Artists Urge Courts to Spare Jail Sentence for Sunflowers Tomato Soup Protestors
CALL TO ACTION:** Over 100 artists, curators, and art historians are rallying for leniency towards two protestors who threw tomato soup at Van Gogh's Sunflowers. Will the court listen?
Trump Promises to Pursue Executions After Biden Commutations
After Biden commuted most federal death row sentences, Trump has vowed to "vigorously pursue" capital punishment for violent criminals. Biden's decision to change 37 of the 40 condemned people's sentences to life in prison without parole was criticized by Trump as senseless and insulting to the families of the victims. Trump highlighted two cases of men who were on federal death row for slaying a woman and a girl, and promised to direct the Justice Department to pursue the death penalty after his inauguration. Most Americans have historically supported the death penalty for people convicted of murder, but support has declined over the past few decades.
Biden Administration Approves California's Request to Ban Gas-Powered Car Sales by 2035
Biden Administration Approves California's Request to Ban Gas-Powered Car Sales by 2035
Megan Thee Stallion Seeks Restraining Order Against Tory Lanez: A Summary
In a shocking turn of events, Megan Thee Stallion has asked a court to issue a restraining order against Tory Lanez. The rapper is serving a 10-year sentence for shooting Megan in the feet, but Megan claims he's still harassing her from prison through surrogates. The petition alleges that Lanez is coordinating attacks on Megan's credibility and spreading falsehoods on social media. The protective order issued to prevent the previous harassment is no longer in effect, which Megan calls a loophole and flaw in the criminal justice system. Megan is seeking justice and protection from Lanez's ongoing trauma and revictimization.
France Shocked by Mass Rape Case: Husband Faces 20 Years, 50 Accomplices on Trial
Dominique Pelicot**, a 72-year-old retired electrician and estate agent in France, admitted to drugging his ex-wife, Gisèle, and inviting strangers to rape her. Pelicot is expected to receive the maximum 20-year jail term, while 50 other men face sentences ranging from 4 to 18 years for aggravated rape and sexual aggression. One man is on the run and being tried in his absence. The trial has sparked global outrage, with Gisèle bravely insisting on an open trial to show the 'attack on human dignity' in the videos Pelicot made of the rapes. Verdicts are expected this week.
Biden Grants Record-Breaking Clemency to 1,539 People and Pardons 39 Non-Violent Offenders
President Biden has made history by granting clemency to the largest number of people in a single day. A total of 1,539 individuals had their sentences commuted, while 39 non-violent offenders were pardoned. These historic acts of clemency follow Biden's pardon of his son, Hunter, earlier this month, which put pressure on him to issue additional pardons. Among those pardoned were drug offenders, military veterans, a nurse who helped lead vaccination efforts during the pandemic, and an addiction counselor. Biden has been granting clemency and commutations throughout his term, with a focus on non-violent drug offenses and those under home confinement due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Biden Grants Clemency to Nearly 1,500 People and Pardons 39 Others
President Biden announced clemencies for nearly 1,500 people and pardons for 39 others, keeping in line with America’s tradition of forgiveness.
The decision is aimed at promoting equal justice, public safety, rehabilitation, and reentry, with many beneficiaries serving long sentences under today’s laws.
Those pardoned and having their sentences commuted include a decorated military veteran, a nurse, and an addiction counselor.
Biden signaled he would commute more sentences before leaving the White House.
Fast-Moving Wildfire Forces Evacuations Near Malibu: Over 1,800 Acres Burned, High-Wind Warning Issued
A fast-moving wildfire, dubbed the Franklin Fire, has forced evacuations in eastern Malibu, California. The blaze has burned over 1,800 acres, threatening structures and causing power outages. High winds have made the fire difficult to contain, with 6,000 people under evacuation orders. This comes as California faces increased wildfire risk due to climate change.
Polar Bear Attack in Canada: Man Saves Wife, Bear Shot Dead
A man in Canada** suffered severe injuries after jumping onto a polar bear to protect his wife from an attack in the early hours of Tuesday. The couple had been looking for their dogs when they encountered the bear in their driveway. The bear lunged at the woman, but the man intervened, taking the brunt of the attack and suffering injuries to his arm and legs. A neighbor arrived and shot the bear, which later died from its wounds. Climate change is causing temperature fluctuations in the ocean, affecting how far bears can roam inland, making such attacks more common.Polar bears rarely attack humans, but when they do, it's often because they're hungry, young, or unwell. The community maintained patrols to ensure no other bears were present.
Tech Companies Accused of Dodging Questions on AI Data Use, Protesters Demand Climate Action
Tech giants Amazon, Google, and Meta faced criticism from a Senate committee for being vague about their use of Australian data to train AI products. Protesters from Rising Tide also staged a rally in Canberra, urging the government to cancel new fossil fuel projects, end coal exports from Newcastle by 2030, and introduce a 78% tax on coal export profits to fund the transition to renewable energy. The government is also pushing for three migration bills, including paying third countries to take people who can't be deported and creating powers to confiscate mobile phones in detention.
French Mass Rape Trial: Prosecutors Seek Up to 12-Year Terms for Defendants
In a shocking case, prosecutors in France are seeking up to 12-year terms for those accused of participating in the rapes and sexual abuse of Gisele Pelicot. The abuse was organized by her ex-husband, Dominique Pelicot, who is facing a maximum 20-year sentence. This unprecedented mass rape trial has moved into a new phase with public prosecutors beginning to lay out the verdicts and punishments they want for dozens of men. Justice eludes victims of sexual violence, with only 1% of rape cases in France resulting in a conviction. Will there be justice for Gisele Pelicot and other victims of sexual violence?
The Pelicot Mass Rape Trial in France: A Shocking Case of Gender Violence
The Pelicot Mass Rape Trial in France** has shocked the world, as French prosecutors seek up to 12-year terms for 49 men accused of organizing the rapes and sexual abuse of Gisele Pelicot. Gisele, who has become a feminist icon, has been praised for her courage and dignity in allowing the hearings to be held in public. The trial has sparked protests and a debate about male violence in France. The verdicts and sentencing are expected by December 20th. **Trigger warning: this article contains disturbing content about sexual abuse and violence.
UAE Stands Firm on Fossil Fuel Phaseout Commitment Amidst Opposition
At the UN climate talks in Azerbaijan, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) reaffirmed its commitment to transition away from fossil fuels, despite objections from Saudi Arabia and other allies. The UAE's stance is significant due to its role as a major oil producer and its recent history of hosting successful climate summits. Meanwhile, the conference has been marred by disputes over climate finance, particularly the role of private sector investment versus public funds and grants. The UAE's commitment to the fossil fuel phaseout is a crucial step towards addressing the climate crisis, but the success of the talks hinges on reaching a consensus on climate finance.
VENEZUELAN IMMIGRANT JOSÉ IBARRA GETS LIFE SENTENCE FOR MURDERING GEORGIA NURSING STUDENT LAKEN RILEY
One Venezuelan immigrant's life sentence shocks Georgia.
José Ibarra, an undocumented immigrant, was sentenced to life in prison without parole for the murder of beloved Georgia nursing student, Laken Riley.
The takeaway?** Even in the face of tragedy, we must strive for compassion, understanding, and progress.
Stay informed, stay curious.
Tragedy Strikes: Young Woman Strangled and Husband Faces Murder Charges
In a heartbreaking turn of events, Harshita Brella, a 24-year-old Indian woman living in Northamptonshire, was found dead in a car boot in Ilford, east London. The post-mortem examination revealed that she had been strangled to death. Her husband, Pankaj Lamba, is the prime suspect and is believed to have fled the country. Northamptonshire Police have released images of a silver Vauxhall Corsa, which they believe was used to transport her body. Harshita's family has accused the police of not doing enough to protect her, stating that she had filed a complaint alleging domestic abuse by her husband just weeks before her death. The family is now fighting for justice and answers from the UK police. Our hearts go out to Harshita's loved ones during this difficult time. #justiceforharshita
Biden's Amazon Adventure: A Call to Protect the Rainforest
Biden's Amazon Adventure: A Call to Protect the Rainforest
President Biden visited the Amazon Rainforest and called for future generations to protect the wildlife in the region.
Biden emphasized the importance of forests in fighting climate change and the need for his successor to continue his clean energy initiatives.
The president took an aerial tour of the Amazon and engaged with local indigenous leaders and environmental defenders at the Museu da AmazĂ´nia.
Biden's visit highlights the global impact of U.S. climate policy and the need for other countries to consider their positions on climate.
The Tragic Story of Alyssa Burkett: A Mother Killed in Broad Daylight
A mother is tragically killed in broad daylight.** The prime suspect is the father of her child, Andrew Beard, but as the investigation unfolds, detectives find out that Beard wasn't the only one involved in the murder plot.
BUSTED: EUROPE-WIDE ART FORGERY NETWORK TAKEDOWN
Big news in the art world!** An international gang of forgers specializing in replicas of works by famous artists like Banksy, Picasso, Warhol, and Klimt has been dismantled. The network operated across Italy, Spain, France, and Belgium, producing thousands of fake artworks worth millions. They even organized exhibitions and sold fakes through Italian auction houses. The crackdown began when Italian police discovered a stash of 200 counterfeit pieces in Pisa, leading to six forgery workshops and 38 suspects. **Experts say this is the biggest act of protection for Banksy's work.
Jury Convicts Richard Allen in Delphi Double Murder Case
Big news in the world of true crime!** After a four-day deliberation, a jury found Richard Allen guilty of killing two teenage girls, Abigail Williams and Liberty German, in Delphi, Indiana, back in 2017. This case has been making headlines for years due to repeated delays, a leak of evidence, and a gag order. Now, with a special judge and sequestered jurors, the verdict is finally in. Allen could face up to 130 years in prison, but what does this mean for the future of the case?
Protesters Scale Back Port Blockade Amid Legal Challenge; Companies Face Fines For Failing To Prevent Scams; Supermarket Inquiry To Hear From Suppliers
Protesters Scale Back Port Blockade Amid Legal Challenge; Companies Face Fines For Failing To Prevent Scams; Supermarket Inquiry To Hear From Suppliers
Teenage Boy Charged with Murder in Solihull and Another Teenager Charged with Attempted Murder in Hull
Two shocking incidents have recently occurred in the UK. In Solihull, a 15-year-old boy has been charged with the murder of a 17-year-old and possession of a knife. Meanwhile, in Hull, a 14-year-old boy has been charged with attempting to murder a 13-year-old girl and possessing a samurai sword. The victim in Hull remains in a critical but stable condition in the hospital, while six teenagers have been arrested in connection with the incident. The suspect in Solihull will appear before magistrates in Birmingham on Monday, while the suspect in Hull is scheduled to appear again at Hull crown court on Friday. These incidents are a stark reminder of the importance of addressing knife crime and violence among young people in the UK.
