDIS negative, Jerusalem,
011-972-2-589-3333, http://www.bezalel.ac.il/.
28. COHEN, Eli: NADDIS negative, 701 S. 21 Ave. #207, Hollywood, FL
33020, DOB 11/04/1977, FL DL C500-200-77-404-0, State of Israel Ministry
of Transport card number 03379722
29. , HARARI, Ilana: NADDIS negative, W/F, DOB 4-29-79, 9-29-79,
2-9-79, 14 Jerico itolon Israel, attends University of Jerusalem, 5'3",
90 lbs., brown hair, blue eyes, tattoo of sun on right foot.
30. KENDEL, Rachel: NADDIS negative, White/Female, State of Israel
Ministry of Transport card number 7095201 and 034807727, Israeli
passport number 6614254.
3 1, KUZNITZ, Keren: NADDIS - Negative. 1818 E. Oakland Park Blvd.
#98, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33306, DOB 02/09/1979, 5'5"; FL driver's
license: K253-500-79-549-0, State of Israel Ministry of Transport card
number 7121535 and 035721844.
32. L.N.U, Nadav NADDIS - (NFI)
33. L.N.U., Tom NADDIS - Negative. White, male. Address:
Hollywood/Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. Reportedly sells artwork to Israeli
art students.
34. MARZIANO, Assaf or Asaf NADDIS negative, DOB 2-4-78, state of
Israel Ministry of Transport # 034086959, passport #552306S, POB Israel,
WM, 5'7", 150 lbs,
35. MATATIA, Keren: NADDIS negative (NFI)
36. OSHRA, Sussie: NADDIS negative. (NFI)
37. SASSOON, Sarah Minna: NADDIS negative, 2916 Pierce St., 94,
Hollywood, FL 33020, DOB 11/8/1978, FL DL# S250-793-79-908-0.
38. SELLA, Livnet: NADDIS necgative, DOB 12/24/1978, State of Israel
Ministry of Transport number 7023400 and 036208023, International
Student Idenitity card number S972-204-776-601.
39. SERFATY, Hanan, aka Hanane SARFATI: NADDIS negative, 4220
Sheridan St., #303, Hollywood, FL 33.021, and 701 S. 21 Ave., Hollywood,
FL, DOB 06/03/1977, 6', FL DL S613-320-77-203-0, registered owner of red
mini-van FL tag # U71 DLD, phone number (954) 478-1006, cellular phone
number (954) 478-0961.
40, SIMON, Michael: NADDIS negative, w/m, 11-23-78, Aliebenliezel 82,
Jerusalem, telephone number 97226768256, Israeli passport no. 8660008,
POB Jerusalem, 6'1", 180 lbs., black hair, brown eyes.
41. VAKSHI, Inbal: NADDIS negative aka Bella POLLCSON, State of
Israel Miriistry of Transport License number 7098663 and 036444842,
International Student Identity Card number S972-204-775-487, DOB
02/03/1979.
42. ZAGURI, Oshirt: NADDIS negative, 701 S. 21 Ave., 4205, Hollywood,
FL 33020, DOB 07/11/1977, 5'6", FL DL #Z260-640-77-75 1 -0..
43. WEISFELNER, Odfd NADDIS - Negative. (NFI)
44. KEDEM, Guy. NADDIS -Negative. This female left a business card
stating EAG-Guy Kedem, European Art Group, Oil Paintings; phone number
(720) 581-7076; Fax number (303) 336-7006. The (720) number is unlisted
and the (303) number is a fax number for Heritage Creek Apartments, 650
South Dahlia Circle, Denver, Colorado. (NFI)
The following individuals were identified by the Ft. Meyers, Florida
Resident Office (#45-48):
45. MEIRAV, Zwaig, NADDIS - Negative. w/f, thin build, short long
dark hair, DOB: 2/9/76, US VISA control # 20003205620012, Israeli
passport 97831088
46. MACHBUBI, Hilda, NADDIS - Negative. w/f DOB: 5/4/79, US VISA
control # 2000397210011, Israeli passport # 6530284, FL ID
#M211-320-79-664-0
47. SIMKIN, Nimrod, NADDIS - Negative. w/m, over 6' tall, curly hair,
DOB: 9/2/77, FL DL# S525-620-77-3220
48, KEREN, Inbal, NADDIS - Negative. w/f, DOB: 7/17/79, US VISA
control # 20001710300009, Israeli passport # 6082073
The following individuals were identified by the Richmond, Virginia
District Office (#49-54):
49. KEDEM, Eran, NADDIS - Negative. w/m, Israel, dob 10/15/75, 5'11",
1601bs., 12990 SW 74th St., Pine Crest, FL, Israeli ID 4031820079,
Israeli driver's license #651007
50. PERLAS, Limor NADDIS - Negative. (NFI)
51. ASE, Shiri NADDIS - Negative. (NFI).
52. KEMETCH, Omit, a.k.a. KIMCHY, Ornit, NADDIS - Negative. w/f, dob
02/04/74, passport 96814521
53. MER, Shmrt NADDIS - Negative. (NFI)
54. BOUZAGLO, Kobi, NADDIS - Negative. cellular telephone
1-888-321-6213 (NFI)
The following individuals were identified by the Montgomery, Alabama
District Office:
55. VALANSI, Marcelo, NADDIS - Negative. dob 11/24/77, Argentina
passport #26316660, 901 S.E. 1st Ave., #2, Gainesville, FL., 617 E.
University Ave., Gainesville, FL., 1436 Washington Ave., Miami, FL.,
registered owner of 1984 GMC Custom Van, Florida tag T11YZX., Argentina
DNI26316660 card 4190961, speaks English and Spanish, Tel #
(352)378-1485 (Identified in Paragraph 6)
56. VALANSI, Roberto, NADDIS - Negative. father of Marcelo VALANSI.
Salguero 2468, Apartment 15, Buenos Aires (NFI) (Identified in Paragraph
10)
57. VALANSI, Graziela, NADDIS - Negative. mother of Marcelo VALANSI,
Salguero 2468, Apartment 15, Buenos Aires (NFI) (Identified in Paragraph
10)
58. SAGES, Ester, NADDIS - Negative. dob 9/30/77, Israeli passport
96470399, Attornet 161, New York City, NY., Hotel Carlton, New York
City, NY (Identified in Paragraph 6)
59. SAGES, Elyahu NADDIS - Negative. (deceased), father of Ester
SAGES, (NFI) (Identified in Paragraph 9)
60. SAGES, Marjalit, NADDIS - Negative. Mother of Ester SAGES (NFI)
(Identified in Paragraph 8)
61. DARDIC, Vanina Erika, NADDIS - Negative. dob 3/5/78, Argentina
passport #10581811, 901 S.E. 1st Ave., Gainesville, FL. . Argentina
DN126473227 card #J8557, speaks English, Hebrew, and Spanish, girlfriend
of VALANSI, citizen of Argentina and Israel (Identified in Paragraph 4)
62. DARDIC, Mario, NADDIS Negative. father of Vanina DARDIC (NFI)
(Identified in Paragraph 9)
63. COHEN, Judith (maiden name) NADDIS - Negative. mother of Vanina
DARDIC (NFI) (Identified in Paragraph 9)
64. GAVISH, Yael NADDIS - Negative. W/F Brown hair, Brown eyes, DOB:
Oct 03, 1978. Citz: Israel Passport Number: 5013766 issued 12-03-92,
expires 3-12-2002 US Visa number 20001818940002 Class B-1/B-2 issued
July 05, 2000 Expires June 28, 2010.
65. BALHAMS, Meirav NADDIS - Negative. W/F Brown hair, Brown eyes,
5'03" DOB: 10-03-78 Citz: Israel. New York ED Card 4 140-614-039.
Address: 354 Paterson Plank Road #1, Jersey City, NJ 07650
The following individuals were identified by the Orlando D.O. on May
3, 2001:
66. SEGALOVITZ, Peer - NADDIS Negative, White, male, Nationality:
Israeli, DOB: 03-16-1974, POB Israel, Address: 8187 N. University Drive
Apt. 4129, Tamarac, FL, entered the U.S. on B-2 class visa on January
17, 2001. Former officer in Israeli Special Forces 605 Battalion.
Israeli Military ED # 5087989. Encountered May 3, 2001 at the Orlando
D.O. Occupation: Israeli Art Vendor/Student. (Identified in Paragraph
96)
67. SEGALOVITZ, Dror - NADDIS - Negative. White, Male, Brother of
Peer Segalovitz. ADD: Address 8187 N. University Drive, Apt.
Nationality: Israel. Identified in Paragraph 98)
68. SABGUNDJIAN, Kathy - NADDIS: Negative. (626) 358-6453 (626)
256-1027
69. SAGIV, Akyuz Shmuel - NADDIS: Negative. White, Male, Israeli
Passport # 8710426; DOB: 09-27-1976; POB: Maaloot, Israel; Entered US In
New York; PN: 954712-2126. Associate of Peer Segalovitz and Dror
Segalovitz. (Identified in paragraph #99).
The following were identified at the Volk Field ANG Base, Camp
Douglas, Wisconsin:
70. WATERMANN, Tsvi NADDIS - Negative, AKA: Watermann, Zvi; white,
male, DOB: June 7, 1979; Address: Pri Megadim 36 Mevaseret Zion, Isreal;
Israeli Passport # 5728101 expiration date July 20, 2002; U.S. visa
class B1/B2 expiration date March 20, 2011; Israeli Ministry of
Transport driver's license, number 7046942.
71. KANTOR, Gal Kal NADDIS - Negative. white, male, DOB: Sep 08,
1975, Address: Kibbuts Eilon NO Western Galilee, Israel 22845; Israeli
Passport 8261507 expiration date of Oct 20, 2004; U.S. B1/B2 visa,
control number 19993358160012, expiration date of Nov 30, 2009.
The following were identifed at Tinker AFB, Oklahoma:
72. OHANA, Yaron NADDIS - Negative. DOB: 02-04-78; POB: Haifa,
Israel; Passport Number: 8421721 U.S. Visa Number:42252049.
73. KALFON, Ronen NADDIS - Negative. DOB: 04-13-76; POB: Haifa,
Israel Passport Number :8168262; U.S. Visa Number: 3 5966019.
74. COHEN, Zeev NADDIS - Negative. DOB: 03-26-78; POB: Haifa, Israel,
Passport Number: 5524033: U.S. Visa Number: 33331965.
75. TOPAZ, Naor NADDIS - Negative DOB: 06-08-77; POB: Haif, Israel
Passport Number: 8081705; U.S. Visa Number: 33306515.
The following were identified by the Euless, TX Police Department on
January 2nd, 2001, (refer to page 10):
76. LIFSHITZ, Gilad, NADDIS - Negative. W/M, DOB'09/17/1978
77. YANAY, Betzalel, NADDIS - Negative. W/M, DOB 09/04/1978
78. BITON, MoriN Miryam, NADDIS - Negative. W/F; DOB 07/14/1980
79. SASSON, Dana, NADDIS - Negative. W/F, DOB 08/10/1980
80. TOUYZ, Keren, NADDIS - Negative. W/F, DOB 08/20/1978
81. TZOR, Noam, NADDIS - Negative. previous owner of
1GAHG39K5SF112662, a 1995 Chev/Spt owned by Gilad LIFSHITZ of 7535 N.
Beltline Rd, APt 316, Irving, Texas 75062.
82. ROTEM, Sharon, NADDIS - Negative. described as a white male, DOB
03 -12-77, Israeli passport number 7948317, street address: 6023 Moshe
Dayan, Holon, Israel.
83. MAIMON, Maya, NADDIS - Negative. Nationality: Israel. Israeli
passport number as 5467894, US B1/B2 visa, DOB 26Dec1978, Issue Date:
18Oct2000, Expiration Date: 15Oct2010.
84.BADIHI, Nofar, NADDIS - Negative. Nationality Israel. Israeli
passport number 5640993, DOB 21/03/1979 (sic), Place of Birth: Israel,
date of issue: 05/12/1993, date of expiry (sic): 04/12/1995; US Visa B
I/B2, issue date: 05Jul 1996, Expiry Date: 02JUL2006.
85. MARABOTTO, Marco NADDIS - Negative. Airline tickets were found
reflecting the travel of Maya MAIMON and Marco MARABOTTO from DFW
airport to Albuquerque, NM via Delta flight 2238 on March 24, 2001. Each
ticket also reflected Delta flight 1944 from Las Vegas to DFW on April
1, 2001.
86. FERNANDEZS, Marco, NADDIS - Negative a.k.a. Marco Antonio
FERNANDEZ De Castro Marabotto, DOB 13Apr1977, passport number
99390039611, Issuing State: Mexico; place of birth: Mexico, date of
issue: 16Jul1999, expiration date: l6Jul2000.
87. REGEV, Gadi, NADDIS - Negative described as DOB: 17Dec1975,
Nationality: Israel, passport number 5454338, visa type: B1/B2, issuing
post: Tel Aviv, issue date: 05Nov1998, expiration date: 04Nov2008
88. ARTZI, Eyal, NADDIS - Negative Texas DL 19554509, and an
expiration date of 06-27-07. address: 10334 Sandra Lynn Dr., Dallas, TX
75228. DOB 05-27-1977, commercial database shows that ARTZI is the owner
of a 1993 Plymouth Acclaim, Texas plate: J75FYB, date registered
08/21/2000, expiration date: 07/31/2001
89, SUSI, David, NADDIS Negative DOB 01/09/1975, boyfriend of Maya
MAIMON
The following were idefitified by I&NS - Dallas:
90. ELDAD, Dahan, NADDIS - Negative. W/M Israeli, add: Oak IEH Apts.
1913 Estrada Parkway, #228, Irving, TX. Arrested by I&NS March 26
2001. (Identified in paragraph 39)
91. AFRICANO-Leon, Elsa Beatriz, NADDIS - Negative. W/F Nationality:
Colombia Add: Oak Hill Apts. 1913 Estrada Parkway, #228, Irving, TX.
Arrested by I&NS March 26, 2001. (Identified in paragraph 39)
92. LIVNI, Eran, NADDIS - Negative. W/M Israeli Add: Oak Hill Apts.
1913 Estrada Parkway, #228, Irving, TX Arrested by I&NS March 26,
2001. (Identified in paragraph 40)
93. OFEK, Aran, NADDIS - Negative. W/M Israeli, ADD: Oak Hill Apts.
1913 Estrada Parkway, #259, Irving, TX., father is 2-star general in
Israeli Army. Arrested by I&NS March 26, 200 1. (Identified in
paragraph 40)
94, GAL, Michal, NADDIS - Negative. W/F, Israeli, DOB 08/10/1979, POB
Afula, Israel, INS A 75-894-941, ADD: Oak Hill Apts. 1913 Estrada
Parkway, 4259, Irving, TX, Alt add.: 22 Palisade Terrace, Edgewater, NJ
01020 Tel: (201)224-0797 Arrested by I&NS March 26, 2001.
(Identified in paragraph 40)
95. GAVRIEL, Noam, NADDIS - Negative. Nationality: Israel (Identified
in paraggraph 40)
96. KRITZMAN, Netta, NADDIS - Negative. Nationality: US Citizen
(Identified in paragraph 40)
97. BAER, Ophir, NADDIS - Negative. W/K DOB 11/11/1956, Nationality:
Israel, employed by AMDOCS, Ltd., add: 7845 La Cabeza Drive, Dallas, TX
75248, former add: 1125 East Campbell Rd., Richardson, TX, Tel: (972)
392-0473 & (214) 576-5741, SSN: 627-70-0979- (Identified in
paragraph 42)
98. AMDOCS, Limited., NADDIS - Negative. add: 1390 Timberlake Manor
Parkway, Chesterfield, MO, Tel: (314) 821-3242 (Identified in paragraph
43)
99. DOTAN, Boaz, NADDIS - Negative. 23 Abba Hillel, St. Ranat Gan,
Israel, TX president of AMDOCS, Ltd. (Identified in paragraph 43)
100. WHITMAN, Beverly A., NADDIS - Negative. SSN: 400-88-4097,
Treasurer of AMDOCS, Ltd. (Identified in paragraph 43)
101. CHRISTOFFEL, Gregory, NADDIS - Negative. SSN: 389-52-850,
Secretary of AMDOCS, Ltd. (Identified in paragraph 43)
102. MOSHE, Eran, NADDIS - Negative. Israeli, I&NS A 75-894-459,
averted by I&N on 03/26/2001, occup. Israeli art student (Identified
in paragrph 44)
103. VAINSHTEIN, Julia, NADDIS - Negative. W/F Israeli, DOB
11/12/1978, POB: Russia, arrived DFW on 03/27/2001, Assoc: Michael
CALMANOVIC (Identified in paragraph 46)
104. BORENSTEIN, Dilka, NADDIS - Negative. Israeli, DOB 03/15/1979,
POB: Israel, former Israeli Military Intelligence Officer, Assoc:
Michael CALMANOVIC (Identified in paragraph 46)
105. NAVAR, Ofir, NADDIS - Negative. Israeli, DOB 09/02/1979, POB:
Israel, former Israeli Military Demolition/Explosive ordnance specialist
(Identified in paragraph 46)
106. CALMANOVIC, Michael, NADDIS - Negative. W/M, Israeli, DOB
09/06/1-975, POB: Israel, registered owner of TX: L44-CVD, add: 3575 N.
Beltline Rd., Apt. 316, Irving, TX., alt. add: 312 Rochelle Rd., Irving,
TX, alt. add: 1103 Hidden Ridge #3018, Irving, TX alt. Add: 1913 Estrada
Parkway, Irving, TX 75061, alt. add: 11012 Ventura Blvd., Studio City,
CA 91604 Tel: (214)882-5196, alt, add: 319 S. 177 Place, 4201, Seattle,
WA 98148 Tel: (206) 244-7705, Tel: (214) 882-5196 / (214) 837-3574 /
(469)446-1248 (214) 837-5996 (214) 876-1235 (217) 837-2056 former
Israeli electronic intercept officer. Arrested by I&NS on April 4th,
2001, Posted $50K bond, (Identified in paragraph 46)
107. SIMON, Itay, NADDIS - Negative. W/M, Israeli, DOB 02/27/1978,
POB: Israel, former Israeli military, add: 1103 Hidden Ridge #3018,
Irving, TX, alt add: California Associate of Michael Calmanovic.
Arrested by I&NS April 4, 2001 for violation of status, posted
$50,000 bond. (Identified in paragraph 50)
108. LNU, Gilad, NADDIS - Negative. Tel: (214) 882-5196 (214)
876-1235 (Identified in paragraph 50)
109. LNU, Roy, NADDIS - Negative. Tel: (214) 837-3574 (Identified in
paragraph 50)
110. LNU, Mosh, NADDIS - Negative. Tel: (469) 446-1248 (Identified in
paragraph 50)
111. LNU, Gil, NADDIS - Negative. Tel: (214) 837-5996 (Identified in
paragraph 50)
112. LNU, Gasaf, NADDIS - Negative. Tel: (217) 837-2056 (Identified
in paragraph 50)
113. ENGEL, Yoni, NADDIS - Negative. W/K DOB 09/14/1979, POB: Israeli
Citzen, Israel, former company commader in Israeli military, arrived DFW
on 03/28/2001, arrested by I&NS, St. Louis, MO on April 4th, 2001
(Identified in paragraph 51)
114. DAGAI, Yotam, NADDIS - Negative. DOB 04/06/1978, POB: Israeli
Citzen, Israel, arrested by I&NS, St. Louis, MO on April 4th, 2001,
arrived DFW on 03/28/2001. (Identified in paragraph 51)
115. ALROEI, Or, W/M DOB 08/08/1978, POB: Israeli Citizen, Israel,
visited DEA St. Louis on 04/04/2001, Had Tel: (214) 882-5196 in his
possession, Associate of Michael CALMANOVIC & Gil LNU. (Identified
in paragraph 51)
116. RABINOVITZ, Eli, NADDIS - Negative. W/M, DOB 03/27/1979, U.S.
passport E3701329518, 5'6", 175 lbs., brown hair (Identified in
paragraph 51)
17. ADESA Golden Gate, NADDIS - Negative. add: 6700 Stevenson Blvd.,
Fremont, CA, registered owner of CA: 3LVAO1P (Identified in paragraph
51)
118. SADAN, Ben, NADDIS - Negative, W/M Israeli, approx. 24 yoa, Tel:
(214) 562-1110, driver of Israeli art students encountered April 4, 2001
in St. Louis, MO.
119. BEN DOR, Tomer, NADDIS - Negative. W/M Israeli,'DOB 08/24/1975,
occup: Computer software engineer, employer: NICE, former Israeli
military officer for patriot missile defense (Identified in paragraph
55)
120. GLIKMAN, Marina, NADDIS - Negative. W/F Nationality: Israel, DOB
12/15/1972 (Identified in paragraph 53)
121. AKIVA, Ronen, associate of Marina GLIKMAN, occup: computer
programm employer: RETALIX, former Israeli military officer (Identified
in paragraph 55)
122. RETALIX,
USA, NADDIS - Negative. add: 8081 Royal Ridge Parkway, Irving, TX,
formerly known as Point of Sale, Limited. (Identified in paragraph 55).
123. DOR, Hillel, NADDIS - Negative. W/M Israeli, DOB 04/06/1971.
Associate of Marina GLIKMAN (Identified in paragraph 55)
124. MILLER, Zeev, NADDIS - Negative. W/M Israeli, DOB 09/04/1971,
occup: student/software engineer, employer: RETALIX Israel (Identified
in paragraph 55).
125. SHAKED, Barry, NADDIS - Negative, CEO of RETALIX (Identified in
paragraph 55).
Transcription and HTML by Cryptome.
Evaluation by SPINE
The truly extraordinary DEA report
has a very tangled history. It was
apparently first leaked to the
Frenchman, Guillaume Dasquie, whose
well-known and respected
website, Intelligence Online, offered an overview of the significance of
the document without releasing the original text. It was apparently
first published in the United States by John Sugg, initially in a pdf
format with the names of the loyal American law-enforcement and
intelligence agents blocked out. A subsequent .html version appeared at
the website Cryptome, with the names of the loyal agents clearly
legible. There has been no official US government denial that the
document is in fact a working document of the DEA, though that is very
different from confirming the veracity of any content contained within
the document.
We therefore present this document "for what it is worth" without
being in a position to assert positively either that the document is in
fact what it purports to be, or that the material contained in the
document is in fact correct. If the material is true, it reflects very
favorably on the vigilance and loyalty of many members of the US drug
enforcement, law enforcement, and intelligence community, and raises
some disturbing questions about the possible links of those detained or
arrested to activities contrary to the security of the United States of
America and its citizens.
The proximity of so many of the alleged art students in Hollywood,
Florida, to the alleged mastermind of the attacks of September 11,
Mohammed Atta, should require no comment. Equally eye-catching is the
frequency with which the alleged art students had such non-artistic
gifts such as backgrounds in explosive ordnance demolition and military
special operations. Their intense interest in establishing contact with
drug enforcement agents opens additional questions. This disturbing
document is offered "for what it is worth." In the interests of
scientific objectivity, we welcome any proof that the document is
spurious or that the alleged facts contained in it do not correspond
with truth. Lacking such refutation, we must consider the possibility
that the document is in fact genuine and that a significant portion of
its contents are true.