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Paroled Man with Violent Past Accused in Fatal Teen Stabbing: Authorities Report
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Paroled Man with Violent Past Accused in Fatal Teen Stabbing: Authorities Report

A man with a history of violent crime is facing charges for the fatal stabbing of a teenager at a Walmart in Georgia. Authorities in Savannah reported that 48-year-old Delano Middleton allegedly attacked J.T. Schroeder, an 18-year-old, on October 23 at a Walmart store. The incident, which police described as an “altercation,” resulted in Schroeder being injured, and he sadly succumbed to his injuries four days later, as noted by the Chatham County Police Department on X. Middleton now faces murder charges in connection with the stabbing. WTOC reported that the altercation began when Schroeder allegedly kicked Middleton’s shopping cart. The outlet also highlighted Middleton’s prior criminal record, noting that he had previously stabbed a woman multiple times four years ago. Schroeder had dreams of becoming a merchant Marine and already had a sponsorship, according to his obituary. “The world lost a beautiful soul far too soon,” his obituary states. “JT loved people deeply and had a smile that could light up any room. His heart was so big that he had countless friends, each one feeling like they were his favorite. He had a way of making everyone feel seen and included, whether you were a lifelong friend or someone he’d just met.” The 18-year-old donated organs after his death, according to the obituary, and gave “the gift of life to seven families.” Criminal past On Oct. 22, 2021, Erica Young said, Middleton walked into the U-Haul store she was working at and stole keys that were behind the desk. Then, he went outside where he planned on taking a truck, WTOC reported. Middleton then stabbed Young in the stomach and head several times in an attack she said was unprovoked, according to the outlet. “When I was on the ground, he told me that he wanted to watch me bleed out,” Young said. “I’ve never met him before that day, never had any contact with him.” In December 2023, Middleton took a negotiated plea deal, pleading guilty to aggravated assault. As part of the deal, Middleton spent two years in prison followed by eight years of probation. Young said the punishment was too lenient and only encouraged him to be violent in the future. “Honestly, this is my true opinion on it,” Young said. “He got away with the stabbing of me, so he thought he could get away with it again.” The stabbing victim said Schroeder’s death made her wish she had fought for a harsher sentence. “I’m so sorry for their loss,” Young said. “It made me wish I fought more. Then he wouldn’t have been able to get out of the streets. But I have two kids, so I fled. We packed up our entire house.” Middleton is being held on no bond at the Chatham County Jail.

$10,000 Relief Grants Issued to Schools Affected by Helene
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$10,000 Relief Grants Issued to Schools Affected by Helene

TRI-CITIES, Tenn. (WJHL) – Over a year has passed since Hurricane Helene swept through the Tri-Cities, but its effects are still being felt across the community. On Thursday, Hampton High School and Temple Hill Elementary received much-needed relief funding from the Tennessee Education Association (TEA). Each school was granted $10,000, a gesture aimed at fostering a sense of hope and renewal among those affected. After Hurricane Helene left Hampton High School in ruins, students were temporarily relocated to the former Keenburg Elementary School. However, they are eagerly anticipating a return to their original campus in January. Baileigh Mathews, a junior, expressed her excitement about spending her remaining high school years at the place she considers her true home. “I’m thrilled to return to Hampton, to see the gym, play basketball there, and ultimately graduate from a place that means so much to me,” Mathews shared. “Last year, everyone was disappointed about not being able to graduate there, so being able to walk the stage at Hampton is incredibly meaningful to me.” Mathews also mentioned her enthusiasm for witnessing the reconstruction of her school and the promise it holds for the future. “It’s just really exciting because every day you go through there and you see something new is being done,” said Mathews. Although Hampton is still on the road to recovery a year later, the grant is expected to help speed up that process. Brandon Young, the public relations Coordinator for Carter County Schools, said receiving the funds is a thrilling moment for the school. “$10,000 is a lot of money that we can put toward our school and toward the renovations that we are making there, so we can get our students back in there in January,” said Young. The energy from Thursday was also shared over at Temple Hill Elementary. Temple Hill also felt the effects of Helene. Unicoi County Director of Schools John English said that for a period of time, the elementary students had to continue their education over at the middle school building. The kids were able to return to their building in August, but English said he’s grateful for the funds and seeing the kids back in their building. “Just as we continue to build back and move forward, this will be a tremendous, it is a tremendous blessing,” said English. Tanya Coats, the president of TEA, presented the checks to both schools Thursday. Coats said Helene’s effects were devastating and disheartening, but she was grateful to bring something positive to those who were affected by the hurricane. “We wanted to make sure that we not only contribute a monetary donation – because it’s not about just a monetary donation – it’s about showing solidarity and support for a community. It’s students and educators that are still recovering from a devastating act. And we know that these funds are just a snippet of how to improve the community, but it’s also just uplift, giving them a spiritual uplift to actually bring some resources,” said Coats. The funds were made possible through a partnership of TEA and NEA, and a grant from NEA Member Benefits.

Top Banker Jamie Dimon Commits Support to Politician Zohran Mamdani: A Strategic Alliance for Economic Advancement
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Top Banker Jamie Dimon Commits Support to Politician Zohran Mamdani: A Strategic Alliance for Economic Advancement

Jamie Dimon, the CEO of JPMorgan Chase, recently acknowledged his willingness to assist New York City’s incoming Mayor, Zohran Mamdani, despite the latter’s socialist leanings. Dimon, known for his support of Nikki Haley in the 2024 Republican Primary, addressed the possibility of collaborating with Mamdani, a self-proclaimed democratic socialist. When asked about the potential partnership, Dimon expressed his patriotic duty, stating, “I consider myself patriotic, so I will help any mayor or governor in the way I feel appropriate. I would help someone if they wanted my help.” Dimon, a prominent figure in the banking industry at 69, was speaking at an event alongside Detroit’s outgoing Mayor Mike Duggan. He praised Duggan for his contributions to Detroit’s resurgence and suggested that Mamdani could learn valuable lessons from Duggan’s experiences. “I hope he calls up this mayor because that’s the way you learn. You say, ‘How did you do it? What did you do?’” Dimon remarked. While Dimon refrained from making premature judgments about Mamdani, he pointed out that he has observed mayors who have successfully rejuvenated their cities, as well as those who have struggled with political and ideological challenges. ‘I hope he calls up this mayor because that’s the way you learn. You say, “How did you do it? What did you do?”‘ he explained. Dimon seemed unwilling to pre-judge Mamdani but noted he’d seen mayors who both thrived and fixed their cities and others who were ‘befuddled with politics and ideology.’ ‘I’m hoping he’s the good one. That will be important to the future of New York,’ Dimon added. He became the second major businessman to announce he was giving Mamdani a chance, following longtime rival Bill Ackman’s statement earlier Tuesday. Ackman, the CEO of New York City hedge fund Pershing Square, has been an outspoken critic of Mamdani, regularly slamming him for his anti-Israel views in massive rants on social media. The business tycoon even donated over $2 million to various anti-Mamdani groups throughout the election cycle, public records show. However, shortly after the democratic socialist catapulted to victory Tuesday night, Ackman modestly congratulated him on the win. ‘@ZohranKMamdani, congrats on the win. Now you have a big responsibility. If I can help NYC, just let me know what I can do,’ Ackman said on X. Just hours before, Ackman had made several lengthy posts trying to convince voters to support former governor Andrew Cuomo. He also shared posts highlighting Mamdani’s previous comments on defunding the NYPD and pro-Palestine remarks. Mamdani once joked that Ackman, who is a MAGA supporter, spent more money trying to defeat him then the mayor-elect would even tax him. ‘He’s spending more money against me than I would even tax him. Every day it’s like a million dollars, a million dollars. I don’t even want that much,’ he said on the Flagrant podcast last month. Ackman further explained his congratulatory post Wednesday afternoon insisting that he wishes to work with the future mayor because he cares about NYC. ‘Some have been surprised by my conciliatory post to Mamdani. Mamdani won a decisive election. He is going to be our mayor for the next four years. I care enormously about New York City which has been very good to me and my family since we emigrated to NYC in the 1890s,’ he said. ‘While I did not support Mamdani for mayor and have concerns about the unintended and negative consequences of his policies, I want to do everything I can to help NYC regardless of who are mayor is.’ Mamdani thanked Ackman during an interview with Good Morning American on Wednesday morning. ‘I appreciated his words. I think what I find is that there is a needed commitment from leaders of the city to speak and work with anyone who is committed to lowering the cost of living in the city, and that’s something that I will fulfill,’ he said. Mamdani has promised several things, including freezing rent, free bus fares and tax hikes on the rich, which has some New Yorkers looking to flee the state. Before election day, a Daily Mail poll found that at least 765,000 New Yorkers would ‘definitely’ leave the city, and a whopping 2.12 million residents would ‘consider’ moving if Mamdani won. His win, which saw him take over 50 percent of the vote, means he will become the city’s first Muslim mayor. During his acceptance speech, he told supporters: ‘I am Muslim. I am a democratic socialist. And most damning of all, I refuse to apologize for any of this.’ The 34-year-old directly addressed the president, saying: ‘Donald Trump, since I know you’re watching, I have four words for you: turn the volume up!’

Chinese Researchers Accused of Illegally Transporting Biological Samples to the US
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Chinese Researchers Accused of Illegally Transporting Biological Samples to the US

The U.S. Department of Justice revealed on Wednesday that three Chinese scholars face charges for allegedly conspiring to smuggle biological materials into the United States while engaged in research at a university lab. The accused are said to have provided false information to Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officials to bring in materials, specifically related to roundworms, from China. These actions were purportedly under the pretense of conducting research at the University of Michigan, according to officials. Attorney General Pam Bondi emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating, “Attempting to smuggle biological materials under the guise of ‘research’ is a severe offense that jeopardizes America’s national and agricultural security.” The individuals involved have been identified as Xu Bai, 28, Fengfan Zhang, 27, and Zhiyong Zhang, 30. All were taking part in J-1 visa exchange programs designed for academic purposes. U.S. Attorney Jerome Gorgen noted that these allegations are part of a larger issue concerning the misuse of U.S. academic programs, which has increasingly involved international researchers. “These three men are part of a long and alarming pattern of criminal activities committed by Chinese nationals under the cover of the University of Michigan,” Gorgen said in a statement, while also thanking the FBI, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and CBP for assisting in the case. The three scholars, who conducted research at the university’s Shawn Xu Laboratory in Ann Arbor, allegedly received multiple shipments of concealed biological materials related to roundworms from a Chinese Ph.D. student in Wuhan, China, Chengxuan Han. Han had previously worked at the university and was convicted of smuggling and making false statements before being removed from the U.S. Following Han’s removal, the university launched an internal investigation. When the three scholars refused to cooperate, they were terminated, making them eligible for deportation. Before an Oct. 16 flight to China from John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York City, CBP stopped the men for inspection. Zhiyong Zhang allegedly provided false information about Han, while Xu Bai and Fengfan Zhang admitted to receiving packages even after Han’s removal. “This case underscores the vital importance of safeguarding the American people and addressing vulnerabilities within foreign student and exchange visitor programs,” ICE Director Todd M. Lyons said in a statement. “Educational institutions must enhance their admissions procedures to prevent exploitation, which can pose risks to national security. “I commend the ICE HSI agents and officers who work tirelessly to protect our nation and uphold the rule of law every day.” FBI Director Kash Patel added that such “academic research cannot excuse illegal activity,” while CBP Director of Field Operations Marty C. Raybon added, “Foreign actors continue to seek ways to exploit vulnerabilities, including within our nation’s higher education system to advance their agendas.” Jennifer Runyan, special agent in charge of the FBI Detroit Field Office, echoed that the agencies are “committed to protect the American people.” “The FBI will not tolerate any attempt to exploit our nation’s institutions, whether higher learning or otherwise, for unlawful purposes,” she added. HSI, FBI and CBP did not immediately respond to Fox News Digital’s request for comment.

Ben Affleck’s Enigmatic Encounter: Mystery Woman Spotted in His BMW
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Ben Affleck’s Enigmatic Encounter: Mystery Woman Spotted in His BMW

Ben Affleck was seen cruising through Los Angeles on Wednesday, accompanied by a stylish mystery woman in his shiny BMW. It’s yet to be determined whether this brunette companion is connected to him professionally or if there’s a personal connection between them. Since his brief marriage to Jennifer Lopez ended last year, the 53-year-old actor has not been publicly linked to anyone romantically. Affleck cut a striking figure in a summery beige blazer layered over a pink shirt, leaving a few top buttons undone for a casual yet charming look. The woman seated beside him in the car was dressed warmly for the autumn weather, sporting a sweater and jeans, complemented by a chic Yves Saint Laurent bag. Her bold dark red lipstick stood out against her glowing skin, with her sleek dark hair and fringe peeking beneath oversized sunglasses adding to her allure. The sighting comes two days after Affleck’s former flame Lindsay Shookus showed her support to Lopez’ ex Alex Rodriguez as she attended the premiere of his new documentary on Monday. The former Saturday Night Live producer, 45 — who famously dated Ben, 53, off-and-on from 2017 to 2019 — made a glamorous appearance at the Alex vs. A-Rod premiere at DGA Theater in New York City. She wowed in a high-neck black gown with a sheer skirt at the event, while Rodriguez, 50, was dapper in a black suit. The sighting raised some eyebrows, as Rodriguez is the former fiance of Affleck’s ex-wife Lopez, 56. Affleck and Lopez’s divorce was finalized earlier in January, after two years of marriage. However, the retired New York Yankee previously clarified to People that he and Shookus ‘have been friends for 15 years’ back in 2021 when they sparked romance rumors. ‘There is nothing there at all,’ his rep stated at the time. In 2021, Rodriguez and Shookus were spotted at a Hamptons party together, shortly after Affleck rekindled his romance with Lopez and after she and Rodriguez ended their own engagement. Shookus and Affleck initially split in August 2018, but they briefly reconciled in March 2019 before breaking up again just a month later in April. Meanwhile Lopez and Rodriguez famously ended their four-year relationship in April 2021 shortly after posing for their final selfie on March 26, 2021. Lopez and her now fourth ex-husband Affleck reportedly started surreptitiously texting each other again in February 2021 before tying the knot in 2022 and finalizing their divorce on February 21. Last month, Lopez was asked by Watch What Happens Live host Andy Cohen if it was true that that ‘A-Rod was DMing one of the cast members’ of Southern Charm during their relationship. ‘There was a lot of speculation in the press or on this show that that somehow led to your breakup. Is there anything you can speak to about that?’ the 57-year-old presenter asked. ‘You know, I really have nothing to say about my personal life anymore,’ Lopez shockingly declared. ‘I feel like it’s… I’m done with that.’ Just last month, Lopez said her divorce from Affleck was the ‘best thing that ever happened’ to her. While reflecting on their split, the actress admitted that their split ‘changed’ her and ‘helped me grow in a way that I needed to grow.’ Back in August 2024, Lopez filed for divorce from Affleck on their second wedding anniversary, citing ‘irreconcilable differences.’ Lopez and Affleck were married for two years, from their initial, low-key wedding ceremony in July 2022 up until to the singer filed for divorce in August 2024. They had previously been in a relationship back in the early 2000s and rekindled their romance in 2021 before tying the knot a year later.

Wisconsin Man Involved in Car Crash, Abandons 77-Year-Old Mother at Scene
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Wisconsin Man Involved in Car Crash, Abandons 77-Year-Old Mother at Scene

In a shocking and tragic incident, a man from Wisconsin faces serious charges following a harrowing car crash involving his mother. Casey Yiannackopoulos has been accused of reckless homicide and hit-and-run after allegedly causing a crash while driving under the influence. This incident took place on a Sunday evening, leaving the local community in disbelief. Authorities say Yiannackopoulos, who resides in Muskego, a suburb of Milwaukee, purportedly refused to undergo field sobriety tests at the scene. The results of a subsequent blood draw are still pending, as reported by WISN. Emergency responders arrived at the crash site to find a 77-year-old woman, who has not been identified publicly, trapped and unconscious inside the vehicle. She was rushed to a hospital, where unfortunately, she was pronounced dead. Eyewitnesses recounted a disturbing scene where the driver allegedly staggered out of the wrecked car, claiming he was going to get help. Contradicting his words, he instead fled to his home, a mere block away, and concealed himself in a crawl space for approximately four hours. The police managed to locate Yiannackopoulos in the crawl space, employing a taser and a police dog to apprehend him, as detailed in the criminal complaint. During a court appearance this week, Court Commissioner Daniel Rieck did not mince words, labeling Yiannackopoulos’s actions as “depraved.” In court this week, Court Commisioner Daniel Rieck told Yiannackopoulos he found his behavior “depraved.” “This went from driving while drunk, having what one would presume is a very unfortunate, traumatic accident, losing your mother, but then quite literally leaving her to die. Why? Because you didn’t want to get in trouble,” Rieck said. According to the complaint, Yiannackopoulos told police that if he’d known his mother had died, he would have been “way more cooperative.” Prosecutors asked for a $250,000 bail, but Rieck set it at triple that. He is due in court again on Thursday, Law&Crime said.

Ex-South Carolina Lawmaker Faces Federal Indictment for Alleged Client Fraud Scheme
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Ex-South Carolina Lawmaker Faces Federal Indictment for Alleged Client Fraud Scheme

SOUTH CAROLINA (AP) – A former South Carolina legislator is facing federal charges, accused of orchestrating a scheme to defraud his legal clients. On Wednesday, a federal grand jury brought forth an indictment against Marvin Pendarvis, a Democrat and practicing attorney, charging him with ten counts, including wire fraud, identity theft, and money laundering. Federal authorities allege that between 2022 and 2024, Pendarvis misled his clients by negotiating settlements without informing them of the money received. Instead, while serving as a representative for the Charleston area, he is accused of keeping the funds for himself or distributing smaller amounts than originally settled. Prosecutors claim that Pendarvis deposited over $500,000 into his law firm’s trust fund account, where none of the money was subsequently disbursed to his clients. Attempts to reach Pendarvis for comment on Wednesday were unsuccessful. Last year, Pendarvis had his law license suspended after allegations surfaced from a former client accusing him of forging a signature to settle a lawsuit without consent. The state Supreme Court’s suspension order didn’t specify the reasons, but the former client, whose initials align with a victim named in the recent indictment, alleged Pendarvis sent texts urging him not to pursue legal action over the forgery claim. “Let’s handle this (expletive). No need to try and hurt me man. I can help you,” Pendarvis wrote Lewis in text messages filed with the state lawsuit, which is still pending. First elected in a special election in 2017, he won three full terms before resigning from office about four months after the suspension of his law license. According to court records, Pendarvis is slated to appear in federal court on Nov. 18.

Australia Intensifies Efforts to Halt North Korea’s Weapon Funding: A Strategic Move to Cut Financial Ties
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Australia Intensifies Efforts to Halt North Korea’s Weapon Funding: A Strategic Move to Cut Financial Ties

Cybercriminals linked to financing North Korea’s weapons of mass destruction are now facing stringent financial sanctions and travel restrictions imposed by the Australian government. These measures are part of a broader effort to curb the North Korean regime’s unlawful activities. Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong revealed that the government, in collaboration with the United States, is taking decisive action against four organizations and one individual identified as contributors to North Korea’s illicit weapons program. “We recognize the significant risks and threats posed by North Korea to regional stability,” Wong stated. Foreign Affairs Minister Penny Wong said Australia is working to “starve” North Korea of funds. (Getty) Wong emphasized the importance of international cooperation in applying pressure on the North Korean regime, particularly by cutting off its financial resources. “Starving them of funds is a crucial strategy,” she noted. The Foreign Minister expressed grave concern over the extent of North Korea’s engagement in cybercriminal activities. She urged North Korea to dismantle its unlawful weapons of mass destruction and ballistic missile programs in a manner that is complete, verifiable, and irreversible. Wong described the scale of North Korea’s involvement in malicious cyber activities as “deeply concerning”. She called on the one-party state to abandon its “unlawful weapons of mass destruction and ballistic missile programs in a complete, verifiable and irreversible manner”. “The Australia government is taking this action with the United States to apply pressure on North Korea’s illegal revenue generation networks and address its persistent challenges to security and stability,” Wong added in a statement. “Australia will continue to work with international partners to respond to malicious cyber activity, promote the framework for responsible state behaviour in cyberspace and keep Australians safe.” An international report has accussed North Korea of stealing billions in cryptocurrency. The country’s Supreme Leader Kim Jong-un is pictured here. (KCNA/Reuters/File via CNN Newsource) The US has doled out similar punishments against cybercriminals supporting the creation of weapons of mass destruction. The US State Department earlier this week sanctioned two entities and eight people alleged to have supported North Korea’s schemes to launder funds. It named Ryujong Credit Bank, Korea Mangyongdae Computer Technology Company and its president U Yong Su among those sanctioned. The department said the US “strongly condemns” the activities of entities associated with the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea.

Tragic Crime Unveiled: Man Confessed to Killing Girlfriend and Concealing Her Body in the Woods
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Tragic Crime Unveiled: Man Confessed to Killing Girlfriend and Concealing Her Body in the Woods

Years after facing accusations of murdering his girlfriend and concealing her remains in a wooded area, a 57-year-old man has finally faced the verdict of his trial. The verdict was not in his favor. On Tuesday, Matthew Pahl listened without emotion as a judge in Waukesha County declared him guilty of first-degree intentional homicide and concealment of a corpse in the case involving his girlfriend, 44-year-old Stephanie Pavlons. The trial spanned six days. The incident dates back to September 9, 2022, when construction workers stumbled upon a body near Golf Road in Delafield and promptly alerted authorities. The remains were described as being in an “advanced state of decomposition,” as detailed in a criminal complaint acquired by Law&Crime. Upon identifying the body as that of Pavlons, law enforcement reached out to her family. Her parents reported that they hadn’t heard from their daughter in almost three weeks. Pavlons had been in a tumultuous, two-decade-long relationship with Pahl. Pavlons’ mother suspected her daughter was a victim of domestic abuse, alleging that Pahl had physically harmed her. Investigators discovered potential evidence of this abuse within entries in a daily planner belonging to Pavlons. “[A]nother depressing & physically abusing day. I think he likes to do it,” read an entry from July 2021. “HATe my life.” An entry from the next day read, “got hit hard which left a nice mark on my chest,” as well as “got a nice scar along w/ it.” Pictures from that same year showed the victim “with a bruised and swollen eye” and a red mark on her chest. Pavlons was last seen on Aug. 23, 2022, at a convenience store after leaving their shared apartment in the morning with a pink water bottle and black purse. Pahl left shortly after. Surveillance footage captured the since-convicted defendant returning to the apartment hours later with the same pink water bottle, and a little while later, carrying a plastic shopping bag containing Pavlons’ black purse. Authorities noted that Pahl did not report her missing between her disappearance on Aug. 23, 2022, and her discovery on Sept. 17, 2022. Despite compiling evidence, due to the decomposition of her body, authorities could not determine a cause of death for Pavlons. However, they did determine that she died on Aug. 23. Pahl was ultimately taken into custody on Sept. 17, 2022, where he told law enforcement he hadn’t seen Pavlons in weeks and he “had a bad feeling.” He claimed that she was “threatening suicide all of the time and that really got to him,” according to the complaint. At one point in his interview, Pahl reportedly said, “I have nothing to do with what happened to her…so that purse, that purse, and water bottle ain’t s—…ok it’s not going to prove anything. It’s not going to prove or disprove anything.” Pahl’s computer history also proved curious to detectives. He “began searching for an obituary” for the victim on Aug. 26, three days after her death and 15 days before her body was found. He also had extensive communication with two women in the Philippines, expressing his desire to move there and stating how he was “really worried” about something. Pahl was charged with killing Pavlons, and plans for the trial moved ahead. Once it began, prosecutors admitted it was a circumstantial case; however, they crafted an account and provided enough evidence that jurors found to be incriminating. Pavlons told Pahl her intentions to leave him around the time he had a doctor’s appointment on that fateful Aug. 23, according to prosecutors’ account of events. He then strangled her with her purse strap and dumped her body in the woods. “He thinks he’s covering his trail – but he didn’t know that we would know we could look through her phone, find things he deleted – we’re smarter than him,” Waukesha County Assistant District Attorney Kristi Gordon said, per local Fox affiliate WITI. “He thinks he’s the smartest man in the room.” Pahl’s defense team claimed his behavior was normal — that he was worried about his girlfriend and that was why he was searching for an obituary. They also suggested Pavlons was suicidal and pointed out how neither her mother nor the couple’s shared daughter reported her missing. Prosecutors’ account ultimately proved more convincing. Pahl is set to be sentenced on Nov. 11; he faces life in prison.

Australia’s Critical Mechanic Shortage: Why Car Owners Face Extended Wait Times
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Australia’s Critical Mechanic Shortage: Why Car Owners Face Extended Wait Times

Australian car owners are facing lengthy delays for routine servicing and minor repairs as the nation grapples with a severe shortage of mechanics. This issue, simmering beneath the surface for years, has now reached a critical juncture. Motorists find themselves enduring extended wait times for basic services, compounded by rising repair costs. The Victorian Automotive Chamber of Commerce highlights that mechanics remain among the most challenging trades to staff adequately. The shortage is particularly acute in several specialized roles, including automotive electricians, general motor mechanics, diesel motor mechanics, panel beaters, vehicle painters, parts and accessories fitters, and auto glaziers. Peter Jones, CEO of the VACC, emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, “Australia can no longer afford to turn a blind eye to this problem.” “These skilled positions are essential for keeping workshops operational, ensuring vehicle safety, and maintaining the mobility of Australians,” Mr. Jones continued. “Yet, they remain exceedingly difficult to fill.” ‘The pressure on automotive businesses is real. Repair wait times are increasing, costs are rising for consumers and small family-run workshops are feeling the strain.’ One in three automotive businesses have reported technician vacancies going unfilled for more than six months. At the start of the year, wait times to book a mechanic were estimated to be around two months, not including the additional time required for more complex repairs. Director of Government Relations and Advocacy at the Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association, Lesley Yates, told Drive that the problem wasn’t just about convenience and cost, but also a danger to road safety. ‘Given that your brake pads and steering systems are all part of the regular service that affects road safety,’ she said. ‘And inevitably supply and demand means that the price goes up, wait longer, you’ll put off critical repair and the price goes up for that too.’ Mr Jones said that to address the problem, the industry needed to change the perception of mechanics, upskill the existing workforce to work on electric vehicles, and attract more women to the field. Data from the Mining and Automotive Skills Alliance revealed last month that women made up 20 per cent of the industry’s workforce, with just 2.6 per cent in trade roles. CEO of the AAAA, Stuart Charity, said: ‘Women are a largely untapped resource within our industry.’ ‘We know that increasing female participation isn’t just a matter of equity – it’s a practical and urgent response to near-term labour shortages. Even a modest rise in the number of women enrolling in automotive trades could make a substantial difference,’ Mr Charity said. By 2030, it’s projected there will be 3.4 million hybrid and electric vehicles on Australian roads, but at the moment there aren’t enough people to service or repair them. ‘Today’s automotive technicians work with advanced electronics, software diagnostics and zero and low-emissions vehicle technology. This is a sophisticated, high-tech career,’ Mr Jones said. ‘We must position automotive as a first-choice profession for young Australians, not a fallback.’ Jones suggested the Federal Government’s $10,000 payments for construction apprentices should also apply to people training to become mechanics. ‘If we fail to invest in training and workforce development now, Australia risks falling behind just as the global shift to low-emissions transport accelerates,’ he said. In September 2024, Daily Mail reported on Ryan Nightingale, 24, a fourth-year light vehicle mechanical apprentice who was considering quitting the job he loved because of cost-of-living pressures. His wage of $850 after tax was too low to live on in Sydney, and a whopping 60 per cent of automotive apprentices were abandoning their training, according to a report by industry body Capricorn.

Dream Home Nightmare: How a Family’s New House Became a Health Hazard for Their Infant
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Dream Home Nightmare: How a Family’s New House Became a Health Hazard for Their Infant

When Kristen McKelvie pulled back the living room rug in her family’s dream home, she uncovered the root of a problem that had been silently affecting their health. Over the course of 18 months, the Texas realtor was on a perplexing quest for answers, trying to understand her baby’s halted growth, her husband’s unexpected asthma, and her own persistent cough and mental fog. This search ended up costing the family nearly $80,000 in medical expenses, temporary housing, and replacing possessions that seemed to exacerbate their issues. The breakthrough came while assisting a neighbor in solving the mystery behind their discolored wooden floors. “I panicked,” Kristen admitted. “But there was also a sense of relief—at least we finally identified what was making our daughter ill.” Kristen and her husband Ross had moved into their custom-designed home in Georgetown, Texas, in May 2023, envisioning it as their permanent residence. Instead, it turned into a hazardous environment that left their children sick, depleted their finances, and sparked a legal battle that remains unresolved. Their youngest daughter, Lily, was born in November 2023 and seemed healthy at first. But within months, her growth slowed dramatically — she went from being taller than most babies her age to smaller than almost all of them by her first birthday. ‘After we moved out, she started growing again,’ Kristen said. ‘Our pediatrician confirmed something in the house was the cause.’ Her eldest daughter, Londyn, suffered daily eczema flare-ups. Ross began wheezing at night. Kristen herself battled exhaustion and anxiety. As the family’s health declined, she couldn’t shake the feeling that something inside the house was to blame — but she had no idea where to look. All the while, she was helping a neighbor down the street investigate strange discoloration on their hardwood floors — never suspecting her own home was hiding the same problem. ‘I was helping someone else troubleshoot their home,’ she said, ‘while we were living in one that was making us sick.’ What she didn’t realize then was that her neighbor’s gray-green floors were a warning sign of what was happening in her own house. ‘They said they didn’t know what was causing it,’ she recalled. ‘I told them it looked like moisture and that they should call the builder.’ Over the next few months, McKelvie helped the neighbor coordinate inspections from plumbing, HVAC, and foundation experts. As a realtor, she was used to problem-solving for clients — but it never crossed her mind that her own home might be facing the exact same issue. ‘Looking back, it’s almost surreal,’ she said. ‘I was helping someone else troubleshoot their house while we were living in one that was quietly making us sick.’ By early summer 2024, humidity inside the McKelvies’ house was routinely 60 to 70 percent. ‘We got a dehumidifier, and we’d have to dump it twice a day,’ she said. ‘It was full every time.’ In October 2024, while checking her client’s house again, she suddenly thought about the rugs in her own home. ‘I realized I hadn’t checked under them for moisture,’ she said. When she returned home and used a moisture meter, it lite up immediately. It detected high levels beneath the living room rug. ‘Underneath was mold covering nearly the entire 11-by-11-foot area.’ The family moved out on October 28, 2024, after being told by the builder that remediation would take about seven weeks. They were promised temporary housing expenses would be covered. The builder arranged for a company to clean their belongings and move them into storage. However, the payments for housing didn’t come as promised. ‘We didn’t receive any payments until months later,’ she said. ‘And those eventually stopped in April 2025.’ The family had already been struggling with the medical consequences. Their youngest daughter Lily, born in November 2023, had fallen sharply on the growth charts. ‘She went from the 57th percentile in height at four months to the 5th percentile by twelve months,’ the mother said. The statistic means she dropped from being taller than more than half of babies her age to shorter than nearly all of them. After moving out, the baby’s growth rebounded to the 20th percentile. ‘Our pediatrician confirmed that the mold was the cause.’ The adults weren’t spared. Her husband Ross developed adult-onset asthma: ‘He started wheezing at night,’ she said. McKelvie herself developed a persistent cough and was diagnosed with Epstein-Barr virus, which her body hasn’t been able to clear due to inflammation. ‘My numbers are still high,’ she said. ‘I’ve also struggled with anxiety and depression.’ ‘I experienced itchy arms, and I had memory issues while living in the house — I would literally forget what I was thinking about 15 seconds prior,’ she said. While living in a rental they noticed that their symptoms were improving, but not by much. ‘We didn’t yet understand how dangerous mold contamination could be,’ she explained. After the remediation team cleaned all of the items, McKelvie brought an air purifier from the old house, ‘when I opened it to give it an additional clean myself, I discovered the old, dirty filter still inside. It hadn’t been cleaned at all. That was when I started losing trust in the remediation process.’ Her daughter’s sleep initially improved in the rental but then worsened again. Eventually, the mother realized that porous items from the mold house — like a foam play couch — were still causing flare-ups. ‘After one bad flare-up, we threw it out,’ she said. By February 2025, the family had already spent around $80,000 on mold-related expenses — rent, medical bills, and replacing belongings. That’s not even counting their ongoing mortgage on the uninhabitable home. ‘We’re paying the mortgage, utilities, and even higher insurance now since it’s classified as vacant,’ she said. The costs forced them to make drastic decisions. ‘We eventually purchased a new home nearby because renting long-term was financially impossible,’ she said. ‘My dad co-signed on the new loan, and I used my realtor commission toward the down payment. Otherwise, we couldn’t have managed it.’ When they moved into the new house, they brought almost nothing. ‘Just my wedding ring, laptop, and phone,’ she said. ‘We replaced everything else from scratch.’ All their remaining belongings — baby blankets, yearbooks, her wedding dress — remain locked in a storage unit arranged by the builder. ‘I only know its location because I left an AirTag in a box,’ she said. ‘I’ve been denied the key and can only visit if escorted.’ The builder hired two remediation companies. The first ‘did a poor job,’ she said, and the second took over. But a year later, the builder still hasn’t provided a clear explanation for what caused the moisture and mold. ‘They haven’t told us what the actual issue is,’ she said. ‘We’ve hired experts ourselves and have an idea, but we still don’t have an official fix.’ The McKelvies have now joined several others in filing lawsuits against the builder. ‘It’s been extremely challenging financially and emotionally,’ she said. Her goal now is to use her experience to help others who might find themselves in the same position. ‘I hope our story helps others understand how devastating mold exposure can be,’ she said. ‘I want to build resources to help people — lists of mold-literate doctors, remediation experts, and step-by-step guidance for what to do if this happens to you.’ A year after discovering the mold, the family is still paying for two homes and still dealing with lingering health issues. Around 47 percent of American homes have dampness or mold issues, according to real estate website Ruby Home. Mold can grow in as little as 24 to 48 hours after water exposure and may be hidden behind walls or inside heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems. Click here to donate to the McKelvie family’s GoFundMe.

Devastating 6.3 Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Afghanistan, Claims Over 20 Lives
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Devastating 6.3 Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Afghanistan, Claims Over 20 Lives

Afghanistan’s geographical positioning makes it particularly susceptible to seismic activity, as it is crisscrossed by two active fault lines. These geological features pose a constant threat of powerful earthquakes capable of causing widespread destruction. In the wake of this vulnerability, India has expressed its commitment to supporting Afghanistan. The country is attempting to rebuild diplomatic ties with the Taliban since they took control in 2021, following a period of severed relations. India’s pledge of assistance is part of a broader effort to reestablish connections and extend a helping hand in times of need. The recent earthquake has only intensified Afghanistan’s already significant humanitarian challenges. As winter approaches, with temperatures expected to plunge below freezing, the timing of this disaster could not be more precarious. Save The Children, an aid organization actively involved in the region, emphasized the increased strain on the nation’s resources as it grapples with the aftermath of the quake. One of the cultural casualties of this seismic event is the historic Blue Mosque in Mazar-e-Sharif, a revered site in Afghan heritage. Believed to be the resting place of the Prophet Mohammad’s cousin and son-in-law, the mosque suffered damage during the 6.3-magnitude earthquake. Haji Zaid, a spokesperson for the Balkh province, confirmed the impact on this sacred monument. Images from Mazar-e-Sharif reveal the extent of the damage inflicted on the Blue Mosque, which stands as a testament to Afghanistan’s rich history and spiritual significance. The quake on Monday, November 3, 2025, left its mark on one of the country’s most cherished landmarks, underscoring the ongoing challenges the nation faces in safeguarding its cultural and historical treasures. The earthquake damaged part of the Blue Mosque, considered one of the holiest sites in Afghanistan and believed to be the burial site of the cousin and son-in-law of the Prophet Mohammad, Balkh province spokesperson Haji Zaid said.

Florida Man Faces Death Penalty in Tragic Case Involving Girlfriend and Unborn Child
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Florida Man Faces Death Penalty in Tragic Case Involving Girlfriend and Unborn Child

A Florida man has been sentenced to death after being found guilty of murdering his 18-year-old girlfriend and their unborn child, following her refusal to have an abortion. The tragic case revolves around Donovan Faison, 23, who was convicted last week of the first-degree murder of Kaylin Fiengo, the killing of an unborn child, and burglary with a firearm. The jury delivered an 11-1 vote in favor of the death penalty, as announced by the Office of the State Attorney in a news release on Friday. Fiengo’s life was tragically cut short when Faison shot her in the head while she was seated in her car at Coastline Park in Sanford in 2022. The grim scene presented investigators with a bullet casing and an ultrasound image found near her lifeless body, painting a poignant image of unfulfilled potential. In court, prosecutors revealed the digital trail leading up to the crime. Text messages between the couple showed Fiengo had sent Faison a photo of two positive pregnancy tests. His chilling response was a single word: “Abortion!!!” The case unveils a deeper personal conflict, as prosecutors explained Faison’s reaction to the pregnancy news was fueled by anger and a sense of being pressured. At that time, he was living with another woman who suspected him of infidelity, complicating his emotional state and leading to such a drastic and irreversible decision. Faison “erupted” at the news of the pregnancy, feeling “angry” and “pressured” because he was living with another woman at the time who suspected him of cheating, according to prosecutors. When Fiengo refused to terminate the pregnancy, prosecutors said Faison texted a friend, “On my brothers grave, I’m gonna crop her out.” Further text messages showed Faison then lured Fiengo to a meeting at the park where he shot her dead, prosecutors said. During the sentencing hearing on Thursday, Fiengo’s mother, father, aunt and grandmother delivered victim impact statements. “No words can capture the depth of pain that comes with losing your daughter to murder,” said Fiengo’s mother Sarah Schweickert. “Every day I wake up and face a world that no longer has her smile, her laughter, her hugs. The grief never leaves – it sits in my chest like a weight that will never go away.” Faison’s family also gave testimony to the jury, asking for the 23-year-old to be sentenced to life instead of the death penalty. Circuit Judge Donna Goerner will make the final decision on Faison’s sentence at another hearing on Dec. 5.

Tragic Incident: Uncle Allegedly Shoots 10-Year-Old in Johnson County
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Tragic Incident: Uncle Allegedly Shoots 10-Year-Old in Johnson County

A tragic incident unfolded in Johnson County, Tennessee, over the weekend when a 10-year-old boy was reportedly shot by his uncle. This information comes from court documents reviewed by News Channel 11. The unsettling event occurred on Saturday evening in the Laurel Bloomery Community. Authorities were alerted to the situation on Waters Road around 9 p.m. following a 911 call that described the shooting as an “accident.” The suspect, identified as Joshua Houston Upright, allegedly shot his young nephew. When law enforcement arrived at the scene, they discovered the boy suffering from a gunshot wound located just behind his left ear. Emergency responders promptly airlifted him to Johnson City Medical Center for urgent medical attention. Inside the residence, a woman recounted to police that she had been asleep when she was abruptly awakened by a loud noise. Upon investigating, she witnessed Upright standing over the boy with a firearm aimed at his head. Allegedly, Upright then turned the weapon towards her. According to the affidavit, the woman managed to disarm Upright. During the confrontation, she claimed Upright said, “he had to do it,” and expressed fears that he intended to harm the entire family. A thorough search of the home led officers to discover a .22 caliber rifle along with several spent bullet casings, adding more gravity to the allegations. Upright was charged with attempted first-degree murder, aggravated child abuse/neglect and aggravated assault (domestic violence). As of Monday, Upright is being held at the Johnson County Jail on a $1 million bond. He’s set to appear in court on Wednesday. No update on the juvenile has been provided.

Breaking News: Springfield Shooting Victim Identified as Suspect is Taken into Custody
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Breaking News: Springfield Shooting Victim Identified as Suspect is Taken into Custody

Update at 1 p.m. SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WCIA) — Authorities have identified the victim of Saturday morning’s fatal shooting in Springfield. The Sangamon County Coroner’s Office has confirmed that Jayvon Bankhead, a 22-year-old resident of Springfield, was the individual who lost his life in the tragic event. According to Coroner Jim Allmon’s news release, Bankhead was shot in the early hours on Washington Street, around 12:56 a.m. He was subsequently taken to Springfield Memorial Hospital, where medical efforts to save him were unsuccessful, and he was pronounced dead at 3:52 a.m. Preliminary autopsy findings revealed that Bankhead succumbed to a single gunshot wound, further detailed Coroner Allmon. The investigation into this murder is actively being pursued by both the Springfield Police Department and the Sangamon County Coroner’s Office. On a related note, the Springfield Police Department announced on Monday afternoon that an arrest has been made in connection with the weekend murder, bringing a glimmer of hope for justice in this tragic case. A man was pronounced dead early Saturday morning after police found him with a gunshot wound in the 400 block of East Washington Street. In the updated news release, Commander Jarod Maddox said detectives identified 29-year-old Christopher M. Coleman as a suspect in the murder. “With the assistance of the Proactive Crime Unit and the Street Crimes Unit, detectives were able to locate the suspect in the 800 block of West North Grand Avenue,” Maddox said. “Mr. Coleman was detained without incident.” Coleman was transported to the Sangamon County Jail initially on charges unrelated to the murder, Maddox said. Inmate records show he was booked for possession and delivery of a controlled substance; he also had an in-state warrant for his arrest on undisclosed charges. On Monday, Coleman was formally charged with first-degree murder by the Sangamon County State’s Attorney, John Milhiser. Coleman is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. As for the victim of the shooting, his identity remains unreleased. Jim Allmon, the Sangamon County Coroner, told WCIA that an autopsy was scheduled for Monday, and he will provide both preliminary results and the identity once the autopsy is complete.

First Look: UK Train ‘Knifeman’ Suspect Appears in Court Amid High-Profile Case
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First Look: UK Train ‘Knifeman’ Suspect Appears in Court Amid High-Profile Case

The individual accused of a violent knife attack on a high-speed train traveling to London, as well as an earlier assault at a capital city station, has been identified. Anthony Williams, a 32-year-old resident of Peterborough, appeared in Peterborough Magistrates’ Court today, facing 11 counts of attempted murder. The charges against Williams include an alleged attempt to kill a man at the Pontoon Dock Docklands Light Railway (DLR) station in east London, shortly after 12:45 a.m. on November 1. The victim reportedly suffered facial injuries during the knife assault. Later that same day, Williams is accused of launching another knife attack on the 6:25 p.m. high-speed LNER service from Doncaster to London’s King’s Cross. In this incident, he allegedly attempted to murder 10 more individuals. In addition to the attempted murder charges, Williams also faces accusations of possessing a bladed weapon on both the train and at the DLR station. He is further charged with assault causing actual bodily harm. He is also facing two charges of possession of a bladed article on both the train and at the DLR station in London, and of assault occasioning actual bodily harm. Williams appeared at Peterborough magistrates’ court today in handcuffs, accompanied by four prison officers. He appeared in the dock wearing a grey sweatshirt and tracksuit bottoms. The defendant spoke only to confirm his name and address during the six-minute hearing, mumbling to the court that he was of no fixed abode. Documents allege that he used a ‘large kitchen knife’ in both incidents. No application was made for bail. Before Williams was brought into court, the judge granted an application for him to appear in cuffs after it was heard he allegedly assaulted an officer upon his arrest. Opposing bail for Williams, prosecutor Olaide Esan told the hearing: ‘The defendant has attempted to murder 11 people in total. ‘These are serious allegations. These are very serious offences. The defendant is a risk to the trains and to the members of the public.’ Williams allegedly attacked a male police officer in custody after being arrested, leaving him with a ‘broken nose’, Ms Olaide said. District Judge Kenneth Sheraton remanded Williams in custody and adjourned the case for a further hearing at Cambridge Crown Court on December 1. It is understood Williams is not known to the security services or counter-terrorism policing, and had not been referred to the Government anti-extremism scheme Prevent. Deputy Chief Constable Stuart Cundy of the British Transport Police said: ‘The criminal investigation and support for the victims is a priority. ‘Our investigation is also looking at other possible linked offences.’ Security has been ramped up at train stations in the wake of the attack. The LNER Azuma train involved left Huntingdon station this morning; the station itself is closed until the end of the day but the railway passing through has reopened. Saturday’s attack saw brave train staff and passengers intervene in a bid to stop the alleged attacker as he went through the train with a knife. The suspect is understood to have boarded the train at Peterborough before allegedly rampaging through the moving train. Passengers ran through the carriages, barricading themselves in toilets and behind the shutters of the onboard shop in the buffet car in a bid to protect themselves. Driver Andrew Johnson – a veteran of the second Gulf War – frantically worked with Network Rail staff to arrange for the LNER Azuma to make an emergency stop at Huntingdon station in Cambridgeshire. As the train pulled into the station, cool-headed railway staff ushered passengers hurriedly down the platform as the suspect followed closely behind. The alleged attacker, still brandishing a knife, crossed the railway tracks and leapt over a fence before being subdued by police. Nine of the 11 injured people were left fighting for their lives – with five people discharged from hospital as of last night. An LNER worker in the café suffered the most egregious injuries trying to defend fellow passengers from the attacker. He is in a ‘critical but stable’ condition today, Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander said. She said: ‘There are people who are alive today because of his actions and his bravery. He went in to do his job and he left work a hero.’ A Nottingham Forest fan travelling home from a match against Manchester United was also stabbed after bravely approaching the alleged attacker, it is understood. Despite warnings from fellow passengers not to approach the knifeman due to his smaller stature, Stephen Crean reportedly told another Forest fan he was ‘going to go confront him’. Mr Crean was later seen at Huntingdon station, visibly injured and receiving medical attention. In a heartfelt Facebook post about the football fan, Munster Forest wrote: ‘I have known him for at least 10 years and he is one of the gentlest souls you could meet. ‘He bravely put himself in front of some children to protect them. What a hero he is!’ Police had initially used the codeword Plato – for a ‘marauding terror attack’ – as reports of the incident came in. Witness Thomas McLachlan, 19, from London, who was returning from a trip to Newcastle, described how people were leaving the train ‘drenched in blood’. Terrorism has since been ruled out as a motive and Ms Alexander said today that the suspect had not been known to MI5 or counter-terror services. Tracy Easton, of the Crown Prosecution Service, said the number of charges would be ‘kept under review’ as further enquiries are carried out. She said: ‘We worked closely with British Transport Police to review a huge volume of evidence including CCTV. The number of charges will be kept under review as this continues to progress. ‘We know the devastating impact the events on Saturday’s train has had and how the incident shocked the entire country. Our thoughts remain with all those affected.’ A 35–year–old man who was arrested at the scene has since been released with no further action after police established he was not involved in the attack. Footage obtained by the Daily Mail appeared to show him scream ‘it’s not me’ as he was Tasered by police officers who mistook him for the attacker. LNER boss David Horne said the firm was ‘deeply shocked and saddened’ by Saturday’s events.

Father Discusses Providing Sex Toys to Biological and Stepchildren Amidst Their Growing Sexual Curiosity
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Father Discusses Providing Sex Toys to Biological and Stepchildren Amidst Their Growing Sexual Curiosity

A Utah resident faces charges for the alleged sexual abuse of both his biological child and stepchild. According to reports, the 40-year-old from West Jordan confessed to abusing one of his children during an FBI investigation into separate sexual abuse allegations. This admission came after authorities executed a search warrant at his residence, resulting in his arrest, as detailed by KTVX. Detectives learned from the stepchild that their stepfather had provided them and their sibling with sex toys, allegedly instructing them to engage in oral sex. The stepchild also reported that the man sought oral sex from them, KTVX reported. Further accusations include exposing both children to pornography, with the abuse reportedly beginning when the children were as young as eight. KTVX noted that these incidents typically took place on Sundays, while the mother was at church, although the biological child recounted an instance where the mother was present but did not intervene. The suspect allegedly claimed the abuse commenced due to the stepchild’s “sexual curiosity.” He also reportedly admitted to downloading child pornography and providing a sex toy to the stepchild. Though his identity has not been released, the man faces several charges, including sodomy upon a child, object rape, rape of a child, and distributing harmful materials to minors. He is currently held without bond. It is unclear whether the mother will also be criminally charged. [Feature Photo: Pixabay]

Taylor Swift Invests $2M in Enhanced Security Measures for Her Safety
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Taylor Swift Invests $2M in Enhanced Security Measures for Her Safety

Taylor Swift went to great lengths to maintain her privacy after touching down at Morristown Airport in New Jersey on Sunday. Her intricate strategy included using a black umbrella to obscure her upper body from view, while two male staff members assisted by holding additional umbrellas to effectively shield her as she transitioned to a waiting SUV. The 35-year-old music icon, dressed casually in a black top paired with gray sweatpants, then embarked on a 35-mile journey eastward to the exclusive DOGPOUND gym, conveniently located near her lavish $80 million Tribeca residence in Manhattan. This public appearance follows reports from The US Sun stating that Swift is bolstering her security measures with an additional $2 million investment due to increased safety concerns. The renowned artist, who has secured 14 Grammy wins, and her fiancé, Travis Kelce, are now dedicating a total of $8 million towards their security detail to ensure safety during NFL games and other public events. Despite not attending any away games this NFL season, Swift reportedly feels “completely safe and at ease” when at the Kansas City Chiefs’ Arrowhead Stadium in Missouri. Swift hasn’t attended any away games this NFL season, but she’s said to feel ‘100% safe and comfortable’ at the Kansas City Chiefs’ Arrowhead Stadium in Missouri. The Daily Mail has contacted a representative for Taylor Swift and has yet to hear back. But even inside the 36-year-old NFL tight end’s home stadium, Swift felt the need to hide behind a large screen on wheels as she headed into the VIP suite on September 14. On September 22, the Pennsylvania-born belter was granted a five-year restraining order against Colorado man Brian Jason Wagner – whom she alleged repeatedly showed up to her LA home and claimed she had his baby. ‘Taylor has wanted to feel much more protected this year with her security, especially with her current stalker issues,’ a source told Daily Mail last Tuesday. ‘She doesn’t want her whereabouts known every minute of the day. She wants to be safe and she wants her family and friends to be safe.’ The insider added: ‘But we will continue to see her from time to time as she knows that everyone knows she is there anyway.’ Swift got engaged to Travis in August after two years of dating and he reportedly inspired half of the songs on her new record – Wood, Eldest Daughter, Honey, The Fate of Ophelia, Wi$h Li$t and Opalite. In Opalite, Swift allegedly referred to Kelce’s ex-girlfriend Kayla Nicole – ‘she was in her phone / And you were just a pose’ – whom he dated on/off between 2017-2022. On Halloween, the 33-year-old sports journalist recreated Toni Braxton’s bikini-clad dance from her 2000 music video for He Wasn’t Man Enough, which appeared to be a dig on the betrothed couple. Taylor’s 12th studio album The Life of a Showgirl topped the Billboard 200 chart (dated November 8) for the fourth week in a row after earning 146K equivalent album units in the States. Swift impressively has four singles – The Fate of Ophelia (#1), Opalite (#4), Elizabeth Taylor (#5), and Father Figure (#6) – in the top 10 of the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The 12-track record reunited the homeschooled millennial with producers Max Martin and Shellback, who helped mastermind her albums Red (2012), 1989 (2014), and Reputation (2017). On May 30, Swift regained the masters to her first six studio albums – Taylor Swift, Fearless, Speak Now, Red, 1989, and Reputation. Billboard reported that Swift spent around $360M to buy back her music catalog from Shamrock Capital after Scooter Braun sold her masters to the private equity firm in 2020 (a year after buying them from Big Machine). Fans can catch more of the Emmy-winning producer in her six-episode docuseries The Eras Tour: The Final Show, which premieres December 12 on Disney+. Meanwhile, the three-time Super Bowl champion and his team are next scheduled to compete against the Denver Broncos at the Empower Field at Mile High in Denver, CO on November 16.

Controversial Release: Blue City’s Repeat Offender with Violent Past Arrested 9 Times and Freed Again
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Controversial Release: Blue City’s Repeat Offender with Violent Past Arrested 9 Times and Freed Again

A man from North Carolina is once again free after facing his ninth arrest, this time for allegedly assaulting a woman at gunpoint during the summer, as detailed in court documents reviewed by Fox News Digital. Trivius Crouch, aged 23, was already in custody when his bond was increased due to charges related to assault with a deadly weapon, assault on a female, assault by pointing a gun, and damage to personal property, according to information from the Mecklenburg County Sheriff’s Office dated October 30. In July, Crouch reportedly approached the family of a woman with whom he shares a child. The woman was sitting inside a vehicle in Charlotte when Crouch attempted to initiate a conversation, as outlined in court records. At that moment, the woman’s mother intervened by pulling Crouch away to protect her daughter, which allegedly prompted Crouch to attack the woman, according to the affidavit. During the altercation, police report that Crouch’s firearm fell from his waistband. In the ensuing chaos, he allegedly retrieved the weapon and fired two shots into the air and one into the ground near the victim. Crouch then allegedly returned to his vehicle to obtain a baseball bat, which he is accused of using to break into the family’s Mercedes SUV before turning the bat on the victim, subsequently striking her in the head, arm and legs. “[The victim] advised she just kept moving around, but before anything else happened Crouch took off running behind the house,” police said. Court records indicate this was Crouch’s ninth arrest within the county – the most recent being one day before he was slapped with a higher bond amount over the alleged assault charges. On Oct. 29, Crouch was arrested for alleged felony possession of marijuana with intent to sell, possession of marijuana paraphernalia and possession of a concealed weapon, according to arrest records. Crouch was already in custody when his bond from the alleged assault case was raised to $20,000, and was subsequently released, according to court documents. Court records also indicate he was previously arrested for the same incident back in July, but was also released on a $10,000 bond. Crouch’s previous arrests include a laundry list of various alleged charges, according to police. Earlier this year, he was arrested for allegedly trafficking opium or heroin, along with possession with intent to sell or distribute marijuana, according to police. The Mecklenburg County Sheriff’s Office, Crouch’s attorney and Mecklenburg County Prosecutor’s Office did not immediately respond to Fox News Digital’s request for comment.

Five New Suspects Caught in Ongoing Louvre Heist Probe, Hunt for $102M Crown Jewels Continues
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Five New Suspects Caught in Ongoing Louvre Heist Probe, Hunt for $102M Crown Jewels Continues

French authorities have apprehended five more individuals linked to the audacious daytime theft of the French crown jewels from the Louvre Museum, as announced by investigators on Thursday. Despite these arrests, the invaluable treasures remain unaccounted for. Authorities conducted the arrests through various operations in Paris and surrounding regions, including Seine-Saint-Denis, according to statements from prosecutor Laure Beccuau to RTL radio. The identities of those detained have not been disclosed. Among the newly detained suspects is an individual believed to be part of the quartet that executed the October 19 heist at the Louvre’s Apollo Gallery. The thieves made off with jewels worth an estimated 88 million euros ($102 million) in a swift operation lasting less than eight minutes. “Searches conducted last night and into the early hours did not lead to the recovery of the stolen items,” Beccuau reported. Earlier, two additional suspects were detained on Sunday and subsequently charged on Wednesday with criminal conspiracy and theft by an organized gang. Beccuau noted that these individuals have partially admitted to their roles in the heist. One suspect, a 34-year-old Algerian national living in France since 2010, was arrested at Charles de Gaulle Airport attempting to flee to Algeria on a one-way ticket. He lived in the northern Paris suburb of Aubervilliers and was previously known to police for traffic violations. His DNA was recovered from a scooter used in the getaway. The second suspect, 39, was arrested at his home in Aubervilliers. He was known to police for multiple prior thefts. Investigators matched his DNA to a glass display case that held the stolen jewels, as well as to items the thieves left behind, the prosecutor added. The thieves used a basket lift to scale the museum’s exterior, forced open a window, and used cutting tools to open display cases in the Apollo Gallery. They escaped with eight historic pieces, including: – A sapphire diadem, necklace, and earring set linked to Queens Marie-Amélie and Hortense – An emerald necklace and earrings belonging to Empress Marie-Louise, Napoleon’s second wife – A reliquary brooch – Empress Eugénie’s diamond diadem and elaborate corsage-bow brooch Eugénie’s emerald-encrusted crown – set with over 1,300 diamonds – was later found damaged but recoverable outside the museum. Louvre Director Laurence des Cars acknowledged a “terrible failure” in museum security. However, Beccuau said there is no evidence the theft was an inside job. In a direct appeal to those holding the missing jewels, Beccuau on Wednesday night warned they are “unsellable” due to their historical significance and urged their return. “Anyone who buys them would be guilty of concealment of stolen goods,” she said. “There’s still time to give them back.”