International monitors slam Tajikistan’s parliamentary election, say vote was marred by fraud

Monitors say Tajikistan’s vote marred by fraud

DUSHANBE, Tajikistan – International election monitors say Tajikistan’s parliamentary election was marred by widespread fraud.
The Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe’s election-monitoring arm says rampant ballot-box stuffing and proxy voting took place in Sunday’s election.
Preliminary results from the vote in the Central Asian republic have not been announced, … Read this article on Gaea Times at : International monitors slam Tajikistan’s parliamentary election, say vote was marred by fraud.

Wartime Bosnian Serb chief Karadzic claims self defense from Bosnian Muslim fundamentalists

Bosnian Serb leader opens defense against genocide

THE HAGUE, Netherlands – Wartime Bosnian Serb leader Radovan Karadzic says his people defended themselves against Islamic fundamentalists who started the war in Bosnia to lay claim to the entire country.
Karadzic is giving his opening statement at the U.N. war crimes tribunal for the former Yugoslavia. He was arrested … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Wartime Bosnian Serb chief Karadzic claims self defense from Bosnian Muslim fundamentalists.

Search expands for missing Calif. teen, sex offender arrested

Search spreads for Calif. teen; sex offender held

SAN DIEGO – Authorities and volunteers are widening a search for a 17-year-old missing in San Diego County after a registered sex offender was arrested in connection with her disappearance.
Some 1,400 volunteer searchers and more than 100 law enforcement officers failed to find Chelsea King on Sunday, but …. Read the original article  : Search expands for missing Calif. teen, sex offender arrested.

Pakistan must act against terrorism, says PM

RIYADH – Pakistan needs to “act decisively against terrorism” if it seeks to benefit from trade and commerce with India, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh said Monday.

“If there is cooperation between India and Pakistan, vast opportunities will open up for trade, travel and development that will create prosperity in both countries and in South Asia,” he …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Pakistan must act against terrorism, says PM.

AP Top News at 3:21 a.m. EST

AP Top News at 3:21 a.m. EST
Chile quake death toll hits 708 as rescue ramps up
CONCEPCION, Chile – Heroism and banditry mingled on Chile’s shattered streets Sunday as rescuers braved aftershocks digging for survivors and the government sent soldiers and ordered a nighttime curfew to quell looting. The death toll climbed to 708 in one … Read more >>>.

US eyes al-Qaida network in North Africa as it gains strength, recruits

Al-Qaida growing in strength and numbers in Africa

WASHINGTON – Al-Qaida’s terror network in North Africa is growing more active and attracting new recruits, threatening to further destabilize the continent’s already vulnerable Sahara region, according to U.S. defense and counterterrorism officials.
The North African faction, which calls itself Al-Qaida in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM), is still small … Read more »»».

Organic farmers seek to bar genetically modified beets, source of about half of US sugar crop

Suit seeks to bar genetically modified sugar beets

PHILOMATH, Ore. – Organic farmers fear this year’s spring breezes will be carrying pollen from genetically altered sugar beets, which they say could render their crops worthless, and they hope to persuade a federal judge this week to halt the plantings nationwide.
Experts and industry groups say such an … Original source on Gaea Times at : Organic farmers seek to bar genetically modified beets, source of about half of US sugar crop.

Four Afghan civilians killed in suicide attack

KABUL – A suicide bomber attacked a convoy of NATO forces in southern province of Kandahar Monday, killing four civilians, officials said.

The bomber rammed his explosive-laden vehicle into one of the vehicles of a NATO convoy in Daman district Monday morning, said Fazel Ahmad Sherzad, the deputy provincial police chief.
The attack resulted in death … Original source on Gaea Times at : Four Afghan civilians killed in suicide attack.

Cameroon man faces life imprisonment in Myanmar for forgery

Cameroon man faces life imprisonment in Myanmar

YANGON, Myanmar – A Cameroon football player who sought refuge at the French Embassy in Myanmar’s main city could face life imprisonment on charges of forging currency notes, a newspaper said Monday.
The man, who was not named, fled temporarily to the embassy in Yangon last Tuesday as he was … Read more >>.

In quiet Afghan moments, American troops pick up books to take their minds off war

Afghan: When shooting stops, some soldiers read

BADULA QULP, Afghanistan – When he was a child, and it was bedtime and lights out, Gene Hicks would hide under the blankets and read with a flashlight. Now he’s Army 1st Sgt. Gene Hicks, fighting the Taliban in Afghanistan, and sometimes lies in his sleeping bag reading with [..] Read the original article: here.

Suburban NYC mayor accused of assaulting wife by holding arm in doorway, closing door on hand

Wife says suburban NYC mayor shut door on her hand

WHITE PLAINS, N.Y. – A mayor in suburban New York City has been charged with assaulting his wife by shutting a door on her hand.
White Plains Mayor Adam Bradley turned himself in to police Sunday after his wife filed a domestic-violence complaint.
Bradley was arraigned on third-degree … Read more : Suburban NYC mayor accused of assaulting wife by holding arm in doorway, closing door on hand.

Sheriff: Registered sex offender arrested in disappearance of San Diego County teenager

Arrest made in case of missing California girl

SAN DIEGO – A registered sex offender was arrested Sunday in the disappearance of a suburban San Diego teenager as some 1,400 volunteers spent the weekend searching a park and surrounding area where she disappeared three days ago, authorities said.
The arrest came after about 120 law enforcement officers … Read : Sheriff: Registered sex offender arrested in disappearance of San Diego County teenager.

Officers, volunteers search for 17-year-old San Diego County girl missing since Thursday

Volunteers search for missing California teen

SAN DIEGO – A search has resumed for a suburban San Diego teen who failed to return from a run near a lake three days ago.
More than 1,000 volunteers gathered Sunday to help police and sheriff’s deputies look for 17-year-old Chelsea King, a high school senior from Poway.
Her BMW was … Read more »».

T-Wolves’ Al Jefferson apologizes to team, fans, accepts 2-game suspension after DWI arrest

Jefferson apologizes to T-Wolves after DWI arrest

d MINNEAPOLIS – Minnesota Timberwolves star center Al Jefferson apologized to the team and fans Sunday after his arrest on suspicion of DWI following a weekend loss to Portland.
The Timberwolves suspended Jefferson for the next two games without pay – a punishment Jefferson said he accepts.
“I want to apologize … Read more »».

Police identify Anchorage mall shooting victim, release man taken into custody for questioning

Man fatally shot at Anchorage mall
ANCHORAGE, Alaska – Police on Sunday were looking for a suspect in a shooting at an Anchorage mall who may have been wearing a wig and fake mustache when a 29-year-old man was gunned down outside a barber shop.

Police said Edwing Matos was shot multiple times at the Dimond Center …. Original article  : Police identify Anchorage mall shooting victim, release man taken into custody for questioning.

Timberwolves suspend Al Jefferson for 2 games without pay after arrest on suspicion of DWI

Wolves suspend Jefferson for 2 games after arrest

MINNEAPOLIS – The Minnesota Timberwolves have suspended center Al Jefferson for the next two games without pay after his arrest on suspicion of DWI.
The Minnesota State Patrol says a trooper stopped the 25-year-old Jefferson on Interstate 394 early Sunday for speeding and changing lanes without signaling.
Jefferson was taken …. Source  : Timberwolves suspend Al Jefferson for 2 games without pay after arrest on suspicion of DWI.

Police identify man shot to death at busy Anchorage mall

Man shot to death at Anchorage mall
ANCHORAGE, Alaska – Anchorage police say a man taken into custody following a fatal shooting at a busy mall has been released, and they’re now looking for a man who may have been wearing a wig and fake mustache.

Police just before 6:30 p.m. Saturday took a call that shots … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Police identify man shot to death at busy Anchorage mall.

Timberwolves’ Al Jefferson arrested near downtown Minneapolis on suspicion of DWI after game

Wolves’ Al Jefferson arrested on suspicion of DWI

MINNEAPOLIS – Minnesota Timberwolves center Al Jefferson faces an April 23 court appearance after his arrest on suspicion of DWI near downtown Minneapolis.
Minnesota State Patrol spokesman Lt. Eric Roeske (RAW’-skee) says a trooper stopped the 25-year-old Jefferson on Interstate 394 early Sunday for speeding and changing lanes without …. Read the original article  : here.

Citadel quarterback among 4 people charged in armed robbery case

Citadel quarterback charged in armed robbery case

CHARLESTON, S.C. – A quarterback for The Citadel has been charged with three others in connection with an armed robbery of a man at his home, Charleston police said Sunday.
Miguel Starks, 19, and former Citadel player linebacker Reginald Anthony Rice, 22, were charged Saturday with armed robbery, first-degree burglary, …. Original source  : Citadel quarterback among 4 people charged in armed robbery case.

RFK’s grandson decides against possible campaign for US House seat from Massachusetts

RFK’s grandson decides against run for US House
BOSTON – Joseph P. Kennedy III, the son of a former congressman and the grandson of Robert F. Kennedy, said Sunday he had decided against running for the U.S. House from Massachusetts this year.
Kennedy told The Associated Press that he wants to remain in his new …. Read the original article  : RFK’s grandson decides against possible campaign for US House seat from Massachusetts.

Lil Wayne prepares for jail term in NYC gun case; sentencing set for Tuesday

Lil Wayne prepares for jail term in NYC gun case

NEW YORK – Rap star Lil Wayne has left fans and fellow artists with a video blitz as he braces for as much as a year behind bars at the height of his career.
The rapper was expected to begin his New York City jail term Tuesday …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Lil Wayne prepares for jail term in NYC gun case; sentencing set for Tuesday.

Family, authorities hold out hope for return of California teen after days of searching

Family holds out hope for Calif. teen’s return

SAN DIEGO – Chelsea King is a straight-A student who plays French horn for the San Diego Youth Symphony, runs on the school cross-country team and actively volunteers in a peer counseling program.
At Poway High School, photos adorn the walls with the caption, “Last seen 2-25 at RB … Read : Family, authorities hold out hope for return of California teen after days of searching.

Australia police, passport officials head to Israel over fake passports in Dubai Hamas slaying

Australia police head to Israel over Dubai slaying

JERUSALEM – Australian police and passport officials are being dispatched to Israel to meet with three dual Australian-Israeli nationals whose passports were used in the slaying of a top Hamas operative in Dubai, a spokeswoman for Australia’s department of foreign affairs said Tuesday.
The spokeswoman, speaking from the Australian …. Read the original article  : here.

Phoenix officials, neighborhood at odds with church that feeds needy once a week

Phoenix at odds with church that feeds needy

PHOENIX – On Saturday mornings, crowds of homeless gather with other needy people at picnic tables outside a church in an upscale Phoenix neighborhood, listen to sermons and settle in for sausage, pancakes and scrambled eggs.
The pastor says it’s the Lord’s work. Neighbors say it should be done … Original article on : Phoenix officials, neighborhood at odds with church that feeds needy once a week.

Pakistani prosecutors lay out charges against 5 US citizens accused of terror ties

Pakistan lays out terror charges for 5 Americans

SARGODHA, Pakistan – Prosecutors seeking to indict five Americans on terror-related offenses presented their case to a Pakistani judge Tuesday, laying out charges including waging war against Pakistan and plotting to attack the country, a defense attorney said.
The men, all young Muslims from the Washington, D.C., area, were …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Hemmed in by Israel’s blockade, Gaza fishermen look to tunnels, Egypt to bring in their catch

Under blockade, coastal Gaza now a fish importer

GAZA CITY, Gaza Strip – Under a sea blockade, the coastal Gaza Strip has now become a seafood importer. Its desperate fishermen – cut off from plentiful fishing grounds by Israeli patrol boats – have turned to sneaking into Egyptian waters in tiny motorboats to buy their catch … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Hemmed in by Israel’s blockade, Gaza fishermen look to tunnels, Egypt to bring in their catch.

Naga leaders meet Manmohan Singh

NEW DELHI – Leaders of a frontline Naga separatist outfit Tuesday met Prime Minister Manmohan Singh after several rounds of talks with a government-appointed interlocutor, a separatist leader said.

The top leadership of the National Socialist Council of Nagaland-Isak-Muivah (NSCN-IM) is here for the peace talks which resumes after a gap of nearly a year.
The …. Original source  : Naga leaders meet Manmohan Singh.

Bomb blast hits military convoy in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD – Several army personnel were injured Tuesday when a powerful bomb blast hit a military convoy in northwest Pakistan’s tribal area, a media report said.

An improvised explosive device (IED) exploded close to the convoy in Miranshah, the capital of North Waziristan, leaving several people injured, Xinhua news agency reported.
Pakistani security forces are conducting … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Bomb blast hits military convoy in Pakistan.

Chinese writer again blocked from leaving country, this time for German literary festival

China writer blocked from going to German festival

BEIJING – An outspoken Chinese writer and government critic says he has been blocked from leaving China for a 13th time, this time taken off a plane as he was setting off for Europe’s largest international literary festival.
Liao Yiwu said he was already on the plane in the … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Chinese writer again blocked from leaving country, this time for German literary festival.

Hollywood production tackles Taiwan’s oppressive Nationalist rule

Hollywood film tackles Taiwan’s martial law era

HONG KONG – When China and Taiwan split in 1949, the mainland’s communist rulers were demonized by the West and their defeated opponents on the island touted as guardians of freedom. The Nationalists were anything but.
Chiang Kai-shek ruled the leaf-shaped territory with a heavy hand. On the pretext of … Read : Hollywood production tackles Taiwan’s oppressive Nationalist rule.

Los Angeles woman admits kidnapping story that sparked multistate search was a lie

LA woman admits lying to FBI about kidnapping

LOS ANGELES – A 24-year-old Los Angeles woman has admitted she lied to the FBI last summer when she claimed she’d been kidnapped and triggered a multistate search.
Sylvia Mardini pleaded guilty Monday to making false statements to the FBI and agreed to pay more than $20,000 in restitution … Original article on : Los Angeles woman admits kidnapping story that sparked multistate search was a lie.

Cuba’s state newscast devotes lengthy report to denying gov’t let dissident hunger striker die

Cuba TV report denies gov’t let hunger striker die

HAVANA, Cuba – Cuba devoted nearly a third of its official newscast Monday night to denying that state doctors purposely let a jailed dissident die from a hunger strike.
It claimed the case, which sparked an international outcry, began because the victim wanted television and other comforts in … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Cuba’s state newscast devotes lengthy report to denying gov’t let dissident hunger striker die.

Report: Paterson directed 2 staffers to contact woman who accused his aide in assault case

Report: Paterson directed staff to contact woman

ALBANY, N.Y. – Gov. David Paterson personally directed two state employees to contact the woman who told police she was assaulted by her then-boyfriend, a top aide to Paterson, but later failed to press charges, The New York Times reported late Monday.
A Paterson administration official speaking on the condition …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Report: Paterson directed 2 staffers to contact woman who accused his aide in assault case.

O.J. Simpson’s ‘acquittal suit’ to be donated to Smithsonian, ending a 13-year court battle

O.J. Simpson’s ‘acquittal suit’ to be donated

SANTA MONICA, Calif. – With O.J. Simpson giving his agreement from prison, a judge approved a plan Monday to donate the suit the former NFL star was wearing when he was acquitted of murder to the Smithsonian Institution.
The deal ends a 13-year legal battle between Simpson’s former sports agent … Original source on Gaea Times at : O.J. Simpson’s ‘acquittal suit’ to be donated to Smithsonian, ending a 13-year court battle.

Man who drove stolen car through Luke AFB gates facing murder charge after passenger killed

Arizona man facing murder charge over fatal chase

PHOENIX – An Arizona man who drove a stolen car through the gates of Luke Air Force Base is facing a murder charge after his teenage passenger was fatally shot by a security guard.
Glendale police say 19-year-old Gabriel Aguilera is being treated at a Phoenix-area hospital for non-life …. Source  : Man who drove stolen car through Luke AFB gates facing murder charge after passenger killed.

2 former Canopy executives charged with $75M health care fraud, stealing from account holders

2 charged in alleged $75 million health care fraud

CHICAGO – Two former executives of the bankrupt health care company Canopy Financial Inc. were charged Monday with swindling investors out of $75 million and illegally pocketing $19 million from accounts that were supposed to pay the medical bills of individuals nationwide.
Canopy’s former president and chief operating …. Original source  : 2 former Canopy executives charged with $75M health care fraud, stealing from account holders.

Officer wounded in Central California shootout is taken off life support

Life support ends for Calif. officer in shootout

FRESNO, Calif. – After praying four days for a miracle, the family of a California police officer critically wounded in a gunbattle seemed to accept Monday it wasn’t going to happen.
At 5:30 a.m., they allowed doctors to remove the life support that had sustained Reedley police Officer Javier … Read more »».

Denver man accused of sending white powder letters to Congress members, Argentine embassy

Denver man accused of sending white powder letters

DENVER – An employee of a Denver-area community college is accused of sending threatening letters with white powder to members of Congress, the Argentine embassy in Washington, and Argentine consulates in Los Angeles and New York.
Jay DeVaughn of Denver was advised Monday that he faces a charge of …. Source article  : Denver man accused of sending white powder letters to Congress members, Argentine embassy.

Summary Box: 4 men charged with making $29M by fraudulently obtaining, reselling tickets

Summary Box: 4 charged with concert ticket scheme

THE CHARGES: Four California men were accused of fraudulently obtaining tickets to concerts and sporting events and reselling them for a profit estimated at $29 million.
THE TECHNIQUE: According to prosecutors, the men used computer programs to bypass safeguards meant to restrict the number of tickets that each customer …. Original source  : Summary Box: 4 men charged with making $29M by fraudulently obtaining, reselling tickets.

Brooklyn DA: ACORN staff caught on hidden-camera video made by activists did nothing criminal

Brooklyn DA: No criminality caught on ACORN video

NEW YORK – ACORN employees caught on video apparently advising a couple posing as a prostitute and her boyfriend to lie about her profession and launder her earnings did not commit a crime, the Brooklyn District Attorney’s Office said Monday.
The office began its investigation Sept. 15, the day … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Brooklyn DA: ACORN staff caught on hidden-camera video made by activists did nothing criminal.

UK officials put one of toddler James Bulger’s killers back in jail after parole violation

Killer in 1993 UK toddler’s slaying back in jail

LONDON – Britain has again jailed a man who, as a boy in 1993, kidnapped and killed a toddler in Liverpool – a murder that shocked the nation.
Jon Venables, 27, who was given a new identity when he was released in 2001, was taken back into custody … Read : UK officials put one of toddler James Bulger’s killers back in jail after parole violation.

Mourning begins for Calif teen as body is found in shallow grave on lake shore

Mourning begins for SoCal teen after body is found

SAN DIEGO – Thousands of mourners walked the sidewalks of a wide avenue in silence, holding candles and tearfully embracing.
Many were at a loss for words over the discovery of a body believed to be that of 17-year-old Chelsea King, five days after the popular, straight-A student …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Mourning begins for Calif teen as body is found in shallow grave on lake shore.

NY Gov. Paterson defiant as state police head abruptly retires amid domestic violence scandal

NY Gov. Paterson mum as scandal claims top cop

ALBANY, N.Y. – New York Gov. David Paterson remains defiant in the midst of a rapidly growing domestic violence scandal that has now claimed two top law enforcement officials and threatens to take down his administration.
Just hours after Paterson told reporters Tuesday that he wouldn’t resign because …. Original source  : NY Gov. Paterson defiant as state police head abruptly retires amid domestic violence scandal.

With hearings over, lawmakers weigh new safety rules for Toyota in wake of massive recalls

Toyota hearings may lead to new auto safety rules
WASHINGTON – After skewering top Toyota executives in three congressional hearings, lawmakers and federal safety officials will now decide if the auto industry needs new regulations to ensure that the company’s huge safety recalls aren’t repeated.
Hearings over two weeks in the Senate and House focused …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : With hearings over, lawmakers weigh new safety rules for Toyota in wake of massive recalls.

Chelsea King Body Found Near Lake Hodges Shoreline

POWAY (GaeaTimes.com)- According to reports the San Diego County Sheriff Bill Gore has confirmed to a reporter that a body near Lake Hodges shoreline has been found on Tuesday afternoon which bears resemblance to Chelsea King. The News comes six days after the 17-year-old teenager went missing. Police carried out extensive search near the shoreline …. Source article  : Chelsea King Body Found Near Lake Hodges Shoreline.

AP Top News at 2:07 a.m. EST

AP Top News at 2:07 a.m. EST
Senate votes unemployment benefits, highway funds
WASHINGTON – The Senate on Tuesday passed a $10 billion measure to maintain unemployment benefits for the long-term jobless and provide stopgap funding for highway programs after a holdout Republican dropped stalling tactics that had generated a Washington firestorm. Kentucky Republican Jim Bunning had … Read more : AP Top News at 2:07 a.m. EST.

Hong Kong issues new indictment against American accused in ‘milkshake murder’

Hong Kong presses new charge in ‘milkshake murder’

HONG KONG – Hong Kong prosecutors on Wednesday issued a new murder indictment against Nancy Kissel, an American who successfully appealed an earlier conviction on charges of drugging and then bashing her husband to death in a luxury apartment complex.
Hong Kong’s Department of Justice submitted the fresh murder … Read more : Hong Kong issues new indictment against American accused in ‘milkshake murder’.

AP Top News at 12:56 a.m. EST

AP Top News at 12:56 a.m. EST
Senate votes unemployment benefits, highway funds
WASHINGTON – The Senate on Tuesday passed a $10 billion measure to maintain unemployment benefits for the long-term jobless and provide stopgap funding for highway programs after a holdout Republican dropped stalling tactics that had generated a Washington firestorm. Kentucky Republican Jim Bunning had … Read : AP Top News at 12:56 a.m. EST.

Wildlife officer suspected of stealing elephant tusks in Philippines in anti-poaching setback

Officer suspected of stealing ivory in Philippines

MANILA, Philippines – A Philippine wildlife officer is suspected of stealing more than 1,500 pounds (700 kilograms) of smuggled elephant tusks seized last year, an embarrassing setback for the country’s anti-poaching efforts, an official said Wednesday.
The ivory worth $65,000 was part of a 8,800-pound (4,000-kilogram) shipment of tusks that …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Wildlife officer suspected of stealing elephant tusks in Philippines in anti-poaching setback.

New Zealand imprisons German tourist for trying to smuggle lizards out of the country

NZ jails German tourist for smuggling reptiles

WELLINGTON, New Zealand – A German tourist was sentenced to jail time Wednesday after he admitted trying to smuggle native New Zealand lizards out of the country – the second such case in five weeks.
Manfred Walter Bachmann, 55, was also ordered to be deported at the end of his …. Original article  : New Zealand imprisons German tourist for trying to smuggle lizards out of the country.

New aggravated murder charges filed against suspected driver in police killings in Wash. state

Charges filed in Lakewood, Wash., police killings

TACOMA, Wash. – The man accused of being the getaway driver in the Lakewood police killings has been charged with aggravated first-degree murder.
Four counts were filed Tuesday against 38-year-old Darcus Allen. He has pleaded not guilty. A Pierce County Superior Court judge has ordered Allen be held without bail.
The … Read more >>.

Delhi cops to quiz Kandahar hijacker on other terror attacks

DHAKA – A team of Indian security officials will be here soon to question a Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) operative arrested in Dhaka for his possible role in terror attacks in Bangalore, Surat and other Indian cities.

Nannu Mia alias Belal Mandol alias Billal, a Bangladesh national, has admitted involvement in the hijack of an Indian Airlines plane … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Delhi cops to quiz Kandahar hijacker on other terror attacks.

Man wounds cashier at Florida grocery store, then fatally shoots self in parking lot

Man in Fla. wounds grocery cashier, kills self

ORLANDO, Fla. – Police say a man shot and wounded a cashier at a crowded Florida supermarket and then fatally shot himself in the parking lot.
An Orlando police department news release says the shooting occurred Tuesday night. The undentified man was standing in line when he shot a …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Man wounds cashier at Florida grocery store, then fatally shoots self in parking lot.

Thousands attend vigil for Calif. teen whose body was believed to be found in shallow grave

Thousands attend vigil for missing California teen

SAN DIEGO – Thousands of people are at a vigil in a San Diego suburb for a 17-year-old girl whose body is believed to have been found five days after she went to a park for a jog.
The father of Chelsea King addressed the crowd at St. Michael’s Church … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Thousands attend vigil for Calif. teen whose body was believed to be found in shallow grave.

US to offer smart-bomb kits, drones to Pakistan: WSJ

WASHINGTON – The United States will transfer sophisticated laser-guided-bomb kits to Pakistan as part of a recent push to better arm Islamabad for its military campaign against Islamic militants, the Wall Street Journal reported.

Pakistan will soon receive equipment capable of converting 1,000 traditional munitions into ’smart bombs’ that can more precisely strike targets on the …. Read the original article  : US to offer smart-bomb kits, drones to Pakistan: WSJ.

Naomi Campbell’s NYC driver says she hit him from back seat of SUV, but no charges expected

No charges for Naomi Campbell in NYC driver flap

NEW YORK – A man hired to drive Naomi Campbell told police she assaulted him from the back seat of a luxury SUV on Tuesday before hopping out and running away, but the supermodel likely won’t face criminal charges.
Police consulted with the Manhattan district attorney’s office and …. Original source  : Naomi Campbell’s NYC driver says she hit him from back seat of SUV, but no charges expected.

Air India bombing convict faces fresh trial

VANCOUVER – Inderjit Singh Reyat, the only person jailed in the killing of 329 passengers in the Air India bombing of 1985 and released last year, is set to face another trial on perjury charges in the case.

The jury for his trial will be picked up here Wednesday.
The Air India Kanishka flight 182 from …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Air India bombing convict faces fresh trial.

UC San Diego reports a 3rd racist incident while 2 UC campuses hold rallies for tolerance

Racist incidents, protests spread at UC campuses

LOS ANGELES – A firestorm over racially and ethnically charged incidents at several University of California campuses spread Tuesday as UC San Diego announced a KKK-style hood was found on campus and students in Los Angeles and Irvine demonstrated against intolerance.
“What kind of campus promotes an environment that allows … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : UC San Diego reports a 3rd racist incident while 2 UC campuses hold rallies for tolerance.

San Diego city attorney considers whether hanging of noose in school library was a hate crime

San Diego city attorney to investigate noose case

SAN DIEGO – The San Diego city attorney’s office will determine if the hanging of a noose in a University of California, San Diego library was a hate crime.
San Diego police say they’ve completed their investigation into the incident, and they turned over their results to the city … Original source on Gaea Times at : San Diego city attorney considers whether hanging of noose in school library was a hate crime.

Police: Man brandishes gun at Kentucky State University campus computer lab

Police: Man brandishes gun at Kentucky State

FRANKFORT, Ky. – Police have arrested a man who they say pointed a gun at people in Kentucky State University’s student center.
Police spokesman Maj. Fred Deaton says there were no injuries, and the suspect was arrested without incident in a computer lab at the school in Frankfort.
Christopher Sims of … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Police: Man brandishes gun at Kentucky State University campus computer lab.

Son of the late Sen. Robert F. Kennedy criticizes LAPD in LA Times Op-Ed piece

Son of RFK criticizes LAPD in LA Times Op-Ed piece

LOS ANGELES – The son of the late Sen. Robert F. Kennedy said he was “horrified” when he learned earlier this week that clothing that his father was wearing when he was assassinated in 1968 was being displayed at an exhibit in Las Vegas.
Maxwell Taylor Kennedy …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Son of the late Sen. Robert F. Kennedy criticizes LAPD in LA Times Op-Ed piece.

Brown to restrict war crimes prosecution for events abroad after warrants issued for Israelis

UK to restrict prosecution for war crimes abroad

LONDON – British Prime Minister Gordon Brown says he will restrict the right to bring private prosecutions for alleged war crimes committed elsewhere following the issuing of an arrest warrant for former Israeli Foreign Minister Tzipi Livni.
That incident in December angered Israelis and embarrassed British officials, who pledged … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Brown to restrict war crimes prosecution for events abroad after warrants issued for Israelis.

Man accused of murdering SoCal teen had support in child molestation case

Defendant in SoCal’s teen murder charmed some

SAN DIEGO – He shoveled snow and carried groceries for a neighbor. He cared for a sick girlfriend by pressing a cool cloth to her head all afternoon. A former high school girlfriend called him “the one person who has made me feel completely safe in this world.”
Testimonies from …. Source article  : Man accused of murdering SoCal teen had support in child molestation case.

4 convicted over foiled plot to attack US targets in Germany

4 convicted in German terror trial
DUESSELDORF, Germany – A court has convicted four men over a foiled 2007 plot to attack U.S. targets in Germany and given them prison sentences of up to 12 years.

Three of them – Fritz Gelowicz and Daniel Schneider, both German converts to Islam, and Turkish citizen Adem Yilmaz – were … Original source on Gaea Times at : 4 convicted over foiled plot to attack US targets in Germany.

In Dubai killing, some see an espionage era dying in a blaze of publicity

Dubai death: ‘The last assassination of its kind’?

JERUSALEM – The killing of a Hamas operative in a Dubai hotel may signal the end of an era: the moment when modern technology finally caught up with the cloak-and-dagger world of disguised assassins and fake passports.
“The last assassination of its kind,” said a headline in the Israeli …. Source  : In Dubai killing, some see an espionage era dying in a blaze of publicity.

NY Gov. Paterson, mired in scandal, accused of ethics violation that could be more damaging

Ethics charge could be more damaging for Paterson

ALBANY, N.Y. – Already enveloped in a scandal that has raised unanswered questions about his conduct and brought calls for his resignation, New York Gov. David Paterson faces new charges of violating state ethics laws, a case that a political analyst says could be even more politically dangerous.
Paterson …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Verdict expected in trial of 4 men accused of foiled plot to attack US targets in Germany

Verdict expected in German terror trial
DUESSELDORF, Germany – A court is expected to deliver its verdict in the trial of four men who have acknowledged participating in a foiled 2007 plot to attack U.S. targets in Germany.

Thursday’s scheduled verdict at the Duesseldorf state court comes at the end of a trial that opened last April.
Prosecutors …. Source  : Verdict expected in trial of 4 men accused of foiled plot to attack US targets in Germany.

Release of jailed mayors is setback for Mexico’s efforts to prove nobody is immune in drug war

Mayors’ release a setback in Mexican drug war

URUAPAN, Mexico – Antonio Gonzalez insists he has no idea why he was among 12 Mexican mayors arrested last year in an unprecedented roundup of elected officials accused of protecting drug traffickers.
During his eight months in jail, he says, investigators told him only that he once had lunch … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Release of jailed mayors is setback for Mexico’s efforts to prove nobody is immune in drug war.

Yukos vs Russia face off European Court of Human Rights as former oil giant seeks retribution

Yukos vs Russia face off in European court

STRASBOURG, France – Thousands of miles (kilometers) from the Siberian jail where its founder is imprisoned, representatives of the ruined Russian oil giant Yukos and the Russian government will meet face to face for the first time at the European Court of Human Rights this week as the …. Source article  : Yukos vs Russia face off European Court of Human Rights as former oil giant seeks retribution.

Prosecutors will seek death penalty for man charged with killing 2 California family members

DA to seek death penalty in Calif. family killings

SANTA ANA, Calif. – Orange County prosecutors will seek the death penalty for a man who’s charged with murdering his ex-girlfriend’s father and sister nearly three years ago.
District Attorney Tony Rackauckas said Wednesday he plans to pursue the death penalty for 25-year-old Iftekhar Murtaza (IF’-tek-har mur-TAH’-zah).
Prosecutors say … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Prosecutors will seek death penalty for man charged with killing 2 California family members.

MLB’s licenser settles lawsuit vs. baseball card maker it had accused of stealing trademarks

MLB licenser settles card maker lawsuit
NEW YORK – Major League Baseball’s licensing wing has settled a lawsuit it filed against a baseball card maker for allegedly stealing trademarks.

Major League Baseball said Wednesday that The Upper Deck Co. Inc. had settled the trademark lawsuit by agreeing to pay its licensing wing more than $2.4 million on … Original source on Gaea Times at : MLB’s licenser settles lawsuit vs. baseball card maker it had accused of stealing trademarks.

AP Interview: Hamas spy says Islam teaches people to kill, he’s not afraid to die

AP Interview: Hamas spy unafraid, criticizes Islam

NEW YORK – Mosab Hassan Yousef, who helped Israel’s security forces kill and arrest members of the Islamic militant group Hamas, is probably marked for death.
He should be keeping silent. But he’s got a story to tell, one he delivers in his new book published this week, “Son of …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : AP Interview: Hamas spy says Islam teaches people to kill, he’s not afraid to die.

3rd Calif. man accused in massive online concert ticket fraud posts bail in NJ

3rd man posts bail in concert ticket fraud case

NEWARK, N.J. – A Los Angeles man charged with running a massive online concert ticket fraud has posted bail in New Jersey.
Kenneth Lowson was arrested Monday with two other men in a 43-count indictment. They allegedly used computer programs to illegally buy 1.5 million concert tickets.
On Wednesday, … Read : 3rd Calif. man accused in massive online concert ticket fraud posts bail in NJ.

Oregon man accused of illegally moving $172M to 50 countries through shell corporations

Oregon man accused of illegally moving $172M

PORTLAND, Ore. – An Oregon man has been indicted on charges of illegally using shell corporations to move $172 million to 50 countries.
Federal prosecutors said Wednesday that Victor Kaganov of Tigard was indicted on a charge of operating an unlicensed money transmitting business that made more than 4,200 wire …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

State justice authorities say suspect in Chelsea King murder case identified by DNA

State says Chelsea King suspect found through DNA

SAN DIEGO – California law enforcement officials say a convicted sex offender was linked to the death of Chelsea King through DNA matching of semen found in the victim’s clothing.
State Department of Justice spokeswoman Christine Gasparac told The Associated Press Wednesday that John Albert Gardner III was identified … Read more : State justice authorities say suspect in Chelsea King murder case identified by DNA.

Idaho missionary still detained in Haiti says she would return to help children

Detained US missionary: I’d come back to Haiti

PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti – A U.S. Baptist missionary detained on suspicion of child trafficking in Haiti said Wednesday she would be ready to return again to the earthquake-ravaged country to work with children.
Laura Silsby told The Associated Press from her jail cell that she and nanny Charisa Coulter expect … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Idaho missionary still detained in Haiti says she would return to help children.

Tax returns show convicted ex-Birmingham mayor won 555 jackpots, $1.5M in electronic gambling

Taxes: Ex-Birmingham mayor won $1.5M in jackpots

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – Former Mayor Larry Langford, who was ousted after being convicted of bribery, won 555 electronic bingo jackpots over three years at a casino run by a longtime friend and supporter, according to newly disclosed tax records.
The tax returns show he claimed winning about $1.5 million gambling …. Read the original article  : here.

Prosecutors say Calif. man who went grassless to save water now in compliance with law

Official: Grass case against Calif. man to be cut

ORANGE, Calif. – Prosecutors say a Southern California man who removed his grass to save water now has enough drought-tolerant plants to comply with an ordinance requiring 40 percent of a yard be covered with live landscaping.
Orange City Attorney David DeBerry says he will ask that the … Read more »».

Racine, Wis., ex-mayor gets 3 years for trying to set up tryst with agent posing as girl, 14

Ex-mayor of Wis. city gets 3 years for sex sting

RACINE, Wis. – The former mayor of Racine, Wis., has been sentenced to three years in prison after pleading guilty to two charges stemming from an Internet sex sting.
Fifty-two-year-old Gary Becker had faced up to more than 27 years in prison at his sentencing hearing Wednesday. … Read more >>.

Nokia-Apple patent fight in Delaware on hold pending resolution of ITC claims

Del. judge puts Nokia-Apple patent fight on hold

WILMINGTON, Del. – A federal judge in Delaware has agreed to put a patent fight between Apple Inc. and Finnish phone maker Nokia on hold pending resolution of their competing claims before the International Trade Commission.
The judge signed an order Wednesday staying litigation in a lawsuit in which …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Nokia-Apple patent fight in Delaware on hold pending resolution of ITC claims.

Chinese kindergarten teacher admits to pricking 63 students with empty hypodermic needle

Chinese teacher pricked 63 children with syringe

BEIJING – A kindergarten teacher in southwestern China has admitted she used an empty hypodermic needle to prick 63 of her students on the hands, feet and buttocks as punishment for bad behavior, state media reported Friday.
None of the children has tested positive for infectious diseases but their parents …. Original source  : Chinese kindergarten teacher admits to pricking 63 students with empty hypodermic needle.

Sex predator laws questioned after Calif. teen’s death as police seek links to other crimes

Predator laws questioned after SoCal teen’s death

SAN DIEGO – The father of a 17-year-old girl whose body was believed found in a shallow lakeside grave is keeping quiet on shortcomings about how authorities track sex offenders, at least for now.
“In due time, I’m going to have a lot to say about that,” Brent King, whose … Original source on Gaea Times at : Sex predator laws questioned after Calif. teen’s death as police seek links to other crimes.

Students protest school funding cuts; protesters clash with police, shut down Calif. freeway

Angry students protest cuts to schools, colleges

BERKELEY, Calif. – Anger over rising tuition and school budget cuts boiled over as students across the country staged rowdy demonstrations that led to clashes with police and the rush-hour shutdown of a major freeway in California.
Students, teachers, parents and school employees rallied and marched at college campuses, public … Read : Students protest school funding cuts; protesters clash with police, shut down Calif. freeway.

Home videos of kidnap victim Jaycee Dugard show her cooking, riding horses with family

Kidnap victim Jaycee Dugard shares home videos

NEW YORK – Kidnapping victim Jaycee Dugard, held captive for 18 years in a ramshackle backyard compound, is seen cooking with her sister and mother and riding horses in recently shot home videos set to air on ABC Friday.
The appearance by Dugard, 29, represents the first time she will … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Home videos of kidnap victim Jaycee Dugard show her cooking, riding horses with family.

Pakistani diplomat says ‘inside job’ possible in British boy’s abduction

‘Inside job’ suggested in British boy’s abduction

ISLAMABAD – The kidnapping of a 5-year-old British boy in Pakistan may have involved someone in his family, which was perceived as being well-off, a top Pakistani diplomat said Friday, adding a twist to a case that has transfixed Britain’s media.
Sahil Saeed was snatched from his grandmother’s house in … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Pakistani diplomat says ‘inside job’ possible in British boy’s abduction.

Homicide claim could undermine Mo. prosecutor’s sexual abuse cases against 6 family members

Homicide claim could hinder Mo. incest, rape cases

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Bizarre allegations of rape, incest and bestiality in western Missouri led to the arrests of six family members last fall and unleashed public scorn over the unthinkable acts they are accused of committing two decades ago.
But one of the more sensational claims – that … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Homicide claim could undermine Mo. prosecutor’s sexual abuse cases against 6 family members.

Singapore says it boosted security after threat of terrorist attack on ships

Singapore bolsters security over terrorist threat

SINGAPORE – Singapore bolstered security measures after receiving information of a plot by terrorists to attack ships off the coast of the city-state, a Cabinet minister said Friday.
The government has increased security at land checkpoints, on the sea and at high-risk targets such as two new casino resorts, Home Affairs … Read more »»».

Police say at least 5 people killed, 25 wounded in suicide attack in northwestern Pakistan

Police: 5 killed in NW Pakistan suicide attack

ISLAMABAD – A suicide bomber on foot targeted a group of Shiite Muslims on two buses in northwestern Pakistan on Friday, killing at least five people and wounding 25 others in the latest violence to rock the Afghan border region, police said.
The attack may have been motivated by … Read : Police say at least 5 people killed, 25 wounded in suicide attack in northwestern Pakistan.

Police say at least 3 people killed, 11 wounded in suicide attack in northwestern Pakistan

Police: 3 killed in NW Pakistan suicide attack

ISLAMABAD – Police say at least three people have been killed and 11 wounded in a suicide bombing in northwestern Pakistan.
District police Chief Chaman Khan says the attacker apparently targeted Shiite Muslims near a gas station in the town of Hangu.
He says the victims of Friday’s attack are …. Original source  : Police say at least 3 people killed, 11 wounded in suicide attack in northwestern Pakistan.

Singapore says it boosted security at checkpoints, resorts after terror attack threat

Singapore bolsters security after terrorist threat

SINGAPORE – Singapore says it is bolstering security after receiving information of a plot by terrorists to attack ships off the coast of the city-state.
Home Affairs Minister Wong Kan Seng told Parliament on Friday that the government is increasing security at land checkpoints, on the sea and at high-risk targets …. Source article  : Singapore says it boosted security at checkpoints, resorts after terror attack threat.

Pentagon Shooting Suspect Dead

WASHINGTON (GaeaTimes.com)- According to reports John Patrick Bedell, the suspect of the Pentagon subway station shooting which took place on Thursday has died. The 36-year-old had opened fire at two police officers who suffered bullet injuries. Both the injured police officers are however not in a critical condition.
The revelation has been made by …. Original article  : Pentagon Shooting Suspect Dead.

2 police officers shot at entrance to Pentagon, suspect killed in return gunfire

Officers hurt, gunman killed in Pentagon shooting
WASHINGTON – A gunman coolly drew a weapon from his pocket and opened fire at a security checkpoint into the Pentagon on Thursday in a point-blank attack that wounded two police officers before the suspect was fatally shot.
The two officers suffered grazing wounds …. Read the original article  : 2 police officers shot at entrance to Pentagon, suspect killed in return gunfire.

8 men jailed for up to 7 years for plot to assassinate Fiji’s prime minister

8 jailed for plot to kill Fiji’s prime minister

SUVA, Fiji – Eight Fijian men were sentenced Friday to jail terms of three to seven years for their roles in a 2007 plot to assassinate the South Pacific island nation’s prime minister.
The men conspired to kill armed forces chief Commodore Frank Bainimarama, who seized power in … Read this article on Gaea Times at : 8 men jailed for up to 7 years for plot to assassinate Fiji’s prime minister.

Pentagon shooting suspect may have had resentment for military, 9/11 conspiracy theory

Shooting suspect may have had 9/11 conspiracy

WASHINGTON – There are emerging signs that the suspect in a Pentagon subway station shooting may have harbored resentment for the military and had doubts about the facts behind the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks.
The suspect, John Patrick Bedell, died after exchanging gunfire with two police officers.
In an Internet posting, … Original source on Gaea Times at : Pentagon shooting suspect may have had resentment for military, 9/11 conspiracy theory.

Pakistani police question suspects, express optimism they’ll recover kidnapped British boy

Pakistan police hopeful of recovering British boy

ISLAMABAD – Pakistani police questioned suspects in connection with the kidnapping of a 5-year-old British boy and were optimistic of a breakthrough in the case soon, an investigator said Friday.
Sahil Saeed was snatched from his grandmother’s house in Pakistan’s Jehlum city overnight Wednesday after robbers held the family at … Original article on : Pakistani police question suspects, express optimism they’ll recover kidnapped British boy.

Police launch criminal investigation of Indian temple stampede as families grieve

Police investigate deadly Indian temple stampede

KUNDA, India – Organizers of a food and clothing giveaway in India that collapsed into a deadly stampede failed to take adequate measures to ensure the safety of thousands of poor villagers, officials said Friday as relatives buried some of the 63 victims.
Most of those killed were women and children …. Original source  : Police launch criminal investigation of Indian temple stampede as families grieve.

Medical examiner’s office: Pentagon shooting suspect has died

Officials: Pentagon shooting suspect dies
WASHINGTON – The D.C. Medical Examiner’s Office says the alleged shooter at the Pentagon has died.

Beverly Fields, chief of staff of the D.C. medical examiner’s office, said the body of 36-year-old John Patrick Bedell arrived at the medical examiner’s office shortly after midnight.
Bedell was shot by two Pentagon police officers after … Read more >>.

Convicted DC-area sniper Boyd Lee Malvo sends letter of apology to Louisiana victim

Malvo sends letter of apology to Louisiana victim

NEW ORLEANS – A Louisiana man shot by Lee Boyd Malvo before the criminal spree that terrorized the Washington, D.C., area in 2002 has received a letter of apology from the convicted sniper.
John C. Gaeta, 58, of Albany, said Thursday that he’s glad Malvo wrote him but remains …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

White House nearing recommendation for military trial for Khalid Sheik Mohammed, 4 others

WH leans toward military trials for 9/11 suspects
WASHINGTON – White House advisers are nearing a recommendation for President Barack Obama to choose a military trial for self-professed Sept. 11 mastermind Khalid Sheik Mohammed and four of his alleged henchman, senior administration officials said Thursday.
The review of …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : White House nearing recommendation for military trial for Khalid Sheik Mohammed, 4 others.

DC-area sniper Lee Boyd Malvo sends letter of apology to wounded Louisiana victim

DC-area sniper apologizes to Louisiana victim

NEW ORLEANS – A Louisiana man shot by convicted DC-area sniper Lee Boyd Malvo has received a letter of apology.
John C. Gaeta (gey-duh) says he’s glad Malvo wrote him but isn’t quite sure whether the sentiment is sincere.
Last month, Malvo confessed to Louisiana detectives that he shot Gaeta in the …. Source article  : DC-area sniper Lee Boyd Malvo sends letter of apology to wounded Louisiana victim.

Chelsea King Case Details

SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA (GaeaTimes.com)- Police officials who have been part of the investigation in the Chelsea King case, have revealed that the registered sex offender John Albert Gardner III was taken into custody after DNA from semen, linked him to the rape and murder of the teenager. The body of Chelsea King was discovered …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Chelsea King Case Details.

Many tried to help computer whiz who plunged into mental illness and became Pentagon shooter

Pentagon shooter little known by neighbors

HOLLISTER, Calif. – John Patrick Bedell was a brilliant and seemingly gentle computer whiz, yet so withdrawn that people in this rural community where his parents and grandparents are civic leaders knew little about him – until he opened fire at the Pentagon this week.
Family and friends now paint a …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Many tried to help computer whiz who plunged into mental illness and became Pentagon shooter.

Afghan picked to set up credible government in Marjah faces has criminal record in Germany

New Afghan chief in Marjah has criminal record
KABUL – The man chosen to be the fresh face of good Afghan governance in a town just seized from the Taliban has a violent criminal record in Germany, but Western officials said Saturday they are not pushing to oust … Read more »».

Ex-Wis. sheriff’s deputy shown on video punching handcuffed suspect in squad car gets prison

Ex-Wis. deputy gets prison for punching suspect

MILWAUKEE – A former Wisconsin sheriff’s deputy caught on video punching a handcuffed suspect in the back of a squad car has been sentenced to 18 months in prison.
Scott Krause was sentenced Friday in Milwaukee after prosecutors played a video that shows the 38-year-old former sergeant hitting 34-year-old Ray …. Source article  : Ex-Wis. sheriff’s deputy shown on video punching handcuffed suspect in squad car gets prison.

Man afraid to testify against suspect in Broncos player’s death reconsiders after jailing

Witness will testify in Broncos player’s death

DENVER – A witness too afraid to testify against the man accused of killing Denver Broncos cornerback Darrent Williams has changed his mind after a night in jail.
The surprising twist came Friday, after defense attorneys spent a day calling witnesses to build an alibi for the defendant, 26-year-old Willie … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Man afraid to testify against suspect in Broncos player’s death reconsiders after jailing.

Attackers stake out highway, open fire on Mexican federal police convoy, killing 2, wounding 3

Ambush kills 2 Mexican federal police, wounds 3

MORELIA, Mexico – Heavily armed gunmen ambushed a convoy of federal police on a highway in one of Mexico’s drug battleground states Friday night, killing two officers and wounding three, officials said.
The unknown attackers hid on both sides of the road near the port city of Lazaro Cardenas …. Source  : Attackers stake out highway, open fire on Mexican federal police convoy, killing 2, wounding 3.

8-year-old Mich. girl pleads for help in desperate 911 call as mother dies of gunshot wounds

911 call reveals Mich. girl’s pleas to help mother

DETROIT – Her mother shot and dying in a Detroit home, an 8-year-old girl desperately pleaded to a 911 dispatcher for help. But Monica Botello’s daughter didn’t know where she was or how to tell police to get there.
“My mommy’s in the basement and, I need, emergency, …. Source  : 8-year-old Mich. girl pleads for help in desperate 911 call as mother dies of gunshot wounds.

Man charged with stalking TV and radio personality Dr. Drew and his family

Man charged with stalking TV personality Dr. Drew

PASADENA, Calif. – A Los Angeles man accused of stalking Dr. Drew Pinsky and threatening the reality television and radio personality and his family has pleaded not guilty to six felony counts.
Prosecutors say 33-year-old Charles William Pearson entered his not guilty pleas Friday in Pasadena Superior Court.
Pearson is …. Source article  : Man charged with stalking TV and radio personality Dr. Drew and his family.

Man afraid to testify against suspect in Bronco’s death reconsiders after night in jail

Scared witness agrees to testify in Bronco’s death

DENVER – A witness too afraid to testify against the man accused of killing Denver Broncos cornerback Darrent Williams has changed his mind after a night in jail.
The surprising twist came Friday, after defense attorneys spent a day calling witnesses to build an alibi for the defendant, 26-year-old … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Man afraid to testify against suspect in Bronco’s death reconsiders after night in jail.

Air Force base near Las Vegas closes main entrance after verbal threat; 1 man arrested

Air Force base in Nev. shuts entrance after threat

LAS VEGAS – Military officials say the main entrance of an Air Force base outside Las Vegas was shut down after a man made a verbal threat to a guard at the gate.
Nellis Air Force Base spokesman Chuck Ramey said the entrance was closed more than three …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Air Force base near Las Vegas closes main entrance after verbal threat; 1 man arrested.

2 US missionaries to spend another weekend in Haitian jail as release delayed again

US missionaries get another weekend in Haiti jail

PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti – Two U.S. missionaries are spending another weekend in a Haitian jail.
A judge had said earlier he was likely to release the women soon. But that didn’t happen after a closed hearing Friday. The judge did not publicly explain the delay in releasing Idaho residents Laura … Read more »».

US intensifies hunt for citizens training with terror groups overseas

US hunts for citizens training with terror groups

LOS ANGELES – The top U.S. diplomat in Pakistan said Friday that the Obama administration does not know how many Americans might have disappeared overseas to train with al-Qaida or other terrorist groups, but the number is not thought to be large.
Speaking to the Pacific Council on International …. Original article  : US intensifies hunt for citizens training with terror groups overseas.

Prosecutors: 68 overdose deaths linked to illegal prescriptions, fraud scheme at Kansas clinic

Feds: 68 fatal ODs linked to scheme at Kan. clinic

WICHITA, Kan. – A new federal indictment implicates a Kansas doctor and his wife in nine additional patient deaths, bringing to 68 the number of fatal overdoses the government contends are linked to illegal prescription writing and a moneymaking conspiracy at their clinic.
Dr. Stephen Schneider, his …. Original article  : Prosecutors: 68 overdose deaths linked to illegal prescriptions, fraud scheme at Kansas clinic.

Suspect on trial for Bronco’s drive-by shooting death begins defense

Suspect on trial for Bronco’s death begins defense

DENVER – A man too afraid to testify against the defendant accused of killing Denver Broncos cornerback Darrent Williams has changed his mind after a night in jail.
The news came Friday at the end of the defense’s first day of testimony. The witness had been called Thursday by … Original article on : Suspect on trial for Bronco’s drive-by shooting death begins defense.

Muslim group files complaint with Henderson police after 7 men detained while praying

Muslim group says police detained 7 praying men

LAS VEGAS – The nation’s largest Muslim advocacy organization filed a complaint with police in a Las Vegas suburb, saying seven Muslim men from southern California were detained and told they were acting suspiciously while praying in a shopping center parking lot.
The Council on American-Islamic Relations said Friday … Original article on : Muslim group files complaint with Henderson police after 7 men detained while praying.

Apology offered in black cultural center incident that roiled Missouri campus

Missouri students apologize for cotton ball prank

COLUMBIA, Mo. – Two University of Missouri students have apologized for scattering cotton balls outside the Black Culture Center in an incident that heightened racial tensions during Black History Month.
Nineteen-year-old freshman Sean Fitzgerald and 21-year-old senior Zachary Tucker were arrested Tuesday on suspicion of hate crimes and possible felony …. Source article  : Apology offered in black cultural center incident that roiled Missouri campus.

Md. man sentenced to 25 years for hijacking shuttle bus, threatening to blow up NJ casino

Md. man gets 25 years in ‘07 NJ casino bomb threat

TRENTON, N.J. – A Maryland man who hijacked a shuttle bus in 2007 and threatened to blow up a New Jersey casino unless he was paid $3 million has been sentenced to 25 years in federal prison.
David B. Kilkeary of Crofton, Md., was sentenced Friday … Original source on Gaea Times at : Md. man sentenced to 25 years for hijacking shuttle bus, threatening to blow up NJ casino.

Police investigate Steelers QB Ben Roethlisberger in an alleged sexual assault in Georgia

Steelers QB accused of sexual assault in Georgia

MILLEDGEVILLE, Ga. – A jovial night of bar-hopping in a central Georgia college town ended in a new allegation against Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger after a 20-year-old college student told police he sexually assaulted her in a nightclub.
The two-time Super Bowl winner already faces a lawsuit from …. Read the original article  : here.

Witness heard ‘pop’ as shooting started outside Pentagon, was then detained by police

Witness heard ‘pop’ as Pentagon shooting began

ARLINGTON, Va. – A witness to a shooting outside the Pentagon says he heard a “pop” and hit the ground as a gunman exchanged fire with guards.
Dan Namisi tells The Associated Press he was heading to catch a bus when it happened. The next thing he knew officers had …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Dogs keep jobs while humans lose theirs as police departments keep K-9 units despite cuts

Police departments cut costs, but not K-9 units

LOS ANGELES – One hundred sheriff’s deputies and 400 part-time deputies were laid off. SWAT officers were ordered back to the streets. Narcotics and gang units were disbanded. Helicopters were grounded.
K-9 survived.
To absorb more than $30 million in losses, the Sacramento County Sheriff’s Department had to focus almost [..] Read the original article: here.

Malaysia opposition fires MP in ‘Allah’ dispute, losing 4th lawmaker in less than a month

Malaysia opposition fires lawmaker in ‘Allah’ spat

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia – Malaysia’s opposition has fired an outspoken lawmaker who broke ranks with his party in a religious dispute over the use of the word “Allah” by non-Muslims, party officials said Sunday.
The move follows weeks of turmoil in opposition leader Anwar Ibrahim’s three-party alliance, which is battling … Read more >>.

Police: 8 teenage boys wounded in shooting while leaving concert at Gary, Ind., skating rink

Police: 8 teens shot while leaving Indiana concert

GARY, Ind. – Authorities say eight teenage boys were shot while leaving a Gary, Ind., skating rink where they were attending a concert.
Police Cpl. Gabrielle King says “chaos broke loose” when a fight erupted Friday night event at World of Skates. Police say the shooting started in the …. Original source  : Police: 8 teenage boys wounded in shooting while leaving concert at Gary, Ind., skating rink.

Northern Mexico city police protest after 3 officers die in an ambush and a fourth is wounded

Northern Mexico cops protest after ambush kills 3

MONTERREY, Mexico – Police in northern Mexico protested Saturday hours after three of their colleagues were shot to death in an ambush and a fourth was wounded.
Local police in the city of San Nicolas de los Garza, a suburb of the industrial hub of Monterrey, gathered outside police … Original article on : Northern Mexico city police protest after 3 officers die in an ambush and a fourth is wounded.

2 men charged with shooting deaths of 3 family members at Chicago-area home

2 men charged in deaths of 3 at Chicago-area home

DARIEN, Ill. – Prosecutors say a suburban Chicago man encouraged a friend to kill the mother of his son and her family over a custody dispute.
Twenty-eight-year-old Johnny Borizov and 23-year-old Jacob Nodarse are charged in the shooting deaths of three members of the Kramer family at [..] Read the original article: here.

Police investigate Steelers QB Ben Roethlisberger for an alleged sexual assault in Georgia

New case: Steelers QB investigated for Ga. assault

MILLEDGEVILLE, Ga. – For the second time in a year, Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger is being accused of sexual misconduct, with a police investigating him Saturday for an alleged assault at a nightclub in a Georgia college town.
Police in Milledgeville were examining the claim of a 20-year-old … Read : Police investigate Steelers QB Ben Roethlisberger for an alleged sexual assault in Georgia.

Police probing gas odor report find $5 million worth of prescription drugs in northern NJ home

Gas odor leads to prescription drug bust in NJ

FAIRVIEW, N.J. – Police investigating the source of a gas odor at a northern New Jersey home instead found thousands of pills and other prescription medications worth $5 million.
Fairview Police Chief John Pinzone says three men and a 17-year-old boy were found inside the home Thursday night. … Read : Police probing gas odor report find $5 million worth of prescription drugs in northern NJ home.

Experts: New York’s embattled governor faces legal minefield as misconduct inquiries unfold

NY gov faces legal minefield in conduct inquiries

NEW YORK – Legal experts say the next few days and weeks could be the most dangerous yet for the embattled administration of Gov. David Paterson.
There has been a whirlwind of speculation this month that either Paterson, his staff or state police officials could face charges of witness [..] Read the original article: here.

Vatican says it supports efforts in Germany to deal with sex abuse scandal

Vatican backs German efforts on sex scandal

VATICAN CITY – The Vatican said Saturday it backed a German diocese’s efforts to shed light on sexual abuse allegations connected to a renowned boy’s choir once led by Pope Benedict XVI’s brother.
The Regensburg Diocese, which oversees the school connected to the Regensburger Domspatzen choir, said Friday that a … Read more >>>.

Lawyer for codefendants says convict has offered new testimony in Knox murder case

Lawyer: New testimony in Knox murder case
ROME – A convict has offered new testimony in the murder case of American student Amanda Knox, according to the lawyer for Knox’s former boyfriend.

Knox and her former boyfriend Raffaele Sollecito were convicted of killing Meredith Kercher, a 21-year Briton who was Knox’s roommate. All were studying in Perugia, … Read more : Lawyer for codefendants says convict has offered new testimony in Knox murder case.

Afghan official says newly revealed crime record of man chosen to govern Marjah will be probed

Afghan: Marjah chief’s crime record will be probed
KABUL – Afghan government officials are not rushing to oust the man they chose to bring fresh and credible governance to a town just seized from the Taliban, but his newly disclosed violent criminal record in Germany will be investigated further, officials said Saturday.
Court records and …. Original source  : Afghan official says newly revealed crime record of man chosen to govern Marjah will be probed.

2 missing teen cases in California reflect different ways of handling by police, media

2 missing teen cases, 2 different police responses

SAN DIEGO – The disappearances of 14-year-old Amber Dubois and 17-year-old Chelsea King illustrate a sad fact: not all missing children cases are treated the same.
Chelsea disappeared Feb. 25, last seen in a park with running clothes. The case sparked a search involving about 1,500 law enforcement officials …. Read the original article  : 2 missing teen cases in California reflect different ways of handling by police, media.

Reports: South Korean baby starves to death as parents are obsessed with online game

Reports: SKorean Internet addicts let baby starve

SEOUL, South Korea – A South Korean couple addicted to an Internet game about raising a virtual child were arrested for neglecting their real 3-month-old daughter and letting her starve to death, news reports said.
The couple spent between four and six hours every day at Internet cafes in Suwon, … Read more >>.

Group calling itself ‘al-Qaida in Aceh’ says it survived Indonesian crackdown

‘Al-Qaida in Aceh’ says survived Indonesia arrests

JAKARTA, Indonesia – A group calling itself “al-Qaida in Aceh” claimed Saturday to be the target of a police crackdown in the Indonesian province, where authorities have arrested and charged suspected militants with planning terrorist attacks.
In a statement posted on the blog hosting site WordPress.com, the group said it … Read more »»».

Melinda Dennehy’s Illicit Act Exposed

NEW HAMPSHIRE (GaeaTimes.com)- A New Hampshire high school teacher named Melinda Dennehy has become a topic of discussion of media and the school authorities have been left red faced owing to her lewd acts. The 41 year old teacher, who has two kids, has been found to be sending her naked images to … Read : Melinda Dennehy’s Illicit Act Exposed.

Norwegian ship owner says cargo ship with crew of 21 hijacked by pirates near Madagascar

Norwegian ship hijacked off Madagascar
OSLO, Norway – A chemical tanker with 21 crew members has been hijacked by Somali pirates near Madagascar, the Norwegian owner said Saturday.

It was not clear whether anyone in the crew, all from Myanmar, had been injured in the attack early Friday or whether any ransom had been demanded.
Svenn Pedersen, CEO …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Norwegian ship owner says cargo ship with crew of 21 hijacked by pirates near Madagascar.

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.

Avoid wells in Maoist areas, security forces told

RANCHI – Security forces who have expanded their drive against Maoists in Jharkhand have been told not to drink water from wells because they may have been poisoned, official sources said Monday.

The advisory came as authorities widened the scale of a massive anti-Maoist offensive in the state, from the initial three districts to several parts …. Read the original article  : Avoid wells in Maoist areas, security forces told.

Egyptian officials say an Israeli arrested along border

Egypt arrests Israeli along border
RAFAH, Egypt – Egyptian security and medical officials say an Israeli citizen was arrested along the fence between Egypt and Israel as he attempted to sneak across the barbed wire with African migrants.

A medical official in Rafah said Monday the 30-year old Israeli was wounded in his hand from the wire. … Original article on : Egyptian officials say an Israeli arrested along border.

Man who stalked, shot nude video of ESPN reporter Erin Andrews to get sentence in Los Angeles

ESPN’s Erin Andrews’ stalker to get sentence in LA

LOS ANGELES – The man convicted of stalking ESPN reporter Erin Andrews and shooting nude videos of her through a hotel room peephole facing sentencing in a Los Angeles courtroom.
Michael Barrett, a 48-year-old Chicago-area insurance executive, has pleaded guilty to interstate stalking and agreed to a 27-month …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Man who stalked, shot nude video of ESPN reporter Erin Andrews to get sentence in Los Angeles.

Seven killed in Iraq car bombing

BAGHDAD – At least seven people were killed and 13 wounded Monday in a car bomb explosion in Iraq’s western Anbar province, police said.

The blast took place when a booby-trapped car parked at a main road blew up in Fallujah, some 50 km west of Baghdad, a police source told Xinhua.
The attack occurred at … Read more >>.

China gov’t official who allegedly kept lurid diary arrested on suspicion of taking bribes

China arrests man who allegedly kept graft diary

BEIJING – A Chinese government official has been arrested on suspicion of taking bribes a month after a series of steamy diary entries he allegedly wrote appeared online describing casual sex, drinking parties and under-the-table payments.
Han Feng, 53, was arrested for allegedly taking 482,000 yuan ($71,000) in bribes … Read more »»».

Drug gang blamed for killings of 3 with ties to US consulate in violent Mexican border city

Narcos blamed for killings of 3 with US consul tie
CIUDAD JUAREZ, Mexico – Suspected drug gang hit men separately ambushed two cars carrying families with ties to the U.S. consulate in this violent border city, killing an American couple and a Mexican man. Three young children survived, although two suffered wounds.
The slayings came …. Source  : Drug gang blamed for killings of 3 with ties to US consulate in violent Mexican border city.

Thai government rejects ultimatum by protesters to dissolve Parliament

Deadline for Thai Parliament dissolution passes

BANGKOK – Thailand’s prime minister, backed by a formidable military force, rejected an ultimatum to dissolve Parliament on Monday as tens of thousands of red-shirted protesters vowed to continue their push to oust the government.
In the first reported violence of the protests, two soldiers were wounded when four grenades exploded … Read : Thai government rejects ultimatum by protesters to dissolve Parliament.

US diplomat accused of swindling SKorean widow flees country for Philippines amid probe

US diplomat flees South Korea amid fraud probe

SEOUL, South Korea – An American diplomat based in South Korea fled to the Philippines after facing charges that he swindled a local woman out of nearly $200,000, police in the southern city of Busan said Monday.
The suspect, a 50-year-old official with the Department of Homeland Security, is …. Source  : US diplomat accused of swindling SKorean widow flees country for Philippines amid probe.

Woman, 92, charged with killing 98-year-old husband in Australia

Woman, 92, charged in death of 98-year-old husband

SYDNEY – Police in Australia have charged a 92-year-old woman with killing her 98-year-old husband.
Clare Tang is due to appear in court Tuesday on a murder charge after her husband was found dead in their apartment in downtown Sydney on Friday night.
New South Wales state police said in …. Source  : Woman, 92, charged with killing 98-year-old husband in Australia.

Backlash from Taliban attacks pushes Pakistan to act, says US

WASHINGTON – The backlash from Taliban attacks on places from Kashmir to Karachi has led to greater Pakistani cooperation with the US in the Afghanistan war, says the US special envoy to Afghanistan and Pakistan.

“We feel clearly that we’re working more closely together with them. And I think that’s a very big step forward,” Richard …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Thai protesters march on army headquarters ahead of ultimatum to dissolve Parliament

Thai protesters march on army headquarters

BANGKOK – Army reinforcements were rushed into Thailand’s capital as tens of thousands of anti-government demonstrators marshaled around a key military headquarters demanding that the government dissolve Parliament by midday Monday.
Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva, the key target of the massive demonstration, said he could not give in to the protesters’ …. Read the original article  : Thai protesters march on army headquarters ahead of ultimatum to dissolve Parliament.

Thai protesters prepare march on army headquarters ahead of ultimatum to dissolve Parliament

Thai protesters to march on army headquarters

BANGKOK – Army reinforcements were rushed into Thailand’s capital as tens of thousands of anti-government demonstrators prepared to march Monday on a key military headquarters demanding that the government dissolve Parliament.
Some 100,000 Red Shirt protesters who have been camped out along a boulevard in the old part of Bangkok … Read more »».

3 with ties to US consulate slain, 2 children wounded in Mexican city plagued by drug violence

3 with ties to US consulate killed in Mexican city
CIUDAD JUAREZ, Mexico – Gunmen killed a U.S. consulate employee and her husband as they drove in this violent border city with their baby in the back seat, minutes after the husband of another consular … Original source on Gaea Times at : 3 with ties to US consulate slain, 2 children wounded in Mexican city plagued by drug violence.

Two Al Qaeda men killed in Yemen airstrike

SANA’A – At least two senior members of Al Qaeda were killed in an airstrike by the Yemeni Air Force in a remote village in the south of the Arab country late Sunday, the Defence Ministry said.

The air raid targeted a gathering of Al Qaeda members in the Moudiya district of Abyan province, according to …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Two Al Qaeda men killed in Yemen airstrike.

Yemen says it launched airstrike on al-Qaida members thought to be preparing ‘imminent attack’

Yemen launches airstrike on al-Qaida hideout

WASHINGTON – Yemen’s embassy in Washington says its nation’s air force launched an airstrike on an al-Qaida hideout ahead of a likely terror attack.
The airstrike was carried out Sunday in Yemen’s Abyan province. Yemen’s ministry of defense, in a statement released by the embassy, said the al-Qaida group was planning …. Source  : Yemen says it launched airstrike on al-Qaida members thought to be preparing ‘imminent attack’.

3 with ties to US consulate killed in Mexican border city, including couple with baby in car

3 with ties US consulate killed in Mexican city
CIUDAD JUAREZ, Mexico – Three people with ties to the American consulate were killed in a drug-plagued Mexican city, including a U.S. couple shot to death within sight of the border with their baby in their back seat, officials said Sunday.
President Barack …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : 3 with ties to US consulate killed in Mexican border city, including couple with baby in car.

Family identifies slain US consular employee in Mexico; Obama says outraged at death

Family names slain US consular employee in Mexico

CIUDAD JUAREZ, Mexico – A relative has identified a U.S. consulate employee and her husband who were killed in a drug-plagued Mexican border city.
Robert Cason says consular employee Lesley A. Enriquez and her husband Arthur H. Redelf of El Paso, Texas, were killed in Ciudad Juarez. Cason is [..] Read the original article: here.

High school soccer player stabbed to death at birthday party for 200 teens in Mass. restaurant

School soccer player killed at Mass. birthday bash

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. – A high school soccer player has been stabbed to death outside a Massachusetts restaurant where more than 250 teenagers had gathered for a birthday party.
Police say 17-year-old Conor Reynolds died after being stabbed in the neck late Saturday. Reynolds was a senior at Cathedral High …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

US mom worries for grandson after daughter’s arrest, release over alleged assassination plot

No word from woman freed in alleged plot, mom says

LEADVILLE, Colo. – A Colorado woman who says she is the mother of an American held and later released in Ireland over an alleged plot to kill a Swedish cartoonist said Sunday she does not know where her daughter or grandson may be.
Christine Mott, of Leadville, … Read : US mom worries for grandson after daughter’s arrest, release over alleged assassination plot.

16 Taliban militants killed in Pakistani airstrikes

ISLAMABAD – Pakistani fighter jets pounded several Taliban hideouts Sunday, killing 16 militants and injuring several more in north-western tribal region near Afghan border, security officials said.

An intelligence official said the airstrikes destroyed eight positions of the Islamist insurgents and one ammunition depot in various areas of Orakzai tribal district.
“According to the information we …. Read the original article  : 16 Taliban militants killed in Pakistani airstrikes.

Sri Lanka’s military says former army head appears before court-martial for alleged sedition

Sri Lanka’s ex-army head faces court-martial

COLOMBO, Sri Lanka – The general who led the army to victory in Sri Lanka’s civil war and then was roundly defeated in his bid for the presidency appeared before a court-martial Tuesday on allegations of sedition, the military said.
Military spokesman Major General Prasad Samarasinghe said Sarath Fonseka and his …. Original article  : Sri Lanka’s military says former army head appears before court-martial for alleged sedition.

British boy kidnapped in Pakistan 2 weeks ago found unharmed, officials say

Officials: British boy kidnapped in Pakistan found

ISLAMABAD – Kidnappers released a 5-year-old British boy unharmed Tuesday almost two weeks after abducting him from his grandparents’ house in central Pakistan, British and Pakistani officials said.
Sahil Saeed, who is of Pakistani origin, was found in a small village in Punjab province, some 20 miles (30 kilometers) southeast … Original source on Gaea Times at : British boy kidnapped in Pakistan 2 weeks ago found unharmed, officials say.

ESPN reporter Erin Andrews says 30 month sentence not enough for stalker who filmed her naked

ESPN reporter’s stalker gets 30 months in prison

LOS ANGELES – ESPN reporter Erin Andrews says her ordeal at the hands of a video stalker still haunts her every time she steps into a hotel room, wondering if someone is in the next room waiting to invade her privacy with a hidden camera.
Andrews spoke Monday just … Original article on : ESPN reporter Erin Andrews says 30 month sentence not enough for stalker who filmed her naked.

Facebook feds go undercover: Report shows FBI, other agents dipping quietly into social media

Break the law and your new ‘friend’ may be the FBI

WASHINGTON – The Feds are on Facebook. And MySpace, LinkedIn and Twitter, too.
U.S. law enforcement agents are following the rest of the Internet world into popular social-networking services, going undercover with false online profiles to communicate with suspects and gather private information, according to an … Read more : Facebook feds go undercover: Report shows FBI, other agents dipping quietly into social media.

Chinese foreign minister says missing lawyer Gao Zhisheng sentenced on subversion charges

China says missing lawyer sentenced for subversion

BEIJING – Missing Chinese lawyer Gao Zhisheng has been sentenced to prison on subversion charges, the country’s foreign minister said Tuesday.
Yang Jiechi gave no details of the charges against Gao or the length of his sentence. He denied Gao had been tortured as has been widely alleged. It was …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Chinese foreign minister says missing lawyer Gao Zhisheng sentenced on subversion charges.

Surprisingly strong ballot showing for new Colombian party linked to far-right criminal bands

New Colombian party linked to right-wing gangs

BOGOTA – A new party accused of ties to far-right criminal bands has emerged as a surprising force in Colombian politics, adding to worries that President Alvaro Uribe has failed to weaken drug-funded paramilitaries in the provinces.
Voters made the Party of National Integration, or PIN, Colombia’s fourth-strongest party in …. Source  : Surprisingly strong ballot showing for new Colombian party linked to far-right criminal bands.

Hornets beat cold-shooting Clippers 108-100 to snap 7-game road skid and sweep season series

Hornets beat cold-shooting Clippers 108-100

LOS ANGELES – David West scored 24 points and the New Orleans Hornets snapped a seven-game road losing streak with a 108-100 victory over the Los Angeles Clippers on Monday night, completing a four-game season sweep.
New Orleans beat the Clippers for the 13th straight time since a 100-90 loss on Jan. …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Hornets beat cold-shooting Clippers 108-100 to snap 7-game road skid and sweep season series.

Federal prosecutors want Nacchio to appear in court when given a new sentence

Prosecutors want Nacchio in court for new sentence

DENVER – Federal prosecutors are objecting to former Qwest CEO Joe Nacchio’s request to not be present in court when he is given a new sentence.
The U.S. attorney’s office said in a court filing Monday that Nacchio should be required to appear at the sentencing hearing to promote … Read more >>.

LA doctor described as country’s 2nd most prolific prescriber convicted of 13 felony counts

Los Angeles physician convicted of 13 felonies

LOS ANGELES – A Los Angeles physician who investigators call the second “most prolific provider” of prescription drugs in the country has been convicted of 13 felony counts.
A Superior Court jury deliberated for two days before convicting 68-year-old Carlos Estiandan of unlawfully prescribing controlled substances Monday.
The Drug Enforcement Administration …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : LA doctor described as country’s 2nd most prolific prescriber convicted of 13 felony counts.

California man sentenced for leading ring that bilked $7 million from casinos across US

Calif. man sentenced for bilking $7M from casinos

SAN DIEGO – A San Diego man who led a card-cheating ring that bilked dozens of casinos out of $7 million was sentenced Monday to nearly six years in federal prison.
Phuong Quoc Truong has acknowledged leading the ring, known as the “Tran Organization,” that targeted 27 casinos across …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : California man sentenced for leading ring that bilked $7 million from casinos across US.

Chavez defends ETA suspects in Venezuela, says they aren’t involved in Basque terrorism

Chavez defends ETA suspects wanted in Spain

CARACAS, Venezuela – President Hugo Chavez on Monday defended a group of Basque separatists who arrived in Venezuela years ago, saying he is certain they aren’t involved in terrorism.
A Spanish judge is seeking the arrest of six members of the Basque separatist group ETA and six Colombian rebels for … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Chavez defends ETA suspects in Venezuela, says they aren’t involved in Basque terrorism.

Even after 20 years, biggest art heist in history rattles Boston investigators

Boston art heist rattles investigators 20 years on

BOSTON – It remains the most tantalizing art heist mystery in the world.
In the early hours of March 18, 1990, two thieves walked into Boston’s elegant Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum disguised as police officers and bound and gagged two guards using handcuffs and duct tape. For the next … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Even after 20 years, biggest art heist in history rattles Boston investigators.

Ex-jailer in Nevada gets community service, no prison time in ‘Girls Gone Wild’ bribery case

No jail for NV ex-jailer in ‘Girls Gone Wild’ case

RENO, Nev. – A judge ordered no prison time Monday for the final defendant in a bribery scheme that allowed “Girls Gone Wild” founder Joe Francis to dine on sushi and watch “The Office” and “Family Guy” DVDs while jailed in Nevada on tax charges.
U.S. District …. Read the original article  : Ex-jailer in Nevada gets community service, no prison time in ‘Girls Gone Wild’ bribery case.

Opponents ask court to overturn state decision to approve permit for U.P. nickel, copper mine

Opponents ask court to overturn U.P. mining permit

TRAVERSE CITY, Mich. – Four groups have filed a lawsuit hoping to overturn a state permit for a nickel and copper mine in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, saying the project does not meet legal requirements for protecting the environment.
The opponents said Kennecott Eagle Minerals Co.’s application didn’t prove the … Read : Opponents ask court to overturn state decision to approve permit for U.P. nickel, copper mine.

Some Toyota drivers sue in US, want to return vehicles for a full refund after safety recall

Some Toyota drivers suing in US for a full refund

MIAMI – A group of Toyota owners sued the Japanese automaker Monday, demanding a full refund for their recalled cars and seeking a payout that could exceed several billion dollars.
Dozens of Toyota owners in Arizona and Washington claim the vehicles recalled over incidents of sudden acceleration …. Source article  : Some Toyota drivers sue in US, want to return vehicles for a full refund after safety recall.

Toyota says tests don’t back up story of man who claimed Prius sped out of control

Toyota dismisses account of runaway Prius
SAN DIEGO – Toyota Motor Corp. dismissed the story of a man who claimed his Prius sped out of control on the California freeway, saying Monday that its own tests found the car’s gas pedal and backup safety system were working just fine.

The automaker stopped short of saying James Sikes …. Original article  : Toyota says tests don’t back up story of man who claimed Prius sped out of control.

Irish investigating threats to Swedish artist charge Algerian, Libyan with minor offenses

Algerian, Libyan charged in plot to kill artist

DUBLIN – Irish police have charged two men from Algeria and Libya with minor offenses following a weeklong investigation into Muslim extremists allegedly involved in efforts to kill a Swedish artist.
Ali Charafe Damache, a 49-year-old Algerian, was charged Monday with sending a threatening text message. A Libyan who …. Original source  : Irish investigating threats to Swedish artist charge Algerian, Libyan with minor offenses.

Authorities seek motive in 3 slayings after US consulate party in Mexico; drug gangs suspected

Investigators seek motive in 3 slayings in Mexico

CIUDAD JUAREZ, Mexico – The two families climbed into white SUVs and almost simultaneously left the children’s birthday party put on by the U.S. consulate. One headed deeper into one of the world’s most dangerous cities, the other toward a bridge to El Paso, one of America’s safest.
Neither …. Source  : Authorities seek motive in 3 slayings after US consulate party in Mexico; drug gangs suspected.

Man who shot nude video of ESPN reporter Erin Andrews gets 2??-year prison sentence

ESPN reporter’s stalker gets 2?? years in prison

LOS ANGELES – An Illinois insurance executive who secretly shot nude videos of ESPN reporter Erin Andrews was sentenced Monday to 2?? years in prison after giving a tearful apology that was harshly rebuked by his victim.
Michael David Barrett pleaded guilty in December to interstate stalking after prosecutors …. Read the original article  : Man who shot nude video of ESPN reporter Erin Andrews gets 2??-year prison sentence.

NC soldier acquitted in 3 killings now faces military trial some 25 years after slayings

Soldier acquitted in 3 deaths faces military trial

WILMINGTON, N.C. – A soldier acquitted of killing a mother and two of her young daughters in North Carolina about 25 years ago is now going on trial in military court after prosecutors say new DNA tests link him to the crimes.
Master Sgt. Timothy Hennis, 51, is charged …. Read the original article  : NC soldier acquitted in 3 killings now faces military trial some 25 years after slayings.

Americans suspected of terror-related activities

Americans suspected of terror-related activities

Americans who have been charged or suspected of terror-related activities over the past year include:
-Young Somali men from Minneapolis who left the U.S. in waves from December 2007 through November 2008 to join a Somalia-based terror group with links to al-Qaida. Family members say the men were good kids and only … Original source on Gaea Times at : Americans suspected of terror-related activities.

American terror suspects living in average US communities show challenge of homegrown problem

Recent cases show challenge of US terrorists

WASHINGTON – One was a drywall contractor and father, another a petite woman who cared for the elderly, another a U.S. military officer. The most alarming thing about a string of recently arrested terror suspects is that they are all Americans.
Over the past week, a Pennsylvania woman, accused in … Read more »».

Trade in endangered animals flourishing in Middle East, fueled by corruption, weak legislation

UN animal conference tackles Mideast animal trade

BEIRUT – A 2-year-old lion, emaciated and barely breathing, is found in a tiny cage off a Beirut highway. Monkeys are hauled through the dark tunnels of Gaza, bound for private zoos. Rare prize falcons are kept in desert encampments by wealthy Arab sheiks.
The trade in endangered animals is … Original article on : Trade in endangered animals flourishing in Middle East, fueled by corruption, weak legislation.

Woman says man charged with San Diego teen’s murder previously attacked her in same park

Woman tells of attack similar to San Diego teen’s

LOS ANGELES – A 23-year-old woman allegedly attacked by a registered sex offender at the same park where he is accused of killing a San Diego teenager two months later said Tuesday that she believed he was going to rape her.
Appearing on CNN’s “Larry King Live,” Candice … Original source on Gaea Times at : Woman says man charged with San Diego teen’s murder previously attacked her in same park.

Peru’s justice minister removed amid scandal over pardoning of convicted media executive

Peru president fires justice minister amid scandal

LIMA, Peru – President Alan Garcia fired Peru’s justice minister Tuesday amid questions over the pardoning of a former media executive convicted of taking payoffs to provide favorable coverage for a previous government.
Officials gave reporters a decree signed by Garcia that removed Aurelio Pastor from the post.
Some media outlets … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Peru’s justice minister removed amid scandal over pardoning of convicted media executive.

2 off-duty police officers shot to death by gunmen on motorcycle in slum of Haiti’s capital

2 police killed by motorcycle gunmen in Haiti

PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti – Haitian police say two off-duty officers have been shot to death near an open-air market in the capital.
Officials say the policemen were out of uniform and sitting in a car near the La Saline slum when gunmen pulled up on a motorcycle and opened fire …. Original source  : 2 off-duty police officers shot to death by gunmen on motorcycle in slum of Haiti’s capital.

Suspected Mexican drug lord accused of smuggling drugs into US held in Colo. without bail

No bail for man accused of smuggling drugs into US

DENVER – A federal judge in Denver ruled that a suspected Mexican drug lord accused of helping smuggle millions of dollars worth of cocaine into the United States should be held without bail until his case is resolved.
Oscar Arriola Marquez has pleaded not guilty to charges …. Read the original article  : Suspected Mexican drug lord accused of smuggling drugs into US held in Colo. without bail.

Calif. judge allows genetically engineered beet harvest; amounts to half nation’s sugar supply

Judge allows genetically engineered beet harvest

SAN FRANCISCO – A federal judge on Tuesday said farmers can harvest their genetically engineered sugar beets this year, ruling the economic impact too great and that environmental groups waited too long to request that the crop be yanked from the ground and otherwise barred from the market.
Nearly all sugar …. Source article  : Calif. judge allows genetically engineered beet harvest; amounts to half nation’s sugar supply.

Amnesty calls for freedom of expression, release of political prisoners in Cuba

Amnesty calls for more freedom in Cuba
HAVANA – The human rights group Amnesty international appealed to Cuban President Raul Castro to release political prisoners and scrap laws that restrict fundamental freedoms, using the seventh anniversary of a major crackdown on dissent to call for change.

Amnesty was especially critical of Cuban laws that make vague offenses …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Amnesty calls for freedom of expression, release of political prisoners in Cuba.

Judge orders rapper DMX to spend 6 months in Phoenix jail, undergo mental health evaluation

Rapper DMX ordered to 6 months in Phoenix jail

PHOENIX – A judge has ordered rapper DMX to spend six months in a Phoenix jail for violating probation and to undergo a mental health evaluation.
DMX, whose real name is Earl Simmons, admitted in court Tuesday to a single violation of probation for failing a drug test … Original source on Gaea Times at : Judge orders rapper DMX to spend 6 months in Phoenix jail, undergo mental health evaluation.

Calif. teacher arrested for investigation of allowing fights at juvenile probation camp

Calif teacher arrested for allowing student fights

LOS ANGELES – A former substitute teacher at a juvenile probation camp was arrested Tuesday for investigation of supervising a series of fights between students in rival gangs, authorities said.
The five fights were overseen by Stephen Wesley, 43, who set rules and told students not to punch each other …. Source article  : Calif. teacher arrested for investigation of allowing fights at juvenile probation camp.

French policeman slain in shootout; Spanish media report ETA link

French policeman slain in shootout
PARIS – A French police officer was killed Tuesday in an exchange of fire with assailants east of Paris, and one suspect was taken into custody, a police official said.

The official said she had no information suggesting the assailants were members of the Basque separatist group ETA, as was reported by … Original article on : French policeman slain in shootout; Spanish media report ETA link.

Police: Images of 4 missing women may be among pictures found in Calif. serial killer’s locker

Police: Man may have had images of missing women

HUNTINGTON BEACH, Calif. – Relatives and friends of four women who have been missing since the 1970s told investigators they recognized their loved ones in photos found in the locker of a convicted serial killer, police said Tuesday.
Huntington Beach police received the calls after releasing more than [..] Read the original article: here.

Autopsy reports point to heat stroke, organ failure in Arizona sweat lodge deaths

Autopsy reports released in AZ sweat lodge deaths

CAMP VERDE, Ariz. – Autopsy reports released Tuesday point to heat stroke as the cause of death for two people following an Arizona sweat lodge ceremony last year, and to multi-system organ failure for a third person.
A Yavapai county judge ordered the first and last pages of the … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Autopsy reports point to heat stroke, organ failure in Arizona sweat lodge deaths.

Judge in Arizona issues bench warrant after jailed rapper Lil Wayne fails to appear in court

Warrant issued for Lil Wayne in Arizona case

YUMA, Ariz. – An Arizona judge issued a bench warrant Tuesday for Grammy Award-winning rapper Lil Wayne after he failed to appear for a hearing on drug and weapons charges because he is serving jail time in New York.
A Yuma County Superior Court judge issued the warrant after … Read more : Judge in Arizona issues bench warrant after jailed rapper Lil Wayne fails to appear in court.

Better management of gang members urged in report on 2009 prison riot in California

State issues report on 2009 Calif prison riot

LOS ANGELES – A state report issued Tuesday on a gang and racially motivated riot at a California prison last year recommends changes in managing inmate gang members as well as improvements in communication and use of technology to identify inmates during disturbances.
The report by the Department of … Read more >>.

Sex scandal hits Brazilian Catholic church after TV broadcasts priest, altar boy having sex

Sex scandal embroils Catholic Church in Brazil

RIO DE JANEIRO – Brazilian authorities are investigating three priests accused of sexually abusing altar boys after a video allegedly showing one case of abuse was broadcast on television, police and church officials said Tuesday.
The case came to light after the SBT network aired a video purportedly showing an … Read more : Sex scandal hits Brazilian Catholic church after TV broadcasts priest, altar boy having sex.

Madoff’s brother, sons seek dismissal of complaints in NY court alleging they were in on fraud

Madoff family challenges NY trustee claims

NEW YORK – Members of Bernard Madoff’s family want civil complaints alleging they were in on the disgraced financier’s massive securities fraud thrown out.
The accusation by a trustee liquidating Madoff’s assets “is a sensationalistic attempt to lump together members of the Madoff family and create liability by association,” attorneys for … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Madoff’s brother, sons seek dismissal of complaints in NY court alleging they were in on fraud.

Effort to keep campaign memos from backers of Calif. gay marriage ban could delay verdict

Evidence skirmish could delay end of Prop 8 trial

SAN FRANCISCO – An attempt by civil rights groups to keep sponsors of California’s same-sex marriage ban from obtaining internal campaign documents could delay a verdict in the federal trial on the constitutionality of Proposition 8, lawyers on both sides said Tuesday.
Attorneys warned of the possible bottleneck …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Effort to keep campaign memos from backers of Calif. gay marriage ban could delay verdict.

Dublin archbishop says Catholic leaders must admit ‘entire truth’ of Ireland’s abuse cover-ups

Dublin archbishop: Catholic Church must tell truth

DUBLIN – Dublin Archbishop Diarmuid Martin declared Tuesday that his Catholic colleagues in Ireland must tell “the entire truth” about their decades of covering up child abuse in the priesthood – or else the Irish government may have to broaden its own investigations.
Martin, the second-highest-ranking Catholic in Ireland, has …. Read the original article  : here.

Highway patrol sheds no new light on Calif. driver’s report of runaway Prius

Report fails to shed light on SoCal runaway Prius

EL CAJON, Calif. – A California Highway Patrol officer responding to a report of a runway Toyota Prius last week arrived to find a Border Patrol agent near the driver with emergency lights on.
The Border Patrol presence raises the prospect that there were other witnesses. It is … Read more >>>.

Va. Tech president urges calm as police investigate new threat in e-mails, YouTube postings

Online postings warn of another Va. Tech attack

BLACKSBURG, Va. – Virginia Tech is urging calm as e-mails and Internet postings originating in Italy threaten another attack on campus.
Though police do not believe the threats are credible, President Charles Steger said in an e-mail to faculty and students Wednesday that classes will be held Thursday with [..] Read the original article: here.

Homegrown terror suspect ‘Jihad Jane’ due in US court in Philly, 6 months after hushed arrest

‘Jihad Jane’ due in federal court in Philadelphia

PHILADELPHIA – The Pennsylvania woman who called herself “Jihad Jane” in alleged efforts to help Islamic terrorists is due in court in Philadelphia.
Colleen LaRose has been in prison since her arrest last fall. A recent indictment accuses her of conspiring with several others to kill a Swedish artist …. Source  : Homegrown terror suspect ‘Jihad Jane’ due in US court in Philly, 6 months after hushed arrest.

Chicago man accused of scouting Mumbai, India, before terror attack expected to plead guilty

Chicago terror suspected expected to plead guilty

CHICAGO – A Chicago man accused of helping scout out the Indian city of Mumbai before the 2008 terrorist attack that left 166 people dead is expected to plead guilty Thursday to federal charges.
David Coleman Headley, 49, also is accused of plotting to attack Danish newspaper Jyllands Posten, which … Read more »».

Providence police officer accused of raping woman while he was on patrol heads to trial

RI police officer to stand trial on rape charge

PROVIDENCE, R.I. – A Providence police officer accused of raping a woman in a deserted police substation and then showing up to take a report after she called 911 heads to trial this week at an already difficult time for the department.
Marcus Huffman faces charges of first-degree …. Source article  : Providence police officer accused of raping woman while he was on patrol heads to trial.

Concern in Australia that Rio Tinto employees may not get a fair trial in China

Australia concerned about Rio Tinto trial
SYDNEY – Australia expressed disappointment Thursday that charges of stealing business secrets against one of its citizens would be tried in a closed court in China, and some lawmakers doubted the mining executive involved would get a fair hearing.

Australian national Stern Hu is one of four employees of mining giant …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Concern in Australia that Rio Tinto employees may not get a fair trial in China.

Guatemalan court approves ex-president’s extradition to US to face money laundering charges

Court OKs ex-Guatemalan leader’s extradition to US

GUATEMALA CITY – A Guatemalan court has approved former President Alfonso Portillo’s extradition to the U.S. to face money laundering charges.
Portillo does not face imminent extradition, however. Under Guatemalan law, he must first be tried at home in a separate corruption case before facing charges abroad.
Portillo vows to appeal …. Source article  : Guatemalan court approves ex-president’s extradition to US to face money laundering charges.

Records show San Diego murder suspect lived 16 months near school before he was forced to move

Calif. rape suspect lived by school for 16 months

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – A convicted sex offender charged with murdering a California teenager lived near a preschool for at least 16 months before parole agents forced him to move, according to state corrections records released Wednesday.
A regional administrator let John Albert Gardner III continue living within 126 …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Records show San Diego murder suspect lived 16 months near school before he was forced to move.

Police say man who went to Seattle-area church for counseling session fatally shoots wife

Police say man fatally shoots wife at Wash. church

FEDERAL WAY, Wash. – Police in Washington state say a man who accompanied his wife to a church for a counseling session shot the woman several times at the church, killing her.
Federal Way police spokesman Raymond Bunk says the 42-year-old suspect called 911 to report the shooting …. Source  : Police say man who went to Seattle-area church for counseling session fatally shoots wife.

Attorney General: Jurors convict member of Texas polygamist group of child sexual assault

Texas polygamist guilty of child sexual assault

SAN ANGELO, Texas – Prosecutors say a member of a polygamist group whose sprawling West Texas ranch was raided in 2008 has been found guilty of sexual assault of a child.
Texas Attorney General Greg Abbott says a jury convicted 35-year-old Merril Leroy Jessop on Wednesday in San Angelo. Jurors … Read more »».

Authorities: Officer responding to report of runaway Prius in US saw Border Patrol vehicle

Authorities: Prius seen near Border Patrol vehicle

EL CAJON, Calif. – A California Highway Patrol report released Wednesday says an officer responding to a report of a runaway Toyota Prius arrived to find a Border Patrol agent near the driver with lights flashing.
The Border Patrol presence raises the prospect that there were other witnesses, but the …. Read the original article  : Authorities: Officer responding to report of runaway Prius in US saw Border Patrol vehicle.

Life sentence upheld for former Chinese supreme court judge convicted of corruption

Life sentence upheld for China supreme court judge

BEIJING – A court in northern China has upheld a life sentence for a former supreme court judge convicted of embezzlement and bribery, a state-run newspaper reported.
Huang Songyou, former vice president of the Supreme People’s Court, is the highest judge to be tried and convicted on such charges, …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Life sentence upheld for former Chinese supreme court judge convicted of corruption.

Authorities: Booby traps targeting police prompt arrests of biker gang members in West

Traps for police prompt raid on bikers in West

RIVERSIDE, Calif. – Three booby-trap attacks on an anti-gang task force in Southern California prompted the arrests of about 30 members of California’s largest motorcycle gang, prosecutors said Wednesday.
Members of the Vagos were arrested as part of the crackdown in Riverside and Shasta counties in California, Arizona, …. Read the original article  : here.

Suspect arrested in Calif. cinema thermometer stabbing attack

Suspect arrested in cinema thermometer stabbing

LANCASTER, Calif. – Detectives in Los Angeles County have arrested a man on suspicion of stabbing a moviegoer in the neck with a meat thermometer during a screening of the film “Shutter Island” last month.
Sheriff’s spokesman Steve Whitmore said 39-year-old Landry Boullard was arrested Wednesday after detectives received an anonymous … Read more : Suspect arrested in Calif. cinema thermometer stabbing attack.

Senate votes to reduce penalty disparity between crack and powder cocaine

Senate votes to change cocaine sentencing rules

WASHINGTON – Legislation approved by the Senate on Wednesday would significantly reduce the disparity in sentences handed out to those convicted of crack and powder cocaine charges.
Currently, a person convicted of crack cocaine possession gets the same mandatory jail time as someone with 100 times the same quantity of …. Source  : Senate votes to reduce penalty disparity between crack and powder cocaine.

Colorado company charged with exporting technology used by US military to South Korea, Russia

Colo. company accused of exporting military tech

DENVER – A Colorado company is accused of illegally exporting defense technology used by the U.S. military to South Korea, China, Russia and Turkey, federal prosecutors said Wednesday.
Rocky Mountain Instrument Co., based in Lafayette, said it is working toward a plea agreement with prosecutors and that it has been …. Source article  : Colorado company charged with exporting technology used by US military to South Korea, Russia.

Idaho Supreme Court says no new trials needed for 6 death row inmates sentenced by judge

Idaho high court: No new trials for 6 on death row

BOISE, Idaho – The Idaho Supreme Court has denied requests from six death row inmates who said they were entitled to new trials because a U.S. Supreme Court ruling made after their convictions called on juries, not judges, to impose the death penalty.
All the men … Read : Idaho Supreme Court says no new trials needed for 6 death row inmates sentenced by judge.

Death of Ala. snack food heir a mystery intensified by bag of chips, angry note found in car

Was Ala. snack food heir’s death tied to business?

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – An angry letter and a bag of Golden Flake chips were taped inside Major Bashinsky’s abandoned car when it was found near downtown Birmingham.
Days later the snack food heir’s body was fished out of a public golf course pond a few miles away, and …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Death of Ala. snack food heir a mystery intensified by bag of chips, angry note found in car.

Viacom, YouTube to dish dirt with unsealing of court documents in lengthy legal battle

Viacom-YouTube secrets to be exposed in lawsuit

SAN FRANCISCO – A legal tussle pitting media conglomerate Viacom Inc. against online video leader YouTube is about to get dirtier as a federal judge prepares to release documents that will expose their secrets and other confidential information.
The information expected to be unsealed Thursday will include some of the [..] Read the original article: here.

2 suspects, including 1 dressed as leprechaun, shot dead after bank robbery and chase in Tenn.

Leprechaun-garbed holdup suspect among 2 shot dead

GALLATIN, Tenn. – Two bank robbery suspects, including one dressed in a green leprechaun costume, were shot dead after a St. Patrick’s Day chase and shootout with police in Tennessee, authorities said.
First State Bank in the Nashville suburb of Gallatin was held up by a man who wore a …. Source  : 2 suspects, including 1 dressed as leprechaun, shot dead after bank robbery and chase in Tenn..

Headley confession not a setback: Chidambaram

NEW DELHI – Home Minister P. Chidambaram Friday said Pakistani American terror suspect David Coleman Headley’s confession that he planned the 26/11 Mumbai terror attack and his deal with US prosecutors was not a setback to India.

New Delhi, he said, would wait and see and continue its case to extradite or get access to him. …. Source  : Headley confession not a setback: Chidambaram.

Sheriff’s office: Body found on Wash. island beach is missing boy; mother still missing

Sheriff’s office: Body on WA beach is missing boy

SEATTLE – The body of an 8-year-old boy who vanished with his mother has washed ashore on an island beach in Puget Sound about 12 miles from where their abandoned minivan was found. The boy’s mother is still missing.
Positive identification of Azriel Carver was based on clothing, … Original source on Gaea Times at : Sheriff’s office: Body found on Wash. island beach is missing boy; mother still missing.

Nerves frayed at Calif police department targeted by series of booby trap attacks

Calif police department on alert for deadly traps

HEMET, Calif. – Police in this picturesque city in rural Riverside County have been on edge in recent weeks. Someone is trying to kill them.
First, a natural gas pipe was shoved through a hole drilled into the roof of the gang enforcement unit’s headquarters. The building filled with … Read more >>.

Oregon lawsuit claims Boy Scouts failed to prevent sex abuse by local leaders, coverup

Ore. lawsuit claims Boy Scouts sex abuse coverup

PORTLAND, Ore. – The Boy Scouts of America has long kept an extensive archive of secret documents that chronicle the sexual abuse of young boys by Scout leaders over the years.
The “perversion files,” a nickname the Boy Scouts are said to have used for the documents, have rarely [..] Read the original article: here.

Plea of Pa. woman dubbed ‘Jihad Jane’ makes her rare US woman facing possible terror trial

Pa. suspect is rare US woman facing terror trial

PHILADELPHIA – If the woman dubbed “Jihad Jane” goes on trial, she would become just the second American woman tried on U.S. soil on terrorism charges – and the first accused of directly working toward a Muslim holy war.
Colleen LaRose of suburban Philadelphia denied at her arraignment …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Plea of Pa. woman dubbed ‘Jihad Jane’ makes her rare US woman facing possible terror trial.

Attorneys say American who admitted scouting for Mumbai attack is telling terrorists’ secrets

Attorneys: Chicago man providing info on terrorism

CHICAGO – An American who admitted slipping quietly into the Indian city of Mumbai on scouting missions that led to the November 2008 attack that killed 166 people has already started spilling terrorists’ secrets to U.S. authorities, according to his attorney and federal prosecutors.
David Coleman Headley pleaded guilty Thursday … Read more »»».

Central forces in Orissa for anti-Maoist drive

BHUBANESWAR – About 500 Border Security Force (BSF) personnel have reached Orissa to hunt down Maoist guerrillas, an official said Friday.

The BSF men reached Koraput district Thursday. The BSF will team up with the police for a joint operation likely to start next month.
“We are awaiting the arrival of more forces,” Inspector General of … Read more : Central forces in Orissa for anti-Maoist drive.

India not ‘unsatisfied’ if Headley gets life: Pillai

NEW DELHI – Home Secretary G.K. Pillai Friday said India will not be unsatisfied if David Headley, a key conspirator of the 2008 Mumbai terror attack, is sentenced to life imprisonment.

All that we know (is) that Headley has pleaded guilty to 12 charges. In one sense it is good, Pillai said on the sidelines of [..] Read the original article: here.

Headley’s confession may help nail Pakistan: BJP

NEW DELHI – Lashkar-e-Taiba operative David Headley’s confession about his involvement in the Mumbai terror attack would add weight to New Delhi’s claims of Pakistan’s involvement in terrorist acts against India, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) said Friday.

“It will be very clear to the world community that Pakistan is involved in the terror attacks against … Read more »».

Myanmar says it freed jailed American because of friendship with United States

Myanmar credits US ties for freeing American

YANGON, Myanmar – Myanmar’s ruling military junta decided to release a naturalized American citizen from prison because of its friendship with the U.S. government, state media said Friday.
Nyi Nyi Aung, a pro-democracy activist originally from Myanmar, was freed Thursday, a month after a court sentenced him to three years …. Source  : Myanmar says it freed jailed American because of friendship with United States.

Sheriff’s office: Body found on Washington island beach is missing boy; mother still missing

Authorities: Body on Wash. beach is missing boy

SEATTLE – A child’s body found Thursday on an island beach in Puget Sound is that of an 8-year-old boy who vanished last weekend with his mother, a Pierce County sheriff’s spokesman said.
Positive identification was based on Azriel Carver’s clothing, mohawk haircut and “looking at pictures of him,” … Read more >>>.

Headley confession proves Kasab speaking truth: prosecution

MUMBAI – The admission to guilt by Pakistani American terror suspect

David Headley to terror charges against him is “a major victory for Indian investigators” and proves that Pakistani terror accused Mohammed Ajmal Amir alias Kasab was “speaking the truth”, the prosecutor heading the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks trial said.
“Headley’s confession and his admission … Original article on : Headley confession proves Kasab speaking truth: prosecution.

Former UN envoy to Afghanistan says arrests of Taliban leaders stymie talks with insurgents

Pakistan arrests halt UN contacts with Taliban

KABUL – Pakistan’s recent arrests of top Taliban leaders have halted the United Nation’s secret talks with the insurgency, the U.N.’s former envoy to Afghanistan said.
Kai Eide, a Norwegian diplomat who just stepped down from the U.N. post in the Afghan capital of Kabul, told the BBC that discussions …. Source  : Former UN envoy to Afghanistan says arrests of Taliban leaders stymie talks with insurgents.

Guatemalan rights groups criticize order to free retired colonel convicted in bishop’s killing

Anger over freeing man convicted in bishop murder

GUATEMALA CITY – Guatemalan human rights groups expressed outrage Thursday over a judge’s decision to release a former army colonel convicted of killing a prominent Roman Catholic bishop more than a decade ago.
The judge ordered retired Col. Byron Lima freed for good behavior after serving half his 20-year … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Guatemalan rights groups criticize order to free retired colonel convicted in bishop’s killing.

7-Eleven clerk in Kansas City, Mo., slain while working final shift before moving to new job

Gunman kills KC 7-Eleven clerk working final shift

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Gurpreet Singh was working his final shift as a 7-Eleven clerk, before moving on next week to full-time job at a hospital, when he was gunned down during a robbery.
Police say they can’t explain why Singh, 35, was shot in the abdomen early Wednesday …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Headley may still be available to Indian investigators ((News Analysis)

CHICAGO – Mumbai terror plotter David Coleman Headley’s guilty plea on the condition that he be spared the death penalty as well as extradition to India is not as big a setback as it might appear from New Delhi. There is enough sting in his plea agreement to ensure that Headley is available to Indian … Original source on Gaea Times at : Headley may still be available to Indian investigators ((News Analysis).

Tight security during Headley guilty plea hearing

CHICAGO – About a dozen US marshals took position inside the court of US District Judge Harry Leinenweber minutes before Mumbai terror suspect David Coleman Headley was escorted in.

Attorneys and court reporters were for the first time put through a metal detector during this particular case. It was an unusually strong security ring whose purpose …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Headley case points to threats from home-grown terrorists

WASHINGTON – Pointing to the David Headley case as illustrative of the “real threats from home-grown and international terrorists,” the US says it will continue working to disrupt, dismantle and defeat terrorism at home and abroad.

Commending various US agencies in getting a guilty plea from Pakistani American terror suspect David Headley for his role in … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Headley case points to threats from home-grown terrorists.

Headley attended five terror training camps in Pakistan

CHICAGO – In changing his plea from ‘not guilty’ to ‘guilty’, Pakistani American terror suspect David Headley has given graphic details of his preparations for the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks, including training at Lashkar-e-Taeba (LeT) operated camps in Pakistan.

Peading guilty before a Chicago court Thursday to all 12 charges against him, Headley, 49, admitted he …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Headley attended five terror training camps in Pakistan.

Police ‘99 percent sure’ that body washed up on Wash. island, is boy who vanished with mom

Police: ‘99 percent sure’ body is missing WA boy

SEATTLE – A child’s body found Thursday on an island beach in Puget Sound matches the clothing and haircut of an 8-year-old boy who vanished with his mother, leading a Pierce County sheriff’s spokesman to say they were “99 percent sure it’s him.”
The body found on Fox …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Police ‘99 percent sure’ that body washed up on Wash. island, is boy who vanished with mom.

New threat to blow up a police car puts Hemet officers on heightened alert

New threat puts Hemet officers on heightened alert

HEMET, Calif. – The tense atmosphere surrounding a California police department plagued by booby trap attacks has been stepped up a notch following the latest threat against officers.
Someone called 911 at about 5:45 p.m. Friday saying a police car would be blown up in the Hemet-San Jacinto area … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : New threat to blow up a police car puts Hemet officers on heightened alert.

Boy Scouts files on sex abuse for 20 years now evidence in Oregon lawsuit

Boy Scouts sex files now evidence in Ore. lawsuit

PORTLAND, Ore. – The Boy Scouts of America call them “perversion files,” internal documents used to track Scout leaders suspected of sexually abuse young boys. On Friday they became part of the public record in an Oregon lawsuit.
A judge who had ordered the Scouts to release them …. Read the original article  : here.

Hundreds sign up for tribute run in San Diego park where Chelsea King vanished

Hundreds vow to finish Chelsea King’s SoCal run

SAN DIEGO – More than 250 people are expected at a San Diego park where 17-year-old murder victim Chelsea King was attacked in a tribute that’s being called “Finish Chelsea’s Run.”
The three-mile run is set to begin at 9 a.m. at Rancho Bernardo Community Park. Organizers have posted …. Read the original article  : Hundreds sign up for tribute run in San Diego park where Chelsea King vanished.

Man wanted for double slaying in Detroit arrested by US Marshals near Los Angeles

Man wanted for Detroit slayings nabbed near LA

DETROIT – U.S. Marshals using information from Detroit police have arrested in California a man wanted in a double slaying reported by the 8-year-old daughter of one of the victims.
Detroit Police Chief Warren Evans says 42-year-old man Derrick Smith was arrested about Friday afternoon on a street in …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Judge: $575M settlement rejected for sickened ground zero workers; renegotiation ordered

Judge: $575M settlement rejected for 9/11 ‘heroes’

NEW YORK – A federal judge rejected a multimillion dollar settlement for people sickened by ash and dust from the World Trade Center, saying the deal to compensate 10,000 police officers, firefighters and other laborers didn’t contain enough money.
U.S. District Judge Alvin Hellerstein on Friday rejected a legal settlement …. Source  : Judge: $575M settlement rejected for sickened ground zero workers; renegotiation ordered.

US assures India of early access to Headley

NEW DELHI – Indian will have early access to David Headley to interrogate him, possibly in a pre-trial stage, for his role in the Mumbai terror attacks, Home Minister P. Chidambaram said Saturday disclosing that a top official of the US’ justice department had assured him of this.

Attorney General and head of the US Justice … Read : US assures India of early access to Headley.

Natalee Holloway Body Pictures Found?

LANCASTER, Pa. (GaeaTimes.com)- A photograph taken by an elderly Pennsylvania couple is likely to provide vital leads into the mystery of the disappearance of Natalee Holloway, who went missing in the year 2005 while she was attending a high school graduation trip. The picture was taken by the couple during their vacation in … Read more >>.

Pakistan must rein in LeT: US official

NEW DELHI – Asserting that the US was aware of Indian concerns about the terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan, an official of the Obama administration Saturday said it was “very important” for Islamabad to rein in the Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), a terrorist group that has “global ambitions” and has been targeting Americans as well.

“It is very important …. Source  : Pakistan must rein in LeT: US official.

Police: Arrest made in ‘bias incident’ at southern New Jersey Walmart

Police: Arrest in NJ Walmart racial comment case

WASHINGTON TOWNSHIP, N.J. – Police say they have made an arrest in the case of a racial comment being made over the public-address system at a Walmart store in southern New Jersey.
The Washington Township Police Department said on its Web site early Saturday that an arrest has been …. Read the original article  : Police: Arrest made in ‘bias incident’ at southern New Jersey Walmart.

Hemet, Calif., police on heightened alert following threat to blow up a police car

New threat rankles Hemet, Calif., police
HEMET, Calif. – A Southern California police department plagued by booby trap attacks against its officers went on heightened alert Friday following yet another threat.

An unidentified person called a 911 operator at about 5:45 p.m. and said a police car would be blown up in the Hemet-San Jacinto area in …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Hemet, Calif., police on heightened alert following threat to blow up a police car.

Hemet police on heightened alert following threat to blow up a police car

Hemet police on heightened alert after new threat

HEMET, Calif. – A Southern California police department plagued by booby trap attacks against its officers went on heightened alert Friday following yet another threat.
An unidentified person called a 911 operator at about 5:45 p.m. and said a police car would be blown up in the Hemet-San Jacinto …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Hemet police on heightened alert following threat to blow up a police car.

More central forces in Orissa for anti-Maoist drive

BHUBANESWAR – About 1,000 more Border Security Force (BSF) troopers have reached Orissa’s Koraput district to hunt down Maoist guerrillas, police said Saturday.

About 500 troopers had reached earlier this week.
“One battalion of BSF had already landed in the district. Two more battalions reached in the district yesterday (Friday). They will now familiarise themselves … Read : More central forces in Orissa for anti-Maoist drive.

Ind. man gets 25 years to life for 1985 murder of Calif. mother whose toddler was in next room

Ind. man sentenced for 1985 killing of Calif. mom

SANTA ANA, Calif. – An Indiana man has been sentenced to 25 years to life in California prison for the 1985 murder of a single mother in Anaheim.
Wendell Patrick Lemond of Indianapolis was found guilty in July of the first-degree murder of 20-year-old Catherine Tameny, and on …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Ind. man gets 25 years to life for 1985 murder of Calif. mother whose toddler was in next room.

Cartel suspects, military battle in northern Mexico as drug gangs block roads for 2nd day

Army, drug gangs battle in Mexico amid blockades

MONTERREY, Mexico – A shootout in the northern city of Monterrey killed two suspected drug cartel gunmen and wounded a soldier Friday. Suspected gang members also blocked roads in the city for the second day, in a bold attempt to impede security patrols.
Gunmen opened fire on an army …. Source  : Cartel suspects, military battle in northern Mexico as drug gangs block roads for 2nd day.

4th convicted member of Texas polygamist group gets 75-year sentence for child sexual assault

Member of Texas polygamist sect sentenced 75 years

SAN ANGELO, Texas – The latest member of a polygamist group whose sprawling West Texas ranch was raided in 2008 has been sentenced to 75 years in prison for sexual assault of a child.
Thirty-five-year-old Merril Leroy Jessop was sentenced Friday. Jurors earlier this week also found he violated [..] Read the original article: here.

Charges filed against Utah man arrested after girlfriend reports being held for 3 weeks

Charges filed against Utah man in kidnapping case

SALT LAKE CITY – A 31-year-old man who allegedly held his girlfriend against her will in a Utah apartment for three weeks has been charged.
Anthony G. Whyms faces one count of aggravated kidnapping and three counts of aggravated sexual assault. All are first-degree felonies. He also faces a …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Man pleads not guilty to stabbing California moviegoer in neck with meat thermometer

Man pleads not guilty to Calif. movie stabbing

LANCASTER, Calif. – A Southern California man has pleaded not guilty to stabbing a moviegoer in the neck with a meat thermometer during a screening of the film “Shutter Island.”
Landry Boullard entered the plea Friday in Lancaster Superior Court to one count of attempted murder, two counts of … Read more >>.

Texas governor gives copy of pardon to family of man who died in prison, later cleared by DNA

Texas gov. gives copy of pardon to man’s family

FORT WORTH, Texas – The family of a Texas man who died while imprisoned for a rape he didn’t commit cried and hugged at his graveside Friday with a framed copy of the state’s first posthumous pardon – a document that finally proves his innocence.
Gov. Rick Perry … Read : Texas governor gives copy of pardon to family of man who died in prison, later cleared by DNA.

Ill. sheriff: Evidence linking man to 2006 child rape was found in shuttered police department

Evidence found rotting in closed police department

CHICAGO – A suburban police department left behind a roomful of evidence when it closed two years ago – including a moldy sexual assault kit that authorities said linked a man to the 2006 rape of a 13-year-old girl, nearly 200 guns and hundreds of bags of narcotics, officials … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Ill. sheriff: Evidence linking man to 2006 child rape was found in shuttered police department.

NCAA: Miami Heat president Riley checking out Duke’s talent; watch out for Spartans’ Green

NCAA: Riley checking out Duke’s talent
Miami Heat president Pat Riley was on hand for Duke’s first-round game against Arkansas-Pine Bluff. It was a good bet the Hall of Fame coach was checking out guard Jon Scheyer, forward Lance Thomas and center Brian Zoubek – all seniors.
Oklahoma State and Georgia Tech have combined to …. Read the original article  : NCAA: Miami Heat president Riley checking out Duke’s talent; watch out for Spartans’ Green.

Taliban kills four ‘US spies’ in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD – Taliban militants have killed four tribesmen they abducted 10 days ago in Pakistan’s north Waziristan tribal region after accusing them of spying for the US, officials said Sunday.

Their bullet-riddled bodies were found Sunday, DawnNews quoted the officials as saying.
A note near one of the victims said in Pashto: “Spies are spies, and … Read more : Taliban kills four ‘US spies’ in Pakistan.

India has told US about Pakistan’s link to Mumbai: Krishna

NEW DELHI – India has conveyed to friendly countries like the US that it has evidence of Pakistani state actors’ involvement in the Mumbai terror attack, External Affairs Minister S.M. Krishna has said.

“In our own way we conveyed to friendly countries,” Krishna told Karan Thapar in The Devil’s Advocate Programme. He was asked if India …. Read the original article  : India has told US about Pakistan’s link to Mumbai: Krishna.

India not being squeezed out by US in Afghanistan: Krishna

NEW DELHI – Denying reports of India being marginalised in the emerging US strategy in Afghanistan at Pakistan’s behest, External Affairs Minister S.M. Krishna has said the US has never pressed New Delhi “directly or indirectly” to cut its presence in the violence-hit country.

“We have in our interactions with the US administration at various …. Read the original article  : here.

Four killed in suicide attack in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD – At least four people were killed and a dozen injured Sunday when a suicide bomber riding on a bicycle hit a police van in Quetta, capital of Pakistan’s southwestern Balochistan province.

Five injured policemen were in critical condition, Xinhua reported.
The bomb exploded near the residence of a senior political leader, Mehmood Khan Achakzau, …. Source  : Four killed in suicide attack in Pakistan.

Virtual stonewall around Headley’s former ‘connections’

CHICAGO – Even as the Department of Justice (DoJ) continues to dismiss as “absurd” the freshly mounting claims in India that Mumbai terror plotter David Coleman Headley was a double agent gone rogue, there is now a virtual stonewall around what his covert connections might have been.

If US authorities are worried at the persistence … Read more : Virtual stonewall around Headley’s former ‘connections’.

China to begin trial of 4 Rio Tinto employees on commercial secrets, bribery charges

China to begin trial of 4 Rio Tinto employees

SHANGHAI – An Australian executive and three other employees of mining giant Rio Tinto face charges of stealing secrets and offering bribes in a Shanghai trial beginning Monday that is viewed as a barometer of China’s handling of foreign business.
China has warned against politicizing the case, which …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Indians in Afghanistan are soft targets: Krishna

NEW DELHI – External Affairs Minister S.M. Krishna says that Indian aid workers in Kabul have become soft targets for terrorists who want to derail India-Afghan relations.

I think (the Feb 26 Kabul attack that killed seven Indians) has been the handiwork of those forces who are out to see that the relationship between India …. Source  : Indians in Afghanistan are soft targets: Krishna.

Jews say hate crimes and anti-Israel rage are driving some of them out of their Swedish city

Muslim-Jewish tensions roil a Swedish city

MALMO, Sweden – Marcus Eilenberg is a Swedish Jew whose family roots in Malmo go back to the 19th century. His paternal grandparents were Holocaust survivors who found shelter in this southern Swedish city in 1945. His wife’s parents fled to Sweden from communist Poland in the 1960s.
Now the 32-year-old …. Read the original article  : Jews say hate crimes and anti-Israel rage are driving some of them out of their Swedish city.

Lawmaker won’t press charges after being spat on by Capitol Hill protestor

Lawmaker won’t press charges in spitting incident
WASHINGTON – A congressman who was spat on by a protestor on Capitol Hill says he is declining to press charges, but turns out the Capitol Police say they made no arrests.
Missouri Democrat Emanuel Cleaver was making his way through a group of angry protestors … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Lawmaker won’t press charges after being spat on by Capitol Hill protestor.

Pep rally and protesters make for raucous and at times ugly build-up to House health care vote

Raucous, ugly build-up to House health care vote
WASHINGTON – House Democrats heard it all Saturday – words of inspiration from President Barack Obama and raucous chants of protests from demonstrators. And at times it was flat-out ugly, including some racial epithets aimed at black members of Congress.
Most of the day’s important …. Source  : Pep rally and protesters make for raucous and at times ugly build-up to House health care vote.

US Ski Team chief Bill Marolt apologizes after DUI arrest in Utah

US Ski Team chief arrested on DUI charge
PARK CITY, Utah – U.S. Ski Team chief Bill Marolt issued an apology Saturday after being arrested days earlier on suspicion of driving under the influence not far from the team’s headquarters in Park City.

In a brief statement, Marolt apologized for his Wednesday night arrest, which came just … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : US Ski Team chief Bill Marolt apologizes after DUI arrest in Utah.

Thousands carry flag-draped coffins, anti-Obama signs in DC protest; want troops back home

Thousands rally to pull troops from 2 war zones
WASHINGTON – Thousands of protesters – many directing their anger squarely at President Barack Obama – marched through the nation’s capital Saturday to urge immediate withdrawal of troops from Iraq and Afghanistan.
At least eight people, including activist Cindy … Read : Thousands carry flag-draped coffins, anti-Obama signs in DC protest; want troops back home.

NCAA: No. 1 seed Kansas struggling against Northern Iowa, who’s shooting 52 percent from field

NCAA: Kansas struggling against Northern Iowa
Bill Self begged for a timeout, as if he were asking for mercy, after Ali Farokhmanesh hit again from about 15 feet to give Northern Iowa a 33-24 lead over the No. 1 overall seed. The Panthers are 6 of 11 from beyond the arc and shooting 52 … Original article on : NCAA: No. 1 seed Kansas struggling against Northern Iowa, who’s shooting 52 percent from field.

NCAA: New Mexico, Washington tip off; check out Northern Iowa’s Eglseder vs. Kansas’ Aldrich

NCAA: New Mexico, Washington tip off
New Mexico and Washington have tipped off from the Shark Tank in San Jose, where Steve Alford’s Lobos are trying to match Murray State with its 31st win.
Keep an eye on New Mexico star Darington Hobson, who has a tender left wrist, because Washington coach Lorenzo Romar is … Read more »».

NCAA: Northern Iowa leads Kansas early; Baylor on early 20-6 run vs. ODU; Tennessee beats Ohio

NCAA: Northern Iowa leads Kansas early
Kansas coach Bill Self said that Northern Iowa is one of the best defensive teams he’s seen in quite a while, and the observation is playing out. The Panthers led 19-12 with under 12 minutes to go in the first half.
Kansas has six early team fouls, while Northern …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : NCAA: Northern Iowa leads Kansas early; Baylor on early 20-6 run vs. ODU; Tennessee beats Ohio.

NCAA: Tennessee beats No. 14 seed Ohio 83-68; Old Dominion, Baylor tip off in New Orleans

NCAA: Tennessee beats Ohio 83-68
Ohio finally ran out of energy, time, magic. After stunning third-seeded Georgetown and playing tough for about 30 minutes Saturday, Tennessee finally put the Bobcats away with a late surge in an 83-68 victory.
The Vols advance to play Georgia Tech or Ohio State in St. Louis next week.
Tommy Freeman …. Original article  : NCAA: Tennessee beats No. 14 seed Ohio 83-68; Old Dominion, Baylor tip off in New Orleans.

NCAA: Tennessee cruising against No. 14 seed Ohio; Butler beats Murray State 54-52

NCAA: Tennessee cruising against Ohio
Just in case nobody in Providence realized J.P. Prince had slammed down an alley-oop, his guttural scream running back the other way made every animal in Rhode Island perk up its ears.
Cameron Tatum followed with a dunk, then came another fastbreak layup, and the Vols are cruising with about …. Original source  : NCAA: Tennessee cruising against No. 14 seed Ohio; Butler beats Murray State 54-52.

7 arrested as anti-war rally ends, protesters lay on White House sidewalk by cardboard coffins

7 arrested as DC anti-war rally concludes
WASHINGTON – Seven protesters, including activist Cindy Sheehan, have been arrested at an anti-war rally and march in Washington.
Sheehan began shouting “arrest that war criminal” through a bullhorn and pointing to the White House from an area of sidewalk park police had closed off Saturday afternoon. The … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : 7 arrested as anti-war rally ends, protesters lay on White House sidewalk by cardboard coffins.

Report: Iran temporarily releases prominent pro-reform politician for new year holiday

Report: Iran releases prominent pro-reform figure

TEHRAN, Iran – Iranian news agencies say authorities have released a prominent pro-reform activist two days after security forces took him into custody.
The Fars semiofficial news agency and other local agencies quote Tehran prosecutor Abbas Jafari Dowlatabadi as saying former vice president Hossein Marashi was temporarily released Saturday for Iran’s [..] Read the original article: here.

Colombian narco-terrorist sentenced to 20 years in US prison for role with FARC

Colombian narco-terrorist gets 20 years
NEW YORK – A former leader in the Colombian guerrilla group FARC has been sentenced to more than 20 years in prison.

Jorge Enrique Rodriguez Mendieta pleaded guilty in December to an indictment accusing him of importing tons of cocaine into the U.S.
A federal judge in Washington sentenced him on Friday.
Rodriguez Mendieta …. Source  : Colombian narco-terrorist sentenced to 20 years in US prison for role with FARC.

Final defendant in Haditha, Iraq killings seeks dismissal of charges

Last Haditha defendant seeks to dismiss charges

CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. – Eight Marines were charged in the biggest criminal case against U.S. troops to arise from the Iraq war. Six have had charges dismissed, and one was acquitted.
Whether the only remaining and perhaps highest-profile defendant stands trial may hinge on what happens this week in a …. Read the original article  : Final defendant in Haditha, Iraq killings seeks dismissal of charges.

Terri Schiavo Kill Bill Signed by Gov. Paterson

New York (GaeaTimes.com) Gov. David Paterson does talk about domestic violence prevention but in action he actually takes the opposite route. What am I talking about? Let me tell you a real story first of all.

Terry Schindler Schiavo. This is the story of the Florida woman who decided to divorce her husband. One day, …. Source article  : Terri Schiavo Kill Bill Signed by Gov. Paterson.

Tanzania, Zambia want UN ivory ban weakened to sell off tusk stocks

Tanzania, Zambia demand one-off sales of ivory

DOHA, Qatar – Tanzania and Zambia on Monday requested a U.N. conservation meeting to weaken the ban on African ivory so they can sell off their own stocks, despite criticism that they are failing to crack down on rising incidents of poaching.
A counter proposal at the 175-nation Convention on …. Original article  : Tanzania, Zambia want UN ivory ban weakened to sell off tusk stocks.

Tanzania, Zambia want UN ivory ban weakened to sell off tusk stocks

Tanzania, Zambia demand one-off sales of ivory

DOHA, Qatar – Tanzania and Zambia on Monday requested a U.N. conservation meeting to weaken the ban on African ivory so they can sell off their own stocks, despite criticism that they are failing to crack down on rising incidents of poaching.
A counter proposal at the 175-nation Convention on … Read more : Tanzania, Zambia want UN ivory ban weakened to sell off tusk stocks.

American doctor charged in Australian patient deaths faces 1st day of trial, pleads not guilty

US doctor faces first day of manslaughter trial

BRISBANE, Australia – An American doctor accused of repeatedly botching operations and performing surgeries he was not capable of handling pleaded not guilty in an Australian court Monday to three manslaughter charges and one of grievous bodily harm.
Prosecutors say Indian-born surgeon Jayant Patel repeatedly performed surgeries he’d been …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : American doctor charged in Australian patient deaths faces 1st day of trial, pleads not guilty.

Important dates in the case of US doctor being tried in Australia for manslaughter

Important dates in surgeon’s manslaughter case

A timeline of the case involving Dr. Jayant Patel, who is facing trial on manslaughter charges in the deaths of three patients in Australia from 2003 to early 2005:
April 10, 1950: Jayant Mukundray Patel born in Jamnagar, Gujarat, India.
1976: Patel graduates from the state-run M.P. Shah Medical College at Saurashtra … Read more »».

Official: Bystanders not gunmen killed in clash in Mexico between soldiers and gunmen

Official: Bystanders killed in Mexico clash

MONTERREY, Mexico – Two men killed in a shootout between soldiers and gunmen near a prestigious university in this northern Mexican city were graduate students, not suspected drug traffickers, officials said.
The victims were studying engineering at Monterrey Tech University, according to Nuevo Leon state Attorney General Alejandro Garza y Garza.
Army … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Official: Bystanders not gunmen killed in clash in Mexico between soldiers and gunmen.

Trial of 4 Rio Tinto employees on commercial secrets, bribery charges begins in China

China begins trial of 4 Rio Tinto employees

SHANGHAI – An Australian executive and three other employees of Rio Tinto went on trial Monday on charges of stealing secrets and offering bribes, as the head of the mining giant said his company was trying to resolve its troubles with China.
China’s handling of the Rio Tinto case … Read : Trial of 4 Rio Tinto employees on commercial secrets, bribery charges begins in China.

American doctor charged in Australian patient deaths pleads not guilty to all charges

US doctor charged in deaths pleads not guilty

BRISBANE, Australia – An American doctor was accused Monday of scheduling unnecessary and dangerous operations that prosecutors said resulted in the deaths of three patients and the serious harm of another.
Indian-born surgeon Jayant Patel pleaded not guilty to three charges of manslaughter and one count of grievous bodily …. Source article  : American doctor charged in Australian patient deaths pleads not guilty to all charges.

Police say 164 people will be charged for their alleged roles in central Nigeria massacres

164 people face charges over massacres in Nigeria

LAGOS, Nigeria – A Nigerian police spokesman says 164 people will be charged with a variety of offenses, including terrorism, for their suspected roles in the slaughter of more than 200 people in central Nigeria this month.
Spokesman Emmanuel Ojukwu says 41 suspects will be charged with terrorism for …. Read the original article  : Police say 164 people will be charged for their alleged roles in central Nigeria massacres.

Ex-CSK Auto president’s death means criminal indictment, SEC complaint will be dismissed

Ex-CSK Auto president dies while facing indictment

PHOENIX – The death of a former top executive at CSK Auto Corp. means federal prosecutors won’t be able to prove criminal charges that he manipulated earnings reports at the auto parts supplier.
Prosecutors filed federal court documents earlier this month that notified the court of the death of former …. Original source  : Ex-CSK Auto president’s death means criminal indictment, SEC complaint will be dismissed.

Suspected US drone strikes kill eight in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD – At least eight people were killed and four injured in two suspected US drone strikes in Pakistan’s northwestern tribal district of North Waziristan Sunday, security officials said.

An unmanned drone aircraft fired three Hellfire guided missiles into a compound in the Alora Mandi area of North Waziristan, a known safe haven of Taliban and … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Suspected US drone strikes kill eight in Pakistan.

Anti-counterfeiting program at Michigan State University targets range of crimes worldwide

New MSU program targets worldwide counterfeiting

EAST LANSING, Mich. – The fight against fake products has found a home at Michigan State University with the launch of the Anti-Counterfeiting and Product Protection Program.
“The FBI has called (it) ‘the crime of the 21st century,’” university spokesman Andy Henion wrote on the school’s Web site. “The counterfeiting of …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Anti-counterfeiting program at Michigan State University targets range of crimes worldwide.

Conservationists at UN wildlife meeting say Internet fueling trade in endangered species

Demise of coral, salamander show impact of Web

DOHA, Qatar – The Internet has emerged as one of the greatest threats to rare species, fueling the illegal wildlife trade and making it easier to buy everything from live baby lions to wine made from tiger bones, conservationists and law enforcement officers said Sunday.
The Web’s impact was …. Read the original article  : Conservationists at UN wildlife meeting say Internet fueling trade in endangered species.

ETA suspect faces preliminary charges in policeman’s death

ETA suspect formally accused in policeman’s death

PARIS – A judge has filed preliminary homicide charges against a suspected member of Basque separatist group ETA who was arrested after a shootout that killed a French police officer, the Paris prosecutor’s office said Sunday.
The charges against Joseba Fernandez Aspurz, 27, include “aggravated homicide,” ”criminal association with a … Read more >>.

UN meeting agrees on voluntary plan to boost tiger conservation

UN approves tiger action plan
DOHA, Qatar – A U.N. conservation meeting has agreed to a voluntary conservation plan for endangered tigers that calls for tougher legislation in countries home to the big cats to tackle widespread smuggling and boost money spent on law enforcement.

The British plan also calls for countries to better control tiger farms …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : UN meeting agrees on voluntary plan to boost tiger conservation.

Pope urges faithful to beg forgiveness for their sins; German bishop admits church cover-ups

Pope does not mention rebuke to Irish bishops

VATICAN CITY – Pope Benedict XVI on Sunday urged Catholics to refrain from judging sinners a day after he rebuked Irish bishops for their handling of a half-century of sexual abuse of minors by clergy.
While the pope made no mention of the Vatican’s widely criticized policy of cloaking …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Pope urges faithful to beg forgiveness for their sins; German bishop admits church cover-ups.

Suspect arrested in Cypriot Archbishops’ tomb vandalism; follows body snatching of ex-leader

Suspect nabbed in Cyprus Archbishops’ tomb attack

NICOSIA, Cyprus – Cyprus police on Sunday arrested a Romanian man suspected of vandalizing the tombs of three Cyprus archbishops who led the island’s Greek Orthodox church in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, a police spokesman said.
The 34-year-old suspect admitted to interrogators that he had removed the …. Original article  : Suspect arrested in Cypriot Archbishops’ tomb vandalism; follows body snatching of ex-leader.

Maoists trigger blasts, fire on security forces

KOLKATA – Maoists triggered landmine blasts and exchanged fire with the joint security forces in two separate incidents in West Bengal’s Bankura and West Midnapore districts Sunday, police said.

Maoists, hidden in the jungles, fired on a security forces’ team conducting a raid in Lakshmanpur village under Lalgarh police station of West Midnapore. The raid followed …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Maoists trigger blasts, fire on security forces.

Head of German Bishops Conference admits that sexual abuse was covered up for years

German archbishop says abuse covered up for years

BERLIN – A news magazine reports that the head of the German Bishops Conference admits the Roman Catholic church consciously covered up cases of sexual abuse by priests.
Weekly magazine Focus reported Sunday that Archbishop Robert Zollitsch of Freiburg, who also heads the Bishops Conference, said that “sexual abuse … Read more >>.

China court hears secrets charges against Rio Tinto executive, 3 others; bribes case wraps up

Rio Tinto exec facing commercial secrets charges

SHANGHAI – Four Rio Tinto employees were standing trial Tuesday in a closed Shanghai court session on politically sensitive charges of stealing commercial secrets after earlier pleading guilty to taking bribes.
Australian executive Stern Hu and three Chinese coworkers have been detained since last July in a case many thought … Read more >>>.

AP Top News at 4:42 a.m. EDT

AP Top News at 4:42 a.m. EDT
Obama to sign health bill, celebrate with allies
WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama’s yearlong health care overhaul drama featured dozens of speeches, contentious debate and a televised summit with lawmakers before a divided Congress passed the bill. An elaborate White House signing ceremony kicks off the next act: … Read more : AP Top News at 4:42 a.m. EDT.

Spain raises terrorism alert level after killing blamed on Basque separatist group ETA

Spain raises terrorism alert level
MADRID – Spain has raised its terrorism alert level after Basque separatists were blamed for killing a policeman in France last week.

The Interior Ministry says the level is being raised from a “low intensity” alert to “high intensity” within stage 2 of the four-stage alert scale.
It cited “recent events and available …. Original article  : Spain raises terrorism alert level after killing blamed on Basque separatist group ETA.

AP Top News at 4:00 a.m. EDT

AP Top News at 4:00 a.m. EDT
Obama to sign health bill, celebrate with allies
WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama’s yearlong health care overhaul drama featured dozens of speeches, contentious debate and a televised summit with lawmakers before a divided Congress passed the bill. An elaborate White House signing ceremony kicks off the next act: …. Original source  : AP Top News at 4:00 a.m. EDT.

AP Top News at 3:53 a.m. EDT

AP Top News at 3:53 a.m. EDT
Obama to sign health bill, celebrate with allies
WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama’s yearlong health care overhaul drama featured dozens of speeches, contentious debate and a televised summit with lawmakers before a divided Congress passed the bill. An elaborate White House signing ceremony kicks off the next act: … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : AP Top News at 3:53 a.m. EDT.

AP Top News at 3:52 a.m. EDT

AP Top News at 3:52 a.m. EDT
Obama to sign health bill, celebrate with allies
WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama’s yearlong health care overhaul drama featured dozens of speeches, contentious debate and a televised summit with lawmakers before a divided Congress passed the bill. An elaborate White House signing ceremony kicks off the next act: …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

AP Top News at 3:35 a.m. EDT

AP Top News at 3:35 a.m. EDT
Obama to sign health bill, celebrate with allies
WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama’s yearlong health care overhaul drama featured dozens of speeches, contentious debate and a televised summit with lawmakers before a divided Congress passed the bill. An elaborate White House signing ceremony kicks off the next act: … Read this article on Gaea Times at : AP Top News at 3:35 a.m. EDT.

Documents: Michael Jackson employee describes scene in bedroom as singer lay dying

Witness: Michael Jackson doctor interrupted CPR

LOS ANGELES – The man who called 911 as Michael Jackson lay dying in his rented mansion told police he was stunned by what he saw in the singer’s bedroom.
Alberto Alvarez, who worked as Jackson’s logistics director, told investigators that after receiving a distress call from another worker June 25, …. Read the original article  : Documents: Michael Jackson employee describes scene in bedroom as singer lay dying.

AP Exclusive: Sources say charges eyed for Blackwater’s ex-president, others in NC gun case

AP Exclusive: Charges eyed for ex-Blackwater chief

WASHINGTON – Federal prosecutors are considering filing weapons charges against former top officials of the Blackwater Worldwide private security company over allegations they illegally stockpiled automatic rifles at the company’s North Carolina headquarters, The Associated Press has learned.
Senior Justice Department officials are reviewing a draft indictment against former president … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : AP Exclusive: Sources say charges eyed for Blackwater’s ex-president, others in NC gun case.

AP Exclusive: Sources: Charges eyed for Blackwater’s ex-president, others in NC gun case

AP Exclusive: Sources: Charges eyed for Blackwater

WASHINGTON – Federal prosecutors are considering filing weapons charges against former top officials of the Blackwater Worldwide private security company over allegations they illegally stockpiled automatic rifles at the company’s North Carolina headquarters, The Associated Press has learned.
Senior Justice Department officials are reviewing a draft indictment against former president …. Original source  : AP Exclusive: Sources: Charges eyed for Blackwater’s ex-president, others in NC gun case.

Clinton, Gates, other top US officials head to Mexico with drug war on the agenda

Clinton, officials to Mexico for talks on drug war
MEXICO CITY – Almost a year after President Barack Obama promised to be a “full partner” with Mexico in its battle against drug cartels, a team of U.S. Cabinet secretaries and other top advisers will look for ways to help Mexico strengthen its [..] Read the original article: here.

2 men charged with murder, arson in case of 5 New Jersey teenage boys missing since 1978

2 charged with murder of 5 teens missing since ‘78

NEWARK, N.J. – Two men have been charged with the murders of five teenage boys who were last seen together on a busy street more than 30 years ago.
The men, whose names haven’t been released, were also charged with arson, the Essex County prosecutor’s office said … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : 2 men charged with murder, arson in case of 5 New Jersey teenage boys missing since 1978.

Man who shot and wounded 3 at Phoenix college in 2008 pleads guilty to aggravated assault

Man pleads guilty in 2008 Phoenix college shooting

PHOENIX – A former student who shot and wounded three people at a Phoenix community college in 2008 has pleaded guilty to two counts of aggravated assault.
Maricopa County prosecutors say 24-year-old Rodney Eugene Smith Jr. entered into a plea deal Monday. He faces a sentence ranging from probation [..] Read the original article: here.

Knife-wielding man stabs and kills 8 students at a school in eastern China; 5 others hurt

Man stabs and kills 8 students in eastern China

BEIJING – A former doctor armed with a large knife killed eight children and injured five others Tuesday at an elementary school in eastern China, a local official said.
The assailant was arrested after the 7:20 a.m. attack, Xinhua News Agency said. He is a former community clinic …. Source article  : Knife-wielding man stabs and kills 8 students at a school in eastern China; 5 others hurt.

ACLU wants Los Angeles police to examine policies following shooting of unarmed autistic man

ACLU ‘disturbed’ by Los Angeles police shooting

LOS ANGELES – A fatal weekend police shooting of an unarmed man who family members say was autistic prompted the American Civil Liberties Union of Southern California on Monday to urge the Los Angeles Police Department to re-examine its policies.
Steven Eugene Washington was shot by gang enforcement officers Allan … Read more »».

Chavez opponent arrested for on-air remarks calling Venezuela a drug haven

Chavez foe arrested over drug haven comment

CARACAS, Venezuela – An outspoken opponent of President Hugo Chavez said Monday that police have taken him into custody while he awaits trial on conspiracy charges for saying Venezuela has become a haven for drug trafficking.
Former Zulia state Gov. Oswaldo Alvarez Paz, who has also been accused of spreading …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Suu Kyi’s party to sue Myanmar junta over election laws banning democracy leader from vote

Opposition to sue Myanmar junta over election laws

YANGON, Myanmar – Myanmar’s highest court Tuesday refused to accept a lawsuit by Aung San Suu Kyi’s political party seeking to revoke laws that bar the detained leader and other opposition members from taking part in the country’s first election in two decades.
Lawyer Kyi Win said the Supreme …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Suu Kyi’s party to sue Myanmar junta over election laws banning democracy leader from vote.

Federal appeals court upholds conviction of Pennsylvania man on terrorism charges

Pa. man’s terror conviction is upheld on appeal

SCRANTON, Pa. – An appeals court has upheld the conviction of a northeastern Pennsylvania man found guilty of trying to help al-Qaida terrorists blow up fuel pipelines and refineries in the United States.
The 3rd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals says in an opinion filed Thursday that the issues [..] Read the original article: here.

Prosecutor: American doctor charged in Australian deaths wrongly removed patient’s bowel

US doctor on trial in Australian patient deaths

BRISBANE, Australia – An American doctor charged in the deaths of three patients wrongly removed a man’s bowel, dooming him to a life of pain and dependence on a colostomy bag, an Australian prosecutor said Tuesday.
Jayant Patel, 59, is being tried on three manslaughter charges and one count … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Prosecutor: American doctor charged in Australian deaths wrongly removed patient’s bowel.

Los Angeles-area medical marijuana clinic owner gets 6 years in prison in pot-profit scheme

Calif. pot clinic owner sentenced in profit scheme

LOS ANGELES – The former owner of six Los Angeles-area medical marijuana dispensaries, including one store linked to an accident that killed a motorist and paralyzed an officer, was sentenced Monday to six years in federal prison for selling pot for profit.
U.S. District Judge Stephen V. Wilson said …. Original source  : Los Angeles-area medical marijuana clinic owner gets 6 years in prison in pot-profit scheme.

14 militants killed in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD – At least 14 militants were killed and 17 injured in a clash with security forces in northwest Pakistan’s tribal area Wednesday.

Security forces backed by helicopters launched a ground-and-air assault in Orakzai tribal agency, Xinhua news agency reported. A security personnel was injured.
Security forces are searching the country’s restive northwest, believed to be [..] Read the original article: here.

California makes parole easier for some in hopes of reducing prison population, saving money

Amid budget crisis, California makes parole easier

LOS ANGELES – California’s budget crisis and overcrowded prisons have led to a new reality for thousands of convicted felons: parole is getting a lot easier – no more random drug tests, travel rules or requirements to check in with an officer.
Restrictions have been relaxed for nonviolent criminals like … Read more : California makes parole easier for some in hopes of reducing prison population, saving money.

Headley questioning: US ground rules to apply, say lawyer

CHICAGO – Predetermined ground rules will govern any questioning of Mumbai terror plotter David Coleman Headley by Indian investigators, his lawyer has said.

“The way an actual interrogation or interview will take place the government will have to determine. But we will insist on being present during it,” Headley’s attorney John Theis told IANS.
While pointing …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Headley questioning: US ground rules to apply, say lawyer.

Maoists kill three cops in Orissa, injure 10

BHUBANESWAR – Maoist guerrillas attacked a police patrol party and shot dead three policemen and injured 10 in Orissa’s Gajapati district early Wednesday, police said.

The Maoists opened fire when about 30 policemen were on their way to raid a rebel camp in a forested area at Ambajhari in Gumma block near Parlakhemundi town, about …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Lawyer: Shanghai court finishes trial of 4 Rio Tinto staff on bribery, secrets theft charges

Shanghai trial of Rio Tinto staff ends, no verdict

SHANGHAI – The trial in Shanghai of four employees of mining giant Rio Tinto on charges of taking bribes and stealing commercial secrets ended Wednesday as expected, though no verdict was announced.
Defense lawyer Tao Wuping said the Shanghai No. 1 Intermediate People’s Court finished hearing the case …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Drug suspect arrested in northern Mexico found dead the next day; widow identifies body

Mexico: Widow IDs slain husband as arrested man

MEXICO CITY – A drug suspect arrested in northern Mexico over the weekend turned up dead hours later with signs of torture on his corpse, prompting denials from the navy that it had anything to do with the man’s death.
The navy said in a statement late Tuesday that … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Drug suspect arrested in northern Mexico found dead the next day; widow identifies body.

Two killed as Maoists attack toll plaza in Bihar

PATNA – Suspected Maoist guerrillas killed two people, including a security guard, and injured several when they attacked a toll plaza on a highway in Bihar’s Gaya district, police said Wednesday.

The incident occurred late Tuesday when armed guerrillas attacked the toll plaza on Grand Trunk road at Mahapur village in Gaya, about 100 km …. Read the original article  : Two killed as Maoists attack toll plaza in Bihar.

Two militants killed in Kashmir gunfight

SRINAGAR – Two separatist guerrillas were killed Wednesday when the army foiled an infiltration bid in Jammu and Kashmir’s Kupwara district, an official said.

Alert army troops spotted a group of intruders in Keran sector near the Line of Control (LoC), 140 km from here. The infiltrators were challenged to surrender when they started firing, … Read : Two militants killed in Kashmir gunfight.

Maoists kill three policemen in Orissa

BHUBANESWAR – Maoist guerrillas launched an attack on a police patrol party and killed three policemen in Orissa’s Gajapati district early Wednesday, an official said.

The Maoists opened fired on them when about 30 policemen had gone to raid a rebel camp in a forested area near Parlakhemundi town, about 350 km from here, on the … Read : Maoists kill three policemen in Orissa.

Oregon man abused as adolescent tells jury how he initially admired Scout leader

Oregon man abused by Scout leader testifies

PORTLAND, Ore. – An Oregon man who is suing the Boy Scouts of America for $14 million told a jury Tuesday that he initially worshipped the Scout leader who eventually molested him in the early 1980s.
To the then-adolescent boy, Timur Dykes was a superhero who knew everything about the …. Original article  : Oregon man abused as adolescent tells jury how he initially admired Scout leader.

Judge: Burden is on government to disprove unlawful command influence in Marine’s Haditha case

Judge says burden is on government in Haditha case

CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. – A military judge indicated Tuesday that the burden is on the government to show there was no unlawful command influence in a case involving the deaths of 24 Iraqi men, women and children, a defense attorney said.
The judge, Lt. Col. David Jones, said … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Judge: Burden is on government to disprove unlawful command influence in Marine’s Haditha case.

Former Samsung chairman Lee Kun-hee, convicted for tax evasion, returns to post

Former Samsung chairman Lee returns to post

SEOUL, South Korea – Lee Kun-hee, the former chairman of Samsung Electronics who was convicted of tax evasion and later pardoned by South Korea’s president, has returned to lead the company after a nearly two-year absence, Samsung announced Wednesday.
The 68-year-old Lee is a South Korean corporate icon and credited … Original article on : Former Samsung chairman Lee Kun-hee, convicted for tax evasion, returns to post.

Jose Canseco tweets he’s been subpoenaed by grand jury investigating Roger Clemens

Canseco tweets about subpoena in Clemens case

NEW YORK – Jose Canseco announced Tuesday on Twitter that he had been subpoenaed by a grand jury investigating whether Roger Clemens lied to Congress when he denied using performance-enhancing drugs.
Canseco posted on the social networking site that the FBI was about to visit his house, then said he … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Jose Canseco tweets he’s been subpoenaed by grand jury investigating Roger Clemens.

Former Samsung chairman Lee Kun-hee, convicted for tax evasion, to return to post

Former Samsung chairman Lee to return to post

SEOUL, South Korea – Lee Kun-hee, the former chairman of Samsung Electronics who was convicted of tax evasion and later pardoned by South Korea’s president, is returning to lead the company after a nearly two-year absence, Samsung said Wednesday.
The 68-year-old Lee is a South Korean corporate icon and …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Former Samsung chairman Lee Kun-hee, convicted for tax evasion, to return to post.

At raucous meeting, NC school board rolls back busing policy that diversifies Raleigh schools

3 arrested as NC school board reverses busing plan

RALEIGH, N.C. – The school board in North Carolina’s capital city narrowly agreed Tuesday to roll back a policy that buses students to achieve diversity, following a tense meeting at which three people were arrested, others were forcibly removed and heated arguments echoed passions from an era … Read more »».

Georgia investigators withdraw request for Roethlisberger DNA in sexual assault accusation

Request for Roethlisberger DNA withdrawn in Ga.

ATLANTA – Georgia investigators have withdrawn their request for a DNA sample from Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger who is accused of sexually assaulting a 20-year-old college student at a nightclub, an attorney for the player said Tuesday.
Ed Garland told The Associated Press that officials withdrew the request a … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Georgia investigators withdraw request for Roethlisberger DNA in sexual assault accusation.

Judge: Miss. school doesn’t have to hold prom but lesbian’s rights violated by cancellation

Judge: No school prom but lesbian’s right violated

JACKSON, Miss. – The prom’s still off at a Mississippi high school that canceled it instead of letting a lesbian student bring her girlfriend, but a federal judge ruled Tuesday that the district’s actions did violate the teen’s constitutional rights.
U.S. District Judge Glen H. Davidson refused the American …. Source article  : Judge: Miss. school doesn’t have to hold prom but lesbian’s rights violated by cancellation.

Calif correctional officer, wife face fraud charges for alleged lie about sex club shooting

CA officer charged with fraud in sex club shooting

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – A California correctional officer faces fraud charges after authorities allege he filed a workers’ compensation claim falsely stating he was shot by a parolee while leaving a restaurant, when he actually was shot in a dispute at a sex club.
John Smiley, 44, filed a … Read : Calif correctional officer, wife face fraud charges for alleged lie about sex club shooting.

450 Mexican federal police arrive in Ciudad Juarez to counter drug-cartel crime surge

More police sent to crime-plagued Ciudad Juarez

CIUDAD JUAREZ, Mexico – Jet planes loaded with 450 federal police officers arrived in this city, known as Mexico’s murder capital, on Tuesday to bolster a federal force struggling to control violent drug traffickers.
The law-enforcement surge boosts the number of federal agents in Ciudad Juarez to 3,500 and comes … Read more >>>.

Chavez opponent’s arrest for TV remarks a setback for free speech in Venezuela, critics say

Arrest in Venezuela raises free speech concerns

CARACAS, Venezuela – The arrest of an outspoken government opponent for his critical remarks on a TV talk show drew condemnation on Tuesday from opposition parties and human rights activists who said the case shows freedoms are being eroded in Venezuela.
Opposition politician Oswaldo Alvarez Paz was detained by police …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Montana fugitive on the run for 38 years awaits extradition hearing in Ariz.

Hearing set for Montana fugitive found in Ariz.

rHELENA, Mont. – Frank Dryman first escaped hanging, then he just escaped. He wasn’t found for four decades until he was discovered running a wedding chapel some 1,300 miles south of the Montana town where he killed a man who had offered him a ride in a blizzard.
Dryman, …. Source article  : Montana fugitive on the run for 38 years awaits extradition hearing in Ariz..

Operation Green Hunt kills 90 Maoists in Chhattisgarh

RAIPUR – More than 90 Maoist militants were killed and 12 terror camps dismantled during the government’s anti-Maoist Operation Green Hunt, Chhattisgarh Home Minister Nankiram Kanwar said Thursday.

“As many as 90 Maoists were killed and 12 of their terror camps were destroyed till Feb 27 this year in state’s Bastar region under Operation Green … Read more »»».

Philly leaders increase enforcement, penalties in attempt to end destructive teen flash mobs

Philly to teen ‘flash mobs’: The behavior ends now

PHILADELPHIA – The term “flash mob” used to mean online-organized groups having street-corner pillow fights or sidewalk dance-offs, but in Philadelphia they’ve turned violent, and the reasons are as tough to pin down as where the next one will be.
At least five such mobs have gathered in …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Philly leaders increase enforcement, penalties in attempt to end destructive teen flash mobs.

100 Australian police investigated after racist e-mails circulated; 1 accused kills himself

Police in Australia investigated for racist e-mail

ADELAIDE, Australia – About 100 Australian police are being investigated for circulating racist and pornographic e-mails via an internal system, a scandal blamed for one officer’s suicide, a top official said Thursday.
Victoria Police Chief Commissioner Simon Overland said the officers had let down the community by forwarding the offensive …. Original article  : 100 Australian police investigated after racist e-mails circulated; 1 accused kills himself.

AP sources: CIA officers had birthday cake waiting for spy who turned out to be suicide bomber

AP sources: Birthday cake awaited suicide bomber

WASHINGTON – CIA officers in Afghanistan were so eager to meet the spy they believed would help them crack al-Qaida’s leadership they planned a birthday celebration for his visit in December, current and former U.S. officials said.
A birthday cake was waiting.
But before they could even begin to question their …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Railways probe Rajdhani derailment

PATNA – The Indian Railways Thursday began an inquiry into the derailment of the Bhubaneswar-New Delhi Rajdhani Express in Bihar after Maoist guerrillas blew up the tracks.

Ten coaches derailed in the incident that took place late Monday in Gaya district. The inquiry is being conducted by R.P. Yadav, the commissioner of railway safety, a railway …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Man says he was detained in Tijuana after officials mistake soup for drugs

Soup mistaken for drugs, man detained in Mexico

LOS ANGELES – A Nigerian-born U.S. citizen says he spent two days in a Tijuana jail after Mexican authorities mistook the soup ingredients he was bringing to a relative in Mexico for illegal drugs.
San Diego social worker Okoronkwo Umeham, 73, said he was detained while crossing the border … Read : Man says he was detained in Tijuana after officials mistake soup for drugs.

Heathrow `naked’ image row: woman plans legal action

LONDON – A 29-year-old airport security worker plans to take legal action after a colleague passed a lewd remark on her `nude’ image when she mistakenly walked into an X-ray machine, a media report said Thursday.

Jo Margetson plans to sue the authorities concerned and spent Wednesday in talks with Heathrow owner BAA, The Sun reported. … Read : Heathrow `naked’ image row: woman plans legal action.

‘Taliban arrests by Pakistan merely a tactic’

WASHINGTON – Recent arrests of high-profile Afghan Taliban leadership by Pakistan do not indicate a strategic change in Pakistan’s counter-terrorism strategy but merely a tactic, says a leading South Asia expert.

In reality, Pakistan wants to assume a leading role in negotiating and reconciling with the Afghan Taliban to ensure a friendlier neighbour after the United … Read : ‘Taliban arrests by Pakistan merely a tactic’.

Times report: Documents show Vatican was told about Wis. priest who may have molested 200 boys

Times: Vatican was warned about priest in Wis.

NEW YORK – Milwaukee’s Roman Catholic archbishop warned a top Vatican office led by future Pope Benedict XVI about a priest who may have molested as many as 200 deaf boys, according to documents obtained by The New York Times, but the priest never was defrocked.
The documents were … Original source on Gaea Times at : Times report: Documents show Vatican was told about Wis. priest who may have molested 200 boys.

Maoists blow up police station in Bihar

PATNA – Suspected Maoists blew up a newly-constructed police station in Bihar’s Saran district, police said Thursday.

Armed Maoist guerrillas attacked the newly-built Bheldi police station in Amnaur block late Wednesday night and started firing indiscriminately.
They later blew up the building using dynamite. No casualties were reported.
Bihar police chief Neelmani said that the …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Malaysia’s High Court schedules sodomy trial of opposition leader Anwar to resume in May

Sodomy trial of Malaysia’s Anwar to resume in May

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia – The sodomy trial of Anwar Ibrahim will resume in May following a three-month interruption after the Malaysian opposition leader tried to force the judge to step down, the High Court said Thursday.
The politically charged trial has been disrupted since mid-February, when Anwar claimed …. Original source  : Malaysia’s High Court schedules sodomy trial of opposition leader Anwar to resume in May.

KC and the Sunshine Band co-founder Finch accused in Ohio of having sex with teenage boys

KC and Sunshine Band founder held on Ohio sex rap

NEWARK, Ohio – A music producer and co-founder of KC and the Sunshine Band responsible for such hits as “Shake Your Booty” and “Keep It Comin’ Love” has acknowledged having sex with teenage boys, police said Wednesday.
Richard R. Finch, 56, was arrested Tuesday after a boy …. Original article  : KC and the Sunshine Band co-founder Finch accused in Ohio of having sex with teenage boys.

Riverside County parents convicted of second-degree murder in diabetic daughter’s death

Parents convicted in diabetic daughter’s death

RIVERSIDE, Calif. – The parents of a 17-year-old girl who slipped into a diabetic coma and died were convicted of second-degree murder on Wednesday.
Gregory and Yvonne Latham also were each found guilty of felony willful child endangerment, the Riverside County district attorney’s office said.
Nanette Latham was found unresponsive in the … Read more >>>.

Justin Bieber defends manager, who pleads not guilty in connection to last year’s fan frenzy

Bieber: I’m ‘100 percent’ behind accused manager

NEW YORK – Justin Bieber is standing by his manager, who surrendered to police Wednesday in connection with a mall fan frenzy that sent five people to a hospital with minor injuries last year.
Scott “Scooter” Braun pleaded not guilty to charges of reckless endangerment, criminal nuisance and endangering the …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Justin Bieber defends manager, who pleads not guilty in connection to last year’s fan frenzy.

100 Australian police under investigation for forwarding racist e-mails; accused kills himself

Aussie police face discipline over racist e-mails

MELBOURNE, Australia – As many as 100 Australian police were being investigated Thursday over racist e-mails circulated in an internal police e-mail system, a scandal that cost the life of one officer.
The police ethical standards department found multiple e-mails that were too shocking to be released publicly, Chief Commissioner … Original article on : 100 Australian police under investigation for forwarding racist e-mails; accused kills himself.

Feds: Loaded guns, $700,000 cash found stashed in basement wall of reputed mobster’s Ill. home

Feds: Guns, cash stashed in reputed mobster’s home

CHICAGO – Federal agents searching a convicted mobster’s home near Chicago found loaded guns, nearly $730,000 in cash and tape recordings that may contain “criminal conversations” hidden behind a basement wall, according to court documents filed Wednesday.
FBI agents and U.S. Marshals executed a search warrant Tuesday at Frank … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Feds: Loaded guns, $700,000 cash found stashed in basement wall of reputed mobster’s Ill. home.

Child sex abuse expert tells Ore. jury that Boy Scouts put boys at risk

Trial: abuse expert says Scouts put boys at risk

PORTLAND, Ore. – The Boy Scouts of America showed reckless indifference to protecting young Scouts when it kept confidential two decades worth of files on suspected molesters among its troop leaders, a psychologist testified Wednesday as part of a $14 million lawsuit against the organization.
Despite creating a …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Child sex abuse expert tells Ore. jury that Boy Scouts put boys at risk.

California couple convicted of second-degree murder in diabetic daughter’s death

Calif. parents convicted in diabetic girl’s death

RIVERSIDE, Calif. – The parents of a Southern California girl who slipped into a diabetic coma and died have been convicted of second-degree murder.
Gregory and Yvonne Latham also were each found guilty Wednesday of felony willful child endangerment.
Seventeen-year-old Nanette Latham was found unresponsive in the family’s squalid mobile home … Read more »».

Texas jury finds mayor not guilty in deposit of $26,000 city check to personal account

Texas jury acquits mayor in lost check case

BROWNSVILLE, Texas – A jury has acquitted Brownsville’s mayor of theft and other charges surrounding the deposit of a city check into his personal account.
Jurors found Pat Ahumada Jr. not guilty Wednesday of felony theft, abuse of official capacity and misapplication of fiduciary property.
The $26,139 check issued in …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Texas jury finds mayor not guilty in deposit of $26,000 city check to personal account.

NCAA: Kentucky freshmen in foul trouble as Cornell makes run; Kansas State, Xavier trade lead

NCAA: Kentucky freshmen in foul trouble
Kentucky’s freshmen are getting into foul trouble, and Cornell isn’t going away.

John Wall and DeMarcus Cousins have picked up their third fouls in the last couple minutes, and the Big Red are back within 38-28 because of a 7-0 run.
Ryan Wittman, a 42.3 percent shooter from beyond the arc, continues …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : NCAA: Kentucky freshmen in foul trouble as Cornell makes run; Kansas State, Xavier trade lead.

NCAA: CBS ditches Cornell-Kentucky game in most regions for the Xavier-Kansas State game

NCAA: CBS ditches Cornell-Kentucky
Well, bad news for Kentucky fans. CBS has bagged its coverage for now in most regions in favor of the much closer Xavier-Kansas State game.

That might be good news for Cornell fans.
Denis Clemente just hit a 3-pointer and has 15 for the game, giving Kansas State a 49-44 lead with under 12 … Read more »».

New charge of second-degree murder filed against Everett, Wash., officer in man’s death

New charge of murder against Washington officer

EVERETT, Wash. – Prosecutors have filed a more serious charge against a Washington state police officer accused of fatally shooting an intoxicated man in a restaurant parking lot.
Everett police officer Troy Meade previously was charged with first-degree manslaughter in the June 10 death of Niles Meservey. Snohomish County prosecutors …. Original source  : New charge of second-degree murder filed against Everett, Wash., officer in man’s death.

Not just hippies versus cops: Calif. pot vote brings out well-organized groups on both sides

Calif. pot vote isn’t just hippies versus cops

SAN FRANCISCO – Now that a proposal to legalize pot is on the ballot in California, well-organized groups are lining up on both sides of the debate. And it’s not just tie-dyed hippies versus anti-drug crusaders.
So far, the most outspoken groups on the issue are those affiliated with … Read more »»».

NCAA: Xavier backcourt has 23 points; Kansas State duo scores 25 points as teams trade lead

NCAA: Nobody’s guarding the guards
Nobody’s guarding the guards in Salt Lake City!

The Xavier backcourt duo of Terrell Holloway and Jordan Crawford have combined for 23 points, the only two Musketeers in double-figures. Ditto for the backcourt mates of Jacob Pullen and Denis Clemente for Kansas State, who have combined for 25 points.
Neither pair is shooting …. Original source  : NCAA: Xavier backcourt has 23 points; Kansas State duo scores 25 points as teams trade lead.

NCAA: Kentucky closes first half on 30-6 run, building 32-16 lead against No. 12 seed Cornell

NCAA: Kentucky leads Cornell 32-16 at half

Well, at least the Cornell fans will have a short drive home, even if it ends up being an unhappy one. The Big Red’s campus in Ithaca is only a 55-mile drive from the Carrier Dome.
Kentucky extended its defense well onto the perimeter, creating 11 turnovers and turning them … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : NCAA: Kentucky closes first half on 30-6 run, building 32-16 lead against No. 12 seed Cornell.

NCAA: Ashley Judd leads cheers for Kentucky as team asserts itself vs. No. 12 seed Cornell

NCAA: Ashley Judd leading the cheers for Kentucky

Ashley Judd was on hand to see Kentucky run roughshod through New Orleans, and she’s in the crowd cheering on her alma mater in Syracuse, N.Y.
She has a lot to love.
This time it was Patrick Patterson pulling down a rebound and throwing it ahead to John Wall, who …. Read the original article  : here.

Federal jury finds Pfizer committed fraud in promoting drug, orders firm to pay $142 million

Pfizer faces $142M in damages for drug fraud

BOSTON – A federal jury has found that Pfizer Inc. violated anti-racketeering laws in promoting its epilepsy drug Neurontin for unapproved uses and must pay at least $142 million in damages.
The jury sided with California-based Kaiser Foundation Health Plan Inc. and Kaiser Foundation Hospitals, the first to try … Original source on Gaea Times at : Federal jury finds Pfizer committed fraud in promoting drug, orders firm to pay $142 million.

Chinese student gets suspended death sentence for murdering roommate in dispute over snoring

Chinese man gets death for killing snoring student

BEIJING – A Chinese university student who stabbed his sleeping roommate to death because he snored too much was given a suspended death sentence, state media reported Friday.
The court in Changchun, capital of northeast Jilin province, handed down the sentence to 24-year-old Guo Liwei who confessed to stabbing …. Original article  : Chinese student gets suspended death sentence for murdering roommate in dispute over snoring.

NCAA: Kentucky asserting itself vs. No. 12 seed Cornell; Xavier leads Kansas State 32-31

NCAA: Kentucky beginning to assert itself
John Wall gathered in a rebound moments ago, raced up the middle of the court and tossed a nifty pass ahead to Patrick Patterson, who put down an easy dunk for a 20-14 lead.

Wall and Patterson are wearing Kentucky jerseys tonight, but it’s easy to envision those two guys wearing … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : NCAA: Kentucky asserting itself vs. No. 12 seed Cornell; Xavier leads Kansas State 32-31.

Civilian wounded in Kashmir grenade explosion

SRINAGAR – One civilian was injured when separatist guerrillas hurled a grenade at a Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) bunker in Jammu and Kashmir’s Sopore town Friday.

Police said guerrillas targeted the bunker of the paramilitary force outside the State Bank of India branch in Sopore town, about 50 km from here, but the grenade exploded …. Original article  : Civilian wounded in Kashmir grenade explosion.

NCAA: Kentucky has one basket more than 4 minutes into second half as Cornell makes itna game

NCAA: Kentucky struggles to start 2nd half

Kentucky has only one basket more than 4 minutes into the second half, and a layup and a follow by Cornell’s Louis Dale has the Carrier Dome crowd chanting “Go Big Red!”
Kentucky still leads 34-20 with 15:41 left, but Cornell is doing its best to try to trim the …. Source article  : NCAA: Kentucky has one basket more than 4 minutes into second half as Cornell makes itna game.

Growing clerical sex abuse scandal in US, Italy tarnishes papacy

Sex abuse scandal in US, Italy taints papacy

VATICAN CITY – Revelations that the Vatican halted the investigation of a Wisconsin priest accused of molesting some 200 deaf boys have eerie echoes in Italy, where 67 deaf men and women accused two dozen priests of raping and molesting children for years.
Only now – a year after … Read more >>.

Five soldiers, 21 militants killed in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD – Five soldiers and 21 Islamist militants were killed Friday in clashes in Pakistan’s restive tribal region near the Afghan border, a security official said.

Major Fazalur Rehman, a spokesman for the paramilitary Frontier Corps, said the fighting started when dozens of militants attacked a security checkpoint in Ferozkhel area of Orakzai district. The soldiers …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Five soldiers, 21 militants killed in Pakistan.

Threats, obscene calls spreading against lawmakers in unsettling aftermath of health care vote

Threats against lawmakers spread after health vote

WASHINGTON – A fax bearing the image of a noose. Profane voice mails. Bricks thrown, a gas line cut. White powder sent to an office.
Democrats and a few Republicans revealed mounting numbers and unsettling details of threats against them Thursday in the emotional aftermath of the passage of the …. Read the original article  : Threats, obscene calls spreading against lawmakers in unsettling aftermath of health care vote.

FIU football player stabbed to death in on-campus incident

FIU football player stabbed to death
FIU running back Kendall Berry was stabbed to death in an on-campus incident late Thursday night, immediately sending shock and grief across the university community and putting police on a search for multiple suspects.

Berry, 22, was stabbed around 9 p.m., said Miami-Dade police Det. Javier Baez. Police were interviewing “several … Read : FIU football player stabbed to death in on-campus incident.

NYPD: White powder sent in threatening letter to Congressman ruled non-hazardous

NYPD: Powder sent to Congressman non-hazardous

NEW YORK – New York Police Department field tests have ruled a white powder sent with a threatening letter to the Queens office of Congressman Anthony Weiner is not hazardous.
The letter with suspicious white powder was discovered Thursday afternoon at his office in Kew Gardens.
Police say the letter was handwritten …. Source  : NYPD: White powder sent in threatening letter to Congressman ruled non-hazardous.

NCAA: K-State clings to lead vs. Xavier thanks to second-chance points; Kentucky leads Cornell

NCAA: Kansas State clinging to lead vs. Xavier

Kansas State has scored 16 second-chance points, one of the only reasons the Wildcats are clinging to a 44-38 lead. Xavier is getting to the foul line more and has forced five steals with about 15 minutes left in the game.
Just about everyone wearing K-State white has picked … Read : NCAA: K-State clings to lead vs. Xavier thanks to second-chance points; Kentucky leads Cornell.

US-based anti-corruption group says police officers demand nearly half of bribes in Mexico

Bribery study in Mexico says police the problem

MEXICO CITY – Police are the biggest culprits when it comes to demanding bribes in Mexico, a study on corruption says.
The questionnaire and analysis, conducted by the U.S.-based BRIBEline, found that 85 percent of bribe demands came from people associated with Mexico’s government. Forty-five percent of total demands …. Original source  : US-based anti-corruption group says police officers demand nearly half of bribes in Mexico.

AZ authorities: 50 illegal immigrants rescued from 2 drop houses, 10 human smugglers arrested

50 illegal immigrants, 10 smugglers arrested in AZ

PHOENIX – Arizona authorities say they arrested 10 human smugglers and rescued 50 illegal immigrants held in drop houses in Phoenix in two separate incidents this week.
Detectives from the Illegal Immigration Prevention and Apprehension Co-op Team made the first arrests Tuesday after a three-month investigation into a human … Read more »»».

Two LeT militants killed in Rajouri gun battle

JAMMU – Two Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) militants were Saturday killed in a gun battle with security forces in a mountainous forest area in Rajouri district of Jammu and Kashmir.

Security forces, comprising the army and police, cordoned off the forest near Dharamsal area of Rajouri district, about 120 km from Jammu, following a tip-off about the presence …. Source article  : Two LeT militants killed in Rajouri gun battle.

Pakistan recognises terrorism as shared threat with India: US

WASHINGTON – The United States says it’s encouraged by Pakistan’s counter-terrorism efforts as it believes that Islamabad now recognises terrorism as a “shared threat” with India and other countries.

Security and counter-terrorism efforts were part of the discussion at the first Pakistan-US strategic dialogue here this week “and we will continue our cooperation”, State Department spokesman … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Pakistan recognises terrorism as shared threat with India: US.

Tongan police charge 3, shipping company over ferry sinking that killed 74

3 charged over Tonga ferry sinking that killed 74

NUKU’ULOFA, Tonga – Tongan police have charged three people with manslaughter in the death of one of 74 passengers who died last year in a ferry sinking that was one of the tiny South Pacific country’s worst disasters.
Police Commander Chris Kelley said Friday that a charge of … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Tongan police charge 3, shipping company over ferry sinking that killed 74.

Pakistani cab driver charged in Chicago with Al Qaeda links

CHICAGO – A Pakistani American taxi driver with alleged ties to Ilyas Kashmiri, a terrorist leader in Pakistan linked with Mumbai terror suspects David Coleman Headley and Tahawwur Hussain Rana, has been charged with supporting Al Qaeda.

Raja Lahrasib Khan, 56, who became a naturalised US citizen in 1988, was arrested here Friday morning in his … Read more >>.

NCAA: Michigan State scores on first six possessions of second half to take lead

NCAA: Michigan State starts strong
Michigan State has scored on its first six possessions of the second half to edge ahead of Northern Iowa. Neither team has gone on a big run, and the team that does might well be the team that finds itself ahead at the end.

One of the things that the Spartans are …. Source  : NCAA: Michigan State scores on first six possessions of second half to take lead.

Mich. 911 dispatcher asks ‘Are you intoxicated?’, driver who called replies: ‘Absolutely’

Mich. police: Drunken driver called 911 on herself

EAST LANSING, Mich. – Police in Michigan have released a copy of a 911 call where a suspected drunken driver chats with an emergency dispatcher for about 20 minutes before she is pulled over and arrested.
In the first moments of the March 13 call, the dispatcher asks: “Are …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Mich. 911 dispatcher asks ‘Are you intoxicated?’, driver who called replies: ‘Absolutely’.

Maoists blow up police station, block office in Bihar

PATNA – Suspected Maoists blew up a newly-constructed police station and a block office in Bihar’s Rohtas district. They also torched 15 trucks, including eight of a private construction company engaged in road construction, police said Saturday.

More than 100 armed Maoist guerrillas attacked the newly-built police station and a block office at Tilouthu late Friday …. Source  : Maoists blow up police station, block office in Bihar.

NCAA: Duke leads Purdue 24-23 at halftime; teams combine to go 15 of 55 from the field

NCAA: Duke leads Purdue 24-23 at half
Halftime has mercifully come in Houston, where top-seeded Duke leads Purdue 24-23 in a game with about as much finesse as a lumberjack driving a dump truck.

The two teams have combined to go 15 of 55 from the field, including a dreadful 3 for 15 from beyond the arc …. Original source  : NCAA: Duke leads Purdue 24-23 at halftime; teams combine to go 15 of 55 from the field.

NCAA: Purdue takes lead vs. Duke; Blue Devils go more than 8 minutes without field goal

NCAA: Purdue takes lead with 9-2 run
Duke coach Mike Krzyzewski might want to remind his club that a loss ends its season.

The Blue Devils have gone more than 8 minutes without a field goal, and the Boilermakers have used a 9-2 run to take a 19-17 lead late in the first half.
It’s not like everything … Read more : NCAA: Purdue takes lead vs. Duke; Blue Devils go more than 8 minutes without field goal.

Police: Suspect in killing of FIU football player turns self in, while school tries to move on

Arrest made in FIU player slaying
The day began with FIU president Mark B. Rosenberg saying his school “will not rest” until the person responsible for the stabbing death of running back Kendall Berry was found.

Ending a frantic search that put an entire university on edge, Miami-Dade police said Friday night that Quentin Rashad Wyche, 22, …. Source article  : Police: Suspect in killing of FIU football player turns self in, while school tries to move on.

NCAA: Northern Iowa leads Michigan State 29-22 at halftime; Farokhmanesh has only 1 field goal

NCAA: Northern Iowa leads 29-22 at halftime

Kwadzo Ahelegbe knocked down an outside jumper just before the halftime buzzer, giving Northern Iowa 29-22 lead over Michigan State at the break.
All the more impressive considering star guard Ali Farokhmanesh has one field goal.
The Panthers are doing it with defense, holding Michigan State to one field goal over … Read more >>.

NCAA: Spartans’ point guard Kalin Lucas on bench in warmups; Purdue’s Bade picks up third foul

NCAA: Spartans’ Lucas watching from bench
Michigan State point guard Kalin Lucas is on the bench in warmups, his left leg in a walking boot. Last year’s Big Ten player of the year ruptured his Achilles’ tendon in the second round against Maryland, a blow made even worse because Northern Iowa has good guards.

Besides sharpshooter Ali … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : NCAA: Spartans’ point guard Kalin Lucas on bench in warmups; Purdue’s Bade picks up third foul.

NCAA: Purdue and Duke have combined to go 5 of 24 from the field in South Regional semifinal

NCAA: Purdue, Duke having trouble scoring
Perhaps the Boilermakers and Blue Devils got together before the game and outlined their own set of rules, a bit like a school yard game. You know, first one to 20 points wins?

Purdue went 6 minutes without making a field goal, Duke has been just as terrible on offense, and …. Read the original article  : here.

NCAA: Purdue has more airballs (3) than field goals (2) in first 5 minutes vs. top-seeded Duke

NCAA: Purdue _ more airballs than field goals

Matt Painter better get back to fundamentals during the first media timeout – as in, shots that don’t hit the iron don’t have much of a chance of going in.
His Boilermakers have more airballs (3) than field goals (2) in the first 5 minutes against top-seeded Duke, and … Read more : NCAA: Purdue has more airballs (3) than field goals (2) in first 5 minutes vs. top-seeded Duke.

NCAA: Northern Iowa’s Adam Koch gets 9 points early as Panthers jump out to quick lead

NCAA: Northern Iowa’s Koch gets 9 early
Ali Farokhmanesh was the guy who hit the key 3-pointer, made the big-time free throws, earned the cover of Sports Illustrated this week.

His running mate Adam Koch must have been a little bit jealous.
The Northern Iowa guard started 4 for 4 from the field and has nine early points, …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : NCAA: Northern Iowa’s Adam Koch gets 9 points early as Panthers jump out to quick lead.

NCAA: Duke looks to beat Purdue, return to round of eight for first time since 2004

NCAA: Duke looks to break slump
Here’s what qualifies as a slump for a program like Duke: It hasn’t been to the round of eight in the NCAA tournament since 2004.

Talk about great expectations.
The school with the best all-time winning percentage in the NCAA tournament will try to break its slide against fourth-seeded Purdue, a team …. Original source  : NCAA: Duke looks to beat Purdue, return to round of eight for first time since 2004.

NCAA: Michigan State goes the first 3-plus minutes without scoring as UNI takes early lead

NCAA: Michigan State starts slow
Northern Iowa’s linebacker of a sixth man Lucas O’Rear has a black brace on his left wrist that looks like the tape underneath a boxing glove.

The way he plays, don’t be surprised if it isn’t.
The physical Panthers defense is already causing problems for Michigan State, which went the first 3-plus minutes … Read : NCAA: Michigan State goes the first 3-plus minutes without scoring as UNI takes early lead.

NCAA: Michigan State plays Missouri Valley team 31 years after beating Indiana State for title

NCAA: It’s fate _ Northern Iowa-Michigan State

How about this for a cosmic joke: Thirty-one years to the day after Magic Johnson and Michigan State beat Larry Bird and Indiana State for the national championship, the Spartans are playing another Missouri Valley team in a regional semifinal.
Oh, and Johnson is on hand to see the game.
Rather …. Read the original article  : here.

Venezuela’s Chavez defends arrests of government opponents, criticizes Hillary Clinton

Chavez criticizes US as arrests stir concern

QUITO, Ecuador – Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez on Friday defended the arrest of a major TV channel owner, calling him a criminal and denying the government is carrying out an assault on press freedom.
The back-to-back arrests this week of two government opponents – including the owner of Venezuela’s only … Original source on Gaea Times at : Venezuela’s Chavez defends arrests of government opponents, criticizes Hillary Clinton.

NCAA: Baylor routs Saint Mary’s 72-49, earns shot vs. Duke or Purdue in South Regional final

NCAA: Baylor routs Saint Mary’s 72-49
Baylor’s road to redemption is rolling right through Houston, and the Bears will now have the chance to see whether it ends in Indianapolis.

The school that just seven years ago was embroiled in controversy has knocked off 10th-seeded Saint Mary’s 72-49, earning a shot against top-seeded Duke or Purdue in … Original source on Gaea Times at : NCAA: Baylor routs Saint Mary’s 72-49, earns shot vs. Duke or Purdue in South Regional final.

Pakistani infiltrator killed on border

JAMMU – A suspected Pakistani infiltrator was killed by Indian border guards in Ramgarh sector along the international border Sunday.

A Border Security Force (BSF) patrol party noticed an unusual movement along the barbed wire fence in Ramgarh sector, 45 km south-west of Jammu and challenged the suspected intruders. The infiltrators tried to escape to the …. Read the original article  : here.

Pope opens solemn Holy Week amid one of worst church crises in decades

Pope opens solemn Holy Week amid sex abuse crisis

VATICAN CITY – Pope Benedict XVI has opened the church’s solemn Holy Week amid increasing questions about his own handling of cases of sexual abuse of children by priests.
Benedict’s procession entered St. Peter’s Square on Sunday at the start of Palm Sunday Mass. The pontiff, in crimson …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Paige Birgfeld Body Found Rumors

COLORADO (GaeaTimes.com)- Recent reports state that the remains of the body of Paige Birgfeld, the single mother of three who splashed the front pages of tabloids after she went missing, has been found. However, it seems to be only a rumor, as there has been no confirmation of the reports so far, and [..] Read the original article: here.

Terror redux: Fear returns to the Kashmir Valley

SRINAGAR/NEW DELHI MA – As the sun sets in this scenic capital of Jammu and Kashmir, spreading a burning crimson on the horizon, Haajra Sofi, a 59-year-old mother, is worried and frantically waiting for her only son to return home after a day’s work.

“He has not come. God knows if everything is okay outside,” … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Terror redux: Fear returns to the Kashmir Valley.

Naveen Patnaik gets threat e-mail from ‘Maoists’

BHUBANESWAR – Orissa Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik has received a threat e-mail from ‘Maoists’, warning him to stop Operation Green Hunt in the state, an official said Sunday.

“We received the mail Saturday. It was received at his official e-mail address,” the chief minister’s public relations officer Sukanta Panda told IANS.
The e-mail was sent from …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Naveen Patnaik gets threat e-mail from ‘Maoists’.

1 arrested, 1 injured as paparazzi jostle turns into fisticuffs at Los Angeles airport

Paparazzo arrested after scuffle for spot at LAX

LOS ANGELES – A battle by a pair of paparazzi at Los Angeles International Airport ended with one of them in the hospital and the other in jail.
Airport police spokeswoman Sgt. Belinda Nettles said Saturday that 42-year-old Stefan Saad was arrested on suspicion of felony battery after the … Original source on Gaea Times at : 1 arrested, 1 injured as paparazzi jostle turns into fisticuffs at Los Angeles airport.

Calif. family celebrates release of Iraqi-American contractor believed kidnapped in Baghdad

Iraqi-American contractor
SAN DIEGO – Issa Salomi’s first call home was to his 27-year-old son Roger. He said memories of the birth of the oldest of his four boys and his son’s childhood sustained him after he was kidnapped in Baghdad in January.

A few hours later, the Iraqi-American contractor called his wife of 30 years, Muna, …. Source article  : Calif. family celebrates release of Iraqi-American contractor believed kidnapped in Baghdad.

Teen remembered as avid reader who loved animals; father urges crackdown on child predators

Tribute to SoCal teen recalls her love of animals

ESCONDIDO, Calif. – More than 1,000 people paid tribute Saturday to a 14-year-old girl whose remains were found more than a year after she disappeared walking to school. Her father urged anyone who cried for her to demand a crackdown on child predators.
Amber Dubois was a voracious … Read more »»».

NCAA: Butler beats Kansas State 63-56 in West Regional final, advances to Final Four

NCAA: Butler beats Kansas State 63-56
Da’Sean Butler’s shooting hand looks just fine in Syracuse, where West Virginia and Kentucky soon will be trying to join Butler in the Final Four.

The West Virginia star clutched his right hand in pain after a hard fall in the Mountaineers’ 69-56 win over Washington on Thursday night, and he …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : NCAA: Butler beats Kansas State 63-56 in West Regional final, advances to Final Four.

Lawyers for Chicago police seek notes of Wash. journalism professor who questioned boy’s guilt

Chicago police seek notes of Washington professor

SEATTLE – Lawyers for Chicago police officers being sued by an exonerated murder convict have subpoenaed the notes of a Western Washington University journalism professor who 16 years ago wrote stories questioning his guilt.
Assistant professor Carolyn Nielsen was a graduate student at Northwestern University’s Medill School of Journalism in … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Lawyers for Chicago police seek notes of Wash. journalism professor who questioned boy’s guilt.

19 militants killed in military strikes in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD – At least 19 militants were killed Saturday in separate operations carried out by Pakistan military in the restive northwest tribal region.

The security forces pounded militants’ hideouts with the help of jet planes in Sultanzai, Mamuzai, Dabori, Bagram, Baizot, Shadal and Anjani areas of Orakzai Agency, killing 13 militants and injuring scores others, Geo …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : 19 militants killed in military strikes in Pakistan.

Tribute to slain SoCal teen focuses on her love of animals

Hundreds attend tribute for slain SoCal teen

ESCONDIDO, Calif. – A 14-year-old San Diego-area girl whose bones were found more than a year after she vanished walking to school is being remembered as a voracious reader with a fertile imagination and a profound love of animals.
More than 1,000 people gathered Saturday on a sun-drenched track field …. Read the original article  : here.

2 police officers, 2 other men found shot to death at service station in western Mexico

2 cops, 2 others shot to death in western Mexico

MORELIA, Mexico – Two police officers and two other men have been found shot to death at a gas station in western Mexico.
Prosecutors in the state of Michoacan say the two officers reportedly had gone to the gas station to buy beer early Saturday. Neither officer …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : 2 police officers, 2 other men found shot to death at service station in western Mexico.

NFL player Joey Porter arrested in Bakersfield on suspicion of drunk driving, resisting arrest

NFL’s Joey Porter arrested in California
BAKERSFIELD, Calif. – Authorities say NFL linebacker Joey Porter has been arrested in Bakersfield on suspicion of drunken driving and accused of assaulting an officer and resisting arrest.

The California Highway Patrol says the 33-year-old player was confronted by officers early Saturday in a fast-food parking lot.
Porter refused to provide his … Original source on Gaea Times at : NFL player Joey Porter arrested in Bakersfield on suspicion of drunk driving, resisting arrest.

US says missing Iraqi-American contractor believed kidnapped in Baghdad is back in US hands

US says missing contractor in Iraq returns

WASHINGTON – The U.S. says an Iraqi-American contractor believed to have been kidnapped in Baghdad in January is back in American hands.
A Shiite extremist group claimed responsibility for the Jan. 23 kidnapping of Issa Salomi, 60, of El Cajon, Calif. A Pentagon statement on Saturday gave no details about … Read : US says missing Iraqi-American contractor believed kidnapped in Baghdad is back in US hands.

A slap on the wrist for Gilbert Arenas, whose escape from gun rap shows he’s a lucky man

Arenas a lucky man to beat gun rap
Gilbert Arenas is a lucky man.

Lucky he’s spending a few days in a halfway house instead of a few years in a prison. Lucky he plays in a league that guarantees contracts.
Lucky he didn’t put bullets in the guns he brought to work to show a teammate he [..] Read the original article: here.

NJ judge denies attempt by fired police officer, wife to block MTV’s ‘Jersey Shore’ episodes

NJ judge refuses to block ‘Jersey Shore’ episodes

TOMS RIVER, N.J. – A New Jersey judge has again denied a request to block the release of episodes of the MTV reality series “Jersey Shore.”
State Superior Court Judge Joseph Foster rejected the request of three people who say their reputations will be damaged because they’re shown fighting … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : NJ judge denies attempt by fired police officer, wife to block MTV’s ‘Jersey Shore’ episodes.

Lawsuits by ex-members of Scientology’s elite Sea Org allege labor violations

Ex-Scientology lawsuits reveal elite Sea Org group

SAN JACINTO, Calif. – At the edge of arid foothills far outside Los Angeles, hundreds of Scientology followers live on a gated, 500-acre campus and work long hours for almost no pay reproducing the works of founder L. Ron Hubbard and creating the church’s teaching and promotional materials.
The church …. Original source  : Lawsuits by ex-members of Scientology’s elite Sea Org allege labor violations.

NY immigrants credit police for easing tensions in months after fatal stabbing in bias attack

NY immigrants say tensions fade after bias attack

PATCHOGUE, N.Y. – Before an Ecuadorean immigrant was fatally stabbed in what prosecutors say was a hate crime by a swastika-tattooed teen, the illegal Latin American immigrants in this suburban middle-class village feared telling police about the young men on bikes who hurled stones and spit slurs at …. Original source  : NY immigrants credit police for easing tensions in months after fatal stabbing in bias attack.

Europe church sex abuse revelations have US victims re-examining 2008 secret meeting with pope

Church abuse victims dissect ‘08 pope meeting anew

BOSTON – Two years ago, Bernie McDaid stepped out of a police escort and into a Washington, D.C., chapel for a secret meeting with Pope Benedict XVI and a handful of clergy sex-abuse victims like him.
McDaid left afterward believing Benedict was beginning to understand the scope of his [..] Read the original article: here.

Australia says Chinese ruling on Australian Rio Tinto executive is a ‘very tough sentence’

Australia: China’s Rio Tinto sentence ‘very tough’

CANBERRA, Australia – Australia’s foreign minister says the 10-year prison term handed to an Australian employee of mining giant Rio Tinto by a Chinese court is “very tough sentence.”
Foreign Minister Stephen Smith was responding Monday to the conviction and sentencing in a Chinese court of Australian national Stern Hu …. Source article  : Australia says Chinese ruling on Australian Rio Tinto executive is a ‘very tough sentence’.

Moscow residents suffer nervous breakdowns after blasts

Moscow, March 29 (IANS/RIA Novosti) Dozens of Moscow residents and visitors turned to doctors with nervous breakdowns and heart attacks after two early morning bomb blasts in the capital’s subway, a hospital source said.

The blasts in Moscow’s Lubyanka and Park Kultury subway stations occurred during rush hour, killing at least 35 people and injuring over …. Source article  : Moscow residents suffer nervous breakdowns after blasts.

Wife says she’s relieved dissident Chinese lawyer is alive, appeals for his release to the US

Dissident’s wife pleas for China to let him leave

BEIJING – The wife of a dissident Chinese lawyer missing for more than a year said she was relieved to learn he is alive and appealed Monday to the government to allow him to leave China and join his family in the United States.
Attorney Gao Zhisheng resurfaced …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Wife says she’s relieved dissident Chinese lawyer is alive, appeals for his release to the US.

Don’t remove Frontier Constabulary from Islamabad: Police chief

ISLAMABAD – Islamabad Inspector General of Police (IGP) Syed Kaleem Imam has requested the interior ministry not to remove the Frontier Constabulary (FC) deployed for security of the Diplomatic Enclave here, a media report said Monday.

The government has decided to pull out the force after intelligence agencies revealed the involvement of some FC personnel in … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Don’t remove Frontier Constabulary from Islamabad: Police chief.

Moscow metro bombings kill 35 (Third Lead)

Moscow, March 29 (IANS/RIA Novosti) At least 35 people were killed when two powerful bombs ripped through two Moscow metro stations during rush hour Monday, officials said.

The first blast took place at 7.52 a.m. at the Lubyanka station close to the Federal Security Service (FSB) headquarters, killing at least 23 people and injuring 18. …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Moscow metro bombings kill 35 (Third Lead).

Hutaree Targeted By FBI

MICHIGAN (GaeaTimes.com)- Hutaree, a Christian militia group was raided by Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). According to reports, FBI agents on Sunday, Mar 28 raided places in Michigan, Indiana and Ohio, of which one was this Christian militia group. Michael Lackomar, the spokesperson of another militia group named Southeast Michigan …. Original article  : Hutaree Targeted By FBI.

Opposition party led by Suu Kyi meets to decide whether to take part in Myanmar election

Opposition deciding whether to run in Myanmar poll

YANGON, Myanmar – The party of detained opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi was meeting Monday to decide whether to participate in the first election in military-ruled Myanmar in two decades, the party spokesman said.
A senior party member called it “a life-or-death” decision.
More than 100 senior members of …. Original article  : Opposition party led by Suu Kyi meets to decide whether to take part in Myanmar election.

Chinese court sentences Rio Tinto employees to 7-14 years in jail on bribery, secrets charges

Rio Tinto employees get up to 14 years in jail

SHANGHAI – A Chinese court Monday sentenced four employees of mining giant Rio Tinto to jail terms of seven to 14 years on bribery and commercial secrets charges, in a case seen as a barometer of China’s treatment of foreign business as trade frictions increase.
The court …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Chinese court sentences Rio Tinto employees to 7-14 years in jail on bribery, secrets charges.

32 killed in Moscow metro bombings (Second Lead)

Moscow, March 29 (IANS/RIA Novosti) At least 32 people were killed Monday when blasts rocked two Moscow metro stations, an official said.

The first blast occurred around 8 a.m. at the central Moscow Lubyanka station, killing 20 people and injuring 11. The second blast occurred some 45 minutes later at the nearby Park Kultury station. The …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Venezuela Supreme Court bars Chavez foe from discussing criminal case with news media

Chavez foe barred from talking to media about case

CARACAS, Venezuela – Venezuela’s highest court on Sunday barred an outspoken opponent of President Hugo Chavez from talking to news media about criminal charges alleging he struck a police official.
The Supreme Court’s order prohibits lawmaker Wilmer Azuaje from “talking in relation to the present issue through any …. Source article  : Venezuela Supreme Court bars Chavez foe from discussing criminal case with news media.

Miracle for John Paul II’s sainthood case under renewed scrutiny, as is record on sex abuse

Miracle under scrutiny in John Paul beatification

VATICAN CITY – The Vatican this week marks the fifth anniversary of Pope John Paul II’s death amid some doubts that the miracle needed for his saint-making cause will stand up to scrutiny and questions about his record combatting pedophile priests.
The inexplicable cure of a young French nun from … Read more »».

One dead, two injured in Athens blast

ATHENS – One person was killed and two injured by a bomb that exploded outside a Greek government building late Sunday in Athens, according to local media.

Police believe that the dead man was holding the explosive device when it detonated in the Greek capital’s densely populated Patissia district. In a radio report, a witness said …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Verdict due Monday after China court trial of 4 Rio Tinto workers in bribery, secrets case

Verdict due after China trial of Rio Tinto workers

SHANGHAI – A Shanghai court is due to rule Monday on bribery and commercial secrets charges against four employees of mining giant Rio Tinto – a case seen as a barometer of China’s treatment of foreign business in a time of rising trade friction.
The verdict comes as … Read : Verdict due Monday after China court trial of 4 Rio Tinto workers in bribery, secrets case.

Arizona woman gets prison time for recruiting teens to commit robberies

Arizona woman sentenced for role in robbery spree

PHOENIX – An unemployed Phoenix mother who police say led her teenage sons and their friends to commit at least 20 armed robberies and assaults has been sentenced to 2?? years in prison.
Cynthia Roberson pleaded guilty to two counts of armed robbery and one count of aggravated robbery. … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Arizona woman gets prison time for recruiting teens to commit robberies.

FBI raids in Mich., Ohio, Ind. end with gun charge arrests; target may be Christian militia

Official: Gun charges after FBI raids in Midwest

ADRIAN, Mich. – The FBI said Sunday that agents conducted weekend raids in Michigan, Indiana and Ohio and arrested at least three people, and a militia leader in Michigan said the target of at least one of the raids was a Christian militia group.
Federal warrants were sealed, but …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : FBI raids in Mich., Ohio, Ind. end with gun charge arrests; target may be Christian militia.

San Francisco prosecutors say additional 1,400 cases may be dropped this week over lab scandal

More SF cases may be dropped in crime lab scandal

SAN FRANCISCO – Prosecutors are considering dropping an additional 1,400 cases this week because of a scandal at the police crime lab, a spokesman for the San Francisco District Attorney’s Office said.
Though no final decision has been made, the additional cases would be come on top … Read more >>.

Police: 2 arrested on suspicion of murder after California woman dragged alongside car, shot

Woman dies after being dragged, shot; 2 arrested

WESTMINSTER, Calif. – Authorities say two suspects have been arrested after a 38-year-old woman was dragged alongside a vehicle for several blocks and then shot during an apparent robbery attempt at a Southern California park.
Westminster police spokesman Van Woodson says Tuyet Thi Huynh of Garden Grove was at … Read more »».

22 militants killed in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD – At least 22 militants killed Sunday when Pakistan military retaliated an attack on its base in the northwest tribal region.

The security forces backed by gunship helicopters killed 22 militants in the restive Arakzai Agency, Geo TV reported quoting official sources.
The troops killed 10 militants who attacked an army base with rockets and …. Read the original article  : here.

FBI agents arrest some people on gun charges during weekend raids in Michigan, Ohio, Indiana

FBI makes arrests in Midwest raids
WASHINGTON – A U.S. official says some of the people arrested by the FBI in Midwest raids this weekend face gun charges.

FBI raids in Michigan, Indiana and Ohio have resulted in three arrests, and officials are pursuing other suspects.
The law enforcement official spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss the … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : FBI agents arrest some people on gun charges during weekend raids in Michigan, Ohio, Indiana.

Minn. attorney who found documents implicating pope in abuse scandal has long pursued Vatican

Lawyer who found documents has long pursued church

ST. PAUL, Minn. – Jeff Anderson has filed thousands of lawsuits alleging sex abuse by priests and won tens of millions of dollars for his clients, but he has had a bigger goal in mind for nearly two decades. He wants to bring his career-long legal crusade against …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Minn. attorney who found documents implicating pope in abuse scandal has long pursued Vatican.

Hutaree Militia Website: Nine Members Arrested

ADRIAN, MICHIGAN (GaeaTimes.com)- Nine members of the Michigan based militia group, Hutaree have been taken into custody by federal agents on Monday, with charges such as plotting to murder police officers as well as waging a battle against the United States government being levied against them.
In a website that is supposedly run by the …. Read the original article  : Hutaree Militia Website: Nine Members Arrested.

Diplomat: Somali pirates holding several dhows with about 100 Indian crew members

Somali pirates holding dhows with Indian crew

NAIROBI, Kenya – A Nairobi-based diplomat says Somali pirates are holding several dhows carrying an estimated 100 Indian sailors they have seized over the past five days.
The diplomat says the dhows were seized between Friday and Sunday but their exact number is unknown. The vessels are believed to have [..] Read the original article: here.

12-year-old boy to stand trial as adult in shotgun death of dad’s pregnant fiancee, her fetus

Boy faces adult trial in death of Pa. woman, fetus

PITTSBURGH – A judge’s ruling that a 12-year-old boy will be tried as an adult on charges of fatally shooting his father’s pregnant fiancee is an unprecedented move, an advocate for defense attorneys says.
Jordan Brown is charged with criminal homicide in the death of 26-year-old Kenzie …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : 12-year-old boy to stand trial as adult in shotgun death of dad’s pregnant fiancee, her fetus.

State TV: Iranian agents free diplomat kidnapped 2 years earlier in Pakistan

Iranian agents free diplomat kidnapped in Pakistan

TEHRAN, Iran – Iran’s intelligence agents mounted a “complicated” operation and freed an Iranian diplomat kidnapped in 2008 by gunmen in northwestern Pakistan, state television reported Tuesday.
The agents rescued Heshmatollah Attarzadeh of Iran’s Peshawar consulate “in a complicated intelligence operation” the report said, without providing any further details.
Iran’s consul … Original article on : State TV: Iranian agents free diplomat kidnapped 2 years earlier in Pakistan.

Serial killer Rodney Alcala to be sentenced for 5 deaths; Calif. jury has recommended death

Calif. serial killer to be sentenced for 5 deaths

SANTA ANA, Calif. – Serial killer Rodney Alcala will be formally sentenced Tuesday, three weeks after a jury recommended the death penalty for the 1970s strangling and beating deaths of four women and a 12-year-old girl.
The same jury convicted Alcala, 66, last month of five counts of … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Serial killer Rodney Alcala to be sentenced for 5 deaths; Calif. jury has recommended death.

22 suspected Al Qaeda militants arrested in Turkey

Ankara, March 30 (IANS/AKI) Twenty-two suspected Al Qaeda militants including the outfit’s head in Turkey, Serdar Elbasa alias Abu Zer, have been arrested in police raids in three provinces in the country.

The operation carried out by police in Aksaray, Ankara and Manisa provinces, led to the finding of documents belonging to the terrorist group and … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : 22 suspected Al Qaeda militants arrested in Turkey.

Nuns face guns, impunity in battle to protect poor farmers, stop land grabs in Brazil’s Amazon

Nuns face guns, impunity in trying to save Amazon

CARLINDA, Brazil – The gunmen arrived in the Amazon dusk, circling the house where Sister Leonora was hiding, rifles and pistols poking out the windows of three muddy pickup trucks.
A violent death was meant for the diminutive 64-year-old Roman Catholic nun, who has spent decades defending poor, … Read more »».

‘Black widows’ suspected in Moscow twin blasts

Moscow, March 30 (IANS/AKI) Russia has said a gang of so-called ‘black widow’ extremists could be behind Monday’s twin attacks by women suicide bombers on Moscow’s metro stations which killed at least 38 people and injured over 60.

At an emergency meeting held at the Kremlin Monday, Alexander Bortnikov, head of the Federal Security Service (FSB) … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : ‘Black widows’ suspected in Moscow twin blasts.

Russia hints at Pak-Afghan militants’ hand in blasts (Lead, Changing dateline)

TORONTO/MOSCOW – Russian foreign minister Sergey Lavrov, who is in Canada to attend a foreign ministers’ summit, said terrorists from the Pakistan-Afghan border region may have a hand in Monday’s suicide attacks in Moscow that left 38 people dead.

Lavrov said Islamic militants from the troubled region could have helped organise the attacks.
Two female suicide …. Original source  : Russia hints at Pak-Afghan militants’ hand in blasts (Lead, Changing dateline).

Guatemalan man convicted in killing of lawyer whose pre-slaying video set off uproar

Man convicted in killing of Guatemalan lawyer

GUATEMALA CITY – A Guatemalan judge sentenced a man to two years in prison Monday for his role in the killing of a prominent lawyer who accused the country’s president of his murder in a video made before his death.
Carlos Arago Cardona was convicted of illicit association, the first … Original source on Gaea Times at : Guatemalan man convicted in killing of lawyer whose pre-slaying video set off uproar.

Jesse Jackson criticizes Portland, Ore., police in latest fatal shooting

Jesse Jackson again critical of Portland police

PORTLAND, Ore. – The Rev. Jesse Jackson is back in Portland, Ore., and he’s critical of another fatal shooting involving police.
The longtime civil rights leader visited the city in February, shortly after an officer shot and killed an unarmed man, Aaron Campbell, on Jan. 29 in what began as … Original source on Gaea Times at : Jesse Jackson criticizes Portland, Ore., police in latest fatal shooting.

First alert on Canadian subway networks

TORONTO – For the first time in recent years, Canada put its subway networks on “extra alert” Monday after twin terrorist attacks in Moscow that killed 38 people.

In the country’s biggest city here, policemen could be seen patrolling subway stations of the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC).
“We haven’t officially heightened the security level in the …. Original article  : First alert on Canadian subway networks.

Headley accomplice Rana sticks to ‘not guilty’ plea

CHICAGO – Pakistani-Canadian terror suspect Tahawwur Hussain Rana, charged with playing a role in the November 2008 deadly Mumbai terror attacks, will not change his ‘not guilty’ plea to avoid a trial in court, according to his lawyer.

Pakistan-born Rana, 49, dressed in an orange jump suit, appeared before Judge Harry Leinenweber in the US District … Original article on : Headley accomplice Rana sticks to ‘not guilty’ plea.

G8 stands with Russia in fight against terrorism

TORONTO – Expressing support for Russia in its fight against terrorism, G8 nations Monday condemned the twin suicide attacks in Moscow that claimed 38 lives in packed subway stations.

Speaking as its chairman of G8 foreign ministers, Canadian Foreign Minister Lawrence Cannon said: “G8 foreign ministers today strongly condemned the cowardly terrorist attacks on the … Read this article on Gaea Times at : G8 stands with Russia in fight against terrorism.

Australian PM: Secrecy in Rio Tinto trial leaves room for doubt

Australia worries about Rio Tinto verdict
SYDNEY – Australia’s leader said Tuesday that secrecy surrounding China’s trial of four Rio Tinto workers for commercial espionage leaves room for doubt about the convictions.

Canberra says the jail sentence handed to Australian citizen Stern Hu on bribery charges was harsh, and has criticized the decision to keep media and …. Original article  : Australian PM: Secrecy in Rio Tinto trial leaves room for doubt.

US doctor convicted of sex abuse of boys in Guatemala, sentenced to 6 years in prison

US doctor convicted of sex abuse in Guatemala

GUATEMALA CITY – An American doctor living in Guatemala was convicted of sexually abusing four 10-year-old boys and sentenced to six years in prison Monday.
Prosecutor Alex Colop said the prosecution had wanted a longer sentence for Dr. Joshua T. Kotouc, but sexual abuse of boys is not eligible … Original article on : US doctor convicted of sex abuse of boys in Guatemala, sentenced to 6 years in prison.

‘Moscow bombers could be linked to Af-Pak terror network’

Moscow, March 30 (IANS/RIA Novosti) Plotters of the twin suicide blast at Moscow subway stations that killed 38 people could have links with the terror network based in the Afghanistan-Pakistan border region, Russia said Tuesday.

The deadly blasts in the subway could have been organised with support from abroad, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said.
“I …. Source article  : ‘Moscow bombers could be linked to Af-Pak terror network’.

Okla. police find 2 bodies near car sought after kidnapping of young girl and her mom’s death

2 bodies found near car sought in Okla. kidnapping

NORMAN, Okla. – Police in Oklahoma said Monday that two bodies found near a car belonging to a man accused of killing his estranged wife and kidnapping her 7-year-old daughter more than two months ago are likely those of the girl and the man.
Police said officers discovered … Read : Okla. police find 2 bodies near car sought after kidnapping of young girl and her mom’s death.

LA doctor and minister pleads not guilty to tax evasion charge stemming from herbal cure-all

LA doctor pleads not guilty to tax evasion, fraud

LOS ANGELES – A doctor and ordained minister pleaded not guilty Monday to charges of failing to report more than $1 million in income from an herbal product she allegedly promoted as a cure for cancer.
Christine Daniel, who operated Sonrise Medical Clinic in the San Fernando Valley, … Original source on Gaea Times at : LA doctor and minister pleads not guilty to tax evasion charge stemming from herbal cure-all.

Criticism of Vatican in Wisconsin over handling of abuse scandal after recent revelations

Criticism of Vatican in Wis. over abuse scandal

MILWAUKEE – A man who says he was among some 200 deaf boys allegedly molested by a priest in Wisconsin said Monday the Vatican’s defensive responses to revelations about the case make him feel like he did when he was 12, when no one would listen to him [..] Read the original article: here.

Bond hearings scheduled for suspected Christian militia members accused of plot to kill cops

Hearings scheduled for suspected militia members

DETROIT – Several people suspected to be members a Christian militia that prosecutors claim plotted to kill police officers are expected in court.
Bond hearings are scheduled Wednesday for the alleged ringleader, David Brian Stone, and other members of the Hutaree militia.
Nine members were arrested after a series of raids in …. Source  : Bond hearings scheduled for suspected Christian militia members accused of plot to kill cops.

LTTE supporters freed by Australian Supreme Court

SYDNEY – Three Australia-based Sri Lankan Tamil Tiger supporters were freed by the Supreme Court here Wednesday on bonds of good conduct after they pleaded guilty to helping the rebels.

The Supreme Court was told that a charity organisation in Australia was used as a cover to collect and send money to the Tamil Tigers. One … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : LTTE supporters freed by Australian Supreme Court.

90 Maoists, nine policemen killed in Chhattisgarh

RAIPUR – Chhattisgarh’s anti-Maoist drive has left at least 90 guerrillas and nine policemen dead since July last year, Director General of Police Vishwa Ranjan said Wednesday.

“The operation (Green Hunt) has been very successful, the Maoists are running from one forest to another to survive attacks by the forces. Till date we have killed at …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Four terrorists, two soldiers killed in Jammu-Kashmir

JAMMU – Four terrorists and two soldiers were killed in a gun battle in Jammu and Kashmir’s Rajouri district Wednesday, an army official said.

“Four militants and two soldiers were killed. The gunfight took long to finish as there was darkness and deep forest at the encounter site,” Brigadier General Staff of 16 corps Brig. Gurdeep …. Source article  : Four terrorists, two soldiers killed in Jammu-Kashmir.

Rajdhani restricted in Bihar due to Maoist shutdown

PATNA – Restrictions were imposed on the passage of Rajdhani Express in Bihar while two trains were cancelled due to fear of Maoist violence in wake of a shutdown Wednesday, a railway official said.

“The East Central Railway (ECR) cancelled four trains, changed the routes of two trains and imposed a speed restriction for Rajdhani Express …. Original article  : Rajdhani restricted in Bihar due to Maoist shutdown.

Indonesia seeks 15-year term for Australian found with 1.7 gram of marijuana in his suitcase

Australian faces 15-year term in Bali drug case

BALI, Indonesia – Indonesian prosecutors have charged an Australian man with drug smuggling and are seeking a 15-year prison sentence after a small amount of marijuana was found in his luggage as he arrived on the resort island of Bali.
Customs officials say 48-year-old Robert Paul McJannett of Perth … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Indonesia seeks 15-year term for Australian found with 1.7 gram of marijuana in his suitcase.

Maoists kill Congress leader in Jharkhand

RANCHI – Maoist guerrillas shot dead a Congress leader in Jharkhand’s East Singhbhum district to protest the Green Hunt operation in the state, police said Wednesday.

Gobardhan Mahali was killed late Tuesday, a fortnight after the operation was launched. The Green Hunt operation is a central-government aided campaign to flush out the rebels from the Maoist-affected … Read more »»».

Six Pakistani soldiers killed in suicide attack

ISLAMABAD – At least six Pakistani soldiers were killed in a suicide blast Wednesday in the country’s northwest tribal region bordering Afghanistan, state television reported.

The attack by a suicide bomber at Jansi Fort near Bara town in Khyber agency also injured 20 other security personnel, Xinhua news agency reported quoting PTV.
No group has so …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Officials: 9 people shot, 3 killed in Washington DC drive-by shooting; 3 arrests made

3 killed in Washington DC drive-by shooting

WASHINGTON – A hospital spokeswoman says three people are dead from a drive-by shooting that wounded six others in the nation’s capital.
Carolyn Hammond from Washington Hospital Center says one victim died at the scene, one was dead on arrival at the hospital, and the third died in the operating … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Officials: 9 people shot, 3 killed in Washington DC drive-by shooting; 3 arrests made.

Officials: 9 people shot, 3 killed in southeastern DC drive-by; 3 arrests but no motive yet

DC officials: 9 shot, 3 dead; arrests, no motive

WASHINGTON – A drive-by shooting killed three people and wounded six others in the nation’s capital Tuesday night, and three people were in custody, officials said.
A gunman sprayed bullets “into a crowd,” said Police Chief Cathy Lanier. The shootings of six men and three women happened about … Original article on : Officials: 9 people shot, 3 killed in southeastern DC drive-by; 3 arrests but no motive yet.

Pakistani cab driver with terror links to remain behind bars

CHICAGO – A Pakistani American taxi driver charged with trying to send money to a Pakistani terrorist leader with links to Al Qaeda will remain behind bars until a formal hearing on April 7.

Raja Lahrasib Khan, 56, arrested by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Friday, has claimed he had ties to Harkat-ul-Jihadi Islami chief …. Read the original article  : Pakistani cab driver with terror links to remain behind bars.

Mexican suspect: Juarez killings targeted vehicle of Texas jail guard

Mexican suspect: Killing targeted US guard’s car

CIUDAD JUAREZ, Mexico – A suspect in the killing of three people linked to the U.S. consulate says his gang was hunting for the vehicle of a Texas jail guard who was slain in one of the two white SUVs attacked, Mexican authorities said Tuesday.
The purported confession appears to …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Mexican suspect: Juarez killings targeted vehicle of Texas jail guard.

Oregon judge increases possible damages in sex abuse lawsuit against Boy Scouts of America

Ore. judge raises potential damages in Scouts case

PORTLAND, Ore. – An Oregon judge on Tuesday more than doubled the punitive damages the Boy Scouts of America could face if the organization loses a lawsuit filed by a man who was molested by a Scout leader in the early 1980s.
Multnomah County Circuit Court Judge John Wittmayer … Read more »».

Liberian teenager pleads guilty to sexual assault in gang-rape of 8-year-old girl in Phoenix

Liberian teenager pleads guilty in rape case

PHOENIX – A teenage Liberian refugee charged in the gang-rape of an 8-year-old girl in Phoenix last summer pleaded guilty in the case Tuesday, authorities said.
Maricopa County prosecutors said the 15-year-old boy, who was transferred from adult court to juvenile court last week, pleaded guilty to sexual assault, kidnapping, …. Source  : Liberian teenager pleads guilty to sexual assault in gang-rape of 8-year-old girl in Phoenix.

Officials: 9 people shot in southern DC, 3 arrested; police do not yet have motive

9 shot in DC, 3 arrested; police don’t have motive

WASHINGTON – Officials say nine people have been wounded in a drive-by shooting in the southern part of Washington, D.C., and that three arrests have been made.
Police Department spokesman Officer Hugh Carew says the shootings of six men and three women happened about 7:30 p.m. Tuesday. … Read more >>.

Calif. prosecutors deny concealing evidence in Polanski case, demand film director’s return

Prosecutors renew demands for Polanski’s return

LOS ANGELES – The contentious battle between the prosecution and defense in Roman Polanski’s 33-year-old sex case escalated Tuesday with prosecutors accusing the Polanski side of using “half-truths, omissions and speculation” to paint a false picture of the conflict.
Two prosecutors who handle appellate matters for the Los Angeles County district … Read more : Calif. prosecutors deny concealing evidence in Polanski case, demand film director’s return.

Priest involved in sex-abuse investigation of Wisconsin colleague defends Vatican’s response

Priest defends Vatican’s handling of Wis. scandal

MILWAUKEE – A priest who investigated allegations that another priest sexually abused some 200 deaf Wisconsin children over a 24-year span defended the Vatican’s handling of the case Tuesday, saying it’s unfair to assume the current pope knew about the investigation at the time.
The Rev. Thomas Brundage, who in …. Read the original article  : Priest involved in sex-abuse investigation of Wisconsin colleague defends Vatican’s response.

Condemned Houston man executed Tuesday evening for murder during robbery; appeals exhausted

Houston man executed for robbery-slaying
HUNTSVILLE, Texas – Condemned prisoner Franklin Dewayne Alix was executed Tuesday evening for fatally shooting a Houston man during a robbery.

Alix, 34, received lethal injection for the slaying of 23-year-old Eric Bridgeford, who interrupted Alix as he robbed the apartment of Bridgeford’s sister. The sister also had been abducted and raped …. Read the original article  : Condemned Houston man executed Tuesday evening for murder during robbery; appeals exhausted.

California officers on leave after rush-hour shooting of suspect after highway pursuit

Authorities investigate rush-hour police shooting

LOS ANGELES – Two Burbank police officers were placed on temporary leave Tuesday as authorities investigated their actions in the shooting of a suspect after a high-speed, rush-hour chase.
The shooting occurred Monday evening, when the stolen Chevrolet Blazer being pursued got stuck in traffic near Universal Studios.
Officers got out of their … Original article on : California officers on leave after rush-hour shooting of suspect after highway pursuit.

Philanthropist charged with molesting Russian dance student, 12, bringing boy back to Philly

Man charged in Pa. with molesting Russian preteen

PHILADELPHIA – Federal authorities say a philanthropist traveled to Russia to have sex with a 12-year-old dancer and brought the boy back to the United States.
Kenneth Schneider, founder of the New York-based Apogee Foundation, was arrested March 27 in Larnaca, Cyprus. He has been charged with traveling for …. Read the original article  : here.