Fred Willard finds late-night TV murder on ABC’s ‘Castle’ but says parody not offensive

Willard finds late-night TV murder on ‘Castle’

LOS ANGELES – Fred Willard says he enjoyed playing a fictional talk show host’s sidekick on ABC’s “Castle.” But he briefly pondered whether the episode might irk any real late-night hosts.
In Monday’s episode (10 p.m. EDT), a TV host is killed and those under suspicion include a younger man … Original source on Gaea Times at : Fred Willard finds late-night TV murder on ABC’s ‘Castle’ but says parody not offensive.

Moscow judge shot to death in apartment building; presided in trial of skinheads

Moscow judge killed in apartment building
MOSCOW – Russian officials say a judge of Moscow’s City Court has been shot to death in the stairwell of his apartment building.

The Investigative Committee, Russia’s top investigative body, identified the victim of the Monday morning attack as Eduard Chuvashov.
The state news agency RIA Novosti says Chuvashov was the judge …. Original article  : Moscow judge shot to death in apartment building; presided in trial of skinheads.

Ga. DA to announce whether he’ll file charges over sex assault claims against Roethlisberger

DA to announce decision in Roethlisberger case

MILLEDGEVILLE, Ga. – A district attorney in central Georgia will announce if he plans to file charges in a case of sexual assault claims against Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger.
District Attorney Fred Bright says he’s reviewed the investigation reports and will hold a news conference Monday to announce his …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Ga. DA to announce whether he’ll file charges over sex assault claims against Roethlisberger.

Obama, world leaders work to stop nuclear spread, prohibit weapons from reaching terrorists

Obama, world leaders work to stop nuclear spread
WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama and presidents, prime ministers and other top officials from 47 countries start work Monday on a battle plan to keep nuclear weapons out of terrorist hands.
Confronting what he calls the “single biggest threat to U.S. security,” Obama is looking …. Source  : Obama, world leaders work to stop nuclear spread, prohibit weapons from reaching terrorists.

Pope, elected for life, highly unlikely to quit over past abuse cases, no matter the criticism

Despite outrage from critics, popes rarely resign

NEW YORK – Only a few popes have resigned in the history of the Roman Catholic Church. Don’t expect Pope Benedict XVI to join their ranks.
The uproar caused by reports that, as an archbishop years ago in Germany and later as a Vatican cardinal, Benedict and his aides were … Original article on : Pope, elected for life, highly unlikely to quit over past abuse cases, no matter the criticism.

Medical parole rejected for jailed China dissident after cancer feared, wife asks for release

Medical parole rejected for jailed China dissident

BEIJING – Chinese authorities have rejected a request for medical parole for a dissident who has championed AIDS victims and was imprisoned for sedition after being accused of plotting to disturb the Olympic Games, his wife said Monday.
Zeng Jinyan appealed last week to Beijing prison authorities, saying a medical …. Source  : Medical parole rejected for jailed China dissident after cancer feared, wife asks for release.

Person familiar with deal tells AP that Jets acquire Super Bowl MVP Holmes from Steelers

AP Source: Jets acquire WR Holmes from Steelers

NEW YORK – The New York Jets sure know how to make headlines.
In their latest big move of a busy offseason, the Jets acquired talented but troubled wide receiver Santonio Holmes from the Pittsburgh Steelers on Sunday night for a fifth-round pick in this month’s draft, according to …. Original source  : Person familiar with deal tells AP that Jets acquire Super Bowl MVP Holmes from Steelers.

Prosecutors arrest SKorean man for allegedly spying for NKorea, kidnapping activists

Prosecutors arrest SKorean for spying for NKorea

SEOUL, South Korea – A South Korean man has been arrested for allegedly spying for Pyongyang and working with its military to kidnap activists who helped North Koreans defect, officials said Monday.
The 55-year-old man, who was arrested last week and who denies the charges, is accused of taking up …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Prosecutors arrest SKorean man for allegedly spying for NKorea, kidnapping activists.

Bodies of gays in Senegal desecrated amid rising homophobia across Africa

Even after death, abuse against gays continues

THIES, Senegal – Even death cannot stop the violence against gays in this corner of the world any more.
Madieye Diallo’s body had only been in the ground for a few hours when the mob descended on the weedy cemetery with shovels. They yanked out the corpse, spit on its … Read more >>.

Cuban police break up traditional weekly protest march by ‘Ladies in White’ dissident group

Police bar Cuba’s ‘Ladies in White’ from marching

HAVANA – Police broke up a weekly march by wives and mothers of imprisoned Cuban opposition leaders Sunday, forcing them onto a bus and driving them home as a pro-government crowd screamed insults.
Uniformed police and plainclothes security agents blocked a sidewalk along Havana’s Fifth Avenue, stopping five members … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Cuban police break up traditional weekly protest march by ‘Ladies in White’ dissident group.

Troubled real estate market blamed for increase in rental scams by bogus landlords

Real estate troubles causing jump in rental scams

SAN FRANCISCO – Troubles in the real estate market are being blamed for helping to fuel what was once a rare type of scam – swindling hopeful tenants out of money by pretending to be a landlord, according to officials.
With a dramatic increase in the number of vacant … Read : Troubled real estate market blamed for increase in rental scams by bogus landlords.

Obama: Al-Qaida would use nuke if it could; terrorist access ‘biggest threat’ to security

Obama: Al-Qaida would use nuke if it could
WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama says that if al-Qaida acquired a nuclear weapon it would not hesitate to use it.
The president says the threat of nuclear weapons falling into terrorist hands is the single biggest threat to U.S. security.
He says his gathering of more than 40 … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Obama: Al-Qaida would use nuke if it could; terrorist access ‘biggest threat’ to security.

On eve of nuclear summit, Obama holds series of individual meetings with foreign leaders

Ahead of nuclear talks, Obama sees foreign leaders
WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama has begun a series of meetings with foreign leaders who have come to Washington for his nuclear security conference.
The first to arrive for talks at Blair House across from the White House was India’s prime minister, Manmohan Singh (MUHN’-moh-hahn sing). Obama …. Source  : On eve of nuclear summit, Obama holds series of individual meetings with foreign leaders.

Kidnapped journalist found with throat slit in central Mexico after ransom demand

Kidnapped Mexican jounalist found with throat slit

MEXICO CITY – The body of a kidnapped Mexican journalist has been found with his throat slit, federal prosecutors said Sunday.
The family of Enrique Villicana Palomares, a columnist for the daily newspaper The Voice of Michoacan in central Mexico, reported him missing last week after he didn’t make it …. Original article  : Kidnapped journalist found with throat slit in central Mexico after ransom demand.

Pope’s many years in ivory tower help explain troubled handling of sex abuse cases

Pope’s ivory tower past adds to his detachment

VATICAN CITY – Long before entering Vatican life, Pope Benedict XVI won renown as a theologian and a German university professor, penning more than 40 books and winning a devoted following of students who respected his prodigious memory and brilliant mind.
One thing absent from his resume? Significant time … Read more : Pope’s many years in ivory tower help explain troubled handling of sex abuse cases.

Obama focuses on blocking nuclear terrorism as he gathers world leaders for weapons forum

Obama takes non-nuclear pledge to world leaders
WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama’s pledge to one day rid the world of nuclear weapons runs up against global realities this week when representatives from 47 countries try to craft an agreement on keeping nuclear weapons out of terrorist hands.
Sweeping or even bold …. Source  : Obama focuses on blocking nuclear terrorism as he gathers world leaders for weapons forum.

No body? Prosecutors say no problem most of the time, despite challenges; cases more common

No body? No problem convicting, 90 percent of time

NEWARK, N.J. – Police in New Jersey believe they have solved one of the coldest cases in the state’s history: the disappearance of five Newark teenagers in 1978.
Now, prosecutors have a difficult task: Prove the teens were murdered even though their bodies were never found.
Murder cases where … Read more : No body? Prosecutors say no problem most of the time, despite challenges; cases more common.

Greek police say 6 arrested people are members of Revolutionary Struggle terrorist group

Greek police arrest 6 domestic terrorism suspects

ATHENS, Greece – Greek police have arrested six people suspected of being members of Revolutionary Struggle, a terrorist group accused of a rocket strike against the U.S. Embassy and the shooting of a riot policeman, authorities said Sunday.
The five men and one woman, all in their 30s, were detained … Read : Greek police say 6 arrested people are members of Revolutionary Struggle terrorist group.

Angered by abuse charge against Catholic priest, Kenyans ask why church didn’t investigate

Abuse charge against Catholic priest roils Kenya

NAIROBI, Kenya – After three young men and a boy told police last June an Italian priest had been sexually molesting them for years at a shelter for poor children, the most senior Roman Catholic cleric in Kenya announced the church would investigate thoroughly.
Ten months later, nothing has been …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Israeli rights groups urge army to cancel order allowing West Bank deportations

Rights groups slam new West Bank deportation rules

RAMALLAH, West Bank – Israel’s military has issued new orders that human rights groups warned Sunday could lead to the expulsion of tens of thousands of Palestinians from the West Bank.
Under the new rules, anyone caught living in the West Bank without an Israeli permit could face expulsion …. Source article  : Israeli rights groups urge army to cancel order allowing West Bank deportations.

Maoists stepped into vacuum between tribals, government: Home Secretary (Interview)

NEW DELHI – “Overenthusiastic” officials tried to shift tribal people out of their homes in the forests and drove them into the extended arms of Maoists who exploited their vulnerability to win them over to their side, Home Secretary G.K. Pillai has said.

“Overenthusiastic collectors and other officers who tried to shift them (tribes) out of …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Bihar official sentenced to seven years in prison for murder

A local court in Bihar today sentenced a senior state government official to seven years in prison for murdering a villager 25 years ago.

The official Chandrabhushan Rai found guilty by the court for murdering a villager in a case of land dispute was posted as the Block Development Official at Jhanjharpur block in north Bihar’s …. Read the original article  : Bihar official sentenced to seven years in prison for murder.

Orissa to provide land to martyrs’ families

BHUBANESWAR – The Orissa government will provide free land for families of policemen who die fighting Maoists to build houses, Revenue and Disaster Minister S.N. Patro said Tuesday.

The martyr’s family will have the choice to select land either in urban or rural areas. The family will have to apply for it to the revenue department,” … Original article on : Orissa to provide land to martyrs’ families.

The role Cameron Douglas never wanted: Hollywood heir who crashed, burned with NYC drug rap

The demise of Hollywood heir Cameron Douglas

NEW YORK – It was the summer of 2009 and Cameron Douglas was strung out on heroin – again.
Holed up in a trendy Manhattan hotel, the wayward heir to Hollywood royalty – son of Michael, grandson of Kirk – was shooting up sometimes six times a day.
His own stabs … Original article on : The role Cameron Douglas never wanted: Hollywood heir who crashed, burned with NYC drug rap.

Terror plot ring leader in Canada goes on trial

TORONTO – The ring leader of a terror plot, which could have been Canada’s 9/11, has gone on trial here along with two accomplices.

The plot was unearthed in June 2006 with the arrest of 18 Muslim men from Toronto area.
The plotters had planned to storm and blow up Canada’s parliament in Ottawa, take leaders …. Read the original article  : Terror plot ring leader in Canada goes on trial.

Inquest to begin in 1986 Massachusetts shooting death of accused Alabama professor’s brother

Inquest into Mass. shooting by Amy Bishop to begin

BOSTON – Long before three professors at the University of Alabama-Huntsville were fatally shot during a faculty meeting, Amy Bishop, who is accused in that shooting, was cleared in her 18-year-old brother’s killing when authorities ruled his death an accident.
More than two decades later, a Massachusetts judge …. Original article  : Inquest to begin in 1986 Massachusetts shooting death of accused Alabama professor’s brother.

Early dividends for Obama nuke summit: China on Iran sanctions, Ukraine on uranium

Obama’s nuclear summit yields early dividends
WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama’s nuclear summit has paid early dividends: China’s agreement to work with the U.S. on possible sanctions against Iran and Ukraine’s decision to rid itself of nuclear bomb-making materials.
Obama opened the global security summit Monday night after two days of meetings with … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Early dividends for Obama nuke summit: China on Iran sanctions, Ukraine on uranium.

No charges, but Roethlisberger could face punishment from NFL after sexual assault claims

Roethlisberger could face punishment from NFL

MILLEDGEVILLE, Ga. – Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger may have avoided criminal charges after a college student accused him of sexually assaulting her in Georgia, but he must meet with NFL commissioner Roger Goodell and could face punishment from the league.
And Roethlisberger said he knows he’ll have to work to … Read more >>.

Mother testifies that Las Vegas man laughed while attacking her and baby with ax

Nevada ax attack case hearing to continue Thursday

LAS VEGAS – Sonia Lisset Castro said she pleaded for her life and that of her baby but the stranger attacking them with a medieval-style battle ax on a residential street only mocked her and kept hacking.
“I was saying in English, ‘Please, please leave me alone!’ But he …. Source  : Mother testifies that Las Vegas man laughed while attacking her and baby with ax.

Court orders Malaysian jailed, whipped over acid attack on wife who refused to have sex

Malaysian gets flogging for acid attack on wife

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia – A court sentenced a Malaysian man to six years in prison and ordered him to be flogged with a rattan cane after he splashed acid on his wife for refusing to have sex with him, an official said Tuesday.
Supian Hani Ismail began serving the … Original source on Gaea Times at : Court orders Malaysian jailed, whipped over acid attack on wife who refused to have sex.

Kyrgyz interim government says deposed president must come to capital or face arrest

Kyrgyz leader must come to capital or face arrest

JALAL-ABAD, Kyrgyzstan – A leader of the self-declared interim government that has claimed power in Kyrgyzstan said Tuesday the deposed president must return to the capital or face arrest by special forces.
But ousted president Kurmanbek Bakiyev was defiant, rallying some 5,000 supporters in his power base and … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Kyrgyz interim government says deposed president must come to capital or face arrest.

Red Cross says 8 staff kidnapped by armed group in eastern Congo

Red Cross: 8 staff kidnapped in eastern Congo

GENEVA – Eight Red Cross staff have been kidnapped by an armed group in eastern Congo, the international aid group said Tuesday.
The seven Congolese and one Swiss national were seized Friday afternoon near the town of Fizi in South Kivu province by the Mai Mai Yakutumba rebels, the … Read more : Red Cross says 8 staff kidnapped by armed group in eastern Congo.

Protesters insist on immediate Parliament dissolution despite ruling to dissolve ruling party

Protesters demand immediate Parliament dissolution
BANGKOK – Anti-government protesters threatened Tuesday to unleash another street “offensive” against the prime minister and described the Election Commission’s unexpected order to disband his ruling party as just a ploy to buy time in Thailand’s political crisis.
On Monday, the commission ordered the dissolution of the Democrat Party for …. Source article  : Protesters insist on immediate Parliament dissolution despite ruling to dissolve ruling party.

California man pleads guilty to posing as Navy officer, raising money he spent on himself

Calif. man pleads guilty to posing as Navy officer

LOS ANGELES – A California man who posed as a military officer and sought donations that he claimed would help wounded veterans pleaded guilty Monday to federal fraud charges in the scam, federal prosecutors said.
James Kent Barbee, 60, of Pacific Grove pleaded guilty to a felony count …. Read the original article  : California man pleads guilty to posing as Navy officer, raising money he spent on himself.

Al Qaeda could get nukes from Pakistan: US

WASHINGTON – The US believes Al Qaeda is actively in search of a nuclear bomb and fears it could get one through criminal gangs or by infiltrating nuclear labs in Pakistan or other vulnerable nations.

“I think the Al Qaeda is looking for those vulnerabilities and facilities and stockpiles in different countries that would allow them …. Source  : Al Qaeda could get nukes from Pakistan: US.

US, India to discuss Headley access

WASHINGTON – India’s request for access to David Coleman Headley, a Pakistani American key plotter of the Mumbai attacks, is expected to gain traction after Sunday’s meeting between President Barack Obama and Prime Minister Manmohan Singh.

“Obviously, we have kept India apprised of our ongoing investigation with respect to Headley,” State Department spokesman P J Crowley … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : US, India to discuss Headley access.

Brazil: Rancher found guilty in killing of Amazon defender, US nun Dorothy Stang

Brazilian rancher guilty in US nun’s murder

RIO DE JANEIRO – A Brazilian rancher accused of ordering the murder of U.S. nun and Amazon defender Dorothy Stang was found guilty and sentenced to 30 years in prison.
Jurors in the jungle city of Belem reached the decision late Monday after 15 hours of deliberations, according to a …. Source article  : Brazil: Rancher found guilty in killing of Amazon defender, US nun Dorothy Stang.

Mexico waiting for forensic tests before deciding on arrest of TV producer in wife’s death

Mexico: Producer stays free pending forensic tests

CANCUN, Mexico – Mexican investigators are waiting for the results of forensic tests before deciding whether to arrest a Hollywood television producer in the death of his wife, authorities said Monday.
Quintana Roo state Attorney General Francisco Alor gave no details during a news conference on what tests were performed …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Mexico waiting for forensic tests before deciding on arrest of TV producer in wife’s death.

Mother tells judge that Las Vegas man laughed while wounding her, killing baby with battle ax

Mother testifies at hearing in Nev. ax attack case

LAS VEGAS – A woman testified through tears and a translator Monday that a Las Vegas man mocked her as she pleaded for him to stop hacking her and her 4-month-old son with a medieval-style battle ax on a residential street.
Sonia Lisset Castro peeled back a gauzy …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Mother tells judge that Las Vegas man laughed while wounding her, killing baby with battle ax.

India asks Canada to curb Sikh separatists

WASHINGTON – Two months before the 25th anniversary of the bombing of Air-India flight Kanishka, India has asked Canada to monitor surging activities of Sikh separatists in that country when Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh met his Canadian counterpart Stephen Harper.

In his 30-minute meeting with Harper on the sidelines of the Nuclear Security Summit at … Read more »».

Chinese ship captain, officer arrested by Australian police for damages to Great Barrier Reef

2 from ship that smashed Australian reef arrested

SYDNEY – Australian police arrested a Chinese ship captain and officer Wednesday and charged them with damaging the Great Barrier Reef, more than a week after their coal carrier ran aground and tore a two-mile (three-kilometer) gash in the protected area.
The 755-foot (230-meter) Shen Neng 1 veered into …. Read the original article  : Chinese ship captain, officer arrested by Australian police for damages to Great Barrier Reef.

Hundreds of Israelis flee from Egypt’s Sinai Peninsula after ‘urgent’ travel warning

After warning, hundreds of Israelis flee Sinai

JERUSALEM – Hundreds of Israeli travelers returned home after Israel warned its citizens to urgently leave Egypt’s Sinai Peninsula because of a kidnapping alert, police said Wednesday.
In the unusually strong wording late Tuesday, Israel’s anti-terror office called on all Israelis in Sinai “to leave immediately and return home,” and …. Source article  : Hundreds of Israelis flee from Egypt’s Sinai Peninsula after ‘urgent’ travel warning.

Attorney for man scheduled to be sentenced in Iowa coach’s killing maintains client was insane

Man to be sentenced in Iowa coach’s killing

IOWA CITY, Iowa – The attorney for a man facing a life sentence for the slaying of a nationally known Iowa high school football coach maintains her client was insane at the time of the shooting.
Mark D. Becker, 24, was convicted last month of first-degree murder in the … Read more »».

Parent protester says 2 arrested during school furlough sit-in at Hawaii governor’s office

2 arrested during protest at Hawaii gov’s office

HONOLULU – The dispute over school furloughs between Hawaii Gov. Linda Lingle and a group of frustrated parents is now a week old, and even with the arrest of two demonstrators and the threat of even more arrests, no resolution on the matter appears to be near.
Without unfettered … Original source on Gaea Times at : Parent protester says 2 arrested during school furlough sit-in at Hawaii governor’s office.

Jailed ULFA chairman can visit ailing mother: Gogoi

GUWAHATI – The Assam government will have no objection in allowing jailed ULFA chairman Arabinda Rajkhowa to visit his ailing 90-year-old mother, especially with people celebrating Assamese New Year or Bohag Bihu, Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi said Wednesday.

“I received a written appeal from Rajkhowas family to allow him to see his old mother during Bihu. …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Jailed ULFA chairman can visit ailing mother: Gogoi.

Judge: Wash. woman to stand trial in killing of pregnant woman whose baby was ripped from womb

Woman to stand trial in baby ripped from womb case

KENNEWICK, Wash. – A Washington state woman accused of fatally stabbing a pregnant woman and cutting the woman’s nearly full-term baby from her womb has been ruled competent to stand trial.
Benton County Superior Court Judge Robert Swisher issued his ruling Tuesday in the case of Phiengchai …. Source  : Judge: Wash. woman to stand trial in killing of pregnant woman whose baby was ripped from womb.

Iraq officials say gunmen killed Sunni cleric after morning prayers in Baghdad

Sunni cleric killed in Baghdad shooting
BAGHDAD – Gunmen killed a Sunni cleric early Wednesday, spraying him with bullets outside a Baghdad mosque where he had just finished leading morning prayers, officials said.

Sheik Ghazi Jabouri was gunned down in a hail of automatic-weapons fire outside the al-Rahman mosque in the primarily Sunni-neighborhood of Azamiyah in north …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Iraq officials say gunmen killed Sunni cleric after morning prayers in Baghdad.

In role switch, Argentines to try probing crimes against humanity during Franco era in Spain

Argentina tries probing crimes of Franco’s Spain

BUENOS AIRES, Argentina – Argentine human rights groups are turning the tables on Spain, hoping to open a judicial probe of murders and disappearances committed during the Spanish Civil War and the long dictatorship of Gen. Francisco Franco.
Lawyers representing Argentine relatives of three Spaniards killed during the 1936-39 war … Original article on : In role switch, Argentines to try probing crimes against humanity during Franco era in Spain.

Haleigh Cummings Case Revisited

FLORIDA (GaeaTimes.com)- Ronald Cummings discovered his daughter Haleigh Cummings to be missing as he returned to his house from his work on Feb 10 in the year 2009. Since then there has been no news about Haleigh Cummings. No one has been able to confirm whether the girl is dead or alive. The cops have … Original article on : Haleigh Cummings Case Revisited.

Vatican goes into damage control mode, floating new initiatives ahead of papal trip

Vatican goes into damage control mode over abuse

VATICAN CITY – The Vatican has gone into full-fledged damage control mode in the priest sex abuse scandal ahead of the pope’s first foreign trip since it erupted. Officials are promising surprising new initiatives. The pope’s personal secretary is speaking out. And bishops around the world are being … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Vatican goes into damage control mode, floating new initiatives ahead of papal trip.

One guerrilla killed in Kashmir gunfight

SRINAGAR – Security forces gunned down a separatist guerrilla in a forest area of Jammu and Kashmir’s Kupwara district, a defence spokesperson said here.

Forces of the Rashtriya Rifles (RR) and police jointly surrounded the Rainawadi forest area near Handwara in Kupwara. During searches, the forces came under fire from hiding militants. This led to an … Read : One guerrilla killed in Kashmir gunfight.

Police: New Zealand man watched strippers after leaving baby in car

Police: NZ man at strip club leaves baby in car

WELLINGTON, New Zealand – Police arrested a man for leaving his 1-year-old baby in a car unattended during the early hours while he watched strippers at a nightclub in New Zealand’s capital, and have placed the boy in welfare agency care.
A passer-by called police after seeing …. Source  : Police: New Zealand man watched strippers after leaving baby in car.

No dialogue before steps taken against 26/11 attackers: PM

WASHINGTON – A fortnight before a likely meeting with his Pakistani counterpart Yousaf Raza Gilani in Bhutan, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh Tuesday said India can resume dialogue with Pakistan on all issues only if it takes “credible steps” to bring the known perpetrators of the Mumbai carnage to justice.

Underscoring India’s growing exasperation with lack of … Original source on Gaea Times at : No dialogue before steps taken against 26/11 attackers: PM.

Seahawks tell LB Leroy Hill to take care of personal issues, not practice

Seahawks tell LB Hill to stay home
RENTON, Wash. – The Seahawks have told linebacker Leroy Hill to stay away from this week’s minicamp to deal with his personal issues.

Coach Pete Carroll said after practice Tuesday that he and general manager John Schneider advised Hill it was “best for him to take care of some things” …. Source article  : Seahawks tell LB Leroy Hill to take care of personal issues, not practice.

Youth tears Bihar CM’s flag, arrested

Police have arrested a youth for tearing apart the flag of Bihar chief minister Nitish Kumar.
The Indian tri-colour was fitted on the bonnet of CM’s car parked in the portico of Old Secretariat building.

Police said Sheikh Abdul, a disabled youth from east Champaran district in Bihar, had sought an appointment with the chief secretary …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Youth tears Bihar CM’s flag, arrested.

Feds say ex-engineer sold military secrets to China for money; defense says info was ‘obvious’

Opening statements begin in Hawaii spy trial

HONOLULU – Federal prosecutors on Tuesday accused a former B-2 stealth bomber engineer of betraying the U.S. by selling military secrets to China, but his defense countered that the information he passed on was “obvious” and “well-known.”
Noshir Gowadia, 66, disclosed “vulnerabilities of our nation’s most important strategic assets” and …. Original source  : Feds say ex-engineer sold military secrets to China for money; defense says info was ‘obvious’.

Guatemala arrests drug investigator for allegedly passing information to Mexico’s Zetas gang

Guatemala says drug investigator tipped off cartel

GUATEMALA CITY – The chief of the anti-drug office in Guatemala’s Peten region has been arrested for allegedly passing information to Mexico’s Zetas drug gang.
Prosecutors charge officer Noe Vasquez sent text messages to an imprisoned Zetas leader to warn the gang about police raids and searches in the prison.
The …. Original source  : Guatemala arrests drug investigator for allegedly passing information to Mexico’s Zetas gang.

22,700 people killed in Mexico’s drug violence since military crackdown started in 2006

22,700 killed in drug violence in Mexico since ‘06

MEXICO CITY – More than 22,700 people have been killed in Mexico’s drug war since a U.S.-backed military crackdown on cartels began more than three years ago, according to a government report.
The report said 2009 was the deadliest year in the drug war, with 9,635 people killed …. Original source  : 22,700 people killed in Mexico’s drug violence since military crackdown started in 2006.

Mexican bishops ask for forgiveness from abuse victims, pledge to aid investigations

Mexican bishops ask forgiveness of abuse victims

MEXICO CITY – The Mexican Council of Bishops is asking for forgiveness from victims of sex abuse cases within the Roman Catholic Church, and pledges to cooperate in any investigations.
Bishop Victor Rene Rodriguez says the church did not act quickly enough in the past in dealing with abuse allegations. …. Original source  : Mexican bishops ask for forgiveness from abuse victims, pledge to aid investigations.

Authorities: 19-year-old man plotted to kill sheriff’s deputies in Washington state

Authorities: Man plotted to kill Wash. deputies

EVERETT, Wash. – A 19-year-old man has been arrested on allegations that he was plotting to kill sheriff’s deputies in Washington state’s Snohomish County.
Investigators say Michael McConnachie was planning an attack similar to the Thanksgiving weekend assassination of four Lakewood police officers.
The Herald newspaper of Everett reports that McConnachie …. Read the original article  : Authorities: 19-year-old man plotted to kill sheriff’s deputies in Washington state.

Fan of Serbian soccer club Red Star Belgrade shot, seriously wounded during game against rival

Fan of Serbian soccer club shot during brawl

BELGRADE, Serbia – Serbian police say a fan of soccer club Red Star Belgrade has been shot and seriously wounded in a brawl during a match against a rival club.
Police say 21-year-old Igor Vrelic was shot in the abdomen during a local match between Red Star and OFK … Read more >>>.

Budget crunch forcing prisons nationwide to cut treatment and counseling programs for inmates

Budget problems forcing prisons to cut counseling

DALLAS – When John Patrick Barton was in prison on his third drunken driving conviction, he was not among the thousands of inmates nationwide who undergo alcohol and drug treatment behind bars each year.
Fifteen months later and out of prison, Barton is accused of driving drunk again. This time, …. Original article  : Budget crunch forcing prisons nationwide to cut treatment and counseling programs for inmates.

AP Source: Suspected Chicago gunman bemoaned lacking ammunition after 4 relatives found dead

Relative in custody after 4 killed in Chicago home

CHICAGO – A man arrested after a woman and three children, including an infant and a toddler, were found shot to death in a Chicago home told police voices encouraged him to kill his family and he was sorry he had run out of bullets, a person … Read more »»».

Maoists kill former guerrilla

RANCHI – Maoist guerrillas in Jharkhand have killed a former member after dubbing him a police spy, police said Thursday.

Kishore Rana was abducted from Ratanjori village in Giridih district Wednesday. He was later shot dead and his body was found on the outskirts of the village Thursday morning, police said.
A former member of … Read more »»».

Congress lacks will to fight Maoists: BJP

NEW DELHI – The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Thursday slammed the Congress, saying it looked a divided house lacking the “will power” to fight Maoist guerrillas.

“What is disturbing is the division in the Congress government over its fight against the Naxalites. Congress general secretary Digvijay Singh has criticised the home minister (P. Chidambaram). Former …. Source  : Congress lacks will to fight Maoists: BJP.

Admiral tapped to head US Northern Command cites small-scale terror plots as key concern

Admiral: Smaller-scale terror plots a big concern

WASHINGTON – Small, hard-to-detect terror plots are an increasing concern for the military command responsible for protecting the homeland, according to the top Navy officer tapped to take over U.S. Northern Command.
Vice Adm. James Winnefeld Jr. did not refer directly to the Christmas attempt to take down a Detroit-bound … Original article on : Admiral tapped to head US Northern Command cites small-scale terror plots as key concern.

Study says civilian rape up by 17-fold in Congo’s war-ravaged east in last few years

Study: Civilian rape skyrockets in Congo’s east

DAKAR, Senegal – The number of rapes carried out by civilians in eastern Congo has increased by 17-fold in the last few years, according to a study released Thursday that says sexual assaults long perpetrated by armed groups are spreading across the population.
The study, commissioned by the British aid … Original source on Gaea Times at : Study says civilian rape up by 17-fold in Congo’s war-ravaged east in last few years.

Chidambaram to visit Bangladesh next month

DHAKA – Indian Home Minister P. Chidambaram will visit Bangladesh next month to discuss a range of security-related issues.

Chidambaram has accepted an invitation from his Bangladeshi counterpart, Sahara Khatun, to visit Bangladesh “in the shortest possible time”, Star Online, website of The Daily Star newspaper said Thursday.
Bangladesh High Commissioner to India Tariq Ahmed …. Read the original article  : here.

6 killed, 5 wounded as Mexico’s drug violence invades the heart of Acapulco beach resort

6 dead as drug violence hits heart of Acapulco

ACAPULCO, Mexico – Mexico’s drug violence has invaded the heart of one of its most famous beach resorts, with six people shot to death and five wounded during a raging gunbattle on the main boulevard in Acapulco’s tourist zone.
No tourists were among the casualties, but the shooting …. Original source  : 6 killed, 5 wounded as Mexico’s drug violence invades the heart of Acapulco beach resort.

Jaimee Grubbs arrested in West Hollywood on suspicion of driving on a suspended license

Alleged Tiger Woods mistress arrested in LA area

WEST HOLLYWOOD, Calif. – A woman who said she had an affair with Tiger Woods was arrested Wednesday on suspicion of driving on a suspended license in West Hollywood, authorities said.
Jaimee Grubbs was taken into custody after a random license plate check of her 2004 Ford Mustang showed … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Jaimee Grubbs arrested in West Hollywood on suspicion of driving on a suspended license.

Chilean businessmen found dead in Havana after being detained during investigation by Cuba

Chilean businessman dead after detention in Cuba

SANTIAGO, Chile – A top Chilean executive was found dead in his Havana apartment after being detained by Cuban authorities investigating his company, which is owned by a revolutionary-turned-businessman and friend of Fidel Castro.
Roberto Baudrand was prevented from leaving Cuba because of an investigation into the semiprivate food production … Original source on Gaea Times at : Chilean businessmen found dead in Havana after being detained during investigation by Cuba.

2 more protesters arrested for furlough sit-in at Hawaii governor’s office

2 more arrested at Hawaii furlough sit-in
HONOLULU – Two more people protesting Hawaii’s shortest-in-the-nation school year were arrested on trespassing charges Wednesday night during their weeklong sit-in at Gov. Linda Lingle’s office.

The protesters and supporters are angry about the stalemate over ending school furloughs, which have cut 17 days off the current school year, giving …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

More powerful arms needed to fight 26/11 style attack: British cop

LONDON – Police have to be armed with more powerful weapons to battle a Mumbai-inspired terror strike in Britain, said a senior Scotland Yard official. “It’s going to mean heavy ballistic weapons, heavier ballistic ammunition,” he added.

Scotland Yard Assistant Commissioner John Yates said officials would require a major boost to their firepower to fight a …. Original source  : More powerful arms needed to fight 26/11 style attack: British cop.

IAEA seeks more funds after nuclear security summit

UNITED NATIONS – The United Nations agency that plays a leading role in trying to stop terrorists getting their hands on nuclear materials is seeking greater funding to carry out its task following this week’s Washington summit on nuclear security.

The Vienna-based UN International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) “needs stronger and more predictable funding to do …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Hawaii governor trades barbs with parents protesting in her office to end school furloughs

Hawaii governor, parents at sit-in trade barbs

HONOLULU – Gov. Linda Lingle and parents angry about Hawaii’s shortest-in-the-nation school year who have been conducting a sit-in at her office fired verbal barbs at each other Wednesday as the protest hit its seventh day.
The demonstrators held their most well-attended news conference, with more than two dozen parents, [..] Read the original article: here.

Calif. woman gets 6-year term for forcing Peruvian migrant to work for no pay

Calif. woman sentenced in forced labor case

OAKLAND, Calif. – A woman convicted of luring a Peruvian to the United States with promises of job then confiscating her travel documents and forcing her to work for no pay was sentenced to six years in prison Wednesday.
Maribel de la Rosa Dann was found guilty of forced labor … Read more »»».

San Francisco prosecutors knew about crime lab tech’s problems for months without telling cops

SF prosecutors knew about crime lab tech problems

SAN FRANCISCO – An e-mail released Wednesday shows San Francisco prosecutors knew about problems with a crime lab technician before she was suspected of stealing cocaine evidence.
Assistant District Attorney Sharon Woo wrote in a Nov. 19 e-mail to colleagues that Deborah Madden’s erratic behavior was jeopardizing narcotics cases.
Woo …. Read the original article  : here.

Former NFL player Javon Walker testifies he was very drunk when he was robbed in Las Vegas

Ex-NFL star Walker testifies in Vegas robbery case

LAS VEGAS – Former NFL wide receiver Javon Walker told a Las Vegas jury Wednesday he was falling-down drunk but remembers a man putting an arm around his throat from behind and then pulling at his 2-carat diamond earrings while he was robbed.
The platinum earrings had locks on …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Former NFL player Javon Walker testifies he was very drunk when he was robbed in Las Vegas.

Goodell: NFL looking at Roethlisberger matters thoroughly, may render decision soon

Goodell: Decision on Roethlisberger in near future

PITTSBURGH – NFL commissioner Roger Goodell says he will decide soon whether to punish Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger for his off-the-field troubles.
“I think he understands how important the personal-conduct policy is to the NFL,” Goodell said while attending a dinner honoring Steelers chairman Dan Rooney on Wednesday night. “And … Original article on : Goodell: NFL looking at Roethlisberger matters thoroughly, may render decision soon.

6 killed in shootout on main coast boulevard in heart of Acapulco; none appear to be tourists

6 killed in shootout on Acapulco’s main shore road

ACAPULCO, Mexico – A gunbattle erupted on the main coast boulevard in the heart of this Pacific resort Wednesday afternoon, killing six people, including a mother and her 8-year-old child. None of the victims appeared to be tourists.
One federal police officer died in a shootout with gunmen, …. Source  : 6 killed in shootout on main coast boulevard in heart of Acapulco; none appear to be tourists.

Don’t fear Maoists, top cop tells security forces

RAIPUR – Chhattisgarh Director General of Police Vishwa Ranjan’s directive to security forces is simple: “Don’t fear Maoists.”

Ranjan Friday told policemen and paramilitary personnel deployed in areas dominated by the rebels through an open letter to boost their morale following the killing of 76 security personnel this month.
“It’s not the time for police and …. Source  : Don’t fear Maoists, top cop tells security forces.

Chandigarh hotels, multiplexes to install CCTV cameras

CHANDIGARH – Hotels, restaurants, guest houses, multiplexes and cinemas here have been told to put up CCTV cameras on official advice to ensure better security.

“We have instructed owners and proprietors of all hotels, multiplexes and places frequented by a large number of people every day to install CCTV cameras,” Chandigarh administration’s official spokesman said here …. Source article  : Chandigarh hotels, multiplexes to install CCTV cameras.

Aide to Pakistan’s ex-president Musharraf calls UN report on Bhutto killing a ‘pack of lies’

Musharraf aide calls UN’s Bhutto report ‘lies’
ISLAMABAD – An aide to Pakistan’s former military ruler, Pervez Musharraf, says a U.N. report on the assassination of former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto is a “pack of lies.”
The U.N. said Bhutto’s slaying could have been prevented if the government under then-President Musharraf and various security forces … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Aide to Pakistan’s ex-president Musharraf calls UN report on Bhutto killing a ‘pack of lies’.

Agents carry out giant immigration raid in Arizona targeting van shuttle operators

Immigration raids Arizona van shuttle businesses

PHOENIX – Federal agents arrested nearly 50 shuttle operators and smugglers Thursday accused of using vans to transport thousands of illegal immigrants from the Mexican border to Phoenix in what was billed as one of the government’s largest-ever human smuggling busts.
Investigators said the operators of four shuttle services in Tucson …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

India mulls using UAVs against Maoists

RAIPUR – Authorities in Chhattisgarh are keen to use unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) in Maoist-dominated pockets in the wake of the massacre of 75 security personnel, official sources said.

“A report of the successful night trial of the US-made UAV in Bastar forests this week is to be sent to the central government with a request … Read this article on Gaea Times at : India mulls using UAVs against Maoists.

Roethlisberger accuser says she told Steelers star ‘no, this is not OK,’ and tried to leave

Roethlisberger’s accuser says she told him ‘no’

MILLEDGEVILLE, Ga. – The 20-year-old college student who accused Ben Roethlisberger of sexual assault told police she tried to get away from the Pittsburgh Steelers star, and one of her friends said she talked to one of the quarterback’s bodyguards out of concern for the intoxicated woman.
The police interviews …. Source article  : Roethlisberger accuser says she told Steelers star ‘no, this is not OK,’ and tried to leave.

Officials take weapons from relatives of Kyrgyzstan’s ousted president

Officials take weapons from ousted leader’s family

TEYIT, Kyrgyzstan – Relatives of Kyrgyzstan’s ousted president were submitting weapons to officials Friday in their home village, a day after the president himself fled the country.
While the moves appeared to reduce the likelihood of resistance by Kurmanbek Bakiyev backers, Kyrgyzstan’s interim authorities were still searching for one of …. Original article  : Officials take weapons from relatives of Kyrgyzstan’s ousted president.

Four killed in Quetta blast

ISLAMABAD – Four people, including a TV channel cameraman, were killed and several injured Friday when a powerful explosion tore through a hospital in Pakistan’s Quetta city.

Arshad Zaidi, a bank official, was shot at near Mannan Chowk and he was brought to Civil Hospital at Jinnah Road. He succumbed to the gunshot wounds.
The …. Original source  : Four killed in Quetta blast.

Officials take weapons from relatives of ousted Kyrgyz president

Officials take weapons from Bakiyev compound

TEYIT, Kyrgyzstan – Relatives of Kyrgyzstan’s ousted president, who has fled the country, are submitting weapons to officials in their home village.
One of Kurmanbek Bakiyev’s brothers is among those in the family compound, but the whereabouts of the most avidly sought brother is unknown.
Bakiyev fled to neighboring Kazakhstan on Thursday, …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Officials take weapons from relatives of ousted Kyrgyz president.

Massive blast in Pakistan hospital

ISLAMABAD – A massive explosion rocked a hospital in southern Pakistan’s Quetta city Friday.

Several people were injured. The blast took place in the Civil Hospital in the capital of the southern Pakistani province of Balochistan, Xinhua reported.
There was firing after the blast.
…. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Massive blast in Pakistan hospital.

Pakistani official says new police probe likely following UN report on Bhutto’s assassination

Pakistan: New probe likely after UN Bhutto report
ISLAMABAD – A new U.N. report that blames Pakistan’s security establishment for failing to stop the assassination of former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto paves the way for a “proper police investigation” into her killing, an aide to her widower – now the country’s president – said …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Terror plotters wanted to announce Canadian beheadings on air

TORONTO – The ring leader of an Al Qaeda-linked plot against Canada had planned to storm parliament, “cut off some heads” and then announce this by capturing the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC) here, a court here heard Thursday.

The shocking details of terrorist designs were revealed in an intercept played in the court where the last … Original source on Gaea Times at : Terror plotters wanted to announce Canadian beheadings on air.

Maoists torch trucks in Bihar

PATNA – Suspected Maoists have torched several trucks and machines of two road construction companies in Bihar’s Vaishali and Aurangabad districts, police said Friday.

Armed rebels attacked the office of a construction firm in Madarna in Vaishali late Thursday and set on fire two earth moving machines, a tractor, truck and dumpers, creating panic among …. Source  : Maoists torch trucks in Bihar.

Man throws daughter into river for being girl

A two-year-old girl died from severe injuries after her father threw her into river Ganga for being a girl, police said today.

Police said Chandan Pathak along with his family was crossing the Rajendra bride on foot on Thursday night when he suddenly snatched his two-year-old daughter from the lap of his wife and threw her … Read : Man throws daughter into river for being girl.

Maoists attack construction companies, torch six trucks in Bihar

Maoists attacked two construction companies engaged in road construction works and torched over a dozen trucks and machines late Thursday night in Bihar, police said today.

Police said the Maoists attacked the companies in Vaishali and Aurangabad districts of Bihar to protest operation against them.
Both the companies are constructing roads under the Prime Minister Road Construction … Original source on Gaea Times at : Maoists attack construction companies, torch six trucks in Bihar.

UN blames Musharraf government for Bhutto murder (Second Lead)

UNITED NATIONS – A UN commission has blamed Pakistani authorities for their failure to protect Benazir Bhutto, saying security arrangements were “fatally insufficient and ineffective” and subsequent investigations into her death involved a whitewash.

In its devastating report, the three-member panel headed by Chilean Ambassador to UN Heraldo Mu??oz, reached no conclusion as to the organisers … Read : UN blames Musharraf government for Bhutto murder (Second Lead).

US targets Pakistanis for funding Al Qaeda, Taliban

WASHINGTON – The United States has targeted the financial and support networks of Al Qaeda and the Taliban by designating two Karachi-based Pakistani nationals, one of them born in India, for allegedly running charities funding their terrorist activities.

Announcing the action, the Treasury Department said Mohammed Mazhar, 58, born in Azamgarh district of Uttar Pradesh, was … Read : US targets Pakistanis for funding Al Qaeda, Taliban.

Thais Red Shirt protest leader stages dramatic escape from hotel surrounded by police

Thai protester in dramatic escape to avoid police

BANGKOK – An anti-government protest leader evaded arrest Friday by scaling down a hotel facade with a rope and ducking into a getaway car while his supporters took two police officers hostage in a theatrical twist to Thailand’s political crisis.
Arisman Pongruangrong’s escapade at a hotel in downtown Bangkok …. Original source  : Thais Red Shirt protest leader stages dramatic escape from hotel surrounded by police.

Crew of Panama-flagged ship that entered restricted Great Barrier Reef area fined $65,000

Crew fined for entering restricted reef area

SYDNEY – Australian authorities signaled their seriousness about protecting the Great Barrier Reef with a court issuing fines Friday for a ship that entered a restricted area a day after a coal carrier ran aground and tore a huge gash in the reef.
The South Korean master and two Vietnamese …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Crew of Panama-flagged ship that entered restricted Great Barrier Reef area fined $65,000.

Thais troops encircle hotel to arrest Red Shirt leaders after last week’s deadly clashes

Thai forces move in to arrest Red Shirt leaders

BANGKOK – Thailand’s deputy prime minister says security forces have surrounded a Bangkok hotel where some of the Red Shirt anti-government protest leaders are holed up.
Suthep Thaugsuban announced on national television that a unit of special forces was dispatched to the SC Park Hotel in the Thai …. Read the original article  : Thais troops encircle hotel to arrest Red Shirt leaders after last week’s deadly clashes.

Maoists fire on massacre probe team

RAIPUR – Maoist guerrillas Saturday opened fire on a team probing the Dantewada massacre in Chhattisgarh when it was in a forested stretch on way to the site where 76 security personnel were killed, police said.

“Maoists fired a few shots from distance on the probe team headed by E.N. Ram Mohan (former director … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Maoists fire on massacre probe team.

Parents of murdered SoCal teen OK plea deal to give peace to another grieving family

Parents of murdered SoCal OK bless plea deal

SAN DIEGO – The parents of Chelsea King faced a torturous decision.
Should they insist that prosecutors seek the death penalty against a man charged with raping and murdering their 17-year-old daughter? Or do they settle for life in prison in exchange for his plea of guilty to the … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Parents of murdered SoCal teen OK plea deal to give peace to another grieving family.

21 militants killed in northwest Pakistan

ISLAMABAD – At least 21 militants were killed in overnight attacks by soldiers in a tribal district in north-west Pakistan, an officer said Saturday.

The clashes occurred in the Sanghra area of the Orakzai district, where troops backed by armoured vehicles, artillery and fighter jets launched an operation last month.
“Our estimate is that 21 militants …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

25 killed in twin blasts in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD – At least 25 people were killed and several others injured Saturday in two powerful blasts at a refugee camp in Pakistan’s restive northwest.

Both explosions occurred in quick succession while rations were being distributed to refugees in Kohat’s Katcha Pakka area, Geo News reported.
…. Original article  : 25 killed in twin blasts in Pakistan.

Caught on camera: Police work changing as phone, dashboard camera videos increasingly go viral

Cops getting caught on camera increases scrutiny

CHICAGO – Minutes after a suburban Chicago police officer was charged with striking a motorist with his baton, prosecutors handed out copies of a video showing the beating – taken by a dashboard camera on the officer’s own squad car.
In California, after a transit cop and an unruly train … Read : Caught on camera: Police work changing as phone, dashboard camera videos increasingly go viral.

India warned about growing Khalistani pockets in Canada

VANCOUVER – Former Canadian health minister Ujjal Dosanjh has warned India to wake up to the danger posed by Khalistani elements in Canada after he was threatened not to attend the upcoming annual Baisakhi parade in the city of Surrey near here Saturday.

“India needs to worry about how these pockets (of Khalistanis) are growing in …. Source article  : India warned about growing Khalistani pockets in Canada.

Al-Qaeda video aims at child recruits

Mogadishu, April 17 (IANS/AKI) Al-Qaeda recruiters are targeting children and aiming to make Somali suicide bombing a multi-generational family affair.

A new recruitment video by Al-Shabaab, the Somalia-based Al-Qaeda branch that operates in the Horn of Africa, opens with an image of a child playing with a toy gun.
He’s not just any boy, but … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Al-Qaeda video aims at child recruits.

Sex offender pleads guilty to murdering 2 teens, sentenced to life in prison

Sex offender admits killing San Diego County teens

SAN DIEGO – Convicted sex offender John Albert Gardner pleaded guilty Friday to raping and murdering two teenage girls – a surprising turn in the duel tragedies that fueled calls for California to toughen its sexual predator laws.
Sobs pierced the packed courtroom as Gardner, 31, admitted kidnapping, raping … Original article on : Sex offender pleads guilty to murdering 2 teens, sentenced to life in prison.

Terror groups may plan attack in India, US warns its nationals

WASHINGTON – Terrorist groups may be planning attacks in India and it could be at places “where US citizens or Westerners are known to congregate or visit”, the US warned its nationals in its latest advisory.

The Department of State has alerted its citizens to ongoing security concerns in India and said that the US government …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Osama ordered satellite TV dish to watch 9/11 attack

LONDON – Al Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden ordered for a satellite TV dish to be set up at his hideout so that he could watch the 9/11 terror attack in the US, but he couldn’t watch it as he was unable to get a signal in the mountainous terrain, his former bodyguard has said.

Nasser … Read : Osama ordered satellite TV dish to watch 9/11 attack.

Summary Box: Government accuses Goldman Sachs of fraud in subprime mortgage investments

Summary Box: Goldman Sachs accused of fraud

WALL STREET POWERHOUSE ACCUSED OF FRAUD: The government says Goldman Sachs & Co. sold mortgage investments without telling the buyers that the securities were crafted with input from a client who was betting on them to fail. Goldman denies the civil fraud allegations.
HOUSING BUST FALLOUT: The investors lost nearly … Read more >>>.

Pakistan pledged to punish, eliminate anti-India terrorists: US

WASHINGTON – The US appears to have extracted a “pledge” from Pakistan to cooperate fully with Washington and New Delhi to ensure that anti-Indian terrorists groups are punished for their crimes and ultimately eliminated.

The US has been “concerned about the presence of extremist groups in countries of South Asia regardless of where they are,” State …. Original article  : Pakistan pledged to punish, eliminate anti-India terrorists: US.

Action against Saeed not only benchmark: India to Pakistan

BRASILIA – India has made it clear to Pakistan that although action against Jamaat-ud-Dawa chief Hafiz Saeed will help ease the strained atmosphere, it’s not the only benchmark that will satisfy New Delhi before it can think of resuming talks.

Action against Hafiz Saaed will be a useful indicator of Pakistan’s willingness to do something about … Read more >>>.

As grieving parents look on, sex offender pleads guilty to murdering their children

Parents watch as sex offender admits killing teens

SAN DIEGO – With two teary-eyed mothers looking on, convicted sex offender John Albert Gardner pleaded guilty Friday to raping and murdering their teenage daughters – a surprising turn in the duel tragedies that fueled calls for California to toughen its sexual predator laws.
Sobs pierced the packed courtroom … Read more >>>.

Mexican official defends sex education after bishop blames it for undermining priestly vows

Mexico rejects church criticism of sex education

MEXICO CITY – Mexican educators and officials defended the country’s public school sex education Friday from criticism by a Roman Catholic bishop who said such teachings make celibacy vows more difficult for priests to keep.
Education Secretary Alonso Lujambio told reporters that public-school sexual education texts “seek to make our … Read : Mexican official defends sex education after bishop blames it for undermining priestly vows.

LA prosecutors argue Roman Polanski’s victim can’t seek dismissal of decades-old sex case

Prosecutors argue Polanski victim can’t alter case

LOS ANGELES – Roman Polanski’s victim cannot ask for the 32-year-old sex case to be dismissed against the fugitive director or otherwise impact the case, prosecutors argued in a court filing Friday.
In a filing to the California Second District Court of Appeal, Los Angeles County prosecutors argue a recent …. Original source  : LA prosecutors argue Roman Polanski’s victim can’t seek dismissal of decades-old sex case.

Mom of Va. man charged with terrorism in Pakistan says son, others were beaten by authorities

Mom of US man charged with terrorism speaks out

WASHINGTON – Pakistani authorities beat confessions out of some of the five northern Virginia men accused of planning terrorist acts in that country, the mother of one of the men said Friday.
Amal Khalifa, mother of Ramy Zamzam, said her son looked gaunt when she briefly visited him … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Mom of Va. man charged with terrorism in Pakistan says son, others were beaten by authorities.

Al Qaeda run camp in Afghanistan trained 26/11 attackers

BRASILIA – In a new disclosure, Indian investigators have found that some of the terrorists involved in the Mumbai carnage were trained in an Al Qaeda run camp in Afghanistan.

One of the camps run by Al Qaeda in Afghanistan was used to train terrorists involved in the Mumbai attacks, sources said Saturday.
India will continue … Read : Al Qaeda run camp in Afghanistan trained 26/11 attackers.

‘Action against Saeed will help, but Pakistan must do more’

BRASILIA – Barely a fortnight before a SAARC summit in Bhutan, India has made it clear to Pakistan that although action against Jamaat-ud-Dawa chief Hafiz Saeed will help, but Islamabad must do more to punish the 26/11 attackers.

Action against Hafiz Saeed will be a useful indication of Pakistan’s willingness to do something, sources said Saturday. … Original article on : ‘Action against Saeed will help, but Pakistan must do more’.

Ex-Blackwater president, 4 others indicted over weapons; feds cite gifts to King of Jordan

Feds indict former Blackwater president, 4 others

RALEIGH, N.C. – The former president of Blackwater Worldwide was charged Friday with using straw purchases to stockpile automatic weapons at the security firm and filing false documents to cover up gifts given to the king of Jordan.
Gary Jackson, 52, who left the company last year in a management …. Read the original article  : here.

Two crude bombs found near Bangalore cricket stadium (Second Lead)

BANGALORE – Two crude bombs were found close to the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium here Sunday, a day after two low intensity blasts there left 16 people injured.

One bomb was found near a bus stop close to Gate No 1, the main gate of the stadium, at around 9 a.m. and the other was hidden in …. Source  : Two crude bombs found near Bangalore cricket stadium (Second Lead).

Airtel official commits suicide in Bihar

A senior official of Bharti Airtel, one of Asia’s leading integrated telecom services providers with operations in many countries, Lalan Kumar Chaudhary committed suicide today due to family dispute, police said.

Police said the victim was working as an area manager in Samstipur district of Bihar.
Victim’s wife is a senior agricultural scientist posted at the Rajendra …. Original source  : Airtel official commits suicide in Bihar.

Nihalani’s film on Maoist movement touches chord in Nepal

KATHMANDU – The Nepal Tourism Board auditorium in Kathmandu overflowed with people sitting on the floor as well as the stairs for over two hours patiently, watching Indian director Govind Nihalani’s film “Hazaar Chaurasi Ki Maa”.

Screened Saturday during the Indian film festival organised by the Indian Cultural Centre here, the 1998 movie based on the … Original source on Gaea Times at : Nihalani’s film on Maoist movement touches chord in Nepal.

Maoists kill 100 police informers in four years

Maoists have killed at least 100 police informers during the last four-and-a-half years in Bihar, according to a police report.

Police said the most of the killings have been reported from east Champaran, Sheohar, Jamui, Munger, Rohtas, Gaya and Aurangabad ~ the districts where Maoists are said to be running their “parallel government”.
“The frequent killings … Read more »»».

Two explosive devices found at Bangalore stadium

BANGALORE – Two crude bombs were found at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium here Sunday a day after two low intensity blasts there left 16 people injured.

The first bomb was found near a bus stop close to Gate No 1, the main gate of the stadium, at around 9 a.m. The second device was found … Read more : Two explosive devices found at Bangalore stadium.

20 Taliban militants killed in Afghanistan

Pul-e-KHUMRI – Afghan troops backed by NATO-led forces killed 20 militants in the northern Afghan province of Baghlan, police said Sunday.

“Twenty militants have been killed and 12 sustained injuries since Saturday afternoon in Baghlan-e-Markazi district,” said police spokesman Lal Mohammad Ahmadzi.
The fighting follows gunfights and roadside bombings in the area Thursday that … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : 20 Taliban militants killed in Afghanistan.

Crude bomb found near Bangalore cricket stadium

BANGALORE – A day after two low intensity blasts near the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium here left 16 people injured, a crude bomb was found close to the stadium Sunday morning. The device has been defused, police said.

The bomb was found near a bus stop close to Gate No 1, the main gate of the stadium, … Original article on : Crude bomb found near Bangalore cricket stadium.

Dropping of charges against 2 clan members in massacre sparks protests in Philippines

Philippines drops charges vs 2 massacre suspects

MANILA, Philippines – The Philippines’ Department of Justice has dropped murder charges against two members of a warlord clan accused in the massacre of 57 political rivals and journalists, sparking protests Sunday and bringing relatives of the victims to tears.
The Nov. 23 slaughter, which was condemned by the international … Read : Dropping of charges against 2 clan members in massacre sparks protests in Philippines.

Khalistani flags, slogans raised at Vancouver Vaisakhi parade

VANCOUVER – Pro-Khalistan flags were raised and photos of Sikh “martyrs” displayed at a Vaisakhi parade (nagar kirtan) in Surrey near here Saturday.

Pro-Khalistan slogans were also raised at the Dasmesh Darbar Sikh temple which organized the parade. Indo-Canadian MP Sukh Dhaliwal was the only prominent politician to attend the parade.
Surrey mayor Dianne Watts, whose … Original article on : Khalistani flags, slogans raised at Vancouver Vaisakhi parade.

Seven killed in suicide attack in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD – A suicide car bomber struck a police building in northwestern Pakistan Sunday, killing at least seven people, police said.

The early morning attack at the Saddar police station, in the garrison town of Kohat, came a day after twin suicide bombings left at least 41 people dead in a nearby refugee camp.
Kohat’s senior … Read more : Seven killed in suicide attack in Pakistan.

195 kg explosives found in Greece

Athens, April 18 (IANS/RIA Novosti) At least 195 kg of explosives have been found from the hideout of a terrorist outfit here, police said Sunday.

Greek police Sunday said it had detained six suspected members, including a woman, of the Revolutionary Struggle militant group on April 11, on charges of bomb attacks, attempted murder and illegal … Original article on : 195 kg explosives found in Greece.

Two Dutch soldiers killed in Afghanistan

THE HAGUE – Two Dutch soldiers have been killed by insurgents in Uruzgan province in southern Afghanistan, the Netherlands Defence Ministry said late Saturday in The Hague.

One soldier was severely wounded in the deadly attack using explosives.
The slain troops were aged 23 and 29.
The latest deaths bring Dutch military casualties in the Afghan …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Demonstrators shout down white supremacist rally against illegal immigration in Los Angeles

White supremacists, demonstrators square off in LA

LOS ANGELES – A white supremacist group rallied against illegal immigration in downtown Los Angeles Saturday as hundreds of counter-protesters gathered to shout them down in a tense standoff that included several arrests, thrown rocks and police in riot gear.
Police officers stood between the white supremacists and counter-demonstrators on [..] Read the original article: here.

Authorities nab fugitive with Mafia ties in Kentucky after 2 days on the run

Mafia-related fugitive nabbed in Ky. after 2 days

VERSAILLES, Ky. – Authorities say they’ve caught a Mafia-affiliated fugitive who spent two days on the run after kicking out the door of a prison van in Kentucky.
U.S. Marshals Service spokesman Craig Smith said 37-year-old Derek A. Capozzi was captured without incident in Versailles (vur-SAYLZ’) Saturday afternoon.
Capozzi escaped … Read more »».

Charges against Goldman likely to kick off a torrent of bank lawsuits, mire Goldman

Goldman case likely to unleash torrent of lawsuits

WASHINGTON – The fraud charges against Goldman Sachs & Co. that rocked financial markets Friday are no slam dunk, as hazy evidence and strategic pitfalls could easily trip up government lawyers.
Yet that hardly matters, experts say, because the allegations will kick off a new era of litigation that …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Charges against Goldman likely to kick off a torrent of bank lawsuits, mire Goldman.

AP Exclusive: How a tennis-loving, Saab-driving Berkeley lawyer came to represent the pope

AP Exclusive: How the pope got his US lawyer

VATICAN CITY – The Vatican has long let cardinals or its official spokesmen do its talking when scandal hits.
But as the Vatican reels from a swirling clerical sex abuse crisis, the Holy See has turned to an unusual advocate: a tennis-loving, Saab-driving solo practitioner from Berkeley, Calif., …. Read the original article  : AP Exclusive: How a tennis-loving, Saab-driving Berkeley lawyer came to represent the pope.

Militant group claims responsibility for Pakistan bombings

ISLAMABAD – A militant group called “Lashkar-e-Jhangvi Al-alami” has claimed responsibility for the twin suicide bombings at a relief camp in northwest Pakistan Saturday.

The blasts ripped through the camp near the Kohat town. The camp provides shelter for people displaced in the military operation against the Taliban in Orakzai.
A purported spokesman for the …. Source article  : Militant group claims responsibility for Pakistan bombings.

Reports: cardinal says late pope backed letter praising bishop who refused to turn over priest

Cardinal: late pope backed priest-shielding

ROME – Spanish media are quoting a retired Vatican cardinal as saying the late Pope John Paul II backed his letter congratulating a French bishop for risking jail for shielding a priest convicted of raping minors.
Web sites of La Verdad and other Spanish newspapers reported Saturday that Cardinal Dario Castrillon Hoyos, … Read more : Reports: cardinal says late pope backed letter praising bishop who refused to turn over priest.

Jailed militia member says he was unaware of any specific plans to wage war against government

Militia member says he wasn’t aware of any plot

DETROIT – An Ohio man charged in what federal prosecutors say was a Christian militia’s plot to wage war against the government said Saturday that he wasn’t aware of any such specific plans.
Kristopher Sickles, 27, of Sandusky told The Associated Press in a telephone interview from jail … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Jailed militia member says he was unaware of any specific plans to wage war against government.

Officers shoot man who entered US from Mexico at San Diego County border crossing

Man shot at San Diego County border crossing

SAN DIEGO – Federal officers shot and injured a man at the nation’s busiest border crossing Saturday after he entered San Diego County from Mexico, authorities said.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection spokeswoman Jackie Dizdul said the man, whom police have not identified, was shot just before 9 a.m. … Read : Officers shoot man who entered US from Mexico at San Diego County border crossing.