Civilian, NATO soldiers killed in Afghanistan

KABUL – NATO said Monday that one of its soldiers was killed by a roadside bomb in southern Afghanistan, where another foreign soldier was killed in a small arms fire.

One Afghan civilian was also killed in the eastern region, while roadside and suicide bombings injured 18 people elsewhere in the country, officials said.
Both foreign … Read more »».

Maoists to use 19 tonnes explosives before 2010 expiry, warns expert

RAIPUR – The country should be prepared for more deadly blasts by Maoists as the guerrillas are planning to use some 19 tonnes of explosives before they expire by the end of this year, a senior de-mining expert of the Chhattisgarh Police claimed Monday.

In February 2006, Maoists had stormed into an explosives depot of public … Read more >>>.

US presses Pakistan to divulge more air passenger info

WASHINGTON – The United States is increasing pressure on Pakistan for much broader airline passenger information, considered a crucial tool to track terrorist travel patterns, but a step that Pakistan has resisted, according to the New York Times.

Pakistan, like other countries, currently provides the names of airline passengers travelling to the United States. But the …. Original article  : US presses Pakistan to divulge more air passenger info.

Man arrested after Paris-to-Mexico City flight denied US airspace is diverted to Montreal

Man arrested on warrant after flight diverted

WASHINGTON – An Aeromexico flight from Paris to Mexico City was diverted to Montreal on Sunday when the U.S. denied the flight access to its airspace after a man named in an outstanding warrant was reported aboard, an official said.
The man, whose name officials did not release, was removed … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Man arrested after Paris-to-Mexico City flight denied US airspace is diverted to Montreal.

Head found during search of Calif. park thought to be that of man slain in double-murder plot

Police: Search turns up head of slain Calif. man

LOS ANGELES – Authorities searching a Long Beach park found the final missing body part – a severed head – believed to belong to a community college student killed and dismembered in a double murder-for-profit plot in Orange County, police said Sunday.
FBI agents and police from Costa … Original source on Gaea Times at : Head found during search of Calif. park thought to be that of man slain in double-murder plot.

Ex-Uribe defense minister dominates Colombia vote; to face clean-government outsider in runoff

Uribe torchbearer dominates Colombia vote
BOGOTA, Colombia – A conservative former defense minister who promises to build on Alvaro Uribe’s security gains easily defeated a maverick outsider in Colombia’s election Sunday but fell short of the votes needed to avoid a presidential runoff.

Juan Manuel Santos, a political veteran who says he’ll continue President Uribe’s popular pro-Washington …. Source  : Ex-Uribe defense minister dominates Colombia vote; to face clean-government outsider in runoff.

Mexican authorities recover 20 to 25 bodies from abandoned silver mine

More than 20 bodies found in Mexican silver mine

MEXICO CITY – Authorities have found between 20 and 25 corpses in an abandoned silver mine in southern Mexico, apparently victims of drug gang violence, police said Sunday.
Federal police commissioner Facundo Rosas said the bodies were pulled from the mine late Saturday and throughout the day Sunday …. Original source  : Mexican authorities recover 20 to 25 bodies from abandoned silver mine.

Authorities recover 20 to 25 bodies from abandoned silver mine in Mexico

Up to 25 bodies found in Mexican silver mine

MEXICO CITY – Between 20 and 25 bodies were recovered from an abandoned silver mine in southern Mexico, apparently victims of drug gang violence, federal police commissioner Facundo Rosas said Sunday.
The corpses appear to have accumulated over an undetermined time as they were tossed over a 300-foot … Read more : Authorities recover 20 to 25 bodies from abandoned silver mine in Mexico.

Police searching S. California park find head believed to be man killed in double-murder plot

Police find head believed to be slain S. Calif man

LOS ANGELES – Authorities searching a Long Beach park found the final missing body part – a severed head – believed to belong to a community college student killed and dismembered in a double murder-for-profit plot in Orange County, police said Sunday.
FBI agents and police from …. Original article  : Police searching S. California park find head believed to be man killed in double-murder plot.

Freed Malawi gay couple keep low profile after pardon, warned homosexuality remains illegal

Malawi gay couple keep low profile after pardon

BLANTYRE, Malawi – A gay couple from Malawi have kept out of the public eye after being pardoned and freed from prison, in what a relative said Sunday was a deliberate decision prompted by the conservative view of homosexuality in the southern African country.
Tiwonge Chimbalanga and Steven Monjeza … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Freed Malawi gay couple keep low profile after pardon, warned homosexuality remains illegal.

US laywer being held in Rwandan prison on charges of genocide denial sees legal team

US lawyer held in Rwandan prison sees legal team

NAIROBI, Kenya – An official from an international lawyers’ group says an American lawyer charged with genocide denial in Rwanda has been allowed to see his lawyers.
Alison Turner, a board member of the International Criminal Defense Attorneys Association, said Sunday two lawyers representing Peter Erlinder were allowed … Original source on Gaea Times at : US laywer being held in Rwandan prison on charges of genocide denial sees legal team.

Police arrest 7 men suspected of links to attacks on minority sect in Pakistan

Pakistan: 7 arrested over links to sect attackers

LAHORE, Pakistan – Seven men have been arrested over alleged links to the militants who attacked a minority sect in eastern Pakistan, killing 93 people, police said Sunday.
Interior Minister Rehman Malik visited one of the two mosques attacked Friday in Lahore and promised to work with local officials [..] Read the original article: here.

Blagojevich on trial: Combative former Illinois governor faces fight of his life

Former Ill. governor faces fight of his life
CHICAGO – The day before Rod Blagojevich’s world came crashing down, he stood before the TV cameras confident and defiant, as always, declaring he had nothing to hide, even as a giant political scandal was about to engulf him.
“If anybody wants to … Read more »».

Bamyan residents fear return of Taliban

BAMYAN – The more the violence in Afghanistan escalates, the more the West clings to the hope that negotiations with the Taliban could solve the conflict and bring within reach the withdrawal of the international troops.

While that idea, born out of sheer desperation, also gains support in Afghanistan, the plan triggers fear among the people … Read : Bamyan residents fear return of Taliban.

Let ULFA give formal proposal for peace talks, says Gogoi

GUWAHATI – Assam Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi Sunday asked the outlawed United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA) to formally apprise the state government of its decision on opening peace talks to end three decades of insurgency in the region.

“Let them first decide if they want to talk or not. If at all they are … Read more : Let ULFA give formal proposal for peace talks, says Gogoi.

Malawi gay couple freed hours after presidential pardon, warned homosexuality remains illegal

Malawi gay couple freed after presidential pardon

BLANTYRE, Malawi – A gay couple from Malawi arrested and sentenced to 14 years in prison after they threw a lavish engagement party was freed from prison hours after receiving a presidential pardon, prison officials said Sunday.
Prison Service spokesman Evance Phiri said Tiwonge Chimbalanga and Steven Monjeza were released … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Malawi gay couple freed hours after presidential pardon, warned homosexuality remains illegal.

Four killed in blasts in Afghanistan

KABUL – Four civilians were killed in separate blasts in Afghanistan as Taliban militants torched six fuel tankers destined for NATO forces in the southern region, officials said Sunday.

The civilians, including a child and a woman, were killed in a total of four separate blasts in the eastern provinces of Khost, Nangarhar and Paktika and …. Source article  : Four killed in blasts in Afghanistan.

Pakistani forces report killing 15 Taliban militants

ISLAMABAD – Pakistani jet fighters and artillery Sunday pounded militants’ positions in the country’s lawless tribal region, killing at least 15 rebels, a security official said.

A local intelligence official said the jets targeted six Taliban positions in three villages in the Orakzai tribal district, where Pakistani forces have been fighting Islamist insurgents since late March. … Read : Pakistani forces report killing 15 Taliban militants.

Maoists blow up panchayat building

BHUBANESWAR – Maoist guerrillas Sunday blew up a panchayat office building in Orissa’s Malkangiri district, police said. No one was injured as it was empty at the time of the attack.

About 30-40 rebels came to Kankurukunda village at about 1 a.m. and blasted the building using explosives, a police officer told IANS.
The attack … Read : Maoists blow up panchayat building.

Wanted Khalistani terrorist arrested in Amritsar

AMRITSAR – One of the most wanted terrorists in Punjab, Bakshish Singh alias Baba of the Khalistan Liberation Force (KLF), has been arrested in this Punjab city, police sources said Sunday.

“Baba was arrested yesterday (Saturday) from Amritsar on the basis of a secret tip-off,” a Punjab police source told IANS.
According to the source, police …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Man kills 3 judges, himself in central China court shooting spree

Man kills 3 judges, himself in China court

BEIJING – A man firing a small automatic weapon burst into a court office in central China on Tuesday, fatally shooting three judges and wounding three other people before killing himself, an official said.
The attacker, identified as a 46-year-old head of security at the Lingling district post office …. Original source  : Man kills 3 judges, himself in central China court shooting spree.

Indian thrown out of bus over fair dispute, dies

A constable succumbed to his injuries at a local hospital in Bihar after being thrown out of a government bus over fair dispute, police said today.

Police said Harsh Narayan Jha, a constable from Assam Rifles, was on Tuesday travelling by a state government bus when he engaged in an altercation with the driver and conductor …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Indian thrown out of bus over fair dispute, dies.

India advised Nepal king to destroy Maoists: Report

KATHMANDU – Nine years after the massacre of Nepal’s royal family, an aide of the slain king said the Maoists were not averse to an ornamental king while neighbour India had advocated weeding out the Communist guerrillas by force, according to a report.

Chiran Shumsher Thapa, who had served as King Birendra’s press secretary in the … Read more >>>.

Lahore hospital attack reveals lack of security

LAHORE – Heavily armed terrorists dressed in police uniforms stormed a hospital in this Pakistan city late Monday to “rescue or kill” their comrade wounded in the attacks on two mosques last week. At least five people died in the attack, which revealed the lack of security at the facility, media reports Tuesday said.

Dawn …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Lahore hospital attack reveals lack of security.

Fort Hood shooting suspect making 1st court appearance as defense attorney seeks to delay case

1st court appearance for Ft. Hood shooting suspect

FORT HOOD, Texas – The Army psychiatrist accused of gunning down 13 people at Fort Hood is to make his first military courtroom appearance Tuesday as his attorney seeks to delay the case.
But Maj. Nidal Hasan (nih-DAHL’ hah-SAHN’) isn’t expected to speak during the hearing.
Military prosecutors and defense …. Source  : Fort Hood shooting suspect making 1st court appearance as defense attorney seeks to delay case.

Afghan, NATO forces retake Taliban-controlled district

KABUL – Afghan security forces backed by NATO troops retook a district in eastern Afghanistan that was overrun by rebels last week, officials said Tuesday.

The operation to recapture the Bargi Matal district in the eastern province of Nuristan was conducted Monday night, after several airstrikes on rebel positions in the area bordering Pakistan, NATO said …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Afghan, NATO forces retake Taliban-controlled district.

Two NDFB militants killed in Assam gunfight

GUWAHATI – Security forces in Assam Tuesday gunned two tribal separatists and seized a large haul of weapons and explosives.

A police spokesperson said the gunfight between a joint team of police and soldiers and a three-member group of the outlawed National Democratic Front of Bodoland (NDFB) took place in village Oudangbazar in Kokrajhar district, about …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Two NDFB militants killed in Assam gunfight.

Al-Qaida announces death of its No. 3; US says missile strike

Al-Qaida: No. 3 official killed with family
WASHINGTON – Al-Qaida announced Monday that its No. 3 official, Mustafa al-Yazid, had been killed along with members of his family – perhaps one of the most severe blows to the terror movement since the U.S. campaign against al-Qaida began. A U.S. official said al-Yazid …. Source  : Al-Qaida announces death of its No. 3; US says missile strike.

Australia files lawsuit with international court over Japan’s controversial whaling program

Australia sues Japan over controversial whaling

TOKYO – Japan said Tuesday it would defend its research hunt that kills hundreds of whales per year, a day after Australia filed an international lawsuit arguing that the cull does not qualify for a scientific exemption to a 1986 ban.
Australia – Japan’s major trading partner – filed its lawsuit … Original article on : Australia files lawsuit with international court over Japan’s controversial whaling program.

Constable arrested for killing 12-year-old boy in Uttar Pradesh

LUCKNOW – After failing in his attempt to sodomize the 12-year-old son of a trader, a policeman allegedly killed him in Uttar Pradesh’s Firozabad district, an official said Monday.

Sanjay Baghel (25), a constable with the Provincial Armed Constabulary (PAC) was arrested Monday for the gruesome killing of the 12-year-old boy.
“Baghel has confessed to his …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Constable arrested for killing 12-year-old boy in Uttar Pradesh.

Al Qaeda number three killed on Afghan-Pakistan border

WASHINGTON – A senior figure in the Al Qaeda terror network has been killed in Pakistan’s border area with Afghanistan, a media report said.

An unnamed US official said Mustafa Abu al-Yazid was killed in a drone airstrike last week, the US broadcaster MSNBC reported late Monday.
A statement purporting to come from the terrorist group …. Original article  : Al Qaeda number three killed on Afghan-Pakistan border.

Defence, counter-terrorism key focus of India-US strategic dialogue

WASHINGTON – India and the United States begin their first strategic dialogue Wednesday with both sides keen to move beyond symbolism to concretise cooperation in areas ranging from energy, agriculture, science and technology and education to defence and counter-terrorism.

Indian External Affairs Minister S.M. Krishna, who would lead the inaugural ministerial level dialogue with US Secretary …. Source article  : Defence, counter-terrorism key focus of India-US strategic dialogue.

AP source: US believes No. 3 al-Qaida official dead in Predator drone attack recently

AP source: US thinks No. 3 al-Qaida official dead
WASHINGTON – Al-Qaida’s No. 3, Mustafa Abu al-Yazid, is believed to have been killed by a U.S. Predator drone strike in what could be one of the heaviest blows inflicted upon the terrorist organization, a U.S. official says.
Al-Yazid, also known as Sheik Saeed … Read more »»».

Man accused of stabbing pregnant girlfriend, her grandmother to death in their Conn. apartment

Conn. pregnant girlfriend, grandmother found dead

BRIDGEPORT, Conn. – A man has been accused of stabbing his pregnant girlfriend and her grandmother to death in a dispute at their Connecticut apartment.
Police say 23-year-old Yelisza Delvalle and her fetus and 79-year-old Ignasa Delvalle were found dead Sunday in their bedrooms in Bridgeport. The women had been stabbed …. Read the original article  : Man accused of stabbing pregnant girlfriend, her grandmother to death in their Conn. apartment.

Series of shootings leave 7 dead, others injured across Baltimore during holiday weekend

7 die in holiday weekend shootings in Baltimore

BALTIMORE – Police are investigating a series of shootings that left seven people dead and three more injured over a violent Memorial Day weekend in Baltimore.
Police spokesman Anthony Guglielmi (goo-lee-EHL-mee) says there have been ten shootings since Friday.
In two of the fatal shootings, police have identified persons of … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Series of shootings leave 7 dead, others injured across Baltimore during holiday weekend.

Mexican prosecutors get arrest warrant naming TV producer in wife’s killing at Cancun resort

Mexico judge OKs producer’s arrest in Cancun death

CANCUN, Mexico – A judge in Mexico issued an arrest warrant Monday for a former “Survivor” producer suspected in the killing of his wife while on vacation with their children at a Cancun resort, the state attorney general said.
Francisco Alor, the state attorney general in Quintana Roo state, …. Source  : Mexican prosecutors get arrest warrant naming TV producer in wife’s killing at Cancun resort.

Mexican prosecutors seek arrest in death of TV producer’s wife

Mexican prosecutors seek arrest in Cancun death

CANCUN, Mexico – Mexican prosecutors are seeking the arrest of a former “Survivor” producer suspected in the death of his wife while on vacation with their children at a Cancun resort.
The assistant attorney general of Quintana Roo says a judge is reviewing the case and is expected to decide … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Mexican prosecutors seek arrest in death of TV producer’s wife.

B-17 drops flowers over Statue of Liberty in tribute to CIA employees killed in Afghanistan

B-17 drops flowers in NY to honor CIA casualties
FARMINGDALE, N.Y. – Historic aircraft escorted a B-17 bomber before it dropped flowers over the Statue of Liberty in a public Memorial Day tribute to seven CIA employees killed in Afghanistan.
Two World War II aircraft from the American Airpower Museum on Long Island …. Read the original article  : B-17 drops flowers over Statue of Liberty in tribute to CIA employees killed in Afghanistan.

Gunmen storm Lahore hospital, 12 dead

LAHORE – Gunmen Monday night attacked the Jinnah hospital in this eastern Pakistani city, killing at least 12 people, including four policemen, and injuring several others, media reports said.

About three to four gunmen stormed into the emergency ward of the hospital where several injured people of Friday’s mosque attacks were admitted, Xinhua reported.
The … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Gunmen storm Lahore hospital, 12 dead.

Feds: Canadian who bilked $70M from clients globally warned of such schemes, hid criminal past

Feds: Man’s global Ponzi scheme ‘massive,’ mocking

EAST ST. LOUIS, Ill. – A Canadian national who the U.S. government says swindled $70 million from 40,000 investors on six continents carried out the same kind of Ponzi scheme the one-time bank robber mocked on his website, federal investigators allege.
Nicholas Smirnow warned clients of his online business, “Pathway … Original article on : Feds: Canadian who bilked $70M from clients globally warned of such schemes, hid criminal past.

Taliban fire rockets at Kabul peace assembly (Second Lead)

KABUL – Taliban guerrillas launched two rockets at the national peace assembly or “jirga” inaugurated by President Hamid Karzai in the Afghan capital but there were no casualties, an official said.

Sporadic firing took place in Afshar area, about 1.5 km from the heavily-guarded jirga venue, following the attack.
The rockets landed near the Intercontinental Hotel [..] Read the original article: here.

US lawyer jailed in Rwanda on genocide denial charge is longtime critic of its president

US lawyer held in Rwanda critical of its president

MINNEAPOLIS – A Minnesota law professor jailed in Rwanda and charged with genocide denial has long been a sharp critic of the central African nation’s president and even helped file a lawsuit accusing the one-time rebel leader of sparking the slaughter that erupted there in 1994.
Peter Erlinder, … Read this article on Gaea Times at : US lawyer jailed in Rwanda on genocide denial charge is longtime critic of its president.

US lacks good options for responding to successful terrorist attack linked to Pakistan

US has few options for Pakistan-linked attack
ISLAMABAD – America’s ability to respond to a successful terrorist attack linked to Pakistan is extremely limited, despite recent talk of severe consequences and even unilateral U.S. military action if one should occur.
The issue is receiving renewed attention following published reports that Washington might consider a strike … Original article on : US lacks good options for responding to successful terrorist attack linked to Pakistan.

Insurgents launch attack as Afghan peace conference starts

Militants attack as Afghan peace conference starts

KABUL, Afghanistan – Security forces battled insurgents including at least one suicide bomber who launched an assault on a national peace conference as it opened Wednesday in the Afghan capital.
A NATO spokesman said several insurgents were shot near the venue, and Afghan police said a suicide bomber detonated explosives, … Read more : Insurgents launch attack as Afghan peace conference starts.

Rockets fired near Kabul peace assembly, Karzai unhurt

KABUL – Two rockets fired by militants landed near the venue of a peace assembly or ‘jirga’ inaugurated by President Hamid Karzai in the Afghanistan capital Wednesday but there were no casualties, officials said.

The two rockets landed near the Intercontinental hotel close to the venue of the National Consultative Peace Jirga while Karzai was delivering … Original source on Gaea Times at : Rockets fired near Kabul peace assembly, Karzai unhurt.

Twin blasts rock Kabul, Karzai unhurt

KABUL – Two explosions rocked the Afghanistan capital Wednesday as President Hamid Karzai opened a “jirga” or peace assembly.

The National Consultative Peace Jirga was aimed at ending conflicts and ensuring peace in the militancy-hit country, Xinhua reported.
Around 1,600 people including tribal chieftains, parliamentarians, social and political figures as well as government officials gathered under …. Read the original article  : Twin blasts rock Kabul, Karzai unhurt.

Japan’s prime minister steps down over bungled handling of US base move, funding scandal

Japan’s prime minister steps down over US base row
TOKYO – Embattled Japanese Prime Minister Yukio Hatoyama resigned Wednesday to improve his party’s chances in an election next month, after his own popularity plunged over his broken campaign promise to move a U.S. Marine base.
Hatoyama’s bungled handling of the relocation of the Marine Air …. Original source  : Japan’s prime minister steps down over bungled handling of US base move, funding scandal.

US asks Pakistan to act against LeT, other anti-India groups

WASHINGTON – Expressing its appreciation for Prime Minister Manmohan Singh’s willingness to take political risks in resuming a dialogue with Pakistan, the US has again asked Islamabad to take effective action against anti-India terror groups like the Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), blamed for the 2008 Mumbai terror attack.

“We don’t distinguish among terrorist or violent extremist groups …. Original source  : US asks Pakistan to act against LeT, other anti-India groups.

Japan’s prime minister steps down over bungled handling of relocation of US base

Japan’s prime minister steps down over base row
TOKYO – After just eight months in office, embattled Japanese Prime Minister Yukio Hatoyama said Wednesday he was resigning over his broken campaign promise to move a U.S. Marine base off the southern island of Okinawa.
The prime minister faced growing pressure from within his own party …. Original article  : Japan’s prime minister steps down over bungled handling of relocation of US base.

Model for TV’s ‘Law & Order’ prosecutor bows out of role in FDNY minority hiring case

Former DA withdraws from FDNY minority hiring case

NEW YORK – Former Manhattan district attorney Robert Morgenthau withdrew on Tuesday from his role overseeing the city’s efforts to improve the hiring of black and Hispanic firefighters, citing the city’s “resentment” of him.
Morgenthau, who as a longtime prosecutor was a model for the district attorney on TV’s … Read more >>.

Iowa City police say the found drunken driver sans clothes outside neighbor’s apartment

Iowa City police say drunken driver was naked

IOWA CITY, Iowa – Iowa City police say they were able to track down a drunken driver who struck a street sign thanks in part to his clothing. His lack of clothing, that is.
Police say witnesses told officers they saw a naked man drive away from a convenience … Read more »».

Treasury sanctions Mozambican’s 3 businesses after he is designated as a drug trafficker

Treasury sanctions 3 businesses in Mozambique
WASHINGTON – The Treasury Department on Tuesday sanctioned three businesses allegedly connected to a Mozambique man whose name was added by the Obama administration to a list of international drug kingpins.
President Barack Obama placed Mohamed Bachir Suleman on the government’s list of so-called specially designated narcotics … Read more >>>.

Wisconsin prison inmate pleads guilty to helping cellmate hang himself from bed

Wis. inmate pleads guilty in assisted suicide case

JUNEAU, Wis. – A Wisconsin prison inmate has pleaded guilty to a charge that he helped his cellmate hang himself from their bunk bed.
The move by 21-year-old Joshua Walters surprised his own defense lawyer. Walters decided Tuesday to accept a plea bargain offered by the prosecutor.
Walters has pleaded … Read : Wisconsin prison inmate pleads guilty to helping cellmate hang himself from bed.

Kansas AD Perkins declines to talk about police reports he filed that say he was blackmailed

Kansas AD declines to talk about blackmail probe

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Kansas athletic director Lew Perkins said Tuesday he had been urged by lawyers not to publicly discuss police reports he filed that claim he was the target of blackmail.
Perkins, 65, also said he was determined to stay on the job and help steer Kansas …. Original article  : Kansas AD Perkins declines to talk about police reports he filed that say he was blackmailed.

Prosecutor: Agreement reached in Charlie Sheen’s domestic violence case in Colorado

Prosecutor: Agreement reached in Sheen case

ASPEN, Colo. – Charlie Sheen has reached an agreement with authorities in Colorado over domestic violence allegations involving his wife, a prosecutor said Tuesday.
The agreement was confirmed by Chief Deputy District Attorney Arnold Mordkin, who declined to disclose details.
Brooke Mueller Sheen’s lawyer, Yale Galanter, also confirmed a plea agreement but … Read more : Prosecutor: Agreement reached in Charlie Sheen’s domestic violence case in Colorado.

Jamaica’s prime minister says government plans island-wide assault on deeply entrenched gangs

PM: Jamaica plans island-wide assault on gangs

KINGSTON, Jamaica – Jamaica will launch a sustained assault on gangs that control poor communities across the island and fuel one of the world’s highest murder rates, the prime minister said Tuesday.
Prime Minister Bruce Golding said last week’s bloody raid on the West Kingston stronghold of reputed drug lord … Original article on : Jamaica’s prime minister says government plans island-wide assault on deeply entrenched gangs.

Florida mother accused of killing daughter Caylee, 2, misses court after fall in shackles

Mother accused of killing daughter hurt in fall

ORLANDO, Fla. – A Florida mother charged with murdering her 2-year-old daughter missed a court hearing after she suffered some minor injuries in a fall at an Orlando courthouse.
Twenty-four-year-old Casey Anthony fell when her hand and leg restraints became entangled. She fell forward, and officers escorting her were …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Florida mother accused of killing daughter Caylee, 2, misses court after fall in shackles.

Ex-CSI chief sentenced to prison for planting blood evidence in Neb. double-murder case

Ex-CSI chief gets prison for evidence tampering

PLATTSMOUTH, Neb. – The former chief crime scene investigator of Nebraska’s most populous county was sentenced to up to four years in prison Tuesday for planting blood evidence in a 2006 murder investigation.
David Kofoed, 53, was sentenced to between 20 months and 4 years in prison for tampering with …. Read the original article  : Ex-CSI chief sentenced to prison for planting blood evidence in Neb. double-murder case.

US judge orders NY middle school to reinstate student suspended for wearing rosary beads

NY school sued after teen suspended over rosary

ALBANY, N.Y. – A federal judge on Tuesday ordered a school to reinstate a 13-year-old boy who was suspended for wearing rosary beads, pending a hearing into whether the suspension violated his civil rights.
Oneida Middle School officials contend Raymond Hosier violated a policy banning gang-related clothing, as rosary … Read more : US judge orders NY middle school to reinstate student suspended for wearing rosary beads.

Cuba moves 7 political prisoners nearer homes, part of deal to better conditions behind bars

Cuba moving 7 political prisoners nearer homes

HAVANA – Cuba has begun transferring some of the country’s 200 political prisoners to jails closer to home, the first sign the government is making good on a deal with the Roman Catholic Church to improve conditions behind bars.
At least seven prisoners were on the move, according to reports [..] Read the original article: here.

Liberian teen gets probation in gang-rape of 8-year-old girl

Liberian teen gets probation in rape of child

PHOENIX – A teenage Liberian refugee who pleaded guilty in the gang-rape of an 8-year-old girl in Phoenix last summer has been sentenced to probation.
A juvenile court judge Wednesday also sent the 15-year-old boy to a secure treatment center for at least a year.
He was the oldest of …. Original source  : Liberian teen gets probation in gang-rape of 8-year-old girl.

British police investigate gunman’s motive in deadly rampage that killed 12

UK police look for motive in shooting spree

WHITEHAVEN, England – British detectives searched for clues to the motive behind a taxi driver’s murderous rampage in a tranquil part of rural England that left 12 people dead and more than two dozen wounded before he committed suicide.
More than 100 officers were scrutinizing why suspected gunman Derrick …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : British police investigate gunman’s motive in deadly rampage that killed 12.

Fake shootout case: Police to seek army officer’s custody (Lead, superseding previous story)

SRINAGAR – The Jammu and Kashmir Police will seek the custody of an Indian Army major accused of killing three villagers April 30 in a staged shootout in the Machil sector of the Line of Control (LoC) that divides the state between India and Pakistan.

“The accused officer has been identified as Major Bhupender of 4 …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Fake shootout case: Police to seek army officer’s custody (Lead, superseding previous story).

AP Impact: Despite calls for more troops, data shows US-Mexico border is actually pretty safe

AP Impact: US-Mexico border isn’t so dangerous

MEXICO CITY – It’s one of the safest parts of America, and it’s getting safer.
It’s the U.S.-Mexico border, and even as politicians say more federal troops are needed to fight rising violence, government data obtained by The Associated Press show it actually isn’t so dangerous after all.
The top four …. Read the original article  : AP Impact: Despite calls for more troops, data shows US-Mexico border is actually pretty safe.

Somali security forces free pirated ship after gangs refused to surrender and killed captain

Somali security forces free ship, captain killed

NAIROBI, Kenya – An official in the semiautonomous Somali region of Puntland says security forces in his northern region stormed a Panama-flagged cargo vessel taken by pirates a day earlier and freed it.
Minister of Marine Transport and Ports Said Mohamed Raage says authorities decided to free the ship by …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Somali security forces free pirated ship after gangs refused to surrender and killed captain.

British police investigate gunman’s motive in deadly rampage that killed 12, injured 25

UK police look for motive in deadly shooting spree

LONDON – Police in a tranquil part of rural England are searching for the reasons behind a murderous rampage by a taxi driver, who killed 12 people and wounded another 25 before killing himself.
More than 100 officers are investigating the attacks by Derrick Bird. It was Britain’s …. Original source  : British police investigate gunman’s motive in deadly rampage that killed 12, injured 25.

Two suspected Maoists killed in Bihar

PATNA – Two suspected Maoists were killed in a gun battle with police in Bihar’s Munger district Thursday morning, an official said.

Security forces, including the Central Reserve Police Force, surrounded an area near a forest after a tip off that more than 100 Maoists had gathered there, a police official said.
In the gun …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Curtain lifting on former Ill. Gov. Rod Blagojevich’s corruption trial 18 months after arrest

Curtain lifting on Blagojevich corruption trial
CHICAGO – Former Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich sees the start of his corruption trial as the end of an 18-month ordeal that began with his humiliating arrest.
Jury selection starts Thursday, and the federal courtroom is expected to be packed.
Blagojevich told a radio audience recently that the … Read more >>>.

Jamaicans wary of new promises to end decades of entrenched ties between politicians, gangs

Jamaica struggles to cut ties between gov’t, gangs

KINGSTON, Jamaica – Before Jamaican security forces stormed into his poor West Kingston neighborhood, George Green got jobs and help with food bills from a fugitive slum boss. Garbage trucks left the cracked streets spotless.
Today, the walls of the Tivoli Gardens housing project are pockmarked with bullets and … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Jamaicans wary of new promises to end decades of entrenched ties between politicians, gangs.

Chile police check hotels, homes in hunt for longtime Holloway suspect sought in Peru killing

Chile police hunt Dutchman sought in Peru killing

LIMA, Peru – Police in neighboring Chile are checking hotels for a young Dutchman long suspected in the 2005 disappearance of U.S. teen Natalee Holloway who is now being sought in the killing of a woman in Peru.
After Peruvian officials announced Wednesday that Joran van der Sloot is …. Original article  : Chile police check hotels, homes in hunt for longtime Holloway suspect sought in Peru killing.

Police to seek custody of army officer in fake shootout case

SRINAGAR – The Jammu and Kashmir Police will seek the custody of an army officer accused of killing three villagers on April 30 in a staged shootout in Machil sector of the Line of Control (LoC), which divides the state between India and Pakistan.

“The accused officer has been identified as Major Bhupender of 4 Rajput …. Read the original article  : Police to seek custody of army officer in fake shootout case.

Young Dutchman long suspected in Natalee Holloway’s disappearance now sought in Peru killing

Suspect in Holloway case sought in Peru killing

LIMA, Peru – A young Dutchman previously arrested in the 2005 disappearance of Alabama teen Natalee Holloway in Aruba is the prime suspect in the weekend killing of a Peruvian woman, police said Wednesday.
Joran van der Sloot is being sought for Sunday’s death of 21-year-old Stephany Flores in …. Source  : Young Dutchman long suspected in Natalee Holloway’s disappearance now sought in Peru killing.

Ohio man arrested in Detroit airport breach agrees to 12 months of psychiatric treatment

Man arrested in airport breach agrees to treatment

DETROIT – An Ohio man accused of walking through a passenger screening checkpoint at Detroit Metropolitan Airport without a boarding pass has reached a deal with prosecutors in which he’s undergoing psychiatric treatment.
The U.S. attorney’s office in Detroit says Kalyan L. Policherla agreed last month to a year … Original source on Gaea Times at : Ohio man arrested in Detroit airport breach agrees to 12 months of psychiatric treatment.

Mexican prosecutors begin process to ask US to extradite TV producer in wife’s death at resort

Mexico begins extradition process for TV producer

CANCUN, Mexico – Cancun prosecutors said Wednesday they have begun extradition proceedings for a TV producer being sought in his wife’s death at a posh hotel in this Caribbean resort after officially confirming he is not in Mexico.
Quintana Roo state assistant attorney general Rodolfo Garcia said his office submitted … Original article on : Mexican prosecutors begin process to ask US to extradite TV producer in wife’s death at resort.

Dallas man convicted of killing hospital worker in ‘93 carjacking executed in Texas

Texas executes man for 1993 carjacking murder

HUNTSVILLE, Texas – A man convicted of fatally shooting a Dallas hospital worker during a carjacking more than 17 years ago was executed Wednesday night in Texas, marking the 12th lethal injection this year in the nation’s busiest execution state.
George Jones, 36, exhausted his court appeals and his lawyer … Read more >>.

Lawyers say White House chief of staff Emanuel subpoenaed for Blagojevich trial

Lawyers say Emanuel subpoenaed in Blagojevich case
CHICAGO – Lawyers for former Gov. Rod Blagojevich have subpoenaed White House chief of staff Rahm Emanuel as a witness at his corruption trial, attorneys close to the case and a White House official say. White House adviser Valerie Jarrett also was subpoenaed, another White [..] Read the original article: here.

Nevada jury sentences man to death by lethal injection for rape-murder of college coed in Reno

Jury sentences man to death for Nev. coed murder

RENO, Nev. – A jury sentenced a Nevada man to death Wednesday for raping and killing a college coed after sexually assaulting two others in a string of attacks that had the city of Reno on edge for most of 2008.
The same jury that convicted James Biela, …. Read the original article  : Nevada jury sentences man to death by lethal injection for rape-murder of college coed in Reno.

Utah attorney says Gary Coleman and wife Shannon Price divorced in 2008

Attorney says Gary Coleman, wife divorced in 2008

SALT LAKE CITY – New details surrounding TV actor Gary Coleman’s death have emerged with his attorney saying the child star of “Diff’rent Strokes” and his wife divorced in 2008, and Utah authorities releasing a tape of her frantic 911 call after he struck his head in a … Original article on : Utah attorney says Gary Coleman and wife Shannon Price divorced in 2008.

Coroner rules homicide in death of Mexican man shot with stun gun, says meth abuse contributed

Coroner: Mexican man’s stun gun death a homicide

SAN DIEGO – The San Diego County coroner ruled Wednesday that the death of a Mexican migrant at the U.S. border was a homicide, five days after an American immigration officer shot him with a stun gun.
The cause of death was determined to be a heart attack, with …. Read the original article  : Coroner rules homicide in death of Mexican man shot with stun gun, says meth abuse contributed.

Taxi driver kills 12, wounds 25 in shooting spree across a tranquil stretch of northwest England

UK taxi driver kills 12, wounds 25 in rampage

SEASCALE, England – A taxi driver drove his vehicle on a shooting spree across a tranquil stretch of northwest England on Wednesday, methodically killing 12 people and wounding 25 others before turning the gun on himself, officials said. The rampage in the county of Cumbria was Britain’s …. Original article  : Taxi driver kills 12, wounds 25 in shooting spree across a tranquil stretch of northwest England.

British prime minister to visit area where taxi driver killed 12 people in shooting spree

UK prime minister to visit area of mass shootings

LONDON – Britain’s prime minister will visit the area of rural northwestern England where a taxi driver went on a shooting spree, killing 12 people and wounding 11 others.
David Cameron and Home Secretary Theresa May plan to meet with the Cumbria county’s police chief Friday and other … Read : British prime minister to visit area where taxi driver killed 12 people in shooting spree.

Belgian police detain suspected gunman in courthouse killings of judge, clerk

Belgian police detain courthouse shooting suspect

BRUSSELS – Belgium police say they have detained a suspect in the courthouse killing of a Brussels judge and her court clerk.
The shooting occurred Thursday in a downtown Brussels courthouse and the gunman fled on foot, setting off a manhunt in the Belgian capital.
Police said Friday they detained a man …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Turkish court charges driver with murder of Roman Catholic bishop

Roman Catholic bishop’s driver charged with murder

ISTANBUL – A Turkish man was charged Friday with murder in the stabbing death of a Roman Catholic bishop, the Vatican’s apostolic vicar in Anatolia, for whom he worked as a driver, a court said.
The killing of Monsignor Luigi Padovese outside his home in the Mediterranean port of Iskenderun …. Read the original article  : Turkish court charges driver with murder of Roman Catholic bishop.

Kasab appeals against death sentence

MUMBAI – Pakistani Ajmal Amir Kasab, convicted for the 26/11 Mumbai terror strike, has challenged the death sentence awarded to him by a Mumbai special court, an official said Friday.

He did so even before the special court could send its judgement to the high court for confirmation of the sentence.
Kasab, awarded the death … Read more »».

Blagojevich jury shaping up as cross section of the voters who elected him Illinois governor

Hugs, handshakes at Blagojevich corruption trial
CHICAGO – Rod Blagojevich started off his corruption trial in full campaign mode, greeting well-wishers with hugs and handshakes, while the judge began questioning potential jurors who emerged as a cross section of the middle American voters who first elected the former Illinois governor.
U.S. District Judge James B. … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Blagojevich jury shaping up as cross section of the voters who elected him Illinois governor.

Afzal Guru’s file goes to home ministry

NEW DELHI – Delhi Lt. Governor Tejendra Khanna has sent to the home ministry the file on parliament attack convict Afzal Guru’s mercy petition, an official in the Raj Bhawan said Friday.

“The file has been sent to the home ministry,” the official told IANS.
The Delhi government had sent the file to the Lt. Governor … Original source on Gaea Times at : Afzal Guru’s file goes to home ministry.

Lawyer: NYC widow had been taped on jail phone discussing husband’s 1990 contract killing

Widow faces sentencing in 1990 contract slaying

NEW YORK – A widow who for decades denied arranging her real estate tycoon husband’s slaying admitted it after learning that prosecutors had incriminating tapes of her talking on a jail telephone, her lawyer said.
Barbara Kogan pleaded guilty in April to manslaughter and other charges in the October 1990 … Read more : Lawyer: NYC widow had been taped on jail phone discussing husband’s 1990 contract killing.

AP Interview: Adoptees in Argentine DNA fight defend right to not know where they come from

Rights conflict in Argentine court battle over DNA

BUENOS AIRES, Argentina – The adopted children of Argentina’s leading newspaper publisher defended their right not to know who their biological parents are, even as they prepared themselves for the possibility that DNA evidence will show they were taken as babies from victims of the dictatorship.
In an interview …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : AP Interview: Adoptees in Argentine DNA fight defend right to not know where they come from.

Dutch man linked to Holloway disappearance awaits deportation to Peru to face murder charge

Dutch suspect in Peru murder in Chilean custody

LIMA, Peru – A Dutch man linked to the 2005 disappearance of U.S. teen Natalee Holloway is in custody in Chile, facing potential murder charges in Peru and extortion charges in the U.S.
Joran van der Sloot was detained in a taxi Thursday after crossing the border from Peru, …. Original source  : Dutch man linked to Holloway disappearance awaits deportation to Peru to face murder charge.

Maoists destroy key road in Chhattisgarh

RAIPUR – Maoist guerrillas have dug up a key cemented road, constructed only last year, at 12 different places in Chhattisgarh’s Bastar region, police said Friday.

The guerrillas Thursday night dug ditches at 12 locations within a one km area on the Bijapur-Gangloor Road, T.J. Longkumer, inspector general of police, Bastar, told IANS.
The damage was …. Original source  : Maoists destroy key road in Chhattisgarh.

Naoto Kan, outspoken populist, elected Japan’s prime minister ahead of July elections

Naoto Kan elected Japan’s prime minister
TOKYO – Japan’s parliament installed Naoto Kan as Japan’s new prime minister Friday, handing the outspoken populist the task of quickly reclaiming public support squandered by his predecessor ahead of July elections.
“My task is to rebuild this nation,” Kan said after he was chosen ruling party chief. …. Original source  : Naoto Kan, outspoken populist, elected Japan’s prime minister ahead of July elections.

South Korean general questioned on suspicion of giving military secrets to spy

South Korean general questioned in spy case
SEOUL, South Korea – South Korea’s military is investigating a general suspected of leaking secrets to a former spy for Seoul who then sold the information to North Korea, officials and media reports said Friday.
The army general, who wasn’t identified, allegedly handed over a military operations plan … Original source on Gaea Times at : South Korean general questioned on suspicion of giving military secrets to spy.

Tamil Nadu cut up with Malaysian minister over LTTE

NEW DELHI – Tamil Nadu Police hope Malaysian Tamil politician P. Ramasamy will keep away from the upcoming World Tamil Conference in India because he is seen as a sympathiser of the Tamil Tigers.

Home ministry sources say the police force is against Ramasamy’s participation in the conference in Coimbatore in Tamil Nadu June 23-27. The … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Tamil Nadu cut up with Malaysian minister over LTTE.

Grand diplomacy vs India’s struggles to gain access to Headley (News Analysis)

CHICAGO – Nothing illustrates more tellingly how diplomatic grandiosity does not always work at the ground level than the matter of India’s struggle to gain access to Mumbai terror plotter David Coleman Headley.

Even as Secretary of State Hillary Clinton said at the start of the India-US strategic dialogue in Washington that bilateral relations have the …. Source article  : Grand diplomacy vs India’s struggles to gain access to Headley (News Analysis).

US vows to help bring Mumbai attackers to justice

WASHINGTON – The US has reiterated its commitment to provide full cooperation and support in counter-terrorism investigations, including exchanging information and bringing the perpetrators of the 2008 Mumbai terror attack to justice.

The reiteration was made in a joint statement issued after the first ever India-US strategic dialogue between high level delegations led by External … Read more >>>.

Finance chief Kan elected Japan ruling party leader, poised to become next prime minister

Finance chief Kan to become Japan’s prime minister
TOKYO – Japan’s ruling party picked grass-roots populist Naoto Kan as its new chief Friday, paving his way to replace political blueblood Yukio Hatoyama as prime minister while the party struggles to reclaim public support ahead of July elections.
“My task is to rebuild this nation,” Kan … Read more : Finance chief Kan elected Japan ruling party leader, poised to become next prime minister.

Access to Headley logical next step, India tells US (Repeating for all needing)

WASHINGTON – With a team of Indian investigators waiting to question Pakistani-American Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) operative David Headley, who has confessed to his role in the Mumbai terror attack, External Affairs Minister S.M. Krishna Thursday told the US that providing access to him “is perhaps the logical next step”.

“I am happy to note the tremendous progress [..] Read the original article: here.

Court-appointed doctors say mother of missing Arizona baby is incompetent to stand trial

Doctors say Tempe woman incompetent for trial

TEMPE, Ariz. – Two court-appointed doctors say the mother of a missing Arizona baby is incompetent to stand trial.
A Maricopa County judge ruled Thursdy that 23-year-old Elizabeth Johnson could be tried at a later date after treatment and therapy. A hearing on Aug. 12 will decide the length and …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Secret Service officers subdue 2 men who refuse to move for Obama’s motorcade

Officers subdue 2 men near Obama’s motorcade
WASHINGTON – Secret Service officers have subdued two men who refused to get out of the street as President Barack Obama’s motorcade was returning to the White House.
Secret Service spokesman Ed Donovan says Obama was returning Thursday night from a school event for one of his daughters … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Secret Service officers subdue 2 men who refuse to move for Obama’s motorcade.

Finance chief Kan elected Japan ruling party leader, seen as next prime minister

Finance chief Kan elected Japan ruling party chief
TOKYO – Japan’s ruling party picked Finance Minister Naoto Kan, an outspoken politician with activist roots, as its new chief Friday, virtually assuring that he will become the country’s next prime minister.
Kan, 63, would succeed the unpopular Yukio Hatoyama, who stepped two days earlier amid plunging …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Finance chief Kan elected Japan ruling party leader, seen as next prime minister.

Stephen Clancy Hill Still Absconding

Los Angeles, CALIFORNIA (GaeaTimes.com)- Stephen Clancy Hill the absconding Porn star who brutally killed one of his colleagues on Tuesday and fled the spot has been slapped with homicide charges by the police and efforts are on to trace him. A reward worth $2000 is being offered by the owner of the porn video …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Stephen Clancy Hill Still Absconding.

Suspected Maoists kill one in West Bengal

KOLKATA – Suspected Maoists Saturday shot dead a man they held guilty of being a police informer in a kangaroo trial in West Bengal’s West Midnapore district, police said.

The victim’s body was found in Chilgora area of West Midnapore.
“We have recovered the body. We have not been able to identify the man till …. Original article  : Suspected Maoists kill one in West Bengal.

Over 150 people migrate as Maoists label them informers

RAIPUR – Over 150 people belonging to 35 families have migrated from their ancestral forest village in Chhattisgarh’s restive Bastar region after Maoists branded them police informers and threatened to wipe them out, police said Saturday.

The migrants, mostly poor tribals, belonged to Mohla village in Kanker that forms the 40,000 sq km Maoist stronghold Bastar …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Over 150 people migrate as Maoists label them informers.

Snippets from Kagan’s time in White House suggest high court nominee was no political purist

Clinton records show many sides of Kagan
WASHINGTON – A few notes scribbled in the margins, some brief e-mails and occasional memos help paint only a faint picture of Supreme Court nominee Elena Kagan when she served as a domestic policy adviser to President Bill Clinton.
There’s a rough outline, but little definition. And as … Read more »».

Rwandan judge charges US professor with denying Rwanda’s genocide

US law professor charged in Rwandan court
KIGALI, Rwanda – A Rwandan judge has charged an American lawyer with denying Rwanda’s 1994 genocide and publishing articles that are a threat to the country’s security.

Peter Erlinder pleaded not guilty to the charges during a court hearing late Friday in the Rwandan capital, Kigali.
Judge Maurice Mbishibishi says he …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Rwandan judge charges US professor with denying Rwanda’s genocide.

Four landmines recovered in Jharkhand

RANCHI – The Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) Saturday recovered four landmines from a railway track on the outskirts of Ranchi, the Jharkhand capital, police said.

“The patrolling CRPF personnel spotted the landmines near Lali village,” a police officer told IANS.
A bomb disposal squad has been asked to defuse the landmines. According to police, Maoists … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Four landmines recovered in Jharkhand.

Colo. theater director says Sheen’s lawyers asked about nonprofit work as part of plea deal

Colo. theater says Sheen lawyers asked about work

ASPEN, Colo. – Attorneys for Charlie Sheen have approached a Colorado nonprofit theater about having the actor do public service work as part of a plea deal in his domestic violence case, the theater’s artistic director said Friday.
Sheen’s duties, if the deal is approved, would include teaching a … Read more >>.

Colleague says US professor accused of denying the country’s genocide remains jailed in Rwanda

Colleague says US professor still jailed in Rwanda

MINNEAPOLIS – A colleague says a U.S. law professor charged in Rwanda with denying the country’s 1994 genocide remains jailed.
Gena Berglund says she spoke Friday with U.S. embassy officials in Kigali, Rwanda who attended the hearing for professor Peter Erlinder. Berglund has worked with Erlinder in Minnesota on …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Colleague says US professor accused of denying the country’s genocide remains jailed in Rwanda.

US encouraging Pakistan to act against Mumbai attackers, LeT

WASHINGTON – The United States says it has encouraged Pakistan to show progress on the trial of Mumbai attack suspects and stopping Lashkar-e-Taiba and other Punjab-based anti-India terrorist groups to help the two neighbours re-establish their composite dialogue.

“I think those are really the redlines that they’ve established for really establishing or re-establishing their composite dialogue,” …. Source article  : US encouraging Pakistan to act against Mumbai attackers, LeT.

New York man admits to killing his estranged wife by lacing her coffee with cyanide

NY man admits killing wife with cyanide in coffee

NEW YORK – A New York man faces up to life in prison after admitting that he killed his estranged wife in 2008 by lacing her coffee with cyanide.
David Steeves, of Center Moriches (moh-RIH’-chihs), pleaded guilty in a Long Island court Friday to second-degree murder during jury … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : New York man admits to killing his estranged wife by lacing her coffee with cyanide.

34 Al Qaeda leaders captured or killed in Iraq, says US

WASHINGTON – At least 34 top Al Qaeda leaders in Iraq have been captured or killed over the past three months, a top US military official has said.

“Over the last 90 days or so, we have either picked up or killed 34 out of the top 42 Al Qaeda leaders in Iraq,” Raymond Odierno, US … Read : 34 Al Qaeda leaders captured or killed in Iraq, says US.

Judge says prosecutors can seek death penalty in 2007 slaying of 6 family members near Seattle

Prosecutors can seek death in Carnation killings

SEATTLE – A King County judge says prosecutors in Seattle can seek the death penalty against a couple charged in the slayings of six people three years ago.
Michele Anderson and Joseph McEnroe are each charged with six counts of aggravated first-degree murder in the deaths of three generations of …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Judge says prosecutors can seek death penalty in 2007 slaying of 6 family members near Seattle.

‘Gossip Girl’ star Chace Crawford arrested on misdemeanor marijuana possession charge in Texas

‘Gossip Girl’ star Crawford arrested on pot charge

PLANO, Texas – Texas authorities say “Gossip Girl” heartthrob Chace Crawford faces a marijuana possession charge after being arrested in the Dallas suburb of Plano.
Police spokesman Rick McDonald says Crawford was arrested in a parked vehicle early Friday morning. He was booked and later released on a misdemeanor … Read : ‘Gossip Girl’ star Chace Crawford arrested on misdemeanor marijuana possession charge in Texas.

Porn actor charged with murder in attack on colleague; LA studio offers reward

Porn actor charged with murder; reward offered

LOS ANGELES – A porn actor suspected of killing a colleague and wounding two other people during an attack with a sword was charged Friday with murder and attempted murder.
Prosecutors said 34-year-old Stephen Clancy Hill was facing one count of murder and five counts of attempted murder in connection …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Judge won’t delay Blago trial for child’s graduation, opening statements may start Tuesday

Opening statements in Blago trial may come Tuesday
CHICAGO – The federal judge presiding over Rod Blagojevich’s corruption trial said Friday opening statements may come as early as Tuesday and refused to delay them for even one day so the former Illinois governor could attend his daughter’s grammar school graduation.
Tears welled in the eyes … Read more : Judge won’t delay Blago trial for child’s graduation, opening statements may start Tuesday.

Ex-police chief to testify before Mass. grand jury looking into 1986 killing by ex-Ala. prof

Mass. grand jury examines ‘86 killing by Ala. prof

BOSTON – A grand jury has been convened in Massachusetts to hear evidence in the 1986 shooting death of the brother of a former university professor accused in Alabama of killing three colleagues.
Retired Braintree police chief John Polio told The Associated Press on Friday that he and … Read more »».

Porn actor faces murder, other charges following sword slaying at LA production facility

Porn actor charged with murder in LA sword slaying

LOS ANGELES – A porn actor suspected of killing a colleague and wounding two other people during an attack with a sword has been charged with murder and attempted murder.
Prosecutors say they charged 34-year-old Stephen Clancy Hill on Friday with one count of murder and five counts … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Porn actor faces murder, other charges following sword slaying at LA production facility.

Judge denies last-minute attempt to stop shutdown of LA pot dispensaries

Judge denies bid to stop closure of LA pot shops

LOS ANGELES – Hundreds of medical marijuana dispensaries must close by Monday or face possible civil fines or criminal charges because they don’t comply with a new ordinance in Los Angeles.
Last-minute legal challenges from pot shop owners and patients seeking temporary restraining orders were denied Friday …. Read the original article  : here.

20 years after contract killing, NYC widow gets up to 36 years in prison for husband’s death

NYC widow gets prison for 1990 contract killing

NEW YORK – For almost two decades, Barbara Kogan shook off the suspicion that shadowed her soon after her estranged husband was shot dead outside his mistress’ apartment.
Authorities had ample reasons to wonder whether she was involved. The couple was in the throes of a harsh divorce, and …. Source  : 20 years after contract killing, NYC widow gets up to 36 years in prison for husband’s death.

Ex-Calif. pharmacy student gets 6 years in prison for killing mom who urged him to be doctor

Man who killed mom over career choice gets 6 years

SANTA ANA, Calif. – A former pharmacy student who killed his elderly mother after she urged him to become a doctor has been sentenced to six years in prison for voluntary manslaughter.
Richard Nguyen was sentenced Friday in Orange County after the judge heard pleas for leniency … Original article on : Ex-Calif. pharmacy student gets 6 years in prison for killing mom who urged him to be doctor.

Tiananmen student leader released after allegedly trespassing at China Embassy in Tokyo

Tiananmen dissident released after arrest in Tokyo

TOKYO – Japanese authorities released Wu’er Kaixi, a student leader in Beijing’s 1989 Tiananmen pro-democracy protests, on Sunday after arresting him for allegedly trying to force his way into the Chinese Embassy in Tokyo on the anniversary of a bloody military crackdown.
The 42-year-old activist, who allegedly jumped over a [..] Read the original article: here.

Stephen Clancy Hill Meets Tragic End

LOS ANGELES (GaeaTimes.com)- Stephen Clancy Hill the porn actor who was giving the cops a miss for some days after he cruelly killed one of his co workers at Ultima DVD facility has died after a long battle with the cops. He was surrounded by the LAPD staffs on Saturday and they cornered him … Read more »»».

Chandigarh Housing Board Website Hacked

CHANDIGARH, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- Chandigarh Housing Board website was hacked on Saturday. Reportedly, the Chandigarh Housing Board officials noticed the National flag of Pakistan being displayed all across the website. Along with the national flag of Pakistan there were also several writings all carrying abusive terms addressed towards one and all from Chandigarh Administration. Chandigarh Housing …. Read the original article  : Chandigarh Housing Board Website Hacked.

Chandigarh Housing Board Found Guilty

CHANDIGARH, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- District Consumer Forum has found Chandigarh Housing Board along with Holding Parsvanath Developers guilty of unfair trade practice. Reportedly, both Chandigarh Housing Board and Holding Parsvanath Developers refused Satya Jain of Sector 35 the possession of her apartment. Not only that, they also kept a major chunk out of the total deposited … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Chandigarh Housing Board Found Guilty.

Russia urges NATO to combat Afghan drug trafficking, offers to put ‘ring around’ country

Russia urges NATO to fight Afghan drug trafficking

SINGAPORE – Russia urged NATO forces in Afghanistan on Sunday to crack down harder on drug production and smuggling, and offered to help put a security ring around the country.
The international community should classify Afghan drugs as a threat to peace and security because they have become an … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Russia urges NATO to combat Afghan drug trafficking, offers to put ‘ring around’ country.

Another Hindu militant group on rise in Nepal?

KATHMANDU – A year after a militant Hindu group came into prominence by engineering a bomb attack on a church in Kathmandu valley that killed three women, another such group is on the rise, seeking to restore Hinduism as Nepal’s state religion, claims a prominent doctor who was a kidnap victim.

For more than a fortnight, … Read more >>>.

Report: FBI arrests 2 NJ men who planned to leave from NYC to join jihadist group in Somalia

Report: 2 NJ men arrested on terrorism charges

NEWARK, N.J. – Two New Jersey men who allegedly intended to kill American troops were arrested Saturday at a New York City airport before boarding flights on their way to join a jihadist group in Somalia, a newspaper reported.
Mohamed Hamoud Alessa, 20, and Carlos Eduardo Almonte, 26, were …. Read the original article  : Report: FBI arrests 2 NJ men who planned to leave from NYC to join jihadist group in Somalia.

ULFA leaders in Bangladesh, Myanmar to surrender: Pillai (Interview)

GUWAHATI – Union Home Secretary G.K. Pillai says a number of top commanders and leaders of the outlawed United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA) based in Bangladesh and Myanmar are expected to surrender shortly and join the peace process.

“Some of them are senior leaders and commanders based in Bangladesh and Myanmar who have expressed their … Read more >>.

Church beatifies Jerzy Popieluszko, Polish priest slain by communists in 1984

Church beatifies Pole slain by communists in 1984

WARSAW, Poland – Thousands of Poles are expected to fill a vast square in Warsaw on Sunday for the beatification of Jerzy Popieluszko, a charismatic priest tortured and killed in 1984 by communist Poland’s secret police for supporting Lech Walesa’s Solidarity movement.
The head of the Vatican’s saint-making office, …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Church beatifies Jerzy Popieluszko, Polish priest slain by communists in 1984.

Lawyers for prisoner accused of killing guard seek to cover neo-Nazi tattoos during Utah trial

Lawyers want defendant’s neo-Nazi tattoos covered

SALT LAKE CITY – Attorneys for a prison inmate accused of killing a guard while escaping from a Salt Lake City medical center are seeking to cover his neo-Nazi tattoos during his trial.
The attorneys say they want the tattoos on Curtis Michael Allgier’s face, head, neck and hands covered up …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Lawyers for prisoner accused of killing guard seek to cover neo-Nazi tattoos during Utah trial.

Porn actor charged with murder in sword attack dies after fall from LA hillside

Porn actor sought in slaying dies in hillside fall

LOS ANGELES – A porn actor suspected of killing a colleague died Saturday after falling some 40 feet from a rocky hillside after a standoff with police, officials said.
A “less than lethal munition” was used against Stephen Clancy Hill just before he fell, said police Officer Bruce … Original source on Gaea Times at : Porn actor charged with murder in sword attack dies after fall from LA hillside.

Clinton records offer clues to pragmatic, sometimes unpredictable high court nominee Kagan

Documents offer sketchy clues to pragmatic Kagan
WASHINGTON – From welfare and assisted suicide to police rights, a few scribbled notes and brief e-mails offer an outline of Supreme Court nominee Elena Kagan as a pragmatist with sometimes unpredictable views on hot-button topics when she was domestic policy adviser to President Bill Clinton.
Discussing the …. Original source  : Clinton records offer clues to pragmatic, sometimes unpredictable high court nominee Kagan.

Police in Wisconsin investigate sexual assault allegation against Green Bay Packer

Police: Green Bay Packer accused of sexual assault

LAKE DELTON, Wis. – Authorities in a south-central Wisconsin community say a Green Bay Packers player is being investigated for an alleged sexual assault of two women early Saturday.
Lake Delton police have not released the player’s name. They say he was released after being interviewed at a condo … Read : Police in Wisconsin investigate sexual assault allegation against Green Bay Packer.

Taliban militants get life term in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD – A Pakistani court has handed down life terms to six Taliban militants accused of planning attacks on foreigners and manufacturing suicide jackets, officials said.

The court gave the sentence Saturday.
Police had arrested the six Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan militants, including a would-be suicide bomber near Lahore in February, and seized hand grenades, explosives, suicide jackets … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Taliban militants get life term in Pakistan.

Porn actor charged with murder in sword attack in custody after fall from LA hillside

Porn actor sought in slaying falls from hillside

LOS ANGELES – A porn actor suspected of killing a colleague with a sword was taken into police custody Saturday after he fell some 40 feet from a rocky hillside from which he had been threatening to jump, officials said.
A “less lethal munition” was used against Stephen Clancy … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Porn actor charged with murder in sword attack in custody after fall from LA hillside.

Hundreds rally in Phoenix heat to support Arizona’s new illegal immigration law

Immigration law supporters rally at Ariz. Capitol

PHOENIX – Hundreds of people supporting Arizona’s new law cracking down on illegal immigration rallied near the state Capitol on Saturday afternoon in soaring temperatures.
Hundreds of motorcycle riders kicked off the downtown Phoenix rally by riding in a procession around the Capitol. Supporters waved American flags and some carried … Read more : Hundreds rally in Phoenix heat to support Arizona’s new illegal immigration law.

Pakistani militants behead Afghan man for ’spying’

ISLAMABAD – Unidentified militants beheaded a 60-year-old Afghan man for allegedly “spying” for the US military based in neighbouring Afghanistan, media reports said.

The body, identified as that of Wadeen, was found in Darpa Khel village, five km from Miranshah, in North Waziristan tribal area bordering Afghanistan, Xinhua reported citing a statement in the Daily Times. …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Pakistani militants behead Afghan man for ’spying’.

Porn actor charged with murder in sword attack threatens to kill self during LA standoff

Porn actor sought in slaying threatens suicide

LOS ANGELES – A porn actor suspected of killing a colleague with a prop sword climbed a hillside and threatened to commit suicide Saturday after leaving a Los Angeles house where he was barricaded for most of the day, authorities said.
Stephen Clancy Hill was clutching a sword as police …. Read the original article  : here.

Lake Delton, Wis., police investigate whether Green Bay Packer was involved in sexual assault

Police: Green Bay Packer accused of assault

LAKE DELTON, Wis. – Police in a south-central Wisconsin community say a Green Bay Packers player is under investigation for the alleged sexual assault of two women early Saturday.
Police in Lake Delton, outside of Madison, have not identified the player and say no one has been arrested.
Sgt. Gerald Grimsled … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Lake Delton, Wis., police investigate whether Green Bay Packer was involved in sexual assault.

Gunmen slay 2 Iraqi candidates allied to Sunni-backed party

2 candidates from Iraq’s Sunni-backed party killed

BAGHDAD – Gunmen killed two candidates from the Sunni-backed coalition that won the most seats in Iraq’s March parliamentary election, slayings that the alliance said Saturday were part of a politically motivated campaign of assassinations.
Neither candidate was expected to take a seat in the new parliament as both failed … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Gunmen slay 2 Iraqi candidates allied to Sunni-backed party.