Abducted ISI official killed in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD – A former ISI official taken hostage with two others, including a journalist, by terrorists in Pakistan’s troubled North Waziristan region over a month ago has been killed, officials said.

Local officials confirmed the death of Khalid Khawaja, Squadron Leader (retd) of the spy agency Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI).
He was found shot in the …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Abducted ISI official killed in Pakistan.

NDFB chief arrested in Bangladesh, handed to India

SHILLONG – Ranjan Daimary, founder of the outlawed National Democratic Front of Bodoland (NDFB), has been reportedly arrested in Bangladesh and handed over to India where he is wanted for ordering bomb attacks, a police officer said Saturday.

A senior intelligence official said that Bangladesh Rifles handed over Daimary, who is also chairman of NDFB, to … Original source on Gaea Times at : NDFB chief arrested in Bangladesh, handed to India.

Second suspect held for Ajmer Dargah blast

JAIPUR – A second man with links to a Hindu rightwing group has been arrested for alleged involvement in the 2007 bombing at the revered Ajmer Dargah Sharif that killed three people, police sources in Rajasthan said Saturday.

The Anti-Terrorist Squad of the Rajasthan Police arrested Chandreshekhar in neighbouring Madhya Pradesh. His arrest comes close on …. Original source  : Second suspect held for Ajmer Dargah blast.

NDFB chief held in Bangladesh, handed to India

SHILLONG – Ranjan Daimary, founder of the outlawed National Democratic Front of Bodoland (NDFB), has been reportedly arrested in Bangladesh and handed over to India where he is wanted for ordering bomb attacks, a police officer said Saturday.

A senior intelligence official said that Bangladesh Rifles handed over Daimary, who is also chairman of NDFB, to …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : NDFB chief held in Bangladesh, handed to India.

US advisory warns of terror attacks in Delhi

NEW DELHI – The US Saturday issued a fresh advisory asking its citizens to take precautions in view of possible “imminent” terror attacks in crowded markets in the Indian capital.

This is the third American advisory in a month. It advises Americans travelling or residing in India to maintain “a high level of vigilance” and …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : US advisory warns of terror attacks in Delhi.

Two killed in Pakistan bomb explosion

ISLAMABAD – A bomb exploded Saturday in a busy market in Pakistan’s Swat Valley, killing two people and injuring 12, police and health officials said.

The blast occurred in a textile market in Mingora, the region’s main town.
A health official at the city’s main hospital said two bodies and 12 wounded were moved there. … Read more >>>.

Kennedy cousin Skakel says appeal will challenge effectiveness of trial attorney Sherman

Kennedy cousin Skakel’s appeal to challenge lawyer

NEW HAVEN, Conn. – Kennedy cousin Michael Skakel turned to attorney Mickey Sherman more than a decade ago to defend him against a murder that had haunted his wealthy family for a quarter-century. Now Skakel, the nephew of Ethel Kennedy, is turning against Sherman, saying the media-savvy attorney blew … Original source on Gaea Times at : Kennedy cousin Skakel says appeal will challenge effectiveness of trial attorney Sherman.

One more arrested for Ajmer Dargah bombing

JAIPUR – A second man suspected to be involved in a 2007 bombing at the revered Ajmer Dargah Sharif that killed three people has been arrested, police sources in Rajasthan said Saturday.

The Anti-Terrorist Squad of the Rajasthan Police arrested Chandreshekhar in neighbouring Madhya Pradesh. Like the first suspect held Wednesday, Chandrashekhar too is a member … Original article on : One more arrested for Ajmer Dargah bombing.

Taiwan executes 4 inmates, first death sentences carries out since 2005

Taiwan carries out first death sentences in years

TAIPEI, Taiwan – Taiwan has carried out a death sentence for the first time since 2005, executing four inmates as a heated debate rages on the island over whether capital punishment should be abolished.
The sentences were carried out Friday, a Justice Ministry statement said, two days after Justice …. Original article  : Taiwan executes 4 inmates, first death sentences carries out since 2005.

Abducted ex-ISI official killed in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan’s former spy agent, who had been taken hostage along with two others for over a month by a terrorist group, was found dead in North Waziristan, local administration said.

The administration of the area has confirmed the death of Khalid Khawaja, Squadron Leader (retd) of the Inter-Service Intelligence (ISI). He was shot in … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Abducted ex-ISI official killed in Pakistan.

Four policemen including an officer hurt in a blast in Pakistan

PAKISTAN, QUETTA: As the bloody wave of terrorism continues in Balochistan, on Saturday early morning four policemen including a DSP were injured in a blast here in a remote-controlled bomb explosion in Qambrani area of Sariab in the capital city of Quetta..

The injured have been shifted to hospital in Edhi ambulances. Two passers-by were also …. Source article  : Four policemen including an officer hurt in a blast in Pakistan.

India, Pakistan troops exchange fire, infiltration bid foiled

JAMMU – Indian troops exchanged heavy gunfire with Pakistani forces overnight Saturday and foiled an infiltration bid by militants trying to cross the Line of Control (LoC) that divides Jammu and Kashmir between the two countries, officials said.

The Border Security Force (BSF) retaliated to the gunfire from Pakistani rangers at Ballad post in Samba sector, …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : India, Pakistan troops exchange fire, infiltration bid foiled.

Two US men indicted for giving tech support to Al Qaeda

WASHINGTON – Two US citizens have been indicted for providing Al Qaeda with computer expertise and other technical support to help modernise the terrorist outfit.

Prosecutors identified the men as Wesam El-Hanafi, 33, an American citizen, and Sabirhan Hasanoff, 34, a dual citizen of the US and Australia.
According to an indictment unsealed Friday in Federal … Read more >>>.

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

Brazil: Rancher found guilty in killing of US nun

RIO DE JANEIRO – A jury convicted a Brazilian rancher early Saturday of orchestrating the murder of U.S. nun and Amazon defender Dorothy Stang.
Regivaldo Galvao – the last of five defendants to stand trial in the case – was sentenced to 30 years in prison, said Telma …. Read the original article  : here.

Jurors find NY man guilty of fatally stabbing ex-girlfriend in her Long Island apartment

NY man convicted in ex-girlfriend’s stabbing death

NEW YORK – A 24-year-old New York man has been convicted in the torture and stabbing death of his estranged girlfriend in her Long Island apartment.
A Nassau County jury on Friday found Leonardo Valdez-Cruz guilty of first-degree murder and other charges in the death of Jo’Anna Bird. He faces … Original article on : Jurors find NY man guilty of fatally stabbing ex-girlfriend in her Long Island apartment.

District attorney asks governor to reverse parole plan for Manson follower Bruce Davis

DA says Manson follower Davis not fit for parole

LOS ANGELES – The LA County district attorney asked the California governor Friday to reverse a parole board decision recommending the release from prison of Bruce Davis, a former Charles Manson follower who participated in two killings.
Davis, 67, has been in prison since 1972 after being convicted …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : District attorney asks governor to reverse parole plan for Manson follower Bruce Davis.

Searchers find deputy wounded with assault rifle in Ariz. area used by drug, human smugglers

Arizona deputy shot; illegal immigrants suspected

PHOENIX – A veteran sheriff’s deputy was shot and wounded Friday after encountering a group of suspected illegal immigrants who apparently had been hauling bales of marijuana along a major smuggling corridor in the Arizona desert – a violent episode that comes amid a heated national debate over immigration.
State and …. Original source  : Searchers find deputy wounded with assault rifle in Ariz. area used by drug, human smugglers.

Authorities seek deputy wounded with assault rifle in Ariz. area used by drug, human smugglers

Authorities seek wounded Arizona deputy in desert

CASA GRANDE, Ariz. – Authorities in southern Arizona were searching Friday for a wounded deputy who radioed for help and said he had been shot with an AK-47 assault rifle in a remote desert area used by drug- and human-smugglers from Mexico.
The unidentified deputy called in to say he … Read more : Authorities seek deputy wounded with assault rifle in Ariz. area used by drug, human smugglers.

Arizona governor signs bill with revisions to new law targeting illegal immigration

Ariz. gov signs bill revising new immigration law

PHOENIX – Gov. Jan Brewer on Friday signed a follow-on bill approved by Arizona legislators that make revisions to the state’s sweeping law against illegal immigration – changes she says should quell concerns that the measure will lead to racial profiling.
The law requires local and state law enforcement …. Read the original article  : here.

Prosecutor wants Calif. governor to reject parole recommendation for Manson follower Davis

Prosecutor objects to parole for Manson follower

LOS ANGELES – The Los Angeles County district attorney is trying to stop the release of former Charles Manson follower Bruce Davis, who was convicted of participating in two killings.
District Attorney Steve Cooley wrote to Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger on Friday, saying he believes the 67-year-old Davis remains a danger … Read more »».

Israel’s Peres accuses North Korea of smuggling arms and missiles to Iran

Peres says North Korea smuggling arms to Iran

JERUSALEM – Israeli President Shimon Peres is accusing North Korea of smuggling missiles to Iran.
Peres says North Korea has become a “duty free for long-range missiles and nuclear weapons.” He says some of the weaponry flows to Iran and from there to militants in Lebanon and Syria, though …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Israel’s Peres accuses North Korea of smuggling arms and missiles to Iran.

Police seek motive in Times Square smoking car bomb (Third Lead)

NEW YORK – New York police were Sunday seeking a motive and a suspect after a smoking car bomb forced the evacuation of Times Square, the New York Times reported.

Officers on the scene confirmed the device was a bomb, comprising propane gas cylinders, two gas cans, wiring, batteries and fireworks.
However, it failed to …. Original source  : Police seek motive in Times Square smoking car bomb (Third Lead).

Pirates flee as Somali militants move into pirate town; development could upend piracy trade

Pirates flee as Somali militia group moves on town

MOGADISHU, Somalia – Dozens of fighters from one of Somalia’s most powerful rebel groups moved into a northern town Sunday where pirates operate, sending the pirates fleeing in a development that could upend the piracy trade, witnesses said.
Fighters from the militia group Hizbul Islam moved into the … Original source on Gaea Times at : Pirates flee as Somali militants move into pirate town; development could upend piracy trade.

Delhi goes into security overdrive after terror alert (Roundup)

NEW DELHI – Shoppers kept away from popular market places in Delhi Sunday as security was tightened in and around the national capital following terror alerts from the US and three other countries warning of “imminent attacks” in the city.

The US, Australia, Britain and Canada issued fresh security advisories to their citizens Saturday and warned …. Read the original article  : here.

NDFB chief Daimary sent to 12 days police custody

GUWAHATI – Ranjan Daimary, chief of the outlawed National Democratic Front of Bodoland (NDFB) and the prime accused in the October 2008 serial bombings in Assam, was Sunday remanded to 12 days in police custody by a court here.

Daimary was produced before the Chief Judicial Magistrate’s court in Guwahati at 4.45 p.m. under heavy security …. Source article  : NDFB chief Daimary sent to 12 days police custody.

Maoists kill CPI-M leader in West Bengal

KOLKATA – Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) leader Dayal Mahato was shot dead by Maoists in Jamberia area of West Bengal’s West Midnapore district, police said Sunday.

“We have recovered the body of Dayal Mahato. He was kidnapped by the Maoists yesterday (Saturday). He was shot dead,” said Manoj Verma, superintendent of police of West Midnapore …. Original source  : Maoists kill CPI-M leader in West Bengal.

Judgement Day for 26/11 terrorist

MUMBAI – Almost one-and-a-half years after 10 Pakistani terrorists struck in the heart of India’s financial and entertainment capital, the country is waiting anxiously for the verdict Monday on Mohammed Ajmal Amir Kasab, the lone gunman captured alive in the bloody 60-hour siege whose live TV coverage had much of the world in thrall.

Mumbai Special … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Judgement Day for 26/11 terrorist.

Smoking car bomb found in Times Square (Second Lead)

NEW YORK – Police evacuated part of Times Square after finding a car bomb in the busy midtown Manhattan district Saturday night.

Officers on the scene confirmed the device was a bomb, comprising propane gas cylinders, two gas cans, wiring, batteries and fireworks.
However, it failed to detonate correctly.
Times Square is one of New York [..] Read the original article: here.

Marchers hit streets calling on Obama to act immediately on federal immigration reform

Arizona law sparks calls for action on immigration

CHICAGO – Protesters nationwide vented their anger over a new Arizona law to crack down on illegal immigrants by calling on President Barack Obama to immediately take up their cause for federal immigration reform.
From Los Angeles to Washington D.C., activists, families, students and even politicians marched, practiced civil … Read more »»».

Record arrest of corrupt public servants in Bihar

Vigilance Bureau in Bihar has arrested record number of corrupt public servants in the past month.
Officials said they have arrested altogether 18 officials in a single month in April which is the highest number of arrests in any month in Bihar so far.

Earlier, a maximum of 12 corrupt officials had been arrested in March 2007. … Original article on : Record arrest of corrupt public servants in Bihar.

Kasab should be hanged in public, say 26/11 families

MUMBAI – Those whose lives changed forever on 26/11 – family members or friends dead or haunted by shocking memories – say on judgement day Monday, no mercy should be shown to Mohammed Ajmal Amir Kasab, the terrorist captured alive that day. He should be hanged, and hanged in public for all to see, they …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Kasab should be hanged in public, say 26/11 families.

Less crowds in Delhi markets amid terror alert

NEW DELHI – Delhiites remained vigilant and came out in less numbers Sunday, a day after the US and three other countries issued security advisories to their citizens warning of terror attacks in crowded places of the national capital.

The major markets of Karol Bagh, Connaught Place, Lajpat Nagar and Sarojini Nagar saw decreased footfalls.
“The …. Original article  : Less crowds in Delhi markets amid terror alert.

Gurdaspur terrorists were probably looking for s 26/11 in Punjab

GURDASPUR – Security agencies probing a shootout with two trained intruders from Pakistan in Punjab’s border district of Gurdaspur last month say the terrorists had come prepared for a major strike, probably like the 26/11 terror attack in Mumbai.

Security agencies say there is a similarity between the terrorists killed and those who carried out the … Read more : Gurdaspur terrorists were probably looking for s 26/11 in Punjab.

One dead, 50 hurt in Iraq bombing

BAGHDAD – A college student was killed and 50 injured Sunday in a bomb blast in Iraq’s Mosul city, a police source said.

The blast took place in the morning when many buses carrying college students arrived at the Kokejli area in eastern Mosul, the source told Xinhua.
The attacks apparently were aimed at re-igniting …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : One dead, 50 hurt in Iraq bombing.

Times Square Bomb Scare

NEW YORK (GaeaTimes.com)- The suspicious vehicle that was found in New York’s Times Square on Saturday evening contained explosive devices, according to latest reports. A section of the Times Square was vacated on Saturday after smoke was emanating from a car that was parked in the 45th Street and the Seventh Avenue of the …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Times Square Bomb Scare.

Ajmer bombing mastermind may be in Gujarat: Police

JAIPUR – An Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS) of Rajasthan Police has been sent to Gujarat to track down the mastermind of the 2007 Ajmer Dargah Sharif bombing, police sources said here Sunday.

According to ATS sources, interrogation of Devendra Gupta, the first suspect to be arrested for the blast, revealed that the mastermind was based in Gujarat. … Original source on Gaea Times at : Ajmer bombing mastermind may be in Gujarat: Police.

Timeline of Mumbai terror attacks trial

MUMBAI – Finally, the verdict in the Mumbai terror attacks trial will be delivered Monday, May 3, by Special Judge M.L. Tahaliyani. The following is the timeline of the Nov 26-29, 2008, carnage trial:

2008:
Nov 26: Ajmal Amir Kasab and 9 other Pakistani fidayeens launch commando style attacks simultaneously at several locations in and around … Read more »»».

NDFB chief is Assam’s ‘Kasab’, say angry blast victims

GUWAHATI – Ranjan Daimary, the arrested chief of the outlawed National Democratic Front of Bodoland (NDFB), is Assam’s Mohammed Ajmal Amir Kasab, say residents of the state who recall with horror the Oct 30, 2008 serials blasts he masterminded that killed nearly 100 people.

Drawing parallels with the lone Pakistani terrorist captured after the 26/11 Mumbai …. Source  : NDFB chief is Assam’s ‘Kasab’, say angry blast victims.

Four Indians convicted in Bangladesh were militants: Police

SHILLONG – Four Indians convicted of arms smuggling and imprisoned for 17 years in Bangladesh last week are members of the Hynniewtrep National Liberation Council (HNLC), a militant outfit in Meghalaya, a senior police official said Sunday.

“Sketchy reports from various networks confirmed that the four convicted Indians in Bangladesh are members of the outlawed … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Four Indians convicted in Bangladesh were militants: Police.

Two Maoists held with arms, explosives

BHUBANESWAR – Two Maoist guerrillas were arrested Sunday in Orissa’s Gajapati district with arms and explosives, police said.

Manas Majhi alias Laden, 35, and Jisio Pradhan alias Bulu, 22, were arrested by security personnel during a combing operation in Adaba area of the district, Superintendent of Police Sanjeev Arora told IANS.
A gun and about 25 …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Kasab Croons Hindi Song

MUMBAI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- Mohammed Ajmal Kasab who would be facing court’s verdict today seems to be in a jovial mood as the authorities of Arthur Road Jail spotted the convict singing Hindi songs in his cell. The attending officers of the Arthur Road prison told the media that Mohammed Ajmal Kasab has been murmuring a … Read more »».

BJP working on formula to tackle Maoism: Parrikar

PANAJI – The Bharatiya Janata party (BJP) is working on a formula to tackle Maoism by empowering tribals, former Goa chief minister Manohar Parrikar said Monday.

Parrikar, convener of BJP’s newly formed governance cell, told IANS that police action alone was no answer to Maoist insurgency plaguing the country’s backward regions.
“Tribals should be allowed to …. Original article  : BJP working on formula to tackle Maoism: Parrikar.

Sri Lankan leader frees journalist held on terrorism charges on World Press Freedom Day

Sri Lankan leader frees convicted journalist
COLOMBO, Sri Lanka – Sri Lanka’s president ordered the release Monday of a journalist imprisoned on terrorism charges after criticizing the government’s war on Tamil rebels, in a case cited by President Barack Obama as harassment of the press.
Rajapaksa used his executive powers to release Jeyaprakash Tissainayagam, … Read more >>.

Muslim groups demand fresh probe into Mecca Masjid blast

HYDERABAD – Muslim groups in Hyderabad have demanded a fresh probe into the 2007 bomb blast at Mecca Masjid in view of the Central Bureau of Investigation’s (CBI) revelation that the 2007 blasts at the historic mosque and the Ajmer shrine were linked.

The CBI and Rajasthan’s Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS) believe that the blast …. Original article  : Muslim groups demand fresh probe into Mecca Masjid blast.

Times square’s lucky escape from another 26/11

New York,APRIL – As America heaved a collective sigh over the lucky escape from what could have been its 26/11, media recalled other breaks including the arrest of Pakistan-American David Coleman Headley linked with Mumbai terror attacks.

The plot to blow up Times Square over the weekend appears less sophisticated than others that authorities have thwarted …. Original source  : Times square’s lucky escape from another 26/11.

Suicide attack kills 1 outside CIA base in southeastern Afghanistan

Afghan suicide attack kills 1 outside CIA base

KABUL – A suicide attack outside a CIA base killed one civilian and wounded two security guards Monday in eastern Afghanistan, an Afghan official said.
The blast happened outside Camp Chapman, the same base that was hit in December in one of the worst attacks in the history of …. Source  : Suicide attack kills 1 outside CIA base in southeastern Afghanistan.

Listen up! At the root of Greek financial crisis lies distaste for commands of the state

Greeks and the state: an uncomfortable couple

ATHENS – A pony-tailed Greek on a motorcycle pulled up onto the sidewalk, hunting for a better parking spot, and an elderly tourist with a crutch shuffled out of the way. The good-natured driver explained his illegal maneuver with a smile.
One word was enough. “Greece,” he told her in … Read more »»».

Kasab Trial Verdict Today

MUMBAI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- Ajmal Amir Kasab, the main convicted terrorist taken into custody following the Mumbai terrorist attack of November 2008 will face his ordeal today in his final judgement. Reportedly, the case of Ajmal Amir Kasab will be decided over by a special judge from the session court. Along with Ajmal Amir Kasab, Faheem [..] Read the original article: here.

Afghan suicide attack kills 1 at entrance of military base

Afghan suicide attack kills 1 outside base

KABUL – Afghanistan’s Interior Ministry says a suicide attack has killed one person and wounded two at the entrance to a military base.
The attack happened Monday morning in Khost province in eastern Afghanistan. The ministry says the suicide bomber was in a car packed with explosives.
The attack killed one …. Source  : Afghan suicide attack kills 1 at entrance of military base.

Official: China’s next Internet moves to focus on blocking ‘overseas hostile forces’

China targets ‘foreign forces’ in Web crackdown

BEIJING – China will target online information from “overseas hostile forces” in its next crackdown to tighten Internet controls, a government spokesman said in comments reported Monday.
The announcement gave no details about which groups might be targeted but Beijing sometimes accuses political, human rights, Tibet and other activists abroad … Original source on Gaea Times at : Official: China’s next Internet moves to focus on blocking ‘overseas hostile forces’.

Pakistan Taliban leader threatens US in video message

WASHINGTON – Pakistan Taliban leader Hakimullah Mehsud, in a first video message after his alleged death in a US strike, threatened strikes against the US, a terrorism internet watchdog said Monday.

Mehsud, in the nine-minute video released Sunday by the Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan, said the “time was very near” when his fighters would attack main US [..] Read the original article: here.

All set for 26/11 trial verdict

MUMBAI – The fate of Mohammed Ajmal Amir Kasab, the lone Pakistani terrorist captured after the audacious attack on India’s financial and entertainment capital on 26/11, will be decided by Special Judge M.L. Tahaliyani here Monday.

As per indications, Tahaliyani is likely to pronounce his verdict in the Mumbai terror attacks case around noon Monday …. Original source  : All set for 26/11 trial verdict.

18 businesses damaged after immigrants’ rights march turns violent in Santa Cruz, Calif.

Calif. immigrants’ rights march ends in vandalism

SANTA CRUZ, Calif. – Close to 20 businesses were damaged after what started as a peaceful immigrants’ rights march in downtown Santa Cruz turned violent, requiring police to call other agencies for help, authorities said.
Police spokesman Zach Friend said an estimated 250 people started marching through the city around …. Read the original article  : 18 businesses damaged after immigrants’ rights march turns violent in Santa Cruz, Calif..

18 businesses damaged after May Day protest in Santa Cruz, Calif., turns violent

18 businesses damaged in Calif. May Day protest

SANTA CRUZ, Calif. – Close to 20 businesses were damaged after a May Day protest in downtown Santa Cruz turned violent, requiring police to call other agencies for help, authorities said.
Police spokesman Zach Friend said an estimated 250 people started marching through the city around 10:30 p.m. Saturday.
It …. Read the original article  : here.

DEA investigation is pending on allegations in drug lawsuit against NFL champion Saints

DEA looking into Saints case
NEW ORLEANS – Federal authorities are looking into allegations made in a civil lawsuit accusing the New Orleans Saints of trying to cover up a senior staff member’s theft of prescription Vicodin pills from the club’s training headquarters.

“The DEA was referred this case and there is a pending investigation,” said Special …. Read the original article  : here.

Utah bars fined for failing to scan customer IDs of those who appear younger than 35

Utah bars fined for failing to scan customer IDs

SALT LAKE CITY – Four bars in Salt Lake City and a club in Ogden have been cited by state liquor agents for failing to scan the ID of anyone who appears younger than 35 before allowing them to enter.
The penalty for failing to electronically verify licenses … Read more »»».

Authorities taking time to look into allegations in drug lawsuit against NFL champion Saints

Local authorities holding off on Saints probe

NEW ORLEANS – Local authorities are holding off on investigating possible criminal accusations in a lawsuit involving the Super Bowl champion New Orleans Saints.
The civil suit brought by former Saints security director Geoffrey Santini alleges several possible state offenses. The accusations include theft of prescription drugs from the club’s …. Original source  : Authorities taking time to look into allegations in drug lawsuit against NFL champion Saints.

Polanski breaks silence, saying US wants to serve him ‘on a platter to media’

Polanski breaks silence over US extradition case

PARIS – Filmmaker Roman Polanski, breaking a months-long silence, said Sunday that the U.S. is demanding his extradition from Switzerland on a 33-year-old sex case largely to serve him “on a platter to the media.”
Polanski, who is under house arrest in his Alpine Swiss chalet, laid out his case …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Polanski breaks silence, saying US wants to serve him ‘on a platter to media’.

No evidence to back Taliban’s New York bomb claim: Police

NEW YORK – New York Police Commissioner Raymond Kelly Sunday said there is no evidence to support the claim by a Pakistani Taliban commander that he was behind Saturday’s failed car bomb attempt on Times Square.

“Although a Taliban bomb-maker has claimed on the Internet that the car bomb was placed on Times Square to avenge … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : No evidence to back Taliban’s New York bomb claim: Police.

New York car bomb attempt serious situation: White House

WASHINGTON – The bombing attempt in New York’s Times Square was an “extremely serious situation” and the US authorities are investigating all possibilities, the White House said Sunday.

Robert Gibbs, press secretary for the White House, refused to characterise who might be involved or what those motives might be during a press brief onboard Air Force … Read : New York car bomb attempt serious situation: White House.

Sopore tense over separatist commander’s death

SRINAGAR – North Kashmir’s Sopore town remained tense for the third day Tuesday over the mysterious death of a local separatist guerrilla commander. The commander’s family alleged he was killed in a gun battle with the Indian Army while the police refuted the claims.

All markets and educational institutions remained shut and transport was off the … Read more »».

Mumbai News On 26/11 Sentencing

MUMBAI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- The nation is waiting for the latest news on the fate of Ajmal Kasab, the sole terrorist who was caught alive at the 26/11 massacre. Today the 26/11 trial court of Mumbai will hear the arguments of both the defence and prosecution and deliver the verdict. The terrorist got convicted …. Read the original article  : Mumbai News On 26/11 Sentencing.

Teammates mourn slain Va. lacrosse player; authorities charge fellow athlete in her slaying

Va. lacrosse player’s killing shocks classmates

CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. – Yeardley Love was upon the best time of her life.
The woman from Cockeysville, Md., who said she always dreamed of playing lacrosse at Virginia, was only weeks from earning a degree, and she and her teammates were anticipating a chance to punctuate their season by winning a …. Source article  : Teammates mourn slain Va. lacrosse player; authorities charge fellow athlete in her slaying.

Another failed terrorist attack plot: Years of schemes leave NY residents wary and weary

Failed terror attack plots leave NY residents wary

NEW YORK – A Times Square car bombing attempt last weekend was just the latest in a long list of terror schemes targeting New York City.
Hardened wariness has taken hold for many New Yorkers. Retired firefighter Lee Ielpi (eye-EL’-pee) lost his firefighter son on Sept. 11 and says … Original source on Gaea Times at : Another failed terrorist attack plot: Years of schemes leave NY residents wary and weary.

Ex-producer faces jail in NYC for trying to shake down David Letterman over his office affairs

Ex-producer faces jail in NYC for Letterman plot

NEW YORK – A former CBS television producer who admitted trying to shake down David Letterman over the late-night comic’s office affairs is bracing for time behind bars.
Robert “Joe” Halderman was set to be sentenced Tuesday to a six-month jail term, as planned when he pleaded guilty in …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Ex-producer faces jail in NYC for trying to shake down David Letterman over his office affairs.

Shahzad Faisal Arrested In Bombing Case

NEW YORK (GaeaTimes.com)- The New York Police Department has arrested a man as being the prime suspect in the case of the Times Square bombing in New York. The bomb was found in a car in Times Square, and was detonated before it could explode. This is the first headway that the police have been …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Shahzad Faisal Arrested In Bombing Case.

Ceasefire with Nagaland militant outfit extended

NEW DELHI – The ceasefire agreement between the government and the National Socialist Council of Nagaland-Khaplang (NSCN-K) has been extended by another year, it was announced Tuesday.

The decision to extend the agreement with effect from April 28, 2010 was taken Monday evening at a meeting with home ministry officials and NSCN-K representatives, an official statement …. Original article  : Ceasefire with Nagaland militant outfit extended.

Off-duty deputy arrests woman in Southern California Target store after she allegedly stabs 4

Off-duty deputy stops knife attack at Calif Target

WEST HOLLYWOOD, Calif. – Deputy Clay Grant Jr. was off-duty and picking up a couple of household items from Target when customers started screaming.
He says he quickly saw why: A woman was running down the cosmetic aisle with a knife in each hand.
Layla Trawick, 34, had just stabbed …. Source article  : Off-duty deputy arrests woman in Southern California Target store after she allegedly stabs 4.

Unlikely partners on crime say Congress fails to give fair notice of criminal conduct

Report: Congress makes too many vague laws

WASHINGTON – A conservative think tank and criminal defense lawyers are forming an unusual alliance to try to get Congress to quit writing criminal laws so loosely that they subject innocent people to unjust prosecution and prison.
A new study by the Heritage Foundation and the National Association of Criminal … Original source on Gaea Times at : Unlikely partners on crime say Congress fails to give fair notice of criminal conduct.

Iraq starts construction of security wall around Baghdad

Baghdad, May 4 (IANS/RIA Novosti) Iraqi authorities have started the construction of a security wall around the capital Baghdad, reports the country’s Al-Iraqiya TV citing a Baghdad security spokesperson.

The concrete wall with eight checkpoints is to be completed in mid-2011.
It will be equipped with modern surveillance systems to “block terrorists and prevent them from … Original source on Gaea Times at : Iraq starts construction of security wall around Baghdad.

Why name Saeed, Lakhvi in 26/11 verdict, asks Jamaat-ud-Dawa

LAHORE – India has “unjustifiably” named Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) leaders Hafiz Saeed and Zakiur Rehman Lakhvi in the Mumbai terror attack case, a Jamaat-ud-Dawa spokesperson said after an Indian court held Pakistani national Ajmal Amir Kasab guilty of the 26/11 mayhem.

A special court in Mumbai Monday pronounced Kasab, who was the lone terrorist arrested for …. Original article  : Why name Saeed, Lakhvi in 26/11 verdict, asks Jamaat-ud-Dawa.

Pakistani man detained over Times Square incident

NEW YORK – Police arrested a naturalized US citizen from Pakistan in connection with the apparent botched attempt to set off a crude car bomb in New York’s landmark Times Square, The New York Times reported early Tuesday.

The suspect is a resident of nearby Connecticut and is believed to have anonymously bought the 1993 …. Original source  : Pakistani man detained over Times Square incident.

Pakistani man sought in Times Square bomb scare

NEW YORK/WASHINGTON – American authorities are seeking the arrest of a man from Pakistan who has been identified as the owner of the 1993 Nissan Pathfinder that was used in the failed car bombing in Times Square, according to the New York Times.

Identified as a naturalised US citizen from Pakistan who recently returned from a … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Pakistani man sought in Times Square bomb scare.

Calif. prosecutors: Man strangled elderly mother, then went to store to buy tobacco

Prosecutors: Man strangled mother, went to store

SANTA ANA, Calif. – Prosecutors say a 52-year-old man strangled his mother, wrapped her body in a sheet and then used her credit card to buy chewing tobacco before returning to their Southern California condominium and calling 911.
Orange County Deputy District Attorney Ebrahim Baytieh told jurors Monday that Ethan … Read more : Calif. prosecutors: Man strangled elderly mother, then went to store to buy tobacco.

NY governor seeks to help rehabilitated, convicted immigrants avoid deportation

NY governor seeks to counter deportation laws

ALBANY, N.Y. – Gov. David Paterson stepped into the immigration debate Monday, saying he would create the nation’s first “pardon panel” to investigate requests of legal immigrants facing deportation because of past convictions.
Paterson, proposing the measure as the nation is embroiled in conflict over an Arizona law that critics [..] Read the original article: here.

Report: No spying in suburban Philly school laptops tracking, but privacy concerns ignored

Report: No spying in Pa. school laptops case

PHILADELPHIA – There’s no evidence a suburban school district used school-issued laptops to spy on students despite its questionable policies and its lack of regard for students’ privacy, according to a report issued Monday by attorneys hired by the district.
Concerns about an online chat captured in a screen …. Source  : Report: No spying in suburban Philly school laptops tracking, but privacy concerns ignored.

Woman stabs 4 in Southern Calif. Target store, off-duty sheriff’s deputy orders her to ground

Woman stabs 4 in Southern Calif. Target store

WEST HOLLYWOOD, Calif. – A woman who stabbed and wounded four people in a busy Target store Monday afternoon was arrested when an off-duty sheriff’s deputy pulled his gun and ordered the woman to the ground as screaming shoppers ran from the building, authorities said.
Layla Trawick used a …. Source article  : Woman stabs 4 in Southern Calif. Target store, off-duty sheriff’s deputy orders her to ground.

City attorney says Phoenix mayor can’t file challenge to Arizona’s new immigration law

Official: Mayor can’t challenge AZ immigration law

PHOENIX – A proposed legal challenge to Arizona’s new immigration law took a hit Monday when the Phoenix city attorney said Mayor Phil Gordon doesn’t have the power to target the law without the support of the City Council.
Gordon was hoping to file a lawsuit to stop the law … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : City attorney says Phoenix mayor can’t file challenge to Arizona’s new immigration law.

Court rebuffs conservation groups, upholds timber sales in Tongass National Forest

Court upholds timber sales in Tongass Nat’l Forest

ANCHORAGE, Alaska – Two conservation groups have failed to stop four timber sale offerings they say threaten a rare species of wolf that lives in the Tongass National Forest.
Greenpeace and Cascadia Wildlands Project filed a lawsuit two years ago accusing the U.S. Forest Service of violating federal environmental … Original article on : Court rebuffs conservation groups, upholds timber sales in Tongass National Forest.

FBI: Former SC sheriff dealt drugs from police SUV, extorted dealers to keep them out of jail

FBI: Ex-SC sheriff dealt drugs from police SUV

COLUMBIA, S.C. – A South Carolina sheriff dealt drugs from his police SUV and when state and federal agents gave him a list of possible drug dealers in his county, he immediately started calling to tip them off or extort money to get them off the list, according … Read more »».

Pakistan arrests suspects linked to Times Square bomber

ISLAMABAD – Pakistani authorities have arrested several suspects reportedly linked to the failed car bombing in New York.

Faisal Shahzad, a naturalized US citizen of Pakistani origin, was arrested in the US Monday over the failed attack.
Shahzad’s friend Tausef and father-in-law Iftikhar Mian were picked up by intelligence personnel from a house in the southern [..] Read the original article: here.

Afghan militants attack government compound; at least 5 would-be suicide bombers dead

Afghan militants attack government compound

KABUL – Militants attacked the provincial governor’s compound in western Afghanistan on Wednesday, sparking street battles that killed at least five would-be suicide bombers, authorities said.
The Afghan Interior Ministry said police killed the bombers before they were able to carry out their attacks in Zaranj in Nimroz province, in extreme southwestern … Read more : Afghan militants attack government compound; at least 5 would-be suicide bombers dead.

Philippine justice chief, under public pressure, keeps massacre charges vs. 2 clan members

Philippines restores massacre charges for clansmen

MANILA, Philippines – The Philippine justice chief on Wednesday reversed his decision to drop murder charges against two suspects in last year’s massacre of 57 people following complaints from victims’ families and his own prosecutors.
Among 198 suspects in the Nov. 23 killings, the Philippines’ worst political violence, are members of …. Original source  : Philippine justice chief, under public pressure, keeps massacre charges vs. 2 clan members.

Afghan police kill would-be suicide bombers in the western province of Nimroz

Afghan police kill would-be suicide bombers

KABUL – Afghan officials say police have killed several would-be suicide bombers in western Afghanistan.
Zemeri Bashary, spokesman for the Afghan Interior Ministry, says police killed five bombers Wednesday before they could carry out an attack in Nimroz province.
The deputy police chief there, Musa Rasooli, said militants were targeting the provincial …. Source  : Afghan police kill would-be suicide bombers in the western province of Nimroz.

Times Square suspect chose wrong explosive, says expert

NEW YORK – Terror suspect Faisal Shahzad, who attempted to bomb Times Square here after receiving training in Pakistan, made a crucial mistake that saved many lives — he chose the wrong explosive material, a security expert said.

Frank Doyle, a former bomb expert who served with the Federal Bureau of Investigation, said he didn’t think …. Read the original article  : here.

NY man accused of stealing from Make-A-Wish Foundation, having someone’s handicap parking pass

NY man accused of Make-A-Wish Foundation theft

BOHEMIA, N.Y. – A man from New York’s Long Island has been accused of stealing from the Make-A-Wish Foundation.
Suffolk County police say the man was wanted on grand larceny charges alleging he used for his personal gain money from the foundation, which grants wishes to children with life-threatening medical … Read more >>.

Hero Honda Hunk Retrieved By Cops

MUMBAI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- Mumbai Police held a young man called Nilesh Banjar in custody as he tried to steal a Hero Honda Hunk motorbike. Reportedly, the Hero Honda Hunk belonged to the father of his close friend. The youth told the police that he stole it because of his job which involved heavy traveling. He … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Hero Honda Hunk Retrieved By Cops.

US underplays Pakistan connection to terror

WASHINGTON – As another terror case with Pakistani links emerged, US sought to underplay the connection projecting terrorism as a common threat to “a number of countries around the world, including Pakistan and India and others.”

“We obviously are aware that, you know, we have a threat that we face on an ongoing basis of individuals …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Officer, soldier killed in Kashmir gunfight

SRINAGAR – An army officer and a soldier died Wednesday after succumbing to injuries sustained in a gunfight between separatist guerrillas and security forces in Jammu and Kashmir’s Bandipora district, police said.

“A major and a soldier, both of whom had been injured in Tuesday’s encounter between militants and security forces in Chatibandi area of Bandipora … Original source on Gaea Times at : Officer, soldier killed in Kashmir gunfight.

Times Square bomb suspect travelled often to Pakistan

WASHINGTON – Faisal Shahzad, the Pakistan-born suspect who tried to explode a car bomb in Times Square, had lived legally in the US for 10 years and apparently often travelled to Pakistan.

Shahzad, 30, who has admitted to getting bomb making training in Pakistan, made his last trip to his homeland in February, the New York …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Southern Minn. man accused burglary, animal cruelty for allegedly stabbing 29 pigs

Southern Minn. man accused of stabbing 29 pigs

FAIRMONT, Minn. – Authorities say a southern Minnesota man was drunk when he allegedly went into a barn and stabbed 29 pigs.
Twenty-three-year-old Curtis Lee Adams of Winnegago faces burglary, cruelty to animals and other charges in last week’s incident at the Wiechman Pigs hog barn. All 29 pigs …. Original source  : Southern Minn. man accused burglary, animal cruelty for allegedly stabbing 29 pigs.

Soldier killed, captain wounded in Kashmir gunfight

SRINAGAR – An army soldier was killed and an officer Wednesday injured in an ongoing gunfight between separatist guerrillas and security forces in Jammu and Kashmir’s Bandipora district, police said.

“The encounter started late Tuesday evening. One captain and a soldier of the army were wounded when militants fired at a raiding party of the security … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Soldier killed, captain wounded in Kashmir gunfight.

Fellow passengers: No panic on plane after arrest of Times Square bomb suspect

No panic on plane as Times Square suspect arrested

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates – Passengers aboard the plane with the Times Square bomb suspect said Wednesday they were asked to identify their carry-on baggage and went through another round of security screening after the flight was brought back to the terminal in New York.
Suspect Faisal Shahzad … Read more »»».

Relatives of 4 killed at Kent State site remembered; hundreds gather 40 years after shootings

Kent State marks 40th years since Guard shootings

KENT, Ohio – The relatives of four students killed by National Guard troops at Kent State University remembered their loved ones along with hundreds of people who gathered at the site 40 years later.
Ninety-year-old Florence Schroeder spoke about her son, William, who was shot in the back on …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Relatives of 4 killed at Kent State site remembered; hundreds gather 40 years after shootings.

Times Square bomb suspect admits he was trained in Pakistan

NEW YORK – A Pakistani American suspect in the failed Times Square car bombing has admitted he attempted to detonate a bomb at the New York landmark and had received bomb-making training in Pakistan, according to court charges filed against him.

Other charges against Faisal Shahzad, 30, who was arrested as his plane was about to … Read more »».

Ex-member of Ku Klux Klan gives account of woman’s death at group leader’s trial

Witness: Slain Klan recruit shouted ‘I want out’

COVINGTON, La. – A Ku Klux Klan recruit agrily cursed a white supremacist leader and yelled “I want out” before he shot her to death the day after she was initiated in 2008, a former group member testified Tuesday.
Frankie Stafford gave a chilling account of Cynthia Lynch’s death, …. Read the original article  : here.

Smoking bag removed from international flight in Houston was damaged by external heat source

No threat from smoking suitcase at Houston airport

HOUSTON – Police say a ruptured, smoking suitcase found on an international flight in Houston posed no threat and that damage to the bag was caused by an external heat source.
Officials say luggage was being taken off a KLM flight that had arrived at George Bush Intercontinental Airport …. Read the original article  : Smoking bag removed from international flight in Houston was damaged by external heat source.

‘Her head repeatedly hit the wall’: Suspect tells police details of U.Va. lacrosse death

Suspect tells police details of U.Va. lax death

CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. – On a day when gruesome details emerged about how a women’s lacrosse player at Virginia wound up dead in a pool of her own blood and a player on the men’s team was charged with killing her, the teams decided to play on in tribute.
Virginia … Original article on : ‘Her head repeatedly hit the wall’: Suspect tells police details of U.Va. lacrosse death.

Texas Tech files documents in former coach’s lawsuit over his firing

Texas Tech seeks to have individuals dismissed

LUBBOCK, Texas – Attorneys for Texas Tech University said in documents filed Tuesday that they want four school employees dismissed from former football coach Mike Leach’s lawsuit over his firing and argued again that the school is immune from the suit.
It was the final day court filings could be …. Source article  : Texas Tech files documents in former coach’s lawsuit over his firing.

Fellow passengers: No panic during arrest of Times Square bomb suspect

Passengers: Times Square suspect arrested quietly

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates – Travelers aboard the plane with the Times Square bomb suspect say the pilot announced that a passenger was being taken off the aircraft, but they only learned of the links to the failed attack after the arrest.
Suspect Faisal Shahzad was arrested Tuesday after the Emirates … Read more >>>.

I am happy, says Nikam

MUMBAI – “I am happy with the judgement,” Special Public Prosecutor Ujjwal Nikam declared Thursday, after Pakistani national Ajmal Amir Kasab was sentenced to death in the 26/11 case.

“This case was a challenge to us,” Nikam told reporters, adding that capital punishment would help heal the wounds of the victims of the 2008 terror attack … Original article on : I am happy, says Nikam.

Indian court awards death sentence to Pakistani gunman convicted in 2008 Mumbai siege

Court gives death penalty to Mumbai siege gunman

MUMBAI, India – A court in India on Thursday handed a death sentence to the only surviving Pakistani gunman in the bloody 2008 Mumbai attacks.
Judge M.L. Tahaliyani’s sentence came three days after Mohammed Ajmal Kasab was found guilty of murder and waging war against India for his role …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Indian court awards death sentence to Pakistani gunman convicted in 2008 Mumbai siege.

Kasab gets death for 26/11 terror strike

MUMBAI – Pakistani national Ajmal Amir Kasab, the lone gunman captured alive during the 26/11 Mumbai terror attack, was Thursday sentenced to death by a special court, which ruled that he did not have any right to live. He had been convicted on 86 counts, including waging war on the Indian state.

Kasab was sentenced to … Read more >>.

Kasab sentenced to death in 26/11 case

MUMBAI – Pakistani national Ajmal Amir Kasab, the lone gunman captured alive during the 26/11 Mumbai terror attack, was Thursday sentenced to death by a special court here. He had been convicted on 86 counts, including waging war on the Indian state.
… Read more >>>.

70 injured as cops clash with Muivah supporters

IMPHAL – At least 70 tribal Nagas, most of them women, were injured Thursday in a border town in Manipur in a clash between security forces and thousands of supporters of Thuingaleng Muivah who had gathered to welcome the separatist leader to the state.

More than 5,000 Naga protestors gathered at Mao, the border town …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : 70 injured as cops clash with Muivah supporters.

Peace march begins in Chhattisgarh

RAIPUR – A peace march led by Gandhian Narayan Desai and others left Raipur Thursday for Chhattisgarh’s Maoist bastion of Bastar to hold talks with the tribal people.

The marchers will also cover Dantewada, the site of the April 6 rebel massacre of 76 security personnel, the worst such killing since the Maoist insurgency began in …. Read the original article  : Peace march begins in Chhattisgarh.

Pakistan factors looms large in New York terror probe

WASHINGTON/NEW YORK – US investigators probing the aborted Times Square bombing attempt have shifted their focus to prime suspect Faisal Shahzad’s links in Pakistan with officials suggesting the Pakistan Taliban had very likely played a key role and even trained him.

“A big part of that ongoing investigation is to evaluate where he was and what … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Pakistan factors looms large in New York terror probe.

Jailed Mich. militia members charged with conspiracy could be released after judge lifts stay

Jailed Mich. militia members could be released

DETROIT – Nine jailed militia members accused of conspiring to overthrow the U.S. government have won the latest round in the fight over whether they will be freed while they wait for trial.
In a ruling late Wednesday, U.S. District Judge Victoria Roberts said she would not further suspend her … Original source on Gaea Times at : Jailed Mich. militia members charged with conspiracy could be released after judge lifts stay.

States struggle with whether to require juvenile sex offenders to register

States vary on dealing with youth sex offenders

ATLANTA – When Ricky Blackman was 16, he pleaded guilty to having sex with a 13-year-old girl, and an Iowa judge ordered him to register as a sex offender.
But if Blackman had lived in at least a half-dozen other states, his name would never have appeared on a …. Original source  : States struggle with whether to require juvenile sex offenders to register.

Maoists blast railway track in Bihar

PATNA – Maoists blasted a railway track in Bihar Thursday during a 48-hour strike called by them after police foiled a Maoist-backed outfit’s public meeting.

Police sources said the track was blown up near Kurmi railway station in Muzaffarpur district, about 70 km from here, hitting train services.
The police had allegedly prevented members of the … Read more : Maoists blast railway track in Bihar.

Russian special forces storm oil tanker from helicopter, free crew and arrest Somali pirates

Russian special forces storm oil tanker, free ship

ABOARD THE HSwMS CARLSKRONA – Russian special forces rappelled onto a disabled oil tanker taken over by Somali pirates, freeing 23 Russian sailors and arresting the pirates during a dawn raid Thursday, the commander of the EU Naval Force said.
The raid against the Liberian-flagged ship Moscow University came … Read more >>>.

Kasab’s sentencing Thursday afternoon

MUMBAI – Barely hours before sentencing was to be pronounced on Pakistani terrorist Ajmal Amir Kasab, the prosecution early Thursday expressed confidence that the perpetrator of the 26/11 mayhem in Mumbai would get the hangman’s noose.

Kasab was pronounced guilty May 3 in the Nov 26, 2008 Mumbai terror attack. Special Judge M.L. Tahaliyani is expected …. Original source  : Kasab’s sentencing Thursday afternoon.

‘Taliban’s suicide-bomb trainer tutored NYK bombing suspect’

WASHINGTON – Times Square bombing’s Pakistan-born suspect Faisal Shahzad received instruction from the Pakistan Taliban’s suicide-bomb trainer, the Wall Street Journal reported citing a senior Pakistani official

If verified the suspected links between Pakistan Taliban and Shahzad would mark a stark shift in how it and related jihadist groups, which have so far focused on attacks …. Original article  : ‘Taliban’s suicide-bomb trainer tutored NYK bombing suspect’.

Judge lifts stay, allowing release of jailed Mich. militia members charged with conspiracy

Judge lifts stay in Mich. militia case
DETROIT – A judge lifted a stay Wednesday night and cleared the way for nine members of a Michigan militia to be released from jail while awaiting trial on charges of conspiring to overthrow the government and weapons violations.

U.S. District Judge Victoria Roberts rejected a request to keep them …. Original article  : Judge lifts stay, allowing release of jailed Mich. militia members charged with conspiracy.

Maoists set afire two buses in Bihar

PATNA – Suspected Maoists Thursday torched two buses in Bihar’s Saran district, police said.

Armed rebels set on fire two buses near a village under Maker police station.
No casualty was reported as the buses were empty at the time of incident, the police said.
… Original source on Gaea Times at : Maoists set afire two buses in Bihar.

Strength in numbers: 5 women subdue man accused of stabbing on Maine college campus

5 women stop man accused of Maine campus stabbing

BANGOR, Maine – Five female students, including one who’d recently completed a self-defense class, jumped to the aid of a fellow student, grabbing her knife-wielding attacker and holding him until police officers arrived at Husson University, officials said Wednesday.
Jesse Hladik put her new skills to work when …. Source article  : Strength in numbers: 5 women subdue man accused of stabbing on Maine college campus.

San Francisco police to shut down drug testing lab in wake of scandal

SF police to shut down troubled drug testing lab

SAN FRANCISCO – San Francisco police said Wednesday they have decided to shut down their troubled drug testing lab and outsource the work.
The unit had been indefinitely shuttered since March 9, shortly after former lab technician Deborah Madden was accused of skimming cocaine evidence.
Prosecutors have dismissed more … Read more : San Francisco police to shut down drug testing lab in wake of scandal.

New Orleans’ new mayor seeks Justice Dept. help to transform police department

New Orleans mayor seeks federal help to fix police

NEW ORLEANS – The new mayor of New Orleans asked the U.S. Department of Justice on Wednesday to send a team to help overhaul the city’s corruption-plagued police department, which already is the subject of several federal investigations.
Mayor Mitch Landrieu requested a team from the Justice Department’s …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : New Orleans’ new mayor seeks Justice Dept. help to transform police department.

Media ask judge to unseal affidavit used to raid blogger who posted iPhone prototype pics

Media wants affidavit in iPhone raid unsealed

SEATTLE – The Associated Press and other news organizations asked a judge Wednesday to unseal the search warrant affidavit used to raid the home of a blogger who posted pictures and details of an iPhone prototype.
The legality of the raid is one of many unanswered questions in a saga … Read : Media ask judge to unseal affidavit used to raid blogger who posted iPhone prototype pics.

Man who took hostages at NH Clinton office is fined, prosecutor could seek more prison time

Man who took hostages at NH Clinton office fined

DOVER, N.H. – Prosecutors are trying to send a New Hampshire man who took hostages at a Hillary Rodham Clinton presidential campaign office in 2007 back to prison for probation violations.
Leeland Eisenberg pleaded guilty Tuesday to two charges of criminal mischief and was fined.
In February, Eisenberg was …. Original source  : Man who took hostages at NH Clinton office is fined, prosecutor could seek more prison time.

Russia says pirates who held oil tanker off the coast of Somalia have been released

Russia says pirates who held tanker are freed

MOSCOW – Russia’s Defense Ministry said Friday the pirates seized by a Russian warship off the coast of Somalia have been released because of “imperfections” in international law.
Authorities initially said the pirates would be brought to Russia to face criminal charges after hijacking a Russian oil tanker. But … Read more »».

Day after Kasab verdict, business as usual at CST

MUMBAI – A day after he was sentenced to death, it was business as usual Friday at the Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (CST) where Pakistani terrorist Ajmal Amir Kasab and an accomplice slaughtered more than 50 innocents during the Mumbai terror attack.

Moments after a special court Thursday awarded the capital punishment to Kasab, the only one … Read more »»».

Russia says pirates who held oil tanker released

Russia says pirates who held tanker released

MOSCOW – A spokesman for Russia’s Defense Ministry says the pirates seized by a Russian warship off the coast of Somalia have been released because of “imperfections” in international law.
Authorities initially said the pirates would be brought to Russia to face criminal charges after hijacking a Russian oil tanker. … Original source on Gaea Times at : Russia says pirates who held oil tanker released.

Five guerrillas, two soldiers die in Kashmir gunfight

SRINAGAR – Five separatist guerrillas and two Indian soldiers were killed in heavy fighting in a forest area in Jammu and Kashmir’s Baramulla district, police said Friday.

The deaths took place late Thursday during a joint operation by the army and police in Sheikhpora’s forest, some 80 km from here, Inspector General of Police Farooq Ahmad …. Source  : Five guerrillas, two soldiers die in Kashmir gunfight.

Tension continues in Manipur

IMPHAL – The situation in Manipur continued to be volatile for the second day Friday after three students were killed and about 70 injured in clashes between security forces and supporters of Naga separatist leader Thuingaleng Muivah.

More than 5,000 Nagas had Thursday gathered at Mao, the border town between the two adjoining states of … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Tension continues in Manipur.

Pakistan taking ‘aggressive action’ against terrorists, says US

WASHINGTON – As Times Square bombing attempt suspect Faisal Shahzad was linked to terror groups in his homeland, the United States came to the aid of its key ally saying of late Islamabad has been taking “aggressive action” against militants.

“Pakistan has for a number of years been taking aggressive action,” State Department spokesman Philip J. …. Source article  : Pakistan taking ‘aggressive action’ against terrorists, says US.

Immigration protesters arrested after locking selves together, blocking LA street for hours

Immigration protesters block Los Angeles street

LOS ANGELES – Los Angeles police have arrested more than a dozen protesters who chained themselves together on a downtown street to protest Arizona’s new immigration law.
Protest spokesman Nelson Motto says 14 activists locked themselves in a circle Thursday afternoon and lay down in front of federal immigration detention center, …. Original source  : Immigration protesters arrested after locking selves together, blocking LA street for hours.

Four guerrillas, two soldiers killed in Kashmir gunfight

SRINAGAR – Four separatist guerrillas and two army troopers were killed in a fierce gunfight in a forest area near Rafiabad in north Kashmir’s Baramulla district, an official said Friday.

The army and police jointly surrounded the area near Sheikhpora village, 80 km from here Thursday, when they received specific information about the presence of a …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Four guerrillas, two soldiers killed in Kashmir gunfight.

Pakistan links of Times Square suspect grows stronger

WASHINGTON – Faisal Shahzad, the Pakistani-American suspect in the Times Square bombing attempt, has been linked to Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and a Yemeni-American militant cleric who has inspired several recent attacks and plots.

The extent of Shahzad’s involvement with TTP has not been determined and could range from communications to training and does not necessarily mean … Read more »»».

Video emerges of Times Square suspect buying fireworks

WASHINGTON – A video has been aired in the US showing the suspect in the attempted bombing of New York’s Times Square purchasing fireworks.

Broadcaster CNN aired the footage Thursday captured by cameras in a Phantom Fireworks store in Matamoras, Pennsylvania, which is said to show Faisal Shahzad purchasing M-88 firecrackers.
M-88s were a component in … Read more : Video emerges of Times Square suspect buying fireworks.

Police chief says NH bomb scare, hours-long standoff with passenger ‘not terrorist event’

Police: NH bus bomb scare not ‘terrorist event’

PORTSMOUTH, N.H. – A nine-hour bomb scare aboard a Maine-to-New York Greyhound bus ended peacefully Thursday night when the lone remaining passenger walked off it with his hands over his head. The other 16 passengers and the driver had left the bus safely hours earlier.
Portsmouth Police Chief David …. Source  : Police chief says NH bomb scare, hours-long standoff with passenger ‘not terrorist event’.

Pentagon bans 4 Guantanamo reporters who published name of witness after being told not to

Pentagon bans 4 Gitmo reporters for naming witness

SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico – The Pentagon on Thursday barred four journalists from military commissions at Guantanamo Bay because they published the name of a witness after being told not to.
The U.S. military wanted the witness identified only as “Interrogator No. 1″ and forbade reporting his name during …. Source  : Pentagon bans 4 Guantanamo reporters who published name of witness after being told not to.

US adds 3 Mexican states to list of places Americans should avoid, including 2 tourist areas

US adds 3 Mexican states to travel-warning list

MEXICO CITY – The U.S. State Department updated its travel warning for Mexico on Thursday by including three additional states on its list of places it recommends Americans avoid when south of the border.
The new warning adds the northern state of Tamaulipas, parts of the northern Pacific coast [..] Read the original article: here.

‘Person of interest’ in recent KC rapes charged in 1980s assaults, also investigated in Calif.

Charges in old Mo. rapes, investigation in Calif.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A convicted Missouri sex offender considered a person of interest in a recent string of Kansas City rapes was charged Thursday with 15 counts related to assaults in the same neighborhood in the early 1980s.
Investigators also are looking into possible connections between Bernard Jackson, … Read this article on Gaea Times at : ‘Person of interest’ in recent KC rapes charged in 1980s assaults, also investigated in Calif..

Cincinnati Bengals agree to deal with cornerback Pacman Jones

Bengals agree to deal with Jones
CINCINNATI – Adam “Pacman” Jones agreed to a two-year deal with the Cincinnati Bengals on Thursday, putting the troubled cornerback on a team with a history of giving players second chances.

Jones, who was released by the Cowboys after the 2008 season and didn’t play last year, worked for the Bengals … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Cincinnati Bengals agree to deal with cornerback Pacman Jones.

Siblings, father killed, mother wounded after gunman invades LA-area home

3 family members killed by gunman in LA-area home

HAWAIIAN GARDENS, Calif. – Six family members escaped a gunman rampaging through their house Thursday by climbing through a window and hiding on a roof as a room-to-room attack left a father, son and daughter dead and the mother critically wounded, authorities said.
Joseph Mercado, 26, is suspected … Read more : Siblings, father killed, mother wounded after gunman invades LA-area home.

Blagojevich attorneys barred from mentioning one-time fundraiser’s suicide at corruption trial

Blagojevich lawyers can’t mention suicide at trial
CHICAGO – A federal judge says former Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich’s (blah-GOY’-uh-viches) attorneys cannot talk about a fundraiser’s suicide at his corruption trial.
Judge James Zagel barred mention of Christopher Kelly’s suicide in a one-line order Thursday.
Prosecutors sought the order, saying Kelly’s suicide was unrelated to the case.
Kelly … Original source on Gaea Times at : Blagojevich attorneys barred from mentioning one-time fundraiser’s suicide at corruption trial.

Utah Supreme Court to hear arguments in case of man scheduled to die by firing squad

Utah court to hear appeal in firing squad case

SALT LAKE CITY – The Utah Supreme Court said Thursday it will hear an expedited appeal from a condemned inmate scheduled to be executed by a firing squad.
Ronnie Lee Gardner, 49, was convicted of capital murder and sentenced to die in 1985 for the fatal courthouse shooting …. Original source  : Utah Supreme Court to hear arguments in case of man scheduled to die by firing squad.

NYC judge orders filmmaker to turn over outtakes of documentary on Chevron-Ecuador legal fight

NYC judge to ‘Crude’ filmmaker: Hand over footage

NEW YORK – A federal judge ordered a documentary filmmaker Thursday to turn over about 600 hours of raw footage from a film about a court fight over whether Chevron Corp. owes billions of dollars in damages for oil contamination in Ecuador.
U.S. District Judge Lewis A. Kaplan said …. Read the original article  : here.

Siblings killed, parents wounded after gunman with assault-style rifle invades LA-area home

2 killed when gunman invades LA-area home
HAWAIIAN GARDENS, Calif. – Six family members escaped a gunman rampaging through their house Thursday by climbing through a window and hiding on a roof as a room-to-room attack left a sister and brother dead and their parents critically wounded, authorities said.

Joseph Mercado, 27, is suspected of shooting and … Read more »»».

Prosecutors say they would retry Palin hacking defendant on ID theft if man is granted retrial

ID theft retrial in Palin hacking hinges on appeal

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. – Prosecutors say a Tennessee man convicted of two federal charges in the hacking of Sarah Palin’s e-mail account would be retried on an identity theft charge that left a jury deadlocked only if a defense request for a retrial is granted.
David Kernell, 22, was …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Prosecutors say they would retry Palin hacking defendant on ID theft if man is granted retrial.

Police: Belligerent golf fan Tasered, arrested at Players Championship

Golf fan Tasered, arrested at Players Championship

PONTE VEDRA BEACH, Fla. – A 36-year-old man attending the second round of The Players Championship was subdued by a Taser on Friday.
Travis Parmelee, of Jacksonville, was charged with disorderly intoxication and resisting arrest without violence, said St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office Capt. Dave Messenger.
Messenger said course marshals notified …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

One killed, seven injured in Dagestan blast

Moscow, May 8 (IANS/RIA Novosti) At least one person was killed and seven people were injured in a blast that ripped through a railway station in Derbent town in the Russian North Caucasus republic of Dagestan Friday night, a police source said.

“According to the latest information, the number of wounded increased to seven,” the source … Original article on : One killed, seven injured in Dagestan blast.

Bosnian Serb war criminal hospitalized after assault at British prison

Bosnian Serb war criminal assaulted in UK prison

LONDON – A Bosnian Serb war criminal serving time for his role in the 1995 massacre at Srebrenica was assaulted by fellow inmates Friday at a high-security prison in northern England, officials said.
Radislav Krstic was hospitalized after an attack by three inmates at Wakefield prison, about 190 miles … Read more »».

Pakistan still sees India as major threat, says top US general

WASHINGTON – Pakistan still sees India as its major thereat even as it has stepped up action against militants realising the “very existential threat” posed by the Pakistani Taliban and some of its allies, according to a top US general.

“India is still seen as the major state-based threat,” General David H. Petraeus, the head …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Pakistan still sees India as major threat, says top US general.

Priest urges mourners in Virginia pray for both lacrosse killing victim and suspect

Priest asks for prayers for Va. lacrosse suspect

CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. – Mourners attending a Roman Catholic Mass honoring slain Virginia lacrosse player Yeardley Love were urged Friday to also pray for the player on the men’s team who’s accused of beating her to death.
Father Joseph Scordo told his audience of about 100 at the campus chapel …. Original source  : Priest urges mourners in Virginia pray for both lacrosse killing victim and suspect.

US does not rule out Headley-Shahzad connection

WASHINGTON – The United States has not ruled out a connection between two Pakistani Americans, key Mumbai terror plotter David Coleman Headley and failed Times square bombing suspect Faisal Shahzad, as it probes all angles of the case.

“Well, it could be – there have been multiple plots that have involved the United States and Pakistan, … Original source on Gaea Times at : US does not rule out Headley-Shahzad connection.

Wis. governor signs bill to speed recovery of missing DNA samples

Wis. gov signs bill to speed DNA recovery efforts

MADISON, Wis. – Wisconsin Gov. Jim Doyle has a signed a bill allowing judges to order former convicts to surrender DNA samples.
The measure gives prison officials more legal muscle as they try to find more than 10,000 offenders who finished their sentences without giving the samples.
Officials learned … Read more »».

Kansas City man charged in 4 1980s sexual assaults looked at in other attacks in Mo., Calif.

Rape suspect eyed in attacks in Mo., Calif.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Detectives in Missouri and California are diving into cold-case files as they investigate a career convict charged this week in a string of Kansas City rapes in the mid-1980s.
Fifty-two-year-old Bernard Jackson was charged Thursday with sexually assaulting four women in Kansas City between July …. Original source  : Kansas City man charged in 4 1980s sexual assaults looked at in other attacks in Mo., Calif..

Belgian bishops dismiss US sex abuse norms hailed by Vatican but vow firm response

Belgian bishops nix US sex norms but vow action

ROME – Tough U.S. norms about dealing with clerical sex abuse that have been hailed as a model by the Vatican aren’t appropriate for Belgium, even as it deals with dozens of new reports of priests molesting children, a leading archbishop said Friday.
Brussels Archbishop Andre-Mutien Leonard said …. Source  : Belgian bishops dismiss US sex abuse norms hailed by Vatican but vow firm response.

Pakistan warned of ’severe consequences’ of terror attacks from its soil

WASHINGTON – The United States has finally warned Pakistan that if a terror operation like the Times Square bombing attempt were to be successful and traced back to the country, “there would be very severe consequences”.

The blunt warning came from Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton who acknowledged Pakistan’s increased cooperation in the war on … Original source on Gaea Times at : Pakistan warned of ’severe consequences’ of terror attacks from its soil.

Slain UVA lacrosse player’s family and friends pay their respects at closed viewing

Viewing held for slain UVA women’s lacrosse player

TOWSON, Md. – Dozens of mourners gathered at a Maryland funeral home for the viewing of Yeardley Love, the University of Virginia lacrosse player who was found beaten to death earlier this week.
The visitation, the first of two on Friday at a Towson funeral home, was restricted to …. Read the original article  : Slain UVA lacrosse player’s family and friends pay their respects at closed viewing.

Police response to NH bus bomb scare _ with NYC in mind _ left passenger too scared to leave

Police: No criminal intent in NH bus bomb scare

PORTSMOUTH, N.H. – The words “bomb on the bus” heard from a cell phone set it all off: Downtown Portsmouth shut down, businesses and homes evacuated, sharpshooters and an armored vehicle rolling in.
The parked, New York City-bound Greyhound was surrounded for nine hours Thursday, until the man … Original article on : Police response to NH bus bomb scare _ with NYC in mind _ left passenger too scared to leave.

Phoenix police kill homicide suspect in shootout on Interstate 10

Phoenix police fatally shoot homicide suspect

PHOENIX – Phoenix police have fatally shot a homicide suspect after he opened fire on officers on Interstate 10.
Police were called to a shooting scene Friday afternoon and found the body of an unidentified man. They say the suspect fled in a car and police later spotted the vehicle on … Original article on : Phoenix police kill homicide suspect in shootout on Interstate 10.

Family of TV producer’s slain wife blasts investigation in Mexico for taking too long

Family of woman slain in Mexico criticize inquiry

LOS ANGELES – The family of a former “Survivor” producer’s wife who was found slain in Mexico blasted investigators on Friday, saying it was taking too long to make an arrest.
The criticism came nearly a month after the body of Monica Beresford-Redman was discovered in a sewer in …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Family of TV producer’s slain wife blasts investigation in Mexico for taking too long.

Head of Chicago area’s rail system kills self by stepping in front of train, officials say

Ill. rail chief dies in apparent suicide by train

CHICAGO – The executive director of the Chicago area’s Metra commuter train service died of an apparent suicide Friday after he stepped into the path of one of his agency’s trains, authorities said.
Phil Pagano, 60, was on paid administrative leave at the time of his death after … Read more »»».

Sex trafficking charge brought against man accused of arranging sex for Lawrence Taylor

Man accused of arranging Taylor tryst with teen

NEW YORK – A prosecutor says the government is investigating leads that a man who authorities say set up football star Lawrence Taylor with a 16-year-old runaway had forced other young women into prostitution.
Federal prosecutor Amanda Kramer made the revelation Friday at a hearing for Rasheed Davis, who … Read more : Sex trafficking charge brought against man accused of arranging sex for Lawrence Taylor.

Polasnki attorneys: Swiss should not trust extradition paperwork filed by LA prosecutors

Don’t trust extradition filing, Polanski argues

LOS ANGELES – Roman Polanski’s attorneys argue in new court filings that the Swiss government should not automatically assume an extradition request by Los Angeles prosecutors is accurate.
The statement is in response to a comment by a Swiss justice official, who told The Associated Press last month that officials there … Original source on Gaea Times at : Polasnki attorneys: Swiss should not trust extradition paperwork filed by LA prosecutors.

Major NY cigarette dealer gets 10 years in prison in case involving Indian reservation shop

Big NY cigarette dealer gets 10 years in prison

CENTRAL ISLIP, N.Y. – One of New York’s biggest cigarette dealers was sentenced Friday to 10 years in prison in a case involving the flow of hundreds of millions of dollars worth of untaxed tobacco from the state’s Indian reservations.
Rodney Morrison, 43, was originally accused in 2004 … Read more : Major NY cigarette dealer gets 10 years in prison in case involving Indian reservation shop.

Judge allows criminal history detail in trial of former transit officer charged with murder

Criminal history allowed in transit shooting case

LOS ANGELES – A judge has ruled that jurors in the upcoming trial of a former transit officer charged with murdering an unarmed man can hear about a 2006 incident in which the man resisted arrest.
The judge granted a defense motion Friday in Los Angeles to allow some details …. Read the original article  : Judge allows criminal history detail in trial of former transit officer charged with murder.

To be or not to be a Pakistani in the US

WASHINGTON – Pakistanis in the US are facing an identity crisis, particularly since a Pakistani-born American Faisal Shahzad was nabbed from a plane as he was fleeing to his homeland after driving a car bomb into New York’s famous Times Square.

Shahzad’s bomb fizzled in Times Square, but for the Pakistani community it’s a ticking time …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : To be or not to be a Pakistani in the US.

I’ll pull a Faisal on you, New Yorker tells boss

NEW YORK – A New Yorker has been detained after he threatened to “pull a Faisal” on his superior, in an apparent reference to Faisal Shahzad who attempted to bomb Times Square.

“He told his boss, ‘If I get fired, I’m going to pull a Faisal on you’,” New York Post quoted a law-enforcement source as …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : I’ll pull a Faisal on you, New Yorker tells boss.

Man stabs his mother, wife, daughter and 5 other people in China’s latest bloody rampage

Man stabs 8 to death in latest China rampage

BEIJING – A Chinese man on a stabbing rampage killed eight people in the country’s southeast, including his mother, wife and daughter, police and new reports said Sunday.
The motive in Saturday night’s stabbing was not immediately clear. The official Xinhua News Agency said the man also killed … Original source on Gaea Times at : Man stabs his mother, wife, daughter and 5 other people in China’s latest bloody rampage.

We will kidnap you, Al Qaeda threatens Prince Harry

LONDON – Al Qaeda has threatened to abduct Prince Harry if he dares to fly an Apache helicopter in Afghanistan.

People who support the Osama bin Laden-led terror group have posted the warnings on a known Al Qaeda Arabic website, Daily Express reported Sunday.
Harry, 25, was presented with his pilot’s “wings” by his father Prince … Read more : We will kidnap you, Al Qaeda threatens Prince Harry.

Maoists have massively mined Chhattisgarh forests: Police

RAIPUR – A day after eight paramilitary troopers were killed in a landmine blast by Maoists in Chhattisgarh’s Bijapur district, a top police official said the guerrillas have massively mined the state’s forested areas and it was difficult to de-mine the vast stretches without the technology required.

“The big problem is we have no technology and … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Maoists have massively mined Chhattisgarh forests: Police.

Mexico extradites former state governor to face drug charges in US

Mexico extradites ex-gov. to US on drug charges

MEXICO CITY – Mexico has extradited a former state governor to the United States to face charges of helping a cartel smuggling cocaine through the resort of Cancun en route to the U.S. market.
Mario Villanueva, who was governor of the Caribbean state of Quintana Roo from 1993 to [..] Read the original article: here.

Bihar jail ready to supply rope for hanging Kasab

PATNA – Bihar’s Buxar Central Jail is ready to supply its famed Manila rope for hanging Pakistani terrorist Mohammed Ajmal Amir Kasab who has been sentenced to death for his role in the 26/11 Mumbai carnage, authorities said Sunday.

The jail authorities in Buxar district, about 125 km from here, said it has been providing the … Read more : Bihar jail ready to supply rope for hanging Kasab.

Outdated, unwanted, possibly insecure, US nukes hang on in Europe as NATO debate builds

Outdated, unwanted, US nukes hang on in Europe
KLEINE BROGEL AIR BASE, Belgium – Unseen beyond the grazing Holsteins and rolling pastures of eastern Belgium, the 12-foot-long tapered metal cylinders sit in their underground vaults, waiting for the doomsday call that never came. Each packs the power of many Hiroshimas.
America’s oldest nuclear weapons, unwanted, … Read : Outdated, unwanted, possibly insecure, US nukes hang on in Europe as NATO debate builds.

Calif. DA’s report says bystander’s shooting by police during pizzeria gunfight was justified

Calif. DA: Police killing of bystander justified

SAN BERNARDINO, Calif. – A district attorney’s report says an officer who fatally shot a bystander at a California pizzeria robbery was legally justified.
Chino police Cpl. Claudia Lisner shot 23-year-old Daniel Balandran outside the restaurant on Feb. 1, 2009.
Balandran was leaving a McDonald’s and walked into a gunbattle between …. Original article  : Calif. DA’s report says bystander’s shooting by police during pizzeria gunfight was justified.

Arizona sheriff at heart of immigration debate greeted by about 200 protesters in Las Vegas

Arizona sheriff greeted by protesters in Vegas

LAS VEGAS – About 200 protesters squared off with Maricopa County Sheriff Joe Arpaio over Arizona’s tough new immigration law before he spoke to a conservative group in Las Vegas.
For about 20 minutes Friday, the sheriff stood just feet from protesters outside Stoney’s Rockin’ Country bar and dance hall …. Source  : Arizona sheriff at heart of immigration debate greeted by about 200 protesters in Las Vegas.

3 headless, tortured bodies found outside Acapulco; 5 shot to death north of Mexican resort

3 bodies found headless near Acapulco; 5 more shot

ACAPULCO, Mexico – Three headless bodies showing signs of torture were found just outside Acapulco and the bodies of five other men with multiple gunshot wounds were discovered in a car north of the Pacific resort, police said Saturday.
Police in the southwestern state of Guerrero, where Acapulco … Read more >>.

Saints coach Payton says civil process complicates ability to discuss Vicodin accusations

Saints coach Payton deflects lawsuit questions

METAIRIE, La. – Sean Payton calmly took questions Saturday about a lawsuit against the New Orleans Saints, saying he “appreciated” the interest in a case that alleges an attempt to cover up prescription drug thefts at club headquarters.
The Super Bowl champion coach stopped short of responding directly to the allegations, … Original article on : Saints coach Payton says civil process complicates ability to discuss Vicodin accusations.

Sanitation worker discovers body of newborn baby inside trash truck in central NJ

Newborn’s body found inside NJ sanitation truck

MIDDLETOWN, N.J. – The body of a newborn baby has been found inside a sanitation truck in central New Jersey.
A worker found the body around 8 a.m. Saturday while collecting trash on a residential street in Middletown. Police said it was not clear where the body came from, since …. Source article  : Sanitation worker discovers body of newborn baby inside trash truck in central NJ.

Experts: Recording reveals troops were given order to prepare to fire on Kent State students

Experts re-examine audio from Kent State shootings

CLEVELAND – A new analysis of a 40-year-old audio recording reveals that someone ordered National Guard troops to prepare to fire on students during a deadly Vietnam War protest at Kent State University in 1970, two forensics experts said.
The recording was enhanced and evaluated by New Jersey-based audio experts … Read more >>.

Gunman fires into crowded NJ carnival, wounding 1 before being shot, wounded by police

NJ carnival shooting leaves gunman, victim injured

BLOOMFIELD, N.J. – A gunman opened fire at a crowded carnival in northern New Jersey and wounded a man before being shot and wounded by a police officer.
It wasn’t clear why the gunman fired several rounds into the crowd of about 1,500 people in Bloomfield on Friday night, and … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Gunman fires into crowded NJ carnival, wounding 1 before being shot, wounded by police.

Obama seeks closer relationship with Russia in fighting world terrorism

Obama: US, Russia must fight terrorism together
WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama says he wants greater cooperation between Russia and the United States on economic, security and anti-terrorism matters.
Obama told a Russian television station that no single country can defeat terrorists who have attacked targets throughout the world. He said he looks forward to … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Obama seeks closer relationship with Russia in fighting world terrorism.

Mexico: Decapitated victims found near Pacific resort city of Acapulco, police investigating

Mexico: 3 beheaded bodies found outside Acapulco

ACAPULCO, Mexico – Mexican police are investigating the murders of three men whose bodies were found tortured and headless near the beachside resorts of Acapulco.
A Saturday statement from police in Guerrero state says the victims were in their 20s and 30s. Neither their identities nor a motive has been …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Mexico: Decapitated victims found near Pacific resort city of Acapulco, police investigating.

Eight troopers killed as Maoists blast CRPF vehicle (Fifth Lead)

RAIPUR – Eight Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) troopers were killed Saturday when Maoist guerrillas blew up their vehicle in Chhattisgarh’s Bijapur district, a month after the rebels massacred 76 security personnel in the same region.

“The Maoists blew up a bullet-proof vehicle in the Koretal forested stretch with a landmine. At least eight CRPF men … Read more >>.

Fear of Maoists hits tiger census in Orissa

BHUBANESWAR – The tiger census in Orissa, which started Saturday, was hit by the refusal of dozens of forest field staff in various parts of the state to enter forests due to the Maoist threat, a senior state official said.

About 40-45 forest field staffs refused to enter the Sunabeda wildlife sanctuary area in the … Original article on : Fear of Maoists hits tiger census in Orissa.

45-year-old civil rights slaying still awaiting a trial in Alabama 3 years after indictment

45-year-old civil rights slaying still unresolved
MONTGOMERY, Ala. – It took more than four decades for a former Alabama state trooper to be indicted on charges that he gunned down a black demonstrator – a killing that helped galvanize the civil rights movement. Now a three-year delay for the trial has both sides fearing … Read more >>.

Goa safe haven for Maoist elements: BJP

PANAJI – Goa has become a safe haven for Maoist elements, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) alleged here Monday after two rebels were arrested in the state last week.

Former state BJP president Rajendra Arlekar said that the arrest of two Maoists militants, hailing from the violence-affected Sundargarh district of Orissa, from different parts of [..] Read the original article: here.

Convicted killer released from jail in central China after alleged victim returns to village

Murderer freed after victim found alive in China

BEIJING – A man in central China was freed after nearly 10 years in prison for murder after his alleged victim turned up alive, state media reported Monday, in a case that raises concerns about police using torture to extract confessions.
The Higher People’s Court in the central province …. Original article  : Convicted killer released from jail in central China after alleged victim returns to village.

Los Angeles set to shut down hundreds of pot dispensaries

Los Angeles prepared to smoke out pot dispensaries

LOS ANGELES – Eric Matuschek has had his share of bumps and bruises as a Hollywood stuntman, but he hasn’t quite felt the pain he faces right now.
Matuschek stands to lose his livelihood – albeit a more risky one – as the owner of a pot dispensary. He … Read more >>>.

Malaysian policeman charged with fatal shooting of teen after national outcry over brutality

Malaysian policeman charged with killing teenager

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia – Malaysian prosecutors charged a police officer Monday with fatally shooting a teenager in an incident that triggered a national outcry over claims of police brutality.
It is the first time a policeman has been charged over the killing of a suspect in this Southeast Asian country. Activists …. Read the original article  : here.

Passenger detained in Pakistan after circuits found in shoes, says unsure how they got there

Pakistan airport stops man with circuits in shoes

KARACHI, Pakistan – Pakistani airport authorities detained a passenger after electrical circuits and batteries were found in the soles of his tennis shoes, an airport security official said Monday.
Officials were investigating what the components could be used for and why they were concealed. Similar materials can be used … Original article on : Passenger detained in Pakistan after circuits found in shoes, says unsure how they got there.

Apex court stays death penalty of American Centre blast convict

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court Monday stayed the death sentence of Jamiluddin Nasir, who was convicted for the 2002 American Centre bomb blast in Kolkata.

Nasir and Aftab Ansari were sentenced to death for the attack that left six policemen dead Jan 22, 2002.
…. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Apex court stays death penalty of American Centre blast convict.

Oppsn leader Anwar’s accuser says he met Malaysian PM days before making sodomy allegation

Anwar’s sodomy accuser met Malaysian PM earlier

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia – The young man who claims opposition leader Anwar Ibrahim sodomized him acknowledged in court Monday that he had met with Malaysia’s prime minister four days before making a police complaint against Anwar.
The defense hopes that Saiful Bukhari Azlan’s testimony under cross-examination will bolster its contention … Read : Oppsn leader Anwar’s accuser says he met Malaysian PM days before making sodomy allegation.

Iraqi officials: 9 killed in attacks across Baghdad appearing to target police, military

Officials: 9 killed in attacks across Baghdad

BAGHDAD – At least nine people were killed on Monday in what appears to be a coordinated attack across the Iraqi capital targeting police and army personnel, Iraqi officials said.
They said the violence was mostly the work of gunmen in speeding cars attacking police and army checkpoints that dot … Original source on Gaea Times at : Iraqi officials: 9 killed in attacks across Baghdad appearing to target police, military.

Nine killed in Baghdad attacks

BAGHDAD – Nine people were killed and 23 wounded in a series of attacks in the Iraqi capital early Monday, an interior ministry source said.

The attacks included six shootings targeting checkpoints and three roadside bombs, Xinhua reported quoting the source.
The report said the attackers used silenced weapons in attacks on the six checkpoints, which … Original source on Gaea Times at : Nine killed in Baghdad attacks.

‘US will not tolerate terrorists from Pakistan’

WASHINGTON – Warning Pakistan that the US would not “having people encouraged, directed, trained and sent from Pakistan to attack us,” Washington has told it go after the common enemy of terrorism “hard and fast”.

With the Pakistani American suspected Times Square bomber most likely connected with the Pakistani Taliban group, Secretary of State Hillary … Read : ‘US will not tolerate terrorists from Pakistan’.

Ready for talks, can make cadres surrender: Daimary to CBI

GUWAHATI – Ranjan Daimary, terror mastermind and leader of the outlawed National Democratic Front of Bodoland (NDFB), has said he is ready for peace talks and would be able to make his commanders and cadres surrender if New Delhi was keen for negotiations.

“Ranjan Daimary said he was interested in holding talks and even mentioned … Read : Ready for talks, can make cadres surrender: Daimary to CBI.

Immigration protesters arrested after locking selves together released from LA jail

Immigration protesters released from LA jail

LOS ANGELES – More than a dozen people arrested after chaining themselves together on a downtown Los Angeles street to protest Arizona’s new immigration law are out of jail.
Protest organizers said Sunday that 14 activists were released late Friday, a day after being charged with interfering with police work and … Read more »»».

Aquino seen as favorite as Filipinos vote amid fear of fraud, glitch in 1st automated polls

Aquino seen as favorite as Filipinos begin voting

MANILA, Philippines – After a decade of corruption-tainted politics, Filipinos stood in long lines Monday to elect a new leader, and surveys indicated they’re pinning their hopes on the son of democracy icons who has electrified masses with his clean image and Aquino family name.
Sen. Benigno Aquino III … Read more : Aquino seen as favorite as Filipinos vote amid fear of fraud, glitch in 1st automated polls.

NTSB says no engine alarms sounded before NY ferry slammed into pier, hurting dozens of people

NTSB: No engine alarms before NY ferry dock crash

NEW YORK – Engine conditions appeared normal and no engine alarms sounded before a Staten Island ferry approached its terminal and slammed into a pier, injuring dozens of people, federal investigators said Sunday.
A National Transportation Safety Board team said it determined that the ferry’s two forward engines … Original article on : NTSB says no engine alarms sounded before NY ferry slammed into pier, hurting dozens of people.

Despite violence, glitch, polls open in Philippines’ 1st automated vote

Polls open in Philippines’ 1st automated elections

MANILA, Philippines – Polling stations have opened in the Philippines’ first automated presidential and local elections after a last-minute software glitch and scattered violence that has claimed dozens of lives.
Throughout the archipelago, Filipinos are standing in long lines Monday to cast ballots in 17,600 precincts. About 50 million are … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Despite violence, glitch, polls open in Philippines’ 1st automated vote.

Suspected bomber arrested in Pakistan

KARACHI – A suspected bomber was arrested Sunday at the international airport in Pakistan’s souther port city of Karachi, Officials said.

The man, a civil engineer by profession, was caught with electric circuits hidden in the cavities of his shoes, Geo TV reported.
According to airport authorities, connecting explosives with the found electric circuits could prepare … Read more >>>.

NM DA seeks hate crime charges against 3 men who branded mentally challenged man with swastika

DA seeks hate crime charges in NM swastika case

FARMINGTON, N.M. – Prosecutors in northwestern New Mexico said they will pursue hate crime charges against three men accused of branding a swastika on a mentally challenged man’s arm using a heated metal clothes hanger.
Jesse Sanford, 24, William Hatch, 28, and Paul Beebe, 26, were charged Friday …. Source  : NM DA seeks hate crime charges against 3 men who branded mentally challenged man with swastika.

Oakland police say 2 men dead, 4 women wounded in after-hours nightclub shooting

2 dead, 4 wounded in Oakland shooting
OAKLAND, Calif. – Oakland police say two men are dead and four women have been hospitalized after at least one gunman opened fire in an unlicensed after-hours nightclub.

Investigators say the shooting took place around 2:45 a.m. Sunday in a warehouselike building that been converted into a club offering music, … Read more >>>.

NJ carnival shooting suspect wounded another teen before being shot, wounded by police

Teen charged in NJ carnival shooting
NEWARK, N.J. – Essex County prosecutors say a 17-year-old East Orange boy was the gunman who opened fire at a crowded carnival in northern New Jersey this weekend.

The teen, whose name was not released because of his age, wounded another youth Friday night before being shot and wounded by a … Read : NJ carnival shooting suspect wounded another teen before being shot, wounded by police.

Attorney general says Miranda warning may need revisions for terrorists

Holder: Miranda may need revisions for terrorist
WASHINGTON – In the wake of the Times Square bombing plot, the Obama administration said on Sunday it wants to work with Congress on possible limitations of the constitutional rights afforded terrorism suspects – even for American citizens.
Attorney General Eric Holder said changes may be needed to …. Original article  : Attorney general says Miranda warning may need revisions for terrorists.

Kasab may hang this year if no appeal: home secretary

NEW DELHI – The chances of Ajmal Amir Kasab being hanged this year “are quite high” if he does not file a petition challenging his death sentence for the 2008 Mumbai attack, union Home Secretary G.K. Pillai said Tuesday.

“It all depends on whether he (Kasab) is going to file an appeal in high court and … Read more >>.

Closing arguments set in trial of Houston area officer who shot ballplayer

Closing arguments set in ballplayer’s shooting

HOUSTON – The fate of a Houston-area police officer on trial for a 2008 shooting that sparked accusations of racial profiling could soon be in the hands of a jury.
Closing arguments were set for Tuesday in the trial of Bellaire police Sgt. Jeffrey Cotton, accused by prosecutors of shooting Robert … Original source on Gaea Times at : Closing arguments set in trial of Houston area officer who shot ballplayer.

Nicaraguan men accused of fraud could lose $2.3 million court award in banana workers’ suit

Nicaraguans could lose $2.3 million court award

LOS ANGELES – Six Nicaraguan banana workers who Dole Food Co. attorneys have accused of fraud will get a chance to explain their position on Tuesday when their attorneys speak before a California judge at a hearing.
The men, who claimed in the lawsuit that exposure to pesticides made them …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Nicaraguan men accused of fraud could lose $2.3 million court award in banana workers’ suit.

Myanmar’s detained Aung San Suu Kyi requests special appeal for freedom

Aung San Suu Kyi asks for her freedom
YANGON, Myanmar – Myanmar’s detained democracy icon Aung San Suu Kyi is making a final bid for freedom, lawyers said Tuesday after submitting a request for a special appeal against her house arrest.

The Nobel Peace Prize laureate has already lost two appeals against an August 2009 conviction, most … Read more »»».

Indonesia’s former top detective detained by police on allegations of accepting a bribe

Indonesia’s ex-top detective questioned on bribery

JAKARTA, Indonesia – Indonesia’s former chief detective, who recently exposed a major corruption case involving government and police officials, has been detained on allegations that he accepted a bribe in 2008.
Gen. Susno Duadji was detained and questioned for several hours Monday after it was alleged that he accepted as much … Original article on : Indonesia’s former top detective detained by police on allegations of accepting a bribe.

US drone attack kills 14 militants in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD – US drones fired at least 12 missiles, destroying a militant training camp and killing 14 Islamists Tuesday in Pakistan’s tribal region bordering Afghanistan, officials said.

The camp in Lowara Mandi, 50 km west of Miranshah, in North Waziristan district, was run by Taliban-linked Afghan warlord Hafiz Gul Bahadur, whose group has over 2,000 trained …. Read the original article  : here.

Fed up of being terrorist, man crosses LoC with wife

JAMMU – A Kashmiri militant crossed over from the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir’s Poonch district with his Pakistani bride because he was “fed up” of living the life of a terrorist, police said Tuesday.

Mohammad Ashraf, who went from Badagaon village in Poonch to Pakistan administered Kashmir for arms training and …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Fed up of being terrorist, man crosses LoC with wife.

US intelligence indicates Shahzad had ties to Pakistani Taliban

WASHINGTON – The US has turned up independent evidence that ties Faisal Shahzad, the Pakistani-American suspect in the attempted bombing in New York’s Times Square, to the Pakistani Taliban militant group, according to a media report.

The independent confirmation is important because it gives the US law enforcement and intelligence community a better understanding of Shahzad’s …. Original article  : US intelligence indicates Shahzad had ties to Pakistani Taliban.

US Special Forces, Marines train African armies to face terrorists and traffickers in Sahara

US Special forces train African armies
KATI, Mali – A U.S. Special Forces instructor leans toward a steering wheel, showing some 50 Malian soldiers gathered around an army pickup how a passenger should take control of a car if the driver is killed in an ambush.

The elite Malian troops look on, perplexed. “But what can we [..] Read the original article: here.

Former Armenia wrestling champ found guilty of kidnapping business associate in California

Calif. jury convicts former wrestler of kidnapping

LOS ANGELES – A former Armenia wrestling champion has been convicted of kidnapping a man, beating him and demanding $1 million ransom.
A federal jury in Los Angeles found Vagan Adzhemyan (EDZ’-ih-mee-an) guilty on Monday. His first trial last year ended with a mistrial after the jury deadlocked.
The 42-year-old Adzhemyan … Original article on : Former Armenia wrestling champ found guilty of kidnapping business associate in California.

Thai leader bows to protest demands, raising hopes for end to Bangkok demonstrations

Hopes raised for end of protests in Thailand

BANGKOK – Thailand’s deputy prime minister met with police investigators Tuesday in a bow to demands by protesters that he face possible criminal charges before they end their two-month-old occupation of Bangkok’s prime commercial district.
The Red Shirt protesters said Monday they would continue their crippling demonstration in central … Original source on Gaea Times at : Thai leader bows to protest demands, raising hopes for end to Bangkok demonstrations.

US Embassy confirms Arizona man found dead in northern Mexico; 3 detained in case

Officials: US man found dead in northern Mexico

MEXICO CITY – U.S. officials confirmed Monday that an American citizen was found dead in northern Mexico.
The U.S. Embassy said the body of Ronald C. Ryan was recovered in Sonora state, across from Arizona, but gave no other details.
Jose Larrinaga, spokesman for Sonora state prosecutors, told reporters Sunday …. Original article  : US Embassy confirms Arizona man found dead in northern Mexico; 3 detained in case.

Shahzad went to Pakistan for help with attack: US official

WASHINGTON – Pakistani-American Faisal Shahzad, accused of planting the failed car bomb at Times Square, last travelled to Pakistan to get help from the Pakistani Taliban in carrying out a bomb attack, CNN reported citing a senior US official.

“The question is: Did he go there looking for help or did he fall in their lap? … Read more : Shahzad went to Pakistan for help with attack: US official.

Canadian terror plot leader pleads guilty

TORONTO – The ringleader of Canada’s famous Toronto-18 terror plot pleaded guilty Monday. Known as what could have been Canada’s 9/11, the plot was unearthed in June 2006 with the arrest of 18 Muslim men, mostly Pakistanis, from the Toronto area.

The plotters had planned to storm and blow up the nation’s parliament in Ottawa, take … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Canadian terror plot leader pleads guilty.

Top Obama aide says president is open to reviewing Miranda issue

Axelrod: Obama is open to reviewing Miranda issue
WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama is open to the idea of reviewing Miranda warnings for terrorist suspects, senior White House adviser David Axelrod said Monday.
Axelrod’s comment came after Attorney General Eric Holder said changes by Congress may be needed to allow law enforcement more time to …. Original article  : Top Obama aide says president is open to reviewing Miranda issue.

New White House drug control strategy to stress treatment, prevention programs

New drug control strategy signals policy shift
WASHINGTON – The White House is putting more resources into drug prevention and treatment, part of President Barack Obama’s pledge to treat illegal drug use more as a public health issue than a criminal justice problem.
The new drug control strategy to be released … Original source on Gaea Times at : New White House drug control strategy to stress treatment, prevention programs.

Attorney general says California has full support for gang violence efforts

Attorney general talks gang violence in Calif.
SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The Obama administration will make combating gang violence a top priority through initiatives that focus on prevention, education and intervention, U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder said Monday.
Holder appeared in Sacramento before a group of California mayors, police chiefs and other leaders at a meeting … Original source on Gaea Times at : Attorney general says California has full support for gang violence efforts.

Aquino widens leads in Philippine presidential race, promises stability, clean government

Aquino opens up commanding lead in Philippine vote

MANILA, Philippines – The son of two Philippine democracy icons had a wide lead Tuesday in presidential elections after campaigning on a promise to begin prosecuting corrupt officials to restore credibility to the country’s graft-ridden government.
Despite glitches with computerized counting machine and violence that claimed at least nine … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Aquino widens leads in Philippine presidential race, promises stability, clean government.

Reports of police documents leaked to traffickers revive debate over Mexico’s drug corruption

Leaked documents suggest Mexico drug corruption

MEXICO CITY – The reported discovery in cartel hands of a sheaf of police documents containing agents’ names and contact numbers, along with apparent references to shared U.S. intelligence data, has renewed fears of high-level corruption in Mexico’s war on drugs.
The trove of papers – which also included an apparent … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Reports of police documents leaked to traffickers revive debate over Mexico’s drug corruption.

British hostage in Pakistan asks help in video appeal

ROME/ISLAMABAD – A British hostage of Pakistani origin has appeared in a video in which he appeals for help to raise the ransom of $10 million demanded by his captors, a militant group calling itself Asian Tigers

Speaking in the video obtained by the Rome-based news agency Adnkronos International AKI, Asad Qureshi, a journalist and documentary-maker, … Read more : British hostage in Pakistan asks help in video appeal.

Malaysia probes police shooting of suspect amid allegations police use arms indiscriminately

Malaysia probes 3rd police shooting of suspect

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia – The Malaysian government opened an investigation Wednesday into the street shooting of a knife-wielding suspect and a bystander by police, who have repeatedly been accused of using firearms indiscriminately.
The shooting happened Sunday when policemen tried to stop a man who was fleeing after attacking a [..] Read the original article: here.

Pillai in Nagaland to help resolve Manipur blockade

IMPHAL/KOHIMA – Union Home Secretary G.K. Pillai Wednesday held marathon talks with Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio to resolve the road blockade of Manipur as Naga separatist leader Thuingaleng Muivah remained adamant on visiting his birthplace in Manipur.

Pillai arrived in the Nagaland capital Kohima after an overnight stay in Imphal and was closeted with …. Original article  : Pillai in Nagaland to help resolve Manipur blockade.

Chinese official says 7 children killed, 20 hurt in latest attack at kindergarten

7 children killed in latest attack at China school

BEIJING – An attacker hacked seven children and one teacher to death Wednesday and wounded up to 20 other people in a rampage at a kindergarten in northwest China, the latest in a string of savage assaults at the country’s schools.
The killer, identified as 48-year-old Wu Huanmin, …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Chinese official says 7 children killed, 20 hurt in latest attack at kindergarten.

Soldier killed in Kashmir gunfight

SRINAGAR – A soldier was killed in a gunfight between security forces and separatist guerrillas in north Kashmir Wednesday, a senior police officer said here.

Personnel of the counter-insurgency force Rashtriya Rifles (RR) and the special operations group (SOG) of the local police surrounded the Khamil forest area in north kashmir’s Kupwara district, 120 km from … Read : Soldier killed in Kashmir gunfight.

Maoists open fire at police outpost in Chhattisgarh

RAIPUR – Maoists opened fire early Wednesday at a police outpost at Chintalnar in Dantewada district where the guerrillas had slaughtered 76 security personnel last month, police said.

“Maoists opened fire from two sides at a police outpost in Chintalnar. The policemen, backed by a Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) battalion that was camping close to …. Original article  : Maoists open fire at police outpost in Chhattisgarh.

Biden’s son being moved from Delaware to Philadelphia hospital for further observation

Biden’s son being moved to Philadelphia hospital

WASHINGTON – The White House says Vice President Joe Biden’s son Beau is being transferred to a Philadelphia hospital for further observation and examination after suffering a mild stroke.
Beau Biden, who is Delaware’s attorney general, was scheduled to be moved Tuesday afternoon from Delaware to Thomas Jefferson University Hospital. … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Biden’s son being moved from Delaware to Philadelphia hospital for further observation.

Mojave cross honoring US war dead stolen after court allows it to remain on federal land

Disputed Mojave cross honoring US war dead stolen

LOS ANGELES – A cross erected on a remote Mojave Desert outcropping to honor American war dead has been stolen less than two weeks after the U.S. Supreme Court allowed it to remain standing while a legal battle continued over its presence on federal land.
Versions of the memorial … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Mojave cross honoring US war dead stolen after court allows it to remain on federal land.

Trial ordered for Philly man accused of killing boy with drain cleaner because he was crying

Trial ordered in Pa. child’s drain cleaner death

PHILADELPHIA – A Philadelphia man accused of killing a toddler by rubbing drain cleaner on him because he was crying has been ordered to stand trial.
Police say 34-year-old Aaron Pace was baby-sitting 20-month-old Suliaman Kirkland in February when he doused a rag with the caustic substance and rubbed … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Trial ordered for Philly man accused of killing boy with drain cleaner because he was crying.

2 gospel musicians charged in string of Ga. church break-ins; musical equipment stolen

2 gospel musicians charged in Ga. church break-ins

ATLANTA – Two gospel singers are facing multiple charges after authorities say they played uplifting music for several Georgia churches, then stole some $100,000 worth of speakers, microphones and other musical equipment.
Washington County Sheriff Thomas H. Smith said Tuesday that 28-year-old Deshawn Rico Thomas, of Augusta, and 28-year-old …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : 2 gospel musicians charged in string of Ga. church break-ins; musical equipment stolen.

Ethan Stacy’s Deadbody Found

UTAH (GaeaTimes.com)- The search to trace the body of the missing boy Ethan Stacy turned out to be successful by Tuesday night but the finding left the cops awestruck and saddened. Garret Atkin, the Layton Police lieutenant said that it is not possible for anyone with an iota of humanity to kill a lovely …. Original source  : Ethan Stacy’s Deadbody Found.

Puerto Rican authorities arrest dozens in raid to break up alleged $65M drug-trafficking ring

PRico police break up $65M drug-trafficking ring

SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico – Hundreds of police and federal agents raided a public housing complex Tuesday and arrested more than three dozen people allegedly involved in selling an estimated $65 million worth of drugs.
Authorities rounded up 39 of the 70 suspects being sought for being in a gang …. Read the original article  : here.

Man charged in Detroit police officer’s shooting death, wounding of 4 others

Man arraigned in officer’s shooting death
DETROIT – Authorities charged a suspect Tuesday in the shooting death of a Detroit police officer and wounding of four others.

Jason Gibson was arraigned in a local hospital bed. He is accused of killing 12-year police veteran Brian Huff and shooting the other officers during a May 3 gun battle … Read more »».

7 charged in LA with smuggling endangered dragon fish, considered lucky in Asia, into US

7 charged in LA with smuggling endangered fish

LOS ANGELES – A federal grand jury in Los Angeles has indicted seven people on charges of illegally smuggling an endangered fish considered lucky in Asia into the United States.
The U.S. attorney’s office says the indictments Tuesday stem from a 2005 undercover sting operation in which a U.S. …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : 7 charged in LA with smuggling endangered dragon fish, considered lucky in Asia, into US.

Former New Orleans Saints DE Grant gets probation, fine in fatal Ga. nightclub fight

Ex-Saint Grant gets probation in Ga. club fight

BLAKELY, Ga. – Former New Orleans Saints defensive end Charles Grant, who was charged with involuntary manslaughter in a Georgia nightclub fight that killed a pregnant woman has pleaded no contest to a lesser charge and was sentenced to probation.
Assistant District Attorney Ron Smith says Grant was fined … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Former New Orleans Saints DE Grant gets probation, fine in fatal Ga. nightclub fight.

Minn. man convicted of assaulting infant son who was separated from conjoined twin after birth

Dad convicted of beating once-conjoined twin son

ROCHESTER, Minn. – A Minnesota man has been found guilty of assaulting his infant son after the boy was separated from a conjoined twin.
Judge Kevin Lund found 30-year-old Robert Heck of North Mankato guilty of first-degree assault following a two-week trial.
Doctors found 25 fractures in the legs, ribs and … Read more »».

New Jersey teen charged in carnival shooting dies 4 days after being wounded police

Teen charged in NJ carnival shooting dies
NEWARK, N.J. – Authorities say a New Jersey teen who was shot by a police officer after allegedly opening fire at a crowded carnival over the weekend has died.

Acting Essex County Prosecutor Robert Laurino said 17-year-old Rasheed Cherry of East Orange was pronounced dead shortly before 12:30 p.m. Tuesday.
Cherry … Original article on : New Jersey teen charged in carnival shooting dies 4 days after being wounded police.

White House: VP Joe Biden’s son has mild stroke, is awake and alert at Delaware hospital

White House: VP Joe Biden’s son has mild stroke
NEWARK, Del. – Vice President Joe Biden’s oldest son had a mild stroke Tuesday but is expected to recover, the White House said.
Delaware Attorney General Beau Biden, 41, was admitted to Christiana Hospital on Tuesday morning.
“He is in good spirits and talking with his family …. Source article  : White House: VP Joe Biden’s son has mild stroke, is awake and alert at Delaware hospital.

High court nominee Kagan’s public record lacks clear signal of how she would vote as justice

Supreme Court nominee Kagan has thin ‘paper trail’
WASHINGTON – Elena Kagan’s opposition to the Pentagon’s “don’t ask, don’t tell” policy on gay troops is a rare insight into her personal views. Kagan’s public record, thinner than most earlier Supreme Court nominees, otherwise offers supporters and critics little assurance about … Read more : High court nominee Kagan’s public record lacks clear signal of how she would vote as justice.

New leaders for elite police in Afghanistan underpin NATO hopes to one day return home

Buildup of top Afghan police seen as key for NATO

KABUL – One by one, the graduating Afghan police cadets marched onto a stage, clicked their heels and shouted vows of dedication to their war-weary country as they proudly hoisted their diplomas overhead.
“I am serving our suffering nation of Afghanistan!” one yelled to the audience, prompting …. Original source  : New leaders for elite police in Afghanistan underpin NATO hopes to one day return home.

Fmr. Gov. Blagojevich loses latest bid to delay corruption trial, atty. says high court next

Appeals court refuses to delay Blagojevich trial
CHICAGO – A federal appeals court Tuesday rejected the latest defense efforts to delay former Gov. Rod Blagojevich’s impending corruption trial and at least one attorney said the team would take the case to the U.S. Supreme Court.
The decision appeared to all but wipe out … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Fmr. Gov. Blagojevich loses latest bid to delay corruption trial, atty. says high court next.

Air India Kanishka bomber faces fresh trial next month

VANCOUVER – Air India Kanishka bombing convict Inderjit Singh Reyat, who was released last year after spending 15 years in jail, will face a fresh perjury trial starting June 22 coinciding with the 25th anniversary of the bombing which killed all 329 passengers.

Reyat was the only person jailed in the 1985 Air India bombing by …. Original source  : Air India Kanishka bomber faces fresh trial next month.

US court: 2nd trial for jailed cable execs John and Timothy Rigas may be double jeopardy

US court: 2nd Rigas trial may be double jeopardy

PHILADELPHIA – A U.S. appeals court says government efforts to try an imprisoned cable executive and his son a second time may amount to double jeopardy.
Adelphia Communications Corp. founder John Rigas and his son Timothy are already serving long sentences for fraud and conspiracy convictions in New … Read this article on Gaea Times at : US court: 2nd trial for jailed cable execs John and Timothy Rigas may be double jeopardy.

Pakistan realises there is a cancer in their midst: Obama

WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama believes that after years of looking at their main rival India as their only concern, Pakistan has finally come to realise that the cancer of terrorism threatens Pakistan’s sovereignty.

“I think there has been in the past a view on the part of Pakistan that their primary rival, India, was their …. Read the original article  : Pakistan realises there is a cancer in their midst: Obama.

Student: 22-year-old accused of impersonating high school player ‘played the part good’

Student: Suspected impostor ‘played the part good’

ODESSA, Texas – A lot of guys dream about going back to high school and recapturing their athletic glory days. A man who went by the name of Jerry Joseph did it, police say, and now he’s in big trouble.
Authorities say the boyish-looking 22-year-old posed as a 16-year-old sophomore … Read more >>>.

Russians detained in Germany for plotting plane hijack

Berlin, May 13 (IANS/RIA Novosti) Two Russians were detained Wednesday at Berlin’s Tegel Airport on the suspicion of intending to hijack an Air Berlin flight to Moscow, a police spokesman said.

A woman overheard two men, aged 49 and 26, speaking in Russian near a ticket counter at 12:40 p.m. (10:40 GMT) and believed they were … Original article on : Russians detained in Germany for plotting plane hijack.

Records: Utah man beat 4-year-old stepson for days before boy’s death, then disfigured him

Police: Utah man beat boy to death, disfigured him

SALT LAKE CITY – The Utah man held in the slaying of his 4-year-old stepson beat him for days before the boy died, then used a hammer to disfigure his face and teeth before burying his body in the mountains, according to police records released late Wednesday.
The …. Source article  : Records: Utah man beat 4-year-old stepson for days before boy’s death, then disfigured him.

Dealers, not pilgrims: Police say drugs brought to Italy via convent cocaine contact

Police: ‘pilgrims’ didn’t pray, they smuggled

ROME – Italian police say drug smugglers pretending to be pilgrims slipped cocaine into Italy in their luggage as part of a trafficking ring coordinated by a convent’s doorman.
Carabinieri police say the nuns at the convent in the northern city of Piacenza didn’t have a clue about the smuggling operation …. Original source  : Dealers, not pilgrims: Police say drugs brought to Italy via convent cocaine contact.

Tehran issues visas to mothers of 3 jailed American hikers; women hope to go to Iran next week

Mothers of 3 Americans jailed in Iran get visas

MINNEAPOLIS – The mothers of three American hikers held in Iran said they collected their visas Wednesday and hope to travel to Tehran by early next week to visit their children in prison.
Nora Shourd told The Associated Press that the family of 27-year-old Josh Fattal picked up … Original article on : Tehran issues visas to mothers of 3 jailed American hikers; women hope to go to Iran next week.

Teen pleads no contest in Florida Panhandle couple’s death, could testify against 6 others

Teen pleads no contest in Fla. couple’s death

PENSACOLA, Fla. – A teenager charged in the home-invasion deaths of a Pensacola couple known for adopting children with special needs has pleaded no contest to second-degree murder and robbery with a firearm.
Seventeen-year-old Rakeem Florence, who faces life in prison, has agreed to testify against the other suspects. …. Original source  : Teen pleads no contest in Florida Panhandle couple’s death, could testify against 6 others.

Venezuelan police arrest 3 suspects in strangling of American priest

Venezuela arrests suspects in US priest’s slaying

CARACAS, Venezuela – Venezuelan police have arrested and charged three suspects with murder in the slaying of an American priest.
The Attorney General’s Office announced in a statement Wednesday that the suspects were arrested last week.
The Rev. Esteban Woods died April 29 in the eastern city of Puerto Ordaz. Authorities … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Venezuelan police arrest 3 suspects in strangling of American priest.

Man pleads guilty in decapitation of gay Puerto Rican teen; sentenced to 99 years

Puerto Rican pleads guilty in killing of gay teen

SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico – A man accused of decapitating a gay teenager and burning his body pleaded guilty to first-degree murder on Wednesday and was sentenced to 99 years in prison.
The case had gained national attention because activists demanded that U.S. authorities prosecute it as a … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Man pleads guilty in decapitation of gay Puerto Rican teen; sentenced to 99 years.

Venezuela to open military trial for 5 Colombians accused of espionage, sabotage

Colombians face spy, sabotage trial in Venezuela

CARACAS, Venezuela – Five Colombians were transferred to a military court Wednesday to face espionage and sabotage charges after Venezuelan officials accused them of spying on and tampering with the nation’s power grid.
The proceedings will take place at a military tribunal in the northeastern city of Maracay, the state-run …. Original article  : Venezuela to open military trial for 5 Colombians accused of espionage, sabotage.

HTC swipes back at Apple in patent dispute, files complaint against the iPhone, iPad and iPod

HTC swipes back at Apple in patent dispute

SEATTLE – Taiwanese cell phone maker HTC Corp. said it filed a legal complaint against Apple Inc., saying its iPhone, iPod and iPad devices infringe on HTC patents.
The move escalates a patent dispute between the two electronics companies, as Apple tries to maintain the iPhone’s supremacy against Android, …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : HTC swipes back at Apple in patent dispute, files complaint against the iPhone, iPad and iPod.

More than a thousand protesters rally in northern Iraq against killing of Kurdish reporter

Protesters want justice for dead Kurdish reporter

SULAIMANIYAH, Iraq – More than a thousand Kurds poured into the streets of the northern Iraqi city of Sulaimaniyah Wednesday in a growing wave of outrage, blaming authorities for the kidnapping and murder of a young Kurdish journalist.
Throngs of protesters waving banners and carrying pictures of 23-year-old Sardasht Othman … Original article on : More than a thousand protesters rally in northern Iraq against killing of Kurdish reporter.

Sean Penn pleads no contest to vandalism in paparazzo battery case; sentenced to probation

Sean Penn pleads no contest to vandalism
LOS ANGELES – Sean Penn pleaded no contest to vandalism on Wednesday, effectively ending a case in which the Oscar-winning actor was videotaped kicking a celebrity photographer.

Penn was not present in court and entered the plea through his attorney. He was sentenced to three years of informal probation and …. Read the original article  : Sean Penn pleads no contest to vandalism in paparazzo battery case; sentenced to probation.

Florida man who told air marshals he had dynamite is competent, federal magistrate says

Fla. man who caused jet diversion ruled competent

BANGOR, Maine – A Florida man accused of causing a trans-Atlantic flight to be diverted to Maine was suffering from a psychotic break from reality during a court-ordered examination, a psychologist testified Wednesday.
Derek Stansberry was delusional, suffering from psychosis and exhibiting symptoms of paranoid schizophrenia, believing that jail … Original article on : Florida man who told air marshals he had dynamite is competent, federal magistrate says.

Iceland bank Glitnir accuses former shareholder, CEO, and PwC of fraud in lawsuit

Icelandic bank accuses former CEO of fraud

WASHINGTON – An Icelandic bank that collapsed during the financial crisis sued its former chief executive, leading shareholder and other former directors, saying that they stole from the bank.
The lawsuit, filed in New York state’s Supreme Court by a committee representing creditors of Glitnir Bank, also names the bank’s … Read : Iceland bank Glitnir accuses former shareholder, CEO, and PwC of fraud in lawsuit.

HTC punches back at Apple in patent dispute, files complaint against the iPhone, iPad and iPod

HTC punches back at Apple in patent dispute

NEW YORK – Taiwanese cell phone maker HTC has filed a legal complaint against Apple, looking to block sales of the iPhone and other Apple products.
The complaint, filed with the U.S. International Trade Commission, steps up an ongoing patent dispute between the two companies.
Apple Inc. sued HTC Corp. …. Source article  : HTC punches back at Apple in patent dispute, files complaint against the iPhone, iPad and iPod.

22-year-old man accused of posing as high school student in West Texas released from jail

22-year-old accused of posing as student released

ODESSA, Texas – A 22-year-old man accused of posing as a high school basketball player in Texas was released from jail Wednesday.
Guerdwich (GURD-which) Montimere posted $500 bond a day after he was arrested on a charge of failure to identify himself to a police officer, said Ector County sheriff’s [..] Read the original article: here.

Delaware AG’s office: Biden making favorable progress, looking forward to returning to work

Del. AG’s office: Biden making favorable progress

WILMINGTON, Del. – State officials say Delaware Attorney General Beau Biden is making favorable progress after suffering a mild stroke.
The Delaware Department of Justice said in a statement Wednesday that Biden will continue to receive medical therapy over the coming days. Spokesman Jason Miller declined to say whether that …. Source article  : Delaware AG’s office: Biden making favorable progress, looking forward to returning to work.

Indonesia police say they have uncovered a plot to assassinate president, set up Islamic state

Indonesian police uncover plot to kill president

JAKARTA, Indonesia – Indonesian police say they have uncovered a plot by Islamic militants to assassinate the president and other officials and declare an Islamic state.
National police chief Gen. Bambang Hendarso Danuri said Friday that the elaborate plot was revealed during interrogations of dozens of suspects arrested since a …. Source article  : Indonesia police say they have uncovered a plot to assassinate president, set up Islamic state.

Pakistan should do more to check extremists: Clinton

WASHINGTON – US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton wants Pakistan to do more to check extremists and has warned of consequences if a terrorist attack is traced back to that country.

“We think that there’s more that has to be done,” she said Thursday at an interaction at the US Institute of Peace, a Washington-based think …. Source  : Pakistan should do more to check extremists: Clinton.

EU navy force says Somali pirates free British-flagged chemical tanker after receiving ransom

Somali pirates free UK-flagged tanker for ransom

NAIROBI, Kenya – The European Union’s anti-piracy force says Somali pirates have freed a British-flagged chemical tanker they had held for more than four months after receiving a ransom.
The EU said Friday that the St. James Park is now sailing to Thailand after pirates received a ransom Thursday.
Somali pirates …. Source  : EU navy force says Somali pirates free British-flagged chemical tanker after receiving ransom.

Supreme Court disposes plea on Prabhakaran’s mother

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court Friday disposed a petition seeking a direction to the central government to fly the ailing mother of

the slain Tamil Tigers chief to Chennai for medical treatment.
Petitioner and Chennai-based lawyer R. Kuruppan also wanted the court to direct the central government to ensure that no foreigner who comes … Original source on Gaea Times at : Supreme Court disposes plea on Prabhakaran’s mother.

Central Bangkok turns into battle zone as rioting by Red Shirt protesters spreads

Bangkok battle: Troops fire on rioting protesters

BANGKOK – Thai troops fired bullets and tear gas at anti-government protesters rioting near the U.S. and Japanese embassies Friday as an army push to clear the streets sparked bloody clashes and turned central Bangkok into a virtual war zone.
Violence escalated after a rogue army general regarded as a … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Central Bangkok turns into battle zone as rioting by Red Shirt protesters spreads.

Years after young DC lawyer’s killing, 3 men head to trial _ but not on murder charges

Trial begins in killing that has captivated DC

WASHINGTON – The paramedics summoned to a townhouse in the posh Dupont Circle neighborhood on a steamy night in August 2006 had seen their share of crime scenes, but the room where 32-year-old Robert Wone lay dead was different.
Despite three stab wounds in his chest, there was barely …. Original article  : Years after young DC lawyer’s killing, 3 men head to trial _ but not on murder charges.

Maoists kill four CPI-M workers in West Bengal

KOLKATA – Four Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) workers were shot dead by Maoists in West Bengal’s West Midnapore district and their bodies were found Friday, police said.

Five CPI-M workers were abducted from their homes in Chandavilla village in Jhargram Thursday night by 20-25 heavily armed leftwing insurgents.
“The bodies of four of them were …. Source article  : Maoists kill four CPI-M workers in West Bengal.

Maoists kill four CPI-M workers in West Bengal

KOLKATA – Four Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) workers were shot dead by Maoists in West Bengal’s West Midnapore district and their bodies were found Friday, police said.

Five CPI-M workers were abducted from their homes in Chandavilla village in Jhargram Thursday night by 20-25 heavily armed leftwing insurgents.
“The bodies of four of them were … Read more >>.

Police: Missing Calif. woman fled because of stress, made up story she’d been abducted

Police: Missing woman fled because of stress

GLENDALE, Calif. – A Glendale woman whose disappearance sparked a massive search made up a story that she’d been abducted at knifepoint and fled because of stress, police said Thursday.
Nancy Salas was reunited with her family in Glendale late Thursday night, nearly two days after she went missing. She … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Police: Missing Calif. woman fled because of stress, made up story she’d been abducted.

Money transfer ‘hawala’ of benign origin but troubling to anti-terror investigators

Money transfer ‘hawala’ trouble anti-terror probes

NEW YORK – Long before there was MoneyGram and Western Union, people in South Asian countries often used an informal network of brokers, called an “hawala,” to transfer money over long distances when it was too inconvenient or dangerous to send cash by courier.
Today, the centuries-old system still exists and …. Source article  : Money transfer ‘hawala’ of benign origin but troubling to anti-terror investigators.

Money transfer ‘hawala’ of benign origin but troubling to anti-terror investigators

Money transfer ‘hawala’ trouble anti-terror probes

NEW YORK – South Asians often use an informal network of brokers, called an “hawala,” to transfer money over long distances when it is too inconvenient or dangerous to send cash by courier.
The centuries-old system is used to move billions of dollars in and out of countries like Pakistan, Afghanistan …. Source  : Money transfer ‘hawala’ of benign origin but troubling to anti-terror investigators.

Police: Missing Glendale woman fled because of stress, made up story she’d been abducted

Police: Missing woman fled because of stress

GLENDALE, Calif. – A Glendale woman whose disappearance sparked a massive search made up a story that she’d been abducted at knifepoint and fled because of stress, police said Thursday.
Nancy Salas was reunited with her family in Glendale late Thursday night, nearly two days after she went missing. She … Original source on Gaea Times at : Police: Missing Glendale woman fled because of stress, made up story she’d been abducted.

Police say no threat found in car with 2 gas tanks in back near NYC’s Union Square

No threat in vehicle spotted in NYC’s Union Square

NEW YORK – New York City police have removed gas cans from a car parked near the offices of a city utility and say nothing suspicious has been found.
NYPD investigators located the owner of the 1991 Oldsmobile Cutlass Ciera, which was found in front of the Con … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Police say no threat found in car with 2 gas tanks in back near NYC’s Union Square.

Suspicious vehicle spotted in New York

NEW YORK – A vehicle with two gas canisters inside it has been spotted near Union Square here, a media report said.

Police and bomb squad agents were investigating the vehicle.
A pedestrian saw two gas canisters inside the parked car and called the police.
Xinhua news agency reported that streets and buildings nearby …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

US engineer held in China on accusations he misused trade secrets released without charge

US engineer held in China released without charge

BEIJING – An American engineer held in China for more than a year on accusations he misused trade secrets has been released, the U.S. Embassy in Beijing said Friday.
Hu Zhicheng remains in China but plans to return home soon. The embassy said he was released late last month, …. Original article  : US engineer held in China on accusations he misused trade secrets released without charge.

Pakistan should do more to chcck extremists: Hillary Clinton

WASHINGTON – US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton wants Pakistan to do more to check extremists with a veiled warning of the consequences of a terrorist attack that can be traced back to that country.

“We think that there’s more that has to be done,” she said Thursday at an interaction at the US Institute of …. Read the original article  : Pakistan should do more to chcck extremists: Hillary Clinton.

Pakistan arrests militant who helped Shahzad

Indo-ASIAN NEWS SERVICE
WASHINGTON – The Pakistani government has arrested a suspect with connections to a Pakistani militant group who said he acted as an accomplice to Times Square bombing supect, the Washington Post reported citing US officials.

The suspect, whose arrest has not been previously disclosed, provided an \”independent stream\” of evidence that the Pakistani Taliban …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

US arrests 3 Pakistanis for givng money to Shahzad

WASHINGTON – Fanning out across northeast United States, federal agents have arrested three people from Pakistan suspected of providing money, possibly by the hawala system, to Times Square car bombing\’s Pakistani American accused Faisal Shazad.

Two of the Pakistani suspects were picked up Thursday in the Boston area and the third in Maine for immigration violations, …. Read the original article  : US arrests 3 Pakistanis for givng money to Shahzad.

Times Square probe: three arrested in raids

DPA
WASHINGTON – Federal investigators conducted raids Thursday in three north-eastern states in connection with the probe into the botched car bombing of Times Square in New York.

Federal prosecutors and the Federal Bureau of Investigation confirmed that search warrants were exercised in New Jersey, New York and Massachusetts in pursuit of leads in the case arising …. Original article  : Times Square probe: three arrested in raids.

Wife of Mexico’s most-wanted drug lord grabbed in police raid, let go after questioning

Mexican police question, release drug lord’s wife

MEXICO CITY – The wife of Mexico’s most-wanted drug lord was questioned and released after she was found during raids on seven houses linked to the fugitive trafficker, Joaquin “El Chapo” Guzman, prosecutors said Thursday.
The Attorney General’s Office said Griselda Lopez Perez was in one of the houses raided …. Read the original article  : Wife of Mexico’s most-wanted drug lord grabbed in police raid, let go after questioning.

China court sentences to death school attacker who hurt 29 children at kindergarten

China court sentences to death school attacker

BEIJING – A Chinese court sentenced a man to death Saturday for an attack on a school that left 29 children and three kindergarten teachers hurt last month.
The attack was one of five major assaults against schoolchildren in the last two months that have left 17 dead and more … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : China court sentences to death school attacker who hurt 29 children at kindergarten.

Injured cop dies in Srinagar hospital

SRINAGAR – A policeman who was injured in Friday’s grenade explosion by separatists in this Jammu and Kashmir summer capital succumbed to his injuries in a hospital Saturday, an official said.

Three Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) troopers, a local policeman and a civilian were wounded in the Saraf Kadal area of the old city …. Original source  : Injured cop dies in Srinagar hospital.

Police: Sheriff’s deputy in Wash. state fatally shoots in-laws; holes up in house

Police: Sheriff’s deputy in WA shoots in-laws

GIG HARBOR, Wash. – A Pierce County sheriff’s deputy fatally shot his wife’s parents Friday night and barricaded himself in his Gig Harbor home, police said.
Deputy Allen Myron’s two children were trapped in the house during the early part of the standoff, but managed to safely get out, sheriff’s …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Police: Sheriff’s deputy in Wash. state fatally shoots in-laws; holes up in house.

Japanese man arrested for allegedly trying to carry stun gun on plane from Honolulu to Tokyo

Man allegedly taking stun gun on plane arrested

HONOLULU – Federal authorities arrested a Japanese man Friday after he allegedly tried to board a flight to Tokyo with a stun gun in his carry-on bag.
Prosecutors charged Hiroki Suzuki with one count of carrying a dangerous concealed weapon while attempting to board All Nippon Airways Flight 1051.
An … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Japanese man arrested for allegedly trying to carry stun gun on plane from Honolulu to Tokyo.

Pierce County, Wash., sheriff’s spokesman: deputy shoots in-laws, holed up in house

Sheriff’s officer: deputy shoots in-laws
GIG HARBOR, Wash. – A Pierce County sheriff’s spokesman says a sheriff’s deputy has shot his in-laws and barricaded himself in a Gig Harbor home.

Spokesman Ed Troyer said Friday night the father-in-law is believed to be dead in the house. The mother-in-law was able to get out of the house and … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Pierce County, Wash., sheriff’s spokesman: deputy shoots in-laws, holed up in house.

Immigration debate rages at town-hall forum by Spanish-language broadcaster Univision

Univision forum held on Arizona’s immigration law

MIAMI – Detractors and defenders of Arizona’s crackdown on illegal immigration aired their views in a lively town-hall style meeting broadcast nationally Friday night by the Spanish-language network Univision.
The commercial-free forum held in Phoenix and Miami comes in the wake of Arizona’s new law some critics fear could lead … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Immigration debate rages at town-hall forum by Spanish-language broadcaster Univision.

Authorities say sheriff’s deputy shoots in-laws, holes up with kids in Washington state

Authorities say sheriff’s deputy shoots in-laws

GIG HARBOR, Wash. – Authorities in Washington state say a sheriff’s deputy has shot his in-laws and barricaded himself in a home with his children.
Pierce County sheriff’s spokesman Ed Troyer said Friday night that the deputy’s mother-in-law has been airlifted from Gig Harbor to a Seattle medical center. Troyer says …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Authorities say sheriff’s deputy shoots in-laws, holes up with kids in Washington state.

Tamil jailed in Canada for funding LTTE

VANCOUVER – In the first conviction in Canada for funding of terrorists abroad, a court here jailed a Tamil for collecting money for the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Ealam (LTTE) which was routed by the Sri Lankan forces in May last year.

Prapaharan Thambithurai, 46, was jailed for six months after pleading guilty to the criminal …. Read the original article  : Tamil jailed in Canada for funding LTTE.

Maoists torch dumpers, rollers of construction firm

PATNA – Maoists have torched two dumpers and as many rollers of a road construction company in Bihar’s Gaya district, police said Saturday.

Armed rebels late Friday attacked the temporary office of a construction firm near Sherghati in Gaya, about 100 km from here, police said.
They set on fire dumpers and rollers, creating panic among … Read : Maoists torch dumpers, rollers of construction firm.

Police: Former Food Network chef solicited Calif. homeless people to commit a murder

Police: TV chef solicited homeless in murder plot

SANTA MONICA, Calif. – California police say the former host of a Food Network show is accused of soliciting homeless people to commit a murder.
Santa Monica police Sgt. Jay Trisler says Juan-Carlos Cruz was arrested Thursday and booked on suspicion of solicitation to commit murder.
Cruz was the host [..] Read the original article: here.

Police: Man who posed as teen basketball star at Texas high school charged with sexual assault

Accused student impostor now facing sex charge

DALLAS – A 22-year-old man accused of posing as a high school basketball star in West Texas was charged with sexual assault Friday after an underage girl reported having sex with him last summer when she thought he was a teenager, police said.
Guerdwich Montimer was arrested for the third … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Police: Man who posed as teen basketball star at Texas high school charged with sexual assault.

Next big terrorist attack on US will be postmarked ‘Pakistan’: CIA analyst

WASHINGTON – A former CIA analyst, who helped President Barack Obama formulate his Pakistan-Afghanistan policy, sees “a very serious possibility that the next mass casualty terrorist attack on the United States will be postmarked ‘Pakistan.’”

“What we’re seeing going on in Pakistan now is a very dangerous phenomenon,” says Bruce Riedel, Senior Fellow, Brookings Institution, …. Original source  : Next big terrorist attack on US will be postmarked ‘Pakistan’: CIA analyst.

California city could sue former UCLA student who faked her kidnapping for cost of search

Former UCLA student’s kidnap hoax could be costly

GLENDALE, Calif. – A young woman who faked her own kidnapping to avoid telling her parents she had dropped out of college could be sued for the costs of the extensive search, but she won’t face criminal charges, police said Friday.
The city attorney will decide whether to file …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : California city could sue former UCLA student who faked her kidnapping for cost of search.

So. Arizona man pleads guilty for role in death of rare jaguar trapped by wildlife team

So. Ariz. man pleads guilty in jaguar’s death

PHOENIX – A southern Arizona biologist pleaded guilty on Friday to a misdemeanor federal charge for his role in the 2009 trapping and subsequent death of a rare jaguar known as “Macho B.”
Emil McCain, 31, of Patagonia, entered his plea to illegally “taking” an endangered species in U.S. …. Source article  : So. Arizona man pleads guilty for role in death of rare jaguar trapped by wildlife team.

Nicaraguan banana workers deny they conspired in fraud to win pesticides case against Dole

Nicaraguan workers deny conspiracy against Dole

MANAGUA, Nicaragua – Several banana workers denied Friday they were part of a conspiracy to defraud Dole Foods Co. by falsely claiming in a damage lawsuit to have worked on a banana plantation and been made sterile by pesticides.
Seven workers at a news conference in Nicaragua, where the contamination allegedly …. Source article  : Nicaraguan banana workers deny they conspired in fraud to win pesticides case against Dole.

Man about to be extradited from Canada to face California murder charge found dead

Man about to be extradited in Calif. killing dies

SANTA ANA, Calif. – Authorities say a man about to be extradited from Canada to face charges in a 1984 slaying in California apparently committed suicide after learning his appeal to avoid extradition had been denied.
Orange County prosecutors and Huntington Beach police say 53-year-old Gerald Su Go …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Man about to be extradited from Canada to face California murder charge found dead.

Police say they won’t file criminal charges against Southern Calif. woman who faked kidnapping

No charges against CA woman who faked kidnapping

GLENDALE, Calif. – California police say they will not file criminal charges against a young woman who faked her own kidnapping to avoid telling her parents that she had dropped out of the University of California, Los Angeles two years ago.
Glendale police Sgt. Tom Lorenz said Friday that … Read more »»».

Chile terror suspect’s lawyer denies US claim of bomb residue, says chemical commonly found

Chile terror lawyer predicts case will be dropped

SANTIAGO, Chile – Chilean prosecutors will have to show a judge on Saturday what evidence they have against a Pakistani detained after the U.S. Embassy said it found traces of an explosives substance on his documents and cell phone.
The evidence hearing was ordered moved up from Sunday after …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Calif. police: No criminal charges against former UCLA student who faked own kidnapping

No charges for UCLA student who faked abduction

GLENDALE, Calif. – California police say they will not file criminal charges against a woman who faked her own kidnapping to avoid telling her parents that she had dropped out of the University of California, Los Angeles two years ago.
Sgt. Tom Lorenz said Friday the Glendale city attorney … Read more »»».

Woman comes forward in Lawrence Taylor sex assault case, says he never had sex with teen

Woman says Taylor did not have sex with teen

NEW YORK – A woman has come forward as a defense witness in the sexual assault case against Lawrence Taylor, saying the 16-year-old girl who accused the NFL legend of rape never had sex with him, according to a statement from the woman confirmed Friday by Taylor’s …. Original source  : Woman comes forward in Lawrence Taylor sex assault case, says he never had sex with teen.

Juan-Carlos Cruz Arrested

LOS ANGELES (GaeaTimes.com)- Juan-Carlos Cruz, who is best known as the host of calorie conscious shows on Food Network, has been arrested after charges of solicitation to commit murder was levied against him. The celebrity chef has been accused of scheming to employ homeless, destitute people to carry out a murder plan, according to … Read more : Juan-Carlos Cruz Arrested.

Three men offer to hang Kasab

PATNA/SHIMLA – Three men have offered to do service as hangman to execute Pakistani jehadi Ajmal Kasab, sentenced to death by a special court in the November 2008 Mumbai terror attacks case.

Saroj Kumar and Arvind alias Doman, middle-aged men from Bihar’s Samastipur district, last week separately wrote letters to President Pratibha Patil, Prime Minister Manmohan … Read more : Three men offer to hang Kasab.

15 killed as Pakistani jets pound militant hideouts

ISLAMABAD – Pakistani military jets Sunday pounded Taliban positions in the tribal district of Orakzai, killing at least 15 rebels, security officials said.

The airstrikes came as the Islamist insurgents freed 50 people kidnapped a day earlier in the adjoining district of Kurram.
A senior military official in Orakzai said the jets targeted four rebel hideouts …. Read the original article  : 15 killed as Pakistani jets pound militant hideouts.

Six civilians, two Maoists killed in Chhattisgarh violence (Second Lead)

RAIPUR – Maoist guerrillas Sunday slit the throats of six civilians, including a village head, in Chhattisgarh’s Rajnandgaon district, while two rebels were killed in a gunfight with the police in Dantewada district, officials said.

The bodies of the six people were found dumped in a forested area of Manpur locality in Uchapur village in [..] Read the original article: here.

American service member killed in insurgent attack in Afghanistan; 24th NATO death this month

NATO soldier killed in Afghan insurgent attack

KABUL – A U.S. service member was killed Sunday following an insurgent attack in southern Afghanistan, NATO said.
Alliance spokesman Col. Wayne Shanks confirmed an American died Sunday but declined to provide details, pending notification of the family of the service member.
NATO is pouring in troops to southern Kandahar province … Original source on Gaea Times at : American service member killed in insurgent attack in Afghanistan; 24th NATO death this month.

Maoist rebels kidnap and kill 6 villagers in central India alleging they were police informers

Maoist rebels kill 6 villagers in central India
PATNA, India – Maoist rebels kidnapped and killed six villagers in a thickly forested part of central India, alleging that the men were police informants, an official said Sunday.
The bodies of the six men, whose throats were slit, were found on Sunday, a day after they … Read more >>>.

Maoists slaughter six civilians in Chhattisgarh

RAIPUR – Maoist guerrillas Sunday killed six civilians, including a village head, by slitting their throats in Chhattisgarh’s Rajnandgaon district, police said.

The bodies of the six people were found dumped in a forested area of Manpur locality in Uchapur village in Rajnandgaon, about 175 km from here, by villagers in the morning, Chhattisgarh Director General … Read more »»».

Stay away from terrorism, says Pakistani-origin rock star

LONDON – Long-haired Salman Ahmad, a Pakistani-origin rock star whose band Junoon has sold over 30 million albums, is Britain’s latest effort to combat terrorism — as he wants to counter radicalisation among students “and if that comes from the power of a guitar” then so be it.

Ahmad, who cites Led Zeppelin among his influences, … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Stay away from terrorism, says Pakistani-origin rock star.

US spy ring at work in Pakistan, Afghanistan

WASHINGTON – US military officials are still using private detectives to track Taliban guerrillas in Pakistan and Afghanistan in defiance of defence department norms, The New York Times has reported.

Despite concerns about the legality of the operation, top military officials have continued to rely on a secret network of private spies who have produced hundreds … Original source on Gaea Times at : US spy ring at work in Pakistan, Afghanistan.

Top Meghalaya militant leader arrested in Siliguri

SHILLONG – Founder and general secretary of militant outfit Garo National Liberation Army (GNLA) Novembirth Ch Marak has been arrested from Siliguri railway station in West Bengal, dealing a blow to the group’s network, a senior Meghalaya police official said Sunday.

“Novembirth is a prize catch for us in our operation against the GNLA,” Superintendent … Original source on Gaea Times at : Top Meghalaya militant leader arrested in Siliguri.

Two Bihar men offer to hang Kasab

PATNA – Two men from Bihar’s Samastipur district have offered to work as hangmen to hang Pakistani jehadi Ajmal Kasab, who was sentenced to death by a special court in the November 2008 Mumbai terror attacks case.

Saroj Kumar and Arvind alias Doman, both middle-aged residents of separate villages under Patori block in Samastipur, about …. Source  : Two Bihar men offer to hang Kasab.

Maoists kill six civilians in Chhattisgarh

RAIPUR – Maoist guerrillas have killed six civilians, including a village head, in Chhattisgarh’s Rajnandgaon district on charges of spying, police said Sunday.

The bodies of the six people were found dumped in a forested area of Manpur locality in Uchapur village in Rajnandgaon, about 175 km from here, Chhattisgarh Director General of Police Vishwa Ranjan … Read more : Maoists kill six civilians in Chhattisgarh.

Virginia men’s lacrosse rolls past Mount St. Mary’s 18-4 in return to action in NCAA tourny

Virginia lacrosse coasts in return to field

CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. – Moments before Virginia played its first game since one of its players was charged with murder, the Cavaliers paused for a moment of silence to remember Yeardley Love, the popular member of the school’s women’s team who was slain two weeks ago.
Then, after a quick blip … Original article on : Virginia men’s lacrosse rolls past Mount St. Mary’s 18-4 in return to action in NCAA tourny.

Chile charges Pakistani with possessing explosives in visit to US Embassy as probe continues

Chile judge frees Pakistani arrested at US Embassy

SANTIAGO, Chile – A Pakistani man detained with suspicious chemical residues at the U.S. Embassy in Chile was charged with possessing explosives on Saturday, and then set free pending further investigation.
Mohammad Saif Ur Rehman Khan was ordered to stay in Chile and check in with authorities once a … Read more >>.

California agents use amnesty ruse, fake $200 reward offer to reel in fugitive parolees

Calif. agents use award ruse to reel in fugitives

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – California corrections officials dangled an attractive offer Saturday before hundreds of parolees who have become fugitives: Turn yourself in, get a $200 reward and qualify for an amnesty program.
Authorities said 81 who showed up in Oakland were sorry they did.
Instead of getting a check, …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : California agents use amnesty ruse, fake $200 reward offer to reel in fugitive parolees.

In Chile, Pakistani charged with possessing explosives in visit to US Embassy

Chile charges Pakistani with bomb possession

SANTIAGO, Chile – A Pakistani man found with suspicious chemical residues inside the U.S. Embassy in Chile has been charged with possessing explosives.
A magistrate is formally charging Mohammad Saif Ur Rehman Khan but set him free from a high-security prison. Khan must stay in Chile and check in with authorities … Read more : In Chile, Pakistani charged with possessing explosives in visit to US Embassy.

Gunmen open fire at bar in northern Mexico killing 8, wounding 20

Gunmen kill 8 at bar in northern Mexico
PIEDRAS NEGRAS, Mexico – Authorities in northern Mexico say gunmen opened fire on a bar in the city of Torreon. Eight people are dead and 20 wounded.

Coahuila state prosecutors say at least six gunmen arrived before dawn Saturday at a bar that was being inaugurated in the city …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Gunmen open fire at bar in northern Mexico killing 8, wounding 20.

Federal prosecutors say former Mexican presidential candidate missing amid signs of violence

Former Mexico presidential candidate missing

MEXICO CITY – A former Mexican presidential candidate who has remained a power broker in the ruling party was missing amid signs of violence, the federal Attorney General’s Office said Saturday.
Prosecutors said that the car of Diego Fernandez de Cevallos was found near his ranch in the central state of Queretaro. …. Source  : Federal prosecutors say former Mexican presidential candidate missing amid signs of violence.

Ruling party candidate’s killing stokes fear that Mexico drug cartels will control elections

Candidates threatened in local Mexico elections

MEXICO CITY – One candidate was gunned down with his son inside his business. Another is missing after assailants torched her home. In some towns near the U.S. border, parties can’t find anyone to run for mayor.
The violence is intensifying fear that Mexico’s drug cartels could control July 4 local … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Ruling party candidate’s killing stokes fear that Mexico drug cartels will control elections.

Michael Jackson doctor helps revive passenger in distress on US Airways flight to Phoenix

Michael Jackson doctor helps passenger in distress

PHOENIX – The doctor accused of administering a powerful anesthetic that killed pop star Michael Jackson helped stabilize a young woman who fell unconscious on a US Airways jet on Saturday.
Dr. Conrad Murray found the woman with a very weak pulse aboard Flight 641 from Houston, hooked her up … Original article on : Michael Jackson doctor helps revive passenger in distress on US Airways flight to Phoenix.

Iraqi imam beheaded by group linked to Al Qaeda

BAGHDAD – A Sunni imam was beheaded by a group linked to Al Qaeda in Iraq, who then placed his head on an electric pole, security sources said Monday.

Militants stormed the house of Abduallah Jassem Shakour in the area of Saadiya just east of the city of Baquba at dawn.
They attacked Shakour with knives … Original article on : Iraqi imam beheaded by group linked to Al Qaeda.

26 die after attack on Somali parliament

MOGADISHU – At least 26 people have died in the Somali capital Mogadishu after insurgents attacked the parliament building, an official said Monday.

Islamist insurgent group al-Shabaab, which is battling to topple the weak Western-backed government, shelled parliament as lawmakers met for the first time this year Sunday.
African Union peacekeepers protecting the lawmakers responded by … Read this article on Gaea Times at : 26 die after attack on Somali parliament.

Green River Killer Now Behind Bars

WASHINGTON, (GaeaTimes.com)- Gary Leon Ridgway, better known as the “Green River Killer” in and around the Washington area, on account of his alleged track record of having committed the murders of several prostitutes and teenagers near the Green River area, is now behind bars and is housed at the Washington State Penitentiary in the … Original source on Gaea Times at : Green River Killer Now Behind Bars.

A year later, few in Sri Lanka mourn Prabhakaran

NEW DELHI – One year after Tamil Tigers chieftain Velupillai Prabhakaran was killed the same way he sent so many to their death, Sri Lanka remains ethnically divided but not many mourn the once feared guerrilla.

Even as Colombo celebrates the crushing defeat of his Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) at the hands of its …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : A year later, few in Sri Lanka mourn Prabhakaran.

Army busts militant hideout in Kashmir

SRINAGAR – The army Monday busted a militant hideout in Jammu and Kashmir’s Kupwara district in an ongoing operation against the guerrillas, an official said.

A defence spokesperson told IANS that troops had killed 11 separatist guerrillas in Operation Thunder Strike launched 12 days ago.
“Operation Thunder Strike was launched by the army on May 5 … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Army busts militant hideout in Kashmir.

3 mothers arrive in NY on 1st leg of trip to be reunited with US hikers held in Iran

Moms of 3 US hikers arrive in NY before Iran trip

NEW YORK – The mothers of three American hikers held for 10 months in Iran know that their visit with their children may be brief so they’ve thought about what they want to say and do.
Cindy Hickey wants to make sure her son and the … Read this article on Gaea Times at : 3 mothers arrive in NY on 1st leg of trip to be reunited with US hikers held in Iran.

Nearly 600 drug addicts escape from rehabilitation center in northern Vietnam

578 addicts escape from rehab center in Vietnam

HANOI, Vietnam – Nearly 600 inmates in a Vietnamese drug rehabilitation camp overpowered security guards and escaped, an official said Monday. At least two-thirds of them were still at large.
Trinh Vuong Thuan, a security official at the rehabilitation center No. 2 in the northern port city of Haiphong, …. Read the original article  : here.

Hundreds of drug offenders executed each year despite drop in states carrying out sentences

Report: Hundreds of drug offenders executed yearly

VIENNA – Hundreds of drug offenders are executed annually and the number likely tops 1,000 if figures from countries that don’t disclose their death penalty data are included, a new report said Monday.
The number of states carrying out death sentences for drug offenses, however, appears to be declining while …. Source  : Hundreds of drug offenders executed each year despite drop in states carrying out sentences.

New Zealand cabinet evacuated in bomb scare

WELLINGTON – New Zealand cabinet ministers were evacuated from their offices adjoining parliament in Wellington Monday after a bomb scare.

A suspicious package, which the Newstalk ZB radio network said was reported to have protruding wires and the word “”bomb” on it, was found in the office of agriculture minister David Carter when staff arrived for …. Source  : New Zealand cabinet evacuated in bomb scare.

Jamaica’s governing party rejects calls for PM’s resignation over US extradition case

Jamaican prime minister rejects calls to resign

KINGSTON, Jamaica – Jamaica’s prime minister will not resign despite criticism of his efforts to protect a community leader in his west Kingston constituency who is wanted in the United States on drug and weapons trafficking charges, the governing party said Sunday.
The general secretary of the Jamaica Labor Party … Read more >>>.

Sestak, Specter try to project confidence in tight Democratic primary race for US Senate

Sestak, Specter try to project confidence in race
MEDIA, Pa. – With the election just days away, the candidates in Pennsylvania’s too-close-to-call Democratic primary race for U.S. Senate jockeyed Sunday to project confidence and control and prove who will be the stronger man against the Republicans in the fall.
At a rally on the Delaware … Read more : Sestak, Specter try to project confidence in tight Democratic primary race for US Senate.

Ex-presidential candidate’s disappearance rattles Mexico

Ex-candidate’s disappearance rattles Mexico

MEXICO CITY – The mysterious disappearance of a former presidential candidate is stoking fear in Mexico that nobody may be safe from relentless kidnapping and rampant drug violence.
Diego Fernandez de Cevallos was reported missing over the weekend and his car was found in the central state of Queretaro with some evidence of … Read more >>.

Chavez asks Venezuelan tweeters to blow the whistle on speculators

Chavez asks Venezuelans to tweet on speculators

CARACAS, Venezuela – President Hugo Chavez urged supporters to use Twitter to blow the whistle on currency speculators on Sunday and announced that police raids on illegal traders would continue as Venezuela’s government tries to defend the embattled bolivar.
The socialist leader asked Venezuelans to send messages identifying illegal traders. …. Original source  : Chavez asks Venezuelan tweeters to blow the whistle on speculators.

43 militants killed in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD – At least 43 militants were killed Sunday when Pakistani fighter jets pounded militant hideouts in the country’s Orakzai tribal agency.

Five soldiers were killed in the offensive, Xinhua reported, citing sources.
The attack was part of an ongoing offensive that started in March in Orakzai. At least 700 militants were killed in the … Original source on Gaea Times at : 43 militants killed in Pakistan.

Yemeni tribesmen kidnap 2 Chinese engineers and 2 guards in Yemen’s troubled south

Yemeni tribesmen kidnap 2 Chinese engineers

SAN’A, Yemen – Yemeni security officials say tribesmen have kidnapped two Chinese engineers and their government escorts in the country’s volatile south.
The officials say the Chinese were working for an oil firm operating in Shabwa province, south of the capital San’a. They say tribesmen took the men hostage Sunday apparently … Read more >>.

AP Exclusive: Vatican details sex abuse defense in key US case, bishops aren’t employees

AP Exclusive: Vatican details US sex abuse defense

VATICAN CITY – The Vatican on Monday will make its most detailed defense yet against claims that it is liable for U.S. bishops who allowed priests to molest children, saying bishops are not its employees and that a 1962 Vatican document did not require them to keep quiet, … Read : AP Exclusive: Vatican details sex abuse defense in key US case, bishops aren’t employees.

In NYC court, judge presiding over SEC vs. Goldman is compassionate, fun and decisive

Goldman case gets decisive, compassionate jurist

NEW YORK – The federal judge presiding over civil fraud charges brought against Wall Street’s most powerful firm can be counted on to run a tight courtroom as she considers claims that Goldman Sachs & Co. took unfair advantage of lax controls on financial institutions.
Lawyers and others who have worked … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : In NYC court, judge presiding over SEC vs. Goldman is compassionate, fun and decisive.

Sudan detains opposition leader, shuts down group’s paper in crackdown

Sudan detains opposition leader
KHARTOUM, Sudan – Officials say a prominent Sudanese opposition leader has been detained and his party’s newspaper shut down.

The minister of information and communication says Hassan Turabi, leader of the opposition Popular Congress Party, has been accused of incitement and undermining security.
Turabi’s deputy Abdullah Hassan Ahmed says Sunday’s arrest is part of …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Sudan detains opposition leader, shuts down group’s paper in crackdown.

Chairman of England’s Football Association, World Cup bid team quits amid bribery claims

England’s World Cup bid chief quits after sting

LONDON – The chairman of England’s World Cup bid and soccer federation quit both jobs Sunday after accusing 2018 bid rivals Spain and Russia of bribery.
David Triesman insisted he was a victim of “entrapment” and his comments were “never intended to be taken seriously.”
Triesman was secretly taped by … Read more : Chairman of England’s Football Association, World Cup bid team quits amid bribery claims.

Detroit police say 7-year-old girl fatally shot when officer’s weapon fired during home search

Detroit police say 7-year-old shot in home search

DETROIT – A sleeping 7-year-old girl was shot and killed when an officer’s gun went off while Detroit police were searching a duplex for a suspect in the slaying of a teenager, a police official said.
Assistant Chief Ralph Godbee said at a news conference Sunday that Aiyana Jones …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Saudi forces free 2 German girls kidnapped in Yemen nearly a year ago

Saudi forces free 2 German girls abducted in Yemen

RIYADH, Saudi Arabia – Saudi Arabia says its intelligence forces freed two German girls kidnapped nearly a year ago with their family in neighboring Yemen.
A German couple and their three young children went missing last June along with a British man in the northern Yemeni region of …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Saudi forces free 2 German girls kidnapped in Yemen nearly a year ago.

Suicide attack targeting police patrol in NW Pakistan kills 11, including 3 police

Suicide attack kills 11 people in NW Pakistan

DERA ISMAIL KHAN, Pakistan – A suicide bomber on a bicycle killed 11 people Tuesday when he attacked a police patrol in an area of northwestern Pakistan where many citizens fled last year to escape a large army offensive against the Taliban, police said.
The attack, which killed three … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Suicide attack targeting police patrol in NW Pakistan kills 11, including 3 police.

20 die in Afghanistan suicide blast

KABUL – At least 20 deaths were reported Tuesday in a suicide bombing that was carried out in front of the US-founded Counterinsurgency Academy in Kabul, security officials said.

An Afghan army officer at the scene who did not want to be named said 20 people, including eight Americans, were killed.
The Afghan Interior Ministry said, … Original source on Gaea Times at : 20 die in Afghanistan suicide blast.

Shutdown hits rail, road services in Jharkhand

RANCHI – Several important trains were cancelled or diverted and road services hit Tuesday as Maoist guerrillas began a 48-hour shutdown to protest the government offensive against them.

“We have cancelled eight trains and diverted the routes of nine trains,” a railway official said. Amongst the trains cancelled is the Palamau Express; those diverted include … Read more »»».

Prime minister says Jamaica will approve US extradition request for alleged drug kingpin

Jamaica to extradite drug suspect wanted by US

KINGSTON, Jamaica – Jamaica’s prime minister says he will approve the extradition of a powerful community leader wanted in the United States on drug and arms trafficking charges.
The reversal Monday by Prime Minister Bruce Golding ends a nine-month standoff over Christopher “Dudus” Coke that has strained the Caribbean …. Original article  : Prime minister says Jamaica will approve US extradition request for alleged drug kingpin.

Iraq security forces detains al-Qaida militant suspected of plotting attack on World Cup

Iraq forces: Al-Qaida plot on World Cup uncovered

BAGHDAD – Iraqi security forces have detained an al-Qaida militant suspected of planning an attack targeting the World Cup in South Africa next month, an official said Monday.
Maj. Gen. Qassim al-Moussawi, a spokesman for Baghdad security services, said Abdullah Azam Saleh al-Qahtani was an officer in the Saudi … Read : Iraq security forces detains al-Qaida militant suspected of plotting attack on World Cup.

Bus attack shows bankrupt Maoist policies: CPI-M

NEW DELHI – The Maoist attack on bus passengers in Chhattisgarh that killed 35 people “highlights their bankrupt policies”, the Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) said Tuesday.

“The attack on the private passenger bus by the Maoists only highlights their bankrupt policies of attacking ordinary citizens in various parts of the country including tribals … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Bus attack shows bankrupt Maoist policies: CPI-M.

Fearful in Chhattisgarh day after Maoist strike

RAIPUR – Security forces stayed fearful in their base camps and life was hit in several parts of Chhattisgarh as a 48-hour Maoist shutdown began Tuesday, a day after at least 35 people were killed when the guerrillas blasted a bus in the state’s Dantewada district.

The shutdown called by the outlawed Communist Party of India-Maoist …. Read the original article  : Fearful in Chhattisgarh day after Maoist strike.

20 killed in Afghanistan suicide blast

KABUL – At least 20 deaths were reported Tuesday in a suicide bombing that was carried out in front of the US-founded Counterinsurgency Academy in Kabul, security officials said.

Vehicles belonging to the NATO-led International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) were also hit, they said.
The blast occurred in western Kabul near parliament and other government buildings. …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : 20 killed in Afghanistan suicide blast.

Children among 12 killed in Pakistan bombing

ISLAMABAD – A bomb attack in north-western Pakistan killed 12 people including three children and three policemen Tuesday, officials said.

The explosion targeted a police vehicle on the outskirts of Dera Ismail Khan in the Khyber-Pakthunkhwa province.
“We have received 12 dead bodies. Among them are three policemen, three children and a woman,” said Qibla Khan …. Source article  : Children among 12 killed in Pakistan bombing.

Bomber killed in Manipur blast

IMPHAL – A militant bomber was killed Tuesday in Manipur while trying to plant an explosive beneath a road bridge, officials said.

A police spokesperson said the blast took place over a bridge near Kangpokpi in Senapati district, about 40 km from state capital Imphal. One person was killed and his head was blown away in … Read : Bomber killed in Manipur blast.

Maoist strike begins in Bihar

PATNA – A two-day Maoist strike began in Bihar amid tight security, police said Tuesday.

Additional Director General of Police P.K. Thakur said that no violence was reported in the state after Maoist guerrillas began their strike at midnight Monday.
“All the district superintendents of police have been directed to intensify patrolling and deploy additional … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Maoist strike begins in Bihar.

US to press Pakistan to close terror’s ’safe haven’

WASHINGTON – The White House is dispatching national security adviser Gen. James L. Jones and CIA director Leon E. Panetta to Pakistan to push Islamabad to intensify efforts to investigate the Times Square bomb plot and take steps to close terror’s “safe haven” in that country, according to the New York Times.

The two top security … Original source on Gaea Times at : US to press Pakistan to close terror’s ’safe haven’.

10 rebels killed in Colombia

BOGOTA – Ten members of Colombia’s largest leftist guerrilla group have been killed in fighting with the security forces in northeastern part of the country, officials said.

The fighting between security forces and the guerrillas of the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) took place in Arauquita municipality near the border with Venezuela. A female member … Read : 10 rebels killed in Colombia.

Shutdown begins in Chhattisgarh amid fears of more attacks

RAIPUR – Security forces stayed fearful in their base camps and life was hit in several parts of Chhattisgarh as a 48-hour strike called by Maoists began Tuesday, a day after at least 35 people were killed when the guerrillas blasted a bus in the state’s Dantewada district.

The shutdown called by the outlawed Communist Party …. Source article  : Shutdown begins in Chhattisgarh amid fears of more attacks.

Maoist strike hits bus services in Orissa

BHUBANESWAR – Traffic was hit in several parts of Orissa Tuesday as a two-day strike by Maoist guerrillas protesting the government offensive against them came into effect.

Roads were deserted in the three southern districts of Gajapati, Malkangiri and Rayagada as authorities kept government buses off the road for safety, a senior state police official … Read more : Maoist strike hits bus services in Orissa.

Supreme Court strikes down life in prison without parole for juveniles who didn’t kill victims

Court rules out some life sentences for juveniles

WASHINGTON – The Supreme Court has ruled that teenagers may not be locked up for life without chance of parole if they haven’t killed anyone.
By a 5-4 vote Monday, the court says the Constitution requires that young people serving life sentences must at least be considered for release.
The … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Supreme Court strikes down life in prison without parole for juveniles who didn’t kill victims.

Appeal delays release of Oregon man who assumed murdered Ohio boy’s identity

Appeal delays release of Oregon mystery man

PORTLAND, Ore. – A federal judge on Monday approved the release of an Oregon liquor control investigator who assumed the identity of a murdered boy, even though the man still refuses to reveal his real name.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Donald Ashmanskas said the man known as Jason Evers should be … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Appeal delays release of Oregon man who assumed murdered Ohio boy’s identity.

Interior Designer Freed Of Countersuit

LOS ANGELES, (GaeaTimes.com)- A countersuit that was filed against interior designer company Trip Haenisch & Associates Inc. has been dismissed by the superior court of Los Angeles. Reportedly, the interior designer company was freed of the counter suit owing to the fact that there was no movement with the complaint for a long time after … Read more »».

15 Dantewada victims battle for life

RAIPUR – As many as 15 people were battling for life in Chhattisgarh’s Dantewada district Tuesday, a day after Maoist guerrillas blew up a crowded passenger bus and killed at least 35 special police officers (SPOs) and civilians on a state highway.

“So far we have recovered 31 bodies, this is a mix of SPOs and …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Four CRPF troopers killed in landmine blast

KOLKATA – Four troopers of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) were killed and two others injured when Maoist guerrillas blew up their patrol vehicle in the trouble-torn Lalgarh belt of West Bengal’s West Midnapore district Wednesday, police said.

The Maoists triggered the landmine blast between Pingboni and Ramgarh areas under Lalgarh police station, about 200 …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Four CRPF troopers killed in landmine blast.

Bangkok burns after Thai army storms protest zone, Red Shirt leaders arrested after 3 killed

Bangkok burns after Thai protest leaders arrested

BANGKOK – Downtown Bangkok became a raging battleground Wednesday as the army stormed a barricaded protest camp and toppled the Red Shirt leadership, enraging demonstrators who fired grenades and set fires that cloaked the skyline in a black haze.
At least two protesters and an Italian news photographer were killed. …. Read the original article  : here.

Four troopers feared killed as Maoists blow up vehicle

KOLKATA – Four Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) troopers were feared killed and two others wounded when their vehicle was blown up in a landmine blast by Maoist guerrillas in Lalgarh belt of West Midnapore district in West Bengal Wednesday.

“We are not sure about the exact number of casualties. But possibly, four CRPF jawans were …. Read the original article  : Four troopers feared killed as Maoists blow up vehicle.

Judge suspended in case of Chinese man tortured into false murder confession

Judge suspended in China coerced confession case

BEIJING – A Chinese provincial high court chief justice has been suspended over a case in which a man spent 11 years in jail after being tortured into confessing to a murder he did not commit, a court official said Wednesday.
Henan province Chief Justice Hu Ye is among four …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Judge suspended in case of Chinese man tortured into false murder confession.

US missionary who was detained in Haiti returns to Idaho, where more legal problems await

US missionary returns to Idaho after Haiti ordeal

BOISE, Idaho – An Idaho businesswoman accused of trying to take 33 children out of Haiti after the deadly January earthquake has been returned to her family after three months in a foreign jail.
But as Laura Silsby closes one troubled chapter, another set of legal woes await her …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Two soldiers, 40 militants killed in Pakistan clashes

ISLAMABAD – Dozens of militants attacked a security post Wednesday in Pakistan’s tribal region near the Afghan border, triggering clashes that left two soldiers and up to 40 rebels dead, officials said.

The fighting took place in the Orakzai tribal district, where government forces are carrying out an offensive against Taliban and Al Qaeda fighters. …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Two soldiers, 40 militants killed in Pakistan clashes.

Maoists blast tracks on second day of strike

KOLKATA – The driver and his assistant of a goods train were injured when Maoists blasted rail tracks between Jhargram and Gidhni stations in West Bengal Wednesday on the second day of a 48-hour shutdown called by the rebels in five states.

The incident occurred at the Jhargram station, about 155 km from here, in West …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Maoists blast tracks on second day of strike.

Mayawati blames central government for Maoist violence

LUCKNOW – Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Mayawati has blamed the central government for the Maoist violence in the country and said the problem would hit her state too if New Delhi’s “apathy” continued.

“The central government ought to realise that the rise in Naxalite movement is not just a law and order issue, it has socio-economic … Read more : Mayawati blames central government for Maoist violence.

Maoism worst form of terrorism: Raman Singh

NEW DELHI – Two days after Maoists blew up a bus killing 31 people, Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Raman Singh Wednesday described Maoist insurgency as the worst form of terrorism in India.

“It is the worst form of terrorism. One thousand civilians have been killed in the last 10 years,” Singh told reporters here.
“Killing civilians, attacking …. Read the original article  : Maoism worst form of terrorism: Raman Singh.

Indian threatening to blast Parliament House arrested

Indian police today arrested a man who called up the senior officials in New Delhi and threatened to blow up the Parliament buildings.

Police said the youth identified as Kirti Singh was nabbed by Mairwa police in Bihar’s Siwan district while making threat calls.
“We have arrested the youth and his interrogation is going on”, a senior …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Security forces bust militant camp in Meghalaya

SHILLONG – Security forces Wednesday busted a training camp of the Garo National Liberation Army (GNLA) in Meghalaya and recovered arms and ammunition, a top police officer said.

“A special operation team backed by the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) raided the GNLA’s training camp inside Durama hill range,” Superintendent of Police Dalton P. Marak … Read more : Security forces bust militant camp in Meghalaya.

Police: Felon who was deported to Mexico arrested in alleged molestation of Calif. girl

Police say DNA links suspect to Calif. molestation

SANTA ANA, Calif. – Police say a convicted felon who was deported to Mexico three years ago has been arrested for allegedly molesting an 11-year-old girl in Southern California.
Santa Ana police say 47-year-old Roberto Jacobo Reyes was arrested Monday after investigators linked him to the Feb. 11 attack … Original source on Gaea Times at : Police: Felon who was deported to Mexico arrested in alleged molestation of Calif. girl.

Life in Bastar crippled on day two of shutdown

RAIPUR – Life in Chhattisgarh’s sprawling Bastar region remained crippled with security forces and people still fearful Wednesday, day two of the 48-hour shutdown called by the outlawed Communist Party of India-Maoist (CPI-Maoist).

Two days after more than 30 people were killed in Bastar’s Dantewada district when Maoists blasted a passenger bus, civilians and security forces …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Life in Bastar crippled on day two of shutdown.

Court fears torture in Pakistan, says no to deporting Al Qaeda men

LONDON – Two Al Qaeda operatives can’t be deported to Pakistan as it would infringe on their human rights, a British court has ruled. Pakistan, it said, has a “history of disappearances, illegal detention, and of torture”.

Al Qaeda operatives Abid Naseer, 24, and Ahmad Faraz Khan, 26, had planned to carry out a major …. Original source  : Court fears torture in Pakistan, says no to deporting Al Qaeda men.

French Muslims in face-covering veils speak out as bill to ban the attire goes to Cabinet

Women protest as French Cabinet gets veil ban bill

PARIS – One runs her own company, another is a housewife and a third, a divorcee, raises her children by herself. Like nearly 2,000 other Muslim women who wear face-covering veils in France, their lives will soon change and they are worried.
On Wednesday, Justice Minister Michele Alliot-Marie … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : French Muslims in face-covering veils speak out as bill to ban the attire goes to Cabinet.

Maoists blow up government warehouse in Orissa

BHUBANESWAR – Maoist guerrillas blew up a government warehouse in Orissa’s Malkangiri district during their two-day strike protesting the government offensive against them, police said Wednesday.

The rebels blasted the warehouse at Bodigata, about 40 km from Malkangiri late Tuesday, Deputy Inspector General of Police Sanjeeb Panda told IANS.
It was an unused warehouse and the …. Original article  : Maoists blow up government warehouse in Orissa.

Times Square bomber arraigned, next hearing June 1

NEW YORK – Two weeks after his arrest, Pakistani American Faisal Shahzad, who planned to detonate a car bomb at the landmark Times Square, was arraigned before a federal magistrate in Manhattan on five felony counts.

Appearing before Magistrate Judge James C. Francis IV Tuesday evening, Shahzad, 30, did not enter a plea, simply answering “yes” …. Read the original article  : here.

Accused Times Square bomber makes first court appearance

NEW YORK – The accused terrorist who allegedly tried to blow up a car in Times Square Tuesday made his first court appearance Tuesday in Manhattan.

Faisal Shahzad, a naturalized US citizen from Pakistan, was arrested May 3, aboard an airliner waiting to leave the US.
Two days earlier, he allegedly left a sport-utility vehicle vehicle … Original article on : Accused Times Square bomber makes first court appearance.

Most of small Mexican town’s police force quits in fear after gunmen ambush fellow officers

Mexican town’s police force quits after ambush

MEXICO CITY – Most of a small Mexican town’s police force has quit after armed men ambushed and wounded two of their officers.
The resignation of six of the 11 municipal officers in La Union Monday evening comes after several other Mexican towns have seen mass police resignations because of …. Source article  : Most of small Mexican town’s police force quits in fear after gunmen ambush fellow officers.

WH adviser: Elite terror interrogation team questions Times Square suspect, others

WH adviser: Interrogation team questions Shahzad

WASHINGTON – White House terrorism adviser John Brennan said Tuesday a special team of investigators has begun interrogating high-value terrorist suspects in the U.S. and abroad, including the man accused in the failed Times Square bombing.
At a foreign policy forum, Brennan confirmed that the so-called high-value detainee interrogation group, or …. Source article  : WH adviser: Elite terror interrogation team questions Times Square suspect, others.

India to observe May 21 as Anti-Terrorism Day

NEW DELHI – India will observe Anti-Terrorism Day Friday to mark former prime minister Rajiv Gandhi’s assassination on May 21, 1991.

The home ministry said in a statement Thursday: “Anti-terrorism Day is observed to generate awareness among all sections about the danger of terrorism, violence and its dangerous effect on the people, the society and the … Read : India to observe May 21 as Anti-Terrorism Day.

Lockerbie bomber is alive – nine months after being freed

LONDON – Cancer-stricken Lockerbie bomber Abdelbaset Ali al-Megrahi is alive, nine months after he was granted compassionate release from a Scottish prison by doctors who gave him just three months to live.

Megrahi has now become the longest-surviving person to be granted compassionate release in Scotland, The Sun reported Thursday.
Former Libyan intelligence agent Megrahi was … Original source on Gaea Times at : Lockerbie bomber is alive – nine months after being freed.

No misunderstanding in fighting Maoists: Raman Singh

NEW DELHI – Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Raman Singh Thursday said there was no misunderstanding with the central government in fighting the Maoists and efforts will be made to further improve coordination between the paramilitary forces and the state police.

Singh told reporters after his interaction with Home Minister P. Chidambaram here that they had a “detailed … Original source on Gaea Times at : No misunderstanding in fighting Maoists: Raman Singh.

Malaysia court sentences woman to 8 years in jail for scalding Indonesian housemaid

Malaysia woman handed 8 years’ jail for maid abuse

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia – A Malaysian court sentenced a woman to eight years in prison Thursday for scalding her Indonesian housemaid with hot water and assaulting her with scissors and a hammer.
The case was one of several involving the abuse of Indonesian domestic workers that strained ties …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Malaysia court sentences woman to 8 years in jail for scalding Indonesian housemaid.

Maoists loot 16 tonnes of ammonium nitrate

RAIPUR – Suspected Maoists hijacked a truck in Chhattisgarh’s Bastar district and looted 16 tonnes of ammonium nitrate, a fertilizer also used to make explosives, police said Thursday.

“It’s really very stunning. A few Maoists forcibly diverted the truck from National Highway 43 on Tuesday and took it to their forest hideout in Bastar district. They …. Read the original article  : Maoists loot 16 tonnes of ammonium nitrate.

No info on arrest of ULFA chief in Bangladesh: Pillai

GUWAHATI – Indian authorities Thursday rejected reports that Paresh Baruah, one of India’s most wanted fugitives and leader of the United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA), has been arrested in Bangladesh.

“We have no such reports,” Union Home Secretary G.K. Pillai told IANS in response to an SMS about the reports.
Local television channels in Assam … Read more : No info on arrest of ULFA chief in Bangladesh: Pillai.

West Bengal can’t control Maoists until others do: Buddhadeb

KOLKATA – Maoist activities in West Bengal cannot be fully controlled if similar security operations are not launched in neighbouring Jharkhand and Orissa, says Chief Minister Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee.

“It won’t be possible for us to fully check Maoist activities in our state till a similar security operation is started in Jharkhand and Orissa,” Bhattacharjee told Bengali … Original article on : West Bengal can’t control Maoists until others do: Buddhadeb.

South Korea Warship Case Solved?

SEOUL, SOUTH KOREA (GaeaTimes.com)- The President of South Korea, President Lee Myung-bak, declared Thursday that he would be calling an emergency meeting to deal with the recently unearthed evidence that proves that the sinking of the South Korean warship in March this year was a premeditated effort on the part of North Korea. The …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : South Korea Warship Case Solved?.

Couple sentenced to maximum 14 years under Malawi’s anti-gay laws

Gay couple sentenced to maximum 14 years in Malawi

BLANTYRE, Malawi – A judge sentenced a couple to the maximum 14 years in prison for unnatural acts and gross indecency Thursday under Malawi’s anti-gay legislation.
The harsh sentence had been expected in this conservative southern African country after the same judge convicted Tiwonge Chimbalanga and Steven Monjeza …. Source  : Couple sentenced to maximum 14 years under Malawi’s anti-gay laws.

China says thousands of officials punished in crackdown on stimulus-linked corruption

China cracks down on stimulus-linked graft

BEIJING – China disclosed widespread corruption Thursday linked to its 4 trillion yuan ($586 billion) stimulus, announcing that thousands of officials have been punished for taking bribes, embezzlement and other abuses.
The announcement confirmed public fears the flood of spending and a stimulus-linked easing of curbs on real estate development would … Read more >>.

Senators push for National Guard troops on Southern border, administration can’t agree on plan

Senators press for National Guard troops on border
WASHINGTON – Homeland Security and Pentagon officials are at loggerheads over a plan to send National Guard troops to the U.S.-Mexico border, even as President Barack Obama is pledging to bolster security there.
The Guard stalemate has festered for nearly a year, and frustrated lawmakers are …. Original article  : Senators push for National Guard troops on Southern border, administration can’t agree on plan.

Mirandizing the political conversation: Obama administration gains a little breathing room

‘Modifying’ Miranda modifies the political debate
WASHINGTON – Hammered for months by Republicans as soft on terrorism, Attorney General Eric Holder and the rest of the Obama administration are suddenly playing offense, offering to work with Congress on a law that would let law enforcement delay constitutional Miranda warnings to terror suspects.
The shift would …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Australian ninja students come to the aid of mugging victim, attackers flee in panic

Australian ninja students rescue mugging victim

SYDNEY – Three men who police said were robbing a German medical student in an alley fled in a panic when five members of a nearby martial arts school rushed to the rescue dressed in full ninja gear.
The trio attacked the 27-year-old man on Tuesday night after he got off …. Original source  : Australian ninja students come to the aid of mugging victim, attackers flee in panic.

Paper: Pa. Hershey School pays $3M in compensation to former alleged abuse victims

Paper: Pa. school pays alleged abuse victims $3M

PHILADELPHIA – A Pennsylvania newspaper says the Milton Hershey School for disadvantaged children has paid $3 million to compensate five former students who claimed they were sexually abused.
The Philadelphia Inquirer cited sources, including a high-ranking official at the century-old school.
School spokeswoman Connie McNamara on Wednesday confirmed the payments … Original source on Gaea Times at : Paper: Pa. Hershey School pays $3M in compensation to former alleged abuse victims.

Maoists blast rail track, torch diesel tankers on goods train

PATNA – At least 15 diesel tankers caught fire when suspected Maoists derailed a goods train by blasting the railway track and then set afire one of the tankers in Bihar’s Motihari district, a railway official said Thursday.

The Maoists targeted the diesel tankers on the goods train between Jeevdhara and Pipra railway stations in Motihari, [..] Read the original article: here.

Professor sentenced to 3-1/2 years in trial on swingers club on China

Professor given 3-1/2 years in China swingers case

BEIJING – A college professor accused of organizing a swingers club and holding private orgies in China was sentenced to 3 1/2 years in prison, officials said, in a case that touched off national debate about sexual freedom.
Ma Yaohai, 53, was convicted and sentenced on charges of group … Read more »».

Professor sentenced to 3 1/2 years in trial on swingers club on China

Professor given 3 1/2 years in China swingers case

BEIJING – A college professor accused of organizing a swingers club and holding private orgies in China was sentenced to 3 1/2 years in prison, officials said, in a case that touched off national debate about sexual freedom.
Ma Yaohai, 53, was convicted and sentenced on charges of …. Source article  : Professor sentenced to 3 1/2 years in trial on swingers club on China.

Army vet fatally shot by FBI agent at MacDill base in Tampa; security chased him after fight

Army veteran fatally shot at MacDill AFB in Tampa

TAMPA, Fla. – An Army veteran who sped away from MacDill Air Force Base security on a motorcycle was fatally shot Wednesday by an FBI agent after the man threatened him with a knife, officials said.
At about 6 p.m., base security was called to an altercation, which …. Source article  : Army vet fatally shot by FBI agent at MacDill base in Tampa; security chased him after fight.

Attorney says Lohan stuck in Cannes and will miss court hearing; warrant could be issued

Attorney: Lohan stuck in Cannes, won’t be in court

LOS ANGELES – An attorney for Lindsay Lohan says the actress will miss a mandatory court appearance Thursday because she is stuck in France.
Attorney Shawn Chapman Holley says Lohan’s passport was stolen while she was at the Cannes Film Festival. Holley told ABC7 that Lohan has an … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Attorney says Lohan stuck in Cannes and will miss court hearing; warrant could be issued.

Police in northern Mexico border state arrest 11 men suspected in kidnappings of migrants

Mexico arrests 11 suspects in migrant kidnappings

TIJUANA, Mexico – Police in northern Mexico say they have arrested 11 men who allegedly kidnapped migrants trying to reach the United States.
Prosecutors in the border state of Baja California say 8 suspects were captured Monday after they opened fire on police during a raid on a house where … Read more »»».

Congress pays homage to Rajiv Gandhi

CHENNAI – Congress leaders Friday paid tributes to former prime minister Rajiv Gandhi in Tamil Nadu, where he was blown up by a suicide bomber on this day 19 years ago.

Tamil Nadu Congress chief K.V. Thankabalu and other leaders paid floral tributes to Gandhi’s portrait at Satyamurthy Bhavan, the party headquarter here.
Later, … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Congress pays homage to Rajiv Gandhi.

Authorities say 2 men died in police shootout after ambushing, killing 2 officers in Arkansas

Police: 2 suspects dead after Ark. officers slain

WEST MEMPHIS, Ark. – Two men armed with AK-47s ambushed and killed two officers who had stopped them on an Arkansas interstate, then died in a shootout with police who had tracked them to a Walmart parking lot, authorities say.
Sgt. Brandon Paudert, 39, and Bill Evans, 38, were …. Read the original article  : here.

AP INVESTIGATION: Documents show Texas reservist faked his way into military service

AP INVESTIGATION: Texas man faked way into Army

FORT WORTH, Texas – A Texas man with no military experience managed to trick the Army into letting him enter a reserve unit as a noncommissioned officer earlier this year, putting an untrained soldier in a leadership position in a time of war, an Associated Press investigation has …. Source  : AP INVESTIGATION: Documents show Texas reservist faked his way into military service.

West Memphis Police Officers Killed

MEMPHIS (GaeaTimes.com)- Walmart parking lot witnessed West Memphis Police take down two suspect killers in a bloody encounter. Reportedly, the two suspects had previously killed two police officers, Bill Evans and Brandon Paudert near the 1-40 Airport Road. These two officers were a part of the Drug Interdiction Unit of West Memphis Police.
Bill Evans and …. Read the original article  : West Memphis Police Officers Killed.

Chinese court upholds death penalty for police chief in Chongqing gang case

Chinese court backs sentence for police chief

BEIJING – A court in southern China upheld the death penalty Friday of a former police chief convicted of taking bribes from local gang leaders.
The Chongqing Municipal Higher People’s Court rejected the appeal from Wen Qiang, 55, who was convicted of taking bribes worth millions from gang members while …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Al Qaeda appeals to women to fight in Yemen

Sana’a, May 21 (IANS/AKI) The Al Qaeda has appealed to Muslim women, particularly those in Saudi Arabia, to travel to Yemen and wage jihad. The appeal was made by Wafa al-Shahri, wife of Al Qaeda’s second in command in Yemen, Said al-Shahri.

Wafa al-Shahri was directing her message in particular to Al Qaeda colleagues in …. Read the original article  : here.

Bin Laden’s deputy lauds slain Al Qaeda leaders

Baghdad, May 21 (IANS/AKI) Al Qaeda’s second-in-command Ayman al-Zawahiri has in an audio taped message paid homage to two of his associates killed in Iraq last month.

Al Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden is also expected to release an audio message to honour the dead pair, Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi and Ayub al-Masri, in the next … Read more >>>.

Official: Gunmen kill anti-government leader of Mexican Indian community, wife

Leader of Mexico Indian community, wife killed

OAXACA, Mexico – A leftist, anti-government faction in an Indian town where a Finnish rights observer was killed in April said Thursday its leader has been shot to death along with his wife, authorities said.
Jesus Martinez Flores, the self-styled mayor of the “autonomous” Triqui Indian town of San Juan …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Official: Gunmen kill anti-government leader of Mexican Indian community, wife.

Man arrested for supplying explosives to Maoists

LUCKNOW – A man suspected of supplying explosives to Maoists has been arrested in Sonbhadra district of Uttar Pradesh, police said Friday.

Ashok Kumar was arrested Thursday evening from Langdra area with several detonators, gelatin rods and widely used commercial explosive ammonium nitrate.
“The man is making contradictory statements about the explosives recovered from his possession. …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Man arrested for supplying explosives to Maoists.

Wife of dealer profiled in ‘American Gangster’ arrested in Puerto Rico on drug charges

Wife of ‘American Gangster’ nabbed in Puerto Rico

SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico – The wife of a 1970s heroin dealer who inspired the movie “American Gangster” has been arrested after officials said she tried to sell 2 kilograms (4 pounds) of cocaine at a hotel in Puerto Rico.
Julianna Farrait, 70, appeared Thursday in court and did …. Source  : Wife of dealer profiled in ‘American Gangster’ arrested in Puerto Rico on drug charges.

Mexico: Gunbattles near US border kill 2 policemen, 7 attackers

Northern Mexico shootouts kill 2 police, 7 gunmen

PIEDRAS NEGRAS, Mexico – Gunbattles between security forces and armed attackers have killed nine people in two states along the U.S. border, Mexican authorities said Thursday.
The Navy says four attackers died in a gunbattle between marines and members of the Zetas drug gang in the town of San …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Mexico: Gunbattles near US border kill 2 policemen, 7 attackers.

Warrant for Lindsay Lohan’s arrest recalled after bond posted; actress due in LA on Friday

Warrant for Lohan recalled after bond posted

BEVERLY HILLS, Calif. – A judge issued a warrant Thursday for Lindsay Lohan’s arrest after the actress missed a mandatory court hearing, but a court spokesman said the warrant was recalled hours later after her bond was posted.
Superior Court Judge Marsha Revel issued the warrant after the 23-year-old actress …. Original article  : Warrant for Lindsay Lohan’s arrest recalled after bond posted; actress due in LA on Friday.

Stockholder lawsuit against BP officials filed in Alaska

BP stockholder lawsuit filed in Alaska
JUNEAU, Alaska – A stockholder lawsuit claims “gross mismanagement” by top BP officials has severely damaged the company’s reputation and hurt its value.

The lawsuit, filed Thursday in Superior Court in Anchorage, alleges the officials did not take the necessary steps to ensure BP compliance with safety rules and environmental safeguards, … Read more »»».

Warrant for Lindsay Lohan’s arrest recalled after she makes bail; actress due in LA on Friday

Warrant for Lohan recalled after she makes bail

LOS ANGELES – A judge on Thursday recalled an arrest warrant for Lindsay Lohan, hours after it was issued.
Los Angeles Superior Court spokesman Allan Parachini said a bond was posted for Lohan later Thursday, and the warrant was recalled. Bail was set at $100,000.
Superior Court Judge Marsha Revel … Read more >>>.

Lindsay Lohan makes bail, arrest warrant recalled hours after it was issued

Lohan makes bail, arrest warrant recalled
LOS ANGELES – A judge has recalled an arrest warrant for Lindsay Lohan hours after it was issued.

Los Angeles Superior Court spokesman Allan Parachini says a bond was posted for Lohan on Thursday and the warrant was recalled.
Superior Court Judge Marsha Revel issued the warrant earlier Thursday after Lohan missed [..] Read the original article: here.

Camp Pendleton Marine officer sentenced for passing secrets to LA County Sheriff’s Department

Marine sentenced for leaking intelligence info

CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. – A Camp Pendleton Marine officer has been sentenced to 30 days confinement for leaking intelligence information to the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department.
The ruling also reduces Gunnery Sgt. L. Eric Froboese (FROH-bish) to a staff sergeant. The sentence issued Thursday must still be approved by a … Read more : Camp Pendleton Marine officer sentenced for passing secrets to LA County Sheriff’s Department.

Replica cross placed in Mojave Desert war memorial is taken down within 24 hours

Replica cross in Mojave Desert comes down
MOJAVE NATIONAL PRESERVE, Calif. – A replica of a cross honoring America’s war dead that drew the attention of the U.S. Supreme Court before it was stolen this month mysteriously appeared Thursday in a Mojave Desert federal park, but officials said it was illegal and took it down.

A maintenance …. Original source  : Replica cross placed in Mojave Desert war memorial is taken down within 24 hours.

Al-Qaida in Yemen announces death of terror leader amid stepped-up airstrikes

Al-Qaida in Yemen announces terror leader killed

WASHINGTON – A senior member of the al-Qaida spinoff group behind the failed Christmas Day airline attack was killed as part of a U.S.-Yemeni counterterrorism campaign, the terror group announced.
Nayif al-Qahtani’s death was revealed in an al-Qaida Arabian Peninsula newsletter a week after the U.S. slapped terror sanctions on …. Original article  : Al-Qaida in Yemen announces death of terror leader amid stepped-up airstrikes.

Lindsay Lohan makes bail on arrest warrant hours after it was issued

Lindsay Lohan makes bail on arrest warrant

LOS ANGELES – Lindsay Lohan already has made bail, hours after a warrant was issued for her arrest.
Los Angeles Superior Court spokesman Allan Parachini says a bond was posted for the 23-year-old actress Thursday after a judge issued an arrest warrant for Lohan earlier in the day. Bail was …. Original article  : Lindsay Lohan makes bail on arrest warrant hours after it was issued.

Top US intelligence official resigns

WASHINGTON – Admiral Dennis Blair unexpectedly announced his resignation Thursday as the top US intelligence official.

Blair is the US Director of National Intelligence (DNI), an overarching office created in the wake of the Sep 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. He is tasked with coordinating the country’s 16 different intelligence agencies.
In a short statement to employees, … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Top US intelligence official resigns.

Mumbai trains serial blasts probe reveals Pakistani link

MUMBAI – Investigators piecing together clues of the July 11, 2006 Mumbai train bombings that killed over 200 people have succeeded in identifying the bomb planters on five of the seven trains with each group comprising at least one Pakistani.

The terrorists involved in bombing the remaining two trains remain a mystery as trial in … Read more : Mumbai trains serial blasts probe reveals Pakistani link.

Thailand’s prime minister says fresh elections only after violence, protests by Red Shirts end

Thai PM: No early elections until violence ends

BANGKOK – Thailand’s leader said Sunday that new elections can be considered only after violence and protests by anti-government activists end completely, after two months of turmoil left at least 85 people dead and deeply divided the country.
The comments by Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva indicate he will continue …. Read the original article  : Thailand’s prime minister says fresh elections only after violence, protests by Red Shirts end.

Chile court sends Pakistani back to jail

Santiago, May 23 (IANS/EFE) A Chile court has annulled the release of a Pakistani man, who was briefly detained after he entered the US embassy here with traces of explosives on his body.

The Santiago Court of Appeals Saturday ordered Mohammed Saif Ur Rehman Khan, charged with illegal possession of explosives, remanded in custody, judicial sources …. Source article  : Chile court sends Pakistani back to jail.

Militants gun down trade union leader in Kashmir

SRINAGAR – A trade union leader and activist of the ruling National Conference (NC) was killed by separatist guerrillas in Kashmir’s Baramulla district Sunday, police said.

Militants shot at Gulam Nabi Khan, 45, the president of Sopore traders’ federation at a market square in Sopore town, 50 km from here, a senior police officer said [..] Read the original article: here.

Border Patrol arrest driver, 6 suspected undocumented immigrants after 100-mile Calif. chase

Border Patrol arrests 7 in 100-mile Calif. chase

SAN DIEGO – Authorities say a man led Border Patrol agents on a 100-mile chase from the U.S.-Mexico border into Southern California before the driver and six suspected undocumented immigrants stopped and surrendered in Irvine.
Border Patrol Agent Michael Jimenez says an agent saw a sport utility vehicle slow …. Read the original article  : here.

Mother of babies found bound, beaten and gagged in Southern Calif. home arrested, charged

Mother of Calif. babies found beaten arrested

RIVERSIDE, Calif. – Authorities say the mother of a baby and a toddler who were found beaten, bound and gagged in a Southern California bedroom has been arrested.
Riverside County court records show Erica Monique Henry was booked into county jail Tuesday and released on bail Thursday. The 24-year-old has … Read more >>>.

Mexican authorities halt investigation into ex-candidate’s disappearance at family’s request

Mexico suspends search for missing ex-candidate

MEXICO CITY – Mexican authorities suspended their investigation into the disappearance of a former presidential candidate Saturday at his relatives’ request.
The Attorney General’s Office said in a brief statement that the investigation in the case of Diego Fernandez de Cevallos has been halted “out of respect for the family’s wishes.”
Fernandez …. Source article  : Mexican authorities halt investigation into ex-candidate’s disappearance at family’s request.

Nevada woman accused of stealing $20 bottle of wine from store while topless and intoxicated

Nev. woman accused of stealing wine while topless

MINDEN, Nev. – A Nevada woman is accused of stealing a bottle of wine from a store while she was topless and intoxicated.
Brandi Smith, of Gardnerville, acknowledged her behavior was “mind-boggling” during an appearance Wednesday before a judge to face charges of indecent exposure, felony drunken driving and … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Nevada woman accused of stealing $20 bottle of wine from store while topless and intoxicated.

3 robbers rig driverless car to smash through doors of Idaho liquor store; caught on video

Robbers rig car to smash into Idaho liquor store

TWIN FALLS, Idaho – Police in Idaho say three people ransacked a Twin Falls liquor store by rigging a driverless vehicle that smashed through the front doors so they could get inside.
A deputy director of the Idaho State Liquor Division says the 2002 Pontiac had a pipe …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : 3 robbers rig driverless car to smash through doors of Idaho liquor store; caught on video.

Insurgents attack NATO base in Kandahar

KABUL – NATO’s largest military base in southern Afghanistan was attacked late Saturday by insurgents, the Washington Post reported citing military officials.

Several coalition troops were reportedly wounded in the attack from the ground and air, as four rockets crashed down on the Kandahar air field. At the same time, insurgents tried to break though a … Read more »».

Mexican investigators can’t find one-time ‘Survivor’ producer for questioning in wife’s death

Mexico searching for TV producer in wife’s death

CANCUN, Mexico – Mexican investigators say they can’t locate a former “Survivor” producer to question him about the death of his wife in this Caribbean resort city.
Bruce Beresford-Redman hasn’t been charged in the case, but his passport was confiscated and he was ordered not to leave Mexico after … Read more : Mexican investigators can’t find one-time ‘Survivor’ producer for questioning in wife’s death.

Analysts: Calif. bill targeting child molesters for long prison terms would cost many millions

Calif. bill aimed at molesters would cost millions

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – A state corrections department analysis of a bill being considered by California lawmakers found that mandating life sentences for some child molesters and lifetime parole for others would cost tens of millions of dollars annually after the first decade.
The nonpartisan Legislative Analyst puts the ultimate … Read more : Analysts: Calif. bill targeting child molesters for long prison terms would cost many millions.

Lawyers say feds won’t seek criminal charges in AIG cases; securities regulators still probing

Lawyers say no criminal charges in AIG cases

The Justice Department has decided not to file criminal charges against the former head of a division at American International Group Inc. whose dealings in mortgage-related securities nearly bankrupted the company and led to a controversial government bailout, according to lawyers involved in the cases.
The decision appears to …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Chile orders Pakistani allegedly caught with bomb traces at US Embassy back to prison

Chile returns Pakistani explosives suspect to jail

SANTIAGO, Chile – A Chilean appeals court ordered a Pakistani man back into a high-security prison Saturday, saying the chemicals allegedly found on his possessions at the U.S. Embassy and inside his apartment could only have come from direct contact with explosives.
Mohammad Saif Ur Rehman Khan has said it …. Read the original article  : Chile orders Pakistani allegedly caught with bomb traces at US Embassy back to prison.

Chilean appeals court returns Pakistani found with traces of explosives to prison

Chilean court returns Pakistani suspect to jail

SANTIAGO, Chile – A Chilean appeals court says a Pakistani man detained at the U.S. Embassy must go back to prison.
It’s preventive detention for Mohammad Saif Ur Rehman Khan, who according to U.S. authorities and Chilean police was found with traces of explosives.
Khan says it all must be a … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Chilean appeals court returns Pakistani found with traces of explosives to prison.

Utah plea hearing derailed when Burmese refugee denies guilt in girl’s 2008 slaying

Utah refugee backs out of plea for girl’s slaying

SALT LAKE CITY – A Utah plea hearing was derailed when a Burmese refugee charged with the March 2008 slaying of a 7-year-old girl denied his guilt.
When his attorney told the judge on Friday that a resolution in the case had been reached, Esar Met shook his [..] Read the original article: here.

Blackfeet woman sees end to her 14-year fight with the government over misused Indian money

Blackfeet woman sees end to 14-year govt fight

BROWNING, Mont. – Elouise Cobell sat behind her cluttered desk here in the windblown heart of the Blackfeet Indian Reservation and peered at a visitor through dark glasses that couldn’t quite hide the deep bruise that ran down her cheek to her jaw.
Her appearance made her a bit …. Original source  : Blackfeet woman sees end to her 14-year fight with the government over misused Indian money.

Military service counts more and more for veterans accused of crimes

Veterans increasingly find service helps in court

SAN FRANCISCO – The plea was passionate, dramatic and effective: haunted to addiction by memories of a Bosnian mass grave and the shooting of a teen in Honduras, former U.S. Army Capt. Sargent Binkley robbed two Silicon Valley pharmacies for painkillers.
A Santa Clara County jury came back in January …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Military service counts more and more for veterans accused of crimes.

Nations declare support to help Somalia achieve peace, eradicate piracy

Nations declare support to Somalia
ISTANBUL – Dozens of nations pledged Saturday to help Somalia build a strong police and military, achieve peace and stability and eradicate piracy that has plagued international maritime trade.

The countries, meeting at a U.N.-sponsored conference for Somalia, said that strengthening law enforcement in the impoverished and lawless African nation was essential … Read : Nations declare support to help Somalia achieve peace, eradicate piracy.

Jamaica slum controlled by alleged drug kingpin in standoff with police over extradition to US

Slum standoff in Jamaica over don’s US extradition

KINGSTON, Jamaica – In a gritty slum, they are preparing for war. They are building barricades of junked cars and sandbags, making Molotov cocktails and pitching barbed wire over power lines.
They are waiting for the police, who they believe will come for Christopher “Dudus” Coke, a 5-foot-4-inch neighborhood [..] Read the original article: here.

Clark Rockefeller Appeal Rejected

SAN FRANCISCO (GaeaTimes.com)- The story of Christian Gerhartsreiter is what crime fiction novels are made of. The German fraud who called himself Clark Rockefeller will be spending some more years in prison after his appeal got rejected in court on Thursday. The Appellate Division of the Superior Court in Suffolk which comprised Superior Court …. Source article  : Clark Rockefeller Appeal Rejected.

Jamaica State Of Emergency Declared

KINGSTON, JAMAICA (GaeaTimes.com)- The government of Jamaica has declared state of emergency at certain parts of Kingston on Sunday. The state of emergency will be maintained at West Kingston and the St. Andrews district of Kingston for a month and the government also added that it might be extended afterward. The emergency was declared … Original article on : Jamaica State Of Emergency Declared.

Australia moves to expel Israeli diplomat over forged passports used in Dubai slaying

Australia moves to expel Israeli diplomat
CANBERRA, Australia – Australia ordered the expulsion of an Israeli diplomat Monday after investigators concluded Israel was responsible for forging four Australian passports that were used in the slaying of a Hamas operative in Dubai.

Australia’s reaction echoes that of the United Kingdom, which in March expelled a diplomat in retaliation …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Australia moves to expel Israeli diplomat over forged passports used in Dubai slaying.

Government not underestimating Maoist insurgency: PM

NEW DELHI – Prime Minister Manmohan Singh Monday denied that the government had underestimated the Maoist insurgency which he again described as the “biggest” security challenge the country faces.

“If you remember I have always been saying that Naxalism is the biggest security challenge. So it is not correct to say that we have underestimated … Original article on : Government not underestimating Maoist insurgency: PM.

Report: Handcuffed theft suspect in Malaysia escapes by fleeing in police car

Handcuffed suspect flees in Malaysian police car

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia – A report says a detained Malaysian car theft suspect has fled by driving off in a police cruiser while still in handcuffs.
The New Straits Times daily says the 33-year-old man sneaked into the police car and fled shortly after his arrest Sunday, while police officers … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Report: Handcuffed theft suspect in Malaysia escapes by fleeing in police car.

Asbestos’ death toll climbs in scenic Montana town as EPA struggles with vast cleanup effort

For asbestos-ravaged town, questions persist

LIBBY, Mont. – Gayla Benefield and Eva Thomson are sisters who have grown used to death. For two decades, they have watched asbestos from a nearby vermiculite mine strangle their parents, Thomson’s husband, an aunt, several in-laws and numerous neighbors and friends.
So as they wandered the Libby cemetery on a blustery …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Asbestos’ death toll climbs in scenic Montana town as EPA struggles with vast cleanup effort.

Police: Paramedics found Jose Lima in full cardiac arrest in his Pasadena home

Police: Lima found in cardiac arrest at Calif home

LOS ANGELES – Authorities say paramedics found former major league pitcher Jose Lima in full cardiac arrest at his home in Pasadena early Sunday, and he was taken to a hospital where he was pronounced dead.
A statement from the Pasadena Police Department says a specific cause of …. Original source  : Police: Paramedics found Jose Lima in full cardiac arrest in his Pasadena home.

Indian town in Ecuador drops death penalty in murder, orders farm work for youthful defendant

Indian town drops death penalty in murder case

QUITO, Ecuador – An Indian community that sentenced a young man to death by hanging for the murder of another man softened his punishment Sunday, ordering him to do five years of community service instead.
Orlando Quishpe, 21, was also subjected to punishments that included carrying a heavy sack …. Read the original article  : Indian town in Ecuador drops death penalty in murder, orders farm work for youthful defendant.

Hundreds march 10 miles in Utah to honor, demand justice for slain 4-year-old

Hundreds march in Utah to honor slain 4-year-old

LAYTON, Utah – Hundreds of Utahns gathered for a 10-mile walk to honor a 4-year-old Virginia boy whose badly beaten body was dug up from a Utah mountainside grave nearly two weeks ago.
Ethan Stacy’s mother and stepfather are being held in the case, and prosecutors have said the … Read more : Hundreds march 10 miles in Utah to honor, demand justice for slain 4-year-old.

Jamaica declares state of emergency as gunfire erupts in barricaded slum

Jamaica: Gunfire, fire bombs in barricaded slum

KINGSTON, Jamaica – Masked men defending a reputed drug lord sought by the United States torched a police station and traded gunfire with security forces in a patchwork of barricaded slums in Jamaica’s capital Sunday.
The government declared a state of emergency as sporadic gunshots rang out in gritty West … Read : Jamaica declares state of emergency as gunfire erupts in barricaded slum.

Jamaica police urge alleged drug kingpin to surrender from barricaded stronghold

Jamaica police urge suspected drug lord to give up

KINGSTON, Jamaica – Police in Jamaica’s jittery capital urged a gang leader wanted in the U.S. on drug and arms-trafficking charges to surrender Sunday, even as tension grew behind barricades erected by his supporters to protect him.
In a gritty section of the capital of an island known …. Source  : Jamaica police urge alleged drug kingpin to surrender from barricaded stronghold.

TV producer wanted for questioning in wife’s death returns to US from Mexico, lawyer says

Producer wanted for questioning returns to US

LOS ANGELES – A former “Survivor” producer wanted for questioning in Mexico about his wife’s death has returned to the United States, his lawyer said Sunday.
Bruce Beresford-Redman returned to Los Angeles County “to be with his children and attend to family and personal matters,” attorney Richard Hirsch said in … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : TV producer wanted for questioning in wife’s death returns to US from Mexico, lawyer says.

Iran’s spy chief calls 3 jailed Americans spies, hints Iran may be open to prisoner swap

Iran spy chief says 3 jailed Americans are spies

TEHRAN, Iran – Iran’s intelligence minister on Sunday signaled that Tehran might be open to a prisoner swap with the U.S. for three Americans jailed in Iran since last July.
Sarah Shourd, 31, Shane Bauer, 27, and Josh Fattal, 27, were arrested along the Iraqi border 10 months … Original article on : Iran’s spy chief calls 3 jailed Americans spies, hints Iran may be open to prisoner swap.

NJ woman who has MS and uses wheelchair charged with killing husband; couple planned divorce

NJ woman with MS charged with killing husband

MORRISTOWN, N.J. – A mother of three who has multiple sclerosis and uses a wheelchair was charged with fatally shooting her husband inside their northern New Jersey home.
Family members said the couple were planning to end their 19-year-marriage, but authorities have not determined a motive.
Amalia Mirasola, 44, was … Original source on Gaea Times at : NJ woman who has MS and uses wheelchair charged with killing husband; couple planned divorce.

Former Chicago police official faces charges that he lied about torture of suspects

Jury selection begins in Ill. police torture trial

CHICAGO – For decades, black men across Chicago described torture at the hands of former police Lt. Jon Burge and his officers, and for decades no one listened. Suspects landed in jail and even on death row for crimes they say they didn’t commit after Burge and his …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Former Chicago police official faces charges that he lied about torture of suspects.

Young female chief faces off with Pa. state trooper, raising allegations of bias, bullying

Young female chief faces off with Pa. trooper

MOUNT JEWETT, Pa. – Nataliya Miroslavna has a reputation for writing lots of speeding tickets, but it’s a ticket the young police chief was given by a state police trooper that has the town’s 1,070 residents buzzing.
Trooper Dale Vukovich Jr. ticketed Miroslavna – on her way to work, … Read : Young female chief faces off with Pa. state trooper, raising allegations of bias, bullying.

Would-be jihadis make circuitous journey to reach terror training camps in Pakistan

Jihadis make their way to Pakistan training areas

PESHAWAR, Pakistan – The path to terrorist training in Pakistan is well worn – developed and maintained by established militant groups that have operated for decades. They are open to those – Americans included – with enough determination and savvy to navigate both the extremist networks and the …. Read the original article  : here.

With 10 on death row, Iran seeks to link opposition to unpopular exile group

With death sentences, Iran seeks to cow opposition

BEIRUT – It didn’t take much for Iranian courts to sentence 10 people to death over the country’s post-election turmoil. For one prisoner, the main evidence was that he allegedly sent videos of protests abroad.
The government accuses the 10 of leading unrest after the disputed presidential election, but …. Original source  : With 10 on death row, Iran seeks to link opposition to unpopular exile group.

Ethiopia opposition bloc complains of intimidation in election, say they may contest results

Ethiopia opposition bloc claims voter intimidation

ADDIS ABABA, Ethiopia – Ethiopia’s opposition said they may contest the results of Sunday’s national election in court after reports of intimidation and vote-rigging, hoping to avoid the violent street clashes that marred the last poll and left nearly 200 dead.
The election in Africa’s third most populous nation is being …. Original article  : Ethiopia opposition bloc complains of intimidation in election, say they may contest results.

Maoists, security forces fight gun battle in Lalgarh

KOLKATA – Maoist guerrillas and joint security forces exchanged heavy firing in trouble-torn Lalgarh of West Bengal’s West Midnapore district Sunday.

“An encounter took place between the Maoists and the security forces near the Bakisol forest. There are no reports of casualties or arrests,” said West Midnapore Superintendent of Police Manoj Verma.
The gun battle happened …. Source article  : Maoists, security forces fight gun battle in Lalgarh.

Attorney says Pakistani student accused of aiding Taliban never wanted to fight US troops

Attorney: Texas man didn’t want to fight US troops

HOUSTON – A Pakistani student accused of conspiring to aid the Taliban and undergoing training to fight U.S. troops never intended to commit “battlefield Jihad” or help a terrorist group, his attorney told jurors Monday.
But a prosecutor said during opening statements in the trial of Adnan Babar …. Original article  : Attorney says Pakistani student accused of aiding Taliban never wanted to fight US troops.

Jamaica cops, soldiers invade slum stronghold where gunmen defend reputed drug kingpin

Jamaica cops attack drug lord’s slum stronghold

KINGSTON, Jamaica – More than 1,000 police and soldiers assaulted a public housing complex occupied by heavily armed gangsters defending an alleged drug lord wanted by the U.S., waging a major offensive in the heart of West Kingston’s ramshackle slums.
Security forces broke through barbed-wire barricades and fought their way … Read more >>.

American Center attack: apex court stays Aftab Ansari’s death sentence

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court Tuesday stayed the death sentence of Aftab Ahmed Ansari, alias Aftab Ansari, a co-accused in the Jan 22, 2002, attack on the American Center in Kolkata that left six policemen dead.

On May 10, the Supreme Court had stayed the death sentence of Mohammed Jamiluddin Nasir who was also convicted …. Source article  : American Center attack: apex court stays Aftab Ansari’s death sentence.

American Center attack: apex court stays Aftab Ahmed’s death sentence

NEW DELHI – The Supreme Court Tuesday stayed the death sentence of Aftab Ahmed Ansari, alias Aftab Ansari, a co-accused in the Jan 22, 2002, attack on the American Center in Kolkata.
… Read more : American Center attack: apex court stays Aftab Ahmed’s death sentence.

Dara Singh Case Renewed On Thursday

JAIPUR, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- The Supreme Court in India which had ordered a CBI inquiry by members of the Rajasthan Police Special Operations Group in the year 2006 for the Dara Singh fake encounter case, renewed its probe on this Thursday. Police officials from India’s capital Delhi assembled in Jaipur to carry on further investigations.
The …. Source article  : Dara Singh Case Renewed On Thursday.

Prime suspect of German Bakery blast held: Chidambaram

NEW DELHI – Abdul Samad, the prime suspect in the Feb 13 German Bakery blast in Pune, has been apprehended by the investigative agencies, Home Minister P. Chidambaram said Tuesday.

“The Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS) Maharashtra, with the assistance of the Pune police, were able to identify the prime suspect behind the bomb blast. He has …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Prime suspect of German Bakery blast held: Chidambaram.

Alaska soldier ordered to remove Facebook video showing Iraqi children being taunted

Alaska soldier ordered to remove Facebook video

ANCHORAGE, Alaska – An Alaska-based soldier is under investigation for a video on his Facebook page that taunts smiling Iraqi children by asking if they’re gay, if they engage in certain sex acts and if they would grow up to be terrorists.
The two young boys did not appear to … Original source on Gaea Times at : Alaska soldier ordered to remove Facebook video showing Iraqi children being taunted.

Texas man charged with assaulting Delta flight attendant on flight from Puerto Rico

Texas man charged with assaulting flight attendant

SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico – A Texas man has been charged with assaulting a flight attendant in a disturbance that led the captain to make an emergency return to Puerto Rico.
The FBI says 38-year-old Anthony David Watson of Fredericksburg, Texas, walked to the rear of the Delta Air Lines … Read more >>>.

9 accused of accessing Obama’s student loan records plead not guilty in federal court in Iowa

9 in Iowa plead not guilty in Obama loan case
DAVENPORT, Iowa – Nine people charged with illegally accessing President Barack Obama’s student loan records while employed for a Department of Education contractor in Iowa pleaded not guilty Monday in federal court.
The former employees of Vangent Inc. are accused of gaining access to a …. Original source  : 9 accused of accessing Obama’s student loan records plead not guilty in federal court in Iowa.

Lohan gets new bling when judge orders her to wear alcohol-monitoring ankle bracelet

Lohan ordered to wear alcohol monitoring bracelet

BEVERLY HILLS, Calif. – Lindsay Lohan left court Monday with a heavy new piece of jewelry, but it wasn’t her favorite kind of bling.
Lohan sported an ugly, alcohol-monitoring ankle bracelet that came with tough restrictions on her probation that could cut into her career plans.
The measures were ordered after … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Lohan gets new bling when judge orders her to wear alcohol-monitoring ankle bracelet.

Texas Rangers seek bankruptcy protection to help spur $575 million sale

Rangers seek bankruptcy protection to spur sale

ARLINGTON, Texas – The Texas Rangers filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection Monday in hopes of spurring completion of the $575 million sale of the team by midsummer to a group of investors that includes Hall of Fame pitcher Nolan Ryan.
Under the plan, the Rangers would fully pay the … Read more : Texas Rangers seek bankruptcy protection to help spur $575 million sale.

Former dictator emerges as strong candidate to gain power in Suriname despite murder trial

Former dictator could gain power in Suriname

PARAMARIBO, Suriname – A former dictator and convicted drug trafficker appears poised to regain political power in Suriname, where he has cultivated a following among young people despite facing trial for the execution of political opponents in the 1980s.
The main opposition party led by Desi Bouterse appears likely to [..] Read the original article: here.

Despite recession, violent crimes and property offenses both down _ for third straight year

Crime rates down for third year, despite recession

WASHINGTON – Crime in the United States dropped dramatically in 2009, bucking a historical trend that links rising crime rates to economic woes. Property crimes and violent offenses each declined about 5 percent, the FBI said Monday, citing reports from law enforcement coast to coast.
It was the third … Original article on : Despite recession, violent crimes and property offenses both down _ for third straight year.

Prosecutor wants prison for former Detroit mayor who faces sentence for violating probation

Prosecutor: Put former Detroit mayor in prison

DETROIT – A prosecutor is seeking a prison term of two years to five years for former Detroit Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick, who violated his probation in a criminal case.
In a court filing Monday, Wayne County Prosecutor Kym Worthy says more probation for Kilpatrick would only be a reward for …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Government lawyers ask Supreme Court to keep ban on unlimited ’soft money’ contributions

Gov’t asks court to keep ’soft money’ ban
WASHINGTON – The Obama administration is asking the Supreme Court to let stand a ban keeping political parties from raising unlimited campaign contributions.

This represents the latest skirmish following the high court’s decision to unleash corporate and labor spending in federal elections.
The Republican Party wants to undo the ban …. Original article  : Government lawyers ask Supreme Court to keep ban on unlimited ’soft money’ contributions.

74-year-old man acquitted of murder in 1966 shooting of Philly cop who died in 2007

Murder acquittal in ‘66 Philly police shooting

PHILADELPHIA – A 74-year-old man who shot a Philadelphia police officer in 1966 was acquitted Monday of murder and other charges filed after the officer’s death in 2007.
The jury reached its verdict after beginning deliberations late Friday afternoon after the weeklong murder trial of William J. Barnes, who served …. Source  : 74-year-old man acquitted of murder in 1966 shooting of Philly cop who died in 2007.

Retractable Technologies claims $5 million win in patent suit against Becton Dickinson

Retractable Tech claims $5M win in Becton suit

LITTLE ELM, Texas – Retractable Technologies Inc. said Monday that it has won a $5 million patent infringement case against Becton, Dickinson and Co.
Retractable Technologies, which makes safety syringes and blood collection devices, charged Becton Dickinson of violating intellectual property rights on two of its syringe designs.
A judge [..] Read the original article: here.

Battles intensify between Jamaica police and gangsters allied with reputed drug kingpin

Jamaica: Gun battles intensifying, spreading

KINGSTON, Jamaica – Jamaica’s security forces clashed with masked gunmen allied with an alleged drug kingpin for a second consecutive day on Monday as an intensifying multi-front battle against gangs spread to volatile slums outside the capital.
Police and soldiers came under heavy fire in barricaded battle zones in the West Kingston …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Battles intensify between Jamaica police and gangsters allied with reputed drug kingpin.

Lohan loses bid to ease restrictions on alcohol testing, to be fitted with monitoring bracelet

Lindsay Lohan ordered to wear monitoring bracelet

BEVERLY HILLS, Calif. – A judge on Monday refused a request by Lindsay Lohan’s attorney to ease restrictions involving drug and alcohol testing on the actress so she can film a movie in Texas.
Lohan, wearing a dark gray suit, appeared somber and concerned when she conferred with her attorney … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Lohan loses bid to ease restrictions on alcohol testing, to be fitted with monitoring bracelet.

Actress Lindsay Lohan loses bid to ease restrictions on alcohol testing

Lohan loses bid to ease restriction on drug tests

BEVERLY HILLS, Calif. – Lindsay Lohan has lost a bid to ease restrictions involving drug and alcohol testing so she can attend a film shoot in Texas.
The actress, wearing a dark gray suit, appeared somber and concerned Monday in a Beverly Hills courtroom when she conferred with …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Former Detroit mayor spends first night in prison after plea for leniency fails

Ex-Detroit mayor spends first night in prison

DETROIT – Kwame Kilpatrick spent his first night in prison after the former Detroit mayor known for his exceptional speaking skills failed to persuade a judge to show him compassion and send him home to his family.
All Kilpatrick’s swagger and professions of love for family, God and the city …. Source article  : Former Detroit mayor spends first night in prison after plea for leniency fails.

Judge to consider guilty plea from Jordanian man accused of plotting to bomb Dallas skyscraper

Judge to consider man’s plea in Texas bomb plot

DALLAS – A federal judge is set to consider a plea agreement from a Jordanian man accused of plotting to blow up a skyscraper in downtown Dallas.
Court documents say 19-year-old Hosam Smadi (hoh-SAHM’ SMAH’-dee) has agreed to plead guilty to attempted use of a weapon of mass …. Source article  : Judge to consider guilty plea from Jordanian man accused of plotting to bomb Dallas skyscraper.

Community board votes to support plans for mosque, cultural center near NYC’s ground zero

NYC community board OKs ground zero mosque plans

NEW YORK – After hours of contentious public comment, a New York City community board voted late Tuesday to support a plan to build a mosque and cultural center near ground zero.
“It’s a seed of peace,” board member Rob Townley said. “We believe that this is significant step …. Source article  : Community board votes to support plans for mosque, cultural center near NYC’s ground zero.

Judge lifts federal pumping limits in Calif for 3 weeks to free up more water for farms

Judge orders Calif water pumping limits lifted

FRESNO, Calif. – Central California farmers won more water for their parched fields Tuesday when a federal judge temporarily loosened pumping limits meant to protect native salmon.
Attorneys for some of the nation’s largest farms and Southern California cities had asked for a preliminary injunction that would lift a set …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Judge lifts federal pumping limits in Calif for 3 weeks to free up more water for farms.

NY teen convicted in hate crime stabbing death faces up to 25 years in prison at sentencing

NY teen faces sentencing in hate crime stabbing

RIVERHEAD, N.Y. – A New York teenager is facing up to 25 years in prison when he is sentenced in the hate crime killing of an Ecuadorean immigrant.
Nineteen-year-old Jeffrey Conroy was convicted last month of manslaughter and other crimes in the November 2008 stabbing death of Marcelo Lucero … Original article on : NY teen convicted in hate crime stabbing death faces up to 25 years in prison at sentencing.

Mexican senator visiting Ariz. says Mexico preparing for influx once immigration law in effect

Mexican senator says gov’t preparing for Ariz. law

PHOENIX – A Mexican senator in Phoenix to learn more about Arizona’s new immigration law says Mexican government officials are preparing in case the law drives large numbers of people back to Mexico.
Sen. Silvano Aureoles of the central state of Michoacan said Tuesday that the Arizona law is …. Source article  : Mexican senator visiting Ariz. says Mexico preparing for influx once immigration law in effect.

Judge scolds former NY state senator for cheating public, sentences him to 7 years in prison

Ex-NY state senator chided, gets 7 years in prison

NEW YORK – A federal judge has sentenced former New York state Sen. Efrain Gonzalez Jr. to seven years in prison, saying his scheme to steal from charities was an “American tragedy.”
Federal Judge William Pauley sentenced Gonzalez on Tuesday.
Gonzalez pleaded guilty last year to charges he used … Read : Judge scolds former NY state senator for cheating public, sentences him to 7 years in prison.

TiVo 1Q net loss widens as higher costs wipe out 11 percent revenue increase

TiVo loss widens on legal costs, other expenses

PHILADELPHIA – Digital video recorder pioneer TiVo Inc. on Tuesday reported a net loss in the first quarter – its sixth straight money-losing quarter as the company struggled with higher legal expenses and other costs that wiped out an increase in revenue.
While TiVo has a loyal following among …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : TiVo 1Q net loss widens as higher costs wipe out 11 percent revenue increase.

Malaysia parents seek return of son exiled for allegedly possessing stolen motorcycle

Malaysia parents challenge gov’t exile of teen son

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia – A Malaysian teenager banished by the government for allegedly possessing a stolen motorcycle sought a court order Wednesday for him to be returned to his parents.
Authorities arrested Jagendran Panir Selvam and two of his 16-year-old friends in central Selangor state last December under a …. Read the original article  : Malaysia parents seek return of son exiled for allegedly possessing stolen motorcycle.

Thousdns pray for peace in Bangkok in wake of protest violence, killings

Thousands pray for peace in Bangkok
BANGKOK – Thousands of residents gathered at dawn Wednesday to pray for peace at sites across Bangkok where people were killed and high-rise buildings torched in two months of the worst political violence in the country’s modern history.

The chants of 1,000 Buddhist monks mingled with the prayers of Muslim imams, … Read more : Thousdns pray for peace in Bangkok in wake of protest violence, killings.

Hezbollah threatens to strike Israeli ships

Damascus (Syria), May 26 (IANS/RIA Novosti) Shiite armed group Hezbollah has threatened to hit all Israeli ships in the Mediterranean Sea if a new armed conflict breaks out between Israel and Lebanon, the group’s leader said.

“In any future war, if Israel blocks our coast and ports, all military, civil and commercial ships heading to Palestinian …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Baghdad gold heist ends with 15 dead amid crime wave in the Iraqi capital

Brazen Baghdad gold heist ends in 15 dead
BAGHDAD – Gunmen wearing Arab headscarves and wielding assault rifles, rocket-propelled grenade launchers and pistols robbed a gold jewelry market in broad daylight Tuesday, killing 15 people in the most brazen example of Baghdad street crime that has soared as sectarian fighting ebbed.

Authorities blamed al-Qaida in Iraq, as … Read more »»».

Jordanian man to plead guilty in Texas skyscraper bomb plot if prison time capped at 30 years

Jordanian man to plead guilty to Texas bomb plot

DALLAS – A Jordanian man accused of trying to blow up a downtown Dallas skyscraper has agreed to enter a guilty plea in return for no more than 30 years in prison, according to federal court documents filed Tuesday.
Hosam Smadi, 19, agreed to plead guilty in a … Read more »»».

Lori Berenson Conditionally Released

LIMA, PERU (GaeaTimes.com)- Lori Berenson, the woman who had been accused of having attempted to kidnap certain leaders of the Peruvian Congress, allegedly with the help of the Tupac Amaru Revolutionary group, has been granted parole by a Peruvian judge. She has been granted conditional release after having completed fifteen years of her twenty … Read more : Lori Berenson Conditionally Released.

5 Somalis on trial in Dutch court for piracy in Gulf under a 17th century law

5 Somalis on trial in Dutch court for Gulf piracy

ROTTERDAM, Netherlands – The trial of five Somali men for robbery on the high seas is beginning in the first modern piracy trial in a Dutch court.
The men were captured in January 2009 after attacking a cargo ship registered in the Dutch Antilles. The ship’s crew … Read more »».

Army foils infiltration bid, two intruders killed

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

The two infiltrators were killed near the Line of Control (LOC), which divides Jammu and Kashmir between India and Pakistan, in Tangdhar sector.
“Alert troops of the army challenged a …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Army foils infiltration bid, two intruders killed.

Judge denies request to release details of murder of Calif. girl found in suitcase

Judge won’t release details of Calif girl’s murder

STOCKTON, Calif. – A judge on Monday denied a media request to release details of the murder of an 8-year-old girl whose body was found in a suitcase pulled from an irrigation pond in Northern California.
San Joaquin County Judge Linda Lofthus ruled against several news organizations, noting the … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Judge denies request to release details of murder of Calif. girl found in suitcase.

Over 1,000 landmines found in Colombia

Bogota, May 26 (IANS/EFE) At least 1,053 landmines, which rebel guerrillas were planning to use in attacks ahead of the May 30 presidential elections in Colombia, have been found buried in a rural area in the northwestern region, police said.

The mines found in Antioquia province belonged to the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC), “which …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Over 1,000 landmines found in Colombia.

APNewsBreak: Attorney says probe of Roethlisberger’s police friend to take months, not weeks

AP: Probe of Roethlisberger friend to take months

PITTSBURGH – The attorney for a Pittsburgh suburb says it will be “months as opposed to weeks” before he recommends whether a police officer should be disciplined for being with Ben Roethlisberger the night he was accused of sexual assault at a Georgia nightclub.
Coraopolis (kor-ee-AH’-poh-lis) solicitor Richard Start … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : APNewsBreak: Attorney says probe of Roethlisberger’s police friend to take months, not weeks.

Jailed for 15 years, US woman wants to be pastry chef

Lima, May 26 (IANS/EFE) An American woman, who spent 15 years in a Peruvian prison for helping rebels plan an attack on the parliament, has been granted parole and wants to work as a translator and a pastry chef.

Lori Berenson, 39, a native of New York, was released Tuesday. However, judge Jessica Leon Yarango barred … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Jailed for 15 years, US woman wants to be pastry chef.

AP source: Probe of Afghan civilian deaths focusing on about 10 members of Stryker brigade

AP source: Afghan probe focuses on Stryker brigade

WASHINGTON – About 10 members of an Army unit based at Fort Lewis, Wash., are under investigation for as many as three civilian deaths in Afghanistan, along with other potential wrongdoing, a senior military official said Monday.
The official did not have details of the investigation but confirmed that … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : AP source: Probe of Afghan civilian deaths focusing on about 10 members of Stryker brigade.

Manhattan DA taking new look at case of 6-year-old Etan Patz who disappeared 31 years ago

31-year-old case of missing NYC boy under review

NEW YORK – Six-year-old Etan Patz vanished on May 25, 1979. One of the most extensive missing-child searches was mounted to find him but two decades later, the boy was officially declared dead. No one has ever been arrested.
Now, the Manhattan district attorney’s office will take a fresh …. Original article  : Manhattan DA taking new look at case of 6-year-old Etan Patz who disappeared 31 years ago.

Former dictator Bouterse’s political party emerges as biggest parliament bloc in Suriname

Ex-dictator’s party biggest bloc in Suriname vote

PARAMARIBO, Suriname – Allies of former dictator Desi Bouterse have overtaken Suriname’s governing coalition in parliamentary elections, positioning him to run for president despite a pending trial in the execution of 15 opponents in the 1980s.
Bouterse, who previously was convicted by a Dutch court of drug trafficking, has declined … Read more >>.

Al Qaeda continues to plot from Pakistan: US

WASHINGTON – The top White House counterterrorism adviser says President Barack Obama has refocused US efforts on Afghanistan as “Al Qaeda continues to plot from the tribal regions along the border with Pakistan and inside of Pakistan.”

“The President’s strategy is unequivocal with regard to our posture,” John Brennan, Assistant to the President for Homeland Security …. Read the original article  : Al Qaeda continues to plot from Pakistan: US.

Anti-whaling activist pleads guilty to 4 of 5 charges in Tokyo trial for disrupting whale hunt

Anti-whaling activist pleads guilty in Tokyo trial

TOKYO – An anti-whaling activist from New Zealand who boarded a Japanese whaling ship as part of a protest in February pleaded guilty Thursday to charges including trespassing and destruction of property, but denied that he committed assault.
Sea Shepherd activist Peter Bethune admitted in a Tokyo court that he …. Original source  : Anti-whaling activist pleads guilty to 4 of 5 charges in Tokyo trial for disrupting whale hunt.

Federal appeals court upholds Wyo. man’s conviction in daughter’s death

Appeals court upholds Wyo. man’s conviction

CHEYENNE, Wyo. – A federal appeals court has ruled against a Northern Arapaho man who says the state of Wyoming lacked authority to prosecute him for murder in his daughter’s death.
The 10th Circuit Court of Appeals on Tuesday upheld the conviction of Andrew John Yellowbear Jr.
Yellowbear is serving a life [..] Read the original article: here.

Calif. judge dismisses wrongful death lawsuit brought by parents of slain high school athlete

Calif. judge dismisses slain athlete lawsuit

LOS ANGELES – A Los Angeles judge has thrown out a lawsuit filed by the parents of a high school football star who sued the sheriff’s department for releasing from jail an illegal immigrant suspected of killing their son.
Superior Court Judge Charles Palmer found Wednesday the law doesn’t support the …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Calif. judge dismisses wrongful death lawsuit brought by parents of slain high school athlete.

Colorado country club cuts ties with Uchiyama after he’s listed on USA Swimming banned list

Uchiyama no longer works at Colorado country club

Former USA Swimming national team director Everett Uchiyama no longer works for a Colorado club after his named turned up on a list of those under a lifetime ban from the national governing body.
Uchiyama was the aquatics director at the Country Club of Colorado, located about five miles … Read more »»».

Ark. police officers slain during traffic stop shootout remembered as dedicated to public

2 Ark. officers slain in roadside shootout mourned

WEST MEMPHIS, Ark. – Two West Memphis police officers slain during a roadside shootout with an anti-government advocate and his son were remembered Monday as dedicated public servants and as loving fathers.
Hundreds of mourners, including family, friends, neighbors and their fellow law enforcement officers packed the West Memphis … Read more >>>.

Obama’s new national security strategy emphasizes global diplomacy, in contrast to Bush

Obama’s new security strategy breaks with Bush

WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama is breaking with the go-it-alone Bush years in a new strategy for keeping the nation safe, counting more on U.S. allies to tackle terrorism and other global problems. It’s an approach that already has proved tricky in practice.
The administration’s National Security Strategy, a summary …. Read the original article  : Obama’s new national security strategy emphasizes global diplomacy, in contrast to Bush.

Former Miss Russia appears in court after being charged with forging painkiller prescription

Former Miss Russia appears in court on drug charge

NEW YORK – A former Miss Russia has appeared in a New York City court on charges she forged a prescription for painkillers on a pad stolen from her psychiatrist’s office.
Anna Malova’s attorneys asked for an August court date so they could work out a drug treatment …. Source article  : Former Miss Russia appears in court after being charged with forging painkiller prescription.

Peruvian judge grants house arrest to Lori Berenson after 15 years in prison for aiding rebels

Peru judge grants New York woman house arrest

LIMA, Peru – A Peruvian judge has granted house arrest to 40-year-old Lori Berenson, a New York woman who has served 15 years in prison for aiding leftist rebels.
Judge Jessica Leon issued an order Tuesday for the conditional release of Berenson, who gave birth to a son a … Read : Peruvian judge grants house arrest to Lori Berenson after 15 years in prison for aiding rebels.

Phoenix police officer fatally shot while investigating suspicious vehicle call

Phoenix police officer fatally shot
PHOENIX – A Phoenix police officer shot and killed early Wednesday while investigating a suspicious vehicle was a 29-year-old married father of two young children, authorities said.

Officer Travis Murphy’s wife had given birth just two weeks ago to the couple’s second child, police spokesman Sgt. Trent Crump said.
Murphy and his partner … Read more : Phoenix police officer fatally shot while investigating suspicious vehicle call.

NY-born man accused of trying to form mini al-Qaida terror cell is held without bail

NY man accused of seeking mini terror cell is held

NEW YORK – A native New Yorker accused of conspiring to join al-Qaida returned to the United States from Yemen after pledging allegiance to the terror group and tried to start his own “mini al-Qaida cell,” a prosecutor said Wednesday.
The latest allegation against Wesam El-Hanafi came …. Original article  : NY-born man accused of trying to form mini al-Qaida terror cell is held without bail.

Times Square plot: 11th suspect held in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD – Pakistani officials have detained an 11th person in connection with the botched attempt of bombing New York’s Times Square early this month, CNN reported quoting a Pakistani intelligence source.

The man, identified as Qamar Ejaz, is the brother of Adnan Ejaz, a former major in Pakistani army who is already in custody for having [..] Read the original article: here.

Former SoCal senior home worker sentenced to life for torturing, taunting elderly

Ex-caregiver sentenced to life for torture, abuse

LOS ANGELES – A former caregiver convicted of torturing, taunting and body-slamming frail and elderly patients at an upscale California retirement home was sentenced Wednesday to life in prison.
Cesar Ulloa, 21, was convicted in April of one count of torture and seven counts of elder abuse. He was sentenced … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Former SoCal senior home worker sentenced to life for torturing, taunting elderly.

Alleged victim: Pleased about release of banned list, wants USA Swimming to do more

Alleged victim: Pleased Uchiyama’s ban made public

A woman who accused former USA Swimming national team director Everett Uchiyama of sexual abuse tells The Associated Press that officials need to do more than publicize his lifetime ban.
She spoke on condition of anonymity because she signed a confidential agreement with USA Swimming in 2006. That agreement led …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Aborted tobacco sting at Ohio governor’s home produces enduring political fallout

Aborted sting at official residence dogs Ohio guv

COLUMBUS, Ohio – While the governor entertained John Glenn at his official residence in a posh suburb, law enforcers planned to descend on a supplier of contraband tobacco skulking around the perimeter in an attempt to drop goods to a prison inmate working there.
It was a scene Gov. …. Source  : Aborted tobacco sting at Ohio governor’s home produces enduring political fallout.

Ohio dairy farm worker accused of beating cows with crowbars, charged with animal cruelty

Ohio dairy farm worker charged with animal cruelty

CLEVELAND – An Ohio dairy farm worker has been charged with 12 counts of cruelty to animals after a welfare group released a video it says shows him and others beating cows with crowbars and pitchforks.
Marysville prosecutor Tim Aslaner (AH’-slan-eer) says Billy Joe Gregg Jr. is jailed in …. Source article  : Ohio dairy farm worker accused of beating cows with crowbars, charged with animal cruelty.

Student from DC pleads guilty to impersonating FBI agent at Montana airport, saying he had gun

DC man pleads to impersonating FBI agent in Mont.

GREAT FALLS, Mont. – A 19-year-old Washington, D.C., man who was arrested at a Montana airport has pleaded guilty to impersonating an FBI agent and saying he had a gun in his carry-on bag to see how personnel would respond.
Malik Hannabal Shabazz was arrested March 5 at …. Original article  : Student from DC pleads guilty to impersonating FBI agent at Montana airport, saying he had gun.

Four policemen killed in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD – Four policemen were killed in an ambush by gunmen in the southwestern Pakistani city of Quetta, media reports said Friday.

Gunmen attacked a police vehicle in Quetta, the capital of Balochistan province, killing four policemen, including an officer in charge of security issues, Xinhua reported quoting Express TV.
…. Source  : Four policemen killed in Pakistan.

Israeli police to question former Prime Minister Olmert on corruption charges

Israeli police to question ex-PM on bribe case

JERUSALEM – The spokesman for Ehud Olmert says police are about to question the former Israeli prime minister on corruption charges.
Amir Dan says police have asked Olmert to appear at its fraud squad on Tuesday morning for questioning related to a multimillion-dollar real estate bribery scandal that has …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Israeli police to question former Prime Minister Olmert on corruption charges.

Four NDFB bombers linked to Assam blasts held

GUWAHATI – Four members of the outlawed National Democratic Front of Bodoland (NDFB), directly involved in the October 2008 serial explosions in Assam, have been arrested in separate raids by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) sleuths, officials said Friday.

A CBI spokesperson said Rahul Brahma was arrested Thursday from Zero town in Arunachal … Original article on : Four NDFB bombers linked to Assam blasts held.

Voters in Suriname decide whether former dictator facing murder trial should return to power

Suriname votes on ex-dictator’s possible return

PARAMARIBO, Suriname – An opposition party led by a former dictator and convicted drug trafficker appeared likely to gain seats in Tuesday’s parliamentiary elections in the small South American country of Suriname.
The political comeback mounted by Desi Bouterse was a popular topic of debate at polling places, with some voters …. Read the original article  : Voters in Suriname decide whether former dictator facing murder trial should return to power.

1st defendant in NJ schoolyard triple slaying convicted of all counts, faces life in prison

1st defendant guilty in NJ schoolyard slaying case

NEWARK, N.J. – The first defendant to be tried for a triple schoolyard killing that jolted New Jersey’s largest city into trying to fix its crime problem was convicted on all counts Monday.
Rodolfo Godinez, a legal Nicaraguan immigrant who was one of six men and boys charged with … Read : 1st defendant in NJ schoolyard triple slaying convicted of all counts, faces life in prison.

Absolutely critical to dismantle terrorist networks in Pakistan: Obama

WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama says the US is working with Pakistan to make it more effective partners in dealing with the extremists within their borders as his national security strategy set “Disrupt, Dismantle, and Defeat Al Qaeda” as a key goal.

The United States went into Afghanistan “because the Taliban was harbouring Al Qaeda, …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Jamaica cops, soldiers battle gangsters inside slum stronghold of reputed drug kinpin

Jamaica cops battle gangsters in don’s stronghold

KINGSTON, Jamaica – Security forces fought their way into the warren-like complex that is the slum stronghold of a Jamaican gang leader facing extradition to the United States and sporadic gunfire could be heard late into Monday night.
More than 1,000 police officers and soliders attacked heavily armed gang members … Original source on Gaea Times at : Jamaica cops, soldiers battle gangsters inside slum stronghold of reputed drug kinpin.

Insurer Lloyd’s refuses to pay jailed Texas financier’s latest legal fees; says it’s spent $6M

Insurer refuses to pay latest Stanford legal fees

HOUSTON – The insurance company paying jailed Texas financier R. Allen Stanford’s legal bills said Tuesday it is tired of supporting his revolving door of attorneys and already has spent more than $6 million on lawyers from 10 firms to defend him from allegations that he orchestrated a [..] Read the original article: here.

FBI and the late John Murtha: A ‘prosecutive’ case in Abscam; an ongoing criminal probe now

Murtha’s FBI files detail a career of scrutiny

WASHINGTON – Even after death, John Murtha remains mired in controversy.
On Tuesday, the FBI released hundreds of pages about the late congressman who came under criminal investigation three decades ago and who died in February amid an ongoing criminal probe into alleged kickbacks involving defense contractors.
Besides the FBI’s …. Original article  : FBI and the late John Murtha: A ‘prosecutive’ case in Abscam; an ongoing criminal probe now.

Cuba’s top judge: No legal case yet against jailed US contractor nearly 6 months after arrest

Cuba says no case yet against jailed American

HAVANA – Cuba has yet to open a legal case against a U.S. government contractor from Maryland nearly six months after he was arrested as a suspected spy, the head of the island’s high court said Wednesday.
Alan P. Gross was detained Dec. 3 at Havana’s Jose Marti International …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Cuba’s top judge: No legal case yet against jailed US contractor nearly 6 months after arrest.

Feds say 2-year investigation of child porn ’social networking site’ nets more than 50 arrests

Feds bust child porn ’social networking site’

INDIANAPOLIS – Federal prosecutors announced Wednesday that they had broken up a major online international child pornography ring that at its peak had more than 1,000 members trading millions of sexually explicit images.
More than 50 people have been arrested in several states since the 2008 start of the investigation, … Original article on : Feds say 2-year investigation of child porn ’social networking site’ nets more than 50 arrests.

25 Pakistani militants freed, to be sent back

JAMMU – The Jammu and Kashmir government has revoked the detention orders of 25 Pakistani militants lodged in different jails of India to facilitate their return to their country.

The state government acted late Thursday night on the advice of the home ministry, which asked that the militants be released.
“Their detention orders under …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Diwali demon-slaying tradition triggered Goa blast?

PANAJI – Seven months after a blast in Goa killed two people, investigators now say a Diwali tradition that has been consistently opposed by a Hindu right wing group for “glorifying a demon” lay at the heart of the conspiracy.

On Narak Chaturdashi day early in the Diwali season, nearly every town or residential hub worth …. Read the original article  : Diwali demon-slaying tradition triggered Goa blast?.

As a young lawyer at high court, Kagan was on guard against Supreme Court’s conservative shift

As Marshall clerk, Kagan was wary of conservatives

WASHINGTON – As a young lawyer working for Justice Thurgood Marshall, Elena Kagan repeatedly expressed her concern that a conservative Supreme Court was looking for ways to cut back on the rights of women, criminal defendants and prisoners.
Documents from Kagan’s year with Marshall show a law clerk who … Read more >>>.

Police: Metal band Slipknot bassist Paul Gray found dead in Iowa hotel; no foul play suspected

Police: Slipknot bassist found dead in Iowa hotel

DES MOINES, Iowa – Paul Gray, the bassist for Grammy-winning metal band Slipknot, was found dead Monday in an Iowa hotel room but there was no indication of foul play, police said.
A hotel employee found Gray, 38, dead in a room at the TownePlace Suites in Urbandale, a … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Police: Metal band Slipknot bassist Paul Gray found dead in Iowa hotel; no foul play suspected.

Israeli police question Ex-PM Olmert on corruption charges

Israeli police question ex-PM Olmert on bribe case

JERUSALEM – Israeli fraud investigators grilled former Prime Minister Ehud Olmert for eight hours on Tuesday, police said, questioning him about suspected bribery and money laundering in a multimillion dollar real-estate scandal that has rocked the country.
Police spokesman Micky Rosenfeld said Olmert was ordered to return to the …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Israeli police question Ex-PM Olmert on corruption charges.

2011 trial expected for Boston ex-student accused of killing masseuse he met on Craigslist

Mass. Craigslist killing trial delayed until 2011

BOSTON – The trial of a former Boston University medical student accused of killing a masseuse he met through Craigslist will likely be postponed until at least January.
No firm date was selected during a hearing in Suffolk Superior Court Tuesday, but prosecutors and lawyers for Philip Markoff agreed that …. Read the original article  : here.

Judge: Ohio church day care worker endangered kids by putting sleep supplement in their candy

Ohio woman guilty of giving kids sleep supplement

CINCINNATI – A former Ohio church day care worker has been found guilty of endangering children by slipping an over-the-counter dietary supplement into candy to help them sleep.
Prosecutors say a Hamilton County Municipal Court judge on Thursday found the woman guilty of three counts each of child endangering …. Read the original article  : Judge: Ohio church day care worker endangered kids by putting sleep supplement in their candy.

37 years later, NC jury finds former small-town police chief guilty in Marine’s shooting death

NC jury convicts ex-police chief in 1972 murder

JACKSONVILLE, N.C. – A North Carolina jury has convicted a former small-town police chief of first-degree murder in the shooting death of a Marine sergeant 37 years ago.
Onslow County District Attorney Dewey Hudson said Wednesday that 57-year-old George Hayden was sentenced to life in prison in the 1972 …. Source article  : 37 years later, NC jury finds former small-town police chief guilty in Marine’s shooting death.

Kan. doctor tied to 68 overdose deaths takes witness stand, says he didn’t mean to cause harm

Kan. doctor takes stand in overdose death trial

WICHITA, Kan. – A Kansas physician whose clinic is linked to 68 overdose deaths testified Wednesday at his trial that he never intentionally gave anyone medication he believed would cause them harm.
Dr. Stephen Schneider and his wife, Linda, are charged in a 34-count indictment with unlawfully prescribing drugs, … Read more : Kan. doctor tied to 68 overdose deaths takes witness stand, says he didn’t mean to cause harm.

Chinese novelist’s lawsuit against Google goes to court after settlement talks fail

Chinese court hears novelist’s Google lawsuit

BEIJING – A Chinese novelist’s lawsuit against Google over its online library is going ahead in court after settlement talks failed.
Mian Mian – known for lurid tales of sex, drugs and nightlife – filed suit in October after her latest book, “Acid House,” was scanned into the library. Google says … Read more »»».

Federal prosecutors say they smashed international child porn ring; more than 50 arrested

Feds announce bust of major child porn ring

INDIANAPOLIS – Federal prosecutors announced Wednesday that they had broken up a major online international child pornography ring that operated as a hierarchy and at its peak had more than 1,000 members trading millions of sexually explicit images.
More than 50 people have been arrested in several states since … Read more : Federal prosecutors say they smashed international child porn ring; more than 50 arrested.

Detroit girl, 14, facing assault with intent to murder charge after 13-year-old rival is shot

Detroit teen charged in shooting of 13-year-old

DETROIT – A 14-year-old Detroit girl accused of shooting a 13-year-old girl in the leg has been charged with assault with intent to murder.
The Wayne County prosecutor’s office says a preliminary examination is scheduled Wednesday afternoon in the Juvenile Detention Facility in Detroit. The older girl is being charged …. Read the original article  : Detroit girl, 14, facing assault with intent to murder charge after 13-year-old rival is shot.

Judge backs MLB interim financing for Texas Rangers through bankruptcy process

Judge backs MLB financing for Rangers
FORT WORTH, Texas – A judge on Wednesday approved a multimillion-dollar Major League Baseball loan to keep the Texas Rangers afloat during bankruptcy proceedings, raising hopes that the team’s stalled $575 million sale may happen this summer.

U.S. District Judge D. Michael Lynn set a mid-June hearing on the Rangers’ plan … Original source on Gaea Times at : Judge backs MLB interim financing for Texas Rangers through bankruptcy process.

NY-born man accused of trying to form mini al-Qaida cell is held without bail

New Yorker accused of aiding al-Qaida is detained

NEW YORK – A prosecutor says a native New Yorker accused of conspiring to join al-Qaida returned to the United States from Yemen after pledging allegiance to the group and tried to start his own “mini al-Qaida cell.”
Federal prosecutor John Cronan (CROH’-nin) made the accusation against Wesam El-Hanafi … Original article on : NY-born man accused of trying to form mini al-Qaida cell is held without bail.

Arrest of Cancun politician heightens fears that drug gangs infiltrating Mexican elections

Cancun mayor’s arrest fuels fears of drug politics

MEXICO CITY – The arrest of Cancun’s mayor on suspicion of protecting two violent drug gangs as he campaigned for governor has heightened fears that cartels are muscling their way into Mexican politics. There are also worries the gangs are tightening control over the country’s most important tourist …. Source article  : Arrest of Cancun politician heightens fears that drug gangs infiltrating Mexican elections.

Restraining order issued against onetime JonBenet suspect for alleged threats against woman

Woman seeks order against onetime JonBenet suspect

SAN FRANCISCO – A 19-year-old woman has requested a temporary restraining order against the man who once falsely claimed to have murdered JonBenet Ramsey in 1996.
San Francisco Court Commissioner William Gargano issued the order against John Mark Karr on April 19, on behalf of Samantha Spiegel, 19.
Spiegel claimed that …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Restraining order issued against onetime JonBenet suspect for alleged threats against woman.

NYC man’s kidney transplant gave him woman’s cancer; trial weighs transplant risks, rewards

NY man’s kidney transplant gave him woman’s cancer

NEW YORK – The scenario was unique, as far as doctors could tell: A man had gotten a transplanted kidney from a woman who had uterine cancer and didn’t know it.
Vincent Liew decided to keep the kidney after his transplant surgeon concluded there was only a slim chance …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : NYC man’s kidney transplant gave him woman’s cancer; trial weighs transplant risks, rewards.

Feds alert Houston authorities to be on lookout for Somalia terror group member

Somali terror member may be heading to Texas

HOUSTON – U.S. Homeland Security officials have asked Houston authorities to watch for a member of a Somalia-based terror group who may be coming to Texas through Mexico.
The federal department issued an alert last week for a suspected member of the al-Shabaab group, which has declared allegiance to … Read more »».

Argentine police finally catch former Colombian coffee queen in ‘pretty women’ smuggling plot

Argentina: Colombian model arrested on drug charge

BUENOS AIRES, Argentina – A Colombian model accused of leading a drug-trafficking gang that persuaded pretty young women to smuggle cocaine to Mexico was arrested Wednesday after evading Argentine police for five months.
Angie Sanclemente Valencia had been hiding out in Buenos Aires since December, when airport police caught a …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Argentine police finally catch former Colombian coffee queen in ‘pretty women’ smuggling plot.

Police search Southern California park for dismembered murder victim’s remains

Police search SoCal park for victim’s remains

LOS ANGELES – Authorities are searching a Long Beach park for the remains of a man killed and dismembered in a bizarre double murder-for-profit plot.
Daniel Wozniak, 26, of Costa Mesa, was charged with two counts of murder Friday for the deaths of his neighbor Samuel Herr, 26, and Herr’s … Read more >>>.

Hong Kong police confiscate Tiananmen statue, arrest 13 activists

Hong Kong police confiscate Tiananmen statue

HONG KONG – Hong Kong police on Saturday confiscated a statue and a carving mourning victims of China’s 1989 crackdown on protesters in Tiananmen Square and arrested 13 activists, a participant said, in what critics called an escalation in political censorship in the semiautonomous Chinese territory.
China’s military suppression of pro-democracy …. Read the original article  : Hong Kong police confiscate Tiananmen statue, arrest 13 activists.

Man burns to death son for disturbing his sleep

A drunken man in eastern India burnt to death his five-year-old child after he began crying at night and disturbed his sleep, police said today.

Police said Hira Sahani, a resident of Sheikh Majharia village in West Champaran district of Bihar returned home drunk Friday night and went to bed.
He got furious when his son …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Man burns to death son for disturbing his sleep.

Iraqi police say gunmen attacked gold shops in Baghdad robbery, killing 14

Gunmen kill 14 in Baghdad gold shops robbery

BAGHDAD – Baghdad police say masked gunmen have attacked gold shops in the Iraqi capital, killing 14 people before they fled with a large quantity of gold.
The police say the gunmen came in five cars, their faces covered with traditional Arab headscarves, and opened fire on 12 shops …. Read the original article  : Iraqi police say gunmen attacked gold shops in Baghdad robbery, killing 14.

Michigan admits NCAA violations in football AD says “bruise” shouldn’t mean harsh penalties

Michigan admits to NCAA violations in football

ANN ARBOR, Mich. – The University of Michigan has been playing football for more than a century, earning respect by becoming the nation’s winningest program while avoiding the stigma attached to teams that break NCAA rules.
Until now.
The school admitted Tuesday to a series of violations by its storied football …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Michigan admits NCAA violations in football AD says “bruise” shouldn’t mean harsh penalties.

Wisconsin man who admitted killing his 2 children and their mother sentenced to life in prison

Wis. man who admitted killing his 2 kids gets life

STEVENS POINT, Wis. – A 37-year-old Wisconsin man who admitted killing his estranged girlfriend and their two young sons has been sentenced to life in prison.
Shane Kettner on Wednesday received two life prison sentences for killing 3-year-old Ashley Kettner and 2-year-old Griffin Kettner and a 30-year …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Couple convicted under Malawi’s anti-gay laws separated for safety reasons

2 convicted under Malawi anti-gay laws separated

BLANTYRE, Malawi – The prison spokesman says the gay men convicted under Malawi’s anti-homosexuality laws are being held in separate facilities.
Evance Phiri told The Associated Press Wednesday that Tiwonge Chimbalanga is being held at a Blantyre prison, while his partner Steven Monjeza is at a prison some 50 miles …. Source  : Couple convicted under Malawi’s anti-gay laws separated for safety reasons.

Pakistan court prevents arrest of hardline cleric blamed in Mumbai attacks

Pakistan court prevents arrest of hardline cleric
ISLAMABAD – Pakistan’s Supreme Court on Tuesday dismissed a government move to detain a hardline cleric India suspects masterminded the deadly 2008 siege of Mumbai, saying there was no evidence against him, a defense lawyer said.
The decision could strain Pakistan and India’s already brittle relationship at a … Original source on Gaea Times at : Pakistan court prevents arrest of hardline cleric blamed in Mumbai attacks.

74-year-old man acquitted of murder in 1966 shooting of Philly police officer who died in 2007

Murder acquittal in 1966 Philly police shooting

PHILADELPHIA – A 74-year-old man who shot a police officer during a botched burglary in 1966 was acquitted Monday of murder and other charges filed after the officer’s death in 2007.
The jury reached its verdict after beginning deliberations late Friday afternoon following the weeklong murder trial of William J. …. Original article  : 74-year-old man acquitted of murder in 1966 shooting of Philly police officer who died in 2007.

Iraqi authorities blame cash-strapped al-Qaida for gold robbery that kills 15

Iraq blames al-Qaida in gold robbery that kills 15

BAGHDAD – Masked men armed with rocket-propelled grenades and assault rifles shot up a jewelry market in Baghdad Tuesday, killing 15 people before they fled with a large quantity of gold in an attack authorities swiftly blamed on a cash-strapped al-Qaida in Iraq.
The attack was the latest … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Iraqi authorities blame cash-strapped al-Qaida for gold robbery that kills 15.

Colombian beauty queen denies to judge she lured Argentine models into drug trafficking ring

Beauty queen denies drug traffic charge in court

BUENOS AIRES, Argentina – A Colombian model accused of luring pretty young Argentine women into smuggling cocaine to Mexico declared her innocence before a judge Thursday, while her lawyer called the evidence against her merely cosmetic.
Attorney Guillermo Tiscornia, speaking to a media crush on the courthouse steps, said …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Colombian beauty queen denies to judge she lured Argentine models into drug trafficking ring.

British police question suspect in murders of 3 prostitutes in northern England

UK police arrest suspect in triple killing

LONDON – British police say they’ve arrested a 40-year-old man in the killing of three prostitutes in northern England.
West Yorkshire Police said Wednesday that the man was being questioned after having been arrested on suspicion of murder.
The three victims had all been missing from their homes – one since …. Original article  : British police question suspect in murders of 3 prostitutes in northern England.

US issues warnings after 2 citizens killed during kidnapping attempts in Nigeria

US warns of Nigerian kidnappings after 2 deaths

LAGOS, Nigeria – The U.S. government is warning its citizens about rising violent attacks in Nigeria after two Americans died in separate kidnappings in April.
The State Department announced the two deaths in a new travel warning for Nigeria issued Monday. In the statement, the State Department said six … Read more : US issues warnings after 2 citizens killed during kidnapping attempts in Nigeria.

Supreme Court says jury must find machine gun use in crime to trigger 30-year minimum sentence

Court limits 30-year term for machine gun use

WASHINGTON – The Supreme Court has ruled that a minimum 30-year prison term for crimes involving a machine gun may not be imposed unless a jury specifically convicts a defendant of using a machine gun.
The court on Monday unanimously upheld a federal appeals court ruling that had been … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Supreme Court says jury must find machine gun use in crime to trigger 30-year minimum sentence.

Rip Torn’s attorney seeking to keep actor out of prison on charges he broke into Conn. bank

Rip Torn seeks to resolve Conn. break-in charges

LITCHFIELD, Conn. – Rip Torn’s attorney says he and prosecutors are discussing a resolution to charges that Torn broke into a Connecticut bank while intoxicated and carrying a loaded gun.
Torn appeared briefly in Litchfield Superior Court on Tuesday. Attorney A. Thomas Waterfall says he hopes to resolve the …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Guatemala orders DNA tests prior to all adoptions to prevent stolen-child cases

Guatemala orders DNA tests prior to all adoptions

GUATEMALA CITY – Guatemalan authorities said Monday they will require DNA tests for all babies offered for adoption following allegations of child theft that led the government to impose a two-year freeze on international adoptions.
The National Adoptions Council said the new rule will apply only to adoptions whose … Read more : Guatemala orders DNA tests prior to all adoptions to prevent stolen-child cases.

Canada’s ‘Prince of Pot’ pleads guilty to drug charge in exchange for 5-year sentence

Canada’s ‘Prince of Pot’ pleads guilty in Seattle

SEATTLE – Canada’s so-called Prince of Pot has pleaded guilty to a drug charge in exchange for a five-year prison term.
Marc Emery appeared in U.S. District Court in Seattle on Monday after being extradited last week from Vancouver, British Columbia. He sold millions of marijuana seeds to U.S. … Read more : Canada’s ‘Prince of Pot’ pleads guilty to drug charge in exchange for 5-year sentence.

‘US consistently pressing Pakistan to rein in anti-India terror groups’

WASHINGTON – The United States says it has consistently pressed Pakistan to stop the continuing infiltration into India by Punjab-based terror groups like Lashkar-e-Taeba and Jaish-e-Mohammed as this was a key obstacle to improved relations between “two friends of US”.

“On Pakistan, I’m sure it will be a topic of discussion” at the inaugural US-India strategic … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : ‘US consistently pressing Pakistan to rein in anti-India terror groups’.

Ex-Detroit Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick could face more jail time over probation violation

Ex-Detroit mayor faces possible jail time
DETROIT – Former Detroit Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick, sent to jail and forced to resign over racy text messages that showed he had lied under oath, has presented himself as a changed man since his release last year – someone working to repair his damaged relationship with his family and pay …. Read the original article  : Ex-Detroit Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick could face more jail time over probation violation.

Former Detroit Mayor Kilpatrick apologizes in court for violating terms of probation

Former Detroit mayor apologizes in court
DETROIT – Former Detroit Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick has apologized in court for violating the terms of his probation.

Kilpatrick asked Judge David Groner to show him compassion during the Tuesday hearing. The former mayor says he is doing everything he can to pay his $1 million debt to the city.
Groner ruled … Read more »».

In Colombia presidential vote, maverick outsider vies with Uribe disciple

Uribe torchbearer vs. outsider in Colombia vote

BOGOTA, Colombia – A former defense minister pledging to build on President Alvaro Uribe’s security gains was favored in Sunday’s election along with a maverick outsider whose campaign was a civics lesson on how to end Colombia’s endemic corruption.
Juan Manuel Santos, a Cabinet minister in three administrations and grandnephew … Read this article on Gaea Times at : In Colombia presidential vote, maverick outsider vies with Uribe disciple.

Maoists blow up Orissa village council building

BHUBANESWAR – Maoist guerrillas early Sunday blew up a panchayat (council) office building in Orissa’s Malkangiri district, police said.

About 30-40 rebels came to Kankurukunda village at about 1 a.m. and blasted the building using explosives, a senior police officer told IANS.
No body was inside the office when the blast took place, he said. …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Maoists blow up Orissa village council building.

Mexican police, army probe silver mine where gangs tossed numerous bodies

Silver mine in southern Mexico used to dump bodies

ACAPULCO, Mexico – Mexican police on Saturday found an abandoned silver mine scattered with bodies outside a colonial-era town popular with international tourists.
Five bodies were recovered from the mine at Taxco in southern Mexico in what appears to be a dumping ground for victims of organized crime, …. Original article  : Mexican police, army probe silver mine where gangs tossed numerous bodies.

China executes man who attacked 29 children, 3 teachers at kindergarten

China executes man who attacked 29 children

BEIJING – Chinese authorities on Sunday executed a man convicted of slashing 29 children and three teachers with a knife in one of a series of recent assaults on schools and kindergartens, a state news agency reported.
Xu Yuyuan was found guilty of attempted homicide in mid-May by the Taizhou …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : China executes man who attacked 29 children, 3 teachers at kindergarten.

Oregon man accused of stealing dead boy’s identity said to have come to US from Bulgaria

Bulgarian accused of stealing dead boy’s identity

PORTLAND, Ore. – His war hero grandfather and namesake fought the Nazis, his parents are respected scientific scholars in Bulgaria, and a former Reagan administration lawyer and his physician wife helped raise him as a teenager, all predicting a bright future.
Doitchin Krastev walked away from it all in college …. Read the original article  : Oregon man accused of stealing dead boy’s identity said to have come to US from Bulgaria.

Jamaica police: Nearly all 980 etained during slum raid have been released

Jamaica cops release most of 980 detained in raid

KINGSTON, Jamaica – All but a handful of the roughly 980 Jamaicans detained during raids by security forces in gang-heavy Kingston slums have been released, police said Saturday.
Detainees had been held at the Kingston’s National Arena, where dozens of concerned relatives had congregated outside a security gate …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Surrogate father: Oregon man accused of taking Ohio boy’s identity came to US from Bulgaria

Surrogate father: Man with Ohio ID is Bulgarian

PORTLAND, Ore. – His war hero grandfather and namesake fought the Nazis, his parents are respected scientific scholars in Bulgaria, and a former Reagan administration lawyer and his physician wife helped raise him as a teenager, all predicting a bright future.
Doitchin Krastev walked away from it all in …. Original source  : Surrogate father: Oregon man accused of taking Ohio boy’s identity came to US from Bulgaria.

NY man killed after shooting phone store clerk had been banned for making threats, slurs

NY phone store gunman had been banned for threats

NEW YORK MILLS, N.Y. – A man who shot a central New York AT&T phone store clerk had previously harassed and threatened employees so many times that the company banned him, cut off his cell phone service and lodged a complaint that led to his handgun permit … Read this article on Gaea Times at : NY man killed after shooting phone store clerk had been banned for making threats, slurs.

Oregon man using identity of murdered Ohio boy turns out to be Bulgarian

Mystery solved: Ore. man with Ohio ID is Bulgarian

PORTLAND, Ore. – The mystery over the real identity of an Oregon man calling himself Jason Robert Evers has been solved – he was born in Bulgaria, not Ohio.
A family that hosted Doitchin Krasev in Virginia told The Associated Press Saturday they were shocked to find out …. Original source  : Oregon man using identity of murdered Ohio boy turns out to be Bulgarian.

Malawi’s leader pardons gay couple, orders them freed from prison; still rejects homosexuality

Under pressure, Malawi’s leader pardons gay couple

BLANTYRE, Malawi – Malawi’s president on Saturday pardoned a gay couple who had been sentenced to 14 years in prison and ordered their release but insisted that homosexuality was still illegal in his conservative southern African nation.
President Bingu wa Mutharika announced the pardon on “humanitarian grounds only” during a …. Source article  : Malawi’s leader pardons gay couple, orders them freed from prison; still rejects homosexuality.

NATO airstrike kills 25 Taliban in Afghanistan

KUNDUZ – A NATO airstrike in northern Afghanistan killed 25 Taliban insurgents, including two of their commanders, an Afghan government official said Saturday.

The air raid took place in Dana Ghori district in northern province of Baghlan Friday night, Sayed Zamanuddin, the deputy provincial police chief said.
“At least 25 Taliban were killed in the airstrike,” …. Source article  : NATO airstrike kills 25 Taliban in Afghanistan.

Activist gets back cell phone used in caper at La. senator’s office but video is deleted

Video gone from phone activist used in La. caper

NEW ORLEANS – Conservative activist-videographer James O’Keefe said video he shot of conversations with staffers of U.S. Sen. Mary Landrieu was deleted when his cell phone was returned after he and three others pleaded guilty to charges in a caper he orchestrated at the Democrat’s New Orleans … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Activist gets back cell phone used in caper at La. senator’s office but video is deleted.

Malawi president orders gay couple’s pardon and release, but warns homosexuality still illegal

Malawi’s president: pardon and release gay couple

BLANTYRE, Malawi – Malawi’s president on Saturday pardoned and ordered the release of a gay couple sentenced to 14 years in prison, but said that homosexuality remains illegal in this conservative southern African nation.
Activists were searching for a safe house for the couple, fearing they could be attacked upon …. Original source  : Malawi president orders gay couple’s pardon and release, but warns homosexuality still illegal.

European Parliament condemns railway attack in India

BRUSSELS – The European Parliament Saturday expressed shock over the train attack in West Bengal in which 131 people were killed.

“Attacking the civil infrastructure and killing innocent people is perfidious terror. On behalf of the European Parliament, I condemn this attack sharply,” Jerzy Buzek, president of the EU parliament, was quoted as saying by EuAsiaNews. …. Original article  : European Parliament condemns railway attack in India.

Nigeria: Gunmen release 3 Chinese technicians kidnapped in country’s restive southern delta

Nigeria: 3 kidnapped Chinese technicians released

LAGOS, Nigeria – China’s government news agency says three Chinese technicians kidnapped in Nigeria’s restive southern delta have been released.
The official Xinhua News Agency quotes an unnamed Chinese diplomat saying the three men were freed Saturday morning. The diplomat said the three men, who worked for a Nigerian steel company, …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Antony doesn’t rule out using army against Maoists

NEW DELHI – Defence Minister A.K. Antony Saturday met Indian Army chief Gen. V.K. Singh to discuss the possibility of using the army against the Maoist guerrillas – a possibility that Antony later didn’t rule out.

A well informed source told IANS that Singh and Antony discussed the role of the army in “assisting” paramilitary … Original source on Gaea Times at : Antony doesn’t rule out using army against Maoists.

Malawi’s president orders pardon and immediate release of gay couple sentenced to 14 years

Malawi’s president pardons, releases gay couple

BLANTYRE, Malawi – Malawi’s president says he has pardoned and ordered the release of a jailed gay couple sentenced to 14 years in prison.
President Bingu wa Mutharika made the announcement Saturday during a press conference with U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon in Lilongwe, the capital.
A judge earlier this month convicted and … Original source on Gaea Times at : Malawi’s president orders pardon and immediate release of gay couple sentenced to 14 years.

Police investigating prostitute deaths in northern England find more human body parts in river

UK police find human remains in river
LONDON – Police investigating the deaths of three British women say they have recovered what are believed to be human remains in a river in northern England.

West Yorkshire Police say an underwater search team made the discovery in the River Aire Saturday, near where body parts of 36-year-old Suzanne …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Police investigating prostitute deaths in northern England find more human body parts in river.

Vatican abuse prosecutor warns of hell for perpetrators of child sex abuse

Vatican abuse prosecutor: Culprits going to hell

VATICAN CITY – The Vatican prosecutor of clerical sex abuse warned perpetrators on Saturday that they would suffer damnation in hell that would be worse than the death penalty.
The Rev. Charles Scicluna, a Maltese priest who is a top official at the Vatican’s morality office, led a special “make …. Original source  : Vatican abuse prosecutor warns of hell for perpetrators of child sex abuse.

‘US studying options for a possible Pakistan strike’

WASHINGTON – The US military is reviewing options for a unilateral strike in Pakistan in the event that a successful terror attack on American soil is traced to the country’s tribal areas, according to the Washington Post.

Ties between the alleged Times Square bomber, Pakistani-American Faisal Shahzad, and elements of the Pakistani Taliban have sharpened the … Read more >>>.

Civilian, NATO soldiers killed in Afghanistan

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

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

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

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

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

US presses Pakistan to divulge more air passenger info

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

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

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

Man arrested on warrant after flight diverted

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

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

Police: Search turns up head of slain Calif. man

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

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

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

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

Mexican authorities recover 20 to 25 bodies from abandoned silver mine

More than 20 bodies found in Mexican silver mine

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

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

Up to 25 bodies found in Mexican silver mine

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

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

Police find head believed to be slain S. Calif man

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

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

Malawi gay couple keep low profile after pardon

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

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

US lawyer held in Rwandan prison sees legal team

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

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

Pakistan: 7 arrested over links to sect attackers

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

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

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

Bamyan residents fear return of Taliban

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

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

Let ULFA give formal proposal for peace talks, says Gogoi

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

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

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

Malawi gay couple freed after presidential pardon

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

Four killed in blasts in Afghanistan

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

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

Pakistani forces report killing 15 Taliban militants

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

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

Maoists blow up panchayat building

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

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

Wanted Khalistani terrorist arrested in Amritsar

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

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