Somali doctor: British yacht couple seized by pirates reunited after weeks of separation

Somali doctor: British yacht couple reunited

MOGADISHU, Somalia – A British yachting couple seized by Somali pirates and held in separate locations have been temporarily reunited after weeks apart, a doctor who treated the two said.
Paul and Rachel Chandler were suffering from severe anxiety brought on by their separation and captivity in war-ravaged Somalia, Dr. Abdi …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Somali doctor: British yacht couple seized by pirates reunited after weeks of separation.

Second San Diego area teen found dead in a week, confirming father’s worst fears

SoCal teen’s skeletal remains found in remote area

ESCONDIDO, Calif. – When 17-year-old Chelsea King went missing last month San Diego, Maurice Dubois had a sinking feeling that his 14-year-old daughter had fallen victim to the same killer.
Amber Dubois vanished walking to school on Feb. 13, 2009, about 10 miles from where Chelsea was last seen … Read more >>>.

Pakistan intelligence try to establish identity of arrested American militant suspect

Pakistan seeks identity of American suspect

ISLAMABAD – An American member of al-Qaida was picked up in a raid in Pakistan’s southern city of Karachi, Pakistani officials said Monday, but reversed earlier assertions that the detained man was the terror network’s U.S.-born spokesman.
They identified the suspect as Abu Yahya Majadin Adam, but gave no details on …. Source article  : Pakistan intelligence try to establish identity of arrested American militant suspect.

Dubai drama: Hamas slaying a global spectacle of claims, spies and videotape

Hamas slaying in Dubai ripples worldwide
DUBAI, United Arab Emirates – If there’s a signature moment in the plot to kill Mahmoud al-Mabhouh, it’s likely his short elevator ride from the hotel lobby to Room 230.

The Hamas commander and a woman hotel clerk enter the elevator and, just before the doors close, two men slip in.
They … Original article on : Dubai drama: Hamas slaying a global spectacle of claims, spies and videotape.

Cameroon footballer sentenced to 9 years in prison for currency forgery in Myanmar

Cameroon footballer jailed in Myanmar for forgery

YANGON, Myanmar – A Cameroon football player who sought refuge at the French Embassy in Myanmar’s main city has been sentenced to nine years in prison on charges of forging U.S. currency, a newspaper said Monday.
A court in Yangon also sentenced another Cameroon man to seven years last Thursday, … Read more >>.

Zimbabwe’s prime minister announces re-election bid, calls for peacekeepers to guard vote

Zimbabwe PM announces re-election bid
HARARE, Zimbabwe – Zimbabwe’s top two politicians are looking ahead to the elections that will end their uneasy governing partnership.

At a rally Sunday in Harare, Prime Minister Morgan Tsvangirai said he would run in presidential elections expected next year. He also called for African peacekeepers to protect voters in a country … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Zimbabwe’s prime minister announces re-election bid, calls for peacekeepers to guard vote.

Bones of 14-year-old Calif. girl found; discovery follows arrest in 17-year-old’s death

Police say bones of 14-year-old Calif. girl found

ESCONDIDO, Calif. – The bones of a 14-year-old Southern California girl who vanished more than a year ago while walking to school were discovered in a rugged, remote area, authorities said Sunday, less than a week after a registered sex offender was charged with murdering another teenage girl …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Bones of 14-year-old Calif. girl found; discovery follows arrest in 17-year-old’s death.

Police in California say skeletal remains of 14-year-old girl missing since last year found

Calif. police: 14-year-old girl’s remains found

ESCONDIDO, Calif. – Authorities in Southern California say the skeletal remains of a 14-year-old girl who disappeared a year ago while walking to school have been found in a remote area of the Pala Indian Reservation.
Escondido Police Chief Jim Maher says Amber Dubois’ bones were found early Saturday and positively …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Police in California say skeletal remains of 14-year-old girl missing since last year found.

Pakistani intelligence officers: American-born al-Qaida spokesman detained in Karachi

Officers: Pakistan detains American-born al-Qaida

KARACHI, Pakistan – Two Pakistani officers and a government official said Sunday that an American charged with treason for working with al-Qaida had been captured, a development that could deliver another significant blow in the U.S.-led battle against the terror network.
U.S. defense, intelligence and law enforcement officials could not immediately verify …. Read the original article  : Pakistani intelligence officers: American-born al-Qaida spokesman detained in Karachi.

Suspected gunman killed in shootout with police outside Walmart in east Texas

Suspected gunman killed outside Walmart in Texas

COMMERCE, Texas – A man walked into a Walmart in Texas carrying at least two guns before engaging in a shootout with police outside the store, authorities said. The man was killed and an off-duty officer in the store who had tried to stop him was injured.
The incident in … Read : Suspected gunman killed in shootout with police outside Walmart in east Texas.

Judge: No bond for 2 men charged with shooting 3 family members at Chicago-area home

No bond for pair charged in 3 Chicago-area deaths

WHEATON, Ill. – Two men charged in the shooting deaths of three members of a suburban Chicago family have been denied bond.
Prosecutors say 28-year-old Johnny Borizov persuaded 23-year-old alleged shooter Jacob Nodarse to kill the mother of his 1-year-old son, her parents and brother over a custody [..] Read the original article: here.

Off-duty officer kills gunman in shootout outside Walmart in east Texas city of Commerce

Officer kills gunman outside Walmart in east Texas

COMMERCE, Texas – Authorities say a gunman has been killed and an off-duty officer injured in a shootout outside a Walmart store in the east Texas city of Commerce.
Commerce spokeswoman Marty Cunningham says police received a call Sunday about shots being fired from a car in nearby Greenville, …. Original article  : Off-duty officer kills gunman in shootout outside Walmart in east Texas city of Commerce.

Arrests of key al-Qaida and Taliban militants in Pakistan since Sept. 11 attacks

Key al-Qaida, Taliban arrests in Pakistan
Pakistan has stepped up its efforts to arrest al-Qaida and Afghan Taliban militants in recent weeks following intense pressure from Washington. A look at some of the major arrests in Pakistan since the Sept. 11 attacks:

March 2010
- Adam Gadahn, the American spokesman for al-Qaida, was arrested in the southern city …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Free online database can help solve missing person mysteries, if law enforcement will use it

Database can crack missing person cases _ if used

MINNEAPOLIS – A new online database promises to crack some of the nation’s 100,000 missing persons cases and provide answers to desperate families, but only a fraction of law enforcement agencies are using it.
The clearinghouse, dubbed NamUs (Name Us), offers a quick way to check whether a … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Free online database can help solve missing person mysteries, if law enforcement will use it.

Graham says he’ll press his GOP colleagues to back Guantanamo closing if Obama backs tribunals

GOP senator urges Obama to shift on terror trials
WASHINGTON – A Republican senator is offering the White House a deal on terror trials.
Sen. Lindsey Graham says that if the president agrees to try alleged Sept. 11 mastermind Khalid Sheik Mohammed and four accused henchmen in military tribunals, he will press fellow Republicans to … Original source on Gaea Times at : Graham says he’ll press his GOP colleagues to back Guantanamo closing if Obama backs tribunals.

Providence mayor faces new questions amid Congressional run; drug bust in police department

RI mayor faces new questions in Congressional run

PROVIDENCE, R.I. – Mayor David Cicilline claims he has cleaned up Providence after the corruption of his predecessor, but his family relationships and connection to a former staffer could raise new questions about his reformer credentials.
His father is a mafia lawyer. His brother just got out of federal … Original article on : Providence mayor faces new questions amid Congressional run; drug bust in police department.

Intelligence officers say Pakistani agents arrested American-born al-Qaida spokesman

Officers: Pakistan arrests American-born al-Qaida

KARACHI, Pakistan – The American-born spokesman for al-Qaida has been arrested by Pakistani intelligence officers in the southern city of Karachi, two officers and a government official said Sunday as video emerged of him urging U.S. Muslims to attack their own country.
The arrest of Adam Gadahn represents a major victory in …. Read the original article  : here.

EU: Somali pirates free Thai fishing ship for ransom; French navy seizes 11 pirates

EU: Somali pirates free Thai fishing boat
NAIROBI, Kenya – Somali pirates freed a Thai fishing vessel they held for more than four months after receiving a ransom, the European Union Naval Force said Sunday, and French officials said their navy seized 11 suspected pirates elsewhere along Somalia’s coast.

The announcement from the French Defense Ministry brings …. Source article  : EU: Somali pirates free Thai fishing ship for ransom; French navy seizes 11 pirates.

Togo opposition claims fraud in presidential election, plans to present proof in court

Togo opposition claims fraud in presidential vote

LOME, Togo – Togo’s top opposition candidate was pelted with tear gas for a second time Sunday as he vowed to take to the streets every day in protest of what he says was an election rigged to favor the son of the country’s longtime dictator.
“I am ready to …. Original article  : Togo opposition claims fraud in presidential election, plans to present proof in court.

EU: Somali pirates free Thai fishing ship after ransom is paid

EU: Somali pirates free Thai fishing vessel

NAIROBI, Kenya – Somali pirates have freed a Thai fishing vessel they had held for more than four months after receiving a ransom, the European Union Naval Force said Sunday.
EU Naval Force spokesman Cmdr. John Harbour did not say how much the pirates were paid to free the Thai …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Amsterdam’s Schiphol Airport tightens duty free security after journalists smuggle in liquids

Amsterdam airport tightens security at duty free

AMSTERDAM – The Dutch anti-terror agency says security has been tightened at Amsterdam’s Schiphol Airport after investigative journalists smuggled bottles of liquid onto passenger jets bound for London and Washington, D.C.
Reporters refilled bottles bought at a duty free store, resealed them and smuggled them back into the store where … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Amsterdam’s Schiphol Airport tightens duty free security after journalists smuggle in liquids.

Anti-terror police shoot 3 suspects dead in 2 raids on Indonesia’s Java island

Indonesian police kill 3 terror suspects
JAKARTA, Indonesia – Anti-terror police hunting a mastermind of Indonesia’s worst terror attack killed three suspects near Jakarta on Tuesday, police said. Police were trying to determine whether one of those killed was the alleged terrorist Dulmatin.

One suspect was killed after he shot at police and two were arrested in …. Source  : Anti-terror police shoot 3 suspects dead in 2 raids on Indonesia’s Java island.

Official: Guard shoots armed man trying to enter Ukrainian Consulate in Istanbul

Turkey: Guard shoots man at Ukrainian Consulate

ISTANBUL – A security officer guarding the Ukrainian Consulate in Istanbul on Tuesday shot and injured a man who claimed to be carrying a bomb, Istanbul Gov. Muammer Guler said.
Guler said the man, a Turk, tried to enter the building because of a personal grievance concerning his wife in …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Official: Guard shoots armed man trying to enter Ukrainian Consulate in Istanbul.

Parents of dead SoCal teen urge new predator laws; police focus on man charged in another case

Parents of dead SoCal teen urge new predator laws

ESCONDIDO, Calif. – The father of a 14-year-old girl whose bones were found more than a year after she vanished walking to school urged supporters to behave like his late daughter’s favorite animal, the wolf, to hunt down child predators.
“Wolves hunt to survive, wolves hunt to together … Read : Parents of dead SoCal teen urge new predator laws; police focus on man charged in another case.

Report: Guard shoots armed man trying to enter Ukrainian Embassy in Istanbul

Report: Guard shoots man outside Ukrainian Embassy

ISTANBUL – A television report says a security officer guarding the Ukrainian Embassy in Istanbul has shot a man who claimed to be armed and carrying a bomb.
It was not immediately clear if the man was killed.
Private NTV television says the man tried to enter the embassy building.
… Read this article on Gaea Times at : Report: Guard shoots armed man trying to enter Ukrainian Embassy in Istanbul.

Team that helped GOP’s Brown win Mass. Senate race tries campaign template elsewhere

Brown team takes campaign template on the road
PROVIDENCE, R.I. – The political team that helped Scott Brown stage his improbable victory in the Massachusetts Senate race wants to apply its winning strategy elsewhere this election year. First stop: Rhode Island.
The Shawmut Group, led by aides to former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney, is helping … Read more »»».

9th US missionary heads home after Haitian judge frees her, leaving group’s leader in jail

9th US missionary freed in Haiti, returns home

PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti – A U.S. missionary held for more than a month in Haiti on kidnapping charges flew back to the United States after being released from prison, while the leader of her Baptist group remained in custody.
Charisa Coulter and Laura Silsby were the last two missionaries still … Read more »»».

Cyprus police confirm body found in cemetery is stolen corpse of ex-leader

Cyprus police confirm body is ex-leader’s corpse

NICOSIA, Cyprus – A body discovered in a Nicosia cemetery is the stolen corpse of Cyprus’ ex-president Tassos Papadopoulos, police said Tuesday.
DNA results obtained early Tuesday positively identified the corpse as Papadopoulos after a telephone tip-off led police to the body late Monday at the cemetery in the Nicosia …. Original article  : Cyprus police confirm body found in cemetery is stolen corpse of ex-leader.

NYPD: Officer fatally shoots man who was brandishing fake gun near Brooklyn elementary school

Man holding fake gun fatally shot near NYC school

NEW YORK – A police officer in Brooklyn has fatally shot a man who the NYPD says was brandishing a fake pistol near a school.
Police said they received a 911 call Monday afternoon from a parent reporting a man with a handgun near an elementary school.
They say …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Ex-Army Ranger, bank robber gets 20 years added to his sentence for hit-man plot, assault

20 years added to sentence of ex-Army Ranger

SEATTLE – A former Army Ranger originally sentenced to 24 years for leading a 2006 military-style bank robbery in Washington state has been given another 20 years for assault and trying to hire a hit man to kill a federal prosecutor.
After his sentencing Monday in federal court, 23-year-old … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Ex-Army Ranger, bank robber gets 20 years added to his sentence for hit-man plot, assault.

Soldier accused in murders of 2 fellow soldiers in Washington state to face court-martial

Soldier accused in 2 murders to face court-martial

JOINT BASE LEWIS-MCCHORD, Wash. – An Army specialist accused of killing two fellow soldiers and taking their baby in Washington state could face the death penalty if convicted in her upcoming court-martial.
The Army said Monday it has referred charges including premeditated murder, kidnapping and burglary to a general …. Source article  : Soldier accused in murders of 2 fellow soldiers in Washington state to face court-martial.

Mourners gather to remember 14-year-old girl whose remains were found north of San Diego

More than 1,000 mourners gather to remember Amber

ESCONDIDO, Calif. – More than 1,000 mourners have gathered to remember a 14-year-old girl whose remains were found over the weekend in a remote area north of San Diego.
Maurice Dubois (doo-BWAH’) and Carrie McGonigle spoke on a chilly Monday night before the somber crowd at Escondido High School, …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

2 ex-ACORN workers in Wis. accused of inflating voter registration totals during ‘08 campaign

2 ex-ACORN workers face charges from ‘08 campaign

MADISON, Wis. – Two former ACORN workers are accused of repeatedly trying to register the same voters during a Milwaukee drive to meet quotas set by the organization.
Maria Miles and Kevin Clancy were charged Monday with falsely procuring voter registration as a party to the crime during the … Read more : 2 ex-ACORN workers in Wis. accused of inflating voter registration totals during ‘08 campaign.

Timberwolves C Jefferson returns from 2-game DWI suspension against Mavericks

Jefferson returns for Timberwolves against Mavs

MINNEAPOLIS – Al Jefferson returned to the Minnesota Timberwolves starting lineup on Monday night against Dallas after serving a two-game suspension for a DWI arrest.
“It feels good, man,” Jefferson said at the team’s morning shootaround. “It was the longest seven days of my life. I feel good. I’m glad I’m … Read : Timberwolves C Jefferson returns from 2-game DWI suspension against Mavericks.

Israeli ambassador offers to exchange views with UC Irvine students who heckled his speech

Israeli ambassador offers to return to UC Irvine

IRVINE, Calif. – Israeli Ambassador Michael Oren has offered to return to the University of California, Irvine to exchange views with students who heckled him raucously on campus last month.
Oren made the offer in an open letter to the UC Irvine community published Monday on the Web site … Read more >>>.

Lawyers for Mexican family alleging priest sex abuse resign case, citing demand for money

Lawyers in Mexico church sex abuse case resign

MEXICO CITY – A Mexican lawyer said Monday he has resigned from handling the case of a woman and her sons who claim the males were sexually abused as boys by the founder of a conservative Roman Catholic religious order.
Lawyer Jose Bonilla said he and a team of … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Lawyers for Mexican family alleging priest sex abuse resign case, citing demand for money.

Myanmar junta to appoint commission that will run this year’s elections

Myanmar provides details of first election law

YANGON, Myanmar – Myanmar’s ruling junta will appoint the commission that will have final say over the country’s first elections in two decades, state-run newspapers announced Tuesday as the country’s military rulers began unveiling the laws that will govern this year’s balloting.
There are growing fears among pro-democracy groups that …. Read the original article  : Myanmar junta to appoint commission that will run this year’s elections.

Colorado lawmakers ask US attorney general to stop medical marijuana raids

CO lawmakers to feds: Halt medical marijuana raids
DENVER – A bipartisan group of Colorado lawmakers trying to regulate the state’s medical marijuana industry is calling on U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder to stop raids of medical marijuana operations, saying the raids are making it harder to create rules to keep tabs …. Source article  : Colorado lawmakers ask US attorney general to stop medical marijuana raids.

Boston judge rejects fake Rockefeller’s bid for new trial, but defense promises to appeal

Mass. judge turns down ‘Rockefeller’ new trial bid

BOSTON – A Massachusetts judge has turned down a new trial request by a man who called himself Clark Rockefeller.
Christian Karl Gerhartsreiter (GAYR’-hahrtz-ry-tur) was convicted last year of kidnapping his 7-year-old daughter and assaulting a social worker supervising their visit in 2008.
The Suffolk district attorney’s office says it …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Boston judge rejects fake Rockefeller’s bid for new trial, but defense promises to appeal.

University of Georgia quarterback arrested on alcohol, disorderly conduct charges

UGA quarterback charged with underage drinking

REMERTON, Ga. – A quarterback competing for the starting job at the University of Georgia has been released on bond after his arrest in south Georgia over the weekend on charges related to underage drinking.
A Remerton Police report says Zach Mettenberger was arrested at a bar called Flip Flops early … Read more : University of Georgia quarterback arrested on alcohol, disorderly conduct charges.

Several Swedish papers publish Prophet Muhammad drawing after alleged plot to murder artist

Swedish papers publish Prophet Muhammad drawing

STOCKHOLM – At least three Swedish newspapers have published a cartoon depicting the Prophet Muhammad with a dog’s body after an alleged plot to murder the artist was unveiled in Ireland.
The drawing was published Wednesday in Stockholm papers Dagens Nyheter and Expressen and the Malmo daily Sydsvenska Dagbladet.
Sydsvenska Dagbladet says … Original source on Gaea Times at : Several Swedish papers publish Prophet Muhammad drawing after alleged plot to murder artist.

Iranian president: US is the 1 playing ‘double game’ in Afghanistan

Iran leader: US playing ‘game’ in Afghanistan

KABUL – Taking aim at the U.S., Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad said Wednesday that it’s the United States that is playing a “double game” in Afghanistan, fighting terrorists it once supported.
At a press conference in the Afghan capital, Ahmadinejad was asked to respond to U.S. Defense Secretary Robert Gates, … Original article on : Iranian president: US is the 1 playing ‘double game’ in Afghanistan.

In rare case, suburban Pa. woman accused of aiding terrorists, agreeing to kill Swedish artist

In rare case, Pa. woman accused of aiding terror

PHILADELPHIA – An indictment against a suburban Philadelphia woman accused of recruiting jihadist fighters online and moving to Europe to try to kill a Swedish artist is a rare case of an American woman aiding foreign terrorists, authorities say, and shows the evolution of the threat of … Read : In rare case, suburban Pa. woman accused of aiding terrorists, agreeing to kill Swedish artist.

Ohio State janitor who shot bosses and himself had complained of treatment and was to be fired

Ohio State shooter complained bosses were unfair

COLUMBUS, Ohio – An Ohio State University janitor who shot two supervisors, one fatally, and then killed himself had complained that he was being treated unfairly, though records show he slept on the job and was late to work during his probation.
Nathaniel Brown was days away from losing his … Read more »».

Letterman says prosecutors ‘appropriately’ handled attempted extortion case against producer

Letterman: Case against producer handled properly

NEW YORK – From the start, David Letterman made sure the story of a $2 million shakedown attempt over his sex life was one he narrated himself.
It was the comic, not prosecutors, who broke the news of the case, which spurred him last fall to acknowledge affairs with women on …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Letterman says prosecutors ‘appropriately’ handled attempted extortion case against producer.

Behind the scenes, crafting the US no-fly list: A delicate, high-stakes and imperfect effort

Behind the scenes, crafting the US no-fly list

WASHINGTON – It starts with a tip, a scrap of intelligence, a fingerprint lifted from a suspected terrorist’s home.
It ends when a person is forbidden to board an airplane – a decision that’s in the hands of about six experts from the Transportation Security Administration.
The no-fly list they … Read more »».

Calif 7-year-old hid in bathroom to call 911, saves family from armed home invasion robbery

7-year-old calls 911, saves family from attack

NORWALK, Calif. – A terrified 7-year-old boy begged emergency dispatchers to send police to his Southern California home where three armed robbers threatened his parents, according to a recording of the call released Tuesday.
Gunmen broke into the boy’s home Tuesday morning and announced that they would take whatever they …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Attorneys for Roethlisberger accuser say she did the right thing, ask for privacy

Lawyers: Respect Roethlisberger accuser’s privacy

ATLANTA – Attorneys for the woman who accuses Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger of sexual assault said that she did the right thing by going to police and asked for privacy in a statement Tuesday.
Atlanta-based Attorneys Lee Parks and David Walbert said in the statement released to several media outlets that …. Original source  : Attorneys for Roethlisberger accuser say she did the right thing, ask for privacy.

Police arrest 18-year-old in California church service shooting that injured 2 brothers

Police make 3rd arrest in Calif. church shooting

RICHMOND, Calif. – Police say they’ve made another arrest in a shooting at a Northern California church that injured two teenage brothers.
Richmond police Sgt. Bisa French said Tuesday officers arrested 18-year-old Marcel Buggs on suspicion of assault with a deadly weapon, possession of a firearm and other charges. …. Original article  : Police arrest 18-year-old in California church service shooting that injured 2 brothers.

Phoenix authorities: Rapper DMX arrested for allegedly violating his probation by using drugs

DMX back in jail for alleged probation violation

PHOENIX – Authorities in Arizona say rapper DMX has been arrested for allegedly violating his probation by using drugs.
DMX, whose real name is Earl Simmons, had served about half of his 18-month supervised probation when he was booked Tuesday night into the downtown Phoenix jail. The rapper was …. Original source  : Phoenix authorities: Rapper DMX arrested for allegedly violating his probation by using drugs.

New law bars Myanmar democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi from elections

Law bars Myanmar’s Aung San Suu Kyi from elections

YANGON, Myanmar – Myanmar’s military rulers have barred pro-democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi from running in upcoming elections and may force her own political party to expel her under a new election law unveiled Wednesday.
The Political Parties Registration Law, published in official newspapers, prohibits anyone convicted … Read : New law bars Myanmar democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi from elections.

Attorneys for Roethlisberger accuser tell newspaper she did the right thing, ask for privacy

Attorneys: Respect Roethlisberger accuser privacy

PITTSBURGH – Attorneys for the woman who accuses Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger of sexual assault say she did the right thing by going to police, and they are asking for privacy.
Atlanta-based attorneys Lee Parks and David Walbert released a statement to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette Tuesday saying the woman is assisting … Original source on Gaea Times at : Attorneys for Roethlisberger accuser tell newspaper she did the right thing, ask for privacy.

Owners of NY strip club where groom died in 50-bullet police shooting are charged with larceny

Owners of NY club where groom was shot are charged

NEW YORK – A mother and son who owned a New York City strip club made infamous by a 50-bullet police shooting of an unarmed man there on his wedding day have been charged in a mortgage fraud case.
Martina Duran and Robert Arias were each ordered …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Owners of NY strip club where groom died in 50-bullet police shooting are charged with larceny.

US-born hit man fighting brother of dead drug lord for control of Mexican drug cartel

US-born capo, drug lord’s brother fight for cartel

MEXICO CITY – Authorities say a U.S.-born hitman is fighting the brother of a deceased drug lord for control of the Beltran-Leyva cartel, marking what may be the first time an American has risen to the very top ranks of Mexican gangs.
Ramon Pequeno, head of the anti-narcotics division …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Man convicted in execution-style slaying of business partner in NY restaurant’s parking lot

Partner convicted in NY execution-style slaying

RIVERHEAD, N.Y. – A Long Island man has been convicted in the execution-style slaying of his business partner in the parking lot of a Korean restaurant.
A Suffolk County jury on Tuesday found Nesconset (nes-CAHN’-seht) resident Ronald Thornton guilty of murder and conspiracy in the October 2008 death of attorney James [..] Read the original article: here.

Man stabbed with meat thermometer after asking woman to turn off phone during movie in Calif.

Man stabbed with meat thermometer at movie in CA

LANCASTER, Calif. – Authorities say a man was stabbed in the neck with a meat thermometer after asking a woman to silence her cell phone during a screening of the film “Shutter Island” at a Southern California movie theater.
Los Angeles County sheriff’s spokesman Steve Whitmore says the … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Man stabbed with meat thermometer after asking woman to turn off phone during movie in Calif..

Obama says he’ll bring in high-tech bounty hunters to help root out health care fraud

Obama using ‘bounty hunters’ for health care fraud
WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama said Tuesday he’ll bring in high-tech bounty hunters to help root out health care fraud, grabbing a populist idea with bipartisan backing in his final push to overhaul the system.
The White House announcement came as Obama prepared to travel to Missouri … Read more >>>.

New law bars Myanmar democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi from election

Law bars Myanmar’s Aung San Suu Kyi from election

YANGON, Myanmar – A new election law issued by Myanmar’s ruling military has barred pro-democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi from joining a political party and thus running in upcoming elections, state-run newspapers said Wednesday.
The Political Parties Registration Law, published in official newspapers, excludes anyone convicted by … Original article on : New law bars Myanmar democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi from election.

On eve of health care speech, Obama announces new anti-fraud measure

Obama using ‘bounty hunters’ to root out fraud
WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama said Tuesday he’ll bring in high-tech bounty hunters to help root out health care fraud, grabbing a populist idea with bipartisan backing in his final push to overhaul the system.
The White House announcement came as Obama prepared to travel …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : On eve of health care speech, Obama announces new anti-fraud measure.

Trucker tells jury he deserves to die for fatally shooting Michigan anti-abortion activist

Trucker tells Michigan jury he killed 2 gentlemen

CORUNNA, Mich. – The man who confessed to fatally shooting an abortion protester and a businessman in a small Michigan community told jurors Tuesday he deserves to die for the killings.
Harlan Drake testified for hours at his first-degree murder trial in Shiawassee County, about 25 miles west of …. Original source  : Trucker tells jury he deserves to die for fatally shooting Michigan anti-abortion activist.

HSBC says data on Swiss accounts of 15,000 customers stolen

HSBC: data on 15,000 Swiss account holders stolen

GENEVA – British bank HSBC says information on 15,000 customers with accounts in Switzerland has been stolen.
HSBC says a former employee stole the information in late 2006 and early 2007. The accounts were all opened before October 2006.
The bank says it has contacted the affected customers and apologized …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Confusion over whereabouts of kidnapped British boy, Pakistani diplomat backtracks on comments

Confusion over location of kidnapped British boy

LONDON – The whereabouts of a British boy kidnapped from his family’s home in Pakistan was unclear Thursday, with conflicting reports about whether he has been found and diplomats scrambling for confirmation.
Pakistan’s High Commissioner to London, Wajid Hasan, first told The Associated Press that he had information from Islamabad … Read more : Confusion over whereabouts of kidnapped British boy, Pakistani diplomat backtracks on comments.

Myanmar’s latest law bars democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi from voting in elections

Law bars Myanmar’s Aung San Suu Kyi from voting

YANGON, Myanmar – Not only is Nobel Peace Prize laureate Aung San Suu Kyi effectively barred from upcoming elections, but she will not be allowed to vote – and her opposition party’s landslide win at the last polls has been formally invalidated, according to new election laws …. Read the original article  : here.

NJ father accused of impregnating daughters to create ‘pure’ family during years of abuse

NJ man accused of raping, beating 5 daughters

PATERSON, N.J. – A New Jersey man with apocalyptic visions is accused of years of terrorizing his family, raping his five daughters and impregnating three, beating his children with wooden boards and even moving at one point to avoid child welfare investigators.
The nightmarish picture of a family subjected … Read more »»».

Report: Iran sentences professor to 6 years for suspected role in postelection turmoil

Report: Iran sentences professor to 6 years

TEHRAN, Iran – An Iranian appeals court sentenced a university professor to six years in prison for suspected involvement in the country’s postelection turmoil, local media reported Thursday.
Several pro-reform newspapers, including the Bahar daily, quoted Mahmoud Alizadeh Tabatabaei, a lawyer for Saeed Leilaz, as saying the appeals court sentenced … Read more >>>.

Critics of Justice Dept. lawyers who had terror detainee clients draw attention, condemnation

Critics of Justice Dept. lawyers under fire
WASHINGTON – A conservative group’s bashing of several Obama administration lawyers as the “al-Qaida Seven” has struck a nerve in the U.S. legal community, prompting even some fellow Republicans to denounce the group’s attack.
In a video ad circulated over the Internet, the group called Keep America Safe … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Critics of Justice Dept. lawyers who had terror detainee clients draw attention, condemnation.

Ga.’s system to defend the poor still struggling 5 years after costly courthouse killings case

Ga.’s system to defend the poor still reeling

ATLANTA – Georgia’s public defender system is still trying to recover its financial footing five years after a courthouse gunman racked up a $3 million taxpayer-funded defense tab on the way to his conviction.
The state’s ailing system to defend the poor has struggled almost since its start in …. Source  : Ga.’s system to defend the poor still struggling 5 years after costly courthouse killings case.

Al-Qaida eyeing less-complex US attacks after seeing impact of Fort Hood, Dec. 25 militants

Success of lone gunmen may shift al-Qaida strategy

WASHINGTON – On Christmas Day, a passenger on a Northwest Airlines flight bound for Detroit tried to blow up the plane with plastic explosives in his underwear. He failed, yet the very attempt shook the U.S. government, set federal agencies against each other and triggered months of political …. Original source  : Al-Qaida eyeing less-complex US attacks after seeing impact of Fort Hood, Dec. 25 militants.

Senior Pakistani official in London: Kidnapped boy has been located, circumstances unclear

Pakistani diplomat: Kidnapped boy has been found

LONDON – A British boy kidnapped from his family’s home in Pakistan has been located, Pakistan’s top diplomat in London said Thursday.
Sahil Saeed was snatched from his grandmother’s house in Pakistan’s Jehlum city last week after robbers held the family at gunpoint for several hours. Pakistani High Commissioner Wajid …. Read the original article  : here.

Rights complaints persist as US military frees Afghan detainees from Bagram to local leaders

Complaints persist as US frees Afghan detainees
CAMP DUBS, Afghanistan – The Pashtun tribal leaders picked at the chocolate cake and fruit laid out for them at the conference table. Politely, they listened to speeches touting a new program to release detainees from Afghanistan’s largest U.S.-run military prison if community leaders vouch … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Rights complaints persist as US military frees Afghan detainees from Bagram to local leaders.

Amy Victoria Beck: Sent To Jail

BURBANK (GaeaTimes.com)- On Wednesday, the Burbank Superior Court postponed the date of Amy Victoria Beck’s the arraignment at the court. Amy Victoria Beck along with her lawyer Michael Williamson, arrived at the Court on Wednesday morning to appear before the judge for the first time. The next date for the arraignment has been set by …. Source  : Amy Victoria Beck: Sent To Jail.

Ex-Spurs player Alvin Robertson back in jail after judge revokes bond

Ex-Spurs player Alvin Robertson returns to jail

SAN ANTONIO – Former NBA All-Star Alvin Robertson, facing sexual assault of a child and sex trafficking charges, is back in jail in San Antonio after a judge increased his bond.
Prosecutors say they had asked that Robertson’s bail be doubled to $450,000 on Wednesday after allegations surfaced that he … Read more »».

Jury finds former Marine not guilty in 2007 stabbing death of Rice basketball player Bailey

Man acquitted in death of Rice basketball player

BRYAN, Texas – A former Marine has been acquitted in the stabbing death of a Rice University basketball player during a 2007 fight outside a Texas bar.
Ronald Andrew Johnson was found not guilty Wednesday in Jonathan Bailey’s death and of the aggravated assault of Bailey’s twin brother, Janson.
Defense … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Jury finds former Marine not guilty in 2007 stabbing death of Rice basketball player Bailey.

Girlicious band member arrested in California on suspicion of cocaine possession

Girlicious band member arrested in Calif.
GLENDALE, Calif. – Police say a member of the pop group Girlicious was arrested after Glendale officers found more than a dozen plastic bags of cocaine in her Gucci purse during a traffic stop.

Police Sgt. Tom Lorenz says 21-year-old Natalie Mejia (meh-HEE’-ah) was being held Wednesday in jail in the …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Girlicious band member arrested in California on suspicion of cocaine possession.

Press group says 8 journalists kidnapped in Mexican border city; 1 dead, 2 released

Press group: 8 reporters kidnapped in Mexican city

MEXICO CITY – Eight journalists have been kidnapped in a Mexican border city in a two-week span in a wave of abductions unprecedented in the Western Hemisphere, the Inter-American Press Association said Wednesday.
The press group said only three of the journalists kidnapped between Feb. 18 and March 3 … Read : Press group says 8 journalists kidnapped in Mexican border city; 1 dead, 2 released.

Oregon quarterback Jeremiah Masoli to face burglary count related to frat house theft

Oregon quarterback Masoli to face burglary count

EUGENE, Ore. – Oregon quarterback Jeremiah Masoli, who helped lead the Ducks to the Pac-10 title and a Rose Bowl berth last season, faces a burglary charge in connection with a theft at a campus fraternity house in late January.
The Lane Country district attorney’s office says Masoli and former …. Original source  : Oregon quarterback Jeremiah Masoli to face burglary count related to frat house theft.

Feds charge sushi chef, Calif. restaurant with serving illegal whale to activists in sting op

Sushi chef charged with serving illegal whale

LOS ANGELES – Federal prosecutors filed charges Wednesday against a sushi chef and a Santa Monica restaurant on allegations that they served illegal and endangered whale meat.
Typhoon Restaurant Inc., which owns The Hump restaurant, and sushi chef Kiyoshiro Yamamoto, 45, were charged with illegally selling an endangered species product, …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Feds charge sushi chef, Calif. restaurant with serving illegal whale to activists in sting op.

Some SF drug cases dismissed, more in jeopardy amid evidence handling issues at crime lab

SF drug cases at risk amid crime lab questions

SAN FRANCISCO – At least two dozen felony drug cases were dropped Wednesday in San Francisco Superior Court amid questions of evidence tampering at the city’s crime lab.
Public Defender Jeff Adachi said the alleged problem involving a lab technician could affect a number of the 6,000 drug-related …. Original source  : Some SF drug cases dismissed, more in jeopardy amid evidence handling issues at crime lab.

Photos taken by Orange County serial killer released as police look for more potential victims

Photos taken by OC serial killer released
SANTA ANA, Calif. – Huntington Beach police are asking for the public’s help in identifying any potential victims among dozens of young women apparently photographed by Rodney Alcala, convicted in the serial murders of four women and a 12-year-old girl.

Hundreds of photos recovered during court-authorized searches of Alcala’s Monterey … Original article on : Photos taken by Orange County serial killer released as police look for more potential victims.

Oregon QB Masoli to face burglary count related to frat house theft

Oregon QB Masoli to face burglary count
EUGENE, Ore. – Oregon quarterback Jeremiah Masoli, who helped lead the Ducks to the Pac-10 title and a Rose Bowl berth last season, faces a burglary charge in connection with a theft at a campus fraternity house in late January.

The Lane Country district attorney’s office says Masoli and former … Read more »»».

20 die in Lahore twin bombings

LAHORE – Twenty people were killed and 40 injured Friday when two suicide bombers struck in a densely populated area in the Pakistani city of Lahore, rescuers said.

The attackers blew themselves up near the vehicles of security forces in RA Bazar area as people were gathering for Friday prayers.
Senior Superintendent of Police … Original article on : 20 die in Lahore twin bombings.

Two top Maoist leaders killed in Andhra

HYDERABAD – In a severe jolt to the Maoist movement, especially in Andhra Pradesh, the police Friday gunned down two top Maoist leaders in separate gun battles.

Shakhamuri Appa Rao, a member of the Communist Party of India-Maoist (CPI-Maoist) central committee, was killed in Prakasam district while S. Kondal Reddy, secretary of its South Telangana zonal … Read : Two top Maoist leaders killed in Andhra.

Woman accused of killing Florida Lottery winner indicted by grand jury in Tampa

Accused lottery killer indicted by Fla. grand jury

TAMPA, Fla. – The woman accused of killing a Florida Lottery winner has been formally charged with his murder.
A grand jury in Tampa indicted Dorice “Dee Dee” Moore on a single count of first-degree murder Thursday.
Investigators say Moore siphoned millions of Florida Lottery winner Abraham Shakespeare’s fortune before …. Original article  : Woman accused of killing Florida Lottery winner indicted by grand jury in Tampa.

AP interview: Russian envoy criticizes US, NATO over Afghan drug surge

Russia criticizes US, NATO over Afghan drugs

BRUSSELS – Russia’s envoy to NATO has sharply criticized the alliance’s shift away from fighting drug trafficking in Afghanistan, saying the resulting surge in heroin smuggling is endangering Russia’s national security.
In an interview late Thursday, Dmitry Rogozin also highlighted the lack of cohesion within NATO, saying Moscow is worried …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : AP interview: Russian envoy criticizes US, NATO over Afghan drug surge.

Nithyananda Oil Massage Video Available!

BANGALORE, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- Whenever any sex scandal erupts in India that involves a spiritual leader, the curiosity of the public just refuses to subside. The latest sex scandal involving spiritual Leader Swami Nithyananda corroborates the fact. When the controversial sex tape was released by Sun TV in which the swami was seen in … Read : Nithyananda Oil Massage Video Available!.

Blast in Lahore

LAHORE – A massive bomb blast shook the Pakistani city of Lahore Friday, Xinhua news agency reported. The explosion took place near a bus stand.
…. Original article  : Blast in Lahore.

‘Little Billy’ punks the famous and the notorious in letters about a schoolboy’s life

‘Little Billy’ punks VIPs in wide-eyed letters
WASHINGTON – “Little Billy” was in a jam: His parents blamed him for dismembering his sister’s doll, but the dog did it. How could he clear his name?
He scribbled a note to Robert Shapiro, the high-priced O.J. Simpson attorney, who counseled him to gather forensic evidence, examine …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : ‘Little Billy’ punks the famous and the notorious in letters about a schoolboy’s life.

After drop in approval ratings, NY attorney general recuses himself in probe of Gov. Paterson

After drop in poll, AG recuses himself in NY probe

ALBANY, N.Y. – In recusing himself after two weeks of investigating Gov. David Paterson, Attorney General Andrew Cuomo said there was no “technical conflict” but described the probe thus far as preliminary and bowed to pressure that included sinking approval ratings for the man widely expected …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : After drop in approval ratings, NY attorney general recuses himself in probe of Gov. Paterson.

Suspected al-Qaida member to friend: ‘Get the hell away from me, you Muslim killer’

Friend: Suspected US al-Qaida member grew radical

BUENA, N.J. – Sharif Mobley had strong Muslim views as early as high school. But his old friend Roman Castro knew he had radicalized when he saw him about four years ago.
Castro, an Army veteran who did a tour in Iraq, said Mobley had only these words for him [..] Read the original article: here.

Two NDFB militants killed in Assam gun battle

GUWAHATI – Two separatists of the outlawed National Democratic Front of Bodoland (NDFB) were killed in a gun battle with security forces in Assam Friday, an official said.

A police spokesperson said the fighting took place at Dadangiri village in Chirang district, about 170 km west of Assams main city of Guwahati.
Based on specfic …. Original source  : Two NDFB militants killed in Assam gun battle.

US official indicates new policy of engaging with Myanmar to push reform is failing

US suggests new engagement with Myanmar is failing

YANGON, Myanmar – Washington’s new policy of engagement with Myanmar’s military government appears to be failing, a senior U.S. official indicated Friday, noting the junta’s decision to bar democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi from upcoming elections.
This week the government unveiled election laws that prevent the detained Nobel …. Source article  : US official indicates new policy of engaging with Myanmar to push reform is failing.

At least 8 dead across Mexico in scattered, drug-related killings

At least 8 dead across Mexico in drug killings

CIUDAD JUAREZ, Mexico – Gunmen burst into a wake in the border city of Ciudad Juarez on Thursday and opened fire, killing 5 young men and wounding five others, including a 10-year-old girl.
The wake was being held at a private home for an 18-year-old man who had …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : At least 8 dead across Mexico in scattered, drug-related killings.

Police kill 2 suspected militants in western Indonesia, 6 arrested

Indonesian police kill 2 suspected militants

BANDA ACEH, Indonesia – Police hunting Islamist militants in western Indonesia killed two suspects and arrested six others at a security checkpoint Friday, an official said.
One of the masterminds of the 2002 Bali bombings, Dulmatin, was shot dead near Jakarta on Tuesday. The operation was part of a monthlong series … Original article on : Police kill 2 suspected militants in western Indonesia, 6 arrested.

LeT ambitions extend beyond India: US experts

WASHINGTON – Leading South Asia experts say the US should be prepared to take action against the Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), blamed for the Mumbai terror attacks, if Pakistan is unable or unwilling to act against the terror outfit that remains its spearhead against India.

“Doing so may be increasingly necessary not simply to prevent a future Indo-Pakistani …. Original article  : LeT ambitions extend beyond India: US experts.

LeT group of savages needs to be crushed: US lawmakers

WASHINGTON – Describing Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) as a “deadly serious group of fanatics,” US lawmakers have asked Obama administration to push Islamabad to crush the Pakistan-based terror outfit blamed for the 2008 Mumbai attacks.

“This group of savages needs to be crushed,” said Gary Ackerman, chairman of the House of Representatives subcommittee on the Middle East and … Read : LeT group of savages needs to be crushed: US lawmakers.

Maoist arrested in West Bengal

KOLKATA – A Maoist guerrilla was arrested from a forest area in Bankura district of West Bengal, police said Friday.

Anup Lohar, a resident of West Midnapore’s Goaltore area, was nabbed from Simlapal forest late Thursday night with firearms and bullets.
“Lohar was an active Maoist squad member. He had been hiding in the forests of …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Maoist arrested in West Bengal.

Phil Spector’s appellate lawyers allege judicial error and prosecutorial misconduct

Appeal filed in Phil Spector case
LOS ANGELES – Lawyers for legendary music producer Phil Spector have asked an appellate court to throw out his second-degree murder conviction on grounds of judicial error and prosecutorial misconduct.

In an extremely detailed 148-page brief filed Wednesday, the attorneys cited multiple reasons they believe Spector was denied his right to … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Phil Spector’s appellate lawyers allege judicial error and prosecutorial misconduct.

Japan arrests New Zealand anti-whaling activist for illegally boarding Japanese vessel

Japan arrests whaling activist for boarding ship

TOKYO – Japan’s coast guard arrested an anti-whaling activist from New Zealand on Friday for illegally boarding a whaling ship last month in the latest incident in the ongoing battle over Japanese whaling.
Peter Bethune, a member of the U.S.-based Sea Shepherd activist group, is accused of jumping aboard the …. Read the original article  : Japan arrests New Zealand anti-whaling activist for illegally boarding Japanese vessel.

Police gather tips after release of photos apparently taken by convicted Calif. serial killer

Tips, IDs follow release of serial killer’s photos

HUNTINGTON BEACH, Calif. – California police say they are receiving calls from the public after releasing more than 100 photos apparently taken by convicted serial killer Rodney Alcala in the 1970s, but tip gathering has been hampered by phone problems at police headquarters.
Huntington Beach police Detective Sgt. Aaron … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Police gather tips after release of photos apparently taken by convicted Calif. serial killer.

NJ officials: Terrorism suspect who worked at nuke plants not linked to any breaches

NJ: Terrorism suspect didn’t breach nuke plants

BUENA, N.J. – A New Jersey official says a suspected terrorist who worked at a complex of nuclear power plants did not breach security there.
Mike Drewniak, a spokesman for Gov. Chris Christie, says his office has been told that Sharif Mobley was supervised and had no problems when he …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : NJ officials: Terrorism suspect who worked at nuke plants not linked to any breaches.

Roadside bomb kills six civilians in Afghanistan

KABUL – Six civilians were killed and one injured as a roadside bomb went off in Afghanistan’s southern Uruzgan province Saturday, a statement from the interior ministry said.

“The tragic incident occurred this morning at around 07:30 a.m. local time in Nachin village outside the provincial capital Trinkot as a result six innocent civilians were …. Read the original article  : here.

Amy Beck Pictures Not The Culprit

BURBANK (GaeaTimes.com)- Amy Beck has hit the headlines for her sexual relationship with a minor student months after the relationship had ended. Unlike the recent Londonderry school teacher who had allegedly sent some of her nude pictures to a male student of her school asking him to enter into a sexual liaison, Amy Beck …. Original source  : Amy Beck Pictures Not The Culprit.

FBI 10 Most Wanted List Turns 60

WASHINGTON (GaeaTimes.com)- It is quite unbelievable that the FBI 10 Most Wanted Fugitive list, which was formed to answer a simple question asked by the reporters of the International News Service has completed sixty years. According to the reports, the agents of the Federal Investigation Bureau have created a list of ten most wanted …. Original article  : FBI 10 Most Wanted List Turns 60.

Maoists start killing dogs in Jharkhand, Bengal

RANCHI – Carcasses of killed dogs have been found in the jungle areas of Jharkhand and West Bengal, triggering anger among animal lovers who say the Maoists are killing dogs to prevent them from barking and alerting security forces.

The outlawed Communist Party of India-Maoist (CPI-Maoist) has reportedly issued a diktat to its cadre to kill … Original article on : Maoists start killing dogs in Jharkhand, Bengal.

Toll in Lahore suicide attacks rises to 57

LAHORE – The toll in the twin suicide attacks here Friday has risen to 57, even as seven low-intensity blasts late at night kept police on their toes for over eight hours.

Nine security personnel were among those killed in the suicide bombings that wreaked havoc in the cantonment area, injuring 136 people.
According … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Toll in Lahore suicide attacks rises to 57.

Suicide blast in Pakistan’s Swat Valley kills 10

ISLAMABAD – At least 10 people were killed and 37 injured when a suicide bomber targeted a security forces’ check post in Pakistan’s northwestern Swat Valley Saturday, police said.

The suicide bomber rammed his vehicle into a check post in Swat’s biggest town of Mingora, killing 10 people on the spot and injuring 37, Geo news …. Read the original article  : Suicide blast in Pakistan’s Swat Valley kills 10.

16 Maoists surrender in Orissa

BHUBANESWAR – Sixteen Maoist guerrillas Saturday surrendered in Orissas Gajapati district saying they wanted to return to mainstream life, police said.

Sixteen people have surrendered before us. They have surrendered saying that they want to return to mainstream, District Superintendent of Police Sanjeev Arora told IANS.
According to police, of the 16 Maoists, eight were hardcore … Original source on Gaea Times at : 16 Maoists surrender in Orissa.

Colo. mom says daughter held in Ireland in alleged terror plot against Swedish cartoonist

Mom says daughter held in Ireland in terror plot

DENVER – A 31-year-old mother from Colorado was one of seven Muslims arrested this week in Ireland in an alleged plot to assassinate Swedish cartoonist Lars Vilks, the woman’s parents said Friday.
Christine Mott of Leadville said she was told of the arrest of her daughter, Jamie Paulin-Ramirez, … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Colo. mom says daughter held in Ireland in alleged terror plot against Swedish cartoonist.

Suicide bombing kills five in Pakistan’s Swat Valley

ISLAMABAD – At least five people were killed and more than a dozen injured Saturday in a suicide attack on a security check post in northwestern Pakistan’s Swat Valley, police said.

The bombing took place on a busy street in Mingora, the main town in the restive district where Pakistani security forces launched a major offensive … Original article on : Suicide bombing kills five in Pakistan’s Swat Valley.

Gunmen kill 8 youths in attack on party in western Mexico

8 youths die in attack on party in western Mexico

CULICAN, Mexico – Gunmen burst into a party in western Mexico and killed eight youths and left another person wounded on Friday.
It was the second such attack in two days. On Thursday, gunmen in the border city of Ciudad Juarez shot dead six young men and …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Gunmen kill 8 youths in attack on party in western Mexico.

Pakistan should rein in Lashkar-e-Taiba: US

WASHINGTON – Welcoming India-Pakistan dialogue stalled since the Mumbai terror attack blamed on Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), the United States has asked Islamabad to rein in the terror group with “increasingly global ambitions and global scope.”

“We think that a group like Lashkar-e-Taiba, which is widely believed to have been responsible for the bombings in Mumbai, is a …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Pakistan should rein in Lashkar-e-Taiba: US.

Maoists set machines on fire in Bihar

PATNA – Suspected Maoist guerrillas torched machines of a road construction company in Bihar’s Buxar district early Saturday, police said.

The JCB machine and one tractor was set afire at Dumraon in Buxar, about 125 km from here, creating panic among the workers and the company officials.
“The Maoists apparently targeted the construction company for …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Maoists set machines on fire in Bihar.

Mexico defends military courts, army abuses cited in US human rights report

Mexico defends army courts after US rights report

MEXICO CITY – Mexico defended its military courts system on Thursday after a U.S. human rights report cited reports of alleged abuses by the army and a lack of investigation in many of the cases.
The U.S. State Department’s annual human rights report cites hundreds of complaints of illegal …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Mexico defends military courts, army abuses cited in US human rights report.

State authorities say name of Corey Haim found on fraudulent prescription linked to drug ring

Authorities: Haim’s name on illegal prescription

LOS ANGELES – The name of the late actor Corey Haim was found on a fraudulent prescription for a powerful painkiller that authorities said Friday was obtained through a major drug ring.
California Attorney General Jerry Brown’s office said records of the prescription in the name of the former teen heartthrob …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : State authorities say name of Corey Haim found on fraudulent prescription linked to drug ring.

Pa. man charged with badly beating woman at NYC bar after she allegedly rejected his advances

Pa. man charged with badly beating woman at NY bar

NEW YORK – A construction worker from Pennsylvania was charged Friday with brutally beating and attempting to rape a woman in a restroom at a New York City bar after she rejected his advances.
The man, identified as 30-year-old Mbarek Lafrem, of Norwood, Pa., was charged with …. Read the original article  : here.

California molester’s release from prison thwarted by federal case filed in Florida

New Florida case thwarts Calif. molester’s release

LOS ANGELES – The feared release of a convicted child molester from a California prison was thwarted Friday by 11th-hour federal charges involving child porn and a woman’s allegations that he bought her as a child in Asia and subjected her to years of sexual abuse while molesting her …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : California molester’s release from prison thwarted by federal case filed in Florida.

Oakland, Calif., woman accused of suffocating her 2-year-old daughter charged with murder

Mother charged with murder in daughter’s death

OAKLAND, Calif. – A 19-year-old Oakland woman accused of suffocating her 2-year-old daughter is being held without bail after being charged with murder.
Tiffany Lopez, who is three months pregnant, was rolled into court in a wheelchair for her initial appearance Friday.
After reading the charges, Alameda County Superior Court Judge … Read : Oakland, Calif., woman accused of suffocating her 2-year-old daughter charged with murder.

US probes terror suspect\’s stints in nuclear plants

WASHINGTON – US officials are probing the case of a suspected terrorist held in Yemen after evidence revealed he had worked at several nuclear plants in the US, Xinhua reported.

Sharif Mobley, a US citizen, was nabbed in an anti-terror operation in Yemen this month, Yemeni authorities said. He is suspected of having ties with the … Read : US probes terror suspect\’s stints in nuclear plants.

NYPD: Man suspected of beating woman in bar after she rejected his advances in custody

NYPD: Bar beating suspect in custody
NEW YORK – A man suspected of brutally beating a woman in a New York City bar restroom after she rejected his advances was taken into police custody Friday.

Chief police spokesman Paul Browne said the man had made statements implicating himself in the beating. The name of the man, who …. Original source  : NYPD: Man suspected of beating woman in bar after she rejected his advances in custody.

After 4 months on the lam, Southern Calif. teen pleads not guilty to killing 16-year-old boy

Calif. teen pleads not guilty in death of boy

HEMET, Calif. – A Southern California teenager accused of dismembering and burning a 16-year-old boy before fleeing to Mexico has pleaded not guilty to murder charges.
John Hall, spokesman for the Riverside County district attorney’s office, says 18-year-old Jose Manuel Campos was arraigned Friday afternoon. He is being …. Original article  : After 4 months on the lam, Southern Calif. teen pleads not guilty to killing 16-year-old boy.

Two arrested in Mumbai for plot to blow up oil tanks

MUMBAI – A Mumbai court granted police custody till March 18 to two terror suspects arrested by the Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS) Sunday for allegedly plotting to blow up oil tanks of the state-run Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC).

The duo, Latif and Riyaz, nabbed after a tip-off, had conducted a recce of the sensitive Nhava-Sheva …. Read the original article  : here.

Taliban attacks kill 35 in Kandahar (Second Lead)

KANDAHAR – A series of five explosions and gunfire killed at least 35 people, including police forces in southern city of Kandahar, an interior ministry spokesman said Sunday.

The Taliban called the attacks a reaction to the NATO commander’s warning about an imminent military offensive in the region.
Several insurgents equipped with suicide vests and assault … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Taliban attacks kill 35 in Kandahar (Second Lead).

Two held for plotting attack on Mumbai oil tanks

MUMBAI – Two people were arrested early Sunday by Maharashtra’s Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) for allegedly plotting to blow up oil tanks of the state-run Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC), an official said.

The two are suspected to have links with international terrorist outfits, an ATS official said.
The duo will be produced in a court … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Two held for plotting attack on Mumbai oil tanks.

Over 32,000 widows, 97,000 orphans in Kashmir

SRINAGAR – There are over 32,000 widows and 97,000 orphaned children in violence-battered Jammu and Kashmir, a new study has found, suggesting that the unending conflict in the border state has only made things worse for the vulnerable sections of society.

“There were 32,400 widows and 97,200 orphans in 2008 in Kashmir and the number is …. Source article  : Over 32,000 widows, 97,000 orphans in Kashmir.

Officials free US woman held in alleged artist murder plot; mom says daughter ‘lost her mind’

US mom: Daughter held in Ireland ‘lost her mind’

LEADVILLE, Colo. – Before her daughter disappeared last fall, Christine Mott recalls that the 31-year-old who had been held in connection with an alleged assassination plot announced she had converted to Islam and told her family they’d go to hell if they didn’t follow in her steps.
Jamie …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Officials free US woman held in alleged artist murder plot; mom says daughter ‘lost her mind’.

Authorities investigating Calif. man in alleged e-mail threats to DEA agents, families

Calif. man investigated over alleged DEA threats

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – A Northern California man arrested after park rangers allegedly spotted him waving a handgun at a national monument near the Oregon border will likely face more charges for threatening to kill federal agents and their families, authorities said Saturday.
Micha Godfrey was arrested Thursday after park rangers …. Source  : Authorities investigating Calif. man in alleged e-mail threats to DEA agents, families.

24 killed in southwestern Mexican state, including 11 in shootout between troops and gunmen

24 killed in western Mexico; 11 in one shootout

ACAPULCO, Mexico – A series of shootings killed 24 people Saturday in a Pacific coast state plagued by drug gang violence. Nearly half died in one shootout between soldiers and armed men.
The gunbattle erupted when attackers opened fire on soldiers patrolling the small town of Ajuchitlan del …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : 24 killed in southwestern Mexican state, including 11 in shootout between troops and gunmen.

Venezuela seizes 2 tons of cocaine hidden with bulldozers sitting at port for export to Europe

Venezuela seizes 2 tons of cocaine hidden at port

CARACAS – A Venezuelan police official says security forces have seized two tons of cocaine that was intended to be smuggled to the Netherlands.
Federal Police Chief Wilmer Flores Trosel says the drugs were hidden in two bulldozers at a port in the central state of Carabobo.
An Information …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Venezuela seizes 2 tons of cocaine hidden with bulldozers sitting at port for export to Europe.

Irish police free US woman, 3 others held in alleged artist murder plot; 3 being questioned

Irish police release US woman held in alleged plot

LEADVILLE, Colo. – Before her daughter disappeared last fall, Christina Mott recalls that the 31-year-old who had been held in connection with an alleged assassination plot announced she had converted to Islam and told them they’d go to hell if they didn’t follow in her steps.
Jamie Paulin-Ramirez … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Irish police free US woman, 3 others held in alleged artist murder plot; 3 being questioned.

Irish police free US woman, 3 others held in artist murder plot; 3 more still being questioned

Irish police release US woman held in murder plot

DENVER – Irish police say an American woman and three others arrested in Ireland over an alleged plot to assassinate Swedish artist Lars Vilks has been freed without charge.
Seven people – including the American woman, three Algerians, a Libyan, a Palestinian and a Croatian – were arrested … Original article on : Irish police free US woman, 3 others held in artist murder plot; 3 more still being questioned.

Thousands remember Southern Calif. teenager amid vows to change laws on child sex predators

Thousands mourn death of Southern Calif. teen

POWAY, Calif. – Thousands of teachers, classmates and neighbors filled a high school stadium Saturday to honor a 17-year-old girl whose body was discovered in a shallow, lakeside grave as her parents vowed to dedicate themselves to protecting children from sex predators.
Dozens of doves were let go at the … Read more »»».

4 people freed over alleged plot to kill Swedish artist, 3 more still being questioned

Irish police free 4 in alleged artist murder plot

DUBLIN – Four people, including an American woman, arrested over an alleged plot to assassinate Swedish artist Lars Vilks have been freed without charge, but three others remain in custody, Irish police said Saturday.
Seven people – three Algerians, a Libyan, a Palestinian and a Croatian and the …. Original article  : 4 people freed over alleged plot to kill Swedish artist, 3 more still being questioned.

Over 30 killed in serial suicide attacks in Afghanistan

KANDAHAR – Four suicide bombers attacked different parts of southern city of Kandahar Saturday, killing more than 30 people, and injured at least 40, officials said.

The main target of the coordinated attacks was Kandahar’s main jail, which houses hundreds of Taliban militants caught during the anti-insurgency operation by Afghan and NATO forces, Ahmad Wali Karzai, …. Source  : Over 30 killed in serial suicide attacks in Afghanistan.

Appeals court affirms conviction of reputed Klansman in civil rights era cold case in Miss.

Appeals court upholds conviction in Miss. killings

JACKSON, Miss. – A federal appeals court has upheld the 2007 conviction of a reputed Ku Klux Klan member in the kidnapping of two black men who were abducted and killed in rural Mississippi in 1964.
In a 2-1 ruling, the panel of judges said the evidence in the case …. Read the original article  : Appeals court affirms conviction of reputed Klansman in civil rights era cold case in Miss..

Calif. judge assailed for toddler’s death at father’s hand now face stiff election challenge

Judge faces election after unpopular decision

VICTORVILLE, Calif. – The judge didn’t believe the father was a threat and denied the mother’s plea to keep him away from their 9-month-old son. It was a seemingly routine ruling in a busy family law court called on too often to referee passionate fights between broken young families over … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Calif. judge assailed for toddler’s death at father’s hand now face stiff election challenge.

Iran says it has dismantled US-backed opposition networks, arrested 30 members

Iran says it struck US-backed opposition groups

TEHRAN, Iran – Iran said Saturday it has dismantled several U.S.-backed opposition networks that were gathering information on nuclear scientists and finding ways to circumvent controls on the Internet meant to deprive the opposition of its most crucial tool.
A judiciary statement carried on the official IRNA news agency said … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Iran says it has dismantled US-backed opposition networks, arrested 30 members.

Lesbian Air Force sergeant discharged after SD police see marriage license and tell military

Lesbian sgt. discharged after police tell military

Jene Newsome played by the rules as an Air Force sergeant: She never told anyone in the military she was a lesbian.
The 28-year-old’s honorable discharge under the “don’t ask, don’t tell” policy came only after police officers in Rapid City, S.D., saw an Iowa marriage certificate in her home … Read more : Lesbian Air Force sergeant discharged after SD police see marriage license and tell military.

4 suicide attackers strike in southern Afghanistan city; at least 30 reported killed

4 suicide attacks hit Afghanistan; at least 30 die

KANDAHAR, Afghanistan – The Afghan president’s half-brother says at least 30 people have died and dozens more hurt in four suicide attacks in the southern city of Kandahar.
Ahmed Wali Karzai, a member of the Kandahar provincial council, says a main target of the Saturday night attacks was … Read : 4 suicide attackers strike in southern Afghanistan city; at least 30 reported killed.

Pakistani government seeks Mumbai attacker Kasab’s arrest

ISLAMABAD – The Pakistani government, which has steadfastly refused Indian demands for action against Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) founder Hafiz Saeed, who New Delhi says masterminded the 26/11 attacks, has now sought the arrest of Ajmal Amir Kasab, the lone gunman captured alive during the carnage and who is being tried in a Mumbai court.

The Pakistani government’s … Original article on : Pakistani government seeks Mumbai attacker Kasab’s arrest.

Victorville judge assailed for toddler’s murder at dad’s hand now faces election challenge

Judge faces challenge after child-custody tragedy

VICTORVILLE, Calif. – Katie Tagle pleaded with the judge that her ex-boyfriend had threatened to kill their 9-month-old son and himself if the couple did not reconcile. She wanted the judge to revoke the boyfriend’s custody of the baby with a restraining order.
“I’m going to deny it ma’am,” San Bernardino … Read : Victorville judge assailed for toddler’s murder at dad’s hand now faces election challenge.